Farsley Celtic maintained their unbeaten run with an entertaining 2-2 draw at home to Tamworth – and were only denied all three points by a dubious stoppage time penalty.

Man of the match Darren Stephenson and Jordan Carroll had given the Celts a 2-1 lead after Tamworth had gained a deserved first-half lead, only for the home side to be denied their first home win of the season when the referee harshly pointed to the spot for hand ball in the 91st minute.

The new-look Celts were missing three defenders through injury and suspension and the point means they remain unbeaten in their first five games.

The newly-promoted visitors had the better of the first half, pinning The Celts back for long spells, particularly in the opening half-hour, and creating a number of chances.

It was no surprise when Tamworth finally took one of those chances, with Jamie Willets atoning for an earlier miss by heading home to give the visitors the lead.

Clayton Donaldson is highly marked by the Tamworth defence. Photo: Simon Cullingworth

Although Tamworth were creating chances and dominating possession, Farsley still had opportunities of their own. Marley Blair, operating at left wing back, saw his shot and follow up well saved by Tamworth keeper Leon Phillips, and Clayton Donaldson was unlucky to see his shot crash off the bar.

Ben Atkinson drilled home but was flagged offside and Rudy Misambo came close with a header which forced an outstanding save from Phillips.

The second half opened with Farsley the better side. And they deservedly equalised on 53 minutes when a quality cross from substitute Isaac Robinson was finished well by Stephenson at the back post for his third goal in five games.

And the home side deservedly took the lead when Jordan Carroll cut in from the right before firing his strike into the bottom right hand corner 15 minutes’ from time.

Farsley then defended well as a unit and looked to be seeing out the final few minutes of the game before controversy struck. The referee judged that Conor Branson had blocked a Tamworth shot with his arm.

Ben Milnes stepped up and found the side netting with his penalty in stoppage time to ensure an entertaining game ended level at two goals each.

Match reaction

Farsley coach Danny Ellis said he felt hard done by with the ‘harsh’ penalty decision but praised the side’s performance against a strong Tamworth side:

Next match

Farsley travel to Chester on Bank Holiday Monday, hoping to make it three consecutive wins on the road. Kick off is 3pm. Supporters’ information can be found here.

Sponsored content

partnership sunny bank mills new — www.sunnybankmills.co.uk

In photos: Busy day at Rodley Nature Reserve

By

westleedslife

-

August 26, 2023

0

Rodley Nature Reserve is designed to bring wetland wildlife back into the Leeds area.

Created on a floodplain in Kirkstall Valley, a recognised ‘flyway’ for wildfowl and waders on migration, the wetland habitats constructed here complement the nearby River Aire and the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

Photographer Susan Tellum captured a busy Wednesday at Rodley Nature Reserve, including a jolly welcome at the cafe, and views of Martins, Egrets and Cygnets.

Here’s a slideshow of her photos:

‘Plant your own tree’ policy criticised as ‘leafy suburb subsidy’

By

westleedslife

-

August 26, 2023

3

By David Spereall, local democracy reporter

Leeds’ Liberal Democrats have criticised the Labour-run city council over a new urban tree planting scheme.

The local authority launched a pilot sponsorship scheme this week which will allow residents to pay £150 to plant a semi-mature tree on a nearby grass verge.

The overall costs of planting each tree will be heavily subsidised by the government-funded White Rose Forest, while the scheme itself will be driven by the charity Trees for Streets, in partnership with the council.

But local Lib Dems have attacked the move, which they’ve branded a “leafy suburb subsidy”, as they claim it will only benefit areas that are already full of trees and green coverage.

The Labour administration hit back, saying they were “astounded” by the criticism.

But Lib Dem group leader Stewart Golton said the £150 figure was “unaffordable to most people in Leeds in a cost-of-living crisis”.

His party colleague, Councillor Conrad Hart-Brooke added: “We are lucky that Leeds is a relatively green city, but some parts are greener than others, and this scheme effectively makes the city’s green gap wider by acting as a leafy suburb subsidy.

“I can’t see there being many customers in the city’s council estates that have a spare £150 to spend on a tree. As for those living on streets without a grass verge, they don’t even get a look in.

“Effectively, the council is promoting a scheme that offers public subsidy to enhance the neighbourhoods of the haves, and ignores the needs of the have-nots who live in areas with the least number of street trees.”

Launching the scheme earlier this week, the council suggested neighbours could crowdfund and club together to buy a single tree should they wish.

Responding to the Lib Dems’ comments, Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Labour’s executive member for environment, said: “I am astounded that the Liberal Democrats are criticising an initiative to increase the number of trees in the city.

“We know that not every street in Leeds will be suitable for a tree but we are encouraging local communities to consider one for those that are.

“We of course recognise the difficulties caused by the current cost-of-living crisis and we are not suggesting that individuals need to pay for these trees themselves. Communities, schools and clubs can group together and fundraise if sponsoring a tree is something they would like to do.

“Every extra tree that is planted is beneficial to us all and I am disappointed that not everyone can recognise this.”

Sponsored content

Farsley Celtic partnership — www.farsleyceltic.com

In photos: Bramley Scarecrow Festival remodelled

By

westleedslife

-

August 26, 2023

0

S02 — Four year old Aida Malik was a fan of the efforts at Costa Coffee, Bramley Shopping Centre. Photo: Ivor Hughes

By Ivor Hughes

Bramley Scarecrow Festival started in 2020 as a community response to Covid. This year saw changes in organisers’ dates (August Bank Holiday weekend not Hallowe’en) and format (no entry fees or sponsored prizes).

Organiser Cathy Mill said: “People resist change. This year we wanted to offer families a summer weekend opportunity rather than a shorter one in late autumn.

“Yes, schools will need good notice if they are going to participate. But the core response to this weekend has been very enthusiastic. We look forward to repeating the same format next year and would like to thank West Leeds Dispatch for their interest and support.”

Here are some photos of this weekend’s displays:

Bramley Care Bears’ well read character in Broadlea Avenue. Photo: Ivor Hughes
Four year old Aida Malik is a fan of the efforts at Costa Coffee, Bramley Shopping Centre. Photo: Ivor Hughes
Double bubble at Bramley Day Services – and an early winter arrival (limited access due to special needs visitors). Photo: Ivor Hughes
Double bubble at Bramley Day Services – and an early winter arrival. Photo: Ivor Hughes
Double bubble at Bramley Day Services – and an early winter arrival. Photo: Ivor Hughes
Barbie – a topical guest in Glenlea Gardens. Photo: Ivor Hughes
Where else but Bex Hair Design on Leeds and Bradford Road? Photo: Ivor Hughes
Worzel Gummidge and Aunt Sally in Hill Court Avenue – clothes sourced from numerous charity shops in the area. Photo: Ivor Hughes
Mixed doubles in adjacent properties on Hill Court Drive. Photo: Ivor Hughes
Mixed doubles in adjacent properties on Hill Court Drive. Photo: Ivor Hughes

More information on the festival can be found on their Facebook page.

Sponsored content

Bramley Baths partnership 1 — www.bramleybaths.com

Farsley Celtic aim to continue unbeaten run against Tamworth

By

westleedslife

-

August 25, 2023

0

farsley celtic halifax 4 — Photo: John McEvoy

Farsley Celtic entertain new boys Tamworth at The Citadel tomorrow (Saturday) as they bid to continue their strong start to the season.

This will be the fourth time out of the first five games this season that the new-look Celts have played against newly-promoted teams.

Farsley remain unbeaten after four games and are riding in sixth in the early season table. Three points against Tamworth at the Citadel on Saturday would put the seal on Farsley’s impressive start ahead of a tough run of games starting at Chester on Bank Holiday Monday.

Kings Lynn (home), Blyth Spartans (away) and Gloucester City (away) then follow.

How well the Celts perform in these contests will give us a much clearer idea of exactly where this new side stands, along with its new management team and playing style.

Tamworth will be difficult opposition as they are unbeaten on their travels this season and Farsley are yet to notch a win at The Citadel (with two draws), so an interesting contest awaits.

Celts head coach Clayton Donaldson will be hoping fellow striker Darren Stephenson. shakes off an injury sustained in last week’s 1-0 win of Bishop’s Stortford. And influential defender Tom Allan will serve the second of his three-match ban following his red card.

Donaldson said: “We play yet another promoted side so these games can be tricky and we have to be prepared for the unknown at times.

“After a good week of preparation I believe the players are more than up for it so it will hopefully be a successful day for us.”

Ticket and supporter information can be found here.

Bramley & Stanningley Cultural Collective is a community celebration

By

westleedslife

-

August 25, 2023

0

By Dean Patrick

Mark your calendars, because this Sunday, August 27th, is set to be a day of vibrant artistic celebration across Bramley & Stanningley.

Organisers behind the very first arts and culture festival is poised to take the neighbourhood by storm, offering an array of exciting free events that will captivate residents and visitors alike.

The events include:

12noon-3pm Bramley Baths
2pm-5.15pm Bramley Park
2pm-6pm Trinity Methodist Church
7pm-late Bramley Villagers Club

From 12noon to 3pm, the historic Bramley Baths will open its doors for swim sessions. A highlight of the day here will be at 1.30pm, when the Bramley Mermaids grace the pool with a mesmerising performance of aquatic artistry.

The following swimming times are available so you can plan your day and enjoy the other activities in the area. 12 – 12.45pm12.45pm – 1.30pm1.30pm – 2.15pm2.15pm – 3pmIn the unlikely event that the pool is full for any of the sessions there will only be a short time to wait until the next session. The session will be family fun swim i.e. no lane in the pool. No need to book, just come along and enjoy the fun!

The excitement doesn’t end there. From 2pm to 5:15pm, Bramley Park will transform into a hub of entertainment, hosting an brilliant lineup of local acts on the Park Stage in following order

Leaving Overmorrow: This acoustic-loving band will entertain the audience with their well-known songs and blended vocal harmonies.
Dazl Dance: Prepare to be dazzled by the impressive dance routines presented by Dazl. Their dynamic performances will leave you energised.
Bramley Parish Theatre Players: Immerse yourself in a medley of pop songs and tunes from beloved musicals, courtesy of this ensemble of pantomime characters and dancers
The Bandstanders: Join the fun with this ukulele band that will not only entertain with well-known tunes but also invite the audience to sing and play along.
Class Act: Be amazed by the talents of young performers as they bring to life songs from popular musicals like Matilda and School of Rock. Their enthusiasm and skill promise to leave a lasting impression
Clare Brook vocalist: Clare will sing delightful renditions of well-known songs that are sure to be enjoyed by all.
The show will be held together by local comedian Maxine Wade.
In addition to these captivating performances, the festival offers a variety of other engaging activities on Bramley Park:
Fairy Garden: Step into a world of enchantment with performers, arts and crafts, face painting, and engaging stories that will transport you to a magical realm.
Bramley Park Bowling Club: Embrace the spirit of community as the Bowling Club opens its gates for an open afternoon of free-play crown green bowling. Gather your friends and try your hand at this classic and social sport
Bouncy Castle, Lawn Games, and Coconut Shy: Enjoy family-friendly activities that will delight young and old alike. There’s something for everyone.
Refreshment Stalls and Vendors: Satisfy your taste buds with an array of delectable treats and refreshing alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Discover The Gift in Bramley and Stanningley: In celebration of our communities, artist Keith Khan has created 33 special motifs, one for each ward of the city. Transformed into a special woven textile featuring these 33 artworks, discover and try on a collection of unique garments designed by local makers. Strike a pose with your community, and have your picture taken, wearing your city with pride.

Other events include:

Cultural Exploration at Trinity Methodist Church From 2pm to 6pm, Trinity Methodist Church will come alive with a celebration of culture through captivating displays and interactive activities. Refreshments will also be available here.

A Warm Community Welcome The Church extend an open invitation to everyone to join in this community celebration. Come together on Sunday at 10:30am for an act of worship that reveres the spirit of unity and community that binds us together.

Showcasing Bramley’s Artistic Brilliance Bramley boasts a wealth of exceptional artists who masterfully wield paint, pencil, fabric, thread, and photography skills within our ward. Be inspired as members of our community take part in an exhibition and demonstration of their craft, proudly displaying an essence of our culture.

Art After Loss: A Healing Expression Full Circle Funerals have embarked on a deeply meaningful journey through the Art After Loss project. This initiative embraces the therapeutic power of art, photography, music, poetry, collage, and fabric creation as ways to cope with loss and bereavement. An exhibition with beautiful creations will be on display at Trinity Church. The hope is that these shared expressions will inspire others to find solace and support through art.

A Mural of Remembrance and Creativity The wall of the Full Circle premises onlooking Town Street will display remembrance and positivity through a mural designed by local community members. This ongoing project aims to honour those who have passed away in a creative and uplifting light. You will be able to contribute to this communal masterpiece by crafting a ‘mosaic leaf tile’ that will become a part of the mural. Workshops will be held in the upcoming months, allowing you to play a meaningful role in this artistic endeavour.

Journey Through History: Bramley’s Photographic display For history enthusiasts, Bramley History Society has curated a fantastic photo exhibition at Trinity Church. Explore hundreds of captivating images that narrate the evolution of our community over time.

An Evening of Entertainment As the sun sets, the festivities continue at Bramley Villagers Club with an evening of vibrant entertainment. Join us for an open-mic night from 7pm, featuring an in-house live band with talented vocalists. There will be other acts too. All welcome – tickets not essential.

The Bramley & Stanningley Arts and Culture Festival promises a full-day of artistic immersion and community camaraderie that’s not to be missed. Join us on August 27th for an unforgettable experience that celebrates the vibrant spirit of our neighbourhood.

Let’s come together to revel in some of the talents and creativity that make Bramley & Stanningley truly special. Check out the event website here.

Kirkstall Road takeaway boss offers to pay for double yellow lines to stop anti-social behaviour

By

westleedslife

-

August 25, 2023

0

TJs — TJ's Pizza, on Kirkstall Road. Picture from Google Maps (2023).

By David Spereall, local democracy reporter

A West Leeds takeaway boss has hit out at rude and abrasive quadbiker gangs for causing misery outside his pizza shop.

Aqib Javed, who runs TJ’s Pizza on Kirkstall Road, said youths frequently gather outside on an evening, causing a “negative” to his business.

The double yellow lines that run along the road stop outside the premises and become a single line, while a metal barrier dividing the pavement from the road also stops two doors down.

Mr Javed, 28, said polite requests to the bikers to move their vehicles on were often greeted with retorts such as ‘you’re not the police’.

TJ’s Pizza owner Aqib Javed. Photo: David Spereall

Mr Javed made the comments at a licensing hearing on Tuesday, where he was granted permission by the city council to extend TJ’s closing hours from 11pm until 1am every day.

He said he’d even be willing to pay the council to extend the double yellow lines and the barrier.

Mr Javed told councillors: “We’ve tried to go outside sometimes, because it’s causing a loss to our business.

“We ask them ‘please could you move your vehicle’, but we get responses like ‘you don’t own the road’, ‘we pay our tax’, or ‘you’re not the police’.

“It’s not worth the confrontation sometimes. The whole of Kirkstall Road (to that point) has double yellow lines and a cycle lane, but it stops right outside my shop and the bike shop next door.

“It’s probably the busiest road in Leeds.”

TJ’s Pizza’s application to stay open until 1am had attracted a single objection from a nearby neighbour, who cited anti-social behaviour and “disruptive incidents from people associated with TJs”, as well as noise from quadbikes.

The neighbour in question did not attend Tuesday’s hearing.

Mr Javed strongly denied these problems were anything to do with his premises and said his business cared about the community.

A panel of two councillors, who approved the application, later described Mr Javed as a “responsible businessman who clearly valued the reputation of his business and staff”.

The takeaway boss added: “These people are causing a nuisance to the place and they’re nothing to do with us. It’s not like they’re our customers and they’re giving us money.

“If anything it causes a negative to my business. The barrier stops at my shop so everyone parks outside my shop unfortunately.”

Asked by one councillor if having the barriers and road markings extended would inconvenience his own customers, Mr Javed replied: “We’re mainly based around deliveries anyway.

“I’m willing to pay for the fence and double yellow lines if there’s going to be less commotion and less anti-social behaviour.”

Earlier this year, the police and Leeds City Council announced a crackdown on nuisance quadbikers, following complaints from people across the city about late night-noise and dangerous riding.

On-the-spot fines of up to £100 can now be issued by the authorities for such offences.

CLARIFICATION

On Thursday, 24 August, WLD carried an article which wrongly stated that the council had refused TJ Pizzas’ application to extend its opening hours. The article was based on information provided by Leeds City Council’s press office and was published in good faith. The council has since apologised for their error. We are happy to clarify the position and apologise for any confusion.

Endangered crayfish rescued from Pudsey Beck

By

westleedslife

-

August 25, 2023

1

EA's Dan Chadwick checks the crayfish before they are released

A rescued population of endangered white clawed crayfish that were in danger of being wiped out in Pudsey have been moved to a safe haven where they can thrive and breed.

In June, Environment Agency specialists rescued the population from Pudsey Beck as part of a wider operation to safeguard the future of the native species in the River Aire catchment.

Those rescued, which included females carrying eggs, were kept for safekeeping in quarantine in tanks at the University of Leeds before passing health checks.

The crayfish – which now includes 300 babies born after the rescue took place – have been released into a Yorkshire Water-managed reservoir in North Yorkshire – known as an ‘ark’ site where they can live and breed safe from the threat of the invasive species.

The rescue and release is part of work by the Environment Agency and partners to carry out operations to rescue the native species after the invasive American Signal crayfish and a disease it carries – crayfish plague – moved through parts of the River Aire catchment.

Environment Agency fisheries officer Dan Chadwick said: “With so few populations of native crayfish remaining, we must act to preserve what we can.

“The endangered white clawed crayfish plays a vital role in keeping our waterways healthy and as a source of food for other native species, so it’s important we take action to ensure its survival.

“Those rescued from Pudsey Beck – including babies that have been born since the rescue – have a new biosecure home where they are safe from invasive signal crayfish and the plague they carry.

“We will continue to work with our partners to safeguard the future of the native species, including carrying out rescues and finding them new safe homes.”

Alison Dunn, Professor of Ecology in the School of Biology at the University of Leeds, who has been involved throughout the project, said: “Invasive species and diseases can have serious consequences on our environment such as loss of biodiversity and extinction of native species.

“If you’re out and about in the environment – such as walking your dog, working or fishing – please make sure to thoroughly check, clean and dry anything that’s been in contact with the water or riverbank, such as equipment and clothing. This will reduce the risk of spreading invasive species and diseases.”

If you see any crayfish, alive or dead, leave it where it is and report it immediately to the Environment Agency on 0800 807060. If possible, take close-up photos of the crayfish to help identify the species. It is illegal to handle or remove crayfish from the water without the correct licences.

Sponsored content

Authentic greek food pudsey partner — https://authenticgreek.co.uk/order-now

Culture and creativity on show at Farsley’s Leeds 2023 event

By

westleedslife

-

August 25, 2023

0

A day of culture, celebration and creativity is being held in Farsley as part of the year-long Leeds 2023 City of Culture celebrations.

Seven artists will be showing the work they have created with the community, and there will be activities, story telling and more to entertain and delight visitors of all ages.

Artists’ work includes mural art, hand-painted saris, embroidered banners, an audio installation, storytelling and more.

The event, called Spinning Tales, will be held at Sunny Bank Mills in Farsley tomorrow (Saturday, 26 August) between 12pm to 5pm.

It is free to attend and is the Leeds 2023 community event for the Calverley & Farsley ward. Here’s what to expect:

Story Telling with Liv: Liv is an early years specialist with a passion for imaginative and vibrant storytelling. Liv will be telling the story of Calverley & Farsley ward through gathered ideas from our community family.
Create a tapestry with Sophie Jones: Sophie normally collaborates with her daughter, meticulously embroidering over her drawings as a celebration of her mark making. Here she collaborates with the community, to make a huge tapestry.
It Takes A Village: check out the amazing banners co-created by our wonderful community. Using children’s drawings, community volunteers have recreated them into fabric collages which represent favourite places and the way we play.
Vote for a Mural with Project Farsley.
Sound from Sam: Sam Mitchell has explored Farsley’s weaving heritage to create a sound piece. Step back in time and listen in the new Shearing Shed.
Saris created with Maya: Be awed by the saris hand dyed by the children in local schools with artist Maya Stigner.
Mini-Worlds: Sarah creates tiny scenes within found vessels which conjure a feeling of place, belonging and family. Investigate these tiny worlds and see if you can recognize your own!

More details here.

Check out WLD’s what’s on guide for the latest events from your community and beyond.

Sponsored content

Silver medal for Armley boxer Hamilton Joyce in Germany

By

westleedslife

-

August 25, 2023

0

By James Bovington

West Leeds amateur boxer Hamilton Joyce returned from Germany having won a silver medal in the Brandenburg Box Cup held in Berlin over the last week.

The cup featured more than a hundred boxers from nine different countries including England, Ireland, the USA and the host Germany.

Eighteen-year-old Hamilton, who’s affectionately known as Hammypatrick, lives in Armley and trains at Camp Detox club in Oldfield Lane, Wortley.

He was the only boxer from Yorkshire in the eight-strong team organised by England Boxing, the body that funds and controls the amateur sport.

Joyce beat an Irish boxer and two German boxers to reach the final in the 60kg weight class.

However, the win was awarded to his German opponent Ransour Rahmati, giving Hammypatrick the silver.

He had already won gold at an international boxing tournament in Spain and is rated the top English male amateur at 60kg.

Sponsored content

Pudsey: Britannia pub gains permission to extend opening hours

By

westleedslife

-

August 24, 2023

0

britannia pub pudsey — Plans: The Britannia Pub, Pudsey. Photo: Google

A Pudsey pub has received permission to open earlier in the morning, after councillors agreed to their application.

Moonlight Taverns Ltd wanted The Britannia Pub in Swinnow Road to extend its hours to 9am to midnight daily. The pub currently opens at 11am.

Councillors sitting on Leeds City Council’s licensing sub-committee yesterday agreed to the application, but added an extra condition.

A council spokesperson said: “Members determined to grant the application as applied for, subject to imposing an additional condition restricting alcohol sales to accompanying food orders during the varied timings.”

There had been one objection to the application, on the grounds of crime and disorder, public nuisance and the protection of children from harm.

The agenda and associated reports considered by councillors in Leeds Civic Hall can be read in full here.