Volunteer Lynn Groves helps clear a war grave at Bramley Baptist Church. Photo: John Baron (August 2022)
By Connor Briggs
An army of volunteers is preparing to start the ninth year of their war graves clean-up at Bramley Baptist Church Yard.
The clean up returns on Wednesday, 19 April 2023 at 12.30pm. The scheme has been ongoing for almost a decade and offers the opportunity for “some fresh air and friendly banter whilst doing a worthwhile job,” according to one volunteer.
This is the first session of the year at the graveyard, and the work includes litter picking, grass cutting and weeding.
Volunteers’ help maintain Bramley Baptist Churchyard. Photo: Connor Briggs
The community-led scheme is dependent on volunteers. And one of the volunteers involved said: “New volunteers are always welcome to come and join our friendly group.”
Many stories are tied into the names of the fallen soldiers, including Major John Geoffrey Appleyard, a World War Two hero who served in the commandos and a founding member of the SAS.
The Bramley-born war hero was awarded the Distinguished Service Order and met King George VI.
During Major Appleyard’s third investiture in 11 months, it is said King George VI greeted the major with: “What, you again?”. He is also said to be the inspiration for James Bond 007.
It is due to the work of volunteers that the graves are maintained to a good standard, and volunteers are welcome to join in the clean-up next Wednesday (April 19).
Tributes have been paid to 18-year-old Jamie Meah. Photo: Connor Briggs
Detectives investigating the death of 18-year-old Jamie Meah in Armley have now arrested four people on suspicion of murder.
The men, aged 18, 19, 24 and 30, have all been interviewed and released on bail.
Jamie died in hospital after being fatally stabbed in an attack at the junction of Hall Lane and Brentwood Terrace in Armley on Friday, 31 March 2023.
Detectives are continuing to appeal for information.
Contact police by using 101 Live Chat online or by calling 101, quoting crime reference 13230180255. Information can also be given anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Sunny Bank anniversary: John Gaunt, Rachel Moaby, William Gaunt and Jane Kay. Photo: Fiona Gell
2023 is a year of celebration at Sunny Bank Mills, the historic family-owned mill complex in Farsley.
Ten years ago cousins John and William Gaunt embarked on an ambitious programme of cultural regeneration, which has transformed the former textile mill into one of the largest and most successful cultural communities in Yorkshire.
It’s a renaissance which has been the catalyst for the regeneration of Farsley’s bustling village centre, with cafes, restaurants, a bookshop and other independents all benefiting from the work at Sunny Bank Mills.
In 2013 the Gaunts, the co-managing directors of the mill, made two key appointments to lead the cultural regeneration programme, creative director Jane Kay and heritage director Rachel Moaby.
William Gaunt explained: “These appointments enabled us to develop and grow our arts and heritage programmes which have fostered the creative zeitgeist that has developed and flourished at the mill. We are very proud of our reputation as one of the most innovative and exciting cultural centres in the region.”
William Gaunt and Rachel Moaby with some historic objects from the archive.
The two cornerstones of the cultural regeneration are the Art Gallery, which runs a rolling exhibition, events and engagement programme supporting regional artists and creatives, and the mill’s historic archive.
The archive is one of the most significant and substantial woven textile archives in the UK, which has received a substantial grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
These have been supplemented by 25 artists’ studios and, in recent years, the development of the Old Woollen, a 500-capacity events venue.
In the past 10 years, the gallery has hosted 75 exhibitions supporting over 1,000 artists and makers, and introduced creative events including a regular print fair, vintage fairs and a hugely successful Christmas market.
The Old Woollen has welcomed a host of household names including comedian Arthur Smith, broadcaster Gyles Brandreth, historian and television personality Lucy Worsley and writer and DJ Mark Radcliffe.
Sunny Bank Mills already had a strong artistic background as Yorkshire Television’s hugely popular series Emmerdale and Heartbeat were filmed there between 1988 and 2008. There are now 500,000 visits to the mill annually.
John Gaunt commented: “If I had been told those figures as projections 10 years ago, I wouldn’t have believed them. But thanks to an excellent team we have exceeded all expectations.”
William Gaunt added: “The growth of our cultural offering has been crucial to the sustainable development of the Mill so whilst we are maintaining our proud connection with the arts and heritage, we are doing this alongside the sustainable development of the mill complex, which means a delicate balancing act between commercial and cultural interests.
“We have recently welcomed our 100th business on site, with 400 new jobs created, but it is crucially important that we create an environment where people don’t just love to work, but also to play, live and learn.”
Both the Art Gallery and the Old Woollen, with their varied programmes, enable Sunny Bank to thrive as a proper community and not simply as a business centre.
“Together with our Archive, they are the beating heart of the mill,” added John.
Creative Director Jane Kay is ‘immensely proud’ of what has been achieved over the past 10 years.
“What started as a small independent pop-up gallery has developed into a fully curated independent gallery, shop, event and engagement programme providing artists and makers with spaces not only to exhibit and sell work but also to make it,” she added.
“Our diverse programme aims to make art accessible to everyone and demonstrate what art can be.
“Ones to Watch, our annual exhibition promoting emerging artists who are either from or study in Yorkshire, is also 10 this year, launching the creative careers of numerous artists, many of whom have returned to exhibit with us as established artists or gone onto success elsewhere.”
Sunny Bank’s cultural anniversary coincides with Leeds 2023, with the city showcasing its artistic and cultural strength.
Jane Kay added: “In these challenging post-Covid times, with the cost-of-living crisis and the war in Ukraine, the nourishing power of art and culture has never been so important. So Leeds 2023, our role within it and that of other arts organisation in Leeds is both timely and an amazing opportunity to celebrate the power of culture.”
Members of West Leeds SILC with Sunny Bank Mills’ Alison McMaster,
Heritage Director Rachel Moaby was proud of the development of Sunny Bank’s archive.
She said: “In a similar vein the last 10 years have seen an immense development in the archive; transforming it from little more than storage of Sunny Bank Mills’ history into an accredited archive. A team of volunteers has grown over the years and now number 20.
“Committed to preserving, enhancing, and sharing the history and stories of the mill and its people, our volunteers are invaluable to our continued development.”
The national significance of the archive has been recognised by several grants from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England, enabling valuable work on the collection and creating accessibility to as many people as possible.
This has included the development of school workshops focused on the Industrial Revolution and World War 1 helping to share the unique collection and the stories of the people that worked here.
The latest funding has enabled Sunny Bank to carry out an on-line project called Weaving the Web in conjunction with the West Leeds Specialist Learning Centre, which has made our Archive much more accessible and inclusive. The Weaving the Web project has developed a 360 inventory of the collection which showcases the collection with the newest technology.
“The future of the collection is exciting and is a constant source of inspiration to all that step into the space,” Rachel added.
The referee felt the goalmouth was unplayable. Photo: Thomas Ritchie
Farsley Celtic’s crunch game against relegation rivals Blyth Spartans was called off by referee Paul Cooper at five past three this afternoon – much to the annoyance of hundreds of fans already in the stadium.
A heavy downpour from around 1.30pm had led to representatives of both teams working to get the Citadel pitch playable, with efforts concentrating on the far goalmouth.
Kick-off was delayed from 3pm until 3.15pm but at 3.05pm referee Cooper decided the game couldn’t be played due to an unsafe pitch.
Fans reacted with disappointment to the late decision.
came to @farsleycelticfc to cheer @blyth_spartans on. game was postponed at 3pm with no announcement over the pa. easily 100 away fans who've made the 112-mile trip (leaving blyth at 9am). only rained for an hour or so…seems crazy to me…a lot of very disappointed people. pic.twitter.com/CcRrbUta4g
A new date for the game will be announced in due course.
Farsley Celtic remain one point and one place above Leamington, who still occupy fourth bottom after their 3-0 defeat to Kettering.
The Celts now have a game in hand over Leamington. Blyth remain third from bottom, three points behind Farsley but with a superior goal difference, having played the same number of games.
Farsley next travel to third-placed Chester on Saturday.
A Kirkstall pub garden will be improved after plans submitted to Leeds City Council were approved.
The Vesper Gate, off Abbey Road, had submitted plans for new double doors at the pub and an extension of a timber pergola to cater for people who may wish to drink or dine outside.
The beer garden area will be resurfaced and will have artificial grass.
A planning statement submitted with the application said the proposals were important to help maintain the viability of the pub and added: “The works are a direct response to the recent Covid 19 pandemic / current economy problems and the need to provide improved outdoor seating areas and generally enhance external spaces.
“This is to support the overall viability of the premises and to meet the changing demand of customers, many of whom prefer outdoor spaces.”
What started as a supportive network during 2020/1 lockdown delivering books and jigsaws has continued with great success this Easter.
Bramley Breezers (a local running club) joined forces again with Bramley Elderly Action to support older residents via the ‘BrAmazon‘ network of volunteers to deliver Easter gifts and eggs to 30 randomly chosen members.
Bramley Elderly Action members decorated bags and knitted covers for Easter eggs and Preston Green, a local youth, did some fundraising events to be able to donate Cadbury Mini Eggs.
Here are some of the photos from the deliveries.
Photos by by Lynn Beaumont, Jean Hollings, Amanda Jane De-Pledge, Fran Graham, Vickie Jamieson and Satty Virdee.
Voices of Yorkshire celebrated its fifth birthday back in January – and their sixth year promises to be the best yet.
The group of choirs – which has a group in Pudsey – has been asked to perform at a host of events in the region, including the Manorlands Hospice Garden Party in July, the Candlelighters day of remembrance at Headingley Stadium in October and their own show at the Kings Hall in Ilkley on 24 June.
Here they will perform alongside a Beatles tribute band, Beatles For Sale, raising money on the day for Dementia UK, the choirs chosen charity for 2023.
The show promises to be highly entertaining with a blend of comedy, choir singing and tonness of Beatles nostalgia to boot.
Voices of Yorkshire will bring together their seven choirs for two performances, a matinee at 2.30pm and an evening show starting at 7pm. They will be donating seats to families impacted by Dementia, recognising how music can be hugely positive for those suffering with the disease.
If you would like to support the event, tickets are available via their website.
Voices of Yorkshire is made up of seven choirs across the region with groups located in Bingley, Skipton, Oakworth, Silsden, Pudsey, Menston and Yeadon. If you enjoy singing and would like to join in the fun, they would love to welcome you. The groups are very relaxed with the focus on having fun through singing. No previous experience is necessary.
Call Sally on 07710 590191 (for Pudsey/Menston/Yeadon groups).
Theo Williams will be looking to be among the goals against Blyth. Photo: John McEvoy
By Thomas Ritchie
Farsley Celtic face a crunch clash in the fight to avoid relegation on Easter Monday, as Blyth Spartans make the trip to the Citadel.
It could be a pivotal day at the bottom of the National League North, with 20th-place Farsley hosting 22nd-place Blyth. Elsewhere, 19th-place Kettering Town hosts 21st-place Leamington.
It’s a day made bigger by a week of mixed fortunes for Russ Wilcox’s side. Tuesday saw Farsley take advantage of their game in hand by defeating Brackley Town 2-1, before Friday saw a 4-0 battering at the hands of Boston United.
The Citadel is the home of National League North club Farsley Celtic. Photo: Farsley Celtic
The visiting Spartans head into Monday on the back of a run of three games without a loss, keeping three consecutive clean sheets during that run.
An impressive 3-0 victory over league leaders AFC Fylde was followed up by back-to-back goalless draws with Banbury United and Darlington.
Looking ahead to the game, Russ Wilcox said: “We’re in a lot better position than we were this time last season, when only one went down and we were bottom.
“We’ve got our heads above the water at the moment, it’s down to us and it’s in our hands.
“We spoke with six to go saying that we know every game is massive from here on in, but we just play our normal game.
“Our home form’s really good, so that stands us in good stead for Monday.”
TEAM NEWS
Bobby Johnson and Luke Parkin have both been ruled out for the remainder of the season through injury.
Isaac Assenso continues to near a comeback from an injury sustained whilst on loan at Guiseley.
All of the important supporter information can be found here.
New role: Farsley Celtic CEO Josh Greaves
New role for Josh Greaves
Farsley Celtic have confirmed the appointment of Josh Greaves as the club’s new Executive Vice-Chairman.
This promotion sees Josh take a step back from front-line activities as CEO, and move into a more senior management role.
He will be responsible for helping guide the club strategically, creating operational governance and overseeing the implementation of new strategies and guidelines, working alongside the new Board of Directors and other stakeholders.
Chairman Paul Barthorpe said: “The appointment of Josh as Executive Vice-Chairman is the culmination of years of undivided commitment to Farsley Celtic. He absolutely deserves this recognition and to be in a role of high seniority.
“As far as I, and probably the rest of the world, are concerned, Josh Greaves is Farsley Celtic and Farsley Celtic is Josh Greaves.
“Since he was 16 there isn’t a position at the club he hasn’t held or a job that he hasn’t done. His knowledge of everything football and everything Farsley is second to none, and the time, effort and dedication he has put into the club over the years are immeasurable.
“I honestly can’t speak highly enough of Josh both professionally and personally, and without him, I doubt the club would be anywhere near where it is today.
“His new role, as part of the new look board of directors, will see him taking a more overseeing role, helping steer the direction of the Club and oversee new growth and development throughout all sections.
“I am genuinely very happy to be working closer with Josh over the forthcoming periods and I’m looking forward to putting into place the plans we have.
Josh Greaves said: “I am honoured to accept the promotion to Executive Vice-Chairman, ahead of what will be my 18th season involved with the club.
“We are working hard to build the future of the club and with the new members we have added to the board, we are now in a strong position to do so.
“I am excited to be part of shaping the future of the club, supporting Paul and the club to help us continue to build further.”
Adele Rae and four-legged friend at Kirkstall Valley Farm. Photo: Connor Briggs
By Connor Briggs
Kirkstall Valley Farm could soon become your new “big back garden” with the team having huge plans for the Kirkstall green space.
Throughout 12 months’ of hard work from volunteers and staff, a large green space on the site has received a facelift with the area becoming a social space for guests.
With the help of staff, volunteers, and contributions from the Leeds Payback Scheme, the area has a range of uses including children’s play schemes and venue hire, with further plans in the pipeline.
Taking a breather: Keith Hodgson volunteers at the farm.
The renovation took place over a former allotment with the space been refurbished into an area with a covered kitchen, hot water, stoves, marquees, and a shelter surrounded by open space.
Adele Rae, chief executive at Kirkstall Valley Development Trust (KVDT), which runs the farm, said: “It’s been a gradual period of evolvement, we’ve got fantastic volunteers and staff and Leeds City Council have supported us and gave us funding.
“Everybody has mucked in to do the bits they can do, it gives us a designated area for social events, and it gives us an income which helps us support the farm. My vision for the farm is eventually during the day people can wander in and just sit down and enjoy the space. Roger [Plumtree], our farm director, describes it as a big back garden.
“Children respond so well to the site, they’re happy here and they get to run around while their parents can relax. For single parents or parents struggling, it’s a place they can come have a chat, a cupper, and relax while their children are playing.”
Ms Rae describes the benefits of being outside: “It’s incredible to think the A65 runs just outside the gate but you can’t hear it. It’s so good for your well-being, de-stressing, and it just makes you feel good. (Being outside) you can feel the stress lifting off you.”
A huge contribution to the renovations was from the Payback Scheme, in which those found guilty of crimes will contribute to hours of work into the community.
Ms Rae added: “We have anything from a couple of lads to about 12 who are just phenomenal, we couldn’t do what we do without the community Payback and it’s important to us that we offer them a varied range of things to do and skills to learn. KVDT is a family and that includes probation”.
Keith Hodgson volunteers at the site. Reflecting on the work he said: “It’s really rewarding and as times gone on, I’ve got more involved and we’re now seeing the benefits of the time put in.
“There’s quite a comradery between the groups of people so you become friends with other volunteers, and there’s a reward of something to show for your time.”
The space is available to hire for functions such as weddings and events. Contact the venue at 07900986570 or visit https://kirkstallvalleyfarm.org.uk/.
Farsley Celtic have appointed groundsman and club director Paul Glover as their new club President.
Mr Glover, a former part-owner and chairman, assumes the role following the passing of former president John Palmer in December.
A club statement said: “Paul Glover is Farsley Celtic through and through, having had an active association with the club for over 70 years.”
He was friends with some of Farsley’s founding members and at just 14 was the club’s groundsman, before representing the club on the pitch as a player for 17 years.
During his time at Farsley, Paul has also held the positions of chairman, part owner and director.
He is familiar to many as the Celts’ match-day announcer, a role he has held for a number of years. In recent years he has also resumed the role of groundsman, and is an integral part of the club’s new board of directors, alongside his announcing duties.
Chairman Paul Barthorpe said: “I’m delighted that Paul has agreed to become our new Club President, and I don’t think you could find someone who is more Farsley Celtic.
“Following the sad passing of John Palmer, it was always going to be a difficult decision on who could follow in his footsteps and fill this role, but in Paul, I think we have the perfect person.
“He is and always has been an integral part of this club, and he truly has the football club in his heart.”
Changing times: Farsley Celtic. Photo: Simon Cullingworth
Farsley Celtic travel to Boston
Farsley Celtic will be looking to build on Tuesday’s win over Brackley Town today (Friday), as they travel to Boston United (3pm).
The Celts head back on the road for the first time after a run of four consecutive games at the Citadel, and visit a side who sit just three points above them in the table.
That run of four-straight home games saw Russ Wilcox’s side collect seven valuable points, which have seen a four-point gap open to the relegation zone.
However, this weekend marks a pivotal point in the fight for survival, with the Celts facing two fellow relegation-threatened sides in Boston and Blyth Spartans.
Farsley visits a Pilgrims side who have themselves seen a resurgence of late to push them clear of the trap door, with Ian Culverhouse’s side unbeaten in five games.
That run has seen Boston record some crucial victories in the relegation battle, with Blyth Spartans, Bradford (Park Avenue) and Leamington all defeated in March.
Speaking after Tuesday’s win, Dave Syers said: “It just gives us a load of confidence going into, really, two crucial games over Easter.
“It frees up a little bit with Boston away, but we know how key Blyth here on Monday is going to be.
“The great thing is, after where we’ve been this season, it is in our hands, and the confidence that the lads have got we’re going to be backing ourselves.”
TEAM NEWS
Bobby Johnson and Luke Parkin have both been ruled out for the remainder of the season through injury.
Isaac Assenso continues to near a comeback from an injury sustained whilst on loan at Guiseley.
