Muzaffar Ahmed Mir aged 33, of Merton Avenue, Farsley was sentenced at Leeds Crown Court today (Thursday 16 October) for causing the death by dangerous driving of Joshua Wilson, aged 26, from Leeds, in Stanningley on 11 April, 2022.

The 33-year-old was jailed for six years after pleading guilty to the offence at a previous hearing.

He was also disqualified from driving for seven years and a deprivation order was made for his BMW M2 car.

Mir had been driving his black M2 at speeds of at least 86mph in the 40mph speed limit area on Bradford Road in Stanningley at just before 2.30pm on April 11 when he struck Mr Wilson.

The 26-year-old had been crossing the road after getting off a bus when he was hit by the car. Despite medical attention, he died at the scene.

Detective Sergeant Paul Lightowler of the Major Collision and Enquiry Team, who led the investigation into the collision, said: “Joshua’s death was a tragedy for his family and friends, and we welcome Mir’s sentencing at court for the dreadful driving which caused it.

“He was believed to have been driving at speeds of at least 86mph in a 40mph zone when he struck Joshua, inflicting unsurvivable injuries on him.

“It is welcome that he pleaded to his offence, sparing Mr Wilson’s family the ordeal of a trial, but they must now live a lifetime without him.

“This case sadly stands as another example of the awful and sometimes fatal consequences of dangerous driving on our roads.

“West Yorkshire Police remains committed with our partners to achieving the West Yorkshire Vision Zero road safety aim to reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured (KSI) on our roads by 50% by 2030, and to zero by 2040.”

Plans submitted for 20-metre 5G mast in Bramley

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October 17, 2025

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By Don Mort, local democracy reporter

A 20-metre mobile phone mast could be erected on a west Leeds street if plans are agreed with the council.

The installation on a footpath on Outgang Lane in Bramley would provide network coverage for mobile operators EE and H3G.

Council planners have been asked to decide if a proposal to install the equipment can go ahead.

The applicant, Mobile Broadband Netowk Ltd (MBNL), said it would replace an existing mast on top of Raynville Court, a block of flats due to be demolished.

The new 4G and 5G pole would be close to schools and around 30 metres from Hollybush Children’s Centre.

A letter from the applicant said: “The proposed scheme will involve deploying a 20-metre-high streetworks pole with built-in cabinet which will support the necessary radio antennas and transmission dishes.

“A small number of additional cabinets will be set alongside the pole.”

MBNL said ward councillors, along with schools within a 500-metre radius, were being consulted on the proposal.

New mast equipment was needed to support the growing use of mobile technology, the company said.

They said: “As network data continues to grow exponentially, new and innovative technologies are being developed to manage this surge.

“This progress is expected to play a crucial role in promoting economic growth and sustainable communities.”

MBNL said all its installations were designed to comply with radiation exposure guidelines.

The letter added: “These guidelines have the support of UK Government, the European Union and they also have the formal backing of the World Health Organisation.”

MBNL’s application for prior approval planning consent is being considered by Leeds City Council.

Farnley woman, 31, named following Stanningley Bypass collision

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October 17, 2025

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Police have released the name and photos of the mother of three children who died on Stanningley Bypass last weekend.

Danielle Smith, 31, from Farnley, died after a collision with a van being driven on Stanningley Bypass near New Pudsey Station at 1.14am on Saturday, 11 October.

Tributes and flowers have been left on railings overlooking Stanningley Bypass in Danielle’s memory, and her family is being supported by specialist officers.

Officers from the Major Collision Enquiry Team are continuing to investigate and would like to hear from anyone who saw the collision or may have relevant dashcam footage and has not already spoken to them.

You can contact West Yorkshire Police online or by calling 101, quoting log 107 of 11 October.

West Leeds licensing applications: 17 October 2025

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October 17, 2025

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the owl rodley — Venue: The Owl, Rodley.

Every fortnight we publish a list of the latest licensing applications related to the seven council wards in the West Leeds Dispatch patch.

The council’s licensing department regulates activities that require a licence, such as selling alcohol, providing entertainment, event notices and taxi licence applications. They also ensure that licensed premises and individuals comply with the law and protect the public

The following licensing application was published on the Leeds City Council website in the past 14 days:

Bramley & Stanningley ward

Premises Licence – DPS Change, Morrisons Daily, 489 Bradford Road, Stanningley, Pudsey Leeds LS28 8ED.

Calverley & Farsley Ward

Premises Licence – Transfer, The Owl, 1 Rodley Lane, Rodley, Leeds LS13 1LB.
Premises Licence Transfer & DPS Change, Fifty Eight Giardino Ltd, 10 Town Street, Farsley, Pudsey LS28 5LD.

Farnley & Wortley ward

Premises Licence Transfer & DPS Change, Whitehall Convenience Store Limited, 389 Whitehall Road, Lower Wortley, Leeds LS12 6LB.

Horsforth ward

Temporary Event Notice, School Assembly Hall, The Froebelian School, Clarence Road, Horsforth, Leeds, LS18 4LB.
Temporary Event Notice, Pavilion, Clariant Sports Ground, Calverley Lane, Horsforth, Leeds LS18 4ED.

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Farsley Farmers’ Market looks forward to Christmas

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October 17, 2025

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By Jo Reilly

Are you ready to launch into the giving season with Farsley Farmers’ Market?

The market is now approaching the final stretch of 2025 with markets on 25 October, 22 November and 20 December 9.30am-1pm, plus a Festive Market at Farsley Christmas Lights event on Wednesday, 26 November from 6-8pm.

September Market had fair weather and a party feel with the annual visit from Farsley Community Orchard and their Apple Day activities. Attendees were also treated to a wood carving demo and the beautiful strains of the Yorkshire Flute Choir.

October, November and December markets will see the return of FIIYA, Lasting Impressions (featuring Crafty Corner) The Baking Banksy & Davenports handmade, with Fred & Bo taking up a permanent place once more.

These events will also be visited by Hope Pastures and Royal British Legion charity stalls, plus pop-up tombolas and raffles! October sees the last visit of 2025 from Mallowdramatic, Sugar Blonde Bakes and Robins & Rainbows.

Regular makers and bakers will be in attendance, alongside special guests through November and December, such as Debbie Austin Facepaints, Lavender & Twine, Joey’s Chilli Sauce, Rik’s Concrete Creations, Skylos Dog Treats and The Handcarving Co.

A spokesperson added: “This year we are more than delighted with the selection of stallholders secured for Farsley Christmas Lights Market!

“These include local makers of sweet treats, stunning arts and crafts, and hot food & drink vendors. We will keep their details under wraps for now, but please keep a look out on our socials where the stallholders will be posted soon.”

Farsley Farmers’ Market runs every fourth Saturday in St John’s Church Hall car park. More details here.

More West Leeds events can be found on WLD‘s what’s on calendar.

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Latest work announced at Dawsons Corner improvement scheme

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October 17, 2025

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A fresh wave of work – and lane closures – at the £44 million Dawsons Corner and Stanningley Bypass improvement scheme has been announced.

The next phases of work will be carried out overnight by Northern Powergrid and will allow for essential roadworks which involve creating further underground routes for cable services.

Upcoming work:

Monday 20 October – Cote Lane Road closure: Cote Lane (entry from Bradford Road) will be closed for one night from 7:30pm -5am. The closure will allow for Northern Powergrid to carry out essential road works, and tree maintenance work. The exit opposite the Police station remains open.
Wednesday 22 October – Owlcotes Lane Road closure: Owlcotes Lane will be closed overnight from 8pm reopening 5am on Thursday 23 October.
Thursday 23 October – Owlcotes Lane Road closure (leading in to New Pudsey Train Station from Stanningley Bypass) will be closed from midnight and will reopen at 5am on Friday 24 October.
3 November and 4 November – Ring Road Farsley road closure from 8pm-5am. The closure will allow for Northern Powergrid to carry out essential road works. Resident access will not be affected.

A spokesperson said: “During the nightworks, we’ll aim to complete the loudest work earlier in the evening, then continue with quieter tasks through the night.

“This will enable faster completion – helping buses and local businesses by reducing daytime disruption. We’d like to thank everyone for their ongoing patience while we complete these essential works.”

The Dawsons Corner scheme is a project to improve the junction of the A647 and the A6120 in Leeds, which is a major bottleneck for traffic and a source of air pollution. The scheme aims to reduce congestion, deliver essential safety works, and provide better facilities for drivers, bus users, and those who walk, wheel or cycle.

WLD reported this week that lane closure for the Dawsons Corner and Stanningley Bypass improvements has been extended by a week after work over-ran.

Around 57,000 vehicles and 1,200 pedestrians and cyclists use the junction daily.

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Armley music school drums up £4k for Leeds hospice

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October 17, 2025

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Isaac Haywood and Michael Tarbatt from Sue Ryder.

An Armley-based music school has raised over £4,000 so far for Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice.

Rock School UK director, Isaac Haywood, 51, was inspired to fundraise for the charity after his close friend Paddy received end-of-life care at the hospice in 2021.

Isaac and his team run courses for young people at the Canal Road building during school holidays, and 2025 marks the fourth year in a row that Rock School UK has raised money for the palliative care and bereavement support charity.

Each course ends with a finale gig at The Wardrobe in Leeds, where young people showcase their skills. A raffle is held at each event to raise funds for Sue Ryder, and an all-day summer festival invites all bands back to perform, with a special raffle offering a free place at Rock School UK the following year.

Reflecting on the time Paddy spent being cared for at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice Isaac shared: “I know he was really well looked after there, it felt like he was in the right place. He didn’t want anyone to be sad when he died – and insisted he didn’t want a funeral, just a big party.”

Although Paddy wasn’t musical himself, Isaac believes he would appreciate the fundraising efforts. “He was a really caring person. I think he’d be so happy that we’re doing this, not just for him, but to help others too.”

Michael Tarbatt, community fundraiser at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, said: “I’d like to extend a huge thank you to Isaac and the whole Rock School UK team for choosing to fundraise for us for another year.

“The money that our supporters raise helps us continue providing compassionate care to those who need it most.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Isaac has committed to doubling up every week of the summer programme, creating even more opportunities for young musicians and continuing to raise funds in Paddy’s memory.

To find out more about how you can support Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, contact wheatfields.fundraising@sueryder.org .

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Lane closures announced at Horsforth Roundabout

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October 16, 2025

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Motorists are being warned of delays at busy Horsforth Roundabout as work starts to install a Combined Sewer Overflow.

Yorkshire Water has said there will be lane closures on Rawdon Road and Horsforth Roundabout.

Works will start on 20 October 2025 with overnight lane closures from 7.30pm to 6am for five weeks.

A second phase of works is due to commence on 3 November until 28 November, which will require a full-time lane closure on the A65 Rawdon Road on its approach to Horsforth Roundabout.

The location of the works are shown at: https://one.network/?GB145759473 and https://one.network/?GB145759406.

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West Leeds: Bus service changes announced

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October 16, 2025

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Bus operators in Leeds have a announced a raft of changes to services across the city.

In West Leeds, the changes will affect the number 15 through Armley, Gamble Hill and Farnley and 81 Armley and Pudsey services.

Here’s a full list of changes, which will start from 26 October 2025:

1 1A Wakefield • Pinderfields Hospital • Robin Hood • Hunslet • Leeds • Headingley • West Park • Holt Park
Operated by Yorkshire Buses
This service will be significantly revised and reduced to two journeys each way. Service 1A will be withdrawn, and there will no longer be any journeys operating between Holt Park and Leeds, or via Pinderfields Hospital.

15 Leeds • Armley • Gamble Hill • Old Farnley
Operated by First
Due to access issues all journeys will now operate clockwise round Gamble Hill. The timetable will remain unchanged.

61 61A 61E St James’s Hospital • East End Park • Hunslet Shopping Centre • John Charles Centre
Operated by Yorkshire Buses
Evening journeys after 1900 (service 61E) will be withdrawn. These were previously introduced commercially on a trial basis in January 2025. Daytime journeys until around 1900 will remain unchanged.

81 Leeds • Armley • Pudsey
Operated by Squarepeg
Some journeys will be retimed by around 5 minutes.

116 Wakefield • Horbury • Ossett • Gawthorpe • Shaw Cross • White Rose Centre • Leeds
Operated by Yorkshire Buses
This service will be rerouted in Shaw Cross via Windsor Road and Chidswell Lane. Some journeys will be retimed by up to 5 minutes

168 Leeds • Woodlesford • Swillington • Allerton Bywater • Castleford
Operated by Arriva
Many journeys will be retimed by around 5-10 minutes.

253 Leeds • Birkenshaw • Gomersal • Heckmondwike
Operated by Squarepeg
This new service will operate hourly on weekdays between approximately 0700 and 1800 from Leeds to Heckmondwike via Birkenshaw and Gomersal.

DalesBus Services
Sun 26 Oct 2025
Winter DalesBus services start.

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Swinnow Community Centre Café: Where good food and good company comes together

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October 16, 2025

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By Will Munton

Every Thursday morning, Swinnow Community Centre comes alive with the smell of bacon, the sound of classic tunes, and the warmth of community.

By 9am, volunteers arrive to set up tables, put on music, and get everything ready for another busy café day.

At 9.30am, the doors open. Thick-cut bacon and high-quality sausages go into the oven, prepared by a trained kitchen team who all hold Level 2 Food Hygiene certificates – training provided by the centre itself. Filter coffee is poured, and guests enjoy free hot drinks, part of the centre’s effort to make the café welcoming and inclusive for everyone.

Before serving begins, volunteers gather for a short team meeting. It’s a moment to encourage each other, go over food safety reminders, and assign roles. Together they create a friendly, relaxed space where local people can chat, eat, and feel at home.

Homemade cakes are displayed at bargain prices, alongside a full breakfast and lunch menu. The Swinnow Breakfast—two thick bacon rashers, two premium sausages, a free-range egg, tomatoes, mushrooms, beans, and toast for just £5—has quickly become a local favourite.

Volunteer Kacy said: “The café helps me get out of the house, builds my confidence, and lifts my depression. It’s had a huge impact on my life. I love the people, the customers – it’s a kind space for all.”

The café runs every Thursday from 9.30am to 1pm, with employment support available on the last Thursday of each month in partnership with Leeds City Council.

Swinnow Community Centre is more than a café, it’s a hub for all ages. As part of its community cohesion work, the centre also runs:

Weekly and Monthly Activities

Stay + Play (Tuesdays, 9:00–10:30am): A group for children aged 0–5 to explore through messy play, crafts, and stories. Snacks are provided, giving parents and carers time to relax.
The Pantry (Tuesdays, 12:00–2:00pm): A community store offering around £20 worth of food for £6, in partnership with Pudsey Community Project. Includes an optional savings account to help with money management.
The Den (Tuesdays, 4:30–5:30pm): A youth club for school years 3–6 with games, crafts, music, and a tuck shop. Staff and volunteers offer a safe place for fun and conversation.
Prize Bingo (Wednesdays, 10:30am–12:00pm): Eight games for £5, with refreshments and prizes. Adults only.
Lego + Games Club (Thursdays, 3:30–5:00pm): A creative after-school session for KS1 children (and siblings) featuring themed Lego builds and family games.
The Café (Thursdays, 9:30am–1:00pm): Affordable breakfasts and lunches, free drinks, and a welcoming space for all ages.

Additional Activities

The centre also hosts line dancing, the Invisible Pain Theatre Company, Hazel Ball School of Dance, private party hire, catering services, and seasonal community events such as Halloween and Christmas parties.

Swinnow Community Centre continues to grow as a place where people connect, support one another, and feel valued.

For more information, email: swinnowcommunitycentrecic@gmail.com.

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Pumpkins, tours, and autumn fun at Kirkstall Valley Farm

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October 16, 2025

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pumpkins2 — Tango the Tractor will be happy to help at Kirkstall Valley Farm.

By Roland Cross

Kirkstall Valley Farm is set to host a vibrant community celebration, bringing together two of its most beloved seasonal events in one exciting day.

A project of the Kirkstall Valley Development Trust (KVDT), the farm will open its gates for a joint event that promises something for everyone.

On Saturday, 25 October from 11am -2.30pm the Farm Team will be leading guided tours, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how this community-powered farm grows fresh produce, supports local sustainability and nurtures nature.

Whether you’re curious about composting, crop rotation, or the farm’s volunteer opportunities, the tours will be a great way to learn and connect.

Meanwhile, the Children and Families Team will be hosting the Annual Pumpkin Festival, a much-loved tradition that brings autumn magic to life.

Families can pick their own pumpkins, enjoy seasonal crafts, and take part in games and activities designed to delight children of all ages. Expect face painting, storytelling, and plenty of photo opportunities with the farm’s festive displays. Book your ticket for Pumpkin Festival here.

“This event is a celebration of everything Kirkstall Valley Farm stands for—community, learning, and fun,” said Adele Rae, CEO of KVDT.

“It’s a chance for families to enjoy the outdoors, discover how food is grown, and make lasting memories together.”

The event will take place at Kirkstall Valley Farm, nestled in the heart of the valley, with easy access from the canal towpath and nearby bus routes. Entry is free, and refreshments will be available from West Leeds vendors.