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Author to launch crime thriller at historic Kirkstall Forge

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Kirkstall Forge in the Second World War.

Leeds author Chris Nickson’s new crime thriller No Precious Truth is set to be launched at Butlers, Kirkstall Forge.

Set in the Second World War and featuring the historic Kirkstall Forge, Chris is set to talk about his inspiration for the suspenseful novel. He will be joined on 17 April by former Leeds West MP Sir John Battle who will share his own experiences of the city’s heritage. 

Lucinda Yeadon, social impact manager at CEG, the developer behind Kirkstall Forge, will also share information exploring Kirkstall Forge’s own story and the role it played in the war effort. 

Women wartime workers.

Novelist Chris Nickson, said: “I feel privileged to be holding the launch at Kirkstall Forge, such an important industrial Leeds location for the war effort. A small part of the book happens here, in 1941, and being on that same ground brings every much closer.”

Lucinda Yeadon from CEG added: “We are delighted to host the book launch for Chris. It is a fantastic novel and provides an insight into Leeds, and Kirkstall Forge, during the Second World War. Tickets are limited and can be obtained by contacting the team at Kirkstall Forge.”

The novel is set in Leeds in 1941. As the war rages across Europe, Police Sergeant Cathy Marsden’s life since she was seconded to the Special Investigation Branch has remained focused on deserters and home-front crimes. Until now. 

Things take a chilling turn when Cathy’s civil servant brother, Dan, arrives from London with a dark secret: he is working for the XX Committee – a special MI5 unit set up to turn German spies into double agents. But one of these agents has escaped and is heading for Leeds, sent to destroy targets key to the war effort. Suddenly Cathy and the squad are plunged into an unfamiliar world of espionage and subterfuge.

With the fate of the country and the war in the balance, failure is not an option, and Cathy must risk everything, including her own life, to stop a spy.

Those interested in attending the event, which starts at 5,45pm on 17 April can e-mail lucinda.yeadon@ceg.co.uk.

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West Leeds licensing applications: 6 April 2025

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Bay Horse, Farsley. Photo: Google

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:

Calverley & Farsley ward

Farnley & Wortley ward

  • Temporary Event Notice, The bar area and a temporary stage (for acts to play music), Wortley Football Club, Blue Hill Lane, Wortley, Leeds LS12 4NT.

Kirkstall ward

Pudsey ward

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West Leeds planning applications: 6 April 2025

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Each week we publish a list of the latest planning applications related to the seven council wards in West Leeds.

The following applications were published on the Leeds City Council website in the past seven days.

Armley Ward

  • None submitted.

Bramley & Stanningley Ward

Calverley & Farsley Ward

Farnley & Wortley Ward

Horsforth Ward

Kirkstall Ward

Pudsey Ward

Decided applications

Here are the planning applications decided by Leeds City Council this week:

Armley Ward

  • None decided.

Bramley & Stanningley Ward

Calverley & Farsley Ward

Farnley & Wortley Ward

Horsforth Ward

Kirkstall Ward

Pudsey Ward

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New Wortley Community Centre celebrates Eid with gratitude and joy

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Eid was celebrated at New Wortley Community Centre. Photo: Rebecca Hunter

By Rebecca Hunter

Eid al-Fitr, which translates to “festival of breaking the fast”, is a vibrant Islamic celebration that signifies the conclusion of Ramadan, the month dedicated to fasting.

This festive occasion is honoured with prayers, feasts, family and friend gatherings and acts of charity and New Wortley Community Centre embraced the celebration in style!

The centre offered a delightful buffet, featuring dancing and gift-giving, ensuring that everyone had a wonderful time.

Speeches were made, one by Conversation Café lead and volunteer Layla Mubarak about what Eid means to her and the community.

  • If you’re interested in attending Conversation Café, it takes place on Fridays from 10am to 12pm. This is an opportunity to enhance your English and maths skills while meeting new people. Contact Zubaida on 0113 279 3466, or e-mail Zubaida.Umar@newwortleycc.org.

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Meeting will discuss Horsforth banking hub proposal

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Photo: Google

By John Baron

Horsforth residents are being invited to find out more about plans to set up a banking hub in the town.

Representatives from Cash Access will be at Crustiq Bakery & Cafe on Town Street on Wednesday 23 April, at 10am. They will provide information and answer questions about what the new banking hub means for the community.

In January Lloyds Bank Group announced plans to close its Halifax branch, giving 12 months’ notice on their Town Street building. This led to  Cash Access UK announcing plans to introduce a banking hub following the departure of the last bank branch in the town.

Banking hubs are shared banking spaces, similar to a traditional bank branch, but available to all banking customers.

The hub would include an ATM and a cash deposit and withdrawal service for personal current accounts and businesses, operating from 9am to 5pm Mondays to Fridays. 

WLD first reported on the hub in January.

At the time Dr Chris Ashton, Chief Commercial Officer at LINK, said: “While more people are choosing to bank and pay for things digitally, we know that many people still rely and choose to use cash and face-to-face banking. 

“That’s why we’re delighted to recommend a new hub in Horsforth. There are over one hundred hubs open across the country and when it opens, the Horsforth banking hub will be vital for the local community and high street.” 

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Councillors object to Stanningley McDonald’s drive thru plan

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The proposed McDonald's site in Stanningley. Photo: Kelvin Wakefield

By John Baron

All three Bramley & Stanningley councillors have formally objected to plans for a McDonald’s drive-thru restaurant off Stanningley Town Street.

The plans – revealed by WLD last month – could create around 70 new full and part-time jobs and will include a new access road from Town Street, an outdoor dining area and a 32-space car park.

McDonald’s claim the new drive thru will create 130 construction jobs, followed by 70 jobs once it opens at the former Infinity Metals site.

Following concerns raised by councillors and residents, McDonald’s has also reduced opening hours from 24 hours a day to 6am to midnight, seven days a week.

A banner was put up last month opposing the proposals, but was later removed. Photo: Kelvin Wakefield



But ward councillors have formally objected to the plans before the closing date for comments earlier this week, citing concerns over anti-social behaviour, noise, smell, traffic and litter.

Councillor Tom Hinchcliffe (Lab, Bramley & Stanningley) said: “It’s clear that this development would only add to the existing road safety issues in the immediate area. The increase in vehicle movements alongside the proposed housing development adjacent will add to existing highways pressures.

“The road leading to the proposed development is already an extremely busy highway particularly when buses pull up and stop traffic going one way.

“Given the area is already hosting a vast number of takeaway restaurants, adding another would only exacerbate health concerns and problems in Stanningley due to the ease of access to unhealthy food.”

Councillors Tom Hinchcliffe, Adele Rae and Kevin Ritchie.

In her objection, Councillor Adele Rae (Lab, Bramley & Stanningley) said: “The operation of a McDonald’s restaurant, especially one that may operate late into the night, is likely to generate significant noise.

“This includes noise from customers, delivery trucks, and the general operation of the restaurant. Such noise would disrupt the peace and quiet of the residential area, especially during nighttime hours.

“Fast food establishments are often associated with increased litter in the surrounding area. The presence of a McDonald’s could lead to more waste being discarded improperly, which would negatively affect the cleanliness and aesthetic appeal of the neighbourhood.”

Councillor Kevin Ritchie (Lab, Bramley & Stanningley) said: “The increased traffic and resultant exhaust fumes will be detrimental to air quality in the area. Bramley & Stanningley Ward already has a high prevalence of childhood asthma and hospital admissions. 

    “The local area already has a disproportionately high number of fast food takeaways on Town Street Stanningley.

    “This development would add to the problems they create, noise, litter, traffic and is not congruent with the desire for a varied mix of businesses we want to have on our high streets. Bramley & Stanningley Ward already has higher than the city average obesity and related health issues. This development, due to the nature of the food would inevitably exacerbate that.”

    The plans and documentation can be viewed in full here.

    The council is currently aiming to decide the application by the end of the month, although that date will move if plans go before councillors sitting on a plans panel at Leeds Civic Hall.

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      Developer appeals against advertising board refusal

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      westleedslife
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      Photo: Google

      By John Baron

      Proposals to replace an existing double sided advertising display board on Bradford Road, Stanningley will be decided by an independent planning inspector.

      Leeds City Council refused the proposals in January, arguing the digital signage would “introduce an overly stark, incongruous, and obtrusive addition” and produce “undue levels of light pollution” to nearby residents.

      But applicant Project Digital UK has appealed against the decision.

      They argue that neighbouring properties would not be affected bye the sign, and said: “This determination does not take into consideration the rapid advances made in recent years to LED display technology, as signage of this type has a limited viewing angle so effectively making the signs ‘directional’.”

      Posting on social media, Calverley & Farsley Councillor Peter Carlill (Lab) said: “Following objections by myself and others, this planning application was refused by the council due to the impact on residential properties nearby, the impact on the listed building opposite, and reasons of highway and pedestrian safety.

      “We have been notified that the applicant has appealed this decision, so this will be reviewed by the government planning inspector.

      “All objections already raised on the planning application will be sent to the planning inspector.”

      People can make further comments or withdraw previous comments via the online appeals service here or in writing to Planning Inspectorate, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Bristol, BS1 6PN by 6 May 2025, quoting reference number APP/N4720/Z/25/3362243.

      In photos: Bowlers in Farsley and Stanningley make most of spring sunshine

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      westleedslife
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      Stanningley Park Crown Green Bowling Club - Photo: Kelvin Wakefield

      Crown green bowlers in West Leeds have been making the most of the early April sunshine.

      Earlier this week it was decided that players in Leeds would see season ticket fees double after councillors voted to press ahead with a shake-up of crown green provision.

      But players at two local greens have been making the most of the dry and sunny weather as photographer Kelvin Wakefield captured in our slideshow below.

      Bowlers at Westroyd Bowling Club in Farsley and Stanningley Park Bowling Club are urging people to give the sport – which provides gentle exercise and a chance Ito meet new people – a go.

      • Westroyd Bowls club, Farsley - Photo: Kelvin Wakefield
      • Stanningley Park Crown Green Bowling Club - Photo: Kelvin Wakefield
      • Westroyd Bowls club, Farsley - Photo: Kelvin Wakefield
      • Stanningley Park Crown Green Bowling Club - Photo: Kelvin Wakefield
      • Stanningley Park Crown Green Bowling Club - Photo: Kelvin Wakefield
      • More details about Westroyd Park Bowling Club can be found here and Stanningley Park Bowling Club can be found here.

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      Bramley Shopping Centre store has premises licence revoked

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      Euro Foods, Bramley. Photo: Google

      Councillors have unanimously decided to revoke the premises licence for a store in Bramley Shopping Centre.

      The review of Euro Bramley Shop followed an operation carried out by West Yorkshire Police earlier this year.

      The review followed the seizure of illicit tobacco and cigarettes, illegal vapes and out-of-date fresh produce from the premises.

      Councillors sitting on Leeds City Council’s licensing sub committee in Leeds Civic Hall on Tuesday unanimously decided to revoke the premises licence.

      All three Bramley & Stanningley councillors supported the police’s calls for the licence to be reviewed.

      The council report and agenda of the licensing sub committee meeting can be found here. Full reasons for refusal will be published by the council in due course.

      Horsforth bungalow plans refused by council

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      By John Baron

      Leeds City Council officers have refused ‘unsympathetic’ plans to add an additional storey to a Horsforth bungalow.

      Plans by Mr P McFadden proposed the demolition of a raised terrace area, retaining wall, steps, conservatory, attached garage and the removal of a bungalow roof at Oliver Hill, Horsforth.

      The plans included a new first floor extension, including addition of new raised terrace area with a new render to all elevations.

      Horsforth Town Council objected to this application on the grounds of the height and mass of the building. There were two other objections.

      A Leeds City Council planning officer’s report refusing the application said the plans did not comply with planning policies and guidelines. It argued that the proposal would introduce another storey which “would significantly change the character and appearance of the application property”.

      It concluded: “The Local Planning Authority considers that the proposal, by reason of the inappropriate scale, form and poor design would lead to an unsympathetic and incongruous form of development which would fail to respect the existing character and proportions of the dwelling house and the wider streetscene.”

      The applicant can appeal against the decision to the Secretary of State.

      The plans, documents and council report can be found here.

      Bramley Villagers boxers show their skills

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      westleedslife
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      Haaris Akbar. Photo: James Bovington

      By James Bovington

      Sixteen fighters from Bramley Villagers Boxing and Fitness Club enjoyed demonstrating their skills at the first home show of the year.

      They welcomed opponents from across Leeds and further afield, with some coming from a club in Cumbria. 

      Lewis Pearce, 15, from Bramley, started boxing training late last year and had his second skills bout on the show.

      “Skills means I don’t have to worry about winning or losing,” he said. “I can just concentrate on what we’ve practised in the gym. I put my opponent Archie Whiteside through his paces.

      “I’ll now be working on improving footwork and developing punching power. I love boxing. I’d tried football but boxing is the better fit. I’m looking forward to a scored decision bout when our coach decides I’m ready.”

      Haaris Akbar, 17, has been boxing for several years. He said: “I’d really trained hard for this fight not missing any sessions and it paid off with a first-round stoppage. Can’t get much better than that.

      “I’m now looking to follow the England Boxing amateur route and hopefully secure a professional boxing contract. As my dad says it’s onwards and upwards with more challenging fights. My progress is due to the quality training we get here at Villagers.”

      Boxer in white is Mark Judge Jr. Coach Richard Manning is also pictured. Photo: Julian Hudson

      Brothers Zack and Robbie Wood both won their fights. For Zack this could be the last bout at home for some time as he plans to emigrate to Australia shortly. Robbie plans to join the Army.

      “I’m excited to have won both my decision bouts,” said Robbie, “and I want to be boxing as often as I can and then in the Army.” 

      Mark Judge, like Robbie aged 17, was proud to win the Bramley Villagers Junior title beating Titan’s James Clarke over four two-minute rounds.

      “The best I’ve yet boxed,” said Judge. “And winning the promotion’s title. Like my teammates it’s now hopefully on to greater things.”

      Ryan Taylor. Photo: Julian Hudson

      Some boxers come to the sport as adults and this is the case for Wortley’s Ryan Taylor, 33, who has been boxing on local shows for a couple of years.

      “My opponent this time at 65kg was Michael Fortune who proved tough and took me the distance.,” Taylor said. “I came to this bout having won the Haynes Promotions novice championship last September. I’ve got a couple more fights lined up and if I win, I’m hopeful of getting on bigger, regional shows.”

      Kalem Pickles turns 20 in the autumn and is a veteran of the Bramley shows. “I knocked my opponent Jordan Brewer down and got a second-round stoppage.

      “I’m proud of my performance as he was quite the brawler.

      “But it’s all experience. I’m just waiting for confirmation of a few more fights. Like Haaris I am hoping to follow the formal amateur route and build up a fanbase with the aim of getting a professional contract soon.”

      Coach Richard Manning, better known as DeeJay ‘Titch’ said: “As always organising this show took a lot of work matching fighters and allowing for the inevitable pullouts owing to training injuries.

      “There’s lots of talent in west Leeds with many young boxers keen to do as well in the sport as Bramley’s Billy Pickles who won the Commonwealth super lightweight silver title belt at the O2 in Greenwich last month.”

      Manning is “grateful to the twelve local companies whose consistent support makes these events viable and who deserve thanks for their commitment to what is a major community venture”. 

      Anyone interested in sponsoring Pickles and Akbar as they plan a professional career should contact them @haaris_akbar or @kalem. pickles on Instagram.

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      Wortley fundraiser nets £1,300 for Candlelighters

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      The golden ticket winner

      By Jean Hollings

      Wortley’s Stacy Procter and her pink team of supporters hosted another fundraiser for children’s cancer charity Candlelighters at St John’s Church, Dixon Lane.  

      Stacey, 50, hid five golden tickets amongst the stalls as an extra ‘thank you’ to people purchasing tickets on the various stalls, from cakes to tombola (including bottles, chocolate, toys and many more). 

      All 55 main raffle prizes were generously donated by local people and local businesses. The draw started promptly at 3.30pm and took over 30 minutes to complete as people awaited their number to be drawn out. 

      You could feel the happy atmosphere as seeing people sat and chatted over the hot and cold refreshments which were available. 

      Stacy thanked everyone who has supported her fundraising event this year acknowledging that people are finding it harder due to the rise in daily living costs. 

      The total raised so far has passed the £1,300 mark. This will support any of the 150 children and their families who are diagnosed every year with cancer in Yorkshire. Support may include research, support groups, peer mentoring, equipment for the oncology wards and more. 

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