By Andy Dalton
Thirsty and weary shoppers are finding rest and refreshment in Armley.
In recent times staff at the Leeds City Mission Compassion Centre in Mistress Lane have been providing a ‘Respite Stop’ outside their premises.
A table and chairs have been provided on their adjoining grassed area under the shade of a tree.
Passers-by making their way to and from shops in Armley Town Street are able to take a short break, rest their legs and shopping bags. Some take up the offer of a free tea/coffee/juice drink before resuming their journey.
City Mission Development Worker Andy Dalton said that the area between Armley Prison and Town Street has a high density of housing and most people walk to the shops.
Mistress Lane is a busy thoroughfare for pedestrians making their way to the shops and offices in Town Street. City Mission staff had observed people often stopping to rest on the wall opposite their premises. The simple idea of providing chairs and refreshments during the warmer days of summer had been taken up to help people on their way.
Older people and those carrying heavy shopping bags have been particularly appreciative of the ‘Respite Stop’.
The ‘Respite Stop’ table and chairs are normally provided (weather permitting) between 10am – 3pm Mondays to Fridays (not Wednesdays).
Leeds City Mission is one of the oldest charities in Leeds being In continuous existence since 1837. It is a multi-church Christian agency which organises a number of projects from its premises in Mistress Lane, contributing to the wellbeing and welfare of the neighbourhood.
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