Unlocking Farsley, part three: THE top summer 2024 hotspot in Leeds

Community reporter Damon Cooper concludes his ‘Unlocking Farsley’ series, putting the spotlight on the community groups and businesses that make the village tick.

From raising funds to restore a church clock to a crowdfunder for improved disabled access at a local sports club, you will discover fundraisers, community spirit and volunteers are the bedrock of Farsley on your visit. 

WIt’s where Farsley Rehoboth, a graveyard stands proudly in the happiest village in Leeds as voted by YEP readers, feels like stumbling upon a secret stash of joy. Local volunteers have preserved the ecology and restored the landscape so well that visitors can now book tours with knowledgeable guides.

At the Farsley Community Hub and Library, you can make the most of your time with amenities like free WiFi and free computer access complete with MS Office and internet. Whether you’re there to collect, renew, or return a book, you’ll find clean public toilets to ensure a comfortable visit.

On Fridays from 1.30pm-2.30pm, anyone aged under five can embark on an exciting adventure with the Ready Steady Readers challenge at Farsley Community Hub and Library. Kids collect six gold stars in a fun reading booklet filled with tips for family reading. Stars are earned by visiting the library, exploring books, attending a Story & Rhyme session, or borrowing a book. Once all six stars are collected, children receive a special certificate, and they can complete the challenge as many times as they like. 

Next up, we have the heartwarming Friends of St John’s Church who through their tireless efforts ensure the continuation of weddings, christenings, the farmers market, brownies, coffee mornings, quiz nights, bereavement group, table-top sales, baby and toddler groups. The Friends are also currently raising funds via various events for the restoration of the St John’s Church clock. 

A bit off the beaten track from Town Street, be sure to connect with Farsley Celtic Supporters Club, who organise coach travel to every away game, host occasional social events and a committee which are currently raising funds to improve disabled access at the club’s stadium. 

Discover a heart of community spirit with Farsley Community Project, launched in 2020 by the folks at Grumpy’s Wood Fired Pizza. This initiative has significantly enriched the local landscape by donating a wide array of books to Farsley’s schools, initiating vibrant community art projects, and orchestrating an annual Food Drive to support our local food bank. Farsley Community Project epitomises unity and generosity in our vibrant village, whether through arts exploration or charitable endeavours.

Join them at Scrap Creative Reuse Art Project in Farsley this summer for a magical opportunity! With dedicated volunteers, they’re crafting 120 charming wildlife themed headdresses for local children to wear at the Lantern Parade. Each workshop, in the first week of summer holidays, hosts up to 15 children at £5 each (adults attend free). Kids will design, wear, and keep their headdresses as mementos. Sessions on July 24th and 26th are available.

Secure your spot and explore more here. Don’t miss out on creating memories and being festival-ready for Lights Switch On Day!

LOVE FARSLEY embraces the essence of community spirit by supporting Farsley Festival, Farsley Farmers Market, Farsley Community Orchard, and Friends of Hainsworth Park. These vibrant events and initiatives showcase the town’s rich culture, local produce, and dedication to green spaces, inviting travellers to immerse themselves in Farsley’s lively atmosphere and community-driven ethos.

Every year, Sunnybank Mills Art Gallery offers numerous open call opportunities, such as Printed Bound, Ones to Watch andThreads Festival. These exciting events and showcases are accessible through Curatorspace, providing a gateway for artists and visitors alike to engage with dynamic contemporary art and craftsmanship. 

There are so many groups and organisations in the village it’s difficult to mention them all!

There’s never been a better time to embrace Farsley by visiting the village. From the businesses featured in part 1 and 2 of this trilogy to the community groups that make this village tick! 

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