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KIRKSTALL MATTERS issue 95 Mid 2007 PAGE 1

www.matters.kirkstall.org.uk

In this edition: page

The magazine of Kirkstall Valley Community Association

Issue 95 Mid 2007

£1

Festival Parade starts at 12 noon Hesketh Avenue

Come to Kirkstall Festival Saturday 14th July 2007

• Vision for Kirkstall 5 • Jousting at the Festival 5 • Tag Rugby 7 • Ancient well discovered 18 • Kirkstall Forge Site Plans 19 • New District Centre 20 • BHS site Update 21 • Green Awards 23 • Local Walks & Wildlife 29 • Visitor Centre News 30


Useful telephone numbers

Weetwood Police, front desk

0113 241 3459

Police (non-emergencies) 0845 606 0606

Libraries

Local branches, with facilities available:

Kirkstall Library tel. 214 4529 26 Kirkstall Lane Mon 1pm – 5pm

Wed 10am – 5pm Fri 1pm – 5pm

Sat 10am – 1pm

facilities: Council Papers, Disabled Access, Photocopier, Fax

Burley Library tel. 214 4528

Cardigan Road

Mon 2pm – 7pm Wed 9.30am – 5pm

Fri 2pm – 6pm Sat 11.30am – 3pm

facilities: Asian Language Books, CD Rom Multimedia, Meeting Room, Disabled Access, Fax, Internet Access

Bramley Library tel. 214 6040

Hough Lane

Mon 10am – 8pm Tues 10am – 6pm Wed 10am – 5pm Fri 10am – 3pm

Sun 11am – 3pm

facilities: CD ROM Multimedia, Council Papers, Theatre Bookings,

Disabled access, Photocopier, Study Area, Fax, Internet Access

Headingley Library tel. 214 4525

North Lane

Mon to Fri 9.30am - 7pm Sat 9.30am - 5pm Sun 11am - 4pm

facilities:Asian Language Books, UK Yellow Pages, CD ROM Multimedia,

Computer Catalogue, Council Papers, Meeting Room, Theatre Bookings, Videos,

Disabled Access, Photocopier, Study Area, CD’s, Fax, Planning Applications, Sale of Book Tokens, Internet Access

Kirkstall Matters email: [email protected]

EDITOR : Val Crompton

Editorial Team: John Crompton, Val Crompton, Ann Lightman, Ken Waterworth

COPY DATES: 3 issues each year, 15th Jan, 7th May, 15th Sept.

Articles, readers' letters, poems etc. are most welcome. Our preferred format is Microsoft Word. We can also accept Word, or Microsoft Publisher. Kirkstall Matters is produced using Microsoft Publisher 2002.

Please e-mail your file as an attachment to the address at the top of this page or deliver it on disk or post a hard copy to: Rita Samuel, 18 The Rise LS5 3EP.

The views expressed in KIRKSTALL MATTERS are those of the contributors. If not attributed to individuals, they are from The Editorial Team. They are not necessarily the views of the KVCA. KIRKSTALL VALLEY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, founded in 1978, with the aim ‘to promote the benefit of the inhabitants of Kirkstall and the neighbourhood'.

It is non-party political, non-sectarian and a registered charity. It has a number of subsidiaries responsible for organising events and activities, for example KIRKSTALL FESTIVAL COMMITTEE. The KVCA acts as a pressure group and a watchdog on developments affecting Kirkstall. It campaigns and co-operates on a number of issues with certain other local organisations, as it decides.

It is open to anyone to join. See application form on page 50. ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP IS £4.

Membership includes three issues per year of KIRKSTALL MATTERS,

delivered free within the Kirkstall area.

If you live outside Kirkstall, you can become a postal member. As a "not for

profit" charity, we welcome a donation of £3 to cover postage:

c/o The Treasurer, 18 The Rise, Leeds LS5 3EP

websites:

Kirkstall Matters in Colour! If you have access to a computer and the internet,

you can now see the pictures taken for Kirkstall Matters magazine in glorious colour!

www.flickr.com/photos/kirkstallmatters Let us know what you think!

Send Matthew Guy or Martin Lewis, news & photos: Kirkstall Community Website:

see www.kirkstall.org.uk details on page 6. See also Gerard Roe:

www.matters.kirkstall.org.uk for KVCA information or to download a membership form

Printed by Smallprint


2007 Dear Reader,

As we go to press, I am looking forward to the Gala Concert at Kirkstall St Stephen’s. This comes at the end of an interesting week of Treasures Revealed in Leeds (see page 15). I hope to see some of you there but expect to see many more of you at the KVCA Stand or at the Festival Service on 14th July. KVCA Meetings will be held at 8pm, in the Milford Sports Centre, on 7th June and 5th July. All are welcome to come along and meet the KCVA team.

There are no KVCA meetings in August. On 6th September there will be a special presentation ‘A Vision for Kirkstall’ at 8pm at Milford Sports Centre. Come along and find out what its all about (see page 5).

Copy date for issue 96 is 15th September 2007. Please write up local news, views and reports of events and send them to me.

Email: Val Crompton [email protected] tel. 225 9142

Val Crompton Editor &

Illustrator

Steve Gradys Vice Chair

KVCA 2007

John Liversedge Chairman

KVCA

Ken Stratford KVCA

Secretary

Contents Issue 95

What’s On 4 Jousting at the Abbey John Liversedge 5 Design Statement Ken Stratford 5 KVCA AGM John Liversedge 6 Tag Rugby John Sanderson 7 Letters & emails 8 Circle Time Rita Samuel 10 Kirkstall Banners Lee Ingham 12 Beecroft Poets 13 Movie Makers Sid & Doris Lythe 14 St Stephen’s Treasures Val Crompton 15 Bishop at Hawksworth Val Crompton 15 Burley Lodge John Battle MP 16 Bernard Atha Ken Waterworth 17 Well Discovered Louise Martin 18 Kirkstall Forge Charles Johnson 19 District Centre Patrick Bird 20 Planning Matters Cllr John Illingworth 21 Crooked Acres Marion Cole 22 Gardening Graham Wheatley 22 Green Awards Emma King 23 Recycle Emma King 24 Green Bins Stephen Smith 25 Fairtrade Clothing Vik Banks 25 Landscape Andrew Middlemiss 26 Nature Walk Linda Parker 27 Local Nature Reserves Kerry Fieldhouse 28 Hollybush Update Sarah Baehren 29 Visitor Centre Katherine Baxter 30 Street Names Ann Lightman 31 Deane Park Ann Lightman 32 Leeds Museum - the Wednesday Club 33 Local History Ann Lightman 34 Abbey House Activities Gillian Briggs 35 Index of Advertisers 37

Rita Samuel KVCA

Treasurer

Editorial

Kirkstall Matters in Colour! If you have access to a computer and the

internet, you can now see the pictures taken for Kirkstall Matters magazine in glorious colour!

www.flickr.com/photos/kirkstallmatters Let us know what you think!


What’s On...

KIRKSTALL VALLEY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION General meetings are at 8 pm in Milford Sports Club, usually on the 1st Thursday of each month (except May, Aug & Dec). All are welcome. Officers Honorary Vice Presidents: Marjorie Kilby & Douglas Kilvington Chair: John Liversedge Tel. 0113 278 5987 Vice Chair: Steve Gradys Treasurer: Rita Samuel Secretary: Ken Stratford

KIRKSTALL FESTIVAL Saturday 14th July, 2007 Chair: John Liversedge tel. 278 5987

Stall Bookings: Roger Moran mobile 07802 922513 tel. 226 8098 76 Kirkstall Lane, Leeds LS5 3JV

KIRKSTALL LEISURE CENTRE Kirkstall Lane Open 8:30am to 10:30pm. Bookings Tel. 214 4555 Special activities for children during school holidays

KIRKSTALL ABBEY TENNIS CLUB Jessica Fischer Tel: 07711 646991, email: jessica.fischer @ntlworld.com

ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM Opening times: Monday closed all day Tues to Friday 10am - 5pm, Saturday 12noon - 5pm Sunday 10am - 5pm Admission charges Adults £3.50, Children £1.50 (16 and under) Concessions £2.50 (senior citizens and students) Family ticket £5 (2 adults and up to 3 children) The Refectory: Licensed restaurant / café (accessible without museum entry).

ABBEY - GUIDED TOURS Usually take place on 3 occasions each year. Contact Abbey House Museum for details. Tel. 230 5492 ABBEY - VISITORS’ CENTRE Open 10am - 4.30pm Tues-Fri and 10am-5pm Sat & Sun. Closed Mondays except Bank Holiday Mondays Open 10am - 4.30pm

ABBEY LIGHT RAILWAY Trains from Bridge Road run at frequent intervals along to Kirkstall Abbey (and vice-versa) on Sundays from 1 pm to dusk (weather permitting)

BURLEY LODGE COMMUNITY CENTRE Burley Lodge Road LS6 1QF Tel. 275 4142 Community Projects: Cafe Open Mon, Wed, Fri 9.30am - 2.30pm Office Open Mon-Fri 9.30am - 5.30pm

BRAMLEY COMMUNITY CENTRE Waterloo Lane Tel. 255 2227 Mon-Thurs. 10am-4pm Fri 10am-3pm Evening appointments for Counselling. West Leeds Community Drug Project - with Support, Outreach, Group Work & Crèche

CAMPAIGN FOR NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT (CND) Meetings:7:30pm,3rd Wed of the month, at Headingley Community Centre, North Lane. Tel. 274 1011

CARDIGAN CENTRE 145-149 Cardigan Road Resource Centre 9am to 8pm Mon-Fri. Tel. 275 9282 Youth Point; ‘Active for Life’ Healthy Living Project; Older Active People Scheme; Handy Person Scheme

FORUM 2000 mechanics’ Institute, Town Street, Horsforth.

HAWKSWORTH WOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE 6, Broadway. Drop in for a cuppa -tel. 228 5550 Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. Free Internet access; Meeting Room Hire; Credit Union Information service. See page 38

HAWKSWORTH WOOD COMMUNITY SHOP 8 Broadway. Monday to Fridays 9 am to 3.30 pm.

HAWKSWORTH WOOD YMCA Lea Farm Mount Tel. 216 2970. Free ‘Connexions’ Access Point - Mon - Thursday 3pm - 4pm and Fridays 6-8pm Lunch Club (age 50+) Fridays 11.30am - 1.30pm Parent &Toddler group, Thursdays 9.30 - 11.30am. Park Lane College Courses, Tues - Thurs (Term time) Activity groups in Sports, Drama, Dance, Martial Arts etc.

HOLLYBUSH CONSERVATION CENTRE Broad Lane. Tel 274 2335 Volunteers welcome ! Tues - Fri 9am-5pm; 2nd & 4th Sun 9.30am-5pm

JAZZ BAND CLUB at the Merry Monk, Kirkstall Hill. Tel: 275 9403 Fridays from 9pm - its free !

MILFORD SPORTS CLUB Beecroft St.Tel 226 3030 see page 39

POVERTY AID UK Collection Warehouse & Charity Shop, 165 Cardigan Road. Tel 274 4099/ 274 6349

ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL Bingo Tuesdays at 8 pm (Doors Open at 6.30pm) Indoor Bowling Thursdays and Fridays,1pm to 4pm Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Hall Hire - Tel. 258 2923

ST STEPHEN’S CHURCH Sunday Services: 8:45am. Holy Communion. 10am.Parish Communion 6.30pm Evensong, (Said) Midweek Holy Communion: Wednesdays at 11am. Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Rainbows, Brownies, Guides. Contact: Revd Rosemarie Hayes, Tel. 258 2481 email: [email protected]

VESPER GATE HOTEL Tel. 220 0961 Abbey Road. Every Wednesday 'Family Fortunes' Quiz Night.9.30pm-11pm.

WEST END HOUSE - Food & Ale Tel. 278 6332 Quiz Nights every Tues & Thursday at 9pm see page 39

WEST PARK UNITED REFORMED CHURCH Spen Lane, Sunday Service 10.30am Contact : Church Secretary 225 9637

Kirkstall Festival ‘Leeds through the Ages’

14 July 2007


KVCA letter... Jousting... Help! Vision... Letter from KVCA Chairman We are now well on with our plans for the 27th annual Kirkstall Festival on 14th July. We are helping to celebrate Leeds being a City for 800 years. Thanks to the Celebrate Leeds 2007 team we have been given a grant to do something we have always wanted at the festival - JOUSTING! What a spectacle that will be. Knights on horseback trying to hurt each other. There will also be a demonstration of hunting from horseback, so keep the dog on a lead! Come and watch “dressing the knight”, nightshirt to full armour in 15 minutes, that should be good.

The Parade sets off from Hesketh Road at 12 noon. If you want to join in, wear a costume. You can choose any period between 1207 and now. If you don’t want to join in the Parade, then come and watch, its good, ask the kids.

This year, for the first time, we will have controlled and supervised parking facilities on the sports field opposite the Abbey. Do tell all your friends and family. Don’t park in the local streets, use the car park or walk or even come on your bike.

We have plenty of new attractions. Burley R.U.F.C. are doing a “tag” rugby competition, we are supplying a trophy, so why not enter? There will be the Older Active People’s Tea Dance in a marquee. A dog show for the dogs and people who like to look at dogs and we will have a Circus Workshop for all ages.

We have the Festival Church Service, with Leeds Central Salvation Army Brass Band, in the nave of the Abbey. A Scottish Piper will begin playing in the nave 3.45pm. The Festival Service begins at 4.15pm. Apart from leading the Parade into the grounds at 1pm, the Pipe Band will be on the Main Field at 2pm. We have just too many things going on for me to mention here, so you will just have to come along on July 14th and see for yourselves.

Don’t forget to buy a programme, it helps to pay for the festival, YOUR festival.

John Liversedge tel. 278 5987

13th century Jousting 21st century Jousting

Vision for Kirkstall - could this be a Design Statement?

What do people, who live or work or shop and spend leisure time in Kirkstall, want to happen in this area? How do we want to see Kirkstall change?

A Design Statement is a historical account of the development of Kirkstall. It also looks forward. It enables residents to contribute ideas and have their say in how Kirkstall should be developed. A Design Statement is a document to be used both by Leeds City Council and by anyone who wishes to develop any part of Kirkstall.

Come to the Presentation on Thursday, 6th September, 8pm at Milford Sports Centre, and find out about how other local areas have produced a Design Statement and how useful it has been. Ken Stratford

John & Pipers

Help at the Gates

Your Festival needs you... Could you spare an hour on Saturday 14th July selling

programmes at the Kirkstall Festival?

Our amazing free Festival is growing every year but it’s

continued success depends on raising money.

Join in the festival spirit (and have fun too) as part of the

programme sales team. Interested? Contact Richard

now on 338 4873 or email [email protected]


Kirkstall Online is a community resource and information website centre for the residents of Kirkstall and those with an interest in the area. Kirkstall Online is a corporate member of the Kirkstall Valley Community Association.

Matthew Guy who is in Canada continues to maintain the website.. Please keep sending local news, views and pictures to: info @kirkstall.org.uk

website for the community www.kirkstall.org.uk

[email protected]

KVCA AGM... Kirkstall Online... Festival Events...

*SURESTART WORKSHOPS with Louise Lucas

Themes for the families will be – the canal, the town hall, the armouries and tropical world. Surestarts at Bramley, Armley and Hawksworth schools are involved.

Festival Events

As usual there is the Parade setting off from Hesketh Road at 12 noon. We finish in the grounds of the Abbey, at the main stage, at 1pm. The Parade will be led by a pipe band, all the local schools, Pyramid of Arts, the Surestart* people, the Footloose girls, plus hundreds of people dressed in costumes which reflects the City of Leeds over the past 800 years. Why not join in or at least come and watch?

Come along to see Leeds Youth Circus performing and offering workshops ● Kirkstall Children’s Choir ● Sports showcase led by Kirkstall Leisure Centre ● Punch and Judy ● Tea Dance for all ages! ● Youth Stage

Return of favourites including: Ronnie the Rhino, Pony Rides, Sports, Mini Motorbikes, Hollywood Bowls, Silver Sparrows Steel Pans, Bassa Bassa, Pete White Suitcase, Irish Dancing, Morris Dancing, Drumming Workshops, White Rosettes Choir, Dog Show, Circus, Fair and all attractions.

The Kirkstall Festival Field Manager is Steve Gradys, who is also the Vice Chair of KVCA. If you would like more information about anything to do with the Festival, please get in touch. John Liversedge

KVCA AGM held on 5th April 2007

Election of Officers Chair: John Liversedge Treasurer & Membership Secretary: Rita Samuel Secretary: Ken Stratford Honorary Vice Chair: Steve Gradys Honorary Vice Presidents: Marjorie Kilby & Doug Kilvington Editor Kirkstall Matters: Val Crompton Chairman’s Report The festival had been a great success. John Liversedge thanked all who helped with both the festival and the KVCA. He asked for more members not just to subscribe to the Kirkstall Matters but to attend the monthly meetings. He said “We do need some new input, don’t worry - you won’t be given a job, just listen to what is going on in the area and give us an opinion. We meet at the Milford Club on the first Thursday of every month and you would be very welcome.” Reports were given by the Secretary, Treasurer and Editor of Kirkstall Matters. Copies of the reports were handed out. If you would like a copy, please contact Ken Stratford.

Cllr Liz Minkin and Cllr John Illingworth outlined details of several developments going on in Kirkstall area. The meeting ended with a discussion about the proposed Kirkstall District Centre.


14th July... Fun & Games... Crafts...

Festival Craft Stalls & Displays

We are looking for new and interesting stalls. We are particularly keen to encourage craft stalls and displays. As a KVCA member you would pay just £25 for a stall position that is two metres wide. Extra space is available at a further £20 per two metres.

If you, or any of your friends, are interested in running a stall then please contact Roger Moran for an application form.

Roger Moran mobile 07802 922513 tel. 0113 226 8098

76 Kirkstall Lane, Leeds LS5 3JV Email: [email protected]

Burley Rugby Union Club is holding a Tag Rugby Competition and Open Day in conjunction with the Kirkstall Festival on July 14th at 2pm Tag Rugby is similar to Touch and Pass. The difference is that instead of the "Touch", each player has a velcro tag which has to be removed by their opponent. Once removed the player has to pass the ball, before replacing his tag. It really is a simple, fast moving game. Teams are 7 a side with a maximum of 3 subs. who can be used at any time during the game. Games last for 5mins each way. This is not solely for Rugby players of either code, but for (sorry girls,) males over 16 only, who can catch a ball and run. So why not get a few mates together and enter a team? There is a trophy for the winner but the emphasis is on a Fun Day out. Entrance is Free. As we only require a limited number of teams, you need to get your entry in early. Changing and shower facilities are available and all teams will be sent a copy of the simple rules. If all this sounds a bit too strenuous - then come down anyway. The bar will be open from 1.30pm. Have a drink, sit on the grass, have a delicious burger, and enjoy the day. To enter a team or for further information please contact John Sanderson on Tel: 0113 278 7772

© Photograph courtesy of Clive Griffin


Do you remember Henry?

Henry Wilkinson, of 5 Morris Lane, died on 3rd Aug 1937 and is buried at St Stephen’s.

We have received an email about his family scrapbook that was put together by his daughter, Mary. The sender wished to pass the scrapbook on to current Wilkinson family members. Would anybody knowing the whereabouts of Henry’s descendants, please contact

Ken Torode 0113 275 6834

Were you dancing in Kirkstall in May 1945?

Sally Hudson of Norman Mount remembers the Mecca Locarno Dance Hall in 1945, and the booklets, called “Danceland” . Sally writes “ I still possess one and I came across this poem:

This is the Mecca Locarno calling We think you are simply appalling For ten pounds a week For the tripe that you speak It’s no wonder that Germany is falling. We are sick of your bunk And the Ark Royals you’ve sunk Of your pamphlets and sweet propaganda. So you had better retire You blue pencil liar For you are marked down on our memoranda.

I thought it a good poem when the war ended 8th May 1945.” Sally Hudson

Activities at the Abbey... Letters & emails...

Comedy and Shakespeare Return Leeds Comedy in the Park, Monday 30th July and Monday 6th August Two nights of stand-up comedy from the biggest and best names on the comedy circuit in a beautiful open air setting. Week one artistes include Stephen Frost, Josie Lawrence, Andy Smart, Richard Vranch and Lee Simpson. Week two will be an evening of comedy with Madame Galina, Mandy Knight, Junior Simpson and Andrew Bird. www.comedyinthepark.com 13th Leeds Shakespeare Festival, 23rd July to 19th August 2007 Kirkstall Abbey Cloisters provide an idyllic setting for two of Shakespeare's most popular plays Henry V and As You Like It. Henry V is Shakespeare's most powerful, popular and compelling history play and As You Like It his wittiest and best-loved romantic comedy. These productions are performed in beautiful Elizabethan costumes by a cast of sixteen of Britain's finest professional Shakespearian actors. They include live music, action, exciting sword fights and hilarious comedy all set in stunning natural surroundings . www.britishshakespearecompany.com/leeds.html

Festival Service starts at 4.15pm 14 July in the nave Revd Christopher Cornwell, Dean of Headingley will be leading the Kirkstall Festival Service in the Abbey Church.

Margaret Thompson, Elder of West Park United Reformed Church, who has contributed articles for Kirkstall Matters, will be giving a short address. Father Peter Kravos and John Battle MP plus members of Abbey Churches Together will be taking part.

All are welcome

LOST CAT A young cat is visiting our house at 92 Morris Lane. It comes through our cat flap nicking our cat`s leftovers. It is very hungry and thin. We are now giving it a daily meal outside. It is white with a black back and ears. It has a small white streak in the middle of its back If anyone has lost this cat, please ring 275 8594

9th May 2007 Elizabeth Nash


Family History queries and old photos... email from Anne Welch

A KIRKSTALL STRAY

I am researching my family history and after recently subscribing to KVCA I have received my first copy of Kirkstall Matters 94, in which I found 3 items of interest to me. 1. The photo of the junction of Morris and Kirkstall Lanes on page 17, the old fish shop was run by my family and where I lived for a few years before moving away from Yorkshire.

2. Page 20 the almshouses erected by Kate Hargrave interests me as the Hargrave/s surname features in my family tree.

3. The article on page 6 by Sharon Cracknell. The interest here is that I have 2 old photos one is a memorial stone and grave which reads:

In Loving Memory of Thomas Cracknell beloved husband of Elizabeth Ann Cracknell died Feb 28th 1925 aged 60 Also the dear son of the above Pte Alfred Cracknell 10th West Yorks Regt killed in action in France, Sep 20 1918 29 years.

The other photo is a group of working women which includes A Holmes, E CRACKNELL, Mrs Taylor, B Miller and F (or could be J) Hearn . Could this be the E Cracknell mentioned on the above gravestone? Any connection to Sharon? My family tree branches with Kirkstall connections are: Hardisty, Fox, Hargrave/s, Cockill, Freeman

Anne Welch

Where was this photo taken?

I have a photo with a group of lads and among them is my great-grandfather Thomas Richard Hardisty. In 1891 he lived 3 Victoria Road with his brother John Hardisty and family. He was a horse keeper/groom, afterwards a labourer in a foundry and a screw factory and later a tanner. Lived also 5 Sandford Grove, 4 Churchfield Place, Florist St, Kennedy St. It would be interesting if someone could tell where it was taken and put some names on those faces. Was probably taken before 1901.

Between 1886 - 1892 John was a groom and later a coachman and I suspect his brother Thomas worked with him when he came to Leeds.

Patricia Hardisty

Miss Jessie Hirst 10 Milton Terrace Kirkstall : 1917

Does this ring a bell with anyone ? Jessie would have been 7 years old in 1917 and her father Frank Hirst was on "Active Service". I have a book of postcards that Jessie's father sent to her during those war years. I would love to re-unite them with a member of her family. It's probably too much to hope that Jessie is still with us but maybe a son or daughter ? An Aunt Annie in Aberystwyth is mentioned and her mother was called Nellie.

The messages on the postcards are beautifully written and her father missed his wife and little girl a lot but kept his words jolly and bright eg." Pleased to say I am keeping A1 & trust you and Mummy are in the best of health & have had a happy Whitsuntide ".

If anyone can help with my search please contact me, Jackie Smith 0113 274 1172


Circle Time at Kirkstall Valley Primary School...

Pupils from Kirkstall Valley Primary School and Older Active People (from the Cardigan Centre) were chosen to demonstrate Circle Time at the Civic Hall. This was part of a Conference celebrating Intergenerational work in Leeds. Twelve children from a local primary school meet with a group of six older people for hour-long meetings spread over six weeks. They develop positive links – building bridges between the generations. “We play games, talk about ourselves, memories, share problems and discuss solutions. We hope to change perceptions of both the young and the older people. We realise how much we have in common and how much we have to offer one another.”

Rita Samuel Volunteer OAP, Cardigan Centre

‘ONE OF THE BEST DAYS OF MY LIFE’ Pupils who attended the Conference have written about the experience. Here are some quotes from their letters: “On Thursday 22nd February 2007, 10 children were chosen from class six and class five from Kirkstall Valley Primary School to attend a celebration at the Civic Hall”. (Olivia Winn) “We were chosen to do Intergenerational Circle time with seven Older Active People.” (Chloe Ireland) “The big yellow bus came for us at 12 noon” (Thomas Warburton 10)


Circle Time on stage at Leeds Civic Hall...

“Chloe and Nathaniel went in Miss Dent’s car who is our school secretary”. (Lois Heald, 11) “Our learning mentor, Mrs Dilucia came with us. At 12.30 our headteacher, Mrs Clay, joined us.” (Thomas Warburton 10). Several spoke of being “all taken over with excitement.” (Jennifer Bradshaw). “When we finally arrived we had to walk up some steep steps. We managed to find the hall” (Jennifer Bradshaw). “We saw all the gold clocks and nice big building. Inside it was very posh and clean.”( Olivia Winn). “We looked at all the antiques in the cabinets”. There was a buffet and “we all then had some cream cakes and some Asian food such as samosas and vegetable spring rolls”. (Lois Heald). “We went into the big room where over two hundred were sitting! Next, the Lord Mayor came in and made a speech”. (Lois Heald). “He looked really smart. He was wearing a gold chain around his neck. After his presentation, we were the first group to go up on stage and we were very nervous, mostly me” (Aqim Jaffary 11). At least half said they were “nervous but excited at the same time” (Thomas Warburton) but it seems they did not know it was a shared emotion “I was the only one who looked nervous” and “was shaking when we got up there but Betty, one of the older people said “it will be O.K””. (Chloe Ireland)

“We walked onto the stage and sat in a circle. Rita took the circle time.” (Abigail Owens) “we all said what we ate for breakfast (in a micro-phone) (Aqim Jaffary 11) “We played a game called ‘It’s raining, it’s pouring’, where we copied Rita. She makes sounds like rain, so it sounds like it’s raining. Then we shared our problems with the older people (Gwen, Rita, Betty, Alice, Flo and Doreen).” (Nathaniel Sharp 10). “Gwen said she had a problem – she couldn’t swim. She was thrown in as a child and she almost drowned.” (Jennifer Bradshaw). “We told her ways she could not be scared” Olivia Winn. “To finish, we passed around the peace sign”. (Nathanial Sharp) “You put your finger and thumb together and passed it around” (Abigail Owens 10). “Then we went off to watch the other schools”. (Nathanial Sharp 10). “ The time flew by and before we knew it, it was 3.30pm! Nobody wanted to go home. We all went outside to get on the yellow bus.” (Lois Heald 11) “I learned that it’s good to communicate with old people because we might be smarter but old people are wiser” (Aqim Jaffary 11) “That was one of the best days of my life”. (Jennifer Bradshaw) “We said how much we enjoyed it” (Olivia Winn) “It was fun” (Abigail Owens) Illustrations: Civic Hall: Lois Heald Bus: Thomas Warburton

Lois Heald

Thomas Warburton


Kirkstall Banners looking for a good home...

Older Active People is looking for a good home for two tapestries that we have inherited - they depict Kirkstall. The pieces are five year old and they measure 6 foot by 5 foot. The tapestries were produced by Kirkstall residents. We have offered them to the Abbey Museum but they declined on account of their size. Can anyone suggest a good home? Lee Ingham OAP, Cardigan Centre Tel: 0113 274 9154

Colourful Kirkstall Banners Embroidered Community Banners

Older Active People, Cardigan Centre,

145-149 Cardigan Road, Leeds, LS6 1LJ.

T 0113 274 9154 F 0113 274 4759

[email protected] www.olderactivepeople.org.uk

OAP provides a range of activities for local people aged 55 plus. Membership of OAP is free to those people aged 55 plus, living in the Burley, Headingley and Kirkstall areas of Leeds. Activities include:

Trips and outings Intergenerational activities Watching Leeds United Wednesday lunch club Caribbean lunch club Chair based exercise Bollywood screenings Theatre group Activity afternoon Holidays

Neil Lee Intergenerational Development Worker


Opportunity knocks for young Kirkstall Poets...

Go and Open the Door

Go and open the door,

Maybe you’ll find a street lit with lights, Hidden with opportunities,

Or maybe one thousand diamonds for every time you blink.

Go and open the door,

Maybe there’s a queue for a new life, There could be a chance… the chance of a lifetime.

Go and open the door

Maybe you’ll make a new friend, Maybe everything will be fine,

Maybe…just maybe.

Go and open the door, Even if the sky is grey,

Even if there’s a dull, dark world Scattered by skulls and bones.

Even if the sun is setting, Even if there’s nothing there.

Go and open the door.

Molly Thompson age 11 (Beecroft Primary School)

Open the Door Go and open the door, Maybe you will meet new people, Discover a different world, Or even come across two towering skyscrapers disappearing into the cloudy sky. Go and open the door, Maybe you will find a shimmering sun, lighting up a sparkling, rich blue sea. Maybe you will observe three silver moons, staring down at you icily, as if you were a stranger from a hidden planet in the universe. Go and open the door, If you find an opportunity, Risk it, take it, grab it. Go and open the door, Even if there’s only a grandfather clock ticking, Even if there’s only another door behind it, Even if nothing is there, Go and open the door.

Bothaina Tashani age 11 (Beecroft Primary School)

More Open the Door poems


Kirkstall Video Winners.... Abbey Birthday

Leeds Movie Makers meet every Friday evening at 7.30 pm, at the United Reformed Church at the junction of Stainbeck Road and Stainbeck Lane, Meanwood. We finish our evening activities at 10.15 pm. The large hall where we meet has comfortable seating and has an attached kitchen. We have video and film projectors to give large screen presentations. Leeds Movie Makers are a non-profit making amateur movie club. In 1980, we twinned with Dortmund Film Club. We exchanged programmes of films and have visited each other over the years. We cater for both video and traditional film makers. The aim of the club is to encourage movie making, including holiday movies, documentaries, fiction and animation, by teach-ins, practical sessions and competitions. For further details tel: 0113 278 2972 or see www.leedsmoviemakers.co.uk Sid & Doris Lythe enjoy the social life of the Leeds Movie Makers Club . They used the poem ‘I am Kirkstall Abbey’ from Kirkstall Matters to make a video for a club competition called “A Video to a Poem”. Their video won that competition then it went on to win the “Video of the Year” at the Annual Competition.

I am Kirkstall Abbey

(from a poem by former Kirkstall resident, Joan Stott. Joan is now living in NSW Austrailia)

So you see this present day,

my ruins are old and stark and grey. Children love to come and play

where monks did pray.

Sadly now my rooms have gone, my upper storeys have fallen down.

I may be ruined but proud am I with towers pointing to the sky.

The fields have gone, my grass is shorn,

the River Aire caresses my lawn. Children, please don’t move those stones,

you may disturb some old, old bones.

Please let me be your silent host, perhaps you’ll meet a friendly ghost.

One of those gentle, jolly men will guide you to a long lost den.

Cup winners Sid & Doris Lythe

Sid & Doris made another winning video about Kirkstall. They write:

Now the video we made called “Abbey Birthday”, came about by chance, after we saw a poster advertising the Kirkstall Festival. When we arrived at the festival the following week, we were pleasantly surprised at the hard work that must have gone into it, getting it off the ground.

We picked up our cameras, thinking, we could make a nice record of this event. It was such a beautiful day. Every one was out to enjoy themselves, miles and miles of smiles. It was a really fun day. It must have shown on the video, as it won the “Best Non Fiction Cup”

email from Sid & Doris Lythe


Easter Event at St Mary’s, Hawksworth Wood... Bishop James comes to Hawksworth Wood

People from St Mary’s and St Andrew’s, Moor Grange, enjoyed a Joint Easter Sunday Service at St Mary’s with Bishop James. It was a joyful, interactive all-age service. Prayers were led by the young people as we prayed

for peace and an end to violence. We thanked God for all creation, including dogs and gerbils! Bishop James gave us all a picture of disciples John and Peter (when they first heard the amazing news of Christ risen...) Organist Richard Birch played the Easter hymns ‘Jesus Christ is Risen Today’ and ‘When I survey the wondrous cross’ . St Mary’s Church has been without a vicar since Revd Andrew Pearson moved to St John’s, Oulton. Interviews will soon take place to find the right person to be the next vicar.

Val Crompton

Bishop James blesses the Easter candle

Treasures Revealed at Kirkstall St Stephen’s...

Bishop James at St Mary’s PHOTOS: Val Cromptom

An Evening of Poetry, Readings and Music was enjoyed at St Stephen’s, as part of the Leeds ‘Treasures Revealed Week’.

A History Evening on 9th May revealed more treasures. Local Historian, Kenneth Endersby, told us about Kirkstall and how, in the 12th century it was known as ‘Krystall’. This was because of the pure, crystal-clear waters of the River Aire. Later the name became Kirkstall. We heard about the monks, Kirkstall Forge and the Butler family.

Also revealed, in this fascinating talk, was the life of Richard Oastler ‘The Factory King’ 1789-1861. The Factory Acts limiting the hours worked by children (from the age of 7) were passed, due to the great efforts by Richard Oastler. Richard is remembered by a statue in Bradford, and in a stained-glass window at St Stephen’s. Richard Oastler, his wife and two infant children are buried at Kirkstall St Stephen’s.

The week ends on 13th May with a Gala Concert at St Stephen’s.

Ann Lightman & Val Crompton 9th May 2007

St. Stephen’s still has some copies at £3.50, of "Spanish

Wine, Kirkstall Vintage" which paints a good, well-

illustrated picture of Kirkstall in the last century.


Local Election Results ... Burley Lodge...

In April, John Battle MP Lab, Leeds West re-opened the Burley Lodge Centre after a substantial refurbishment. The community centre has undergone major construction work over the last few months to create a more open and friendly frontage and the conversion of an attic and a basement into a meeting, activity, storage and workspace facility.

John Battle writes... In April, Parliament dealt with a new Government Pensions Bill welcomed by Age Concern for reforming the state pension system. The new reforms mean that in future women and carers will be rewarded for their contribution rather than being penalised by a system that has failed to reward caring responsibilities in the half a century since its inception. Today only 24% of newly retired women are entitled to a full basic state pension on their own record – as a result 17% of single women pensioners are condemned to live in poverty. As a result of the new Pensions Bill, women and carers will at last benefit – not before time – as it affects an estimated 7,800 people in Kirkstall alone. Kirkstall Abbey, still standing for over eight centuries, has witnessed some changes – and I don’t just mean the brilliant new visitor centre. It’s seen the town of Leeds grow into a twenty-first century city. It’s seen a forge come and go and now to be transformed into a redeveloped ‘green’ residential area – with a new local rail station. The A65 is being ‘upgraded’ – as the main access out to the airport and into town from the West. Our neighbourhoods change, just as ‘Amen Corner’ where I live has changed since the days of the hermit who shouted at Abbot Ralph and the monks across the river for not living sufficiently Christian lives in the thirteenth century. We have to live with change but need to be vigilant to make sure it is for the better of our community. Since the last issue, it was a great pleasure to re-open the refurbished Burley Lodge Centre – the engaged and committed staff there do a brilliant job – their welcoming and friendly service to the community is exemplary. Thanks to them.

I also paid a visit to the Leeds Organic Growers allotments and gardens waste scheme between Queenswood Drive and the railway line. It seems a good, positive environmental approach and giving us new options for local community recycling.

John Battle MP

John Battle MP re-opens Burley Lodge Centre

May 2007 Kirkstall Ward Local election Results Electorate: 16028 Turnout: 31.97% Name Votes % Party Cockayne 380 7.42 BNP

Coleman 1743 34.02 Lib-Dem

Illingworth 2236 43.64 Elected Labour

Kapp 374 7.30 Conservative

Reed 378 7.38 Green


Tribute to Bernard Atha.... Help & Advice...

John Battle's Surgeries

First Saturday in each month Cow Close Library, Butterbowl Drive - 9.30am Armley Library - 10.30am Bramley Library, Hough Lane - 12 noon Third Saturday in each month St Johns Church, Dixon Lane - 9.30am Kirkstall Housing Office - 10.30am Heights Library, Heights Drive - 11.30am Burley Lodge Centre, Burley Lodge Road - 12.30pm

Contact details: John Battle MP Unit 31 Whingate Business Park

Leeds LS12 3AT tel. 0113 231 0258

[email protected] www.johnbattle-mp.org.uk

Help & advice from your local Councillors: Saturdays 10.30 -11am Kirkstall Neighbourhood

Housing Office, 45 Kirkstall Lane LS5 3BE Thursdays 12.30 Hawksworth Wood

Community Centre, 6 Broadway LS5 3PR

Civic Hall tel. 247 4045 Cllr Bernard Atha home tel. 267 2485

Cllr John Illingworth tel. 267 3735 Cllr Liz Minkin tel. 278 0218

Area Committee The four wards of Inner NW Leeds are Headingley, Hyde Park & Woodhouse, Kirkstall and Weetwood. The twelve councillors make up the Area Committee, meeting six times a year. Meetings are open to the public. The next meeting is on 28 June. Ward Forums report to the Committee - if you would like details, contact the North West Area Management Team on 0113-395 2826.

Tribute to Cllr Bernard Atha by Ken Waterworth

Bernard is very well known in Leeds and he is this year celebrating 50 years in local politics. I have known and worked with him for 25 of those years. The multi-talented Leeds Labour Councillor for Kirkstall, Bernard Atha, was made an OBE in the 1990 New Years Honours

List for his services to sport, particularly sport for the disabled. He was vice-chairman of the Sports Council for five years and he was a founder-member of the British Paralympic Association. He is quite a character - he has an Equity Card, appearing on television in the soap operas and ‘Its a Knock-out’ and in films like ‘Kes' He is a traditional "Socialist" definitely not "New Labour." Bernard has a great witty and often sarcastic sense of humour and loves to bits the city of Leeds and its people. Nearly 70 people joined Bernard Atha at the start of the celebrations for his "50 Years in Local Politics" in 2007. Among them were MP's John Battle and Fabian Hamilton. A few words were said by myself, John Battle our MP and our other two Kirkstall Councillors Liz Minkin and John Illingworth, after which, Bernard entertained us with his usual witty response. The Buffet, provided by the brilliant ‘Milford Kitchen’ was an excellent spread.(The Milford rugby players finished off the ‘spread’ the next day!) A really good evening was had by all and we went home laughing at Bernard's announcement that when he leaves politics, he thinks he will start a family!!

Most readers will know of Bernard, even if they do not know him personally. Many years ago, Bernard was forever immortalised in the eyes of Leeds people, as a giant puppet on the very popular TV programme "It's a Knock'out ".

Ken Waterworth

Bernard as Lord Mayor in 2000, at the Civic Hall


Old well discovered in Abbey House grounds...

New ramp up to Abbey House May 2007

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Excavations reveal walls

As part of the redevelopment programme at Kirkstall Abbey, archaeologists from Leeds based firm, Archaeological Services WYAS, have made some interesting discoveries during the construction of a disabled access from Abbey Road to the Abbey House Museum. The creation of this access required deep excavation through the landscaped grounds of the museum. Archaeologists were present during all groundwork operations to ensure that any remains uncovered were recorded prior to the construction of the ramp.

The excavations revealed a number of stone-built archaeological features, including walls, a possible plinth and a well, buried beneath soil deposits up to 0.8m (nearly 3ft) deep. All these features were previously unknown and the archaeologists are currently working to establish the date and possible function of the stonework uncovered. Fragments of pottery recovered within the foundations of a large wall indicate that it may be of medieval date. It is possible that this feature forms part of a boundary wall or even a building and it is hoped that further research will establish a date and function of this wall and surrounding features. Capped Well near Abbey House The well was uncovered just below the topsoil at the northern edge of the disabled ramp. Two large stone slabs capped the well and removal of these slabs revealed that they were old stone sinks, indicating that the well may have been in use until fairly recent times. Beneath the capping, a well-preserved stone structure that measured c.1.1m in diameter and at least 5.3m (17ft) in depth was uncovered. A stone culvert was uncovered which fed into the well from the east.

Limited archaeological recording was undertaken on the well, as the majority of the structure has been preserved below a modern concrete cap. Unfortunately no dating evidence was collected to indicate a date for this feature, although the archaeologists are to look at documentary sources that hopefully will assist in dating.

Louise Martin of ASWYAS Large stonewall uncovered during the excavation of the oval ramp


Planning news... plans for a new railway station

Forging ahead to regenerate Kirkstall Following Leeds City Council’s approval in principle last year of an outline planning permission, I have been appointed by Commercial Estates Group to oversee the ongoing redevelopment of the site. CEG first began working on the plans for Kirkstall Forge in 2003 and our team has spent two years working closely with local people, local groups and Leeds City Council, to work up a planning proposal to create a new sustainable community at the former forge. I would like to thank everyone who has attended our events and helped us to create a vibrant and exciting scheme. I look forward to continuing to work with the Kirkstall community as the development moves forward over the coming years. We have started work to clear the site of many of the old derelict sheds, ready for the first phase of the development to take place, which will bring the listed buildings on site back into use. This demolition activity is the first step towards bringing the Forge back to life and will address problems of vandalism and break-ins that have been taking place. The regeneration scheme is expected to create over 1,500 new permanent jobs in the offices, leisure facilities, cafés, restaurants, and crèche proposed for the site.

18th century cast-iron water- wheel, Kirkstall Forge

We are also aiming to deliver a mixture of new homes, provide community facilities and ensure that around 60 per cent of the site will be green space allowing for woodland walks, bicycle routes and community access to the site. As part of the planning application CEG will be committing £4 million to the creation of a new railway station at the site to link with a park and ride facility. A further £3.5 million will be invested in footpaths, highway improvements to Horsforth roundabout and the implementation of a green travel plan for the site.

The Forge represents one of the biggest redevelopment opportunities for the city of Leeds. Located on the outskirts of the city, yet enclosed in a hidden riverside valley, it will be a fantastic place to live and work. Our job has only just begun and CEG will continue to work with the Kirkstall Forge community liaison group on the detailed aspects of the design, appearance and siting of the buildings to ensure that we can create the most aspirational scheme possible.

If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact either Victoria or Nick on 0113 2130300 or email [email protected].

Charles Johnson Kirkstall Forge Development Manager Commercial Estates Group

Charles Johnson (left) & Jon Kenny at Kirkstall Forge PH

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New Heart of Kirkstall - junction improvements Kirkstall District Centre

Report from Espalier Much has happened since our previous update in Kirkstall Matters. Further to the Leeds City Council Plans Panel considering the revised proposals in November of last year, we have been in continual discussions with officers in order to move the application forward.

Considerable work has been carried out in amending the proposed alterations to the highway junctions. These proposals were subject to formal public consultation by the Council, and did not attract any objections from local residents.

The application was presented to the Council’s Plans Panel (West) on 19th April with a recommendation that members support the scheme and for final approval to be delegated to the Chief Planning Officer subject to appropriate legal conditions that will be agreed with Council Officers in conjunction with local ward members.

At the Panel meeting, the application was subject to extensive discussion during which time Espalier was thanked for its commitment and desire to deliver a new heart to the centre of Kirkstall. After two hours of debate, the Panel concluded to support the proposals subject to further work being carried out on the detail of the surrounding junction improvements and discussions concerning the provision of affordable housing within the development.

We are pleased to receive this support from the Panel and are now concluding the outstanding issues with Council officers. Once resolved, these will be reconsidered by the Panel at the meeting in June/July (date to be confirmed). In the meantime, we will be seeking to agree the Section 106 agreement and planning conditions so that outline consent is granted as soon as possible. Patrick Bird

Montage of Kirkstall showing proposed District Centre


Planning Matters... KDC... Allders/BHS site...

All to play for at the new Kirkstall District Centre

Although the Plans Panel gave guarded approval to proposals for the new Kirkstall District Centre on 19 April 2007, this was only a limited outline consent, subject to various caveats and restrictions. The panel sought further information on:

• Affordable housing

• Highway - although the Plans Panel gave guarded approval to proposals for the new Kirkstall District design

• Integration with the new LIFT health centre

The developer says that abnormal expenses, caused by the steeply sloping site will prevent them delivering 25% affordable housing expected from the scheme. Kirkstall councillors and panel members have asked to see the “books”. The developer promised to produce detailed figures but has not yet done so.

The developer says that his scheme will “improve” the local highway network, but many people are not convinced. New traffic signals are required at both ends of Beecroft Street, but in addition we would lose the “all red” pedestrian phase at the junction of Kirkstall Lane and Morris Lane. Instead there would be traffic islands and “cattle pens” in the middle of the road, and pedestrians would have to cross these roads in several stages.

There are other problems at this junction, and the developer wishes to dig into the hillside at the bus stop, destroying the planted landscape area that KVCA created several years ago. On the other hand, a slight road and pavement widening on the west side of Kirkstall Hill is likely to be welcomed.

There are potential problems at the new entrance opposite the Kirkstall Leisure Centre. It is very easy for traffic queues to build back up the hill, preventing cars from entering the new shopping centre, and adding to the congestion. The computer shows a “failure mode” where this queue grows clockwise round the complex, clogging up one junction after another until the entire system locks solid.

Allders/BHS Site -

New Proposals

Broadway Mallion recently brought forward new proposals for the Allders / BHS site on Bridge Road, while appealing against the rejection of their previous plans by the Council. Few details are available, and residents are strongly advised to object to their appeal, and if possible to attend the hearing to give evidence. If the original scheme were approved there would be adverse effects on the remainder of the District Centre. It remains to be seen whether the new proposals will be any better.

The Kirkstall councillors have invested in a new, high capacity website where people can download detailed plans, reports and drawings about current developments in Kirkstall. It is on the web at http://www.kirkstallward.net

Cllr John Illingworth

Although the panel approved the overall massing, we have no detailed designs. We are also waiting for details of the LIFT health centre and the public buildings near Commercial Road. Many people have serious doubts about the top corner on Kirkstall Hill, where the proposed eight-storey flats will tower over the surrounding area. We should think twice before damaging a beautiful view over the valley that JMW Turner sketched in 1824. Cllr John Illingworth


West Yorkshire Fuchsia Society

We meet on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at Headingley St Columba United Reformed Church, 7.30 -9.30pm New members are very welcome. Our June 20th, the guest speaker will be George Foster from the Salford Fuchsia Society. The Society will be linking up with Horsforth in Bloom and will have a stand at the Horsforth Gala on Saturday, 30 June. The Annual Display and Plant Sale will be held on Sunday, 22 July in the Blenheim Courtyard at Golden Acre Park from 10am until 3pm. Graham Wheatley 0113 256 3055

Paxton Horticultural Society Paxton Centre, 186 Kirkstall Lane www.paxtongardeners.BTIK.com

We will be holding plant sales on

Saturday 19 May and Saturday 2 June, 9am - 12 noon

Summer Show Saturday

7th July 2007 2 - 4.30pm

Anyone wishing to exhibit will be most welcome -

schedules available from Show Secretary Graham Wheatley,

0113 256 3055

Website query (Abbey Walk/ Spen Lane corner) from architect Marion Cole:

I am new to this site but I'm hoping you might be able to help me. I have been asked to research the history of a building in Kirkstall called 'Crooked Acres' and so far I'm not having much luck...

‘Crooked Acres’ was built in 1871 by John Butler for his son, James. ‘Crooked Acres’ first appeared in the 1881 street directory when it was occupied by W B Myers, a civil engineer.

Historic Buildings of Kirkstall ... Crooked Acres

It was occupied later by Fred Kitson (son of Frederick William Kitson, son of the first James Kitson and elder brother of James Kitson II) but there is no mention of ‘Crooked Acres’ in the Kitson archive at Sheepscar.

Any help with the history of this building would be gratefully appreciated. Thanks in advance! An aerial photograph can be viewed on Google Earth (type in Crooked Acres, Kirkstall) earth.google.com Marion Cole

Gardening in Kirkstall... Summer Show...

Crooked Acres PHOTOS: Val Crompton


Cleaner & greener... community project...

Have you helped to make your local environment look cleaner and greener? Do you know someone who works tirelessly to improve their local surroundings? Do you want the chance to come to a glittering award ceremony and win great prizes? If so, you need to enter the Community and City Pride awards! Now in its fourth year, this year it will run as part of the Cleaner Greener Leeds campaign, in conjunction with Groundwork Leeds. We want to know all the amazing things that the residents of Leeds do to improve the environment where they live, work, study or socialise. Projects could be run by • local communities • individuals • schools • students • businesses

and could be • clean ups • recycling schemes • reuse or waste minimisation • community garden creation • any other small scale environmental project. We or Groundwork can help you with your scheme, with ideas, by lending you equipment or with help in getting touch with other people in your area who may want to join in. Our sponsors Biffa will provide some free skips, or if you are limited in space, you can get a Hippobag sack, delivered and collected for free.

The 2007 scheme will have the following categories: Community Project of the Year Pprojects that involve the local community. Partnership project of the Year This will involve work done by more than one group working in partnership. Primary School Project of the Year This category is for Primary Schools in Leeds who have improved their school grounds or their local area. Secondary School Project of the Year This category is for Secondary Schools in Leeds who have improved their school grounds or their local area. College/University Project of the Year A project in this category must involve college or university students, as well as the local community. Innovation Project of the Year This is for projects that include a new and original way of carrying out a project. Schools Recycling Waste Winners Project of the Year This is for Primary and Secondary Schools that are in the Leeds Healthy Schools Standard that have set up recycling schemes, and that have promoted them throughout the school.

Individual of the Year This category gives you the opportunity to nominate someone who works extra hard on your project, or who throughout the year achieves great things for the local environment. Tidy Business Standards The Tidy Business Standards is a national scheme run by Encams to encourage local businesses to be more aware of and improve how they deal with their waste. The closing date for this year’s entries is end of October 2007,

and you can enter projects done since October 2006. Remember: take lots of photos! For further information, tips on how run a successful project and awards submission forms, please look at our web pages at www.leeds.gov.uk/cleaner, or contact us on: Email - [email protected] Phone - 0113 395 1520. Write – Community and City Pride Awards, City Services, Knowsthorpe Gate, Leeds, LS9 0NP

Emma King

“I’M CREATING A COMMUNITY

GARDEN”


Recycle now your mobile phone, clothes & shoes ...

What to do with your egg boxes! Confused by plastic types? Not sure what to do with your old spectacles? We are recycling 23% of our household waste, which is great, but we want to be recycling a lot more than that over the next few years. We have sent a team to put stickers on all 200 000 or so green bins in Leeds that says what can go into your bin. This has increased the amounts we have collected from the green bins, so thank you! What can go into the green wheelie bin:

Paper – all types, including envelopes with windows, Yellow Pages, phone directories and pizza leaflets. Not very glossy wrapping paper or photo paper, or shredded paper as it clogs up the sorting machinery Card – all types, including egg boxes, brown card, printed card, greetings cards (without bows, glitter and bits) Cans – food, drink or pet food cans. Leave the label on if you want. Plastics – Types 1 (PET or PETE),2 (LDPE) and 4 (HDPE) only. This means plastic bottles and plastic carrier bags. Some food packaging is now labelled Type 1, 2 or 4 Recycling other items: Around Leeds there are 250 bring sites, where you will find glass bottle banks and often can, paper or textile banks.

We also have 11 Household Waste Sorting Sites. The nearest is on Evanston Avenue, Kirkstall Road. Other nearby sites are on Meanwood Road, at Calverley Bridge on the Ring Road or at Pudsey Grangefield. At most of these you can recycle the same items as that can go in green bin, as well as: garden waste, stamps, mobile phones, wood, engine oil, spectacles, clothes, shoes, textiles , rubble and soil, glass, batteries, foil, aerosol cans (these go in the can bank), metal, cardboard Not all of these are available at Kirkstall Road site, check first. If you have a garden you can order a reduced price compost bin through the www.recyclenow.com website. Also, look at Leeds City Council’s website for details on our real nappy schemes. Parents or guardians can get cash back on cloth nappies, or can apply for a trial pack to try them out. See www.leeds.gov.uk/waste, or email us on [email protected] Our Contact Centre is there for reporting missed bin collections, new bin requests, graffiti and needle removal, and bulky waste collections, and highways enquiries, on 0845 124 0113 or [email protected] Emma King Recycling Education and Awareness Assistant Monday, Wednesday and Thursday morning Leeds City Council City Services Department Performance Management Knowsthorpe Gate, Leeds LS9 0NP Tel: (0113) 395 1520 Ask Emma for advice at the Recycling Stall

at Kirkstall Festival

Is this up your street?


Greener bins... Environment & people friendly...

Fairtrade & Recycled Goods

You may have seen Chantelle & Vik’s clothing stall at Kirkstall Festival

Leeds-born Chantelle Scott and long-time Leeds resident Vik Banks have now opened a clothing shop with a difference on North Lane in Headingley.

Everything sold at Arkadash is ethically produced. Arkadash is the Turkish word for friend. It's a clue to how we do business. We respect the rights and needs of workers and farmers, using natural resources as carefully as we can, treating our suppliers and customers well, being friendly to the planet

and the people around us. The workers who made the goods on sale, were paid a decent wage and not exploited. As far as possible the clothes, make-up and accessories are also organic, fairtrade certified or recycled. Some are locally produced in Leeds and Manchester.

Vik says, “Lots of people want to buy ethically. People are buying organic, fairtrade and locally produced food now, because it’s easier to find. For us clothing was the next challenge – we wanted to buy ethically and we knew other people did, too. We started a company that would give people that option at a local level.”

Arkadash stocks contemporary adults’ & children’s clothing, footwear, bodycare & make-up.

Open Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5.30pm, Sunday 11am – 4pm, at

33 North Lane, Headingley, Leeds LS6 3HW Tel. 0113 275 9674 www.arkadash.co.uk

Vik Banks

How green is your bin?

Education & awareness The crews are instructed to empty the good green bins and leave the contaminated bins. One of the big issues for us in terms of education is that where there are areas of rented property the tenancy can change frequently and the benefit of education is then lost.

In terms of the stickers and leaflets, we are in the last two weeks of completing the delivery of these to households across the city. I will ensure that the residents of the Glebes and Vicarages receive theirs.

The recyclable material that we collect via the kerbside SORT scheme is sent to one of two Materials Recycling Facilities ( MRF's). One is operated by SITA and located in Huddersfield. There the recyclables are sorted and then the individual material streams sent for reprocessing. Our other contractor, Martins has a MRF in Derby where the same happens. Any contamination has to be taken out of the recyclable material. If this occurs at the MRF then the contractor has no option but to dispose of this as general waste. This is expensive and environmentally the worst option.

Some authorities do send their recyclable material abroad for sorting but it is illegal to export non-recyclable waste for disposal. I will ask the local area manager to continue with close monitoring. Where we have specific addresses we will re-issue the education and awareness literature.

Stephen Smith tel. 214 6548

Do you think that we should have Christmas Lights in Kirkstall?

We are making progress with plans to have a small number of lights erected for Christmas 2007. Let me know what you think?

Bob Marriott, Secretary Gilbert's & Sandford Rd Residents Association


Herb Gardens replanted... changing landscape... Greenspaces

Parks, allotments and gardens are important greenspaces for wildlife. In Kirkstall we also have the Kirkstall Valley Nature Reserve. This is a linear reserve bounded by the River Aire and the Leeds Liverpool Canal. The section of the canal next to the reserve is included in a five mile length of the canal which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest [SSSI]. The reserve is listed by the City Council as a Local Nature Area. It forms an essential link in the Aire Valley Wildlife Corridor. See pages 27 & 29

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Allotments near the Train Station May 2007

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Update on Railings Project Proposals for the railings works were last reported in Kirkstall Matters issue 93 (October 2006). The project is now ready to go ahead. All the detailed designs are now complete and have been approved. The work has been tendered and funding is now in place thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund.

A contract for the railings project has now been placed with an experienced specialist contractor. The work includes new railings around the new visitor centre terrace and to enclose the Cellarium. There will also be new ornamental features and gates at the site entrances along the Kirkstall Road.

The existing 1904 wrought-iron railings will be refurbished in a rolling programme over the summer and autumn 2007 – and we have not forgotten all the many gates and grilles within the Abbey which will also be refurbished and adjusted to allow visitors to experience further areas of the South ranges of the ruins. This large major element of the Abbey Restoration project should be completed by Autumn 2007. And finally…. Conifer trees in the Abbey Museum Herb Garden

You will have seen that the formal herb gardens have now been replanted. The planting scheme was on display for public comments earlier this year. This proposal included the replacement of the two golden conifer trees which limit views of the Abbey from the terrace gardens. Our landscape and trees specialist recommended removal of these trees because they are very large woodland trees which are not appropriate to this site and they restrict views of the Abbey. The trees will be re-planted to commemorate the completion of the restoration project. We would welcome suggestions for the choice of suitable replacement species. If anyone has comments, do please contact the Editor or Project Manager, Andrew Middlemiss

Here are some photos of the allotments near the Train Station, including where they are building another eye-sore, right in the middle of them. Yet another bit of greenery taken away from us. email from Paul Holdcroft


Nature Walk... Was this a wild goose chase?

I looked up through the green and blue and saw four wild ducks fly past in formation. A startled blackbird cried and flew low across the path. A magpie flew up high sending out a loud clicking cry. As I turned back, past the bend in the river, the view altered. The water rippled and shimmered shades of brown and green; highlighted with muted shades of reflected blue. The green iron road bridge spanned across the shiny river. On the dark side of the path was a tangled growth of brambles and wild briar. The heady fragrances of mallow hung in the warm air. Looking across the river, a lone moorhen swam by. A tiny chirpy bluetit darted and moved across a beech tree’s branches. Suddenly the trumpet call of two geese was heard high up. Then they appeared with broad brown wing span. They flew over the bridge and vanished. I climbed back up the steep steps away from the river bank. Then I walked across the bridge and stopped to look out across the pleasing view. In the distance I saw one of the geese. It sat buoyant, reaching up with its long slender neck to eat from a leaf covered bough. I did not find the man made reserve, instead I saw what nature had preserved on this small stretch of the bank at the bend in the river.

Linda Parker

The search for Kirkstall Valley Nature Reserve

It was a warm sunny afternoon in May when I went in search for the reserve. I walked along Redcote Road. Half way down the road, on the left, is where the council clean their wagons. The backs of the wagons were tilted upright, gleaming white and black. They were being steam-cleaned. They looked like rockets getting ready for launch. It was noisy, impressive and exciting.

I walked across a green road bridge. It was a bit unnerving as cars kept flying past. I asked some people if they knew where Kirkstall Valley Nature Reserve was but they didn’t know! So I choose to see what was down a steep path that ran along the edge of the river. Tall birch trees were surrounded by dandelions, buttercups and bluebells, shaking in the gentle breeze. The overgrowth of the trees and bushes crowded in along the path. It felt like I was in a jungle. Small Tortoiseshell and Peacock butterflies danced and chased in courtship over the heavily laden May blossom bushes. A bright red ladybird sat jewel-like on the green leaves.

Kirkstall Photo montage by Linda Parker


Yorkshire Wildlife Walks... Nature Reserves...

Meanwood Valley Trail Can you find 4 Woodpeckers? Woodpeckers, nuthatches and treecreepers, which are hole nesters, are excavating new homes in spring. Bats also find the holes and fissures in the older trees invaluable for raising young in the warmer weather. Holes are used by bats for hibernation during the winter. Look for purple knapweed and blue scabious, pink ragged robin and yellow vetches in the meadow areas. These flowers attract nectar-loving insects such as bees and butterflies.

Kerry Fieldhouse & John Crompton at Adel Pond, Meanwood Valley Trail Palmate Newt Survey April 07

Local Nature Reserves

Events Book on 0113 237 5312

Monday 4th June Walk the first half of the Meanwood Valley Trail with the Rangers. Meet at 10.30am near Woodhouse Moor by the statue of Alderman Marsden close to the junction of Woodhouse Lane & Raglan Road. Bring a packed lunch. Monday Evening 4th June Breary Marsh Bat Walk. Meet at 8.45pm in the car park of Golden Acre on the A660. Bring a torch!

Wednesday 6th June Walk the second half of the Meanwood Valley Trail with the Rangers. Meet at 10.30am in the car park of Golden Acre. Bring a packed lunch.

Friday 8th June Evening Woodland guided walk for families. Meet at Lakeside Centre in Middleton Woods at 6pm.

Saturday 9th June Family pond dipping & minibeast hunting at Meanwood Park, Green Road. Drop-in event from 2-5pm

Kerry Fieldhouse

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Otters Conservation Course was held recently with Brian Lavelle from the Yorkshire Wildlife

Trust. The Trust is helping otters re-establish by providing continuous suitable habitats along waterways. Otters have been seen in Kirkstall Valley. For more information contact Brian Lavelle at BTCV Hollybush.

Improve your local environment BTCV is the UK’s largest volunteer charity working with people and the environment. Hollybush Conservation Centre is one of the biggest offices in the country and provides a wide range of volunteering opportunities for people who are interested in working to improve their local environment.

Come on down and see for yourself! We offer:

♦ Practical urban and rural conservation tasks Tuesday-Friday (& every 2ND & 4TH Sunday).

Meet at Hollybush 9.15am, back at 5pm An open door policy for all, meet at Hollybush at and bring your lunch.

Please call us on 0113 274 2335 for more information or check out our website at

www.hollybushleeds.org.uk Under 18s must complete a parental consent form. Under 16s must be accompanied by a parent / guardian.

John Preston

Kirkstall Sunday Walks! Enjoy short local walks in Kirkstall on the first Sunday of each month. Free and open to all ages and all abilities! Come and get some fresh air and find out more about your local area. Meet at the front door of Hollybush at 1pm, (walks no longer than an hour):

ALL WALKS START AT 1pm WALKS FROM HOLLYBUSH: Hollybush Conservation Centre, Broad Lane, Kirkstall, LS5 3BP. (Buses 38, 91a, 15, 33, 33a, 670, 757 and 760 stop nearby)

For more information please contact: Jo Murricane 0113 230 7060 [email protected]

Hollybush Conservation... Healthy Walking...

Hollybush Open Day 29th April

The Friends of Hollybush opened the wildlife garden and invited the public to join in an

afternoon of fun activities, including pond dipping and minibeast hunting. The pond dipping revealed lots of interesting creatures, including the smooth newts and dragonfly nymphs. Children made model ladybirds and bees whilst their parents watched and enjoyed tea and home made cakes.

Friends of Hollybush help maintain the wildlife gardens and the grounds and also look after a small vegetable plot. Everyone is welcome. Tasks take place every Wednesday and the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month. All tasks 1 – 4pm.

Sarah Baehren

History of Hollybush Farm Help Needed We are based in a Victorian

farmhouse and are researching its history. Do you have any old photographs or information about Hollybush Farm?

Please contact Owen Walker 274 23335

Male Smooth Newt found


Leeds Museums and Galleries were pleased to open the newly restored ruins of Kirkstall Abbey and the brand new visitor centre in November 2005, but the work hasn’t stopped there. We are working to provide the best access possible for the public to the Abbey and the surrounding parkland. There has been some vandalism in recent months to both lights and interpretation panels. We are working to increase the security to protect this stunning building for future generations. You, the community, play a vital role in this process, and we appreciate you letting us know if you notice anything out of place New railings are due to be installed to protect the ruins this summer. See also p26. This means that the public will be routed through the visitor centre to access the ruins, but entry will remain free of charge. It will also give visitors the first taste of our summer terrace at the back of the visitor centre overlooking the river. Entering Kirkstall Abbey through the visitor centre will allow visitors to pick up leaflets and talk to our staff. This summer we will also be carrying out visitor surveys to find out where our visitors are coming from and what they want from their time at the Abbey. The information we collect will help us to meet our visitors’ needs in the future and to market the Abbey more effectively. Once the railings are in place our aim is to open all the ruins to the east of the Abbey which are currently closed to the public. These fascinating ruins include the kitchens, warming house, refectory, infirmary and Abbot’s lodging. This will increase the enjoyment of any visit and help to paint a fuller picture of monastic life.

We are also extending our summer opening hours. From June Kirkstall Abbey will be open 10am until 4.30pm Tuesday - Friday, and 10am until 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Over July we will be running handling and craft sessions for National Archaeology Week. We continue to run free tours for the public on Thursdays - see our What’s On guide. We hope you continue to enjoy Kirkstall Abbey and we appreciate all your support. Katherine Baxter Curator of Archaeology Leeds Museums and Galleries

Kirkstall Abbey Visitor’s Centre...

Curator Katherine Baxter


Street names... Cardigans & Brudenells...

This part of Leeds, formerly part of the Kirkstall Abbey estate, was owned by the Brudenell family. James (1797-1868) who became the 7th Earl was the most famous member and responsible for the name appearing in Leeds street names. His lifestyle was so extravagant, that despite an income of £40,000 (£2 million today) from his landed estates, he, and later his widow, needed extra finance. This was obtained by selling parts of rapidly expanding Leeds. Also he became an unlikely national hero at the age of 57, and the builders of the Kirkstall streets wished to bask in his reflected glory. James was an only son, followed by 7 daughters and was pampered. He was tall, fearless and handsome with golden hair and blue eyes. He became a General in the Army – more through his money and connections than skill. This lifestyle suited his passions for clothes, women and hunting. On his father’s death, James became the 7th Earl Cardigan. He used his inherited wealth to make his regiment the best-dressed in the service (introducing the later-named cardigan jacket named after him). The men of his regiment were nick-named “the cherry-bottoms” after the red trousers he introduced. They were practical in that they hid the blood. Earl Cardigan was considered an embarrassment- the Army could not approve of his harsh disciplining of his men and his frequent quarrels with fellow officers. The episode that changed the public perception of Earl Cardigan took place during the Crimean War on October 25, 1854 when, in command of the Light Cavalry Brigade at the Battle of Balaclava, he led the Charge of the Light Brigade.

Find out about street names... When you go along Cardigan Road or pass by Brudenell Primary School, Brudenell Road, Avenue, Street, View, Mount or Grove, remember James Brudenell, 7th Earl Cardigan.

Pupils at at Brudenell Primary School, Leeds

The Charge of the Light Brigade from a painting by Richard Caton Woodville

Earl Cardigan followed the order he was given, just as he expected his men to follow his orders. He was heard to mutter as he set off 'Here goes the last of the Brudenells.' Afterwards he wrote: 'I considered it certain death,' ‘I led straight and no man flinched.' The brigade reached the Russian guns, cutting down the gunners before returning in a manoeuvre that cost the lives of 118 out of the 673 men, under his command, who took part in the charge. James returned unscathed. On his chestnut charger, the Earl rode ahead of his 673 men into the jaws of death, as cannon to right of him, cannon to left of him, cannon in front of him thundered. The Crimea War was the first to be covered by a Foreign Correspondent actually at the scene. The despatches sent by William Russell of the Times, enabled the world to follow the exploits at a safe distance, with the fighting mainly done by the poor. Many Irish were involved following a potato famine. The Crimean War is remembered in the Leeds street-names of Raglan Place, Road, and Terrace (Lord Raglan was the commander-in-chief) and Alma Cottages, Grove and Road in Leeds (Alma being the first major battle).

Continued overleaf


A salute of fifteen guns at Kirkstall Abbey... Early photographs of Kirkstall Abbey were another feature. In the Dining Room a sword on the sideboard was presented to Earl Cardigan in 1856 by the “Noblemen, Gentlemen and Yeomanry of Yorkshire in admiration of his heroic conduct”. The older part of the house at Deene Park had wood panelling, a stunning hammer beam roof in the Great Hall, family and related portraits (some gorgeous lace), small rooms and uneven floors! A Georgian wing was added c1810 giving three elegant entertaining rooms. There were numerous momentos of the Crimean War

dotted around. A fine set of framed watercolours, a selection of Earl Cardigan’s jackets, (the trousers worn out by his eccentric widow cycling around the estate), the head and tail of Ronald, his charger, who lived for 18 years after Balaklava. Two striking oil paintings also relate to this period. One picture shows James leading the Charge. The other with his family and Prince Albert painted after

being summoned to recount his battlefield exploits to Queen Victoria. The legend is that his private life so scandalised Queen Victoria that she insisted on being painted out of the picture. Whilst married to his first wife, James Brudenell fell in love with Adeline, a society beauty half his age. They had an affair and later fled to the Continent to be married. A document signed by the Pope is one of the exhibits in Lady Adeline’s bedroom. The house at Deene Park has great character, interest and charm, built around an enclosed courtyard – acting a sun-trap on the April day we visited and set in a beautiful parkland setting. There is a lake, bridge, a Church (now redundant, with a Chapel in the house), and a lovely parterre stretching along the front of the house. I was impressed too by the quality of plants in the house – mainly stunning pelargoniums in full flower.

Balaclava also dates from this period - the name given to the knitted woollen helmets sent over to the British troops to help protect them from the bitter cold weather as do Raglan sleeves. The dispatches showed that 2/3rd of the soldiers died from disease & neglect rather than conflict. It was this opening up of the realities of war that led to civilian involvement – Florence Nightingale and her famous hospital, Mary Seacole tending soldiers on the front, M. Alexis Soyer, Chef de cuisine at the Reform Club in Pall Mall, volunteering to sort out the catering. It also may have led to the beginning of the end of the British Empire –it was not invincible after all. A Visit to Deene Park The Friends of Leeds Museums organised a trip to Deene Park, Northamptonshire, the private family home of the Brudenells. The Brudenells had been at *Deene Park for nearly three hundred years before James was born. It is also where he died in 1868, aged 70, after a fall from his horse. Sir Robert Brudenell (1461-1531), a shrewd Tudor lawyer, moved into Deene Park’s medieval manor house in 1514.The family are still there, a frail Mr Edmund Brudenell and a strikingly handsome the Hon. Mrs Brudenell. This couple are responsible for bringing back the estate from almost a century of neglect. The bailiffs were called in on a couple of occasions under Sir James’s widow (who lived until 1915). The estate suffered further when troops were billeted here in both world wars. There is still an Earl of Cardigan, but the title belongs to a different branch of the family. The main interest for many on the trip was the Kirkstall connection. We had been given notes before the trip compiled by Janet Douglas of the Leeds Metropolitan University. This was a great idea as it enabled us to assimilate fresh information without becoming overloaded. We looked at the old map of the Cardigan Estate showing the Otley Road swooping down to the River Aire. In the estate room a large table was piled with books etc, including a leather wallet with Kirkstall on the front. How we would have loved to have seen what it contained!

The bridge at Deene Park


Dinner at Kirkstall Forge... Early Settlers...

Deene Park today On our return we were asked to compare the speed and comfort of our journey, to the trips made in earlier times, by the Brudenells to collect their rent. It would have been a long and arduous journey, from Deene Park to Kirkstall, with horses. In our notes we had been told that after the (short-lived) marriage, in 1873 James’ widow Adeline (who had inherited the Yorkshire estates) married a Portuguese Count:

“The couple ended their honeymoon with a progress through her Yorkshire estates. Arriving in Harrogate by train, they drove in a carriage and four with outriders to Kirkstall Abbey where they were received with a salute of fifteen guns. A loyal address, signed by over 300 tenants, was read out by the vicar of St Stephen’s .

The enthusiastic crowd that had assembled, then removed the carriage horses and harnessing themselves to the carriage pulled it up to Kirkstall Forge. At the Forge, 900 employees were lined up to meet the Countess. This was followed by a grand dinner for the Countess’ tenants”.

Our homecoming was not as spectacular. The memories of our wonderful day may well outlast the length of Countess Adeline’s six year marriage.

Ann Lightman

Application forms for joining the Friends of Leeds Museums are held at the Abbey House Museum. A small annual fee gives access to a variety of Summer trips and holidays as well as free access to all of Leeds Galleries and Museums. *Deene Park is open 2-5 on Sundays in June-Aug inc. and Bank Holidays. Tel 01780 450223 www.deenepark.com

At the May Wednesday Club, we learnt about Early Settlers of Leeds. The Curator of Archaeology, Katherine Baxter gave an enthusiastic talk with slides and artefacts. Wearing gloves provided, we were able to handle stone age tools used thousands of years ago to cut animal skins. We felt the weight of an axe head and the sharpness of flint arrowheads. Katherine whisked us through, from the end of the last ice age, to the hunter-gatherers, then on to the iron age farmers who settled in Round Houses.

We ended with the coming of the Romans to Yorkshire and were reminded that we are all immigrants to Leeds... Val & John Crompton

Muriel Warriner with Curator Katherine Baxter

Reconstructed Iron Age Round Houses at Eccup


Local History, education and outreach...

Yorkshire Oral Histories at Abbey House Wednesday Club

Sarah Shooter, the Education and Outreach Manager of the West Yorkshire Archive Service took this month’s informal session. The Archive Service is a statutory body, having a legal duty to keep records – for instance Council minutes and hospital archives. But they have so much more, as local and family historians, their main customers, have discovered. Yorkshire is just one of three counties where copies of deeds were lodged up until 1970. This is an amazing resource for anyone interested in the history of property – including lawyers sorting out land disputes. Maps are another popular section.

Kirkstall Forge History Privately donated collections were one of the most interesting sources. Currently they are collecting records from Kirkstall Forge. It has been quite a time since the property was occupied, so the documents are not in the best of condition. They present quite a challenge to the in-house conservation team. The archive team cannot initiate donations but have to wait until they are contacted. Their work is to preserve the collections for future generations, not to restore it to how it might once have looked. The history of the document is part of its interest. If its 300 years old it should look it. Problems faced with new materials including electronic data were also discussed.

WYAS, Leeds, Sheepscar Leeds LS7 3AP Tel: 0113 214 5814 Fax: 0113 214 5815

[email protected] Appointments recommended

Some archives are held offsite and our search room can get very busy. Monday: 9.30am to 5pm

Tuesday: 9.30am to 5pm Thursday: 9.30am to 5pm

Please note we do not produce archives between 12 noon and 2pm

The team work closely with local museums and private collections to ensure that material is kept in the most appropriate location and storage. If any reader has local-interest old documents to dispose of, do contact the Archives. They will give advice on who would benefit from them most and, if they are to be kept in the family, how best to preserve them.

Collecting Oral Histories Sarah then moved onto the Oral Histories to capture the stories of workers (and their dialects) before the memories disappear. Results can be viewed at www.nowthen.org. Local businesses, (Asda sponsored the Dewsbury history), voluntary groups and schools were involved, with equipment and expertise provided by the Archive Service. In Bradford the textile industry was the theme. In Beeston it was immigration, locally or globally. West Yorkshire Archive Services are in Wakefield, Leeds, Bradford Library, Huddersfield Library and Halifax. Contact the nearest office or PO Box 5, Nepshaw Lane South, Morley, LS27 0QP. They also attend community and family history events. They have open days and will give talks.

Ann Lightman


Out & about... Events & Activities...

Abbey House Museum

Please note: All children must be accompanied by an adult, unless otherwise stated. At busy times we will have to limit the number of pushchairs in the museum due to health and safety regulations. Bookings now being taken on the number below. Contact Gillian Briggs

Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Leeds, LS5 3EH Tel: (0113) 230 5492 Fax: (0113) 230 5499 Email: [email protected]

June/August 2007

June

Friday 1st June, 10am-12pm– Meet the Victorians Come and meet a face from the past. Will you see

the Victorian undertaker, widow washer woman, maid or botanical chemist? No booking necessary, normal admission applies.

Friday 1st June, 2pm-4pm– Be a Victorian This is your chance to become a Victorian. Come

along and dress up. No booking necessary, normal admission applies.

Wednesday 6th June, 10.30-12pm: The Wednesday

Club for adults . An introduction to the mylearning website resource of Leeds Museums & Galleries, with Dominiqu Attwood, Learning Project Coordinator. Booking essential. Cost: £5 per person (no concessions), which includes a set menu lunch in our café at 12 noon

Wednesday 6th June, 1.30-3.30pm: The Collections Club. A chance to help preserve the past for the future and learn more about the wonderful collections of Leeds Museums. Booking essential.

Wednesday 27th June, 10.15am – 12pm: The

Monkey Club A drop-in morning for the under 5s and their carers with craft activities. This month’s theme is Buildings. No booking necessary, normal admission applies (under 5s are free).

Try the Green Gateways Trail

The first stretch of the Trail follows the Leeds Liverpool Canal west towards Rodley, giving dramatic views of Kirkstall Abbey. At Apperley Bridge the Trail leaves the towpath, drops down into the Fagley Beck valley, and through the woodlands that buffer the village of Calverley from the eastern fringes of Bradford. For a map and leaflet contact Leeds City Council’s Parks and Countryside Service on 0113 395 7400

Oxfam Oxjam Music Events Oxjam is Oxfam's most ambitious music event ever. We are asking musicians, promoters - to get together this October to make music, raise money and help end poverty.

Several gigs are being organised locally to raise funds for Oxfam, including a seven hour stretch of 12 acoustic singer/songwriter's giving their free time for Oxfam/Oxjam. For more details see www.oxfam.org.uk

David Anderson-Steel Oxjam Musical Events Organizer


July - Abbey House Activities continued... Wednesday 4th July, 10.30-12pm: The Wednesday

Club for adults Apothecary Jar Collection of Thackray Medical

Museum with Alan Humphries, librarian at Thackray Museum. Booking essential. Cost: £5 per person (no concessions), which includes a set menu lunch in our café at 12pm.

Wednesday 4th July, 1.30-3.30pm: The Collections Club Booking essential.

Wednesday 18th July, 10.15am – 12pm: The Monkey Club This month’s theme is Summer. No booking necessary, normal admission (under 5s are free).

Tuesday 24th July 1pm-3pm– Family Fun Afternoon Craft activities for all the family celebrating the

800th Anniversary of Leeds Charter. This week’s theme is Rivers & Canals. No booking necessary, normal admission applies.

Wednesday 25th July, throughout the day – Craft Sessions for playschemes and larger groups

Hour long craft sessions based around the theme of Rivers & Canals will take place in our education room with a museum facilitator. Booking essential, 50p per person to cover materials.

Thursday 26th & Friday 27th July, 10am-12pm– Meet the Victorians No booking necessary

Friday 27th July, 2pm-4pm– Be a Victorian No booking necessary, normal admission Tuesday 31st July, 1pm-3pm– Family Fun Afternoon Craft activities for all the family celebrating the

800th Anniversary of Leeds Charter. This week’s theme is Parks & Recycling. No booking necessary, normal admission applies.

August Wednesday 1st August, 10.30-12pm: The Wednesday

Club for adults Alien Invaders: Introduced Species and the Problems they Cause, with Clare Stringer, Curator of Natural Sciences. Booking essential. Cost: £5 per person (no concessions), which includes a set menu lunch in our café at 12pm.

Wednesday 1st August, 1.30-3.30pm: The Collections Club Booking essential.

Thursday 2nd & Friday 3rd August, 10am-12pm– Meet the Victorians No booking necessary

Friday 3rd August, 2pm-4pm– Be a Victorian No booking necessary, normal admission applies. Tuesday 7th August 1pm-3pm– Family Fun Afternoon Craft activities for all the family celebrating the

800th Anniversary of Leeds Charter. This week’s theme is Sport. No booking necessary, normal admission applies.

Wednesday 8th August - Hour long Craft Sessions for playschemes and larger groups, the theme of Sport. Booking essential, 50p per person.

Thursday 9th August, 2pm-3.30pm – Craft Workshop for 9-13 year olds Cost: £3.50 per person (£3.00 with a Leeds Card). Carers do not need to accompany their children on this workshop on completion of a consent form.

Thursday 9th & Friday 10th August, 10am-12pm– Meet the Victorians No booking necessary, normal admission applies.

Breeze On Tour, Various Locations 25th July – 23rd August Five-weeks of pure fun, Breeze on Tour gives young people all over Leeds the chance to get outside, have new experiences and have a laugh. Travelling around to different locations throughout the city the event is free and offers challenge, sport, information, play and art zones. Visit www.breezeleeds.org Temple Newsam 25th & 26th July Scotthall Fields 1st & 2nd August Armley Park 8th & 9th August Crossflatts Park, 15th & 16th August Kirkstall Abbey 22nd & 23rd August

Classical Fantasia Sunday 16th September

Classical music and spectacular firework finale in the enchanting setting of Kirkstall Abbey. Free

tickets available on a first come, first served basis at the ticket launch on 4th August 2007, venue to

be announced. For further information visit www.leeds.gov.uk or call 0113 395 0891.

National Archaeology Week 14 - 22 July

Kirkstall Abbey Visitor Centre Sat 21 July 1-3pm Handle Medieval Objects

Free drop-in session Sun 22 July 1-3pm Craft Sessions

Free drop-in medieval crafts in the Visitor Centre for all ages. No booking necessary.

Mon 28th May – 1st June, 11 – 4pm

Abbey Treasure Hunt Clues will be hidden around the Abbey all week – solve the clues and win a prize! Free to take part

Friday 10th August, 2pm-4pm– Be a Victorian This is your chance to become a Victorian. No booking necessary, normal admission applies.

Tuesday 14th August 1pm-3pm– Family Fun Afternoon Craft activities for all the family celebrating the 800th Anniversary of Leeds Charter. Theme is Transport. No booking necessary.

Wednesday 15th August, throughout the day – Craft Sessions for playschemes and larger groups Hour long craft sessions based around the theme of Transport Booking essential, 50p per person

Thursday 16th & Friday 17th August, 10am-12pm– Meet the Victorians No booking necessary, normal admission applies.


Birthday Parties at Abbey House Museum

If you are looking for a birthday celebration with

a difference, why not book a Birthday Party at the Museum?

Our parties give children a chance to be creative and explore the museum and its objects in a fun way. Party Planning Birthday Parties take place on Sunday mornings from 10am - 11.30 The party is suitable for children aged between 7 - 14 years. We can take up to 10 children per party. We provide a party leader and the materials.

The Birthday Party costs £30. Pre-booking is essential tel. 0113 230 5492

Education Workshops Specially designed workshops are available led by a freelance educator at a charge of £40 per

session. Suitable for Key Stage 1 & 2 Booking essential

Reminiscence Box Scheme To hire a box of objects for a day centre or nursing home, please phone for details or a

leaflet This service is free of charge. Abbey House Museum tel. 0113 230 5492

The Abbot’s Tea Rooms Abbey House Museum

Please call 230 5492 for further details. Mon: Closed all day

Tuesday-Friday: 10am – 5pm Saturday: 12pm – 5pm Sunday: 12 noon – 4pm

Last admission is 4pm each day OAP Special: 2 course lunch with tea or coffee

for £4 every Friday

Index of Advertisers

Abbey Guest House 44 Abbey House Museum Workshops 37 Abbot’s Tea Rooms 37 Accident Repairs - Branch Auto Bodies 46 Alison James – Optician 48 Bargain Booze 47 B. Bex – Joinery 47 Beecroft Primary School & Nursery 52 Computer Help - Martin Lewis 45 Computers - Media Magic Computers 51 Computers - Steve Dunn PC Services 44 Co-op Leeds 50 CPS – Airedale, Quality Printing 38 Doyle Roofing & Property Maintenance 46 Electrical Installation - Tony Wilson 45

Fisher Autos - Vehicle Repairs 48 Funeral Directors - John Holt 47 Fashion Company - Dress Making 42 Greenhows of Leeds - Vacuum Cleaners 49 Hawksworth Wood Community Association 38 Head 1st - Gents Hair & Treatment Room 49

Home Support Services 43 J.News Newsagents 48 Kaydan Gas Services – Gary Rhodes 50 Kirkstall Abbey Tennis Club 42

Kirkstall Leisure Centre 44 Kirkstall Newsagents, VT & BV Hajari 45 Kirkstall Online - Community Website 6 Kirkstall St Stephen’s Pre School 40 Kirkstall St Stephen’s Primary School 41 Kirkstall Valley Primary School Nursery 40

Leeds Homestay Services 51

Mark Johnson – Re-upholstery 48 Milford Sports & Social Club 39 McClarys Launderette & Dry Cleaners 47 Mick Patrickson – Joinery & Builder 45 N.L.S. - National Legal Services - Wills 51 POP - Pure Organic Produce delivered 38 ODDFELLOWS, the Friendly Society 43

Printer - Simon of Smallprintleeds 46 Sports Massage 49

The Bookshop Kirkstall 44 The Mill Race Organic Restaurant 46 Therapeutic Counselling - Carole Anne 42 Tiling - Brian Hurst 38 West End House - Food & Ale 39

Is your business Kirkstall based? Why not advertise in Kirkstall Matters?

Advertising is low-cost and effective Circulation of 1000 copies -only £10 per quarter page

Mail us at [email protected]

We need you to support us and help pay for the production of our Community Magazine.


Quality Printing for clubs, local associations, Church Groups etc.

at the keenest of prices ...

Hawksworth Wood Community Association

Drop-in centre with coffee shop. Weekly advice surgeries provided by Leeds North West Homes Housing Association

and Victim Support. Police advice surgery and local councillor advice surgery. Information bureau for local people. Credit Union service. Internet access for local and older people.

Entertainment, courses, trips. 6 Broadway

Monday-Friday 9am - 5pm tel: 228 5550


Head teacher:Mrs B.A.Clay Kirkstall Valley Primary School

Argie Road, Leeds LS4 2QZ

Monday- Friday 9am to 12 noon A warm, safe and stimulating

environment

From 2½ to school age FREE from 3 years old.

Kirkstall St Stephen’s Pre-School Kirkstall St Stephen’s

C of E Primary School, Morris Lane

Leeds LS5 3JD Tel: 0113 214 4630


KIRKSTALL ABBEY TENNIS CLUB

Playing at Kirkstall Abbey Free coaching for juniors and adults for ten weeks from May Tournaments Social events

Membership: Adults £20 Family £40 Juniors £4

Concessions for Priority Leeds Card Holders

New members welcome

For more information contact: Jessica Fischer 07711 646991 [email protected]


Housekeeping & Ironing/ Private Care &

Home Support Services

We provide a professional, reliable, experienced housekeeping and/or home helping service. Friendly supportive care in your own home. Home-sitters, personal care, ironing, laundry, beds, shopping, cooking. Arranged to meet your own personal individual needs and requirements.

Additional services also available. Night-sitters, night-sleepers service by prearrangement (weekends & also bank holidays). References available.

For further information tel: 0794 601 7690 or 0113 250 6394


Steve Dunn PC Services For home PC users and small businesses

PC & Laptop Troubleshooting and Repair

Upgrading PC hardware or software Home/small office networks and general advice

Call me on 0113 2264567 for a free quote

Kirkstall Leisure Centre

Looking for somewhere to hold a meeting or event?

We now have a Meeting Room Available every day one off or long term bookings

Seats up to 25 people. Children’s Parties, local groups and businesses welcome

Contact Reception for further details: Kirkstall Leisure Centre Kirkstall Lane, Leeds LS5 3BE Tel 0113 214 4555/6

Kirkstall – your local leisure centre

The Bookshop, Kirkstall

10 Commercial Road, Kirkstall, Leeds LS5 3AQ

Telephone 0113 278 0937

Second-Hand & Out-of-Print Books

Open Monday to Saturday 10:15am to 4:30pm, and at other times by arrangement.

email: [email protected] www.abbeyguesthouseleeds.co.uk

English Tourism Council


Computer Help

Help with your computer at home, anywhere in Leeds, based in Kirkstall.

Email [email protected]

or tel. Martin on 07792 091438

Get your computer working at maximum speed!

• Internet security • Wifi security

• Email spam prevention • Mal/spyware protection

• Browser security • Data security

• Virus protection

• Microsoft Windows or Mac OSX Get your computer working for you! Also, help with any other technology offered,

from televisions to toasters

and everything in between.

Very reasonable rates

KIRKSTALL NEWSAGENTS

Tony Wilson

Electrical Installations

16 Vesper Gardens

Kirkstall

Leeds LS5 3NS

Tel. 274 6027

mob. 07946 608 869


Tel. 278 0945

J.NEWS


Greenhows of Leeds for all your vacuum cleaner needs

• Same day service • Free estimates • All work guaranteed • Commercial enquiries

welcome • Reconditioned vacs for sale

Part exchanges welcome

341 Kirkstall Road Leeds LS4 2 HD 0113 279 1170


Membership Application Form

I wish to join the KVCA

Kirkstall Valley Community Association

Name……………………………………...

Address…………………………………..

Postcode………………………………...

Annual Membership (inc. delivery of Kirkstall Matters within the Kirkstall area) is £4

U.K. Postal delivery (outside Kirkstall) for a year costs us £3. For postal delivery

we welcome a donation.

I enclose cheque/postal order payable to ‘KVCA’ for £…..

Post this coupon to:

KVCA Treasurer 18 The Rise Leeds LS5 3EP

km095

Documents

pm facilities

kirkstall library

kirkstall area

kirkstall lane

inhabitants of kirkstall

kirkstall matters issue

year of kirkstall matters

disabled access