brighousescallymagwinter

Winter ‘14 Issue 36

For Local Parents, Carers & KidsFREE

®THE S AM G YL A C LBrighouse, Elland, Lightcliffe, Clifton, Southowram, Rastrick, Bailiff Bridge & Surrounding Areas

out and about

Travelling back to the golden age of steam

featuresRead young crime writer’s

award-winning story

LOOK WHO’S HERE!

Santa arrives at Water’s Edge

DiariesOur Pre-School and Out Of

School Diaries

plus news, views, WHAT’S ON and lots

more!

CONTENTSNewsStorytime with Santa! Page 3A passion for fashion Page 5On song for choral workshop Page 16

Out and About Keighley and Worth Valley Railway Page 6Touchstones Museum Page 8

FeaturesChristmas services Page 9

Diary pagesPre-school diary Page 12Out of school diary Page 14

WELCOME Call me old fashioned, but I remember when the countdown to Christmas used to start in December. Advent, you might even say. So I was somewhat taken aback to witness the first Christmas TV ad of the year being aired the day after Bonfire Night. Now I know some people leave it too late – my mother, for instance, never gets round to putting her tree up until December 23, then she leaves it up until after Twelfth Night, which by then feels as though it’s sometime in the middle of February. But the first week of November? REALLY?? I have absolutely no objection to Santa calling early to meet children later on in the month – after all, the big guy has a hectic schedule. But it’s a bit much to have turkey and tinsel shoved down our throats before the bonfire’s even gone cold. I’m no Grinch, but I don’t want to do my supermarket shopping listening to festive songs all through November. Roll on Boxing Day – and the summer holiday adverts!

Kate

Our fabulously festive front cover was designed by Yvie, from Class L

at St John’s School in Clifton. She wins a voucher for the Pot Spot in Brighouse. Many thanks to Miss Poulter and the children from Class L for taking part! To be in with a chance of having your picture featured on the cover of our spring edition, email it to [email protected]

Contact usTo discuss and book advertising space, ideas for future articles or just to let us know what you think of the magazine, please get in touch by any of the following means:

8 Hawthorn Close, Clifton, Brighouse, West Yorks HD6 [email protected] 526952www.thescallymag.co.ukThe Scallymag (Halifax)@theScallymag

08R

While every care is taken to ensure the information contained in this magazine is true, accurate and fair, the publisher cannot take any responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for events arising from the use of this information.Any statements or opinions given in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher and no products and services mentioned in articles or adverts are officially endorsed by them.© The Scallymag 2014All content of this magazine is copyright. No part of it may be reproduced by any means or in any form without written permission from the publisher.The Scallymag® is a registered trademark of Catalyze Enterprises Ltd.

welcome

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news

YOUR GOOD ELF: Santa and his helper

arrive at Water’s Edge, much to the delight

of Jayden Jairath and Jessica Woodward.

have a story with santaAt this time of year, Father Christmas is a extremely busy man – but he will be taking time out of his hectic schedule and stopping off in Elland for a very special event. Children can meet the man himself and enjoy a story with him at The Edge

Play Gym and Cafe’s Story Time with Santa on December 19 and 22. There will be festive fun, singing and a story with Santa and his elves – and of course a gift for every child. You can even have your photograph taken with Father Christmas!

Tickets are just £5, which includes entry to the play gym. To buy tickets, please contact The Edge at Water’s Edge Children’s Day Nursery, Park Road, Elland, on 01422 373723 or email [email protected].

Festive fair in aid of overgateA play gym is offering people the chance to stock up on festive goodies while raising money for a good cause. Rowley Poleys Indoor Play Centre and Cafe in Bradford Road, Brighouse, will host the Christmas Fair Shopping Weekend in aid of Overgate Hospice. The fair will be open from 6pm-8pm on Friday December 5 and from 11am-2pm on Sunday December 7. Admission is £2 which includes a hot drink and a mince pie, and there will be the chance to win a hamper in

the raffle. All proceeds will go to the hospice. Stalls include Bricks 4 Kids, Jumping Clay, Etre Belle Beauty, plus hand crafted gifts, hampers, jewellery, clothing, bags, skin care and sweets on sale. The hospice will also have a fundraising stall. Proprietor Rebecca Rowlands said: “We wanted to do something special for Christmas so we thought, why not raise money for a fantastic local cause at the same time? “There’s going to be lots of

wonderful stalls offering some great ideas for gifts and treats, so hopefully lots of local people will come along and support us.” Because much of the play equipment will be stowed away to make room for stalls, the event is only suitable for adults. The play gym’s Santa’s Grotto will be open from December 15-19 from 1pm-3pm – tickets cost from £5. And there will be a Christmas party on December 22 and 23. For more, see the Rowley Poleys Facebook page.

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Save 10 per cent: See p22

UL94943F007 19-Jul-2011 11:58

winners’ enclosureThe lucky winner of our autumn competition to win a family ticket to see The Wild Adventures of Robin Hood at Square Chapel for the Arts was Lucy Wilson, from Clifton. She correnctly named Robin’s arch enemy as the Sheriff of Nottingham. Well done Lucy, and enjoy the show!And the winners of our Boo Tea competition were Audrey Owen from Huddersfield and Jenny Kelly from Rastrick. They both correctly stated that Jordan tweeted about the tea’s amazing effects.

competition

This space could be

working for your business!

to advertise contact Kate Wobschall on 07957 526952 or email kate@ thescallymag.

co.uk

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meet a mum, make a friend

spreading festive cheer

Is it time to get rid of some of the clothes your kids have grown out of, but are so good it seems a shame to just give them away? Whether it’s a pre-Christmas clearout or you need to make room for new things your little ones have been bought, you can earn something back for your unwanted clothing. If, like me, you’re really busy juggling work and kids, you never have time to endlessly list things on eBay. Now, however, there’s a fantastic and easy new service which takes the hassle out of getting rid of your kids’ outgrown clothes – and makes you some money in the process. Genie Recycling will deliver a sack for you to fill and collect it, then pay you for the contents. Unlike some companies which will pay for your cast-offs, Genie come and collect them so you never have to leave your living room. I ordered a sack online, received an immediate email response, then filled it and had it collected all within the space of a week. I didn’t even have to stay in and wait for the courier to pick it up – I could arrange for it to be left in a safe place for collection. Payment was within 24 hours and is through PayPal or online banking. Clothes do need to be in decent condition but supermarket and discount store garments are welcome, as of course are brand new clothes, especially children’s. Genie is the country’s largest online clothes recycling company. Go to the website www.genierecycling.com.l There’s a fantastic prize up for grabs every month when you like Genie’s Facebook page, or return your recycling sack. See https://www.facebook.com/pages/Genie-Recycling/1445747572311890.

don’t throw it, recycle it!

Mums can meet for coffee and a friendly chat thanks to

Netmums. Stephanie Martin, the local Netmums Chairmum, has organised more meetups following the success of the first one last month. The next is on Friday December 19 at 1pm at the Fun House in Halifax.Mum-of-two Stephanie is currently on maternity leave following the birth of her second son in August and lives in Luddenden. She took over the role as Chairmum for the Halifax area at the beginning of October and has arranged two meetups so far, which have been a great success. She said: “It has been lovely to meet some new friends for me and my boys. I wanted to get involved because I know how hard it is as a first time

mummy and I hoped the meet-ups would help some people to meet new friends and have people to turn to if they need help or advice or just to have a good natter over a cup of tea. “I have been really surprised by how generous venues have been when offering discounts and free drinks and also at how well the group has been received. “Our Facebook page has received around 200 likes already and some mummies have thanked me for organising meetups and giving them the chance to meet new people. “I’m really enjoying my role and I’m looking forward to the future gatherings – especially when we have nicer more reliable weather next year!” Check out the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/Netmums-Meetups-Halifax/1404374309849673?fref=ts.

news

In the autumn issue, we featured a book giveaway for I Want To Show The Dentist My Teeth. Unfortunately the email address supplied to us was wrong – it should have been [email protected]. If you would like a book, the first 25 to email the team will receive a copy.

Dentist book

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Youngsters at Water’s Edge Children’s Day Nursery have helped make Christmas special for underprivileged children. They collected more than 50 shoeboxes full of goodies for the Rotary Club’s annual appeal. This year, Rotary is working with Voluntary Action Calderdale to pass the boxes on to children who might otherwise have a somewhat bleak Christmas. Families have spent the past month filling the boxes with goodies such as toys, toiletries, food and treats, for children of different age groups. The boxes have now been collected so they can be distributed in time to put a smile on children’s faces on Christmas Day. Around 2,500 boxes will be collected altogether around Calderdale.

Carl Heavyside, left, from Water’s Edge, and nursery children Daniel Clarke and Rowan Scott hand over the shoe boxes to Elland Rotary Club.

Never mind recent talk about high speed rail links and getting to London in two hours – the truly awesome way to ride the rails is to experience the magic of steam. KATE WOBSCHALL and family found travelling back in time on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway was just the ticket

The anticipation was palpable as the guard approached the ‘Next

train’ sign on the platform with the secret of the next destination in his hand... Despite the fact we’d all read the timetable and knew very well what was coming, the disappointment hit hard as the words ‘Private charter, please do not board’, chalked onto a small blackboard appeared. This was truly an international affair. Families had travelled from near and far to experience the magic of steam aboard the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, including one family of six from New Zealand. But no matter. I’ve waited on far less pleasant platforms and there’s always the gift shop – with what appears to be the world’s largest selection of Thomas the Tank Engine goodies – if you have to wait more than half an hour or so. This is utterly the opposite of the charmless, dingy metropolitan stations where commuters jostle for space aboard a glorified bus on rails. Even in October, there is a glorious array of colour in the shape of flowers and bulbs arranged around the welcoming word ‘Haworth’ painted on the opposite side of the platform. The unmistakable tang of steam precedes this elegant iron horse as she pulls sedately into the station. There are gasps of excitement at the sheer size of

time travelLING IN STYLE

this magnificent piece of living, moving history – and at the fact that there are so many doors to open. Pressing an illuminated button while 40 people breathe down your neck as you try to board your average commuter train simply cannot compare to turning the wooden handle that takes you into your own section of the carriage and back in time to the golden

age of the steam train.The first thing seven-year-old

Sami notices is how well sprung the seats are

– they’re very bouncy but comfortable – and there’s so much room that even the Kiwis have ample room for their various prams, children, grandmas

and bottle bags without spilling into

anyone else’s space. We set off at a

fairly sedate pace up to Oxenhope, which boasts an

exhibition shed, carriage and wagon workshop and a static buffet car where passengers can refuel. Further afield there are shops, pubs, moorland walks and historic packhorse routes. We opt to stay aboard and travel the whole length of the line – just short of five miles in total – with the engine

shuffling around us and hooking up again to the front of the line of carriages. After Oxenhope there are several stops, each with different attractions so hopping on and off with a day rover ticket is a must. First stop in this direction is Haworth, which needs no introduction, except to say be prepared for a steep ascent into the village from the station at the foot of the hill! Next up is Oakworth, the inspiration for film-makers who chose the station as the location for the classic film The Railway Children. Passengers can stretch their legs on the Railway Children Walk over the railway crossing and past Vale

OUT AND ABOUT

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time travelLING IN STYLE

Mills, which produced cloth that was exported around the globe. After releasing your inner Jenny Agutter (hopefully without waving a pair of red bloomers at passing trains) hop back on board and check out Damems. You do need to request this stop, but it’s worth the trouble as you can follow the nature trail over the level crossing to the gorgeous picnic site and nature reserve. The final stop before Keighley is Ingrow, which is home to not only the Vintage Carriages Trust Museum and the Bahamas Locomotive Society Shed but also a fabulous array of retro posters and signs. Along the way, there are a couple of

tunnels – one fairly long, one not son long – which can come as a bit of a shock as you’re plunged into absolute darkness for the duration. It’s easy to see why the Halloween special is so appealing – what dark truths are lurking in this atmospheric railway’s past? Thankfully there’s a less scary earlier version for the little ones. Christmas is a very busy time aboard the railway, with a Mince Pie Special, a carol singing train and of course the phenomenally popular Santa special which runs at weekends from the end of November until December 21. Then on Christmas Eve, the heady mixture of nostalgia and anticipation reaches a

peak, where you can meet Santa and his pixies before they get down to the serious business of present delivering around the globe, while adults can relax with a mince pie and seasonal drink. All too soon we were pulling into Keighley amid dark satanic mills, where passengers can make connections to the main line, or grab a snack and coffee while the engine swaps ends on the turntable. Just as the moors of Haworth inspired the Bronte sisters, the stunning landscapes and historic villages along the line have attracted film and TV producers aplenty. Everyone remembers The Railway Children, but Richard Gere and Vanessa Redgrave also came here to film Yanks back in 1979, and TV credits include A League of Gentlemen, Last of the Summer Wine, A Touch of Frost and even a Budweiser ad for the American market.

MAIN PICTURE: All aboard the Santa Special in Haworth.LEFT: The graceful vintage engine.FAR LEFT: Waiting to board.INSET: Sami, seven, enjoys the magic of steam.

fact fileThe line was opened in 1867 by the Midland Railway and was closed by British Rail in 1961.In 1962, the KWVR Preservation Society was formed to purchase the line.The railway has 15 steam locomotives – with more in the museum – as well as three diesel locos, two railbuses and a diesel railcar.Services run at weekends all year round, but also during the week in summer. To book or for timetable and fare details, check out the website: http://www.kwvr.co.uk/

For more ideas on fantastic family days out, go to www.yorkshire.com.

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We started with a walk down the Victorian street with

its realistic houses and shops. There was lots to keep the boys interested, from toy vegetables in the grocers to medical equipment in the doctors. We spent ages playing with some hoops – it’s amazing how the old toys are the best. Elsewhere in the museum were hats and gloves to try on. Aaron loved a model landscape with a tiny train whizzing round a track, while Eli enjoyed exploring a colourful under fives area which included dressing up and a play shop. The museum has a free car park, café and picnic tables both indoors and outdoors. Toilets, baby change and lift make the museum very easy with a baby.

We love discovering museums, particularly the smaller ones which are usually free and often have loads for families to see and do. Here are

two of our favourites – and they’re both friendly, fun and free!

Portland Basin Museum1 Portland Place, Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside OL7 0QABY ANNA GOMERSALL

VICTORIANS DEFINITELY AMUSED!

The boys were full of energy when we arrived and this was soon put to use in the museum with its buttons to push and drawers to open and explore. Aaron dressed up as a Victorian boy while Eli enjoyed trying on some very noisy clogs. They were both engrossed by a brilliant activity about plumbing, trying to guide a marble down a water pipe. The art gallery was also full of family-

friendly activities, ideal for young children.

In a portrait exhibition, we designed funny faces using large, colourful eyes, noses and mouths. There were also books, jigsaws and textured toys to encourage children to think about art in a way that they could understand. Touchstones has a café, toilets, baby change and lift to access the upstairs galleries. We had a thoroughly enjoyable visit with some of the friendliest staff we have

encountered.

Touchstones, RochdaleAddress: The Esplanade, Rochdale, LancashireOL16 1AQ

For more ideas for days out with your little ones, check out Anna’s blog and website, Family Roundabout. Like the Scallymag, it’s for families, by families and is full of tales and reviews

about family friendly destinations in Calderdale and beyond. Go to www.familyroundabout.co.uk

ABOVE: Aaron tries his hand at plumbing, Victorian style at Touchstones.BELOW: Eli gets to grips with a puzzle in the under-fives area.

out and about

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what’s on

HALIFAx MINSTERDISPENSARY WALk, HALIFAx

Sunday November 30Advent carol service, 6.30pm.Candlelit service of hymns, readings, and carols forAdvent. Music performed by the Minster Choirs accompanied by the Minster organ. If you are searchingfor space and spirituality before Christmas gets underway, then this is the one for you! Due to the darkness, it is not a child friendly service.

Sunday December 14Carols at St Mark’s Church, SiddalA community carol service in St Mark’s Church, 4pm. Readings, carols and prayers for the whole family.

Sunday December 21Christmas Carol Service at Halifax Minster, 6.30pm.This candlelit service tells the story of Jesus birth throughreadings and carols. Music performed by the Minsterchoirs, organ and brass. Traditional carols sung by everyone

December 24 – Christingle Service, 2pm and 4pm. Christmas carols for everyone, featuring the Elland Silver Youth Band and a real donkey! Children are invited to dress up and join the nativity as a king, an angel or a shepherd, no need to rehearse, just come along and join in.

Midnight Mass – starts at 11.30pm. A traditional sung service of Holy Communion for Christmas. If you want to lie in bed on Christmas morning, then this is the service for you!

Christmas DaySaid Holy Communion at 9am; Family Eucharist with carols at 10.30am.

The Edge Play Gym and CafePark Road, EllandStory Time With Santa, Friday December 19 and Monday December 22, 10am-noon. Come and enjoy a magical experience with Santa and his elves, with fun, singing, a story and of course a gift to take home. Tickets £5 per child, which includes entry to the play gym.

Rowley Poleys Indoor Play Centre and CafeFloor 1, Wellholme Garage, Bradford Road, BrighouseSanta’s Grotto will be open from 1pm-3pm on December 15-19, come and meet the man himself! Tickets £5 – includes a festive treat and a gift – or £6.50 which also includes an hour’s free play. Siblings £5. See the Facebook page for more details.

kershaws Garden CentreHalifax Road, BrighouseCome and meet Santa! He will be at the garden centre every weekend until Christmas between 1pm-4pm. There’s no need to book, and as we operate a ticket system there’s no need to queue either.

Eureka! Children’s MuseumHalifaxCome and meet Father Christmas in his grotto – open on weekends from Saturday November 29-Sunday December 21, term-time weekdays December 2-19 from 2pm-3.30pm, Monday December 22 and Tuesday December 23. Visit a a magical winter wonderland to meet Santa and his festive friends. Additional £3 per child (includes gift).

CHRISTMASCHRISTMASAT THE MINSTERAT THE MINSTER

See the Minster website for all other Christmasservices and Events at the Minster 2014

www.halifaxminster.org.uk

Christingle Service -Wednesday 24th December, Christmas Eve 2.00pm & 4.00pmChristmas Carols for everyone, EllandSilver Youth Band, a real donkey, andlight a Christingle.

All children are invited to dress up andjoin in the Nativity - come as an angel,shepherd, or a King! No rehearsalneeded, just come and join in onthe day.

Midnight MassWednesday 24th December, Christmas Eve 11.30pmA traditional sung service of Holy Communion for Christmas. If you wantto lie in bed on Christmas morning,then this is the service for you!

Christmas DayThursday 25th December9am Said Holy Communion BCP10.30am Family Eucharist with Carols CW

winter what’s onCHURCH SERVICES

SEE SANTA

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CHRISTMAS PARTIES

Rowley Poleys Indoor Play Centre and CafeFloor 1, Wellholme Garage, Bradford Road, BrighouseCome and join our Christmas Party on December 22 and 23! There’ll be festive fun, party games, buffet, carols and of course a visit from Santa. £7.50 per ticket, siblings £5. From 1.30pm-3.30pm. See the Facebook page for more details.

The Edge Play Gym and CafePark Road, Elland Baby Chums Christmas PartySpecial day for tots who attend the regular baby and toddler group at The Edge, from 9am-11am.

Square Chapel Centre for the ArtsSquare Road, HalifaxThe Princess and the PeaSunday December 7, 2:30pmDo you want to hear a true story? Well.. imagine a place where what you see is not what it seems. A secret place with a hidden castle and hidden stories, a place where the princesses don’t know they are princesses and the princes don’t really want to become Kings. A place where appearances can be deceptive!In this new fantastical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Princess and the Pea, Mike Kenny and the inventive tutti frutti team create a funny, original, beautiful retelling of this familiar tale.Suitable for children aged 3-7. Lasts 55 minutes.Tickets: £9 (includes £1 voluntary donation & £1 online booking fee)

The Wild Adventures of Robin HoodDecember 16-21

Grab your bow and arrow and don your tights

– Robin Hood is heading to Halifax this Christmas!From the team behind last year’s Hunt for the Scroobious Pip, comes the story of Robin Hood, as you’ve never seen it before. Three multi-talented performers journey into the world of the original caped crusader, but they need your help...A romp through the story of Robin Hood with plenty of archery, sword-fighting, slapstick, songs and silliness (not to mention those

CHRISTMAS FAIRSCHRISTMAS SHOWS

green tights)... This fun-packed Christmas show will definitely hit the bullseye!

Hey Diddle Diddles Christmas ShowBrighouse Civic HallTuesday December 23, from 2pm-3pm.The Hey Diddles are a children’s theatre group aimed specifically at pre-school children. We sing all the nursery rhymes and action songs beloved of children everywhere. We encourage the children to get on their feet and sing and dance along with us. Our show is one hour long, fast paced, colourful, fun with lots of audience participation. If your children enjoy the Wiggles, they’ll LOVE the Hey Diddles. Tickets: Children £5, adults £4 and under 18 months free.Buy them from 01484 222444.

Rastrick LibraryDecember 6, 10am-12.30pm.A range of local craft stalls will be here, selling handmade goods and Christmas gifts. As per usual 10 per cent raised from their takings will be donated to the FoRL Group, so your purchases will help us raise vital funds. Alongside the craft stalls tea, coffee and seasonal cakes will be available for a small donation, as well as craft activities for the kids and a raffle. Free entry.

Rowley Poleys Indoor Play Centre and CafeFloor 1, Wellholme Garage, Bradford Road, BrighouseThe fair will be open from 6pm-8pm on Friday December 5 and from 11am-2pm on Sunday December 7. Admission is £2 which includes a hot drink and a mince pie, and there will be the chance to win a hamper in the raffle. All proceeds will go to the hospice. Stalls include Bricks 4 Kids, Jumping Clay, Etre Belle Beauty, plus hand crafted gifts, hampers, jewellery, clothing, bags, skin care and sweets on sale. The hospice will also have a fundraising stall.

Brighouse Victorian Christmas FestivalSaturday and Sunday November 29-30Victorian Christmas Festival with a Christmas market of more than 80 stalls full of locally produced foods and crafts. Stock up on delicious local food for Christmas and then visit all the craft stalls where you are sure to find perfect Christmas gifts. There will be entertainment throughout both days with Christmas Carols being sung by local school choirs, mulled wine, roast chestnuts and street entertainers. Stallholders, entertainers, visitors and locals are all encouraged to dress in Victorian costume to help us create a wonderful Victorian atmosphere, shops and shop assistants will also be getting into the spirit of the Victorian Christmas and will be decked out in Victorian costume.

Hipperholme Grammar SchoolBramley Lane, HipperholmeChristmas Fair at the Senior School on Saturday December 6, 1.30pm-4pm. A great afternoon out for all the family with lots of activities to keep everyone entertained. As corporate members (99ers) of Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice, the school will be raising money for this great charity by selling table space at the Christmas market and through a grand prize draw. Tables cost £10 plus a gift from the stall for the prize draw, to book please contact the school.

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NEWS

raising money is child’s play

Little stars at the Halifax Dance Academy helped to raise more than £8,000

for Children in Need. The academy, which also hosts babyballet classes, will also be taking part in a charity ‘tapathon’ in memory of Roy Castle in January at North Bridge Leisure Centre, Halifax. It’s a busy time for the young dancers, and new Halifax manager Sonya Morris, pictured, with a Christmas party featuring CBBC star Joe Chambers, a festive show and a trip to the panto all on the diary for December. Sonya is relishing her role at the academy and has already started a number of new projects including stage academy classes, where children can learn various skills needed for a career in either musicals or on television, with both dance and voice training. Babyballet classes for little ones aged from six months to six years are as

popular as ever, and there are even new classes for adults to try, such as limbering to improve suppleness, strength and stamina, and pilates. The new-look academy opened in the summer and includes a play gym and the Teddy and Twinkles cafe, where parents can enjoy a breather and chat while their little ones are occupied. It’s been a hectic time for Sonya, who even combines rehearsals for her own shows with running the academy, but it’s proving very fulfilling. “I’ve got a wonderful and very supportive team and some fantastic pupils,” she said. “I want to provide a safe, fun environment where young people can come and learn new skills.

“I absolutely love the business side of things, the teaching and

seeing the children develop while they’re having so much fun at the same time. “Often they’re learning skills here that will stay with them for life; young ballerinas learn excellent posture, for example, and those

on the stage academy course will learn all about

public speaking and how to put themselves across in

things like interview situations.” Sonya herself is no stranger to the stage. A graduate of the prestigious Hallam School of Dance in Chester, she has performed in countless musicals including one in Vienna which was entirely in German! She has also performed on cruise ships and even a Sky TV reality show called Showboaters.

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Monday 9am- 11am1pm- 6.30pm

10am-6.30pm 10am-5pm 2pm-5pm 2pm-6pm 9.30am-6pm 9.30am-

3.30pm 9am-7pm 9am-4pm 9.30am-5pm

Tuesday 9am-noon1pm-7pm 10am-5pm 10am-5pm 10am-1pm

2pm-5pm 2pm-6pm 9.30am-6pm 9.30am- 3.30pm 9am-7pm 9am-7pm 9.30am-

3.30pm

Wednesday9am-10am

10.45am-noon1pm-3pm

Closed 10am-noon 10am-1pm Closed 9.30am-6pm 9.30am- 3.30pm 9am-7pm 9am-7pm 9.30am-

3.30pm

Thursday 9am-noon3pm-6pm 10am-5pm 10am-6pm 10am-1pm

2pm-6pm 2pm-6pm 9.30am-6pm 9.30am- 3.30pm 9am-7pm 9am-7pm 9.30am-

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Friday9am-11am

1.15pm-1.45pm2.30pm-7.30pm

10am-6.30pm 10am-5pm 2pm-5pm Closed 9.30am-6pm 9.30am-

3.30pm 9am-7pm 9am-7pm 9.30am-3.30pm

Saturday noon-1.30pm3pm-5.30pm 10am-4pm 10am-4pm 10am-1pm 10am-1pm 10am-4pm 10am-2pm 9am-7pm 9am-7pm 9.30am-

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Monday 8.30am-11.30am12.30pm-3.30pm

9am-3pm 9am-11.30am

9am-11.30am12.30pm-

3pm

9am-11.30am12.30pm-

3pm

8.30am-3pm

Tuesday 8.30am-11.30am12.30pm-3.30pm

9am-3pm

9am-11.30am12.30pm-

3pm

9am-11.30am12.30pm-

3pm

8.30am-3pm

Wednesday 8.30am-11.30am12.30pm-3.30pm

9am-3pm

9am-11.30am12.30pm-

3pm

9am-11.30am12.30pm-

3pm

8.30am-3pm

Thursday

9am-3pm 9am-11.30am

9am-11.30am12.30pm-

3pm

9am-11.30am12.30pm-

3pm

8.30am-3pm

Friday

9am-3pm

9am-11.30am12.30pm-

3pm

9am-11.30am12.30pm-

3pm

8.30am-3pm

The Scallymag Diary Pages are a FREE listings

service designed to help busy parents and children plan their weekly activities.

Whether you’re looking for a language or karate class, dance, toddler group or play gym opening times, you’ll find all the local information you need right here.

We aim to make this list as accurate and complete as possible. But if you spot anything that is missed out or any errors, then please let us know so we can update our records for the next edition.

It is free to add a listing to this section – just get in touch via the contact details on page 2 if there are any children’s activities, opening times and so on that you would like to add.

the diary pages

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Adventure World Parent and Toddler Group11am-1pmUnit 2, James Street, Elland01422 252208

Creepy Crawlies1.30pm-3pmCliffe Hill School, LightcliffeEmma - 01422 202086

Humpty Dumpty Toddler Group9.15am-11.15amNew Hope Church, Warley Road, Halifax07952 995710

Tiny Treasures9.30am-11amCliffe Hill Community Primary School, LightcliffeEmma - 01422 202086

Messy Monkeys9.15am-10.45amEvery second Monday in the month at the portable building, Field Lane Children’s Centre, Burnsall Road, Rastrick01484 386621

Toddler Talk2pm-4pmNew Road Children’s CentreSowerby New Road School, Sowerby New Road, Sowerby Bridge01422 317082

Little SquigglersSouthgate Methodist Church, Elland, [email protected]

Action kids AcademyMove-Play-LearnThroughout CalderdaleContact Heather07717 576160

Jo Jingles9.45am, 10.45am, 11.45amVictoria Hall, 212 Halifax Road, Ripponden, Sowerby BridgeKerry - 01422 820425

babyballetPlease ring for timesbabyballet Academy, 25 Square Road, Halifax08701 430063

Groovy Movers10amPlay Palace, Halifax £4.50 including free playHelen - 07747 803627

Music and Action9.15am-10.45amSt Paul’s Methodist ChurchSowerby Bridge01422 835614

All Saints Church Parent and Toddler Group9.30am-11.30am then 12.30pm-2.30pmAll Saints Church Hall, Godfrey Road, Skircoat GreenWilma - 01422 320097

Cottonstones Mother and Toddler Group9.30am-11.30amSt Mary’s Church, Cottonstones, Millbank, Sowerby Bridge01422 823403

Greetland Parent and Toddler Group9.30am-11.30amGreetland Community CentreRochdale Road, Greetland01422 311688

Stainland and Holywell Green Parent and Toddler Group9.30am-11.30amGreen United Reformed Church, Stainland Road07917 450699

Bumps and Babies10am-11amNew Road Children’s Centre, Sowerby New Road School, Sowerby New Road, Sowerby Bridge01422 835614

Central Methodist Playgroup9.30am-11amCentral Methodist Church, Parsonage Lane, [email protected]

Tiny Treasures Baby GroupHolywell Green Children’s Centre1pm-3pm, no need to book.Breastfeeding Peer Supporter in attendance.For info contact 01422 266197



Groovy Movers9.30amSt Matthew’s Church, Lightcliffe£4 including juice and biscuits12 months-four yearsHelen - 07747 803627

Little SquigglersSt Andrew’s Methodist Church, Salterhebble, 11am-11.55am [email protected]

Messy Monkeys9.15am-10.45am Whinney Hill Community CentreNo need to book.For more information please ring 01484 714768

St Paul’s Methodist Toddler Group9.30am-11.30amSt Paul’s Methodist Church, Tower Hill, Sowerby Bridge01422 831109

Moo Music10am-10.45am Moo Music (age 1-5 years); 11am-11.45am Baby Moo (birth to 12 months)The Salvation Army, New Hey Road, Oakes, Huddersfield.Helen – 07890 589240

Tiny Treasures1pm-2.30pmElland Chidren’s Centre, Boxhall Road. Tiny Treasures.No need to book.For more info, ring 01422 266197.

Brighouse Evangelical Church Playgroup10.15am-10.45amEvangelical Church Hall, Bradford Road, Brighouse01484 717750

Mummy and Me10.30am-11.30amThe Salvation Army Community Church, 33 King Street, Brighouse01484 713125

Family Stay and Play1.30pm-3.30pmSt Peter’s Community Centre, St Peter’s Avenue, Sowerby 01422 822541

Go Bananas!9.40am-11.40amThe Bankfield Social Club, Elland01422 251152

Rastrick Library Fun Time10.15am-11.30amStory time at Rastrick Library, Crowtrees Lane07710 366113

Little SquigglersChurch View Office [email protected]

Jo Jingles9.45am, 10.45am, 11.45amBig Blue Frog, Stead Street, HalifaxKerry - 01422 820425

Tatty Bumpkins10am-11amPlay Palace, Jubilee Mill, 3a West Parade, Halifax08701 430063



Boogie BabesCentral Methodist Church, Brighouse10amEmail [email protected]

Groovy MoversRowley Poleys, Brighouse9.30am-10.15am£4.50 including an hour’s free play in the playgym afterwardsHelen - 07747 803627

Baby YogaTop2Toe TherapyApex House, Rastrick9.30am-10.30amContact [email protected]

Teenie Tennis kidsTennis Kids10am-10.45amWaring Green Community Centre, [email protected]

Groovy Moves 4 TotsTop2Toe TherapyApex House, Rastrick11am-11.45amContact [email protected]

Sign 4 TotsTop2Toe TherapyApex House, Rastrick12.15pm-1.15pmContact [email protected]

St John’s Parents and Toddler Group9.45am-11.15am (term time only)St John’s Church Hall, off Gooder Lane, RastrickSharon - 01484 719670

St Matthew’s Baby and Toddler Group9.30am-11amSt Matthew’s Community Centre, Church Street, RastrickMichelle - 07926 460958

Savile Park Toddlers9.30am-11.30amSavile Park Primary School, Moorfield Street, HalifaxCall in when school is open for details


Hove Edge Toddler Group9.30am-11amHove Edge Club01484 401294

Young Parents Group1.30pm-3pmNo need to book.Field Lane Children’s Centre, Burnsall Road, Rastrick01484 386621

Elland Parish Mother and Toddler Group9.30am-11amAll Saints Church, Savile Road, Elland01422 258544

Tiny Treasures9.30am-11amNo need to book.Field Lane Children’s Centre, Burnsall Road, Rastrick01484 386621

Messy MonkeysHolywell Green Children’s Centre1pm-2.30pmNo need to bookFor info contact 01422 266197

Jo Jingles9.40am, 10.40am, 11.40amWaring Green Community Centre, Garden Road, BrighouseKerry - 01422 820425

Tatty Bumpkins10.30am-11.30amBig Blue Frog, Stead Street, Halifax08701 430063


La Jolie RondeSpanish classes for the under fives. 10.30am babies and toddlers, 11am pre-schoolers. Rowley Poleys play gym, Wellholme Garage, BrighouseKate – 07957 526952

Mini Yoga with Mini Me Time10am-11amChrist Church, [email protected]

Mini Massage with Mini Me Time11am-noonChrist Church, [email protected]

Striker TotsSt John’s Church Hall, Rastrick1pm-1.40pmAges two to [email protected]

Striker TotsSt John’s Church Hall, Rastrick1.45pm-2.25pmFrom just walking to two [email protected]

Moo Movers10.30am-11.15am Moo Music (up to 5 years) at St Mary’s Community Centre, Church Lane, Mirfield. Creative and interactive music sessions. Helen – 07890 589240

Just4kids play session9.30am-11amSt Paul’s Church, Tower Hill, Sowerby BridgeLucy - 01422 340440

CJ’s9.30am-12.30pmThe Elim Centre, Ryburn Street, Sowerby Bridge01422 836441Term time only

Stones Baby and Toddler Group10am-11.30amStones Methodist Church, Rochdale Road, RippondenLindsey - 01422 834335

Warley St John’s Parent and Toddler Group10am-11.30amWarley St John’s Church, Windleroyd Lane, off Burnley Road, Warley01422 885623/320592

Baby Clinic11am-1pmStation Road SurgerySowerby Bridge08444 778916

Breastfeeding Peer Support Drop-in1pm-3pmBoothtown Children’s Centre

Messy Play GroupNew Road Children’s CentreSowerby New Road School, Sowerby New Road, Sowerby Bridge01422 317082

Busy Bees1.30pm-3.30pmSt Martin’s Church, Church Lane, Brighouse


Parent Link Worker Drop In9.30am-11.30amElland Children’s Centre, Boxhall Road.No need to book.For more info, ring 01422 266197.

Tiny Treasures9.30am-11amCliffe Hill School.No need to book.For more please ring 01484 714768



Little SquigglersSt Peter’s Community Centre, Sowerby, 11am-11.55am [email protected] FIRST SESSION FREE!

Puddle Ducks swimming lessons9.30am-10am, Woodhouse School, BrighouseAges two to five yearsJenny - 0113 8267253

Rhythm Time9.30am, 10.15amThe Edge Play Gym, EllandFrom birth to 14 monthsRebecca - 07938 752005

Puddle Ducks swimming lessons9.30am-10am, Wo odhouse School, BrighouseAges 15 months to two yearsJenny - 0113 8267253

Boogie Tots10am-11amCaspers, Upper Bonegate, BrighouseAges three to four yearsChloe - 07791239206

Puddle Ducks swimming lessons10.30am-11am, Woodhouse School, BrighouseAges six months to 15 monthsJenny - 0113 8267253

Little Strikers10.30am-11.15amWellholme Park Children’s Centre, Brighouse01484 714768

Little SquigglersHeywood United Reformed Church, [email protected]

Breastfeeding Peer Support Group12.30pm-2pmInformation shop for young people, Connextions, Alexander Street, Halifax

Fun Swim1pm-2pmSowerby Bridge Swimming Pool, Hollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge01422 831929

Saturday Splat GroupHeld on the first Saturday of every month, 10am-11.30am, at Wellholme Children’s Centre, Bradford Road, Brighouse. A chance for families with children with additional needs to meet. Contact 01484 714768.


Little Strikers10am, 11amCentral Methodist Church, Brighouse01484 714768

Boogie BabesThe Edge Play Gym, Elland9.30am and 10.30amEmail [email protected]

Buggy 4 FitnessSP Fitness Solutions10am-11amWellholme Park, [email protected]

Buggy 4 FitnessSP Fitness Solutions10am-11amThe Stray, [email protected]

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Toddler Talk2pm-4pmNew Road Children’s CentreSowerby New Road School, Sowerby New Road, Sowerby Bridge01422 317082

Music and Action9.15am-10.45amSt Paul’s Methodist ChurchSowerby Bridge01422 835614

All Saints Church Parent and Toddler Group9.30am-11.30am then 12.30pm-2.30pmAll Saints Church Hall, Godfrey Road, Skircoat GreenWilma - 01422 320097

Cottonstones Mother and Toddler Group9.30am-11.30amSt Mary’s Church, Cottonstones, Millbank, Sowerby Bridge01422 823403

Greetland Parent and Toddler Group9.30am-11.30amGreetland Community CentreRochdale Road, Greetland01422 311688


Bumps and Babies10am-11amNew Road Children’s Centre, Sowerby New Road School, Sowerby New Road, Sowerby Bridge01422 835614


Tiny Treasures Baby GroupHolywell Green Children’s Centre1pm-3pm, no need to book.Breastfeeding Peer Supporter in attendance.For info contact 01422 266197



Groovy Movers9.30amSt Matthew’s Church, Lightcliffe£4 including juice and biscuits12 months-four yearsHelen - 07747 803627

Little SquigglersSt Andrew’s Methodist Church, Salterhebble, 11am-11.55am [email protected]

Messy Monkeys9.15am-10.45am Whinney Hill Community CentreNo need to book.For more information please ring 01484 714768

St Paul’s Methodist Toddler Group9.30am-11.30amSt Paul’s Methodist Church, Tower Hill, Sowerby Bridge01422 831109

Moo Music10am-10.45am Moo Music (age 1-5 years); 11am-11.45am Baby Moo (birth to 12 months)The Salvation Army, New Hey Road, Oakes, Huddersfield.Helen – 07890 589240

Tiny Treasures1pm-2.30pmElland Chidren’s Centre, Boxhall Road. Tiny Treasures.No need to book.For more info, ring 01422 266197.

Brighouse Evangelical Church Playgroup10.15am-10.45amEvangelical Church Hall, Bradford Road, Brighouse01484 717750

Mummy and Me10.30am-11.30amThe Salvation Army Community Church, 33 King Street, Brighouse01484 713125

Family Stay and Play1.30pm-3.30pmSt Peter’s Community Centre, St Peter’s Avenue, Sowerby 01422 822541

Go Bananas!9.40am-11.40amThe Bankfield Social Club, Elland01422 251152

Rastrick Library Fun Time10.15am-11.30amStory time at Rastrick Library, Crowtrees Lane07710 366113

Little SquigglersChurch View Office [email protected]

Jo Jingles9.45am, 10.45am, 11.45amBig Blue Frog, Stead Street, HalifaxKerry - 01422 820425

Tatty Bumpkins10am-11amPlay Palace, Jubilee Mill, 3a West Parade, Halifax08701 430063



Boogie BabesCentral Methodist Church, Brighouse10amEmail [email protected]

Groovy MoversRowley Poleys, Brighouse9.30am-10.15am£4.50 including an hour’s free play in the playgym afterwardsHelen - 07747 803627

Baby YogaTop2Toe TherapyApex House, Rastrick9.30am-10.30amContact [email protected]

Teenie Tennis kidsTennis Kids10am-10.45amWaring Green Community Centre, [email protected]

Groovy Moves 4 TotsTop2Toe TherapyApex House, Rastrick11am-11.45amContact [email protected]

Sign 4 TotsTop2Toe TherapyApex House, Rastrick12.15pm-1.15pmContact [email protected]

St John’s Parents and Toddler Group9.45am-11.15am (term time only)St John’s Church Hall, off Gooder Lane, RastrickSharon - 01484 719670

St Matthew’s Baby and Toddler Group9.30am-11amSt Matthew’s Community Centre, Church Street, RastrickMichelle - 07926 460958

Savile Park Toddlers9.30am-11.30amSavile Park Primary School, Moorfield Street, HalifaxCall in when school is open for details


Hove Edge Toddler Group9.30am-11amHove Edge Club01484 401294

Young Parents Group1.30pm-3pmNo need to book.Field Lane Children’s Centre, Burnsall Road, Rastrick01484 386621

Elland Parish Mother and Toddler Group9.30am-11amAll Saints Church, Savile Road, Elland01422 258544

Tiny Treasures9.30am-11amNo need to book.Field Lane Children’s Centre, Burnsall Road, Rastrick01484 386621

Messy MonkeysHolywell Green Children’s Centre1pm-2.30pmNo need to bookFor info contact 01422 266197

Jo Jingles9.40am, 10.40am, 11.40amWaring Green Community Centre, Garden Road, BrighouseKerry - 01422 820425

Tatty Bumpkins10.30am-11.30amBig Blue Frog, Stead Street, Halifax08701 430063


La Jolie RondeSpanish classes for the under fives. 10.30am babies and toddlers, 11am pre-schoolers. Rowley Poleys play gym, Wellholme Garage, BrighouseKate – 07957 526952

Mini Yoga with Mini Me Time10am-11amChrist Church, [email protected]

Mini Massage with Mini Me Time11am-noonChrist Church, [email protected]

Striker TotsSt John’s Church Hall, Rastrick1pm-1.40pmAges two to [email protected]

Striker TotsSt John’s Church Hall, Rastrick1.45pm-2.25pmFrom just walking to two [email protected]

Moo Movers10.30am-11.15am Moo Music (up to 5 years) at St Mary’s Community Centre, Church Lane, Mirfield. Creative and interactive music sessions. Helen – 07890 589240

Just4kids play session9.30am-11amSt Paul’s Church, Tower Hill, Sowerby BridgeLucy - 01422 340440

CJ’s9.30am-12.30pmThe Elim Centre, Ryburn Street, Sowerby Bridge01422 836441Term time only

Stones Baby and Toddler Group10am-11.30amStones Methodist Church, Rochdale Road, RippondenLindsey - 01422 834335

Warley St John’s Parent and Toddler Group10am-11.30amWarley St John’s Church, Windleroyd Lane, off Burnley Road, Warley01422 885623/320592

Baby Clinic11am-1pmStation Road SurgerySowerby Bridge08444 778916

Breastfeeding Peer Support Drop-in1pm-3pmBoothtown Children’s Centre

Messy Play GroupNew Road Children’s CentreSowerby New Road School, Sowerby New Road, Sowerby Bridge01422 317082

Busy Bees1.30pm-3.30pmSt Martin’s Church, Church Lane, Brighouse


Parent Link Worker Drop In9.30am-11.30amElland Children’s Centre, Boxhall Road.No need to book.For more info, ring 01422 266197.

Tiny Treasures9.30am-11amCliffe Hill School.No need to book.For more please ring 01484 714768



Little SquigglersSt Peter’s Community Centre, Sowerby, 11am-11.55am [email protected] FIRST SESSION FREE!

Puddle Ducks swimming lessons9.30am-10am, Woodhouse School, BrighouseAges two to five yearsJenny - 0113 8267253

Rhythm Time9.30am, 10.15amThe Edge Play Gym, EllandFrom birth to 14 monthsRebecca - 07938 752005

Puddle Ducks swimming lessons9.30am-10am, Wo odhouse School, BrighouseAges 15 months to two yearsJenny - 0113 8267253

Boogie Tots10am-11amCaspers, Upper Bonegate, BrighouseAges three to four yearsChloe - 07791239206

Puddle Ducks swimming lessons10.30am-11am, Woodhouse School, BrighouseAges six months to 15 monthsJenny - 0113 8267253

Little Strikers10.30am-11.15amWellholme Park Children’s Centre, Brighouse01484 714768

Little SquigglersHeywood United Reformed Church, [email protected]

Breastfeeding Peer Support Group12.30pm-2pmInformation shop for young people, Connextions, Alexander Street, Halifax

Fun Swim1pm-2pmSowerby Bridge Swimming Pool, Hollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge01422 831929

Saturday Splat GroupHeld on the first Saturday of every month, 10am-11.30am, at Wellholme Children’s Centre, Bradford Road, Brighouse. A chance for families with children with additional needs to meet. Contact 01484 714768.


Little Strikers10am, 11amCentral Methodist Church, Brighouse01484 714768

KeyMost activities (those with the white background) are pay-per-session, possibly with a one-off joining fee. The shaded background indicates courses or activities where booking and payment, where applicable, is essential

NOTEAll activities listed on these pages will require an adult to remain with the child at all times. Some activities have limited places, some only run in term time and some may be cancelled at short notice.We always advise ringing ahead before setting out to any activity and in some cases you need to telephone to book

Boogie BabesThe Edge Play Gym, Elland9.30am and 10.30amEmail [email protected]

Rhythm TimeBailiff Bridge Community Centre, Brighouse9.30am and 10.15am14 months to three yearsRebecca: 07938 752005

Baby MassageTop2Toe TherapyApex House, Rastrick9.30am-10amContact [email protected]

Buggy 4 FitnessSP Fitness Solutions10am-11amThe Stray, [email protected]

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La Jolie Ronde3.15pm-4pmClasses for key stage one pupils at St Chad’s CofE VA School, Garden Road, Hove EdgeKate - 07957 526952

Spanish lessons4.30pm-5pmSpanish classes for children aged 4-7 at Rowley Poleys Indoor Play Centre, Wellholme Garage, Bradford Road, Brighouse.Kate - 07957 526952

Gymnastics Club6pm-8pmGreetland Community Centre, Rochdale Road, GreetlandTim - 01422 311989Age 5+

5th Elland (Greetland) Beavers6.15pm-7.15pmSt Thomas’s Church Hall, GreetlandHoward - 01422 3760326-8 years

5th Elland (Greetland) Cubs6.45pm-8.15pmSt Thomas’s Church Hall, GreetlandRose - 01422 3716618-10 years

Clifton Rangers JFC6pm-7pmTraining ground: Bradford Road, Bailiff Bridge, BrighouseWebsite http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/cliftonrangersyfc/

Bailiff Bridge Beavers5.45pm-6.45pmBailiff Bridge Community Centre

Bailiff Bridge Cubs7pm-8.30pmBailiff Bridge Community Centre

Brighouse Beavers6pm-7pmAtlas Mill Road Scout Hut, BrighouseLinda - 01484 319329

Brighouse Cubs7 pm-8.30pmAtlas Mill Road Scout Hut, BrighouseLinda - 01484 319329

Lightcliffe Beavers6.15pm-7.15pmBrian - 01484 520122Age 6-8 years


Freestyle DancersRing for timesbabyballet Dance Academy25 Square Road, Halifax08701 4300637-9 years

Mini GrooversRing for timesbabyballet Dance Academy25 Square Road, Halifax08701 4300634-6 years

The Warrior FactoryDe holme Gate RoadHipperholmeVarious classes for different age groups from 4.15pm onwards01422 200388

Shotokan karate Club7.30pm-9.30pmSowerby Bridge Youth and Community Centre, Foundry StreetPeter - 07880 5305147 years+

Junboku karate6.45pm-8.15pmBolton Brow WMC, Sowerby BridgeAlan - 07519 075775All ages

Cricket, u15s and u13s6pm-7pmStones Cricket Club, Ripponden01422 824359

Lightcliffe Scouts7.15pm-9.15pmBrian - 01484 520122Age 10 years+



Dance Arena Ballet and Stage School3.45pm-9pm, Various classes.Stainland Community Centre, Stainland Road, Stainland01422 3576783 years+

Street Surfing Club4pm-5.30pm; 5.30pm-7pmCI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax01422 410727

Southowram St Anne’s Cubs6.30pm-7.40pmSt Anne’s Sunday School, SouthowramGerry - 01484 722284

Southowram St Anne’s Scouts8pm-9.15pmSt Anne’s Sunday School, SouthowramGerry - 01484 722284

The Warrior FactoryDenholme Gate RoadHipperholmeVarious classes for different age groups from 4.15pm onwards01422 200388

Archery Club4pm-5.30pm; 5.30pm-7pm CI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax01422 410727

Action kids5.30pm-6.15pmKidzville, Church Street, GreetlandHeather - 07717 5761604-7 years

Barrel of Monkeys Drama School5.30pm-6.30pmSophie Walker 01422 881497



Little Samurai Club4.30pm-5.15pmJunboku Martial Arts AcademyAone Business ParkBradford Road, Brighouse07761 973553




Ballet4pm onwards4.15pm onwardsDance4All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax 01422 884634Age 5+


Tap Dance9.15am onwardsDance4All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax 01422 8846345-10 years



Gymnastics Club6pm-8pmBrooksbank School, Victoria Road, EllandTim - 01422 311989Age 5+


Dance Arena Ballet and Stage School1.45pm-6.30pm (various classes)Stainland Community Centre, Stainland Road, Stainland01422 357678Age 5+

Halifax Sport karateNoon-1pmStudio 1, Halifax Swimming Pool, Skircoat Road, HalifaxMatthew - 07858 1150315 years+

Charlie’s Little Growers9.30am-10.30am; 11am-noonGardening club based at Kershaw’s Garden Centre, Brighouse, held fortnightly.01484 713435 5-11 years

Brighouse Saturday Art Club10.30am-12.30pm, fortnightlySmith Art Gallery, Halifax Road, BrighouseA variety of art and craft activities for eight- to 14-year-olds.Ring Jeffrey on 01422 352334

Square Chapel Youth TheatreEvery Saturday morning. Five to seven years 10am-11am (£4/£2 Passport To Leisure); eight to 12yrs 11am- 12.30pm (£5/£2.50 Passport To Leisure). Held in the auditorium with a fully sprung floor

and full theatre lighting, these popular classes introduce children to the magic of professional theatre.To book a place or for more information call the Square Chapel box office on 01422 349422.

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Freestyle DancersRing for timesbabyballet Dance Academy25 Square Road, Halifax08701 4300637-9 yearsMini GrooversRing for times

babyballet Dance Academy25 Square Road, Halifax08701 4300634-6 years

Rastrick St John’s Cubs6.30pm-8pmSt John’s Church Hall, St John’s Road, Rastrick Terry - 01484 7237948-10 years

Rastrick St John’s Scouts8pm-9.30pmSt John’s Church Hall, St John’s Road, Rastrick Terry - 01484 72379410-14 years

Brighouse Traditional karate Club 7pm-8pmSmall Gymnasium, Brighouse High School, Finkl Street John 07970 1988808 years+

Rugger Ratz9.15am-10amSkircoat Moor, Savile Park, Halifax Ages 5-7 yearsJode - 07875 233495

Little Samurai Club11am-11.45amJunboku Martial Arts AcademyAone Business ParkBradford Road, Brighouse07761 973553

Creative Dance9.15am onwardsDance 4 All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax01422 884634Age 5+

Boiler House Club10am-noonCI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax01422 410727

kids’ Club5pm-6pmSt Peter’s Church, SowerbyThe Rev Martine Crabtree01422 832830

American style CheerleadingHipperholme and Lightcliffe School, Stoney Lane, Lightcliffe3-5 years 4.45pm-5.30pm6-11 years 5.00pm-630pm12-19 years 5.30pm-7.00pmSiara - 07776 080817

Brighouse Cubs7.15pm-9.30pmAtlas Mill Road Scout Hut, BrighouseLinda - 01484 319329

Hove Edge BeaversBroad Oak Football Field, Hove Edge, Brighouse.Please ring for timesMark - 07774 400404

Hove Edge ScoutsBroad Oak Football Field, Hove Edge, Brighouse.Please ring for timesMark - 07774 400404

Junboku karate6.30pm-8pmSt Anne’s in the Grove Church, SouthowramNick - 07519 075775All ages

Brighouse Traditional karate Club7pm-8pmUpper Gymnasium, Rastrick High School, Field Top Road John 07970 1988808 years+


Hove Edge CubsBroad Oak Football Field, Hove Edge, Brighouse.Please ring for timesMark - 07774 400404

Southowram St Anne’s Beavers6.30pm-7.30pmSt Anne’s Sunday School, SouthowramGerry - 01484 722284

Brighouse Explorers7.45pm-9.30pmCentral Methodist Church, BrighouseFiona - 07827 669737

Combination Class5.30pm onwardsDance4All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax 01422 884634AGe 7 years+

7th Elland Beavers6pm-7pmSouthgate Methodist Church, 77 Saville Road, EllandAge 6-8 years

5th Elland Boys’ Brigade Southgate Christian Centre, Langdale StreetThree sections from 6.15pm-9.30pm, ring for detailsColin - 01422 374562

Rastrick St John’s Beavers6pm-7pmSt John’s Church Hall, St John’s Road, Rastrick Terry - 01484 7237946-8 years

Foam Sword6.30pm-7.30pmJunboku Karate Dojo, Bradford Road, Bailiff Bridge, BrighousePaul - 07983 554660

Little Samurai Club4pm-4.45pmJunboku Martial Arts AcademyAone Business ParkBradford Road, Brighouse07761 973553

Adventure Club4pm-5pm and 5.30pm-7pmCI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax01422 410727

Junboku karate6pm-7.30pmSowerby Village Primary SchoolNick - 07519 075775All ages

Sowerby Bridge Sport karate6.30pm-7.30pm; 7.30pm-9pm Sowerby Village Primary SchoolMatthew - 07858 115031Juniors and Seniors

Halifax Sport karate6.30pm-7.30pm17a Mill House Works, Mill House Lane, HalifaxJunior ClassMatthew - 07858 115031

Masai Explorers8.15pm-9.30pmLightcliffe Scout Group hut, Coach Road, LightcliffeJohn - 07548 102716


Creative Dance4.15pm onwardsDance4All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax 01422 884634Ages 5-10 years

Lightcliffe Cubs6.45pm-8.15pmBrian - 01484 520122Age 7+

15

page header

16

ten top tips that will help your child become a maths master

Mastering mathematics is essential for future opportunities in school

and career. Your children will need to reach a certain level of competency in mathematics to take many advanced level courses, to be admitted into university and to have access to a wide variety of career choices. Here are 10 top tips to help your children

succeed in mathematics:1: Make sure your children understand mathematical concepts. Mathematics otherwise becomes a meaningless mental exercise of just memorising rules anddoing rote drills. Have your children manipulate objects to figure out basic concepts.For addition, they could add one, two or more blocks to a pile of blocks and then tellyou how many blocks are in the pile.2: Help them master the basic facts.Mastery of a basic fact means that children can give an answer in less than threeseconds. Considerable drill is required for children to give quick responses. Use flashcards to help your children learn the basic facts. When they don’t know an answer,have them lay out objects to solve the problem.3: Teach them to write their numbers neatly.Twenty-five percent of all errors in solving maths problems can be traced back to sloppy number writing. Improve your

children’s number-writing skills by having them trace over numbers that you have written. Suggest they use graph paper to keep the numbers in problems neatly aligned.4: Provide help immediately when your children need it.Maths is one subject in which everything builds upon what has been previously learned. For example, a failure to understand the concept of percent leads to problems with decimals. If a teacher is unable to help your children, provide the help yourself or use a tutor or learning centre.5: Show them how to handle their maths homework. Doing maths homework reinforces the skills your children are learning in class. Teach them to begin every homework by studying the textbook/classbook and worked examples.Then have them redo the examples before beginning the homework, to make surethey understand the lesson.6: Encourage your children to do more

than the assigned problems. Considerable practise is necessary for your children to hone their maths skills. If the teacher only assigns the even problems, having them do some of the odd ones will strengthen their skills. The more time your children spend practising their skills, the sooner they will develop confidence in their abilities.7: Explain how to solve word problems.Mathematicians have an expression: To learn to solve problems, you must solveproblems. Teach your children to read a word problem several times. Also, have them draw a picture or diagram to describe it. Make it easier for them to understand thesteps in a problem by teaching them to substitute smaller numbers for larger ones.8: Help your children learn the vocabulary of mathematics. They will never get a real feeling for maths or learn more advanced concepts without an understanding of its vocabulary. Check that your children can define new terms. If not, have them use models and simple problems to show you they understand how the term is used.

9: Teach them how to do maths “in their head.” One of the major ways to solve problems is by using mental maths. Children should use this method frequently instead of using pencil and paper or a calculator. When helping your children with a problem, help them determine when it would be appropriate to use mental maths.10: Make mathematics part of your children’s daily life. Mathematics will become more meaningful when your children see how important it is in so many real-life situations. Encourage them to use maths in practical ways. For example, ask them to space new plants a certain distance apart, double a recipe, and pay bills in stores.

Manoj MistryMistry Maths – Masters of 11+ and GCSE mathswww.kingofexams.co.uk

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at Heckmondwike, Crossley Heath, North Halifax, Hipperholme, Bradford & Leeds Grammar School.

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on song for choral workshop

Hipperholme Grammar School has teamed

up with Bradford Cathedral for a Choral Workshop for Primary Schools. The workshop is on Saturday February 7 2015 and is open to children in years three, four and five at any school who love singing. Children will spend the afternoon at the Senior School with warm-ups, singing in rounds and in different languages, practising some choral pieces, learning techniques and experiencing what it is like to sing in a cathedral choir. Then they will have a hot meal before setting off to perform at the cathedral for parents. Registration takes place at

1.30pm and it is expected the performance will finish at around 7.30pm, with coffee and tea served afterwards. The performance will also include music from Bradford Cathedral Choristers and Hipperholme Grammar School Choirs. If you would like to book a place for your child, please complete the reply slip printed here and return this to the school as soon as possible. There is no charge for children to attend or for the evening performance; however places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. The school will confirm your place in writing and send you a ticket. Dress code for the children for this event is smart top and dark trousers/skirt/dress.

education pages

16

ten top tips that will help your child become a maths master

Mastering mathematics is essential for future opportunities in school

and career. Your children will need to reach a certain level of competency in mathematics to take many advanced level courses, to be admitted into university and to have access to a wide variety of career choices. Here are 10 top tips to help your children

succeed in mathematics:1: Make sure your children understand mathematical concepts. Mathematics otherwise becomes a meaningless mental exercise of just memorising rules anddoing rote drills. Have your children manipulate objects to figure out basic concepts.For addition, they could add one, two or more blocks to a pile of blocks and then tellyou how many blocks are in the pile.2: Help them master the basic facts.Mastery of a basic fact means that children can give an answer in less than threeseconds. Considerable drill is required for children to give quick responses. Use flashcards to help your children learn the basic facts. When they don’t know an answer,have them lay out objects to solve the problem.3: Teach them to write their numbers neatly.Twenty-five percent of all errors in solving maths problems can be traced back to sloppy number writing. Improve your

children’s number-writing skills by having them trace over numbers that you have written. Suggest they use graph paper to keep the numbers in problems neatly aligned.4: Provide help immediately when your children need it.Maths is one subject in which everything builds upon what has been previously learned. For example, a failure to understand the concept of percent leads to problems with decimals. If a teacher is unable to help your children, provide the help yourself or use a tutor or learning centre.5: Show them how to handle their maths homework. Doing maths homework reinforces the skills your children are learning in class. Teach them to begin every homework by studying the textbook/classbook and worked examples.Then have them redo the examples before beginning the homework, to make surethey understand the lesson.6: Encourage your children to do more

than the assigned problems. Considerable practise is necessary for your children to hone their maths skills. If the teacher only assigns the even problems, having them do some of the odd ones will strengthen their skills. The more time your children spend practising their skills, the sooner they will develop confidence in their abilities.7: Explain how to solve word problems.Mathematicians have an expression: To learn to solve problems, you must solveproblems. Teach your children to read a word problem several times. Also, have them draw a picture or diagram to describe it. Make it easier for them to understand thesteps in a problem by teaching them to substitute smaller numbers for larger ones.8: Help your children learn the vocabulary of mathematics. They will never get a real feeling for maths or learn more advanced concepts without an understanding of its vocabulary. Check that your children can define new terms. If not, have them use models and simple problems to show you they understand how the term is used.

9: Teach them how to do maths “in their head.” One of the major ways to solve problems is by using mental maths. Children should use this method frequently instead of using pencil and paper or a calculator. When helping your children with a problem, help them determine when it would be appropriate to use mental maths.10: Make mathematics part of your children’s daily life. Mathematics will become more meaningful when your children see how important it is in so many real-life situations. Encourage them to use maths in practical ways. For example, ask them to space new plants a certain distance apart, double a recipe, and pay bills in stores.

Manoj MistryMistry Maths – Masters of 11+ and GCSE mathswww.kingofexams.co.uk

Test yourself! Can you complete this puzzle?

Solutions to last issue’s puzzle:

BOOkING FORM FOR THE CHORAL WORkSHOP FOR PRIMARY SCHOOLS,

FEBRUARY 7, 2015

I would like to reserve a place for my child/children to attend the Workshop:

Child’s Name: ………………………………………………………

Year Group: ………………………………………………………

Child’s Name: ………………………………………………………

Year Group: ………………………………………………………

School: ………………………………………………………........

Parents’ Names: ……………………………………………………

Address: ……………………………………………………………

………………...............................................................................

Email: …………………………………………………………….....

Emergency Contact No: ………………………………………………………

Any disability / special dietery requirements: ……………………

………………………………........................................................

17

WHY WAIT?START NOW!Start a part-time course in the New Year!

Get your career on track & achieve your goals

Enjoy Learning • Upskill & Boost Your Career • Remain Local • Save Money

To apply quote: JANUARY STARTCall: 01422 399316

Text: 07537 404735 and we will call you backEmail: [email protected]

Need a Career Health Check?Come along to our drop-in session on Saturday 10th January, 10am - 1pm, Calderdale College Main Campus, Francis Street

Visit: www.calderdale.ac.uk

18

talented Harry shows he has the write stuff! MURDER CALLS By Harry Parker

BRRR! BRRR! The phone skittered along the bedside table. Another

call. His hand slid out from under the covers, his eyes squinted, searching for the phone. “Hello, this is Mike Robson,” he grumbled, “yes, I’ll be right there.” Another call, another crime, another early morning. He stumbled out of bed, into his clothes, boots and out the door. Too early for food, his stomach churning at the thought. As he got out of his battered Ford Focus, the scene awaited him. Adrenaline flooded through him. His mind jumped into action, every detail imprinting on his brain. A man in a dull grey uniform stepped out of a group of police officers huddled round a scene. “What have we got this time Jim?.” asked Mike, his voice cutting through the air. “Another murder I’m afraid, she has been identified as a local woman called Jessica Ross, she was found here by a passer by, but when ...” explained Jim. “Did she have anything on her when you found her” Mike interrupted, cutting to the point. “Yes, this,” he said in a snappy tone, handing out a phone. “Good. Anything else?” Mike calmly asked. “No.” mumbled Jim, walking away.

With a brief shake of his head, Mike ducked under the police tape. He pushed through the small crowd of officers. A small blonde woman dressed in a red cardigan with a dull grey scarf, lay before him in the ever protective foetal position. No visible marks or injuries, the only indication that she wasn’t asleep was those staring, lifeless blue eyes. Mike moved closer, he slowly rolled up the woman’s sleeve, he found three close together holes in her skin. This was the third death in two weeks, all the same, all three the same puncture marks. The others had no history of drug addiction, and had shown up clean; he knew she would too.

As his mentor always said, “To catch a criminal, you have to think like a criminal.” Mike’s trouser pocket started vibrating; confused, he pulled out Jessica’s phone. The screen was lit up with the name Dave in bold white letters displayed across the front. He hesitated, then firmly pressed the answer button. “Jessica, no time to explain, I have something you will want to hear, but not now, meet me at the docks, 5am no later.” And with that, the gruff voice that had appeared so suddenly was gone.

As Mike pulled into the docks there was only shadows. It was a small dock, and was never used at this time of the night. But in the shadows there was a man. Mike stepped out of the car. Gravel crunched under his feet, the noise echoing out into the night. As he stepped closer the man leaned out from the shadows, coming into view. His face caught in the moonlight, his grimace ripping through Mike, making every hair on the back of his neck stand on end.“What have you done with Jessica?” the man

asked his gruff tone making it obvious he was the one from the phone call. “Straight to the point, I like that,” Mike answered in an even tone, “Jessica was found dead.” “What! How can that be!” the man bellowed, now only three steps from Mike. “There were no physical signs other than three small holes in her arm,” Mike replied in the same calm, even tone, careful not to anger the man, “my question is, who are you, and what were you so desperate to tell Jessica?” “I can’t believe she’s gone,” he said with disbelief, “I’m just a friend, I don’t know anything, all I wanted to tell her was information on a case that she was on.” “Wait, what are you on about?” asked Mike. “She was a lawyer.” His voice drifted away on the wind. “Jim I need some information.” Mike said, his voice crackling through the phone. “What do you need?” Jim asked. “The woman found today, she was a lawyer working on a case, I need to know whether there is any connection between her and the other victims.” Mike replied

MURDER CALLS TAKES TOP PRIZE IN CRIME STORY

COMPETITION

crime writing winner

18

The winner of a crime writing competition at Hipperholme Grammar

School, sponsored by award-winning crime writers Bob and Carol Bridgestock, has been announced. Harry Parker’s story Murder Calls was revealed as the first winner of the annual trophy. Scallymag editor Kate Wobschall presented the cup on behalf of the couple to a delighted Harry at a recent assembly. The competition was part of a workshop that Bob and Carol – who write the DI Dylan novels under the name RC Bridgestock – led before the summer holidays. Although the couple were unable

to attend the presentation in person – they hail from Halifax but now live in the Isle of Wight – they were able to offer budding writers some words of encouragement. In a message to the school, Carol said: “Always believe in yourself and your writing - if you don’t believe in it then nobody else will. “If you believe in something, never ever give up. “And something we stand by not only in publishing but in life generally is to treat others as you would like to be treated. It’s a philosophy that has served us well in life.”

RIGHT: Brighouse and Elland Scallymag editor Kate Wobschall presents the crime-writing trophy to Harry Parker, for his story Murder Calls.

talented Harry shows he has the write stuff!

“When do you want it for?” queried Jim. “Ten minutes ago,” Mike said in an annoyed voice. “I’m on it!” Jim said with strange sense of urgency. “I’m off to hunt down some breakfast.” Mike said, almost to himself, and hung up.Just as Mike was about to dive into a chicken wrap, his phone rang, a sound he had come to both hate and love at the same time. With a moan, he laid down his wrap and picked up his phone. His belly grumbled in disapproval. “Jim! What have you got for me?” he asked. “You were right, all three were part of a case against Sam Roberts,” Jim answered. “What were their roles in the case?” questioned Mike. “Jessica was the lawyer, and the other two were witnesses to the crime, I bet you can guess what that crime is,” Jim said in that knowing voice of his. Mike could, this was not good. Sam Roberts was the local druglord, he was known to supply drugs to the entire town. Nobody had ever been able to put him away because of a lack of leads, or loss of

them. He was a man not to messed with. “Thanks Jim,” Mike said, hanging up with a sigh of frustration. This case had just stepped up a level. He got into his car, his wrap forgotten. The police had been investigating Sam Roberts now for over a year, but Sam Roberts rules the backstreets of this town through fear. Sam’s apartment is known to all, it is down in the backstreets of Averton Lane. It is a place notorious for its crime, and was never surprising that this is where he would set up shop. He picked up his phone. “Jim, I need a warrant to search the house of Sam Roberts,” Mike told him. “What, you know you can’t, his house is off limits to all members of the force, orders directly from the Chief, sorry, Jim answered apologetically. “Fine! I’ll have to take matters into my own hands,” Mike replied angrily. “What are you … ?” demanded Jim, but it was too late, Mike had already hung up and set off. His engine wheezed and coughed as he pulled up outside Averton Lane. He got out. 200m straight in front of him the entrance to

1919

Sam’s apartment lay. Casually, he started down the road. Unfortunately, there is only so inconspicuous you can look when it is six in the morning and you are walking down the road in no obvious hurry. The door loomed out from the shadows, two hulking men standing by. Guards. He glided past, and darted into the next alley along. Steep black stairs twisted up the side of the building. Mike crept up them, wincing every time they creaked, expecting someone to leap out of the shadows at any moment. He had made it, it was empty. The window slid open with a satisfying click, Mike crawled through the small open space, almost falling in on the other side. An eerie silence followed him. The ground was littered with rubbish. He flicked the light switch on, and the light whirred into action, illuminating the surrounding furniture. “Oh my God!” he gasped.The table was covered in pictures of the three victims,at work, at their homes, and even when dead. On the walls, spread out were papers pinned together of locations and times. This was all he needed and more. Footsteps echoed in the distance. Frantically he flicked off the light switch. The door opened with a sickening squeal. His heart beat like a drum in his chest. The lights once more whirred into action, Sam Roberts was standing in the doorway, the barrel of a gun pointing at Mike’s head. “ Don’t move,” Sam said in a calm voice completely adverse to the situation. Mike ignored this command. Adrenaline pumped through his body. He lunged forward. the gun fired. The bullet shot past his shoulder as he ducked and turned, desperate to avoid it. They collided. They smashed against the wall, scrambling for the gun. His hands had found purchase. Sam punched frantically. Mike twisted and turned, trying not to let those deadly blows land. Bang! Mike’s hand was clenched around the gun. Sam’s arms went limp around him, his body sagging to the floor, the gaping hole in his forehead gleaming in the light. Sam Roberts was no longer among the living. Mike felt sick, a deep pit opened up in his heart. He took a deep breath, air filling his lungs. With a shaky hand he took out his phone.“Jim, I found him,” he said in a quiet voice.

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20

SANTA’S GROTTODecember 15-19

£5 includes gift and a festive treat with Santa

£6.50 includes all of the above, plus free play in the gym (additional siblings £5)

CHRISTMAS PARTYDecember 22-23

Festive fun with party games, buffet, carols and a visit from Santa, with gifts! £7.50 per

ticket (siblings £5)

Rowley Poleys, First Floor, Wellholme Garage, 74 Bradford Road, Brighouse

HD6 4AA

Fun andEducational ActivitiesSmall classes

French! Let’s LearnSPANISH!Let’s Learn

La Jolie Ronde extra curricular language learning for 0-12 year olds

Your nearest La Jolie Ronde teacher:

Enrolyour child

today!

www.lajolieronde.co.uk www.lajolieronde.ie

Find us on and

To join a class, or to ask about classes in your child’s school, please ring Kate on 07957 526952 or [email protected]

he robbed the rich to help the poor – but was his death an accident?

ROBIN’S CHAMPION: Barbara Green with two of the books she has writ-ten about the outlaw’s Yorkshire links. LEFT: The spot at kirklees Priory thought to be Robin’s grave, but which is actually an 18th cen-tury folly. He is thought to be buried nearby.

Robin Hood – he’s one of the most famous outlaws in British history. But how many of us know he was also something of a local lad? In part two of this fascinating interview, MARGARET HEWARD meets the woman who has dedicated many years uncovering and publicising Robin’s Clifton connections

Robin Hood was born in Wakefield around 1300, the son of a forester

for the Earl of Warenne who lived at Sandal Castle. In 1322 civil war broke out between King Edward II and his cousin Thomas, Earl of Lancaster. The men of Wakefield were forced to fight for the Earl of Lancaster, but were defeated at the Battle of Boroughbridge. The Wakefield men, including Robin were declared outlaws and fled to Barnsdale Forest, near Wakefield. His wife, Matilda, (Maid Marion) went with him. The outlaws robbed rich people travelling through the forest, and gave the money to the poor – who were treated appallingly by the landowners. They became heroes and the peasants would often provide shelter for them as they were hunted by the authorities. In 1323 Robin and his “Merry Men” moved to Sherwood Forest in Nottingham where, by chance, they met King Edward, who pardoned them and invited Robin and Little John to stay at the King’s Court in Westminster.

But life in London did not suit them and while on a visit back north in 1325, they decided not to return to London. This angered the King who declared them outlaws again. In 1347 Robin Hood went to the Kirklees Priory at Brighouse to be treated for an illness or injury. The prioress, who was a relative, opened a vein to “bleed him”.It was a popular way to treat ill people in those days. However she bled him too much – whether accidentally or on purpose no-one knows – and he died. But before he died, he asked Little John to help him shoot an arrow out of the window of the priory gatehouse, and asked that he be buried where the arrow fell. This spot is where Robin Hood’s grave can be seen today.

(Article adapted from Barbara’s book Marion’s Christmas Rose)

The Kirklees estate is also now under new ownership and Barbara Green’s ultimate hope is that the grave will be fully restored and public access allowed. In the meantime, she will continue to spread the message of Yorkshire’s Robin Hood – including talking to schoolchildren. “They have all heard of him, but it’s always a surprise when they find out about his local connections. He’s one of the most famous names in history and he’s part of our local heritage,” she said. For more information visit www.robinhoodyorkshire.co.uk. Anyone wanting to contact Barbara for talks can telephone her on 01484 386566 or 07890 061142.

LEFT: kirklees Priory, sketched at around the time of Robin Hood’s death, taken from one of Barbara’s books.

INTERVIEW

21

first aid supplies from the expert

What happens if you have an accident at work? Chances are

that if it’s relatively minor, your colleagues will reach straight for the first aid box. Legislation states that employers to provide adequate and appropriate equipment, facilities and personnel to ensure their employees receive immediate attention if they are injured or taken ill at work. These rules apply to all workplaces – even those with less than five employees and to the self-employed – and include schools, sports centres and children’s nurseries. So where do you turn to find a kit that’s exactly what your business needs?The answer is in the shape of the Perseus Trading Company, run by Dean Mills. And Dean is certainly something of an expert – he is a member of International Rescue and could be called out to an emergency situation anywhere in the world at a moment’s notice. In his 10 years with the search and rescue corps, Dean has braved the floods in Cockermouth – heading down the main street at 80mph in a boat without an engine! – and taken part in many missing persons searches. Dean explained: “There are about 100 people in the membership throughout England and Scotland with 20 people in two teams who are on call 24-7 in the UK and internationally. Depending on which team you are in, you could be on call to go anywhere in the world to deal with the aftermath of a national or man-made disaster – earthquakes or floods, for example. “It can be quite harrowing, but also incredibly rewarding.” Dean, a former member of the RAF, lives in Liversedge and now trades Wednesday to Sunday from a shop inside Todmorden Market as well as from his website www.perseustradingcompany.co.uk. Dean said: “I’ve been trading for about a year now after starting online and I’m the only person in the country who offers this type of bespoke first aid kit. It’s far more than basic first aid kits

and bandages – I am able to provide highly specialised medical supplies such as trauma bags, spirometers, defibrillators, stretchers and even a trauma teddy to comfort children who’ve been hurt. “We are also able to provide single components to your existing first aid kits, so if you use some items or some are out of date, why buy a whole new kit? Come to us and we will provide the items you are lacking.” The beauty of Perseus is that Dean can draw on his wealth of personal experience in dealing with emergencies and survival techniques. There’s even a section on the website offering basic first aid advice and what to do in various situations from dealing with unconscious casualties, burns and eye injuries to illnesses at work and book keeping. Unsurprisingly, the company’s chosen charity is the International Rescue Corps and Dean himself is a fundraising officer for the group. For more information and to see the full range of first aid and medical supplies on offer, go to the Perseus website www.perseustradingcompany.co.uk; call 07583 361414; or go along to the shop in Todmorden Market Hall, which is open Wednesday through to Sunday every week.

a unique look for

your little ones costs less than

you might think!

news

FIRST FOR AID: Dean Mills with some of the supplies on sale at his Todmorden Market shop.

WHEN mum of two Melanie Sykes wanted to find something funky yet flattering for her girls to wear, she found there was little to choose from. So when the opportunity arose to take over her own Facebook clothing site, she jumped at it. Unique Children’s Clothing Boutique offers a range of quality and quirky designs for boys and girls. Styles range from cute romper suits to funky patterned leggings, including Christmas pudding and reindeer designs. Melanie also takes part in fairs and events such as the monthly Upmarket Sundays in Huddersfield. And she is planning the launch of a website in the new year. Melanie said: “I’ve always tried to get something a bit different for my girls, Annabelle and Isla, to wear, but there wasn’t always a lot of choice. “I was on maternity leave from work after having Isla and I thought why not have a go at doing my own site. “I’ve always liked the Blade and Rose designs so when I started my Facebook site, they were the first designers I wanted to stock.” The girls are a fantastic advert for Melanie’s site, often modelling their fabulous outfits at nursery and play gyms. The designs won’t break the bank, either – for example, festive leggings are just £9 with matching socks for £5 and dresses for £12. * Scallymag readers can enjoy a 10 per cent discount on any purchase made in December from Unique – simply quote Scally001 as a reference when you order.Check out the full range at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Unique-Childrens-Clothes-Boutique/393308490786121.

22

23

HAPPY HOLIDAYS? BREARLEYS SOLICITORS Your local Family Law experts

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Local Family law experts with offices in Batley, Birstall, Cleckheaton and Brighouse

LEGAL ADVICE

the most wonderful time of the year?It is that busy time of the year again, when the excitement starts to build for children looking forward to the annual visit of Father Christmas. The countdown starts on December 1, with chocolate advent calendars, visits to Santa’s Grotto, attendance at Christmas light switch-ons, the school nativity play and copious amounts of TV adverts for the latest gadgets and toys, all adding to the children’s excitement. For parents and family members, the experience can be somewhat different. Although most join their children in the initial excitement of the run-up to Christmas, as it draws near the reality of the time, the effort and expense required to fulfil their children’s dreams hits home. Some families have the additional stress of having to make suitable arrangements for their children to spend time with their maternal and paternal side of their family separately. This can be the cause of much distress and anxiety for parents all eager to see their children’s faces light up as they open their presents. Many families are able to discuss and make amicable

arrangements themselves; however some find the task a cause for stress, anxiety and often argument. In these cases, children frequently hear or pick up on the difficulties between their parents, which in turn can cause them to feel unhappy and anxious. At Brearleys Solicitors, our purpose is to minimise the conflict between parents, resolve issues in a mature, amicable and child-focused way. This can be achieved through many different ways by communication through solicitors, mediation and collaborative working. The festive season is also a time where there are increased domestic incidents many fuelled by over-indulgence in alcohol. Domestic abuse is one of the areas which has significant impact upon families, in particular children and legal aid is available for those who are victims. Although limited, legal aid is still available for those who have the relevant evidence to prove domestic abuse and this opens a gateway to legal aid for advise on issues relating to children, divorce and finances. At Brearleys Solicitors, we offer a free half hour consultation without any obligation. If any of these issues affect you now or in

the future, please contact us. Our friendly approachable solicitors are able to provide you with a full range of specialist advice. Almost all of our solicitors have obtained Panel Membership, are Law Society Accredited Children and/or Family Panel members recognising their specialism and dedication in this area of law. With offices at Birstall, Batley, Cleckheaton and Brighouse, and home appointments where appropriate we offer legal advice throughout the district. As a practice, we are able to offer most other services and therefore we are able to offer a holistic legal service. Visit our website for more information at www.brearleyssolicitors.com/what-we-do/family or www.brearleyssolicitors.com. In an emergency, call 07768 496156. For all other enquiries please call Batley 01924 473065; Birstall 01924 443900; Cleckheaton 01274 864002; or Brighouse: 01484 714400.

By Emma CloughPartner and solicitor specialising

in family and childcare at Brearleys Solicitors

LEGAL ADVICE

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Christmas Opening Times10th, 11th, 12th DecemberClosed17th December

Closed19th DecemberStory Time with Santa10.00am - 12.00pm (Tickets Only)

22nd DecemberStory Time with Santa 10.00am - 12.00pm (Tickets Only)23rd DecemberBaby Chums Christmas Party9.00am - 11.00am

24th, 25th, 26th, 27th & 28th DecemberClosed

29th December10.00am - 4.00pm30th December10.00am - 4.00pm31st December

Closed1st & 2nd January

Closed

The Edge Play Gym & Café,Park Road, Elland, HX5 9HZ

Tel: 01422 377222Check our Facebook page for updates!

19th & 22ndDecember

Story time with Santa10.00 - 12.00 – Tickets only

Only £5 per child

Entry to the play gym, fun, singing & story

with Santa & his Elves, plus a gift!

Followed by photo opportunities

New Prices:Under one year - £1

(redeemable against a drink of your choice)

1 year old - £1

2 years old - £2

3 years old - £3

4 years and above - £3.50

Frozen & Spidermanthemed parties are now being held!Visit: www.watersedgechildrensnursery.co.ukto book your party now!

WOW TuesdaysBaby Chums£1.00 entry(redeemable against a drink of your choice!)under 2 years only

Baby Chums Christmas PartyDecember 23

brighousescallymagwinter

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