SPRING 2021 - Sitlington Parish Council
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Sitlington Parish
Incorporating Middlestown, Overton, Netherton & Midgley
SPRING 2021
In this issue:
•Good news stories
•Updates from your local
organisations
•Thanks to local heroes
COXLEY NEWS: information for contributors
Coxley News: Launched in 2007, Coxley News, Coxley Players, Coxley
Singers, the Local History Group, Netherton Gala and the Scarecrow
Festival all operate under the wider community project umbrella of
Coxley Live. It covers Sitlington parish (Netherton, Middlestown, Overton
& Midgley).
Issues:
Spring (March, April, May) – deadline around 15th January
Summer (June, July, August) – deadline around 15th April
Autumn (September, October, November) – deadline around 15th July
Winter (December, January, February) – deadline around 15th October
Articles: We love to hear from you! Parish groups and events have
priority, each group may have up to two pages.
Advertising: covers all printing costs, so takes up half of each issue.
Charges: One-off layout fee if needed, £10. A quarter page - £12.50;
half - £25; full page - £50. Formats such as pdf and jpg are accepted,
please check with Wendy. We don’t include flyers or inserts as they are
time consuming and extra weight for our team of volunteer distributors.
Format: A5 pages in Arial size point 11, black and white only.
Distribution: 2,600 homes in Sitlington, all delivered by volunteers. Join
the distribution team! Contact Joan (07734) 872215 for Middlestown/
Overton and Wendy (01924) 281620 for Netherton/Midgley.
Editors: We are volunteers too. We may edit content for clarity, accuracy
and length. All editors’ decisions are final.
Wakefield Metropolitan District Council
Your District Councillors On Call
District Councillors: Samantha Harvey, Cynthia Binns, Ian Sanders
are prepared to visit you at home when you need them
Call: Councillor Harvey 07471141556 Councillor Binns 07825 927986
Councillor Sanders 07762835149
2
Coxley News team
Editorial: Shirley Jones, Wendy Woodhouse, Helen Moretti, Pete Fearnside,
Joan Fearnside.
Design and Production: Helen Moretti.
Advertising: Wendy Woodhouse.
Delivery: Cast of many but we would love to hear from you if you can
help!
Editorial comment
Welcome to the first Coxley News edition of 2021! It’s spring, the days
are lengthening and we are looking towards a glimmer of light at the
end of the covid tunnel. Apologies for the gremlins which meant we
accidentally excluded articles from the WI and Parish Council in the last
issue.
If you are pledging to try something new this year and keep it close to
home, why not be part of Netherton Youth Crew’s plans to renew its
investment in our young people, who have been so short changed over
the pandemic. Perhaps you have a particular skill you can share with
NYC members once a term - juggling, nail art, chess..? Could you run
the tuck shop once a month? Every little helps. Find out more inside.
Earlier this year, Sitlington lost a much-loved pillar of its community in
Margaret Strong. Involved in countless village enterprises, including the
Christmas lights switch on and the Coxley Players’ panto, Margaret will
be very sadly missed. We extend our condolences to all her friends and
family.
In anticipation of a summer issue of Coxley News, please send your
contributions by April 6th.
Contact the Coxley News team by
E-mail: coxley.158@btinternet.com Phone: 01924 276545
Post: 158 Coxley View, Netherton, WF4 4NE
Adverts
Email: wendy.coxley@talktalk.net Phone: 01924 281620
HOW TO CONTACT THE PARISH COUNCIL
The contact for the parish council is the clerk, Mrs Julia Talbot.
(07771 113258) clerk@sitlingtonparishcouncil.gov.uk
Parish Office, Stevenson House, 139 Netherton Lane, Netherton, WF4 4HQ
To book Netherton Village Hall contact Parish Clerk.
3
FACE MASK MAKERS RAISE THOUSANDS FOR
WAKEFIELD HOSPICE
After the first lockdown happened my friends and I decided to book Santa
for children. It became apparent we would need masks for these kind of
events so I asked my mum (Lynda Wheatley) to make me some festive
gingerbread masks. From this, it sparked us into making some more
masks for friends and so we decided to make some masks and raise
money in memory of my dad, Stephen Wheatley, who passed away in
2014 by selling them for Wakefield Hospice. My Dad lived his whole life
in Netherton.
We would just like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has
supported us with our mask making. I never expected this two-woman
band (Mum sewing and me, selling and raising funds) would go viral like
we have! We have sold masks that have gone as far as Spain, London,
Manchester and Cheshire. We sold them locally at the top shop (Premier)
and Connie's Horbury Bridge. We started this journey thinking we would
set our target at £500, we have now doubled this and more and we are
now on our way to raising £2500. They are available on the Facebook
Netherton page and in the top shop in a variety of designs.
It’s amazing when you are walking and going out and seeing people who
are wearing them. Its a nice feeling. Thank you everyone for your
support.
Shelbey Wheatley
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5
I THINK I NEED HELP
Here we are, soldiering on during lockdown number 3. I stopped watching
the constantly depressing news bulletins a long time ago…and now I can
just about recite every episode of Midsomer Murders, Poirot, Miss Marple
and Foyle’s War. Luckily, there’s now the re-runs of Emmerdale and
Coronation Street to try to learn off by heart.
Fortunately, God gave us legs. Although I’ve been able to work during
this pandemic, in a bid to fill the void of not being able to go to the pub for
a beer or the local cafes for a cup of tea and cream bun. I’ve turned to my
favourite plastic bricks for comfort.
I’ve already had a collection of Winter Village Lego on display and various
other models like the Sopworth Camel, Double Decker Bus, Harley
Davidson, Simpsons House and Kwik e Mart and quite a few of my
favourite model by Lego – the Emerald Night. I think it’s their best ever
model train! So, when we were put into lockdown number 1, I decided
now was the opportunity to put these steam trains into some sort of
railway setting.
I’ve gone down two
avenues because
of lack of space –
the first was to build
my version of
Goathland Station
on the North York
Moors Railway
(influenced by all
those repeats on
Heartbeat!) and the
second
concentrating on a
separate track
layout so I could also try and build some alternative rolling stock and
related railway buildings.
I’ve gone mad. It’s what lockdown does. I’ve been on Lego.com, eBay,
BrickLink and Brick Owl almost daily. Many of the Lego bricks I’ve bought
have come from Denmark but also as far afield as Australia and even
Saskatchewan in Canada. Luckily, I’ve been able to sell some of the Lego
models I didn’t now want on eBay and I’ve just about balanced my
spending. Some of the bricks can be very difficult to find, especially in the
colours I wanted. But I’m getting there…
6
I now have my Goathland Station complete with bridge and rolling stock.
I’ve also just about finished my versions of 3 signal boxes, an engine
shed, water tower, 2 signal gantries and even a row of terrace houses.
Sitting on the tracks alongside the Emerald Nights there are now a Class
37 and Class 47, 2 08 shunters and a number of passenger carriages
and coal/goods wagons. I’m not sure how good they are compared to the
professional Lego builders out there but I’m quite proud of them!
Anyway, I was going to write about me and my mate’s next walk… the St.
Cuthbert’s Way – but that’s obviously had to take a back seat for the
moment. Depending on the success of the rollout of the vaccine(s) and
our current incarceration, we are hoping now to take on the challenge in
May but it could well be later on in the year…either way, I can’t wait.
Now, back to Lego. If you have any lying around that you don’t want or
keep experiencing the worst pain ever by accidentally treading on it on
your living room carpet…please give generously ha ha!
PANDEMIC CREATES NEW BUSINESS
I started Jam Jar Flowers Overton after being put on furlough. Just
putting flowers in jars from my garden and putting them at the top of the
road for people to pay what they felt fair. I’m not a florist but told I have a
natural flair for flowers. It’s grown into what is really a full time job.
Sally Baxter Medd
SANTA RUN ROUND THE VILLAGE
Santa and friends would like to thank
Netherton villagers for their generous
support. The run around Netherton raised a
total of £765.50 including gift aid which was
shared between Wakefield Hospice and St
Andrew’s Church.
7
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REINTRODUCING NETHERTON’S BOTTOM SHOP
First of all, when buying this shop, I was overwhelmed by how lovely the
area is, and it was rather convenient for me to travel here from my home
as it’s only a 10 minute route.
Since taking over this shop my family and I have had so many people
welcoming us in into the community and they have been extremely
considerate as we’ve settled in. In order to give back to the supportive
people, my wife and I have introduced some new things in the shop, like
freshly ground coffee, hot chocolates, homemade baguettes.
We also make fresh homemade chicken curries which are available on
Friday, Saturday and Sunday. So far, the curries have been extremely
popular and it’s always great to hear how everybody’s liking them. Right
now, the curries available are chicken balti and chicken masala but in the
future, we are thinking of introducing new things like samosas and other
traditional Asian dishes.
If anyone wants anything specifically to try, my wife and I are more than
happy to make things for you. Just let us know!
Sanjay and Jag.
11SITLINGTON PARISH COUNCIL
Dear Residents
It was a strange 2020 indeed for everyone, coming into the
new year The Parish Council have been kept busy. The
Parish office is based at home again and meetings taking
place remotely until further notice.
We have still been busy, items on the agenda have included: -
• Creation of a Recreation & Leisure committee
• Emroyd common
• Consideration of new play facilities
• Targeting the Police safe scheme officer to areas of concern
• Planning matters
The Old Cricket Field
The Parish Council now are in
charge of the old cricket field. A
working group has been set up and
we have been trying to establish a
use that will benefit all areas of the
community. We have engaged with
Facebook and had a positive
response for the use and suggested
activities.
A new pedestrian gate has been
fitted for easy access to the field
and signage has gone up with the
contact details of the Parish Council
It was also lovely to see families enjoying the snow on the old cricket field
in January. Sledging down the banking and snowball games were the
order of the day.
Since the pandemic started, it has made it difficult to progress with
maintenance and development of the area. However, it has been great to
see the community enjoying this recently acquired parish asset. Some
people have felt less isolated and have been able to take exercise in this
area and the many beautiful areas in the Parish.
For 2021, we want the vision for this area to come together. We have
asked residents if they want to become part of a friends of the Old Cricket
field group to support this community space for all.
12When out and about in the Parish please remember to: -
ensure social distancing
pick up after your dog and place in the bins provided.
Bridleway 16 closure
The bridleway that runs from Carr Lane to
Stocksmoor Road across from South Lane
This Bridleway was closed earlier in the year by
Wakefield Council public rights of way team. Due to
concerns that an area of the bridleway was unstable.
The Parish Council have been following this matter up
for a number of months. It has now been confirmed that a survey will be
carried out and we will continue to follow this up.
Parish Councillors
Sadly, the Chair of the Parish Council Margaret Strong passed away the
end of 2020. Margaret had been on the council since December 2014
and was actively involved in so many community projects both as a
Parish Councillor and as a resident. She will be greatly missed on the
Parish Council.
Staffing Matters
The Parish Office staffing has changed coming into 2021. Julia Talbot will
take over as Parish Clerk from Sue Earnshaw who retired in late 2020.
An admin assistant will support the Parish Clerk.
Contact details: Mrs Julia Talbot, Parish Clerk. Parish Office:
07771113258, email: clerk@sitlingtonparishcouncil.gov.uk
Don’t forget we have a website; the website has lots of information
relating to the Parish Council.
www.sitlingtonparishcouncil.gov.uk
Check out the Parish Council out on:
www.facebook.com/Sitlington-Parish-Council @Sitparcouncil
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14ST. LUKE’S
At the time of writing at St Luke's we are continuing to be open for
Sunday Worship as we feel that in these strange times it gives some
normality and enables us to pray together for all who are ill and for those
families who have lost loved ones due to this virus. We are being very
strict in adhering to all the rules for everyone's safety and praying for the
day when we can all meet once again.
We had a happy event at church on New Year’s Eve with our first
wedding for a long time - albeit on a smaller scale but we had a lovely
wedding with a beautiful bride and a handsome bridegroom and we at St
Luke's wish Jennifer and Edward a very happy and long marriage and
loving wishes to Toby and Arthur.
To everyone in the community we would remind you the church is there
for all and anyone needing the help of the church we are here for you.
Just before Christmas we lost a dear friend from St Andrew's church -
Margaret Strong who was the church warden and a very hard worker for
the church. She worked together with us for the benefit of the parish and
she will be greatly missed here at St Luke's and in the parish. It was a
great shock to us all and we send our deepest sympathy to all at St
Andrew's and all her family.
Rita Cranswick
DIAL WOOD CARRIAGE DRIVING FOR THE
DISABLED
We are selling our 2021 calendars at £2
instead of £4 to raise funds for the ponies.
Please contact me by text on 07905
331917 or
email audrey.honeyman@virgin.net and I
can drop them off locally or they can be
collected from me by arrangement. I can
post them for the cost of postage. The
winter has been wet and cold so not only
will the calendar cheer people up, but it
will help us to buy more feed and hay to
keep our ponies going while our clients
wait until things are safer on the Covid
front.
1516
17
CONGRATULATIONS!
This years colouring competition winners are Trysten Gawthorpe aged 6
and Sophie Yarrow aged 8.
They will both receive a £10 book voucher.
SITLINGTON LITTERPICKING
When covid guidance allowed, community Litterpicking did take place
in 2020. Organised litterpicks took place throughout the parish. Hotspot
areas such as Blacker Lane, Netherton Lane, Sandy Lane, and New
Road were regularly cleared.
New faces joined the Litterpicking activity along the canal, Hartley Bank
woods and Topp Lane at Midgley.
The majority of litter along the road is
fast food takeaways. Why would you
think it is acceptable to throw it out of
your car window? In places like the
woods, the canal and at the bottom of
Blacker Lane, groups obviously carry
cans to an area to socialise. If you
can make the effort to carry it there
why wouldn’t you carry it home
instead of leaving it on the ground?
There appears to be a lack of respect
for the environment by a minority of
people, but community spirited
residents try to keep our village
clean.
A couple of residents in Netherton went far and beyond the call of duty.
When a post on Facebook made reference to a pathway in Netherton
which was covered in dog faeces, Lynn Finnamore and Ann Turner
went and poo picked. They collected 3 full carrier bags in less than 100
metres.
Lots of residents pick litter up on their daily walks so a big shout out
THANK YOU to each and every one of you.
18NEWS FROM TRINITY METHODIST CHURCH,
NETHERTON
Live Sunday Worship, which had resumed in September, continued
until the second lockdown in November, when we again met on Zoom.
Live worship resumed again in December, but with a difference. The
wonders of technology and the determination of some members now
meant we were able to stream the live service into people’s homes via
Zoom, so people who were hesitant to meet in church could still share
in worship. We were all able to celebrate Advent and Christmas
“together”
But this could not last! Although places of worship could remain open
during the third lockdown, from January, the church followed the advice
from the Methodist leadership and others to close once again. The new
variant of Covid 19 was proving very infectious and a severe threat to
vulnerable people – we were not prepared to put our members, and the
rest of the community, at further risk.
We look forward to the time when, as vaccinations progress, we can
open again. In the meantime, church life continues. Our Zoom services
have proved popular, not just amongst our own folk but with people
from other churches. We offer an invitation to anyone who wishes to
join us at 10:30 each Sunday morning. Colin Ride can supply the
joining information. Services last about 40 minutes and are led by our
minister Rev Kim Williams and local preachers and other ministers from
within the Aire and Calder Methodist Circuit. As experience with the
technology develops, so do opportunities to experiment with different
techniques.
Other church activities continue. Reading for Pleasure book club meets
monthly, Knit and Natter twice a month, and Bible Fellowship weekly,
all on Zoom. Colin Ride continues to keep us all informed with the
weekly newssheet, Keep in Touch.
Unfortunately, because of the logistics around social distancing and the
vulnerable age groups involved it is not possible to re-open Lunch Stop,
Film Club, Friendship Club or Chapel Café. Equally we are unable to
open our premises to hirers.
For further information about any of the above contact:
Sandra & Colin Ride 01924 271553
Alan Wood 01924 271210 Carole Shaw 01924 275414
Christine Hewitt 07931 353082 Linda Cunningham 01924 266594
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2021
LOCAL HEROES
There are hundreds of local
heroes in Netherton who
unfortunately, in this short
article will remain nameless.
The unnamed are those who
make up the backbone of this
village, the lovely people who
pass the time of day when you
walk the dogs in the woods and
always greet you with a friendly
face, the people you meet in the
shop who smile and say hello.
The Nethertonians who, when
you walk into The Star (yes,
remember … a pub!) grin, say
hello and happily integrate you
into their conversation. Too
many heroes to name and due
to my ignorance, can’t name.
I do know a few names though,
Hayley and her team at the top
shop. They have done a remarkable job throughout both lockdowns to
keep us all supplied with the essentials, in my case, white wine and
chocolate.
There are some people in our village who I know we are all so proud of
who go above and beyond to support our lovely community, those who
regularly go out and pick up litter, or, would you believe it, dog muck!!
Thank you from us all.
Lots of you know the lovely Lizzie, who always
delivers our parcels with care, a ready smile and a
supply of dog biscuits for our four-legged friends.
Thank you Lizzie.
22Our village was hit by snow in January which rendered roads impassable
and pavements downright dangerous.
However, this was an opportunity for
some magnificent snowmen creations.
Well done.
The manner in which members of our village went out of their way to
support others was unbelievable. I know there are others who I haven’t
named here and I am sorry for my ignorance of not knowing who you are.
There are some I can name. Jakob Aubrey-Wilson who pulled an
ambulance up the hill so they could carry on with their important work.
The driver of a lorry thanked our village and particularly Joel Stead for
helping him get on his way. The video of John Verity on his quad bike
towing a van up the hill was amazing. Julie Naylor kindly wrote a
message to thank the gentleman and his youngster for helping her on
Netherton Hall Drive. I am so sorry that I can’t name every super star in
this village, but then we’d be naming almost everybody who lives here.
I, as a rule am not keen on Facebook, however our village Facebook
page is brilliant (Netherton Village Group (Wakefield). It’s been an
excellent vehicle for all sorts of things for example, giving or selling things
when we’ve all been clearing out during lockdown, for alerting each other
of lost keys, dogs and cats. We must all thank Jo, Andy and Jason for the
work they have done over many years, and continue to do, to keep this
important means of communication open to us all.
Yes, there are people in this village who annoy us all. There are those
who don’t pick up after their dogs, who drop litter in the street. Those who
break into our sheds and garages, who pinch our vehicles, all the things
that we spend our hard-earned money to buy. You wouldn’t be able to
print what I’d like to say about them!!!!! However, thankfully, those people
are in the minority.
Thank you Nethertonians, I am proud to be a member of this wonderful
village. This last twelve months, in particular have clearly demonstrated
what good, generous people you all are.
2324
25
NETHERTON AND DISTRICT WOMEN'S INSTITUTE
A very belated Happy New Year to you all. 2020 is a year we would all
like to forget. As I write this, 2021 is not doing much better Covid-wise.
We are all locked down once more but with a difference – we have the
promise of better things ahead with the vaccines that have been
developed and are becoming available to everyone (I await my first jab
with great anticipation – sleeve already rolled up at the ready!)
My last article unfortunately didn't make it into Coxley News (for which I
lay the entire blame at the door of Covid 19!!!) Having to work remotely
trying to put together something like this must be extremely difficult and
we must all be forever thankful for Zoom (and Facebook where my
article was posted).
Our institute might not have been able to meet after March 2020 but
members were kept up-to-date with a billet-doux from our Secretary
(that's me!). As we could not hold our AGM where we appoint officers
for the year, members were asked to agree to a continuation of those
appointments for another 12 months. They were asked to vote on their
choice of National Resolution for 2021 and also advised on the
regrettable sale of Denman which is our WI College.
On a lighter note, we were fortunate to secure the services of Santa
(President Ann) before the Christmas rush who, together with his trusty
elf (me) paid a seasonal visit on his sleigh (my car) to all of our
members with a card and gift from the WI. It was lovely seeing
everyone and our visit was much appreciated.
Spring is definitely round the corner – new life in the garden and
definite hope for the future. Keep safe everyone and keep looking at
that light at the end of the tunnel which is definitely getting brighter.
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26SANTA ROUND THE VILLAGE
Just a little thank you
From Santa and his crew
For the lovely folk of Netherton
The old ones and the new
For waving at your doorsteps
For standing in the cold
For supporting our little gang
As we trundled round the road
You all have been so kind to us
With donations along the way
Children’s faces lighting up
It really made our day!
Last year was a challenge
With stories to remember
This year we can be as strong...
So...we’ll see you in December!!
With love from Santa, John The Fabulous Tractor Man, Elsa, Anna
and the Elves
27IT’S CENSUS YEAR
The next national census is due to take place on Sunday 21st March. In
‘normal’ times the Census Engagement Manager for Wakefield would
be engaging with local communities to ensure everyone can participate
in the census and be counted. Much of this face-to-face work is not
possible at the moment, so, thank you to Middlestown Patient
Participation Group which, having been asked to spread the word
locally, contacted Coxley News!
Census data is really important in planning and delivering many
services across our district, so getting as accurate information as
possible this March will help us all over the next 10 years!
The census survey happens every 10 years and gives us a picture of
all the people and households in England and Wales. The census is
unique. There’s simply nothing else that gives so much detail about us
and the society we live in.
All kinds of organisations, from local authorities to charities, use the
information to help provide the services we all need, including
transport, education and healthcare. Without the census, it would be
much more difficult to do this. By taking part, you’ll be helping make
sure you and your community get the services needed now and in the
future.
The first census was in 1801 and the most recent in 2011. The Office
for National Statistics (ONS) runs the census in England and Wales. To
prepare for it, they held a census rehearsal in 2019 to check processes,
systems and services were running smoothly ahead of the real thing.
ONS also needs your help between each census. They rely on ongoing
surveys to provide detailed, up-to-date information about changes to
society. To make sure that they represent everyone, ONS asks people
to take part in these surveys. They carry out interviews in person, by
phone or online.
These surveys do not stop while the census takes place. To find out
more about the types of surveys we run throughout the year, visit the
ONS website.
The census helps people in need. The Salvation Army uses its
information to decide how and where it offers its services.
Major Pam Knuckey, Assistant Director (Research), Research and
Development for The Salvation Army said: “We find the data we receive
from the census helps us ensure that we are reaching the people who
really need our help and where best to place our resources. We would
urge everyone to fill out Census 2021 as accurately as possible to give
28us an accurate picture of what your community needs and help us
continue our fight for greater social justice."
The Community Handbook is available on the census website -
www.census.gov.uk
THE CENSUS - A WINDOW ON HISTORY
Since 1801, the census has recorded details about our population. The
records are closed to the general public for a hundred years until they
can be used for family history research, for example. The 1921 census
will be published in January 2022.
In every census year an enumerator delivered a form to each household
in the country for them to complete. The heads of households were
instructed to give details of everyone who slept in that dwelling on census
night, which was always a Sunday. The forms completed by each
household, known as schedules, were collected a few days later by the
enumerator. From 1841 to 1901 the information from the schedules was
then copied into enumeration books. It is the enumeration books that we
consult today online or on microfilm.
The 1841 census was the first to list the names of every individual, which
makes it the earliest useful census for family historians. However, less
information was collected in 1841 than in later census years.
A search in the 1901 census for folk living in Netherton or Middlestown
(or Nether Shitlington or Middle Shitlington as they were known then) tells
us for example that:
Elizabeth Alice Copley, 58 lived at 45 South Lane, Netherton with her
husband Thomas, 63 who worked at the woodyard. Thomas was born in
West Bretton and they had two children at home, Sarah, 27 and Eveline,
20.
In 1861, we find the Armitage family who lived at 30 Colliers Row in
Middlestown. It is no surprise that Ann, 40 and Joseph, 44 were a family
of miners. They had 9 children aged between 3 and 22. The youngest to
be working, Henry, was employed at just age 12 as a coal hurrier, while
their 15 year old daughter was a worsted rover.
The census can be searched online, free at a library (when they open
again) or via a subscription provider such as Ancestry or Find My Past.
Could there be anyone from Sitlington who is old enough (over 100) to
find themselves on the 1921 census when we can search it next year?
29MIDDLESTOWN PRIMARY ACADEMY
Well, this half term hasn't quite panned out how we were expecting but
we continue to be exceptionally proud of all our pupils and staff who
have adapted to the new ways of learning in such a short space of
time. Key Stage 2 children are taught virtual lessons though Teams,
some being live while others are pre-recorded with teachers online
throughout the lessons so that they are able to assist with learning and
provide immediate feedback. Lower down school, we are using the
online tool SeeSaw to deliver learning and set activities. Adults can
provide evidence by sending in photographs and uploading work so
that teachers can keep a check on how well the children are doing.
We continue to provide places in school for vulnerable pupils and
children of critical workers. These children access the same learning as
their peers with adults in school to assist them. We have delivered a
number of laptops to families who have no access to IT equipment, and
food parcels are sent out to disadvantaged families.
Next half term, we hope that things return to some form of normality,
but we are confident that we can continue to deliver high quality
lessons remotely should that not be the case.
Thank you to all the parents who take the time to provide positive
feedback during these testing times. It really does mean so very much
to every one of our staff. And well done to all the parents for tackling
the home learning. We know it is not easy, but we think you are doing
an amazing job!
THE REVEREND WRITES…
For some, these last months have been a chance to take stock. A time of
renewal and refreshment, with a new outlook on life. For others, it has
been a time of worry, sickness and grief. As we look within ourselves, our
families, our communities, our country, our world, we see people fearful
for their futures looking desperately for hope and a brighter future.
As I write this, I am reminded of Jesus’ exhortation to ‘not be
afraid’ (found 365 times in the bible), a daily reminder to not be afraid of
the upheavals that occur at every period of history, but to persevere in
good and place our trust in God, by giving our attention to God and our
neighbour, and our own needs too.
When all else passes away, as life as we knew it has over the past year,
and we cannot simply ‘fix’ that which seemed frayed or broken beyond
repair. This is what we are left with: God with us – Emmanuel, bringing
hope where there was indeed none.
30Now as we look forward with hope to Easter and Jesus dying on the
cross for us, our churches may all be open again for us to celebrate His
resurrection. The impossible happened, giving us hope for the future. If
you aren’t sure, step into St. Andrew’s, St. Luke’s or any local church,
and you will find a congregation to share that hope with. They are waiting
for you, to share their love and be a good neighbour, and help the needy.
Don’t stay at home and wonder why they haven’t called, come and join
us, and share the HOPE.
Revd John Geary
TOP TIPS FOR SELF CARE
In these protracted and ever changing difficult times, it’s important to take
some time to look after yourself. It’s really easy to get stuck in a rut and
find your mental health spiralling downwards even if you’ve never
experienced issues with your mental health in the past. Here are some
simple ideas to help you keep on top of things.
1. Switch off the news. You don’t need to be bombarded with the
constant negative updates from the screen. Remember that time
when you only saw or heard the news once a day? Take yourself
back to those times.
2. Get outside. Fresh air and a change of scene can really help lift
your spirits. Even on a cold or rainy day, a short walk around the
block gets the endorphins flowing. Endorphins are nature’s natural
mood boosters.
3. Meditate. Spend some time focussing on the now and relaxing
mind and body. Our minds like to wander and enjoy nothing more
than torturing us with excruciating times gone by or “What if” style
conversations about the future. There are lots of apps out there to
help you, but if you would like more help and guidance, get in
touch!
4. Put down your phone! I know that you know this one. They are just
so addictive which is why that teenager in your life seems to be
surgically attached to theirs. Not only does social media bombard
you with messages that often leave you feeling less than worthy,
but your phone gives off a blue light which actively restrains the
production of melatonin, the hormone that controls your wake/sleep
cycle. Put simply, your phone is messing with your ability to sleep!
www.helenthehypnotist.co.uk
31SPRING FEVER
‘Anyway,’ I said to my neighbour out in the garden the other day, ‘spring’s
on its way, thank heaven!’ We looked up; the sky was grey, but there
were faint streaks of pale blue low in the south west – enough blue sky
‘to make a pair of trousers for a sailor’, as my mother used to say.
‘Yes,’ replied my neighbour, ‘I’m always glad to feel spring coming – I can
take things a bit easier now. The hard work’s been done.’
I looked suitably puzzled. ‘How come? I thought you’d be really hard at it
from now on, doing all the things you need to get the garden in shape.’
To give him his due, his garden was always immaculate – the sort of
garden neatness I could only dream about.
‘Well, yes and no,’ he continued. ‘If you think about it; since last autumn, I
should imagine you’ve composted the leaves, aerated the lawn, dug
over, levelled and added soil conditioner to the vegetable patch, spent
the new year planning what you intend to grow, poring over garden
catalogues for seeds and plants and trees, bought your seeds, sets, new
canes, bone meal, potash, Growmore or whatever for the coming year;
you’ve tidied out your shed, and given the spiders something to think
about, and thrown away last year’s accumulated rubbish.’
‘You reckon?’ I asked, innocently, fearing more.
‘Just think,’ he went on, ‘you’ve cleaned the mower, checked the oil level,
filled it with petrol (if that is the type you have), and cleaned and adjusted
the blade(s); you’ve cleaned, sharpened and greased your shears,
cleaned your spade, fork, trowel, hoe and anything else in your store; and
while you’re wandering round your garden, you’ve checked your fences
for damage, and sorted them out; you’ve weeded and tidied the borders,
taking care not to damage the young daffodils or tulip shoots; split
snowdrop clumps, cleared unwanted growth from the sides, power-jetted
the stonework to get rid of moss from the paths (or poured boiling water
on the moss patches) – to name just a few of the things you’ve done. Oh,
and finished pruning your fruit trees. Am I right?’
Who was he kidding! Maybe my idea of ‘putting the garden to bed’ last
autumn wasn’t such a clever idea.
‘Anything else?’
‘Well, that depends.’
‘On what? ‘
32On how well you want your garden to be... Have you tidied out the
greenhouse, washed and cleaned the glass? Checked the ventilation,
washed out pots, scrubbed them clean and disinfected them? I suppose
you’ve done all that, haven’t you? To say nothing of paying your
membership subs at the Allotment Association – you know you can get
most things you need from there.’
I muttered that I’d got it in mind to do just that – when I could get round to
it.
‘Fail to prepare,’ he added, ‘prepare to fail, if you want your garden to be
really good.’ He said it with the sort of glint in his eye, as he glanced
round my garden, that made me want to punch him on the nose. Clever
beggar, I thought. Yet when I, too, looked round my garden, I realised my
work was just about beginning. I’d left undone a lot of the things I ought
to have done. I think I’ll start now and get cracking – maybe tomorrow!
From a member of the committee of the Horbury & District Allotments
and Gardens Association
January, 2021
HORBURY & DISTRICT ALLOTMENT AND GARDENS ASSOCIATION
OVERVIEW OF ACTIVITIES
• It is a non-profit organisation run by its members to promote
horticulture in the local area
• Membership is by annual subscription and current membership is
around 200
• Annual membership is as follows:
Up to age of 65 years - £4.00 per annum
65 years and over - £2.50 per annum
• The Trading Hut is open every Sunday from 10.00 am to 12.00
noon. In addition it is open Friday evenings during February and
March from 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm.
• Membership registration can be made during trading hours at the
Associations Trading Hut on Southwell Lane, Horbury.
• We provide a wide range of gardening supplies. Full listing of all
products together with their prices can be accessed via our
website.
• www.horburyallotments.com www.facebook.com/
horburyallotments
• Keep up to date with our other activities such as Annual Show,
Annual General Meetings, Garden Visits etc. by visiting our website
and Facebook page.
This is our invitation to all people interested in horticulture to
join our local organisation and make a difference.
33DENBY GRANGE – YOUR LOCAL
SPORTS CLUB
Denby Grange is YOUR sports club based off the top
end of Highfield Crescent in Overton and currently
has 2 Junior Football Teams (U11s Denby Grange &
U13s Arrows) both who play in the Huddersfield
League & play on Sunday mornings, 2 senior Cricket
Teams & a Junior Section plus 9 senior teams with
plenty of juniors in our Bowls Section:-
Denby Grange Bowls Section
Firstly, Happy Belated New Year to you all.
As I write, here we are in the middle of lockdown 3! Covid has caused
many issues for most people, so I hope we find you safe and well.
The bowls season in 2020 was, pretty much, a non-starter. Not a
league bowl was sent all season. However, we are hopeful that this will
not be the case for the coming year. If the season does happen, the
Tuesday night Mirfield 'A' team will make its debut in the first division
after 3 back-to-back promotions.
In the few competitions that were played in 2020, Denby players did
enjoy some success. Within the club we ran three internal
competitions. The Covid Cup (!) was won by Paul Mottram. The club
singles was won by Colin Scorah, with the new member, and very
experienced player, Rob Carroll winning the consolation competition.
Finally, there was success for former Chairman Danny Walker and his
partner, 10 year old, Charlie Fisher in the doubles competition.
Away from Denby Grange, Scott Fisher won the Whitby Festival and
the Powerplay singles at the same event, while Charlie Fisher brought
home the Junior title. At Armthorpe, another junior, Thomas Scorah
came through a tough field but, unfortunately, lost in the final of a high
class competition. Still a big step towards future success though.
We are always on the lookout for new members. We are a friendly club
with lots of opportunities for new members to get practice, make friends
and become competitive. If you would like to try out the game we all
love, call either me (Paul Mottram, Chair) on 07808 395125, Richard
Brook (Secretary) 07943 673848 or visit the Black Swan at Overton
and have a word with Landlord, and former Chairman, Danny Walker.
Alternatively, when you hear noise coming from the green, come up
and see what it's all about. There are games most nights, and some
afternoons, when we are allowed back. Keep well.
Chair
34Junior Football Sections
At the time of writing, the league has been suspended, we’re hopeful the
matches will have restarted & Arrows (U13s) will have continued their
march up Division 1, whilst our own U11s will also have maintained their
fantastic progress in a very much stop/start season. Both sides would be
open to welcoming new players certainly for next season if not before.
We’d also be very keen to develop other age groups if anyone would be
interested in starting an age group – all financial support would be given.
Cricket Section
After a great end to last season – we’re extremely hopefully 2021 will
lead to a full season to build on this forward club momentum. Indoor/
Winter Nets look unlikely but, weather permitting, we’ll be out on the
grass from April…all players (& supporters) young and old are welcome
– please contact our secretary Ryan Hutchinson on 07521 681136.
Finally, we’ve a fantastic team of volunteers who work tirelessly behind
the scenes to maintain and massively improve our facilities to be enjoyed
by everyone in the village (especially Keith, Ray, Gareth, Joel, Andy,
Ryan to name just a few), please respect the facilities….it was great to
see socially distanced local families enjoying the green space during the
lockdowns as well as playing sport but please treat our club as your
own…with care!!
Andy Turner
THE BLUEBELL (Extract)
By Emily Brontë
The Bluebell is the sweetest flower
That waves in summer air:
Its blossoms have the mightiest power
To soothe my spirit’s care.
3536
37
NETHERTON YOUTH CREW – THE STATE OF PLAY
Hi Kids, Hi Parents, Let’s give you an update on
where we are with your youth club at the present
time.
Until the pandemic struck, Netherton Youth Crew
had been running every Wednesday during school term times, at
Netherton Village Hall, for the last 13 years, since 2008. In recent years
the club has gone from strength to strength, and, at the time Covid
appeared to cause such disruption, we had more than 70 children from
Netherton and surrounds, registered with us, all children in school year
groups 7 to 11 (ages 11 to 16).
In theory, youth activities have been permitted to continue through the
restrictions and lockdowns. In practice, this has regrettably been
impossible. Within our group of children we have 6 secondary schools
and 5 year groups represented, as a result of which Covid has created
an insurmountable management problem for our enthusiastic, but
voluntary, staff, meaning we had no option but to shut down for the time
being. That remains the case.
However, we have not gone away!, Plans are afoot to hopefully enable
the club to re-open at the first safe opportunity, and we would like to
update you on this. At the present time, we cannot give an indication of
when that may be, but there is an air of confidence about at the
moment which gives us encouragement. To a very large extent we are
in the hands of the schools. For as long as school year group ‘bubbles’
continue, it is likely we will need to remain closed, for the health of our
children, and for similar reasons, for the health of our parents, and
volunteers. The village hall is Covid-Secure, and that is not a concern.
But be assured, the health and safety of everyone is our utmost
concern.
In recent years, and especially with so many of our children attending
Horbury Academy, we have developed a link-up with Horbury
Breakthrough Youth, who do such good work at Horbury Academy,
which has given us access to qualified youth advice, and enabled us to
share ‘awayday’ outings. A particularly rewarding aspect of running the
club has been to see how our children have developed as a group
along the way, and one of the things we have particularly missed is our
annual Year 7 ‘intake’ in September which, as it does for schools,
provides a constant air of renewal and re-energising.
38We look forward to that re-starting. We are well equipped, and our
finances are reasonably healthy despite the fact we have managed to run
the club without charging our children (except for subsidised external
events) for the whole of the 13 years. Much of our equipment has been
renewed in the last 12 months.
When we do manage to re-start, you may see some changes. You will be
aware that Youth Services in Wakefield have been cut to the bone in
recent years, and are sadly neglected in this locality. Recently, we have
been in discussion with Sitlington Parish Council, who are very
supportive of NYC, and would like to see youth facilities improved
throughout the whole parish. With their help, we do anticipate being able
to access a part-time paid youth worker whom some of you may already
know, Tom Exelby. This will provide more consistent management, and
hopefully increase our horizons. Tom is the Duke of Edinburgh Co-
Ordinator for Horbury Breakthrough Youth, and a qualified leader for
many outdoor activities. Let’s hope this is something we can work on and
develop for the future, expanding the opportunities for our children.
There is therefore a good and sound base from which to continue and
develop. Youth facilities these days are not what they used to be, and it is
now not common to find such a thriving and well supported club as NYC.
There is a huge need for NYC, and that aspect is not lost on those
agencies who have generously provided financial support to us over the
years. And let’s not forget, NYC is not only for the children of Netherton, it
is for all children aged 11 to 16 in the surrounding areas including
Middlestown, Overton, Midgley and Horbury Bridge.
However, we desperately need to find people to help carry the club
forward. We need parents and others with an interest or skills, to become
volunteers to help run the club. All that is involved is a couple of hours on
a Wednesday evening, either regularly or on a rota basis, with a lot of ‘job
satisfaction’ at the end of it. The club will take care of such things as DBS
registration, and volunteering does go a long way to beefing up CVs if
that is relevant to you. If you are able to help in any way, and wish to
know more about NYC, please contact Andrew Shaw on 275414, or Lisa
on 07969 853522.
39HOW TO DRESS HAPPY
Now we’ve come full circle through the seasons in a challenging year of
not seeing friends and loved ones as much as we would like, key workers
facing extra pressures at work, families working from home, lockdowns,
tier systems and restrictions, I think a lot of us will find our wardrobes
have become a bit more on the casual side. Those Zoom calls or
meetings when only your top half is seen (maybe pjs on the bottom half?),
trainers and hoodies for all those country walks and overall comfy clothing
for relaxing at home. This is fine, it allows us a greater freedom to live to
our own conforms, and we are less worried about what others think of us,
which is an overall good thing. But, with the increased poor mental health
felt by many, could we actually be doing ourselves a disservice by the
way we are dressing?
Dressing up can take
extra effort, but it also
feels good, especially if
you receive extra
compliments.
Many women have found that dressing in nicer
clothes makes them feel better. One study has
shown that women who are depressed or sad are
more likely to wear baggy tops, jeans, and a
sweatshirt or jumper. Women who are happy or
positive are more likely to wear a favourite dress
or item of clothing, jewellery, and jeans. These
clothing choices seem to mean that women who
are feeling down put less effort into what they’re
wearing, and women who are in a good mood tend
to try and look nicer to match their mood. So, the
strong link between clothing and mood state
suggests we should put on clothes that we associate with happiness,
even when feeling low. We should give more thought to what we
wear and even dress for happiness, irrespective of how we are
feeling. Although, people shouldn’t necessarily make assumptions
about the feelings and emotions of another person based on their
clothing as we all have the power to wear items that represent our
personalities and feelings.
40Happy clothes might include well-cut, figure-enhancing items made
from bright and beautiful fabrics, or an item of clothing or accessory
that reminds you of a happy memory or time. For me it’s a charm
bracelet given by a close friend, tops in my favourite blue and some
of my Mum’s jewellery – everyone’s “happy’ is unique to them.
The science of happiness has found
that we have ‘positive interventions’
that can change our mood, and when
we deliberately intervene on our
happiness by wearing things that
evoke positive feelings, gain positive
reactions from others, or that remind
us of positive experiences, we will be
happier.
I’d love you to send any photos of you in your happy clothes to my
Facebook page. It would be great to see what makes you happy!
Lucy Roberts Personal Styling
41OUT & ABOUT WITH UNCLE BIM
Yes, lockdown is back yet again, repeating for
so many of you humans the frustrating and
lonely isolation. Anyway, lockdown or not, I still
need my dog walk every day in the woods, but
Uncle Bim has had to think of new safer places
to take me (no, he’s not getting any younger!)
because of the awful wintry weather and
slippery conditions caused by all the wet leaf
litter, then mud, and more recently, snow and
black ice.
For me, as a dog, I can hold my head up in the knowledge that Uncle
Bim will always keep one eye on my rear end when we’re out and
about, and if anything comes out of it, it’s bagged and cleared away
without any fuss. This means my doggy self-respect is maintained -
just imagine my shame if he left my output in the middle of a busy
pavement!
I was having a doggy chat (and a mutual waggy tail sniff) with a black
spaniel I know the other day, and he said to me that his owner has
chats with his friends since Covid started on a thing on his computer
called ”Zoom”, where they are all visible on the screen at the same
time, and they can see each other talking. He said wouldn’t it be great
we could get together and swap walks and tips, especially as we’ve not
been able to go to any puppy training classes. Anyway, instead,
if you have a new four-legged friend, a couple of top tips from
me:
Pick up after we’ve done our thing and bin it (but not hanging
from or stuffed into a tree or bush - that’s just weird)
We need to be on a lead if you can’t guarantee we’re under
control or there are cows or sheep. Some non-dog owners and
smaller humans may be nervous or hate being jumped on with
muddy paws, even when we’re being friendly.
And I’d love to hear from any other Coxley canines. Let me know what
you’ve been up to. We could schedule a “Woof” meeting!
4243
NETHERTON SCARECROW
FESTIVAL
This year’s Scarecrow Festival which will be
held
on the weekend of
3rd and 4th July 2021.
Add the date to your diaries!
The theme will be
CARTOON CHARACTERS.
As always, we try our very best to avoid
duplicates so please put your name down early
to avoid disappointment. All we need is a
name, address and contact email address
initially and of course, your scarecrow idea
when you’ve decided what you’d like to do.
Don’t forget to check out our new website
www.coxleylive.org for the latest news and
photos of previous Scarecrow Festivals.
There are a number of different ways to contact
us:
Via CoxleyLive.org
Via our Facebook Page Facebook.com/NethertonScarecrowFestival
By email scarecrowfestival@talktalk.net
Call Adrian Woodhouse on 01924 281620
Printed by Lindley Print Design & Web, 70 George Street, Wakefield.
Tel: 01924 372567 Fax: 01924 367003 www.lindleys.biz
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