Q QUALITY ters TOWN Mat COUNCIL Otley Town Council, Civic Centre, Cross Green, Otley LS21 1HD. Tel: 01943 466335 Fax: 468658 E-mail: [email protected] JULY 2009 No 49 Summer Dalesbus WIN AN Links Otley with the heart of the All Dales Rover Ticket Summer 2009 is the perfect time to explore the Yorkshire Dales National Park and AONB the greener way. Every Sunday and Bank Holiday until October 18, The Yorkshire Dalesman 870/874 and 800 services leave Otley Bus Station at 0952 and 1022 respectively, both going to Bolton Abbey, Grassington, Kettlewell and Buckden, the 800 continuing to Aysgarth and Hawes. Change off the 870 at Ilkley for the 1015 Cravenlink bus to Malham The Eastern Dalesman leaves Otley at 1005 for Nidderdale, calling at , Fountains Abbey, Lightwater Valley, Leyburn and Richmond. At Pateley Bridge you can connect with the Nidderdale Rambler bus for Lofthouse, How Stean and Middlesmoor, with links to Brimham Rocks. Or have a day from Otley on the famous Settle Carlisle line by catching the X84 at 0850 to Ilkley for the connecting 890 bus to Skipton station, with new bus links for walkers from trains at Ribblehead for Hawes, Swaledale and Ingleton. Every Sunday Dalesbus Ramblers guided walks are timed to meet the buses. You New Mayor can use the whole of the Dalesbus network in the southern Dales (not X84) as far as Lighwater Valley, Cray or Malham for just £7.50 with a Southern Dales Rover TAKES OVER AT OTLEY ticket, purchasable from the bus driver, or an All Dales Rover for £10, but students can buy the Dales Rover 800 ticket valid on most service for £5 on production of identification. Up to two children travel free with every fare paying adult, as do On Monday 11th May 2009 Otley saw its new Town Mayor MetroCard holders on MetroConnect 800, 820, 850, 870/874, 883/4 services out installed. Councillor Gerard Francis was voted in as Town of West Yorkshire - full details and times in the Metro Summer Dalesbus booklet Mayor for 2009/10 and will serve what is probably a or log onto www.dalesbus.org. record breaking third tenure as Mayor. Having been a So there’s never been a better summer to explore the Dales with Dalesbus! Councillor for well over thirty years, including a spell on For a chance to win an All Dales Rover ticket (there are two available), please the former Urban District Council, Councillor Francis is answer the following question: exceptionally experienced in local council history and work. He was Mayor from 1975 to 1976 and 2002 to 2003. At what time does the Eastern Dalesman service leave Otley? In his inaugural speech he expressed his gratitude at Please complete the voucher below and send to: being voted as Mayor again and said how much he looked Dales Bus Competition, Otley Matters, Civic Centre, Otley, LS21 1HD, or send an forward to being Mayor and representing the town email with your details and answer to :- [email protected]

community. Mayor Francis announced that his charities for the year ✄ would be Martin House Hospice and “Hang onto a Dales Bus Competition Dream” both of which are children’s charities. At what time does the Eastern Dalesman service leave Otley?

ANSWER ______Pull Out & Fold ☛ ☛ Name: ______centre spread Address: ______Shopmobility ______Post Code: ______Telephone : ______Email: ______

www.otleytowncouncil.gov.uk

AGM & ANNUAL TOWN MEETING Dates for your diary! The Annual General Meeting of the Council was held on Monday 11th May 2009 in the Civic Centre, at which the former Mayor, Councillor Jim Spencer, handed over to the new Mayor Heritage Open Days Councillor Gerard Francis and the formal business of the Council was conducted to Thursday 8th to Sunday 11th September appoint committees, agree an annual schedule of meetings and appoint Councillors to Heritage Open Days is well established on the outside bodies. Leeds calendar and eagerly anticipated by many people. In fact, this national event has grown into the country’s largest event to be run by volunteers. At the time of going to press, registrations are still taking place, but be assured that Otley will be well represented! During the four days, throughout the Leeds area, over 70 free events are expected to take place, including walks, exhibitions and tours – all are fascinating in their own right and it’s well worth setting some time aside during these special days. Leaflets detailing these events will be available at Otley Library and the Civic Centre from early August whilst the national website, (www.heritageopendays.org.uk) will be available from mid-July. Look out too, for articles in your In presenting to the meeting the annual report of the council, Councillor Jim Spencer in local press and spread the word amongst friends his role as Council Leader said that he was delighted that the number one priority of the and neighbours! Council to achieve Quality Status had been achieved at the first attempt in February this year. The status would assist the Town Council in negotiations with Leeds City Council as Lynda Kitching Leeds Civic Trust formal proof of the Town Council’s maturity. Councillor Spencer also addressed the delay in the start of the Civic Centre project which as he pointed out had been affected by the global downturn in commercial property values. However, he was confident that working in partnership with Leeds City Council Chippendale Pool would bring the project to fruition for the benefit of the community. Further, Councillor Spencer emphasised the considerable work that had been put in on tourism issues last year which would reap benefits for the town economy. Likewise the Orchardgate toilets Monday were now ready for taking over and refurbishment with just the last minor details of 6.15pm – 8.00pm - Public Swim formal legalities to be completed. 8.00pm – 9.00pm - Adult Only Swim Unique to this tier of government is the public meeting known as a Parish or Town Meeting Tuesday held once a year by law at which the electors of the town may raise questions with the 7.30am – 9.00am - Public Swim Councillors on council business. At a well attended Annual Town Meeting on May 11th 12.45pm – 1.30pm - Public Swim 2009 questions were raised about the current access problems to the swimming pool at 6.15pm – 9.00pm - Otley Swim Club Prince Henrys Grammar School, the Civic Centre refurbishment and the Council website. Wednesday Chaired by the new Mayor the questions were answered and after about three quarters of 6.15pm – 8.00pm - Public Swim an hour the Town Mayor brought the meeting to a conclusion. 8.00pm – 9.00pm - Adult Only Swim Thursday 6.15pm – 8.00pm - Public Swim 8.00 – 8.45pm - Aqua-Aerobics Friday Otley 7.30am – 9.00am - Public Swim 12.45pm – 1.30pm - Public Swim Men’s Forum 6.15pm – 8.00pm - Public Swim 8.00pm – 8.45pm - Adult Only Swim We have just completed our 2008-2009 series of talks and will finish the programme with a day out on 18th June to Sledmere House and Bridlington. Our talks programme Saturday has been varied and excellent and has provided fortnightly enjoyment to our members 8.00am – 9.00am - Public Swim over the last nine months. 12.00 – 2.00pm - Public Swim The variety of subjects in the twenty talks received this session will again be Sunday exemplified in our new programme starting on Thursday 10th September 2009. 9.00am – 12noon - Public Swim We will be meeting either at The Civic Centre or at Otley Rugby Union Football Club 1.00pm – 4.00pm - Public Swim in September. For the first two months the programme is as follows, with talks starting at 10-00am. This is the school term time table, times may vary during school holidays and Bank holidays. Thursday 10th Sept Top of the Bill John Wallis Thursday 24th Sept European Parliament the Future Timothy Kirkhope MEP Juniors now swim for Thursday 8th Oct Chevin Past Present and Future Richard Marsh FREE with a Breeze Card. Thursday 22nd Oct A Residents View of the Dales Geoff Queen Over 60’s now swim for FREE with a Leeds Card. Also due to rising costs we will be raising the price for admittance and coffee and biscuits to £2-00 on 10th September 2009. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult 16+. It is hoped that this small increase will not deter gentlemen living in Otley and the An adult can only supervise 2 children surrounding area from joining us on a Thursday morning and we look forward to under the age of 8. welcoming many new members during this coming session. If you are interested in joining and require more information please contact. Tel enquiries: (01943) 466852 Email: [email protected] Brian Dexter 01943-463266 or Peter Hornby 01943-463639. SMALL GROUPS DEVELOPMENT WORKER OTLEY COURTHOUSE green matters Sports Clubs wanting to expand, improve facilities, refurbish the clubhouse, upgrade the pitches or install seating should Brilliant Birthday Bash contact Sue Lumby on 0113 247 8185 to find out more! Many thanks to the hundreds of people who joined us on Monday May 4th to Green Leeds gives out grants to groups that want to carry out celebrate the Courthouse’s 5th Birthday. We had a tremendous day - as did environmental improvements to spaces or buildings that are everyone who joined in with all the activities; and joined us for cake and a open to the general public. (not allotments unfortunately). rousing original version of ‘Happy Birthday’. The 200 who came along for the Small grants are up to 5K. Main grants are between 10K and Peatbog Faeries in the evening helped to give the day a rousing finale. 45,500K.However, Green Leeds will only fund 75% of the total cost which is a drag. This is called, “matched funding” and you Volunteering need to find the match! Again, contact Sue Lumby on 0113 247 8185 for more details. Be part of one of Otley’s most happening places. Rub shoulders with award- winning artists, experience exciting theatre, muck in with the music and Eco minds helps people with mental health issues to participate have a good time! We need volunteers for stewarding • box office • cafe • in environmental projects. For more info. Contact Changing technical • publicity • distribution • events • fundraising Spaces Help Line on 08453 671 671. Got a couple of hours a week to spare? Like to make new friends? Pop in for Community Spaces is about improving the environment on your a chat, call the Volunteer Co-ordinator on 01943 467216 or email doorstep! To find out more phone 08453 671 671. [email protected] Now, this is a really interesting one! Local Food will distribute Lottery grants to a variety of food related projects to help Young People’s Summer Activities make locally grown food affordable. They can fund allotments, box schemes, farmers’ markets and food co-operatives. Phone Our holiday activities programme will be: Week 1: August 3rd to 7th and 08453 671 671 to find out more. Week 2: August 17th to 21st. These are likely to include arts and drama, music and dance. 01943 467466 for more details Remember that VA-L runs a variety of courses relating to skills in writing funding applications. Contact Tina Ashby for more July Event Highlights details. Friday 3 July: 7.30pm – 10 pm If in doubt or if you want a funding application checking before Young People's ‘Schools Out' Club Night - 12-16 year olds only!! Tickets: £5 you send it off and your organisation’s income is 100K or below I am here for you. Saturday 4 July: 7.30pm Adverse Camber present Hunting the Giant’s Daughter: 8pm Good Luck ! Arthurian tale with music & magic. Tickets £8/£6 in advance, £9/£7 on the door. Kathy 0113 297 7943 Thursday 9, Friday 10 & Saturday 11 July Otley Players present Measure for Measure More information from Otley Courthouse Box Office or from www.otleyplayers.co.uk Volunteering with Autumn programme out in September: includes favourites like Cabaret Heaven: great theatre from North Country Theatre, Hi Jinx, Found Theatre, tutti frutti and Otley Players: our popular diverse music strand and the Otley Action for Older People return of the very popular week long Science Festival. Otley Action for Older People is supported by a highly motivated team of volunteers who are a Otley Victorian Fayre major resource when it It seems many months since everyone braved the wind and the rain last comes to providing vital December to make 2008’s Victorian Fayre a great success. services to the older people in our community. We are proud to announce that we have been able to donate £1000 to Behind Closed Doors. This is due mainly to the generous support of Many of our volunteers Sainsbury’s Otley. Their contribution to the programme printing and are longstanding payment of the buses that ferry the local children into town during the members of the local day, meant that after paying all our expenses ( almost £9,000 !!! ) we had community whose ages a surplus for the first time in quite a few years. Our thanks go to Jamie range from 28 to 90. Here and all the staff at Sainsbury’s Otley, not just for the financial support, but at Otley Action we Elsie Hendry also for providing our Father Christmas, his helpers and presents for the believe that you are local children who sang carols during the day. never too old to make a contribution and support and training Planning for this years Fayre is about to start and once again we are asking are always provided. for volunteers to help put on this wonderful event. There are only nine Elsie Hendry, who is 82, has been a volunteer with us for the people organising the 2009 Fayre and any help, no matter how small, past eight years. In this time Elsie has been an escort on would be much appreciated. We meet at the Red Lion Public House on the minibus trips, has helped at numerous coffee mornings and second Tuesday in the month starting on 12th May at 7.30pm. fundraising events and is a member of the sub-social We would also welcome applications from local charity/community groups committee. Elsie can be found every Tuesday at the Otley who would like to run a stall at the Fayre. In past years the numbers of Action Luncheon Club and every Wednesday at the Pool and these have declined and more trade stalls have been booked. We would Arthington Luncheon Club. She also helps out in the office when like to address, with your help, this imbalance. The Victorian Fayre has the need arises. become a great tradition in our town for over twenty years, with your Elsie was a founder member of the Otley Ladies Forum over support it will continue for many more in the future twenty years ago and for many years led a walking group in the Steph Lee, Chair of Otley Victorian Fayre Committee. [email protected] town. If you would like to join our happy band of volunteers or require further information please telephone 463965 Chevin Forest Park Countryside News

Lots of exciting things are happening on The Chevin. Recently a new wetland area has been created through funding awarded to The Friends of Chevin Forest Park as part of the BBC Breathing Places scheme. Also a small herd of Dorset Poll sheep have been introduced into a grassland area to help prevent some steep slopes becoming dominated by scrub, and maintaining magnificent views across the Wharfe Valley. These have been removed during the summer months but will be back in October. Another major success has been the re-opening of The White House café through a partnership with Leeds City Council’s Adult Services Centres for people with learning disabilities. The café is doubling up as a Visitor Information point for The Chevin with leaflets, display boards and other information available during the café opening hours – which are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10am to 2pm (with additional days hoping to be added in the future). Access to the café is only available on foot from car parks or footpaths from Otley town centre (including Walkers Are Welcome route). For those with mobility problems there is some limited parking at The White House by prior arrangement on 01943 465 023. Leaflets, with general information about The Chevin, and the latest edition of Chevin News are available in The White House café during opening hours or Otley Tourist Information Centre. For more information about The Chevin, orienteering courses, and upcoming events visit www.leeds.gov.uk and enter “Chevin” into the search facility. Friends of Chevin Forest Park

Your help is always needed and very much appreciated on the second Sunday of each month carrying out a range of practical conservation work. A pair of gloves awaits! All you need is enthusiasm and an enjoyment of outdoor work. For more information contact Daniel Malster on 0113 237 5268 Chevin Wildlife WATCH children’s group

This group is a wonderful way for you and your children to learn about wildlife. If you have children and want to have a wild time why not come along on the first Saturday and third Sunday of each month. For more information contact Jenny Watts on 0113 237 5329 or e-mail [email protected] Upcoming Events Tuesday 30th June Easy Access Walk 10am start Meet at The White House for a gentle stroll. Mobility scooters available for those with mobility problems – advance booking required for use of scooters. Parking available at The White House, access via Johnny Lane. For more info contact Richard Marsh on 01943 465 023 Thursday 16th July Chevin Safari 10.30am start Meet at East Chevin Quarry car park, East Chevin Rd DECLUTTERING? A challenging 8.5km walk with a lunch break at The White House. For more info contact Daniel Malster on 0113 237 5268 HAVING A CLEAR-OUT? Tuesday 18th August Don’t THROW IT AWAY – FREECYCLE IT! Ranger Roadshow 1pm start Meet at Surprise View car park on Yorkgate for Family Fun For more info contact Steve Clavering on 0113 237 5207 Wednesday 19th August

Bushcraft Skills 10am start Instead of taking your unwanted stuff to the tip, pass it Meet at The White House, Johnny Lane on to someone else who does want it by joining the For more info contact Daniel Malster on 0113 237 5268 Freecycle Network – an international, internet-based Friday 11th September movement run by a network of local volunteers. The White House Heritage Open Day 9am start Get rid of stuff you don’t need See some old photos followed by a walk & tour of Get stuff you do need The White House at 11am Toys, clothes, bicycles, furniture, appliances, gardening tools, Friday 11th September musical instruments, computer equipment, construction materials Reptile Survey just about anything – as long as it’s FREE and LEGAL Looking for lizards, slow-worms and even grass snakes FREE & OPEN TO ALL Contact Kerry Fieldhouse on 0113 237 5326 for more info 24 hours a day, 365 days a year Sunday 13th September OTLEY FREECYCLE is one of the many local groups in the Wildlife Discovery Day–Glorious Galls 2pm start Freecycle Network Meet at The White House, Johnny Lane Now 1,400 MEMBERS LOCALLY Discover the secrets of those strange bumpy things on plants For more info contact Steve Joul on 0113 237 5317 To find the group closest to you and JOIN TODAY Go to www.freecycle.org Sunday 20th September Freecycle reduces waste and gives new life to used stuff. Bushcraft Skills 10am start Otley Freecycle thanks Otley Town Council for their support. Meet at The White House, Johnny Lane For more info contact Daniel Malster on 0113 237 5268 Welcome to Otley Shopmobility

Scooters for Hire ! For anyone that finds it difficult to get around, Otley Town Council has an excellent solution. The Town Council runs it’s own Shopmobility Scheme and is a member of the National Federation of Shopmobility, which aims to help people with mobility difficulties. This pull-out supplement tells you all you need to know about the Otley scheme and how to use it !

The Otley scooters are located in various sites around the town and they are available for use by residents of Otley and visitors. They are excellent for getting about from shop to shop within the town, doing the weekly shopping at Waitrose, or round one of the town’s other attractions such as Stephen Smith’s and the Chevin. The machines are stable and able to carry some shopping and a wide variety of people have used them over the years.

Some users have their own machine at home but prefer not to struggle with loading that into the car, some users are temporarily disabled by an accident such as a broken leg or damaged ankle and do not need the permanent use of electric scooter, whilst other users are looking to purchase their own machine but find it useful to practice to test out to the practicality of a scooter within the town centre prior to laying out their own funds. Whatever the reason, Otley Town Council’s scooters are ready and available for use…….. so read on for further information. Everything you need to know about Shopmobility in Otley ! Who can use Shopmobility? Shopmobility is for anyone, young or old, whether their disability is temporary or permanent. It is available for those with injuries, long or short-term disabilities – anyone who needs help with mobility. Shopmobility is about the freedom to get around. You do not need to be registered disabled to use it. How much does It Cost? The Otley Shopmobility Scheme is completely free-of-charge to all users, on all scooters. How do I join the Otley Shopmobility Scheme? To become a registered user, you first have to undertake some basic training in the use of the scooters. All the training in Otley will be provided by Otley Town Council at the Civic Centre on Cross Green. Once this has been completed, the staff will then register you and provide you with your Membership card and number. Then you can hire any of the scooters in the Otley scheme whenever you wish to do so, providing that there is one available. When you have completed the training, you feel confident with the scooter, the staff are satisfied that you are in control of the vehicle and you have your Membership details - off you go! The whole process takes no longer than 30 minutes maximum and in most cases you will be off in about 15 minutes. How do I book a Scooter for future outings? Once you are a registered user and are in possession of your Membership Card, you then just telephone the location of your chosen scooter to make a booking. Choose whichever venue is most convenient for you. When you make a booking you will be asked to quote your membership number and state the date and time you wish to hire the scooter. On collection of the scooter you will be asked to produce your Membership card, which you must do before you will be allowed access to the scooter. Booking details for all the venues where scooters are located in Otley are given on the next two pages.

The Shopmobility Scooters are loaned subject to the following conditions: 1) They are not to be taken away from Otley Town Centre. 2) They must be used with due care and attention at all times. 3) They must be returned, in good condition, to the place from which they were hired at the time stated. 4) Membership cards must be produced for inspection when collecting a scooter. Scooter Locations Otley Town Council Civic Centre, Cross Green, Otley, LS21 1HD

Otley Civic Centre has two scooters available for hire. This is also where the initial training and registration for the Otley Shopmobility scheme takes place. Once you have completed the necessary training you will then be give a membership card, with your own personal number, which you can then use every time you wish to hire a scooter in Otley.

Booking details: Scooters are available Monday to Friday from 09.30 am to 4.00 pm Telephone: 01943 461413 Waitrose 60 Westgate, Otley, LS21 3AS

Waitrose supermarket has an electric shopping scooter available for hire. This has a larger basket than the usual scooters which gives extra room for all your shopping. Waitrose combines the convenience of a supermarket with the expertise and service of a specialist shop, with fresh produce arriving daily from all over the world. It also has it’s own café serving a wide range of freshly prepared food. It is well served by buses from Otley bus station, with some services actually going into the car park. Booking details: Scooters are available Monday to Saturday from 09.30am to 7.00 pm and Sundays 10.30 am to 3.30 pm Telephone: 01943 468467 Otley Chevin Forest Park Car parks on East Chevin Road and York Gate

The Chevin is a prominent natural feature rising steeply above the town of Otley. This 180 hectares park of woodland and crags is criss-crossed by paths and offers fine views across the Wharfe Valley. Open all year it is a unique countryside experience with facilities for walking, picnicing or simply enjoying the great outdoors. The Chevin has three Pride Ranger scooters. These are more robust versions of the standard Shopmobility scooters – (see picture 1) and a Rural Pursuit Vehicle – (see picture 2). The Rural Pursuit Vehicle is a modified vehicle that can accommodate a wheelchair in order to allow access to areas otherwise too difficult to negotiate. At The Chevin we are now the proud owners of the first RPV in the country that has been specially designed to carry a wheelchair and one other person. So either the person in the wheelchair or a chauffer can do the driving. These scooters are for use on two specific routes only from The White House on the Chevin, from where the scooters are hired.

1 2

The White House has a fully-accessible toilet and changing facilities. These are available during café opening hours, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 am to 2 pm. Booking details:

Scooters are available Monday to Friday from May to September. Telephone: The Chevin Estate Officer on 01943 465023 Pool Road, Otley, LS21 1DY

Located one mile east of Otley on the Pool Road, Stephen Smith’s is a haven for garden lovers. As well as a wide range of plants and garden furniture, it has a wonderful gift shop and Hattie’s restaurant, which serves breakfasts, morning coffee, cooked lunches and afternoon tea. It has a large FREE car park with disabled parking and disabled toilets, so accessibility is easy for everyone. Booking details: Scooters are available Monday to Saturday 09.00 am to 5.30 pm and Sunday 10.00 am - 4.00 pm Telephone: 01943 850050

Safety Considerations Do’s & Don’ts

We have set out below some recommendations for safe use of powered scooters as a reminder for Shopmobility customers. Don’t forget that shopping areas can be very crowded places and consideration needs to be given at all times to other pedestrians.

This list is not comprehensive but will help make SHOPMOBILITY A GOOD EXPERIENCE FOR EVERYONE • Always keep the speed reduced when in busy or confined areas. Be courteous and show consideration for other people in the town, shop or on the Chevin. • Remember that pedestrians often stop suddenly and you may not be able to stop as quickly as they do, so reduce your speed and keep your distance. • Always follow the instructions given to you when you receive your training. • Reduce your speed when cornering. When leaving the vehicle unattended, always take the key with you and try to leave it where • it won’t inconvenience others. Use dropped kerbs whenever possible and, when climbing kerbs, approach them at right • angles. • Never let anyone else use the scooter issued to you. Never let anyone ride on your vehicle with you, even if this is a small child, • as this upsets the balance of the vehicle.

Finally, if you do have an accident of any sort always inform the place from where you hired your scooter. They can then give the vehicle a safety check before somebody else uses it.

Bus Questionnaire World Champion in Otley Local Bus Service provider, FIRST, has already made some Otley’s very own World service alterations and is planning to make further cuts in Champion Cyclist has been July. Otley Town Council would like to have your views about honoured by the inaugural these changes to try to get either First or another operator to Town Mayor’s Award for restore the cuts. Outstanding Personal Please fill in the Questionnaire below and return to: Achievement and Inspiration Otley Town Council, Civic Centre, Cross Green, Otley, LS21 1HD for Youth. or visit: www.otleytowncouncil.gov.uk The former Town Mayor, AND COMPLETE IT ONLINE Councillor Jim Spencer set ------up this important award for those who achieve not only The following service has already been withdrawn - 928 the most remarkable Night Rider. Late night weekend service from Leeds to personal level in their chosen Pool and Otley area but in doing so inspire Did you use this service? Yes the youth of Otley to reach Lizzie Armitstead & Councillor Jim Spencer for their dreams. No Lizzie Armitstead has achieved a large collection of cycling medals at World If yes, how frequently Weekly Championship level. However, as the Town Mayor pointed out it was not only the Fortnightly number and quality of medals that were so impressive but her sheer courage and determination that she demonstrated in winning which in turn is such an Other important inspiration for the youth of Otley. What do you do now it is no longer running? At a ceremony earlier this year an engraved rose bowl was presented to Lizzie whilst she showed off her world championship cycling jersey and a selection of Taxi her increasing collection of gold medals! Don’t go to Leeds Drive Other (please state) 33/33A Leeds – Horsforth –Yeadon – Guiseley – Otley Otley Camera Club’s It is planned to reduce this service from a 20 minute interval to a 30 minute interval 64th season Do you use this service? Yes No has come to a close and it has been another successful year If Yes, when? 5/week The variety of competitions produced a wide range of work, with some 2-5/week people submitting images for the first time and challenging the more less than 2/week established club members. In fact the growth in club membership has Morning/evening for commuting been a real highlight of the year and something that has been commented Shopping on by visiting judges. Whilst some camera clubs are struggling with numbers Otley has increased the membership, possibly due to the Other advance of digital photography. 653 Bradford – Otley – Harrogate This 5 daily service is due to be withdrawn completely We have seen a decline in the traditional slide work but projected images and prints have increased as members expand the use of their cameras. Do you use this service? Yes During the year we have held a number of practical and expert sessions No as part of the club’s desire to improve everyone’s standard. It is fair to say that over the year everyone has learnt something new and are actively If Yes, when? 5/week putting it into practice. 2-5/week less than 2/week So what next for the club? As in the past we will run informal evenings for members on Thursdays to make the most of the good weather and longer Morning/evening for commuting evenings with our cameras before the start of the new season. The 65th Shopping season starts in September with another opening exhibition and guest Other lecture at Otley Courthouse, keep your eyes open for details in the future. Which Direction To/From Bradford To/From Harrogate In the meantime thank to everyone who has supported the club this year, we look forward to working with everyone again in the new season and Other Comments welcoming new and current members in September, as well as seeing many of you at Otley Courthouse. ______To find out more about the club please visit the club’s web site ______http://www.otleycameraclub.co.uk/

------LEEDS CITY COLLEGE Park Lane College HAS A NEW NAME From 1 April 2009, the vision of Leeds City College became a reality as staff and students of Leeds College of Technology, Leeds Thomas Danby and Park Lane College Leeds and Keighley merged to form what will be one of the biggest and most influential colleges in the country. The new Principal Peter Roberts will, together with the Governors, provide a firm foundation from which the new college can make a real difference locally, regionally and nationally. For Park Lane College in Otley it is business as usual, together with our Evening Centre in Guiseley School. Publicity for our courses starting in September and October will be available in August but if you would like to enquire or call in before then, you are welcome to talk to the Administrative staff and collect a leaflet. We are at 6a Charles Street, Otley. Telephone 0113 216 2380 or e-mail [email protected] Hospital Enter the DragonDragon

Continuing with our This is the time of year to watch ponds for the emergence of theme “inside the deadliest predators of the insect world. Having information grown slowly beneath the water for up to 3 years, about where they have functioned as lurking ambush Wharfedale hunters for everything from water fleas to Hospital” recently tadpoles and small fish, dragonfly and I saw a copy of a damselfly larvae or nymphs are at last ready report about an incidence of MRSA at the to evolve from the aquatic to the aerial world. hospital. During the night or early morning the nymphs This is the only case there has been for more than clamber up emergent plants. They then take several Photo: David O’Connor 22 months and as you probably know, any hours to split their skins, wriggle free and cling to the empty occurrence is investigated to establish the “root shells as they expand their crumpled wings and bodies to become glittering coloured cause.” In this instance the patient made a full adults. They then take to the air where, for a few brief weeks, they hover and zoom with recovery and it has been established that the abrupt changes of direction like miniature helicopters. With speeds up to 20 mph the cause arose from an abscessed tooth that had bigger dragonflies are almost immune to other aerial predators, being too big for swallows occurred before admission. Obviously the patient or swifts, although our most agile falcon, the Hobby, an uncommon visitor to our area, will was isolated and intense precautions taken to catch and eat them on the wing. prevent any possibility of spread. Where to see them? Garden ponds may produce brilliant blue Azure and Large Red Interestingly a senior doctor attending the hospital Damselflies, spectacular blue, green and black Southern Hawker Dragonflies and perhaps recently, as a patient, ran her finger over every Broad-bodied Chasers which might be mistaken for massive blue bees. These and other fixture and fitting between out patients and the x- species may also be found around the ponds and channels at Otley Wetlands and Gallows Hill. ray department and was amazed that there was no dust or dirt! What a compliment to the cleaning Brown Hawkers, distinguished by their amber wings, and Banded Demoiselles with butterfly- staff. like flight and dark blue wing bands, patrol the banks of the River Wharfe. Most of us will be aware that we carry on our own For some others, like Common Hawker and Black Darter Dragonflies, it is worth looking on bodies all kinds of infections like MRSA that do not the moors around , while the biggest of them all, the Golden-ringed Dragonfly, trouble us in normal circumstances. But the event can occasionally be found on the quieter, shadier stretches of the . of any kind of break in our skin, through accident, Denis O’Connor surgery or even the insertion of a medical cannula, does open the possibility that these otherwise innocent infections enter our blood stream with potentially serious effects. Our resistance is lowered if we are ill and quite often our bodies don’t react to antibiotic treatment because of hope previous over use. For this reason, our Doctors are On Monday May 11th the long awaited Hope Ministry began at the Sports Centre on reluctant to prescribe antibiotics for everyday the Weston Estate. The project is being run by volunteers from all the Churches in illnesses. Otley headed by Rev. John R. Parker a retired United Reformed Church Minister. It A quite amazing fact is that there has never been opens Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday mornings 10.00 a.m. to 12 noon. a recorded incidence of MRSA infection on the The aim is to bring people together from the estate over a free cup of tea or coffee, surgical ward at the hospital, again a huge and to engage people in conversation with each other. From those conversations we compliment to all of those staff associated. hope to create friendships which will help to bring a new sense of community and Increasingly patients are tested before admission belonging to people living in the area. Eventually we hope there will be several to see if there is any trace of infection. If found groups springing from the project and pursuing their own agendas and programmes this can be appropriately treated helping to which will improve the quality of life on the estate for many. protect and prevent any cross infection. In In the opening week we had people sharing with us who had lived on the estate for addition we can do many things to reduce over three years without having had a sustained conversation with anyone in that infections, good showers or baths, clean clothing time. We had a disabled person who lived near enough to walk to us and meet people and bed linen each day for several days before he would not have normally met and mixed with. We have had people of mixed race admission will all help to avoid the unnecessary and culture. So the project has in some small way already begun to fulfill its complications of infection. purpose. We look forward to the future with hope and expectation and hope many So personal hygiene is vital to protect us and we more will drop in for friendship over a free "cuppa". are entitled to ask that hospital staff maintain the highest standards themselves. You will see John R Parker throughout the hospital alcohol gel available for all of us to use. Strangely though, soap and water is still most effective against these nasty germs. A Matron I worked for, who had trained with Archie McIndoe the famous burns surgeon and was Despite the appalling weather at the time of writing it is the time to look forward to the meticulous about preventing infection, demanded that we frequently washed our hands in hot soapy Council’s Annual Garden Competition water for the length of time that it took to sing “happy birthday!” Friday 24th July 2009 If you need hospital attention, choose Wharfedale Categories - you are entitled to make a choice. Our hospital has an outstanding record for infection prevention Large Garden and control of which the staff is rightly proud – Small Garden let’s help them keep it that way – and we all know Tubs and Containers the words to ”happy birthday!” Business Residential Accommodation Laurence Wood Community Spirit Contact Town Clerk’s Office to Register - Telephone 01943 466335

Otley Town Partnership Otley Parish Scout Group

A message from the Chair of OTP - Peter Heald On the 26th of April the whole of the Otley Parish Scout Group and Explorers met in a car park in Ilkley to prepare for the St Georges Day Parade. From here Otley Town Partnership is a community representative we were led by a Marching Band with all the other Groups from Wharfedale to partnership and company limited by guarantee. The role of the St Margaret’s Church for the Service. We had a very interesting Church Service Partnership is to act as a strategic regeneration organisation and including a talk about a tightrope walker which explained to us the difference as a local representative body for the area. between belief and faith. After this we renewed our Scouting Promises which It’s members encompasses individuals from a wide concluded the Service. It was a highly enjoyable afternoon. range of governmental, voluntary, business and other community groups in order for it to be informed and best Otley Parish Scout Group and Explorers have been involved with The Chevin able to represent this diversity of interests. Wildflower Meadow and Traditional Orchard Project on Otley Chevin. Ten The partnership’s key aim is to create a better environment years ago a traditional orchard was planted with varieties of apple trees for all sections of the community by involving all these sectors in suited to local conditions. Despite it being just above the recommended altitude limits for orchards in this country and on a steeply sloping north- “Working together for Otley” facing field, the trees have established well. AN INTRODUCTION TO THE The Project to improve the orchard is being organised by the Chevin Estate Manager on behalf of the Parks & Countryside Service of Leeds City Council, Working Groups of the Partnership in conjunction with the Friends of Otley Chevin and the Northern Fruit Group. A grant was kindly provided by the Wharfedale Naturalists to support the Environment Group work. In March the Otley Parish Scouts and Explorers planted a new cordon of Consultation with the community is a requisite of all major fruit trees. This was followed in April by the Beavers and Cubs who planted developments & the Environment group are frequently requested to wild flowers and climbing plants to improve the diversity of the meadow. We comment on major developments in and around Otley. It works with are all looking forward to seeing the fruits of our labours. representatives of the Conservation Task Force to ensure any Felix Morgan developments are mindful of the need to protect Otley’s historic environment. It has recently produced a street scene guide in cooperation with Otley Town Council and Leeds City Council and keeps a watchful eye on matters relating to the built environment such as Royal Britsh Legion the new street lighting and the Market Place improvement scheme. Otley Branch of the R.B.L. was formed in 1922. This was only 1 year after the Marketing Group formation of the Royal British Legion. Now 87 years later we are still going strong. We have some stalwart members who were recently rewarded for The aim of the Marketing Group is to raise the profile of Otley through their efforts in a meeting at the Civic Centre. various campaigns and activities. These include the promotion and running of the highly successful Farmers’ Market, attendance at Branch certificates were awarded to Mr L Bulman and Mr A.D. Moore, Mr H various shows (such as the Otley Show), the production of OTP’s Robinson also received a Branch Certificate and a plaque for his work over the printed publicity and the managing of the OTP website. The projects past 18 years, 10 year Poppy Certificates were awarded to Mr W Bower, Prince are very varied and the work is incredibly interesting and fulfilling. Henrys Grammar School and Mrs A Masterson. Waitrose who have supported us since their opening receive a 5 year certificate and Mr Robinson and Mrs Transport Group Gagen received, respectively, a tie clip and a long service badge. In addition to dealing with the more recognised modes of transport The awards were made by Mr J Sayles, (County Chairman) and Mrs D. Westlake e.g. cars, buses and trains, OTP’s transport group deals with (County fundraiser). Also attending were Ms.P Marshall (District Chairman) and numerous other projects. These currently include walking, cycling, Mrs Iris Cawthorn (Leeds Member on County Committee). A good afternoon was parking, road safety and Shopmobility. As with the other groups the enjoyed by all and after the presentation refreshments were served. variety of work means that the work is exciting and challenging. Our numbers are slowly increasing and anyone can now join the R.B.L. We are All of the project work – and the many successes it generates – from currently in negotiation with the local Army Cadets to reach amalgamation. the working groups are feed back to the Steering Group of the Town Poppy collectors are always needed. Our meetings are at the Civic Centre at Partnership and it’s Directors. 2pm, on the last Monday in the month excluding August and December. CAN YOU HELP? Doris Gagen If you live in the Otley area and would like to help us to improve the quality of life for residents and to encourage visitors to the town, Otley Town Partnership would be delighted to hear from you. The work is unpaid but highly rewarding and varied. We would particularly like to hear from anyone with I.T. or graphic design Duke Of Edinburgh's Award Scheme skills who would be willing to ‘come on board’ and lend a hand in Cross Green, the first Monday of the month from 6:30pm. any of the three working groups listed above. If you feel that you We run residentials from that - we've already run one residential - in have the required enthusiasm and are willing to contribute your March - and a number of camping trips this year, with more to come. time and efforts, please get in touch with us. Just come along if you'd like to join. Please email your details to the OTP office at: Beehive Club for young people with special needs. [email protected] and we will get back to you. Thank you!! Every Thursday, 6:30 - 8:30 pm at Cross Green Community Centre. That is well-attended and has lots of trips and visits. If you'd like to Otley Town Partnership has it’s own join, call us on 0113 2144673 or email [email protected] Information Trailer Wharfe Meadows Which is widely used at various events, including last year’s Great Mobile Youth Club Otley Yorkshire Show. It was, of course, present at this year’s 200th Friday evening, 4pm - 5pm. Come down and say hello. celebration of the Otley Show. We are also meeting groups of young people on Thursday nights The aim of the information trailer is to promote Otley in general 7pm - 9pm around Weston Lane to plan a programme of activities. and all that it has to offer to visitors. Particular emphasis is given Depending on what they young people want, to Otley’s events, especially the extremely successful Farmers’ we may be opening the youth centre on a Thursday. Markets which are held every month. It also carries a large display Look out for our staff if you'd like to get involved. of Metro’s bus and train timetables and information leaflets on All these activities are for young people aged 13 - 19 Otley and it’s many attractions and events. The trailer was purchased through a grant from the West Yorkshire Rural Transport Ross McGibbon - Youth Work Manager Partnership and is administered by Otley Town Partnership. It is Guiseley & Rawdon, Otley & Yeadon 07891 271039 0113 2144673 available for hire and anyone interested should ring the Secretary on 01943 851204 or email on [email protected] to discuss rates and availability. OTLEY BUTTERCROSS CHARITY STALL LEEDS CITY The Buttercross is available for hire, free of charge, to all charitable organisations on Fridays COUNCILLORS SURGERIES and Saturdays. Anyone interested can contact Geraldine Crosby on 01943 466335. 1ST THURSDAY IN EACH MONTH YEADON TOWN HALL - 10 AM TO 11 AM OTLEY TOWN COUNCIL COUNCILLORS 1ST SATURDAY IN EACH MONTH OTLEY LIBRARY - 10 AM TO 11 AM WEST CHEVIN WARD James Michael Spencer (Lib) ‘ThornCroft’ Burras Lane Otley LS21 3ET 465906 3RD THURSDAY IN EACH MONTH [email protected] OTLEY CIVIC CENTRE - 10 AM TO 11 AM Graham P Kirkland (Lib) ‘Westholme’ Westgate Otley LS21 3AT 850522 3RD FRIDAY IN EACH MONTH [email protected] [email protected] YEADON TOWN HALL - 2PM TO 3PM Mary Vickers (Lib) 3 Riverdale Court Otley LS21 1SU 465813 [email protected] “If the surgery times are inconvenient please ring Linda Bradley (Lib) 12 Belmont Avenue, Otley LS21 2DE 850459 to arrange a more convenient time” [email protected] GREG MULHOLLAND MANOR WARD MP’s SURGERIES Peter Moore (Lib) 11 Lisker Avenue Otley LS21 07946 433062 0113 2266519 [email protected] Lawrence Ross (Lib) 7 East View Terrace Otley LS21 1JN 461909 DROP IN SESSIONS (no appointment needed) [email protected] Shelagh Ross (Lib) 7 East View Terrace Otley LS21 1JN 461909 First Saturday of the month [email protected] Asda Stores, Holt Park 11am-12pm Ray Smith (Lib) 6 Lisker Avenue Otley 461485 Third Saturday of the month [email protected] Otley Library, Otley 11am-12pm Somerfield, Headingley 1-2pm DANEFIELD WARD Nigel Francis (Ind) 6 Pearson’s Buildings Leeds Road Otley LS21 3BQ 463467 PRIVATE SURGERIES (by appointment only) [email protected] First Friday of the month Gerard Francis (Con) 12 North Avenue Otley LS21 1AJ 462047 Headingley Cardigan Centre, 1-2pm [email protected] Otley Civic Centre, 4-5pm Neville Birch (Lab) Mauville 13 St Clair Road Otley LS21 1DE 462703 Third Friday of the month [email protected] Meanwood Community Centre, 1-2pm Alan Furze (Lib) 4 St Clair Terrace Otley LS21 1JA 465308 Robert Craven Hall, Bramhope, 4-5pm [email protected] PRINCE HENRY WARD OTLEY TOWN Christine Campbell (Lib) 23 Harecroft Road Otley LS21 2BG 465025 Colin A Campbell (Lib) 11 Prince Henry Road Otley LS21 2BE 465909 COUNCIL SURGERIES [email protected] Second Saturday of the month 10 am – 11 am Philip Bye (Lib) 38 The Whartons Otley LS21 2AG 467199 OTLEY LIBRARY [email protected] ASHFIELD WARD Millie Stott(Lib) 9 St.Martin’s Avenue Otley LS21 2AN 464204 Otley To Become the Start Derek Henderson (Lib) 34 Northwell Gate Otley 461788 [email protected] OF THE SIX DALES TRAIL Ian Jackson (Lib) 42 The Oval Otley LS21 2EE 463422 [email protected] An exciting new long distance walk running from Alma Thackray (Lib) 12 Wilkinson Way Otley 462171 Otley to is being developed by a David Reid (Lib) 60 St David’s Road, Otley LS21 2AW 462741 local walking group. The Six Dales Trail, to be [email protected] launched in 2010 is being created by the Otley Walkers are Welcome Group and funded by Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Continued This will be a nationally-recognised 39 mile The route of the Six Dales Trail Group was walk. It starts in otley and, after leaving pioneered by John Sparshatt, treasurer of Otley Walking Festival Wharfedale, traverses the Washburn valley, the National Long Distance Walkers’ Nidderdale, and to finish Association. The Otley group is working 2009 at Middleham in . with John on both the development of the See the Walking Festival programme for route and the design and conent of an further details of walks and events, All walkers who enjoy a challenge and want to attractive and comprehensive guidebook to including meeting times and locations. walk in an unspoilt part of the Dales will be help those undertaking part or all of this Otley Walking Festival 2009 programmes looking forward to the launch of this trail in trail. are available at Otley Civic Centre, 2010. The scenery lives up to its status- the Otley Courthouse, libraries, outstanding natural beauty of the landscape is Those who want to keep up-to-date with Tourist Information Centres, enhanced by the traditional activities like this exciting new development, or who and local businesses. farming and forestry. The route of the trail is would like to know more about the work of full of contrasts. Towns, villages and hamlets Otley’s Walkers are Welcome group should The programme can be accessed along the way will provide opportunities for visit their new and developing web site, electronically at www.chevintrek.co.uk. refreshment or overnight accommodation. waw-otley.org.uk

PUBLISHED BY OTLEY TOWN COUNCIL PRINTED BY CHIPPENDALE PRESS 65 BONDGATE, OTLEY. TEL: 01943 465756 PRINTED on 100% RECYCLED PAPER email: [email protected]

THE VIEWS AND ALL ADVICE EXPRESSED BY CONTRIBUTORS TO THE NEWSLETTER ARE THE VIEWS OF THE CONTRIBUTOR AND MAY NOT REFLECT THE VIEW OR OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL COMMITTEE FOR OTLEY MATTERS OR OF OTLEY TOWN COUNCIL