FREE THE ORIGINAL GUIDE TO LEEDS • FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT OUR CITY

leedscitymagazine.co.uk

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS • MARCO PIERRE WHITE • STEPHANIE HIRST • ROBBIE ROGERS • AND LOADS MORE

Issue 123 Cover Model: HEATHER SMALL

MARCO PIERRE WHITE STEPHANIE HIRST ROBBIE ROGERS

LEEDS PRIDECITY SPECIAL HOMES... • EVERYTHING INTERIOR YOU NEED TO KNOW DESIGN ABOUT THIS SPECIAL YEAR’S EVENT

DURING LEEDS PRIDE

ExperienceTHE THRILL Napoleons Casino & Restaurant Leeds @NapsLeeds West Street, Leeds, LS3 1LX Facebook.com/NapoleonsLeeds 0113 244 5393 www.napoleons-casinos.co.uk/leeds napoleons_casinos

*TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY. STRICTLY 18+ Welcome... PLEASE READ, PASS ON AND RECYCLE CONTENTS AT A GLANCE...

WE HAVE LEEDS COVERED Property | Nightlife | Fashion | Music | Food Travel | Sport | What’s On WANT TO ADVERTISE? Then contact us on 0113 234 0683, text us on 0775 386 3701 or email [email protected] ONLINE ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES WWW.LEEDSCITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

The City Dweller Magazine, designed and produced by Absolute Media ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, photographic, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of the publishers. All contents are copyright ©. Whilst every effort is made to ensure leeds-citydweller accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies howsoever caused. Contributed material does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. The editorial policy and general layout of this publication of the City Dweller Magazine are at the discretion of the publisher and no debate will be entered into. No responsibility can be accepted for illustrations, photographic material, artwork or advertising material whilst in transmission or with the publishers or their agents unless a @LeedsCityDwell commitment is made, in writing, prior to receipt of such items.

4 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk

SITE-SPECIFIC

www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 5 CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE’S LEEDS PRIDE SPECIAL AS OUR CITY PREPARES TO CELEBRATE OUR DIVERSITY, WE’VE GOT EVERYTHING YOU COULD NEED TO KNOW FOR THE EVENT COVERED

With Leeds’ annual to know ahead of the and Leeds Markets. Stephanie Hirst to former celebration of LGBT+ celebrations on the 5th Leeds United footballer Pride just around the and 6th August. If you’re If you’re just looking for Robbie Rogers, to find corner, on the 5th and 6th visiting the city then we’ve venues to attend on the out what Leeds Pride August, we’re celebrating rounded up three of our day then we’ve rounded means to them and more. its enormous impact on favourite hotels for you to up some of the best You can see a selection our community. stay in, with each offering offers on over the Leeds of their quotes to your their own unique perks. Pride weekend, including right and you can read As Yorkshire’s biggest Whether you want to be at Revolución De Cuba. the full interviews in this celebration of LGBT+ life, in the heart of the action We’ve previewed some magazine. and the largest completely at Malmaison Hotel or the of our favourite artists free Pride in the UK, Cosmopolitan Hotel, or who will be performing As always, we’ve also it’s no surprise that the if you want to be a little as part of Leeds Pride got plenty more for you city unites for Leeds further out relaxing in the too, including Paul Stone, in this issue! Including Pride weekend. With the comfort of the new ibis Blonde Electra and our fitness tips, a round up support of the businesses Styles hotel in the Merrion cover star Heather Small! of what’s on in Leeds, in the city, the economic Centre, we’ve got you business advice and so impact of Leeds Pride covered. City Dweller Magazine much more. is estimated at over £3 are also finding out what million as over 40,000 We’ve also got several Leeds Pride means to the people attend the events wonderful messages characters of the city. over the weekend. of support from the We’ve caught up with Have a Fantastic biggest venues in the city, famous LGBT+ figures In this issue, we’ve got including from Brewery and other senior figures Pride! everything you need Wharf, the Merrion Centre in the city, from Radio DJ TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH LEEDS PRIDE, HEAD TO: WWW.LEEDSPRIDE.COM 6 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk ‘LEEDS PRIDE IS ABOUT CELEBRATING LIFE AND LOVE AND SPREADING HOPE ‘LEEDS PRIDE IS A GREAT WAY THAT THINGS ARE FOR THE WHOLE CITY TO COME GETTING BETTER.’ TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE LGBT RIGHTS IN THE UK.’ ALEXANDRA MCEWAN- HANNANT, LIAQAT ALI, LEEDS PRIDE LEEDS PRIDE DIRECTOR DIRECTOR

‘PRIDE IS A DAY ‘LEEDS PRIDE IS ABOUT LIVING WHERE WE CAN LIFE WITH NO FILTER AND CELEBRATE OUR BEING YOUR TRUE, ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS AUTHENTIC SELF.’ A COMMUNITY.’ STEPHANIE HIRST, ROBBIE ROGERS, RADIO DJ FOOTBALLER

‘PRIDE EVENTS ARE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR US TO BE GRATEFUL FOR WHAT WE HAVE, TO JUST ENJOY OUR LIVES AND BE OURSELVES.’

OWAIN WYN EVANS, BBC WEATHERMAN

TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH MORE EVENTS IN LEEDS, HEAD TO:

WWW.LEEDSCITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 7 MAKE LEEDS PRIDE 2017 THE BEST ONE YET WITH REVOLUCIÓN DE CUBA

FROM COCKTAILS TO COFFEE, TAPAS TO TACOS, THEY OFFER SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE THIS LEEDS PRIDE

As Leeds Pride they’ve got you covered. accommodates people of all ages and backgrounds, If you’re the sort of everyone celebrates the person who likes to make weekend in a different it a week long event, way! However Revolución celebrating by attending De Cuba will satisfy your their fringe festival events needs, whatever you’re and enjoying everything looking for. Leeds has to offer in the days leading up to the The authentic Cuban event then they’ve got lots bar, found on the corner of reasons to attend. Their between Lower Briggate Happy Hour stretches and Call Lane, offers from 3pm till 7pm and everything you could offers 2-4-1 cocktails, £3 possibly want. From pints and more! Plus they cocktails to coffee, tapas have live entertainment, to tacos, they offer including authentic Cuban something for everyone. music, most nights! This includes their Salsa For a kick off, their offers Social which offers a free on the day of the parade beginners class of salsa at take some beating! Their 6.30pm every Tuesday. Havana Great Time deal on Sunday 6th August offers With all of this in mind, 2-4-1 tapas, cocktails and Revolución De Cuba are coffees all day long! So the perfect venue to whether you are looking visit during this year’s for a delicious meal to Leeds Pride. They offer start the day off, some everything from fun for all delicious cocktails (their the family to never ending cocktail menu include cocktails! What more an unrivalled range of could you ever want? rum cocktails) so you can properly celebrate or somewhere to relax with FACT BOX a coffee and your family while watching the parade, Location: they’ve got the perfect In the heart of the action venue for you. 64 - 68 Call Lane LS1 6DT On the Saturday and Sunday mornings, t: 0113 350 6556 they’ll also be offering w: www.revoluciondecu- Bottomless Brunch up ba.com/bar/leeds/ to 1pm! For just £25, you fb: fb.com/decubaleeds get one brunch dish and t: @revdecubaleeds unlimited drinks for a 2 hour time period! So Opening Times: whether you fancy treating Mon - Wed 11.30am - 2am yourself to a few glasses of Thu & Fri 11.30am - 3am prosecco, or a few Bloody Sat 10:30am - 3am Marys to kick the day off, Sun 10am - 2am

8 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Preview

CELEBRATE LEEDS PRIDE IN STYLE AT COSMOPOLITAN HOTEL LEEDS

IF YOU’RE AFTER THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR LEEDS PRIDE THEN THE COSMOPOLITAN HOTEL IN LEEDS HAVE GOT WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR

To truly take part in the action during the Leeds them using the details in the locations in the city, Leeds Pride celebrations, Pride weekend, they offer fact box. the Cosmopolitan Hotel you need a comfortable everything from drink deals is exactly what you’re hotel to stay in, a lively during the activities on the But if you’ve ever had the looking for! Why not get bar to offer a range of Sunday to hosting fringe pleasure of drinking at the in touch with them using incredible drinks and events in the build up. Cosmopolitan, you’ll know the fact box and reserve a venue with a true that their cocktail selection your room? party atmosphere. The These fringe events include really differentiates them Cosmopolitan Hotel offers the famous Leeds First from the rest. If you’ve all of this. Friday Event on the 4th never tried their cocktails FACT BOX August, fitness classes on before, this year’s Leeds The hotel has over 80 the 5th August as part of Pride is the perfect chance Telephone: 0113 243 6454 luxurious bedrooms, the Leeds Pride LGBT Sport to! They’ll be conjuring up Location: offering the right blend Fringe Festival, an LGBT a range of classic cocktails, In the heart of the action of comfort and class, all Faith Event on the morning served in authentic plastic 2 Lower Briggate equipped with televisions, of the 6th August and the cups so you can take Leeds, West Yorkshire free WIFI and more. The Leeds Lesbian Social night them outside to join in the LS1 4AE rooms are a delightful on the evening of the 6th parade of the parties on Website: combination of traditional August. These are held in Lower Briggate, and they’re www.cosmopolitan-hotel- and contemporary designs their various function rooms offering a fantastic deal. It’s leeds.com that will satisfy all guests, that they’ve allowed the just £6 for a cocktail or two Email: council and community for £10! What more could whether they’re coming for info@cosmopolitan-hotel- business or pleasure. groups to use free of you ask for? leeds.com charge as part of their Located on the thriving commitment to celebrating So if you’re looking to Social Media: @CosmoLeeds Leeds Pride! To find out celebrate Leeds Pride in Lower Briggate, which is www.fb.com/ right in the heart of the more information about the style in one of the best cosmopolitanhotelleeds events, get in touch with www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 9 “I WAS WILLING TO LOSE EVERYTHING TO BE MYSELF”

AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH RADIO DJ STEPHANIE HIRST

With over 11 years hosting which is all vinyl. Even though stuff. A lot of businesses get that to the public is hugely Capital FM’s Breakfast I do love new music, I do me to come in and talk to their satisfying, because it educates. Show ‘Hirsty’s Daily Dose’, love some of the older stuff. staff as a motivational speaker. When people have said to me Stephanie Hirst is one of the (Capital FM DJ) JoJo once that they don’t get it, I just say biggest radio stars in the said to me, “there’s two types You see I was at a point in ‘you’re not meant to get it’. of music; good music and bad my life where I was hosting country. music” and it doesn’t matter the biggest breakfast show If you’ve got a chronic back what genre it’s from because if outside of London, along with pain then I’ve got no idea how After starting her career a song is good then it’s good! the national chart show on a that feels but I can empathise aged 12, she has had a hugely Sunday, this brought in lots with it and I can accept it; it’s successful career, winning a I literally play anything from of money, enough to buy an all about acceptance. Every grand total of 14 awards for her the late 50s to the late 90s Aston Martin and all the fine single one of us on this planet work in radio. and everything is played live trappings in life but it meant is born with the ability to from vinyl. I have a collection nothing. If you’re not truly accept things so why don’t Stephanie Hirst also revealed of about 25,000 singles and happy in yourself then what’s we just use it for the greater that she was transgender albums so even if someone the point in having any of that? good? You’re not meant in 2014. Since then, she has asks for a recommendation, I to get it, you’ve just got to become a huge influential can just go get the record and So I blew it all up. In my eyes, I understand it. figure in the LGBT community, stick it on. It’s the only show was willing to lose everything aiming to help other people in like it in the country. to be myself. In this issue of City Dweller similar positions as her. Magazine, we’re celebrating Also, randomly I’ve started Of course. So after City Dweller Magazine met her Leeds Pride 2017. Can you DJing in my kitchen on to find out what she’s up to going through gender tell us what Leeds Pride Facebook and it’s gone nuts. now and to hear her thoughts reassignment treatment in means to you? I was doing a gig in Wakefield on Leeds Pride 2017. 2014 you’ve been hugely one weekend and I set my involved in the promotion It’s huge! I’d seen London DJ stuff up beforehand to Pride and Manchester Pride After originally making your go through some new tunes. of LGBT rights. Can you tell grow over the the years but name on Yorkshire’s radio Anyways I started DJing and us a bit about that? last year, I was on Leeds City stations, including Capital streaming it on Facebook Council’s open top bus and FM and Radio Aire, where Live and all of a sudden, there I knew when I came to be there and to see people you started your career at was 3000 people watching! I out publicly that I had from all walks of life clapping, thought it was interesting so a responsibility, I had the early age of 12, what are cheering and waving flags was I’ve kept doing it... one week responsibility to show the you up to now? wonderful. Leeds Pride is about about 170,000 people were public that trans people aren’t freaks and weirdos. Basically, living life with no filter and Oh I work at Burger King! watching and I just went ‘oh our brains form opposite to being your true, authentic self. *Laughs*. my god’. what we come out looking like, thus we grow up with a You can hear Stephanie Sorry, that was too easy! It’s I’m also doing some national disparity between our mind Hirst on BBC Radio actually three years to the day radio in the summer... but I and our body and that’s all it is. Manchester, her show that I finished at Capital FM can’t talk about that yet! I also I knew as early as 5 years old and now, I do a weekly show speak at schools, work with is available on the BBC that I wasn’t a boy! Explaining on BBC Radio Manchester, businesses and that sort of iPlayer.

10 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk COME VISIT US IN THE BUILD UP TO LEEDS PRIDE...

WHERE THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING HAPPENING

WWW.LEEDSMARKETS.CO.UK

@LEEDSMARKETS LEEDSMARKETS CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE MEET YORKSHIRE’S FAVOURITE WEATHERMAN WE CAUGHT UP WITH EVERYONE’S FAVOURITE FLAMBOYANT TV PRESENTER OWAIN WYN EVANS TO FIND OUT ABOUT HIS CAREER AND WHAT LEEDS PRIDE MEANS TO HIM

Most of our readers will what advice would you do for a while. My parents we’ve moved forward so know you as the weather give them? probably hated it when I much as a society. But I presenter for Look North in was growing up! think they’re so important! Leeds! Can you tell us a bit It sounds so cheesy and Let’s not forget the horrible about your career before really predictable but This issue of City Dweller things that are happening moving to Leeds? just be yourself! I have a Magazine is celebrating around the world to gay flamboyant personality and Leeds Pride. What does people and I think the Pride I used to be a weather I’m unapologetic about it; Leeds Pride mean to you, events are an opportunity presenter and a journalist I feel that’s really worked personally? for us to be grateful for in Wales before becoming for me. In the past I’ve been what we have, to just enjoy a weather producer in told to be less camp but I Pride events are something our lives and be ourselves. London but I’ve been just think you’ve got to be that have always been very working in Leeds for two yourself. important in my life. I came Obviously for this year’s years now, I’m moving up out when I was 18 and that Leeds Pride weekend, soon and I just absolutely I think a lot of people also was a long time ago now, we’re all hoping for love the city so I’m going to think weathermen are given things have changed a lot sunshine! Can you stick make it my home. a script but that’s not the since I came out! your neck out on the case, you’ve got to analyse line and tell us what the One of the great things the forecasts and really It’s so important that weather will be like for the about this job is that the understand them. people have a place where 5th and 6th August? weather effects everybody! they can see that we’re all Everyone wants to know You’re obviously a really in this together and where I wouldn’t be able to! One what the weather is doing busy guy, how do you they can see that gay thing I will say is that I’m which means I get to be switch off away from work? people are now accepted going to be doing my on TV and I get to really in society! Leeds is a great sun-dance and praying talk to my viewers and One of things I love doing city for gay people too and to weather gods for dry my listeners about my is playing the drums. I I can’t wait till Leeds Pride weather. job, which is basically was a semi professional to celebrate this diversity. forecasting the weather! drummer for a time back Want to know more about in Wales, working as a A lot of people ask if we Owain Wyn Evans? Give If somebody wanted to session drummer and that still need Leeds Pride him a follow on at follow in your footsteps, was what I really wanted to events in 2017 because @OwainWynEvans

12 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Preview

INSIDE THE NEWLY REFURBISHED ROOMS AT MALMAISON HOTEL LEEDS WITH THEIR NEWLY REFURBISHED ROOMS, MALMAISON HOTEL IS THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR YOUR NEXT NIGHT IN THE CITY

City Dweller Magazine room service whenever looking for somewhere to rooms at Malmaison Hotel were recently given an you need. When you’re stay for the Leeds Pride Leeds enough. Get in exclusive look inside looking for a night away in weekend. touch with them using the the new rooms inside the city, Malmaison tick all details in the Fact Box. Malmaison Hotel in Leeds the boxes. Situated just off Lower city centre. Briggate, where the But lets not forget all the Leeds Pride celebrations FACT BOX With a reputation for lovely little luxuries they come to a wonderful end, being innovative and class as ‘the norm’. After Malmaison is in a prime Address: stylish, it’s safe to say that all, who doesn’t need location if you’re wanting In the heart of the action we expected big things. non stop wifi, blow dried to be in the heart of the 1 Swinegate, To no one’s surprise, hair, crease free clothes, action. Considering it’s Leeds, Malmaison delivered. a delicious hot cuppa also a prestigious hotel LS1 4AG when you wake up and with some of the most Website: These new rooms are the option of getting your up to date rooms in the www.malmaison.com/ nothing short of first laundry done for you? whole of Leeds, it really locations/leeds class. Mixing necessities is a great place to stay with comfort, they create Combining these rooms if you’re wanting to Twitter the perfect setting for a with their wonderful Chez celebrate Leeds Pride in @TheLeedsMal night in the city centre. Mal bar and restaurant luxury. Imagine a glass of fizz which boasts one of the Telephone: 0113 426 0047 in a bubble bath, power best food and drink menus But whether it’s for Leeds showers with fabulous you’ll find, it’s worth a trip Pride, or just treating Bar Times for fragrances you can take to Malmaison whatever yourself to a night in the Non Residents: with you on your travels, you’re after. It’s also a city, we can’t recommend 11am - 11pm big, beautiful beds, and superb venue if you’re checking out the new www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 13 City Review

BENGAL BRASSERIE MODEL, EVENT PROMOTER AND CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE COLUMNIST ZACH WILLIAMSON VISITS THE MERRION CENTRE TO CHECK OUT LEEDS’ NEWEST INDIAN RESTAURANT

A midweek treat meal in As a little after work treat I have always been a lover occasion or celebration. They Leeds has always been a I invited my good friend of Indian cuisine so picking also offer a lunchtime buffet favourite tradition of mine. Rachel along to join me for from the menu proved quite from 12 till 2.30pm daily for It’s a great opportunity to a beer and to try the à la hard as everything sounded just £8.85. As we were nearly catch up with family and carte menu and some of its delicious but in the end we bursting at the seams we friends whilst sampling newly added dishes. As we chose to share both our picks skipped dessert even though walked into the bar area so we could get a varied I was tempted as they all some of the city’s latest the beautiful smell of Indian taste of the menu. Personally sounded amazing. restaurant offerings. One food filled the air and we this is how I think an Indian of these restaurants is were warmly greeted by the should be enjoyed; we had After a short chat at our the new Bengal Brassiere, manager and seated on one Lamb Chops and onion bhajis table with the manager, who situated just outside the of the large white leather to start. The onion bhajis really makes the effort to Merrion Centre which is sofas. I was firstly taken melted in the mouth, whilst look after you, we left feeling quickly becoming the area aback and impressed by the the lamb chops were tender full and in a great mood. We to eat in Leeds Centre. decor and colour scheme and perfectly cooked. For had a really great experience used, it was really light and main we had an absolute thanks to the authentic Over the past few years this contemporary. feast, we chose Chicken food, the service and the area of Leeds has become Tikka on the Bone with Garlic affordability which will keep host to some of the nicest A drinks order was taken in Naan Bread and a Prawn us and many others coming international restaurants in minutes and before we knew Dopiaza with Keema Rice. back time and time again. the city including MyThai, it, a beer and a large glass of For those not versed with Marco’s New York Italian, white wine arrived to wash Indian food, a Dopiaza is a Thank you to all the staff, Smoke BBQ & Bulgogi Grill, those midweek blues away. mild to medium curry with a we will be back again very but Bengal Brasserie is the The menu is very impressive, rich sauce and my personal soon. only one offering mouth- not too much and not too favourite. watering Indian cuisine. With little but the perfect mix of the huge on site CitiPark classic Indian favourites with Bengal brassiere cooked it to car park (which is very Bengal Brassiere’s own twist. perfection. Even though this See you about! affordable and leaves you As we were looking at the was an intimate meal for two, Zach with only the shortest of menu, a portion of popadoms the venue is also great for an walks to the restaurant) it’s arrived at the table complete after work meal and drinks perfectly located and is also with a pickle tray which as it has a varied drinks FACT BOX in close proximity to the First was a nice touch. So far the menu and is very family Direct Arena. staff had been excellent and friendly with a relaxed vibe Address couldn’t do enough for us. which makes it great for any 11 Merrion Way, LS2 8BT

Website www.bengal-brasserie.com

Social Media @BengalBrasserieArenaQuarter

Telephone 0113 246 1853

Opening Times Mon - Sat 12pm - 2:30pm 5:00pm - 11:30pm Sun 12pm – 10.30pm

14 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk Pride Advertv3 A4:Layout 1 1/6/17 16:57 Page 2

The Merrion Centre hopes everyone has a fantastic Pride 2017

There's never been a better time to shop, eat, drink & be Merrion! INTRODUCING ANDREW REVILL FROM COSMOPOLITAN HOTEL

WE CAUGHT UP WITH COSMOPOLITAN HOTEL’S DEPUTY MANAGER TO FIND OUT WHAT LEEDS PRIDE MEANS TO HIM

Ahead of Leeds Pride, staff have been here for for Leeds Pride, what does based around Leeds Pride. we wanted to find out years! We all love working Leeds Pride mean to you? We’ve got a Leeds Trans what Leeds Pride meant here and it’s such an event, and on the Saturday, to the people of Leeds. enjoyable place to be. I’ve worked in Leeds for we’ve got LGBT fitness One of these is the three years and I’ve really classes to name a few! Deputy Manager at the It’s quite a demanding seen what the event means All our staff dress up and Cosmopolitan Hotel. role but it’s extremely to Leeds. At the end of the because of the atmosphere rewarding. Doing events day, this is a place where in the city, they love We met up with Andrew like Leeds Pride makes it you can be yourself and working that weekend. Revill to find out his worth it! To be honest, just for me, it’s the coming background in the industry, working in Leeds makes it together of the community The location couldn’t be what Leeds Pride means to worth it. and people from so many any better either. We’ve him personally and what different backgrounds that got three bars, plenty of the Cosmopolitan Hotel What advice would you makes it so special. We’re indoor seating but we have are offering over the Leeds give to someone wanting so happy, as a business, an open bar outside as we Pride weekend. to follow in your footsteps that we can get involved open all of our shutters in the industry? with the celebrations but and we’ll be serving What’s your background in it’s not just about us, it’s plastic bottles, two for £10 the hospitality industry? I was always that person about the whole area. cocktails and more. Lots who never knew what I of people will be staying I did hospitality at wanted to do but then I What are Cosmopolitan for the entire weekend and university! Since then, I’ve got into hospitality and it Hotel offering over the we’ll be fully involved the worked my way up the just worked for me. Even Leeds Pride weekend? whole weekend. If you’re ranks. I came to Leeds though the hours aren’t looking for somewhere to three years ago and started great, the rewards are A huge range of stay in the city and you’ve at the Cosmopolitan Hotel there; if you start at the promotions! We’ve got not booked already, look no as their Conference and bottom and you work hard three function rooms further! Events Manager, and now then you’ll go far. If it’s not that we’ve opened up to I’m the Deputy Manager. for you then you’ll know… the council and all of the Why not meet Andrew but if it is for you then just community groups with for yourself on Lower The great thing go for it. free room hire from 7am Briggate, LS1 4AE or get in about working at the for them. As a result, we’re touch with them by ringing Cosmopolitan is that all the With our city getting ready hosting lots of events 0113 243 6454.

16 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Cocktails

CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE’S COCKTAIL OF THE MONTH WITH EVERYMAN CINEMA’S JOE BURTON

While Everyman Cinema So this month, we met up with Another good thing about we can make sure we offer only deserves its reputation as their very own Joe Burton for Everyman is that even though great quality cocktails. a premium cinema, perfect our Cocktail of the Month! if you go into a different for a night out and to Everyman Cinema, it’s still got We do specials for films too. the same feel but at the same If there’s a big film out then watch your favourite films, What do you think makes Everyman Cinema unique? time, it’s quite different. Every we try and offer themed it’s so much more than one has its own unique touch cocktails. For Bridget Jones’ that. We blend cinema with a luxury and it keeps its independent Baby recently, she’s choosing bar and a great space, it’s feel. between an Englishman and At City Dweller Magazine, we not like anything you’ll see an American in the film so we love nothing more than sitting elsewhere. In terms of food, What’s the best thing made two themed cocktails outside on their fantastic you can order it to your seats about working at Everyman which you could choose from! terrace and treating ourselves and it’s more ‘fine dining’ than Cinema? to a few cocktails. You don’t other cinemas. Why did you choose to even need to be seeing a film! The team! The atmosphere make an Elderflower Spritz here is so good, we do a lot for us today? of things outside of work and we’re so close knit. It’s aesthetically pleasing and it’s a perfect summer drink as Also, we get offers on films it is really refreshing. Alongside which is pretty good! our Mojitos and Passionfruit Daiquiri, it’s our best seller. Can you talk to us about your cocktail menu at Head to Everyman Cinema Everyman Cinema? at Trinity Leeds to find out for yourself! You can ring First and foremost, we’re a them on 0871 906 9060 or cinema so we didn’t want a you can find out more by huge cocktail menu. So we’ve heading to their website: put together a smaller menu so www.everymancinema.com ELDERFLOWER SPRITZ

WHAT’S IN IT:

Elderflower Liqueur Prosecco Soda Served with a Lemon

THE TASTE:

It tastes like summer. Just picture sitting outside on Everyman’s incredible terrace in, drinking a refreshing fizzy cocktail and basking in the sun. We’ll see you there! www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 17 CELEBRATE LEEDS PRIDE AT ONE OF LEEDS’ NEWEST HOTELS: IBIS STYLES THIS YORKSHIRE THEMED HOTEL IS A GREAT PLACE TO STAY DURING LEEDS PRIDE! WHILE YOU’RE AT IT, YOU CAN ALSO VISIT MARCO’S NEW YORK ITALIAN RESTAURANT NEXT DOOR... When it comes to staying from Millennium Square, bed featuring sketches of unique hotel that showcases over in the city, especially you’re still fully involved in the Leeds skyline, you’ll feel everything that Leeds has to for an event such as Leeds the action. proud to be in the city centre be proud of, you won’t go Pride, it’s so important to as soon as you walk in this far wrong with ibis Styles. get it right. With so much But one thing this 134 room hotel. Whether that’s for Leeds variety to choose from, you hotel really offers is a lovely Pride on the 5th and 6th need a hotel that offers Yorkshire theme. They’re There’s also pictures of the August or just for a relaxing great quality, a perfect clearly proud to be in the county littered around the stay in Leeds! location and a range of area and staying here is hotel. Even if you’re just unique personal touches. perfect for anyone who visiting for Leeds Pride, you’ll Considering it’s also next is simialirly proud of their really get a taste of what it’s door to the incredible ibis Styles Leeds City Centre Yorkshire roots. like to be a Yorkshireman. Marco’s New York Italian Arena ticks all of these boxes. Restaurant, what more could Situated on Wade Lane, as While this is a chain hotel, It’s not just gimmicks though. you want for a hotel in the part of the Merrion Centre, it’s got an independent The hotel really offers a city centre? it’s perfect if you’re looking feel with nods to its comfortable night’s stay in for a hotel that is near Yorkshire background found the city centre, with a great If that’s just sealed the deal enough to the action but also throughout. From Leeds atmosphere combining with for you, read our interview away from the huge noise of Festival inspired artwork luxurious decor to create a with Marco Pierre White the Lower Briggate area. As in some of the bathrooms lovely, welcoming feel. So if about his new restaurant at it’s only a five minute walk to the headboards of each you’re looking for a lovely, the Merrion Centre below. MARCO PIERRE WHITE INTERVIEW WE RECENTLY HAD THE PLEASURE OF SITTING DOWN WITH MARCO PIERRE WHITE AT HIS NEW RESTAURANT MARCO’S NEW YORK ITALIAN IN THE MERRION CENTRE IN LEEDS

It’s great for you to be here! ever send white roses. We’ve normal to me because I used used to say ‘a tree without As a city we’re really proud got to bow to the house of to have Sunday and Monday roots is just a piece of wood’ of our own! York. off when I worked at The so I think you’ve got to be Boxtree. loyal and it doesn’t matter It’s nice to be back in Leeds So does it mean a lot to you what you do in the end. actually. Even though I’ve that you’ve opened Marco’s Leeds has changed so Pigeons always come home lived down south for the New York Italian in Leeds? much and the one way to roost in the end. majority of my life, I moved system makes it all rather down there when I was just It’s nice to be back in Leeds complicated! Even though I’ve been a bit of a gypsy a teenager at 19 but you and it’s changed a bit but I Leeds has changed, Boar all my life but I love going don’t forget your roots. used to come to the Merrion Lane is the same, Leeds back to Harewood. That Like, I never send red roses Centre, to a night club called Markets is the same, the was my playground as a to girls - I’ve only ever sent ‘The In Time’ I used to go Town Hall is the same and child you see, so that’s my white roses and I think every every Sunday. It was weird I have a lot of affection for favourite place on earth, in Yorkshire man should only but it seemed perfectly Leeds and my mother always the gardens of Harewood.

18 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk Along the wharf front down But when I say busy, if I Luck is being given the road and thought, if I turn to Woodhall Bridge because was doing pomme chateau, opportunity and it’s the right, turn right, turn right, I’ll that’s where I used to fish as where you turn potatoes, awareness of mind that takes walk in a circle - there’s some a child. I come from humble you’re doing them for 200 advantage. kind of logic in there. beginnings, I must’ve been people and not for 5 like in a born on the last council restaurant. It’s like, how did I get So I walk up this road, turn estate in Leeds at the time my job in Le Gavroche? I right and I’m walking up that because I just used to walk I actually used to polish the wrote to two restaurants, road and I find myself looking up the street, across the clients shoes in the afternoon I wrote to Gavroche and through the window of a golf course and I was on the round the back of the lodge I wrote to a place in The restaurant. I can see that it’s Harewood estate. So how and one day, on the table, New Forest called Chewton posh and the name above lucky was I?! Rather than there was a small book and Glen, Gavroche sent me an the door was ‘Le Gavroche’ growing up in a city. on the cover it said ‘The Egon application back in French, That was the restaurant that Ronay Guide to Hotels and I tried to fill it out, I couldn’t I’d written to for a job, so What advice would you give Restaurants in Great Britain’ read it and made a mess of I thought ‘before I get my to someone who wants to so I started flicking through it, so I was too embarrassed coach in the mooring I’ll follow in your footsteps? it, and I noticed two things. to send it back. Chewton knock on the door and ask Glen however invited me if they have any vacancies’. Well I would never Firstly, that restaurants for an interview so I got the And that’s how I got my job recommend anyone to go had stars. I didn’t know coach from Leeds to London at Le Gavroche! in my footsteps, but what that restaurants had stars! Victoria and then from I would recommend to any So I started reading up London Victoria to Dorset. And that’s why I say success young person who wants about it and there was two They offered me a job in the is born out of luck. Luck is to go into my industry, and restaurants in Harrogate, pastry but I’m not interested being given the opportunity I look back at the early there was Olivers and in desserts, so I said I’d think and it’s awareness of mind beginnings, and I would Number 6 who both had a about it. that takes the opportunity. recommend for any young star rating but then what person to put their career in I noticed was that the I got on the coach to come Book at Marco’s New York the right hands. If you put best restaurant in Britain, home and when I arrived in Italian by giving them a call your career in the wrong according to Egon Ronay the station from Dorset it on 0113 831 4530 Find them hands at the start, the who was the most powerful was rather dark and I was at Marco’s New York Italian, chances are that realising a critic at the time, was just 15 rather lost, I wasn’t used to ibis Styles Leeds City Centre dream are very slim. miles down the road at The city life! So I asked this Royal Arena, Wade Lane, LS2 8NJ. Boxtree and I went back into Mail man ‘how do you get I was very lucky, I started at a the kitchen that night and I to Victoria Station?’ He said To book your stay at ibis three star hotel in Harrogate thought to myself ‘maybe if ‘I’m going there! Jump in’ so Styles Hotel, ring 0113 831 called The Hotel St. George I want to be a chef maybe I jumped in with him, he took 4530. You can find them and did I learn much about I should work at the best me to Victoria coach station both on Wade Lane, LS2 food? No I didn’t but did I restaurant in Britain’. It took and I’d missed my last coach 8NJ. You can find out more learn how to be fast? Did I me about six months to pluck home. The next coach is in at www.ibis.com learn how to run? Did I learn up the courage to apply for the morning at 8/9 o’clock how to use a knife like never a job. so I thought to pass the time before? Because that Hotel I’ll just walk the streets. I set Chloe Hare was so so busy, and in those I always say in life, that off out of the back of Victoria & The City Dweller Magazine Team days everything was fresh. success is born out of luck. Coach Station, walked up the www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 19 City Preview

CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE CHECKS OUT THE NEW SPECIALS MENU AT HOTEL CHOCOLAT THE NEW SPECIALS MENU INSIDE HOTEL CHOCOLAT’S ROAST+CONCH CAFE IS DEFINITELY WORTH TREATING YOURSELF TO

While Hotel Chocolat guarantee nowhere else go for a Ham Hock or their So what are you waiting is famous for its huge in Leeds offers that! It’s fish beignet. Whichever for? Why not book your range of delicious sweet every bit as exciting and one you choose, you won’t next visit today? Get in treats, their cafe is one of memorable as it sounds, be dissapoited. touch with them using their huge selling points! their food is truly great. the details in the fact box City Dweller Magazine To follow that up, there’s below. recently visited to get an But it’s their new Specials a choice between their exclusive preview of their Menu that has really delicious Marinated new Specials Menu. caught our eye. Served Chicken, their unique FACT BOX Monday till Friday in their Aubergine and Spinach Located on 55 Boar cafe, it’s perfect for an Curry or their Seared Sea Address Lane, as part of Trinity afternoon meal or even a Bass, offering something 55 Boar Lane Leeds Leeds, Hotel Chocolat’s business lunch and at 2 for all tastes. LS1 5EL Roast+Conch cafe, courses for £20 or 3 for restaurant and bar is a £25, it’s great value. But it’s their desserts Website truly brilliant venue. With where they really excel, hotelchocolat.com lovely wooden decor, a We’d recommend heading to nobody’s surprise. chilled vibe and friendly down for a lengthy Offering either a Rhubarb Phone staff, you’ll be impressed lunch and soaking in the Crumble, three home 0113 2442 421 from the moment you atmosphere while enjoying made sorbets or their Social Media enter. a delicious three course Rabot Mousse collection, fb.com/RoastandConch meal. For starters, we’d you’ve got a huge range @HotelChocolat Their menu is based recommend the Marinated of delicious sweet foods. @RoastAndConch around contemporary Courgette Salad served They’re all so outstanding anglo-West Indian food with sweet potato, crispy that we can’t even pick Opening Times: with a savoury twist of onion and a feta-cacao one, you’d have to try it Please see website for roasted cocoa, and we whip but you could also out for yourself! details.

20 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk PINK GORILLA HAIRY LEMON

What’s hotter than Love Island and the recent heatwave put together? Yeah, you guessed it – it’s Pink Gorilla’s July events schedule! Leeds has been hard to keep up with recently, with new bars and restaurants launching just about every week, and we’ve been lucky enough to work with the biggest and best of the bunch.

Be At One recently opened their second bar in the city on Boar Lane, and the launch party went off like a sky from New York’s finest loft rocket. There are far too many bars, and will have a strong amazing cocktails on their focus on cocktails and music. extensive menu, but if we had to pick one it would have to Look out for the launch party be the Kinder-inspired Buenot. this month, where you can Amazing! expect some very special entertainment to kick things off We’ve also been working in style. We’re not allowed to closely with D&D London say anymore just yet, but follow recently, and helped them us on Facebook, Instagram and launch the fabulous Issho at Twitter to catch all the latest Victoria Gate with a lavish, star- news – it’s going to be big! studded party. The Japanese rooftop restaurant really upped And, finally - can you believe the ante, with free-flowing Roxy Lanes is almost three Laurent Perrier Champagne years old? Nope, neither can and sushi on tap, and not to we. We’re currently arranging mention the incredible hosting their birthday celebration, and and entertainment. This was we can reveal that they are hands down one of the best going to literally bowl guests launch parties we’ve done, and over with a party to remember! the feedback was incredible despite some very sore heads That’s it from the Pink Gorilla the next day! team this month, but we’ll be back next month with the If you’ve not yet been, we latest new launches in Leeds. recommend you get a table We hope to see you at a booked as this is the venue to forthcoming event. go to in Leeds this summer. Hot on its heels is D&D London’s next venture, East 59th St. Also Love residing in a stunning Victoria Gate rooftop location, this bar PGHL! x and restaurant takes inspiration

To get in touch with PINK GORILLA HAIRY LEMON www.hairy-lemon.co.uk | www.pinkgorilla.co.uk 0113 234 6969 www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 21 City Nights Out

CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE AND CROWNE PLAZA LEEDS CELEBRATE THEIR £4.5 MILLION REFURBISHMENT

City Dweller Magazine new look and feel of the being treated to fizz on anything from an evening recently teamed up with hotel. As everything from arrival, a range of delicious drink to a destination for the Crowne Plaza Hotel in the function bars to the cocktails and some your dream wedding. Leeds to showcase their bedrooms have been wonderful canapes. It was incredible new look to refurbished, the hotel now certainly an evening to Crowne Plaza Hotel Leeds the movers and shakers of boasts one of the most remember! is located on Wellington Leeds. impressive spaces in Leeds. Street, LS1 4DL. You can Why not check out the also find out more at Following a £4.5 million The night was a huge newly refurbished Crowne www.cpleedshotel.co.uk refurbishment, guests success with the Leeds Plaza for yourself? It’s or by ringing them on were amazed by the glitterati in attendance the perfect location for 0871 942 9094.

Photography: Oliver Dixon

22 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk

City Finance City Legal

TO HAVE LANDLORDS! AND ARE YOU TO HOLD UP TO DATE? Vaughn Thomas from Louise Burgess, from Levi Sovereign Wealth Solicitors LLP, presents Private Clients, is her legal column in City back with his column. Dweller Magazine.

Arranging insurance for Life cover should be put in If you are a landlord of a to decrease by over 5%. Any married couples should place even by those who do residential property, it is measures expected to cause arguably go hand in hand not consider themselves to be important that you are up such decrease would be exempt. with saying “I do”. wealthy – and it is relatively to date with the energy straightforward to arrange. performance requirements. You must record all exemptions However, not everyone will be Financial matters are perhaps in a national register. If you do able to secure cover through the not the first consideration when standard market. From 1 April 2018, all properties not register the exemption, it getting married. But it is vitally being let out must have a will not be effective and you important to review current “Increasingly, people are getting minimum energy performance will not have complied with financial arrangements and married when they are older rating of E on an Energy the regulations. The register is establish new plans at the start or indeed getting married for Performance Certificate (EPC). planned to open on 1 October of a significant new stage of life. a second or third time,” says Non-compliance could lead to a 2017. Torquil McLusky, managing fine, so it is important that you Perhaps the first and most director at Pulse Insurance, a are ready for the changes. When will this start? obvious thing to consider specialist insurer. The regulations will apply from 1 is wedding insurance, given What properties will this apply to? April 2018 when you grant: that even a simple ceremony and reception will cost many Till death us do part? The requirements will apply • A new tenancy to a new tenant; thousands of pounds – £25,090 We all hope that marriage will to residential private rented • Or a new tenancy to an existing on average, according to a recent last forever, but the fact is that properties in England and tenant. This includes extensions survey. (www.hitched.co.uk, more than 40% of marriages Wales. It will apply to Assured or renewals to existing tenants, accessed 30 May 2017) now end in divorce (Office for Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs), as including statutory periodic But once the honeymoon is National Statistics, November well as other types of tenancy tenancies that come into over, the serious thinking needs 2015). Inevitably, financial plans agreements. existence at the end of fixed to start, and this is the point at made as a married couple may term ASTs. which couples will need financial not survive a divorce – especially Some types of property are if they no longer make financial advice. excluded from the regulations. From 1 April 2020, the sense. These include some temporary regulations will apply At the simplest level, a couple buildings; those intended to be to all privately rented property might want to maximise their “Unfortunately, divorce is not something that we can insure used for less than four months (except where excluded from the ISA allowance and other tax- of the year and buildings that regulations). This includes those efficient investments, perhaps against,” says McLusky. “The best we can probably do is a are particularly small. Listed let out on tenancies that started by moving some assets from buildings and similar may also be before 1 April 2018. one spouse to the other, thus prenuptial agreement, which, excluded to a degree. taking advantage of the fact that although not yet recognised in Fines transfers to a spouse are exempt statute, the UK courts will at What if it is below an E rating? Where a local authority from Capital Gains Tax. They may least take into consideration also want to think about their when making a settlement.” Landlords will be prohibited suspects that a landlord has not pension beneficiaries, dividend from letting out a property with complied or has not obtained income and property ownership; Many couples will have joint an EPC with an F or G rating. an exemption, they can serve and they will of course want to life insurance policies in place, You must carry out energy a compliance notice. They will update their Wills. and often the premium is paid efficiency improvements to bring request further information by just one of the parties. If the property up to at least an E that they consider necessary But there is another reason why that spouse stops paying or rating. to confirm compliance. If the marriage is a financial marker: cancels the policy, then the other information is not provided, it is a time when people first partner could be left without life Are there any exemptions? or is not enough to confirm insurance. Sadly, lots of break- start sharing their lives – and The regulations only require that compliance, a local authority ups become bitter or lengthy their debt – with someone else. landlords make appropriate, may issue a penalty notice. because couples can’t agree how Consequently, it is an opportune permissible and cost-effective Individual penalties are up to to split the finances or continue moment to put some protection improvements. Landlords may £4,000, depending on the in place. paying insurance premiums. In those cases, individuals will need be eligible for an exemption from offence. some professional financial and reaching the minimum standard, Life insurance should be a high- but must provide evidence Next steps priority consideration, as it can legal advice. that they qualify. Some of the Landlords have less than a provide the security that money exemptions are that: year to make any necessary is available to meet mortgage “The bottom line is that divorce impovements to their rental and other financial commitments means thinking again as far as should one partner die. Similarly, financial planning is concerned,” • The landlord has carried out properties. If you have a lease a ‘joint-life second death’ whole- adds McLusky. cost-effective improvements, but coming to an end or are looking of-life policy could help settle the rating remains below an E. at renewing a tenancy, it is Inheritance Tax liabilities when • The landlord requires consent advisable to act now. Failure to both individuals have passed Regards to do the works, but the do so could leave you unable to away. occupying tenant or freeholder re-let your property, or liable for Vaughn! withholds that consent. substantial fines. To receive a complimentary guide covering Wealth • A qualified, independent Management, Retirement Planning or Inheritance Tax surveyor has confirmed that If you require legal advice, call carrying out the improvements Levi Solicitors on 0113 2449931 Planning, contact Vaughn Thomas of Sovereign Wealth LLP would cause the property value or visit www.levisolicitors.co.uk on 0113 414 3590 or email [email protected]

24 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Interiors

YOU NEVER GET A SECOND CHANCE TO MAKE A FIRST IMPRESSION INTERIOR DESIGNER, PROPERTY GURU AND CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE COLUMNIST CHRISTINE YORATH TELLS US HOW IMPORTANT COMMUNAL AREAS ARE TO APARTMENT BUILDINGS

and maintenance. The best access to each apartment It is such a waste when sales values and the best would have only been developers overlook the rents are achieved where served by a corridor. obvious and miss out on the apartment entrance such an opportunity. I did halls are immaculate, well The buildings with good the interiors including all designed and welcoming. management and a the communals for Biba concierge service usually House in York a couple Over 15 years ago I built have a higher quality of of years ago and it is 18 luxury apartments at appearance but even no coincidence that we 19 Wellington Street and then can be sterile and achieved higher prices per installed expensive and impersonal. One of the square foot in sales and beautiful light fittings best examples I have seen higher rentals than had and a bespoke carpet to locally in recent times been achieved generally all the hallways with the is the entrance to The in York city centre before grand staircase having Residence apartments in that time. How fabulous to see a bordered carpet and York where the ground more new apartment although I would probably floor hallway is akin to a 5 I hope in the future the schemes starting up in select differently today star hotel lounge. discerning buyers and Leeds, I just hope that I am pleased to say the tenants will become the developers will be quality is still apparent Conversely, a couple more demanding about paying attention to the and the elegance of the of years ago I broke their expectations for communal areas which building remains unlike so my ribs on a broken the communal areas of are so important and yet many apartment buildings staircase handrail in a apartment buildings and can be overlooked in the which have communals small Leeds development not only their personal development stage. looking like a cross on Central Road where interiors. between a hospital and an the maintenance was When I owned the office block. so neglected it was For more advice go to management company dangerous, the same www.christineyorath. ‘Flats in Leeds’, I saw the I was also careful not building usually had com or get in touch by interiors of most of the to sacrifice space and mountains of post in the emailing christine@ city centre apartment convert so much of the doorway due to the lack yorathgroup.com or buildings and they varied floor space to saleable of a proper postal system ringing 07836 737300. enormously in appearance square footage that the for rentals. www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 25 City Homes

LEEDS PRIDE IS HERE FOR ANOTHER YEAR OF CELEBRATION It’s that time of the year again Yorkshire’s biggest celebration do it definitely brings people support the LGBT community. when everyone gathers to of LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, to the city of Leeds. Whether this is taking part in celebrate the world of LGBT. Bisexual and Trans), the the parade, riding on a float or Kicking off in Millennium celebration has been running This year Lucy Whittaker, just standing from a distance. Square on the 5th and with since 2006 and has over an up and coming artist is It is a great way to get the the main parade taking place 40,000 people attending set to hit the stage with her community buzzing. on Sunday 6th of August, each year. The event is run Electro Pop style. As well as Leeds Pride will once again by volunteers who put on Lucy there will be lots more Once again we will be joining grace the streets of Leeds an amazing and fun filled entertainment for everyone to in with the party atmosphere, and this year is set to be a big celebration. The weekend is enjoy. Blonde Electra and The dazzled by the costumes in one! With over 50 floats and dedicated to celebrating love, Brazen are also supporting the the parade and overwhelmed 5 hours of entertainment on equality and sexuality. event. by the love and pride in Leeds. Briggate, this Pride Parade is one not to be missed. Last year’s event was a huge The wonderful thing about the If you’d like to live in Leeds success driving in more and Pride Parade is that everyone and feel the love contact For those of you who live more people as the years pass is a volunteer, everyone, in Martin & Co using the under a rock, Leeds Pride is by. With so much to see and some shape or form is there to information below!

IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN LIVING IN LEEDS, HAVE A CHAT WITH US TODAY: Martin & Co Leeds City Martin & Co Roundhay 24 - 28 Bridge End, Leeds, LS1 4DJ 460 Roundhay Road, Oakwood, LS8 2HU [email protected] [email protected] 0113 245 7174 0113 887 6209 www.leeds-city.martinco.com www.roundhay.martinco.com

26 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk • ORACLE • 0113 234 0418 WWW.ORACLEBAR.COM There’s loads BAR & CLUB • YUM YUM • 0113 242 8778 of great places DELI & CONVENIENCE STORE • BAR 212 • 07725 674224 for you to visit in WWW.FB.COM /THE212BAR CAFE & BAR

Brewery Wharf! • AZUCAR • 0113 243 5761 WWW.AZUCARBAR.CO.UK BAR & RESTAURANT

• JURY’S INN • 0113 283 8800 WWW.JURYSINNS.COM SAT NAV - LS10 1JF HOTEL, BAR & RESTAURANT

COME AND SEE US • ONE BREWERY WHARF • 0113 398 0099 DURING LEEDS WWW.ONEBREWERYWHARF.COM PRIDE! APARTMENTS MEET ANDREW COOPER FROM LEEDSBID WE MET UP WITH THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF LEEDSBID TO FIND OUT ABOUT THEIR WORK IN THE CITY CENTRE, HIS BACKGROUND IN BUSINESS AND TO FIND OUT WHAT HE LOVES THE MOST ABOUT LEEDS

Hi Andrew, can you tell us about our city. I believe no enjoy. If someone specifically it on the map. We see this about LeedsBID and your one organisation can achieve wants to work in ‘Place through sporting events, the role there? this in isolation therefore Management’, the good recent Leeds International the ethos of the BID is to news is that people in these Festival and Leeds Pride. Well In 2015 the business work collaboratively so that roles come from a variety of done to all those who are community of Leeds in everyone benefits. professional backgrounds; involved. conjunction with other retail, banking, engineering organisations had the What actually is your and marketing, to name but Coming from someone that aspiration and ambition to background in business? a few. knows the city better than create the largest Business most people, what do you Improvement District At 17 I started my working Now recognised as an love the most about Leeds outside of London which life for the grocery retailer industry, ‘Place Management’ and the LeedsBID area? I am proud to lead. The Presto, which went on to be has a number of professional BID is funded by 1,000 absorbed by the Safeway bodies such as the Institute of We all like food and drink, and businesses and organisations Group. Then for nearly 14 Placement Management and what I like and love about the to create tangible, visible years I continued my career in The Association of Town and city is all the undiscovered ‘improvements’ to the city retail at Boots The Chemists, City Management to support food places that I still come centre, investing £2.5m a year specialising in retail logistics. professional roles in this field. across even though I have in Leeds. now been in Leeds for With a degree in Business, This issue of our magazine nearly two years. Whether LeedsBID is a catalyst I made a move into ‘Place is a Leeds Pride special. Can it’s Olive & Rye in Queens for change, providing the Management’ as Town you tell us what you think Arcade, Café Moor in Kirkgate glue which brings people, Manager of Stratford-upon- Leeds Pride brings to the Market or the new rooftop businesses and sectors Avon and developed the city? restaurant in Victoria Gate, together to make new Business Improvement Issho; there is such a wide things happen. It has already District ‘Stratforward’ before Leeds Pride Director Liaqat and diverse offer. With over been the driving force going on to Bath to do the Ali and those involved in Pride 25 new eating establishments behind a number of bold same in the World Heritage bring a great energy and in Leeds opening last year, and innovative projects in City. vibrancy to the city during the this sector is thriving. The the city centre from the weekend of 5th-6th August. other observation that shines Welcome Ambassadors and Since working in Leeds, I Unlike similar events in other through is the friendliness Street Rangers to the Leeds am actively involved in the UK cities, Leeds Pride is a of those who live and work International Festival and A Northern BIDs Group as BIDs free event and we have been in Leeds. This can’t be said City Less Grey - our work to become a more recognised working closely to support for all UK cities. The warmth transform the city continues and sustainable vehicle for this event, through the is palpable and I believe it at pace. change across the North. Welcome Ambassadors and gives Leeds a genuine point our marketing team. of difference and experience The strength of a Business If someone was wanting to for those who come and Improvement District is follow in your footsteps, The event brings people visit. The ‘Welcome to Leeds’ that it is not-for-profit, what advice would you give from across the UK to the experience is excellent. business-led and aims to to them? city who then get to see the engage with every sector of transformation which is taking To find out more about the community to enhance We spend a third of our life place. Events are essential in LeedsBID, head to and amplify all that is great at work, so do something you shaping a place and putting www.leedsbid.co.uk

28 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Nights Out YORKSHIRE PA OF THE YEAR AWARDS

June 22nd marked the celebration of hard work and (pictured below with Tanya) taking home the award for dedication of PAs at the Yorkshire PA of The Year Awards. Yorkshire PA of the Year 2017. Organised by The PA Hub, it’s a night of glamour and showcases the exceptional PA talent we have here in Throughout the night guests were welcomed with drinks, Yorkshire. followed by a delicious four-course meal and plenty of entertainment, including guest speaker James Bailey, Teams and individuals from across Yorkshire celebrated at General Manager of the prestigious Victoria Leeds and live the recent awards, as the 14 categories were announced. music from five piece band, Chequered Band. Including the award for ‘Best Business Client’ sponsored by our sister company, Absolute Media at the Yorkshire For full details on the winners from the evening, and to PA of the Year Awards, held at The Pavilion, Leeds United find out more about The PA Hub, visit: thepahub.co.uk Football Ground - a ceremony hosted by BBC Look North’s, Tanya Arnold. With Claire Barrett from Deloitte Photography by Sam Toolsie

www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 29 City Homes

SIMPLE WAYS TO INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME HERE’S HOW YOU CAN INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOUSE THIS SUMMER

When it comes to selling their top tips! to your flagstones to and that means we can your home, there are return them to brand-new often be caught out certain times of the year Embrace your outside condition. with our decorations in which are better than spaces • Hire a professional to trim summer. Heavy curtains others. Traditionally, those back any large, overhanging and dark furnishings are are in spring and autumn, During inclement months, trees you may have. commonplace during leaving summer and winter our outside spaces tend • Invest in new garden the colder months, but as the months where to be secondary areas of furniture. when the weather turns demand slows and prices focus when we’re selling • Give any bushes a trim. better, they need to be deflate ever so slightly. our home. Of course, we’ll • Purchase some new replaced. Here’s some tips give potential buyers a tour potted plants for use to coordinate your interior Whilst that’s worth keeping of our garden(s), but they around the garden. with the season: in mind, sometimes, you aren’t exactly places you’d • Repaint any windowsills simply need to sell your want to spend any real or wooden doors which are • Replace heavy curtains home. Perhaps you’ve time. looking worse for wear. with light ones, giving your agreed to buy another home a breezier, friendly property, or maybe you’ve When the weather’s better These are just a handful of appearance. landed a job in another city. though, like during summer, tips which can revitalise • Apply a fresh coat of Whatever your reason is, you need to be making your outside spaces, so get lighter paint in key rooms of you need to sell your home the most of your outside creative. Remember though, your home. in summer and you want spaces. This can be done you’re selling more than just • Declutter your furniture the most money possible in a number of ways, but a property – you’re selling and furnishings. for it. here’s a handful to get your a dream of what their • Open your windows and creative juices flowing: life could be like. Inviting doors, letting fresh air into Leeds based property outside spaces make up your property. solicitors Advantage • Ensure you cut your a huge part of that, so do Property Lawyers, who grass twice a week, which make sure you spend the Once more, that’s just a complete over 900 housing will ensure a neat and tidy time (and, if necessary) selection of ideas, but by transactions every week, looking garden. money. putting them into practice, believe that they know • Repaint or varnish any you’ll be making your exactly how you can fences you may have. Coordinate your interior property that much more increase demand for your • Break out the weed killer decoration with the season desirable, and therefore property and increase its and clear out those paths. easier to sell during summertime value. Here are • Take a pressure washer Summer comes quickly, summer. 30 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Jobs City Fitness Recruitment tips by Craig Burton from Fitness Tips by Great Britain Athlete and British The Works Recruitment Record Holder John Lane Photography: Olavi Kaljunen / trackpic Kaljunen Olavi Photography: WELLNESS IN THE WORKPLACE: WHY IT’S SO IMPORTANT!

Anxiety, depression and fresh air at lunchtime or go ADVICE TO HELP YOU GET THE BEST OUT stress are now the leading for a short walk to clear your OF YOUR WORK OUT cause of sickness absence head – it will really help. in the UK and an estimated 70 million working days Make friends at work. are lost each year because Having healthy and Eat Smaller Portions 100% all the time. Make of mental health related meaningful relationships the most of the increasing illnesses. at work has been linked to Depending on when you daylight and go for a walk increased feelings of well- can get away from the after dinner. Take the dog If you feel that you are being and can be beneficial desk to eat during the day, out for a nice walk after struggling at work then to helping you feel better it’s a good idea to try to dinner. This will help your ! One of mentally. This is because you eat little and often. Instead food digest and is a great the most important steps feel connected and valued of trying to eat breakfast, way to spend time with the if you have a friend you can into making you feel better lunch and dinner. Try and family. talk to or hang out with. again is recognising that eat 4 or 5 times a day but it’s happening and being smaller portions. Smaller Eat Lots of Fruit prepared to do something Try meditation, yoga or mindfulness. portions more often will about it. Here’s what you can keep your metabolism Eating fruit is a great do to help yourself: These are all techniques which can really help going longer and not make way of getting that much you feel as hungry during needed nutrients in during Speak up at work if you with anxiety and stress at the middle of the day. the day. Fruits such as feel as though your work work. Mindfulness can be oranges, apple, blueberries life balance is being particularly effective as it compromised. only takes a few minutes a Get to the Beach and strawberries are great Your boss won’t know day and makes you really fruits to nibble on whilst you are struggling unless appreciate the world around If you’re lucky enough to on the go. As well as these you make them aware. you. It gives you a short live by a beach, then make fruits, it’s snacks like dried Adjustments to your role period of distraction to take sure you make the most mango, dried bananas and might help – flexible working stock, enjoy the moment and of it during summer. If dried apples that can be hours, regular breaks, refocus. you can get down to the a great to snack on while restructuring job functions beach and exercise this you are busy during the But most of all be aware of and tasks, further training or summer your body will day. your mental and physical development, to name a few. thank you later for it. As wellbeing. If you are feeling well as hopefully getting Wear the Right Clothes Look at what you are eating overwhelmed or your work/ personal life is starting to a tan in the process, it’s and drinking during the day. less demanding on your With the temperature A healthy balanced diet be affected, do something about it. And don’t delay! body and you will use heating up, it’s important can really help promote a muscle groups that you to wear the right clothes high level of wellness and Whether it’s a good talk to wouldn’t normally use if when exercising in the combat stress. Eating too somebody you trust or a visit you exercised in the gym sunshine. Try and wear much sugar and drinking too to your local GP, get some much caffeine can have a help or advice as soon as you or the track. light coloured clothes and huge impact on stress levels can. For further information avoid dark colours such as so opt for non-processed please visit the Mind Use All Day black. Also try and wear food, plenty of fresh fruit & website: www.mind.org.uk loose fitting clothes whilst vegetables and drink lots of With the days becoming exercising. This will help water. longer and the keep you cool and feeling Thanks, temperature increasing, fresh during training. Keep active. Craig it’s a great way to spend Studies show that regular the summer doing things physical activity links to Craig Burton is a seasoned with the family. When you Enjoy Keeping Fit, better health outcomes, specialist recruiter of over do decide to exercise, you longevity and increased twenty five years with don’t always have to go John Lane wellbeing. Try to get some www.theworksrec.co.uk www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 31 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH FOOTBALLER ROBBIE ROGERS AFTER LEAVING LEEDS UNITED IN 2013, ROBBIE ROGERS MADE HEADLINES AROUND THE WORLD WHEN HE CAME OUT AS GAY. CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE MET UP WITH ROBBIE ROGERS TO SPEAK ABOUT THAT BRAVE DECISION, HIS TIME IN LEEDS AND WHAT PRIDE MEANS TO HIM

On May 26 2013, Robbie Growing up in LA, I usually decided that the only way women and that I would be Rogers became the only heard about London, to really free myself (I know, a coward if I chose not to first openly gay man to but I loved Leeds and sounds cheesy!) was to be go back to football. compete in a top North thought the people were open about something that American sports league. very friendly and passionate was crushing me for 25 This issue of City Dweller about their city. The club years. Magazine is a Leeds Pride Prior to that, he’d played was great with me. I found special. What do Pride everywhere from Colombus, it tough that I came when Since leaving Leeds events like these mean to Ohio to Leeds United while there were so many changes United, you made the you personally and why picking up 18 caps for the with the managers and the decision to retire from do you think they are United States in the process. club but I still have very football before coming important? fond memories of my short back to play for LA Now, as an inspiration for time at the club. Galaxy. What inspired I enjoy Pride for a few people around the world, your decision to return to reasons. I feel like it’s Robbie Rogers is playing for Shortly after you left the football and how are you a day or month where LA Galaxy. We met up with club you made headlines finding life at LA Galaxy? we can celebrate our him to talk about his career around the world when accomplishments as a so far and what it’s really you came out as gay. What I was speaking in Portland community but also remain like to be an openly gay inspired you to make that to around 500 kids that vigilant and vocal about our footballer. decision, at that moment are leaders for their future obstacles in finding in time, and how did you LGBTQ clubs (Gay–Straight equality for our whole Can you tell us about your find the initial reaction? Alliances) and after I spoke community. time at Leeds United and to them, I realised each what it was like living in I had accomplished almost one of them would take the Leeds? everything I wanted to in my opportunity I had to play career and I was still very and make a difference for William Rose & The City Dweller Magazine Team I loved living in Leeds. unfulfilled and depressed. I millions of gay men and

32 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk AT ELLAND ROAD

DIAMONDS AND ICE DATES December 2017 WHAT’S INCLUDED Price Per Date Person Reception drink on arrival Delicious three course meal Saturday 2 nd £40 th Live band Friday 8 £40 th After dinner DJ and disco Saturday 9 £40 Thursday 14th £35 Cash bar facility Friday 15th £40 Cloakroom facility Saturday 16th £40 Happy Hour with selected drinks for £3 Thursday 21st £35 nd Free drinks voucher for Victoria Gate Casino Friday 22 £40

BOOK TODAY

0871 334 1919 (Option 2) [email protected]

Untitled-1 1 30/05/2017 16:51:01 City Fitness

HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO?

CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE HAVE TEAMED UP WITH JAMES AND JOE FROM SUSTAIN NUTRITION AND THIS MONTH WE’RE FINDING OUT IF WE CAN HAVE OUR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO

Can you really have your it wasn’t OK to eat. that the carbs from a slice Blowing your calories cake and eat it too? of chocolate cake are equal allowance on poor choice Same thing will apply to to the carbs you would get foods is not going to be Well yes and no?! club biscuits, wine, beer from sweet potato, doesn’t great from a health or good and crisps. sound right to me does it. habit-forming view. Our staple answer for most nutrition answers as always Can you eat these Not just the hormonal and So, whilst you may be is ‘it depends’, as frustrating foods and still drop fat, physical affects will be able to get away with as I’m sure this sounds it’s technically yes, so long totally different but it’s eating some less than simply because we don’t as you are still in a calorie almost like spending your ideal foods for a while this want to lie to you. deficit. money on magic beans! unfortunately won’t always last. Nutrition is never black and This can be the appeal for We all know the story of white I’m afraid, there are people who track MACROS Jack and the Beanstalk? There will be a point where lots of different shades of (macronutrients). you have to drop something grey in the food spectrum. Eating poor quality to reduce calories, you will They can set a target of foods to hit MACROS is a have to make the choices of Often times as coaches calories, protein, carbs and similar idea, say you have the easy fix of dropping the we get asked is this OK to fats and fit their foods in to 2000cal to ‘spend’ on food, club biscuit or reducing the eat, say it’s an all-natural these targets, this approach personally I don’t want to healthy nutritious foods, it’s ingredient but high fat can be valuable particularly waste 400cal on a piece a no brainer for me. chicken curry for example. when a clean eating of cake when I can eat a approach has stalled, after large chicken breast and Now as the ingredients all if you are already clean some greens for that. One are all from natural foods eating you cannot simply is a moment on the lips, life just like mamma used to ‘eat cleaner’. time on the hips and the Until next time make then I’m all for the other is a filling meal that Take care & comb your hair JERF (just eat real food) The downside of this will will take me closer to my James & Joe approach but ultimately be when people use this goals. fat loss will come down to approach to shoe horn less overall calories consumed, than optimal food choices if this high calorie curry like chocolate and cake in. www.sustainnutrition.co.uk that pushes you over that Keep up with the guys on their Facebook Page: fb.com/ calorie limit then technically This approach will presume sustainnutrition/ or on Instagram: Sustain_Nutri

34 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Fitness

MEET THE TEAM AT NUFFIELD FITNESS & WELLBEING DAVID BUTLER FROM NUFFIELD FITNESS & WELLBEING GYM IN THE LIGHT TALKS TO RUPI PUREWAL, THEIR GROUP EXERCISE MANAGER, TO HEAR HER STORY

the 800 metre run. I was so slow articles to improve myself my flying colours and 4 months as I reached 500m, they decided journey to fitness began. later was employed as a group to start the boys 800 metre exercise manager. The rest is run behind me! But one thing I So I found myself in the gym, it history… did not do was give up. I made was a Tuesday evening, 19.15 and it round with people cheering I was attending my first Body My passion for group exercise me on, and won 3 points for Combat class. I was huffing is very personal for me and why my form. Those points meant and puffing my way through it, I can get through on average that we won the gold cup! That drinking gallons of water and 17 classes a week. It’s not pretty much sums up my life, very un-coordinated! But I kept just about fitness or looking no matter how hard or long the going as this was not about better, it’s about feeling better struggle, I will always finish. the present uncomfortable with yourself. Everyone that feeling, this was for my health, comes into my studio will have By the age of 24 I had lived my body and was something I problems and issues and life to enough to know that I needed was doing for me. The euphoric deal with. It is my responsibility to follow my own path in life, high, the energy in the room, the to make people forget their This month I’ve interviewed even if this meant going against empowerment from doing the worries, push past their make- Rupi Purewal, to hear her traditions and customs. As cliché moves saw me going in every believe boundaries and reach a inspirational and very as it sounds I decided to follow night. Attending different classes better version of themselves. The motivational story to discover my heart. As much as I knew I such as Body Attack, Body energy of those people in one how she uses her own personal was doing the right thing for Pump and Step. room, putting everything into experience to help and myself it was a huge battle to their workout and encouraging encourage others… convince others close to me. This I was feeling happier, my mind others to keep going, when led me into a 3 year depression wasn’t on overdrive, it was like they feel like they just can’t do Rupi: I will always remember which saw me give up on life for one hour I was present with, anymore, is infectious. the first time I found water THE and so very nearly myself. One no cares or worries, just me, the most refreshing drink ever. 7 valuable lesson I have learned: moves and the music! We have over 60 classes years ago, I was at the back of We may think that following your Surrounding myself with others available each week at the club a combat class, wheezing at heart and I suppose even your who had this amazing ‘can and all are free to members as the 1st minute of the warm up! soul’s calling is all happiness do’ energy, everyone striving part of your membership. So I was 4 stone heavier, 4 dress and light, it isn’t! It’s hard work to finish a session to the end why not follow Rupi’s amazing sizes bigger and wondered how and needs a consistent positive was amazing. Instructors who example, come down to the club on earth I was going to keep it mental attitude and no one to were motivating, encouraging and try a class and it could very up! Looking at me now, many take you off your focus. and on some occasions even well change your life too! assume I was athletic at school performing! Suddenly problems with a sporty back ground, I always remember the day did not feel like problems nothing could be further from my mum sat me down and anymore! I was losing weight, See you soon, the truth. suggested I should seek help. I was eating better too so I This was my wake up call. I could sustain my new hobby. David I was overweight and always begged my mum for 4 weeks Heels were being replaced with You can find out more about picked last for sports. I hated to sort myself out. At the trainers. I was addicted and what we offer on 0113 2337 PE at school and never took time I had been paying gym finally I decided to make a career 500 or by going to our to the gym until the age of 21. membership for over a year and change into fitness. Through website: www.nuffieldhealth. I remember sports day at high only attended twice! After all the home learning courses I passed com/gyms/leeds! You can also school when I got lumbered with self-help books I had read and my group exercise course with find us at The Light, LS1 8TL. www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 35 Leeds’ Own Showcasing the talents and personalities that make Leeds the city we love!

CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE MEETS THE QUEEN OF SPEEDQUEEN WE SPOKE TO LEEDS LEGEND KAS SHAW ABOUT SETTING UP ICONIC CLUB NIGHT SPEEDQUEEN, LEEDS PRIDE AND MORE!

When you first set up A lot of couples met each I think it’s lasted the test You’re taking over Bar Fibre SpeedQueen, what was the other and there’s been a of time because it’s so and Queens Court on the 5th aim behind it? few children born because community based. Some August for Leeds Pride. Can of SpeedQueen! We do club nights are all about the you tell us a bit about that? We wanted to set up a night parties now and we get three music and the DJs but for for everybody! For gay generations of people going. us, it was about everyone We were asked to do it people, for cross dressers, and we made sure it had last year as part of Leeds for girls on their own; we Do you recognise the this village feel. I don’t know Pride’s 10th anniversary just wanted a mixed club. cultural effect that if any other club night has celebrations. It was really We really did try to get SpeedQueen has had on ever had that in Leeds. I’d cool to be asked but we everyone together. We had Leeds? Do you think the fact say 75% of my friends are were a bit worried about two sixtieth birthday parties you’re still throwing parties people I’ve met through it! Anyways we did it and one night, and we had 5 now shows it’s lasted the SpeedQueen. everyone loved it, so we’ve wheelchairs in there on test of time? been asked again this year. another! We used to make A lot of people associate It’s really nice to be involved sure girls on their own could I don’t recognise it but SpeedQueen with the in Leeds Pride. get straight in and we’ve obviously I was in the thick iconic SpeedQueen image never done VIP because we of it. I just set it up for (pictured). Can you tell us Personally, what does Leeds don’t believe in it, everybody people who were working about the meaning behind Pride mean to you? has to stick together at Monday to Friday and it? SpeedQueen. wanted to have a good time It’s so good for everybody on the weekend. People do We went on a trip to India to come down, get together It was set up in the 90s and I still say to me how amazing and we saw pictures of this and celebrate. It’s not think a lot of people look at it was for them. woman everywhere. We about being gay, it’s about that as quite a golden time just loved her. When we got celebrating gay pride and for going out in Leeds, don’t We made sure we had back, we decided to take her appreciating that we can do they? everyone involved too, from on board and use it, so when this party in the centre of the dancers to the people we got back we drew her Leeds without any hassle. I Oh, it was fantastic! Every that created the decor. and used her on everything just think it’s amazing. nightclub for gay people Everybody got a piece of we did for SpeedQueen. used to be underground… the cake! We had a little SpeedQueen returns to so as soon as the dance family going on there. We She just says everything Leeds on the 5th August at scene started, everyone also nurtured a lot of girl DJs about SpeedQueen, she Bar Fibre and Queens Court. mixed together. Everybody including Alice Bailey, Ms. is saying ‘welcome’ and Head to SpeedQueenLeeds just danced together and Melodie, Lucy Locket, Gina encouraging you to come in on Facebook to find out it was a really special time. Breeze and Adele Roberts. and have a good time. more.

36 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Review

RAPPORT HAIR AND BEAUTY SALON STYLIST, IMAGE CONSULTANT AND CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE BEAUTY COLUMNIST LINDSEY BENSON HEADS DOWN TO RAPPORT SALON

I have been going to this mean the gorgeous caffeine had facials, 3D lipo and my locks. Already amazingly family run salon for a fix I received. waxing amongst other relaxed from the ambience couple of years now and delightful treats that make upstairs, they begin to every time we go, whether Discussions over my locks me feel more like a woman blow dry my hair. Anyone it’s to get the girls hair cut began, would I be pink? and less like a crazy bag who doesn’t enjoy their or a full day treat for yours Would I be blue? Or do I lady! hair being blow dried by truly, we are treated like go lilac? Lilac it is. Now someone else, has issues royalty. Enough cannot I’m not going to pretend Alex starts on my nails whilst (sorry, not sorry). Finished be done to make sure you I understand the ins and I witter on at her about how with a quick style and a final have the most relaxing and outs of toners and dyes and hectic my life is and try to caffeine fix before heading enjoyable time. bleach, oh my! But I trust come up with an explanation back up to the angels for my them 100% and so they as to why my nails are HD Brows. On my most recent visit, begin their magic... in such a state. I fail. No I had my hair, nails and judgemental face from Alex, Again, Alex is my beautician HD Brows done. A 9.15am Whilst the mane is doing its just a smile and sympathetic and she completes my final arrival, after a usual bit, I head upstairs to work ear. Even when I spend 15 tweak in order to feel like a traumatic double school on the rest of my broken minutes deciding on a nail woman once again. I never run, I was greeted with bits! Nails first! And boy are colour, as the selection is realised the importance of beaming smiles from Leah they broken! unreal, she does not falter good brows, until I had good and Ashley, as they probably from doing a fantastic job brows and now... I have knew I would enter like Alex and Julie (pictured with my chewed nails and fabulous brows! a whirlwind and look like below) are the angels of anxious skin bitten hands. one too! Coat taken and beauty upstairs. Julie’s And here I am, ready to take hung, I was escorted to my massages have sent me Once my nails are on the world once more! new throne for the day. An to sleep on more than one completed, I head back instant wash of calm came occasion, to feel that relaxed to my first throne for a I cannot recommend over me and I don’t just is amazing. I’ve previously conditioning treatment to Rapport enough, fabulous salon and even more fabulous people!

Speak soon! Lindsey FACT BOX Address 839 York Rd, Leeds, LS14 6AA

Website www.rapportsalon.co.uk

Telephone 0113 232 8983 www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 37 SS17 OCCASION WEAR

THE RACES

When it comes to the races, frill-seekers always win big so this dress is your go-to. Don’t forget; matching accessories rule the racecourse!

And for the guys... you can never go wrong with a jean, t-shirt and blazer combo! A sure fire winner at any racing event this year!

THE SUMMER PARTY

Keep it casq with trousers and trainers! Team the look with a hat for the ultimate summer look!

Ladies, get bold with bright floral looks this summer. For those parties this summer you really can’t go wrong with this look. If the dress code is smart-casj, just add a blazer and you’re ready to go.

38 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk WITH RIVER ISLAND THE WEDDING

Make sure you keep things slick. Choose a light-coloured check suit; classic but cool. Go for a plain, white shirt and when it comes to your tie, pick a contrasting colour or a printed design. Tan accessories will stop you from looking like you’re heading to the office.

You already know that white is out of bounds, go for pink and you’ll be making everyone wink. You’ll hear wedding bells, they’ll see a wedding belle.

FOR MORE STUNNING LOOKS FROM RIVER ISLAND PLEASE VISIT THEIR WEBSITE: WWW.RIVERISLAND.COM www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 39 City Travel

NEWBY HALL CITY DWELLER MAGAZINE HAS TEAMED UP WITH THE GUYS AT WELCOME TO YORKSHIRE TO LOOK AT SOME GREAT YORKSHIRE DAYS OUT

If you’re looking for a house you’ll find one of the boasting vibrant colours as far or the Royal Scot steam beautiful location to soak up world’s largest collections of as the eye can see. There’s an locomotive. the summer sun which boasts teddy bears as Newby Hall exquisite variety of picturesque glorious gardens, excellent is currently hosting Gyles scenes, from the herbaceous Soak up some Zimbabwean exhibitions and fun for all the Brandreth’s assortment of borders, to the rose garden, culture with the stunning family then look no further – toys. There are around 1,000 the water garden, woodland sculptures in the Matombo Newby Hall has it all. teddies to see, all arranged garden and many more. exhibition. Watch artists into fun scenes from a teddy Dudzai Mushawepwere Situated just off the A1 in bear’s picnic to a Royal Family Relax on the luscious green and Matthew Nakhawale Ripon, the stunning structure balcony. lawns and picnic tables while demonstrate how these was built in the 1690s. Lose the children burn off some wonderful sculptures are yourself inside the house where Newby Hall is also home to energy on the adventure play created and throughout the you can discover hundreds of one of the finest collections of areas. There’s swings, climbing summer you can even try your treasures including a rare set of dolls houses, a mesmerising frames, bridges, a water play hand at the art. Gobelin Tapestries, a gallery of display of gorgeous creations area, aerial slide and even classical statuary and some of with intricate detail, miniature pedalo boats to keep little legs Newby Hall also hosts Chippendale’s finest furniture. features and furniture. busy. events around the year, from the spectacular Firework But this is not just a stately But the treasures at Newby Jump aboard the fabulous Championships to the StrEat home – it has so much more to Hall don’t stop inside – step Miniature Railway and take a Food and Family Fun Festival offer. outside and into the sunshine trip alongside the River Ure on so there’s something for as you wander around the one of the two Severn Lamb everyone to enjoy. In a paw-purse built wooden award-winning gardens Western gas locomotives FACT BOX

Address Newby Hall, Ripon, HG4 5AE

Website newbyhall.com

Opening times Please see website

Telephone 01423 322 583

For more days out visit leedscitymagazine.co.uk

40 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Travel

HOLIDAYS FOR THE LGBT COMMUNITY AND THEIR FRIENDS CITY DWELLER COLUMNIST AND SEASONED TRAVEL EXPERT, YASMIN MACIS, MAPS OUT THE BEST PLACES TO GO TO ENJOY A FANTASTIC LGBT COMMUNITY AWAY FROM HOME!

different parts of the world, and from Barcelona and now little introduction as the home it’s my job to ensure that clients considered one of the “Big 4” of hedonism, with a gay history are aware of potential issues gay destinations. It has popular dating back almost 100 years. and choose destinations where Gay Pride events and many of The annual Gay Pride event is they can feel safe, relaxed and its bars and clubs are rocking all the jewel in its crown but there’s accepted. year round, although the season a year round choice of bars, really takes off from Easter clubs and restaurants that same One of the first places to make onwards. Carnival, Pride, Bears sex couples will feel happy and its name as a destination that Week and Fiesta Major are all relaxed in. welcomed gay men to its excuses for parties, not to be shores was the Greek island missed! I’ve only just touched the of Mykonos. This legendary surface with these destinations spot retains its reputation as Further afield, New York City but can also recommend a gay-friendly party island, is a vibrant melting pot of Skiathos, Palm Springs, San with turquoise seas and cultures that coalesce in an Francisco, Reykjavik, Toronto quaint whitewashed houses. atmosphere of tolerance and and even far-flung New Unspoilt by high-rise hotels, acceptance. The city’s queer Zealand, as great places to Today there is certainly no accommodation tends to be credentials are well established holiday or even tie the knot! shortage of gay-friendly in guest houses and B&B’s, and neighbourhoods like the Just call me for further advice although there are some larger West Village, Chelsea and Hell’s and more exciting holiday holiday destinations, where resorts for those looking for Kitchen offer a huge choice of recommendations. same sex couples can relax more onsite facilities. Mykonos gay-friendly accommodation, and enjoy hospitality. would make a lovely place for plus all the nightlife you’d a honeymoon, especially if expect of ‘The City That Never Some tour operators now choosing a boutique hotel. Sleeps’! offer holidays tailor-made for Bon Voyage! LGBT couples. It’s important Slightly closer to home, Sitges With a similarly cosmopolitan Yasmin x to recognise that attitudes in Spain, is a stone’s throw and Bohemian feel, Berlin needs and customs vary greatly in

Don’t keep me a secret, please feel free to share me! E: [email protected] | T: 0775 274 3356 www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 41 DIRTY DANCING A FESTIVAL DAY OF JAZZ LEEDS GRAND THEATRE MILLENNIUM SQUARE 24TH - 29TH JULY THURSDAY 3RD AUGUST

Exploding with heart most challenging and What better way a variety of quality pounding music, triumphant summer of to spend a summer street food stalls. breathtaking emotion their lives. afternoon than and sensationally sexy relaxing in Millennium Plus, bring the kids dancing, Dirty Dancing Featuring 35 hit songs, Square, listening to along for a special is back. including ‘Hungry jazz music and eating beginners guide to Eyes’, ‘Hey Baby’, ‘Do delicious street food? playing jazz in the Seen by millions You Love Me?’ and the Carriageworks. across the globe this heart stopping ‘(I’ve The Inaugural Festival worldwide smash hit Had) The Time Of My Day of Jazz, organised Finally, don’t miss the tells the classic story of Life’. by Jazz Leeds, brings chance to see Leeds WHAT’S ON WHAT’S Baby and Johnny, two that experience to the legend Snake Davis fiercely independent Don’t miss your chance heart of Leeds. headline the evening! young spirits from to see this sensational This unique family different worlds, new production! Head There’ll be free jazz friendly event is part who come together to Leeds Grand Theatre music throughout of the Summer Series in what will be the to get tickets today! the afternoon and at Millennium Square. WHAT’S ON WHAT’S LEEDS WEST INDIAN CARNIVAL ZARA LARSSON CHAPELTOWN O2 ACADEMY LEEDS MONDAY 27TH AUGUST SUNDAY 22ND OCTOBER

Thousands of visitors signed up to take part See the award- number one and made are expected to on the big day. nominated popstar her one of Sweden’s flock to the city’s Zara Larsson as she biggest celebrities. It Potternewton Park on Organisers of the embarks on her first wasn’t until June 2015 Bank Holiday Monday Leeds West Indian UK and European when Larsson would for the dazzling Carnival, which in headline tour in grab the attention of procession of floats 1967 was the first of support of her latest the British public. Her and stunning costumes its kind in Europe album, So Good. debut single ‘Lush from across the UK. to feature all three Life’ reached the The parade looks set essential Caribbean Larsson rose to fame top 5 in the United to break records with carnival elements of in 2008 when she won Kingdom and led to around 2,000 revellers masquerade, music the Swedish adaption similair chart success made up of over 30 and a parade, have of ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ with ‘Never Forget costumed troupes and been working closely aged 11. Six years later, You’ (with MNEK), WHAT’S ON WHAT’S 50 large scale King, with artists, funders she released her debut ‘Girls Like’ (with Tinie Queen, Prince and and partners on a album in Sweden, Tempah) and I Would Princess costumes programme of events. which went straight to Like. WHAT’S ON IN LEEDS WHAT’S

MORE EVENTS CAN BE FOUND ON OUR WEBSITE: All events correct at time of press. Please check before purchasing tickets. WHAT’S ON WHAT’S www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk 42 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk MEET THE LEEDS BASED BROTHERS ON A MISSION TO MAKE REGGAE AVAILABLE TO ALL

WE CAUGHT UP WITH CONRAD AND MICHAEL CRUISE TO FIND OUT ABOUT HOW THEY’RE BRINGING THEIR MUSIC TO THE PEOPLE OF LEEDS

Leeds based music musical refrain that’s be easy to navigate and with people who have producers, label owners appeared elsewhere on download music from. been, and still are, in their and band colleagues the collection, to create Working as music creators position” said Conrad. Conrad and Michael different moods and through their work with Cruise have released emotions. DX1, and pursuing their A wide and ever-growing ‘Wisdom of Roots,’ a roles as producers and selection of older and collection of sounds The album is designed providers through running newer reggae, roots and combining modern music to be enjoyed by those a label, puts Conrad and related music can be making expertise to already fans of the reggae Michael in the position downloaded from Cruise create a varied album and roots sound along of seeing music creation International; get in touch of music with Jamaican with those exploring and from both a music by visiting www.dx1music. popular music at its core. sampling this type of maker and a publisher’s bandcamp.com/releases music for perhaps the first perspective, so giving Working under the band time. them a unique take on DX1’s ‘Wisdom of Roots’ name DX1, Conrad and the situation: “we can can be downloaded from Michael have taken some The brothers’ desire to empathise with the artists popular platforms such as material they originally extend Jamaican music’s we work with and they Spotify, Amazon, iTunes wrote some years ago appeal is not surprising as know they’re dealing and Juno. and combined it with they both work tirelessly newly penned material to achieve this through to produce ‘Wisdom of their production and Roots’. Both brothers music making endeavours wrote all the material with their label, Cruise and provide the musical International. They backing between them in champion music from taking care of percussion, both exciting newcomers guitar, and state of the art and artists who recorded keyboards. many years ago; they believe in giving a chance They’ve enlisted the help for hitherto older music of two seasoned local to ‘live on’ through being vocalists Rickey Smith released on their label. and Clifford Hughes who, between them, imbue As Conrad further the sung material with comments: “so many different feels and moods people would enjoy music appropriate to the tracks that they may not ever they appear on. As Conrad get the chance to listen explains: “our aim here is to, so we’re doing our bit to make Jamaican music to put people in touch accessible to all and to with music they’ll like show the breadth of styles and may even become and emotions this great passionate about.” musical form provides.” To achieve this, along with ‘Wisdom of Roots’ covers the release of ‘Wisdom a varied range of subject of Roots’ showing that matter from earnest love reggae based music can songs to moody and be accessible and its edgy city instrumental roots and characteristics soundscapes through shine through even while to more upbeat ‘party being made with modern style’ flavoured sounds, music making technology, sometimes through adroit the Cruise International re-workings of a similar website is designed to www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 43 ANDREW FLINTOFF TO STAR IN FAT FRIENDS THE MUSICAL AT LEEDS GRAND THEATRE

THE RETIRED ENGLAND CRICKETER AND FORMER PROFESSIONAL BOXER FREDDIE FLINTOFF PREPARES TO MAKE HIS STAGE DEBUT IN LEEDS

Former England cricket captain “I was introduced to Freddie at one and star of Sky’s A League of of our TV casting sessions” said Kay. Their Own, Andrew “Freddie” “It was clear to me that he could Flintoff, will swap the cricket leave his cricket bat behind, embody pitch for the stage as he joins a character and understand the drama. It was a no brainer… he got an all-star cast for the world the part. Then, as we were talking premiere of Kay Mellor’s Fat through Fat Friends - The Musical, Friends - the Musical which I wondered if Freddie could sing. I opens at Leeds Grand Theatre was ecstatic when Nick met him and on 7th November 2017. agreed his voice was perfect for the role. Freddie will play Kevin Chadwick opposite the previously announced “I am thrilled and delighted that Jodie Prenger as his fiancée, Kelly. Freddie is able to join us for our run X-Factor winner will also at Leeds and part of the tour as well, feature with further casting to be playing our leading male. I can’t announced. wait to start working with the super talented cast we’ve got so far!” Speaking about his debut, Freddie said: “I am really excited to be Nicholas Lloyd Webber added: “I am starring in Fat Friends - The thrilled that Freddie will be joining Musical at Leeds Grand Theatre our stellar cast of Fat Friends – the in November and at some other Musical. He immediately really great venues around the UK in 2018. impressed us in his audition and we Having had the pleasure of recently are so excited to be working with working on an episode of Kay’s him on our show. Our starting XI is latest TV series, it’s great to have now nothing short of sensational.” the opportunity to work with her again. I loved the TV series and think The award-winning TV drama has Fat Friends - The Musical, is going been adapted for the stage by its to give people a great night out. I’m creator and one of the UK’s most really looking forward to it.” prolific writers, Kay Mellor, whose extensive television credits include One of the world’s most recognised hit series Band of Gold, The Chase, cricket stars, Freddie Flintoff won The Syndicate and In the Club, the BBC Sports Personality of the and whose stage credits include A Year award in 2005 after playing a Passionate Woman. pivotal role in regaining the Ashes from Australia. Since the Lancashire Fat Friends hit television screens in Lad’s cricket career ended in 2010, October 2000, following the lives he has forged a career as a much- of a group of overweight friends as loved presenter and broadcaster they struggled with the absurdities appearing as a captain on SKY’s ‘A of modern dieting. Running for League of Their Own’ and being five years on ITV, the show starred crowned King of the Jungle in Alison Steadman, Gaynor Faye and the first Australian version of ‘I’m Lisa Riley, and launched the careers a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!’ of James Corden and Ruth Jones. Freddie has also launched a clothing Written by Kay Mellor, the show range ‘Flintoff by Jacamo’. Having was nominated for multiple awards just filmed a part in Kay Mellor’s including the BAFTA for Best Drama new ITV series, this role will see Series. Freddie continue to affirm his acting credentials after bowling over the Fat Friends – the Musical is show’s creator, Kay Mellor and at Leeds Grand Theatre from composer Nicholas Lloyd Webber Monday 7th Nov to Saturday during auditions. 2nd Dec 2017. City Nights Out CIARAN BINGHAM FOUNDATION TRUST GLAMOROUS BLACK TIE BALL

Recently the first ever Ciaran by performing on X Factor and Bingham Foundation Trust duetting with on The Ellen Glamorous Black Tie Ball took Show. It was a night to remember place at The Marriot Hotel to raise from beginning to end! awareness for the charity. In combination with the ticket The night was a fantastic chance sales, their was also a raffle that for all of the guests to enjoy a VIP took place on the night which red carpet arrival, a fizz reception, saw prizes such a luxury break at a 3 course meal with wine, live Tottergill Farm Exclusive Holiday entertainment and lots more Cottages and meals from all over surprises along the way! the city won. The night was a huge success raising almost £12,000 for During the night guests were the charity and it’s service users. entertained by a number of acts, including Leeds born singer Get more information on the Tom Bleasby who rose to fame charity here: www.cbft.co.uk

Photography: Oliver Dixon

www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 45 Image Credit: Terry George THE MUST SEE LIVE ACTS AT LEEDS PRIDE 2017 HEATHER SMALL

After selling several million such as Moving On Up, Mercury Music Prize for Atlantic to perform on the records, winning two Brit One Night In Heaven Elegant Slumming. show right in the middle Awards and the Mercury and Search For The Hero of her last UK tour with M Music Prize, Heather Small is including albums like Heather has since had great People “If Oprah calls, you one of the most successful Elegant Slumming, Bizarre successes with two solo go!” she once said, adding female recording artists of Fruit and Fresco achieving albums, the title track of her that the first lady of chat recent years. massive worldwide success, Proud album has gone on to was “very sweet to me”. Heather became one of the become the soundtrack to As part of M People, hits seminal British voices of the a whole host of very special Well known for her 90s, with the band winning events including London’s charitable work, Heather the Best British Dance Act successful 2012 Olympic was also recently made Award at the Brits in 1994 bid, the 60th anniversary an ambassador for the and 1995, as well as the of VE Day in Trafalgar children’s charity Barnardos Square, the launch of Queen and is continually involved Mary 2, the Tsunami Relief with fundraising and helping Concert, England’s victory lend her valuable support to at the Rugby World Cup projects around the country. celebrations, and the official ceremony marking the So what gives Heather the handover of the Olympic impetus to keep moving Games from Beijing to forward, to keep challenging London. herself, to keep trying new things and not resting on And when Oprah Winfrey her laurels? “If you got the was looking for a song to feeling I do when I sing,” she sum up the work she’d been said, “you’d understand”. striving to achieve over her twenty-year career, she Heather Small will headline got in touch with Heather, the main stage at Leeds who somehow managed to Pride on Lower Briggate on squeeze in a trip across the Sunday 6th August.

46 | City Dweller Magazine www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk BLONDE ELECTRA

Blonde Electra are a The two sisters have been eleventh UK series of The live performance stood British pop duo who making music from an early X Factor in the ‘Group’ out and since then they’ve formed in Germany in age and have worked as category, mentored by maintained a reputation for 2013. songwriters in Europe and . The duo being a truly entertaining the United States, creating reached the finals and took live act. You may know them from a reputation as eccentric part in the first live show. their time on the X Factor crowd pleasers. Although the duo did not To know when and where or just because of their advance to the second they’ll be performing, keep infectious, care free pop They are best known for week, the choreography an eye on Leeds Pride’s music. their performances in the and fashion style of their Twitter: @LeedsPride PAUL STONE Paul Stone is a Yorkshire roots, Paul Stone said, “I see born swing singer who has myself as a local lad! There’s worked with a host of huge a lyric in my song ‘You’ll names in the industry, Never Ride Alone’ that says including legendary song ‘See the old man, say hello. writer Diane Warren. Just watch his eyes and know, the smile is not for Paul Stone is a simply show.” and the meaning of brilliant live act, with a that is that Yorkshire people reputation for combining are always approachable his original soul songs with and they always want to covers of modern hits, he’s welcome you. There’s just a must see performer at this a certain charm about year’s Leeds Pride. Yorkshire people.”

He has also received There will be an support from local press announcement about and even the BBC with DJs exactly where you can see Steve Wright and Paul O’ Paul Stone perform at Leeds Grady praising him on Radio Pride soon. 2. For more confirmed A very proud Yorkshire man, headliners and more news Paul Stone is delighted to be about the Leeds Pride performing at Leeds Pride. celebrations, head to Speaking about his local www.leedspride.com www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 47 Leeds City Dweller CITY PARTIES @LeedsCityDwell

FOR NIGHTLIFE IN LEEDS VISIT WWW.LEEDSCITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK POP STAR’S PARENTS WITH DARRYL MORRIS

safe to say it is. Things got a little more complicated with his step Dad, though. Enjoy any main course Pasta, Pizza “I had one piece of feedback from my stepdad, one of the or Salad from the BOCCA menu and songs on the album has a vocal effect in the background. And it Bottomless Prosecco for £20 per head finished and he went, “How did Available every mid-week evening 5.30pm – 7.30pm you get a duck in the studio?” and every Saturday & Sunday 12pm – 2pm We’ve all been there, no matter our age. A loud bang His former bandmate Niall Horan from the utility room and told me he also checks in with suddenly a bunch of plug Mum. sockets wont work. We’d like to think we can step up and “She calls me every day and tells For bookings please call 0113 246 9912 or email [email protected] take the situation in our stride, me where she’s heard my songs!” Booking is essential and subject to availability. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion but the reality is different. Cute. oraclebar oracleLeeds oracleLeeds | 3 Brewery Place | Leeds | LS10 1NE | www.oraclebar.com Phone out. Call Dad. It falls to Ed Sheeran, who paid I made lasagna this weekend and his parents back for their support got little more than 4 minutes with a new house and by building into the preparation before them a swimming pool and gym, measurement panic set in and… to tell me the best Dad story phone out. Call Mum. ever: oracle

Thankfully, you’ll be pleased to “We (Ed and hid dad) were at know that our favourite pop stars the Warner after party of the are no different. As much as it Brits one year when he lit up Terrace... may appear they know what we a cigarette right in the middle don’t and have their lives down of the party. Somebody went to a complete tee, they also up to him and said he couldn’t Oracle’s bombay sapphire reach for Mum and Dad on speed smoke, asking him to leave. He dial. turned to him and said, “I am Mr. Warner!” He got left alone and terrace is available for When Harry Styles launched his was allowed to smoke!” much-anticipated solo career, Private and Corporate Hire he dropped by the Radio Aire Can’t live with them, can’t live evening show and told me that without them. Overlooking the River Aire, this stunning, newly he still regularly checks in with refurbished terrace makes the perfect setting Mum and step Dad for advice, for BBQ’s, cocktail parties and outdoor events. including playing them his new Darryl x material. Catch Darryl Morris, Sunday to Available for groups of 30 to 300, Oracle offers Thursday from 7pm on Radio a wide range of bespoke catering menus, “Mum cried,” he told me, “I think Aire with all the biggest hits including a hog roast and an extensive range that’s a good sign.” I think it’s and all the biggest stars. of drinks and cocktail packages.

For further information call 0113 246 9912 or email [email protected]

oraclebar oracleLeeds oracleLeeds 3 Brewery Place | Leeds | LS10 1NE www.oraclebar.com www.leedscitymagazine.co.uk City Dweller Magazine | 49 One of the biggest, and the parade route to take in out, party, and make this most important events the sights of the amazing a weekend of love for the of the year in the city is parade, full of floats built whole of Leeds. rapidly approaching - by local bars and venues, businesses and members It was great to catch up with Saturday 6th and Sunday of the community, before Sigala and Ella Eyre, both of 7th of August will once heading to Lower Briggate them are behind the summer again be the Leeds Pride to continue the party with banger “Came Here For weekend! international and local stars Love”. The last time I saw on the main stage. Ella it was at her gig at the This year marks the 11th sadly missed Cockpit back in Pride in Leeds and each year The feeling of love and 2015, then I was responsible it manages to get bigger and togetherness hits me every for organising the after-show better, last year over 35,000 time, people are relaxed party at Fibre. The guys people visited across the and they can be truly have a bunch more songs spend our money in town) – weekend! Sunday is the main themselves. Sometimes, and coming over the next few the absolutely beautiful Tattu day of Pride, and if you’ve at times myself included, months which they wrote on held a great opening party never experienced this people question the need a trip to Thailand – however, and raised a load of money event then you are missing for such events in “this day it was nearly ruined by a for Simon on the Streets, out! The city is transformed and age”, but sadly both squirrel taking out the whole Issho (sister to Crafthouse into a vibrant, colourful, local and international events cities electrical supply, you and Angelica) opened above happy, musical, and a very prove that we’re not quite can listen back in full at Victoria Gate with stunning warm and accepting place. there yet when it comes to capitalfm.com. food and roof terrace, and complete equality. It’s been Marco’s New York Italian has Friends, families, visitors a difficult few months across Big shout out to all the new opened near Leeds Arena, and more all gather along the country, so let’s come additions, (and places to attached to the impressive Ibis Styles hotel. The main man, Marco Pierre White returned home for a special lunch (and took an instant shine to JoJo!) Meeting him on his giant grand chair brought back feelings of visiting Santa aged 5!

Big Love! Adam x

Come say hey on twitter: @AdamOnCapital