scallymag for halifax - winter '11

Winter 2011 Issue 23

For Local Parents, Carers & KidsFREE

®THE S AAAAAAAMAA GMMMMMM Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y YL A A A A A C LLL A LHa l i fax , Br ighouse , Sowerby Br idge , the Ryburn Va l ley and Surround ing Areas

Issue 23Issue 23

Out and About

LegolandRoyal Armouries

LeedsFestive What’s On

RecipeThe perfect turkey

Focus OnKidz Foundation

Diary PagesPre-School and Out of

School

PlusLocal news, competition

and much more!

2

www.hgsf.org.uk

SUCCESS ISAFFORDABLE...FROM AGES 3-18

Please contact us for a prospectus or to arrange a visit

Open Days: Junior School:Saturday 10th March 2012Senior School:Friday 9th March 2012

Entrance Exam:Register now for Senior School Entrance Exam on 14th January 2012.

Academic, Music, Choral and Sports Scholarships for entry in 2012.

For further information, please email [email protected] orcall 01422 202256

82 545 Halifax Courier A5 Portrait.indd 1 11/11/2011 09:41

You can now help the foundation support these and many other groups like them by: Becoming a member

Special offer to new individual members, receive a half price membership discount (£30) & a peel to save voucher card that has savings of over £390 to be used in Calderdale. You can download an application form at www.cffc.co.uk or request one at [email protected]

Online donations

Visit www.localgiving.com/charity/CFFC this will allow us to claim Gift aid on your donation adding a further 25%

Pledge

The Calderdale Pledge is a

weekly or monthly payment of

whatever you can afford. More

information is available at

www.cffc.co.uk or call

01422 349700

The Community foundation for Calderdale is a unique grant making charity based right here in Halifax, every year for the last twenty years they have supported local charities and voluntary groups. This includes helping to fund such charities as: Together for Looked-after Children (TLC) – A Calderdale-based charity dedi-cated to improving the lives of looked-after children by facilitating the support they need to fulfil their potential - whatever that may be. Calderdale Parent and Carers Council - Parents working together to create change so all children and young people can learn, make friends and have a voice and be part of school and community life. Homestart Calderdale - If you are a mum, dad or carer with a child under five, and are finding things tough Homestart offer free help. Their volunteers cover issues such as: Loneliness and Isolation Relationship Difficulties Coping with Twins, Triplets or Several Pre-School Children Ill Health, Disability or Special Needs Lone Parenting, First-time Parenthood.

01422 349700

Noah’s Ark Café - Offering counselling and support to children and young adults

affected by bereavement

page header

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Editor: Melanie HillLay-out & Design: Hazel BregazziPublishing: Bankside House Publishing, TodmordenDistribution: Many thanks to all schools, groups and other businesses which help with the distribution of The ScallymagSpecial Thanks: To all advertisers whose contribution ensures the magazine can be distributed Free of ChargeEditorial & Advertising: The Scallymag, 1 Mountfields, Lightcliffe, Halifax, HX3 8SS e: [email protected]: Whilst every care is taken to ensure that information contained in this magazine is true, accurate and fair, the Publisher/Editors cannot take any responsibility for events arising from the use of this information. Any statements or opinions given in this magazine are not necessarily those of the Publisher or Editors.© The Scallymag® 2011Nothing may be reproduced without permission

It’s that magical time of year again. A time when our children get giddy with excitement for an entire month, a time for families from toddlers to grandmas to become contortionists in a game of Twister and for mums (and, yes, many dads too) to get all hot n bothered about cooking a big bird.

Well fear not if navigating your way successfully through the whole crazy month of December fills you with dread, The Scallymag is here to help.

Our festive edition is packed to the seams (or staples in our case) with all you need to know about creating the perfect family Christmas.

Emma Gordon, owner of fab Halifax-based interior design consultancy Eye-Candy, shares her tips on trimming your home for Christmas on page 20. Emma was crowned winner on a recent episode of ITV 1’s ‘May the Best House Win’. Many congratulations to Emma – you’ve done Halifax proud!

Andrew Algar, Head Chef at Bertie’s Banqueting Rooms in Elland, let’s us into his secret for cooking beautifully moist turkey and shares his tips on the best accompaniments for the obligatory sprouts on page 26.

While Yorkshire lass Claire Almond-Jones shares her tips on introducing the kids to skiing on page 9.

We’ve got a whole host of ideas for family days out. Find our bumper What’s On section on page 10 and we feature the Royal Armouries Leeds in our Out n About feature on page 7 – a brilliant FREE day out!

We’re also delighted to welcome a whole host of new readers! This edition sees The Scallymag expand into North and East Halifax meaning we’re now reaching 1000s more families stretching from Brighouse to Ripponden and including Halifax and Sowerby Bridge.

This could never be done without the loyal support of our advertisers and also the 30+ schools and pre-schools, playgroups, play gyms, museums, libraries, children’s centres and more (you know who you are!) who help to distribute the magazine to you free of charge.

Please support our advertisers if you can - they are all fantastic, family friendly, local businesses – and please mention The Scallymag when you give them your custom.

Enjoy the holidays!From my family to yours,

Mel

welcomeContentsNewsNew Children’s Hospice to Open in New Year page 4The Edge is Open page 4£340,000 Cut to Young People in Calderdale page 5

Focus OnChildren’s Charity Built on Kindness of Others page 6Alpine Adventures with the Kids page 9Top 10 Scallymag Tips for a Great Christmas page 10 Out n AboutRoyal Armouries Leeds page 7Festive What’s On pages 10 and 11Legoland Manchester page 27 Diary PagesPre-school diary page 16Out of School diary page 18

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

1 Mountfields, Lightcliffe, Halifax, HX3 [email protected]: 07527 847423www.thescallymag.co.ukThe Scallymag (Halifax)@thescallymag

contact us

WELCOME

3

become contortionists in a game

yes, many dads too) to get all hot

the whole crazy month of December fills you with

welcome

Front CoverCongratulations to 8 year-old Hannah Carrick who drew our festive front page picture and to competition runner-up Aoife Curran, aged 3 who drew this lovely wintry picture. They both win a set of family tickets to see the pantomime Aladdin at

the Victoria Theatre, Halifax. Thanks to all from Hipperholme Private Day Nursery who took part in the competition.

The Night Before

Christmas

It’s that time of year again and Santa is on his way.

To help you keep an eye on his progress, the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) is working with Google Maps to track Santa. With the help of YouTube you’ll be able to track his journey and see footage of him making his deliveries.

To follow Santa on Christmas Eve visit www.noradsanta.org but remember when he gets to your house, the children must be asleep or he won’t come in!

After twelve years of fundraising and virtually nine months of building

work, the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice has taken shape and will open in the new year.

The Hospice will provide care and support for children with life-limiting conditions and their families from Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield.

The £2.5m brand new building stands proud in Bradley, between Brighouse and Huddersfield.

Jason Costello, the charity’s partnership development manager, said: “There are currently more than 400 children and families needing the help the hospice has to offer.

The Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice wants to be the charity where children and families know that their needs are responded to in a caring and loving way to enhance the quality of their lives. The team are incredibly driven to achieve this. They have made excellent progress thanks to the wonderful support of the local community and it is hoped that this develops and grows in the coming years.”

The Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice currently provides a Hospice at Home service. This support is provided by the care team in family homes 365 days a year, completely free of charge to the family. At present nearly 30 children and their families are being supported through this service and this number continues to increase. The Hospice at Home service will continue to run alongside the in house services offered at the children’s hospice which will offer short breaks, emergency and end of life care.

The charity needs your help! Please contact the fundraising team on 01484 411040 and find out how you can make a difference to the lives of local children.

Calderdale’s newest play gym opened in late October.

The Edge Play Gym and Café, based in the Water’s Edge Children’s Nursery building in Park Road, Elland, boasts a spacious café area serving a wide selection of coffees, drinks and food, along with vibrant and fun soft play equipment for children aged up to 7.

And from January fun and educational classes for little ones are starting in Spanish, French, Jazzamataz and Babyballet!

Themed Ben 10, Peppa Pig, Pirates and Princesses birthday parties are also available.

• See advert on page 12 for more details.

New Children’s Hospice to Open in New Year

The Hospice with a team of volunteers from O2 who painted the fencing.

Ihis progress, the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) is working with Google Maps to track Santa. With the help of YouTube you’ll be able to track his journey and see footage of him making his deliveries.

visit www.noradsanta.org but remember when he gets to your house, the children must be asleep or he won’t come in!

Ella, aged 5, has fun at the brand new Edge Play Gym and Cafe.

The Edge is Open!

local news

4

Calderdale Council is discussing how to save £340,000 from its Young

Peoples’ Services budget.They are aiming to save £200,000

in 2012/13 and a further £140,000 in 2013/14 from their Young People’s Services department. A working party of the Children and Young People’s Scrutiny Panel spent the summer looking at how this could be achieved whilst ensuring the service continues to play its valuable role.

As The Scallymag went to press, panel members considered the working party’s report and agreed to recommend it to the Council.

The key recommendation was that the Service should remain universally accessible but focus on young people experiencing difficulties in areas of Calderdale where problems are most prevalent.

Other recommendations included:Reducing the number of buildings the Young People’s Service operates from and ensuring remaining buildings are used efficientlyMaximising opportunities for volunteersMaking sure the service can generate increased income from schools and other organisations, which use facilities such as the Mixenden Outdoor Centre.Children and Young People’s

Scrutiny Panel Chair, Councillor Colin Rastrick, said: “We need to target this service at those young people who need it most, rather than spread our resource too thinly.

“We have too many buildings, which means we are spending money on maintaining those buildings, rather than frontline services. We do need to have a base in communities that young people use, but currently we are not doing this efficiently.”

History will be made in Calderdale next summer when the Olympic Torch will be carried through Halifax and Brighouse.

The Olympic Flame will travel through the borough on Sunday, June 2012, on its way to its final destination, the Olympic Stadium in London.

Calderdale’s Mayor, Cllr Nader Fekri,

said: “This is a wonderful chance for our towns and villages to celebrate sharing the Olympic spirit and mark the countdown to the games.... I hope that folk will turn out to support the Olympic spirit and support those members of our communities who’ve been chosen to run with the Olympic flame.”

New Police Number

West Yorkshire Police has a new contact number for you to ring when it’s not an emergency.

101 gives the public one easy way to get in touch with the police for calls that do not need an urgent response. You can call 101 to report a crime that has already happened, ask for crime prevention advice or give the police information. In an emergency always call 999.

When you call the 101 number the operator will take down information about what has happened and, if necessary, arrange an appointment for an officer to come and see you.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Milsom, in charge of the Operations Support Services Department, said: “All calls to 101 cost just 15p, even from a mobile, and no matter how long it lasts for. 101 will in no way replace the 999 emergency number but will instead complement it – one number for emergencies and one for non-emergency situations.”

Children from All Saints Pre-School in Salterhebble enjoyed a

feast fit for a gruffalo as part of their Autumn term project.

The 2-4 year olds have been learning all about the classic children’s story ‘The Gruffalo’, by Julia Donaldson,which tells of a brave mouse and how he outwitted a scary monster in the woods.

The project culminated with a gruffalo party including treats featured in the book such as ‘gruffalo crumble’, ‘owl ice-cream’, ‘roasted fox’ and

‘scrambled snake’!Pre-school leader Gail Broadbent

said: “The children love ‘The Gruffalo’ and they had a brilliant time dressing up as characters from the book. We also had a fun time preparing their gruffalo feast and they thought it was delicious!”

A mouse took a stroll…

£340,000 Cut to Young People in Calderdale

•

•

•

Cllr Colin Rastrick

Right: Children from All Saints Pre-school before their ‘gruffalo feast’

Olympic Flamewill Burn in Calderdale

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What do you think?

The Scallymag is keen to hear your views – let

us know on our Facebook page – The Scallymag

(Halifax) – or on Twitter @thescallymag

Calderdale charity Kidz Foundation is doing some inspiring work

to help families with children who have long term illnesses - and what’s more they don’t receive any government or local funding, relying solely on donations and the kindness of others.

Kidz Foundation was set up by families that have had children suffering from long term illnesses.

Charity Manager Simon Widdop, from Illingworth, Halifax, explained: “I personally found a need for help when my own daughter, Leigh-Anne (pictured right), went through intensive chemotherapy treatment meaning she suffered muscle damage in her legs. We found it hard to get a wheelchair on a long term basis and in the end had to buy one ourselves. Leigh-Anne is now in remission from her Leukaemia, but

suffers from a rare form of epilepsy brought on from a bleed on her brain following her treatment regime.”

Kidz Foundation provides grants to families with long term sick or disabled children (up to the child’s 18th birthday). The grants can be used for:

- Medical Treatment/Equipment: this can be anything from specialist cutlery, oral syringes to a custom wheelchair.

- Home Modifications: Things such as handrails, wheelchair ramps or hoists and lifts.

- Respite breaks: A short UK break for the entire family.

Simon said: “We have a fantastic team of helpers that volunteer for events. In the past we have had a very successful Santa’s grotto in the Piece Hall, as well as an Easter Egg Hunt and Pirate Hunt, also in the Piece Hall.”

Children’s Charity Built on Kindness of Others

If you would like to make a donation to this fantastic charity visit the website www.kidzfoundation.org.uk or call 01422 728080.

Kidz Foundation can also take old mobile phones and exchange them for a cash donation for the charity.

Co-op Travel in Halifax has kindly donated some Christmas gifts to the charity this year, which they we will be handing out to some of the children they have helped in the area.

Kidz Foundation is also running a Christmas raffle with tickets available at just a £1 each, or a book for £5. Call 01422 728080 to buy tickets. The prizes are as follows:

1st Prize: Family Holiday to Spain2nd Prize: Xbox 360 Console3rd Prize: £50 Experience Voucher4th Prize: Pocket HD Camcorder5th Prize: Mobile Telephone6th Prize: Big Teddy & Tin Christmas Sweets

When Harley was just six weeks old he was diagnosed with a severe form of Meningitis which has left him with extensive brain

damage. He has spent several weeks as an inpatient in Manchester Children’s Hospital and he now has a team of professionals who attend and see to his medical needs.

“We wanted to make our house more wheelchair friendly, as Harley will most likely always be wheelchair bound. We wanted to allow him an outdoor space, but did not have the money to make the garden modifications that were needed for a ramp” says mum, Hayley.

“This is when we heard about Kidz Foundation, we applied for a grant, and received a cheque for £300 in August 2011”.

She added: “Harley’s senses are beginning to improve and he is becoming aware of the world around him and is enjoying being outdoors. At the moment we are having to carry Harley up five steps, which is becoming increasingly difficult as he grows and becomes heavier.”

Charity Manager Simon Widdop said: “The grant has helped the family get a wheelchair ramp and hopefully we will see plenty of nice weather in the summer for Harley to enjoy access to his garden!”

Harley is just one of many families that have been helped by Kidz Foundation. If you would like to make a donation to support children like Harley please visit www.kidzfoundation.org.uk If you prefer to make a monthly direct donation from your bank, please call Kidz Foundation on 01422 72 8080 and request a form.

Harley’s Story

events. In the past we have had a very successful Santa’s

Top Prize in our

Christmas Raffle - a family holiday to Spain! Call 01422 728080 for

tickets.

was just six weeks old he was diagnosed with a severe form of Meningitis which has left him with extensive brain

damage. He has spent several

focus on:

6

With over 8,500 items on display the Royal Armouries in Leeds

is a feast for the eyes and imagination.

Whether you’re 8 or 80 there is a myriad of displays to capture your attention. From the wonderous Hall of Steel - the architectural centre-piece of the museum - which can be seen from every floor, to the awe-inspiring Oriental Gallery there is something to captivate even the youngest of visitors… for a while at least! Of course we all know how long our children’s attention span is! So the mediaeval themed playroom is a thankful retreat where kids can dress up, play games and take part in crafts.

Then it’s all back to the educational tour of the museum, which really is fascinating, with exhibits depicting episodes in history from across the globe to more recent events closer to home in West Yorkshire.

The museum never fails to impress due to its range of historical artifacts and live presentations. We sat on the front row for an impressive demonstration about the skills of the Samurai Warrior which made my daughter jump out of her skin…before she burst into fits

of laughter! I’ve always believed that bringing history to life in the way that they do at the Royal Armouries truly gives a glimpse into the past and I’m pretty sure our daughter will remember the tale of the Samurai forever more because of the real-life feelings this demonstration evoked in her.

This is a place that our family will want to visit again. For little children you can’t

really take everything in on one visit. To

appreciate everything the museum has to

offer you need to spend at least a whole day there.

But that’s all fine because admission

is FREE! The country may be tightening its purse strings but there are still some fantastic days out to be had without having to part with a penny!

Out ‘n’ about

7

Heritage, Fun and History(…and it’s free!)

Essential Info:Places to eatNelson Bistro: ground floorCoffee shop: floor 2Picnic area: floor 4In the vicinity of the museum there is a range of restaurants and shops.

Opening timesDaily 10am – 5pm The museum is closed 24-26 December.

24hr information:0113 220 1999Email:[email protected] Armouries MuseumArmouries Drive, Leeds,LS10 1LT

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Heritage, Fun and HistoryHeritage, Fun and History

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Recycling it all adds up...

+

= NEW improved weekly recycling collections

+ + +

For further information visit www.recycleforcalderdale.org or phone Customer First on 0845 245 7000

Please keep recycling

From 5 December 2011, we’ll collect all recycling every week. That’s glass, cans, paper, food waste, plastic bottles and textiles - every week. Just place your recycling containers at the edge of your property by 7am on your collection day.

Non-recyclable waste will continue to be collected every two weeks.Look out for your new collection dates calendar for 2012, and recycling leaflet, coming through your letterbox. Please start using your new calendar from 5 December.

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So, you’ve decided the time is right to introduce your children to the slopes. Here’s a common scenario - dad has skied before, hitting the slopes most years with his mates on long weekends, mum may have skied at school or has had an hour on artificial snow, while the kids have never skied. A common concern for such a family is whether a skiing holiday will work with everyone at different skill levels.

The main thing about family ski holidays is to get kids interested, see the mountains and more importantly HAVE FUN, so here are a few hints and tips to take away at least some of the stress:

NUMBER 1Research your resort, your

accommodation and your budget before booking. Listen to recommendations from friends but remember if you have never been skiing then those recommendations may not suit, ask the experts and check out resort reviews on the internet. If you are a family of mixed ability a good idea would be to stay in a chalet with ski hosting, this will enable the skier of the group to get out skiing with others and with someone who knows the mountain area. Lots of people looking for ski holidays, especially with children, like to go ski in/out as people believe it easier, but bear in mind that many ski in/out chalets do involve skiing to get to ski school and if you have complete novices in your group and young children this may be tricky. The other option is getting a bus to the ski school meeting point. Ski school is a must for kids, whether they are have

some experience or not as learning with kids their own age and ability helps with confidence and vastly improves the child’s skiing. For mums or dads who have never been skiing, lessons are vital. As for couples it’s like teaching your other half to drive - DON’T DO IT! It will end in tears and the chance of ruining the holiday and the non skier never donning a pair of ski boots and skis again.

NUMBER 2 For first time skiers, it is a good

idea to book a session at your nearby dry slope before you go. It will help with confidence and the whole skiing experience will not feel so alien once you are in resort. Continue the learning when in resort and pay for lessons, it will do wonders for your child’s skiing ability and also your sanity!

NUMBER 3Get the right kit before you go.

Warm and dry salopettes and jackets are a must. If it is your first time and you don’t want to waste money you could borrow or even hire although, TK Maxx and supermarket clothing ranges offer fantastic value for money pieces. Don’t just think about the outerwear, also think layers for children as this will keep them much warmer and equally easy to change if they get too hot. You will also need gloves, goggles, sunglasses and socks. Do not forget socks!

NUMBER 4 Once in resort all the hard work,

including booking lessons and buying lift passes, should have been sorted. Time now to prepare for that all

important first morning, so lay out everyone’s ski wear for the next day.

NUMBER 5Skiing is a sport families can enjoy

together, the memories will be some of the most cherished for all of you. It may even become a tradition that your kids will carry on with their kids.

Having a combined 20 seasons between us here at Aktiv HQ we have seen many family ski trips and my hat goes off to all parents who, for six mornings in a row, get themselves ready, kids ready, everyone down for breakfast, ensuring everyone has their own ski boots on and have their own skis plus goggles, gloves and being at the ski school meeting point by 9am. Then after skiing all day collect the kids from ski school and have them bathed/showered and fed by 8pm when they finally rest until 7am then next day. One thing we do realise is that parents who come skiing are fully prepared and if they are not then we are always on hand before arrival to do your double check of things to bring, arrange an in-chalet ski fitting and pre-buying of lift passes thus saving the drama of trekking to the ski shop for ski & boot fitting, then carting your skis back to the chalet and having to spend an hour of your first day queuing at the pass office for lift-passes.

In general skiing with kids can be a daunting experience but don’t be put off, seeing your kids ski whether it is their 1st or 10th time is amazing and it doesn’t take long for them to outshine their parents!

Alpine Adventureswith the Kids

Skiing is no longer a sport of the rich and famous. With more snow domes and zones popping up around the country and budget airlines flying thousands of keen

skiers and boarders out to the Alps each winter for less, people are taking to the slopes in their masses.

When the above masses get older, settle down and start a family, skiing can become a distant memory. But it doesn’t have to be! Claire Almond-Jones is a Yorkshire lass who, with her husband Ben, runs AktivExperience, a ski specialist company based in the French Alps. The couple live in Meribel with their five year old son Noah. Here Claire gives us the lowdown on how a trip to the slopes can make the perfect family holiday.

focus on:

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10

Holiday Fun For Kids

Winter XS 2011(19-23 December)North Bridge Leisure CentreAges 5-9 1pm-4pmKidZone Activity Daysincludes sports, relays, parachute games, party games and other activities.£7 per day or £30 per week

Ages 8-15 9am-4.15pmAdventure Activity Daysincludes sports, games, team challenges, martial arts, slacklining, roller discos, obstacle courses and swimming.£16 per day or £70 per week

Ask about our February activities too.

For more informationPhone: 01422 341 527Email: [email protected]: www.calderdale.gov.uk

10th:Until Monday January

2nd Imagine Theatre presents the magical pantomime Aladdin at the Victoria Theatre in Halifax. For full details of performance dates, times and ticket prices visit www.victoriatheatre.co.uk or contact the Theatre Box Office on 01422 351158.

Father Christmas takes time out of his busy schedule to visit Ogden Water from 11am-3pm on December 10 and 11. Admission £4.00, Passport to leisure holders £3.00. Refreshments available. For further information phone 01422 393222.

There’s nothing quite like live music to put you in the mood for Christmas and the Elland Silver Band, Elland Silver Youth Band and Training Band present the

Mrs Sylvia Graucob MBE annual Christmas concert at 7pm at All Saints Church, Savile Road, Elland. Tickets from Kathleen on 01484 717126.

Sticking with the music theme enjoy music while you shop at the Piece Hall from noon-2pm on December 10 (Halifax Concert Band), 11 December (Royal British Legion Band), 17 December (Littleborough Brass Band) and 18 December (Royal British Legion Band). Free.

Sparks! Family Christmas crafts are held at Bankfield Museum from 1-2pm and 2-3pm. Make a selection of Victorian Christmas decorations. Admission £2.00, Passport to Leisure holders £1.50.

From 10.30am-12.30pm the Saturday Art Club is held at Smith Art Gallery in

There’s some very special festive events happening across Calderdale and beyond this December and as always we’ve

gathered info on them all to bring you the best of what’s on offer for all the family.

Brighouse. Children aged 8 to 12 years are invited to join in the fun using the fantastic collections at the gallery and library for inspiration. Make stuff, have fun and to meet new friends. Admission £5. To book a place please contact Jeffrey on 01422 352334, or e-mail [email protected]

11th:There will be a Christmas Market at

Bailiff Bridge Community Centre from 10am-4pm. Stalls will include cakes and cupcakes, sock animals, cards and gift wrap, hampers, books and more! Admission Adults £1.00, children 50p.

Hebden Bridge Christmas craft market is held from 9.30am-4pm at Lees Yard, off St George’s Square, Hebden Bridge.

13th:At 12.30pm on December 13, 18 and

20 there is Christmas wreath making at Shibden Hall. Meet the Ranger at the Hall for a chance to make your own Christmas Wreath to take home. Or why not book yourself and friends on a group booking to include wreath making, mince pies and hot drinks to get into the festive spirit. Group bookings can be arranged at a time to suit your party. £12 charge per person includes refreshments, minimum 5 people. Wreath making kits are also available from Shibden Hall, priced at £6.00. Please phone 01422 352246 to order a kit. Admission £8.00, booking essential.

17th:Santa will be sweeping into Shibden

to hear your Christmas requests. Get on board the Santa Express decorated for Santa’s arrival and visit Santa in the grotto at Shibden Mereside. Child admission charge includes tour on the train, Santa’s grotto and a present.

11am-4pm. Child £6.00, accompanying adult £2.00. Booking essential on 01422 347495.

Hebden Bridge’s first ever Christmas Craftaganza will be held from 10am-4pm on December 17 and 18 – a chance to buy your last minute Christmas gifts. Designer-maker showcase, craft fair, local, handmade Christmas gifts and vegetarian cafe. Free admission. Held at Holme Street Arts Centre, Holme Street, Hebden Bridge.

Overgate Hospice Choir is delighted to welcome the gifted young players of the Elland Silver Youth Band and conductor Samantha Harrison to the Choir’s popular carol concert. The distinguished cornet soloist Phillip McCann is a special guest. Tickets available from 01422 345414 or e-mail [email protected]. 7 pm, admission £10. Venue: Halifax Minster, Causeway, Halifax.

18th:Christmas at Shibden. Visit Shidben

Hall decked in glorious Christmas decorations, festoons and wreaths made from local materials. The spirit of Christmas will come alive and includes craft activities, storytelling and Christmas song. Also, take the opportunity to make your own Christmas wreath (cost £7.00). Noon-3pm. A small charge will be made for this event in addition to the usual admission charge for the Hall.

Hebden Bridge Farmer’s Market. Held on the first and third Sunday each month all year round. 8am-4 pm. Lees Yard, off St. George’s Square, Hebden Bridge.

Xmas Kidzone Activity Days for 5-7 year-olds are held between 1-4pm from 19-23 December at North Bridge Leisure Centre, Halifax. Five afternoons of fun, games, crafts and sports. Typical sessions will include sportmix, and can

include construction, painting and hand ball. Dress warm! Hat and gloves! £7 per day (£5.75 Passport to Leisure),£30 per week (£25 Passport to Leisure). Go Active members free.

Xmas Adventure Activity Days for 8-14 year olds are also held at North Bridge Leisure Centre from 9am-4.15pm on 19-23 December. A full week of activities chosen from a variety of sports, games, team challenges, roller discos, obstacle courses and swimming. Must pre-book. For all days you need Packed lunch, drinks and swimming kit. Hat and gloves needed! £16 per day (£13.50 Passport to Leisure), Go Active members half price. £70 per week (£58 Passport to Leisure), Go Active members half price. To pre-book please Email [email protected] or call 01422 341527.

21st:Cinderella’s Magic Wand. For 3 to 6

year olds. Meet Cinderella and her fairy godmother in this magical costumed workshop at Shibden Hall. Help Cinderella with her chores and discover old toys. Create your own magic wand and cast a spell to send Cinderella to the ball. 10.30am-12.15pm and 1pm-2.45pm. Adults £4.00, children £7.00. Booking essential on 01422 392756. Charge includes admission to Hall.

Venue Information:

North Bridge Leisure Centre, North Bridge, Halifax, HX3 6TE,

Tel: 01422 341527Bailiff Bridge Community Centre,

Victoria Road, Brighouse, HD6 4DX, , Tel: 01484 717808

Smith Art Gallery, Halifax Road, Brighouse, HD6 2AF,Tel: 01422 288065

Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax, HX3 6HG, Tel: 01422 352334

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Top Ten Scallymag Tips for a Great Christmas

Everyone has their own traditions when it comes to Christmas. Passed down through generations there are things that make Christmas truly special just

for you and those you share your Christmas with.At The Scallymag we love Christmas and we’ve put together ten tips that make it a truly magical time for us.

Leave a little bit of Christmas magic until Christmas Eve by saving the decoration of one room until then. Homemade

paper chains made whilst listening to Christmas

songs will make a fun activity for the whole family on Christmas Eve.

If you choose a real Christmas tree trim off

a couple of branches from the bottom and use those to make a table centrepiece. A

small block of oasis, any extra greenery from the

garden, holly, and a few Christmas baubles make a unique cost effective centrepiece that all the family can help to make.

If you have got that real Christmas tree don’t

forget to water it. Trees drink up to one pint of water a day.

Open Santa presents when the kids get up (my

mum always said they disappear if you touch them before sunlight – I daren’t risk it and

neither have my kids so far) and if you can try to wait to open the other presents from family and friends until after breakfast.

Take in a free Christmas lights show by wrapping the kids up one night after dark and go for a walk around your local area. People

have amazing Christmas decorations and we love to

see them all!

Buy batteries!

If possible take the toys out of their packaging,

add batteries and remove all those annoying wire tags before then placing

back in the box and wrapping – this makes

Christmas morning much easier!

Have a go at making your own mince pies – they

taste so much nicer than shop bought ones. If you do have a go, try freezing

them raw in trays. You can then transfer them to

freezer bags and just warm up a few at a time meaning you always have gorgeous warm mince pies ready in just 10 minutes.

Boxing Day can always be a bit of a damp squib.

Try holding back a present for each person to keep the excitement going. In

our house we have the Boxing Day bag where

each present has a piece of string with your name on it and we all pull at the same time. We do this after lunch and the kids love it – makes a great photo opportunity every year too!

Many of these ideas come from our grandparents.

So our final point is to remember what Christmas really means. Whether you

are religious or not at the end of the day it’s

not about spending a fortune or eating yourself silly it’s about spending time with your family and creating memories that children can take into their adulthood – camera and camcorder a must!

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Merry Christmas from all

at The Scallymag

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Please Contact: Joanne Ratledge Tel 01422 256053 [email protected]

Fostering . . . the career change of your life.

If you have a genuine commitment to care for children, plenty of energy, understanding and

patience and a sense of humour .......... then we want you!

Calderdale foster carers are guaranteed payments 52 weeks a year.

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The Scallymag Diary Pages are a FREE listings service designed to help busy

parents and kids plan their week’s activities.

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

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

It is free to add a listing to this section – just get in touch via the contact details on page 3 – if there are any children’s activities, opening times etc that you would like to add.

diary pages

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Tuesday 9:30 - 3:30 9:00 - 7:00 9:00 - 7:00 9:00 - 4:00 9:00 - 4:00 9:30 - 6:00

Wednesday 9:30 - 3:30 9:00 - 7:00 9:00 - 7:00 9:00 - 4:00 9:00 - 4:00 9:30 - 6:00

Thursday 9:30 - 3:30 9:00 - 7:00 9:00 - 7:00 9:00 - 4:00 Closed 9:30 - 6:00

Friday 9:30 - 3:30 9:00 - 7:00 9:00 - 7:00 9:00 - 4:00 9:00 - 4:00 9:30 - 6:00

Saturday 10:00 - 2:00 9:00 - 7:00 9:00 - 7:00 9:30 - 12:00 10:00 - 1:00 10:00 - 4:00

Sunday Parties Only 9:00 - 7:00 9:00 - 7:00 Parties Only 10:00 - 1:00 10:00 - 4:00

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Monday9:30 - 12:0012:30 - 3:00+lunch club

9:00 -11:3012:30 – 3:00

9:30 - 12:0012:30 - 3:00

Tuesday9:30 - 12:0012:30 - 3:00+lunch club

9:00 -11:3012:30 – 3:00 9:30 - 12:00

Wednesday9:30 - 12:0012:30 - 3:00+lunch club

9:00 -11:3012:30 – 3:00 9.00 - 11.15 9:30 - 12:00

Thursday9:30 - 12:0012:30 - 3:00+lunch club

9:00 -11:3012:30 – 3:00 9:30 - 12:00

Friday9:30 - 12:0012:30 - 3:00+lunch club

9:00 -11:3012:30 – 3:00 9:30 - 12:00

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pre school diaryM

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9:30 - 11:30Barkisland Cricket Club, Woodfield, BarkislandEileen - 07718 606867

Ripponden Parent & Toddler Group9:30 - 11:30The Community Centre, 5 Old Bank, Ripponden01422 822777

Copley Parent & Toddler Group9:30 - 11:15Old Rishworthians Rugby Club, Copley Lane, Copley01422 376815

St Paul’s Methodist Toddler Group9:30 - 11:30St Paul’s Methodist Church, Tower Hill, Sowerby Bridge01422 831109

CJ’s9:30 - 12:30The Elim centre, Ryburn street, Sowerby Bridge 01422 836441Term Time Only

All Saints Church Parent and Toddler Group9:30 - 11:30am and 12.30-2.30pmAll Saints Church Hall, Godfrey Road, Skircoat GreenWilma - 01422 320097

Fun Swim1:00 - 2:00Sowerby Bridge Swimming Pool, Hollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge01422 831929

babyballetplease phone for timesbabyballet Academy, 25 Square Road, Halifax08701 430063






Aqua Tots10:00 - 10:45Sowerby Bridge Swimming Pool, Hollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge01422 831929

Warley St Johns Parent and Toddler group10:00 -11:30Warley St Johns Church,Windleroyd Lane, off Burnley Rd, Warley01422 885623 / 320592

Warley St Johns Parent and Toddler group10:00 -11:30Warley St Johns Church,Windleroyd Lane, off Burnley Rd, Warley01422 885623/320592

Warley St Johns Parent and Toddler group10:00 - 11:30Warley St Johns Church,Windleroyd Lane, off Burnley Rd, Warley01422 885623/320592

Tatty Bumpkins10:30 - 11:30Big Blue Frog, Stead St, HalifaxClare - 07790 761702

Baby Clinic11:00 - 1:00Station Road Surgery, Sowerby Bridge08444 778916

Trinity Tots9:15 - 11:15Holy Trinity J& I School, Swires Road, Halifax01422 367161

Savile Park Toddlers9:30 - 11:30Savile Park Primary School, Moorfield Street, HalifaxCall in when school is open

Savile Park Toddlers9:30 - 11:30Savile Park Primary School, Moorfield Street, HalifaxCall in when school is open

Toddler Talk (first Mon Only)2:00 - 4:00New Road Childrens Centre,Sowerby New Rd School, Sowerby New Rd, Sowerby Bridge01422 317082

Humpty Dumpty Toddler Group9:15 - 11:15Highroad Well & Warley United Reform ChurchWarley Road07952 995710

Jo Jingles10:00 - 10:45, 11:00 - 11:45Big Blue Frog, Stead StreetHalifax01422 820425

Jo Jingles9:30 - 10:15, 10:15 - 11:00St Mary’s Church, CottonstonesSowerby Bridge01422 820425

Socatots9:30 - 10:30Play Palace, Jubilee Mill,3a, West Parade, Halifax07919151339Ages 2½ to school

Socatots10:30 - 11:30Play Palace, Jubilee Mill,3a, West Parade, Halifax07919151339Ages walking to 2½

Socatots9:30 - 10:30 & 10.30 - 11.30Play Palace, Jubilee Mill,3a, West Parade, Halifax07919151339

Action Kids9:30 - 10:15Play Palace, Jubilee Mill,3a, West Parade, HalifaxHeather - 07717 576160

Breastfeeding beyondbabyhood1:00 - 3.00 (every other week)Funhouse, Dispensary Walk, HalifaxCharlotte 01422 250259

Stones Baby and Toddler group9.30 - 11.00Stones Methodist ChurchRochdale Road, RippondenLindsey - 01422 834335

Tatty Bumpkins 10.00 - 11.00Play Palace, Jubilee Mill, 3a West Parade, Halifax Clare - 07790761702

Action Kids - Pre-School Academy10:15 - 11:00Kidzville, Church street, GreetlandHeather - 07717 576160

Action Kids - Pre-School Academy10:15 - 11:00 & 11:15 - 12:00Kidzville, Church Street, GreetlandHeather - 07717 576160

St. Jude’s Tiddlers9.00 – 11.00St. Jude’s Church Hall, Free School Lane, HalifaxMary 01422 343476

Breastfeeding Peer Support Group11:00 - 12:30 (closed on bank Holidays)Field Lane Children’s Centre, Burnsall Rd, Rastrick, HD6 3JT01484 384154

Breastfeeding Peer Support Group12:30 - 2:00Information Shop for Young People, Connexions, Alexander Street, Halifax

Parents & Toddler9.00 - 11.30, 1.00 - 3.30The Play Gym, The Workshop, Upper Bonegate, Brighouse01484 711102

Parents & Toddler9.00 - 11.30, 1.00 - 3.30The Play Gym, The Workshop, Upper Bonegate, Brighouse01484 711102

Music and Action9:15 - 11:15St Paul’s Methodist Church Sowerby Bridge01422 835614

Baby Massage1:00 - 3:00Wellholme Children’s Centre, Bradford Road, Brighouse01484 714768

Speech and Language Drop In11:00 - 12:00 (2nd Thu Only)Wellholme Children’s Centre, Bradford Road, Brighouse01484 714768

Tiny Tweeters 10:45 - 11:30Wellholme Children’s Centre, Bradford Road, Brighouse01484 714768

Young Parents Group1:00 - 3:00Wellholme Children’s Centre, Bradford Road, Brighouse01484 714768

Childminders Group9:30- 11:30Wellholme Children’s Centre, Bradford Road, Brighouse01484 714768

Just4kids play session9:30 - 11:00St Pauls Church, Tower Hill, Sowerby Bridge,Lucy 01422 340440



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Cottonstones Mother & Toddler Group9:30 - 11:30St Mary’s Church. Cottonstones, Millbank, Sowerby Bridge01422 823403

Greetland Parent & Toddler Group9:30 - 11:30Greetland Community Centre, Rochdale Road, Greetland01422 311688

Chatterbox Mums & Toddlers10:00 - 11:30St Peter’s Community Centre, St. Peter’s Avenue, Sowerby, Sowerby Bridge01422 832747

Ducklings Swimming Lessons4:15 - 6:15 (several sessions)Sowerby Bridge Swimming Pool, Hollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge01422 831929

All Saints Church Parent and Toddler Group9:30 - 11:30am and 12.30-2.30pmAll Saints Church Hall, Godfrey Road, Skircoat GreenWilma - 01422 320097

NOTE: All activities listed on these Pre-School pages will require an adult to remain with the child at all times. Some activities have limited places, some only run in term time and some may be cancelled at short notice. We always advise phoning ahead before setting out to any activity and, for some of the courses, it is essential.

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

Warley St Johns Parent and Toddler group10:00 -11:30Warley St Johns Church,Windleroyd Lane, off Burnley Rd, Warley01422 885623/320592

Baby Clinic11:00 - 1:00Station Road Surgery, Sowerby Bridge08444 778916

Toddler Talk (first Mon Only)2:00 - 4:00New Road Childrens Centre,Sowerby New Rd School, Sowerby New Rd, Sowerby Bridge01422 317082

Breastfeeding beyondbabyhood1:00 - 3.00 (every other week)Funhouse, Dispensary Walk, HalifaxCharlotte 01422 250259

Breastfeeding Peer Support Group1:00 - 2:30Wellholme Children’s Centre, Bradford Road, Brighouse01484 714768

Breastfeeding Peer Support Group10:30 - 12:00Illingworth Children’s Centre, (Whitehill School), Off Occupation Lane01422 243633

Breastfeeding Peer Support Group1:30 - 3:00Elland Children’s Centre, Boxhall Road, Elland01422 373133

Little Ballerina Classes10.30 - 11.30The Play Gym, The Workshop, Upper Bonegate, Brighouse01484 711102

Baby Group1:00 - 3.00New Road Childrens Centre,Sowerby New Rd School, Sowerby New Rd, Sowerby Bridge01422 835614

Fiona’s Drop In3:30 - 5:00New Road Childrens Centre,Sowerby New Rd School, Sowerby New Rd, Sowerby Bridge01422 835614

Young Parents Group1:00 - 3.00New Road Childrens Centre,Sowerby New Rd School, Sowerby New Rd, Sowerby Bridge01422 835614

Well Baby Clinic1:30 - 3:30New Road Childrens Centre,Sowerby New Rd School, Sowerby New Rd, Sowerby Bridge01422 835614

Singing and Storytime1:15 - 2:15 Whinney Hill Community Centre,01484 714768

Baby Club1:00 - 3:00Wellholme Children’s Centre, Bradford Road, Brighouse01484 714768

Tiddle Toddle1:30 - 3:00 Whinney Hill Community Centre,01484 714768

Play Services3:30 - 5:30New Road Childrens Centre,Sowerby New Rd School, Sowerby New Rd, Sowerby Bridge01422 835614

Family Stay & Play1:30 - 3:30St Peter’s Community Centre, St. Peter’s Avenue, Sowerby, Sowerby Bridge01422 835614

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1st Sowerby Bridge Brownies6:15 - 7:15Christ Church Junior School, Park Road, Sowerby Bridge01422 8825577 - 10 yrs

1st Sowerby Bridge Rainbows5:00 - 6:00Christ Church Junior School, Park Road, Sowerby Bridge01422 8313895 - 7 yrs

Rishworth Brownies6:30 - 7:30 (term time only)St. John’s C of E Junior & Infant School, Rishworth, Sowerby Bridge01422 8245337 - 10 yrs

1st Ripponden, St Bartholomews Brownies6:30 - 8:00Ripponden Community CentreRippondenTracey - 01422 8243597 - 10 yrs

Dance Arena Ballet & Stage School3:45 - 9:00 (various classes)Stainland Community Centre, Stainland Road, Stainland01422 3576785 yrs +

Dance Arena Ballet & Stage School1:45 - 6:30 (various classes)Stainland Community Centre, Stainland Road, Stainland01422 3576785 yrs +

Swimming Lessons4:00 - 7:00 (Several Sessions)Sowerby Bridge Swimming Pool, Hollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge01422 8319295 yrs +


Sowerby Bridge Youth Club7:00 - 9:30Sowerby Bridge Youth & Community Centre, Foundry St, Sowerby Bridge01422 839526

5th Sowerby Bridge Rainbows6:00 - 7:00St. Pauls Methodist Church, Tower Hill, Sowerby BridgeCarol - 01422 8321955 - 7 yrs

7th Sowerby Bridge Brownies6:00 - 7:30St. Pauls Methodist Church, Tower Hill, Sowerby BridgeBecky - 01422 8321957 - 10 yrs

Boys Brigade6:30 - 8:00Christ Church, Wharf St, Sowerby Bridge01422 833794

The Imperial Crusaders Drum & Trumpet Corps6:15 - 8:30St. Pauls Methodist Church, Tower Hill, Sowerby Bridge01422 8330608 yrs +


Ripponden Rainbows6:30 - 7:30Ripponden Community CentreRippondenLinda - 01422 8241685 - 7 yrs

Stones Cricket Club Under 8s & Under 11s6:30 - 8:00Stones Cricket Club, Swiftcross, Ripponden Old Land, RippondenDavid - 01422 824359

Fun Swim1:00 - 2:00Sowerby Bridge Swimming Pool, Hollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge01422 831929


Mini GrooversPhone for timesbabyballet Dance Academy, 25 Square Road, Halifax08701 4300634 - 6 yrs

Freestyle DancersPhone for timesbabyballet Dance Academy,25 Square Road, Halifax08701 4300637 - 9 yrs

Freestyle DancersPhone for timesbabyballet Dance Academy, 25 Square Road, Halifax08701 4300637 - 9 yrs

5th Elland (Greetland) Beavers6:15 - 7:15St Thomas’ Church Hall, GreetlandHoward - 01422 3760326 - 8 yrs

Gymnastics Club6:00 - 8:00Greetland Community Centre, Rochdale Road, GreetlandTim 01422 3119895 yrs +



Gymnastics Club9:30 - 11:00, 11:00 - 12:30Brooksbank School, Victoria Road, EllandTim 01422 3119895 yrs +

3rd Sowerby Rainbows5.30 - 6:30St Peters Church, SowerbyRev Martine Crabtree 01422 8328305 - 7 yrs

Kid’s Club5:00 - 6:00St Peter’s church, sowerbyRev Martine Crabtree 01422 832830

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

Swimming Lessons2:00 - 4:00Sowerby Bridge PoolHollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge01422 831929

Ripponden Guides7:00 - 8:30Ripponden Community Centre01422 37054210 - 15 yrs

Under 13s and under 15s Cricket6:00 - 7:00Stones Cricket Club, Ripponden01422 824359

Swimming Lessons4:00 - 6:00Sowerby Bridge PoolHollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge01422 831929

Rainbows 6.00 - 7.00St Mary’s Church, cottonstonesRev Martine Crabtree 01422 8328305 - 7 yrs

Action Kids5:30 - 6:15Kidzville, Church street, GreetlandHeather 07717 5761604 - 7 yrs

Sowerby Bridge Sport Karate6.30 - 7.30, 7.30 - 9.00Sowerby Village Primary School, St Peter’s Avenue, SowerbyMatthew Handley - 07858 115031Juniors, Seniors

Sowerby Bridge Sport Karate6.30 - 7.30Sowerby Village Primary School, St Peter’s Avenue, SowerbyMatthew Handley - 07858 115031Juniors

Sowerby Bridge Sport Karate6.15 - 7.45Sowerby Village Primary School, St Peter’s Avenue, SowerbyMatthew Handley - 07858 115031Mixed levels

Halifax Sport Karate - Junior Class12.00 - 1.00Studio 1, Halifax Swimming Pool, Skircoat Road, HalifaxMatthew Handley - 07966 9390665 yrs +

Saxon Karate club3.45 - 4.45Tuel Lane Infant School,Sensei Leigh Smith - 07836 778821age 4 +

Creative Dance 4.15 onwardsDance 4 All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax01422.884634age 5 - 10 yrs

Saxon Karate club6.00 - 7.15Christ Church Junior SchoolSensei Leigh Smith - 07836 778821age 5 +

Saxon Karate club6.00 - 7.00St Margarets Primary, Mill BankSensei Laraine Smith - 07836 778821age 5 +

Saxon Karate club5.45 - 6.45Highgate Methodist Church,PellonSensei Leigh Smith - 07836 778821age 5 +

Saxon Karate club6.00 - 7.00Hollywell Green Junior & Infant School,Sensei Leigh Smith - 07836 778821age 5 +

Saxon Karate club5.00 - 6.00Ripponden Junior & Infant School,Sensei Leigh Smith - 07836 778821age 4 +

Ballet5.00 onwardsDance 4 All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax01422.884634age 5+ yrs

Cheerleading 5.30 onwardsDance 4 All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax01422.884634age 7+ yrs

Combination Class 5.30 onwardsDance 4 All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax01422.884634age 7+ yrs

Street Dance 4.30 onwardsDance 4 All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax01422.884634age 7+ yrs

Creative Dance 9.15 onwardsDance 4 All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax01422.884634age 5 - 10 yrs

Tap Dance 9.15 onwardsDance 4 All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax01422.884634age 5 - 10 yrs

Halifax Sport Karate - Fighting Class6.30 - 8.0017a Mill House Works, Mill House Lane, HalifaxMatt Handley 07858 1150315 yrs +

Halifax Sport Karate - Beginners Class6.30 - 7.3017a Mill House Works, Mill House Lane, HalifaxMatt Handley 07858 1150313 yrs +

Halifax Sport Karate - Fighting Class6.30 - 8.0017a Mill House Works, Mill House Lane, HalifaxMatt Handley 07858 1150315 yrs +

Junboku Karate6.00 - 7.30Sowerby Village Primary School Sensei Nick Broadbent - 07519 075 775All ages

Junboku Karate6.30 - 8.00St Annes in the Grove Church, Southowram, HalifaxSensei Nick Broadbent - 07519 075 775All ages

Junboku Karate6.30 - 8.00St Andrews Moores Hall, Halifax Sensei Nick Broadbent - 07519 075 775All ages

Adventure Club4.00 - 5.30 & 5.30 - 7.00CI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax 01422 410 727

Street Surfing Club4.00 - 5.30 & 5.30 - 7.00CI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax 01422 410 727

Archery Club4.00 - 5.30 & 5.30 - 7.00CI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax 01422 410 727

Boiler House Club10.00 - 12.00CI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax 01422 410 727

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Sowerby Bridge Youth Club7:00 - 9:30Sowerby Bridge Youth & Community Centre, Foundry St, Sowerby Bridge01422 839526

Shotokan Karate Club7:30 - 9:30Sowerby Bridge Youth & Community Centre, Foundry St, Sowerby BridgePeter - 07880 5305147 yrs +

Shotokan Karate Club7:30 - 9:30Sowerby Bridge Youth & Community Centre, Foundry St, Sowerby BridgePeter - 07880 5305147 yrs +










Junior DiscosPhone for times (last Fri only)babyballet Dance Academy, 25 Square Road, Halifax08701 4300636 - 10 yrs

These pages are for the Out-Of-School clubs for children aged uinder 10. This is a huge subject and almost impossible to research thoroughly. That is why we need to rely on you. If your child attends any after school clubs that are open to all, even if they are currently full and have a waiting list to join, please let us know about them we so can fill our diary.

All listings are FREE. Just contact us with the details by email ([email protected]) or by phone (07527 847423). We’d love to hear from you!

5th Elland (Greetland) Cubs6:45 - 8:15St Thomas’ Church Hall, GreetlandRose - 01422 3716618 - 10 yrs

Juniors Karate7:00 - 8:00Sowerby Bridge Youth and Community Centre Foundry Street, Sowerby Bridge01422 8395265 yrs +

First Sowerby Bridge Guides7:30 - 9:00Christ Church Junior School,Park Road, Sowerby Bridge10 - 15 yrs04122 831389

3rd Sowerby Brownies 6.30 - 7:45St Peters Church, SowerbyRev Martine Crabtree 01422 8328307 - 10 yrs

3rd Sowerby Guides7:45 - 9:00St Peters Church, SowerbyRev Martine Crabtree 01422 83283010 yrs +

Brownies 7.00 - 8.00St Mary’s Church, cottonstonesRev Martine Crabtree 01422 8328307 - 10 yrs

Sowerby Bridge Sport Karate7.30 - 9.00Sowerby Village Primary School, St Peter’s Avenue, SowerbyMatthew Handley - 07858 115031Seniors

Saxon Karate club7.15 - 8.45Warley Road Junior & Infant School,Sensei Leigh Smith - 07836 778821

Halifax Sport Karate - Junior Class6.30 - 7.3017a Mill House Works, Mill House Lane, HalifaxMatt Handley 07858 1150315 yrs +

Halifax Sport Karate - Junior Class6.30 - 7.3017a Mill House Works, Mill House Lane, HalifaxMatt Handley 07858 1150315 yrs +

Junboku Karate6.30 - 8.00Beech Hill School, Pellon, Halifax Sensei Nick Broadbent - 07519 075 775All ages

Junboku Karate6.45 - 8.15Bolton Brow Working Mens Club, Sowerby Bridge Sensei Alan Clarke - 07519 075 775All ages

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TurkeyCrackersStuffing

GravySprouts

PotatoesMince piesSausages

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Down

1. You can put either a star or a fairy on the top of this.3. Prickly leaf with red berries5. What does Santa come down to bring your presents?

AnswersWordsearch - HatsCrossword - Across – 2 red; 4 happy; 5 cards; 6 mistletoe; Down – 1 christmas tree; 3 holly; 5 chimney. Hidden word – Santa.

christmas crossword

christmas dinner wordsearch

All the green squares contain letters

that spell one word. Unmuddle the

letters in the green boxes to work out the missing word

and write your answer here:

_____________

festive fun

Let’s face it we all need a bit of extra time

in the run up to Christmas. This page is

designed to keep the Children entertained

while you can grab a well-earned break.

Hopefully I’ve come up with all the Christmas trends, ideas and inspiration you’ll need to create your own unique and beautiful look. I personally think it’s nice to mix and match a bit to achieve a more eclectic, personal feel.

One of the big trends around this Christmas is Birds. Look out for sparkly, spangly birds! To dress your tree or as festive ornaments, 2011’s most stylish birds are OTT! The more sequins, glitter and bright colours the better.

When it comes to baubles and decorations this year, the trend is either very natural and pared down, think wooden stars, feather

baubles, silver pine cones, ceramic birds and bristle animals or the other extreme, really kitsch and colourful glass peacocks, shiny santa’s, painted nutcracker soldiers etc.

A nice idea is to decorate the house with baubles hung on coloured ribbons or fabric, don’t restrict baubles to the tree, they look fantastic hung from a light fitting or chandelier. Load it down with an array of colourful , sparkly decorations. Add some festive sparkle with coloured crystal drops, in blue, green, red or purple or hang them from garlands for glamorous decorations. (www.chloealberry.com )

Cover a window with a twinkly curtain of baubles strung on a thin clear wire, for real impact, the more the merrier. Another idea is to string together a garland of Christmas crackers, all the same colour looks more effective, bright gold or shiny silver and lots of them. Pin them up around your window frame to create some seasonal sparkle.

The most important part of Christmas is the tree, it’s the focal point of the room. In my opinion you can’t beat a real tree, I love the whole tradition of choosing a tree with the children and then taking it home and decorating it together, the smell of pine needles in the air. Who can resist a tree adorned with edible decorations? For a bit of old fashioned charm, hang boiled sweets and candy canes using cotton or ties or if it’s a fake tree, simply twist the branches round the sweets to hold them. Add some oversized lollipops and marshmallow canes, homemade biscuits and gingerbread men and scatter the floor with candy striped paper bags filled with chocolate and sugar mice.

I’m sure you won’t get any complaints about the new tree decorations, baubles don’t taste nearly as good! However if you must fake it, then do it in style My top three faux trees are ;

‘Woodland with Snow’ (6ft) at M&S - £120‘Slim Green’ (6ft) at House of Fraser - £70‘White Spruce’(6ft) at Argos - £59.99Why not think about

dressing your table in a different colour this year to the standard Red and Gold? Blue and Silver for example? For a magical feel, double the brightness of fairy lights by stringing them around the ceiling and the floor. Choose shiny pieces for the table to reflect the glittering lights.

Finally , don’t forget to put out some lovely Christmas scented candles. If you’re feeling flush Jo Malone’s new ‘Roasted Chesnut’ candle is a luxurious treat at £80.

Merry Xmas everybody!

deck the hallsBy Emma Gordon, of Eye Candy Interior Design

December is the month for festive frivolity! When hosting family and friends at Christmas, everyone

wants their home to be looking it’s best, but creating a cohesive festive look that reflects your own style can be a minefield.

merrier. Another idea is to string together a garland of Christmas crackers, all the

Want advice on how to achieve a

fantastic look in a room in your home? Emma is offering her ‘Inspiration Hour’ for only £50. It’s a chance to get Emma’s expert advice and tips on how to achieve your dream room. For more information about Eye-Candy visit www.eyecandy-interiordesign.co.uk

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Despite the difficult economic

times Brighouse business Sleigh & Story is bucking the trend - with a 50% growth rate in the last year alone.

Formed by Rastrick dad Peter Sleigh in his back bedroom in 2005 the accountancy firm has grown from strength to strength.

Co-director Debbie Story joined Peter six months after he became self-employed and Sleigh & Story was born, moving into their current premises in Bradford Road, Brighouse, in 2007. Along with Peter and Debbie the company now has six staff members.

The company specialises in providing accountancy services to small and medium sized

business and also to local schools and academies.

Peter said: “We have been the accountants and auditors to the leading independent school in the area for a number of years and have also done work for another independent school in the area. Building on this we have provided assistance to state schools in accountancy and in developing internal controls. We know a number of schools are currently considering converting to academy status and we are always on hand to assist them in the accountancy aspects of this.”

Sleigh & Story is also a company

with a strong local and social

conscience. They are members of

the Brighouse Business

Initiative, which organises the local specialist markets and are helping to organise a Brighouse Arts & Music Festival for 2012. Peter Sleigh is a trustee of two local charities - TLC (Together For Looked After Children) and the Bridge Project.

The company is also a corporate sponsor of Overgate Hospice and is in discussion with the soon to be opened The Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice to see how they can become involved.

Alongside all of this Sleigh & Story organises the popular monthly Brighouse Link & Brighouse Ladies 4 Networking events and is currently arranging a series of workshops to support small businesses in the town.

They put their success in business down to their genuine interest in helping

their clients to be successful.Peter said: “We do the

things you would expect an accountant to do effectively & efficiently such as accounts, audits, tax returns, VAT returns and payroll but we also do a whole lot more. We spend time getting to understand your business so we can help you to develop a profitable business strategy.

“We offer all new businesses a free tax health check. For new clients this often results in a tax refund. And we’re also now offering a free service to our clients whereby we look at their business overheads and, using one of our business partners, shop around to get a better deal for clients on bills such as gas, electric, telephones and water rates.”

Tel: 01484 723783

Let’s Succeed inBusiness Together...

Tax Experts ● Business Advisors

[email protected]

Technology House, 46B Bradford Road, Brighouse, HD6 1RY

Expert accountancy for small and medium sized businesses and the education sector

focus on:

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Growing Brighouse Company

Delivering Specialist Advice to

Local Schools

Babies and toddlers across Halifax

and Bradford are learning swimming and lifesaving skills, thanks to a new local business that has been launched by Yorkshire based mum, Jenny Brown. Parents who sign up for Puddle Ducks swimming lessons will be able to take their

children, who can start at any age from a few days to 5 years old, to the classes to have fun while they learn to swim in a safe, encouraging environment.

Puddle Ducks classes, which last 30 minutes, teach activities including swimming, submersion, floating, songs and games. Each session incorporates rhyme, music and movement with songs that have been written by professional musicians. The focus is on

fun and bonding for new and experienced parents and their little ones, meaning youngsters don’t even realise they’re learning to swim and are acquiring a skill that could save their lives.

Jenny Brown, mum to Daisy (17 months) said: “I firmly believe that swimming is a skill that all children should be taught from an early age. It’s fun, helps them interact with other children and encourages them to lead a healthy life style right from the start. A whopping 15% of UK children can’t swim, and we’re on a mission to change that, starting right here in Halifax!

“Having had Daisy, I was searching for a job which meant I could spend more time with her but also earn a living and challenge myself as a businesswoman, so I looked into the opportunities and found a franchise called Puddle Ducks. I’ve always been a keen swimmer so this opportunity was perfect. They have provided me with expert help, from training to become a qualified swimming teacher to lesson plans and even business planning. So now I’m really looking forward to getting out there and encouraging other parents in the area to help their babies and toddlers to learn to swim.”

Jenny added: “The teaching programme and methods we use are constantly evolving, from

the music that we play while the babies and parents are in the pool together, to the techniques we teach. Puddle Ducks classes are based on age, not ability, so children are learning amongst their peers – this provides a great opportunity for parents to meet other mums and dads, and many become friends for life. Class sizes are limited to eight, so I can really give everyone the best attention. And, because we’re trained to recognise and work with different ability levels within the same group, babies and toddlers are given an individually tailored swim programme that builds their confidence and lets them learn at their own pace. We also put a real focus on teaching water safety, encouraging children to learn to save friend’s lives without endangering themselves, as well as learning how to stay safe themselves.”

Puddle Ducks West Yorkshire is hoping to expand the classes to pools across the county so more parents can come along. Lessons have already started at Warley Road School in Halifax on a Saturday morning and at Cedar Court Hotel, Bradford on a Thursday afternoon, and spaces are already selling out fast. For more information on Puddle Ducks West Yorkshire, visit www.puddleducks.com/franchisees/19 for class timetables and availability.

PUDDLE DUCKS ISCOMING TO TOWN

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Babies and children, who can start at

You may not have heard of the Utility Warehouse before – that’s the secret to saving lots of money! The company does not advertise in the national press or on TV. Instead, it relies on personal recommendation; satisfied customers letting their friends, family and colleagues know about the savings they have made. The company passes the savings it makes on to its members – by charging less.

Price PromiseThe Utility Warehouse Price Promise means you can benefit from:• The UK’s cheapest Home Phone• The UK’s cheapest Home Phone and Broadband bundle• The UK’s cheapest Mobile tariffs• The UK’s cheapest standard Gas and Electricity

Or they will give you back Double the Difference!Charges, terms and conditions apply. For full details of the Utility Warehouse Price Promise see www.easytosavemoney.co.uk

Helping you switchThe Utility Warehouse will even reimburse up to £50 of early termination fees charged by your previous supplier(s) when you switch your services to them.

For a limited period (until 24 March 2012), the Utility Warehouse will refund up to £200 of early termination fees charged by your previous supplier(s)

No minimum contract termThe Utility Warehouse is so confident that you’ll be happy with the money you save that most services have no minimum contract term, so you’re not tied in. If you’re not totally happy with the money you save and the Utility Warehouse’s award-winning UK-based customer service team, you can go back to your current supplier’s higher prices at any time!

EnergyThe Utility Warehouse Price Promise means you can benefit from:The UK’s cheapest standard Gas and Electricity Or they will give you back Double the Difference!Charges, terms and conditions apply. For full details of the Utility Warehouse Price Promise see www.easytosavemoney.co.uk

You’ll be amazed at how much the Utility Warehouse could save you compared with the cheapest standard direct debit tariffs available from their competitors. And once you’ve transferred your energy to the Utility Warehouse you can relax, confident in the knowledge you’ll always receive a really great deal with their unique ‘Triple Value’ guarantee.

‘Triple Value’ guarantee

The Utility Warehouse provides customers with complete peace of mind on their energy bills. They compare their prices every month against the average of the cheapest direct debit tariffs available from each of the ‘Big 6’ suppliers*, on a like-for-like basis and will adjust their prices on a regular basis if necessary.

For your gas, they guarantee their prices will always be cheaper than British Gas, wherever you live in the UK. For your electricity, they guarantee their prices will always be cheaper than the prices charged by the regional electricity supplier for the area where you live. And for your complete peace of mind, they guarantee their prices will always remain competitive compared with the cheapest standard tariffs available from the ‘Big 6’ suppliers*.

*’Big 6’ means the six major energy companies who currently supply over 98% of UK households, comprising: British Gas, E.ON, npower, EDF, Scottish Power and Scottish & Southern Energy. Guarantees and price comparisons are based on the OFGEM standard domestic usage profiles for low, medium and high users on a like-for-like basis, and exclude Club Membership fee, surcharge for gas customers using an Independent Gas Transporter, dual-fuel discounts and online tariffs. Applies to residential energy customers who pay by direct debit only.

10% Extra Discount on EnergyYou can get an extra 10% discount on the energy you have used (gas, electricity or dual fuel) after you have been with the Utility Warehouse for a year. Ask me for details!

Feed-In Tariffs (FITs)With the Utility Warehouse Feed-In Tariffs, you could save money – or even make money – by generating your own electricity at home, using solar panels or wind turbines. The Utility Warehouse will pay you more than any other supplier for the electricity you generate. Ask for details!

Julie BrookeAuthorised DistributorThe Utility WarehouseTelephone: 07817032484Email: [email protected]: www.easytosavemoney.co.uk

Charges, terms and conditions apply. For full details of the Utility Warehouse Price Promise see www.utilitywarehouse.co.uk

Guaranteed savings for your home!The Utility Warehouse ‘Double the Difference’ Price Promise means you can benefi t from:

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This is one of the things that’s great about the fabulous range of treasure trails being stocked by children’s travel accessory specialist www.kidstravel2.com. Everyone gets to explore a new place together in a way that’s fun, exciting and entertaining. You get to feel like part of the fun rather than organising the fun.

Treasure Trails are simply a different way to explore somewhere new whilst solving a treasure hunt, murder mystery or spy mission (kids love them). An easy to follow route will take you to the most interesting and beautiful sights and along the way you must answer the clues to be able to solve the mystery. And, if you’re

lucky, you might even win a cash prize! We have a fab free trail to give away

courtesy of KidsTravel2. All you need to do is pop along to their website to choose the trail you’d like www.kidstravel2.com/treasure_trails . Then link over to their facebook page and say ‘Scallymag sent me and I’d like to win the ... Treasure Trail please’. Competition runs until 31st December 2011 and is open to UK residents only. KidsTravel 2 will announce the winner on their facebook page and we’ll put a note in the next edition of Scallymag. (Please note their decision is final and there are no cash alternatives).

Good luck!

Win a fun Treasure Trail activity with KidsTravel2

KidsTravel2 specialises in unusual children’s travel gear, kids travel games and family travel accessories. Owned and run by mum of 2, Julia Odgers, the site also has a useful blog jam packed full of completely FREE travel activities for kids at www.kidstravel2.com. Well worth a look before your next trip out and about with the kids.

Come on, be honest, do you ever get tired of having to think of ways to keep the kids entertained? Wouldn’t it be lovely if just for once you could all go out for the day and

someone else had done all the thinking and organising for you?

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Sing Along with Jo Jingles!Fun Music, Singing & Movement Classes

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Things have changed fast in the four months since Sushi

Tuesday first opened up for business in Todmorden.

Local women Corinne Kielty and Kate Wheadon’s original concept of selling fresh sushi lunchboxes has grown to include a variety of box sizes for different appetites and main meals, platters for parties and their increasingly popular Connoisseur Club. Now the ladies are expanding their business further with the introduction of the Sushi Tuesday Saturday School. These are monthly sushi training courses which they will start running in the New Year.

“Our course offers the opportunity to have fun, learning the skills required to make sushi at home in a small, informal group setting,” says Corinne. The two hour hands-on lesson teaches the basic skills needed to:

Prepare sushi rice and vegetablesMake thin and fat sushi rolls (hosomaki & futomaki) and ISO (inside out) rolls Create nigiri, gunkan and hand roll sushiThe course also includes your sushi for lunch, drinks and

a big box of your own creations to take home and show off to your family and friends.

Vouchers for Sushi Tuesday Saturday School are available now priced at a special introductory price of £65.

••

•

HelloSushi

TuesdayKate

& Corinne

focus on:

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It’s a great venue for Lego enthusiasts. I took my 7 year old son, Luke, to visit the centre and Luke thought it was amazing; he loved the centre and the different activities which were on offer.

The Lego Discovery Centre is at the Trafford Centre, Manchester. It is in Barton Square, which is a wing at the back of the Trafford Centre, and is easy to find. Park at the Barton Car Park as this is nearest to the centre.

The entrance to the Discovery Centre is via two lifts next to the Lego shop (this is full of lots of Lego models and gifts to buy). The centre is located on the upper level but the lifts mean access for children in buggies is fine. However, if it is really busy when you visit, it could be difficult moving around with a buggy.

Once through the lift doors we entered a holding area where we waited until we could join the ‘Factory Tour’. The sliding doors opened and there stood Mr Brick-Brack, our tour guide. He explained how Lego bricks are made in a simple and fun way for children to understand and he actively encouraged the children to press buttons and help him make the bricks. All the children were given a special yellow brick at the end of the tour.

From there we entered Miniland, which has many mini models of northern land marks; Blackpool Tower, Coronation Street, Manchester football ground and even some famous people like Wayne Rooney and The Beatles. Luke loved the football ground as it was interactive and

he could move the pitch to score goals! This area has been put together very well but it is quite mini!

Next we entered a large hall which contained many different areas;-

“Lego Fire City Academy” is a brightly themed jungle gym play area with a small climbing wall and slides for children to explore.

“The Princess Palace” has a girlie theme where the girls can make Lego Flowers.

“The Lego Racers – Build and test” is an area where thousands of bricks are available for the children to build their own vehicle, and 3 different ramps to race their models down. Great Fun!!! Luke really enjoyed making a car with his dad and racing it down the different tracks.

“The Model Builder’s work shop” is where you can learn some top secrets on Lego building and be guided through building a Lego model. This area was very busy and we were unable to join in, but I know Luke would have really liked it.

“The Duplo Village” is the area for younger children and contains many Duplo bricks for the children to build their own models.

The café is situated in this area too and there is a good choice of snacks and drinks, all reasonably priced.

Leading off the hall is the “Lego Studios”, a small theatre which, when we were there, was showing the film ‘Bob the Builder’ in 4D effects (3D with extras). This was great fun, Luke was in

awe! Even though he’s now grown out of Bob the Builder he thought the film was fantastic. It was a new experience for him to watch a short film with 3D glasses on!

Finally, off the main hall is “The Kingdom Quest Ride”. Initially Luke did not want to go on this ride as it was quite dark and looked scary, so probably best for children age 6+. After a bit of arm twisting though, he did go on and thoroughly enjoyed it. You climb on board a car which is complete with laser guns for shooting evil skeletons and trolls. It was great fun and very well done; the displays, pictures and models were fantastic. However the ride was quite short.

Luke really loved the Lego Discovery Centre; he hasn’t stopped talking about it since! Initially I was a little disappointed with the centre; I think I expected it to be just like Legloand in Windsor but, on reflection, my expectations were probably too high as, obviously, space is limited in the Trafford Centre.

I think the on the door prices are very expensive. Tickets are slightly cheaper if pre-bought on-line, but the centre is not a place where you would stay for much more than ½ day, so the evening ticket price (after 4.00pm) of £7.00 is best value.

This new centre is a brilliant place to visit with children up to 11 years of ages and I am sure we will be returning to the Lego Discovery Centre again this year!

Viv Harlow

If you have Lego Mad Kids, if you are a Lego Crazy Adult (like me) or if you are looking for some where different to take the children, then you should visit the Lego Discovery Centre

in Manchester. awe! Even though he’s now

LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre ManchesterBarton Square, The Trafford Centre, Manchester M17 8AS0871 222 2662 www.legolanddiscoverycentre.co.uk

out & about

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Warm up and stretch for 5-10

minutes beforehand and remember to cool

down and stretch too at the end.Have a towel/mat and water to hand

Perform each exercise for 15 repetitions.

At the end of all the exercises have 90 second rest and

repeat the whole thing again..

Squat and reach - feet shoulder width apart, straight back. Squat down, touch floor with hands , stand up and reach to the sky. ( to make higher impact, add a little jump into the squat, landing on soft knees)

High Knees - on the spot run as fast as you can bringing knees up to waist height each time. Landing on soft knees.

Forward lunge - stand with feet shoulder width apart. Take 1 stride forward, back straight. Bend both foot and back leg 90 degrees and return to start position. Complete 10 reps on 1 side and change to the opposite side to complete last 10 reps. Be aware of pain in knees.

Press Ups - On all fours on mat/ towel, hands want to be placed below shoulder line. Hands slightly wider than your body. Breathe in and take chest down to the floor, breathe out as you push back up to start position.

After 90 seconds rest, repeat 2-3 times if possible.

For more information or to find out more details about our ladies bootcamps, go to www.hsgroupfitness.co.ukVenues in Hipperholme/ Elland and Greetland and Savile Park

HS GROUP FITNESS10 MINUTE POWER BODY WORKOUT

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fitness

The common problem with cooking turkey is keeping the meat juicy. Here’s how I do it, no more dry, tasteless bird:

First of all preheat your oven to the maximum. Heat a saucepan on a medium heat, and then add the bacon lardons, fry until golden brown. Next add the diced onion and sage, continue to cook until soft. Take the pan off the heat and combine the breadcrumbs. When the stuffing has cooled, add the sausage meat and season well with salt and pepper, and mix everything together well.

Roughly chop the carrots and celery, half three medium whole onions and one bulb of garlic. Place all the veg in a large roasting tin and add plenty fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme and bay. All this will be the base of fantastic gravy.

Give your turkey a good wipe, inside and out, with kitchen paper, and place it on a board, with the neck end towards you. Find the edge of the skin that’s covering the turkey’s breasts and gently peel it back. Work your fingers and then your hand under the skin, freeing it from the meat. If you’re careful you should be able to pull all the skin away from the meat, keeping it attached

at the sides. Go slowly and try not to make any holes! Lift the loose skin at the neck end and spoon the stuffing between the skin and the breast, tucking the flap of skin underneath to stop anything leaking out. Pop the orange in the microwave for 30 seconds to warm it up and stuff it into the cavity. Weigh the stuffed turkey and calculate the cooking time (about 20 minutes per 500g/1lb 2oz).

Place the bird in the roasting tray on and around the veg, rub it all over with olive oil and season well. Cover with tinfoil and place in the preheated oven. Turn the heat down right away to 180°C/350°F/gas 4, and roast for the calculated time, or until the juices run clear from the thigh if you pierce it with a knife or a skewer. Remove the tinfoil for the last 45 minutes to brown the bird. Carefully lift the turkey out of the tray and rest on a board that’s covered loosely with foil for 20 minutes while you finish off the veg and gravy. Skim the surface fat from the roasting tray and add the flour and stock. Place the tray on the hob and bring to the boil on a high heat. When the gravy starts to thicken, strain it into a bowl. Carve your turkey, serve with the gravy and dig in!

Andrew Algar, Head Chef at Bertie’s Banqueting Rooms in Elland, shares his tips on how to create the

perfect Christmas feast…

My Perfect Christmas Turkey

• 50g/2oz butter• a sprig of fresh sage, leaves picked and chopped• 12 strips of pancetta or thinly sliced streaky bacon chopped into lardons• 1 bulb of garlic• 4 medium red onions, one fine diced• 2 sticks of celery, trimmed and chopped• a big handful of breadcrumbs• 300g/10½ oz sausage

meat or minced pork• sea salt and freshly ground black pepper• 12 fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs• 4–4.5kg/9–10lb turkey, at room temperature• 2 carrots, peeled• 1 large orange• olive oil• 2 tablespoons plain flour• 1.1litres/2 pints chicken or vegetable stock

Honey and pecanRoast whole sprouts and

then stir in some honey and a shake of balsamic, sprinkle with chopped pecans.

Chorizo and garlicFry some chopped

chorizo and garlic and then add shredded sprouts and fry until tender.

Parmesan Fry halved sprouts in a

little olive oil until tender, add a squeeze of lemon juice, plenty salt and pepper and some grated parmesan.

Blue cheese and pancettaFry halved blanched

sprouts in butter with pancetta until golden, then crumble over stilton or gorgonzola.

Pine nuts and caramelised onions

Steam sprouts and add to a pan with caramelised onions and toasted pine nuts. Toss with seasoning then sprinkle some fried breadcrumbs.

Ingredients

Five things to add to sproutsRule one: don’t overcook.Rule two: Give them one of these treatments

recipe

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We can now offer

birthday parties

for any age, please

enquire for more

information

Tickets: £11 & £9 concessions, £36 family ticket, £7 schoolsBook now: 01422 349422 www.squarechapel.co.ukSQUARE

CHA

PEL Monday 12 – Friday 30 December 2011

Square Chapel Centre for the Arts, Halifax

www.properjob.org.uk

Proper Job Theatre Company and Square Chapel Centre for the Arts present

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scallymag for halifax - winter '11

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