Acts impress at festival for Mencap in Kirklees

Six acts performed at Branches Day Centre, in Bradford Road, Batley, to raise funds for Mencap in Kirklees.

After an initial downpour centre users, families and other guests at the Carlinghow Mills complex enjoyed The Outsiders, a band made up of people with learning disabilities, Ian Howarth of Black Lace fame, The Cubicles and local talents Darren Ellis, Chris Martin and The Last Minute.

Samantha Jones, Safe Places and fundraising co-ordinator for Mencap in Kirklees, said: “It was great to see so many people, including service users we support, people from the local community and staff coming along for a great day out.

“There was lots of children too, who enjoyed craft activities, a children’s outdoor area and face painting and they brought a sense of fun and laughter to the day.

“We were really overcome with the generosity of everyone involved.”

She gave a special mention to Candy Waller from property landlord JR Burrows, Barry Newby from Dezign Audio and STL Rapid Response Vehicles for their help. They are all based at Carlinghow Mills.

Mencap in Kirklees were kindly supported with raffle prizes from Huddersfield Giants, Batley-based firm XL Joinery, Sainsbury’s in Dewsbury and LPD Joinery as well as other local businesses.

And burgers from Haigh’s Farm Shop in Mirfield were a hit on the barbecue, with lots of people going back for seconds.

Mr Howarth played Living Next Door to Alice, a song by Smokie, whose late member Alan Barton was a good friend.

The money raised will go towards providing activities for people with learning disabilities across Kirklees.

“There has been lots of talk about it becoming an annual event, so watch this space,” Samantha said