It’s that same question I’ve been asking myself all year… how are we already at this point? Is it an age thing? Do the years start to fly by quickly as we get older? I wish they’d slow down a little bit!
It’s been a good year for The Main Deal. We’ve welcomed many new members and seen growth as we adapt and evolve the way others see our community businesses. We’ve become more productive in managing viewings, and I hope that those of you who follow us, are seeing even more good information in your feeds. We’ve also expanded our services to include consultancy, and we’re excited to assist local businesses with their marketing and social media strategies.
Of course, it’s been advertised
Last Saturday, my husband and I visited The Springs Christmas Market. Much like the Garforth Community Feastival, it was fantastic to see so many independent stalls gathered in one place with their unique products. One person commented to a stallholder that they hadn’t seen anything advertised and kept ‘saying so’ —which isn’t great for the stallholders to hear. I made sure to tell her it was advertised, but it made me realise that this is something we often hear at Feastival too, despite all our banners, social media posts, and shout-outs. The reality is if you’re not following what interests you, you’re likely to miss out. Oh, by the way… the market was really busy – so someone has seen it advertised!
Sometimes people say, “Well, I’m not on social media.” And I get it—there are many reasons for avoiding it. Honestly, if I didn’t need to, I wouldn’t be on Facebook either. But I’ve found a way to use it that works for me. I use it as a search engine, as a tool—not a place to argue or overshare. I follow the pages that interest me, and I use them like my own directory of local businesses and events. You don’t have to share what you’re having for tea or pretend your family is having a lovely day….! Just use it as a way to stay informed.
The same goes for Instagram—I use it more as a tool than a social space. As for Twitter, I’ve stopped using it entirely. It’s not what it used to be, and frankly, it’s not run by someone whose vision I don’t agree with. – We’ve recently moved to Blue Sky so I’m going to see how that evolves.
A little tip: the best way to keep up with what you love is to FOLLOW pages, not just LIKE them. (the likes of Facebook) When you follow and adjust your newsfeed preferences, you’ll never miss out—and no more FOMO! Or simply keep checking in at www.themaindeal.co.uk to stay ahead.
How;
Click on Like – click to favourite – you can choose 30 to have as favourites, and then change
Content – to Standard
Video – to Standard
Live Video – to standard
Offers – Slide button across
This way you will get to see what you want to see from the Company you follow and not just like
Driving Without a Care
I’ve mentioned this before—on posts, vlogs, blogs, you name it—but some people just don’t get the memo, even when the authorities are promising a hefty fine: if you’re using your phone while driving and I see your business vehicle, guess what? I WILL NOT USE YOUR SERVICES. If you don’t care about others on the road, why would I trust you with anything else?
The other day, I was in slow-moving traffic on Selby Road, it was around 8:45 am—prime time for people to show their true driving talents. As we crawled along towards the Kippax turn-off, (charlie sweeps corner) I saw it all: a girl eating her breakfast with one hand and texting with the other, plus two more drivers doing the classic “eyes up, eyes down” routine faster than a nosy neighbour peeking through the blinds! I mean, seriously, if there were a gold medal for multitasking badly, these folks would be contenders.
It’s shocking, frustrating, and just plain dangerous. And for what? Some serious FOMO while you’re inching along in traffic? Honestly, if you’re on your phone and you hear a long, loud beep—it’s probably me. GET OFF YOUR PHONE.
I’ve ranted enough – some cool news
This Morning’s History Dive: Charlie Sweep and Mary Pannell
Earlier today, I posted a video asking you, the true Garfonians, about the history behind Charlie Sweep and Mary Pannell. This was sparked by last night’s flood—or rather, the gushings of water—that turned parts of Garforth into a bit of a hazard!
Someone kindly pointed out that my description of “Selby Road, heading to the lights for Kippax” needed a correction: it’s properly known as Charlie Sweep’s Corner.
Now, I’ve always known it’s called that, but:
- I never really knew why. I just assumed it had something to do with a chimney sweep or perhaps the road being on a sweep
- While I was on my historical quest, Mary Pannell popped up in conversation. Who was she? And what’s the story behind her ghostly sightings?
For those of you who, like me, aren’t true Garfonians (quick, send me back!) or are new to the area, I wanted to dig into some local history. And let me tell you, the community didn’t disappoint—there’s a treasure trove of fascinating stories about the place we call home. https://thestoryofgarforth.org.uk/
I think the history team is adding even more to this archive, so keep an eye out!
MORE GREAT NEWS
As mentioned in last week’s vlog 7mins.30 secs in : – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zat-nci_Wpg
Exciting news! HUDDLE Café is coming to Main Street, taking over The Assembly’s former building—and I couldn’t be more thrilled!
Since sharing my video, I’ve been in touch with Amanda, and while these things can take time and aren’t always straightforward, the plan is to open the doors in March 2025. Fingers crossed everything goes smoothly!
Stay tuned for more updates—I can’t wait to have a CLO coffee in Huddle!
WHAT’S COMING UP
- TONIGHT: Garforth Brass and Guests – Garforth Methodist Church – “it’s not too late to come and join us at our Christmas concert tonight at the Methodist Church, Garforth where we will be joined by Ninelands Primary School choir. The concert starts at 7 pm. Tickets for adults and children 12+ £5”.
- Saturday – The Gaping Goose – Christmas Market with stalls, live music and food from 12pm – 4.30pm
- Saturday at 7.30 pm The Podger -First Saturday Blues with Big Joe Bone – https://fb.me/e/2INqj3KGY
- 🎄 Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree with Garforth Community Choir – Part 2 🎄📅 Saturday 14th
🕖 7:00 PM
📍 Garforth Working Men’s ClubGet ready for a festive night of music and cheer as the Garforth Community Choir returns to the Working Men’s Club for the second year running! “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree – Part 2” promises to bring the holiday spirit to life, filling the room with seasonal classics and infectious energy to get you into the Christmas mood. Last year’s event was nearly a sell-out, so don’t miss your chance to be part of the fun this time around. Gather your friends, grab your tickets, and let’s make it a night to remember! 🎶✨Make sure to mark your calendar and join us for this festive community celebration! 🎄 https://bit.ly/3OJdwHa - NYE – At Luna Aura – something different https://bit.ly/3ZrsFBI
2025
- January, Sunday 19th, 2-4 pm – Community Art Club. – Garforth Miners Welfare Hall
PLANNING
- I really… hope this is referring to a tree!!
- Garforth Country Club – change of use – Change ground floor flat to form an internal extension to Games room
https://publicaccess.leeds.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=SNVFACJB30600&activeTab=summary
* Until 10th January – I know we’re normally the first Friday of the month, but we’ll still be in holiday mode on the 3rd! – Enjoy your seasonal break, however you spend it
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