KIPPAX IN BLOOM

Congratulations KIB. Well, almost. Next year, 2021, will see the twentieth birthday of Kippax in Bloom, branching out from general community issues to stand on its own two feet as it were. The aim from the very beginning has been to enhance the environment in which we live. Like so many mining villages, Kippax had been left in the lurch, as it were, following the rapid decline of the industry, left to fall by the wayside as it were. The commitment and foresight of a group of local people had other ideas and provided the foundation for the more colourful and attractive Kippax that we see today. If anyone has suitable photographs from the 1990s before Kippax in Bloom started then Pat would love to receive them That the efforts of those gardening pioneers have become much appreciated, is very evident as in these particularly tough times we know that KIB's efforts have brought great pleasure to all of you. How do we know this? You tell us as we continue to work improving the environment and appearance of Kippax. I think you will agree that the efforts of 20 years have not been wasted! We have a brilliant group of volunteers and it would be great if any of you could possibly join us in our efforts. Believe me, it is very rewarding to be outside working in these difficult times amid Covid rules.

Our volunteers busy as always with maintenance and also planting bulbs and pansies

Thinking of more recent successes, KIB were nominated as one of the local voluntary groups for the Cooperative Community Fund's money-raising programme. This ended at the end of October: we will be given the money you have raised by shopping at the Co-op, whom we would like to thank enormously, along with all those of you who specifically nominated KIB. At the time of writing, we don't know the final amount raised, but it will be going towards a dementia-friendly sensory garden.

We are presently replacing summer annuals with some winter bedding in order to bring colour and pleasure across our community. We are also adding perennials to our beds for sustainability and to encourage pollinators. We are continuing with our large-scale pruning and weeding programme, as well as planting bulbs. The Leeds Rotary Club has donated 2000 Mauve Crocus bulbs to us - the mauve crocus is a recognised symbol in the fight to eradicate Polio throughout the world, the funds raised going towards the final push to eradicate this debilitating disease.

Recent Litter-Picks in March and September, unfortunately had to be cancelled because they are too well-supported with too many people to abide by Covid rules. We know that many of you do litter-pick on your own, which is most welcome and appreciated. It would be lovely to hear from you.

On this occasion, we must give a huge thankyou to Richard, his staff and customers at the White Swan for raising £230 in a raffle at the pub; this will go towards the purchase of more plants

As ever, we must also be grateful to the Parish Council, LCC Ward Councillors, Leeds City Council, the Atrium, LCC Parks and Countryside Department, their Locality Team and Marie and Johnny at Woodend Nurseries. Without the support of all of these people, we would get nowhere! As usual, however thanks to our band of volunteers who have kept going throughout this pandemic, while ensuring that Covid safety requirements are met.

If you feel that you could lend support in any way whatsoever, please e-mail Pat at psamykib@aol.com, ring her on 0113 2862283 or drop in to her Sweet Shop on the High Street. Our website is kippaxinbloom.com.