Residents in Hunslet have been calling for the old stone horse trough on Low Road to be cared for and restored for some time. The Council effectively inherited the horse tough with the creation of the modern Leeds City Council, as it was located on land it now managed. Over the years, there has been some attempt to care for it but with so much of the areas industrial history lost, there has been increasing calls for a more permanent solution.
Hunslet Tenants and Residents Association (TARA) and The Crooked Clock pub, after discussing the issue with Cllr Paul Wray, have ‘adopted’ the horse trough, meaning they will now maintain it on behalf of the community, with the Council proving support and small grants as needed.
They recently replanted the horse trough with compost and bulbs donated by the Hunslet Morrison Community Champion, Kelly.
Chair of Hunslet TARA, Stewart Walton said:
“For the people who live in this area of Hunslet, remembering our history is important. Many people have fond stories of when they used to walk past this horse trough and the public toilets that were next to it. Such simple things hold really important history.”
Owner of The Crooked Clock, Sid Mahiuddin added:
“It was great for me and some of our staff to come and help tidy up and replant this historic horse trough. The Crooked Clock is keen to be at the heart of the community of our part of Hunslet. Helping protect some of its history is something we’re really proud to be part of.”
Cllr Paul Wray also said:
“Thank you to Sid and Stewart and their volunteers for helping on the day. They joined Kelly from Morrsions and me to clear the weeds and plant some bulbs ready for next year. Cleaning around the horse trough has revealed some names which we will have researched. The plan is to install some signs showing the area’s history for future generations. I’m also in the process of arranging for the stone to properly cleaned.”
Hunslet TARA never stop working for the community. There is always something to do. if you would like to join us, please feel free to drop us a line at hunslettara@yahoo.com
Whilst you’re here, can we ask a favour?
South Leeds Life is published by a not-for-profit social enterprise. We keep our costs as low as possible but we’ve been hit by increases in the print costs for our monthly newspaper – up 50% so far this year.
Could you help support local community news by making a one off donation, or even better taking out a supporters subscription?
Donate here, or sign up for a subscription at bit.ly/SLLsubscribe
