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Bradford
Locals hit back after damning article describing Yorkshire towns as ‘no go areas’
Bradford and Dewsbury were two of four northern towns mentioned in the MailOnline article on academic Ed Husain - who visited UK mosques for book research.
Yorkshire residents have hit out at the Daily Mail following the release of a damning article that described towns in the region as 'no go areas for white people'.
Bradford and Dewsbury were two of four northern towns mentioned in the MailOnline article on academic Ed Husain - who visited UK mosques for book research.
Reams of locals living in the towns have hit back at the piece, contesting the remarks and the publication of the story.
One businessman said Dewsbury is "fed up to the back teeth" of negative press, whilst Musharaf Asghar, a local public speaker known for his appearance on Channel 4's Educating Yorkshire, described the article as pure "lies".
"Anyone who is afraid to enter Dewsbury is more than happy to drop me a message and I’ll take you to one of the best ice-cream parlours in [the town]," he tweeted.
Local leaders have also chimed in with criticism, with former Labour councillor Paul Ellis stating "The media needs to lay off towns like Dewsbury".
"While people like Ed Husain, who has never lived here, gets to publish his book and the Daily Mail gets a headline, people in other parts of the country read it and must think God knows what about the North, despite having never been here.
"Towns like Dewsbury have some of the friendliest people you'll meet."
At the beginning of lockdown, the Muslim community was very active in mobilising to help others, said Ellis, contacting people at the nearby churches to see if there was anyone in their parish who needed food parcels or shopping done for them.
The response has been echoed by a raft of voices in local leadership roles including Councillor Jackie Ramsay, Labour councillor for Dewsbury South, her colleague Councillor Darren O'Donovan for Dewsbury West and Conservative councillor for Wyke in Bradford, Councillor Joan Clarke.
Author Husain said his upcoming book was "not about ‘no-go areas’".
Bradford
Pioneering Bradford artist David Hockney has passed away aged 88
David Hockney, one of Britain's most influential and recognisable artists, has sadly died.
Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney built a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.
He was best known for his vibrant paintings, from the iconic swimming pools of Los Angeles to the sweeping landscapes of Yorkshire and Normandy.
And of course you can't forget the adorable paintings of his sausage dogs Stanley and Boodgie.
This morning on Friday 12 June, it was sadly announced that David Hockney had passed away - just one month prior of his 89th birthday.
Admired by critics and the public alike, Hockney's work was exhibited around the world and attracted record-breaking prices, cementing his place as one of the defining artists of the modern era.
Most recently, his incredibly immersive exhibition 'Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)' was a hit across the country, proving his work still resonated with the people of today.
His work at Salts Mill has remained in exhibit for years, including his special digital drawings that he did on his iPad.
His death marks the end of a truly extraordinary career, but his influence on British culture and contemporary art will endure for years to come.
A true West Yorkshire icon that will be missed by many from across the globe. RIP David.
Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)
Bradford
The UK’s biggest Asian shopping mall is opening in Bradford this weekend
Clementine Hall
After years in the making, Signature Mall Bradford will be opening in the heart of the city.
Signature Mall is one of the UK’s most anticipated Asian retail and lifestyle destinations that will officially be opening its doors this Saturday 16 May.
This is a major milestone for the city, bringing together a mix of premium South Asian fashion, jewellery, beauty, dining, and lifestyle brands all under one roof.
It's a huge step for the city as the new opening is expected to attract thousands of visitors from all over the country.
Images: Supplied
The space has been designed to deliver a modern and seamless shopping experience, featuring a total of 45 vendors all in one mall.
You'll be able to find everything from premium jewellery and bridal retailers to family-friendly leisure facilities and beauty brands.
There will also be a large food and drink offering.
The opening of Signature Mall is also expected to generate new employment opportunities and provide a platform for both established and emerging businesses within the South Asian retail sector.
Signature Mall representatives have said: “Signature Mall is more than just a shopping destination, it is a celebration of culture, community, and entrepreneurship. We are proud to bring this exciting new development to Bradford and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the region and beyond.”
The Signature Mall will be located on Preston Street in Bradford and you can find more about it here via their website.
Georgina Pellant -
9th June 2021 
