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Pioneering Bradford artist David Hockney has passed away aged 88

Such sad news.

Clementine Hall - 12th June 2026

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.

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Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)

News

Successful Sheffield charity walk returns to Meadowhall to support people living with dementia

Clementine Hall

Sheffield Hospitals Charity and Meadowhall have announced the return of the Red Shoe Walk for 2026.

After a hugely successful debut event last year that brought hundreds of people together and raised over £12,000 - The Red Shoe Walk is back.

The community event returns on Sunday 2nd August and will once again see families and friends walk the accessible route around Meadowhall to raise vital funds for people living with dementia across Sheffield.

The Red Shoe Walk was inspired by one woman's lifelong love of red shoes - a simple memory trigger that helps her connect with her past.

As you lace up, you're invited to take a moment to reflect on your own memories. Photos, music, familiar objects and special places can help bring back older memories and create a sense of connection.

Image: Supplied

Everyone taking part will walk a 2km route round Meadowhall. The walk starts at 10am with registrations open from 9am at the Summer Beach Club. The route is flat, accessible and suitable for all ages - so nobody has to miss out.

After the walk has finished you will get free access and unlimited rides until midday at Meadowhall's Summer Beach Club.

.Not only that, but singer songwriter Joe Carnall Jnr will perform live at the start of this year’s Red Shoe Walk.

Best known as a member of Sheffield-band Milburn and previously Reverend & The Makers, Joe will be joined by cast members from his brand-new musical ‘How Could I Forget?’ as part of the warm-up for the walk.

Image: Supplied

The musical is a heartfelt love letter to grandparents, inspired by Joe’s own family experience with dementia and loss. The show has sold out an impressive three nights at Sheffield Theatres and tickets have recently been released for the Carriageworks in Leeds.

Joe said: “My grandad passed away with dementia over 10 years ago and I got the inspiration for the musical from him. I want to do the walk with my three young children, reminisce and tell stories about him and connect with other people who have their own experiences of dementia.”

Beth Crackles, CEO of Sheffield Hospitals Charity said: “We’re thrilled with how the first ever Red Shoe Walk brought our community together in solidarity and are beyond excited to bring it back for 2026. It will be such a poignant moment to have Joe and the cast from ‘How Could I Forget’ perform live ahead of the walk, and we’re so grateful for their support.

"We hope to see lots of people there, walking together as a community to make a real difference for people living with dementia and their loved ones.”

Image: Supplied

Darren Pearce, Centre Director at Meadowhall said: “Dementia touches the lives of so many families across our local community, and we’re incredibly proud to be working with Sheffield Hospitals Charity to host the Red Shoe Walk for a second time.

“Building on the success of last year’s event – which raised over £10,000 for the charity – it’s brilliant to be welcoming Joe Carnall Jnr to perform this year. The performance will start the event perfectly, as people once again come together to raise vital funds for those affected by dementia throughout the city.”

Not only that, but football legends Tony Currie, John Pearson and John Breckin from Sheffield United, Sheffield Wednesday and Rotherham United have also joined forces to back the walk, raising awareness and funds for dementia care across Sheffield.

To join this year’s Red Shoe Walk, visit the Sheffield Hospitals Charity website for tickets and event information.

Prices are £7 per adult, £4 per child, £18 for a family of four and under 3’s go free. Each ticket includes an exclusive Red Shoe Walk t-shirt to wear on the day, access to a range of exclusive discounts at participating Meadowhall retailers plus free entry and free rides at the Summer Beach Club until midday.

Sign up by midnight on Thursday 30 July.

Featured image - Supplied

News

Big name restaurant closes Leeds city centre site after seven years

Clementine Hall

A popular restaurant chain has closed permanently in Leeds city centre.

Popular pizzeria Franco Manca has closed its Leeds restaurant.

The chain was famed for its relaxed atmosphere, quick service and affordable sourdough Neapolitan pizzas that were on offer for as little as a fiver.

The chain occupied the site on the outskirts of Trinity Shopping Centre on Trinity Street, next door to Itsu and overlooking the back entrance of Marks and Spencer.

Hoardings have now gone up, signifying the site is now empty and Franco Manca has permanently closed.

Image: The Hoot Leeds

This can also be seen on Google when searching for the restaurant branch.

It was announced earlier this year that a number of Franco Manca's restaurants would be closing across the country.

This was down to a reconstructing plan approved by creditors for the chain. The brand said it had been knocked by “disproportionately high” UK taxes and a lack of business rates relief for hospitality.

Marcel Khan, chief executive of parent firm Fulham Shore, said at the time: “We are grateful for the support shown by our creditors today.

“Franco Manca is a fantastic brand with a strong heritage and loyal customer base. With this agreement in place, we will put the business back on a firm footing and press ahead with strengthening our customer offer and performance.”

The Leeds brand was not included in the initial list of restaurant closing, but it seems further closures were made.

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