Janine GriffithsHarehills turned out in force for the Our Planet Our Neighbourhood community day at the Compton Centre, proving that not even a grey and rainy Saturday can dampen the spirit of local people determined to imagine a greener Leeds.
Dozens of residents, families and young people turned out for the recent gathering and joined in a lively mix of talks, workshops and stalls. Local arts and crafts stalls added colour to the day, alongside community groups like Freedom4Girls, who spoke about their work supporting women with free period products.
Speakers included Cllr Luke Farsley, Claude Hendrickson from Climate Action Leeds, Cllr Asghar Khan and Cllr Nkele Manaka. Among the highlights was an interactive demonstration by local fashion designer Goodness Woodhead, who showed simple but creative ways to upcycle clothing. Her “Patching up the Planet” workshop gave both adults and children a chance to learn easy techniques for repairing and reinventing outfits – some of which didn’t even require a needle and thread.
Natalie Tharraleos, one of the organisers from Harehills Action Team, said the workshop stood out for many: “There were lots of fantastic stalls on the day, selling a variety of different products, and services.
“One of the highlights was Goodness’s Patching up the Planet workshop, where she gave a really good demonstration of different ways you can take a patch of fabric or denim and get really creative with it. She showed about four different ways of attaching a patch and for some of the techniques, you don’t even have to lift up a sewing needle. That was really inspiring, really interesting. I think everybody enjoyed that, adults and children alike.”
The event also gave space for young voices, with members of local youth groups taking part in activities and discussions. Organisers say this involvement was vital in making the day a real community effort.
Volunteers played a key role too, from setting up stalls to welcoming families. “Local people really helped the event happen. We would love to see more people in the neighborhood writing about the environment, green spaces and tips on saving energy.” Natalie added.
With its mix of creativity, climate action and community spirit, Our Planet Our Neighbourhood showed how Harehills can lead the way in tackling environmental issues while strengthening local ties.
