Review of the Year 2014: May

Organised by the Batley Business Association, the event included a Spitfire soaring over the Market Place, live music and around 10,000 people out in retro outfits. BBA chairman Andrew Marsden said: “It exceeded all our expectations. It’s been my life for six months.”

Gary Sykes won the British super featherweight title in sensational style with a 10th round stoppage win over Jon Kays at Dewsbury Sports Centre. Sykes was cut above his right eye in the first round and knocked down in the second but climbed off the canvas and showed guts and determination to capture the Lonsdale belt outright.

Cleckheaton councillor and former leader of Kirklees Council Kath Pinnock stepped down as leader of the Liberal Democrats. Later in the year she accepted an invitation to the House of Lords. Coun Pinnock, who has served on the council for 23 years, was replaced as leader by Nicola Turner.

A mother issued a call-to-feet for pupils all over Mirfield as she asked for an end to the school run in the town. Speaking on the success of the Crowlees School walking bus scheme, organiser Diane Watkinson said she wanted more pupils from the area to take part in such schemes to reduce the amount of traffic in the town.