How's that for an unexpected opening in Kirkgate?

A new retail boundary has been set in Kirkgate with the opening of the Viking Cricket shop at No. 26, where managing director Jeff Wilson is pictured above. Jeff, who lives in Silsden, is a cricket coach and former player with Saltaire in the Bradford League.

The bats, which all have Viking names, are made in Huddersfield, using willow grown in Suffolk. The company expects to manufacture 300 bats this year. Viking started three years ago and shot to prominence after winning two accolades in The Cricketer magazine's good gear guide: best bat from a boutique manufacturer and second overall in the class for all makers. Viking's brand ambassadors include three members of the England women's cricket team.

                 

Christine's Kitchen adds to Kirkgate's colourful café culture

Christine Davenport, who comes from generations of Cobbydalers, has returned to Silsden after more than 40 years to open Christine's Kitchen in Kirkgate. Her new venture started in June. She previously ran a café in Haslingden, Lancashire.

Christine, who is pictured above with her granddaughters Samantha Lawton (left) and Bethany Kerr, is planning to open on Christmas Day, serving a traditional three-course meal (£15) for people who are on their own or who are elderly.