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Leeds couple's 48 years of care for 18th century roadside landmark
For well over four decades a Leeds couple have been helping preserve a small piece of the city's heritage and make their neighbourhood more attractive.
Shortly after moving into their Alwoodley Lane home in 1962 Alan and Judith Caplan "adopted" a rather neglected roadside milestone close to their house.
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They put some soil down and planted flowers around it and over 40 years later the public-spirited pensioners are still looking after the 18th century mile marker.
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Every year they buy about three dozen geraniums for the stone, which dates back to 1764.
Mr and Mrs Caplan ensure the plants are well watered and, once established, are well looked after to keep them looking at their best.
Mr Caplan, 76, said: "We moved in after we were married and the milestone was outside our house and that's why we adopted it.
"We have enjoyed doing it. When we are tending it people will stop and chat. People obviously like it so you don't want to stop."
The milestone has been knocked down twice by vehicles and put back in place by Leeds City Council, allowing the Caplans to continue their good work.
And their efforts have not gone unnoticed by Coun Peter Harrand (Con, Alwoodley), who had long admired the care given to the marker without knowing who was carrying out the work.
He discovered some time ago it was Mr and Mrs Caplan and he said: "It is a perfect example of community spirit. Just imagine what it would have cost if it had been left to the council to look after the milestone for all those years.
"Mr and Mrs Caplan do an excellent job and it's appreciated by people who live in the area."
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Weather for Leeds
Friday 25 May 2012
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