Author: Doug Allan

Posted on by

Sunday Email: Issue 213

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
doug@dougallan.co.uk
St Columba’s Services

  • TODAY – Sunday 2 June at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong
  • Sunday 9 June at 10.45am – St Columba’s Day, Festival Choral Eucharist
  • Sunday 16 June at 10.45am – Sung Matins
  • Sunday 23 June at 10.45am – Holy Communion, Fr. Robert Williamson
  • Sunday 30 June – No Service (5th Sunday)

Refreshments are served after every Sunday morning service.
Thirsk Farmers’ Market
TODAY: Sunday 2 June – 9am to 2pm – Around 20 artisan food and drink producers bring the fruits of their labour to the Market Place in Thirsk.
http:// www.northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com
Local art and craft studios – open days
TODAY: (Sunday 2 June) and next weekend – Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June – Art studios around the area are open as part of the North Yorkshire Open Studios event. The open studios can be visited between 10am and 5pm and a 10% discount will be given off any piece of artwork on sale at any of the studios if all seven studios are visited and the ‘passport’ stamped. See poster here and location maphere.
Village Quiz
TONIGHT: Sunday 2 June– The quiz is on at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 8pm.
A lovely evening was had by all at last week’s quiz. Debbie set a testing quiz and Pete & the three Ss – Sheila, Sylvia and Shirley – took the honours. Well done to the winners and all the other competitors. And thanks also to Karen for a lovely supper provided to celebrate Malc’s birthday.
Bench for Village Hall
The bench that was donated late last year to the Village Hall by the former Bowling Club that played at Topcliffe Playing Field, has come out of winter storage and is now positioned on the terrace near the front door to the hall. It looks great and will be welcomed by many who want to sit awhile and watch the world go by.
Churchyard maintenance volunteers
Doug, Karen and Andrew continued the regular grounds maintenance at St Columba’s churchyard yesterday.

It’s hoped that a few more tidy up days can be sorted during June and July to keep the grass looking neat and tidy…and also to begin clearance work on the terraces which are well overgrown with long grass and nettles. Watch out for details of planned dates on the Top Residents and Asenby Village Facebook pages. If a few people volunteer for just a couple of hours now and again, it’s surprising what a difference can be made.
Worries over development plans at Dalton Industrial Estate
Topcliffe Parish Council is expressing concern about changes to agreed plans for an extension to the Dalton 49 development area on Dalton Industrial Estate. The following article appeared last week in the Yorkshire Post.

https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/people/residents-of-village-linked-to-signing-of-magna-carta-raise-concerns-over-proposals-to-expand-one-of-biggest-industrial-estates-4646724
Road repairs in East Lea/Back Lane
Contractors are scheduled to undertake repairs to Back Lane and East Lea (opposite the doctors’ surgery) on Thursday 6 June. Access will unavailable throughout the day whilst resurfacing is underway. There’ll also be some pothole repairs to School Lane.
The Tattler
The June edition of The Tattler is now out and should have dropped through your letterbox some time in the last few days. I hope you enjoy reading this issue.
Cross Talk newsletter – June
The latest edition of the church newsletter, Cross Talk, is now out. You can read it here.
Blue Cross Month
June is a special time at Blue Cross as efforts to raise funds for pets in need are intensified. Throughout the month, the charity will be hosting various fundraising events to raise awareness with its supporters and the wider general public. There’ll be coffee and cake served each Saturday morning from 11am…and they’ll welcome any baking donations.

Blue Cross has been active nationally since 1897 – originally set up as Our Dumb Friends’ League to save injured London horses, but its role widened soon after to offer care to pet animals of all types.

The local branch of the charity – based near Topcliffe – opened in 1987 and the homing centre was rebuilt in 2009. It provides a comprehensive range of support services for people and their pets, including kennels, foster care and a direct home-to-home rehoming scheme called Home Direct.

Members of the public are invited to participate in its fundraising initiatives by giving support online through their GoFundMe page. All contributions, no matter how small, can help provide care and support to the many pets at the centre receiving care and awaiting new homes. For more information please visit https://www.bluecross.org.uk/yorkshire-thirsk-rehoming-centre
Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van is in Topcliffe every Friday 5 ’til 7pm
Topcliffe Academy – Dates for your diary

  • Monday, 3 June – School re-opens for second half of summer term
  • Friday, 7th June – Non-Uniform Day – children bring a donation for the tombola/raffle instead of cash.
  • Tuesday, 11 June – Class Photographs
  • Wednesday, 12 June – FOTS Bags2School Collection Day, 9am
  • Friday, 28 June – Mental Health Awareness Day – Non uniform day with an ‘Express Yourself’ theme (wear what’s you!)
Art classes at the Village Hall
The next block of six art classes starts tomorrow, Monday 3 June, in the Village Hall. They are on from 10am to noon. For more information and to book your place go to
https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/
St Columba’s Festival
This year’s Festival and History Day will be held on Sunday 9 June. The event will be more simple than usual with just one day to celebrate St Columba. At 10.45am there will be a Festal Choral Eucharist led by Rev. Canon Steven Harvey and the choir will sing the Missa Secunda by Hans Leo Hassler (1564-1612) as the setting. Refreshments will be served after the service.

There’ll be a BBQ lunch with hot food being available from 1.15pm. Drinks, including wine, will be available along with ‘bring and share’ salads and puddings. Everyone is very welcome to either or both of these events. Please give advance notice to John Phillips (01845 577034) if you intend to come to the BBQ so that he has some idea of catering requirements.

After lunch the usual tours of the church, tower and churchyard will take place, but for reasons of safety, children will need to be at least ten years old to be able to climb the tower. The day will close with a service of Compline at 6pm.
Soup & Sweet Lunch
The next Soup & Sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 12 June from 11.30 to 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of home-made soups, puddings, delicious cakes and bakes and tea or coffee. All welcome. No set charge, but donations welcome.

The last lunch on Wednesday 29 May saw 52 meals served and £112 raised in donations. The week’s chosen charity was Cancer Research, Thirsk, and they have received £50. After rent payment and other minor costs, the balance was added to the Warm Hub Community Fund.
Catton Kitchen – opening hours to be extended
The popular Catton Kitchen is extending its opening hours. From Thursday 13 June it will open Thursday to Sunday. Check out their Facebook page for times and events.
Topcliffe Ceilidh – last few tickets available
The Topcliffe Ceilidh is on Saturday 22 June at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. The Cod Beck Ceilidh Band will be providing the music and calling. Doors open from 7pm and dancing starts at 7.30pm. This is a bring your own drinks event. Tickets are £10, which are on sale at Topcliffe Post Office, are selling fast so to avoid disappointment get yours soon. The supper is a pulled pork and apple sauce roll (alternative for vegetarians).There’ll be a raffle with some great prizes. This is a fundraiser to help support the Village Hall.
The Angel Comedy Night
The next Hilarity Bites Comedy Night at The Angel in Topcliffe will be held on Thursday 27 June . Doors open 7.30pm and the show begins at 8pm. Tickets £10 if purchased in advance or £12 on the door. For more information and tickets call 01845 578000. See poster here.
Topcliffe Parish Council
The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7pm onThursday 4 Julyin the Village Hall.
Village Hall Committee
The next meeting of the Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall committee will be held at the Village Hall on Tuesday 9 July at 7.30pm.
Asenby Parish Council
The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be held on Wednesday 10 July at 7pm in the upper committee room at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. All welcome.
Deer Shed Festival
This year’s Deer Shed Festival will be on at Baldersby Park over the weekend – 26 to 29 July. The programme for this year’s festival is shown here.
Alex Scott in concert at The Village Hall
Alex is a very talented solo artist with a great repertoire of songs from the 1960s to the present…all guaranteed to get you on the dance floor or at least to get your feet tapping. This cabaret-style evening is likely to be extremely popular so make sure you get your tickets as soon as possible. This is a bring your own drinks and nibbles evening. All profits will go to help support and maintain the Village Hall.
Chef’s Table at The Catton Kitchen
Following the success of last year’s Chef’s Table event, the idea is being repeated this year on Friday 2 and Saturday 3 August. There’ll be a delicious range of meat, seafood, vegetables and cheese served over seven or eight courses, with wine pairing. Tickets are £140 per person. Booking essential. Contact Amy at Catton Kitchen via the Facebook page or by calling 07747 083155.
Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show 2024
The show will be held on Saturday 31 August at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall and there will be 83 classes in five categories: 47 horticultural classes: 17 baking, jams, preserves and pickles classes: 3 floral classes: 11 hobbies classes and 5 specific classes that only children can enter. The full list of categories and show rules, together with timings on the day, are available here.
EVENTS ON AROUND THE AREA
Sessay Floral Art Demonstration
Renowned floral designer and TV regular Jonathan Moseley will be demonstrating a range of floral art techniques at Sessay Village Hall at 7pm on Tuesday 4 June. Tickets are £20 to include a glass of wine and raffle ticket. Call Doreen Till on 01845 577906 or email doreentill3@outlook.com – paces are strictly limited,
The Ritz Cinema

  • Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes – to Thursday 6 June – matinee on Wednesday 5 June.
  • La Chimera – Friday 7 to Thursday 13 June – matinee on Wednesday 12 June.
  • If – Friday 14 to Thursday 20 June – matinees on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 June.
  • Hard Miles – Friday 21 to Thursday 27 June – matinee on Wednesday 26 June.
  • Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga – Friday 28 June to Thursday 4 July – matinee on Wednesday 3 July.

Opening times: Evenings – doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm. Matinees – doors open at 2pm for 2.30pm. You can now book online at https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Poppy Project D-Day Concert
On Thursday 6 June between 7 and 10pm, Ripon Cathedral will host a special concert to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day and 75th anniversary of the Royal Engineers Freedom of the City of Ripon. The concert will include performances by Mark Sidwell, Ripon City Band, The Dishforth Military Wives Choir, The Duchy Belles and Charlotte Potter. The event is organised by Ripon Community Poppy Project and tickets are £15.

For more information see poster here and to book tickets visit: https://riponcathedral.org.uk/events/ripon-community-poppy-project-d-day-concert/?occurrence=2024-06-06

There’ll be a full-sized knitted tank on the forecourt of the Cathedral on Wednesday 5 and Thursday 6 June.
Summer Music Series
These summer Rural Arts/De Mowbray Music evening concerts last around an hour and are a chance to greet the weekend in style, joined by talented performers from a range of musical backgrounds. Each concert starts at 6.30pm and tickets are £10 (£8 for concessions). Venue: The Courthouse, Thirsk.

  • Friday 7 June – The Derrick Harris Trio – all things jazz.
  • Friday 30 August – Native Gallantry – baroque strings.

Book online at https://www.ruralarts.org/whats-on/performances
Racing at Thirsk

• Friday 7 June – afternoon racing
• Sunday 16 June – Father’s Day Skybet Sunday Series
• Monday 24 June – afternoon racing.
• Wednesday 3 July – afternoon racing
• Wednesday 17 July – afternoon racing
• Friday 26 July – GRIY Summer Festival
Great Knaresborough Bed Race
The annual bed race with supporting parade through Knaresborough streets. 11am-4pm on Saturday 8 June. Free. www.bedrace.co.uk
Conserving Nature
Nosterfield Nature Reserve is holding its next conservation club on Saturday 8 June between 10am and 1pm. It’s open for young people aged 14-18 years who enjoy working outdoors, are interested in finding out more about wildlife and keen to develop practical conservation skills. On the day, you’ll find out about how butterflies and moths are recorded at the reserve and help to identify and record species.

The Reserve works with ‘Power of 10 award scheme’ which offers rewards to young people for their volunteer hours, so you can work towards your first award. To find out more and to book a free place, visit https://www.luct.org.uk/events-1/2024/6/8/conservation-club-8-june
Tractor Fest
This year’s Tractor Fest will take place on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June at Newby Hall. It’s the UK’s largest vintage tractor and engine show with over 1,600 exhibits as well as in excess of 12,000 visitors who also get access to the award-winning gardens and other attractions. 10am-4pm. £60 family, £20 adult, £15 child, under 4s free. Tickets: Online. www.bookings.newbyhall.com
Flower Power Plant Fair
There’ll be a plant fair in the gardens of Thirsk Hall on Sunday 9 June starting 11am. There’ll be a selection of refreshments throughout the day and you can also plan to have lunch in the grounds. Entry £5 per person, Under 13s free.
Cruises on the Ripon Canal
Ripon Scenic Cruises have a range of cruises planned including:

  • Father’s Day – Sunday 16 June – private cruises from 10am for a minimum one hour and maximum two and a half hours. Each dad onboard will receive a bottle of local craft ale. Maximum twelve guests.
  • Afternoon tea and prosecco – each Saturday afternoon in June, July and August.

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/riponsceniccruises
Wensleydale Railway
There’s something for everyone at Wensleydale Railway over the coming months. They are planning plenty of events and activities and here’s a taste of what’s on with a link to the booking system:

Contact email: admin@wensleydalerailway.com / 01677 425805

Rural Arts events

Here are some of the workshops coming up at The Courthouse in Thirsk:

  • Ceramic Hare – Friday 21 June
  • Collage Master Class – Wednesday 3 July
  • Freehand Embroidery – Wednesday 10 July
  • Wild Wire Flowers – Friday 12 July
  • Working with Jesmonite – Wednesday 17 July

Visit Rural Arts’ website – Home – Rural Arts for more details or to make a booking. Or just pop in to The Courthouse in Thirsk if you’d prefer a face-to-face chat.
Dalton Fest
This year’s Dalton Fest will be held on Saturday 22 June at Dalton Village Hall and on the village’s playing field. Gates open at 2pm, music starts at 4pm. The Black Bears will be headlining, along with many other bands. There will be pizzas and fish and chips on sale, along with ice cream. Picnics are welcome but no barbecues please. The bar will be open, where candy floss, sweets and novelties can also be purchased. A great day out for all the family. Tickets are available from Eleanor on 07841 036340 and are priced at £12 for adults, £6 for children (up to 16 years of age). A family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) is £28.
Baldersby St. James Church

  • “The Average Angel” – a One Woman Play – in church on Friday 28 June at 7pm for 7.30pm start. Tickets £6 on the door.
  • Music@Junction 50 – Sadly the planned concert on Thursday 4 July has had to be cancelled as it coincides with the church being used as a Polling Station for the General Election. The concert planned for Thursday 19 September at 7pm features husband and wife Andrea and Djodje Gajic performing Ad Libitum on violin and accordion. See poster here. Further details available from Colin Reid – colinreid97@yahoo.co.uk – or by telephone – 01765 640624
  • This year’s Book Sale will be held on the weekend of Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September. The organisers invite donations of any books, which can be left in the church at any time during the day.
Harrogate Food & Drink Festival
This annual festival is taking place on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 June.A feast and amazing entertainment on The Stray. http://Buy Tickets – The Harrogate Food & Drink Festival 2024: A Feast on The Stray – The Stray, Oatlands Drive, Harrogate (tickettailor.com)
Ripon Theatre Festival
The Ripon Theatre Festival is back for 2024 and there’s a great programme in store. It will feature the very best in touring theatre, street entertainment, family shows, comedy, dance and storytelling across five days and six nights. There’ll also be community performances, workshops and pop-up surprises. Ticketed and free performances for all ages. Bringing colour and culture to brighten the city.

Hilarity Bites Festival Special: An extra special gig featuring Tarot, Black Liver, Joe Kent-Walters and host Lee Kyle. This comedy collaboration has a twist of theatre and a dash of music with a good dollop of improvisation. At Ripon Arts Hub, Allhallowgate on Tuesday 2 July. Doors open at 7:30 pm. Show at 8pm. Tickets £10.

Tales from the Scriptorium: – medieval heritage crafts and stories – two interactive sessions at Fountains Abbey on Tuesday 2 July. Book online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/select/RdiEJKhzXNnT

Look After Your Knees: A solo performance by Yorkshire-based physical comedian Natalie Bellingham about the pain and beauty of love, what it is to both connect and unravel. It’s a celebration of being human in all its banality, sprinkled with joy and ridiculousness. Wednesday 3 July at 8pm at Ripon Arts Hub, Allhallowgate. Tickets £12.Presented in memory of Ripon Theatre Festival founder, Ian Holloway. There will be a collection after the show for St Michael’s Hospice.

A spoonful of Julie: a tribute to Julie Andrews packed with songs and medleys – Wednesday 3 July lunchtime (1pm) at Holy Trinity Church, Ripon.
Short Story Writing Workshop with Ilaria Passeri: a practical and creative session at Ripon Library at 11am on Friday 5 July.

Mr Owen’s Pocketbook; – poetry and performance from WW1 in Ripon Cathedral where Wilfred Owen spent his last birthday. Friday 5 July at 2pm.

Shakespeare’s Royals: Barrie Rutter OBE presents an evening of entertainment in Ripon Cathedral. Friday 5 July at 7.30pm. Tickets £14 to £16. More details to follow.

Looking for me friend: the music of Victoria Wood: Friday 5 July at Ripon Arts Hub, Allhallowsgate. Tickets £14 to £16.

The Adventures of Doctor Doolittle: Newby Hall & Gardens is the venue for a special Ripon Festival event on Saturday 6 July. They will be welcoming the fabulous Illyria, masters of outdoor theatre, who will present The Adventures of Doctor Doolittle, a very funny, exciting and much-loved family adventure. Great opportunity for a family picnic.

Fate and the Warrior – rehearsed reading of a new play about Caribbean author Edgar Mittelholzer – at the Workhouse Museum at 3pm on Sunday 7 July.

Book online at https://www.ripontheatrefestival.org/
Thorp Perrow

  • Sensation ABBA Tribute – Saturday 13 July
  • The Freddie & Queen Experience – Friday 2 August

More details and bookings: https://www.thorpperrow.com/
Catton Fest
The big annual event at The Catton Kitchen will take place on Sunday 14 July between 2 and 8pm. See poster here.
Advance Notice of Upcoming Summer Events
Here are some dates to note in your diary.
That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on by

Sunday Email: Issue 212

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
doug
St Columba’s Services

  • TODAY – Sunday 26 May at 10.45am – Holy Communion with Fr. Robert Williamson
  • Sunday 2 June at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong
  • Sunday 9 June at 10.45am – St Columba’s Day, Festival Choral Eucharist
  • Sunday 16 June at 10.45am – Sung Matins
  • Sunday 23 June at 10.45am – Holy Communion, Fr. Robert Williamson
  • Sunday 30 June – No Service (5th Sunday)

Refreshments are served after every Sunday morning service.
Angel Inn garden
TODAY: The garden at The Angel Inn will be open this afternoon for drinks
Walking tours of Thirsk
Historic Experiences, a company that organises guided walks in towns across the country, has turned its attention to Thirsk and launches a selection of walks this coming Bank Holiday weekend.

  • TODAY: Sunday 26 May at 3pm – Historic Thirsk, a walk through the town’s fascinating past – the places, people and events that made Thirsk what it is today.
  • TODAY: Sunday 26 May at 7pm – Haunted Thirsk – tales of haunted places and strange happenings in this ancient town.

Tours are fun for all and the routes are mainly flat. Tours take place no matter what the weather. The meeting place for all tours in The Clock in the Market Place, five minutes before tours are due to begin. Please contact Tina on 07876 010835 to book tickets or for more information.
Classic Cars at Thorp Perrow
TODAY: Sunday 26 May – 10am to 4pm – Vintage Vehicle & Classic Car Show
Art in the Shed
Asenby resident, Siobhan Gifford, is one of the artists showing their work at an art exhibition and sale in Osmotherly over the Bank Holiday weekend – so you can see her work today and tomorrow(26 and 27 May). See poster here. Siobhan is showing examples of her mosaic artwork and pendants. The exhibition is showing at 19 Back Lane, Osmotherley between 10.30am and 1.30pm each day.

Some of Siobhan’s work is also currently on exhibition in The Elm Gallery in Topcliffe.
Village Quiz
TONIGHT: Sunday 26 May – The quiz is on at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 8pm.
Last week’s excellent quiz was set by Jane and won by Kev’s Crusaders, namely Debbie, Lynne, Kev and Mac. Well done the winners and everyone who took part.
Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van is in Topcliffe every Friday 5 ’til 7pm
Post Office vacancy
Topcliffe Post Office is looking for a part-time assistant who can assist behind the Post Office counter and in the shop. It’s for nine hours per week and applicants must be prepared to work at least one Saturday per month. Good rate of pay. CVs to Paul or Debbie at the Post Office.
Keep a look out for unusual behavior
Following a burglary at Dalton Village Hall during the night last week, other village halls in the area are being warned to be on the lookout for strangers checking out properties that they might target after dark. Those who attacked Dalton Village Hall gained nothing but did a substantial amount of damage to doors and cupboards. If you see strangers hanging around in Topcliffe and you are suspicious of their behavior, please call the police to report them. Even if it’s a false alarm the police will be happy that the community is watching out for itself and its properties.
Churchyard volunteers
John Phillips, representing St Columba’s Church, wishes to thank all of the volunteers who have given up their valuable time on Saturdays throughout May to help get St Columba’s churchyard into shape for summer. They are John, Joan and Charlie Blair, Richard Byas, Chris Joyce, Doug Allan, Linda Bumby, Karen Cussons, Steve Port, Clare Phillips, Julie, Fran Eckersley, Alison Cockburn, Liz Green, David Parkin and Chris & Linda Hewlett. Thanks also to Linda Carver who grew lots of plants from seed and has transplanted them into the flower beds…and to to those who provided ‘bakes’ for the coffee breaks each week.

It’s hoped that the good work can be continued throughout the summer and especially to start making progress on the lower terraces. At some time soon, it’s also hoped that more benches can be sited throughout the churchyard for people to enjoy this lovely green space in the heart of the village.
Footpath resurfacing
By and large the resurfaced footpaths on Long Street, Topcliffe look very good and they’ll certainly be safer for pedestrians. But one area down near the allotments and surgery needs further attention as a drainage problem that existed pre the work is still an issue. It’s understood that Cllr Dan Sladden has reported this to North Yorkshire Council and they have promised to send a team out to investigate and correct.
The Tattler
The next edition of The Tattler newsletter is at the printers and you can expect a copy through your door around the turn of the month.
Calling all book lovers
The café at Maple Park, near Busby Stoop, wants to start a book club and is looking for someone who is passionate about reading and would enjoy leading discussions about books.
You’ll need to be enthusiastic and well-organised to run the club every Wednesday morning from 9 until 11am. The café will provide free tea and coffee for all participants.
If you’re interested and willing to share your love of books and connect with fellow readers, please call David Martin on 07527 954295.
Soup & Sweet Lunch
The next Soup & Sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 29 May from 11.30 to 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of home-made soups, puddings, delicious cakes and bakes and tea or coffee. All welcome. No set charge, but donations welcome.
Base Camp – Kids Adventure days
Bookings are now open for the Base Camps being held during the May half-term holidays.

  • Wednesday 29 May – Make your own musical instrument in Forest Schools and then get to play it in the afternoon with musician, Hayley, around the campfire.
  • Thursday 30 May – Follow in the footsteps of our ancestors as we forage for food and then make fire to cook it on.
  • Friday 31 May – Get creative as we explore natural art from around the globe before limbering up to take part in Forest Olympic Games.

More information and book online at http://www.basecamplearning.co.uk
The Angel Comedy Night
The next Hilarity Bites Comedy Night at The Angel in Topcliffe will be held on Thursday 30 May. Doors open 7.30pm and the show begins at 8pm. Tickets £10 if purchased in advance or £12 on the door. For more information and tickets call 01845 578000. See poster here.
Open days at a range of local art and craft studios
Eric Moss, who lives and works in Asenby, is one of seven local artists in the Thirsk area opening their studio to the public as part of a North Yorkshire Open Studios event on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 June and Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June. Eric, whose ceramics works are pictured above, will be showing big and small ceramics for indoor and outdoor display. He is also displaying 3D printed resins and new bespoke ‘Pocket Art’ fidgets handmade in recycled pewter and glass. The other local studios will include photography, enamelling, jewellery, printing, painting and garden sculpture. The open studios can be visited between 10am and 5pm and a 10% discount will be given off any piece of artwork on sale at any of the studios if all seven studios are visited and the "passport" stamped. See poster here and location maphere.
Topcliffe Academy – Dates for your diary

  • Monday, 3 June – School re-opens for second half of summer term
  • Friday, 7th June – Non-Uniform Day – children bring a donation for the tombola/raffle instead of cash.
Art classes at the Village Hall
The next block of six art classes starts on Monday 3 June in the Village Hall. They are on from 10am to noon. For more information and to book your place go to
https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/
St Columba’s Festival
This year’s Festival and History Day will be held on Sunday 9 June. The event will be more simple than usual with just one day to celebrate St Columba. At 10.45am there will be a Festal Choral Eucharist led by Rev. Canon Steven Harvey and the choir will sing the Missa Secunda by Hans Leo Hassler (1564-1612) as the setting. Refreshments will be served after the service.

There’ll be a BBQ lunch with hot food being available from 1.15pm. Drinks, including wine, will be available along with ‘bring and share’ salads and puddings. Everyone is very welcome to either or both of these events. Please give advance notice to John Phillips (01845 577034) if you intend to come to the BBQ so that he has some idea of catering requirements.

After lunch the usual tours of the church, tower and churchyard will take place, but for reasons of safety, children will need to be at least ten years old to be able to climb the tower. The day will close with a service of Compline at 6pm.
Topcliffe Ceilidh tickets are selling fast
The Cod Beck Ceilidh Band will be providing the music and calling at the Topcliffe Ceilidh on Saturday 22 June at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open from 7pm and dancing starts at 7.30pm. This is a bring your own drinks event. Tickets, which are on sale at Topcliffe Post Office, or from Sarah Barber on 07885 386557 or Jane Burnett on 07902 681296, are selling fast so to avoid disappointment get yours soon.

Tickets purchased in advance are £10, which includes a pulled pork and apple sauce roll (alternative for vegetarians). Tickets at the door on the night are £12. There’ll be a raffle with some great prizes. This is a fundraiser to help support the Village Hall.
Topcliffe Parish Council
The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7pm onThursday 4 Julyin the Village Hall.
Asenby Parish Council
The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be held on Wednesday 10 July at 7pm in the upper committee room at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. All welcome.
Deer Shed Festival
This year’s Deer Shed Festival will be on at Baldersby Park over the weekend – 26 to 29 July. The programme for this year’s festival is shown here.
Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show 2024
The show will be held on Saturday 31 August at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall and there will be 83 classes in five categories: 47 horticultural classes: 17 baking, jams, preserves and pickles classes: 3 floral classes: 11 hobbies classes and 5 specific classes that only children can enter. The full list of categories and show rules, together with timings on the day, are available here.
EVENTS ON AROUND THE AREA

Rural Arts events

Here are some of the workshops coming up at The Courthouse in Thirsk:

  • Ceramic Heads – Sunday 26 May
  • Watercolour flowers – Friday 31 May
  • Ceramic Hare – Friday 21 June
  • Collage Master Class – Wednesday 3 July
  • Freehand Embroidery – Wednesday 10 July
  • Wild Wire Flowers – Friday 12 July
  • Working with Jesmonite – Wednesday 17 July

Visit Rural Arts’ website – Home – Rural Arts for more details or to make a booking. Or just pop in to The Courthouse in Thirsk if you’d prefer a face-to-face chat.
The Ritz Cinema

  • Fall Guy – to Thursday 30 May – matinee on Wednesday 29 May.
  • Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes – Friday 31 May to Thursday 6 June – matinee on Wednesday 5 June.
  • La Chimera – Friday 7 to Thursday 13 June – matinee on Wednesday 12 June.
  • If – Friday 14 to Thursday 20 June – matinees on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 June.
  • Hard Miles – Friday 21 to Thursday 27 June – matinee on Wednesday 26 June.
  • Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga – Friday 28 June to Thursday 4 July – matinee on Wednesday 3 July.

Opening times: Evenings – doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm. Matinees – doors open at 2pm for 2.30pm. You can now book online at https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Creative Club presents Minecraft
The popular Creative Club at Thirsk Community Library is presenting a session of Minecraft model and character creation on Thursday 30 May between 10.30am and 12.30pm. For beginners and regulars aged 6 to 13 years of age. Parents/carers can attend to. Book free places on 01609 534589.
Northallerton Male Voice Choir Summer Concert
This annual popular event is on Saturday 1 June at 7.30pm at The Forum in Northallerton. Tickets are £12 and available from The Forum box office. See poster here.
Thirsk Farmers’ Market
Around 20 artisan food and drink producers bring the fruits of their labour to the Market Place in Thirsk. 9am-2pm on Sunday 2 June.
http:// www.northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com
Sessay Floral Art Demonstration
Renowned floral designer and TV regular Jonathan Moseley will be demonstrating a range of floral art techniques at Sessay Village Hall at 7pm on Tuesday 4 June. Tickets are £20 to include a glass of wine and raffle ticket. Call Doreen Till on 01845 577906 or email doreentill3 – paces are strictly limited,
Poppy Project D-Day Concert
On Thursday 6 June between 7 and 10pm, Ripon Cathedral will host a special concert to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day and 75th anniversary of the Royal Engineers Freedom of the City of Ripon. The concert will include performances by Mark Sidwell, Ripon City Band, The Dishforth Military Wives Choir, The Duchy Belles and Charlotte Potter. The event is organised by Ripon Community Poppy Project and tickets are £15.

For more information see poster here and to book tickets visit: https://riponcathedral.org.uk/events/ripon-community-poppy-project-d-day-concert/?occurrence=2024-06-06

There’ll be a full-sized knitted tank on the forecourt of the Cathedral on Wednesday 5 and Thursday 6 June.
Summer Music Series
These summer Rural Arts/De Mowbray Music evening concerts last around an hour and are a chance to greet the weekend in style, joined by talented performers from a range of musical backgrounds. Each concert starts at 6.30pm and tickets are £10 (£8 for concessions). Venue: The Courthouse, Thirsk.

  • Friday 7 June – The Derrick Harris Trio – all things jazz.
  • Friday 30 August – Native Gallantry – baroque strings.

Book online at https://www.ruralarts.org/whats-on/performances
Racing at Thirsk

• Friday 7 June – afternoon racing
• Sunday 16 June – Father’s Day Skybet Sunday Series
• Monday 24 June – afternoon racing.
• Wednesday 3 July – afternoon racing
• Wednesday 17 July – afternoon racing
• Friday 26 July – GRIY Summer Festival
Great Knaresborough Bed Race
The annual bed race with supporting parade through Knaresborough streets. 11am-4pm on Saturday 8 June. Free. www.bedrace.co.uk
Conserving Nature
Nosterfield Nature Reserve is holding its next conservation club on Saturday 8 June between 10am and 1pm. It’s open for young people aged 14-18 years who enjoy working outdoors, are interested in finding out more about wildlife and keen to develop practical conservation skills. On the day, you’ll find out about how butterflies and moths are recorded at the reserve and help to identify and record species.

The Reserve works with ‘Power of 10 award scheme’ which offers rewards to young people for their volunteer hours, so you can work towards your first award. To find out more and to book a free place, visit https://www.luct.org.uk/events-1/2024/6/8/conservation-club-8-june
Tractor Fest
This year’s Tractor Fest will take place on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June at Newby Hall. It’s the UK’s largest vintage tractor and engine show with over 1,600 exhibits as well as in excess of 12,000 visitors who also get access to the award-winning gardens and other attractions. 10am-4pm. £60 family, £20 adult, £15 child, under 4s free. Tickets: Online. www.bookings.newbyhall.com
Flower Power Plant Fair
There’ll be a plant fair in the gardens of Thirsk Hall on Sunday 9 June starting 11am. There’ll be a selection of refreshments throughout the day and you can also plan to have lunch in the grounds. Entry £5 per person, Under 13s free.
Thorp Perrow

  • Sensation ABBA Tribute – Saturday 13 July
  • The Freddie & Queen Experience – Friday 2 August

More details and bookings: https://www.thorpperrow.com/
Cruises on the Ripon Canal
Ripon Scenic Cruises have a range of cruises planned including:

  • Father’s Day – Sunday 16 June – private cruises from 10am for a minimum one hour and maximum two and a half hours. Each dad onboard will receive a bottle of local craft ale. Maximum twelve guests.
  • Afternoon tea and prosecco – each Saturday afternoon in June, July and August.

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/riponsceniccruises
Wensleydale Railway
There’s something for everyone at Wensleydale Railway over the coming months. They are planning plenty of events and activities and here’s a taste of what’s on with a link to the booking system:

  • Sunday 16 June – Father’s Day Lunch – admin / 01677 425805
Music @ Junction 50
The programme of concerts for this year’s Music @ Junction 50 has had to be curtailed. The main event is on Thursday 19 September at 7pm and it’s husband and wife Andrea and Djodje Gajic performing Ad Libitum on violin and accordion. See postercolinreid97 – or by telephone – 01765 640624
Advance Notice of Upcoming Summer Events
Here are some dates to note in your diary.
That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on by

Sunday Email: Issue 212

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
doug@dougallan.co.uk
St Columba’s Services

  • TODAY – Sunday 26 May at 10.45am – Holy Communion with Fr. Robert Williamson
  • Sunday 2 June at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong
  • Sunday 9 June at 10.45am – St Columba’s Day, Festival Choral Eucharist
  • Sunday 16 June at 10.45am – Sung Matins
  • Sunday 23 June at 10.45am – Holy Communion, Fr. Robert Williamson
  • Sunday 30 June – No Service (5th Sunday)

Refreshments are served after every Sunday morning service.
Angel Inn garden
TODAY: The garden at The Angel Inn will be open this afternoon for drinks
Walking tours of Thirsk
Historic Experiences, a company that organises guided walks in towns across the country, has turned its attention to Thirsk and launches a selection of walks this coming Bank Holiday weekend.

  • TODAY: Sunday 26 May at 3pm – Historic Thirsk, a walk through the town’s fascinating past – the places, people and events that made Thirsk what it is today.
  • TODAY: Sunday 26 May at 7pm – Haunted Thirsk – tales of haunted places and strange happenings in this ancient town.

Tours are fun for all and the routes are mainly flat. Tours take place no matter what the weather. The meeting place for all tours in The Clock in the Market Place, five minutes before tours are due to begin. Please contact Tina on 07876 010835 to book tickets or for more information.
Classic Cars at Thorp Perrow
TODAY: Sunday 26 May – 10am to 4pm – Vintage Vehicle & Classic Car Show
Art in the Shed
Asenby resident, Siobhan Gifford, is one of the artists showing their work at an art exhibition and sale in Osmotherly over the Bank Holiday weekend – so you can see her work today and tomorrow(26 and 27 May). See poster here. Siobhan is showing examples of her mosaic artwork and pendants. The exhibition is showing at 19 Back Lane, Osmotherley between 10.30am and 1.30pm each day.

Some of Siobhan’s work is also currently on exhibition in The Elm Gallery in Topcliffe.
Village Quiz
TONIGHT: Sunday 26 May – The quiz is on at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 8pm.
Last week’s excellent quiz was set by Jane and won by Kev’s Crusaders, namely Debbie, Lynne, Kev and Mac. Well done the winners and everyone who took part.
Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van is in Topcliffe every Friday 5 ’til 7pm
Post Office vacancy
Topcliffe Post Office is looking for a part-time assistant who can assist behind the Post Office counter and in the shop. It’s for nine hours per week and applicants must be prepared to work at least one Saturday per month. Good rate of pay. CVs to Paul or Debbie at the Post Office.
Keep a look out for unusual behavior
Following a burglary at Dalton Village Hall during the night last week, other village halls in the area are being warned to be on the lookout for strangers checking out properties that they might target after dark. Those who attacked Dalton Village Hall gained nothing but did a substantial amount of damage to doors and cupboards. If you see strangers hanging around in Topcliffe and you are suspicious of their behavior, please call the police to report them. Even if it’s a false alarm the police will be happy that the community is watching out for itself and its properties.
Churchyard volunteers
John Phillips, representing St Columba’s Church, wishes to thank all of the volunteers who have given up their valuable time on Saturdays throughout May to help get St Columba’s churchyard into shape for summer. They are John, Joan and Charlie Blair, Richard Byas, Chris Joyce, Doug Allan, Linda Bumby, Karen Cussons, Steve Port, Clare Phillips, Julie, Fran Eckersley, Alison Cockburn, Liz Green, David Parkin and Chris & Linda Hewlett. Thanks also to Linda Carver who grew lots of plants from seed and has transplanted them into the flower beds…and to to those who provided ‘bakes’ for the coffee breaks each week.

It’s hoped that the good work can be continued throughout the summer and especially to start making progress on the lower terraces. At some time soon, it’s also hoped that more benches can be sited throughout the churchyard for people to enjoy this lovely green space in the heart of the village.
Footpath resurfacing
By and large the resurfaced footpaths on Long Street, Topcliffe look very good and they’ll certainly be safer for pedestrians. But one area down near the allotments and surgery needs further attention as a drainage problem that existed pre the work is still an issue. It’s understood that Cllr Dan Sladden has reported this to North Yorkshire Council and they have promised to send a team out to investigate and correct.
The Tattler
The next edition of The Tattler newsletter is at the printers and you can expect a copy through your door around the turn of the month.
Calling all book lovers
The café at Maple Park, near Busby Stoop, wants to start a book club and is looking for someone who is passionate about reading and would enjoy leading discussions about books.
You’ll need to be enthusiastic and well-organised to run the club every Wednesday morning from 9 until 11am. The café will provide free tea and coffee for all participants.
If you’re interested and willing to share your love of books and connect with fellow readers, please call David Martin on 07527 954295.
Soup & Sweet Lunch
The next Soup & Sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 29 May from 11.30 to 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of home-made soups, puddings, delicious cakes and bakes and tea or coffee. All welcome. No set charge, but donations welcome.
Base Camp – Kids Adventure days
Bookings are now open for the Base Camps being held during the May half-term holidays.

  • Wednesday 29 May – Make your own musical instrument in Forest Schools and then get to play it in the afternoon with musician, Hayley, around the campfire.
  • Thursday 30 May – Follow in the footsteps of our ancestors as we forage for food and then make fire to cook it on.
  • Friday 31 May – Get creative as we explore natural art from around the globe before limbering up to take part in Forest Olympic Games.

More information and book online at http://www.basecamplearning.co.uk
The Angel Comedy Night
The next Hilarity Bites Comedy Night at The Angel in Topcliffe will be held on Thursday 30 May. Doors open 7.30pm and the show begins at 8pm. Tickets £10 if purchased in advance or £12 on the door. For more information and tickets call 01845 578000. See poster here.
Open days at a range of local art and craft studios
Eric Moss, who lives and works in Asenby, is one of seven local artists in the Thirsk area opening their studio to the public as part of a North Yorkshire Open Studios event on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 June and Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June. Eric, whose ceramics works are pictured above, will be showing big and small ceramics for indoor and outdoor display. He is also displaying 3D printed resins and new bespoke ‘Pocket Art’ fidgets handmade in recycled pewter and glass. The other local studios will include photography, enamelling, jewellery, printing, painting and garden sculpture. The open studios can be visited between 10am and 5pm and a 10% discount will be given off any piece of artwork on sale at any of the studios if all seven studios are visited and the "passport" stamped. See poster here and location maphere.
Topcliffe Academy – Dates for your diary

  • Monday, 3 June – School re-opens for second half of summer term
  • Friday, 7th June – Non-Uniform Day – children bring a donation for the tombola/raffle instead of cash.
Art classes at the Village Hall
The next block of six art classes starts on Monday 3 June in the Village Hall. They are on from 10am to noon. For more information and to book your place go to
https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/
St Columba’s Festival
This year’s Festival and History Day will be held on Sunday 9 June. The event will be more simple than usual with just one day to celebrate St Columba. At 10.45am there will be a Festal Choral Eucharist led by Rev. Canon Steven Harvey and the choir will sing the Missa Secunda by Hans Leo Hassler (1564-1612) as the setting. Refreshments will be served after the service.

There’ll be a BBQ lunch with hot food being available from 1.15pm. Drinks, including wine, will be available along with ‘bring and share’ salads and puddings. Everyone is very welcome to either or both of these events. Please give advance notice to John Phillips (01845 577034) if you intend to come to the BBQ so that he has some idea of catering requirements.

After lunch the usual tours of the church, tower and churchyard will take place, but for reasons of safety, children will need to be at least ten years old to be able to climb the tower. The day will close with a service of Compline at 6pm.
Topcliffe Ceilidh tickets are selling fast
The Cod Beck Ceilidh Band will be providing the music and calling at the Topcliffe Ceilidh on Saturday 22 June at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open from 7pm and dancing starts at 7.30pm. This is a bring your own drinks event. Tickets, which are on sale at Topcliffe Post Office, or from Sarah Barber on 07885 386557 or Jane Burnett on 07902 681296, are selling fast so to avoid disappointment get yours soon.

Tickets purchased in advance are £10, which includes a pulled pork and apple sauce roll (alternative for vegetarians). Tickets at the door on the night are £12. There’ll be a raffle with some great prizes. This is a fundraiser to help support the Village Hall.
Topcliffe Parish Council
The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7pm onThursday 4 Julyin the Village Hall.
Asenby Parish Council
The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be held on Wednesday 10 July at 7pm in the upper committee room at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. All welcome.
Deer Shed Festival
This year’s Deer Shed Festival will be on at Baldersby Park over the weekend – 26 to 29 July. The programme for this year’s festival is shown here.
Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show 2024
The show will be held on Saturday 31 August at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall and there will be 83 classes in five categories: 47 horticultural classes: 17 baking, jams, preserves and pickles classes: 3 floral classes: 11 hobbies classes and 5 specific classes that only children can enter. The full list of categories and show rules, together with timings on the day, are available here.
EVENTS ON AROUND THE AREA

Rural Arts events

Here are some of the workshops coming up at The Courthouse in Thirsk:

  • Ceramic Heads – Sunday 26 May
  • Watercolour flowers – Friday 31 May
  • Ceramic Hare – Friday 21 June
  • Collage Master Class – Wednesday 3 July
  • Freehand Embroidery – Wednesday 10 July
  • Wild Wire Flowers – Friday 12 July
  • Working with Jesmonite – Wednesday 17 July

Visit Rural Arts’ website – Home – Rural Arts for more details or to make a booking. Or just pop in to The Courthouse in Thirsk if you’d prefer a face-to-face chat.
The Ritz Cinema

  • Fall Guy – to Thursday 30 May – matinee on Wednesday 29 May.
  • Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes – Friday 31 May to Thursday 6 June – matinee on Wednesday 5 June.
  • La Chimera – Friday 7 to Thursday 13 June – matinee on Wednesday 12 June.
  • If – Friday 14 to Thursday 20 June – matinees on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 June.
  • Hard Miles – Friday 21 to Thursday 27 June – matinee on Wednesday 26 June.
  • Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga – Friday 28 June to Thursday 4 July – matinee on Wednesday 3 July.

Opening times: Evenings – doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm. Matinees – doors open at 2pm for 2.30pm. You can now book online at https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Creative Club presents Minecraft
The popular Creative Club at Thirsk Community Library is presenting a session of Minecraft model and character creation on Thursday 30 May between 10.30am and 12.30pm. For beginners and regulars aged 6 to 13 years of age. Parents/carers can attend to. Book free places on 01609 534589.
Northallerton Male Voice Choir Summer Concert
This annual popular event is on Saturday 1 June at 7.30pm at The Forum in Northallerton. Tickets are £12 and available from The Forum box office. See poster here.
Thirsk Farmers’ Market
Around 20 artisan food and drink producers bring the fruits of their labour to the Market Place in Thirsk. 9am-2pm on Sunday 2 June.
http:// www.northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com
Sessay Floral Art Demonstration
Renowned floral designer and TV regular Jonathan Moseley will be demonstrating a range of floral art techniques at Sessay Village Hall at 7pm on Tuesday 4 June. Tickets are £20 to include a glass of wine and raffle ticket. Call Doreen Till on 01845 577906 or email doreentill3@outlook.com – paces are strictly limited,
Poppy Project D-Day Concert
On Thursday 6 June between 7 and 10pm, Ripon Cathedral will host a special concert to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day and 75th anniversary of the Royal Engineers Freedom of the City of Ripon. The concert will include performances by Mark Sidwell, Ripon City Band, The Dishforth Military Wives Choir, The Duchy Belles and Charlotte Potter. The event is organised by Ripon Community Poppy Project and tickets are £15.

For more information see poster here and to book tickets visit: https://riponcathedral.org.uk/events/ripon-community-poppy-project-d-day-concert/?occurrence=2024-06-06

There’ll be a full-sized knitted tank on the forecourt of the Cathedral on Wednesday 5 and Thursday 6 June.
Summer Music Series
These summer Rural Arts/De Mowbray Music evening concerts last around an hour and are a chance to greet the weekend in style, joined by talented performers from a range of musical backgrounds. Each concert starts at 6.30pm and tickets are £10 (£8 for concessions). Venue: The Courthouse, Thirsk.

  • Friday 7 June – The Derrick Harris Trio – all things jazz.
  • Friday 30 August – Native Gallantry – baroque strings.

Book online at https://www.ruralarts.org/whats-on/performances
Racing at Thirsk

• Friday 7 June – afternoon racing
• Sunday 16 June – Father’s Day Skybet Sunday Series
• Monday 24 June – afternoon racing.
• Wednesday 3 July – afternoon racing
• Wednesday 17 July – afternoon racing
• Friday 26 July – GRIY Summer Festival
Great Knaresborough Bed Race
The annual bed race with supporting parade through Knaresborough streets. 11am-4pm on Saturday 8 June. Free. www.bedrace.co.uk
Conserving Nature
Nosterfield Nature Reserve is holding its next conservation club on Saturday 8 June between 10am and 1pm. It’s open for young people aged 14-18 years who enjoy working outdoors, are interested in finding out more about wildlife and keen to develop practical conservation skills. On the day, you’ll find out about how butterflies and moths are recorded at the reserve and help to identify and record species.

The Reserve works with ‘Power of 10 award scheme’ which offers rewards to young people for their volunteer hours, so you can work towards your first award. To find out more and to book a free place, visit https://www.luct.org.uk/events-1/2024/6/8/conservation-club-8-june
Tractor Fest
This year’s Tractor Fest will take place on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June at Newby Hall. It’s the UK’s largest vintage tractor and engine show with over 1,600 exhibits as well as in excess of 12,000 visitors who also get access to the award-winning gardens and other attractions. 10am-4pm. £60 family, £20 adult, £15 child, under 4s free. Tickets: Online. www.bookings.newbyhall.com
Flower Power Plant Fair
There’ll be a plant fair in the gardens of Thirsk Hall on Sunday 9 June starting 11am. There’ll be a selection of refreshments throughout the day and you can also plan to have lunch in the grounds. Entry £5 per person, Under 13s free.
Thorp Perrow

  • Sensation ABBA Tribute – Saturday 13 July
  • The Freddie & Queen Experience – Friday 2 August

More details and bookings: https://www.thorpperrow.com/
Cruises on the Ripon Canal
Ripon Scenic Cruises have a range of cruises planned including:

  • Father’s Day – Sunday 16 June – private cruises from 10am for a minimum one hour and maximum two and a half hours. Each dad onboard will receive a bottle of local craft ale. Maximum twelve guests.
  • Afternoon tea and prosecco – each Saturday afternoon in June, July and August.

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/riponsceniccruises
Wensleydale Railway
There’s something for everyone at Wensleydale Railway over the coming months. They are planning plenty of events and activities and here’s a taste of what’s on with a link to the booking system:

Contact email: admin@wensleydalerailway.com / 01677 425805
Music @ Junction 50
The programme of concerts for this year’s Music @ Junction 50 has had to be curtailed. The main event is on Thursday 19 September at 7pm and it’s husband and wife Andrea and Djodje Gajic performing Ad Libitum on violin and accordion. See poster here. It will be held in the lovely setting of the Church of St James at Baldersby St James. Further details and background available from Colin Reid – colinreid97@yahoo.co.uk – or by telephone – 01765 640624
Advance Notice of Upcoming Summer Events
Here are some dates to note in your diary.
That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on by

Sunday Email: Issue 211

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
doug@dougallan.co.uk
Thirsk Artisan Market
TODAY: Sunday 19 May – In the Market Place between 9am and 2pm. Locally-produced arts and crafts, food and drink. A diverse, quality, shopping experience that celebrates independent producers and makers.
Sessay Scarecrow Festival
TODAY: Sunday 19 May – This year’s festival is on at Sessay. It’s a great family day out. There’ll be a checklist and questions for children to answer along the scarecrow trail with a reward for those who take part. There’ll also be refreshments, BBQ, tombola and bar.
St Columba’s Services

  • TODAY – Sunday 19 May at 10.45am – Sung Matins
  • Sunday 26 May at 10.45am – Holy Communion with Fr. Robert Williamson
  • Sunday 2 June at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong
  • Sunday 9 June at 10.45am – St Columba’s Day, Festival Choral Eucharist
  • Sunday 16 June at 10.45am – Sung Matins
  • Sunday 23 June at 10.45am – Holy Communion, Fr. Robert Williamson
  • Sunday 30 June – No Service (5th Sunday)

Refreshments are served after every Sunday morning service.
Village Quiz
TONIGHT: Sunday 19 May – The quiz is on at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 8pm.
Last week Fiorella set a testing set of diverse questions for an exceptionally good turn out of quizzers. The winners were Jim, Jane, Andy and Debbie. Well done to all the teams who attended.
Soup & Sweet Lunch
The next Soup & Sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 29 May from 11.30 to 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of home-made soups, puddings, delicious cakes and bakes and tea or coffee. All welcome. No set charge, but donations welcome

Last week’s lunch saw 39 meals served and £128 raised, of which £50 was donated to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. After rent payment and expenses, the balance was added to the Warm Hub Community fund.
St Columba’s Annual Parochial Church Council
The meeting is open to members of the Church of England and other Anglican churches who are listed on the church Electoral Roll. The meeting will be held in the church on Monday 20May at 7pm.
Topcliffe Academy – Dates for your diary

  • Friday, 24 May – School closes at 3.15pm for Half Term
  • Monday, 3 June – School re-opens for second half of summer term
  • Friday, 7th June – Non-Uniform Day – children bring a donation for the tombola/raffle instead of cash.
St Columba’s churchyard maintenance
Thank you to all of the volunteers who turned out on recent Saturdays to help with churchyard maintenance. Here are a few more photographs taken yesterday when half a dozen helpers turned out. Pic 1, 2, 3, 4.

There’ll be a further tidy up day in the churchyard on Saturday 25 May starting 9.30am, so if you have an hour to spare please come along from 10am onwards. All support will be very welcome. There’ll be some tools and lawnmowers available, but if people can bring whatever they might have to help – rakes, trowels, spades, forks, extra mowers etc. – that would be wonderful. Refreshments will be served.
Art in the Shed
Asenby resident, Siobhan Gifford, is one of the artists showing their work at an art exhibition and sale in Osmotherly over the Bank Holiday weekend – Saturday 25 to Monday 27 May. See poster here. Siobhan will present examples of her mosaic artwork and pendants. The exhibition is showing at 19 Back Lane, Osmotherley between 10.30am and 1.30pm each day.

Some of Siobhan’s work is also currently on exhibition in The Elm Gallery in Topcliffe.
Base Camp – Kids Adventure days
Bookings are now open for the Base Camps being held during the May half-term holidays.

  • Wednesday 29 May – Make your own musical instrument in Forest Schools and then get to play it in the afternoon with musician, Hayley, around the campfire.
  • Thursday 30 May – Follow in the footsteps of our ancestors as we forage for food and then make fire to cook it on.
  • Friday 31 May – Get creative as we explore natural art from around the globe before limbering up to take part in Forest Olympic Games.

More information and book online at http://www.basecamplearning.co.uk
The Angel Comedy Night
The next Hilarity Bites Comedy Night at The Angel in Topcliffe will be held on Thursday 30 May. Doors open 7.30pm and the show begins at 8pm. Tickets £10 if purchased in advance or £12 on the door. For more information and tickets call 01845 578000. See poster here.
Open days at a range of local art and craft studios
Eric Moss, who lives and works in Asenby, is one of seven local artists in the Thirsk area opening their studio to the public as part of a North Yorkshire Open Studios event on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 June and Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June. Eric, whose ceramics works are pictured above, will be showing big and small ceramics for indoor and outdoor display. He is also displaying 3D printed resins and new bespoke ‘Pocket Art’ fidgets handmade in recycled pewter and glass. The other local studios will include photography, enamelling, jewellery, printing, painting and garden sculpture. The open studios can be visited between 10am and 5pm and a 10% discount will be given off any piece of artwork on sale at any of the studios if all seven studios are visited and the "passport" stamped. See poster here and location maphere.
Art classes at the Village Hall
The next block of six art classes starts on Monday 3 June in the Village Hall. They are on from 10am to noon. For more information and to book your place go to
https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/
St Columba’s Day – celebrations
St Columba’s Day celebrations will not be quite so extensive this year. The plan is to concentrate on Sunday 9 June with a special Choral Eucharist at 10.45am followed by a BBQ in the churchyard close to the Church Hall from 12.30pm. During the afternoon the church and tower will be open for visits.
Topcliffe Ceilidh tickets are selling fast
The Cod Beck Ceilidh Band will be providing the music and calling at the Topcliffe Ceilidh on Saturday 22 June at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open from 7pm and dancing starts at 7.30pm. This is a bring your own drinks event. Tickets, which are on sale at Topcliffe Post Office, or from Sarah Barber on 07885 386557 or Jane Burnett on 07902 681296, are selling fast so to avoid disappointment get yours soon.

Tickets purchased in advance are £10, which includes a pulled pork and apple sauce roll (alternative for vegetarians). Tickets at the door on the night are £12. There’ll be a raffle with some great prizes. This is a fundraiser to help support the Village Hall.
Topcliffe Parish Council
The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7pm onThursday 4 Julyin the Village Hall.
Deer Shed Festival
This year’s Deer Shed Festival will be on at Baldersby Park over the weekend – 26 to 29 July. The programme for this year’s festival is shown here.
Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show 2024
The show will be held on Saturday 31 August at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall and there will be 83 classes in five categories: 47 horticultural classes: 17 baking, jams, preserves and pickles classes: 3 floral classes: 11 hobbies classes and 5 specific classes that only children can enter. The full list of categories and show rules, together with timings on the day, are available here.
Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van is in Topcliffe every Friday 5 ’til 7pm
EVENTS ON AROUND THE AREA

Rural Arts events

Here are some of the workshops coming up at The Courthouse in Thirsk:

  • Draw and Paint Dogs – Monday 20 May
  • Wild Wire Flowers – Tuesday 21 May
  • A Taste of Art: Drawing Bool Illustrations – Wednesday 22 May
  • Working with Jesmonite – Thursday 23 May
  • Silver Drop Earing Workshop – Saturday 25 May
  • Ceramic Heads – Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May
  • Watercolour flowers – Friday 31 May
  • Ceramic Hare – Friday 21 June
  • Collage Master Class – Wednesday 3 July
  • Freehand Embroidery – Wednesday 10 July
  • Wild Wire Flowers – Friday 12 July
  • Working with Jesmonite – Wednesday 17 July

Visit Rural Arts’ website – Home – Rural Arts for more details or to make a booking. Or just pop in to The Courthouse in Thirsk if you’d prefer a face-to-face chat.
Thirsk Yarnbombers’ Coffee Morning
The organisation responsible over recent years for a range of brilliant knitted themed decorations around the centre of Thirsk is holding a coffee morning on Wednesday 22 May between 10am and 11.45am at Thirsk Town Hall. Funds raised from the sale of refreshments will be donated to the Herriot Hospice. There’ll be a stall selling knitted and crocheted items and cash raised from sales will go towards future projects planned by the Yarnbombers.
The Ritz Cinema

  • Challengers – to Thursday 23 May – matinee on Wednesday 22 May.
  • Fall Guy – Friday 24 to Thursday 30 May – matinee on Wednesday 29 May.

Opening times: Evenings – doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm. Matinees – doors open at 2pm for 2.30pm. You can now book online at https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Summer Music Series
This summer Rural Arts is teaming up with Thirsk-based music curators, De Mowbray Music, to present three laid-back Friday evening concerts. Each lasting around an hour, they’re a chance to greet the weekend in style, joined by talented performers from a range of musical backgrounds. Each concert starts at 6.30pm and tickets are £10 (£8 for concessions). Venue: The Courthouse, Thirsk.

  • Friday 24 May – So I’m Not A Princess – a coming-of-age cabaret told through iconic princess and musical theatre numbers by singing sensation, Eleanor Sandars.
  • Friday 7 June – The Derrick Harris Trio – all things jazz.
  • Friday 30 August – Native Gallantry – baroque strings.

Book online at https://www.ruralarts.org/whats-on/performances
Walking tours of Thirsk
Historic Experiences, a company that organises guided walks in towns across the country, has turned its attention to Thirsk and launches a selection of walks this coming Bank Holiday weekend.

  • Friday 24, Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May at 7pm – Haunted Thirsk – tales of haunted places and strange happenings in this ancient town.
  • Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May at 3pm – Historic Thirsk, a walk through the town’s fascinating past – the places, people and events that made Thirsk what it is today.

Tours are fun for all and the routes are mainly flat. Tours take place no matter what the weather. The meeting place for all tours in The Clock in the Market Place, five minutes before tours are due to begin. Please contact Tina on 07876 010835 to book tickets or for more information.
Hambleton District Show
The largest horse show in the north of England will this year be staged at Sutton Park, Sutton-on-the-Forest, near York on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May. www.hambletonshow.com
Wensleydale Railway
There’s something for everyone at Wensleydale Railway over the coming months. They are planning plenty of events and activities and here’s a taste of what’s on with a link to the booking system:

Contact email: admin@wensleydalerailway.com / 01677 425805
Thorp Perrow

  • Vintage Vehicle & Classic Car Show – Sunday 26 May -10am – 4pm.
  • Sensation ABBA Tribute – Saturday 13 July
  • The Freddie & Queen Experience – Friday 2 August

More details and bookings: https://www.thorpperrow.com/
Creative Club presents Minecraft
The popular Creative Club at Thirsk Community Library is presenting a session of Minecraft model and character creation on Thursday 30 May between 10.30am and 12.30pm. For beginners and regulars aged 6 to 13 years of age. Parents/ carers can attend to. Book free places on 01609 534589.
Northallerton Male Voice Choir Summer Concert
This annual popular event is on Saturday 1 June at 7.30pm at The Forum in Northallerton. Tickets are £12 and available from The Forum box office. See poster here.
Thirsk Farmers’ Market
Around 20 artisan food and drink producers bring the fruits of their labour to the Market Place in Thirsk. 9am-2pm on Sunday 2 June.
http:// www.northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com
Sessay Floral Art Demonstration
Renowned floral designer and TV regular Jonathan Moseley will be demonstrating a range of floral art techniques at Sessay Village Hall at 7pm on Tuesday 4 June. Tickets are £20 to include a glass of wine and raffle ticket. Call Doreen Till on 01845 577906 or email doreentill3@outlook.com – paces are strictly limited,
Racing at Thirsk
Here’s the first few race days in the schedule at Thirsk Racecourse.
• Friday 7 June – afternoon racing
• Sunday 16 June – Father’s Day Skybet Sunday Series
• Monday 24 June – afternoon racing.
Great Knaresborough Bed Race
The annual bed race with supporting parade through Knaresborough streets. 11am-4pm on Saturday 8 June. Free. www.bedrace.co.uk
Tractor Fest
This year’s Tractor Fest will take place on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June at Newby Hall. It’s the UK’s largest vintage tractor and engine show with over 1,600 exhibits as well as in excess of 12,000 visitors who also get access to the award-winning gardens and other attractions. 10am-4pm. £60 family, £20 adult, £15 child, under 4s free. Tickets: Online. www.bookings.newbyhall.com
Flower Power Plant Fair
There’ll be a plant fair in the gardens of Thirsk Hall on Sunday 9 June starting 11am. There’ll be a selection of refreshments throughout the day and you can also plan to have lunch in the grounds. Entry £5 per person, Under 13s free.
Cruises on the Ripon Canal
Ripon Scenic Cruises have a range of cruises planned including:

  • Father’s Day – Sunday 16 June – private cruises from 10am for a minimum one hour and maximum two and a half hours. Each dad onboard will receive a a bottle of local craft ale. Maximum twelve guests.
  • Afternoon tea and prosecco – each Saturday afternoon in June, July and August.

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/riponsceniccruises
Advance Notice of Upcoming Summer Events
Here are some dates to note in your diary.
That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on by

Sunday Email: Issue 210

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
doug@dougallan.co.uk
St Columba’s Services

  • TODAY – Sunday 12 May at 10.45am – Holy Communion with Fr. Robert Wlliamson
  • Sunday 19 May at 10.45am – Sung Matins
  • Sunday 26 May at 10.45am – Holy Communion with Fr. Robert Williamson Sunday 2 June at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong
  • Sunday 9 June at 10.45am – St Columba’s Day, Festival Choral Eucharist
  • Sunday 16 June at 10.45am – Sung Matins
  • Sunday 23 June at 10.45am – Holy Communion, Fr. Robert Williamson
  • Sunday 30 June – No Service (5th Sunday)

Refreshments are served after every Sunday morning service.
Village Quiz
TONIGHT: Sunday 12 May – The quiz is on at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 8pm.
Last week’s excellent quiz was set by Shirley and won by ‘Chris and Friends’, namely Phil, Julie, Fiorella and Chris. Well done everyone who took part.
Asenby Parish Council
The Parish Council is happy to announce that it now has a full complement of councillors and had its first full meeting last Wednesday (8 June).

Unfortunately, the Parish Council has been less successful in attracting a new Parish Clerk. This post still needs to be filled. The Clerk is needed to support parish councillors with administrative duties. The council meets a number of times each year depending on needs within the village. This is a paid post and would particularly suit someone who has held a similar post in the past, although this is not essential as guidance and support will be available. For further information please email: asenbypc

The trees and shrubs planted in the Community Park are doing well. The wild flower bombs ordered some time ago should arrive soon. When they do, another volunteers’ session will be organised, possibly next weekend. The two benches recently purchased are ready to be installed at the top of the park.

The Parish Council has decided to allocate more funds so it can erect some interpretation-style boards providing information regarding the trees in the park.
A1 maintenance closures
There’s continued disruption on the A1 with over night closures on the northbound carriageway between Wetherby and Boroughbridge until Friday 17 May. Then from 18 May, work will switch to the southbound carriageway with overnight closures for a further three weeks. Closures are Monday to Fridays and there will be no closures over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall AGM
It was all change at the AGM last Tuesday evening (7 May). Long standing committee member Andrew Eckersley stepped down as Chairman having served in that role for the last 14 years. A brief speech from an also retiring Treasurer, Tony Bruce, thanked Andrew for his tireless effort and leadership during his tenure, citing the huge extension and improvements to the hall as the highlight of a long period in office. Tony himself will be standing down from the committee in September. He has agreed to stay in post until then so that he can offer transitional support to new Treasurer, Linsey Payne.

Richard Byas took over from Andrew as Chairman and Malcolm Morley has taken on a new role as Vice-Chairman. Helen Fothergill has become the hall’s Bookings Administrator, taking over from Nicky Wood who retired at the previous meeting.

Emily Collard remains as Minutes Secretary and Chrissy Findley has become Assistant Treasurer. Other committee members are Doug Allan, Geraldine Clifton, Sarah Halshaw, Anne-Marie Mulley, Linda Robinson, Karen Thomis-Morley and Jim Shaw.

Following the AGM the committee had a scheduled meeting and discussed many topics, including the ongoing dispute with the hall’s water provider over the leak earlier in the year. Tony Bruce reported that hopefully it will be resolved within the next three months.
Soup & Sweet Lunch
The next Soup & Sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 15 May from 11.30 to 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of home-made soups, puddings, delicious cakes and bakes and tea or coffee. All welcome. No set charge, but donations welcome.
Topcliffe Academy – Dates for your diary

  • Thursday, 16 May – FOTS School Disco
  • Friday, 24 May – School closes at 3.15pm for Half Term
  • Monday, 3 June – School re-opens for second half of summer term
  • Friday, 7th June – Non-Uniform Day – children bring a donation for the tombola/raffle instead of cash.
Topcliffe Parish Council
The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7pm on Thursday 16 May in the Village Hall.
St Columba’s churchyard maintenance
Thank you to all of the volunteers who turned out on recent Saturdays to help with churchyard maintenance. There’ll be a further tidy up day in the churchyard on Saturday 18 May and on Saturday 25 May, so if you have an hour to spare please come along from 10am onwards. All support will be very welcome. There’ll be some tools and lawnmowers available, but if people can bring whatever they might have to help – rakes, trowels, spades, forks, extra mowers etc. – that would be wonderful. Refreshments will be served.
St Columba’s Annual Parochial Church Council
The meeting is open to members of the Church of England and other Anglican churches who are listed on the church Electoral Roll. The meeting will be held in the church on Monday 20May at 7pm.
Base Camp – Kids Adventure days
Bookings are now open for the Base Camps being held during the May half-term holidays.

  • Wednesday 29 May – Make your own musical instrument in Forest Schools and then get to play it in the afternoon with musician, Hayley, around the campfire.
  • Thursday 30 May – Follow in the footsteps of our ancestors as we forage for food and then make fire to cook it on.
  • Friday 31 May – Get creative as we explore natural art from around the globe before limbering up to take part in Forest Olympic Games.

More information and book online at http://www.basecamplearning.co.uk
The Angel Comedy Night
The next Hilarity Bites Comedy Night at The Angel in Topcliffe will be held on Thursday 30 May. Doors open 7.30pm and the show begins at 8pm. Tickets £10 if purchased in advance or £12 on the door. For more information and tickets call 01845 578000. See poster here.
Open Studios
Eric Moss, based in Asenby, is one of seven local artists in the Thirsk area opening their studio to the public as part of a North Yorkshire Open Studios event in June. Eric, who works in ceramics, will be showing big and small ceramics, for indoor and outdoor display, plus 3D printed resins and new bespoke ‘Fidgets’ and ‘Pocket Art’ handmade in recycled pewter and glass. The other local studios will include photography, enamelling, jewellery, printing, painting and garden sculpture. The open studios can be visited between 10am and 5pm on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 June and on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June. See poster here and location map here.
Art classes at the Village Hall
The next block of six art classes starts on Monday 3 June in the Village Hall. They are on from 10am to noon. For more information and to book your place go to
https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/
St Columba’s Day – celebrations
St Columba’s Day celebrations will not be quite so extensive this year. The plan is to concentrate on Sunday 9 June with a special Choral Eucharist at 10.45am followed by a BBQ in the churchyard close to the Church Hall from 12.30pm. During the afternoon the church and tower will be open for visits.
Tickets for Topcliffe Ceilidh go on sale
Get ready to kick up your heels to the sounds of the Cod Beck Ceilidh Band on Saturday 22 June when they perform at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open from 7pm and dancing starts at 7.30pm. This is a bring your own drinks event. Tickets are on sale at Topcliffe Post Office, or from Sarah Barber on 07885 386557 or Jane Burnett on 07902 681296. Tickets purchased in advance are £10, which includes a pulled pork and apple sauce roll (alternative for vegetarians). Tickets on the night at the door are £12. There’ll be a raffle with some great prizes. This is a fundraiser to help support the Village Hall.
Deer Shed Festival
This year’s Deer Shed Festival will be on at Baldersby Park over the weekend – 26 to 29 July. The programme for this year’s festival is shown here.
Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show 2024
The show will be held on Saturday 31 August at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall and there will be 83 classes in five categories: 47 horticultural classes: 17 baking, jams, preserves and pickles classes: 3 floral classes: 11 hobbies classes and 5 specific classes that only children can enter. The full list of categories and show rules, together with timings on the day, are available here.
Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van is in Topcliffe every Friday 5 ’til 7pm
EVENTS ON AROUND THE AREA
Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Lucy Day is holding Vinyasa Flow yoga sessions at Rainton Village Hall every Saturday morning at 9am. Yoga is the perfect way to build strength, confidence and flexibility. If you are interested in attending, please email lucy@lucyoga.uk or call 07970 049928 for details.
Yoga with Alex
You can join ‘Yoga with Alex’ sessions at two locations near Topcliffe – Thirsk Town Hall and Coronation Hall, Boroughbridge. See poster here for more details. These classes are suitable for beginners and those with experience wishing to improve or regain their balance, strength and mental well-being. Call 07927 141616 or email Alex on yogawithalex2020@gmail.com
The Ritz Cinema

  • Butterfly Tale – matinee today – Sunday 12 May.
  • Civil War – to Thursday 16 May – matinee on Wednesday 15 May.
  • Challengers – Friday 17 to Thursday 23 May – matinee on Wednesday 22 May.
  • Fall Guy – Friday 24 to Thursday 30 May – matinee on Wednesday 29 May.

Opening times: Evenings – doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm. Matinees – doors open at 2pm for 2.30pm. You can now book online at https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Thorp Perrow

  • Classic Car Sundays – 12 May and 9 June – 10am – 2pm. Take your classic vehicle to the gardens for easy Sunday morning coffee, bacon sandwich and car chat.
  • Vintage Vehicle & Classic Car Show – Sunday 26 May -10am – 4pm.
  • Sensation ABBA Tribute – Saturday 13 July
  • The Freddie & Queen Experience – Friday 2 August

More details and bookings: https://www.thorpperrow.com/

Rural Arts events

Here are some of the workshops coming up at The Courthouse in Thirsk:

  • Introduction to Life Drawing – Monday 13 May
  • Silver Clay: An introduction to jewellery making – Wednesday 15 May.
  • Draw and Paint Dogs – Monday 20 May
  • Wild Wire Flowers – Tuesday 21 May
  • A Taste of Art: Drawing Bool Illustrations – Wednesday 22 May
  • Working with Jesmonite – Thursday 23 May.
  • Silver Wrap Ring Workshop (am) – Saturday 25 May
  • Silver Drop Earing Workshop (pm) – Saturday 25 May.

Visit Rural Arts’ website – Home – Rural Arts for more details or to make a booking. Or just pop in to The Courthouse in Thirsk if you’d prefer a face-to-face chat.
Hockey for young heroes
Thirsk Hockey Club is offering 5 to 8 year olds the chance to try out hockey and learn the main techniques of the popular sport. Sessions start on Monday 13 May and run through to 8 July. 6.30 to 7.30pm each week at Thirsk Astro Pitch, Gravel Hole Lane, Sowerby. When you book, you’ll receive a Hockey Heroes equipment pack containing two hockey sticks, a ball, a personalised t-shirt and stickers. All eight weeks for £40. Book at http://www.englandhockey.co.uk/hockeyheroes/bookcourse
Art Class
Rebecca Jayne, the regular art teacher who runs classes at Topcliffe Village Hall is organising a special class – ‘Paint a Garden Landscape in Oils’ – at the Himalayan Gardens at Grewelthorpe on Friday 17 May, 10am- 4pm. Book online at https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/product-category/classes-workshops
Ripon Spring Fair
The Ripon Community Link, which supports people with learning and physical disabilities, is to hold a Spring Fair in Ripon Walled Garden on Saturday 18 May from 9.30am to 4pm. There’ll be lots of family entertainment including circus acts, balloon modelling, food stalls, fun and games, live music and refreshments. See poster here.
Squid & Tonic at Catton Kitchen
The very popular caterers Squid & Tonic will be serving their iconic street food at The Catton Kitchen on Saturday 18 May between 4 and 8pm. See poster here. In this unusual collaboration The Catton Kitchen will supply many of the home-grown food ingredients and Squid & Tonic will cook and present it as part of an amazing menu. Entrance to the event is free: just pay for what you eat and drink. Booking required in advance. Email: hello@thecattonkitchen.co.uk or call 07747 083155.
The World’s First Roller Coaster and other Amazing Inventions
Award winning local author Mike Barfield will present a fun, family day based on his latest book, The World’s First Roller Coaster and other Amazing Inventions, at Thirsk Community Library at 11am on Saturday 18 May. Mike is a brilliant performer and he’ll share loads of information about all kinds of interesting things. Suitable for children of all ages. It’s much appreciated that Mike does these presentations free for his local community library. See poster here.
Thirsk Artisan Market
In the Market Place on Sunday 19 May between 9am and 2pm. Locally-produced arts and crafts, food and drink. A diverse, quality, shopping experience that celebrates independent
producers and makers.
Sessay Scarecrow Festival
This year’s festival is on Sunday 19 May. Details are still being finalised but please make a note in your diary as it’s a great family day out. There’ll be a checklist and questions for children to answer along the scarecrow trail with a reward for those that participate. There’ll also be refreshments, BBQ, tombola and bar.
Thirsk Yarnbombers’ Coffee Morning
The organisation responsible over recent years for a range of brilliant knitted themed decorations around the centre of Thirsk is holding a coffee morning on Wednesday 22 May between 10am and 11.45am at Thirsk Town Hall. Funds raised from the sale of refreshments will be donated to the Herriot Hospice. There’ll be a stall selling knitted and crocheted items and cash raised from sales will go towards future projects planned by the Yarnbombers.
Summer Music Series
This summer Rural Arts is teaming up with Thirsk-based music curators, De Mowbray Music, to present three laid-back Friday evening concerts. Each lasting around an hour, they’re a chance to greet the weekend in style, joined by talented performers from a range of musical backgrounds. Each concert starts at 6.30pm and tickets are £10 (£8 for concessions). Venue: The Courthouse, Thirsk.

  • Friday 24 May – So I’m Not A Princess – a coming-of-age cabaret told through iconic princess and musical theatre numbers by singing sensation, Eleanor Sandars.
  • Friday 7 June – The Derrick Harris Trio – all things jazz.
  • Friday 30 August – Native Gallantry – baroque strings.

Book online at https://www.ruralarts.org/whats-on/performances
Hambleton District Show
The largest horse show in the north of England will this year be staged at Sutton Park, Sutton-on-the-Forest, near York on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May. www.hambletonshow.com
Wensleydale Railway
There’s something for everyone at Wensleydale Railway over the coming months. They are planning plenty of events and activities and here’s a taste of what’s on with a link to the booking system:

Contact email: admin@wensleydalerailway.com / 01677 425805
Creative Club presents Minecraft
The popular Creative Club at Thirsk Community Library is presenting a session of Minecraft model and character creation on Thursday 30 May between 10.30am and 12.30pm. For beginners and regulars aged 6 to 13 years of age. Parents/ carers can attend to. Book free places on 01609 534589.
Thirsk Farmers’ Market
Around 20 artisan food and drink producers bring the fruits of their labour to the Market Place in Thirsk. 9am-2pm on Sunday 2 June.
http:// www.northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com
Sessay Floral Art Demonstration
Renowned floral designer and TV regular Jonathan Moseley will be demonstrating a range of floral art techniques at Sessay Village Hall at 7pm on Tuesday 4 June. Tickets are £20 to include a glass of wine and raffle ticket. Call Doreen Till on 01845 577906 or email doreentill3@outlook.com – paces are strictly limited,
Racing at Thirsk
Here’s the first few race days in the schedule at Thirsk Racecourse.
• Friday 7 June – afternoon racing
• Sunday 16 June – Father’s Day Skybet Sunday Series
• Monday 24 June – afternoon racing.
Great Knaresborough Bed Race
The annual bed race with supporting parade through Knaresborough streets. 11am-4pm on Saturday 8 June. Free. www.bedrace.co.uk
Tractor Fest
This year’s Tractor Fest will take place on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June at Newby Hall. It’s the UK’s largest vintage tractor and engine show with over 1,600 exhibits as well as in excess of 12,000 visitors who also get access to the award-winning gardens and other attractions. 10am-4pm. £60 family, £20 adult, £15 child, under 4s free. Tickets: Online. www.bookings.newbyhall.com
Flower Power Plant Fair
There’ll be a plant fair in the gardens of Thirsk Hall on Sunday 9 June starting 11am. There’ll be a selection of refreshments throughout the day and you can also plan to have lunch in the grounds. Entry £5 per person, Under 13s free.
Cruises on the Ripon Canal
Ripon Scenic Cruises have a range of cruises planned including:

  • Father’s Day – Sunday 16 June – private cruises from 10am for a minimum one hour and maximum two and a half hours. Each dad onboard will receive a a bottle of local craft ale. Maximum twelve guests.
  • Afternoon tea and prosecco – each Saturday afternoon in June, July and August.

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/riponsceniccruises
Advance Notice of Upcoming Summer Events
Here are some dates to note in your diary. More details about these events will be added to the Sunday Email nearer the dates.
That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.