Posted on 23 October 20222 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 130

Welcome to your regular Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707

Topcliffe & Asenby Community Warm-Up
Warm-Up lunches take place at the Village Hall every Wednesday between 11.30am and 1.30pm. There is no specific charge for lunch, though those who can manage it are asked to make a donation. Last Wednesday £155 was raised, of which £75 was donated to the Village Hall and the balance has gone into the Warm-Up Community Help fund. This will help pay for food in future weeks and the organisers are looking at how further support might be offered to those in need during these financially difficult times.

The lunches are open to anyone who wishes to come along. The volunteers are looking forward to welcoming a few families next Wednesday during half-term.

The organisers suspect there are some residents in our two villages that may not be aware of the lunches or perhaps need encouragement to pop along on Wednesdays. If you know of anyone who is elderly or vulnerable who might attend if they were to be picked up and dropped off, please get in touch. Alternatively, if you know anyone who is unable to get to the Village Hall because of reduced mobility, please mention their name to one of the organisers as volunteers will be more than happy to make a home delivery of hot food.

And don’t forget, if you can help as a volunteer now and again or could donate food (soup, hotpot, flour, sugar, puddings, cakes etc) please get in touch with Karen Morley on 01845 577426 or Linda Carver on 01845 578014.

Help for Households
This article is repeated this week to give residents a chance to access important information about help that can be gained as the cost of living continues to rise.

The government’s ‘Help for Households campaign’ aims to raise awareness of the support available to those that need it most. The campaign gives clear information about the exceptional payments, energy support and existing support schemes available, so the public know what is available and where they can find help.

It brings together over 40 support schemes that the public may be able to access depending on eligibility. Additionally, a range of online tools will help citizens quickly and efficiently check the support they might be eligible for and how to access it. Check it out – Help for Households – Get government cost of living support

Can you help at Boccia classes?
There’s a small, dedicated team of volunteers who each Tuesday afternoon help out at the Boccia class in the Village Hall. But a few more volunteers are needed to help out on occasions when the regulars aren’t able to be there. Next Tuesday is a case in point, when only one person is available as the others have appointments elsewhere.

Boccia is an exercise and fun session for elderly folk and the volunteers help out by organising the activities and refreshments. It’s on between 1.30 and 3.30pm each Tuesday. If you are prepared to give up a couple of hours to help out, please call Judith Lowe on 01845 577911.

St Columba’s Church services

TODAY: Sunday 23 October at 10.45am – Holy Communion with hymns. Service led by Revd Robert Williamson.
Sunday 30 October – No Service.
Wednesday 2 November at 7pm there will be a special service of Compline to celebrate the Feast of All Souls. This is the occasion in the church calendar when the faithful departed are remembered. Compline is a quiet reflective service of evening prayers and will in this instance last about 25 minutes. Those who would like to do so, can remember their loved ones by name during the service. Everyone is most welcome to attend and names of those to be remembered can be added to the list before the service starts or, if preferred, can be emailed beforehand to John Phillips – [email protected] or Chris Hewlett [email protected]
Sunday 6 November at 6.30pm Choral Evensong.
Sunday 13 November at 10.45am Service of Remembrance and at 11.45am Holy Communion with Baptism.
Sunday 20 November at 10.45am Choral Matins.
Sunday 27 November at 10.45am Advent Sunday Holy Communion.

Regular Sunday services conclude with refreshments.

Topcliffe Post Office
The Post Office will be going to winter opening on Saturdays starting from 5 November. From that date it will open at 8am instead of 7.30am.

Play area and playing field – what’s your view?
There’s still time to have your say about future plans to develop the playing field and play area in Topcliffe. Topcliffe Parish Council has a survey on the village website and it only takes a few minutes to complete it. Our parish councillors are hoping to get a wide range of views to help inform how they should proceed but they would welcome community views before moving forward. The survey is on the village website at https://www.topcliffe.org.uk/

Topcliffe Bridge – an update re repairs
On the 13 October photographs of the most recent damage to Topcliffe Bridge were sent to the North Yorkshire County Council and an update on planned repairs was requested. Here is a summary of the reply:

Arrangements were made for a temporary barrier to be put in place on Friday 14 October as a matter of priority. It appears as though the barrier has been struck by a vehicle given the extent of the damage. There is, therefore, the possibility of injury, so contact has been made with North Yorkshire Police to see if the incident was reported and requesting that any information they have be shared.
Regarding the extension of the bridge parapet, progress has been made though not without challenges. The procurement exercise for the stone yielded two submissions and only after an extended period of time. Following checks that the stone is of the required type and standard and on finalisation of the size specifications, an order was placed with the provider last week. Now the stone has been sourced, the process for commissioning a suitably qualified contractor to build the parapet will commence in the next 2 weeks with a requirement to construct by the end of the financial year.
Whilst progress to date has been slower than anticipated, I’m sure you will agree that we need to ensure the quality of the materials and workmanship is to the highest possible standard. Please be assured every effort is being made to ensure delivery as quickly as possible. You will be kept updated on progress.

Topcliffe Parish Council
Meetings of Topcliffe Parish Council will take place at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 7pm on Thursday 3 November and Thursday 1 December 2022.

Asenby Parish Council
The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will take place at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 7pm on Monday 14 November 2022.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee Meeting
The next meeting of the Village Hall Committee will take place in the Village Hall at 7.30pm on Tuesday 22 November 2022.

Hot Peppers!
Asenby gardener Peter Lowe – he’s the one who won the horticultural trophies at the Produce Show in September – has a surfeit of hot chilli peppers and is happy to give some to anyone who would like them. Call 01845 577911.

What’s on at The Catton Kitchen
Ready Meals – a wide range of ready meals, including pies are available. There’s also a few pumpkins on sale.

Pizza and Live Gig – Saturday 29 October – This event has sold out.

Christmas Wreath Making – this year’s sessions will be held on Friday 2 December at 5.30-7.30pm; on Saturday 3 December at 2.30-4.30pm and Sunday 4 December at 12.30-2.30pm. They will be held in the little tipi with wood burning stove, mince pies and mulled wine There’s already considerable interest in these sessions, so please book early so that you are not disappointed. £45 per person (same price as last year).

Art classes at the Village Hall
Weekly art classes are taking place each Monday from 10am to 12 noon at the Village Hall. If you are looking for a friendly class to join for weekly inspiration, creativity, learning and friendship, then these are for you. All levels of experience welcome. Plenty of advice and support to guide you on your own personal art journey.

A special art class is also scheduled to take place on Thursday 15 December – “How to paint a hare, fox or owl in a moonlit winter landscape using acrylics”. This class is for artists of every level of experience…or of none! Expert guidance is offered throughout the session. Classes are £25 and this includes all materials needed to complete your masterpiece. Refreshments are served. Times: 10.30am to 1pm.

More information and online booking at http://www.rebeccajayneartist.co.uk

Knit and Natter
The next session will be at 1.30pm on Thursday 3 November in the TV lounge at The Angel. The cost for refreshments remains at £3 and everyone is welcome to attend, whether for a knit, just for a natter or both!

Debbie Roberts, who has been involved with the group from the start, said a fantastic job is being done in preparation for Remembrance Sunday. There are plans to decorate Jubilee Gardens and the outside of St Columba’s Church with knitted poppies. They are likely to be going up this Thursday, 27 October and it’s hoped that an army contingent from Allenbrooke Barracks will be on hand to assist.

Spooktaculars at Thorp Perrow
Spooktaculars are taking place at Thorp Perrow Arboretum each day through to 1 November. Trail sheets can be pre-booked or purchased on the day for £2.50 and a free gift is included. Standard entry applies. Pre-booking is strongly recommended and a discount is offered for all pre-booked tickets. http:// https://www.thorpperrow.com

Spooky fun for all at Monk Park Farm

For the little ones – pumpkin painting, mini pumpkin trail, witches potion making, giant pumpkin patch, fancy dress competition.
For the older ones – pumpkin carving, spooky farm tour, spider infested barn, witches lair, pumpkin catapult, bowing and lots more.

Every day up to 31 October. 2-16 year-olds £12, includes pumpkin. Also, family pricing. Booking essential – http:// www.monkparkfarm.co.uk/book

Story Craft Theatre perform Bat, Cackle, Pop!
It’s Winifred the Witch’s birthday and she thinks that everyone has forgotten. There’s going to be a rather big surprise party, but first a very special birthday cake needs to be made. All that’s needed are the last three rather spooky ingredients. This theatre is bubbling with all sorts of ghosts and ghouls (which are more silly than scary!).Fly away with the luxury BAT Airways and dabble in some spell making! This show will leave audiences aged 3+ spellbound. Story Craft Theatre make creative and interactive theatre for children to ignite imaginations, promote teamwork and create lots of fun.

Friday 28 October at 2pm, at Rural Arts, Westgate, Thirsk. Duration one hour. £8 adult, £6 child. Book online –http:// www.ruralarts.org

Homebuilding & Renovating Show
Whether you plan on renovating, or are building your new home from scratch, the Homebuilding & Renovating Show in Harrogate is the place to go for professional input and advice. There’ll be over 200 exhibitors and you’ll be able to benefit from free 15-minute consultations with experts, masterclasses, seminars, and much more. Visit the website to get two free tickets, worth £24, granting you 1-day access to the event, which takes place at the Harrogate Convention Centre on 4-6 November 2022. https://harrogate.homebuildingshow.co.uk/

The Repair Shop Cafe
The next monthly repair shop in Thirsk will be on Saturday 5 November between 10am and 2pm. The venue has changed and it’s now being held at The Community Library in Chapel Street. Be greener by avoiding creating waste and also save money by letting a team of dedicated and talented volunteers try to repair your broken or ‘worn-out’ items. Voluntary donation. Email: [email protected]

What’s on at The RItz

To Thursday 27 October (No matinee) – Moonage Daydream – This work contains flashing images which may affect viewers who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy.
Saturday 23, Sunday 24 and Wednesday 26 October (Matinees only) Tad The Lost Explorer and the Curse of The Mummy.
Friday 28 October to Thursday 3 November (Matinee Wednesday 2 November) – Mrs Harris Goes to Paris.
Friday 4 to Thursday 10 November (Matinee on Wednesday 9 November) – The Lost King.

Updates: Please keep checking the website for the latest details – https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

St James Coffee and Chat
The weekly coffee and chat session is at the church in Baldersby St James Tuesday mornings between 10am and 12 noon. A popular morning to meet friends old and new…and to swap your books at the same time.

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:

Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.

The Angel at Topcliffe – http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk
Asenbee Honey – http://www.asenbeehoney.co.uk
John Aston Flooring Ltd – [email protected] – 01845 421111.
The Catton Kitchen – http://www.cattonkitchen.co.uk – 07747 083155.
Chip ‘n Dales – Friday teatime – 5 until 7pm in Topcliffe. https://www.chipndales.co.uk
The Elm Gallery – http://www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk – 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.
Fotiá Candles – http://www.fotiacandles.co.uk – 07879 447953.
Joanna’s Touch Photography – 07732 941758. Also on Facebook and Instagram.
The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – http://www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk 07793 775987.
Milk Churn online shopping – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/shop
Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
The Swan – 01845 595185 The Swan, Topcliffe | Facebook
The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop.
Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

Refuse – Mondays 24 October and 7 and 21 November.
Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursdays 3 and 17 November.

Harrogate (Asenby):

Recycling – Mondays 24 October and 7 November.
Refuse – Mondays 31 October and 14 and 28 November.
Garden waste – Thursdays 3 and 17 November.

That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on 16 October 20222 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 129

Welcome to your regular Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707

St Columba’s Church

TODAY: Sunday 16 October at 10.45am – Choral Matins.
Sunday 23 October at 10.45am – Holy Communion with hymns. Service led by Revd Robert Williamson.
Sunday 30 October – No Service.
Wednesday 2 November at 7pm there will be a special service of Compline to celebrate the Feast of All Souls. This is the occasion in the church calendar when the faithful departed are remembered. Compline is a quiet reflective service of evening prayers and will in this instance last about 25 minutes. Those who would like to do so, can remember their loved ones by name during the service. Everyone is most welcome to attend and names of those to be remembered can be added to the list before the service starts or, if preferred, can be emailed beforehand to John Phillips – [email protected] or Chris Hewlett [email protected]
Sunday 13 November – Remembrance Day at 10.30am/10.45am (tbc) there will be a Remembrance Sunday Service, with Act of Remembrance at 11am followed by a separate service of Holy Communion with Baptism at 11.45am.

Regular Sunday services conclude with refreshments.

Booster jabs now available for over-50s
Since last Friday, everyone in England aged 50 or over is able to book their Covid booster and flu jab. That’s about 12 million in total. Most people will be offered the newer bivalent vaccine which targets the original Covid-19 variant and the more recent Omicron one. Details are on the NHS website.

Covid cases have again been rising and people have been advised to avoid vulnerable relatives, friends and colleagues if they feel unwell.

Topcliffe & Asenby Community Warm-Up
Warm-Up sessions are now a regular part of the village calendar, taking place at the Village Hall every Wednesday between 11.30am and 1.30pm. Numbers attending have increased week on week, with over 50 meals being served or delivered last Wednesday.

There is no specific charge for lunch, though those who can manage it are asked to make a donation. Last Wednesday £185 was raised, of which £75 was donated to the Blue Cross in Topcliffe and the balance has gone into the Warm-Up Community Help fund. This will help pay for food in future weeks and the organisers are looking at how further support might be offered to those in need during these financially difficult times.

The lunches are open to anyone who wishes to come along, including families. If you know of anyone who is elderly or vulnerable who is unable to get to the Village Hall because of reduced mobility, please mention their name to one of the organisers as volunteers will be more than happy to make a home delivery of hot food.

And, if you can help as a volunteer now and again or could donate food (flour, sugar, soup, cakes etc) please get in touch with Karen Morley on 01845 577426 or Linda Carver on 01845 578014.

Help for Households
In response to increasing prices and the pressures around the cost of living, the government has launched the ‘Help for Households campaign’ to raise awareness of the support available amongst those that need it most.

The campaign gives clear information about the exceptional payments, energy support and existing support schemes available, so the public know what is available and where they can find help.

Play area and playing field – what’s your view
It’s not every day that residents are asked for their views on important elements of village life, so when an opportunity comes along you’d expect there’d be plenty of interest in people having their say.

A month or so ago, Topcliffe Parish Council launched a survey to get views and comments about possible developments at the village’s playing field and, in particular, at the play area. A few people have completed the survey, but it was hoped many more residents would participate and help draw up a ‘wish list’ of improvements.

There’s still time to take part, so please take five minutes to complete the survey. Here are the questions you will be asked to comment on:

Do you live in, or within 3 miles of, Topcliffe Village?
Is there enough play equipment in the current play area?
If “No” what other equipment would you like to see? Include types and age ranges here please.
Is there a need for accessible equipment for children with disabilities?
Should there be a wheelchair/pushchair accessible path from the gate to the play equipment?
Would you like to see a walkable pathway around the whole of the field?
Do you think the village needs more allotments for those who live in Topcliffe?
Would you want to go on a waiting list for such an allotment, if they were available?
Would you like to see more trees planted and wildflowers growing in the playing field?
And provision for wildlife such as bird and bat boxes?
Which would be your first priority for this project?
Would you have any concerns about the Parish Council improving this area to attract more users? If so, what?
Would you be prepared to volunteer to help with this project?

The survey is on the village website at https://www.topcliffe.org.uk/

What’s on at The Catton Kitchen
Live Gig at Catton Kitchen – Saturday 29 October – Sorry. This event has sold out.

Ready Meals – a wide range of ready meals, including pies that were so popular on the recent Pie Night, are available. There’s also a few pumpkins on sale.

The Angel is recruiting
The Angel in Topcliffe has a number of posts that it trying to fill. They need a Breakfast Chef who will work 6.30am to 12.30pm and several front of house staff who can be full or part-time. Experience is preferred but training will be given to any willing candidates. Call the manager, Lukas Allman on 01845 578000 or send in your CV to [email protected]

Let’s Talk Local

From 1 April 2023, North Yorkshire Council will replace the current eight county, district and borough councils in North Yorkshire to deliver all the public services local councils currently provide. All eight councils are already working together to make sure that the services like waste collection and recycling, highways and planning, continue as usual.

The new council wants to know what really matters to you about your local area. Between now and December, it will be holding North Yorkshire’s biggest countywide conversation, Let’s Talk, asking residents how they would like to work with the new council. The first topic of conversation is Let’s Talk Local, which focuses on what’s important to you in your local area, whether that’s education, affordable housing or public transport, followed by conversations about the budget and proposed devolution deal later in the autumn.

Take part in the survey here: Have Your Say Today – Let’s Talk North Yorkshire – Commonplace

Art classes at the Village Hall
Bookings have opened for the latest series of art classes at the Village Hall. They’ll take place on six Monday mornings between 10am and 12 noon over the coming months. If you are looking for a friendly class to join for weekly inspiration, creativity, learning and friendship, then these are for you. All levels of experience welcome. Plenty of advice and support to guide you on your own personal art journey.

Several one-off special art classes are also scheduled to take place in the coming months.

Thursday 20 October – How to paint an autumn-inspired landscape in oils.
Thursday 15 December – How to paint a hare, fox or owl in a moonlit winter landscape using acrylics.

These classes are for artists of every level of experience…or of none! Expert guidance is offered throughout the session. Classes are £25 and this includes all materials needed to complete your masterpiece. Refreshments are served. Times: 10.30am to 1pm.

More information and online booking at http://www.rebeccajayneartist.co.uk

Knit and Natter
The next session will be at 1.30pm on Thursday 20 October in the TV lounge at The Angel. The cost for refreshments remains at £3 and everyone is welcome to attend, whether for a knit, just for a natter or both!

Spooktaculars at Thorp Perrow
Yesterday saw the start of Spooktaculars at Thorp Perrow Arboretum. These Spooky events run until 1 November. So, put on your cloak, grab your broomstick and head out into the Arboretum in search of spooky creatures tombs, skeletons and many more Halloween frights. Trail sheets can be pre-booked or purchased on the day for £2.50 and a free gift is included. Standard entry applies. Pre-booking is strongly recommended and a discount is offered for all pre-booked tickets. http:// https://www.thorpperrow.com

Spooky fun for all at Monk Park Farm

For the little ones – pumpkin painting, mini pumpkin trail, witches potion making, giant pumpkin patch, fancy dress competition.
For the older ones – pumpkin carving, spooky farm tour, spider infested barn, witches lair, pumpkin catapult, bowing and lots more.

Every day up to 31 October. 2-16 year-olds £12, includes pumpkin. Also, family pricing. Booking essential – http:// www.monkparkfarm.co.uk/book

Pig Race
Sessay Village Hall is organising a Pig Race on Saturday 22 October and you can be the proud ‘owner’ of a racing pig in each race for just £5. There’ll be a pie and pea supper and also a raffle and bar. Starts at 6.30pm. Pre booked £4, on the door £5, children free. Tickets: Doreen Till – [email protected] or phone on 01845 577906.

Down the Herriot Line
The Wensleydale Railway has announced details of a fun-filled family event, ‘Down the Herriot Line’, an interactive on-train performance based on the All Creatures Great & Small books by James Herriot. Trains travel from Leeming Bar to Leyburn and back and you’ll be accompanied on your journey by a collection of actors who will play out a number of cameos based on the All Creatures Great & Small books. This is a very interactive event with actors in period dress and a collection of animals to pet and have your photo taken with.

The dates are 22 and 23 October and trains leave Leeming Bar at 10:30, 13:00 & 15:30. Numbers are limited so early booking is advised to avoid disappointment. The full trip takes just under 2 hours and refreshments will be available at both Leeming and Leyburn.

More information: https://wensleydale-railway.co.uk/leeming-bar-and-leyburn-timetable-with-herriot-autumn/

Tickets: https://tickets.tygit.com/shop/dates/pk/b453521950b798572d8b69799329c56b/groupId/5456

Friday 28 October at 2pm, at Rural Arts, Westgate, Thirsk. Duration one hour. £8 adult, £6 child. Book online –http:// www.ruralarts.org

The Repair Shop Cafe
The next monthly repair shop in Thirsk will be on Saturday 5 November between 10am and 2pm. The venue has changed and it’s now being held at The Community Library in Chapel Street. Be greener by avoiding creating waste and also save
money by letting a team of dedicated and talented volunteers try to repair your
broken or ‘worn-out’ items. Voluntary donation. Email: [email protected]

What’s on at The RItz

To Thursday 20 October (Matinee Wednesday 19 October) – Ticket to Paradise.
Sunday 16 October (matinee only – 2-5pm) – Yorkshire Silent Film Festival – Laurel & Hardy, Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd in a smorgasbord of silent film comedy, with live musical accompaniment.
Friday 21 to Thursday 27 October (No matinee) – Moonage Daydream – This work contains flashing images which may affect viewers who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy.
Saturday 23, Sunday 24 and Wednesday 26 October (Matinees only) Tad The Lost Explorer and the Curse of The Mummy.
Friday 28 October to Thursday 3 November (Matinee Wednesday 2 November) – Mrs Harris Goes to Paris.

Updates: Please keep checking the website for the latest details – https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:

Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.

The Angel at Topcliffe – http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk
Asenbee Honey – http://www.asenbeehoney.co.uk
John Aston Flooring Ltd – [email protected] – 01845 421111.
The Catton Kitchen – http://www.cattonkitchen.co.uk – 07747 083155.
Chip ‘n Dales – Friday teatime – 5 until 7pm in Topcliffe. https://www.chipndales.co.uk
The Elm Gallery – http://www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk – 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.
Fotiá Candles – http://www.fotiacandles.co.uk – 07879 447953.
Joanna’s Touch Photography – 07732 941758. Also on Facebook and Instagram.
The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – http://www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk 07793 775987.
Milk Churn online shopping – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/shop
Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
The Swan – 01845 595185 The Swan, Topcliffe | Facebook
The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop.
Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursdays 20 October and 3 November.
Refuse – Mondays 24 October and 7 November.

Harrogate (Asenby):

Refuse – Mondays 17 and 31 October.
Garden waste – Thursdays 20 October and 3 November.
Recycling – Mondays 24 October and 7 November.

That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on 9 October 20222 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 128

Welcome to your regular Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707

St Columba’s Church

TODAY – Sunday,9 October at 10.45am – Holy Communion and Neptune Commemoration with hymns. Service led by Revd Robert Williamson. The Neptune Commemoration is Topcliffe’s annual Act of Remembrance for the crew of RAF Neptune WX545 that flew out of Topcliffe RAF Station on 10 October 1956 and crashed on the Mull of Kintyre whilst on training exercises.
Sunday 16 October at 10.45am – Choral Matins.
Sunday 23 October at 10.45am – Holy Communion with hymns. Service led by Revd Robert Williamson.
Sunday 30 October – No Service.
Sunday 13 November – Remembrance Day at 10.30am/10.45am (tbc) there will be a Remembrance Sunday Service, with Act of Remembrance at 11am followed by a separate service of Holy Communion with Baptism at 11.45am.

Regular Sunday services conclude with refreshments.

Topcliffe & Asenby Community Warm-Up
The first ‘warm-up’ session held at Topcliffe and Asenby Village Hall last Wednesday went well with 30 people attending and seven meals being delivered to those who couldn’t get to the hall.

The Warm-Up sessions are now on every Wednesday between 11.30am and 1.30pm and it’s anticipated they’ll be increasingly valuable as the weather turns colder, the cost of heating homes rises dramatically and the cost-of-living crisis bites.

There is no specific charge for lunch, though those who can manage it are asked to make a donation. The organisers intend to keep £25 each week towards future meal preparations and the rest will go to a selected charity in a similar way to what happened at Soup & Sweet lunches. Last Wednesday £100 was donated to Animal Rescue Crew.

If you know of any elderly or vulnerable villager who is unable to get to the Village Hall because of reduced mobility, please mention their name to one of the organisers as volunteers will be more than happy to make a home delivery of hot food. And, if you can help as a volunteer or could donate food (flour, sugar, soup, cakes etc) please get in touch with Karen Morley on 01845 577426 or Linda Carver on 01845 578014.

Parish survey about the play area and playing field
There’s still time to take part in the Topcliffe Parish Council survey aimed at gathering residents’ views about changes and improvements that might be made to the playing field and particularly at the children’s play area. The survey is on the village website at https://www.topcliffe.org.uk/

North Yorkshire Home Efficiency Fund
Residents in Hambleton can apply for funding for energy efficiency measures for their home. The North Yorkshire Home Efficiency Fund aims to help reduce energy bills, keep homes warmer and cut carbon emissions. If you meet the criteria, you can apply to YES Energy Solutions, who are delivering the scheme on the county council’s behalf. They will carry out a survey to identify what funding you could receive from the government scheme to upgrade energy inefficient homes.

If you are a homeowner or private renter you can apply if you meet the eligibility criteria. For privately rented properties, landlords are required to make a contribution to cover one third of the total costs. To qualify for the scheme you must:

be a resident in Hambleton.
have a household income of £30,000 or less or receive income related benefits.
live in a property with an Energy Performance Certificate rating of E, F or G.

Properties rated as D will also be accepted if fewer than 30% of D rated properties sign up to the scheme. You can find your Energy Performance Certificate or request a new one on the government’s website.

If you qualify for the fund, your property will undergo a survey and YES Energy Solutions will use that to see which improvements would improve your home’s warmth and efficiency the most. The type of home you live in will determine which improvements can be made and how much funding you could get which could be up to £10,000 or £25,000 for off-gas properties. This could include external wall insulation, loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, solar panels (PV), air source heat pump or high heat retention electric storage heaters. You can apply by using YES Energy Solutions’ online form – https://www.yesenergysolutions.co.uk/contact-us – or by calling them on 03301 355 321.

Chip ‘n Dales
The fish and chip van will not be in Topcliffe on Friday 14 October.

Live Gig at Catton Kitchen
The Catton Kitchen has announced that the talented local singer Ionica Adriana will be performing at the next pizza evening on 29 October. The event is on 3 until 7pm and there’ll be recorded music all afternoon, with Ionica performing in two half hour slots at 4.30pm and 5.30pm. As usual pizzas will be prepared by @cozypswoodfiredpizza. There’ll also be a bar, log burner and fire pit. Ticket prices, which include pizza, are £15 for adults and £10 for children. Booking essential and in advance by calling 07747083155 or emailing [email protected]. This is probably the final event of the season. If the weather isn’t kind on the day, customers can collect their pizza and a refund of the difference for the performance will be made.

From Friday 14 October, The Catton Kitchen will have available a wide range of ready meals which include its great pies that were so popular on the recent Pie Night. There’s also a few pumpkins on sale.

Postal Strikes – door to door deliveries
Last week the Sunday Email included a reference to the dates of forthcoming strikes at Royal Mail. The dates included strike action by all sectors of Royal Mail including postal delivery staff and those involved as drivers and at processing centres.

I am happy to make it clear that delivery posties – those who deliver mail to your door – are not on strike for all the dates mentioned last week. But there will be no deliveries on 13, 20 and 25 October; 4, 10, 16, 25 and 28 November or 2 December. This may change if Royal Mail and the Trade Unions get round the table to negotiate.

New Fitness Class in Village Hall
Lianne Ayling launched a new class at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall last week and she’ll be running sessions each Tuesday morning at 9.30am. The programme rotates on a three-weekly basis between various fitness activities. Classes are child/buggy friendly so parents can come along with their children.

Contact can be made via her Facebook page. If you would like to join this class or for any others Lianne provides – https://linktr.ee/lianneayling

Art classes to restart
Bookings have opened for the latest series of art classes at the Village Hall. They’ll take place on six Monday mornings between 10am and 12 noon over the coming months. If you are looking for a friendly class to join for weekly inspiration, creativity, learning and friendship, then these are for you. All levels of experience welcome. Plenty of advice and support to guide you on your own personal art journey.

Several one-off special art classes are also scheduled to take place in the coming months.

Thursday 20 October – How to paint an autumn-inspired landscape in oils.
Thursday 15 December – How to paint a hare, fox or owl in a moonlit winter landscape using acrylics.

More information and online booking at http://www.rebeccajayneartist.co.uk

Paulinus Singers: Truth and Beauty
On Saturday 15 October at 7.30pm the Ripon chamber choir, the Paulinus Singers, will present a programme of a capella choral music in St James’s Church at Baldersby St James. There’ll be music by Tallis, Byrd, Purcell, Palestrina, Parry and Finzi. Tickets are available on www.eventbrite.co.uk – £10, or e-mail [email protected]

Down the Herriot Line
The Wensleydale Railway has announced details of a fun-filled family event, ‘Down the Herriot Line’, an interactive on-train performance based on the All Creatures Great & Small books by James Herriot. Trains travel from Leeming Bar to Leyburn and back and you’ll be accompanied on your journey by a collection of actors who will play out a number of cameos based on the All creatures Great & Small books. This is a very interactive event with actors in period dress and a collection of animals to pet and have your photo taken with.

The dates are 22 and 23 October and trains leave Leeming Bar at 10:30, 13:00 & 15:30. Numbers are limited so early booking is advised to avoid disappointment. The full trip takes just under 2 hours and refreshments will be available at both Leeming and Leyburn.

What’s on at The RItz

To Thursday 13 October (Matinee Wednesday 12 October) – See How They Run.
Friday 14 to Thursday 20 October (Matinee Wednesday 19 October) – Ticket to Paradise.
Sunday 16 October (matinee only – 2-5pm) – Yorkshire Silent Film Festival – Laurel & Hardy, Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd in a smorgasbord of silent film comedy, with live musical accompaniment.
Friday 21 to Thursday 27 October (No matinee) – Moonage Daydream – This work contains flashing images which may affect viewers who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy.
Saturday 23, Sunday 24 and Wednesday 26 October (Matinees only – Tad The Lost Explorer and the Curse of The Mummy.
Friday 28 October to Thursday 3 November (Matinee Wednesday 2 November) – Mrs Harris Goes to Paris.

Updates: Please keep checking the website for the latest details – https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:

Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.

The Angel at Topcliffe – http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk
Asenbee Honey – http://www.asenbeehoney.co.uk
John Aston Flooring Ltd – [email protected] – 01845 421111.
The Catton Kitchen – http://www.cattonkitchen.co.uk – 07747 083155.
Chip ‘n Dales – Friday teatime – 5 until 7pm in Topcliffe. https://www.chipndales.co.uk
The Elm Gallery – http://www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk – 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.
Fotiá Candles – http://www.fotiacandles.co.uk – 07879 447953.
Joanna’s Touch Photography – 07732 941758. Also on Facebook and Instagram.
The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – http://www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk 07793 775987.
Milk Churn online shopping – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/shop
Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
The Swan – 01845 595185 The Swan, Topcliffe | Facebook
The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop.
Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

Refuse – Mondays 10 and 24 October.
Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursdays 20 October and 3 November.

Harrogate (Asenby):

Recycling – Mondays 10 and 24 October.
Refuse – Mondays 17 and 31 October.
Garden waste – Thursdays 20 October and 3 November

That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on 2 October 20222 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 127

Welcome back to your regular Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707

St Columba’s Church

TODAY – Sunday 2 October at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong with Harvest Festival, followed by supper with wine. A special service to give thanks for all the great benefits that we have received, even in these difficult times.
9 October at 10.45am – Holy Communion and Neptune Commemoration with hymns. Service led by Revd Robert Williamson.
Sunday 16 October at 10.45am – Choral Matins.
Sunday 23 October at 10.45am – Holy Communion with hymns. Service led by Revd Robert Williamson.
Sunday 30 October – No Service.
Sunday 13 November – Remembrance Day at 10.30am/10.45am (tbc) there will be a Remembrance Sunday Service, with Act of Remembrance at 11am followed by a separate service of Holy Communion with Baptism at 11.45am.

Regular Sunday services conclude with refreshments.

NOTE: The Neptune Commemoration is Topcliffe’s annual Act of Remembrance for the crew of RAF Neptune WX545 that flew out of Topcliffe aerodrome on 10 October 1956 and crashed on the Mull of Kintyre whilst on training exercises.

Topcliffe & Asenby Community Warm-Up
A trial ‘warm-up session held at Topcliffe and Asenby Village Hall last Wednesday went well with 16 people popping in for a bit of lunch and to meet friends and neighbours.

The idea of creating a ‘warm Space’ this autumn and winter will be increasingly important as the weather turns colder, the cost of heating homes rises dramatically and the cost of living crisis bites.

The weekly Community Warm-Up is on every Wednesday for two hours (11.30pm to 1.30pm) and replaces the former fortnightly Soup & Sweet lunches, although the volunteers making it work are essentially the same!

If any elderly or vulnerable villager is unable to get to the Village Hall because of reduced mobility, arrangements can be made for a home delivery of food. If you know of anyone who might benefit from a home delivery service, please mention their name to one of the organisers (see below).

The Village Hall Committee is supporting the initiative by giving free use of the hall for ‘warm space’ purposes over the next six months and both Asenby and Topcliffe Parish Councils, have indicated support in principle, subject to detailed consideration at their next meetings.

If you can help as a volunteer or could donate food (flour, sugar, soup, cakes etc) please get in touch with Karen Morley on 01845 577426 or Linda Carver on 01845 578014.

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
TODAY – Sunday 2 October – Northern Dales Farmers’ Market in the Market Place, Thirsk. It features hand-picked stallholders, so you can be sure that you’re buying from some of the very best food and drink producers in the country. And the best bit – they’re all local small independent family businesses.
http://northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com

Parish survey about the play area and playing field
Topcliffe Parish Council has launched a survey to gather villager’s views about changes and improvements that might be made on the playing field and particularly at the children’s play area. The survey is on the village website at https://www.topcliffe.org.uk/

Good news for Asenby
Residents of Asenby have learned that North Yorkshire County Council has agreed to change the local weight restriction order so that HGVs are stopped from through the village.

The 7.5 tonne weight restriction on HGVs that covers much of the area, including Rainton, Topcliffe and the A167 past Asenby has been in force for years but oddly the restriction has not applied to the main street though the village of Asenby. This anomaly has resulted in increased HGV traffic as drivers have found a way to thwart the ban by entering the restricted area via an unsigned highway, causing disturbance and damage, especially to the trees outside Crab Manor.

Now the county council has confirmed that the Weight Restriction Order is being amended and a new sign will be erected at the junction of Whaites Lane and Asenby’s main street. This work has been given a three-month priority so they should be in place by the end of the year.

A huge thank you is due to Councillor Nick Brown who has been instrumental in making this happen.

Re-opening of Sutton Bank
Sutton Bank on the A170 between Helmsley and Thirsk re-opens today.

A168 Topcliffe junction on southbound carriageway
The Highways Agency has announced that there will be works on the southbound carriageway of the A168 which will require the closure of the slip road into Topcliffe. The works will take place over three nights between 9pm and 5am from Wednesday 5 October. A diversion into Topcliffe from the A168 will be shown.

Cross Talk – October edition
The latest edition of the church newsletter Cross Talk has been published and can be viewed here.

Sale day in Topcliffe
The yard sale held last Sunday appears to have been a great success with lots of Topcliffe residents getting involved and running a sale of items they no longer wanted.
Here are a few pics of individual sales underway (each number is a link to a photo).
1 2 3 4 5

Well done to everyone involved and particularly to Sally Machen for getting this event off the ground.

Baldersby Book Sale
A huge community effort resulted in another successful sale raising over £4,000 towards replacement of the church’s noisy radiators. A big thank you is offered to all those volunteers who helped set up and afterwards clear up the church.

Royal Mail Postal Strikes
It would seem that there will be almost as many days when Royal Mail postal workers won’t be working in the coming months as when the are on the job! A list of strike dates is here.

Trip to Uganda
The Revd Sheilagh Williamson, who despite being retired kindly takes communion services ay St James’s Church in Baldersby St James is going back to Uganda in January to visit a rural charity of Ugandan ladies who provide support for local children and women. She is collecting ‘presents’ to take with her and would welcome donations of toiletries, such as talc, hand cream, soaps and toothpaste for the ladies and pencil cases, pens, rubbers, sharpeners and crayons for the children. There’s a collection box at the back of the church for donations.

Covid booster jab
The autumn flu and Covid booster jab programme is now well underway and eligible people are being urged to protect themselves from serious illness by getting vaccines against both.

Topcliffe Surgery is administering flu and Covid booster jabs at the same time, though patients may be given only a flu jab if there is any problem with the supply of Covid vaccinations. They will still get their Covid booster, just at another appointment. Where possible, please book an appointment at the Surgery in person or via the ‘contact us’ form on their website so that ‘phone lines are kept free for patients requiring more urgent assistance.

The NHS is also inviting people to book a booster jab online. This normally means travelling to Northallerton to receive the vaccination. This is fine, but you will still need to book a flu jab at Topcliffe Surgery.

Covid booster jabs are available to under 65s in clinical risk groups, pregnant women, all over 65s, carers and care home residents, close contacts of immunosuppressed individuals and health and social care staff. All healthy 50-64 year-olds, including those that turn 50 before March 2023, will be eligible after 15 October, once those listed above have been prioritised.

Help develop an all-age friendly community
Community First Yorkshire and North Yorkshire County Council want to know what life is currently like for resident aged 50+ in North Yorkshire and how they can help improve things for the future. You can contribute and help develop a vision that will help create an all-age friendly community. This survey should take 10 minutes to complete. https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/KJ55KCB

Alert about Energy Bill support scam
In just over a week Action Fraud received 139 crime reports relating to fake text messages purporting to be from the UK government. The texts state that the recipient is “owed” or “eligible” for an energy bill discount as part of the Energy Bill Support Scheme. The links in the emails lead to genuine-looking websites that are designed to steal your personal and financial information.

Don’t fall for these scam messages. The fact is that a £400 discount off energy bills will be given to all households in from October 2022. You do not need to apply for the discount and you will not be asked for your bank details.

Yoga with Lucy
Lucy’s yoga classes at The Catton Kitchen have stopped now as it is getting too chilly for outdoor sessions, but you can join her Vinyasa Flow yoga class at Rainton Village Hall on Saturday mornings at 9.30am. It offers mobilising drills, stretching and strengthening all wrapped up in a flow. Each class ends with quiet relaxation to absorb the benefits of the session. The cost is just £9 per session. To book email [email protected]

An evening with Jonathan Moseley
Well-known floral designer and horticultural expert Jonathan Moseley will be giving a talk and demonstration at Baldersby St James’s church at 7.30pm on Tuesday 4 October. Tickets are £10 and refreshments are included. Contact [email protected]

New Fitness Class in Village Hall
Fitness Instructor Lianne Ayling begins an indoor class at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall this Tuesday, 4 October. The programme rotates on a three-weekly basis between Bodyblast (small handweights), Kettlehiit (using Kettlebells) and Legs, Bums and Tums. Classes are child/buggy friendly so parents can come along with their children.

Contact can be made via her Facebook page. If you would like to join this class or for any others Lianne provides, use the link below and use the code FIRSTCLASS50 for 50% off! Link- https://linktr.ee/lianneayling

Knit and Natter
The next session will be at 1.30pm on Thursday 6 October in the TV lounge at The Angel. The cost for refreshments remains at £3 and everyone is welcome to attend, whether for a knit, just for a natter or both!

Spooktaculars at Thorp Perrow
The Arboretum at Thorp Perrow is organising a Spooky season with a Halloween trail, which will run from 8 October until 1 November. So, put on your cloak, grab your broomstick and head out into the Arboretum in search of spooky creatures. You’ll stumble across tombs and skeletons and many more Halloween frights. Trail sheets can be pre-booked or purchased on the day for £2.50 and a free gift is included. Standard entry applies. Pre-booking is strongly recommended and a discount is offered for all pre-booked tickets.

Art classes with Becky Thompson
Several art classes led by talented artist and teacher, Becky Thompson, are scheduled to take place at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall in the coming months.

Thursday 20 October – How to paint an autumn-inspired landscape in oils.
Thursday 15 December – How to paint a hare, fox or owl in a moonlit winter landscape using acrylics.

Down the Herriot Line
The Wensleydale Railway has announced details of a fun-filled family event, ‘Down the Herriot Line’, an interactive on-train performance based on the All Creatures Great & Small books by James Herriot. Trains travel from Leeming Bar to Leyburn and back and you’ll be accompanied on your journey by a collection of actors who will play out a number of cameos based on the All creatures Great & Small books. This is a very interactive event with actors in period dress and a collection of animals to pet and have your photo taken with.

The dates are 22 and 23 October and trains leave Leeming Bar at 10:30, 13:00 & 15:30. Numbers are limited so early booking is advised to avoid disappointment. The full trip takes just under 2 hours and refreshments will be available at both Leeming and Leyburn.

What’s on at The RItz

To Thursday 6 October (No matinees) – Fall – This work contains flashing images which may affect viewers who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy.
Friday 7 to Thursday 13 October (Matinee Wednesday 12 October) – See How They Run.
Friday 14 to Thursday 20 October (Matinee Wednesday 19 October) – Ticket to Paradise.
Sunday 16 October (matinee only – 2-5pm) – Yorkshire Silent Film Festival – Laurel & Hardy, Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd in a smorgasbord of silent film comedy, with live musical accompaniment.
Friday 21 to Thursday 27 October (No matinee) – Moonage Daydream – This work contains flashing images which may affect viewers who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy.
Saturday 23, Sunday 24 and Wednesday 26 October (Matinees only – Tad The Lost Explorer and the Curse of The Mummy.
Friday 28 October to Thursday 3 November (Matinee Wednesday 2 November) – Mrs Harris Goes to Paris.

Updates: Please keep checking the website for the latest details – https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Christmas Fayre
This year the Christmas Fayre will be held at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Saturday 12 November. All stalls have now been reserved and no further bookings can be taken. There’ll be more about this event nearer the date.

Thirsk Community Library – Autumn Events
Thirsk Community Library has prepared a comprehensive range of activities for kids during the autumn term. They include:

Warhammer Wargames Club – Mondays weekly term time 3.45 – 4.45pm for 8 – 14 year old children. Cost £2 per child. Booking essential.

Lego Club – Tuesdays and Thursdays weekly term time 3.45 – 4.45pm. Suitable for children aged 5 and over. Lego is provided and each week there’ll be a different theme. Cost £1 per child. Booking essential.

Storytime Mondays – Weekly 1.30 – 2.15pm during term time. All pre-school children welcome. Free. Enjoy stories, rhymes and songs and activities for young children in the library. Just turn up, no booking required.

Construction Play – Every Friday from 10.30am until 4pm. All pre-school children welcome and it’s free. Just turn up!

Bookings via [email protected] or phone 01609 534589.

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:

Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.

The Angel at Topcliffe – http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk
Asenbee Honey – http://www.asenbeehoney.co.uk
John Aston Flooring Ltd – [email protected] – 01845 421111.
The Catton Kitchen – http://www.cattonkitchen.co.uk – 07747 083155.
Chip ‘n Dales – Friday teatime – 5 until 7pm in Topcliffe. https://www.chipndales.co.uk
The Elm Gallery – http://www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk – 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.
Fotiá Candles – http://www.fotiacandles.co.uk – 07879 447953.
Joanna’s Touch Photography – 07732 941758. Also on Facebook and Instagram.
The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – http://www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk 07793 775987.
Milk Churn online shopping – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/shop
Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
The Swan – 01845 595185 The Swan, Topcliffe | Facebook
The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop.
Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursdays 6 and 20 October.
Refuse – Mondays 10 and 24 October.

Harrogate (Asenby):

Refuse – Mondays 3, 17 and 31 October.
Garden waste – Thursdays 6 and 20 October.
Recycling – Mondays 10 and 24 October.

That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on 18 September 20222 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 126

Welcome to the Sunday Email.

I will be unable to publish my regular Sunday Email next week – 25 September – but things will be back to normal on Sunday 2 October.

Doug
07785 223707

The Topcliffe Big Race Night
The Topcliffe Big Race Night on Saturday 10 September raised a whopping £1,675.69 for the Village Hall support fund. Thank you to everyone who helped make the night such an amazing success.

The Tattler – Autumn Issue
Every household in the two villages should have received a copy of The Tattler last week. If any recipient of the Sunday Email does not have a hardcopy of The Tattler delivered to their home, arrangements can be made to have one sent by email. Please contact the editor, [email protected], if you would like to be added to the email circulation.

A message from Siobhan Gifford – the main force behind the Asenby Bench Project.

‘To The Bench and Back’ has been my personal mantra since I had my knee replaced a week ago but I was just thinking how this would be the most perfectly poignant place to observe a one minute silent reflection on the life of our remarkable Queen Elizabeth at 8pm this evening.

The Elm Gallery
The gallery will be closed until Saturday 24 September.

Topcliffe Surgery – Bank Holiday Closure – Monday 19 September

Topcliffe Surgery will be closed on Monday 19 September to allow staff members to pay their respects to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

If you have chest pains or breathing difficulty, please dial 999 immediately.

Some local pharmacies may also be closed on Monday – please ensure you check their open times directly before making the journey. If you require more urgent advice on Monday, please dial 111 who will be able to direct you to the most appropriate service for your needs.

St Columba’s

TODAY – Sunday 18 September at 10.45am – Said Matins
Sunday 25 September at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Sunday 2 October at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong with Harvest Festival, followed by supper. (Full details in due course).
All regular Sunday services conclude with refreshments.

St John’s Church, Skipton on Swale
TODAY – Sunday 18 September at 4pm – the final service before officially closing on 1 October. Bishop Paul Ferguson will be leading the service. Everyone is welcome to come along for one last service commemorating the life of the church. Refreshments will be served after the service.

The Post Office – late opening experiment
For the last month experimental late opening of the Post Office on Thursday and Friday evenings has been tried, but regretfully it has not proved as popular as it was hoped. The trial has now ended and the Post Office shop will again close at 5pm on Thursdays and Fridays from now on.

Exchange those old notes
Old paper notes are in the process of being replaced by polymer notes. The paper £50 and £20 notes will cease to be legal tender on 30 September. You can deposit
any old notes into a bank account at the Post Office…but you can’t exchange them for cash.

Warm Space for Topcliffe & Asenby
The idea of creating a ‘Warm Space’ this autumn and winter in Topcliffe and Asenby Village Hall is gaining support in our community. Conscious of the huge impact of the cost of living crisis and the frighteningly high energy costs on the most vulnerable residents, the volunteers who organise the fortnightly soup and sweet lunch plan to increase the frequency of the popular event to weekly, and also extend the session to two hours. They are also considering home delivery of lunch to villagers who are unable to get to the hall.

At its meeting last Tuesday evening, the Village Hall Committee agreed to support the initiative by offering free use of the hall for ‘warm space’ purposes over the next six months. And both Asenby and Topcliffe Parish Councils, have indicated support in principle, subject to detailed consideration at their next meetings.

Any scheme to help villagers to keep warm will only work if there are sufficient volunteers to help out. Can you help? If so, please get in touch with Karen Morley on 01845 577426.

Dog poo problem worsening
Every now and again the problem of dog poo on our footpaths, lanes and verges gets to a point where law abiding individuals – often dog owners themselves – feel obliged to take action to clear up other people’s dog mess. That was the case on Friday when Topcliffe resident Pam Bruce and her daughter Charlotte, who lives in Asenby, were out on their regular walk along Catton Lane past the Mill. The amount of poo was disgraceful and they decided something had to be done to clean up the area. This picture shows what they collected. There was more but they ran out of poo bags!

There should be no ambiguity about this: all dog owners have a responsibility to clean up after their pets. And it’s not just on pavements in the villages, but anywhere that people might walk. Please do the right thing and keep Asenby and Topcliffe clean and tidy.

New Rock Choir
A Rock Choir is being set up in Thirsk and people from in and around the town are being invited to join. Its leader will be renowned choir leader Steve Brown. It will meet on Monday nights from 7pm at The Thirsk Methodist Church, St James Green YO7 1AQ. All you have to do is sign up for a free taster session on Monday 19 September. There is no need to audition and no requirement to read music! Check out – http://www.rockchoir.com

Phone and card theft
Recent advice from Action Fraud, the group that fights against fraudsters and scammers, is that you should not carry a bank card in the back of your mobile phone case or have your phone and bank cards together in a handbag or wallet. Apparently, thieves are stealing phones and bank cards together, so that they can more easily steal money online. Once thieves have a phone and a card, they register the card on the relevant bank’s app on their own phone or computer. Since it is the first time that card will have been used on the new device, a one-off security passcode is demanded and a verification passcode is sent by the bank to the stolen phone. The code flashes up on the locked screen of the stolen phone, leaving the thief to tap it into their own device. Once accepted, they have control of the bank account. They can transfer money, buy goods or change access to the account.

Thieves have also been targeting lockers in gyms, even going to the extent of selecting people by the car they drive or jewellery they are wearing. If you use gym or any other public lockers, it’s advisable that you do not keep your phone and card in there together.

Covid booster jab
People can now apply to have their autumn Covid booster jab. Health bosses are predicting a resurgence of Covid and flu this autumn and winter so are urging those eligible to protect themselves from serious illness by getting vaccines against both.

Topcliffe Surgery will be offering flu jabs from next Tuesday, 20 September. It plans to administer the flu and Covid booster jabs at the same time, but this is highly dependent on the national supply of Covid vaccinations. Patients may be given only a flu jab if there is any problem with the supply of Covid vaccinations – but they will still get their Covid booster, just at another appointment. The following are eligible for the Covid booster jab: under 65s in clinical risk groups, pregnant women, all over 65s, carers and care home residents, close contacts of immunosuppressed individuals and health and social care staff.

All healthy 50-64 year-olds, including those that turn 50 before March 2023, will be eligible after 15 October, once those listed above have been prioritised.

If you are eligible, please contact the Surgery to book your appointment. Where possible, please do this in person or via the ‘contact us’ form on our website so that ‘phone lines are kept free for patients requiring more urgent assistance.

The NHS has started texting eligible people and inviting them to book a booster jab online. This normally means travelling to Northallerton to receive the vaccination. This is fine, but you will still need to book a flu jab at Topcliffe Surgery.

Closure of Sutton Bank
Sutton Bank on the A170 between Helmsley and Thirsk is closed for maintenance until 7pm on Sunday, 2 October.

Knit and Natter
The next session will be at 1.30pm on Thursday 22 September in the TV lounge at The Angel. The cost for refreshments remains at £3 and everyone is welcome to attend, whether for a knit, just for a natter or both!

Down the Herriot Line
The Wensleydale Railway has announced details of a fun-filled family event, ‘Down the Herriot Line’, an interactive on-train performance based on the All Creatures Great & Small books by James Herriot. Trains travel from Leeming Bar to Leyburn and back and you’ll be accompanied on your journey by a collection of actors who will play out a number of cameos based on the All creatures Great & Small books. This is a very interactive event with actors in period dress and a collection of animals to pet and have your photo taken with.

The dates are 22 and 23 October and trains leave Leeming Bar at 10:30, 13:00 & 15:30. Numbers are limited so early booking is advised to avoid disappointment. The full trip takes just under 2 hours and refreshments will be available at both Leeming and Leyburn.

What’s on at The RItz

Nope – To Thursday 22 September (No Matinees).
Three Thousand Years of Longing – Friday 23 to Thursday 29 September (Matinee on Wednesday 28 September).

Updates: Please keep checking the website for the latest details – https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Dalton Events
Here are details of a few events coming up in Dalton village:

Pop-Up Cafe – Saturday 24 September from 9.30am until 11.30am in the Village Hall. There will be bacon and sausage sandwiches and cups of tea and coffee on sale. As an extra, there will be a free training session on the use of the defibrillator taking place in the committee room.
Domino Drive – Saturday 24 September at 7pm – In the Village Hall. All welcome. Proceeds will be in aid of church funds.
80s Evening – Saturday 1 October from 7pm – an 80s evening with disco and fancy dress in the Village Hall. Tickets are £5 on the door.

Masham Sheep Fair
Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 September – Sheep showing, sheep racing, craft market, Bishop Blaize procession, fleece stalls, sheepdog demonstrations, hand bell ringers, Morris dancers, art exhibition and tours of the Theakstons and Black Sheep breweries, as well as a small fair for children. 10am-4pm. Check out – www.mashamsheepfair.com

Yard Sale
There’s to be a yard sale in Topcliffe next Sunday 25 September. Anyone can join in and its free to participate. All you have to do is set up a stall outside your home from which you can offer for sale all the bits and pieces that you want to get rid of. It’s a great way to raise a bit of extra cash and meet friends and neighbours. There are only a few basic rules: please don’t block pavements with stalls, chairs or queues and no selling business products.

Soup & sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 28 September at 12 noon. Cash raised at this lunch will be donated to the local Salvation Army. The last lunch raised £60 for Herriot Hospice.

Events at The Angel

Saturday 1 October – 2pm until late – Oktoberfest – wide range of German beers, BBQ and live bands. Free entry.
More information and tickets from the venue or online at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
Sunday 2 October – Northern Dales Farmers’ Market in the Market Place, Thirsk. It features hand-picked stallholders, so you can be sure that you’re buying from some of the very best food and drink producers in the country. And the best bit – they’re all local small independent family businesses.
http://northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com

New Fitness Class in Village Hall
Fitness Instructor Lianne Ayling will launch an indoor class at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Tuesday 4 October. She’ll be starting a programme that rotates on a three-weekly basis between Bodyblast (small handweights), Kettlehiit (using Kettlebells) and Legs, Bums and Tums. These classes are child/buggy friendly so parents can come along with their children.

Contact can be made via her Facebook page. If you would like to join this class or for any others Lianne provides, use the link below and use the code FIRSTCLASS50 for 50% off! Link- https://linktr.ee/lianneayling

Art classes with Becky Thompson
Several art classes led by talented artist and teacher, Becky Thompson, are scheduled to take place at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall in the coming months.

Thursday 20 October – How to paint an autumn-inspired landscape in oils.
Thursday 15 December – How to paint a hare, fox or owl in a moonlit winter landscape using acrylics.

Thirsk Community Library – Autumn Events
Thirsk Community Library has prepared a comprehensive range of activities for kids during the autumn term. They include:

Warhammer Wargames Club – Mondays weekly term time 3.45 – 4.45pm for 8 – 14 year old children. Cost £2 per child. Booking essential.

Construction Play – Every Friday from 10.30am until 4pm. All pre-school children welcome and it’s free. Just turn up!

Bookings via [email protected] or phone 01609 534589.

At the end of September, the Library is starting an adults games club that will be free, including refreshments. It’ll be an ideal place to go on the darker, colder days and nights, especially as energy bills go sky high! The library will be a good place to go to keep warm and have a cuppa. Check out the flyer here.

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:

Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.

The Angel at Topcliffe – http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk
Asenbee Honey – http://www.asenbeehoney.co.uk
John Aston Flooring Ltd – [email protected] – 01845 421111.
The Catton Kitchen – http://www.cattonkitchen.co.uk – 07747 083155.
Chip ‘n Dales – Friday teatime – 5 until 7pm in Topcliffe. https://www.chipndales.co.uk
The Elm Gallery – http://www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk – 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.
Fotiá Candles – http://www.fotiacandles.co.uk – 07879 447953.
Joanna’s Touch Photography – 07732 941758. Also on Facebook and Instagram.
The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – http://www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk 07793 775987.
Milk Churn online shopping – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/shop
Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
The Swan – 01845 595185 The Swan, Topcliffe | Facebook
The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop.
Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

Recycling & Garden Waste – Friday 23 September (one day later than normal due to the special Bank Holiday)
Refuse – Mondays 26 September and 10 October.

Harrogate (Asenby):

Refuse – Tuesday 20 September. (one day later than normal due to the special Bank Holiday).
Garden waste – Friday 23 September (one day later than normal due to the special Bank Holiday).
Recycling – Mondays 26 September and 10 October.

That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.