Author: Doug Allan

Since the first Sunday Email was published, there has only been two weeks in which an email has not been issued – both over the Christmas festivities of 2020 and 2021. Unfortunately I can’t prepare an email next week (6 March), so issue 99 will be out on 13 March and the centenary edition will be circulated on 20 March.

Doug
07785 223707

Tree Planting in Topcliffe
Our local district councillor Mark Robson is personally providing a Lime tree which will be planted in the village as a permanent reminder of the Platinum Jubilee. The tree will be planted on the triangle of land in front of Topcliffe Academy at 11.30am on Friday 11 March. That date marks the 70th day of the 70th year of The Queen’s reign. It’s hoped that children from the school will be able to assist with the planting and that those villagers who can, will pop along to witness the planting. Arrangements have been made for a plaque to be erected at the tree, but it’s unlikely it will be ready by the 11th, so it will be put up as soon as it is available.

Just to remind everyone, this is how the Head of Highway Operations responded to my request to have the bridge repaired in its 400th anniversary year and before the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

“Please treat this email as acknowledgement of your communication. Whilst our standard timescale for responses to correspondence is 20 working days, I will speak with colleagues and come back to you as soon as possible on this matter.”

It’s hoped that this answer suggests that the county council may understand the importance of putting the bridge right, but it is worrying that the appeals of a parish council have been ignored for so long. 

Below: Hambleton Council Leader and Topcliffe ward councillor, Mark Robson, explains how the gardens of remembrance are shaping up.

The high level of the River Swale at Topcliffe Mill did provide one bright spot as otters played in the fast-flowing river and on its banks opposite the Mill. At times a family of up to four otters were seen.

Analogue switch off in 2025
Most people won’t be aware that BT intends to switch off analogue telephones in 2025 and there’ll be a roll out of digital service to take its place. But there are concerns in rural communities that in times of emergency, digital communications will not work for everyone, so until guarantees can be given, campaigners are demanding that migration to full digital in rural areas should be delayed.

During the recent storms, some rural communities lost power for up to ten days and broadband/phone signal for fourteen days. Mobile masts were down, and broadband signal strength was next to non-existent. People had no means of contacting emergency services, unless they had an analogue phone. With no access to a power supply, mobile phones could not have been recharged even if there was a signal.

Now a petition has been launched to get support for such a delay. To sign the petition follow this link: http:// https://chng.it/FkzwBDLj

You can also have the newsletter emailed direct to your inbox. Just send a request to:[email protected]

• TODAY Sunday – 27 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.
• Sunday – 6 March at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong
• Sunday – 13 March at 10.45am – Holy Communion (traditional language)
• Sunday – 20 March at 10.45am – Sung Matins
• Sunday – 27 March, Mothering Sunday, at 10.45am – Holy Communion (modern language).

• Topcliffe Parish Council – the February meeting has been cancelled, so the next meeting will be at 7pm on Thursday 3 March – www.topcliffe.org.uk
• Asenby Parish Council will meet at 7.30pm on Wednesday 16 March – www.asenby.net

Village Hall Committee meeting

• The next meeting will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 5 April.
• The AGM and an Ordinary Meeting of the Committee will be held consecutively starting at 7.30pm on Tuesday 7 June.
• www.topcliffe.org.uk/village-hall/

Both parish councils and the Village Hall Committee meet at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

• Tuesday 1 March – Hilarity Bites Comedy Night – doors open at 7.30pm and show starts at 8pm. Tickets £10 in advance or £12 on the night.
• Sunday 27 March – Mother’s Day – one of the busiest days at The Angel, so book early. Free glass of Frizzante for all mums.
• Sunday 3 April – 12 noon to 3pm – Wedding Fayre – with a glass of Frizzante and canapes for all who call in, plus expert advice from experienced coordinators and suppliers.
• Friday nights – 5 to 9pm – Land & Sea – steak or fish for two with a bottle of wine for £35.95
• Sunday roast – 12noon to 8pm – traditional Sunday Lunch.

Check the website at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/ or call 01845 578000.

• February – Closed.
• Fancy home-reared lamb at Easter? Orders now being taken.
• March – Thursday 3 and Friday 4, 9am to 2pm; Saturday 5, 10am to 2pm; Sunday 6,10am to 2pm.
• Thursday 17 March – Pizza Night.

• To Thursday 3 March – Belfast – a young boy and his working-class Belfast family experience the tumultuous late 1960s.
• Friday 4 to Thursday 10 March – Nightmare Alley – an ambitious conman with a talent for manipulating people with a few well-chosen words hooks up with a female psychiatrist who is even more dangerous than he is.
• Friday 11 to Thursday 17 March – Death on the Nile – while on vacation on the Nile, Hercule Poirot must investigate the murder of a young heiress.

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

• Wednesdays from 2 March, 6.30pm – 8pm – Life Drawing – £8 per session. Take part in brand-new fortnightly sessions to hone your observational drawing skills as part of a friendly, peer-led group.
• Thursday 3 March at 7.30pm – Katie Spencer – Full: £10, Concessions: £8. Katie Spencer is a progressive folk singer-songwriter and guitarist from Yorkshire who writes songs imbued with the northern landscapes of her home. “Intensely captivating” – Folk Radio.
• Thursday 10 March at 7pm – National Theatre – Live performance – Book of Dust – Full: £10, Concessions: £8. Philip Pullman’s prequel to the epic His Dark Materials trilogy. Two young people and their demons find themselves at the centre of a terrifying manhunt. In their care is a tiny child called Lyra, and in that child lies the fate of the future.

For more information and to book places, go tohttps://www.ruralarts.org/: 

• Friday 4 March at 7.30pm – Bulsara & His Queens – this internationally recognised Queen tribute band returns for an exciting new show.
• Monday 7 March at 7.30pm – An Evening with John Pilkington – the award-winning author and photographer is one of Britain’s most experienced adventurers and public speakers. 
• Tuesday 8 March at 8pm – Andy Zaltzman: Satarist for Hire – the chair of The News Quiz (Radio 4), host of the global hit satirical podcast The Bugle, and Test Match Special statistician, returns with his unparalleled interactive stand-up show.
• Thursday 10 March at 7.15pm – Rigoletto live-streamed from The Royal Opera House – this special anniversary screening of Verdi’s Rigoletto celebrates 171 years since its premiere in 1851.
• Wednesday 23 March at 8pm – Lost Voice Guy: Cerebral LOLsy.
• Saturday 26 March at 7.30pm – Bon Jovi Forever – 2022 – Back by popular demand! The only Bon Jovi tribute show you need to see!
• Sunday 27 March at 7.30pm – Jasmine Harrison – My World Record Row – The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge rower tells her dramatic story of her Atlantic crossing.
• Wednesday 30 March at 7.30pm – Jenny Eclair at Sixty – having hit 60 (but still a year younger than Madonna) the comedienne tells it as it is!

Enquiries 01609 776230. Tickets online at http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

• 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.
• 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.
• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ – 01845 400446.
• 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.

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Mondays 28 February and 14 March.
• Recycling – Thursday 10 March
• Garden waste – Thursday 10 March.
• Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open. The cost is £40. New and existing customers can now sign up at http://hambleton.gov.uk or call 01609 779977.

Harrogate (Asenby)

• Recycling – Mondays 28 February and 14 March.
• Refuse – Mondays 7 and 21 March
• Green Waste – Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open and the cost is £41. Sign up at http://www.harrogate.gov.uk

We know that our two Parish Councils support the celebrations and in the case of Topcliffe Parish Council, might be able to assist with funding of appropriate events and projects. We also know that the Village Hall Committee has agreed to give free use of the Village Hall for any jubilee events over the four-day celebration.

Some events will come together fairy easily, such as services at St Columba’s Church because there is a group of people that make the church work well and they will simply add on celebratory services, but most other ideas will only materialise if someone in the community – an individual or group – steps forward to organise them.

As a reminder, the list of possibilities is as follows:

• 11 March – Formal tree planting (this is the 70th day of the 70th year of the Queen’s reign, and coincides with the right time to plant trees). Plaque erected and time capsule buried.
• 30 April to 2 May – Scarecrow competition with a royal theme – to coincide with a similar event in Carlton Miniott.
• May – Village tidy-ups and litter picks (dates to be agreed).
• Village beacons.
• Street and house decoration – throughout weekend celebrations
• Evening Meal and Disco in the Village Hall – bring your own drinks.
• Saturday 4 June – Party in the Park on the playing field. Bring your own picnic and drinks. Possibly with a band and dancing, games, races etc.
• Children’s crown-making competition.
• Children’s Jubilee art competition.
• Jubilee Photographic competition.
• Fancy royal dress competition.
• Vehicle display – any vehicles 70 years of age and over.
• Flat Green bowling knock out competition – teams of four (including children accompanied by adults).
• Jubilee walk – a short stroll between Topcliffe and Asenby and back for families and people of all ages.
• Sunday 5 June – Brunch in the Village Hall.

Larger-scale and longer-term opportunities;

• Improvements to Jubilee Gardens.
• Creation of a Platinum Jubilee Walkway on the trail between Topcliffe Bridge and Asenby, with new path surfaces, more benches, picnic tables on the grassy area near the bridge, waste bins, more tree planting and jubilee signage. Hambleton Brewery, based in Melmerby, has expressed a willingness to give financial support to this proposal.
• Tree planting to improve the nation’s tree canopy.

So, lots of ideas that have the potential to make up a great programme for the Platinum Jubilee, with fun events and some great opportunities for long-term memories and improvement. But have our two communities got the willingness and commitment to make at least some of these ideas a reality? Please look through the list and consider how you might help. The plain fact is that these exciting proposals will only take place if residents are prepared to make them happen. The next public meeting is at The Angel at 7.30pm on Sunday 6 March. Everyone will be welcome.

Yet Topcliffe Bridge is looking remarkably neglected on its western side due to damage caused by motorists crashing through the fencing and red & white safety barriers erected in its place. These conditions have persisted for as long as three years, maybe longer, and it is time that something was done about it. At a public meeting to discuss how the two villages of Topcliffe and Asenby might celebrate the Platinum Jubilee it was suggested that the one thing that the county council could do to play its part is to fix the bridge, and the suggestion received unanimous support from all present.

I am taking the liberty of expressing the collective views of those at the meeting and would welcome an official response in order that I can report back at the next meeting on 6 March. I look forward to hearing back.

Initial Response from the County Council
Please treat this email as acknowledgement of your communication. Whilst our standard timescale for responses to correspondence is 20 working days, I will speak with colleagues and come back to you as soon as possible on this matter.

Last Wednesday’s lunch raised £56 for The Herriot Hospice.

• TODAY – Sunday, 20 February at 10.45am – Choral Matins.
• Sunday – 27 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.
• Sunday – 6 March at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong
• Sunday – 13 March at 10.45am – Holy Communion (traditional language)
• Sunday – 20 March at 10.45am – Sung Matins
• Sunday – 27 March, Mothering Sunday, at 10.45am – Holy Communion (modern language).

• Tuesday 1 March – Hilarity Bites Comedy Night – doors open at 7.30pm and show starts at 8pm. Tickets £10 in advance or £12 on the night.
• Sunday 27 March – Mother’s Day – one of the busiest days at The Angel, so book early.
• Friday nights – 5 to 9pm – Land & Sea – steak or fish for two with a bottle of wine for £35.95
• Sunday roast – 12noon to 8pm – traditional Sunday Lunch.

Check the website at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/ or call 01845 578000.

• February – Closed.
• Fancy home-reared lamb at Easter? Orders now being taken.
• March – Thursday 3 and Friday 4, 9am to 2pm; Saturday 5, 10am to 2pm; Sunday 6,10am to 2pm.
• Thursday 17 March – Pizza Night.

• Topcliffe Parish Council – the February meeting has been cancelled, so the next meeting will be at 7pm on Thursday 3 March –  www.topcliffe.org.uk
• Asenby Parish Council will meet at 7.30pm on Wednesday 16 March – www.asenby.net

Village Hall Committee meeting

• The next meeting will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 5 April.
• The AGM and an Ordinary Meeting of the Committee will be held consecutively starting  at 7.30pm on Tuesday 7 June.
• www.topcliffe.org.uk/village-hall/

Both parish councils and the Village Hall Committee meet at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

• To Thursday 24 February – Sing 2.
• Friday 25 to Thursday 3 March – Belfast – a young boy and his working-class Belfast family experience the tumultuous late 1960s.
• Friday 4 to Thursday 10 March – Nightmare Alley – an ambitious conman with a talent for manipulating people with a few well-chosen words hooks up with a female psychiatrist who is even more dangerous than he is.
• Friday 11 to Thursday 17 March – Death on the Nile – while on vacation on the Nile, Hercule Poirot must investigate the murder of a young heiress.

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

• 22 – 24 February, 10.30am – 12 noon – Children’s half-term workshops – From £4.50. Run away to the circus for the morning, making your own miniature acts with paper, ceramics and more!
• Friday 25 and Saturday 26 February, 10am-3pm – Print Sprint – From £12.50. Two days of live demonstrations and workshops inclusive of all abilities. Try out different techniques with our friendly and professional printmakers.
• Wednesdays from 2 March, 6.30pm – 8pm – Life Drawing – £8 per session. Take part in brand-new fortnightly sessions to hone your observational drawing skills as part of a friendly, peer-led group.
• Thursday 3 March at 7.30pm – Katie Spencer –  Full: £10, Concessions: £8. Katie Spencer is a progressive folk singer-songwriter and guitarist from Yorkshire who writes songs imbued with the northern landscapes of her home. “Intensely captivating” – Folk Radio.
• Thursday 10 March at 7pm – National Theatre – Live performance – Book of Dust – Full: £10, Concessions: £8. Philip Pullman’s prequel to the epic His Dark Materials trilogy. Two young people and their demons find themselves at the centre of a terrifying manhunt. In their care is a tiny child called Lyra, and in that child lies the fate of the future.

For more information and to book places, go tohttps://www.ruralarts.org/: 

• Wednesday 23 February at 8pm – Ahir Shah – featuring his signature blend of philosophical inquiry, personal examination and sweet gags.
• Friday 25 February at 6pm – Pop Divas Live – the UK’s number 1 Pop Tribute.
• Friday 4 March at 7.30pm – Bulsara & His Queens – this internationally recognised Queen tribute band returns for an exciting new show.
• Monday 7 March at 7.30pm – An Evening with John Pilkington – the award-winning author and photographer is one of Britain’s most experienced adventurers and public speakers. 
• Tuesday 8 March at 8pm – Andy Zaltzman: Satarist for Hire – the chair of The News Quiz (Radio 4), host of the global hit satirical podcast The Bugle, and Test Match Special statistician, returns with his unparalleled interactive stand-up show.
• Thursday 10 March at 7.15pm – Rigoletto live-streamed from The Royal Opera House – this special anniversary screening of Verdi’s Rigoletto celebrates 171 years since its premiere in 1851.
• Friday 11 March at 8pm – Bobby Mair: Cockroach – an hour of dark, gut-wrenching stand-up from one of the best comedians in the country.
• Saturday 12 March at 8pm – Lore – captivating harmonies and finely crafted songs, providing an evening of soulful songs with stunning musical arrangements.

Enquiries 01609 776230. Tickets online at http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

• 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 – Closed until 28 January 2022.
• 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.
• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ – 01845 400446.
• Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
• The Swan – http://www.theswantopcliffe.co.uk – 01845 595185.
• The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. 
• Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Recycling – Thursdays 24 February. and 10 March
• Refuse – Mondays 28 February and 14 March. Garden waste – resume 24 February for those who have subscribed to 2021/22 service. 
• Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open. The cost is £40. New and existing customers can now sign up at http://hambleton.gov.uk or call 01609 779977.

Harrogate (Asenby)

• Refuse – Mondays 21 February and 7 March.
• Recycling – Mondays 28 February and 14 March.
• Green Waste – Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open and the cost is £41. Sign up at http://www.harrogate.gov.uk

Five to 11 year olds offered Covid jab
Children aged five to 11 are to be offered the Covid vaccine in a bid to protect them from future waves of coronavirus. The decision came after the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation said children should be offered a low-dose Covid jab on a “non-urgent” basis. The dose of vaccine offered to children aged five to 11 will be much lower than that offered to adults or children aged 12 and over. It will be a 10 micrograms dose compared with 30 micrograms.

There are an estimated 5.8 million five to 11-year-olds in the UK and they’ll all be able to get the jab from April onwards. Those in vulnerable groups have already been offered a chance to have a vaccine.

Covid test kits won’t be free for ever
The government has said that its policy of giving the public free PCR and lateral flow tests is constantly under review and the free provision can not last for ever. Some reports suggest the free supply will stop fairly soon under the ‘Living With Covid’ strategy that will soon be published. Health Secretary Sajid Javid refused to confirm the plans when speaking to the media last week but said measures to protect the UK from Covid are “not all forever”.

Here’s what we know for sure:

• Both Topcliffe and Asenby Parish Councils have indicated they will support the celebrations.
• The two villages will have specific events for their residents, with communal events for residents of both villages staged in Topcliffe.
• The Village Hall Committee has agreed to offer free use of the Village Hall for community events linked to the celebrations.
• St Columba’s Church will organise a range of jubilee services that complement the community celebrations.
• Hambleton Council will supply a Lime tree for planting in Topcliffe, possibly on the triangle of grass outside the school. A commemorative plaque will be added and maybe a time capsule will be buried.

Plenty of ideas were proposed for the celebration, and more have been added subsequently, including:
Pre-June
–   11 March – Formal tree planting (this is the 70th day of the 70th year of the Queen’s reign, and coincides with the right time to plant trees!). Plaque and time capsule.
–   30 April to 2 May – Scarecrow competition with a royal theme – to coincide with a similar event in Carlton Miniott.
–   May – Village tidy-ups and litter picks (dates to be agreed).
–   Persuade the county council to repair Topcliffe Bridge – which was damaged several years ago and is now an eyesore.
Thursday 2 June
–   Lighting of village beacons – to remain on for duration of celebrations, or lit daily.
–   Street and house decoration – throughout weekend celebrations
Friday 3 June
–   Evening Meal and Disco in the Village Hall – bring your own drinks.
Saturday 4 June
–   Party in the Park on the playing field. Bring your own picnic and drinks. Possibly with a band and dancing, games, races etc.
–   Children’s crown-making competition
–   Children’s Jubilee art competition
–   Jubilee Photographic competition
–   Fancy royal dress competition
–   Vehicle display – any vehicles 70 years of age and over
–   Flat Green bowling knock out competition – teams of four (including children accompanied by adults)
Some of these events could be staged at different locations and on any day during the weekend.
Sunday 5 June
–   Jubilee walk – a short stroll between Topcliffe and Asenby and back for families and people of all ages.
–   Sunday Brunch in the Village Hall.
–   Church service.

Larger-scale and longer-term opportunities;
–   Improvements to Jubilee Gardens
–   Creation of a Platinum Jubilee Walkway on the trail between Topcliffe Bridge and Asenby, with new path surfaces, more benches, picnic benches at the bridge end grassy area, waste bins, more tree planting and signage.
–   Tree planting to improve the nation’s tree canopy.

So, lots of ideas to make the celebrations a fun time and some great opportunities for long-term improvements. Now all is needed is the will-power to make these ideas a reality. Each specific event will need a leader and volunteers to get the activity organised. Please look through the list and consider how you might help. The plain fact is that these exciting proposals will only happen if residents are prepared to make them happen. 

There’s still time to express your views on the Top Residents’ Facebook page and you could also consider attending the next public meeting at The Angel at 7.30pm on Sunday 6 March.

Early Closing this Friday
The Post Office will close at 1pm this coming Friday as Debbie will be attending the funeral of a close friend who she worked with as a paramedic. Unfortunately, Helen and Paul are on holiday and so there is no cover available. Debbie says she is very sorry for the inconvenience this will cause.

Milk Churn Farm Shop
All food products have now been moved over from the Post Office to the farm shop and the new shelving for these items and some new lines will be installed for Tuesday’s opening. Only the dog and cat products now need transferring and that will happen quite soon.
Customers have been enquiring about the farm shop opening on a Monday and Debbie would like nothing better than to do this, but only if there is a considerable increase in footfall. There are considerable costs involved – staffing, gas and electricity – and at the moment opening that extra day simply can’t be justified, but the matter will be kept under review.

• TODAY – Sunday, 13 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.
• Sunday, 20 February at 10.45am – Choral Matins.
• Sunday, 27 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.

In order to minimise the number of cars travelling from our two villages, if anyone who is interested gives me their name, I’ll keep a list and see if transport can be pooled. Email [email protected] or call 07785 223707. I have the names of six people, including myself, on the list so far.

• 12 to 14 February – Valentine Evenings – special menu for this special occasion. 
• Friday nights – 5 to 9pm – Land & Sea – steak or fish for two with a bottle of wine for £35.95
• Sunday roast – 12noon to 8pm – traditional Sunday lunch.

Check the website at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/ or call 01845 578000.

• February – Closed – as the team are very busy getting everything seeded and prepped for spring!  
• March – Thursday 3 and Friday 4, 9am to 2pm; Saturday 5, 10am to 2pm; Sunday 6,10am to 2pm.

Opening times will be reviewed again in the spring. 

• Topcliffe Parish Council – the February meeting has been cancelled, so the next meeting will be at 7pm on Thursday 3 March – www.topcliffe.org.uk
• Asenby Parish Council will meet at 7.30pm on Wednesday 16 March – www.asenby.net

Village Hall Committee meeting

• The next meeting will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 5 April.
• The AGM and an Ordinary Meeting of the Committee will be held consecutively starting  at 7.30pm on Tuesday 7 June.
• www.topcliffe.org.uk/village-hall/

Both parish councils and the Village Hall Committee meet at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

• To Thursday 17 February – Save the Cinema – the story of Liz Evans who starts a campaign in the 90s to save the Lyric Cinema in Carmarthen.
• Friday 18 to Thursday 24 February – Sing 2.
• Friday 25 to Thursday 3 March – Belfast – a young boy and his working-class Belfast family experience the tumultuous late 1960s.
• Friday 4 to Thursday 10 March – Nightmare Alley – an ambitious conman with a talent for manipulating people with a few well-chosen words hooks up with a female psychiatrist who is even more dangerous than he is.
• Friday 11 to Thursday 17 March – Death on the Nile – while on vacation on the Nile, Hercule Poirot must investigate the murder of a young heiress.

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

• Saturday 19 February at 7.30pm – The Dark Room – Full: £10, Concessions: £8. You, the audience, awake in The Dark Room. Which option do you pick? This strange, high-octane, choose-your-own adventure game is a comedy night, gameshow and pantomime all in one.
• 22 – 24 February, 10.30am – 12 noon – Children’s half-term workshops – From £4.50. Run away to the circus for the morning, making your own miniature acts with paper, ceramics and more!
• Friday 25 and Saturday 26 February, 10am-3pm – Print Sprint – From £12.50. Two days of live demonstrations and workshops inclusive of all abilities. Try out different techniques with our friendly and professional printmakers.
• Wednesdays from 2 March, 6.30pm – 8pm – Life Drawing – £8 per session. Take part in brand-new fortnightly sessions to hone your observational drawing skills as part of a friendly, peer-led group.
• Thursday 3 March at 7.30pm – Katie Spencer –  Full: £10, Concessions: £8. Katie Spencer is a progressive folk singer-songwriter and guitarist from Yorkshire who writes songs imbued with the northern landscapes of her home. “Intensely captivating” – Folk Radio.
• Thursday 10 March at 7pm – National Theatre – Live performance – Book of Dust – Full: £10, Concessions: £8. Philip Pullman’s prequel to the epic His Dark Materials trilogy. Two young people and their demons find themselves at the centre of a terrifying manhunt. In their care is a tiny child called Lyra, and in that child lies the fate of the future.

For more information and to book places, go tohttps://www.ruralarts.org/: 

• Monday 14 February at 7.15pm – Romeo and Juliet – the classic ballet live-streamed from the Royal Opera House. A Valentine’s Day treat.
• Thursday 17 February at 7pm – The Book of Dust – La Belle Sauvage – live-streamed from the National Theatre.
• Saturday 19 February at 7.30pm – Phoney Fools and Horses – the stage show.
• Wednesday 23 February at 8pm – Ahir Shah – featuring his signature blend of philosophical inquiry, personal examination and sweet gags.
• Friday 25 February at 6pm – Pop Divas Live – the UK’s number 1 Pop Tribute.

Enquiries 01609 776230. Tickets online at http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

• 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 – Closed until 28 January 2022.
• 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.
• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ – 01845 400446.
• Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
• The Swan – http://www.theswantopcliffe.co.uk – 01845 595185.
• The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. 
• Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Mondays14 and 28 February.
• Recycling – Thursdays 24 February. and 10 March
• Garden waste – resume 24 February for those who have subscribed to 2021/22 service. 
• Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open. The cost is £40. New and existing customers can now sign up at http://hambleton.gov.uk or call 01609 779977.

Harrogate (Asenby)

• Recycling – Mondays 14 and 28 February.
• Refuse – Mondays 21 February and 7 March.
• Green Waste – Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open and the cost is £41. Sign up at http://www.harrogate.gov.uk

Early end to Covid restrictions?
The possibility of all Covid restrictions, including the requirement to self-isolate following a positive test, ending a month earlier than planned has been raised by the Prime Minister. Covid restrictions had been due to expire on March 24, Boris Johnson told MPs he expects they can end a month sooner if the data continues to be encouraging. It means in less than two weeks time the country could be returned to levels of freedom enjoyed before the pandemic, for the first time since restrictions were brought in almost two years ago.

Covid travel requirements relaxed
Since last Friday, fully vaccinated people travelling to the UK no longer have to take any Covid tests – either before departure or on arrival.  There’s no longer a need to quarantine at all – but you still need to fill in a passenger locator form.

The unvaccinated must have proof of a negative Covid test taken in the two days before travelling to the UK. Once in the country, they need to book and pay privately for a PCR test to be taken after they arrive (this needs to be booked before travelling). And they still have to fill in the passenger locator form but won’t need to isolate, as long as their Covid test is negative.

And with people able to travel abroad easier than at any time since the start of the pandemic, it is easy to lose track of the regulations. The BBC has compiled a handy list of some of the key things to know about when travelling to popular destinations – https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/explainers-56997931

Doug
07785 223707

The Village Hall Committee has agreed to offer free use of the Village Hall for community events linked to the four-day platinum jubilee celebrations in June. 

Next week there’ll be a report on how the community meeting went, what sort of ideas are coming forward and arrangements for overseeing the plans for the celebrations in June.

Regulars will have noticed that the new doorway has been constructed to give access to the planned hot and cold takeaway area, where work is progressing on electrics and other first-fix work. Unfortunately the preparation of footings for the extension were delayed due to bad weather but it’s hoped things will now move quickly ahead. Next week it’s planned that the new oak doors will be installed at both entrances – takeaway and Post Office. The paint for the front of the building has been chosen but we’ll leave everyone is suspense about the colour – will it really be cerise pink!

The sweet and crisps corner has been completed land the new shelving for the display of chocolate products is taking place this weekend. Meanwhile, significant progress has been made on attracting courier delivery services to use the Post Office for drop-off and pick-up services. Both DHL Express and UPS Courier Services have agreed to start a service, but it might be about six weeks before the contracts are finalised and training provided. Other providers, including Amazon, have been approached and their response is awaited.

New cigarette drawers have arrived and they are placed under the counter and out of sight. That gives more space for new shelving for the display of vaping products and affordable alcohol. There are no thoughts at this point to extend opening hours for the sale of alcohol, but that idea may be explored again if the demand is there. Another new service being provided at our customers’ request is the sale of kindling. Local company, Chopsticks, has delivered a stock of kindling this week.

Last week the transfer of all grocery products from the Post Office to the farm shop was completed, so the food and household products displays are now looking very comprehensive and competitively priced – which is what customers asked for when a survey of their requirements was conducted recently. Some work is being undertaken to provide display space for plants, flowers and beautiful planters which will go on sale soon…and make super gifts.

Outside the footpath is breaking up so take care when using it. The County Council has been asked to repair the path and we are doing some work to improve the cobbles along the shop frontage.

• TODAY Sunday, 6 February at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong accompanied by organist Matthew Atherton. This is the actual 70th anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession to the throne and anyone who would like to join the Choral Evensong on this most significant day will be warmly welcomed.
• Sunday, 13 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.
• Sunday, 20 February at 10.45am – Choral Matins.
• Sunday, 27 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.

• BT Call Protect is a free, network-based call-filtering service available to BT residential customers. Once activated, the service allows users to send certain calls to a junk voicemail box. These can include calls from BT’s blacklist of nuisance callers, calls from a blacklist created by you, and certain call types (such as withheld or international numbers). Customers can retrieve any messages left in the voicemail box at their convenience.
• Sky Talk Shield is a free, network-based call-screening service available to Sky Talk customers. Once activated, the service screens all calls to the customer’s landline by asking callers to identify themselves. When customers answer their phone, they will hear a recording of the caller’s name, and decide whether to add the caller to their ‘star list’ or ‘block list’. After doing this, calls from numbers on the star list will get through without screening, and calls from numbers on the block list will not get through without the customer’s phone ringing.

–   Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS): this is a free ‘do not call’ register for landlines and mobile numbers which allows people and businesses to opt out of unsolicited sales and marketing calls. You can register online: www.tpsonline.org.uk or text TPS to 85095 from a mobile.

More advice on call blocking technology available from individual phone providers can be found at Ofcom’s website: www.ofcom.org.uk 

Remember, if in any doubt that a caller is who they claim to be, hang up immediately. If you want to check their identity, call the customer service number of the organisation they are claiming to be from by using a different phone. Scammers can ‘hold’ your phone line so if you call a different number from the same phone line, they might still be on the line. 

• 12 to 14 February – Valentine Evenings – special menu for this special occasion. 
• Friday nights – 5 to 9pm – Land & Sea – steak or fish for two with a bottle of wine for £35.95
• Sunday roast – 12noon to 8pm – traditional Sunday lunch.

Check the website at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/ or call 01845 578000.

• February – Closed – as the team are very busy getting everything seeded and prepped for spring!  
• March – Thursday 3 and Friday 4, 9am to 2pm; Saturday 5, 10am to 2pm; Sunday 6,10am to 2pm.

Opening times will be reviewed again in the spring. 

• Topcliffe Parish Council – the February meeting has been cancelled, so the next meeting will be at 7pm on Thursday 3 March – http:// www.topcliffe.org.uk
• Asenby Parish Council will meet at 7.30pm on Wednesday 16 March – http://www.asenby.net

Village Hall Committee meeting

• The next meeting will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 5 April – https://www.topcliffe.org.uk/village-hall/

Both parish councils and the Village Hall Committee meet at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

• To Thursday 10 February – The Electrical Life of Louis Wain – English artist Louis Wain rises to prominence at the end of the 19^th century for his surreal cat paintings that seemed to reflect his declining sanity.
• Friday 11 to Thursday 17 February – Save the Cinema – the story of Liz Evans who starts a campaign in the 90s to save the Lyric Cinema in Carmarthen.
• Friday 18 to Thursday 24 February – Sing 2.
• Friday 25 to Thursday 3 March – Belfast – a young boy and his working-class Belfast family experience the tumultuous late 1960s.
• Friday 4 to Thursday 10 March – Nightmare Alley – an ambitious conman with a talent for manipulating people with a few well-chosen words hooks up with a female psychiatrist who is even more dangerous than he is.
• Friday 11 to Thursday 17 March – Death on the Nile – while on vacation on the Nile, Hercule Poirot must investigate the murder of a young heiress.

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

• Saturday 19 February at 7.30pm – The Dark Room – Full: £10, Concessions: £8. You, the audience, awake in The Dark Room. Which option do you pick? This strange, high-octane, choose-your-own adventure game is a comedy night, gameshow and pantomime all in one.
• 22 – 24 February, 10.30am – 12 noon – Children’s half-term workshops – From £4.50. Run away to the circus for the morning, making your own miniature acts with paper, ceramics and more!
• Friday 25 and Saturday 26 February, 10am-3pm – Print Sprint – From £12.50. Two days of live demonstrations and workshops inclusive of all abilities. Try out different techniques with our friendly and professional printmakers.
• Wednesdays from 2 March, 6.30pm – 8pm – Life Drawing – £8 per session. Take part in brand-new fortnightly sessions to hone your observational drawing skills as part of a friendly, peer-led group.
• Thursday 3 March at 7.30pm – Katie Spencer –  Full: £10, Concessions: £8. Katie Spencer is a progressive folk singer-songwriter and guitarist from Yorkshire who writes songs imbued with the northern landscapes of her home. “Intensely captivating” – Folk Radio.
• Thursday 10 March at 7pm – National Theatre – Live performance – Book of Dust – Full: £10, Concessions: £8. Philip Pullman’s prequel to the epic His Dark Materials trilogy. Two young people and their demons find themselves at the centre of a terrifying manhunt. In their care is a tiny child called Lyra, and in that child lies the fate of the future.

For more information and to book places, go tohttps://www.ruralarts.org/: 

• TODAY Sunday 6 February at 7.30pm – Sunday Jazz – the fabulous sounds of the Big Band Era performed, in an open session, by Alan Owens and The Forum Big Band.
• Wednesday 9 to Saturday 12 February at 7.30pm (matinee Saturday at 2pm) – Legally Blonde – Crash Bang Wallop are back performing to a live audience in 2022. 
• Monday 14 February at 7.15pm – Romeo and Juliet – the classic ballet live-streamed from the Royal Opera House. A Valentine’s Day treat.
• Thursday 17 February at 7pm – The Book of Dust – La Belle Sauvage – live-streamed from the National Theatre.
• Saturday 19 February at 7.30pm – Phoney Fools and Horses – the stage show.
• Wednesday 23 February at 8pm – Ahir Shah – featuring his signature blend of philosophical inquiry, personal examination and sweet gags.
• Friday 25 February at 6pm – Pop Divas Live – the UK’s number 1 Pop Tribute.

Enquiries 01609 776230. Tickets online at http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

The Big Race Night and Challenge Quiz & Curry Night will hopefully be rescheduled once the Covid pandemic is over.

• 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 – Closed until 28 January 2022.
• 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.
• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ – 01845 400446.
• Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
• The Swan – http://www.theswantopcliffe.co.uk – 01845 595185.
• The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. 
• Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Recycling – Thursdays 10 and 24 February.
• Refuse – Mondays14 and 28 February.
• Garden waste – resume 24 February for those who have subscribed to 2021/22 service. 
• Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open. The cost is £40. New and existing customers can now sign up at http://hambleton.gov.uk or call 01609 779977.

Harrogate (Asenby)

• Refuse – Mondays 7 and 21 February.
• Recycling – Mondays 14 and 28 February.
• Green Waste – Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open and the cost is £41. Sign up at http://www.harrogate.gov.uk

Interestingly, 6 February marks the actual day The Queen celebrates becoming the first British Monarch to serve 70 years, but the public celebrations will be held in June because she was crowned on 2 June 

Village Hall Committee offers free use of hall for celebrations
At last Tuesday’s meeting of the Village Hall Committee, a decision was taken to offer free use of the Village Hall for community events linked to the four-day platinum jubilee celebrations in June 

The following items are welcomed: men’s, ladies and children’s clothing – paired shoes (tied together or elastic band around) – handbags – hats – bags – scarves and ties – jewellery – lingerie – socks – belts – soft toys – household linen – household curtains – household towels – household bedding (bed sheets, pillow-cases and duvet covers). We are unable to accept duvets and blankets, pillows and cushions, carpets, rugs and mats (including bath, shower and toilet mats), soiled, painted, ripped or wet clothing, school uniforms, corporate clothing and workwear or textile off cuts or yarns.

In order to minimise the number of cars from our two villages, if anyone who is interested gives me their name, I’ll keep a list and see if transport can be pooled. Email [email protected] or call 07785 223707.

You can also have the newsletter emailed direct to your inbox. Just send a request to:[email protected]

New council for North Yorkshire
On 1 April 2023, the two-tier system of local government in our area will be abolished. The existing councils across the county will be abolished and replaced with a single unitary authority to run services across the entire county. It will be called North Yorkshire Council. Appropriate legislation to allow the change is currently before Parliament and, subject to MPs’ approval, the order is expected to be enacted in a month or so.

Following that announcement, elections will take place on 5 May 2022 when 90 councillors will be selected to represent the 89 wards across North Yorkshire. The councillors will serve one year on the existing North Yorkshire County Council before switching to the new unitary authority from 1 April 2023.  This is the shadow authority and will run alongside the existing councils until they disappear at the end of March 2023.

• Drivers now have ‘the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger posed to others, including cyclists, pedestrians and horse-riders.
• Drivers at a junction should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road that they’re turning into.
• Drivers should give way to pedestrians waiting to cross a zebra crossing, and pedestrians and cyclists waiting to cross a parallel crossing.
• Drivers should not cut across cyclists going ahead when turning into or out of a junction or changing direction or lane.
• Drivers must leave a distance of at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists.
• Cyclists are advised to ride in the middle of the road in certain situations to make themselves more visible and they should generally give way to pedestrians. 
• Passengers and drivers should use new ‘Dutch Reach’ technique when opening the door of a vehicle. This involves opening the door with the hand furthest away from the door as the movement provides a better opportunity to look over their shoulder and spot oncoming cyclists.

There are significant fines for those who fail to follow the new rules and are involved in any incident.

On 22 March the class will look at ceramics and subjects for 19 April, 17 May, 21 June and 19 July will be announced in due course.

• TODAY – Sunday, 30 January – No Service.
• Wednesday, 2 February at 7.30pm – Service of Compline for the Feast of Candlemas
• Sunday, 6 February at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong accompanied by organist Matthew Atherton. This is the actual 70th anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession to the throne and anyone who would like to join the Choral Evensong on this most significant day will be warmly welcomed.
• Sunday, 13 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.
• Sunday, 20 February at 10.45am – Choral Matins.
• Sunday, 27 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.

• 1 February – Hilarity Bites Comedy Club – Tickets £10 in advance or £12 on the night. Doors open at 7.30pm and show starts at 8pm.
• 12 to 14 February – Valentine Evenings – special menu for this special occasion. 
• Friday nights – 5 to 9pm – Land & Sea – steak or fish for two with a bottle of wine for £35.95
• Sunday roast – 12noon to 8pm – traditional Sunday lunch.

Check the website at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/ or call 01845 578000.

• February – Closed – as the team are very busy getting everything seeded and prepped for spring!  
• March – Thursday 3 and Friday 4, 9am to 2pm; Saturday 5, 10am to 2pm; Sunday 6,10am to 2pm.

Opening times will be reviewed again in the spring. 

• Topcliffe Parish Council – the February meeting has been cancelled, so the next meeting will be at 7pm on Thursday 3 March  – http:// www.topcliffe.org.uk
• Asenby Parish Council will meet at 7.30pm on Wednesday 16 March – http://www.asenby.net

Village Hall Committee meeting

• The next meeting will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 5 April – https://www.topcliffe.org.uk/village-hall/

Both parish councils and the Village Hall Committee meet at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

• Until Thursday 27 January – The Matrix Resurrections – return to the world of two realities; one, everyday life and the other, what lies behind it! 
• Friday 28 January to Thursday 3 February – The King’s Man – In the early years of the 20th century, the Kingsman agency is formed to stand against a cabal plotting a war to wipe out millions.
• Friday 4 to Thursday 10 February – The Electrical Life of Louis Wain – English artist Louis Wain rises to prominence at the end of the 19^th century for his surreal cat paintings that seemed to reflect his declining sanity.
• Friday 11to Thursday 17 February – Save the Cinema – the story of Liz Evans who starts a campaign in the 90s to save the Lyric Cinema in Carmarthen.
• Friday 18 to Thursday 24 February – Sing 2.

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

• Sunday 6 February at 7.30pm – Sunday Jazz – the fabulous sounds of the Big Band Era performed, in an open session, by Alan Owens and The Forum Big Band.
• Wednesday 9 to Saturday 12 February at 7.30pm (matinee Saturday at 2pm) – Legally Blonde – Crash Bang Wallop are back performing to a live audience in 2022. 
• Monday 14 February at 7.15pm – Romeo and Juliet – the classic ballet live-streamed from the Royal Opera House. A Valentine’s Day treat.
• Thursday 17 February at 7pm – The Book of Dust – La Belle Sauvage – live-streamed from the National Theatre.
• Saturday 19 February at 7.30pm – Phoney Fools and Horses – the stage show.
• Wednesday 23 February at 8pm – Ahir Shah – featuring his signature blend of philosophical inquiry, personal examination and sweet gags.
• Friday 25 February at 6pm – Pop Divas Live – the UK’s number 1 Pop Tribute.

Enquiries 01609 776230. Tickets online at http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

The Big Race Night and Challenge Quiz & Curry Night will hopefully be rescheduled once the Covid pandemic is over.

• 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 – Closed until 28 January 2022.
• 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.
• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ – 01845 400446.
• Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
• The Swan – http://www.theswantopcliffe.co.uk – 01845 595185.
• The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. 
• Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Monday 31 January and 14 February.
• Recycling – Thursdays 10 and 24 February.
• Garden waste – resume 24 February for those who have subscribed to 2021/22 service. 
• Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open. The cost is £40. New and existing customers can now sign up at http://hambleton.gov.uk or call 01609 779977.

Harrogate (Asenby)

• Recycling – Mondays 31 January and 14 February.
• Refuse – Mondays 7 and 21 February.
• Green Waste – Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open and the cost is £41. Sign up at http://www.harrogate.gov.uk

Back to Plan A
Plan B has now ended and we are back to Plan A measures, which means fewer restrictions are in place. The requirement to wear a face covering is scrapped (though still advised in certain settings) and Covid passes are no longer needed to access large venues. Work from home guidance has already been dropped and masks are no longer required in schools.

Isolation
The main legal requirement that remains is for anyone with Covid to self-isolate. Earlier this month, the quarantine time was cut from 10 days to five full days – provided you produce a negative test result on the fifth and sixth days, and do not have a temperature. Tests must be at least 24 hours apart. If either test is positive, you must wait 24 hours before testing again. This measure is due to expire on 24 March, though it could be dropped earlier if things continue to improve.

Care Homes
From Monday 31 January, care home restrictions will ease. There will be no limit on the number of visitors allowed at care homes, self-isolation periods will be cut and care homes will only have to follow outbreak management rules for 14 days, not 28.

Travel
From 4am on Friday, 11 February fully vaccinated passengers entering England will no longer need to book Covid tests. The rules before then mean fully vaccinated travellers must pre-book a Covid test from a private supplier (lateral flow or PCR) and take it, at most two days after arriving in the country. Rules for non-vaccinated travellers remain the same – they must take a pre-departure test and two post-arrival PCR tests. They must also self-isolate for 10 days after arriving in England.