Author: Doug Allan

Hello and welcome to the 51st issue of this regular Sunday email. I hope you find this email’s contents interesting and informative. As usual, do get in touch with me if you have any news or information that you think Topcliffe and Asenby residents might like to hear about.

Doug (07785 223707)

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number – which takes into account cases, hospitalisations and deaths – is now between 0.7 and 0.9.

• Nearly 30 million people have now had a first dose vaccination. And the number of second doses administered now exceeds 3.3 million.

• There have been more than 4.33 million confirmed cases of Covid in the UK. Yesterday 4,715 cases were confirmed.

• 8.4 million Covid tests were conducted last week. An average of 1.2 million each day.

• 363 people were admitted to hospital on a daily basis (2,704 in the week). Those figures are 20% down on the previous week. The number of Covid patients in hospital dropped again, week on week,

to a new low of 4560 (6,162 last week).

• Yesterday 58 UK deaths were reported. There were 451 in the seven-day period to Saturday. Deaths from Covid have fallen by 31% in a week.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at over 126,573. Worldwide, the number of deaths is now almost 2.8 million.

The Roadmap out of Lockdown

Tomorrow we set out on the second part of the roadmap leading us out of lockdown. From 29 March the following applies:

• The ‘Rule of 6’ is back, meaning six people from different households can meet outdoors. There’s also a new measure allowing two households totalling more than six people to meet outdoors – giving

greater flexibility for friends and families. Getting together outdoors will be good for our mental health and wellbeing, but it is important that we do so safely. Follow the rules, maintain social distance and

hand hygiene and wear face coverings where required.

• There can be no household mixing indoors.

• Outdoor sport and leisure facilities to reopen. Organised outdoor sport allowed with any number of people (children and adults).

• We are advised to continue to minimise travel. No holidays yet.

• Formally organised outdoor parent and child groups with up to 15 parents can operate. Children under five will not be counted.

People will no longer be legally required to Stay at Home. Many of the lockdown restrictions, however, will remain in place. Unless an exemption already applies, it will not be possible to meet people from other households indoors and many business premises will remain shut.

The next date for further easing of restrictions is 12 April. As long as the four tests continue to be met the following will apply:

• All retail shops allowed to open. Restaurants and pub gardens will be allowed to serve customers sitting outdoors, including alcohol. The requirement to order, eat and drink while seated (‘table

service’) will remain.

• Indoor leisure, including gyms and spas, can reopen for use individually or within household groups.

• Hairdressers, beauty salons and other ‘close contact services’ can reopen.

• Domestic holidays and overnight stays in the UK permitted, with self-contained accommodation able to reopen for use by members of the same household.

• Children allowed to attend indoor play activities, with up to 15 parents or guardians allowed to join them.

• Libraries, community centres, outdoor attractions, theme parks, zoos and drive-in cinemas can reopen.

• Funerals (30 attendees), wakes, weddings and receptions (15 attendees) can take place.

Social contact rules in England will not change further at this point. The ‘rule of 6’ or two households mixing outdoors will still apply… and still no household mixing indoors. People should continue to work from home where they can, we are asked to minimise domestic travel and international holidays are not allowed at this stage.

The complete roadmap – Details of the complete roadmap are shown in the attachment.

Are we facing a third wave of Covid?

Lockdown is, step-by-step, beginning to ease across the UK. But with infection rates rising in Europe, the British public is also being warned of the risk of a third wave. The Prime Minister says it is only a matter of time before the wave from Europe washes up on our shores. But with more than half of adults vaccinated, what would that look like?

There’s a number of issues that will be crucial in determining exactly what happens from here. As well as protecting those vaccinated, the vaccine programme will also help slow transmission. Early evidence suggests the AstraZeneca jab could stop two-thirds of people who are vaccinated from passing it on. On top of that those who have already been infected – estimated to be about a quarter of the population – will have some immunity. Secondly, seasonality could help. Respiratory viruses tend to thrive in the winter but are less likely to spread in the spring and summer. UK chief medical adviser Prof Chris Whitty says it is possible a significant rise may not actually come until the winter, giving more time for the vaccination programme to rollout. He said the UK should be confident the "path from here does look better", but we should still expect "bumps and twists" along the way. The most immediate problem, he said, was likely to be local outbreaks – and variation in uptake between different areas leaves some places particularly vulnerable.

The initial reaction of most people as the easing of restrictions happens will be to think everything will be fine, says Prof Sir David Spiegelhalter, a Cambridge University expert in understanding risk. He says that it is obvious that we will want to start enjoying ourselves again. But we should not trust our intuition on this, he says, and we should take each step very cautiously. He said: "The government is determined not to go backwards, so that could mean taking longer to take steps forward. The aim, of course, is to balance the need to open society while trying to control the virus. While some people have called for a ‘zero Covid’ approach, the government and its advisers are clear this cannot be achieved given the nature of the virus, which can spread without people being aware they are infected. This week, chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said there was basically ‘zero chance’ of zero Covid.

So how bad could a third wave get? Modelling done for the government has suggested if there is a third wave that as many as 30,000 people could die by the summer of 2022, even with a gradual reopening and good vaccine rollout. That is four times fewer than the number of deaths we have seen over the past year. And while it sounds high, it is worth noting that in a bad winter, 25,000 people can die from flu. But the toll could be much higher if things do not go as well as assumed, the modelling suggested. There are, of course, as always caveats around these models. But they should act as a warning – while the UK may be in a strong position, nothing should be taken for granted with this virus.

Progress with vaccination programme

Almost 30 million people – that’s well over half the UK’s adult population – have now received a first dose of a vaccine and more than 3.3 million people have had a second jab. Priority groups 1-9 of the first phase of the vaccination programme is nearly complete, with only 2 million left to do and two weeks in which to achieve it. Phase two – groups 10 to 12 – covers all adults aged between 18 and 49 and they will be offered a first dose by the end of July. Before then most people in phase one will have been called for that all-important second dose.

Booster jabs

The over-70s could begin getting booster vaccines to protect them against new coronavirus variants in September under plans for the future of the rollout. The first booster doses would go to the top four priority groups, including care home staff, NHS workers, the clinically extremely vulnerable and over 70s. The government is expecting up to eight different jabs to be available by the autumn, including one protecting against three different variants in a single dose. A number will reportedly be manufactured in the UK, which could ease the pressure on supplies amid tensions with the European Union as it faces shortages from AstraZeneca.

The Covid Testing Regime

Tests for people with symptoms

Testing sites in North Yorkshire are operated and managed by the Department of Health and Social Care/NHS and private contractors employed by them. People who don’t have access to the internet, or who have difficulty with the digital portals, can ring the 119 service to book their test. The permanent testing sites are open every day for between 8am and 11:30am. The nearest permanent testing sites are:

• Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB

• Northallerton – The Forum, Bullamore Road, Northallerton, DL6 1LP

A full list of NHS Mobile testing sites can be viewed on the county council’s website at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test Mobile sites are open for testing from 8am to 8pm. Before you attend at either a permanent or mobile site you must book a test. Tests can be booked from 8pm the night before. If test sites are fully booked they will not appear on the government’s website. To book a test visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ There’s a link on the North Yorkshire County Council website to request a home test – https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-testing

Tests if you live or work with a nursery/school/college student

If you live, work or are in a support bubble with nursery, primary or secondary school pupils or college students you should carry out lateral flow device tests at home twice a week. Testing kits can be collected from the two permanent sites listed above every day between 1pm and 8pm.

Did you remember to put your clocks forward an hour before you went to bed? If not, do it now!

Bags2School textile recycling

Topcliffe Village Hall and the Scouting Association have joined forces to organise another ‘Bags2School’ recycling event. Everyone is encouraged to have a cupboard and wardrobe sort out and bring unwanted items in black bags to the village hall garden on Friday 23 April 2021 between 8.30am and 12 noon. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and Scouts’ Association.

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.

Dalton 49 planning application – ACT NOW!

Last week’s email presented information about the outline planning application for a major industrial development at Dalton. The 43-acre site, known as ‘Dalton 49 Thirsk’, is adjacent to Eldmire Lane, just over Dalton Bridge. The application has been lodged with Hambleton District Council and comments are now being invited. Whilst recognising that the development will provide a range of job opportunities and a huge boost to the local economy, new developments on this scale potentially create increased traffic through Topcliffe and Asenby. Our two villages already experience significant problems with HGVs ignoring weight restrictions and passing through the villages and over Topcliffe bridge. The problem is already bad and new development will only exacerbate the situation unless appropriate measures are taken to protect our villages. It is strongly felt that whilst the planning application (and developer’s pre-planning consultation) identified the need to protect Dalton village from through traffic, it failed to adequately address the needs of both Topcliffe and Asenby. It is therefore crucially important that residents of both villages collectively make their voices heard to ensure that our concerns are addressed and acted upon.

That’s why our two Parish Councils and a number of individuals are keen to encourage all villagers to comment on the planning application. There is a limited time in which views can be expressed so if you want your voice to be heard, now is the time to do something about it. You can add your views to the planning application at:

https://planning.hambleton.gov.uk/online-applications/caseDetails.do?caseType=Application&keyVal=QO7ZETHUHHI00 This link will take you straight to the planning application. But if for any reason it doesn’t work for you, simply go to Hambleton Council’s website, look for ‘Planning’ and ‘Applications’, and follow the instructions on how to find an individual application. The reference number for ‘Dalton 49 Thirsk’ is 21/00331/HYB, which can be inserted in the search box.

It is vital that as many people as possible add their comments to the application. It’s really important that councillors understand the concern locally. We must make it clear that our villages must be protected from existing illegal lorry movements and from the threat of increased heavy traffic. It’s the quantity and quality of comments from individuals that can make all the difference so please comment in your own words – but use this checklist to ensure you make all the key points:

• Welcome the development of new jobs and employment opportunities.

• Welcome the intention to protect Dalton from the HGVs, general traffic, noise, odour and light pollution impacts of the development.

• Seek equal commitment and proposals to protect Topcliffe village and Conservation Area and Asenby from the potential negative impacts.

• Flag up concerns about additional HGV traffic in our villages, noting this is already a problem from the current Dalton site and that the road signage and weight limit enforcement is poor. The developer’s

assumptions that traffic will all use the A168 for access and egress, and not come through our two villages, is not our reality.

• Refer to concerns about additional general light traffic, again due to poor signage, and potential 24/7 operations being proposed.

• Add reference to concerns about potential additional noise and odours as this development is very close to Topcliffe, and food production odours are already a problem in Topcliffe.

• Request that the developer and HDC Planners work closely with Topcliffe and Asenby Parish Councils in progressing this application and any future development.

Reporting speeding vehicles

Many people are concerned about the speed that some vehicles are doing when they pass through Topcliffe. It’s incredible how fast some drivers seem to think is acceptable and they seem oblivious of the dangers to pedestrians and other road users. There is now a page on North Yorkshire County Council’s website where reports of speeding can be lodged. Here’s the link: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/speed-limits-speeding-and-road-safety-concerns

Apparently, the police say that the more reports they receive, the more likely it is that they will take follow-up action, such as bringing a mobile camera van to the village

Census 2021 – It’s not too late to submit your form

Census day has come and gone and millions of people have completed their questionnaires and left their mark in history. If you haven’t yet completed your census form, you should do so as soon as possible.

The information collected will ensure that our future services accurately reflect the needs of each locality. Uniquely, it will also record how life in England & Wales was affected by a pandemic. You will be able to complete the questionnaire on your tablet, smartphone or computer. This shouldn’t be difficult and everything has been made as straightforward as possible. If you are not confident online you can still

request a paper questionnaire. Over the coming days and weeks census staff will be visiting any households who haven’t completed their forms and will be able to help you. All staff will have ID badges and full personal protective equipment (PPE) and will remain socially distanced at all times. They will not ask to enter your house and you should never pay for help. Help is available by phoning 0800 141 2021 or visiting www.census.gov.uk NOTE: I have been informed that the census telephone help lines have been extremely busy and some people are still awaiting the paper questionnaires that they have ordered. This may be causing some anxiety for some people, especially the elderly. If you are having any difficulty, please be aware that the fines for not completing the census questionnaire will only apply to people who have actively refused to participate – and that won’t happen for some months.

Another thank you for Jake and Amelia

In last week’s email it was reported that Jake and Amelia Pearson (and dad John) had cleaned up the church steps and pathway. Today John Phillips, who is closely involved with parish affairs, wants to add his thanks. He said: “On behalf of the Parochial Church Council I would like to express our thanks for their work. I noticed last Sunday as I walked up to church how beautifully tidy and clean the steps and paths were. I was very impressed and rather overwhelmed that someone had taken the initiative to kindly do this themselves, and Jake and Amelia really did a beautiful job. It is lovely to see many people enjoying the churchyard as a village ‘green space’ and we shall be looking to organise a spring working party to tidy up the whole area, but the work on the steps and path meanwhile was a tremendous help.”

Parish Council meetings

• The next Topcliffe Parish Council meeting will be held at online at 7pm on Thursday 1st April 2021. Any members of the public wishing to join the meeting should contact the clerk for log in details by mid-

day on the day of the meeting by email to topcliffeparishcouncil There is a period of 10 minutes at the beginning of each meeting set aside to receive questions and comments from members

of the public. More information is available at www.topcliffe.org.uk

• Asenby Parish Council’s AGM will be held at 7.30pm on 19 May 2021. It’s uncertain at present whether this will be a Zoom or face to face meeting. An announcement will be made nearer the date. Check

out more information on asenbypc

Local Government Reorganisation

The consultation about the reorganisation of local authority areas in North Yorkshire is now well underway. There are basically two proposals – one based on the whole county and another based on an east/west split. The closing date for receipt of comments is 19 April 2021. You can express a view at https://consult.communities.gov.uk/governance-reform-and-democracy/northyorkshire/

May Election

The Police and Crime Commissioner election will take place on 6 May 2021. The Village Hall will be the Polling Station in Topcliffe. Asenby residents will have to travel to Rainton Village Hall to vote.

Postal Voting

The deadline to apply for a postal vote for the elections on 6 May 2021 is 5pm on Tuesday 20 April.

• Write to Electoral Registration, Hambleton District Council, Civic Centre, Stone Cross, Northallerton DL6 2UU – elecreg or call 01609 779977 or print off a form from

www.hambleton.gov.uk/electoralregister

• Write to Electoral Registration, Harrogate Borough Council, Civic Centre, St Luke’s Avenue, Harrogate HG1 2AE – call 01423 500600 or apply using the online form at

https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/voting-elections/postal-voting

Services at St Columba’s Church

• Wednesday, 31 March at 7pm – Compline (or Night Prayers, a short evening service (approx. 15 minutes) of prayers, readings and responses, providing a simple and peaceful way to close the day).

• Saturday Easter Eve, 3 April 7.30pm – Easter Vigil and First Eucharist of Easter (with choir accompaniment). Rev Terry Dyer will lead the service. Celebrated organist Matthew Atherton will be playing at this

service, which will be a real treat.

• Sunday, 11 April, 10.45am – Holy Communion (Rev Terry Dyer)

• Sunday, 18 April, 10.45am – Matins

• Sunday, 25 April, 10.45am – Holy Communion – (Rev Terry Dyer)

The PCC continually assesses the Covid risks and it operates ‘track and trace’ arrangement. All the usual precautions apply – please bring a face covering with you – and we will provide hand sanitiser for use before and after each service. Most importantly, for everyone’s sake, if you have any suspicion you might have contracted Covid, please don’t join us on that particular occasion.

Easter Chuckle

There is an interesting comment in the latest edition of the church newsletter, CrossTalk. It is: ‘Church notice: This being Easter Sunday, we will ask Mrs Cusworth to come forward and lay an egg on the altar.’ Apologies to the editor but I did, for just a moment, think of sending this lovely statement to the BBC’s comedy programme ‘I’m sorry I haven’t a clue’.

The Angel at Topcliffe

The Angel is now taking bookings for outdoor dining and drinking from 15 April. Tables are available for up to six people and there’ll be marquees erected over each table to protect customers from inclement weather. There’s limited space, so you’re advised to book early. Call 01845 578000 (phones are only monitored Wednesday to Saturday 3.30-8pm and 11am-6pm on Sundays). Don’t forget your coat or your blanket. Garden dining will see a limited food menu including burgers, skewers, steak pies etc as well as lunchtime sandwiches, sharers and daily specials. Temporary openings times will be: Wednesday – Thursday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm); Friday 12 noon – 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm); Saturday 12 noon to 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 8pm); Sunday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 7pm). Closed Mondays and Tuesdays until 16 May. The regular ‘Dine at Home’ takeaway service menu has been changed. See attachment. It’s also on the The Angel website. Take away times are Wednesday to Saturday, 4.30-8pm, with orders taken from 3.30pm, and Sundays 12-6pm, with orders taken from 11am. Call 01845 578000 to place an order or book a time slot in advance. Check out the details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

Local traders

• Topcliffe Post Office – Opening hours are: Shop – weekdays 7am to 5pm and Saturday 7 to 11.30am. Post Office – weekdays 8.30am to 5pm and Saturday 8.30 to 11.30am. Both closed on Sundays.

• Chip ‘n Dales – The Fish & Chip van is in Topcliffe on Fridays between 5 and 7pm.

• The Elm Gallery – The gallery remains closed, though it looks forward to reopening mid-April. In the meantime, Liz and Dave continue to promote items on the gallery’s Facebook page and website.

Collection of purchases at the gallery door can be arranged. More information can be found on their website at www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk and they can be contacted on 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop – Current opening times are: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9-5pm. Thursday and Saturday 9-1pm. Once lockdown has been lifted, Saturday openings will return to

9 to 5pm. The shop is still operating a one out, one in system to protect customers and staff. Ring 01845 400446. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ Takeaway teas and coffees with cake have

resumed. Why not enjoy a walk and call in for a freshly made hot chocolate or other hot drinks…or for an ice cream?

• The Swan – The Swan remains closed for now but is planning to reopen on Monday 14 April. George, Jane and their staff look forward to welcoming everyone.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Mondays 29 March and 12 & 26 April.

• Recycling & green waste – Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Refuse – Tuesday 6 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Monday 19 April.

• Garden waste – Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

• Recycling – Mondays 12 and 26 April.

Green waste will only be collected if you have paid the subscription for April 2021 to March 2022. (this is the last time this information will be included in the Sunday Email)

• A Hambleton licence for the year will cost £40 per bin. To subscribe or for further information please visit www.hambleton.gov.uk/newbins

• A licence from Harrogate will cost £41 per bin. To subscribe or for more information go to https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/garden-waste-subscription-service

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

The government’s roadmap out of lockdown Feb 2021.docx

Hello and welcome to the 49th issue of this regular Sunday email. Mother’s Day is very special and I hope all mums reading this have really wonderful day.

I hope you find this email’s contents interesting and informative. As usual, do get in touch with me if you have any news or information that you think Topcliffe and Asenby residents might like to hear about.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number – which takes into account cases, hospitalisations and deaths – is now between 0.6 and 0.8 – a slight improvement on last week.

• Nearly 24 million people have now had a first dose vaccination. And the number of second doses administered now exceeds 1.5 million.

• There have been more than 4.2 million confirmed cases of Covid in the UK. Yesterday 5,534 cases were confirmed.

• 8,284,494 Covid tests were conducted last week. Presumably this huge figure is because of lateral testing in schools.

• 570 people were admitted to hospital on a daily basis (4,325 in the week). Those figures are 28% down on the previous week. The number of Covid patients in hospital dropped again, week on week,

to a new low of 8,029 (10.898 last week).

• Yesterday 121 UK deaths were reported. There were 1,045 in the seven-day period to Saturday. Deaths from Covid have fallen by 32% in a week.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at over 125,464. Worldwide, the number of deaths is now over 2.65 million.

The Roadmap out of Lockdown

We are now a week along the route out of lockdown. Since 8 March and until we reach the next milestone on 29 March, here’s what is allowed:

• Schools and colleges have reopened. Practical Higher Education courses have recommenced.
• Recreation or exercise outdoors with household or one other person. No household mixing indoors.
• Wraparound childcare.
• Funerals (30), wakes and weddings (6)

Stay at Home restriction continue but people can leave home for recreation, as well as exercise outdoors, with their own household, support or childcare bubble, or with one person from another household. Social distancing and other safe behaviours should be followed.

The next key date is 29 March when the easing of restrictions will allow:

• The ‘Rule of 6’ is back meaning six people from different households can meet outdoors. There’s also a new measure allowing two households totalling more than six people to meet outdoors – giving greater flexibility for friends and families. No household mixing indoors.
• Outdoor sport and leisure facilities to reopen.
• Organised outdoor sport allowed (children and adults).
• We are advised to continue to minimise travel. No holidays yet.
• Outdoor parent and child groups with up to 15 parents can operate.

People will no longer be legally required to Stay at Home. Many of the lockdown restrictions, however, will remain in place. Unless an exemption already applies, it will not be possible to meet people from other households indoors and many business premises will remain shut.

Details of the complete roadmap are shown in the attachment.

The fight against Covid continues

The UK’s chief medical adviser Prof Chris Whitty warned this week that the fight against the virus is far from finished. "A lot of people may think this is all over. It is very easy to forget how quickly things can turn bad," he said.

Back to School

Schools across North Yorkshire reopened last Monday, although the return of secondary school pupils was staggered over the week. Preliminary data shows that attendance in our primary schools was as high as 97 per cent. Perhaps such high attendance rates show how much confidence families have in schools, in the safety measures that have been put in place and the high value they place on the quality of teaching and learning provided.

Progress with vaccination programme

Almost 24 million people have now received a first dose of a vaccine – around a third of the population – and more than 1.5 million people have had a second. The current seven-day average for first doses is around 295,000 doses a day – down from more than 400,000 a day in early February. According to the government, this drop in first doses can be partially explained by an increase in the number of second doses now being administered but also on supply issues.

Phase one of the vaccination programme aims to have everyone in priority groups 1 to 9 offered a jab before 15 April. That will be around 32 million people…and so far the programme is on schedule.

Already 24 million first dose jabs have been given, so only 8 million left to do in four weeks. Phase two – groups 10 to 12 – covers all adults aged between 18 and 49 and they will be offered a first dose by the end of July. Before then most people in phase one will have been called for that all-important second dose.

NHS text alerts for Covid jab

The NHS has started texting people inviting them to book their jab, making it quicker and more convenient to get an appointment. Almost 400,000 people aged 55 and over and 40,000 unpaid carers were the first to get a text alert inviting them to book a slot as part of the latest development in the NHS vaccination programme. The messages include a web link for those eligible to click and reserve an appointment at a vaccination centre. Reminders will be sent 2-3 weeks after the original alert to encourage people to get their vaccine if they have not taken up the offer.

GP-led and hospital vaccination services, which operate their own booking systems, have been using texts for invites since the start of the vaccination programme. Introducing texts to the national booking service will help increase uptake of the jab, particularly as the NHS moves on to younger groups. Texting is also likely to enable the NHS to react faster to changing vaccine supplies and fill appointments quickly. People will continue to receive letters inviting them to book an appointment as well as a text alert, to ensure that people who don’t have a number registered or need information in different languages or formats don’t miss out. People should not receive a text message or a letter from the NHS if they have already been vaccinated and this has been recorded. If people cannot or would prefer not to travel to a vaccination centre or pharmacy-led site, they can choose to wait to be invited by a local GP-led service.

In some cases, text messages have been used by scammers to try to collect personal details from people, get them to ring premium rate numbers or enter their banking details. The NHS text message will be sent using the government’s secure ‘notify’ service and will show as being sent from ‘NHSvaccine’. The NHS will never ask for payment or banking details.

Book a coronavirus test locally

Permanent sites are open every day for testing between 8am and 12pm. Between 1pm and 7pm they are open for collecting tests if you live or work with a school/college student.

• Every day – Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB

• Every day – Northallerton – The Forum, Bullamore Road, Northallerton, DL6 1LP

People who don’t have access to the internet, or who have difficulty with the digital portals, can ring the 119 service to book their test. The full list of mobile sites the NHS is operating in North Yorkshire can be viewed on the county council’s website at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test Mobile sites are open for testing from 8am to 8pm.

Before you attend you must book a test. Tests can be booked from 8pm the night before. If test sites are fully booked they will not appear on the government’s website. To book a test visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ There’s a link on the North Yorkshire County Council website to request a home test – https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-testing

Covid anniversary to be marked with day of reflection

A minute’s silence and a national doorstep vigil will form part of a day of reflection to mark the anniversary of the UK’s first Covid lockdown. The original idea to remember those who have died in the pandemic came from the Marie Curie charity but the plan is finding widespread support across the country. It will be held on Tuesday 23 March and will feature a minute’s silence at 12 noon and householders are encouraged to light a candle on their doorstep that evening. Prominent buildings and landmarks will also be illuminated across the UK.

Real Superheroes

Children in the Seedlings Nursery Class at Topcliffe CofE Academy have been celebrating World Book Day by reading a book called ‘Real Superheroes’. The book recognises all the amazing people who have worked super hard over the last year throughout the Covid pandemic. The children enjoyed a day dressing up as real superheroes, including doctors, police officer, postal workers and chefs (See photograph attached). They also enjoyed a variety of other activities, such as creating a ‘gallery of hope and thanks’ (see second photograph attached) and making rainbows in as many different ways they could think of.

National anti-littering campaign called for

The problem of littering in our two villages and on surrounding country roads, verges and hedgerows has been mentioned several times in Sunday Emails and The Tattler. Littering is a real problem – it is an eyesore that spoils the countryside, ruins the enjoyment of walking, is a demonstration of extremely selfish behaviour on the part of the litterers and is simply unacceptable. But what can be done about it? How can the behaviour of a minority be changed? Well one answer might be to increase public awareness and promote anti-littering messages. That’s what a campaigner is hoping to persuade the government to do by launching a petition on the parliamentary website. Her petition reads: “I would like to see the government fund a national anti-littering campaign, to put this issue back into public awareness. The campaign should include advertising on tv, online, in schools, at bus stops and anywhere else that it can be seen.’ If you are prepared to support the initiative, please sign the petition at: https://petition.parliament.uk/signatures/108239917/verify?token=7uTlJCy_10ykxCuMWtFG

The Tattler – Spring edition

The latest Tattler newsletter was distributed in our two villages last week. Everyone should have received their copy by now. Anyone living on farms or in outlying areas who doesn’t get a delivery through their letterbox can pick up a copy at The Post Office, Milk Churn Farm Shop. Alternatively, they can contact me – doug and I’ll add them to the circulation to receive an electronic version.

Traffic concerns

The main article in The Tattler was about existing traffic concerns and potential new issues relating to a planned extension to Dalton Industrial Estate which could easily worsen the situation in Topcliffe. It would be great if lots of residents were to write to or email elected representatives at both District and County level to comment on the current and future concerns about illegal HGV traffic through the village. Write to:

• Cllr Mark Robson, Leader, Hambleton District Council, Civic Centre, Stone Cross, Rotary Way, Northallerton DL6 2UU Email: cllr.mark.robson
• County Cllr Robert Baker, North Yorkshire County Council, County Hall, Northallerton DL7 8AD Email: cllr.robert.baker
• You can also refer any specific concerns about traffic issues to the Thirsk & Easingwold Neighbourhood Policing Team – Jonathan.Harrison

Potter Eggs commitment

Topcliffe Parish Council has written to local hauliers asking for cooperation in reducing their HGVs usage of the village’s streets. As a result, the parish council has received a commitment from Potter Eggs agreeing to instruct their drivers to use alternative routes where possible. Thanks Potter Eggs. Now let’s hope that a similar response comes from Potter Plant Hire.

Next Sunday is Census Day

The census officially takes place next Sunday – 21 March. The census, which takes place every ten years, aims to shed light on the needs of different groups and communities, ensuring the big decisions facing the country – on education, health, transport and many more issues – are based on the best information possible. The Office for National Statistics – which runs the Census – should by now have delivered letters with a personalised online code to all households explaining how they can complete their online census. People can also request a paper questionnaire if they’d prefer to complete the census that way. From Monday 22 March reminder letters will start arriving and field officers will visit houses still to respond. Census 2021 includes questions about your gender, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity. For the first time, there is a question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces. There are also some voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity. The census results will be available in 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years. For more information and advice on how to answer the questions, visit www.census.gov.uk

Road repairs at Mill Bank

After continual lobbying by Topcliffe Parish Council, repairs to the unsafe railings and support wall on the A167 above Mill Bank (Catton Lane) are finally underway. The work involves re-pointing various worn areas of the wall, re-building an 8m long section of the wall, near the centre, installation of a new drainage system within the wall itself and a soakaway at the base, within the highways verge and repairs to the public footpath steps between the A167 and Mill Bank. The works should be completed by 24 April. Though the road remains open to traffic with a traffic light arrangement, the highways department warn of some disruption throughout the contract period. Access to private properties is being maintained, though there may be temporary restrictions from time to time.

Thirsk town centre webcam

Did you know that there is a webcam operating in Thirsk town centre that can be accessed 24 hours per day? It beams out the view of the Market Place all over the world every day of the year. The current statistics reveal 680 people are taking a look every single day. It’s much used by locals checking up on how busy the marketplace is before they set off to do the shopping…but people all over the world are known to take a look, either because they are homesick or because they are checking out places to visit. The Tourist Information Centre believes that many who first see the town online will come to visit, stay in local accommodation, and buy in the town’s shops, pubs, restaurants and visitor attractions. See the webcam for yourself at www.VisitThirsk.uk/webcam

The World of James Herriot

The popular and famous museum in Thirsk has won the ‘Triumph over Adversity Award’ in the prestigious Rural Business Awards 2021. The World of James Herriot team is celebrating following the national final held online in February. The award was presented by Jules Hudson, the BBC Escape to the Country presenter. For more information about the museum visit: www.worldofjamesherriot.com

Bags2School textile recycling

Topcliffe Village Hall and the Scouting Association have joined forces to organise another ‘Bags2School’ recycling event. Everyone is encouraged to have a cupboard and wardrobe sort out and bring unwanted items in black bags to the village hall garden on Friday 23 April 2021 between 8.30am and 12 noon. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and Scouts’ Association. There’ll be more details about this fundraising event in future Sunday Emails.

Parish Council meetings

• The next Parish Council meeting will be held at online at 7pm on Thursday 1st April 2021. Any members of the public wishing to join the meeting should contact the clerk for log in details by mid-day on the

day of the meeting by email to topcliffeparishcouncil There is a period of 10 minutes at the beginning of each meeting set aside to receive questions and comments from members of the

public. More information is available at www.topcliffe.net

• The next Asenby Parish Council meeting will be held online at 7.30pm on Wednesday 17 March 2021. Residents wishing to join this meeting should email the clerk at asenbypc for log in

details. More information is available at www.asenby.net

Local Government Reorganisation

The consultation about the reorganisation of local authority areas in North Yorkshire is now well underway. There’s basically two proposals – one based on the whole county and another based on an east/west split. The closing date for receipt of comments is 19 April 2021. You can express a view at https://consult.communities.gov.uk/governance-reform-and-democracy/northyorkshire/

May Election

The election for our local Police and Crime Commissioner will take place on 6 May 2021. The Village Hall will act as the Polling Station in Topcliffe. Residents in Asenby will have to travel to Rainton Village Hall to cast their vote.

Postal Voting

There’s still time to apply for a postal vote:

• Write to Electoral Registration, Hambleton District Council, Civic Centre, Stone Cross, Northallerton DL6 2UU – elecreg@hambleton.gov.uk or call 01609 779977 or print off a form from www.hambleton.gov.uk/electoralregister

• Write to Electoral Registration, Harrogate Borough Council, Civic Centre, St Luke’s Avenue, Harrogate HG1 2AE – call 01423 500600 or apply using the online form at

https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/voting-elections/postal-voting

All change at Swaleside Holiday Park

The family behind a group of North-East holiday parks says it is ‘proud and delighted’ to have taken ownership of a top-rated Swaleside Holiday Park in Topcliffe. Maguires Country Parks, which owns a range of five-star graded holiday parks, has announced the acquisition of the site. It brings to eight the number of parks now owned by the family. And we welcome Brian and Karen Hills as the new managers of the site. They replace Andrew Balderson and Amanda Kenny who, after many years at Swaleside, have moved on to manage a bigger site near Selby. The couple were great friends of Topcliffe and they have promised to come back to join in some of the village’s events in the future.

Church Services

• Wednesday, 17 March at 7pm – Compline (or Night Prayers, a short evening service (approx. 15 minutes) of prayers, readings and responses, providing a simple and peaceful way to close the day).

• Sunday, 21 March at 10.45 am – Matins (Book of Common Prayer)

• Wednesday, 24 March at 7p – Compline

• Wednesday, 31 March 7pm – Compline

• Saturday Easter Eve, 3 April 7.30pm – Easter Vigil and First Eucharist of Easter (with choir accompaniment)

• Sunday Easter Day, 4 April – No Service

• Sunday, 11 April 10.45am – Holy Communion (Rev Terry Dyer)

The PCC continually assesses the Covid risks and it operates ‘track and trace’ arrangement. All the usual precautions apply – please bring a face covering with you – and we will provide hand sanitiser for use before and after each service. Most importantly, for everyone’s sake, if you have any suspicion you might have contracted Covid, please don’t join us on that particular occasion.

Topcliffe Post Office

The revised opening hours of the Post Office and Shop are: Shop – weekdays 7am to 5pm and Saturday 7 to 11.30am. Post Office – weekdays 8.30am to 5pm and Saturday 8.30 to 11.30am. Both closed on Sundays.

Mother’s Day

• The Angel at Topcliffe – If you have forgotten to get that all important Mother’s Day present don’t despair as The Angel has the answer. From 11am today you can pop in to purchase a Gift Voucher for

future use in their restaurants.

• Thirsk Garden Centre believes that mums should be made to feel special all year round, but today of all days that extra effort needs to be made to give them that little extra attention. The garden centre is

open from 10am to 4pm and there’s a wide range of perfect gifts – plants, garden furniture, gift cards and lots more – available for anyone who forgot to buy something in advance. Check out their website

at https://www.thirskgardencentre.co.uk/ The centre is open 9 to 5pm Monday to Saturday.

The Angel at Topcliffe

Greg and the team are very much looking forward to re-opening the garden on 15 April. They will be offering a limited food menu to include favourites such as burgers, skewers, steak pies etc as well as lunchtime sandwiches, sharers and daily specials. Marquees will be erected above all tables to protect customers from inclement weather but don’t forget to take your coat or a blanket in case it’s cold. New temporary openings times:

• Wednesday – Thursday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm)
• Friday 12 noon – 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm)
• Saturday 12 noon to 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 8pm)
• Sunday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 7pm).
• Bookings for food (tables up to 6 or two households only) will start to be taken soon. Closing times will be subject to weather conditions.
• The Angel will be closed Mondays and Tuesdays until 16 May. Follow them on Facebook for all the latest updates.

The regular ‘Dine at Home’ takeaway service menu can be found on The Angel website. Take away times are Wednesday to Saturday, 4.30-8pm, with orders taken from 3.30pm, and Sundays 12-6pm, with orders taken from 11am. Call 01845 578000 to place an order or book a time slot in advance. Check out the details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk

Other Local traders

• Fish and Chips – The Fish & Chip van is in Topcliffe on Fridays between 5 and 7pm.

• The Elm Gallery – The gallery remains closed, though it looks forward to reopening mid- April. In the meantime, Liz and Dave continue to promote items on the gallery’s Facebook page and website.

Collection of purchases at the gallery door can be arranged. More information can be found on their website at www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk and they can be contacted on 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop – Current opening times are: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9-5pm. Thursday and Saturday 9-1pm. Once lockdown has been lifted, Saturday openings will return to 9 to 5pm. The shop is still operating a one out, one in system to protect customers and staff. A home delivery service remains available to anyone in Topcliffe, Asenby or Cundall. They are also making free deliveries to Dalton, Sessay and Husthwaite every Tuesday and to Rainton, Dishforth and Ripon areas every Wednesday (£10 minimum order applies). Ring 01845 400446 to arrange a delivery. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ Takeaway teas and coffees with cake have resumed. Why not enjoy a walk and call in for a freshly made hot chocolate or other warm hot drinks? And here’s a bit of good news – ice creams will soon be going on sale.

• The Swan – The Swan remains closed for now but is planning to reopen on Monday 14 April. George, Jane and their staff look forward to welcoming everyone.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Mondays 15, 29 March and 12 and 26 April.

• Recycling & green waste – Thursday 25 March and Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Recycling – Monday 15 and Saturday 27 March (two days earlier than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Mondays 12 and 26 April.

• Refuse – Monday 22 March and Tuesday 6 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Monday 19 April.

• Garden waste – Thursday 25 March and Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

Green waste will only be collected if you have paid the subscription for April 2021 to March 2022.

• A Hambleton licence for the year will cost £40 per bin. To subscribe or for further information please visit www.hambleton.gov.uk/newbins

• A licence from Harrogate will cost £41 per bin. To subscribe or for more information go to https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/garden-waste-subscription-service

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

The government’s roadmap out of lockdown Feb 2021.docx

Hello and welcome to the 48th issue of this regular Sunday email. In the week that marks the anniversary of the first UK death from coronavirus, we also see the beginning of the journey out of lockdown and a route back to normality. The government’s roadmap is understandably cautious, but it’s achievable if we all play our part. By the early summer we could be free to run ordinary lives again if all goes well.

I hope you find this email’s contents interesting and informative. As usual, do get in touch with me if you have any news or information that you think Topcliffe and Asenby residents might like to hear about.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• There have been more than 4.2 million confirmed cases of Covid in the UK. Yesterday 6,040 cases were confirmed. The number of new cases of Covid fell by 34% compared to the previous week.

• 4,775,355 Covid tests were conducted last week.

• 826 people were admitted to hospital on a daily basis (6,013 in the week). Those figures are 29% down on the previous week. The number of Covid patients in hospital dropped again, week on week,

to a new low of 10.898 (14,808 last week).

• The R number – which takes into account cases, hospitalisations and deaths – is now between 0.7 and 0.9.

• 21,796, 278 people have now had a first dose vaccination. And the number of second doses administered now exceeds 1 million.

• Yesterday 158 UK deaths were reported. There were 1,542 in the seven-day period to Saturday. Deaths from Covid have fallen by 34% in a week.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at over 124,400. Worldwide, the number of deaths is now over 2.58 million.

The Roadmap out of Lockdown

Tomorrow, 8 March, is the first day on which the government’s roadmap will begin to be activated. We will be finally on the long, slow route to the easing of lockdown and there’ll be no diversions as long as everyone respects and follows the rules as the restrictions are eased. Here’s a reminder of what can change from tomorrow:

• All schools and colleges will reopen. University students can return for practical courses. There will be a review by the end of the Easter holidays for all other students.

• Face coverings are recommended in class for secondary school students (and possibly teachers) and also for parents and staff in primary schools.

• Wraparound childcare can also return for vulnerable pupils and where it is needed for parents or carers to go to work, support groups or to seek medical care.

• Two people from different households can meet outside for recreation, which can include "a coffee on a bench".

• One nominated person can visit care homes, but will need PPE, a lateral flow test and minimise physical contact.

• Weddings attended by up to six people can take place in any circumstances.

From tomorrow, the Stay at Home restriction will continue but it will be amended so that people can leave home for recreation as well as exercise outdoors – with their own household, support or childcare bubble, or with one person from another household. Social distancing and other safe behaviours should be followed.

Details of the complete roadmap are shown in the attachment.

Be warned! We are still in lockdown

The Chief Executive of North Yorkshire County Council has issued a reminder to the public that the government’s roadmap provides a slow and cautious route back to normality…it is not a licence to immediately do what we like. Richard Flinton said: “Two days of nice spring weather last weekend saw some truly awful behaviour by some people interpreting the roadmap not as something to aspire to, but a route to drive down now. The number of fines the county’s police issued to people breaching the lockdown rules rocketed by almost a third. A record 255 fines were issued in the county, 119 to local residents and 136 to visitors. Of those, 127 were issued on the coast. In one incident each of the 20 people attending a house party was handed an £800 fine! And a group of six people from Leeds travelled to the coast for fish and chips, whilst some people travelled from Hull to Filey for a barbecue in a car park. And I am sure many of us felt complete disbelief at the pictures of the couple and a baby camped precariously on the cliff edge near Port Mulgrave.

“I am sure you will agree all of these examples are completely unacceptable and they put in jeopardy the incredible hard work the vast majority of the people of North Yorkshire have put in. So, to be clear to all those flouting the rules and risking our route out, we remain in lockdown. Stay at Home is still the message – the gradual and cautious easing of some restrictions is not an instant free for all. We want desperately to see the data allow us to hit those date milestones so we can welcome the world back to North Yorkshire’s fantastic hospitality sector and see our loved ones again. But the situation remains delicate, so I implore you to do the right thing for your friends and family and keep going, keep sticking to the rules.”

Research shows reduction in new cases is slowing

The rate of decline in England’s Covid cases has slowed, figures suggest. Health experts have therefore urged people to abide by restrictions in order to give the vaccination rollout “the best chance of working”. One in every 213 people is still testing positive for Covid, the study found. The data suggests that in some parts of the country the rate of decline has plateaued and in places there are hints that rates are increasing. Researchers warned that if infection rates start to rise then people who are due to have their jab imminently may become infected. They said infection rates need to get as low as possible to give the vaccination programme the best chance of working. The study also suggested that some professions have had higher rates of infection than others during the national lockdown.

Progress with vaccination programme

Phase one of the vaccination programme aims to have everyone in priority groups 1 to 9 offered a jab before 15 April. That will be around 32 million people…and so far the programme is on schedule.

Already 22 million first dose jabs have been given, so only 10 million left to do in about four weeks. The government is confident it will meet the target.

Phase two – groups 10 to 12 – covers all adults aged between 18 and 49. Boris Johnson has pledged everyone in phase two will be offered a first dose by the end of July. Well before then most people in phase one will have been called for their second dose.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation considered whether groups such as teachers and police officers should be offered higher priority in the vaccination programme but said prioritising people by age would “provide the greatest benefit in the shortest time” and the government confirmed it would follow that advice. The committee’s chairman said: “Vaccinations stop people from dying and the current strategy is to prioritise those who are more likely to have severe outcomes and die from Covid. The evidence is clear that the risk of hospitalisation and death increases with age. The vaccination programme is a huge success and continuing the age-based rollout will provide the greatest benefit in the shortest time, including to those in occupations at a higher risk of exposure.”

Positive attitudes towards vaccination

Office for National Statistics figures published last week show nearly 95% of adults surveyed between February 17 and 21 reported they had now either received the vaccine or would be very or fairly likely to have it if offered. This is up from 91% the previous week and has risen from early December 2020 when only 78% of adults indicated they would be likely to accept the vaccine if offered it. Of the adults who said they would be unlikely to have the vaccine or had decided not to have it, the most common reasons were being worried about long-term impacts on their health (43%), being concerned about the side effects (37%) and waiting to see how well it worked (34%).

Lateral flow test: Community Collect

Lateral flow tests are available to households with primary school, secondary school and college age children, including childcare and support bubbles. These groups can test themselves twice every week at home. Households, childcare and support bubbles of primary, secondary and college staff can also be tested. Twice-weekly testing will also be offered to adults working in the wider school community, such as bus drivers and after school club leaders.

In order to support wider access to routine lateral flow testing, the government has introduced a new component of the community testing programme called Community Collect. This is a service by which people will be able to collect batches of test kits from designated sites to use to test at home twice a week. Here in North Yorkshire all local test sites have dual testing functions – in the mornings up until 12 noon they will continue to be symptomatic testing facilities, whereas in the afternoons from 1.30pm to 7pm they will instead function as collection points for lateral flow kits. For people in these groups who are unable to access rapid testing through Community Collect or any other existing route (such as through their employers) there is a new government portal for requesting lateral flow tests that can be delivered to your home. It’s understood that as the national roadmap proceeds, access to Community Collect sites will be broadened to include wider cohorts of people and more collection sites will be developed, with a national ambition to deliver through pharmacies as well by the end of March.

Book a coronavirus test locally

Every day sites operate 8am to 8pm. The full list of other sites operating in North Yorkshire can be viewed on the county council’s website at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test

• Every day – Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB

• Every day – Northallerton – The Forum, Bullamore Road, Northallerton, DL6 1LP

Before you attend you must book a test. Tests can be booked from 8pm the night before. If test sites are fully booked they will not appear on the government’s website. To book a test visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

There’s a link on the North Yorkshire County Council website to request a home test – https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-testing

In memory of Dot

Asenby has a new teak two-seater bench for residents to use. It has been installed by Mel Arkley in memory of his wife Dot who passed away in January. It’s also a thank you to Asenby residents who, Mel says, have been wonderful and kind to him following Dot’s death.

Litter Pickers

Last year Lyn Henderson of South Otterington joined her colleagues from the Blue Cross to clean away the litter on roadside verges between Topcliffe and Busby Stoop. Their amazing effort was featured in December’s Tattler newsletter. It would seem that litter-picking is addictive as Lyn and her two children, Ella and Josh,(see photo attached) have been out and about again picking up the rubbish that others thoughtlessly throw away. On Friday last the threesome managed to collect two large bags of rubbish from just a small area around the playing field and cemetery on Whin Lane, Topcliffe. What a brilliant job and a big thank you to them for caring about a village they don’t even live in!

The Tattler, due out this coming week, features another story about litter recently picked up from roadsides around the village. You have to wonder who the culprits are and why they think it is acceptable to drop their litter as they walk around or to throw it out their car windows?

Parish Council meetings

• Topcliffe Parish Council met via Zoom last Thursday (4 March). The minutes will be available on the village website – topcliffeparishcouncil There is a period of 10 minutes at the beginning of each meeting set aside to receive questions and comments from members of the public.

• The next Asenby Parish Council meeting will be held online at 7.30pm on Wednesday 17 March 2021. Residents wishing to join this meeting should email the clerk at asenbypc for log in details.

Local Government Reorganisation

Last October, two proposals were submitted to the Secretary of State for the reorganisation of local authority areas in North Yorkshire. There’s plenty to read about this subject on the internet. The consultation on the two proposals for the reorganisation of local government in North Yorkshire is now underway. It will last for eight weeks closing on 19 April 2021. You can express a view at https://consult.communities.gov.uk/governance-reform-and-democracy/northyorkshire/

May Election

The election for our local Police and Crime Commissioner will take place on 6 May 2021. The Village Hall will act as the Polling Station in Topcliffe. Residents in Asenby will have to travel to Rainton Village Hall to cast their vote. Maybe that’s another good reason to apply for a postal vote? (see last week’s Sunday Email or go to the council’s website to find out how – https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/voting-elections/postal-voting

Church Services

St Columba’s PCC will be holding the following services:

• Today, Sunday, 7 March at 6.30 pm, Evensong (Book of Common Prayer)

• Wednesday, 10 March at 7pm, Compline or Night Prayers, a short evening service (approx. 15 minutes) of prayers, readings and responses, providing a simple and

peaceful way to close the day.

• Wednesday, 17 March at 7pm, Compline

• Sunday, 21 March at 10.45 am, Matins (Book of Common Prayer)

• Wednesday, 24 March at 7pm, Compline

• Wednesday 31 March 7pm, Compline

It’s hoped that Rev Terry Dyer will conduct a service of Holy Communion for Easter, either on Saturday evening 3 April, or on Easter Sunday morning 4 April. The PCC continually assesses the Covid risks and it operates ‘track and trace’ arrangement. All the usual precautions apply – please bring a face covering with you – and we will provide hand sanitiser for use before and after each service. Most importantly, for everyone’s sake, if you have any suspicion you might have contracted Covid, please don’t join us on that particular occasion.

Topcliffe Post Office

From tomorrow 8 March the opening hours will revert to normal:

Shop – weekdays 7am to 5pm and Saturday 7 to 11.30am.

Post Office – weekdays 8.30am to 5pm and Saturday 8.30 to 11.30am.

Both closed on Sundays.

The Angel at Topcliffe – Happy Mother’s Day treat

Please see the attachment to this email for the fantastic Mother’s Day menu on offer from The Angel on 14 March. What a wonderful treat for all the mums out there!

The regular ‘Dine at Home’ takeaway service menu can be found on The Angel website. Take away times are Wednesday to Saturday, 4.30-8pm, with orders taken from 3.30pm, and Sundays 12-6pm, with orders taken from 11am. Call 01845 578000 to place an order or book a time slot in advance. Check out the details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk

Local traders

• Fish and Chips – The Fish & Chip van is in Topcliffe on Fridays between 5 and 7pm.

• The Elm Gallery – The gallery remains closed, though it looks forward to reopening on 12 April. In the meantime, Liz and Dave continue to promote items on the gallery’s Facebook page and website.

Collection of purchases at the gallery door can be arranged. More information can be found on their website at www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk and they can be contacted on 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop – Until the lockdown restrictions end, the shop will close at 3pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. On Thursdays and Saturdays it will close at 1pm. Don’t forget

that the farm shop is operating a home delivery service to anyone in Topcliffe, Asenby or Cundall who is isolating. They are also making free deliveries to Dalton, Sessay and Husthwaite every Tuesday and

to Rainton, Dishforth and Ripon areas every Wednesday (£10 minimum order applies). Ring 01845 400446 to arrange a delivery. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/

• The Swan – The Swan is closed until further notice.

• Thirsk Garden Centre is open 10am to 4pm for all your gardening requirements. The coffee shop is closed. https://www.thirskgardencentre.co.uk/

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Recycling & green waste – Thursdays 11, 25 March, 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and 22 April.

• Refuse – Mondays 15, 29 March and 12 and 26 April

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Refuse – Mondays 8 and 22 March and Tuesday 6 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Monday 19 April.

• Garden waste – Thursdays 11 and 25 March and Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

Please note that the garden waste service is scheduled to start on 11 March – not 25 March as stated in last week’s email.

• Recycling – Monday 15 and Saturday 27 March (two days earlier than normal due to Bank Holiday) and 12 and 26 April.

Green waste will only be collected if you have paid the subscription for April 2021 to March 2022.

• A Hambleton licence for the year will cost £40 per bin. To subscribe or for further information please visit www.hambleton.gov.uk/newbins

• A licence from Harrogate will cost £41 per bin. To subscribe or for more information go to https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/garden-waste-subscription-service

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

The government’s roadmap out of lockdown Feb 2021.docx