Author: Doug Allan

Hello and welcome to the 26th issue of this regular Sunday email. Twenty six emails, twenty six weeks! That makes it six months that we’ve all been affected by the dreaded coronavirus and I’ve been helping to keep you informed about the virus and in-touch with community matters. But it’s a big shame that this minor anniversary also coincides with the announcement of much firmer restrictions and the possibility that we face a restricted Christmas and another six months of significant impacts on our lives.

The UK has reached "a perilous turning point", Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, as he set out a raft of new coronavirus restrictions for England. He spoke to the nation and explained why the government was intensifying the restrictions with the aim of trying to save us from much stronger rules, even another full lockdown, any time soon. The new restrictions are listed below.

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

Doug

07785 223707

Deaths from coronavirus are rising rather than falling for the first time since the beginning of April. And there are fears that rising numbers of patients in hospital will lead to more fatalities. The government’s chief scientific adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, warned there could be 50,000 new coronavirus cases a day by mid-October – leading to more than 200 deaths per day by mid-November – unless action is taken now.

Here’s the key new measures:

• Pubs, bars and restaurants have to close at 10pm every night. They will also be restricted to table service only.
• People should work from home wherever possible.
• Face masks are now compulsory for bar staff and non-seated customers, shop workers and waiters.
• The limit on guests at weddings has been reduced from 30 to 15.
• Plans to allow fans to return to sporting events in October have been postponed.
• The "Rule of six" now applies to indoor team sports.
• Fines for not wearing masks or following rules have increased to £200 for first offence.

Boris Johnson said the new measures would probably stay in place for the next six months.

Space. Face. Hands

During the week I read articles from several distinguished experts suggesting that the government’s emphasis in the campaign ‘Hands. Face. Space’ presents things in the wrong order of priority. These experts argued that by far the most important factor to help stop the spread of coronavirus and other illnesses is keeping our distance from each other. So today I present a re-ordered set of campaign guidelines Space. Face. Hands.

• Try to keep your distance from those not in your household

• Use a face covering when social distancing is not possible

• Wash your hands regularly.

Book a Coronavirus test locally

Testing sites in North Yorkshire are operated and managed by the Department of Health and Social Care and private contractors employed by them. The Department is asking the public only to get a test if they are directed to do so by NHS Test and Trace or other NHS services – OR – if they have symptoms. This is important to ensure that those people who need tests the most can be prioritised.

Testing sites operated and managed by the Department of Health and Social Care will be running at the following locations over the coming days between 11am and 3pm:

• Monday 28 September – Skipton – Coach St car park, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 1LH
• Monday 28 September – Northallerton – Newby Wiske Hall, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 9HA
• Monday 28 September – Whitby – Whitby Park and Ride, Whitby, YO21 1TL
• Tuesday 29 September – Thornton Le Dale – National Trust Car Park, No.5. Chestnut Avenue, Pickering, YO18 7RR
• Tuesday 29 September – Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB
• Tuesday 29 September – Sherburn in Elmet – White Rose Sports Club, The Recreation Ground, Tadcaster Road, Sherburn in Elmet, LS25 6EL
• Wednesday 30 September – Selby – South Entrance, Drax Power Station, New Road, Selby, YO8 8PH
• Wednesday 30 September – Scarborough – Scarborough Park & Ride, Seamer Road, Scarborough YO12 4LW
• Thursday 1 October – Whitby – Whitby Park and Ride, Whitby, YO21 1TL
• Thursday 1 October – Richmond – Round Howe Car Park, Reeth Road, Richmond, DL10 4T
• Friday 2 October – Northallerton – Newby Wiske Hall, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 9HA
• Friday 2 October – Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB
• Friday 2 October – Sherburn in Elmet – White Rose Sports Club, The Recreation Ground, Tadcaster Road, Sherburn in Elmet, LS25 6EL

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/

In certain cases, home test kits can be delivered to someone’s door so they can test themselves and their family without leaving the house. There’s a link on the North Yorkshire County Council website to request a home test – https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-testing

Isolation benefit for low income workers

The Government has introduced a new self-isolation coronavirus grant for people in work on low incomes. Individuals on a low income are able to claim a £500 lump sum payment if they cannot work from home and are required to self-isolate. This payment is aimed at helping make up for any lost income people face due to having to stay at home. To be eligible for the grant, you must be:

• Told by NHS Test and Trace that you must self-isolate
• Employed or self-employed
• Unable to work from home and will lose income as a result
• Currently receiving Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, Income-Based Employment and Support Allowance, Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit and/or Pension Credit.

Hambleton Council is setting up an online scheme to make the payments locally and they will have it in place by Monday, October 12. Anyone told to self-isolate from September 28 will receive backdated payments once the scheme is established in our area. Around four million people who are in receipt of benefits in England will be eligible for this payment. This financial support comes as the government places a legal requirement on people to self-isolate when instructed to by NHS Test and Trace and introduces tougher fines for breaking the rules.

Have you got NHS Covid app yet?

The new NHS Covid app was launched nationwide last Thursday. Without a vaccine or treatment, the government states that we need to do all we can to help stop the spread of coronavirus and using the app is an important part of the process. By downloading and using the app, you’ll be helping protect those around you – friends, family, colleagues and local communities. You’ll also be helping us all get back to the things we love. The app features a postcode-based risk-level checker, symptoms-reporter tool, advice on staying in self-isolation and the means to order a coronavirus test. Download the app from Google Play or the Apple Store.

Nominate your good neighbour for an award

Everyone needs a good neighbour, and over the past few months many kind-hearted people in our two village communities have been offering a helping hand to those most in need. So, for the third year running the Co-op, in partnership with Neighbourhood Watch, has launched a search to find and celebrate some of the UK’s best neighbours. They’ve also launched a brand-new category – Co-op’s Young Neighbour of the Year – celebrating someone up to the age of 21 who has gone above and beyond to help support their community. You can nominate someone for one award, or both! The closing date is 12pm on Friday, 23 October 2020. The application form is available here – https://joinin.coop.co.uk/opportunities/337 – but please be aware you have to be a member of the Co-op or agree to subscribe for £1.

The Milk Churn Farm Shop

The opening hours of Topcliffe’s newest retail outlet, the Milk Churn farm shop at 81 Long Street, are: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday – 9am to 5pm. Thursday 9am to -1pm (half day closing) and Sunday 10am to 4pm. www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk

Farmers’ Market comes to Thirsk

The award winning Northern Dales Farmers’ Market is once again coming to Thirsk Market Place on Sunday, 4 October. A fantastic range of food and drinks providers will be offering everything from amazing cheeses, gourmet pies, and Yorkshire honey made by bees that buzz around the moors to farmhouse table teatime treats, sinful gingerbread and succulent grass-fed Angus beef. There’ll also be a veritable feast of vegetarian and vegan goodies. Take your dogs as there’s also a stall for them! http://www.northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com/

Pumpkin Festival

Spilmans pick your own pumpkin festival starts on Saturday, 3 October. They have 30,000 pumpkins and squashes of lots of different sizes, shapes and colours. During the festival they’ll be tractor rides, maize maze, corn cannon, bale mountain, pumpkin carving barn and lots of great food to eat. CCheck out their website – www.spilmans.co.uk – to book your car arrival time slot for £10 and receive a voucher for £10 to spend anywhere on the farm. Only pay for what you pick or do. Spilmans are located at Church Farm, Sessay, Thirsk, YO73NB.

Curry night on us!

The lockdown played havoc on the entertainment schedule at the village hall and lot’s f things had to be cancelled or postponed, including a quiz night when a curry was to be served. But those curries were already made and in the freezer at Karen Morley’s house. Now they need to be used up and so portions for about six people are being offered free of charge – but they have to be collected from Karen and Malcolm’s in Back Lane, Topcliffe. Ring 01845 577426 to place your order.

St. Columba’s Church

Services have recommenced at St Columba’s after a six months break. The first Holy Communion Service was held this morning and similar services will be held at the same time on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month – that’s the 11th and 25th in October. The choir will sing Evensong on the 1st Sunday of each month at 6.30pm starting on Sunday, 4 October. Sung Matins is planned for the 3rd Sunday of each month at 10.45 am, starting on Sunday, 18 October. There’ll be full Covid safety arrangements in place. All this, of course, is subject to any further changes in Covid restrictions.

Village Hall Committee & AGM

This will be the final mention in these emails of the Village Hall Committee online meeting being held via Zoom at 7pm on next Thursday (1 October). The committee meeting will be preceded by the AGM for 2020, which would normally have been staged in May, but was delayed because of the pandemic. By law the public must be made aware of and invited to be present at the AGM so the Village Hall Committee is inviting anyone who wishes to attend virtually to get in touch and register their interest. Just send your contact details (name and email address) to Andrew Eckersley, Chairman of the Village Hall Committee – [email protected] – by 5pm tomorrow, Monday 28 September. You will be sent an agenda and an invitation link to join the meeting a few days before it is scheduled. If you have used Zoom before then it will already be downloaded on your system. If you have not used Zoom before, it is recommended that you click the link about 15 minutes before the meeting is due to start so that the system can set you up and Andrew can give you access to the virtual meeting.

Have your say on council budget

Hambleton District Council is consulting on its budget and the services it provides for next year (2021-22). To help shape the budget proposals, the council is inviting you to have your say via a consultation. Contributions must be made by 30 October 2020. The council states that your opinions, views and ideas matter, so let them know what you think. https://wh1.snapsurveys.com/s.asp?k=159957835025

Road Safety and Enforcement Survey

This is the final reminder that you are invited to complete a short survey on road safety and enforcement. It’s a national survey from the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners which will help form the response to the government’s review of roads policing, including looking at what the future of traffic law enforcement may look like. The 60-second poll can be completed until next Wednesday, 30 September at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/apccsaferoads

Bags 2 School recycling event

A massive thank you to everyone who supported the ‘Bags 2 School’ recycling event last Monday at the front of the Village Hall. It’s clear that many residents had a big clear out as around 100 bags of textiles, weighing in at 1066kg, were collected and £320 was raised for sharing between the Village Hall and Topcliffe Scout groups. Well done everybody.

The Angel at Topcliffe

Booking a table in the restaurant is highly recommended any day of the week as it has been very busy, especially at weekends. With Autumn settling in and with the current restrictions the pool room has been changed to a lovely lounge area giving more space to sit and enjoy a drink. Track & Trace on arrival is now easier with the NHS app but don’t worry if you do not have a smart phone, you can just leave your name and number.

To book email [email protected] or call 01845 578000. Bookings are now being taken for Christmas meals and for a New Year’s Eve event to raise cash for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (this event is subject to the Covid-19 restrictions). Check out the website at http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/christmas-2020.html

Comedy Nights Return

The popular Hilarity Bites Comedy Club nights that have become a firm favourite with customers are back on at The Angel. This Saturday (3 October) there’ll be two performances at 6.30pm and 8.30pm featuring top North East acts, Carl Hutchinson Comedy and Anth Young. Tickets are priced at £10 each and tables for two, four or six will be allocated on booking. Masks will be required whilst moving around the venue, but not once seated at your table. Drinks will be ordered at your table and brought over to you. Please get in touch to order tickets on 01845 578 000.

The Swan

The Swan serves food every day of the week at socially distanced tables and reservations are necessary. Takeaway meals to order. Times are: 5 to 8:30pm Monday to Saturday and 12 noon to 4pm on Sunday. Telephone 01845 595185. The Swan closes at 10pm.

Topcliffe Snooker Club

Dave Bowman is collecting annual fees for membership of the village Snooker Club. The fee has been kept at a very reasonable £25 for yet another year. Payment is due from 1 September, so anyone wanting to renew or take up membership should contact Dave as soon as possible. Anyone not intending to keep their membership is asked to return their door key to Dave.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Mondays 28 September and 12 October.

• Recycling and green bins – Thursdays, 8 and 22 October.

Harrogate (Asenby)

• Recycling – Mondays 28 September and 12 October.

• Refuse – Mondays, 5 and 19 October.

• Garden waste – Thursdays, 8 and 22 October.

That’s all until next Sunday. Stay alert, keep safe and keep well.

Hello and welcome to the 24th issue of this regular Sunday email.

Last week I cut back substantially on the amount of information about the Coronavirus believing that we could all do with a rest from the pandemic for a while. It was a nice idea but one destined to be short lived. This week the pandemic is back in the news with a vengeance with infections having increased significantly and new national restrictions that have an impact on all of us. A study of thousands of people in England found cases doubling every seven to eight days, with a marked rise in the north and among young people. The steep climb in cases forced the government to take strong and decisive action to try and stem a potential second spike in the disease.

Now we have new laws – not guidance – that restrict our activities. It’s not quite a return to the lockdown conditions that we experienced for six months, but we may be on the slippery road to something quite similar. Hopefully this dose of medicine will make things better in time for Christmas…but lots of pundits are suggesting the usual festivities will be much-curtailed or not be taking place at all.

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

Doug

07785 223707

The new ‘Rule of Six’ that applies from tomorrow (14 September)

• Social gatherings of more than six people in England will not be allowed in law (it was previously a maximum of 30 from two households or 6 from multiple households to meet outdoors)
• The new rule applies to people in private homes, indoors and outdoors, and places such as pubs, restaurants, cafes and public outdoor spaces.
• It applies to all ages.
• The rule does not apply to schools and workplaces.
• There’s a range of other exemptions including households or support bubbles that are larger than six; where gatherings are for work or education purposes; weddings and funerals; and team sports organised in a way limiting the spread of coronavirus. If you live in a household of more than six you can gather in public or private. However, you will not be able to join with anyone from outside of your household.
• Gatherings of more than 6 people can be broken up by police and those who ignore police instructions could be fined £100 – doubling with each offence to a maximum of £3,200.

In setting out a new ‘Rule of Six’ restricting gatherings to a maximum of six people, enforced with fines or arrests, the Prime Minister said: "We must act to stop the rise in coronavirus cases in England. The government is simplifying and strengthening the rules after feedback from police and the public. I want to be absolutely clear, these measures are not another national lockdown. The whole point of them is to avoid a second national lockdown. The new rules will be in place only as long as necessary.”

England’s Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty added: “The new restrictions will last for a block of time but putting an exact time on it is very difficult. People should not expect it to be a few weeks – it will certainly be longer though restrictions will be reviewed constantly.” Many observers suggest this means that the restrictions could be in place until Christmas, meaning that many festivities and family gatherings will not be allowed to go ahead.

‘Hands Face Space’ campaign launched

A new campaign has been launched by the government to encourage people to take steps to limit the spread of coronavirus amid a rise in positive cases. The ‘Hands Face Space’ campaign urges people to ensure they wash their hands, use a mask when needed and maintain social distancing. The campaign states these are the three most effective ways the public can contain the spread of the virus, and echoes previous advice given by the government. The advert highlights how the virus spreads in indoor settings – which is particularly pertinent as winter approaches. England’s chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty said: “As we approach winter and inevitably spend more time indoors, we need the public to keep following this important advice to control the spread of the virus. ‘Hands Face Space’ emphasises important elements of the guidance we want everybody to remember: wash your hands regularly, use a face covering when social distancing is not possible and try to keep your distance from those not in your household."

A view from an Intensive Care Consultant

Richard Cree, an Intensive Care Consultant at Middlesbrough’s James Cook University Hospital, writes a regular Blog about the virus and it’s impact on the hospital and its patients. In his latest message he said: “There is no doubt that a minority of people are flouting social distancing advice but it’s important that everyone plays their part. It’s not just the young who need to pay attention to the warnings. There are some things that are now increasingly becoming a bad idea. Meeting people indoors for any significant period of time, sharing lifts, flying on crowded planes and drinking and/or dining out in establishments that are not fastidious in their attention to social distancing will become increasingly dangerous. Anyone who is vulnerable to COVID-19 should think twice about doing so now that the virus is becoming prevalent again. By ‘vulnerable’ I mean anyone over the age of fifty to be brutally honest. It is not just the elderly who are at risk. It is not just people with ‘underlying health conditions’ either. Even if your chance of dying may be relatively small, there is no doubt that those who survive Covid-19 can be left with ongoing health-problems, especially those who end up in Intensive Care. So, we need to throw summer complacency aside and understand the risks of continuing as we are. Even if our individual priorities do not include our own personal safety, we have a duty to our community.”

Book a Coronavirus test

Key workers and anyone who has Covid-19 symptoms can have a test. As part of the national testing programme for coronavirus, drive-through Mobile Testing Units, run by the Department for Health and Social Care, will be operating in the following locations over the coming days:

• Monday 14 September – Skipton – Coach St car park, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 1LH
• Monday 14 September – Northallerton – Newby Wiske Hall, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 9HA
• Tuesday 15 September – Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB
• Wednesday 16 September – Scarborough – Scarborough Park & Ride, Seamer Road, Scarborough YO12 4LW
• Thursday 17 September – Whitby – Whitby Park and Ride, Whitby, YO21 1TL
• Thursday 17 September – Richmond – Round Howe Car Park, Reeth Road, Richmond, DL10 4T
• Friday 18 September – Northallerton – Newby Wiske Hall, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 9HA
• Friday 18 September – Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB

Before you attend you must book a test. There are two ways to do this depending on which testing group you are part of. Tests can be booked from 8pm the night before. To book a test visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

In certain cases, home test kits can be delivered to someone’s door so they can test themselves and their family without leaving the house. There’s a link on the North Yorkshire County Council website to request a home test – https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-testing

Covid-19 contact tracing app

The government has announced that a new Covid-19 contact tracing app will launch on September 24 across England and Wales. Users of the app will scan barcode-like QR codes to register visits to public venues including pubs, restaurants, hairdressers and cinemas. The government will urge businesses to put up QR code posters to help support the app.

Travel isolation

If you’re planning a holiday or overseas travel the best thing to do is check out the government’s website – https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control – for the current advice and information…and then hope for the best!

The Milk Churn Farm Shop

The new Milk Churn farm shop at 81 Long Street in Topcliffe opened to the public last Monday. For the time being, only the grocery and fresh food shop are open but in the near future there’ll also be a gift shop on the first floor and a café in the conservatory. It’s owned and run by locals Debbie Roberts, her daughter Hannah and business partner Kerry Parker. They pride themselves on having sourced the majority of their stock within Yorkshire and often from just a few miles away from Topcliffe. They are selling fresh meat, fish, fruit and vegetables, along with a large range of specialty cheeses, breads, cakes and chocolates, plus frozen meals and a selection of alcoholic beverages. There’ll also be homemade soups and quiches, ready-to-go lunch boxes and drinks fresh every day. Customers will be able to order vegetable and meat boxes that can be collected or that can be delivered to local homes. They will also provide weekend boxes for a full English and/or Sunday lunch box with a nice bottle of wine. The shop has decided to have half day trading on Thursdays. The new times are

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday – 9am to 5pm. Thursday 9am to -1pm and Sunday 10am to 4pm. www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk

The Tattler – September 2020 edition

Look out for the latest Tattler dropping through your letterbox this week. It’s a bumper 12-page edition with lots of interesting articles and features. A big thank you to all the local advertisers who make the quarterly publication possible.

Village Hall Committee & AGM

A meeting of the Village Hall Committee will be held online via Zoom at 7pm on Thursday 1 October. The committee meeting will be preceded by the AGM for 2020, which would normally have been staged in May, but was delayed because of the pandemic. By law the public must be made aware of and invited to be present at the AGM so the Village Hall Committee is inviting anyone who wishes to attend virtually to get in touch and register their interest. Just send your contact details (name and email address) to Andrew Eckersley, Chairman of the Village Hall Committee – [email protected] – by 5.00pm on Monday 28 September . You will be sent an agenda and an invitation link to join the meeting a few days before it is scheduled. If you have used Zoom before then it will already be downloaded on your system. If you have not used Zoom before, it is recommended that you click the link about 15 minutes before the meeting is due to start so that the system can set you up and Andrew can give you access to the virtual meeting.

Lost and Found!

On 18 August, someone lost a bronze effect charm bracelet on the roadside along Park Lane, between Rainton Road and Queen Mary’s School entrance. If it is yours please contact [email protected]

Holy Rood House

Holy Rood House in Sowerby Road, Thirsk would like to invite you to its Autumn Quiet Garden Day on Saturday, 19 September. They have a large healing garden with quiet spaces, a labyrinth, goats, hens and a walled pond garden. There is a garden gazebo and space in the chapel and art room, with toilet facilities too. The organisers suggest visitors bring a packed lunch and drinks. Holy Rood House is part of the Quiet

Garden Movement and the venue looks forward to welcoming you. 10am-3pm. To apply for tickets visit: http://www.holyroodhouse.org.uk

Dales & District Bus Services

Throughout most of the pandemic a popular morning bus journey on the Ripon to Thirsk and Northallerton No. 70 service was cancelled. But now it’s back! As of last week the bus operator restored the 9.19am (Asenby) and 9.21am (Topcliffe) service, much to the delight of regular travellers. This means that buses to Thirsk and Northallerton can now be caught at 7.48am, 9.19am, 11.43am, 14.03pm and 17.58pm from Asenby and 7.51am, 9.21am, 11.46am, 14.06pm and 18.01pm from Topcliffe. And as always the slogan is “Use it or lose it_”. Most services are heavily subsidised so if passenger numbers aren’t there, the services could soon be under threat.

Bags 2 School recycling event

It’s time for an autumn sort out – a chance to clean out those wardrobes and drawers that are full of clothes that no longer fit or garments that are out of fashion. The village ‘Bags 2 School’ recycling event is a great opportunity to have a big clear out whilst also raising funds for two local organisations. The Bags 2 School event will be held in the grounds of Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Monday, 21 September. Topcliffe Village Hall and Topcliffe Scout groups are organising the fundraising event. We won’t be delivering bags to households – please just use black bags. On the day please deliver your bags to the front of the village hall between 9am and 12 noon. If you are elderly or have a disability and are unable to deliver bags yourself the organisers may be able to provide a home collection service – ring Doug Allan on 07785 223707 to request a pick up.

We would welcome any of the following items: – 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). Please note that 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, yarns or threaded material.

Plans for new care home and nursery at Sowerby

A new 69 bedroom care home with associated amenity areas is planned for Sowerby on land near Cocked Hat Farm, Topcliffe Road. There will also be a 100 place children’s day nursery with associated play space, eight care home staff apartments and 39 car parking spaces. The planning application is now with Hambleton DC, see https://tinyurl.com/sowerbych

The Angel at Topcliffe

Booking a table in the restaurant is highly recommended any day of the week as it has been very busy, especially at weekends. The garden is still operating on first come first basis for food and drinks. To book email [email protected] or call01845 578000. Bookings are now being taken for Christmas meals and for a New Year’s Eve event to raise cash for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Check out the website at http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/

The Swan

The Swan serves food every day of the week at socially distanced tables and reservations are necessary. Takeaway meals to order. Times are: 5 to 8:30pm Monday to Saturday and 12 noon to 4pm on Sunday. Telephone 01845 595185.

St. Columba’s Parochial Church Council

As mentioned last week, the PCC is considering reopening the church just for Sunday services and prayers as a first step to normalising church openings. The possibility of opening during the week for private visits will be considered at a later date. The increased prevalence of Covid-19 is far from helpful. Another key problem is that the PCC has been reduced by more than a third in number and only one member lives in Topcliffe. The PCC would be prepared to open the church during the week if volunteers came forward to open and close the church. If you can help call John Phillips on 01845 577034.

Topcliffe Snooker Club

The annual membership fee of £25 is due and should be paid to Dave Bowman as soon as possible. Anyone not intending to keep their membership is asked to return their door key to Dave.

Sutton Bank closure

Today Sutton Bank will close for eight days for maintenance. A diversion route will be signposted along the caravan route through Ampleforth and Coxwold.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Mondays 14 and 28 September.

• Recycling and green bins – Thursday, 24 September.

Harrogate (Asenby)

• Recycling – Mondays 14 and 28 September.

• Refuse – Monday, 21 September.

• Garden waste – Thursday, 24 September.

That’s all until next Sunday. Stay alert, keep safe and keep well.

Hello and welcome to the 23rd issue of this regular Sunday email.

This week I’ve cut back on the amount of information about the Coronavirus as I think we can all do with a rest from the pandemic now and again. But please don’t take this as a sign that I think things are back to normal – they are not! It’s worrying that near-by places like Leeds and Middlesbrough have been added to Public Health England’s list as "areas of concern" following rises in Coronavirus cases. Inevitably, I’ll be picking up on Covid trends and the latest government announcements again in future emails.

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

Doug

07785 223707

Book a Coronavirus test

Key workers and anyone who has Covid-19 symptoms can have a test. As part of the national testing programme for Coronavirus, drive-through Mobile Testing Units, run by the Department for Health and Social Care, will be operating in the following locations over the coming days:

• Monday 7 September – Settle – Greenfoot Car Park, Lower Greenfoot, Settle, BD24 9RB
• Monday 7 September – Northallerton – Newby Wiske Hall, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 9HA
• Tuesday 8 September – Thornton Le Dale – National Trust Car Park, No.5. Chestnut Avenue, Pickering, YO18 7RR
• Tuesday 8 September – Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB
• Wednesday 9 September – Scarborough – Scarborough Park & Ride, Seamer Road, Scarborough YO12 4LW
• Thursday 10 September – Whitby – Whitby Park and Ride, Whitby, YO21 1TL
• Thursday 10 September – Richmond – Round Howe Car Park, Reeth Road, Richmond, DL10 4T
• Friday 11 September – Northallerton – Newby Wiske Hall, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 9HA
• Friday 11 September – Harrogate – Harrogate Old Education Offices, Ainsty Road, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 4AP

Before you attend you must book a test. There are two ways to do this depending on which testing group you are part of. Tests can be booked from 8pm the night before. To book a test visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

In certain cases, home test kits can be delivered to someone’s door so they can test themselves and their family without leaving the house. There’s a link on the North Yorkshire County Council website to request a home test – https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-testing

Travel isolation

The situation regarding travel and quarantine requirements is getting more and more complicated with different rules now in place for different parts of the UK. If you’re planning a holiday or overseas travel the best thing to do is check out the government’s website…and then hope for the best!

The Milk Churn Farm Shop

The new Milk Churn farm shop at 81 Long Street in Topcliffe will open to the public at 11am tomorrow, 7 September. Initially only the grocery and fresh food shop will open but in the near future there’ll also be a gift shop on the first floor and a café in the conservatory.

The Tattler – September 2020 edition

The September edition of The Tattler is now designed and ready to go to the printers on Monday. It will be delivered door to door in Topcliffe and Asenby on 16 and 17 September.

Você pode me ajudar, por favor?

Is there any reader of this weekly email who could help Ruth, a Portuguese carer, who helps in Lady St Oswald’s household in Topcliffe, to improve her English? Ruth has a good understanding of English but would like to improve her standards. She is obviously happy to pay for lessons. If you’re interested, or know someone who could help, please contact Chris Joyce on 07749 847364.

Bags 2 School recycling event

The next ‘Bags 2 School’ recycling event will be held in the grounds of Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Monday, 21 September. Topcliffe Village Hall and Topcliffe Scout groups are organising the event to raise funds for the two organisations. You are encouraged to have a cupboard and wardrobe sort out and bag items that you are prepared to donate. We won’t be delivering bags to households – please just use black bags. On the day please deliver your bags to the front of the village hall between 9am and 12 noon. If you are elderly or have a disability and are unable to deliver bags yourself the organisers may be able to provide a home collection service – ring Doug Allan on 07785 223707 to request a pick up.

We would welcome any of the following items: – 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). Please note that 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 with and without logo, corporate clothing and workwear or textile off cuts, yarns or threaded material.

The Angel at Topcliffe

Booking a table in the restaurant is highly recommended any day of the week as it has been very busy, especially at weekends. The garden is still operating on first come first basis for food and drinks. To book email [email protected] or call 01845 578000. Bookings are now being taken for Christmas meals and for a New Year’s Eve event to raise cash for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Check out the website at http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/

The Swan

The Swan serves food every day of the week at socially distanced tables and reservations are necessary. Takeaway meals to order. Times are: 5 to 8:30pm Monday to Saturday and 12 noon to 4pm on Sunday. Telephone 01845 595185.

St. Columba’s Parochial Church Council

At the extraordinary PCC meeting held last Tuesday (1 September) there was a discussion about reopening the church for services and prayers. Bearing in mind the PCC has been reduced by more than a third and that only one member lives in Topcliffe, it was decided to concentrate the limited resources available on just opening for Sunday services for the foreseeable future. The possibility of opening during the week for private visits will be considered at a later date. The PCC is hopeful that communion services will take place every other Sunday, coordinated not to clash with those at Baldersby. Dates will be announced fairly soon.

If anyone from Topcliffe would be prepared to volunteer to open and close the church one day a week, that would help tremendously when the PCC considers a weekday opening. If you can help call John Phillips on 01845 577034.

Topcliffe Snooker Club

The snooker club’s AGM was held last Sunday and all the officials – Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer – agreed to serve another year in office. The annual fees will be maintained at £25 for a further year and members are asked to contact Dave Bowman to pay them as soon as possible. Anyone not intending to keep their membership is asked to return their door key to Dave. The club is beginning to operate as normal, with players using hand sanitisers and wipes to clean the table, balls and snooker cues, rests etc. Players are asked to be careful when visiting the club and, as far as possible, respect social distancing rules.

Sutton Bank closure

Sutton Bank will close for eight days of maintenance work starting 8am next Sunday (13 September) A diversion route will be signposted along the caravan route through Ampleforth and Coxwold.

Dr Parker’s retirement

If you still haven’t contributed a comment for Dr Charles Parker’s retirement Memory Book there’s still a few days for you to do so. Closing date is Friday 11 September. He will be retiring as a GP partner from the surgery at the end of September after 28 years in the post. Patients and members of the community may contribute to the Memory Book by:

• Popping in to the Post Office where a folder is available in which messages can be left.

• Email messages can be sent to Doug Allan ([email protected]) who will collate them and forward to the surgery.

Don’t forget that Dr Parker doesn’t know about these plans, so please help keep this a secret from him.

Thirsk Community Library

Just a reminder that the community library in Meadowfields, Thirsk is now open again for browsing, borrowing use of computers, printing and copying. It is operating with strict Covid safe and secure access and systems. Staff are prepared to select books for you to collect or arrange home delivery if you can’t travel in to Thirsk. Facebook.com/thirskcommunitylibrary, email [email protected] or telephone 01609 534589.

Community Works

The Thirsk-based charity Community Works – formed from an amalgamation of The Clock and Thirsk Community Care – offers an amazing range of services, making it probably the leading voluntary organisation in the area. During the pandemic the charity has been able to provide a range of services in line with government restrictions and with strict safety and hygiene in place. Here’s information about just a few services:

• One to One Support – help with a wide range of needs on a one to one basis. A member of staff will help you work towards your life goals, help with work, training, health, confidence building, benefits and much more.
• Loneliness – those who are lonely or isolated can request a visit or telephone calls from a volunteer who will talk things through and suggest ideas to improve your situation.
• Carer’s Support – those who are caring for someone can ask for respite support.
• Transport – personal transport can be arranged for medical appointments and essential journeys. The normal Social Car Scheme charges apply.
• Collection & Deliveries – help with collection of prescriptions or with shopping can be arranged.
• Meals on Wheels – freshly made two-course meals from The Gavel Café can be delivered to your door Monday to Friday for just £6 a meal.
• Food Parcels – anyone in financial difficulty can ask for a food parcel to tide them over. These parcels are put together by volunteers with items donated by the community.
• Re-Use Store – the second hand furniture and appliances store is operating again and volunteers can accept donations brought to the shop or can collect from your home. Items must be fully functioning and in a good, clean condition.
• Community Repaint – save money and reduce waste by making use of our store of excellent paint, including Crown, Farrow & Ball and Dulux. You pay a fraction of the cost of new purchases.

Contact Community Works on 01845 524494 or email [email protected]

The Loneliness Campaign

If you have experienced loneliness, either before or during Covid-19, The Loneliness Campaign is eager to hear from you. It’s looking for people of all ages who would be willing to share their experience with others. The organisers want to encourage more honest conversations and dialogue around the realities of isolation and loneliness across North Yorkshire, so that they can challenge the stigma and embarrassment around it and inspire conversations to tackle it. The stories will be held in an online archive so that others can have an understanding about loneliness and what could be done to combat it. If you are interested in taking part email: [email protected]

Local government reorganisation: Zoom consultations

The leaders of councils in North Yorkshire would like to invite members of the community to join online consultation events about local government reorganisation. The government has made it clear to local councils in North Yorkshire and York that they must reorganise local government in order to secure a devolution deal for the region. There are two online events next weeks:

• The county’s seven district and borough councils have unveiled a proposal for an ‘East-West model’ which would create two brand new councils. The first would serve communities in Ryedale, Scarborough, Selby and York. The second would serve communities in Craven, Hambleton, Harrogate and Richmondshire. They believe that the east-west model makes sense to local people, and is designed in their best interest. Their online event takes place on Tuesday 8 September 2020 at 10am. To join the session register at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/get-change-right-for-the-community-and-voluntary-sector-tickets-119244516559
• North Yorkshire County Council, on the other hand, would like to see a ‘mega-council’ across the whole county, alongside a separate, much smaller council serving the City of York. Their online event takes place at

10am on Wednesday 9 September. To join the session register at: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/voluntary-and-community-sector-seminar

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Recycling and green bins – Thursdays, 10 and 24 September.

• Refuse – Mondays 14 and 28 September.

Harrogate (Asenby)

• Refuse – Monday, 7 and 21 September.

• Garden waste – Thursdays, 10 and 24 September.

• Recycling – Mondays 14 and 28 September.

That’s all until next Sunday. Stay alert, keep safe and keep well.