Sunday Email – Page 17 – Topcliffe and Asenby Sunday Email

Posted on 2 March 20252 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 252

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
doug@dougallan.co.uk

St Columba’s Services

TODAY: Sunday 2 March at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong followed by pre-supper refreshments with wine.
Ash Wednesday 5 March at 7pm – Compline for Lent.
Sunday 9 March at 10.45am – Holy Communion, with Rev Robert Williamson.
Wednesday 12 March at 7pm – Compline for Lent.
Sunday 16 March at 10.45am – Sung Matins.
Wednesday 19 March at 7pm – Compline for Lent.
Sunday 23 March at 10.45am – Holy Communion, Rev Robert Williamson.
Wednesday 26 March at 7pm – Compline for Lent.
Mothering Sunday 30 March at 10.45am – a special service with Rev Dawn Ward.

Village Quiz
TONIGHT: Sunday 2 March – the quiz will be held at 8pm in the Village Hall.

Last Sunday’s quiz was set by Jim and won by Andrew, David, Jane and Gerry. Well done the winners and everyone else who took part.

Here are a few of the questions from the quiz to test your knowledge. See the answers at the end of today’s email.

1. Mount Everest is part of which mountain range?
2. Which of these Champagne Bottles is the largest? Jeroboam, Salmanazar Balthazar or Methuselah?
3. Which two-word phrase ad-libbed into the script by Peter Kay in the latest Ardman film, “Revenge Most Fowl“ made American Netflix executives think he was using offensive language?
4. Eastenders first hit our TV screens in 1985 and this week celebrated its 40th anniversary. In which fictional London borough is Eastenders set?
5. James Earl Jones who died last year, famously was the voice of Darth Vader, but who was the British Actor in the costume?
6. This year was the commemoration of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi concentration camp. In what country is Auschwitz?

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
TODAY: Sunday 2 March – Local independent businesses who grow, rear or produce the food or drink on their stall will gather on the Market Place between 9am and 2pm. They’re passionate about what they do and it shows. Please show them your support.

Churchyard tidy up
Last year a group of regular volunteers left the main churchyard in the best state it has been in living memory. Now spring is almost here, it is time to begin again and hopefully also reclaim further areas of the lower terraces. The two grass-cutting machines have been serviced and are ready to go. To ‘kick-start’ this year’s maintenance programme you are invited to join our Church Yard Tidy-Up, 9.30 to 12.30 on Saturday 8 March – weather and energy permitting! There’ll be further tidy-up days on 16 and 22 March. Do try to help if you can. There’s a number of gardening tools available, but please bring any tools you think might be useful. Refreshments will be available.

NOTE: In an article in The Tattler about these Tidy-Up days, the incorrect dates have been shown. These events are definitely on Saturday mornings.

Race Night
The amount raised at The Big Race Night held last Saturday in the Village Hall has been confirmed. It was a brilliant evening and the grand sum of £3,501 was raised for Village Hall funds. Thank you to everyone who contributed to a fantastic evening and most successful fundraising event.

The Tattler
The March edition of The Tattler is printed and will be delivered door to door during the next few days.

Gary Heslop
It is with great sadness that we report that Gary Heslop – known to his many friends as Guinea – died suddenly in James Cook Hospital last week. Guinea, aged 56, who lived in Deans Square, Topcliffe, was well-known in the scooter world where he was often referred to as ‘a bit of a legend’

Cross Talk
The march edition of the local church newsletter Cross Talk is now out. You can read it here.

Local sites put forward for possible development

As part of the preparation of a new Local Plan for the county, North Yorkshire Council has published a map showing potential development sites already submitted and asking land owners, site promoters and developers, to submit any new sites that they want to be considered.

The map shows three local sites that have already been submitted – one in Topcliffe, another in Asenby and a third at Alanbrooke Barracks/Topcliffe Airfield. The Topcliffe site is the field to the east of School Lane, which it is suggested could be suitable for residential development. The Asenby proposal is for an extention to the Asenby Business Park and the Alanbrooke proposed site covers a huge area between the barracks and Sowerby and Thirsk, which is put forward for housing and retail.

The council will not be accepting comments at this stage. A comprehensive consultation will take place later in the process that will seek the views of the community on all sites. This will be after investigations to check whether sites are likely to be either recommended for allocation or dismissed.

It’s important to understand that the site and proposed uses are those that have been suggested by the site submitter and not by the council. The sites have not been assessed by the council and no decisions have been made on any of the sites at this stage.

Call for sites for the North Yorkshire Local Plan | North Yorkshire Council

A new way to contact the police
North Yorkshire police have launched a new non-urgent enquiry service on its website.
The live chat online service offers real-time contact between the enquirer and a police representative, meaning they can get you the information you need quickly and efficiently.
It’s currently available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, for answers to questions and for advice. The arrangement makes sure the query gets dealt with by the right team or organisation. Check out the website at http://www.northyorkshire.police.uk

BBC Radio York – Make a Difference Awards
For a fourth year, BBC Radio York is celebrating people and animals living in our area who make where we live a better place. Every day they hear stories of people doing incredible things for each other and their communities. Now they want to recognise them for all their hard work. Whether it’s caring for someone in need, being a brilliant neighbour, or inspiring children in the classroom, if you know someone who is really making a difference to your life or where you live, then you can nominate them for an award. There are 8 categories;

The Volunteer Award
The Young Hero (New to 2025)
The Great Neighbour Award
The Active Award (New to 2025)
The Animal Award
The Green Award
The Fundraiser Award
The Community Group Award

You can nominate at bbc.co.uk/makeadifference, where you can also see the full Terms and Privacy Notice. Nominations are now open and will close on the Monday 31 March at 5pm. The winners will be announced at the Make a Difference awards ceremony in September.

Chip ‘n’ Dales
The Chip ‘n’ Dales fish and chip van is now back in Topcliffe every Friday 5 to 7pm.

Sutton Bank closure
Sutton Bank on the A170 will be closed overnight from 7pm on Monday 3 March until 1am on Tuesday 4 March for barrier repair work.

Warm Hub Lunch
The next Warm Hub lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 5 March from 11.30 to 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of home-made meals, followed by puddings and tea or coffee. All welcome. There’s no set charge, but donations are welcome to help pay the rental cost of hiring the Village Hall and for essential food and drink items that must be purchased for each lunch.

Residents of Topcliffe and Asenby can have a meal delivered if they are housebound – either on a short-term basis because of illness, or longer-term. If you wish to have a meal delivered on the day the Warm Hub is held, please get in touch with Karen Morley on 01845 577426.

BINGO!
The next bingo session will be held at 1pm, immediately after the Warm Hub lunch on Wednesday 5 March. For those thinking about popping along, the charge is 50p per game ticket, meaning the cost of playing one ticket in all 10 games is £5. The prize pot will be calculated according to the amount of cash taken on the day. A cuppa is provided free of charge during the session.

Spring Wellness Retreat
Pause, breathe and reconnect with yourself at a yoga retreat being held at The Angel Inn on Saturday 8 March between 10am and 3pm. On the morning there’ll be a gentle Hatha flow session that will awaken your body and soothe your mind. Followed by a wholesome, seasonal lunch made from locally sourced ingredients and in the afternoon, take part in a restorative yoga session, with voice, chimes, drums and sacred instruments to enhance your relaxation and bring inner peace. Enjoy a selection of warm herbal teas and light snacks throughout the day. The cost is just £45. To book, contact reception on 01845 57800. Full payment required at the time of booking. Bookings are non-refundable.

East Coast Line closures
Weekend engineering work will close the East Coast close the lines in both directions between Northallerton and Newcastle up to and including 15 and 16 March. LNER trains will run one train per hour between London and Newcastle on a diversion route. Grand Central will run a reduced timetable and Northern and TransPennine Express have revised timetables. Check your journey at http://nationalrail.co.uk/status-and-disruptions

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee
The next meeting of the Village Hall committee will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 18 March in the hall.

Asenby Parish Council
The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be held at 7pm on Wednesday 19 March 2025 in the upper committee room at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

Buffet Lunch and Open Day
Village Halls across the UK will be celebrating the vital role they play in their communities, and the importance that volunteering has in keeping them operating, during a week-long event which runs from 17 to 23 March.

As part of the celebration, our Village Hall is holding an Open Day and a Buffet Lunch on Sunday 23 March between 11am and 1pm. There’ll be a choice of sandwiches, quiches, sausage rolls, and cakes, plus a choice of tea, coffee and soft drinks.

There’ll be a presentation on the large screen showing examples of what goes on in the hall every week. And our local North Yorkshire Council representative, Cllr Dan Sladden, and members of both Topcliffe and Asenby Parish Councils have been invited to be present.

Bake to help out!
The lunch organisers would appreciate any assistance with baking of cakes, scones , quiches, or sausage rolls. If you can help out, please contact Karen Morley on 01845 577426.

Winter art class
Paint Beautiful Gardens from around the World in oils on Thursday 27 March from 10.30am to 1.30pm at the Village Hall. Save the date or pre-book your space. Suitable for beginners and artists at all levels. For more information and to book, visit http://www.rebeccajayneartist.co.uk

The Flying Oysters
Back by popular demand! The Flying Oysters, one of the north east’s top bands is returning to Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Saturday 29 March. Dance the night away to the music of Coldplay, The Kinks, Kings of Leon, The Eurythmics, Queen, Radiohead, Killers, Pink Floyd, Elbow and the songs of many more top performers.

Tickets, priced £15, are now on sale from Topcliffe Post Office or Doug Allan (07785 223707). A supper of pie & peas and a pudding is included. This will be a ‘Bring Your Own Drinks’ event.

Wedding Fair at The Angel Inn
There’ll be a wedding fair at The Angel Inn on Saturday 29 March between 11am and 2pm. Enjoy a glass of bubbles and canapes and live music whilst meeting lots of wedding exhibitors. Any couple who subsequently make a booking for their big day at The Angel will receive a complimentary night in the Bridal Suite the evening of their wedding, along with a bottle of bubbly to celebrate.

Topcliffe Parish Council
The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be held at 7pm on Thursday 3 April in the lower committee room at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

Wedding Open Day at Catton Hall
The new wedding and events location at Catton Hall is holding an open day on Sunday 13 April between 11am and 2pm. The brand new venue will be available for inspection and the range of ‘stretch tents’ available will be showcased. Free entry.

Bees and Brunch
If you are a budding beekeeper you might want to attend one of these events planned at the Catton Kitchen. Amy and Hugo are organising Bees and Brunch events on Saturday 14 June, Saturday 12 July, Saturday 9 August and Saturday 13 September. Places are limited so even though they are still months away, you are advised to book early.

Local traders and businesses
See here for a list of businesses and traders based in or close to Topcliffe.

EVENTS ON IN THE AREA

Thirsk Digital Hub

The Digital Hub, which operates at Thirsk Community Library, is a resource to help people who need a little support to understand and handle their digital activities. Digital Buddies are there to assist with queries every Monday and Thursday, and every second Saturday of the month there’s a Digital Cafe at which you can get support whilst enjoying some refreshments.

The Ritz

TODAY: London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 1 – Climbing & Mountaineering – Sunday 2 March.
Conclave – Monday 3 to Thursday 6 March.
Bridget Jones: Mad about the Boy – Friday 7 to Thursday 13 March. Matinee on Wednesday 12 March.
London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 2 – Snow Sports (Ski and boarding) – Sunday 9 March.
September 5 – Friday 14 to Thursday 20 March
Dog Man – Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 March. Show starts at 2.30pm.
London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 3 – two Wheels (cycling, mainly off road) – Sunday 16 March.

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

Dalton Village Lunch of Cottage Pie and Puddings
At Dalton village hall on Sunday 9 March, 12 noon for 12.30pm . Tickets are £12.50 for adults, £5 for children, available from Judy on 01845 577607. Proceeds for St. John’s Church.

Concerts and Events at Ripon Cathedral

An Evening of Glam Rock – Thursday 13 March at 7.30pm.
Take That – tribute group Re-Take That in concert – Friday 14 March at 7.30pm.
Queen by Candlelight – Friday 16 May at 7.30pm.
Country by Candlelight – Saturday 17 May at 7.30pm
Coldplay by candlelight – Friday 18 July at 7.30pm.

Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/

The Idea of North
On at Rural Arts Tuesday 4 March to Saturday 22 March. North Yorkshire artists respond to author Peter Davidson’s idea that “Everyone carries their own idea of North within them”, using a range of media and styles. This free exhibition is organised by North Yorkshire Open Studios (NYOS). Free admission. 10am – 4pm. Tickets online at www.ruralarts.org or telephone 01845 526536.

Meet best selling authors
At White Rose Books & Coffee Bar on Market Place, Thirsk on Thursday 13 March at 6.30pm. Features Milly Johnson in conversation with Lucy Diamond. A fun, lively evening of chat and questions and answers. Plus book signing and light refreshments. £16.99 each includes entry & one Book, plus light refreshments, £5 without book. For tickets call 01845 524353.

Thirsk Artisan Market
An artisan market that wants to help serve local communities with the best artisan stalls, whilst giving traders the best opportunities to showcase and sell their handmade goods. Sunday 16 March from 10am to 3pm.

Tough Old Bird

The Ripon Theatre Festival is bringing the heart-warming and hilarious Tough Old Bird show featuring Nana Funk (aka Angie Waller) to kick-start its 2025 season. Known as the great, great grandmother of good times, Nana Funk is a cabaret artiste like no other. She’ll be joined by pianist Claire Jones for a night of songs, comedy and improvisation in a show which takes a wry look at ageing. It’s on Thursday 20 March in Ripon Operatics Hall with tickets costing £15, which includes a glass of fizz and a canapé or two.

Repair Cafe
Be greener by avoiding waste and save money by letting a team of dedicated and talented volunteers try to repair your broken or worn-out items all for the cost of a voluntary donation. Saturday 22 March at Thirsk Community Library. 10am-1pm, last customer at 12.30pm.

Sculpture Park Residents’ Day
On Saturday 22 March free entry to the Sculpture Garden at Thirsk Hall will be given to any visitor with a YO7 postcode. No need to book.

Willow wreath making workshop
Spring willow wreath making workshop with instructions from Twigs & Sprigs on Saturday 22 March between 10am and 12 noon at Sessay Village Hall. Tea and coffee included – cakes available to purchase. £45 payable in advance from Heather Dale on 07467549302.

Thirsk Museum re-opens
Thirsk Museum on Kirkgate in Thirsk reopens for the summer season on Monday 24 March. Normal opening 10.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Saturday depending on availability of volunteers. Last admission at 3.00pm. Donation welcomed. http://www.thirskmuseum.org

Plant Fair
There’ll be a spring plant fair at Newburgh Priory near Coxwold on Sunday 6 April.

Harrogate Spring Flower Show
With over seventy plant nurseries and societies as well as inspiring show garden designs and beautiful floral art to discover, there will be plenty to put a spring in your step and everything you need to plan and plant the perfect outdoor space at the Harrogate Spring Flower Show. It’s on from Thursday 24 to Sunday 27 April at Harrogate Showground. Book your tickets now and enjoy a £5 discount per adult ticket – offer available for a limited time only.

Thirsk Hall history and architecture tours
Following the sell-out success of the House & Architecture tour of Thirsk Hall to be led by historian Dr Helen Metcalfe on 23 March, three more tour dates have been announced. They are Friday 23 May at 10.30am and 2pm and Friday 25 July at 2.30pm. Please note that the number of tickets available is very limited and that tickets for the last tour sold out very quickly. Get yours, priced £20 from https://shop.beyonk.com/8p9ern3j/experiences/08docpwq

Activities at Thorp Perrow
the new programme of activities for 2025 has been announced. There’s a wide range of events suitable for people of all ages and interests. Check out their website – http://Your Visit (Home) – Thorp Perrow

Quiz answers

1. The Himalayas
2. Jeroboam 3Ltrs, Methuselah 6Ltrs, Salmanazar 9Ltrs and Balthazar 12Ltrs
3. ”Flippin’ Nora”
4. Walford
5. Dave Prowse (who was “The Green Cross Code Man”)
6. Poland

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

Posted on 23 February 20252 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 251

Welcome to your Sunday Email. Thank you to all those who emailed their comments in response to last week’s 250th Sunday Email. It is good to know that the weekly news is appreciated and that readers are keen for me to continue publishing it.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
doug@dougallan.co.uk

St Columba’s Services

TODAY: Sunday 23 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion with Rev Robert Williamson.
Sunday 2 March at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong followed by pre-supper refreshments with wine.
Ash Wednesday 5 March at 7pm – Compline for Lent.
Sunday 9 March at 10.45am – Holy Communion, with Rev Robert Williamson.
Wednesday 12 March at 7pm – Compline for Lent.
Sunday 16 March at 10.45am – Sung Matins.
Wednesday 19 March at 7pm – Compline for Lent.
Sunday 23 March at 10.45am – Holy Communion, Rev Robert Williamson.
Wednesday 26 March at 7pm – Compline for Lent.
Mothering Sunday 30 March at 10.45am – a special service with Rev Dawn Ward.

Village Quiz
TONIGHT: Sunday 23 February – the quiz will be held at 8pm in the Village Hall.

Last Sunday’s very challenging quiz was set by Gerry and won by the Long Street Mafia (Charles, Jim and Nigel). Well done the winners and everyone else who took part.

Here are a few of the questions from the quiz to test your knowledge. See the answers at the end of today’s email.

1. Who were the presenters of the TV game show Big Break?
2. What does a nidologist study?
3. The song ‘When you wish upon a star’ comes from which film?
4. In which year did the EU introduce the euro?
5. How many legs does a lobster have?
6. Which 1960s Motown group was initially called the Primettes?

The Topcliffe Big Race Night
The Big Race Night tool place last night in the Village Hall and it was a brilliant evening which raised over £3,000 for Village Hall funds.

A big thank you to all the volunteers who helped make the event such a success including Karen and Malc Morley, Linda Carver and Linda Robinson who prepared and served the supper, Karen and Andrew Cussons who ran the busy bar, Fran Eckersley and Julia McGrann who organised the betting desk, and Lynne Mee and Judith Lowe who ran the raffle with help from Peter Lowe and Liz and Steve Hall. A very special thank you to John and Alf Teesdale who again freely gave up their precious time to organise the technical side of things, including calculating the betting odds.

Without considerable financial support and sponsorship from local individuals and businesses, the Big Race Night wouldn’t be the great financial success it is. Therefore, as organiser and promotor of the event, I would like to record my personal thanks to Severfield, Yes Hire, Hambleton Brewery, Crab Manor Hotel, My Electrical Contractors, the Sanderson family, Sandhill, Topcliffe Post Office, JAB Agricultural, My Lock Up, The Angel Inn, The Swan, Theakston’s Brewery, Black Sheep Brewery, Frontier Ltd, Yorkshire Vintners, Bedale Golf Club, Bedale Bubbles Hot-tub Hire and the racecourses at Catterick, Ripon and Thirsk.

Waste collection days are changing
North Yorkshire Council has published its collection schedule for household waste, recycling and garden waste. There are some changes to collection dates so check out your dates on the council’s website.

Check your bin or recycling collection day | North Yorkshire Council

Tell The Angel what you want
Dave and Maggie Mathews and their team at The Angel want to hear from people about what sort of events they’d like to see organised in the entertainment suite and restaurant. Maybe you’d like special themed dining events, live music or creative workshops. Drop them a message if you want them to consider your idea. Email info@theangelinntopcliffe.co.uk

At last! Some good news about scams
Last month legislation came into force requiring phone companies to block overseas calls that pretend to be from UK landlines. This is a common tactic used by scammers to defraud victims by imitating – or ‘spoofing’- UK phone numbers from a trusted person or organisation. In the first month, BT alone blocked nearly one million scam calls per day. Begs the question, why did it take the government so long to act?

Loft Insulation scammers at it again
Great to have the success with ‘spoofing’ reported above, but home-grown scammers are still very active. North Yorkshire Police have advised that residents have been receiving telephone calls from individuals claiming to be a ‘Local Energy Advisor’, giving the impression that they have some sort of official status.
The caller states that they are offering a free survey to check the loft insulation in the property as there may be a problem. Some reports suggest that the call may be a recorded message. The police advise that residents should always:

be wary of any approach made in a telephone cold call
check the credentials of any company or individual that contacts you out of the blue
check any claims made, especially when the company is claiming to work with other agencies
check the IDs of anyone who visits your property, claiming to work for an organisation
keep any paperwork you are given and never provide any personal information to a caller that is not required
receive a second opinion before agreeing to any work being undertaken.

Topcliffe Academy

Monday 24 February – School re-opens for 2nd half of Spring Term.
Friday 7 March – World Book Day Breakfast.
Thursday 27 March – FOTS School Disco, 5.30 – 7pm.

Winter art classes

The next block of six morning art classes in the Village Hall starts on Monday 24 February. These two-hour classes, from 10 to 12 noon, are ideal for participants of all abilities.
Winter sketch and draw class at the Village Hall on Thursday 27 February from 10am to 2pm.
Paint Beautiful Gardens from around the World in oils on Thursday 27 March from 10.30am to 1.30pm at the Village Hall.

Save the dates or pre-book your space. Suitable for beginners and artists at all levels. For more information and to book, visit http://www.rebeccajayneartist.co.uk

Chip ‘n’ Dales
The Chip ‘n’ Dales fish and chip van is now back in Topcliffe every Friday 5 to 7pm.

Last week’s lunch saw 47 meals served, including a few home deliveries. £193 was raised from donations. £50 was presented to the Bootshop charity and after hall rent and food expenses, the balance was added to the Warm Hub Community Fund,

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee
The next meeting of the Village Hall committee will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 18 March in the hall.

Asenby Parish Council
The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be held at 7pm on Wednesday 19 March 2025 in the upper committee room at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

There’ll be a presentation on the large screen showing examples of what goes on in the hall every week. And our local North Yorkshire Council representative, Cllr Dan Sladden, and members of the two village Parish Councils are being invited to be present.

Bake to help out!
Can you help? Nearer the date, the lunch organisers will be asking villagers to help out by baking a cake, scones or sausage rolls. If you can help out, please put a note in your diary to remind you to get some ingredients and put a little time aside to have a baking session.

Tickets, priced £15, are now on sale from Topcliffe Post Office or Doug Allan (07785 223707). A supper of pie & peas and a pudding is included. This will be a ‘Bring Your Own Drinks’ event.

Topcliffe Parish Council
The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be held at 7pm on Thursday 3 April in the lower committee room at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

Bees and Brunch

If you are a budding apiarist – or beekeeper if you prefer a simpler title – you might want to attend one of these events planned at the Catton Kitchen. Amy and Hugo are organising Bees and Brunch events on Saturday 14 June, Saturday 12 July, Saturday 9 August and Saturday 13 September. Places are limited so even though they are still months away, you are advised to book early.

Local traders and businesses
See here for a list of businesses and traders based in or close to Topcliffe.

EVENTS ON IN THE AREA

Thirsk Digital Hub

The Ritz

A Real Pain – to Thursday 27 February. No matinee.
The Brutalist – Friday 28 February and Saturday 1 March.
London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 1 – Climbing & Mountaineering – Sunday 2 March.
Conclave – Monday 3 to Thursday 6 March.
Bridget Jones: Mad about the Boy – Friday 7 to Thursday 13 March. Matinee on Wednesday 12 March.
London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 2 – Snow Sports (Ski and boarding) – Sunday 9 March.
September 5 – Friday 14 to Thursday 20 March
Dog Man – Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 March. Show starts at 2.30pm.
London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 3 – two Wheels (cycling, mainly off road) – Sunday 16 March.

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

Jigsaw Puzzle Exchange
Here’s a good idea for all you dissectologists out there. The Coffee and Chatter Group that meets in St James’ Church at Baldersby St James will be holding jigsaw puzzle exchanges on the fourth Tuesday of each month. The next ‘exchange’ is on Tuesday 25 February between 10am and 12 noon. Please take along any puzzles that you would like to swap. This is a great opportunity to obtain new ones without having to buy them.

Concerts and Events at Ripon Cathedral

Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons – by candlelight – Saturday 1 March at 7.30.
An Evening of Glam Rock – Thursday 13 March at 7.30pm.
Take That – tribute group Re-Take That in concert – Friday 14 March at 7.30pm.
Queen by Candlelight – Friday 16 May at 7.30pm.
Country by Candlelight – Saturday 17 May at 7.30pm
Coldplay by candlelight – Friday 18 July at 7.30pm.

Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
Local independent businesses who grow, rear or produce the food or drink on their stall will gather on the market place, Thirsk on Sunday 2 March between 9am and 2pm. They’re passionate about what they do and it shows. Show them your support.

Event at Dalton Village Hall

Cottage Pie and Pudding Lunch – Sunday 9 March from 12 noon. Tickets available from Judy on 01845 577607.

Tough Old Bird

Plant Fair
There’ll be a spring plant fair at Newburgh Priory near Coxwold on Sunday 6 April.

Quiz answers

1. Jim Davidson and John Virgo
2. Birds’ nests
3. Pinocchio
4. 1st January 1999
5. Ten
6. The Supremes

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

Posted on 16 February 20252 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 250

Welcome to the 250th edition of your Sunday Email. That’s quite a landmark and represents nearly five years of weekly newsletters to around 350 recipients. And that number continues to grow with two or three new registrations each month. I’m presuming that the consensus is that the Sunday Email should continue.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
doug@dougallan.co.uk

St Columba’s Services

TODAY: Sunday 16 February at 10.45am – Sung Matins
Sunday 23 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion with Rev Robert Williamson
Sunday 2 March at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong followed by pre-supper refreshments with wine
Wednesday 5 March at 7pm – Compline for Ash Wednesday.

Thirsk Artisan Market
TODAY: Sunday 16 February between 10am and 3pm on Thirsk Market Place. An artisan market that wants to help serve local communities with the best artisan stalls, whilst giving traders the best opportunities to showcase and sell their handmade goods.

Village Quiz
TONIGHT: Sunday 16 February – the quiz will be held at 8pm in the Village Hall.

Last Sunday’s very testing quiz was set by Nigel and won by “The Ladies that Entertained Dave”, namely Chrissie, Carol, Gerry and David. Well done the winners and everyone else who took part.

Here are a few of the questions from the quiz to test your knowledge. See the answers at the end of today’s email.

1. The Owl and the Pussycat was written by whom?
2. In December 1879, which Scottish bridge collapsed, causing 75 fatalities?
3. Who won the World Golf Matchplay Championship in 1994,1995, and 1996?
4. What was the former name of Malawi?
5. Which year saw the building of the wall separating East and West Berlin?
6. What kind of animal is a Capuchin?

Village Hall Library
The library in the Village Hall now has regular opening times: it’s open on three occasions to coincide with other events on in the hall, namely:

1.30 to 3.30pm each Tuesday whilst the Boccia Club is on.
11.30 to 3pm pm on alternate Wednesdays when the Warm Hub lunch and Bingo is on.
1.30 to 3.30pm each Thursday when the Knit & Natter club is meeting.

When the library sign is positioned on the pavement outside the hall, that means the library is open for business. The library, which is free to use, holds hundreds of fiction novels by all the leading authors, plus some factual books. It also now has a range of books for young children and teenagers.

Walking Footballers
The Asenby and Topcliffe Walking Footballers had their first training session on Tuesday 11 February at Sowerby Sports Village and the team had a very enjoyable evening. There was a good turnout and all enjoyed a competitive session…but it was good fun at the same time! Team organiser Steve Gallon would still like a few more members to make the weekly matches more viable, so if you’re interested, please contact Steve on 07764 694979, or simply turn up at the sports ground on a Tuesday at 5pm.

Warm Hub Lunch
The next Warm Hub lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 19 February from 11.30 to 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of home-made meals, followed by puddings and tea or coffee. All welcome. There’s no set charge, but donations are welcome to help pay the rental cost of hiring the Village Hall and for essential food and drink items that must be purchased for each lunch.

BINGO!
The first bingo session in the Village Hall held a fortnight ago went extremely well with sixteen players enjoying the afternoon. The next session will be held at 1pm, immediately after the Warm Hub lunch on Wednesday 19 February.

For those thinking about popping along, the charge is 50p per game ticket, meaning the cost of playing one ticket in all 10 games is £5. The prize pot will be calculated according to the amount of cash taken on the day. A cuppa is provided free of charge during the session.

Topcliffe Academy – Emergencies during school closures – 14 to 24 February
Neighbours of the school often ask what they should do if they are aware of incidents at the school during holiday periods. Unfortunately, there’s no live-on-site caretaker so calls need to be made as follows:

If you think there is a break-in taking place, please call the police on 999.
If there is something else that needs reporting, please call 01845 577412 and leave a message (this will be picked up) or email admin@topcliffeacademy.org
Or call Elevate Multi Academy Trust on 01423 541996.

The Topcliffe Big Race Night
The Big Race Night takes place next Saturday 22 February in the Village Hall. Doors open at 7pm, with betting commencing at 7.15pm and the first race starting at 7.30pm.

If you are attending the event, make sure you bring your ticket with you as it is numbered and there’ll be a draw for bed & breakfast for two at The Crab Manor Hotel in Asenby.

Please don’t bring your own drinks to this event – it is bar sales only. But please bring plenty of cash with you. The Village Hall doesn’t have a card machine, so cash payment will be required at the bar, for raffle tickets and betting.

Topcliffe Academy

Monday 24 February – School re-opens for 2nd half of Spring Term.
Friday 7 March – World Book Day Breakfast.
Thursday 27 March – FOTS School Disco, 5.30 – 7pm.

Winter art classes

The next block of six morning art classes in the Village Hall starts on Monday 24 February. These two-hour classes, from 10 to 12 noon, are ideal for participants of all abilities.
Winter sketch and draw class at the Village Hall on Thursday 27 February from 10am to 2pm.
Paint Beautiful Gardens from around the World in oils on Thursday 27 March from 10.30am to 1.30pm at the Village Hall.

Save the dates or pre-book your space. Suitable for beginners and artists at all levels. For more information and to book, visit http://www.rebeccajayneartist.co.uk

Chip ‘n’ Dales
The Chip ‘n’ Dales fish and chip van is now back in Topcliffe every Friday 5 to 7pm.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee
The next meeting of the Village Hall committee will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 18 March in the hall.

Asenby Parish Council
The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be held at 7pm on Wednesday 19 March 2025 in the upper committee room at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

Open Day and Buffet Lunch
Village Halls across the UK will be celebrating the vital role they play in their communities, and the importance that volunteering has in keeping them operating, during a week-long event which runs from 17 to 23 March.

There’ll be a presentation on the large screen showing examples of what goes on in the hall every week. And our local North Yorkshire Council representative, Cllr Dan Sladden, and members of the two village Parish Councils are being invited to be present.

Tickets, priced £15, go on sale this week from Topcliffe Post Office or Doug Allan (07785 223707). A curry and pudding supper is included. This will be a ‘Bring Your Own Drinks’ event.

Topcliffe Parish Council
The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be held at 7pm on Thursday 3 April in the lower committee room at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

Bees and Brunch

Local traders and businesses
See here for a list of businesses and traders based in or close to Topcliffe.

EVENTS ON IN THE AREA

Thirsk Digital Hub

The Digital Hub, which operates at Thirsk Community Library, is a resource to help people who need a little support to understand and handle their digital activities. Digital Buddies are there to assist with queries every Monday and Thursday, and most Saturdays there’s a Digital Cafe at which you can get support whilst enjoying some refreshments. Click the logo below to learn more.

The Ritz Cinema

Flight Risk to Thursday 20 February. No matinee.
Sonic The Hedgehog 3 – Saturday 15, Sunday 16 and Wednesday 19 February. Start times 2.30pm.
A Real pain – Friday 21 to Thursday 27 February. No matinee.
Paddington in Peru – Saturday 22 and Sunday 23. Start times 2.30pm.
The Brutalist – Friday 28 February and Saturday 1 March.
London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 1 – Climbing & Mountaineering – Sunday 2 March.
Conclave – Monday 3 to Thursday 6 March.
Bridget Jones: Mad about the Boy – Friday 7 to Thursday 13 March. Matinee on Wednesday 12 March.
London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 2 – Snow Sports (Ski and boarding) – Sunday 9 March.
September 5 – Friday 14 to Thursday 20 March
Dog Man – Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 March. Show starts at 2.30pm.
London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 3 – two Wheels (cycling, mainly off road) – Sunday 16 March.

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

Events at Dalton Village Hall

Pop-up Cafe – Saturday 22 February at 9.30am until 11.30am. Bacon and/or sausage butties and toasted teacakes for sale. Pop along and enjoy brunch and a chat. All welcome.
Cottage Pie and Pudding Lunch – Sunday 9 March from 12 noon. Tickets available from Judy on 01845 577607.

Fable, Folklore and Fairytales
The 2025 BAMM North mosaic exhibition continues at RHS gardens at Harlow Carr, Harrogate. The theme is Fable, Folklore and Fairytales and it’s on until 23 February, 10am to 4pm daily. Over 20 members of the regional branch of the British Association for Modern Mosaic have works in the exhibition, including Siobhan Gifford, who lives in Asenby. It is free to enter once you have accessed the gardens.

Concerts and Events at Ripon Cathedral

Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons – by candlelight – Saturday 1 March at 7.30.
An Evening of Glam Rock – Thursday 13 March at 7.30pm.
Take That – tribute group Re-Take That in concert – Friday 14 March at 7.30pm.
Queen by Candlelight – Friday 16 May at 7.30pm.
Country by Candlelight – Saturday 17 May at 7.30pm
Coldplay by candlelight – Friday 18 July at 7.30pm.

Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
Local independent businesses who grow, rear or produce
the food or drink on their stall will gather on the market place, Thirsk on Sunday 2 March between 9am and 2pm. They’re passionate about what they do and it shows. Show them your support.

Tough Old Bird

Plant Fair
There’ll be a spring plant fair at Newburgh Priory near Coxwold on Sunday 6 April.

Quiz answers

1. Edward Lear
2. The Tay Bridge
3. Ernie Els
4. Nyasaland
5. 1961
6. Monkey

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

Posted on 9 February 20252 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 249

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
doug@dougallan.co.uk

St Columba’s Services

TODAY: Sunday 9 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion with Rev Robert Williamson
Sunday 16 February at 10.45am – Sung Matins
Sunday 23 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion with Rev Robert Williamson
Sunday 2 March at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong followed by pre-supper refreshments with wine
Wednesday 5 March at 7pm – Compline for Ash Wednesday.

Village Quiz
TONIGHT: Sunday 9 February – the quiz will be held at 8pm in the Village Hall.

Last Sunday’s quiz was set by Charles and won by Malcolm, Michael, David and Nigel. Well done the winners and everyone else who took part.

Here are a couple of questions from the quiz to test you knowledge. See the answer at the end of today’s email.
1. Who was the first DJ on Radio One and what was the first song played?
2. Name the UK’s last coal-powered power station that closed in 2024.
3. Who killed Lee Harvey Oswald?
4. What was Bangladesh known as before independence?
5. Where is Big Ben housed?
6. What is the collective noun for a group of leopards?

Last week’s lunch (5 February) saw 50 meals served, including 7 home deliveries, and £152 in donations. The Warm Hub has given £50 to help with production costs of both The Tattler and Sunday Email. After paying hall rent and some other costs the balance was added to the Warm Hub Community Fund.

Residents of Topcliffe and Asenby can have a meal delivered if they are housebound – either on a short-term basis because of illness, or longer-term. If you wish to have a meal on the day the Warm Hub is held, please get in touch with Karen Morley on 01845 577426.

Bingo players line up for a full house!

The first bingo session in the Village Hall was held last Wednesday immediately after the Warm Hub lunch and it went extremely well. Sixteen players enjoyed the afternoon, which was organised by Jim Shaw and Doug Allan. Now the plan is to hold further sessions on alternate Wednesdays at 1pm, again just after the Warm Hub lunch. So, the next game of bingo is on Wednesday 19 February.

Chip ‘n’ Dales
The Chip ‘n’ Dales fish and chip van is now back in Topcliffe every Friday 5 to 7pm.

Topcliffe Academy

Friday 14 February – Break up for half term.
Monday 24 February – School re-opens for 2nd half of Spring Term.
Friday 7 March – World Book Day Breakfast.
Thursday 27 March – FOTS School Disco, 5.30 – 7pm.

If you think there is a break-in taking place, please call the police on 999.
If there is something else that needs reporting, please call 01845 577412 and leave a message (this will be picked up) or email admin@topcliffeacademy.org
Or call Elevate Multi Academy Trust on 01423 541996.

The Topcliffe Big Race Night
All tickets for The Big Race Night in the Village Hall on Saturday 22 February had been sold…but during the week two were returned as the buyers can no longer attend. So there’s two tickets available if anyone wants them. A list has been opened for those who would like to attend if any more cancellations are made. If you want to be added to the list email doug@dougallan.co.uk and please include your phone number.

If you are attending the event, make sure you bring your ticket with you as it is numbered and there’ll be a draw for bed & breakfast for two at The Crab Manor Hotel in Asenby.

Winter art classes

The next block of six morning art classes in the Village Hall starts on Monday 24 February. These two-hour classes, from 10 to 12 noon, are ideal for participants of all abilities.
Winter sketch and draw class at the Village Hall on Thursday 27 February from 10am to 2pm.
Paint Beautiful Gardens from around the World in oils on Thursday 27 March from 10.30am to 1.30pm at the Village Hall.

Save the dates or pre-book your space. Suitable for beginners and artists at all levels. For more information and to book, visit http://www.rebeccajayneartist.co.uk

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee
The next meeting of the Village Hall committee will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 18 March in the hall.

Asenby Parish Council
The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be held at 7pm on Wednesday 19 March 2025 in the upper committee room at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

As part of the celebration, our Village Hall is holding an Open Day and A Bite to Eat on Sunday 23 March between 11am and 1pm. There’ll be a presentation on the large screen showing examples of what goes on in the hall every week. And our local North Yorkshire Council representative, Cllr Dan Sladden, and members of the two village Parish Councils are being invited to be present.

Bake to help out!
Nearer the date, the organisers will be asking villagers to help out by baking a cake, scones or sausage rolls. Maybe if you can help out, you might put a note in your diary to remind you to get some ingredients and put a little time aside to have a baking session?

Tickets, priced £15, will go on sale on Monday 17 February from Topcliffe Post Office or Doug Allan (07785 223707). A curry and pudding supper is included. This will be a ‘Bring Your Own Drinks’ event.

Bees and Brunch

Local traders and businesses
See here for a list of businesses and traders based in or close to Topcliffe.

EVENTS ON IN THE AREA

Thirsk Digital Hub

The Digital Hub, which operates at Thirsk Community Library, is a resource to help people who need a little support to understand and handle their digital activities. Digital Buddies are there to assist with queries every Monday and Thursday, and most Saturdays there’s a Digital Cafe at which you can get support whilst enjoying some refreshments. Click the logo below to learn more.

The Ritz Cinema

A Complete Unknown – to Thursday 13 February – matinee Wednesday 12 February.
Flight Risk – Friday 14 to Thursday 20 February. No matinee.
Sonic The Hedgehog 3 – Saturday 15, Sunday 16 and Wednesday 19 February. Start times 2.30pm.
A Real pain – Friday 21 to Thursday 27 February. No matinee.
Paddington in Peru – Saturday 22 and Sunday 23. Start times 2.30pm.
The Brutalist – Friday 28 February and Saturday 1 March.
London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 1 – Climbing & Mountaineering – Sunday 2 March.
Conclave – Monday 3 to Thursday 6 March.
Bridget Jones: Mad about the Boy – Friday 7 to Thursday 13 March. Matinee on Wednesday 12 March.
London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 2 – Snow Sports (Ski and boarding) – Sunday 9 March.
September 5 – Friday 14 to Thursday 20 March
Dog Man – Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 March. Show starts at 2.30pm.
London Mountain Film Festival – Showreel 3 – two Wheels (cycling, mainly off road) – Sunday 16 March.

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

Coming up at Rural Arts in Thirsk

Willow Heart – Wednesday 12 February – 10.30am to 12.30pm. £45.
Enamel Panel – Wednesday 12 February – 10.30am to 12.30pm. £60.
The Idea of North – Tuesday 4 March to Saturday 22 March. North Yorkshire artists respond to author Peter Davidson’s idea that “Everyone carries their own idea of North within them”, using a range of media and styles. This free exhibition is organised by North Yorkshire Open Studios (NYOS). Free admission. 10am – 4pm.

Tickets online at www.ruralarts.org or telephone 01845 526536.

Events at Dalton Village Hall

Pop-up Pub with Fish and Chips – Friday 14 February at 7pm. Contact Eleanor for details on 07841 036340.
Pop-up Cafe – Saturday 22 February at 9.30am until 11.30am. Bacon and/or sausage butties and toasted teacakes for sale. Pop along and enjoy brunch and a chat. All welcome.
Cottage Pie and Pudding Lunch – Sunday 9 March from 12 noon. Tickets available from Judy on 01845 577607.

2-for-1 at Thirsk Hall Sculpture Garden
Visit the Sculpture Garden on Valentine’s Day (Friday 14 February) and get two-for-one entry. You do not need to book both tickets in advance, you can claim your complimentary ticket on the door. 11am-3.30pm (last entry 2.30pm). £9, Student or 60+ £8. Under 16s go free. Book online or just come (50p extra).

Concerts and Events at Ripon Cathedral

The Music of Fleetwood Mac by Candlelight – Friday 14 February at 7.30pm
Take That – tribute group Re-Take That in concert – Friday 14 March at 7.30pm.
Frankie Valley and the Four Seasons – by candlelight – Saturday 1 March at 7.30.
Queen by Candlelight – Friday 16 May at 7.30pm.
Country by Candlelight – Saturday 17 May at 7.30pm
Coldplay by candlelight – Friday 18 July at 7.30pm.

Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/

Repair Cafe
Be greener by avoiding waste and save money by letting a team of dedicated and talented volunteers try to repair your broken or worn-out items all for the cost of a voluntary donation. Saturday 15 February at Thirsk Community Library. 10am-1pm, last customer 12.30pm.

Valentine’s Evening
You are invited to an evening of singing and dancing to celebrate Valentine’s Day on Saturday 15 February at Sessay Village Hall. The popular Cherry Tones will be performing. There’ll be a bar and raffle. Tickets are £10 in advance from Heather Dale on 07467 549302 or £15 on the door.

Thirsk Artisan Market
Thirsk Market Place on Sunday 16 February between 10am and 3pm. An artisan market that wants to help serve local communities with the best artisan stalls, whilst giving traders the best opportunities to showcase and sell their handmade goods.

Fable, Folklore and Fairytales
The 2025 BAMM North mosaic exhibition continues during February at RHS gardens at Harlow Carr, Harrogate. The theme is Fable, Folklore and Fairytales and it’s until 23 February, 10am to 4pm daily. Over 20 members of the regional branch of the British Association for Modern Mosaic have works in the exhibition, including Siobhan Gifford, who lives in Asenby. It is free to enter once you have accessed the gardens.

Tough Old Bird

Plant Fair
There’ll be a spring plant fair at Newburgh Priory near Coxwold on Sunday 6 April.

Quiz answers
1. Tony Blackburn and Flowers in the Rain by The Move
2. Ratcliffe-on-Soar
3. Jack Ruby
4. East Pakistan
5. The Elizabeth Tower
6. A leap

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

Posted on 2 February 20252 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 248

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
doug@dougallan.co.uk

St Columba’s Services

TODAY: Sunday 2 February at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong for Candlemas followed by pre-supper refreshments with wine
Sunday 9 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion with Rev Robert Williamson
Sunday 16 February at 10.45am – Sung Matins
Sunday 23 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion with Rev Robert Williamson
Sunday 2 March at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong followed by pre-supper refreshments with wine
Wednesday 5 March at 7pm – Compline for Ash Wednesday.

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
TODAY – Sunday 2 February – in Thirsk Market Place. All stallholders are local independent businesses who grow, rear or produce the food or drink on their stall. They’re passionate about what they do and it shows. 9am-2pm.

Village Quiz
TONIGHT: Sunday 2 February – the quiz will be held at 8pm in the Village Hall.

Last Sunday’s excellent quiz was set by David and won by The Long Street Mafia – Nigel, Charles and Jim – with a bit of help from Doug. The winning team competed in a decider with The Church Street Crew. The question was: How many MPs did the Conservatives have after the 2024 election? See the answer at the end of today’s email.

Well done the winners and everyone else who took part.

Brilliant Brunch!

Last Sunday’s brunch at the Village Hall was a great success with nearly 100 people turning up for butties, tea and conversation…and raising over £300 for village hall funds. A big thank you to the many volunteers who worked extremely hard serving food and washing up, namely Karen & Malc Morley, Doug Allan, Lynne Mee, Richard Byas and Helen Fothergill. Also a big than you to everyone who popped in to enjoy a morning with friends and neighbours.

Warm Hub Lunch
The next Warm Hub lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 5 February from 11.30 to 12.45pm and then fortnightly thereafter. There’ll be a selection of home-made meals, followed by puddings and tea or coffee. All welcome. There’s no set charge, but donations are welcome to help pay the rental cost of hiring the Village Hall and for essential food and drink items that must be purchased for each lunch.

Warm Hub needs your help
Thank you to those who volunteered to become Warm Hub helpers after last week’s appeal. Half a dozen people put their names forward but a few more volunteers on the list of people she can call upon to help out if the regulars aren’t available would be great. The Warm Hubs are held on alternate Wednesdays in the Village Hall.

Just a reminder that Karen is also looking for more volunteers to occasionally prepare some food for the Warm Hub. It can be a contribution to the main course, such as a stew or lasagne, or a pudding such as a crumble or trifle.

If you can help please contact Karen on 01845 577426.

Bingo in Topcliffe is on the cards
The first bingo session in the Village Hall will be held on a trial basis immediately after the Warm Hub lunch on Wednesday 5 February, starting at 1pm. It’s hoped that some participants attending the lunches will stay on and that other residents will come along just for the bingo.

We will charge 50p per game ticket, meaning the cost of playing one ticket in all 10 games will be £5. Players will, however, be able to purchase as many tickets per game as they wish. Prizes will be calculated according to the amount of cash taken on the day. A cuppa will be provided free of charge during the session.

If this is successful then the idea may be repeated on a fortnightly basis when Warm Hub lunches are held…depending on availability of helpers.

Elm Gallery
Dave and Liz have indicated that the Elm Gallery will be closed until Saturday 8 February.

Cross Talk
The February edition of the church newsletter, Cross Talk, is now out. You can read it here.

Ten ways to keep your home secure
1. Keep an eye on your home – With a full range of security cameras, you can see and hear what’s happening inside and outside of your home.
2. Light up the front drive and garden – Intruders like to operate under cover of darkness, so illuminating the garden when dark is a good way to deter them. It can also make it safer for you and your visitors to navigate.
3. Install a visual security alarm – Having a security alarm on the outside of your house can help to deter intruders.
4. Increase gate and fence security – Don’t give intruders an easy way in thanks to an old gate or blown-over fencing.
5. Safely store spare keys – Say goodbye to leaving spare keys under a pot in the front garden. A wall-mounted key safe securely protects the keys, especially if it’s in a discreet location.
6. See who’s at the door – A smart video doorbell lets you view, listen and speak to visitors even when you’re not at home. Not only can you tell the delivery driver where to put a parcel whilst you are away, they are also handy if you want to check who is at your door either before you answer it or whilst you are out.
7. Secure your outdoor buildings – An outdoor building is often an easy target, so protect yours with secure windows and strong door locks.
8. Protect your bikes; Keep your cycles safe by investing in a bike store. These require less space than a shed but are roomy enough to fit a couple of bikes and can be locked.
9. Think about where to keep your keys – Intruders are known to use magnets to ‘fish’ for house and car keys through a letterbox so keep your keys away from the front door. Keyless cars could be stolen using a transmitter and amplifier. You can help prevent this hi-tech crime by keeping the keys in a metal key box to block signals.
10. Going on holiday? – Don’t forget to also cancel newspapers or milk deliveries so they don’t pile up and ask a friend or neighbour check in on your home whilst you’re away. It’s also a good idea not to advertise your holiday on social media, especially if your posts are public.

Chip ‘n’ Dales
The Chip ‘n’ Dales fish and chip van is now back in Topcliffe every Friday 5 to 7pm.

Topcliffe Academy

Monday 3 February – Special Chinese New Year lunch.
Friday 14 February – Break up for half term.
Monday 24 February – School re-opens for 2nd half of Spring Term.
Friday 7 March – World Book Day Breakfast.
Thursday 27 March – FOTS School Disco, 5.30 – 7pm.

Topcliffe Parish Council
The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be on Thursday 6 February at 7pm in Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

Comedy Night Returns
Hilarity Bites comedy returns to The Angel Inn on Thursday 6 February with host Sully O’Sullivan and comedians MC Hammersmith and Carl Hutchinson. Doors will open at 7:30pm for an 8pm start. Tickets, priced at £12 in advance or £15 on the door, are at The Angel Inn reception or by calling 01845 578000.

Pop-up marmalade stall
Clare Phillips is holding her annual marmalade sale from a pop-up stall outside her home at Asenby Hall, Asenby next Saturday, 8 February from 10am to 12 noon. There’ll be a variety of flavours at a range of prices. Cash only, please. Can’t make it? Contact Clare on 07593135310.

The Topcliffe Big Race Night – SOLD OUT!
All tickets for The Big Race Night in the Village Hall on Saturday 22 February have been sold. A list has been opened for those who would like to attend if any cancellations are made.

If you are attending the event, make sure you bring your ticket with you as it is numbered and there’ll be a draw for bed & breakfast for two at The Crab Manor Hotel in Asenby.

Please don’t bring your own drinks to this event – it is bar sales only. And don’t forget to bring plenty of cash with you. The Village Hall doesn’t have a card machine, so cash payment will be required at the bar, for raffle tickets and betting.

Winter art classes

The next block of six morning art classes in the Village Hall starts on Monday 24 February. These two-hour classes, from 10 to 12 noon, are ideal for participants of all abilities.
Winter sketch and draw class at the Village Hall on Thursday 27 February from 10am to 2pm.
Paint Beautiful Gardens from around the World in oils on Thursday 27 March from 10.30am to 1.30pm at the Village Hall.

Save the dates or pre-book your space. Suitable for beginners and artists at all levels. For more information and to book, visit http://www.rebeccajayneartist.co.uk

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee
The next meeting of the Village Hall committee will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 18 March in the hall.

Asenby Parish Council
The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be held at 7pm on Wednesday 19 March 2025 in the upper committee room at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

Open Day and A Bite to Eat
Village Halls across the UK will be celebrating the vital role they play in their communities and the importance that volunteering has in keeping them operating, during a week-long event which runs from 17 to 23 March. As part of the celebration, our Village Hall is holding an Open Day and A Bite to Eat on Sunday 23 March between 11am and 1pm. There’ll be a presentation on the large screen showing examples of what goes on in the hall every week. And Kevin Hollinrake MP for Thirsk and Malton, our local North Yorkshire Council representative Cllr Dan Sladden and members of the two village Parish Councils are being invited to be present to meet their constituents.

The Flying Oysters
Returning to Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall this spring. Back by popular demand, everyone’s favourite dance band will be appearing on Saturday 29 March. To include supper. Tickets will go on sale mid February.

Local traders and businesses
See here for a list of businesses and traders based in or close to Topcliffe.

EVENTS ON IN THE AREA

Thirsk Digital Hub

The Digital Hub, which operates at Thirsk Community Library, is a resource to help people who need a little support to understand and handle their digital activities. Digital Buddies are there to assist with queries every Monday and Thursday, and most Saturdays there’s a Digital Cafe at which you can get support whilst enjoying some refreshments. Click the logo below to learn more.

The Ritz Cinema

Special event – The Busby & Me – TONIGHT – Sunday 2 February at 7pm – a documentary about the Busby Stoop Inn, with film-maker Wade Radford – . Tickets for this screening were selling fast last week and may have sold out. Check with the cinema.
Nosferatu – to Thursday 6 – February – no matinee.
A Complete Unknown – Friday 7 to Thursday 13 February – matinee Wednesday 12 February.

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

Coming up at Rural Arts in Thirsk

A Taste of Art: Decoupage – Wednesday 5 February – 10.30am to 12.30pm. £20.
Enamel Hare or Brooch – Wednesday 5 February – 10.30am to 12.30pm. £60.
Willow Obelisk – Thursday 6 February – a hands-on willow weaving workshop where you can create a beautiful obelisk planter, perfect for your climbing plants. 10.30am – 12.30pm. £45.
Willow Heart – Wednesday 12 February – 10.30am to 12.30pm. £45.
Enamel Panel – Wednesday 12 February – 10.30am to 12.30pm. £60.
The Idea of North – Tuesday 4 March to Saturday 22 March. North Yorkshire artists respond to author Peter Davidson’s idea that “Everyone carries their own idea of North within them”, using a range of media and styles. This free exhibition is organised by North Yorkshire Open Studios (NYOS). Free admission. 10am – 4pm.

Tickets online at www.ruralarts.org or telephone 01845 526536.

The Lego Show
This popular show is coming back to Thirsk & Sowerby Town Hall on Saturday 8 February from 10am to 4pm. Suitable for all ages, with funds raised to support Holy Rood House in Thirsk.

Events at Dalton Village Hall

Pop-up Pub with Fish and Chips – Friday 14 February at 7pm. Contact Eleanor for details on 07841 036340.
Pop-up Cafe – Saturday 22 February at 9.30am until 11.30am. Bacon and/or sausage butties and toasted teacakes for sale. Pop along and enjoy brunch and a chat. All welcome.
Cottage Pie and Pudding Lunch – Sunday 9 March from 12 noon. Tickets available from Judy on 01845 577607.

Concerts and Events at Ripon Cathedral

The Music of Fleetwood Mac by Candlelight – Friday 14 February at 7.30pm
Take That – tribute group Re-Take That in concert – Friday 14 March at 7.30pm.
Frankie Valley and the Four Seasons – by candlelight – Saturday 1 March at 7.30.
Queen by Candlelight – Friday 16 May at 7.30pm.
Country by Candlelight – Saturday 17 May at 7.30pm

Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/

Repair Cafe
Be greener by avoiding waste and save money by letting a team of dedicated and talented volunteers try to repair your broken or worn-out items all for the cost of a voluntary donation. Saturday 15 February at Thirsk Community Library. 10am-1pm, last customer 12.30pm.

Tough Old Bird

Quiz decider
Well, how did you do? The answer is 121. The winners were closest with 122.

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