Category: Sunday Email

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Sunday Email: Issue 124

Welcome to the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707
Produce Show
Yesterday’s Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show went extremely well and there were plenty of entries in most classes…and lots of people went along to check them out and enjoy the show. The winners were (the links take yo to a photograph):

Thanks to everyone who exhibited and those who popped along to support the show. And a special thank you to Show Secretary Judith Lowe for all her hard work making it happen.
The Topcliffe Big Race Night
The next big event in the village is the Big race Night next Saturday, 10 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. It’s an evening not to be missed. Where else can you get a two course supper, drinks at greatly reduced prices, exciting racing on the big screen, champagne for the winning horse owners, a chance of winning bed & breakfast at The Crab Manor, some fantastic raffle prizes and lots of fun and excitement – all for just £6.

Entry tickets are on sale at from Topcliffe Post Office, Doug Allan (07785 223707) or Judith Lowe in Asenby (01845 577911).

  • Cash bar serving draught beer (£3 per pint), lager (£2 per tin), wine (£12 per bottle) and soft drinks.
  • Eight races on the big screen and champagne for the winning owner.
  • Beef in red wine and crispy dumplings supper or vegetarian alternative, which will be served at about 8.45pm.
  • Each entry ticket is numbered and will be entered in a draw, the winner of which will win a night’s bed and breakfast at Crab Manor Hotel.
  • Doors open at 7pm and the first race is off at 7.30pm.
St Columba’s services

  • TODAY- Sunday 4 September at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong
  • Sunday 11 September at 10.45am – Holy Communion
  • Sunday 18 September at 10.45am – Said Matins
  • Sunday 25 September at 10.45am – Holy Communion
  • Sunday 2 October at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong with Harvest Festival, followed by supper. (Full details in due course).
  • All regular Sunday services conclude with refreshments.
Topcliffe Post Office
The trial opening of the Post Office shop (not the Post Office itself) on Thursday and Friday evenings is going well so will continue for the foreseeable future. Obviously the extra hours until 7pm are proving helpful to customers. Lottery tickets will be available during these evening openings. If the trial continues to work well, the longer hours may be extended to other evenings.

The Post Office is now an Amazon Hub, which means that Amazon parcels can be delivered to the Post Office and then collected…so there’s no need to miss a delivery or have your parcels left out in the rain! The service also includes parcel returns to Amazon.

Due to the high cost of energy, a decision has been taken not to open the hot and cold food bar in the area attached to the Post Office until there’s more certainty about gas and electricity prices. All the equipment that would be required in the bar would be big consumers of energy, so opening now would simply be too risky.
Latest edition of Cross Talk
The latest edition of the parish church newsletter, Cross Talk, has been published. You can read it here.
Thirsk Community Library – Autumn Events
Thirsk Community Library has prepared a comprehensive range of activities for kids as the new school term begins. Details are on this flyer.

At the end of September, the Library is starting an adults games club that will be free, including refreshments. It’ll be an ideal place to go on the darker, colder days and nights, especially as energy bills go sky high! The library will be a good place to go to keep warm and have a cuppa. Check out the flyer here.
Autumn at Thorp Perrow
With summer coming to an end, the first tell-tale signs of autumn are showing at the Arboretum. This is a wonderful time to visit the 100 acre woodlands to see the spectacular colours and spot nature’s harvest of berries, fruits and fungi. There’s also a range of workshops – Fungus Foray; Christmas Wreath making and Willow Weaving a Stag’s Head. Read more on their website: https://www.thorpperrow.com/
Thirsk Farmers’ Market
TODAY – 4 September – Northern Dales Farmers’ Market in the Market Place, Thirsk. It features hand-picked stallholders, so you can be sure that you’re buying from some of the very best food and drink producers in the country. And the best bit – they’re all local small independent family businesses.
http://northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com
Events at The Angel

  • Tuesday 6 September – Hilarity Bites Comedy Club – Doors open at 7.30pm, show starts at 8pm.
  • Saturday 1 October – 2pm until late – Oktoberfest – wide range of German beers, BBQ and live bands. Free entry.
  • More information and tickets from the venue or online at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/
Cycling Tour of Britain
Stage four of the Tour of Britain – between Redcar and Duncombe Park in Helmsley on Wednesday 7 September. Popular seaside towns such as Saltburn-by-the-Sea and Whitby will be raced through before the route heads into the North York Moors National Park. The unforgiving final 30km of this 150km stage will feature climbs up Carlton Bank (2km long, 9.8% average gradient) and Newgate Bank (2km long, 6% average gradient) before descending into the finish at Duncombe Park, one of Yorkshire’s finest historic houses and estates. For more information check out: http://tourofbritain.co.uk/stages/stage-four
Knit and Natter
The next session will be at 1.30pm on Thursday 8 September in the TV lounge at The Angel. The cost for refreshments remains at £3 and everyone is welcome to attend, whether for a knit, just for a natter or both!
Ripley Decorative Home & Salvage Show
Friday 9 to Sunday 11 September – Three-day outdoor boutique style event aimed at those who love to source beautiful pieces for the home and garden. Laid out in marquees and shopping arcades and spilling out onto the lawns. Showcasing hand-picked exhibitors offering original French furniture, British industrial salvage, garden furniture and statuary, period home fixtures and fittings, textiles, and much more. Free parking, on-site catering, a licensed bar and plenty of space. It’s advised that you take cash and card (no cash machine) and your own carrier bags. Large purchases can be collected by vehicle.
Friday: 12 noon – 5pm £10 per person; Saturday: 10am – 5pm, £7.50 per person; Sunday: 10am – 5pm, £7.50 per person. Accompanied under 16s admitted free. Dogs on leads welcome.
Tesco Petrol Station, Thirsk
Just a reminder that Tesco’s petrol station in Thirsk is closed for refurbishment until Saturday 10 September.
Baldersby St James – Book Sale
The Book Sale is on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September – open from 10am to 5pm each day. If anyone has books to donate for the sale just drop them into the church. Lots of helpers are needed from Thursday 8th to put out books, and on Sunday 11th to tidy up. If you can help please email Susan Brown at c.b.brown398
North Yorkshire County Show
The annual show will be staged at Otterington Hall, South Otterington (DL7 9HW) on Sunday 11 September from 8am. £35 family, £12 adult, £9 child, under 5s free. Buy online or at various outlets, see website –
http://www.northyorkshireshow.co.uk
Closure of Sutton Bank
Sutton Bank on the A170 between Helmsley and Thirsk will be closed from 7am on Sunday, 11 September until 7pm on Sunday, 2 October to allow for the most extensive maintenance programme in its recent history.

On 21 and 22 September, road maintenance will also take place on the A170 Sutton Road between Felixkirk Road and Moor Lane. Access to Sutton-under-Whitestonecliffe will be maintained, but road users are being warned of delays. Apologies for any inconvenience during both closures.
Asenby Parish Council
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 12 September at 7pm at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

A new village Facebook group has been set up and all residents are invited to join it: https://www.facebook.com/groups/457016899263420/?ref=share_group_link

You can contact Asenby Parish Council at asenbypc or via the Facebook page.
Horse Racing at Thirsk
The last meeting of the season is on the afternoon of Monday 12 September. Gates open at 11am. Book online at https://www.thirskracecourse.net
The Tattler – Autumn Issue
The autumn edition of The Tattler will be published on Tuesday 13 September and distributed door to door in Topcliffe and Asenby over the following few days.
Topcliffe Village Hall Committee Meeting
The next meeting of Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee will be on Tuesday 13 September at 7.30pm.
Soup & sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 14 September at 12 noon. Cash raised at this lunch will be donated to Herriot Hospice. Last week’s lunch raised £79 for the Boot Shop charity in Easingwold.
The Repair Cafe
On Saturday, 17 September, you can get your broken items repaired, learn how things are made and chat over a cup of tea or coffee at The Repair Cafe. It’s at the rear of the Community Works re-use store in Thirsk. Be greener by avoiding creating waste and also saving money by letting a team of dedicated and talented volunteers try to repair your broken or ‘worn out’ items.10.30am to 12.30pm. Voluntary donation for repairs undertaken – https://www.repaircafe.org/en
The Catton Kitchen

  • Market Garden Pie Night – Saturday 17 September – more details to be announced soon. Make a note in your diary!
  • Yoga classes are held each Sunday morning between 9am until 10am. It doesn’t matter what level you are at as this class will teach you along the way. Everybody is welcome. £9 for the hour (children free). If you are interested, ring the number below.
  • Check out the range of ready meals using homegrown vegetables and home-reared meat.

Check out Facebook and Instagram for more information.
Or call 07747 083155 http://www.thecattonkitchen.co.uk
Helperby Beer Festival
It’s been three years since the last beer festival in Helperby…but it’s back on Saturday 17 September starting 12.30pm. It’ll be better than ever with a huge choice of amazing and cool beers and lagers, wine bar, prosecco & gin bar, and food. There’ll be a great music line up including Rory Hoy, Chu Ma Shu, The Bootleggers, Borderline, All the King’s Men, The Feds, What the Duck and Mark Stevenson.

Check out the festival Facebook page for more details. https://www.facebook.com/HelperbyBeerFest/

Tickets and vouchers for food and drink are available online now.
What’s on at The RItz

  • Bullet Train – To Thursday 8 September (No matinees).
  • Fisherman’s Friends: One And All – Friday 9 to Thursday 15 September (Matinee on Wednesday 14 September).
  • Nope – Friday 16 to Thursday 22 September (No Matinees).
  • Three Thousand Years of Longing – Friday 23 to Thursday 29 September (Matinee on Wednesday 28 September).

Updates: Please keep checking the website for the latest details – https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/
St John’s Church, Skipton on Swale
Sunday 18 September at 4pm – Sadly St John’s Church is holding its final service before officially closing on 1 October. Bishop Paul Ferguson will be leading the service. Everyone is welcome to come along for one last service commemorating the life of this church and the many people who have worshipped there over the years. Refreshments will be served after the service.
Yard Sale
There’s to be a yard sale in Topcliffe on Sunday 25 September. Sally Machen is behind the idea and she held a ballot on Top Residents to find the preferred date. Anyone can join in and its free to participate. All you have to do is set up a stall outside your home from which you can offer for sale all the bits and pieces that you want to get rid of. It’s a great way to raise a bit of extra cash and meet friends and neighbours. There are only a few basic rules: please don’t block pavements with stalls, chairs or queues and no selling business products.
Dalton Events
Here are details of a few events coming up in Dalton village:

  • Harvest Service and Supper – Friday 16 September at 7pm – Dalton Parish Church.
  • Annual Vintage Teas – Saturday 17 September, 2 to 4pm in the Parish Church. Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with sandwiches and cakes.
  • Pop-Up Cafe – Saturday 24 September from 9.30am until 11.30am in the Village Hall. There will be bacon and sausage sandwiches and cups of tea and coffee on sale. As an extra, there will be a free training session on the use of the defibrillator taking place in the committee room.
  • Domino Drive – Saturday 24 September at 7pm – In the Village Hall. All welcome. Proceeds will be in aid of church funds.
  • 80s Evening – Saturday 1 October from 7pm – an 80s evening with disco and fancy dress in the Village Hall. Tickets are £5 on the door.
An evening with Jonathan Moseley
Well-known floral designer and horticultural expert Jonathan Moseley will be giving a talk and demonstration at Baldersby St James’s church at 7.30pm on Tuesday 4 October. Tickets are £10 and refreshments are included. Contact rebecca.foster757@btinternet.com
New Fitness Class in Village Hall
Fitness Instructor Lianne Ayling will launch an indoor class at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Tuesday 4 October. She’ll be starting a programme that rotates on a three-weekly basis between Bodyblast (small handweights), Kettlehiit (using Kettlebells) and Legs, Bums and Tums. These classes are child/buggy friendly so parents can come along with their children.

Contact can be made via her Facebook page. If you would like to join this class or for any others Lianne provides, use the link below and use the code FIRSTCLASS50 for 50% off! Link- https://linktr.ee/lianneayling
Christmas Fayre
This year the Christmas Fayre will be held at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Saturday 12 November. Bookings for stalls now are being taken. They’re just £5 each – that’s much cheaper than the price stallholders have to pay at other Christmas events in our area. There’ll be more about this event nearer the date.
St James Coffee and Chat
The weekly coffee and chat session is at the church in Baldersby St James Tuesday mornings between 10am and 12 noon. A popular morning to meet friends old and new…and to swap your books at the same time.
Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:
Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.
Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

  • Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursdays 8 and 22 September.
  • Refuse – Mondays 12 and 26 September.

Harrogate (Asenby):

  • Refuse – Mondays 5 and 19 September.
  • Garden waste – Thursdays 8 and 22 September.
  • Recycling – Mondays 12 and 26 September.
That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on by

Sunday Email: Issue 123

Welcome to the Sunday Email. I hope you are all enjoying the Bank Holiday weekend.
Doug
07785 223707
The 2022 Topcliffe and Asenby Produce Show
Next Saturday – 3 September at the Village Hall. Any resident of Topcliffe and Asenby, as well as individuals who grow produce on allotments within the boundaries of our two villages, can put entries in the show. There’ll be horticultural classes, as well as baking/preserves classes, floral classes, hobbies classes and classes just for children to enter. The full list of rules, categories and classes is available on both village websites – http://www.topcliffe.org.uk and http://www.asenby.net or from Produce Show Secretary Judith Lowe (577911).

  • Entries must be registered at the village hall between 9 and 11.30am on the day.
  • Entry fee of 50p per adult exhibit and 25p per child exhibit.
  • Judging between 12 noon and 2pm.
  • Public viewing from 2pm.
  • Presentation of trophies and raffle draw at 3pm.
The Topcliffe Big Race Night – Saturday 10 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open at 7pm and the first race is off at 7.30pm.

Everything is in place. All that is needed now are people to buy their tickets and then they can look forward to a great fun evening. So, if you’re planning to attend, please get your ticket now so that the organisers can be confident about numbers for catering. Entry tickets are on sale at just £6 each from Topcliffe Post Office, Doug Allan (07785 223707) or Judith Lowe in Asenby (01845 577911).

  • There’ll be a cash bar serving draught beer (£3 per pint), lager (£2 per tin), wines (£12 per bottle) and soft drinks.
  • There’ll be eight races on the big screen and champagne for the winning owner.
  • Entry includes a beef in red wine and crispy dumplings supper or vegetarian alternative, which will be served at about 8.45pm.
  • Each entry ticket is numbered and will be entered in a draw, the winner of which will win a night’s bed and breakfast at Crab Manor Hotel.
  • There are some fantastic raffle prizes to be won.
St Columba’s services

  • TODAY- Sunday 28 August at 10.45am – will be Sung Matins (not Holy Communion as previously announced, due to the priest being called away elsewhere at the last minute)
  • Sunday 4 September at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong
  • Sunday 11 September at 10.45am – Holy Communion
  • Sunday 18 September at 10.45am – Said Matins
  • Sunday 25 September at 10.45am – Holy Communion
  • Sunday 2 October at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong with Harvest Festival, followed by supper. (Full details in due course).
  • All regular Sunday services conclude with refreshments.
An appeal for help with St Columba’s churchyard grass cutting – by John Phillips
"As people will have noticed members of the church congregation have not been able to cut the grass in the churchyard as regularly as they would have liked this year. Having already spent over £1,000 on grass and tree maintenance, they have decided to leave much of the yard ‘wild’ with, hopefully, an increased variety of meadow flowers.

"However, there are a few main areas and paths that will be cut regularly and I have recently started doing this. I will try to commit to cutting once or twice a month in season, but there will be times, such as the next three to four weeks, when I shall be unavailable. So I am hoping there might be a local volunteer or two who could offer help from time to time or even more regularly.

"At the moment, the church doesn’t have a lawn mower to offer, but there will be one for next season. So, for the remainder of this growing season any volunteer would need to bring their own machine. To give some idea of the scale of the task, the cut completed yesterday, with a trusty small Hayter (not self-propelled), took an hour and fifteen minutes, including collecting and removing the cuttings to the composting bins on the lower terraces. It is hoped that the time taken might be improved upon as more regular cutting takes place and eventually, with additional help it will be possible to open up additional paths."

Just a word of warning to potential mowers: cutting the grass above the church wall at the lower end of Church Street might be dangerous for some, so anyone with concerns about doing this safely, should not proceed, but just leave this area as it is.

If you have a mower and can help in September please get in touch with John at johnphillips05 and also do let him know if you might be able to help next year when there is an on-site mower.
Newburgh Priory Plant Fair
TOMORROW – Monday 29 August from 11am to 4pm – Go along and be enchanted at the plant fair held within the beautiful gardens and grounds of Newburgh Priory. There will be select plant growers presenting a huge selection of plants for sale. Afterwards enjoy home-made savouries and cakes in the old Refectory Cafe. Last entry 3pm. Tickets £4 per adult, children free. On the gate or in advance from https://www.flowerpowerfairs.co.uk
Events at The Angel

  • TOMORROW – 29 August – 12noon until 5pm, BBQ, children’s games and lots of fun! Free entry.
  • Tuesday 6 September – Hilarity Bites Comedy Club – Doors open at 7.30pm, show starts at 8pm.
  • Saturday 1 October – 2pm until late – Oktoberfest – wide range of German beers, BBQ and live bands. Free entry.
  • More information and tickets from the venue or online at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/
A Thank You
Nikki, Sam, Georgina and Edward Key wish to thank all those who attended Garry’s funeral last Wednesday afternoon and for the very generous donations to Herriot Hospice Homecare.
Great support for Ukraine
Last Wednesday was Ukraine Independence Day. Ukraine is in turmoil and people are experiencing huge problems because of the war. To mark the day locally and to raise some funds for the Disasters’ Emergency Committee (DEC), which is undertaking some valuable work in the country, Sahra Rayner of Willow View Farm in Topcliffe placed vases of sunflowers on the forecourt of The Elm Gallery and invited people to take some in exchange for a donation. Gallery owner Liz Marsh baked some sunflower buns and provided a cup of tea or coffee to all visitors. On the day an amazing £175 was raised. A huge thank you to Sahra and Liz…and to all who supported this wonderful event.
Asenby News – 10th edition
Young Oliver Robertson has published the 10th edition of his popular newsletter for residents of Asenby. You can read a copy here.
Tesco Petrol Station, Thirsk
The petrol station will be closed for refurbishment from Tuesday 30 August to Saturday 10 September.
Yard Sale
There’s to be a yard sale in Topcliffe on Sunday 25 September. Sally Machen is behind the idea and she held a ballot on Top Residents to find the preferred date. Anyone can join in and its free to participate. All you have to do is set up a stall outside your home from which you can offer for sale all the bits and pieces that you want to get rid of. It’s a great way to raise a bit of extra cash and meet friends and neighbours. There are only a few basic rules: please don’t block pavements with stalls, chairs or queues and no selling business products.
Children’s summer holiday events
A wide range of children’s activities is being held at Thirsk Community Library over the school holidays.

  • Tuesday 30 August – Lego and Duplo drop in. 2 to 4pm. Come and make your own creations. All ages welcome and under 8s need to be accompanied by an adult. Just turn up. Free.
  • Friday 2 September – Warhammer War Gaming taster session. 10.30 to 11.30am. Free session to find out what war gaming is all about. Suitable for children 7+ and no booking needed. Just turn up.

Pre-booking is required for some activities: Telephone 01609 534589 or call into the library.
Soup & sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 31 August at 12 noon. Cash raised at this lunch will be donated to the Boot Shop charity in Easingwold.
Yorkshire Water Hosepipe Ban
There’s a drought officially declared in Yorkshire and last Friday saw the start of a temporary hosepipe ban. It is now against the law to use a hosepipe to water gardens, clean cars or boats, fill ponds, hot tubs or pools, wash buildings or clean paths or patios. Anyone breaking the ban faces a fine of up to £1,000.
Closure of Sutton Bank
North Yorkshire County Council has announced that Sutton Bank on the A170 between Helmsley and Thirsk will be closed from 7am on Sunday, 11 September until 7pm on Sunday, 2 October to allow for the most extensive maintenance programme in its recent history. The highways team will be surveying the entire slope, stabilising the south hairpin bend to prevent landslips and carrying out essential maintenance on the rock face to prevent any falls. The work will ensure that the bank remains structurally sound and hopefully reduce the need for longer closures in the future.

The official diversion will not follow the caravan route and instead the route will be – A19 south from Thirsk to York Ring Road, east along York Ring Road to junction with A64, or north on A64, joining A169 to Pickering, and back onto the A170. Access to homes on Sutton Bank will be maintained whenever possible. However, due to the nature of the works there may be times when access is restricted.

On 21 and 22 September, road maintenance will also take place on the A170 Sutton Road between Felixkirk Road and Moor Lane. Access to Sutton-under-Whitestonecliffe will be maintained, but road users are being warned of delays. Apologies for any inconvenience during both closures.
Topcliffe Post Office
Don’t forget that the Post Office shop (not the Post Office itself) is opening late on Thursday and Friday evenings to see if the extra hours are helpful for customers. The shop will stay open until 7pm. Lottery tickets will be available during these evening openings. If the trial works well, the longer hours may be extended to Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday openings.

The Post Office is now an Amazon Hub, which means that Amazon parcels can be delivered to the Post Office and then collected…so there’s no need to miss a delivery or have your parcels left out in the rain! The service also includes parcel returns to Amazon.

The hot and cold food bar attached to the Post Office will be opening soon. Watch out for more details.

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
Industrial action update – On Wednesday 31 August there will be disruption to the delivery and collection of mail, the processing of cheques and services such as travel money on the above dates Royal Mail and Parcelforce have suspended all guarantees for timed delivery products eg Special Delivery. Banking services will, however, operate as normal.
The energy cost rises just get worse and worse
The bill that every household pays for gas and electricity is set to rise by 80% as the energy price cap lifts in October, the energy regulator Ofgem has announced. The average household’s annual bill will rise to £3,549 from 1 October 2022, up from the current cap of £1,971. The change means that householders on a typical default tariff will pay an extra £1,578 a year for their gas and electricity. This figure is based on average household usage – some will pay less than this, while others will pay more.
Music at Junction 50
Thursday 1 September at 7pm – Sirocco Winds – five young talented musicians of the highest quality will perform a wide range of music and will speak about the music they play and why it is important to them. £10 including refreshments. For tickets telephone01765 640624 or on the door on the day.
Sutton Bank Star Hub
Sutton Bank National Park Centre is holding a special astronomical treat – Milky Way Night and Summer Stars – on the night of Saturday 3 September. Local astronomer Richard Darn will be breaking out the big telescopes to go on a cosmic voyage, with targets including the beautiful Milky Way and summer
constellations. He’ll also reveal the most distant object you can see – the Andromeda galaxy – plus an interactive planetarium tour. Tickets online at http://tinyurl.com/milkywaynight
Horse Racing at Thirsk

  • Saturday 3 September – Ladies Day. Gates open at 11am.
  • Monday 12 September – Afternoon Racing & Season Finale. Gates open at 11am.

Book online at https://www.thirskracecourse.net
Thirsk Farmers’ Market
The next Northern Dales Farmers’ Market will be held in the Market Place on Sunday 4 September. It features hand-picked stallholders, so you can be sure that you’re buying from some of the very best food and drink producers in the country. And the best bit – they’re all local small independent family businesses.
http://northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com
Cycling Tour of Britain
Stage four of the Tour of Britain will take place between Redcar and Duncombe Park in Helmsley on Wednesday 7 September. It will be the first time the borough of Redcar & Cleveland has hosted the Tour of Britain, while the finish marks the race’s return to North Yorkshire after a thirteen year gap. Popular seaside towns such as Saltburn-by-the-Sea and Whitby will be raced through before the route heads into the North York Moors National Park. The unforgiving final 30km of this 150km stage will feature climbs up Carlton Bank (2km long, 9.8% average gradient) and Newgate Bank (2km long, 6% average gradient) before descending into the finish at Duncombe Park, one of Yorkshire’s finest historic houses and estates. For more information check out: http://tourofbritain.co.uk/stages/stage-four
Knit and Natter
The next session will be at 1.30pm on Thursday 8 September in the TV lounge at The Angel. The cost for refreshments remains at £3 and everyone is welcome to attend, whether for a knit, just for a natter or both!
Ripley Decorative Home & Salvage Show
Friday 9 to Sunday 11 September – Three-day outdoor boutique style event aimed at those who love to source beautiful pieces for the home and garden. Laid out in marquees and shopping arcades and spilling out onto the lawns. Showcasing hand-picked exhibitors offering original French furniture, British industrial salvage, garden furniture and statuary, period home fixtures and fittings, textiles, and much more. Free parking, on-site catering, a licensed bar and plenty of space. It’s advised that you take cash and card (no cash machine) and your own carrier bags. Large purchases can be collected by vehicle.
Friday: 12 noon – 5pm £10 per person; Saturday: 10am – 5pm, £7.50 per person; Sunday: 10am – 5pm, £7.50 per person. Accompanied under 16s admitted free. Dogs on leads welcome.
Baldersby St James – Book Sale
The Book Sale is on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September – open from 10am to 5pm each day. If anyone has books to donate for the sale just drop them into the church. Lots of helpers are needed from Thursday 8th to put out books, and on Sunday 11th to tidy up. If you can help please email Susan Brown at c.b.brown398
North Yorkshire County Show
The annual show will be staged at Otterington Hall, South Otterington (DL7 9HW) on Sunday 11 September from 8am. £35 family, £12 adult, £9 child, under 5s free. Buy online or at various outlets, see website –
http://www.northyorkshireshow.co.uk
Asenby Parish Council
The next Parish Council meeting will be on Monday 12 September at 7pm at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

A new village Facebook group has been set up and all residents are invited to join it: https://www.facebook.com/groups/457016899263420/?ref=share_group_link

You can contact Asenby Parish Council at asenbypc or via the Facebook page.
Topcliffe Village Hall Committee Meeting
The next meeting of Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee will be on Tuesday 13 September at 7.30pm.
The Repair Cafe
On Saturday, 17 September, you can get your broken items repaired, learn how things are made and chat over a cup of tea or coffee at The Repair Cafe. It’s at the rear of the Community Works re-use store in Thirsk. Be greener by avoiding creating waste and also saving money by letting a team of dedicated and talented volunteers try to repair your broken or ‘worn out’ items.10.30am to 12.30pm. Voluntary donation for repairs undertaken – https://www.repaircafe.org/en
Helperby Beer Festival
It’s been three years since the last beer festival in Helperby…but it’s back on Saturday 17 September starting 12.30pm. It’ll be better than ever with a huge choice of amazing and cool beers and lagers, wine bar, prosecco & gin bar, and food. There’ll be a great music line up including Rory Hoy, Chu Ma Shu, The Bootleggers, Borderline, All the King’s Men, The Feds, What the Duck and Mark Stevenson.

Check out the festival Facebook page for more details. https://www.facebook.com/HelperbyBeerFest/

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

Contact can be made via her Facebook page. If you would like to join this class or for any others Lianne provides, use the link below and use the code FIRSTCLASS50 for 50% off! Link- https://linktr.ee/lianneayling
Christmas Fayre
This year the Christmas Fayre will be held at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Saturday 12 November. Bookings for stalls now are being taken. They’re just £5 each – that’s much cheaper than the price stallholders have to pay at other Christmas events in our area. There’ll be more about this event nearer the date.
St James Coffee and Chat
The weekly coffee and chat session is at the church in Baldersby St James Tuesday mornings between 10am and 12 noon. A popular morning to meet friends old and new…and to swap your books at the same time.
What’s on at The RItz

  • DC League of Super Pets – Friday 26 August to Thursday 1 September (Matinees on Saturday 27, Sunday 28 and Wednesday 31 August).
  • Bullet Train – Friday 2 to Thursday 8 September (No matinees).
  • Fisherman’s Friends: One And All – Friday 9 to Thursday 15 September (Matinee on Wednesday 14 September).
  • Nope – Friday 16 to Thursday 22 September (No Matinees).
  • Three Thousand Years of Longing – Friday 23 to Thursday 29 September (Matinee on Wednesday 28 September).

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

  • Yoga classes are held each Sunday morning between 9am until 10am. It doesn’t matter what level you are at as this class will teach you along the way. Everybody is welcome. £9 for the hour (children free). If you are interested, ring the number below.
  • Check out the range of ready meals using homegrown vegetables and home-reared meat.

Check out Facebook and Instagram for more information.
Or call 07747 083155 http://www.thecattonkitchen.co.uk
Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:
Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.
Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

  • Refuse – Tuesday 30 August (one day later than usual) and Mondays 12 and 26 September.
  • Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursdays 8 and 22 September.

Harrogate (Asenby):

  • Recycling – Tuesday 30 August (one day later than usual) and Mondays 12 and 26 September.
  • Refuse – Mondays 5 and 19 September.
  • Garden waste – Thursdays 8 and 22 September.
That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on by

Sunday Email: Issue 122

Welcome to the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707
The Topcliffe Big Race – Saturday 10 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open at 7pm and the first race is off at 7.30pm.

Everything is in place. All that is needed now are people to buy their tickets and then they can look forward to a great fun evening. So, if you’re planning to attend, please get your ticket now so that the organisers can be confident about numbers for catering. Entry tickets are on sale at just £6 each from Topcliffe Post Office, Doug Allan (07785 223707) or Judith Lowe in Asenby (01845 577911).

  • There’ll be a cash bar serving draught beer (£3 per pint), lager (£2 per tin), wines (£12 per bottle) and soft drinks.
  • There’ll be eight races on the big screen and champagne for the winning owner.
  • Entry includes a beef in red wine and crispy dumplings supper or vegetarian alternative, which will be served at about 8.45pm. Each entry ticket is numbered and will be entered in a draw, the winner of which will win a night’s bed and breakfast at Crab Manor Hotel.
  • There are some fantastic prizes to be won on the raffle.
The 2022 Produce Show
Just two weeks to go to the Topcliffe and Asenby Produce Show. It will take place at the Village Hall on Saturday 3 September. Any resident of Topcliffe and Asenby, as well as individuals who grow produce on allotments within the boundaries of our two villages, can put entries in the show. There’ll be 47 horticultural classes, as well as 16 baking/preserves classes, three floral classes, 10 hobbies classes and five classes just for children to enter. The full list of rules, categories and classes are available on both village websites – http://www.topcliffe.org.uk and http://www.asenby.net or from Produce Show Secretary Judith Lowe (577911).
Asenby Parish Council
Last Sunday, Asenby’s parish councillors walked around Asenby village to check out a number of issues which had been raised at the last meeting of the council. These included: the Bank Top footpath, the playing field, location of litter bins, traffic issues, Green End parking. These issues will be discussed at the next Parish Council meeting on Monday 12 September at 7pm at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

A new village Facebook group has been set up at https://www.facebook.com/groups/457016899263420/?ref=share_group_link It would be great to see as many Asenby residents as possible on the group.

You can contact your Parish Council at asenbypc or via the Facebook page.
St Columba’s services

  • TODAY- Sunday 21 August at 10.45am – Sung Matins
  • Sunday 28 August at 10.45am – Holy Communion
  • Sunday 4 September at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong.

All services conclude with refreshments.
Thirsk Garden Centre Summer Market
TODAY – Sunday 21 August – is the second day of the garden centre’s Summer Market. There are lots of stallholders featuring independent businesses from the area and further afield. Also serving Gardener’s Afternoon Tea at just £8.50 and a 20% discount off plants, BBQs, water features and furniture.
Funeral of Garry Key
A final mention and reminder that the funeral of former Topcliffe Parish Council chairman, Garry Key, will take place at 1pm on Wednesday 24 August at Maple Park Crematorium, near Skipton Bridge. Everyone is welcome to attend.
A MESSAGE FROM DAVE & LIZ AT THE ELM GALLERY
Next Wednesday is Ukraine Independence Day and it’s a very special day in that country. Some of you will be aware that we have a Ukrainian guest, Nataliia, living with us and we know that Independence Day is very important to her, especially since the Russian invasion. We know from Nataliia that life in Ukraine is still very far from normal and people are experiencing huge problems because of the war.

Last week we had a message (see below) from Sahra Rayner of Willow View Farm in Topcliffe asking if she could put some sunflowers in front of the gallery next Wednesday and we are delighted to help. We will be baking some sunflower buns for anyone visiting the gallery on Wednesday and we’ll also provide a cup of tea or coffee to go with it. If you wish to make a donation for the refreshments, the money will be sent to the Disasters’ Emergency Committee for their valuable work in Ukraine.

Message from Sahra Rayner, Willow View Farm, Topcliffe
24 August is Ukraine’s Independence Day. It’s been thirty one years since their independence from Russia in 1991 and sadly six months since the invasion started. ‘Flowers from the Farm’ (https://www.flowersfromthefarm.co.uk/about-us/) has been asked by the Cabinet Office to support the UK-wide campaign and as a member I want to show my support. I’ve grown some beautiful sunflowers in my flower field this year and a selection will be available at The Elm Gallery next Wednesday 24 August. Please take a free bunch whilst available, leave a donation if you wish. Please do a selfie with your sunflowers or take a photo of your sunflowers at home and share with the hashtag #sunflowersforukraine to show your support to Ukraine and their special day.
Post Office shop trials longer opening hours
The Thursday and Friday late opening of the shop at the Post Office (not Post Office services, which will continue to close at 5pm) will continue until further notice. The shop will stay open until 7pm. Lottery tickets will be available during these evening openings. If the trial works well, the longer hours may be extended to Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday openings.

It’s hoped that clearance will be given in the next week or so for the Post Office to become an Amazon Hub, which means that Amazon parcels can be delivered to the Post Office and then collected…so there’s no need to miss a delivery or have your parcels left out in the rain! The service also includes parcel returns to Amazon.

The hot and cold food bar attached to the Post Office will be opening soon. Watch out for more details.
Fishing at The Sheepwash, Topcliffe
Most long-term residents of Topcliffe will know of the Sheepwash and are likely to have some idea about who owns it and who can fish from its banks. But those who have more recently moved into the village might like a bit of information. The Sheepwash is an area of land to the left off Catton Lane (about 100m down from The Swan) and it stretches to the River Swale. It is signposted and there are benches for visitors to sit and look at the tranquil river scene. The land and the associated fishing rights are owned by Topcliffe Parish Council and Topcliffe residents have the right to fish there. At one time many years ago, residents’ guests were also allowed to fish but this rule was changed as it was virtually impossible to police.

In the main, the Sheepwash is a peaceful place but now and again the presence of fishermen who quite clearly have no right to be there, can cause concern. It’s not unknown for minor disputes to develop between local residents and trespassing anglers…and some fishermen can be upset when residents’ dogs decide to swim in the water and disturb the fishing! But the fact is that there’s no excuse for illegal fishing: the Parish Council’s private fishing signs are quite explicit.
Yorkshire Water introduces Hosepipe Ban
Last week a drought was officially declared in Yorkshire and this week sees the start of a temporary hosepipe ban throughout the entire county of Yorkshire. From Friday 26 August Yorkshire Water will introduce its first hosepipe ban for 27 years as reservoir levels fall below 50% of their normal capacity. Over 5 million customers will be affected and anyone breaking the ban faces a fine of up to £1,000. You can read the full list of banned activities here.
Energy Price Shocker
Ofgem, the energy regulator, is due to announce the next energy price cap this coming Friday, 26 August. It will come into effect from 1 October and it will remain at the announced level until 31 December. Last week, an energy consulting firm predicted an increase in the cap could see the typical energy bill reach £4,266 per year by January 2023. This comes after another surge in wholesale energy prices and confirmation from the regulator that the energy cap review would move from a biannual to a quarterly event, meaning new caps will be introduced more regularly.

As the market is in crisis, with wholesale prices at unprecedented highs, there is nothing meaningfully cheaper than price-capped tariffs, so the vast majority of consumers are having to face up to the steep increases. If you want to learn more about the energy price cap and what it means for consumers, a good place to start is Martin Lewis’s Money Saving Expert website.
Christmas Fayre
This year the Christmas Fayre will be held at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Saturday 12 November. Bookings for stalls now are being taken. They’re just £5 each – that’s much cheaper than the price stallholders have to pay at other Christmas events in our area. There’ll be more about this event nearer the date.
Knit and Natter
The next session will be at 1.30pm on Thursday 25 August in the TV lounge at The Angel. The cost for refreshments remains at £3 and everyone is welcome to attend, whether for a knit, just for a natter or both!
Soup & sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 31 August at 12 noon. Cash raised at this lunch will be donated to the Boot Shop charity in Easingwold. The last lunch raised £70 for Community Works Thirsk.
Covid booster jab on its way
The second booster jab (fourth vaccination in total) will be rolled out starting early September. Care home residents and people who are housebound will be among the first to be vaccinated from September 5 and a wider rollout to all over-50s will start on September 12. Individuals will be contacted by the NHS when it is their turn to get the jab.
RAF Leeming
Here’s a reminder that this week we’ll see increased aircraft movement out of RAF Leeming. It’s a major air and ground exercise taking place from 23 August to 23 September 2022. Low flying for short periods may be necessary, along with 24-hour operations. A spokesperson said: "The airfield understands its responsibility as good neighbours and hopes residents will bear with it as these additional flying activities take place. Every effort will be made to keep disturbance to a minimum".
New Fitness Class in Village Hall
Lianne Ayling, who currently runs a range of outdoor fitness classes at the Sowerby Sports Village Track, is planning to launch an indoor class at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall this autumn. From Tuesday 4 October she’ll be starting a programme that rotates on a three-weekly basis between Bodyblast (small handweights), Kettlehiit (using Kettlebells) and Legs, Bums and Tums. These classes are child/buggy friendly so parents can come along with their children.

Contact can be made via her Facebook page. If you would like to join this class or for any others Lianne provides, use the link below and use the code FIRSTCLASS50 for 50% off! Link- https://linktr.ee/lianneayling
Topcliffe Village Hall Committee Meeting
The next meeting of Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee will be on Tuesday 13 September at 7.30pm.
St James Coffee and Chat
There’s a weekly coffee and chat session held at the church in Baldersby St James Tuesday mornings between 10am and 12 noon. A popular morning to meet friends old and new…and to swap your books at the same time.
The Ritz Cinema

  • Charlie Chaplin’s ‘A Dog’s Life’ and a selection of new short films by students of the acclaimed National Film and Television School will be accompanied live by a 13-piece orchestra, conducted by Benjamin Ellin. This is a Thirsk Hall Festival event. Today starting at 3pm. Tickets £10, under 16s £5 on the door or in advance from: https://www.thirskhall.com/thirsk-hall-festival
  • Where the Crawdads Sing – To Thursday 25 August (No Sunday evening show. Matinee Wednesday 24 August).

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

  • Friday 26 August – All Creatures Great and Small Family Day. Gates open at 11am.
  • Saturday 3 September – Ladies Day. Gates open at 11am.
  • Monday 12 September – Afternoon Racing & Season Finale. Gates open at 11am.

And to attract families to the racecourse, there’s now a family ticket for two adults and accompanied children for the Grandstand paddock for just £20. Book online at https://www.thirskracecourse.net
Children’s summer holiday events
A wide range of children’s activities is being held at Thirsk Community Library over the school holidays.

  • Thursday 25 August – Pin Ups. 2 to 3pm. Join local artist Chris Jeeson to create your own pin up and pop-up books. Children aged 5+ years. £2 per child. Booking essential.
  • Tuesday 30 August – Lego and Duplo drop in. 2 to 4pm. Come and make your own creations. All ages welcome and under 8s need to be accompanied by an adult. Just turn up. Free.
  • Friday 2 September – Warhammer War Gaming taster session. 10.30 to 11.30am. Free session to find out what war gaming is all about. Suitable for children 7+ and no booking needed. Just turn up.

Pre-booking is required for some activities: Telephone 01609 534589 or call into the library.
Events at The Catton Kitchen
Here’s news of a few events planned at The Catton Kitchen over the coming weeks:

  • Yoga classes are held each Sunday morning between 9am until 10am. It doesn’t matter what level you are at as this class will teach you along the way. Everybody is welcome. £9 for the hour (children free). If you are interested, ring the number below.
  • Check out the range of ready meals using homegrown vegetables and home-reared meat.

Check out Facebook and Instagram for more information. Or call 07747 083155
http://www.thecattonkitchen.co.uk
Concerts at Thorp Perrow
Last chance to get tickets for Flash! A tribute to Queen, which is on Friday 26 August. Gates open at 7.30pm. Performance starts at 8.30pm and ends at 10.45pm. Picnics can be taken in, but there’s also hot and cold food and drinks on sale. Tickets via the website at: https://www.thorpperrow.com/
Wensleydale Show
Held in Leyburn just off the A6108 Leyburn to Richmond road on Saturday 27 August. Family (2+3) £25, Adult £10, Child (5-16) £5, Under 5s free. Online or at the gate: https://www.wensleydaleshow.org.uk
Fireworks Champions
This annual event at Newby Hall is back with a bang! On Saturday 27 August, three of the UK’s best firework companies competing against each other with a 10 minute professional firework display choreographed to music followed by a larger huge finale display. The event is the only one of its type in the UK where the audience have the capability to vote for the team they liked the most using their mobile phone. £23, child £13 (+£1.50 booking fee). Book online https://www.fireworkchampions.co.uk
Malton Food Festival
The Malton Food-lovers’ Festival is a celebration of Yorkshire’s finest produce and cooking. Expect artisan stalls, delicious street food, talks, tastings, celebrity chefs, demos, festival bar and live music. It’s recommended you arrive hungry! From 9am on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 August and from 10am on Sunday 28 August.
Newburgh Priory Plant Fair
Go along and be enchanted at the plant fair held within the beautiful gardens and grounds of Newburgh Priory. There will be select plant growers presenting a huge selection of plants for sale. Afterwards enjoy home-made savouries and cakes in the old Refectory Cafe. Monday 29 August from 11am to 4pm, with last entry 3pm. Tickets £4 per adult, children free. On the gate or in advance from https://www.flowerpowerfairs.co.uk
Events at The Angel

  • Bank Holiday Monday – 29 August – 12noon until 5pm, BBQ, children’s games and lots of fun! Free entry.
  • Tuesday 6 September – Hilarity Bites Comedy Club – Doors open at 7.30pm, show starts at 8pm.
  • Saturday 1 October – 2pm until late – Octoberfest – wide range of German beers, BBQ and live bands. Free entry.
  • More information and tickets from the venue or online at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/
Music at Junction 50
Thursday 1 September at 7pm – Sirocco Winds – five young talented musicians of the highest quality will perform a wide range of music and will speak about the music they play and why it is important to them. £10 including refreshments. For tickets telephone01765 640624 or on the door on the day.
Baldersby St James – Book Sale
The Book Sale is on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September – open from 10am to 5pm each day. If anyone has books to donate for the sale just drop them into the church. Lots of helpers are needed from Thursday 8th to put out books, and on Sunday 11th to tidy up. If you can help please email Susan Brown at c.b.brown398
Helperby Beer Festival
It’s been three years since the last beer festival in Helperby…but it’s back on Saturday 17 September starting 12.30pm. It’ll be better than ever with a huge choice of amazing and cool beers and lagers, wine bar, prosecco & gin bar, and food. There’ll be a great music line up including Rory Hoy, Chu Ma Shu, The Bootleggers, Borderline, All the King’s Men, The Feds, What the Duck and Mark Stevenson.

Check out the festival Facebook page for more details. https://www.facebook.com/HelperbyBeerFest/

Tickets and vouchers for food and drink are available online now.
Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:
Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.
Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

  • Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursday 25 August.
  • Refuse – Tuesday 30 August (one day later than usual)

Harrogate (Asenby):

  • Refuse – Monday 22 August
  • Garden waste – Thursday 25 August
  • Recycling – Tuesday 30 August (one day later than usual).
That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on by

Sunday Email: Issue 121

Welcome to the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707
Garry Key – funeral arrangements
The funeral of former Topcliffe Parish Council chairman, Garry Key, will take place at 1pm on Wednesday 24 August at Maple Park Crematorium, near Skipton Bridge. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Garry’s family has been touched by the number of cards, flowers and kind words they have received. They have all been very much appreciated. There’ll be a collection for Herriot Hospice Homecare.

There’ll be more about Garry and his long service to our community in the September edition of The Tattler.
Asenby Parish Council goes walkabout
TODAY, from 10am, Asenby’s parish councillors will be walking around Asenby village to check out a number of issues which were raised at the last meeting of the council. These include: the Bank Top footpath, the playing field, location of litter bins, traffic issues, Green End parking.

The next Parish Council meeting will be at 7pm on Monday 12 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

A new village Facebook group has been set up at https://www.facebook.com/groups/457016899263420/?ref=share_group_link It would be great to see as many Asenby residents as possible on the group.

You can contact your Parish Council at asenbypc or via the Facebook page.
Ripley Agricultural Show
TODAY – The popular Ripley Agricultural Show is on at Ripley Castle Park on Sunday 14 August. It promises to be a great day out. Family (2+3) £30, adult £12, child (5-16) £5.50, under 5s get in for free. https://www.ripleyshow.co.uk
St Columba’s services

  • TODAY- Sunday 14 August at 10.45am – Holy Communion
  • Sunday 21 August at 10.45am – Sung Matins
  • Sunday 28 August at 10.45am – Holy Communion
  • Sunday 4 September at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong.

All services conclude with refreshments.
Topcliffe Bridge
Back in February a request was sent to North Yorkshire County Council’s highways department for some action to repair Topcliffe Bridge, which had been damaged at least two years earlier. The initial request was that the repairs might be carried out in time for the bridge’s 400th anniversary and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in June.

The response was published in an earlier Sunday Email and it suggested that, whilst not promising repairs by the Jubilee, they’d be done around about that time or soon after. The county council then indicated that there were issues with other agencies that needed to be resolved and that there were new thoughts on how to undertake the repairs.

Four weeks ago, an update was promised and it finally arrived last Tuesday (9 August). Whilst the highways department is promising the repairs will be done, there is going to be more delay and the completion is promised this financial year – which means it could take until 31 March 2023. Here’s the wording of the latest email from the department:

Thank you for your patience awaiting my reply, I have been on annual leave. I am pleased to say that the matter concerning the masonry has been resolved and colleagues dealing with the procurement documentation have amended it to suit the change. This is now being processed to go out to tender as soon as possible with a view to appointing a preferred contractor to deliver the works. Until that process is complete I am unfortunately unable to advise of a start date, but please be assured that the work will be completed this financial year. I shall keep you updated of progress and of delivery dates in due course.

In response, the following message was sent:

Thank you for your update on planned repairs to Topcliffe Bridge. It is certainly good news that some progress is finally been made, but I am most surprised that the preparation of procurement details and documentation has taken so long and we still face potentially months of waiting before the work is tackled. “This financial year” presumably means to 31 March: I think people in Topcliffe and Asenby will be entitled to be very unhappy if it takes until then.
The Big Race Night
The Big Race night will take place on Saturday 10 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open at 7pm and the first race is off at 7.30pm.

Everything is in place. All the administration to make it work has been completed. All that is needed now are people to buy their tickets and then they can look forward to a great fun evening! So, if you’re planning to attend, please get your ticket now so that the organisers can be confident about numbers for catering. Entry tickets are on sale at £6 each from Topcliffe Post Office, Doug Allan (07785 223707) or Judith Lowe in Asenby (01845 577911).

  • There’ll be a cash bar serving draught beer, lager, wines and soft drinks.
  • There’ll be eight races on the big screen.
  • Entry includes a beef in red wine and crispy dumplings supper or vegetarian alternative, which will be served at about 8.45pm.
  • Each entry ticket is numbered and will be entered in a draw, the winner of which will win a night’s bed and breakfast at Crab Manor Hotel.
  • There’s be some great prizes to be won on the raffle.
Summer Fayre Success
Last Sunday’s Summer Fayre and Afternoon Tea raised £304 to help support the village hall. Other charities benefited from cash raised by various tombolas.

Christmas Fayre (that’s the first mention of Christmas in this year’s email!)
The date has been set for a Christmas Fayre on Saturday 12 November. Some stalls have already been booked by people who had a stall last week, but there’ll be plenty of room for more at just £5 each. That’s much cheaper than what stallholders have to pay at other Christmas events. in our area! There’ll be more about this event nearer the date.
Post Office shop trials longer opening hours
Topcliffe Post Office is trialing extended opening hours for the shop (not Post Office services, which will continue to close at 5pm). On Thursdays and Fridays the shop will remain open until 7pm to see if there is any demand to stay open later. Lottery tickets will be available during these evening openings. If it works well, the longer hours may be extended to Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday openings.
Knit and Natter
The fortnightly Knit & Natter had its first meeting in the TV room at The Angel last Thursday. It went very well and the new venue proved a good choice. A big thank you to the Angel management and staff for making the group so welcome. The next meeting will be at 1.30pm on Thursday 25 August. The cost for refreshments remains at £3 and everyone is welcome to attend, whether for a knit, just for a natter or both!
Open Days at Sutton Park, Sutton on the Forest

  • Each day in August.
  • Gardens Open – 11am – 5pm. Adult £5 / Child £2.50 / Concessions £4.
  • House Tours- 1:30pm and 2:45pm. Ticket includes entry to Gardens. Adult £10 / Child £5 / Concessions £6.50.
  • Tickets onthe door or by email (advisable) – suttonpark
  • www.sutton-park.co.uk
Soup & sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 17 August at 12 noon. Cash raised at this lunch will be donated to Community Works Thirsk.
The 2022 Produce Show
Just three weeks to go to the Topcliffe and Asenby Produce Show. It will take place at the Village Hall on Saturday 3 September. Any resident of Topcliffe and Asenby, as well as individuals who grow produce on allotments within the boundaries of our two villages, can put entries in the show. There’ll be 47 horticultural classes, as well as 16 baking/preserves classes, three floral classes, 10 hobbies classes and five classes just for children to enter. The full list of rules, categories and classes are available on both village websites – http://www.topcliffe.org.uk and http://www.asenby.net or from Produce Show Secretary Judith Lowe (577911).
RAF Leeming
There will be increased aircraft movement for an exercise taking place from 23 August to 23 September 2022. The Station will be hosting an exercise involving increased air and ground movement. Low flying for short periods may be necessary, along with 24-hour operations. The airfield understands its responsibility as good neighbours and hopes residents will bear with it as these additional flying activities take place. A spokesman said: "Every effort will be made to keep disturbance to a minimum".
Yorkshire Water
Our water supply company has become the latest to announce it is to introduce a temporary hosepipe ban. It’s the first ban for 27 years. It says reservoir levels have fallen below 50% for the first time since the drought of 1995 and it would take months of rain for them to recover. Over 5 million customers will be affected and anyone breaking the ban, which starts on 26 August, faces a fine of up to £1,000. You can read the full list of banned activities here.
The Yorkshire Young Achievers’ Awards
These awards aim to recognise and reward outstanding achievement by young people in or from Yorkshire. Anyone can make a nomination and anyone can be a winner, as long as they meet the requirements. The winners are decided by a panel of senior members of the Yorkshire community representing different walks of life and awards are presented at a Gala Dinner.

The awards are, in most cases, open to young people aged under 35 and this can make it difficult for those at the younger end of the spectrum to make their mark in the same way that the older nominees have done. The Youngster of the Year Award, therefore, marks the achievement of a nominee aged 12 and under. The awards are :

  • Young Personality of the Year
  • Youngster of the Year
  • Unsung Hero
  • Achievement in Management and Enterprise
  • Achievement in Education
  • Achievement in Sport
  • Achievement in the Arts
  • Special Award.

For more information click here
To nominate please click here
Topcliffe Village Hall Committee Meeting
The next meeting of Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee will be on Tuesday 13 September at 7.30pm.
St James Coffee and Chat
There’s a weekly coffee and chat session held at the church in Baldersby St James Tuesday mornings between 10am and 12 noon. A popular morning to meet friends old and new…and to swap your books at the same time.
The Yorkshire Flea
Thirsk Auction Mart will be displaying an exciting and interesting selection of vintage, antique & collectable items from the 18th 19th & 20th centuries. Around 50 to 80 dealers from across the north of England and beyond. Ample free parking. Saturday 20 August. Open 11am-6pm. Adult £3. Accompanied under 16s free. NHS staff with official work photo ID free. Tickets: helen@antiquesfairs.com
The Ritz Cinema

  • The Railway Children Return – to Thursday 18 August (Matinee Wednesday 17 August) –
  • Where the Crawdads Sing – Friday 19 to Thursday 25 August (No Sunday evening show. Matinee Wednesday 24 August).
  • A Dog’s Life – Sunday 21 August – featuring Charlie Chaplin – plus short films, accompanied by a 13-piece orchestra conducted by Benjamin Ellin. This is part of the Thirsk Hall Festival – see more information below under the festival entry.

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

  • Friday 26 August – All Creatures Great and Small Family Day. Gates open 11am.
  • Saturday 3 September – Ladies Day. Gates open 11am.

And to attract families to the racecourse, there’s now a family ticket for two adults and accompanied children for the Grandstand paddock for just £20. Book online at https://www.thirskracecourse.net
Children’s summer holiday events
A wide range of children’s activities is being held at Thirsk Community Library over the school holidays.

  • Tuesdays 16 and 30 August – Lego and Duplo drop in. 2 to 4pm. Come and make your own creations. All ages welcome and under 8s need to be accompanied by an adult. Just turn up. Free.
  • Monday 15 August – Young Gadgeteers. 2 to 3pm for 4-7 year olds. 3.15 to 4.15pm for 7 years+ age group. Become an electronic engineer for the afternoon. £2 per child. Booking essential.
  • Thursday 25 August – Pin Ups. 2 to 3pm. Join local artist Chris Jeeson to create your own pin up and pop-up books. Children aged 5+ years. £2 per child. Booking essential.
  • Friday 2 September – Warhammer War Gaming taster session. 10.30 to 11.30am. Free session to find out what war gaming is all about. Suitable for children 7+ and no booking needed. Just turn up.

Pre-booking is required for some activities: Telephone 01609 534589 or call into the library.
As You Like It – a brilliant outdoor performance
William Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ will be performed at Newby Hall’s outdoor theatre on Friday 19 August at 7pm (gates open at 6pm). Performed by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men. Tickets also include access to the gardens from 12 noon for those who wish to make a day of it. Tickets £17 adult, £10 child. Book online or buy at the gate https://www.newbyhall.com/events
Thirsk Hall Festival – 19 to 21 August
Thirsk Hall Festival kicks off with Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro performed at St Mary’s Church, Thirsk at 7pm on Friday 19 August. Semi-staged performance of the Mozart comedy classic. Directed by Sarah Helsby-Hughes of Heritage Opera and conducted by Benjamin Ellin. Features festival chorus of singers from across the region. Tickets: adults £15, under 16s £7.50

Carnival Day in the grounds of Thirsk Hall on Saturday 20 August.
– Live performances, fairground rides and food stalls. There will be a Samba workshop, then at 3.30pm a parade for everyone to join. £4 online, £5 on the day. On-site parking £5.
– Roald Dahl’s Little Red Riding Hood will take place at 12.30pm and 2.00pm in the Sculpture Garden’s newly renovated gallery. £3 and under 2s free.
– On Saturday evening, audiences will enjoy a journey through the world of folk music, from across the Tudor period up to traditional folk. There will be food and drink as well as a space to dance. £15, under 16s £7.50.
– Poet’s Corner – the outdoor stage offers a chance for performers of all kinds to entertain! Musicians, dancers, poets, everyone is welcome as a solo act or in a group. Each act is given a 20-minute slot on the stage, with a PA system. Book a Saturday slot between 11am – 4pm. http://www.demobraymusic.com

Film & Orchestra -a special performance at the Ritz Cinema on Westgate – Sunday 21 August
Charlie Chaplin’s ‘A Dogs Life’ and a selection of new short films by students of the acclaimed National Film and Television School will be accompanied live by a 13-piece orchestra, conducted by Benjamin Ellin. Starts 3pm. Tickets £10, under 16s £5 on the door or in advance from: https://www.thirskhall.com/thirsk-hall-festival
Events at The Catton Kitchen
Here’s news of a few events planned at The Catton Kitchen over the coming weeks:

  • There’s a burger night on Saturday 20 August between 4 and 8pm. Advance booking is essential as last time more than 30 more people arrived than had initially been catered for. You can look at the delicious menu on our Facebook page. There will be a bar selling alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks or you can takeaway!
  • Yoga classes are held each Sunday morning between 9am until 10am. It doesn’t matter what level you are at as this class will teach you along the way. Everybody is welcome. £9 for the hour (children free). If you are interested, ring the number below.
  • Also check out range of ready meals using our homegrown vegetables and home-reared meat.

Check out Facebook and Instagram for more information. Or call 07747 083155
http://www.thecattonkitchen.co.uk
Thirsk Garden Centre Summer Market
Held over two days – Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 August – with lots of stallholders featuring independent businesses from the area and further afield. Also serving Gardener’s Afternoon Tea at just £8.50.
Concerts at Thorp Perrow
Flash! A tribute to Queen on Friday 26 August. Gates open at 7.30pm. Performance starts at 8.30pm and ends at 10.45pm. Picnics can be taken in, but there’s also hot and cold food and drinks on sale. Tickets via the website at: https://www.thorpperrow.com/
Wensleydale Show
Held in Leyburn just off the A6108 Leyburn to Richmond road on Saturday 27 August. Family (2+3) £25, Adult £10, Child (5-16) £5, Under 5s free. Online or at the gate: https://www.wensleydaleshow.org.uk
Fireworks Champions
This annual event at Newby Hall is back with a bang! On Saturday 27 August, three of the UK’s best firework companies competing against each other with a 10 minute professional firework display choreographed to music followed by a larger huge finale display. The event is the only one of its type in the UK where the audience have the capability to vote for the team they liked the most using their mobile phone. £23, child £13 (+£1.50 booking fee). Book online https://www.fireworkchampions.co.uk
Malton Food Festival
The Malton Food-lovers’ Festival is a celebration of Yorkshire’s finest produce and cooking. Expect artisan stalls, delicious street food, talks, tastings, celebrity chefs, demos, festival bar and live music. It’s recommended you arrive hungry! From 9am on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 August and from 10am on Sunday 28 August.
Newburgh Priory Plant Fair
Go along and be enchanted at the plant fair held within the beautiful gardens and grounds of Newburgh Priory. There will be select plant growers presenting a huge selection of plants for sale. Afterwards enjoy home-made savouries and cakes in the old Refectory Cafe. Monday 29 August from 11am to 4pm, with last entry 3pm. Tickets £4 per adult, children free. On the gate or in advance from https://www.flowerpowerfairs.co.uk
Events at The Angel

  • Bank Holiday Monday – 29 August – 12noon until 5pm, BBQ, children’s games and lots of fun! Free entry.
  • Tuesday 6 September – Hilarity Bites Comedy Club – Doors open at 7.30pm, show starts at 8pm.
  • Saturday 1 October – 2pm until late – Octoberfest – wide range of German beers, BBQ and live bands. Free entry.
  • More information and tickets from the venue or online at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/
Music at Junction 50
Thursday 1 September at 7pm – Sirocco Winds – five young talented musicians of the highest quality will perform a wide range of music and will speak about the music they play and why it is important to them. £10 including refreshments. For tickets telephone01765 640624 or on the door on the day.
Baldersby St James – Book Sale
The Book Sale is on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September – open from 10am to 5pm each day. If anyone has books to donate for the sale just drop them into the church. Lots of helpers are needed from Thursday 8th to put out books, and on Sunday 11th to tidy up. If you can help please email Susan Brown at c.b.brown398
Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:
Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.
Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

  • Refuse – Monday 15 August
  • Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursday 25 August.

Harrogate (Asenby):

  • Recycling – Monday 15 August
  • Refuse – Monday 22 August
  • Garden waste – Thursday 25 August
That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.

Posted on by

Sunday Email: Issue 119

Welcome to the Sunday Email. This is edition No. 119.
Doug
07785 223707
St Columba’s services

  • TODAY- Sunday 31 July – the Fifth Sunday in the month – There is no service.
  • Sunday 7 August at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong
  • Sunday 14 August at 10.45am – Holy Communion
  • Sunday 21 August at 10.45am – Sung Matins
  • Sunday 28 August at 10.45am – Holy Communion
  • Sunday 4 September at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong.

All services conclude with refreshments.
Thirsk Model Railway Show
TODAY – To be staged at Thirsk Town Hall, Westgate, Thirsk on Sunday 31 July between 10am and 4pm. Ten model railway layouts, modelmaking demonstrations, trade stands and refreshments. All profits to Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Adults £5. Accompanied children free. Pay in advance or at the door. http://www.expo-thirsk.co.uk
Yorkshire Day
Monday 1 August is Yorkshire Day. There are events to mark the day all across the county.
Strange goings on in the cat world
There’s something worrying going on in Topcliffe as far as cats are concerned. In recent weeks it would seem that a lot of cats have mysteriously gone missing and a few have died in unexplained circumstances. Local noticeboards have recently carried ‘lost cat’ posters produced by desperate cat owners who have lost their pets. And the Top Residents Facebook page has featured several lost cat appeals. It’s reported that three cats have been found dead in recent months and some people have suggested that poison might be involved, which would be extremely sad and serious if true. That situation is certainly something that needs to be monitored.

Most cats are the outdoor types, so there will always be a degree of risk when they are out and about. Last week one was struck and killed on a village road. Cats are prone to wander and some may go further afield than is good for them and find it difficult to get back home. Please look out for cats that appear to be ‘lost’ and put up a message with a photograph if you find one in your garden that maybe needs reuniting with its owner.
Summer Fayre and Afternoon Tea
The Summer Fayre & Afternoon Tea at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall will be held next Saturday 6 August between 11am and 3pm. Entry will be free of charge.

  • A couple of stalls still available at £5 each. If anyone can run a stall for the Friends of Topcliffe School, please get in touch.
  • 11am to 12 noon – tea/coffee will be served with a choice of cake for £2 per head.
  • From midday through to 3pm – afternoon teas (sandwiches (turkey stuffing, roast pork and apple sauce, ham and chutney, cheese and tomato and chopped egg), crisps, salad, volovants, sausage rolls and an assortment of cakes, plus tea, coffee or soft drink) all for just £5 per adult and £2.50 for children.

Appeal for Help – Karen Morley and Linda Carver will be running a cake stall as well as organising afternoon teas. They would welcome any help from those able to supply baking – cakes, buns, quiches or sausage rolls etc. Please contact Karen (01845 577426) or Linda (01845 578014) if you can assist.
Knit and Natter: Last meeting at the Milk Churn
The final Knit & Natter session at the Milk Churn Farm Shop was held last Wednesday (27 July). The farm shop closes down on Friday 5 August. Discussions are underway that may see future taking place at the Village Hall.
Open Days at Sutton Park, Sutton on the Forest

  • Monday 1 August to Tuesday 30 August.
  • Gardens Open – 11am – 5pm. Adult £5 / Child £2.50 / Concessions £4.
  • House Tours- 1:30pm and 2:45pm. Ticket includes entry to Gardens. Adult £10 / Child £5 / Concessions £6.50.
  • Tickets onthe door or by email (advisable) – suttonpark
  • www.sutton-park.co.uk
Soup & sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 3 August at 12 noon. Cash raised at this lunch will be donated to Cancer Research.
Topcliffe Bridge – still no update received
Three weeks ago North Yorkshire County Council’s latest response regarding repairs to Topcliffe Bridge was mentioned in the Sunday Email.It suggested a meeting of people involved in planning the repairs was being held the following week, after which it promised to provide an update. Regretfully, and despite a reminder, that update is still awaited.
Booking the Village Hall online
The new online booking system – Hallmaster – allows enquiries and bookings to be made directly on the village website. Payments are completed via PayPal or BACs. The Hallmaster booking pages can be found at
https://www.topcliffe.org.uk/village-hall/hall-booking-system/ Anyone experiencing any difficulty making a booking, should call 07857 836332.
Asenby Parish Council
Asenby’s new Parish Council met for their first full meeting on 20 July. The minutes will be available on the village website as soon as possible – (http://www.asenby.net). In brief the following issues were considered:

– Bank Top footpath being closed
– The playing field, cleanliness of the equipment and emergency vehicle access
– The damaged bridge
– Use of litter bins
– The cutting of listed trees
– Dalton industrial estate
– HGVs driving through the village due to the weight limit signs on the A167
– The spending of commuted sums
– Communication with residents
– Parking at Green End.

The four elected councillors have now been joined by a co-optee – Jane Gallon – meaning the Parish Council is up to its full complement of five councillors.

A new Facebook group has been set up to hopefully replicate the success of Top Residents group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/457016899263420/?ref=share_group_link It would be great to see as many Asenby residents as possible on the group.

The Parish Councillors will be walking around the village on 14 August to look at the issues raised. The next Parish Council meeting will be in September on a date soon to be confirmed.

You can contact your Parish Council at asenbypc or via the Facebook page.
Topcliffe Village Meetings

  • Topcliffe Parish Council – Thursday 4 August at 7pm
  • Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee – Tuesday 13 September at 7.30pm

These meetings will take place at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.
The 2022 Produce Show
The annual Topcliffe and Asenby Produce Show will take place at the Village Hall on Saturday 3 September. So put the date in your diary! Any resident of Topcliffe and Asenby, as well as individuals who grow produce on allotments within the boundaries of our two villages, can put entries in the show. There’ll be 47 horticultural classes, as well as 16 baking/preserves classes, three floral classes, 10 hobbies classes and five classes just for children to enter. The full list of rules, categories and classes are available on both village websites – http://www.topcliffe.org.uk and http://www.asenby.net or from Produce Show Secretary Judith Lowe (577911).
The Big Race Night
Enjoy a brilliant evening at the races, with an excellent supper and lots of excitement and fun.

  • The Big Race night will take place on Saturday 10 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open at 7pm and the first race is off at 7.30pm.
  • There’ll be eight races on the big screen and supper will be served at the halfway point.
  • Tickets are on sale at £6 each. Entry includes a beef in red wine and crispy dumplings supper, or vegetarian alternative. Each ticket is numbered and will be entered in a draw, the winner of which will win a night’s bed and breakfast at Crab Manor Hotel. And there’ll be some great prizes to be won on the raffle.
  • There’ll be a cash bar serving draught beer, lager, wines and soft drinks.
  • You can buy tickets now from Topcliffe Post Office, Doug Allan (07785 223707) or Judith Lowe in Asenby (01845 577911).
Energy bills discount
There has been mounting pressure for the government to do more to ease cost of living pressures, with UK household energy bills due to spike to £3,850 in January – almost twice the level of today’s record high.

Details have now been announced about how the £400 energy bills discount to help support households this winter will work. All households will receive the discount from October, with the support coming in six instalments over six months to some 29 million households. A discount of £66 will be applied to energy bills in October and November, and £67 a month from December to March 2023.

The non-repayable discount will be given to people every month regardless of whether consumers pay monthly, quarterly or have an associated payment card. Those with a domestic electricity meter point paying for their energy via standard credit, payment card and direct debit will receive an automatic deduction to their bills. Traditional prepayment meter customers will be provided with Energy Bill discount vouchers in the first week of each month, issued via SMS text, email or post. Customers will have to take action to redeem these in person at top-up points, such as a local Post Office or nearest PayPoint. Smart prepayment meter customers will see the energy bill discount credited directly to their smart prepayment meters in the first week of each month of delivery.

Other support
The government has said that households most in need of financial support will be eligible for further help in addition to the Energy Bill discount. This includes:

  • A £650 one-off Cost of Living Payment for some 8 million households on means tested benefits.
  • A one-off Pensioner Cost of Living Payment for over 8 million pensioner households to be paid alongside the Winter Fuel Payment. This is worth £200-£300 and is paid to nearly all homes with at least one person of pension age.
  • A £150 one-off Disability Cost of Living Payment for around six million people across the UK who receive certain disability benefits.
  • A £500 million increase and extension of the Household Support Fund available to councils to help with essentials such as clothing and food.
  • People who are struggling with their energy bills should contact their supplier. Ofgem rules mean suppliers must offer payment plans people can afford and customers can ask for “emergency credit” if they use a prepay meter and cannot top up.

County Council help with the cost of living

People who find themselves struggling with energy or food costs can find details of support schemes and financial assistance available in the county in North Yorkshire County Council’s online guide, which directs residents to various organisations and schemes that might be able to help them during the cost of living crisis. Check the website for more details: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/cost-living-support

Household Support Scheme
Residents who have been contacted because they are eligible for household support funding are being encouraged to claim a voucher to alleviate pressures on their finances. The Household Support Fund is to help people struggling with the increased cost of living. In North Yorkshire, letters have been sent to eligible households. The funding is expected to reach about 25,000 households. People need to select their e-voucher by August 15. More info on the website: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/household-support-fund
Horse racing at Thirsk Racecourse

  • Friday 5 August – Circus Family Day. Gates open 11am.
  • Friday 12 August – Evening racing. Gates open 3pm, first race 5.07pm.
  • Friday 26 August – All Creatures Great and Small Family Day. Gates open 11am.

And to attract families to the racecourse, there’s now a family ticket for two adults and accompanied children for the Grandstand paddock for just £20.

Book online at https://www.thirskracecourse.net
Car rally to pass through Topcliffe
Next Sunday, 7 August, the annual St Wilfrid’s Classic Car Rally, run by Ripon Motor Sports Club, is being staged. The cars will pass through Topcliffe between 9.55 and 11.30am. The event is a mixture of special tests on private land and rallying (at designated highway speeds or less) through a number of villages surrounding Ripon. It should be quite a spectacle to see these classic motors going through the village.
Thirsk and Sowerby Festival
Great fun for all the family at this event being staged on Sowerby Flatts on Sunday 7 August. Bouncy castle and an inflatable obstacle course, and as ever, this will be free for all to use. There’ll also be traditional family carnival rides, birds of prey, pony displays, archery and axe throwing displays, stalls and lots more. Kando Canine Capers will be returning to the festival again this year to seek out the dog with the most agility. 10am-4pm. Free. https://www.facebook.com/FestivalontheFlatts
Thirsk Farmers’ Market
Northern Dales Farmers’ Market will be in place in the Market Square on Sunday 7 August. There’ll be hand-picked, local independent stallholders, so you can be sure that the market presents some of the very best food and drink producers in the country. http://northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com
Ripley Agricultural Show
The popular Ripley Agricultural Show is on at Ripley Castle Park on Sunday 14 August. It promises to be a great day out. Family (2+3) £30, adult £12, child (5-16) £5.50, under 5s get in for free. https://www.ripleyshow.co.uk
As You Like It – a brilliant outdoor performance
William Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ will be performed at Newby Hall’s outdoor theatre on Friday 19 August at 7pm (gates open at 6pm). Performed by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men. Tickets also include access to the gardens from 12 noon for those who wish to make a day of it. Tickets £17 adult, £10 child. Book online or buy at the gate https://www.newbyhall.com/events
Thirsk Hall Festival – 19 to 21 August
Thirsk Hall Festival kicks off with Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro performed at St Mary’s Church, Thirsk at 7pm on Friday 19 August. Semi-staged performance of the Mozart comedy classic. Directed by Sarah Helsby-Hughes of Heritage Opera and conducted by Benjamin Ellin. Features festival chorus of singers from across the region. Tickets: adults £15, under 16s £7.50

Carnival Day in the grounds of Thirsk Hall on Saturday 20 August.
– Live performances, fairground rides and food stalls. There will be a Samba workshop, then at 3.30pm a parade for everyone to join. £4 online, £5 on the day. On-site parking £5.
– Roald Dahl’s Little Red Riding Hood will take place at 12.30pm and 2.00pm in the Sculpture Garden’s newly renovated gallery. £3 and under 2s free.
– On Saturday evening, audiences will enjoy a journey through the world of folk music, from across the Tudor period up to traditional folk. There will be food and drink as well as a space to dance. £15, under 16s £7.50.
– Poet’s Corner – the outdoor stage offers a chance for performers of all kinds to entertain! Musicians, dancers, poets, everyone is welcome as a solo act or in a group. Each act is given a 20-minute slot on the stage, with a PA system. Book a Saturday slot between 11am – 4pm. http://www.demobraymusic.com

Film & Orchestra -a special performance at the Ritz Cinema on Westgate – Sunday 21 August
Charlie Chaplin’s ‘A Dogs Life’ and a selection of new short films by students of the acclaimed National Film and Television School will be accompanied live by a 13-piece orchestra, conducted by Benjamin Ellin. Starts 3pm. Tickets £10, under 16s £5 on the door or in advance from: https://www.thirskhall.com/thirsk-hall-festival
Events at The Catton Kitchen
Here’s news of a few events planned at The Catton Kitchen over the coming weeks:

  • Lucy Day is holding a yoga class from 9am until 10am each Sunday. It doesn’t matter what level you are at as this class will teach you along the way. Everybody is welcome. £9 for the hour (children free). If you are interested, contact details are below.
  • A burger night is being planned for 20 August. Watch out for more details and make sure you don’t miss out. Advance booking will be essential as last time more than 30 more people arrived than had initially been catered for.
  • Also look out for details about the launch of our range of ready meals using our homegrown vegetables and home-reared meat.

Check out Facebook and Instagram for more information. Or call 07747 083155
http://www.thecattonkitchen.co.uk
Thirsk Garden Centre Summer Market
Held over two days – Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 August – with lots of stallholders featuring independent businesses from the area and further afield. Also serving Gardener’s Afternoon Tea at just £8.50.
Concerts at Thorp Perrow
Flash! A tribute to Queen on Friday 26 August. Gates open at 7.30pm. Performance starts at 8.30pm and ends at 10.45pm. Picnics can be taken in, but there’s also hot and cold food and drinks on sale. Tickets via the website at: https://www.thorpperrow.com/
Wensleydale Show
Held in Leyburn just off the A6108 Leyburn to Richmond road on Saturday 27 August. Family (2+3) £25, Adult £10, Child (5-16) £5, Under 5s free. Online or at the gate: https://www.wensleydaleshow.org.uk
Fireworks Champions
This annual event at Newby Hall is back with a bang! On Saturday 27 August, three of the UK’s best firework companies competing against each other with a 10 minute professional firework display choreographed to music followed by a larger huge finale display. The event is the only one of its type in the UK where the audience have the capability to vote for the team they liked the most using their mobile phone. £23, child £13 (+£1.50 booking fee). Book online https://www.fireworkchampions.co.uk
Malton Food Festival
The Malton Food-lovers Festival is a celebration of Yorkshire’s finest produce and cooking. Expect artisan stalls, delicious street food, talks, tastings, celebrity chefs, demos, festival bar and live music. It’s recommended you arrive hungry! From 9am on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 August and from 10am on Sunday 28 August.
Newburgh Priory Plant Fair
Go along and be enchanted at the plant fair held within the beautiful gardens and grounds of Newburgh Priory. There will be select plant growers presenting a huge selection of plants for sale. Afterwards enjoy home-made savouries and cakes in the old Refectory Cafe. Monday 29 August from 11am to 4pm, with last entry 3pm. Tickets £4 per adult, children free. On the gate or in advance from https://www.flowerpowerfairs.co.uk
Music at Junction 50
Thursday 1 September at 7pm – Sirocco Winds – five young talented musicians of the highest quality will perform a wide range of music and will speak about the music they play and why it is important to them. 7pm. £10 including refreshments. For tickets telephone01765 640624 or on the door on the day.
St James Coffee and Chat
There’s a weekly coffee and chat session held at the church in Baldersby St James Tuesday mornings between 10am and 12 noon. A popular morning to meet friends old and new…and to swap your books at the same time.
Children’s summer holiday events
A wide range of children’s activities is being held at Thirsk Community Library over the school holidays.

  • Tuesdays 2, 16 and 30 August – Lego and Duplo drop in. 2 to 4pm. Come and make your own creations. All ages welcome and under 8s need to be accompanied by an adult. Just turn up. Free.
  • Friday 5 August and Monday 15 August – Young Gadgeteers. 2 to 3pm for 4-7 year olds. 3.15 to 4.15pm for 7 years+ age group. Become an electronic engineer for the afternoon. £2 per child. Booking essential.
  • Thursday 25 August – Pin Ups. 2 to 3pm. Join local artist Chris Jeeson to create your own pin up and pop-up books. Children aged 5+ years. £2 per child. Booking essential.
  • Friday 2 September – Warhammer War Gaming taster session. 10.30 to 11.30am. Free session to find out what war gaming is all about. Suitable for children 7+ and no booking needed. Just turn up.

Pre-booking is required for some activities: Telephone 01609 534589 or call into the library.
The Ritz Cinema

  • To Thursday 4 August (Matinees – Saturday 30 July, Sunday 31 July, Wednesday 3 Aug) – Minions 2: Rise of Gru
  • Friday 5 to Thursday 11 August (Matinee Wednesday 10 August) – Thor: Love and Thunder.
  • Friday 12 to Thursday 18 August (Matinee Wednesday 17 August – The Railway Children Return.

Updates: Please keep checking the website for the latest details – https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/
Baldersby St James – Book Sale
The Book Sale is on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September – open from 10am to 5pm each day. If anyone has books to donate for the sale just drop them into the church. Lots of helpers are needed from Thursday 8th to put out books, and on Sunday 11th to tidy up. If you can help please email Susan Brown at c.b.brown398
Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:
Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.
Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

  • Refuse – Mondays 1 and 15 August
  • Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursdays 11 and 25 August.

Harrogate (Asenby):

  • Recycling – Mondays 1 and 15 August
  • Refuse – Mondays 8 and 22 August
  • Garden waste – Thursdays 28 July and 11 August.
That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.