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Sunday Email: Issue 99

Welcome to the 99th issue of the Sunday Email.

Doug
07785 223707

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
Although the second community meeting to discuss village plans for the Platinum Jubilee, held last Sunday, was very poorly attended (only seven residents turned up!) some progress was made in refining the list of potential activities. Agreement was reached on a number of core events which will proceed, whilst many others were dropped from the draft programme. The remaining list now looks like this:

  • Scarecrow Competition with a royal theme – Saturday 30 April to Monday 2 May – organised jointly with Topcliffe Academy and Carlton Miniott Schools. Scarecrows will be registered and identified on village maps.
  • Village Litter Picks and Tidy Ups – to be considered in conjunction with parish councils, with dates agreed so that the two villages are looking pristine in time for the celebrations. Scouting groups are keen to be involved and Topcliffe Academy may wish to be involved.
  • Street and House Decorations – it was agreed that this activity is one that individuals within the villages need to consider. A leaflet outlining the idea will be prepared and distributed to all households encouraging them to decorate their home on a royal/jubilee theme.
  • Party in the Park – the afternoon of Saturday 4 June. It will be a bring your own food and drink event. Consideration is being given to some children’s entertainment and games, stalls and perhaps a band. The Bowling Green will be open for a family competition. Children will be encouraged to arrive in a homemade crown and prizes will be available for the best. A sub-group has been set up to consider the details and get things organised.
  • Sunday Brunch – 5 June at the Village Hall. Judith Lowe has agreed to get a group of volunteers together to organise.
  • Children’s Art Competition – Topcliffe Academy is being approached to encourage pupils to submit artwork on a royal theme. The artwork will be displayed, judged and prizes presented at the Sunday Brunch.
  • Platinum Jubilee Walkway – on the banks of the Swale between Topcliffe Bridge and Asenby. This is being considered by Asenby Parish Council at its meeting on 16 March. Hambleton Brewery has already indicated it will help fund the initiative.
  • The Queen’s Green Canopy – it’s hoped that throughout the year lots of trees might be planted in the two villages – in private gardens and on public land.

The following events will not take place unless someone comes forward to take the lead on making them happen:

  • Village Beacons.
  • Supper and entertainment in the Village Hall on Friday 3 June.
  • Royal photographic competition.
  • Royal fancy dress competition.
  • Vintage vehicle display.
  • Jubilee Stroll.
Posted on

Sunday Email: Issue 98

Welcome to the 98th issue of the Sunday Email.

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

Doug
07785 223707

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
The second public meeting to discuss village plans for the Platinum Jubilee will be held at The Angel at 7.30pm on Sunday 6 March. Everyone will be welcome.

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

Topcliffe Bridge – Request for repairs
Apparently I wasn’t stepping on anyone’s toes by communicating with the county council appealing for repairs to Topcliffe Bridge. But the request it turns out certainly wasn’t the first lodged with the highways department. Peter Palmer, Chairman of Asenby Parish Council, says that he has a pile of correspondence with the Area Office in Boroughbridge complaining about the lack of action to in getting the repairs undertaken, but no action has been taken on the grounds that there’s nothing in the budget.

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

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

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

Crematorium open day a huge success
Quite a few residents of Topcliffe and Asenby were among crowds of visitors who went along to the open day at the new Hambleton Crematorium near Busby Stoop last Thursday. It was a great opportunity to take a look at the inside of the building and the attractive gardens. The Crematorium’s proper name is Maple Park and that’s to mark the link of Skipton-on-Swale airfield with Canadian airmen who flew from the site during World War 2. Ninety-eight maples have been planted to commemorate the bombers from the airfield lost in operations.

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

Swale reached danger levels after storms
There were a few sleepless nights for businesses and residents in Topcliffe last weekend as storm after storm brought water levels in the Swale to danger levels. Many locals were on river watch, particularly during the night, making sure their properties were secure and the water didn’t overcome defences. It looks like the worst was avoided, but it was certainly a testing time and one which those affected would rather not have faced.

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

Does your TV need re-tuning?
If you receive television signal from the Bilsdale transmitter you should probably retune your TV again. Last Wednesday a new and better interim mast was switched on at Bilsdale on the North York Moors. It will provide Freeview television until a permanent mast is constructed. Some channels have changed or have been added, so re-tuning is needed to ensure that you are not missing out. (You can ignore this if you receive your signal from Emily Moor, if you only use a Sky or FreeSat dish, or only stream TV from the Internet).
Analogue switch off in 2025
Most people won’t be aware that BT intends to switch off analogue telephones in 2025 and there’ll be a roll out of digital service to take its place. But there are concerns in rural communities that in times of emergency, digital communications will not work for everyone, so until guarantees can be given, campaigners are demanding that migration to full digital in rural areas should be delayed.

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

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

Cross Talk newsletter published
The March edition of the local church magazine, Cross Talk, has been published. You can read it on several church websites –http:// www.achurchnearyou.com/church/3447 and http://baldersbychurch.com

You can also have the newsletter emailed direct to your inbox. Just send a request to:kitnorris

Next soup and sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch at the Village Hall will be held on Wednesday, 2 March at 12 noon. The cash raised will be donated to The Salvation Army.
The Tattler – Spring 2022
The next edition of The Tattler will be published on 8 March and delivered door to door over the following couple of days.
Sunday Brunch
It’s two years since a Sunday Brunch was served at the Village Hall, but now that the worst of the pandemic is over, plans are being made to hold another. It will be held on Sunday 24 April between 10am and 12 noon and there’ll be bacon, sausage and fried egg sandwiches on offer, with plenty of tea or coffee. Any funds raised on the day will be donated to Call for Back Up, a charity that offers mental health support to blue light emergency services personnel, including fire fighters, police officers, ambulance drivers and paramedics.
Fish & Chip Van
Please note that the fish and chip van will not be in Topcliffe on Friday 11 March as Karen Bumby will that week be having hospital treatment. We hope that you have a speedy recovery, Karen.
The Elm Gallery
The gallery is currently closed and will re-open on Saturday 5 March.
Wedding Open Day
The Crab & Lobster will be holding a wedding open day between 12 noon and 2pm on Sunday 20 March. This is an opportunity for those looking for a fantastic venue to look at the rooms and facilities and talk to the Wedding Manager about their special day.
Bags2school recycling collection day
The next Bags2school textile recycling event at the Village Hall will be on Thursday 28 April. Please save all recyclable articles for the big collection day.
Services at St Columba’s

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

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

Village Hall Committee meeting

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

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

Rural Arts classes
The first Rural Arts class in the latest series was held at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall last week, though only three villagers turned up, which is a great shame. Hopefully a few more will attend future classes on 22 March, 19 April, 17 May, 21 June and 19 July. You can simply turn up on the day (it’s free to attend) or if you want more information call Judith Lowe on 577911.
Book-cafe books a place in final
White Rose book-cafe in Thirsk been selected as the North of England regional finalist in the Independent Bookshop of the Year awards 2022. The Book-café is open 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday.
http://www.whiterosebooks.co.uk
Thirsk Community Library
There’s a range of new services on offer at Thirsk Community Library, including:
1. The library has received funding to help the isolated and/or elderly access its services from villages around Thirsk. This can include using the Thirsk Community Minibus to bring people to visit the library, become a member, borrow books, large print and audiobooks, DVDs and jigsaws, or just visit for a cup of tea and have a chat. The Library is looking to organise its first free trip so if you or someone you know would be interested in this service, please get in touch.
2. Construction Play – a new drop-in session for pre-school children – meets every Friday during term time, 10.30 to 11.30am. All little builders welcome to come and play with Duplo, Mega Bloks and wooden train sets. Just turn up, no booking required and the session is free to attend.
3. Storytime Mondays – all pre-school children welcome and it’s free. Come and enjoy stories, rhymes and songs and activities. Every Monday during term time, 1.30 to 2.15pm. Just turn up – no booking required.
4. Warhammer Wargames Club – suitable for both beginners and more experienced players/model makers aged 8 to 14. Mondays during term time, 3.45 to 4.45pm. Cost £2 per child with booking essential.
5. Lego Clubs – Lego supplied for budding builders and creators. Classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays (3.45 to 4.45pm) for children aged 5 and over and for 7 to 11 year olds. £1 per child. Booking essential.
6. Get Crafty – Saturday mornings craft table from 10.30 to 12 noon. Suitable for children of all ages.
Just turn up and free to attend.

For further information or to express an interest please contact Helen Ashworth, Activities Coordinator at the Library: phone 01609 534589 or email library@thirskcommunitylibrary.org.uk and mark it for Helen’s attention.

Events at The Angel

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

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

Catton Kitchen winter opening hours

  • February – Closed.
  • Fancy home-reared lamb at Easter? Orders now being taken.
  • March – Thursday 3 and Friday 4, 9am to 2pm; Saturday 5, 10am to 2pm; Sunday 6,10am to 2pm.
  • Thursday 17 March – Pizza Night.
North York Moors Railway – Shed tours
Shed tours at the heritage North York Moors Railway will take place every Friday afternoon at 1.30pm from 8 April through to October. You can see what goes on behind the scenes in the locomotive sheds at Grosmont and find out what it takes to maintain the NYMR’s fleet of steam locomotives and see close up a range of engines being restored. The tours are for a minimum of two hours and cost £15 for adults and £7.50 for children 10-15 years of age. http://www.nymr.co.uk/shed-tours
  • To Thursday 3 March – Belfast – a young boy and his working-class Belfast family experience the tumultuous late 1960s.
  • Friday 4 to Thursday 10 March – Nightmare Alley – an ambitious conman with a talent for manipulating people with a few well-chosen words hooks up with a female psychiatrist who is even more dangerous than he is.
  • Friday 11 to Thursday 17 March – Death on the Nile – while on vacation on the Nile, Hercule Poirot must investigate the murder of a young heiress.

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

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk

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

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

Events on at The Forum

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

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

Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

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

Harrogate (Asenby)

  • Recycling – Mondays 28 February and 14 March.
  • Refuse – Mondays 7 and 21 March
  • Green Waste – Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open and the cost is £41. Sign up at http://www.harrogate.gov.uk
LATEST INFORMATION & NEWS ABOUT COVID
Covid Restrictions
All Covid restrictions, including the legal requirement to self-isolate after testing positive, came to an end last Thursday, though advice to stay at home remains in place until the 1 April. But after that the public will be encouraged to exercise personal responsibility, just as people who have flu are encouraged to be considerate to others. On the same date, free symptomatic and asymptomatic testing will come to an end too, with the Prime Minister citing the ‘vast cost’ of the testing programme as a reason for this.
Fourth jab
Around eight million over-75s and immunosuppressed people will soon be offered a fourth Covid vaccine, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has advised. More people are likely to be offered a fourth jab later this year.
The week’s UK Covid statistics

• 52.6 million first doses given – that’s 91.5% of the population aged 12+.
• 49 million second doses given – that’s over 85.1%.
• 38.1 million booster or third jabs given – that’s 66.3% of those eligible.
• There have been nearly 18.9 million confirmed cases of Covid.
• 31,933 new Covid infections yesterday and 260,924 people tested positive in the last week. That’s a 21% decrease on the previous week.
• 10,767 people were in hospital with Covid in the week to 21 February.
• 120 deaths reported yesterday and 845 in the last seven days. A decrease of 18% compared with the previous week.
• 161,224 UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test.
• 182,609 UK deaths had Covid mentioned on the death certificate.
• Worldwide, the global death toll is 5,959,718.

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

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Sunday Email: Issue 97

Welcome to the 97th issue of the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707
Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
Last Sunday a list of potential ideas for the Platinum Jubilee Bank Holiday weekend and some longer-term projects to mark the year, were presented in the Sunday Email. The list was a summary of suggestions about how the two villages – Topcliffe and Asenby – might celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee between 2 and 5 June and beyond

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

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

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

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

Larger-scale and longer-term opportunities;

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

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

Topcliffe Bridge – Request for repairs
I don’t know whether I have stepped on anyone’s toes by doing this – apologies if I have – but just like those who attended the recent Platinum Jubilee meeting at The Angel, I would like to see Topcliffe Bridge repaired. The email message below has gone to county councillors on both sides of the bridge, the Chair of County Highways, the Head of Highways Operations and copied to the chairs of our two parish councils. I have received an initial response from Head of Highway Operations which is reproduced below.
Posted on

Sunday Email: Issue 96

Welcome to the 96th issue of the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707
Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
Last Sunday around twenty residents gathered at The Angel for a discussion about how the two villages – Topcliffe and Asenby – might celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee between 2 and 5 June. There was a lively debate with lots of ideas thrown in the mix and over the next few weeks it’s hoped that a programme can be agreed and volunteers will take the lead on getting things organised.

Here’s what we know for sure:

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

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

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

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

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

Asenby cleaned up
A big thank you to Asenby resident Marie Perason who has been on a personal crusade to tidy up her village. She collected loads of rubbish over a few days just whilst out walking her dog. Well done, Marie.
The Tattler – Spring 2022
Work has started on pulling together the next edition of The Tattler and it will be published on 8 March and delivered door to door within a few days of that date. If you have want to submit an article for consideration please get it to the Editor by Friday 18 February – (doug@dougallan.co.uk).
Sleights Lane closed to traffic
Fell Bridge (over Mother Sike Drain), Sleights Lane, Rainton is closed until further notice. North Yorkshire County Council has advised that the culvert running under the bridge is damaged and as such has made the bridge unsafe to cross as there is a risk of collapse. Once a further assessment and a repair programme has been agreed another update will be provided by the county council, but at this time there is no timescale available to when the bridge will reopen. Road diversions are in place.

Mr Keith Pettitt, Clerk to Rainton with Newby Parish Council – raintonclerk

Shop Update
At the Post Office, training is underway for UPS courier transactions, and once all the necessary equipment arrives the shop will be up and running – that’ll be much sooner than the six week plan originally mentioned. DHL training will also start soon and final confirmation from Johnsons the Cleaners is imminent.
Debbie and her team have noticed that there are very few customers on Saturdays between seven and 7.30 am, so from now on the Post Office will open at 7.30am and close at 12.30pm (though the Post Office counter will close at 12 noon). This will also save on expensive energy costs.
Anyone who has visited the Post Office recently will have seen the changes in the shop and particularly noticed the expanse of flooring which has been made available since all food products were taken over to the farm shop. Delivery of new rustic centre shelving is awaited, but this could take four or five weeks, giving the team time to get new flooring down before it arrives.

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

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

Next soup and sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch at the Village Hall will be held on Wednesday, 16 February at 12 noon. The cash raised will be donated to the Heriott Hospice in Thirsk.
Services at St Columba’s

  • TODAY – Sunday, 13 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.
  • Sunday, 20 February at 10.45am – Choral Matins.
  • Sunday, 27 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.
Bags2school recycling collection day
The next Bags2school textile recycling event at the Village Hall will be on Thursday 28 April. Please save all recyclable articles for the big collection day.
Crematorium Visit
A community open day is set to be held at the new multi-million-pound Hambleton Crematorium. The local community will be welcome to look around the new facility between 11am and 3pm on Thursday 24 February. The 22-acre site named Maple Park, is located between Busby Stoop and Skipton on Swale. The building includes a service hall which will accommodate approximately 120 mourners. There is also an entrance foyer, waiting lobby, offices and a family room. As well as this, the single storey facility includes a wake facility and café with beautiful views out over the Hambleton hills. The site also offers a memorial garden, meadows and a wooded area making it a calm and peaceful place for reflection or for scattering ashes.

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

Rural Arts classes start soon
Just a quick reminder that the monthly Rural Arts classes start again at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 10.00am on Tuesday, 22 February. The subject at the first class will be painting and brusho. You can simply turn up on the day (it’s free to attend) or if you want more information call Judith Lowe on 577911.

Dates for future classes are: 22 March, 19 April, 17 May, 21 June and 19 July. .

Railway volunteers needed
Volunteers are needed on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway to assist with the full breadth of civil engineering, building, electrical and mechanical work. Other volunteer roles include travelling ticket inspectors, signaling and telecommunications, customer service, retail, catering, fundraising and education. You don’t need to be a train enthusiast or know all the lingo, and NYMR would love a whole cross section of people to apply. They’re particularly eager to recruit more female volunteers across every department. Get on board today – apply at http://nymr.co.uk/volunteer
The Yorkshire Gardens’ Trust
The Trust is organising five online talks which can be purchased as a package of 5 for £20 or individually for £5 each. They are on Wednesdays at 6pm on Zoom, starting Wednesday 2 March. The speakers will introduce a variety of landscapes and gardens, both historic and contemporary, enjoyed by Yorkshire Gardens’ Trust members throughout Yorkshire and in neighbouring County Durham. To book go to http://tinyurl.com/UnforgettableGardens
Events at The Angel

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

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

Tai chi classes for beginners
There’s a new Tai chi class for beginners being set up at Thirsk Leisure Centre. Perfect for mobility, balance and gentle exercise. Fridays 11am. For more information call David Allerton on 07557 965042.
Catton Kitchen winter opening hours

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

Opening times will be reviewed again in the spring.

Parish Council meetings

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

Village Hall Committee meeting

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

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

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

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

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk

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

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

Events on at The Forum

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

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

Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

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

Harrogate (Asenby)

  • Recycling – Mondays 14 and 28 February.
  • Refuse – Mondays 21 February and 7 March.
  • Green Waste – Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open and the cost is £41. Sign up at http://www.harrogate.gov.uk
LATEST INFORMATION & NEWS ABOUT COVID
Early end to Covid restrictions?
The possibility of all Covid restrictions, including the requirement to self-isolate following a positive test, ending a month earlier than planned has been raised by the Prime Minister. Covid restrictions had been due to expire on March 24, Boris Johnson told MPs he expects they can end a month sooner if the data continues to be encouraging. It means in less than two weeks time the country could be returned to levels of freedom enjoyed before the pandemic, for the first time since restrictions were brought in almost two years ago.
Covid travel requirements relaxed
Since last Friday, fully vaccinated people travelling to the UK no longer have to take any Covid tests – either before departure or on arrival. There’s no longer a need to quarantine at all – but you still need to fill in a passenger locator form.

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

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

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

Posted on

Sunday Email: Issue 95

Welcome to the 95th issue of the Sunday Email. The 6th February is a quite remarkable day in the history of this country. This day marks the Queen’s accession to the throne exactly 70 years ago. The Queen’s father went to bed on the 5 February and died in his sleep during the night and thus began the reign of the UK’s longest serving monarch. This evening, residents of Topcliffe and Asenby will get together to discuss how our two villages should celebrate this amazing occasion over the allocated four days in June. Please attend if you have any thoughts on the event and particularly if you are prepared to join a community group to oversee the plans.

Doug
07785 223707

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee – Community Meeting – Tonight at 7.30pm
As mentioned above, the meeting to discuss local plans for the Platinum Jubilee will take place at 7.30pm at The Angel. Everyone is welcome. It will be an opportunity for ideas to be aired and it’s hoped that a jubilee committee will be formed to take the lead on organising local events and activities over the jubilee weekend – Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 June.

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

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

Next soup and sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch at the Village Hall will be held on Wednesday, 16 February at 12 noon. The cash raised will be donated to the Heriott Hospice in Thirsk. The last lunch raised £89.90 for the Boot Shop charity in Easingwold.
Topcliffe shops update
Here’s an update on progress with the refurbishment of Topcliffe Post Office and service changes there and across the road at the farm shop.

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

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

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

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

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

Services at St Columba’s

  • TODAY Sunday, 6 February at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong accompanied by organist Matthew Atherton. This is the actual 70th anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession to the throne and anyone who would like to join the Choral Evensong on this most significant day will be warmly welcomed.
  • Sunday, 13 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.
  • Sunday, 20 February at 10.45am – Choral Matins.
  • Sunday, 27 February at 10.45am – Holy Communion.
Bags2school recycling collection day
The date has been set for the spring Bags2school textile recycling event at the Village Hall. It’s on Thursday 28 April.
Youth Commission seeks new members
A recruitment campaign is now underway for young people who would like to be Youth Commissioners to support the police, fire and crime services in the county. Anyone aged between 10 and 25 is eligible to apply. The aim is to capture the voice of young people and to hear what they have to say about these vital services and how they work in local communities. Anyone interested in expressing their views, developing their leadership skills and representing their friends and classmates can apply to join the Commission. Go to:
https://www.northyorkshire-pfcc.gov.uk/for-you/young-people/youth/youth-commission-seeks-new-members/
Deadline for submitting applications – Friday 25 February.
Open Day at new Crematorium
There’s an open day at the new multi-million Hambleton Crematorium near Busby Stoop on Thursday 24 February. Visitors can call in between 11am and 3pm for a look around and to talk to staff about the building and how it will operate. In order to minimise the number of cars from our two villages, if anyone who is interested gives me their name, I’ll keep a list and see if transport can be pooled. Email doug or call 07785 223707.

Call blocking on your phone

There’s several things that you can do to stop nuisance calls and provide protection from unwanted calls.

– Install a call blocker: this is by far the best way to stop nuisance callers. The TrueCall device is very effective and recommended by the authorities.
Contact your phone provider: many phone providers offer free call blocking services that can be really helpful to protect you and your loved ones.

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

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

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

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

Rural Arts classes start soon
Just a quick reminder that the monthly Rural Arts classes start again at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 10.00am on Tuesday, 22 February. The subject at the first class will be painting and brusho. You can simply turn up on the day (it’s free to attend) or if you want more information call Judith Lowe on 577911.

Dates for future classes are: 22 March, 19 April, 17 May, 21 June and 19 July. .

Events at The Angel

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

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

Catton Kitchen winter opening hours

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

Opening times will be reviewed again in the spring.

Parish Council meetings

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

Village Hall Committee meeting

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

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

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

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk

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

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

Events on at The Forum

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

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

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall
1. Weekly Activities
Monday
Art classes – 10am to 12 noon.
My Time Yoga – 1.30 to 2.45pm.
Boot Camp – 7 to 8pm.
Tuesday
Rural Arts – monthly ‘Heart and Craft’ classes starting 22 February.
Boccia Club – 1.30 to 3.30pm.
Library – 1.30 to 3.30pm.
Squirrels – 5 to 6pm.
Beavers – 6.15 to 7.15pm.
Wednesday
Soup & Sweet lunch – 12 noon to 1pm (alternate Wednesdays).
Cubs – 6.45 to 7.45pm.
Thursday
Pammy’s Pilates – 6 to 7pm.
Indoor Carpet Bowls – 7.30 to 9.30pm.
Friday
Boot Camp – 6 to 7pm.
Scouts – 7 to 9pm.

2. Regular meetings and other events

  • Topcliffe Parish Council meeting – 7pm on Thursday, 3 March..
  • Asenby Parish Council meeting, 7.30pm on Wednesday 16 March.
  • Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee – 7.30pm – Tuesday 5 April.

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

Local traders
Most of these traders also have a Facebook page where you can check out latest information.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

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

Harrogate (Asenby)

  • Refuse – Mondays 7 and 21 February.
  • Recycling – Mondays 14 and 28 February.
  • Green Waste – Subscriptions for 2022/23 are now open and the cost is £41. Sign up at http://www.harrogate.gov.uk
LATEST INFORMATION & NEWS ABOUT COVID
The week’s UK Covid statistics

  • 52.4 million first doses given. That’s 91.1% of the population aged 12+.
  • 48.5 million have had the second dose. That’s over 84.4%.
  • 37.5 million have now had a booster or third jab. That’s nearly 65.2% of those eligible.
  • There have been nearly 18 million confirmed cases of Covid.
  • There were 60,578 new Covid infections yesterday and 599,299 people tested positive in the last week. That’s a 4% decrease on the previous week.
  • 11,214 people were admitted to hospital with Covid in the week to 31 January.
  • There were 259 deaths reported yesterday and 1,729 in the last seven days. A decrease of 5.4% compared with the previous week.
  • The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at 158,243.
  • 178,488 deaths registered in the UK had Covid-19 mentioned on the death certificate.
  • Worldwide, the global death toll is 5,746,499.
That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.