Category: Sunday Email

Welcome to the 74th issue of the Sunday Email.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number for England as a whole is 0.9 to 1.0. It means that on average every 10 people infected will infect between 9 and 10 other people.

• 48.2 million first doses given. 43.3 million second doses. 88.7% of the population aged 16+ has now had the first jab and over 79.6% the second.

• 245,354 people tested positive for Covid in the last week. That’s a 2.4% increase on the previous week.

• There were 37,578 new infections yesterday and 245,354 in the last seven days.

• 6,566 people were admitted to hospital with Covid between 25 and 31 August.

• There were 120 deaths reported yesterday and 785 in the last seven days.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at 133,161.

• Over 156,119 deaths registered in the UK had Covid-19 mentioned on the death certificate.

• Worldwide, the global death toll is 4,570,000.

North Yorkshire Covid Situation

In the eighteen months of the pandemic, nearly 51,000 positive tests have been reported in North Yorkshire. Last week alone, a further 1,609 cases were confirmed. The seven-day rate for North Yorkshire was 312.1 cases per 100,000 people, higher than the England seven-day rate of 306.5.

Covid is still with us, so follow the guidelines

• Get your first and second dose of the vaccine.
• Continue to think about the vulnerability of loved ones.
• Outdoors is always safer than indoors.
• Keep getting tested regularly, even without symptoms.
• Continue to follow social distancing where possible, when out with friends and family, including workplaces, pubs and restaurants.
• Hands. Face. Space. Fresh Air.

Vaccines – a double benefit

Research by King’s College London shows that being fully vaccinated against Covid not only cuts the risk of catching it, but also of an infection turning into long Covid. It shows that in the minority of people who get Covid despite two jabs, the odds of developing symptoms lasting longer than four weeks are cut by 50% compared with people who are not vaccinated. The study reports that many people who get Covid recover within four weeks but that some have symptoms that continue or develop for weeks and months after the initial infection – often referred to as long Covid.

Third jab for vulnerable

People who have a severely weakened immune system will be offered a third coronavirus vaccine. Advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation states that protection against Covid provided by vaccines is significantly reduced in those who are immunosuppressed, and so they should be the first to receive a top up dose. The NHS will contact eligible people as soon as possible to discuss their needs and arrange an appointment for a third dose. This third jab is not the same as the proposed ‘booster’ jab, which everyone will be invited to have – an announcement is anticipated at any time.

Jabs for 12 to 15 year olds?

There’s still no decision about whether 12 to 15-year-olds should be vaccinated against Covid. The education secretary acknowledged that parents would find it "deeply reassuring to have a choice of whether their children should have a vaccination or not" and that Ministers are awaiting definitive advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation. He suggested that the system was ready to deliver jabs as soon as a decision is made.

Changes to travel restrictions

Last Monday seven destinations joined the green list as part of a review of travel restrictions. They are Canada, Switzerland, Denmark, Finland, Lithuania, Liechtenstein and The Azores. Travellers arriving from these destinations no longer need to quarantine. On the same day two countries – Thailand and Montenegro – were added to the red list. People returning from red list countries need to pay to quarantine in a government-approved hotel for 10 days.

Covid Testing

• Test and Trace – Full details about the purpose of Test & Trace and how it works can be read at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/nhs-test-and-trace-how-it-works

• Anyone who is showing coronavirus symptoms is eligible to book a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test to find out if they have the virus. You can also book a PCR test if you are self-isolating after being in contact with someone who has tested positive. Tests can be booked from 8pm the night before. If test sites are fully booked they will not appear on the government’s website. https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test People who don’t have access to the internet, or who have difficulty with the digital portals, can ring the 119 service to book their PCR test.

• Lateral Flow Testing Kits – are available free of charge to everyone. Rapid testing detects cases quickly, meaning positive cases can isolate immediately. You can order here: https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests?medium=email&source=GovDelivery

The Tattler – September 2021

The next edition of The Tattler is now at the printers. It will be distributed door to door in Topcliffe and Asenby on 15 and 16 September.

Annual Attic Auction

The annual attic auction, held in the Village Hall yesterday, was a great success, raising £1,260 for St Columba’s Church. Asenby resident and former Sotheby’s auctioneer John Phillips led the proceedings and gave the event a very professional feel. Around 50 buyers attended the sale at some point during the afternoon and took the opportunity to purchase hidden treasure that they always wanted, plus some items that they never knew they needed! That’s recycling in its truest form.

Snooker AGM

The snooker club annual general meeting will be held in the snooker room at the Toll Booth at 7.30pm tonight. All club members are welcome to attend.

The Milk Churn Farm Shop

Due to a family wedding, the farm shop will be closed on Tuesday 7 September.

Thirsk Garden Centre café

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the café at Thirsk Garden Centre will be closed every Sunday in September.

Topcliffe Surgery rated very good by its patients

Our village surgery has been rated as very good by 85% of its patients. In a recent national survey it came 66th in England and 9th in Yorkshire. Well done to all concerned.

Seedlings Shed Project

The Milk Churn Farm Shop is running a ‘guess the number of the seeds in a jar’ challenge to raise funds for the replacement shed needed by the Seedlings Nursery. Anyone can join in for £1 and potentially win a £30 hamper containing meat and salad products, kindly donated by Debbie Roberts. The competition will run until 160 guesses have been ‘purchased’ or until the end of September, whichever comes first. Pop in and have a go. It could be your lucky day!

The Catton Kitchen

There’s a new market garden and refreshment shack opened just outside the village of Catton, on the Skipton-on-Swale side. The Catton Kitchen, run by Hugo and Amy, is open Thursday and Fridays 8am to 2pm; Saturday 10 to 2pm; Sunday 10 to 12 noon. Bacon sarnies served until 1pm most days – but only until 12 noon on a Sunday. Takeaway food or veg boxes can be pre-ordered – 07747 083155. Check out www.thecattonkitchen.co.uk

Amy and Hugo are organising a few events that might be of interest to Topcliffe and Asenby residents:

• Pizza night – 4.30-8pm Thursday 23 September. It’s a takeaway service and pre-ordering is essential.
• Autumn Garland making, with Sahra Rayner of Willow View Farm, Topcliffe – Saturday 23 October 2-4pm. £25 per person. Arrive at 1.30pm for tea/coffee and cake, which is included in the price.
• Christmas wreath making – Thursday 2 December 6-8pm. £30 per person. Arrive at 5.30pm for mulled wine and mince pie, which is included in the price.
• Christmas wreath making – Saturday 4 December 2-4pm £30 per person. Arrive at 1.30pm for mulled wine and mince pie, which is included in the price.

Sutton Bank closed

Sutton Bank will be closed for three weeks so that annual maintenance can be undertaken to ensure it remains structurally safe. North Yorkshire County Council’s highways team will take two weeks to carry out the work which includes the inspection and maintenance of the rock face on the route on the A170. Then BT engineers will spend the final week carrying out some essential utility works. It means a full road closure will be in place from the morning of Sunday, September 12 until the evening of Sunday, September 26 September.

Asenby parish councillor needed

Following the resignation of Councillor Don Crompton, Asenby Parish Council is looking for a replacement councillor. Any Asenby resident interested in joining

the parish council should contact parish council chairman Peter Palmer on 578057.

Road closure in Asenby

The main road through Asenby village, near to the entrance to Jamesville Way, will be closed for three days between 15 and 17 September. Then, on the following three days, there’ll be carriageway ‘incursion’ works to allow Northern Powergrid to complete a new customer connection. It’s presumed ‘incursion’ means roadside works, but no closure!

Art Classes start again in September

Another series of art classes start on Monday 13 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall between 10am to 12 noon. People of all abilities and experience are very welcome to attend. Attendees are asked to take their own materials. A full list of what might be required is available. Participants can choose to work in whatever medium they prefer. Refreshments are provided. Places need to be pre-booked. The two-hour classes cost £12.50 weekly or all five sessions can be booked in advance at an early bird offer of £60. Please contact Rebecca on 07704 819806 or email on rebeccajayneartanddesign. If you would like to check out her website go to www.rebeccajayneartist.co.uk

The Boccia Club

The Boccia Club is still looking to attract a few more members. The club meets Tuesdays between 1.30 to 3.30pm at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Anyone interested can just turn up on the day or if you want more information ring organiser Judith Lowe on 577911.

St Columba’s Church

Today, Sunday 5 September, 6.30pm – Choral Evensong.

Sunday 12 September, 10.45am – Holy Communion.

Sunday 19 September, 10.45am – Sung Matins.

Sunday 26 September, 10.45am – Holy Communion.

There will be congregational hymn singing at all services. The wearing of masks and social distancing is still expected.

E10 is the new standard for petrol

Last week saw the start of garages supplying a more eco-friendly petrol for our cars. Until now motorists bought petrol known as E5, which contained up to 5% ethanol, with the other 95% being regular unleaded petrol. The replacement, E10, sees the ethanol percentage increased to 10% – a proportion that brings the UK in line with countries such as Belgium, Finland, France and Germany. This new standard petrol grade contains less carbon than other motor fuels. Apparently, introducing E10 could cut carbon emissions by 750,000 tonnes a year, the equivalent of taking 350,000 cars off the road. Every petrol vehicle built after 2011 should accept E10, but it will not be compatible with as many as 600,000 older vehicles on our roads, says the RAC.

Local artists’ work on view

Today is the last opportunity to visit the Open Studio ‘Art Farm’ event at Pilmoor Hall. It’s open between 10am-5pm. Asenby residents Eric and Chris Moss and four other local artists are exhibiting. Entry is free and all work is for sale. Details about the artists taking part can be viewed here – www.artfarm.uk/about-4

Baldersby St James Book Fair

The annual book fair will be held in St James’ Church at Baldersby St James on Saturday 11, Sunday 12 and Monday 13 September, 10am-5pm each day.

Soup and sweet lunch – Wednesday 15 September

The next soup and sweet lunch will be held on Wednesday 15 September at 12 noon. Rather than having a set price for lunch, customers are asked to make a small donation. Any surplus will be donated to Animal Rescue Crew. The lunch on 1 September raised £83 for the Salvation Army (not the Blue Cross as was previously reported).

Macmillan coffee mornings

· A very special Macmillan coffee morning will be held between 11am and 2pm on Sunday 26 September. It’s ten years since Topcliffe lad, Patrick Hooker, was diagnosed with a rare cancer and eight years since he died, aged 13, at the Royal Infirmary in Newcastle. In his memory, Patrick’s mother Lois is organising the coffee morning at her home at 17 Manor Close. Anyone who is willing to bake scones or cakes, donate prizes for a Magic Square or help on the day is asked to get in touch with Lois via Messenger or email loisjeantopcliffe in advance of the day.

· The Parker family is also organising a coffee morning as part of The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Macmillan Cancer Support at their home at Meadow View, Asenby. It’ll be on the afternoon of Saturday 25 September. Everyone’s invited to pop along and raise some cash for an excellent cause, as well as socialise and enjoy a very pleasant afternoon.

Textile recycling collection day

There will be a Bags2School textile recycling event at the Village Hall on Thursday 7 October between 8.30am and 12noon. If you are having a clear out of cupboards and wardrobes please consider keeping bags of textiles for this charity collection. If you have trouble storing the bags, please let the organisers know and they will try to make arrangements for storage until the day. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and 1st Topcliffe Scouts. (Organisers: Donna Fleming 07591 438766 and Doug Allan 07785 223707).

Village Tidy Up Day

Parish councillors Ben Collard and Malc Morley are organising a village tidy up day on the morning of Saturday 16 October. There’ll be more details in future Sunday Emails, but anyone interested in helping out is asked to note the date in their diary.

Events on at The Forum

There are some great events coming to The Forum in Northallerton in the coming months, including:

• Thursday 23 September at 7.30pm – Comedian Pete Firman, one of the UK’s most popular magicians, is back on the road!

• Friday 24 September at 7.30pm – The Rod Stewart Songbook – an amazing tribute band plays Rod’s best songs from the last 50 years.

• Saturday 25 September at 7.30pm – Comedian and musician Jon Courtenay, the first ever Golden Buzzer act to win Britain’s Got Talent.

• Friday 1 October at 7.30pm – Britain’s Got Talent 2020 finalist, comedian, juggler and variety star Steve Royle presents his Royle Variety Performance – a fun-filled evening for all the family!

• Saturday 2 October at 7.30pm – Almost the Bee Gees – a great tribute to one of the best bands ever.

• Re-scheduled – Friday 5 November at 7.30pm (was Saturday 28 August) at 7.30pm – The Unravelling Wilburys – A band of good ‘ol boys reproduce the sound and songs of the late 80s super-group The Traveling Wilburys.

Enquiries to 01609 776230. Book tickets online http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

Parish Council meetings

• The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be at 7.30pm on Wednesday, 15 September 2021 at the Village Hall. www.asenby.net

• The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7.15pm on Thursday 7 October in the main hall at the Village Hall. topcliffeparishcouncil

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall

• Art classes – the next series of art classes starts on Monday 13 September. (see separate article).

• My Time Yoga – 1.30 to 2.45pm – every Monday.

• Boccia Club – 1.30 to 3.30pm every Tuesday. More participants welcome. Please come along.

• Pammy’s Pilates – 6 to 7pm, every Thursday evening.

• Boot Camp – every Tuesday and Friday evening, 7 – 8pm.

• Soup and sweet lunch – 12 noon Wednesday 15 September.

• Asenby Parish Council meeting – 7.30pm on Wednesday, 15 September.

• Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee – Wednesday 29 September.

• Topcliffe Parish Council meeting – 7.15pm on Thursday, 7 October.

Indoor Carpet Bowls – the indoor bowls club will start to meet again on Thursday evenings in September if there is sufficient interest. If you are interested in joining the group, please call Mel Arkley 01845 578728.

To encourage existing activities to get going again – and new ones to be introduced – group activities are being offered free use of the hall until 31 December (this does not include commercial one-off or private hires for parties and social functions). The Big Race Night and Challenge Quiz & Curry Night will hopefully be rescheduled before the end of the year.

Local traders

• The Angel at Topcliffe – Check out full details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

• Asenbee Honey – a local business selling honey but also making beeswax candles, a range of hand-carved spoons and oak chopping boards. www.asenbeehoney.co.uk

• John Aston Flooring Ltd – The Old Hatchery, Asenby. Big selection of carpets and flooring. Appointment only. 01845 421111 info

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

• The Elm Gallery – Opening times are Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 5.30pm; Sunday, 12noon to 5.30pm; Monday and Tuesday – closed. Covid safety arrangements remain in place. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

• Fotiá Candles – Nikki and Sam Key’s home-based business producing hand poured soy wax candles, wax melts and reed diffusers. Perfect gift ideas. Bespoke orders for special occasions such as wedding favours. Info or 07879447953.

• The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – run by Kerry Parker and based in Melmerby. Provides beautiful hampers for all occasions, containing the best of produce from small Yorkshire food and drink producers. Telephone: 07793 775987. www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – Customers continue to be asked to wear a mask/face covering (unless exempt) and also to maintain social distancing. This is out of respect for staff and more vulnerable customers. At both doors, there is hand sanitiser provided. Opening hours: Tuesday (but see notice re closure on 7 September), Wednesday and Friday 9am – 5pm; Thursday 9am – 1pm; Saturday 9am – 4pm and Sunday 10am – 3pm. Closed on Mondays. Takeaway teas and coffees with cake is still available. Wheelchair access is available at the rear of the property. Check out Facebook page for information about new lines in fresh and frozen foods. 01845 400446. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/

• Studio 18 Hairstylist – unisex hairdressing salon run by Nicola James at 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). Open Monday to Saturday. Male and female adults as well as children. For an appointment call Nicola on 07851 034815.

• The Swan – Providing traditional home-cooked food with a new menu and ‘specials board’. Extra choices on Wednesday Pie Night. Take-away meals every day. Sunday lunch served 12 noon to 4pm. On Saturdays, food is served 12 noon until 8.30pm and the bar stays open until late.

• The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. Foodstuffs such as tins, pasta, rice, biscuits, cereals, jars, crisps, juices, bottled products, soups, crisp breads, anything in packets, are very welcome. But please, no fresh products as there’s a risk they will go to waste.

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

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Recycling & green waste – Thursdays 9 and 23 September.

• Refuse – Monday 13 September.

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Refuse – Mondays 6 and 20 September.

• Garden waste – Thursdays 9 and 23 September.

• Recycling – Monday 13 September.

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

Welcome to the 73rd issue of the Sunday Email. I hope you are all having a very pleasant Bank Holiday weekend.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number for England as a whole is 1.0 to 1.1. It means that on average every 10 people infected will infect between 10 and 11 other people.

• 48 million first doses given. 42.5 million second doses. 88.2% of the population aged 16+ has now had the first jab and over 78.2% the second.

• 239,585 people tested positive for Covid in the last week. That’s a 8% increase on the previous week.

• There were 32,406 new infections yesterday and 239,585 in the last seven days.

• 6,294 people were admitted to hospital with Covid between 21 and 28 August.

• There were 133 deaths reported yesterday and 785 in the last seven days. That’s a 12% increase on the previous seven days.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at 132,376.

• Over 156,500 deaths registered in the UK had Covid-19 mentioned on the death certificate.

• Worldwide, the global death toll is 4,490,00.

Vaccine protection weakens within six months

A study published last week shows that the protection provided by two doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech and the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccines starts to wane within six months. The Pfizer jab was 88% effective at preventing Covid infection a month after the second dose, but after five to six months the protection decreased to 74%, suggesting protection fell 14 percentage points in four months. With the AstraZeneca vaccine, there was a protection against infection of 77% one month after the second dose but after four to five months protection decreased to 67%, suggesting protection fell by 10 percentage points over three months.

The scientist leading the study said waning protection is to be expected and that plans for booster jabs need to be made urgently. It’s anticipated that booster jabs will be available from September.

Covid Testing

• Test and Trace – Full details about the purpose of Test & Trace and how it works can be read at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/nhs-test-and-trace-how-it-works

• PCR Test – must be booked If you have symptoms. A full list of NHS testing sites can be viewed at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test

• Lateral Flow Testing Kits – these tests are available free of charge to everyone. Rapid testing detects cases quickly, meaning positive cases can isolate immediately. You can order here: https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests?medium=email&source=GovDelivery

The Tattler – September 2021

Work is well underway on the next edition of The Tattler. It will be distributed door to door in Topcliffe and Asenby on 15 and 16 September.

Tattler distribution

A big thank you to Linda Carver who answered the appeal for a volunteer to help deliver The Tattler following the departure from the village of Wendy Jamieson, who has moved to Scarborough.

Snooker AGM

The snooker club annual general meeting will be held in the snooker room at the Toll Booth at 7.30pm on Sunday 5 September. All club members are welcome to attend.

Art Classes start again in September

Talented artist, Rebecca Jayne, is launching another series of classes at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. They’ll be held on Monday mornings from 10am to 12 noon starting on 13 September through to 18 October. Rebecca is a professional artist and experienced teacher based in Thirsk. She states: “The classes are interesting with weekly topics and the opportunity to learn lots of skills. People of all abilities and experience are very welcome and it is a supportive and inclusive learning environment with lots of encouragement. It is a lovely time to relax, unwind whilst mindfully focusing on creating. All you need is a wish to start creating!” Attendees are asked to bring their own materials and a full list of what might be required is available, though participants can choose to work in whatever medium they prefer. Refreshments are provided. Places need to be pre-booked. The two-hour classes cost £12.50 weekly or all five sessions can be booked in advance at an early bird offer of £60. Please contact Rebecca on 07704 819806 or email on rebeccajayneartanddesign . If you would like to check out her website go to www.rebeccajayneartist.co.uk

The Boccia Club needs you!

The Boccia Club, which restarted a few weeks ago, is still hoping to attract a few more members. Currently, those who are attending the weekly session are really enjoying the exercise and company, but it would be better all-round if half a dozen more residents were to attend. Boccia Club meets Tuesdays between 1.30 to 3.30pm at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Anyone interested can just turn up on the day or if you want more information ring organiser Judith Lowe on 577911.

Asenby Picnic in the Park

Last Sunday’s picnic on Asenby’s playing field may not have attracted a massive crowd but those who did attend had a wonderful afternoon. It was the idea of eight-year old Oliver Robertson and planned as a celebration of the end of Covid restrictions. Plenty of local people seemed extremely happy to get together to mark the relaxation of recent lockdowns and to see the Asenby playing field back in use. Maybe the playing field will once again become a village hub and other community events will be organised?

The Produce Show – Results

The Topcliffe and Asenby Produce Show, held yesterday in the Village Hall, was a tremendous success. Lots of residents turned out to see a large display of horticultural produce, floral displays, baking and some remarkable items made by very talented villagers. The winners were:

• Horticulture – Doug Allan was the over all winner and also received a second trophy for the most firsts in the show.
• Floral – Joan & Ray Fothergill.
• Baking – Cath Towers (with a special commendation for Fiorella Shepherd).
• Hobbies – Karen Hargreaves.
• Children’s – there were some excellent entries in the children’s painting and baking section.

The event raised £175 for Village Hall funds.

St Columba’s Church

Sunday 29 August – there is no service today.

Sunday 5 September, 6.30pm – Choral Evensong.

Sunday 12 September, 10.45am – Holy Communion.

Sunday 19 September, 10.45am – Sung Matins.

Sunday 26 September, 10.45am – Holy Communion.

There will be congregational hymn singing at all services. The wearing of masks and social distancing is still expected.

Another scam doing the rounds

Neighbourhood Watch reports that a gift card scam is currently targeting North Yorkshire residents. An email is received which appears to be from a friend or colleague asking you to buy a number of gift cards using Google or Apple Pay. The email will usually be from someone you know (their email may have been hacked) and explains that they can’t buy the gift cards themselves because they are in a meeting or can’t get to the shop but that they will pay you back as soon as they can. The email will also likely ask you to photograph the cards once purchased and send them photos of the unique codes printed on each card. This allows the scammer to use the gift cards to make online purchases and needless to say you will never see your money again. The value of the gift cards requested varies but has been as much as £500. It goes without saying, that if you receive an email like this, do not purchase any gift cards. If it is from someone you know, ring them to alert them to the fact their email may have been hacked.

Soup and sweet lunch – Wednesday 1 September

The next soup and sweet lunch will be held next Wednesday (1 September) at 12 noon. Rather than having a set price for lunch, customers are asked to make a small donation. Any surplus will be donated to the Blue Cross.

Final concert at Baldersby St James

This week sees the third and final concert in the Music@Junction50 series. It’s on 2 September at 7pm and features the Genovia Bassoon Quartet. They’ll provide a whirlwind musical tour which will showcase items from various musical genres and will demonstrate the amazing versatility of the bassoon. Each member of the quartet is a top orchestral player. If you want more information, contact Sue Brown at the shop in Baldersby – 07840 381558 or Colin Reid on 01765 640624.

Annual Attic Auction

The much delayed 21st Annual Attic Auction returns to Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall next Saturday 4 September at 2pm. The event offers the perfect opportunity to clear your house of unwanted items and to donate them for sale at this much-loved village auction in aid of St Columba’s Church. The organisers are looking for donations of anything clean and saleable including china, glass, pictures, furniture, bric-a-brac, decorative items and much else besides, new or old, even antiques! (But please no TV sets, beds, clothes, computers or used soft toys.) Please bring items to the Village Hall from 8am to 11am on the day of the sale (the earlier the better), and, once catalogued, the sale will be available to view from 12 noon. Help may be arranged for anyone who needs to drop things off before the sale day, but there’s only limited storage available. It may also be possible to arrange transport for particularly bulky items. In either event, please contact John Phillips on 01845 577034 as soon as possible, and no later than Friday 3 September. Buyers, this is your opportunity to find that hidden treasure, things that you always wanted and items that you never knew you needed! Recycling in its truest form. Tea, cakes and other refreshments will be available on the Auction Day from 12 noon. See you there, come and enjoy the fun!

Local artists’ work on view

Here’s a reminder that Asenby residents Eric and Chris Moss and four other local artists will be exhibiting their art at Angela Hall’s ‘Art Farm’ at Pilmoor Hall. The Open Studio event will be open to the public between 10am-5pm on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 September. Entry is free and all work is for sale. Details about the artists taking part can be viewed here – https://www.artfarm.uk/about-4

Thirsk Festival

The three-day Thirsk festival takes place from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 September. The aim of the festival is to place the arts at the heart of the community and to celebrate the creativity of those within the region. These are the events:

– Friday 3 September – St Mary’s Church, Chorus and Orchestra, 7.30pm. Tippett, Handel, Mozart, Mascagni, Grieg & Vivaldi.

– Saturday 4 September – Thirsk Hall, Community Day, 11am-5pm. An event for all the family.

– Saturday 4 September – The Barn, Thirsk Hall, ‘Before the Dawn’, 8pm. Music and prose from the worlds of jazz, contemporary, fusion and folk.

– Sunday 5 September – The Barn, Thirsk Hall, ‘Stories & Music – The Little Prince’, 12 Noon.

– Sunday 5 September – St Mary’s Church, Peter and the Wolf, 5pm. Holst, Bach, Prokofiev.

Tickets for any of the events can be booked online at www.thirskhall.com or via Zillah Bell Gallery on Kirkgate (Monday to Saturday 10am-5pm). Any family entitled to benefits-related free school meals should contact elle@ruralarts.org for free tickets.

Baldersby St James Book Fair

The annual book fair will be held in St James’ church at Baldersby St James on Saturday 11, Sunday 12 and Monday 13 September, 10am-5pm each day.

Macmillan coffee morning in memory of Patrick

A very special Macmillan coffee morning will be held between 11am and 2pm on Sunday 26 September. It’s ten years since Topcliffe lad, Patrick Hooker, was diagnosed with a rare cancer and eight years since he died, aged 13, at the Royal Infirmary in Newcastle. In his memory, Patrick’s mother Lois is organising the coffee morning at her home at 17 Manor Close. Anyone who is willing to bake scones or cakes, donate prizes for a Magic Square or help on the day is asked to get in touch with Lois via Messenger or email loisjeantopcliffe in advance of the day.

And a coffee morning for Asenby too!

The Parker family is also organising a coffee morning as part of The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Macmillan Cancer Support at their home at Meadow View, Asenby. It’ll be on the afternoon of Saturday 25 September. Everyone’s invited to pop along and raise some cash for an excellent cause, as well as socialise and enjoy a very pleasant afternoon.

Textile recycling collection day

There’s to be a further Bags2School textile recycling event at the Village Hall on Thursday 7 October between 8.30am and 12noon. If you are having a clear out of cupboards and wardrobes please consider keeping bags of textiles for this charity collection. If you have trouble storing the bags, please let the organisers know and they will try to make arrangements for storage until the day. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and 1st Topcliffe Scouts. (Organisers: Donna Fleming 07591 438766 and Doug Allan 07785 223707).

Village Tidy Up Day

Parish councillors Ben Collard and Malc Morley are organising a village tidy up day on the morning of Saturday 16 October. There’ll be more details in future Sunday Emails, but anyone interested in helping out is asked to note the date in their diary.

Events on at The Forum

There are some great events coming to The Forum in Northallerton in the coming months, including:

• Friday 3 September at 7.30pm – Quo Experience – An excellent show that captures the essence of the real Stutus Quo.

• Thursday 23 September at 7.30pm – Comedian Pete Firman, one of the UK’s most popular magicians, is back on the road!

• Friday 24 September at 7.30pm – The Rod Stewart Songbook – an amazing tribute band plays Rod’s best songs from the last 50 years.

• Saturday 25 September at 7.30pm – Comedian and musician Jon Courtenay, the first ever Golden Buzzer act to win Britain’s Got Talent.

• Friday 1 October at 7.30pm – Britain’s Got Talent 2020 finalist, comedian, juggler and variety star Steve Royle presents his Royle Variety Performance – a fun-filled evening for all the family!

• Saturday 2 October at 7.30pm – Almost the Bee Gees – a great tribute to one of the best bands ever.

• Re-scheduled – Friday 5 November at 7.30pm (was Saturday 28 August) at 7.30pm – The Unravelling Wilburys – A band of good ‘ol boys reproduce the sound and songs of the late 80s super-group The Traveling Wilburys.

Enquiries to 01609 776230. Book tickets online http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

Parish Council meetings

• The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be at 7.30pm on Wednesday, 15 September 2021 at the Village Hall. www.asenby.net

• The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7.15pm on Thursday 7 October in the main hall at the Village Hall. www.topcliffe.org.uk

The Clerk to Topcliffe Parish Council can be contacted at topcliffeparishcouncil

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall

• Art classes – the next series of art classes starts on Monday 13 September. (see separate article).

• My Time Yoga – 1.30 to 2.45pm – every Monday.

• Boccia Club – 1.30 to 3.30pm every Tuesday. More participants welcome. Please come along.

• Pammy’s Pilates – 6 to 7pm, every Thursday evening.

• Boot Camp – every Tuesday and Friday evening, 7 – 8pm.

• Soup and sweet lunch – 12 noon Wednesday 1 September.

• Attic Auction – Saturday 4 September. (see separate article)

• Asenby Parish Council meeting – 7.30pm on Wednesday, 15 September.

• Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee – Wednesday 29 September.

• Topcliffe Parish Council meeting – 7.15pm on Thursday, 7 October.

Indoor Carpet Bowls – the indoor bowls club will start to meet again on Thursday evenings in September if there is sufficient interest. If you are interested in joining the group, please call Mel Arkley 01845 578728.

To encourage existing activities to get going again – and new ones to be introduced – group activities are being offered free use of the hall until 31 December (this does not include commercial one-off or private hires for parties and social functions). The Big Race Night and Challenge Quiz & Curry Night will hopefully be rescheduled before the end of the year.

Local traders

• The Angel at Topcliffe – Check out full details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

• Asenbee Honey – a local business selling honey but also making beeswax candles, a range of hand-carved spoons and oak chopping boards. www.asenbeehoney.co.uk

• John Aston Flooring Ltd – The Old Hatchery, Asenby. Big selection of carpets and flooring. Appointment only. 01845 421111 info

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

• The Elm Gallery – Opening times are Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 5.30pm; Sunday, 12noon to 5.30pm; Monday and Tuesday – closed. Covid safety arrangements remain in place. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

• Fotiá Candles – Nikki and Sam Key’s home-based business producing hand poured soy wax candles, wax melts and reed diffusers. Perfect gift ideas. Bespoke orders for special occasions such as wedding favours. Info or 07879447953.

• The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – run by Kerry Parker and based in Melmerby. Provides beautiful hampers for all occasions, containing the best of produce from small Yorkshire food and drink producers. Telephone: 07793 775987. www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – Customers continue to be asked to wear a mask/face covering (unless of course exempt) and also to maintain social distancing. This is out of respect for staff and more vulnerable customers. At both doors, there is hand sanitiser provided. Opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9am – 5pm; Thursday 9am – 1pm; Saturday 9am – 4pm and Sunday 10am – 3pm. Closed on Mondays. Takeaway teas and coffees with cake is still available. Wheelchair access is available at the rear of the property. Check out Facebook page for information about new lines in fresh and frozen foods. 01845 400446. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/

• Studio 18 Hairstylist – unisex hairdressing salon run by Nicola James at 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). Open Monday to Saturday. Male and female adults as well as children. For an appointment call Nicola on 07851 034815.

• The Swan – Providing traditional home-cooked food with a new menu and ‘specials board’. Extra choices on Wednesday Pie Night. Take-away meals every day. Sunday lunch served 12 noon to 4pm. On Saturdays, food is served 12 noon until 8.30pm and the bar stays open until late.

• The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. Foodstuffs such as tins, pasta, rice, biscuits, cereals, jars, crisps, juices, bottled products, soups, crisp breads, anything in packets, are very welcome. But please, no fresh products as there’s a risk they will go to waste.

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

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Tuesday 31 August (one day later than usual) and Monday 13 September.

• Recycling & green waste – Thursday 9 and 23 September.

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Recycling – Tuesday 31 August (one day later than usual) and Monday 13 September.

• Refuse – Mondays 6 and 20 September.

• Garden waste – Thursdays 9 and 23 September.

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

Welcome to the 72nd issue of the Sunday Email.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number for England as a whole is 0.9 to 1.2. This is a slight worsening of the position last week. It means that on average every 10 people infected will infect between 9 and 12 other people.

• 47.6 million first doses given. 41.5 million second doses. 87.5 of the population aged 16+ has now had the first jab and over 76.3% the second.

• 221,888 people tested positive for Covid in the last week. That’s a 10% increase on the previous week.

• There were 26,982 new infections yesterday.

• 5,869 people were admitted to hospital with Covid between 14 and 21 August. That’s a 6% increase week on week.

• There were 104 deaths reported yesterday and 699 in the last seven days. That’s a 14% decrease on the previous seven days.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at 131,591.

• Nearly 156,000 deaths registered in the UK had Covid-19 mentioned on the death certificate.

• Worldwide, the global death toll is 4,366,290.

Antibody tests

The government today announced that antibody tests are to be widely offered to thousands of adults each day in a new programme that aims to find out more about how much natural protection people have after getting coronavirus. Anyone over 18 will be able to opt in when having a PCR test from Tuesday. 8,000 of those who test positive will be sent two home antibody tests. The first of the finger-prick tests will have to be done as soon as possible after the positive result, so the body would not have time to generate a detectable antibody response to the infection. The second will be taken 28 days later and measure antibodies generated in response to the infection. The results will be used to monitor levels of antibodies in positive cases. The Department of Health said as well as helping it improve understanding about antibody protection, the scheme could give information about any groups of people who did not develop an immune response after getting coronavirus. Antibody tests have been used previously in the UK during the pandemic but in limited numbers, largely on people involved in studies or surveys.

Covid Testing

• Test and Trace – Full details about the purpose of Test & Trace and how it works can be read at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/nhs-test-and-trace-how-it-works

• PCR Test – must be booked If you have symptoms. A full list of NHS testing sites can be viewed at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test

• Lateral Flow Testing Kits – these tests are available free of charge to everyone. Rapid testing detects cases quickly, meaning positive cases can isolate immediately. You can order here: https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests?medium=email&source=GovDelivery

CO2 monitors for schools

Around 300,000 carbon dioxide monitors will be made available to schools in England to help improve ventilation and lessen the spread of Covid. The Department for Education says the portable monitors could be used to identify where more air-flow is needed. Teaching unions have been calling for urgent extra ventilation measures with masks and social distancing rules scrapped for the coming term.

Euro 2020 ‘generated significant risk’

More than 9,000 cases of Covid were linked to people who attended Euro 2020 football matches, according to a paper published by Public Health England. Euro 2020 and England’s progress to the final "generated a significant risk to public health across the UK", PHE concluded. But other mass events, including Wimbledon and the British Grand Prix, saw lower numbers of cases connected to them and the government says the data shows mass participation events can be conducted safely.

The Tattler – September 2021

Work has started on the next edition of The Tattler. It will be printed and ready for distribution on 15 September. A volunteer is needed to join the delivery team and distribute around 60 copies to Long Street addresses in Topcliffe. There are only four editions each year. If you are prepared to help, please contact Doug Allan on 578526 or email doug

RAF Leeming

There will be additional noise from the airfield next week as the RAF Station hosts visiting aircraft. A spokesman said “movements will be within the normal working day and every effort will be made to keep disturbance to a minimum. We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused.”

Community Safety Consultation

The Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Philip Allott has launched a major consultation about the priorities for policing, fire and rescue and victims’ services across North Yorkshire. New Commissioners are required by law to set out their plans for the length of their term and Mr Allott wants to hear from as many people before Sunday 7 November as he develops his Police and Crime Plan, and Fire and Rescue Plan for 2021-2024. Find out more here: https://www.northyorkshire-pfcc.gov.uk/

Boccia Club needs new members

The Boccia Club started up again a few weeks ago and those who are attending are enjoying the exercise and company. But the club could do with a few more members to make it viable. It takes place each Tuesday between 1.30 to 3.30pm at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Anyone interested can just turn up on the day or if you want more information ring organiser Judith Lowe on 577911.

Asenby Picnic in the Park – TODAY!

Don’t forget that there’ll be a picnic on Asenby’s playing fields starting 2pm this afternoon. It’s a celebration of the end of Covid restrictions and community lockdowns. Everyone’s welcome. Just bring your own chairs and blankets, as well as food and drink.

Puppy smuggling

Apparently during the 18 months of the Covid pandemic there has been a massive rise in puppy smuggling with thousands of them being brought from abroad to meet the demand. It’s estimated that 66,000 dogs were imported legally into the UK in 2020 but that many more were smuggled into the country in cars and by other means. The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs says that poor treatment and smuggling is on the increase, with prices for some puppies in some areas more than doubling to an average of almost £1,900 each. New plans include raising the minimum age for imported puppies from 15 weeks to 6 months and banning the importing of dogs with cropped ears or docked tails. Bringing heavily pregnant dogs into the UK will also be banned.

The Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show

The 2021 Produce Show will be held in the Village Hall next Saturday (28 August). The event is open to all residents of Topcliffe and Asenby, registered owners at Swaleside Holiday Park and individuals who grow produce on allotments within the boundaries of our two villages. The full list of rules, categories and classes is available on both village websites – www.topcliffe.org.uk and www.asenby.net or from Produce Show Secretary, Judith Lowe (577911).

Timings for the event:

• Entries must be registered at the Village Hall between 9am and 11.30pm on the day.
• The entry fee per entry is 50p (25p for children aged 15). Only one entry allowed in any class.
• Judging takes place between 12 noon and 2pm (the public are excluded during this period).
• Public viewing of the exhibits starts at 2pm.
• Raffle draw and presentation of trophies at 3pm.

Raffle prizes needed

Can you help by donating a prize for the raffle? Any contribution would be very much appreciated. If you can help, please bring your donation to the Village Hall on Saturday morning – 28 August, or call Doug Allan (578526) or Judith Lowe (577911) if you need us to collect it.

St Columba’s Church

Sunday 22 August, 10.45am – Holy Communion with Rev Mary Rolls.

Sunday 29 August – no service.

Sunday 5 September, 6.30pm – Choral Evensong.

Sunday 12 September, 10.45am – Holy Communion.

Sunday 19 September, 10.45am – Sung Matins.

Sunday 26 September, 10.45am – Holy Communion.

There will be congregational hymn singing at all services. The wearing of masks and social distancing is still expected.

Soup and sweet lunch – Wednesday 1 September

The next soup and sweet lunch will be held on Wednesday 1 September at 12 noon. Instead of paying a set price for lunch, customers are asked to make a small donation. Any surplus will be donated to the Blue Cross. The last lunch on 18 August raised £97 for the Herriot Hospice.

Final concert at Baldersby St James

The third and final concert in the Music@Junction50 series is on 2 September at 7pm when the Genovia Bassoon Quartet will provide a whirlwind musical tour which will showcase items from various musical genres and will demonstrate the amazing versatility of the bassoon. Each member of the quartet is a top orchestral player. If you want more information, contact Sue Brown at the shop in Baldersby – 07840 381558 or Colin Reid on 01765 640624.

Local artists’ work on view

Asenby residents Eric and Chris Moss are joining four other local artists to exhibit their art at Angela Hall’s ‘Art Farm’ at Pilmoor Hall. The Open Studio event will be open to the public between 10am-5pm on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 September. Entry is free and all work is for sale. A flyer about the event is attached. Details about the artists taking part can be viewed here – https://www.artfarm.uk/about-4

Thirsk Festival

The three-day Thirsk festival takes place from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 September. The aim of the festival is to place the arts at the heart of the community and to celebrate the creativity of those within the region. These are the events:

– Friday 3 September – St Mary’s Church, Chorus and Orchestra, 7.30pm. Tippett, Handel, Mozart, Mascagni, Grieg & Vivaldi.

– Saturday 4 September – Thirsk Hall, Community Day, 11am-5pm. An event for all the family.

– Saturday 4 September – The Barn, Thirsk Hall, ‘Before the Dawn’, 8pm. Music and prose from the worlds of jazz, contemporary, fusion and folk.

– Sunday 5 September – The Barn, Thirsk Hall, ‘Stories & Music – The Little Prince’, 12 Noon.

– Sunday 5 September – St Mary’s Church, Peter and the Wolf, 5pm. Holst, Bach, Prokofiev.

Tickets for any of the events can be booked online at elle for free tickets.

2021 Annual Attic Auction

The much delayed 21st Annual Attic Auction returns to Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Saturday 4 September at 2pm. The event offers the perfect opportunity to clear your house of unwanted items and to donate them for sale at this much loved village auction in aid of St Columba’s Church. The organisers are looking for donations of anything clean and saleable including china, glass, pictures, furniture, bric-a-brac, decorative items and much else besides, new or old, even antiques! (But please no TV sets, beds, clothes, computers or used soft toys.) Please bring items to the Village Hall from 8am to 11am on the day of the sale (the earlier the better), and, once catalogued, the sale will be available to view from 12 noon. Help may be arranged for anyone who should need to drop things off before the sale day, but there’s only limited storage available. It may also be possible to arrange transport for particularly bulky items. In either event, please contact John Phillips on 01845 577034 as soon as possible, and no later than Friday 3 September.

Buyers, this is your opportunity to find that hidden treasure, things that you always wanted and items that you never knew you needed! Recycling in its truest form.

Tea, cakes and other refreshments will be available on the Auction Day from 12 noon. See you there, come and enjoy the fun!

Baldersby St James Book Fair

The annual book fair will be held in St James’ church at Baldersby St James on Saturday 11, Sunday 12 and Monday 13 September, 10am-5pm each day.

Macmillan coffee morning in memory of Patrick

A very special Macmillan coffee morning will be held between 11am and 2pm on Sunday 26 September. It’s ten years since Topcliffe lad, Patrick Hooker, was diagnosed with a rare cancer and eight years since he died, aged 13, at the Royal Infirmary in Newcastle. In his memory, Patrick’s mother Lois is organising the coffee morning at her home at 17 Manor Close. Anyone who is willing to bake scones or cakes, donate prizes for a Magic Square, help on the day or provide a boiling water dispenser, is asked to get in touch with Lois via Messenger or email loisjeantopcliffe in advance of the day.

Bags2School recycling event planned

There’s to be a further Bags2School textile recycling event at the Village Hall this autumn. It will be held on Thursday 7 October between 8.30am and 12noon. If you are having a clear out of cupboards and wardrobes please consider keeping bags of textiles for this charity collection. If you have trouble storing the bags, please let the organisers know and they will try to make arrangements for storage until the day. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and 1st Topcliffe Scouts. (Organisers: Donna Fleming 07591 438766 and Doug Allan 07785 223707).

Events on at The Forum

There are some great events coming to The Forum in Northallerton in the coming months, including:

• Tuesday 24 August at 7pm – Andre Rieu – The King of Waltz handpicks his all-time favourite tunes and presents them on the big screen.

• Thursday 26 August at 7.30pm – Francis Rossi – The legendary Status Quo lead singer will share the extraordinary secrets of his 50-plus years in rock’n’roll when he takes to the stage for an intimate evening of chat and music.

• Saturday 28 August at 7.30pm – The Unravelling Wilburys – A band of good ‘ol boys reproduce the sound and songs of the late 80s super-group The Traveling Wilburys.

• Friday 3 September at 7.30pm – Quo Experience – An excellent show that captures the essence of the real Stutus Quo.

Enquiries to 01609 776230. Book tickets online http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

Parish Council meetings

• The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be at 7.30pm on Wednesday, 15 September 2021 at the Village Hall. www.asenby.net

• The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7.15pm on Thursday 7 October in the main hall at the Village Hall. topcliffeparishcouncil

Asenby Parish Council

Following the resignation of Don Crompton there is a vacancy on the Parish Council. Harrogate Borough Council has advertised the vacancy and invited residents to call for an election. The Parish Council is waiting to hear if there were any requests received from residents by last week’s deadline. A notification is anticipated early next week. If there have been no requests, the Council will seek to co-opt a resident.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall

• My Time Yoga – 12.30 to 4pm (two classes) – every Monday.

• Boccia Club – 1.30 to 3.30pm every Tuesday. All welcome.

• Pammy’s Pilates – 6 to 7pm, every Thursday evening.

• Boot Camp – every Tuesday and Friday evening, 7 – 8pm.

• Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show will be held on Saturday 28 August.

• Soup and sweet lunch – 12 noon Wednesday 1 September

• Attic Auction – Saturday 4 September.

• Asenby Parish Council meeting – 7.30pm on Wednesday, 15 September.

• Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee – Wednesday 29 September.

• Topcliffe Parish Council meeting – 7.15pm on Thursday, 7 October.

• Indoor Carpet Bowls – if there is enough interest, the bowls club will start to meet again in September. Expressions of interest please to Mel Arkley 01845 578728.

• Art classes – the next series of art classes will be held in September.

To encourage existing and a new range of activities to get going again after the pandemic, group activities are being offered free use of the hall until 31 December (this does not include commercial one-off or private hires for parties and social functions). The Big Race Night and Challenge Quiz & Curry Night will hopefully be rescheduled before the end of the year.

Local traders

• The Angel at Topcliffe – Check out full details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

• Asenbee Honey – a local business selling honey but also making beeswax candles, a range of hand-carved spoons and oak chopping boards. www.asenbeehoney.co.uk

• John Aston Flooring Ltd – The Old Hatchery, Asenby. Big selection of carpets and flooring. Appointment only. 01845 421111 info

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

• The Elm Gallery – Opening times are Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 5.30pm; Sunday, 12noon to 5.30pm; Monday and Tuesday – closed. Covid safety arrangements remain in place. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

• Fotiá Candles – Nikki and Sam Key’s home-based business producing hand poured soy wax candles, wax melts and reed diffusers. Perfect gift ideas. Bespoke orders for special occasions such as wedding favours. Info

• The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – run by Kerry Parker and based in Melmerby. Provides beautiful hampers for all occasions, containing the best of produce from small Yorkshire food and drink producers. Telephone: 07793 775987. www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – Customers continue to be asked to wear a mask/face covering (unless of course exempt) and also to maintain social distancing. This is out of respect for staff and more vulnerable customers. At both doors, there is hand sanitiser provided. Opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9am – 5pm; Thursday 9am – 1pm; Saturday 9am – 4pm and Sunday 10am – 3pm. Closed on Mondays. Takeaway teas and coffees with cake is still available. Wheelchair access is available at the rear of the property. Check out Facebook page for information about new lines in fresh and frozen foods. 01845 400446. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/

• Studio 18 Hairstylist – unisex hairdressing salon run by Nicola James at 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). Open Monday to Saturday. Male and female adults as well as children. For an appointment call Nicola on 07851 034815.

• The Swan – Providing traditional home-cooked food with a new menu and ‘specials board’. Extra choices on Wednesday Pie Night. Take-away meals every day. Sunday lunch served 12 noon to 4pm. On Saturdays food is served 12 noon until 8.30pm and the bar stays open until late.

• The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. Foodstuffs such as tins, pasta, rice, biscuits, cereals, jars, crisps, juices, bottled products, soups, crisp breads, anything in packets, are very welcome. But please, no fresh products as there’s a risk they will go to waste.

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

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Recycling & green waste – Thursdays 26 August and 9 September

• Refuse – Tuesday 31 August (one day later than usual).

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Refuse – Mondays 23 August and 6 September.

• Garden waste – Thursdays 26 August and 9 September.

• Recycling – Tuesday 31 August (one day later than usual).

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

Welcome to the 71st issue of the Sunday Email.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number for England as a whole is 0.8 to 1.0. This means that on average every 10 people infected will infect between 8 and 10 other people.

• 47.3 million first doses given. 40.4 million second doses. 89.3% of the adult population has now had the first jab and over 76.3% the second.

• 201,006 people tested positive for Covid in the last week.

• There were 29,520 new infections yesterday.

• 5,470 people were admitted to hospital with Covid between 8 and 15 August.

• There were 93 deaths reported yesterday and 613 in the last seven days. That’s a 2.2% decrease on the previous seven days.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at 130,894.

• Nearly 154,200 deaths registered in the UK had Covid-19 mentioned on the death certificate.

• Worldwide, the global death toll is 4,364,030.

North Yorkshire figures

The Covid infection rate across the county seems to have plateaued. The rate is 269 per 100,000 people, against an England average of 299. This is still high and pressures continue on health and social care services. The message to people is continue to wear face coverings, practise good hand hygiene, give people space and get plenty of fresh air. Currently 48 North Yorkshire care homes have cases of Covid so these remain extremely challenging times for health and social care.

Covid rules change from 16 August

From 16 August double vaccinated adults will no longer need to self-isolate after contact with a positive case of Covid (as long as they themselves have no symptoms). The same applies to all under-18s, which means class ‘bubbles’ will no longer need to isolate if there is one positive case. Fully vaccinated adults and under-18s will, however, be advised to take a PCR test – and should only not self-isolate if the result is negative. If the result is positive, they will need to self-isolate just like anyone else. Guidance recommending against travel to amber list countries is removed, meaning under-18s and fully vaccinated adults no longer have to self-isolate after visiting amber list countries. People should continue to meet others outside where possible and continue good hand hygiene. People who have been working from home are being encouraged to return to the workplace gradually.

Covid Testing

• Test and Trace – Full details about the purpose of Test & Trace and how it works can be read at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/nhs-test-and-trace-how-it-works

• PCR Test – must be booked If you have symptoms. A full list of NHS testing sites can be viewed at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test

• Lateral Flow Testing Kits – these tests are available free of charge to everyone. Rapid testing detects cases quickly, meaning positive cases can isolate immediately. You can order here: https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests?medium=email&source=GovDelivery

Deer Shed Base Camp

If you attended the Deer Shed Base Camp Plus event at Baldersby Park the weekend before last and had any property stolen from you, North Yorkshire Police would like to hear from you. In particular, a number of mobile phones have been recovered which police believe may have been stolen at the event between 1 and 2 August. Officers are appealing for information from anyone who may have had property stolen – if they have not already spoken to the police – or from anyone may have witnessed any suspicious activity at the event. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for Matthew Jefferson. You can also email matthew.jefferson If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Please quote the North Yorkshire Police reference number 12210172901.

Hambleton Heroes

Hambleton District Council has reopened its Hambleton Heroes initiative. Anyone can nominate an individual or organisation they feel has carried out fantastic work within the community in 2021. The council is interested to hear about amazing acts of kindness and generosity, selfless acts, sustained and relentless efforts to support those in need and innovative approaches to overcome challenges. The deadline is 31 October 2021. The nomination form is on the council’s website – https://www.hambleton.gov.uk/community-action/hambleton-heroes?documentId=255&categoryId=20052

Calendar Photo Competition ‘A year in North Yorkshire’

Budding photographers aged between 7 and 13 living in North Yorkshire are invited to submit photographs in this new competition. Photos can be taken on any device and need to represent North Yorkshire. They can be landscapes, scenery or street photography, with no people present. For more information and to enter contact Jayne on 07506 162 231 or email Jayne Closing date is 8 October 2021.

Fuel prices soar

According to the RAC the average price of a litre of petrol is now £135.13p, the highest since September 2013, as rising oil prices push up fuel costs. The news for diesel owners isn’t much better with an average of £137.06p a litre, meaning it’s at its highest price since 2014. The latest RAC Fuel Watch figures show that another 3.4p was added to a litre of petrol in July, the largest rise in the price of unleaded since January, while diesel climbed 2.7p a litre. A driver filling up a petrol car with a 55-litre tank now pays on average £3.08 more than at the start of June, and £11.47 more than a year ago. For diesel drivers filling a similarly-sized tank, it now costs £2.90 more than at the start of June, and £10.46 more than it did at the end of July 2020. And the situation is likely to get worse with more fuel price increases on the horizon.

Thirsk Area – Local Events

The volunteers at Thirsk Information Centre issue a ‘Local Events’ email on the 10th and 25th of each month to anyone who wants a copy. Most events listed are in Thirsk and surrounding villages. You can register to receive the publication online at news To receive Local Events emails just email news There is an unsubscribe link in every email sent out.

Strolling in Thirsk

Would you like an easy stroll to help you keep fit and active…with the added bonus of meeting new people? If so, consider joining Thirsk Strollers for a one hour walk each week – Wednesdays at 10.30am. For details contact: hambletonstrollers2018 or 07514 240227

Air Ambulance thanks Topcliffe

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) has expressed its heartfelt thanks to Topcliffe residents who raised £332 at the recent Afternoon Tea at the Village Hall. The cash was handed over to a representative of the YAA last week and now tea organisers Karen Morley and Linda Carver have had a very nice acknowledgement of the donation. The YAA reminds us that it is a charity and that it costs £12,000 a day to keep both air ambulances in the air, attending around 1,300 incidents a year across Yorkshire.

Soup and sweet lunch – Wednesday 18 August

The next soup and sweet lunch will be held this Wednesday (18 August) at 12 noon. Instead of paying a set price for lunch, customers are asked to make a small donation. Any surplus is donated to a different charity each time. This week the chosen charity is the Herriot Hospice in Thirsk.

Rural Arts – Printmaking

Two days of live printmaking demonstrations and workshops inclusive of all abilities! Try out different techniques with friendly and professional printmakers. Book on to one to two days. 10am-4pm on Friday 20 August and/or Saturday 21 August. Rural Arts, The Courthouse, Westgate, Thirsk. admin or 01845 526 536

SummerTime Fest

The Staveley Arms at North Stainley is staging a SummerTime Fest next Saturday (21 August). The programme stars The Dunwells and also features Lucy May-Walker, Megan O’Neill, the Solow Choir and Freddie Cleary. For more details check out the pub’s Facebook page or email info

Rock the Town

Rock the Town is again being staged at Thirsk Racecourse on Saturday 21 August from 2 till 10pm. This family-friendly music festival features rides, licensed bar, food, stalls and live music from Brooke Burke, Ty Lewis, Ultimate Jess Glynne, Boot Leggers, Jamie Lee Harrison, Maroon Live, Ezra Live, Khalsis Music, Dua Rules, Coldplay tribute, Stax and T’Pau. Tickets from info or 07845 151324. Festival rules and details at http://rockthetown.co.uk/thirsk-2/

Asenby Picnic in the Park

Here’s a reminder that there’ll be a picnic on Asenby’s playing fields starting 2pm on Sunday 22 August. It’s a celebration of the end of Covid restrictions and community lockdowns. Everyone’s welcome. Just bring your own chairs and blankets, as well as food and drink.

The Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show

Just a reminder that it’s only a fortnight to the 2021 Produce Show. It will be staged in the Village Hall on Saturday 28 August. The event is open to all residents of Topcliffe and Asenby, and individuals who grow produce on allotments within the boundaries of our two villages. The full list of rules, categories and classes is available on both village websites – www.topcliffe.org.uk and www.asenby.net or from Produce Show Secretary, Judith Lowe (577911).

Versatile bassoons

The third and final concert in the Music@Junction50 series is on 2 September at 7pm when the Genovia Bassoon Quartet will provide a whirlwind musical tour which will showcase items from various musical genres and will demonstrate the amazing versatility of the bassoon. Each member of the quartet is a top orchestral player. If you want more information, contact Sue Brown at the shop in Baldersby – 07840 381558 or Colin Reid on 01765 640624.

Thirsk Festival

There will be a three-day festival of great music, stories and events at various locations in Thirsk from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 September. The aim of the festival is to

place the arts at the heart of the community and to celebrate the creativity of those within the region. These are the events:

– Friday 3 September – St Mary’s Church, Chorus and Orchestra, 7.30pm. Tippett, Handel, Mozart, Mascagni, Grieg & Vivaldi.

– Saturday 4 September – Thirsk Hall, Community Day, 11am-5pm. An event for all the family.

– Saturday 4 September – The Barn, Thirsk Hall, ‘Before the Dawn’, 8pm. Music and prose from the worlds of jazz, contemporary, fusion and folk.

– Sunday 5 September – The Barn, Thirsk Hall, ‘Stories & Music – The Little Prince’, 12 Noon.

– Sunday 5 September – St Mary’s Church, Peter and the Wolf, 5pm. Holst, Bach, Prokofiev.

Tickets for any of the events can be booked online at elle for free tickets.

2021 Grand Attic Auction

Saturday, 4 September at 2 pm in Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. The organisers are appealing for items for the auction, so please do not discard anything during your house cleaning which could be sold at the auction. Anything clean and saleable such as books, furniture, bric-a-brac…even antiques! (but please, no TV sets, beds, clothes, computers or used soft toys). Items for the sale should be dropped off at the Village Hall on Saturday morning between 8 and 11am on 4 September. Limited storage might be available if items cannot be held until the sale day. It may be possible to arrange transport for any bulky items. Contact John Phillips Tel: 01845 577034.

Buyers can come and browse to see what is available between 12 noon and 2pm. All proceeds to St. Columba’s Church Funds.

A very big thank you to Chris Joyce and Fran Eckersley who kindly distributed leaflets about the Attic Auction to homes in Topcliffe.

Baldersby St James Book Fair

The annual book fair will be held in St James’ church at Baldersby St James on Saturday 11, Sunday 12 and Monday 13 September, 10am-5pm each day.

Macmillan coffee morning in memory of Patrick

It’s ten years since Topcliffe lad, Patrick Hooker, was diagnosed with a rare cancer and eight years since he died, aged 13, at the Royal Infirmary in Newcastle. In his memory, Patrick’s mother Lois is organising a Macmillan coffee morning at her home at 17 Manor Close. The event will be held between 11am and 2pm on Sunday 26 September. Anyone who is willing to bake scones or cakes, donate prizes for a Magic Square, help on the day or provide a boiling water dispenser, is asked to get in touch with Lois via Messenger or email loisjeantopcliffe in advance of the day.

Bags2School recycling event planned

There’s to be a further Bags2School textile recycling event at the Village Hall this autumn. It will be held on Thursday 7 October between 8.30am and 12noon. If you are having a clear out of cupboards and wardrobes please consider keeping bags of textiles for this charity collection. If you have trouble storing the bags, please let the organisers know and they will try to make arrangements for storage until the day. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and 1st Topcliffe Scouts.

(Organisers: Donna Fleming 07591 438766 and Doug Allan 07785 223707).

Events on at The Forum

There are some great events coming to The Forum in Northallerton in the coming months, including:

• Friday 20 August at 7pm – ‘Woman Like Me – The Little Mix Show’. Live vocals and pop-video choreography. Suitable for kids, tweens, teens and adults alike.

• Tuesday 24 August at 7pm – Andre Rieu – The King of Waltz handpicks his all-time favourite tunes and presents them on the big screen.

• Thursday 26 August at 7.30pm – Francis Rossi – The legendary Status Quo lead singer will share the extraordinary secrets of his 50-plus years in rock’n’roll when he takes to the stage for an intimate evening of chat and music.

• Saturday 28 August at 7.30pm – The Unravelling Wilburys – A band of good ‘ol boys reproduce the sound and songs of the late 80s super-group The Traveling Wilburys.

• Friday 3 September at 7.30pm – Quo Experience – An excellent show that captures the essence of the real Stutus Quo.

Enquiries to 01609 776230. Book tickets online http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

Parish Council meetings

• The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7.15pm on Thursday 7 October in the main hall at the Village Hall. topcliffeparishcouncil

• The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be at 7.30pm on Wednesday, 15 September 2021 at the Village Hall. www.asenby.net

Asenby Parish Council

The Notice of Vacancy has been issued by Harrogate Borough Council and is on display in the village. This notice gives the option for an election to be requested by parishioners. If by 23 August no request is received for an election, the Parish Council has the ability to co-opt.

St Columba’s Church

Sunday 15 August, 10.45am – Matins

Sunday 22 August, 10.45am – Holy Communion with Rev Mary Rolls.

Sunday 29 August – no service.

Sunday 5 September, 6.30pm – Choral Evensong.

Sunday 12 September, 10.45am – Holy Communion.

Sunday 19 September, 10.45am – Sung Matins.

Sunday 26 September, 10.45am – Holy Communion.

There will be congregational hymn singing at all services. The wearing of masks and social distancing is still expected.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall

• My Time Yoga – 12.30 to 4pm (two classes) – every Monday.

• Boccia Club – 2 to 4pm every Tuesday. All welcome.

• Pammy’s Pilates – 6 to 7pm, every Thursday evening.

• Boot Camp – every Tuesday and Friday evening, 7 – 8pm.

• Soup and sweet lunch – 12 noon Wednesday 18 August.

• Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show will be held on Saturday 28 August.

• Attic Auction – Saturday 4 September.

• Asenby Parish Council meeting – 7.30pm on Wednesday, 15 September.

• Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee – Wednesday 29 September.

• Topcliffe Parish Council meeting – 7.15pm on Thursday, 7 October.

• Indoor Carpet Bowls – if there is enough interest, the bowls club will start to meet again in September. Expressions of interest please to Mel Arkley 01845 578728.

• Art classes – the next series of art classes will be held in September.

The hall is again available for any type of booking in the normal way, though NHS Test and Trace arrangements are still in place. Hirers and users will be asked to take responsibility for the way they operate. The new guidelines are available on the village website – https://www.topcliffe.org.uk/village-hall/up-and-coming-events/

Existing hirers of the hall have free use until 31 December 2021. To encourage a new range of activities to get going, free use of the hall is also available to new group activities (this does not include commercial one-off or private hires for parties and social functions). Bookings for new activities and for events such as parties are now possible. Events planned for last year that had to be postponed due to the pandemic will be rescheduled in due course. Watch out for details of the Big Race Night and Challenge Quiz.

Local traders

• The Angel at Topcliffe – Check out full details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

• Asenbee Honey – this Asenby-based business sells honey but also makes beeswax candles and a range of hand-carved spoons and oak chopping boards. www.asenbeehoney.co.uk

• John Aston Flooring Ltd – The Old Hatchery, Asenby. Large selection of carpets and flooring. Appointment only. 01845 421111 info

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

• The Elm Gallery – Opening times are Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 5.30pm; Sunday, 12noon to 5.30pm; Monday and Tuesday – closed. Covid safety arrangements remain in place. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

• Fotiá Candles – Nikki and Sam Key’s home-based business producing hand poured soy wax candles, wax melts and reed diffusers. Perfect gift ideas. Bespoke orders for special occasions such as wedding favours. Info

• The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – run by Kerry parker and based in Melmerby. Provides beautiful hampers for all occasions, containing the best of produce from small Yorkshire food and drink producers. Telephone: 07793 775987. www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – Customers continue to be asked to wear a mask/face covering (unless of course exempt) and also to maintain social distancing. This is out of respect for staff and more vulnerable customers. At both doors, there is hand sanitiser provided. Opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9am – 5pm; Thursday 9am – 1pm; Saturday 9am – 4pm and Sunday 10am – 3pm. Closed on Mondays. Takeaway teas and coffees with cake is still available. Wheelchair access is available at the rear of the property. Check out Facebook page for information about new lines in fresh and frozen foods. 01845 400446. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/

• Studio 18 Hairstylist – unisex hairdressing salon run by Nicola James at 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). Open Monday to Saturday. Male and female adults as well as children. For an appointment call Nicola on 07851 034815.

• The Swan – Providing traditional home-cooked food with a new menu and ‘specials board’. Extra choices on Wednesday Pie Night. Take-away meals every day. Sunday lunch served 12 noon to 4pm. On Saturdays food is served 12 noon until 8.30pm and the bar stays open until late.

• The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. Foodstuffs such as tins, pasta, rice, biscuits, cereals, jars, crisps, juices, bottled products, soups, crisp breads, anything in packets, are very welcome. But please, no fresh products as there’s a risk they will go to waste.

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

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Monday 16 August and Tuesday 31 August (one day later than usual).

• Recycling & green waste – Thursdays 26 August and 9 September

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Recycling – Monday 16 August and Tuesday 31 August (one day later than usual).

• Refuse – Mondays 23 August and 6 September.

• Garden waste – Thursdays 26 August and 9 September.

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

Welcome to the 70th issue of the Sunday Email.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number for England as a whole has dropped from between 1.1 and 1.4 to a range of 0.8 to 1.1. This means that on average every 10 people infected will infect between 8 and 11 other people.

• 47 million first doses given. 39.2 million second doses. 88.9% of the adult population has now had the first jab and over 74.1% the second.

• 188,060 people tested positive for Covid in the last week.

• There were 28,612 new infections yesterday. This is a small decrease on the previous week.

• 5,328 people were admitted to hospital with Covid between 1 and 7 August.

• There were 103 deaths reported yesterday and 627 in the last seven days. That’s a 28% increase on the previous seven days.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at 130,281.

• Over 154,500 deaths registered in the UK had Covid-19 mentioned on the death certificate.

• Worldwide, the global death toll is 4,232,713.

North Yorkshire figures

The Covid infection rate is falling in North Yorkshire. The county’s average is 251 per 100,000 people, compared to an England average of 282 – but this is still high and it’s too early to be sure this is a sustained trend. The weekly rolling average of new cases a week earlier was 286 per 100,000.

16 and 17 year old to get jabs

All healthy 16 and 17 year olds in the UK are now eligible for a Covid jab. Walk-in centres began accepting this age group on Friday, but they are currently unable to book an appointment using the NHS website. The government has accepted advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JVCI), which said evidence shows the benefits of vaccinating 16 and 17 year olds far outweigh the risks. But while they’ll be offered their first jab, it is not clear how long they’ll need to wait for the second. Apparently the JVCI wants time to assess data from first doses before setting out how long the delay should be before the second.

Some young people are already eligible for a vaccine – 12 to 15 year olds at increased risk to Covid-19 and over 12s living with an immune-suppressed adult – leaving 1.4 million 16 and 17 year olds eligible for the jab.

Covid targets younger people

One in five people being admitted to hospital in England with Covid is aged between 18 and 34. NHS sources said the latest figures on hospital admissions reflected the success of the vaccination programme in protecting older age groups. So it makes sense for those aged18 to 34 to get the jab and fast.

Covid Testing

• Test and Trace – Full details about the purpose of Test & Trace and how it works can be read at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/nhs-test-and-trace-how-it-works

• PCR Test – must be booked If you have symptoms. A full list of NHS testing sites can be viewed at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test

• Lateral Flow Testing Kits – these tests are available free of charge to everyone. Rapid testing detects cases quickly, meaning positive cases can isolate immediately. You can order here: https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests?medium=email&source=GovDelivery

Milk Churn Farm Shop Covid scare

Yesterday a customer informed Debbie that they had taken a PCR test because they felt unwell. The results are awaited. As a precaution, Debbie has decided to close until the customer knows for sure if they have Covid or not. Debbie apologises for the inconvenience that this may cause but hopefully she will know in the next day or so, if the shop needs to remain closed. There’ll be an update on the Top Residents Facebook page.

Ned the Donkey RIP

The village is mourning the death of Ned the donkey which was kept as a pet by Mike and Heather Collinson on their farm off Station Road. Ned was well over 30 years of age and very popular with local children who often took carrots and other treats to feed him. Last Thursday, Ned was attacked and had his tail cut off by mindless yobs. After a few nights of loving and intensive care and attention from Mike and Heather, Ned regretfully died from his injuries.

More concerns about troublemakers in Topcliffe

Whilst referring to ‘mindless yobs’ it is worth raising the issue of young people who are regularly creating concerns in Topcliffe. Recently the Top Residents Facebook page has carried reports that make Topcliffe sound like an inner-city estate, rather than a rural retreat. Rob Roberts, a former policeman, yesterday posted this message: “It’s clear that a group of youths are committing theft (from Anne-Marie Barningham’s fridges), causing criminal damage (painted graffiti on Winn Lane), damaged the roof tiles of the shelter at the play park and being responsible for antisocial behaviour around the village. It’s alright making people aware of what is happening on Facebook, but the police are the ones who need to be made aware …. they don’t monitor Facebook! As far as the police are concerned, there won’t be any issues in the village if they haven’t been told about them. Each incident like those listed above needs reporting, not ones where the youths are just ‘sat on a street corner’. The more reports the police get, the more attention the village will get from them, even if it’s just a couple of PCSOs walking about and engaging with the youths. If you have cause to report anything, get an incident number and by all means Top Residents. There’s just a chance that the parents of the youths will see that some official interest is being taken, and they might take some action to control their children.” Well said Rob.

Can you help tackle Himalayan Balsam at The Sheepwash?

Last week a team of Topcliffe volunteers rolled up their sleeves to tackle a huge clump of Himalayan Balsam at the Sheepwash. They made a huge dent in the area infested with the weed but there’s still more to be pulled up. Parish councillors Malc Morley and Ben Collard are organising another working party to finish the job and they hope that a few residents will give up an hour or so to help. Meet at The Sheepwash at 9am next Saturday, 14 August and bring gardening gloves. Josh Barningham will kindly supply a trailer to transport the uprooted plants ready to be burned.

Soup and sweet lunch – Wednesday 18 August

The next soup and sweet lunch will be held on Wednesday 18 August at 12 noon. Instead of paying a set price for lunch, customers are asked to make a small donation. Any surplus is donated to a different charity each time.

Sunday afternoon tea goes down a treat

The Afternoon Tea held last Sunday was a great success with over 60 villagers attending. The event raised £320 for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and a raffle for the Seedlings Shed project raised £61. Huge thanks to Karen Morely and Linda Carver for organising this brilliant community event and to everyone who contributed and/or attended.

Seedlings Nursery Shed Project

Karen and Linda have also handed over nearly £300 to the Seedlings Nursery to help towards purchasing a replacement storage shed. The nursery, which is attached to Topcliffe Academy, needs to raise around £1,000 to replace a dilapidated storage shed in which equipment and toys are stored. As well as raising £61 from the Afternoon Tea raffle for this project, Karen and Linda also raised £81 at the last Soup and Sweet lunch at the Village Hall. Doug and Mary Manning of Mill Rise on Station Road have kindly made a £150 donation to boost the fund. The Milk Churn Farm Shop is also running a ‘guess the number of the seeds in a jar’ challenge and anyone can join in for £1 and potentially win a £30 hamper containing meat and salad products, kindly donated by Debbie Roberts.

In memory of Patrick

It’s ten years since Topcliffe lad, Patrick Hooker, was diagnosed with a rare cancer and eight years since he died, aged 13, at the Royal Infirmary in Newcastle. In his memory, Patrick’s mother Lois is organising a Macmillan coffee morning at her home at 17 Manor Close. The event will be held between 11am and 2pm on Sunday 26 September. Anyone who is willing to bake scones or cakes, donate prizes for a Magic Square, help on the day or provide a boiling water dispenser, is asked to get in touch with Lois via Messenger or email loisjeantopcliffe in advance of the day.

Bags2School recycling event planned

There’s to be a further Bags2School textile recycling event at the Village Hall this autumn. It will be held on Thursday 7 October between 8.30am and 12noon. If you are having a clear out of cupboards and wardrobes please consider keeping bags of textiles for this charity collection. If you have trouble storing the bags, please let the organisers know and they will try to make arrangements for storage until the day. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and 1st Topcliffe Scouts.

(Organisers: Donna Fleming 07591 438766 and Doug Allan 07785 223707).

The following items are welcomed: men’s, ladies and children’s clothing – paired shoes (tied together or elastic band around) – handbags – hats – bags – scarves and ties – jewellery – lingerie – socks – belts – soft toys – household linen – household curtains – household towels – household bedding (bed sheets, pillow-cases and duvet covers). We are unable to accept duvets and blankets, pillows and cushions, carpets, rugs and mats (including bath, shower and toilet mats), soiled, painted, ripped or wet clothing, school uniforms, corporate clothing and workwear or textile off cuts or yarns.

Wheelchair available

The Village Hall has a wheelchair in store which the committee is more than happy for residents to borrow if they have a temporary need. Contact Judith Lowe on 01845 577911.

SummerTime Fest

The Staveley Arms at North Stainley is staging a SummerTime Fest on Saturday 21 August. The programme stars The Dunwells and also features Lucy May-Walker, Megan O’Neill, the Solow Choir and Freddie Cleary. For more details check out the pub’s Facebook page or email info

The Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show

Just a reminder that it’s only three weeks to the 2021 Produce Show. It will be staged in the Village Hall on Saturday 28 August. The event is open to all residents of Topcliffe and Asenby, and individuals who grow produce on allotments within the boundaries of our two villages. The full list of rules, categories and classes is available on both village websites – www.topcliffe.org.uk and www.asenby.net or from Produce Show Secretary, Judith Lowe (577911).

Versatile bassoons

The third and final concert in the Music@Junction50 series is on 2 September at 7pm when the Genovia Bassoon Quartet will provide a whirlwind musical tour which will showcase items from various musical genres and will demonstrate the amazing versatility of the bassoon. Each member of the quartet is a top orchestral player. If you want more information, contact Sue Brown at the shop in Baldersby – 07840 381558 or Colin Reid on 01765 640624.

2021 Grand Attic Auction

Saturday, 4 September at 2 pm in Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. The organisers are appealing for items for the auction, so please do not discard anything during your house cleaning which could be sold at the auction. Anything clean and saleable such as books, furniture, bric-a-brac…even antiques! (But please, no TV sets, beds, clothes, computers or used soft toys). Items for the sale should be dropped off at the Village Hall on Saturday morning between 8 and 11am on 4 September. Limited storage might be available if items cannot be held until the sale day. It may be possible to arrange transport for any bulky items. Contact John Phillips Tel: 01845 577034.

Buyers can come and browse to see what is available between 12 noon and 2pm. All proceeds to St. Columba’s Church Funds.

Help Wanted

John Phillips is appealing for a few volunteers to help distribute flyers about the Attic Auction to Topcliffe households next week (Asenby is already covered). If you have a few minutes to spare and could deliver in even just one street, please call John on 01845 577034).

Baldersby St James Book Fair

The annual book fair will be held in St James’ church at Baldersby St James on Saturday 11, Sunday 12 and Monday 13 September, 10am-5pm each day.

Events on at The Forum

There are some great events coming to The Forum in Northallerton in the coming months, including:

• Friday 20 August at 7pm – ‘Woman Like Me – The Little Mix Show’. Live vocals and pop-video choreography. Suitable for kids, tweens, teens and adults alike.

• Tuesday 24 August at 7pm – Andre Rieu – The King of Waltz handpicks his all-time favourite tunes and presents them on the big screen.

• Thursday 26 August at 7.30pm – Francis Rossi – The legendary Status Quo lead singer will share the extraordinary secrets of his 50-plus years in rock’n’roll when he takes to the stage for an intimate evening of chat and music.

• Saturday 28 August at 7.30pm – The Unravelling Wilburys – A band of good ‘ol boys reproduce the sound and songs of the late 80s super-group The Traveling Wilburys.

• Friday 3 September at 7.30pm – Quo Experience – An excellent show that captures the essence of the real Stutus Quo.

Enquiries to 01609 776230. Book tickets online http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

Parish Council meetings

• The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7.15pm on Thursday 2 September in the main hall at the Village Hall. topcliffeparishcouncil

• The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be at 7.30pm on Wednesday, 15 September 2021 at the Village Hall. www.asenby.net

Reasonable Covid safety arrangements continue to be in place for all meetings and activities at the Village Hall.

Asenby Parish Council

Following the resignation of Asenby parish councillor, Don Crompton, a Notice of Vacancy has been issued by Harrogate Borough Council and is on display in the village. This notice gives the option for an election to be requested by parishioners. If no request is received the Parish Council has the ability to co-opt.

St Columba’s Church

Sunday 8 August, 10.45am – Holy Communion

Sunday 15 August, 10.45am – Matins

Sunday 22 August, 10.45am – Holy Communion

Sunday 29 August – no service announced.

The wearing of masks and social distancing is still expected. There will be congregational hymn singing at all services, with the exception of the Holy Communion on 8 August. Refreshments will be served in the Percy Chapel after the morning services and the congregation is invited to linger for a bit of a chat once again.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall

• My Time Yoga – 12.30 to 4pm (two classes) – every Monday.

• Boccia Club – 2 to 4pm every Tuesdays. All welcome.

• Pammy’s Pilates – 6 to 7pm, every Thursday evening.

• Boot Camp – every Tuesday and Friday evening, 7 – 8pm.

• Soup and sweet lunch – 12 noon Wednesday 18 August.

• Topcliffe & Asenby Produce Show will be held on Saturday 28 August.

• Topcliffe Parish Council meeting – 7pm, Thursday 2 September.

• Attic Auction – Saturday 4 September.

• Asenby Parish Council meeting – 7.30pm, Wednesday, 15 September.

• Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee – Wednesday 29 September.

• Indoor Carpet Bowls – if there is enough interest, the bowls club will start to meet again in September. Expressions of interest please to Mel Arkley 01845 578728.

• Art classes – the next series of art classes will be held in September.

The hall is again available for any type of booking in the normal way, though NHS Test and Trace arrangements are still in place. Hirers and users will be asked to take responsibility for the way they operate. The new guidelines are available on the village website – https://www.topcliffe.org.uk/village-hall/up-and-coming-events/

Existing hirers of the hall have free use until 31 December 2021. To encourage a new range of activities to get going, free use of the hall is also available to new group activities (this does not include commercial one-off or private hires for parties and social functions). Bookings for new activities and for events such as parties are now possible. Events planned for last year that had to be postponed due to the pandemic will be rescheduled in due course. Watch out for details of the Big Race Night and Challenge Quiz.

Local traders

• The Angel at Topcliffe – Check out full details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

• Asenbee Honey – this Asenby-based business sells honey but also makes beeswax candles and a range of hand-carved spoons and oak chopping boards. www.asenbeehoney.co.uk

• John Aston Flooring Ltd – The Old Hatchery, Asenby. Large selection of carpets and flooring. Appointment only. 01845 421111 info

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

• The Elm Gallery – Opening times are Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 5.30pm; Sunday, 12noon to 5.30pm; Monday and Tuesday – closed. Covid safety arrangements remain in place. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

• Fotiá Candles – Nikki and Sam Key’s home-based business producing hand poured soy wax candles, wax melts and reed diffusers. Perfect gift ideas. Bespoke orders for special occasions such as wedding favours. Info

• The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – run by Kerry parker and based in Melmerby. Provides beautiful hampers for all occasions, containing the best of produce from small Yorkshire food and drink producers. Telephone: 07793 775987. www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – Customers continue to be asked to wear a mask/face covering (unless of course exempt) and also to maintain social distancing. This is out of respect for staff and more vulnerable customers. At both doors, there is hand sanitiser provided. Opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9am – 5pm; Thursday 9am – 1pm; Saturday 9am – 4pm and Sunday 10am – 3pm. Closed on Mondays. Takeaway teas and coffees with cake is still available. Wheelchair access is available at the rear of the property. Check out Facebook page for information about new lines in fresh and frozen foods. 01845 400446. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/

• Studio 18 Hairstylist – unisex hairdressing salon run by Nicola James at 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). Open Monday to Saturday. Male and female adults as well as children. For an appointment call Nicola on 07851 034815.

• The Swan – Providing traditional home-cooked food with a new menu and ‘specials board’. Extra choices on Wednesday Pie Night. Take-away meals every day. Sunday lunch served 12 noon to 4pm. On Saturdays food is served 12 noon until 8.30pm and the bar stays open until late.

• The Thirsk Food Bank – has a collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. Foodstuffs such as tins, pasta, rice, biscuits, cereals, jars, crisps, juices, bottled products, soups, crisp breads, anything in packets, are very welcome. But please, no fresh products as there’s a risk they will go to waste.

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

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Recycling & green waste – Thursdays 12 and 26 August.

• Refuse – Monday 16 August.

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Refuse – Mondays 9 and 23 August.

• Garden waste – Thursdays 12 and 26 August.

• Recycling – Monday 16 August.

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