Sunday Email - Page 30 - Topcliffe and Asenby Sunday Email

Posted on 24 December 202313 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 190

Welcome to the Sunday Email.

I would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.

Christmas quiz and party
It was a full house at last Sunday’s bumper Christmas quiz and there was a real party atmosphere with lots of drinks poured and a fantastic buffet supplied by the quizzers themselves. The quiz – which consisted of 140 questions, – was put together by Jim Shaw and Doug Allan. Everyone present was a winner…but the team in first place was Susan & Derek Sykes and Phil Haley. Congratulations and well done.

Village Quiz – dates
The quiz will not be held over the festive period – tonight (24 December) and next week, Sunday 31 December. In the New Year the quiz will start again on Sunday 7 January.

Carol Services
Asenby: The evening of carol singing in Asenby on Wednesday last went very well with sixteen carollers in total, including members of St Columba’s choir some local parents and children talking part. many people were on the look out for the carol singers passing by, and some commenting that they had missed the singing in recent years! The evening finished with mulled wine and mince pies at Asenby Hall and a very respectable £126.72 was raised for Macmillan Cancer Care.

Topcliffe: The carol service at the Christmas tree outside the Village Hall on Thursday evening also went really well. There were around 30 adults and chidren…and they were all in good voice. Afterwards everyone enjoyed mulled wine and mince pies in the hall. Thanks to all of those who turned out on a cold night. You made it all worthwhile. Sorry there are no photographs; we were all too busy singing to have thought about taking any!

St Columba’s Services

TODAY – Christmas Eve – No morning service. TONIGHT at 11.30pm – Midnight Mass and Eucharist led by Rev’d Robert Williams.
Christmas Day, Monday 25 December – No Service.

Everyone is most welcome to come along for any of these services. Refreshments are served after every Sunday morning service.

Christmas Day at Maple Park
The operators of the Maple Park Cafe are inviting people who might be alone or lonely on Christmas Day to pop in between 10am and 12 noon for refreshments and company. The cafe is part of the Maple Park crematorium complex on the A61, just west of Busby Stoop. See promotional leaflet here.

Christmas in Ripon
TODAY (24 December) – Festival of Lessons and Carols: The Christmas Story told in readings and music from the Ripon Cathedral Choir. At the cathedral at 5.30pm.

TONIGHT – Midnight Mass: At the cathedral at 11pm.

Christmas Eucharist: Christmas day service and communion at the cathedral. 10.30am on Monday 25 December.

Boxing Day Eucharist and Pilgrimage: St Stephen’s Day communion service at the cathedral at 9.30am on 26 December. Followed by a pilgrimage to Fountains Abbey.

New Year’s Eve in Ripon: The town’s New Year’s Eve celebrations start at 9.15pm in the Market Square with live music from a steel band and culminate in a firework display at midnight. There’ll be a Watchnight service at the cathedral followed by a torchlight procession to the Market Square in time for ringing in the New Year at midnight

See more festive events in Ripon by visiting http://www.christmasin ripon.co.uk

The Catton Kitchen
Opening hours over the festive season are as follows:

TODAY – Christmas Eve – 10am to 12 noon.
Friday 29 December, 10am to 2pm
Saturday 30 December, 10am to 2pm
New Years Eve, 31 December, 10am to 12 noon.
New Years Day, 1 January 2024, 10am to 12 noon.

Christmas and New Year orders can be collected during these times or by special arrangement at other times.

The Swan’s festive opening hours
See the attached leaflet here for The Swan’s opening hours and when food is being served over the holiday period..

Post Office opening hours
Topcliffe Post Office’s opening hours over the holiday period are shown on the poster here.

Thirsk Garden Centre
The garden centre’s opening hours over Christmas and New Year are shown here.

Deer Shed wins Festival of the Year award
The popular family orientated Deer Shed festival which is held at Baldersby Park each year has won the Festival of the Year award in the The LIVE Awards.

The LIVE Awards, which recognise the leading companies and individuals in the £4.5bn UK live music business, were presented on 12 December in London, in front of an invited industry audience.

The Christmas nativity – A Midwife Crisis

Topcliffe Academy’s reception classes – Willow and Ash – performed an amazing nativity play last week and lots of parents and other residents of the village popped along to enjoy it. ‘A Midwife Crisis’ carried the message of Christmas and filled the audience with festive cheer. It was so lovely for the children to have the opportunity to perform on stage and work collectively to achieve such a high quality performance and showcase some talented individuals.

Be safe and secure over Christmas
North Yorkshire Police have issued some timely advice about how we can stay safe and keep our homes secure over the festive period. They suggest that spending just a few minutes doing a few simple checks can mean our homes stay safe and secure

Always lock your doors – both front and rear – especially when going out but even when you are at home. The police say that most burglaries happen via unlocked doors as opportunistic thieves seek out any opening that they can take advantage of.
Shut your curtains on an evening, and if you are going out leave lights and a radio on to give the impression you are home.
Keep your keys and valuables out of sight, and not within reach of windows or letterboxes. The most common items taken in a burglary are car keys, cash and bank cards, so especially keep these items out of sight.
Be careful how you dispose of boxes that contained expensive Christmas presents. Take them to the recycling centre: leaving them in your blue bin may be a great way for an opportunist to know what you have inside the house.
Double check your vehicles, sheds and garages are locked.

Community Messaging
Did you know that North Yorkshire Police operate a Community Messaging service? It’s a free email alert system that anyone can join. Local police teams use the system to let people know what’s happening in their area and to offer details about such things as burglary prevention and property marking events, plus information about crime appeals.
https://www.northyorkshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/wsi/watch-schemes-initiatives/as/ny/north-yorkshire-community-messaging/

Football Success
Topcliffe Academy’s Year 5/6 girls football team had amazing success in the area finals of the recent competition held at Thirsk School and Sixth Form College. They came away as winners and will now compete in the North Yorkshire Girls’ Football Finals to be held on Thursday, 18 January at York College.

The team – Beth, Ava C, Ava S, Matilda, Kensie, Gabi, Lilly, Amelia, Millie and Honour have so far had an outstanding competition, winning every single one of their games. Congratulations to all.

Warm Hub lunch
The next regular lunch will be on Wednesday 27 December.

The following lunch, on Wednesday 10 January, will be a one-off special two-course lunch consisting of either a chicken or beef dinner and a pudding. It will be provided by using some of the cash surplus from the Senior Citizens’ lunch held last Wednesday.

Events at The Angel Inn

Sunday lunches: Sunday lunches are served in the conservatory and function room. Booking is recommended. Menus can be viewed here.

Christmas: Opening for food on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (booking essential). There’ll be no food served on Christmas day, however drinks will be served from 11.30am to 1.30pm.

Comedy Night: Yes it’s back! The regular Stand-Up Comedy Night is returning to The Angel Inn on Thursday 28 December. Doors open at 7.30pm. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets £10 pre-paid or £12 on the night.

New Year’s Eve: a fantastic New Year’s Eve party with buffet and music from The Doubtful Bottle. Starts 8pm. Tickets £25 per person.

Please call 01845 578000 for more information.

Rural Arts in the New Year

There’s a comprehensive and interesting variety of bright and bold workshops, exhibitions, performance and screenings for the January – April period. With almost 200 creative events and activities there’s something for everyone.

A few examples are:

Tuesday 9 to Saturday 20 January – ‘People and Places’ – an exhibition of work created by members of the Heart & Craft and the ArtBeat Community. Curated by Artist Jane Claire Wilson the exhibition celebrates the creativity and sociability of local people. 10am – 4pm. Free Entry.
Wednesday 17 January – ‘Print & Texture’ – Experiment with different inking effects to explore pattern, texture and mark
making. You will print your own unique artworks on different papers and fabrics. 10:30am – 12:30pm. £20.
Friday 19 January – ‘Mosaic Mirror’ – Learn how to accurately cut tiles, selecting from a wide range of designs, colours and materials. 10am. £65.

Visit Rural Art’s website – Home – Rural Arts for more details or to make a booking. Or just pop in if you’d prefer a face-to-face chat.

The RItz Cinema, Thirsk
The Ritz is closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 December – Matinee on Wednesday 27 December and Friday 29 December to Thursday 4 January with matinees on Saturday 30 December and Wednesday 3 January – Wish
Friday 5 to Thursday 11 January – matinees on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 January – Wonka

Opening times: evenings – doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm. Matinees – doors open at 2pm for 2.30pm. https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Thirsk Repair Cafe
Be greener by avoiding waste and save money by letting a team of dedicated and talented volunteers try to repair your broken or ‘worn-out’ items, such as phones, computers, clothes, appliances, tools (including sharpening) furniture and toys. The cost is a voluntary donation. It’s on Saturday 13 January between 10am and 1pm at Thirsk Library on Chapel Street. For further details or if you would like to volunteer, please email: [email protected]

Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van will not be in Topcliffe until Friday 19 January.

Traders in Topcliffe, Asenby and surrounding area
There’s a wide range of small businesses operating in Topcliffe and Asenby and in close proximity to our two villages. Check them out when you need work doing or a service provided: it’s great to be able to support local! The list is here.

Bin Collections
It was mentioned last week that there was a statement on North Yorkshire Council’s website announcing that dates of collections are subject to change. Well, annoyingly, they did change after the Sunday Email was published so some readers may have recorded dates that are now incorrect. I don’t like publishing incorrect information, so over Christmas and New Year it will be best if readers check the council’s website to ensure they know the correct collection dates. https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/bins-recycling-and-waste

After the festive season you can recycle your Christmas tree, free of charge, at all household waste recycling centres.

The household waste recycling centre at Sowerby is open 8.30am to 4pm every day, apart from Wednesdays. This year they will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, 27 December, New Year’s Day and 3 January

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

This email is proudly sponsored by Faro Finance

Posted on 17 December 202313 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 189

Welcome to the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707

St Columba’s Services

TODAY – (17 December) at 10.45am Matins and at 6.30pm a traditional carol service of Nine Lessons and carols with the St Columba Choir led by Linda Hewlett and accompanied by organist Matthew Atherton, followed by a delicious finger buffet and wine.
Saturday 23 December at 3pm – informal family crib service and carols led by Rev’d Dawn Ward.
Christmas Eve, Sunday 24 December – No morning service.
Christmas Eve, Sunday 24 December at 11.30pm – Midnight Mass and Eucharist led by Rev’d Robert Williams.
Christmas Day, Monday 25 December – No Service.

Everyone is most welcome to come along for any of these services. Refreshments are served after every Sunday morning service.

Artisan Market
TODAY: (17 December) – Thirsk Market Place between 10am and 3pm. Locally-produced arts and crafts, food and drink. A diverse, quality, shopping experience that celebrates independent producers and makers. For more information check out: http://www.littlebirdmade.com

Village Quiz

Photograph shows last week’s winning team – The Long Street Mafia with quizmaster Charles standing behind.

The quiz will not be held over the festive period on Sunday 24 and Sunday 31 December. In the New Year the quiz will start again on Sunday 7 January.

Last dates for Christmas mail
There’s not much time left for posting cards and parcels if you want any chance of them arriving at their destination before Christmas. Tomorrow Monday 18 December is the last day for 2nd class mail and Wednesday 20 December is the final day for 1st class.

Senior Citizens’ Christmas Lunch
The senior citizens’ Christmas lunch held last Wednesday was a great success with well nearly 50 villagers having a traditional Christmas lunch and drinks. The entertainment was provided by Anne-Marie Mulley’s family members and friends – known as The Coffin Dodgers – who sang Christmas carols and a number of great sing-along numbers. Richard Byas, who retired as a local vet last year, gave a fascinating and funny talk about his experiences when training to become a vet and when practicing in this area for many years.

A big thank you is owed to organiser Judith Lowe and all the volunteers who helped prepare and serve the food and drinks, including Karen Morley (who was ill on the day but had done lots of preparation), Malcolm Morley, Linda Carver, Linda Robinson, Chris Bailie, Steve and Liz Hall, Clare Phillips, Chris Wiggins, Richard Byas, Peter Lowe and Doug Allan.

Warm Hub lunch
The next regular lunch will be on Wednesday 27 December.

The following lunch, on Wednesday 10 January, will be a one-off two-course lunch consisting of either a chicken or beef dinner and a pudding. It will be provided by using some of the cash surplus from the Senior Citizens’ lunch held last Wednesday.

Free Parking in Thirsk & Northallerton
North Yorkshire Council is allowing free Christmas car parking every Thursday in December and every day from Monday 25 Dec to Monday 1 January in local town centres, including Applegarth short and long stay car park, the Forum short and long stay car parks and Thirsk Market Place short stay, Millgate car park, Marage car park & Nursery car park.

Parking time limits still apply in the dedicated ‘short stay only’ car parks at Market Place Thirsk, Applegarth short stay and Forum short in stay in Northallerton.

The Catton Kitchen
The Kitchen is open TODAY (Sunday 17 December) between 10am-12noon.

Opening hours over the festive season are as follows:

Friday 22 December, 10am to 2pm
Saturday 23 December, 10am to 2pm.
Christmas Eve – 24 December, 10am to 12 noon.
Friday 29 December, 10am to 2pm
Saturday 30 December, 10am to 2pm
New Years Eve, 31 December, 10am to 12 noon.
New Years Day, 1 January 2024, 10am to 12 noon.

Christmas and New Year orders can be collected during these times or by special arrangement at other times.

Paper collection
Linzi, a member of staff in Topcliffe Post Office who is a volunteer at Whitby Wildlife Sanctuary is collecting old newspapers for animal bedding. If you can help please bag them up and drop them off at the Post Office. Thank you.

Events at The Angel Inn

Sunday lunches: Sunday lunches are served in the conservatory and function room. Booking is recommended. Menus can be viewed here.

Christmas: Opening for food on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (booking essential). There’ll be no food served on Christmas day, however drinks will be served from 11.30am to 1.30pm.

New Year’s Eve: a fantastic New Year’s Eve party with buffet and music from The Doubtful Bottle. Starts 8pm. Tickets £25 per person.

Please call 01845 578000 for more information.

Rural Arts in the New Year

A few examples are:

Tuesday 9 to Saturday 20 January – ‘People and Places’ – an exhibition of work created by members of the Heart & Craft and the ArtBeat Community. Curated by Artist Jane Claire Wilson the exhibition celebrates the creativity and sociability of local people. 10am – 4pm. Free Entry.
Wednesday 17 January – ‘Print & Texture’ – Experiment with different inking effects to explore pattern, texture and mark
making. You will print your own unique artworks on different papers and fabrics. 10:30am – 12:30pm. £20.
Friday 19 January – ‘Mosaic Mirror’ – Learn how to accurately cut tiles, selecting from a wide range of designs, colours and materials. 10am. £65.

Visit Rural Art’s website – Home – Rural Arts for more details or to make a booking. Or just pop in if you’d prefer a face-to-face chat.

Ripon at Christmas

Illuminated Winter Wonderland: TODAY – 17 December – Enjoy lights, decorations, snow machine, crafts and carol singing in Ripon Spa Gardens between 2 and 8pm. Free entry but donations welcomed.

Christmas Carol Concert: TODAY – 17 December – The cathedral choir sings with the renowned St Cecilia Orchestra in a spectacular concert in the nave at 5.30pm. Tickets £15 for adults and £5 for children (5-16) from www.riponcathedral.org.uk

Festival of Lessons and Carols: The Christmas Story told in readings and music from the Ripon Cathedral Choir. At the cathedral on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 December at 5.30pm.

Midnight Mass: At the cathedral at 11pm on Sunday 24 December.

Christmas Eucharist: Christmas day service and communion at the cathedral. 10.30am on Monday 25 December.

Boxing Day Eucharist and Pilgrimage: St Stephen’s Day communion service at the cathedral at 9.30am on 26 December. Followed by a pilgrimage to Fountains Abbey.

See more festive events in Ripon by visiting http://www.christmasin ripon.co.uk

Santa at Thirsk Garden Centre
Santa will be in his grotto at Thirsk garden Centre on weekends between 10am and 4pm until Christmas as follows:

TODAY – 17 December
23 December.

The cost is £6 per child, with all proceeds going to Thirsk Rotary and Herriot Hospice.

Carol singing in Asenby
On Wednesday 20 December at 6.30pm members of St Columba’s choir will lead the singing of carols around Asenby. Meet at Asenby Hall. Everyone is welcome to join in. A collection will be taken in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

Carols round Topcliffe’s Christmas tree
Residents are invited to gather at the Christmas tree outside the Village Hall to sing carols at 7pm on Thursday 21 December. Sheets with the words of the carols…and a few other festive songs…will be provided, but you’ll need to bring a torch or a mobile phone to light your way!

Afterwards, mulled wine and mince pies will be served in the hall. There’ll be no set price, but donations will be welcome.

The RItz Cinema, Thirsk

To Thursday 21 December – matinee on Wednesday 20 December – Napoleon.
Friday 22, Saturday 23, Wednesday 27, Thursday 28, Friday 29, Saturday 30 December and Tuesday 2, Wednesday 3 and Thursday 4 January 2024 – matinees on Wednesday 27, Saturday 30 December and Wednesday 3 January 2024 – Wish

The Ritz will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Opening times: evenings – doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm. Matinees – doors open at 2pm for 2.30pm. https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van will be in Topcliffe 5 to 7pm on Friday 22 December. After the opening that day the service will be closed until Friday 19 January.

NYMR Santa Specials
Santa and his team of elves will have returned to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway this Christmas and they are offering magical journeys aboard the famous Santa Express. The final festive service is on Sunday 24 December. Visitors can climb on board and make some enchanting memories on a trip starting at Pickering. Book online atnymr.co.uk/santa-specials

Bin Collections
Topcliffe:

Refuse – Monday 18 December and Tuesday 2 January (one day later than normal).
Recycling – Friday 29 December (one day later than normal)

Asenby:

Recycling – Monday 18 December and Wednesday 3 January. (two days later than normal). Then Monday 15 January.
Refuse – Wednesday 27 December (two days later than normal). Then Tuesday 9 (one day later than normal) and Monday 22 January.

The council’s website states that these collection dates may change. You can check dates of collections at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/

You can recycle Christmas trees, free of charge, at all household waste recycling centres.

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

This email is proudly sponsored by Faro Finance

Posted on 10 December 202313 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 188

Welcome to the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707

St Columba’s Services

TODAY (10 December) at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Sunday 17 December at 10.45am Matins
Sunday 17 December at 6.30pm – Carol Service – the traditional service of Nine Lessons and Carols with the St Columba Choir led by Linda Hewlett and accompanied by organist Matthew Atherton, followed by a delicious finger buffet and wine.
Saturday 23 December at 3pm – informal family crib service and carols led by Rev’d Dawn Ward.
Christmas Eve, Sunday 24 December – No morning service.
Christmas Eve, Sunday 24 December at 11.30pm – Midnight Mass and Eucharist led by Rev’d Robert Williams.
Christmas Day, Monday 25 December – No Service.

Everyone is most welcome to come along for any of these services. Refreshments are served after every Sunday morning service.

Scruton Station Edwardian Christmas
TODAY: (10 December) – Wensleydale Railway is presenting an Edwardian Christmas celebration at the fully restored Scruton Railway Station between 2 and 4pm. The afternoon of festive fun includes mince pies and mulled wine for adults and juice, biscuits and Christmas activities for children. Adults £5, children £2. See poster here.

Quiz night at the Village Hall
TONIGHT – the Sunday quiz is on at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 8pm.

Photograph shows last week’s winning team – The Long Street Originals and quizmaster Phil Haley.

Christmas tree
Topcliffe’s Christmas tree has now been decorated and is lit up each evening from 4 to 11pm. A big thank you to the volunteers who turned out last Wednesday to get the tree ready. It was definitely a case of many hands make lights work!

Bridge closure
Drivers should take note that Skipton on Swale Bridge will be closed on Monday 11 December from 9:30am to 3pm.

Warm Hub lunch
There will not be the usual Warm Hub lunch on Wednesday 13 December as the Senior Citizens’ lunch is being held that day. Hopefully, most of the regulars will be attending that event anyway. The next regular lunch will be on Wednesday 27 December.

Senior Citizens’ Christmas Lunch
Last call to those who wish to attend the senior citizens’ Christmas lunch on Wednesday 13 December. It’s open to residents of Topcliffe & Asenby aged 65 and over and will be held at the Village Hall. The cost for a full seasonal three course dinner, drinks and entertainment is £15 per head. Ring Judith Lowe on 01845 577911.

A ‘Thank You’ from St Columba’s to members of the Bowling Club
St Columba’s was recently very surprised and of course delighted to receive a most generous donation in excess of £1800 from Bowling Club funds and, in the absence now of any committee through which these feelings could be expressed, we hope that as many members as possible might pick this up through the Sunday Email. This gift will be most helpful in these difficult financial times and will be specially allocated for use either in the maintenance of the church fabric or for other projects solely within Topcliffe parish. So a huge thank you to all concerned from all at St Columba’s; and may we wish you a very happy and peaceful Christmas and a good new year.

John Phillips Vice Chair Topcliffe PCC

Events at The Angel Inn

Sunday lunches: Sunday lunches are served in the conservatory and function room. Booking is recommended. Menus can be viewed here.

Christmas: Opening for food on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (booking essential). There’ll be no food served on Christmas day, however drinks will be served from 11.30am to 1.30pm.

Comedy Night: Yes it’s back! The regular Stand-Up Comedy Night is returning to The Angel Inn on Thursday 28 December. Doors open at 7pm. Show 7.30 to 10.30pm. Tickets £10 pre-paid or £12 on the night. Event details on poster here.

New Year’s Eve: a fantastic New Year’s Eve party with buffet and music from The Doubtful Bottle. Starts 8pm. Tickets £25 per person.

Please call 01845 578000 for more information.

Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van will be in Topcliffe 5 to 7pm on Fridays 15 and 22 December. After the opening on Friday 22 December the service will be closed until Friday 19 January.

Library festive opening hours
North Yorkshire Council libraries will be closed over the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Most libraries will be closed from lunchtime on Saturday 23 December until Tuesday 2 January 2024.

Although the buildings themselves may be closed, they can still be used for free digital services. There are thousands of free eBooks and eAudio books, as well as eNewspapers, eMagazines and eComics available to borrow, and you can consult a wide range of free reference resources, day and night, throughout the holiday period.

Check out the council’s website: Libraries | North Yorkshire Council

Rural Arts in the New Year

There’s a comprehensive and interesting variety of bright and bold workshops, exhibitions, performance and screenings for the January – April period! With almost 200 creative events and activities there’s something for everyone.

Visit Rural Art’s website – Home – Rural Arts or more details or pop in for a face-to-face chat.

The RItz Cinema, Thirsk

To Thursday 14 December – no matinees – The Marvels.
Friday 15 to Thursday 21 December – matinee on Wednesday 20 December – Napoleon.
Friday 22, Saturday 23, Wednesday 27, Thursday 28, Friday 29, Saturday 30 December and Tuesday 2, Wednesday 3 and Thursday 4 January 2024 – matinees on Wednesday 27, Saturday 30 December and Wednesday 3 January 2024 – Wish

The Ritz will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Opening times: evenings – doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm. Matinees – doors open at 2pm for 2.30pm. https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

Ripon at Christmas

Illuminated Winter Wonderland: Enjoy lights, decorations, snow machine, crafts and carol singing in Ripon Spa Gardens between 2 and 8pm from Friday 15 to Sunday 17 December. Free entry but donations welcomed.

Christmas Carol Concert: The cathedral choir sings with the renowned St Cecilia Orchestra in a spectacular concert in the nave at 5.30pm on Sunday 17 December. Tickets £15 for adults and £5 for children (5-16) from www.riponcathedral.org.uk

Festival of Lessons and Carols: The Christmas Story told in readings and music from the Ripon Cathedral Choir. At the cathedral on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 December at 5.30pm.

Midnight Mass: At the cathedral at 11pm on Sunday 24 December.

Christmas Eucharist: Christmas day service and communion at the cathedral. 10.30am on Monday 25 December.

Boxing Day Eucharist and Pilgrimage: St Stephen’s Day communion service at the cathedral at 9.30am on 26 December. Followed by a pilgrimage to Fountains Abbey.

See more festive events in Ripon by visiting http://www.christmasin ripon.co.uk

NYMR Santa Specials
Santa and his team of elves will be returning to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway this Christmas and they hope you will take one of their magical journeys aboard the famous Santa Express. The festive special services are running the weekends of 16 – 17 and 23 – 24 December. Visitors can climb on board and make some enchanting memories on a trip starting at Pickering. Santa will have a special gift for all the children on board – providing they’ve managed to stay on the nice list this year. Santa’s helpers will lead the fun and games. Book online atnymr.co.uk/santa-specials

Santa at Thirsk Garden Centre
Santa will be in his grotto at Thirsk garden Centre on weekends between 10am and 4pm until Christmas as follows:

16 and 17 December
23 December.

The cost is £6 per child, with all proceeds going to Thirsk Rotary and Herriot Hospice.

Christmas Cruise on Ripon Canal
Ripon Scenic Cruises is offering a special festive canal journey on the Pride of Ripon with choice of warm mulled wine, hot chocolate or fruit punch with a mince pie or chocolate brownie. There’ll also be an opportunity to visit a Makers’ Market in the canal basin. The dates are Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 December. Book online at http://www.ripon-scenic-cruises.co.uk

Carols round Topcliffe’s Christmas tree
Residents are invited to gather at the Christmas tree outside the Village Hall to sing carols at 7pm on Thursday 21 December.

Sheets with the words of the carols…and a few other festive songs…will be provided, but you’ll need to bring a torch or a mobile phone to light your way!

Afterwards, mulled wine and mince pies will be served in the hall. There’ll be no set price, but donations will be welcome.

Bin Collections
Topcliffe:

Recycling – Thursday 14 December and Friday 29 December one day later than normal)
Refuse – Monday 18 December and Tuesday 2 January (one day later than normal).

Asenby:

Refuse – Monday 11 December and Wednesday 27 December (two days later than normal). Then Tuesday 9 and Monday 22 January.
Recycling – Monday 18 December and Wednesday 3 January. Then Monday 15 January.

You can recycle Christmas trees, free of charge, at all household waste recycling centres.

You can check dates of collections at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/

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

This email is proudly sponsored by Faro Finance

Posted on 3 December 202313 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 187

Welcome to the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707

St Columba’s Services

TODAY (3 December) at 6.30pm – Advent Sunday – Choral Evensong
Sunday 10 December at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Sunday 17 December at 10.45am Matins
Sunday 17 December at 6.30pm – Carol Service – the traditional service of Nine Lessons and Carols with the St Columba Choir led by Linda Hewlett and accompanied by organist Matthew Atherton, followed by a delicious finger buffet and wine.
Saturday 23 December at 3pm – informal family crib service and carols led by Rev’d Dawn Ward.
Christmas Eve, Sunday 24 December – No morning service.
Christmas Eve, Sunday 24 December at 11.30pm – Midnight Mass and Eucharist led by Rev’d Robert Williams.
Christmas Day, Monday 25 December – No Service.

Everyone is most welcome to come along for any of these services. Refreshments are served after every Sunday morning service.

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
TODAY – (3 December) – taking place at Thirsk Market Place between 9am and 2pm. All stallholders are local independent businesses who grow, rear or produce the food or drink on their stall. More information at http://www.northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com

Quiz night at the Village Hall
TONIGHT – the Sunday quiz is on at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 8pm.

Photograph shows last week’s winning team – ‘Three guys and a gal’.

Topcliffe Christmas tree up
Our village Christmas tree was put up yesterday outside the Village Hall and will be decorated and lit as soon as it is warm enough for the volunteers to do it.

A huge thank you to Josh Barningham who sourced the tree and used his farm vehicle to put it in position.

The traditional Christmas tree
(a slightly edited version of an article in December’s Cross Talk newsletter produced with permission from Richard Byas)

Christmas has many traditions, and one of the earliest traditions that is still followed is the decorated Christmas tree. The origin of the modern Christmas tree is open to debate, but trees have been used in rituals and as decorations since ancient times.

Many people believe that the Christmas tree originated in Germany in about 723 and there is story involving the English missionary St. Boniface taking an axe to a tree being worshiped by pagans and suggesting that a nearby evergreen was their ‘holy tree’. Other sources report that a fir grew on the site of the fallen oak.

Whether that tale of Boniface and the pagans is true or not, evergreen trees became part of Christian rites in Germany, and in the Middle Ages ‘paradise trees’ began to appear there. These were meant to represent the Garden of Eden and were evergreen trees hung with apples and displayed in homes on 24 December, the religious feast day of Adam and Eve. In time other decorations were added. Martin Luther reportedly first hung lighted candles on a tree in the 16th century (not now recommended following Health and Safety audits!) and paradise trees evolved into Christmas trees. By the 19th century, Christmas trees were a firmly established tradition in Germany.

The custom of decorating a small tree was unknown in Britain until about two hundred years ago. The German-born Queen Charlotte introduced a Christmas tree at a party she gave for children in 1800. The custom did not at first spread much beyond the royal family but Queen Victoria as a child was familiar with it and a tree was placed in her room every Christmas.

Queen Victoria married the German Prince Albert in 1840 and by 1841 the custom became even more widespread. The couple made Christmas trees a prominent part of the holiday’s festivities, and in 1848 an illustration of the royal family around a decorated tree appeared in a London newspaper. Christmas trees soon became common in English homes. Initially the trend was followed only by wealthier families but their use at public entertainments, charity bazaars and in hospitals made them increasingly familiar. In 1906 a charity was set up specifically to ensure that poor children in London slums “who had never seen a Christmas tree” would enjoy one that year. Anti-German sentiment after World War I briefly reduced their popularity, but the effect was short-lived, and by the mid-1920s the use of Christmas trees had spread to all classes.

Now Christmas trees in shops and public spaces as well as in our homes are a normal part of the Christmas season and they are a significant crop for numerous farmers with around 6-8 million Christmas trees sold annually in the UK.

Carols round Topcliffe’s Christmas tree
Residents are invited to gather at the Christmas tree outside the Village Hall to sing carols at 7pm on Thursday 21 December.

Sheets with the words of the carols…and a few other festive songs…will be provided, but you’ll need to bring a torch or a mobile phone to light your way!

Afterwards, mulled wine and mince pies will be served in the hall. There’ll be no set price, but donations will be welcome.

Cross Talk
The December edition of Cross Talk, the monthly church newsletter, can be read here – Cross Talk Dec 23 2.docx – Microsoft Word Online (live.com)

Anne-Marie and her milk round
Many of you will have heard that Anne-Marie Barningham has been unwell for a few weeks and her milk round has been disrupted. After much soul searching Anne-Marie has decided she can no longer undertake the milk delivery round and she is now effectively retired from that activity.

Milk and eggs (and cream if ordered in advance) can still be picked up from the farm on Long Street.

Everyone who knows Anne-Marie will want to wish her every good wish and hope that her treatment goes well. Of course, she wasn’t just a milk lady but also acted as an unofficial social worker and care assistant to so many elderly and those in difficulty. Her community caring services will be sadly missed by many.

The Tattler
The festive edition of The Tattler has been printed and copies will be delivered door to door in Topcliffe and Asenby starting tomorrow (4 December).

Warm Hub lunch
There will not be a lunch on Wednesday 13 December as the Senior Citizens’ lunch is being held that day. Hopefully, most of the regulars will be attending that event anyway. The next regular lunch will be on Wednesday 27 December.

Forty four meals were served at last week’s lunch and donations received totalled £160, of which £50 was presented to Royal British Legion in Thirsk. After expenses, the balance has been added to the Warm Hub hardship fund.

Payments from the hardship fund to those in need will be made before Christmas.

Senior Citizens’ Christmas Lunch
Residents of Topcliffe & Asenby aged 65 and over are invited to the Christmas lunch in the Village Hall on Wednesday 13 December. The cost for a full seasonal three course dinner, drinks and entertainment is £15 per head. Places are limited so please apply early to Judith Lowe 0n 01845 577911.

Topcliffe local election

The Liberal Democrat candidate has been elected to the Sowerby and Topcliffe division on North Yorkshire Council. The Rev’d Dan Sladden took 41.5 per cent of the votes in the by-election last Thursday (30 November). The turnout was 29.27 per cent, with 1,838 votes cast from an electorate of 6,279.

The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Green councillor Dave Whitfield on health grounds.

Church of England reverend Dan, who sings professionally with York Minster and Ripon Cathedral choirs, said: “I’m so honoured by this result. It’s been an absolute pleasure meeting so many residents over the last few weeks and that they turned out to vote Lib Dem in such numbers is humbling.”

Christmas Yarnbomers
The Thirsk yarnbomers have put up their amazing Christmas display in the town centre. There are some fantastic decorations which give a massive boost to the festive season in the town. Well done ladies.

Here are just a few of the decorations.

Events at The Angel Inn

Sunday lunches: Sunday lunches are served in the conservatory and function room. Booking is recommended. Menus can be viewed here.

Christmas: Opening for food on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (booking essential). There’ll be no food served on Christmas day, however drinks will be served from 11.30am to 1.30pm.

Wreath making class: tomorrow Monday 4 December – two sessions – one at 3pm and the second at 7pm. See full details here.

Please call 01845 578000 for more information.

Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van will be in Topcliffe – 5 to 7pm on Fridays 8, 15 and 22 December. After the opening on Friday 22 December the service will be closed until Friday 19 January.

The RItz Cinema, Thirsk

To Thursday 7 December – no matinees – Dream Scenario.
Friday 8 to Thursday 14 December – no matinees – The Marvels.
Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 December – matinees only – Trolls: Band Together.
Friday 15 to Thursday 21 December – matinee on Wednesday 20 December – Napoleon.
Friday 22, Saturday 23, Wednesday 27, Thursday 28, Friday 29, Saturday 30 December and Tuesday 2, Wednesday 3 and Thursday 4 January 2024 – matinees on Wednesday 27, Saturday 30 December and Wednesday 3 January 2024 – Wish

Ripon at Christmas

Advent Procession and Carol Service: at Ripon Cathedral at 5.30pm today – 3 December.

Macmillan Carol Concert: Drinks and canapes at The Old Deanery followed by a candlelit carol concert at Ripon Cathedral from 6pm on Monday 4 December. More information and booking at http://macmillanriponcarolconcert.co.uk

Illuminated Winter Wonderland: Enjoy lights, decorations, snow machine, crafts and carol singing in Ripon Spa Gardens between 2 and 8pm from Friday 15 to Sunday 17 December. Free entry but donations welcomed.

Festival of Lessons and Carols: The Christmas Story told in readings and music from the Ripon Cathedral Choir. At the cathedral on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 December at 5.30pm.

See more festive events in Ripon by visiting http://www.christmasin ripon.co.uk

Festive Wreath Making
Wreath making classes will be held at Rainton Village Hall on the following dates:

Monday 4 December, 10am to 1pm.
Friday 8 December, 10am to 1pm.
Sunday 10 December, 10am to 1pm.

Tuition, materials, drinks and cake included in the price of £30. Contact Gill Common on 07585 151910.

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Sahra Raynor is holding two Christmas wreath making workshops at The Angel Inn on Monday 4 December. The first is on from 1 – 3pm and the second from 7 – 9 pm. Participants will create a beautiful wreath to take away to hang on their house door. Fresh foliage, decorations and ribbons will be provided. Festive refreshments will be served, £45 per head. Contact Sahra on 07734 113069 or email [email protected] See leaflet here.

Social Media/Cyber Security Workshop
There’s to be workshops for pupils and parents/carers at Topcliffe Academy on
Wednesday 6 December. Mandy Norris from The Children’s Society’s Hand in Hand project will be visiting the school to work with the children on issues surrounding internet safety. There’ll also be a workshop for parents/carers between 2.45 and 3.15pm. The workshop will help to increase awareness of the dangers of internet use and explain how preventative measures can be adopted.

The Hand in Hand Project is part of The Children’s Society and supports children and young people across the whole of North Yorkshire who are, or could be affected by child sexual/criminal exploitation or vulnerable to grooming. The service provides young people with emotional and practical support, helping them to break the cycle of exploitation. The service also provides one-to-one support for young people either in school, in their homes or wherever the young person feels comfortable in meeting.

Art class
There’ll be a special class in the ‘Paint and Relax’ series on Thursday 7 December between 10.30am and 1pm at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall and the subject will be how to paint a Festive Scene in acrylics.

Book online at https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/product-category/classes-workshops

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

A History of Christmas Chocolate
Calling all Chocaholics! Pop along to White Rose Books in Thirsk on Friday 8 December to join author, broadcaster and chocolate historian Alex Hutchison on a journey into the history of all things chocolate – chocolate orange, Quality Street, Roses, chocolate coins, and all the other favourite treats. Drawing inspiration from her expertise in the history of chocolate, her latest book ‘A Quality Street Christmas’ is set in the West Yorkshire factory, where The Quality Street girls are gearing up for Christmas. Talk, reading and Q&A session followed by a book signing. From 7pm, doors open 6.30pm. Ticket £5, Ticket with book £10 (latest paperback is £8.99). All tickets include a glass of wine. E: [email protected] or telephone 01845 524353. www.whiterosebooks.co.uk

NYMR Santa Specials
Santa and his team of elves will be returning to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway this Christmas and they hope you will take one of their magical journeys aboard the famous Santa Express. The festive special services are running the weekends of 9 – 10, 16 – 17 and 23 – 24 December. Visitors can climb on board and make some enchanting memories on a trip starting at Pickering. Santa will have a special gift for all the children on board – providing they’ve managed to stay on the nice list this year. Santa’s helpers will lead the fun and games. Book online atnymr.co.uk/santa-specials

Santa at Thirsk Garden Centre
Santa will be in his grotto at Thirsk garden Centre on weekends between 10am and 4pm until Christmas as follows:

9 and 10 December
16 and 17 December
23 December.

The cost is £6 per child, with all proceeds going to Thirsk Rotary and Herriot Hospice.

Royal British Legion Christmas Concert
This year’s Christmas concert will be held at 7.30pm on Saturday 9 December at Thirsk & Sowerby Town Hall. It is free to attend.

Sessay annual pig race
Sessay’s annual pig race will be staged in their village hall on Saturday 9 December. Doors open at 6pm and action starts at 6.30pm. Admission with pie and peas supper is £5 in advance or £6 on the door. Under 16s can have a hot dog supper for £1. There’ll be a raffle and bar. To avoid disappointment, book in advance. Call Carole Trow on 01845 501141.

Scruton Station Edwardian Christmas
Wensleydale Railway is presenting an Edwardian Christmas celebration at the fully restored Scruton Railway Station on Sunday 10 December between 2 and 4pm. The afternoon of festive fun includes mince pies and mulled wine for adults and juice, biscuits and Christmas activities for children. Adults £5, children £2. See poster here.

Bin Collections
Topcliffe:

Refuse – Mondays 4 and 18 December.
Recycling – Thursday 14 December.
Garden Waste – there will be no more green waste collections this year.

Asenby:

Recycling – Mondays 4 and 18 December.
Refuse – Monday 11 December.
Garden Waste – there will be no more green waste collections this year.

You can check dates of collections at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/

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

This email is proudly sponsored by Faro Finance

Posted on 26 November 202313 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 186

Welcome to the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707

St Columba’s Services

TODAY (26 November) at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Sunday 3 December at 6.30pm – Advent Sunday – Choral Evensong
Sunday 10 December at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Sunday 17 December at 10.45am Matins
Sunday 17 December at 6.30pm – traditional Service of Nine Lessons and carols.

Everyone is most welcome to come along for any of these services. Refreshments are served after every Sunday morning service.

Thirsk Christmas Celebrations
The Christmas lights in the Market Place were switched on last Friday evening and look spectacular. There’ll be stalls, café and Santa in the Town Hall from 10am to 3pm today, Sunday 26 November.

Forest of Flowers
TODAY: 26 November – The Forest of Flowers in Huby is a conservation project started in 2015 and now well developed over 74 acres of woodland, wild flower meadows and ponds. It’s a flourishing natural habitat and a haven for wildlife. There will be a guided tour at 10am Check it out at http://www.forestofflowers.co.uk

Quiz night at the Village Hall
TONIGHT – the Sunday quiz is on at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 8pm.

Photograph shows last week’s winning team – DADs (Doug, Alan and Derek) with quizmaster Sue.

Warm Hub lunch
The next Warm Hub lunch at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall will be on Wednesday 29 November. As usual, lunch will be served from 11.30am to 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of meals followed by delicious cakes and bakes and tea or coffee. All welcome. No set charge, but donations welcome.

There will not be a lunch on Wednesday 13 December as the Senior Citizens’ lunch is being held that day. Hopefully, most of the regulars will be attending that event anyway.

Asenby Parish Council

New parish website: The Parish Council’s new website is now up and running. It presents information about the work of the Parish Council itself and lots of other village matters. It can be found at http://www.asenby.org

Clerk to the Parish Council: This post still needs to be filled. The Clerk is needed to support parish councillors with administrative duties. The council meets a number of times each year depending on needs within the village. This is a paid post and would particularly suit someone who has held a similar post in the past, although this is not essential as guidance and support will be available. For further information please email: [email protected]

Christmas gift from the Topcliffe & Asenby Charities
This is a last call to residents of Topcliffe and Asenby who are aged 80 and over who are eligible for a small gift at Christmas from the Topcliffe charities. If you received a gift from the charities last year you will still be listed to receive one this Christmas. Anyone who is eligible to receive a gift and has not received one in the past, please contact your village Feoffee before November 30:

Asenby – Carole Ford – 07904 015942 or put a note through her letterbox at Dunnock House giving your name and address.
Topcliffe – Anne-Marie Barningham – 07740 175311 or catch her on her milk round.
Topcliffe – Doug Allan – 07785 223707.

Nursery kids walk for wildlife
Children attending the Seedlings nursery at Topcliffe Academy raised £319.75 on a hedgehog walk in and around the village. The fundraising challenge was to raise as much money as possible to support The Wildlife’s Trust mission to protect 30% of land and sea by 2030. Nursery leader Katie Watson said: “The children were marvellous and so keen to raise money to help wildlife. I’d like to give a great big thank you to everyone who gave their support.”

Electricity job on Front Street
By now everyone will be aware that Northern Grid – or at least one of its sub-contractors – are indeed carrying out work on Front Street. This is despite the fact that when contacted just over two weeks ago the firm said that there was no record of any planned work in Topcliffe. Anyway, the contractor is installing a new powerline to The Angel Inn to ensure that the hotel has sufficient power when all the current and future improvements are completed.

Blister Packs
Heather Holt wishes to thank all of those residents who saved their medicine blister packs over recent months. Unfortunately, Heather is having to stop the collection service as it has proved impossible since SuperDrug stopped taking them to find another organisation willing to recycle them.

Art classes
Some readers may be interested in another class – how to paint a magical winter wonderland in acrylics, which is being held at Thirsk & Sowerby Town Hall on Thursday 30 November. Relax and enjoy being guided with tips and demonstration showing how to create a wintery artwork of your own. See poster here.

There’ll be a special class in the ‘Paint and Relax’ series on Thursday 7 December between 10.30am and 1pm. At Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall and the subject will be how to paint a Festive Scene in acrylics.

Book online at https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/product-category/classes-workshops

Events at The Angel Inn

Sunday lunches: Sunday lunches are served in the conservatory and function room. Booking is recommended. Menus can be viewed here.

Christmas Party Nights: Small or large businesses wishing to celebrate alongside others are invited to book. There are just a few available dates left.

Christmas: Opening for food on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (booking essential). There’ll be no food served on Christmas day, however drinks will be served from 11.30am to 1.30pm.

Wreath making class: Here’s a date for your diary. Plans are being made for a wreath making class on Monday 4 December both at lunchtime and in the evening. See full details here.

Comedy Night: Yes it’s back! The regular Stand-Up Comedy Night is returning to the Angel Inn on Thursday 28 December. Doors open at 7pm. Show 7.30 to 10.30pm. Tickets £10 pre-paid or £12 on the night.

Please call 01845 578000 for more information.

Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van is in Topcliffe each Friday tea time – 5 to 7pm.

After the opening on Friday 22 December the service will be closed until Friday 19 January.

The RItz Cinema, Thirsk

To Thursday 30 November – no matinees – Dance First.
Friday 1 to Thursday 7 December – no matinees – Dream Scenario.
Friday 8 to Thursday 14 December – no matinees – The Marvels.
Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 December – matinees only – Trolls: Band Together.
Friday 15 to Thursday 21 December – matinee on Wednesday 20 December – Napoleon.
Friday 22, Saturday 23, Wednesday 27, Thursday 28, Friday 29, Saturday 30 December and Tuesday 2, Wednesday 3 and Thursday 4 January 2024 – matinees on Wednesday 27, Saturday 30 December and Wednesday 3 January 2024 – Wish

Ripon at Christmas

Artisan Christmas Market:
At the Market Place 10am to 3pm today Sunday 26 November. Plenty of stalls and other attractions.

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons: A special candlelit Christmas concert in the spectacular setting of Ripon Cathedral at 7.30pm on Wednesday 29 November. Tickets £19 from http://www.riponcathedral.org.uk

Advent Procession and Carol Service: at Ripon Cathedral at 5.30pm on Sunday 3 December.

See more festive events in Ripon by visiting http://www.christmasin ripon.co.uk

Festive Wreath Making – Three opportunities
1. The Catton Kitchen also has two wreath making sessions coming up on Saturday 2 December between 2 – 4pm and on Sunday 3 December between 12 noon and 2pm. They cost £45 per person, including mulled wine and treats. Call Amy to book places on 07747 083155 or email [email protected]
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2. Wreath making classes will be held at Rainton Village Hall on the following dates:

Monday 4 December, 10am to 1pm.
Friday 8 December, 10am to 1pm.
Sunday 10 December, 10am to 1pm.

Tuition, materials, drinks and cake included in the price of £30. Contact Gill Common on 07585 151910.
———————————————————————————————————
3. Sahra Raynor is holding two Christmas wreath making workshops at The Angel Inn on Monday 4 December. The first is on from 1 – 3pm and the second from 7 – 9 pm. Participants will create a beautiful wreath to take away to hang on their house door. Fresh foliage, decorations and ribbons will be provided. Festive refreshments will be served, £45 per head. Contact Sahra on 07734 113069 or email [email protected] See leaflet here.

Topcliffe local election
An election is to be held in North Yorkshire’s Sowerby & Topcliffe Division on Thursday 30 November and Topcliffe residents will be able to vote at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. For more information visit: http://www.northyorks.goc.uk/your-council/elections-and-voting/elections

Charlie Chuck’s Scrooge
This Christmas play with a difference will be staged at 7.30pm on Friday 1 December at St James Church, Baldersby St James. Adults £8 and children £4, with refreshments included.

Dalton Christmas Fair
Dalton’s Christmas Fair will be held on Saturday 2 December between 10am and 12 noon at Dalton Village Hall. There will be bacon sandwiches for sale. Lots of stalls, selling a variety of items, a tombola. Santa will be visiting with a little gift for all the children and the Dalton Ladies will be singing carols. Funds raised will be presented to John’s church repairs fund.

Rainton Christmas Fair
Rainton’s festive fair will be held on Saturday 2 December between 2 and 4pm at their village hall. There’ll be lots of stalls, games, raffle, tombola and refreshments. Cash only!

The Repair Cafe
Be greener, avoid waste and save money by letting the team of dedicated and talented volunteers at the Repair Cafe try to repair your broken or ‘worn-out’ items. It’s at Thirsk Community Library on Saturday 2 December from 10am and 1pm. No charge but a voluntary donation is welcomed. For further details or if you would like to volunteer, email [email protected]

NYMR Santa Specials
Santa and his team of elves will be returning to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway this Christmas and they hope you will take one of their magical journeys aboard the famous Santa Express. The festive special services are running the weekends of 2 – 3, 9 – 10, 16 – 17 and 23 – 24 December. Visitors can climb on board and make some enchanting memories on a trip starting at Pickering. Santa will have a special gift for all the children on board – providing they’ve managed to stay on the nice list this year. Santa’s helpers will lead the fun and games. Book online atnymr.co.uk/santa-specials

Santa at Thirsk Garden Centre
Santa will be in his grotto at Thirsk garden Centre on weekends between 10am and 4pm until Christmas as follows:

2 and 3 December
9 and 10 December
16 and 17 December
23 December.

The cost is £6 per child, with all proceeds going to Thirsk Rotary and Herriot Hospice.

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
Taking place at Thirsk Market Place on Sunday 3 December between 9am and 2pm. All stallholders are local independent businesses who grow, rear or produce the food or drink on their stall. More information at http://www.northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com

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

Royal British Legion Christmas Concert
This year’s Christmas concert will be held at 7.30pm on Saturday 9 December at Thirsk & Sowerby Town Hall. It is free to attend.

Sessay annual pig race
Sessay’s annual pig race will be staged in their village hall on Saturday 9 December. Doors open at 6pm and action starts at 6.30pm. Admission with pie and peas supper is £5 in advance or £6 on the door. Under 16s can have a hot dog supper for £1. There’ll be a raffle and bar. To avoid disappointment, book in advance. Call Carole Trow on 01845 501141.

Bin Collections
Topcliffe:

Recycling – Thursdays 30 November and 14 December.
Garden Waste – Thursday 30 November (last collection of green waste in 2023).
Refuse – Mondays 4 and 18 December.

Asenby:

Refuse – Mondays 27 November. and 11 December
Garden Waste – Wednesday 29 November (last collection of green waste in 2023)
Recycling – Mondays 4 and 18 December.

You can check dates of collections and subscribe to the Green Waste collection service at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/

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

This email is proudly sponsored by Faro Finance