Category: Sunday Email

Welcome to the 64th issue of this regular Sunday Email.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number remains between 1.2 and 1.4. This means that on average every 10 people infected will infect between 12 and 14 other people.

• 44.1 million first doses given. 32.2 million second doses. 83.7% of the adult population has now had the first jab and over 61% the second.

• 98,460 people tested positive for Covid in the last week. That is an increase of 54%.

• There were 1,505 patients in hospital with Covid on 26 June.

• There were 23 deaths reported yesterday and 119 in the last seven d

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at 128,089.

• Worldwide, the global death toll is 3,876,675.

Change of Secretary of State for Health

Matt Hancock MP has resigned as Health Secretary and he has been replaced by Sajid Javid MP, the former Chancellor and Home Secretary.

Covid update from Richard Flinton, Chief Executive of North Yorkshire County Council

“Our journey through this pandemic is a marathon, as I’m sure we all realise. We have about 16 months behind us and, unfortunately, probably another year or so ahead. I thank the people of North Yorkshire again for their tremendous effort and sacrifice and encourage you to keep going as we work our way through this.

The situation in North Yorkshire is changing rapidly, as it is nationwide, and we must be prepared for further ups and downs. The average infection rate in the county is 81 per 100,000 people, a four-fold increase in three weeks.

Our response must remain the same – not only to follow the rules around hands, face, space and fresh air, but also to take up your vaccine. We have high levels of uptake in North Yorkshire. That’s great and it gives us protection. However, we need to go further. We need everyone who is offered the vaccine to take it up. Together we can work to unlock summer, but to unlock summer safely.”

Covid Testing

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

Soup and sweet lunches go down a treat

The first soup and sweet lunch at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall was held last Wednesday. Ten people turned up, which was not bad for the first lunch after so many months in which they were postponed. Thanks to Karen Morley and Linda Carver for re-starting this community event. In all, £50 was raised and has been donated to The Friends of Topcliffe School. The next lunch will be at 12 noon on Wednesday 7 July.

Covid Vaccine Passport Scam

Neighbourhood Watch is reporting that there’s a Covid vaccine passport scam email going around that purports to be from the NHS and informs recipients that they can apply for their ‘Digital Coronavirus Passport’. Clicking on the link within the email, takes you to a convincing but fake NHS website that asks for personal information and payment details. The website has since been taken down, but in case similar emails/websites appear please watch out for these scams. And just to be clear, everyone’s vaccination status can be obtained free of charge through the NHS App, website or by calling the NHS on 119.

Art classes starts tomorrow

A new art class is being launched tomorrow, Monday 28 June, at the Village Hall in Topcliffe. It will be run by Rebecca Jayne Art & Design between 9.30 and 11.30am each Monday morning. Each week Rebecca will be demonstrating in a different material and participants can opt to work in the same material or a choice of their own. The sessions will be a balance of demonstration, practise, questions and feedback. The theme for week one is ‘By The Sea’. Payment – £12.50 per session – can be made by BACs in advance or on the day. There are three sessions planned initially to test the viability of the classes. Anyone who pays for all three up-front will receive a discount of 50p per session.

Gregg says goodbye

Gregg Tassel, who has been manager at The Angel at Topcliffe for the last seven years, leaves this week to start a new life back in his French homeland. He arrived in the UK in 2005 and initially planned to stay for just one year, but he liked it so much he stayed for sixteen years. He started working with West Park Inns in January 2012 when the hotel group took over the Moor & Pheasant in Dalton. Now Gregg and his wife Claire and their two children have decided to set up home in Brittany. They have plans to open a gite and glamping site on France’s Emerald Coast. Gregg said: “I have loved living and working in this beautiful part of the world and have met so many lovely people over the years. We’re looking forward to setting up our own enterprise and would hope we might see visitors from Topcliffe and Asenby in the future.” Gregg will be in the garden at The Angel on the 30 June from 5.30pm, and hopes a few villagers might pop in for a drink and to say goodbye.

Music@Junction50

The first concert in the Music@Junction50 series at the church at Baldersby St James is on this coming Wednesday (30 June) at 7pm. Award-winning classical guitarist Ian Watt will present an evening of music, including works by Sor, Grieg, Turina and de Falla. Tickets are available from Sue Brown at the shop in Baldersby – 07840 381558 or Colin Reid on 01765 640624 or can be purchased at the door.

Parish Council meetings

• The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be at 7.30pm on Wednesday 21 July 2021 in the main hall at the Village Hall. www.asenby.net

• The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7.15pm (please note later than usual start time) on Thursday 1 July in the main hall at the Village Hall. topcliffeparishcouncil Covid safety arrangements will be in place at the Village Hall.

Game for a laugh

The Angel is restarting its popular Comedy Night on Tuesday 6 July. Tickets are on sale now – £10 in advance, £12 on the day.

St Columba’s Church

Services planned are:

• Today, Sunday 27 June, 10.45am – Holy Communion with Revd. Mary Rolls.

• Sunday 4 July, 6.30pm – Choral Evensong.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall

• Soup and sweet lunch – 12 noon Wednesday 7 July and fortnightly thereafter

• Art classes – Monday mornings 9.30 to 11.30am.

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

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

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

• Topcliffe Parish Council meeting – 7pm, Thursday 1 July.

• Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee – 7pm, Wednesday 21 July.

• Asenby Parish Council meeting – 7.30pm, Wednesday 21 July.

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

• Attic Auction – Saturday 5 September.

• The new art class starts tomorrow for a trial run of three weeks.

Existing hirers of the hall will have free use until 31 December 2021. Fee 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). This is intended to encourage a new range of activities to get going. Bookings for new activities and for events such as parties will be possible from 19 July. 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 – fully reopened with new menu. 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

• 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 are in place with two households/bubbles in the gallery at any one time. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

• John Aston Flooring Ltd – operating from The Old Hatchery in Asenby. There’s a large selection of carpets and flooring to suit all tastes. Appointment only. 01845 421111 – info

• The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – currently based at the Milk Churn farm Shop but due to lack of space is planning to relocate to Melmerby soon. The company provides beautiful hampers for all occasions. Hampers contain the best of produce from small Yorkshire food and drink producers. Telephone: 07793 775987. www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – Revised opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9am – 5pm; Thursday 9am – 1pm; Saturday 9am – 4pm and Sunday 10am – 3pm. Closed on Mondays. Customers are still required to keep to social distancing rules. 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 is now operating normal hours again. Providing traditional home-cooked food with a new menu and ‘specials board’, extra choices on Wednesday Pie Night, take-away meals, Sunday lunch served 12 noon to 4pm and on Saturdays food is served 12 noon until 8.30pm and the bar stays open until late.

• The Thirsk Food Bank now has a collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. The following foodstuffs are welcomed: tins, pasta, rice, biscuits, cereals, jars, crisps, juices, bottled products, soups, crisp breads, anything in packets. 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 – Thursday 1, 15 and 29 July

• Refuse – Mondays 5 and 19 July

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Refuse – Mondays 28 June and 12 & 26 July

• Garden waste – Thursdays 1, 15 & 29 July

• Recycling – Mondays 5 and 19 July

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

Welcome to the 63rd issue of this regular Sunday Email.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number remains between 1.2 and 1.4..

• 42.7 million first doses given. 31.1 million second doses. 81% of the adult population has now had the first jab and over 59% the second.

• 63,764 people tested positive for Covid in the last week. That is an increase of 33%.

• There were 1,316 patients in hospital with Covid on10 June.

• There were 14 deaths reported yesterday and 74 in the last seven days.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at 127,970.

• Worldwide, the global death toll is 3,813,133.

Roadmap roadblocked

Well, it’s not altogether unexpected but the current stage of the Covid restrictions will not be lifted tomorrow but will be extended until 19 July. A delay to the lifting of all restrictions wasn’t what anyone wanted, but it’s good to see the government responding to the data, not dates as they make these difficult decisions.

The PM announced the extension last Monday and during the week MPs voted to extend the emergency Covid laws for another four weeks, amid concern over rising cases. The argument is that delaying the planned lifting of restrictions will give the NHS a few more crucial weeks to get people vaccinated. It means pubs, clubs and theatres will still have to operate within capacity limits and nightclubs will remain closed. And limits remain on how many people can meet up, with groups of up to 30 allowed to gather outdoors and up to six people or two households allowed indoors. Restrictions on the number of guests allowed at a wedding will, however, be lifted as planned, but hosts will have to undertake a Risk Assessment and ensure social distancing can still take place. Care home residents will not have to self-isolate after leaving their care homes, and they will be able to nominate an essential care-giver who can visit. Children can go on overnight trips in groups of 30 with, for example, the Scouts or Guides, or as part of summer residential schools.

Progress with vaccinations…and maybe with trips abroad

All adults in England can now book their Covid-19 vaccine, as eligibility has been extended to everybody over 18. Appointments can be made via the National Bookings Service. So far four in every five adults in England has had their first jab. Ministers are now considering a proposal to allow people who have had both jabs to head on quarantine-free holidays abroad this summer. The proposal would allow people who have had both jabs to avoid quarantine on their return from amber list countries – making them essentially green – but testing will still be required.

Covid Testing

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. Seen as a significant step forward, the test kits can be obtained to use twice a week. One in three people with Covid do not experience any symptoms and may be spreading the virus unwittingly. 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

Second jab offer

Topcliffe Surgery has eighty Oxford Astra Zeneca second dose Covid-19 vaccinations available to anyone who has not yet had their second jab. You must have had the Oxford Astra Zeneca vaccine for your first vaccination and it must have been more than 8 weeks ago. These are offered on a first come, first served basis. Please call at reception or telephone 01845 577297 to book an appointment for any Thursday morning before the end of July.

Read all about it!

Debs Roberts, who is soon to take over the Post Office in Topcliffe, is considering reintroducing a Sunday morning newspaper service. She won’t be opening the Post Office on Sundays so the service would operate from the Milk Churn Farm Shop. But first she is trying to establish what sort of demand there might be. The Farm Shop opens at 10am on Sunday mornings so papers could only be picked up after that. You could always have a coffee to set you up for a lazy Sunday. Regretfully, Debs doesn’t have the space to put a selection of papers on sale in the farm shop – so it’s pre-ordered service only. If you would be interested in placing a regular order for your Sunday read, please drop an email to Debs at info

Hedgehog hero to retire

Topcliffe’s very own hedgehog rescuer has announced her retirement. Pauline Hindmarch, who lives at Moot Hall has saved the lives of thousands of hedgehogs in the last twenty years or so. Her garden rescue centre, often referred to as Hedgehog Rescue Topcliffe, has featured in many newspaper stories over the years. But at 82 years of age Pauline thinks it’s time to retire and let somebody else take on the role. She hopes that someone else in the village might have the time and commitment to run a rescue centre and she’d be happy to offer advice and guidance to a new volunteer. If you might be interested please give Pauline a call on 01845 577508. Pauline’s work with hedgehogs will feature in the next edition of The Tattler.

If you find a hedgehog and you are concerned about its health and condition please contact the Wildlife Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Thirsk on 07772 871833 https://www.thewildlifehaven.co.uk/

Soup and sweet lunches are back

The first soup and sweet lunch at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall will be held on Wednesday 23 June. Serving will take place between 12 noon and 12.30pm. Soups will be chicken & vegetable and fresh tomato & basil. To follow there’ll be a selection od sweets including jam and cream scones. Instead of paying a set price for lunch, customers will be asked to make a small donation according to their means. Any surplus will be donated to a different charity each week.

Finials found

There was some good news last week about those missing finials that once graced the roof of the Methodist Chapel. Following the appeal for information about their removal back in the 1980s and their current whereabouts, they’ve turned up at Stan and Kathleen Collinson’s farm off Station Road. Stan was involved in the chapel’s maintenance at the time the finial balls were removed because they were considered dangerous. He kept them in one of his out-buildings and they are now going to be handed over to the chapel’s new owners so that they can consider reinstalling them on the roof.

Job vacancy: Volunteering Support Officer

Hambleton Community Action is seeking applications from suitably experienced and enthusiastic candidates for this newly-created role, working alongside our experienced Volunteering Development Officer, and within a small but dedicated staff team. The successful applicant will provide appropriate levels and types of support to those who choose to volunteer with or through HCA. More information about the role and an application form is available on HCA’s website – chief.officer) to arrive before the closing date, 9am Monday

12 July.

Thirsk Birds of Prey Centre

This popular attraction at Kirby Wiske, near Thirsk is again open to the public and presenting 70 birds and 30 species. There are spectacular displays featuring eagles, falcons, hawks, kites, vultures and owls, all swooping and diving around as you sit in a beautiful English garden. Skilled handlers explain why the birds hunt and fly as they do, where they come from in the wild and how they are trained. Open seven days a week 10.30am – 5pm. Flying displays three times a day at 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm with different birds in each display (weather permitting). No pre-booking needed. http://www.falconrycentre.co.uk

Music@Junction50

The first concert in the Music@Junction50 series at the church at Baldersby St James will be staged on 30 June at 7pm. Classical guitarist Ian Watt will present an evening of music. A multi award winner in competitions, he has performed with many major orchestras as a soloist and is often heard on radio stations in many countries. Ian’s programme includes works by Sor, Grieg, Turina and de Falla. Tickets are available from Sue Brown at the shop in Baldersby – 07840 381558 or Colin Reid on 01765 640624 or can be purchased at the door.

Parish Council meetings

• The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be at 7.30pm on Wednesday 21 July 2021 in the main hall at the Village Hall. www.asenby.net

• The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7.15pm (please note later than usual start time) on Thursday 1 July in the main hall at the Village Hall. topcliffeparishcouncil Covid safety arrangements will be in place at the Village Hall.

Local Government Review

It’s anticipated that the decision on the future shape of local government in North Yorkshire will ne made this week. We’ll get to know if there’ll be just one or perhaps two local authorities to take over from the existing nine councils.

Talking buses!

HARBUS is the forum for bus users (and would-be bus users) in Hambleton and Richmondshire who aim to work collaboratively to improve the experience of bus passengers in the area. The next monthly meeting via Zoom is at 10am on Monday 28 June. Please email harbus if you would like to join the meeting, and they’ll send you the Zoom link in advance.

Ask the scam experts

North Yorkshire Police are hosting an online ‘Ask the Experts’ event in partnership with HSBC Bank to help people learn about the types of online banking fraud currently operating, how to spot them and how to stay safe. It takes place on 22 June between 7 and 9pm. To register go to www.eventbrite.co.uk/ask-the-experts

Game for a laugh

The Angel is restarting its popular Comedy Night on Tuesday 6 July. Tickets are on sale now – £10 in advance, £12 on the day.

St Columba’s Church

Services planned are:

• Sunday 20 June, 10.45am – Sung Matins.

• Sunday 27 June, 10.45am – Holy Communion with Revd. Mary Rolls.

• Sunday 4 July, 6.30pm – Choral Evensong.

St Columba’s Day report

Celebrations last Sunday for St Columba’s Day went extremely well, blessed of course by glorious weather. The church service was almost at its covid limit, as indeed was the picnic afterwards, with around fifty people joining in over the afternoon. Chris Hewlett was kept busy all afternoon taking enthusiastic groups up the tower. A huge thank you is due to everyone who helped to make the day such a success, including Linda and the choir; Chris with extensive risk assessments in addition to the tower tours; Joan for the glorious church flowers, Linda Carver for the transformed flower bed; and the intrepid six who put in so much to have the churchyard looking inviting and tidy. Also, a big thank you to the three generations of Blairs who quietly and barely noticed removed the several large sacks of accumulated green waste. A great team effort, thank you all.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall

• Soup and sweet lunches will start again on Wednesday 23 June and then fortnightly thereafter.

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

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

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

• Asenby Parish Meeting – 7.30pm, Wednesday 21 July.

• Topcliffe Parish Council – 7pm, Thursday 1 July.

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

• Attic Auction – Saturday 5 September.

• There’s a new art class starting a week Monday (28 June). Details available on noticeboards in Topcliffe.

Existing hirers will have free use of the hall until 31 December 2021. Fee 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). This is intended to encourage a new range of activities to get going. Bookings for new activities and for events such as parties will be possible from 21 June. 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 – now fully reopened with a new menu. Check out full details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

• Asenbee Honey – as well as selling local honey, this Asenby-based business makes beeswax candles and a range of hand-carved spoons and oak chopping boards. www.asenbeehoney.co.uk

• 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 are in place with two households/bubbles in the gallery at any one time. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

• John Aston Flooring Ltd – operating from The Old Hatchery in Asenby. There’s a large selection of carpets and flooring to suit all tastes. Appointment only. 01845 421111 – info

• The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – currently based at the Milk Churn farm Shop but due to lack of space is planning to relocate to Melmerby soon. The company provides beautiful hampers for all occasions. Hampers contain the best of produce from small Yorkshire food and drink producers. www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk Telephone: 07793 775987

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – Revised opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9am – 5pm; Thursday 9am – 1pm; Saturday 9am – 4pm and Sunday 10am – 3pm. Closed on Mondays.

Customers are still required to keep to social distancing rules. 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 is now operating normal hours again. Providing traditional home-cooked food with a new menu and ‘specials board’, extra choices on Wednesday Pie Night, take-away meals, Sunday lunch served 12 noon to 4pm and on Saturdays food is served 12 noon until 8.30pm and the bar stays open until late!

• The Thirsk Food Bank now has a collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. The following foodstuffs are welcomed: tins, pasta, rice, biscuits, cereals, jars, crisps, juices, bottled products, soups, crisp breads, anything in packets. 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 – Mondays 21 June and 5 July

• Recycling & green waste – Thursday 1 July

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Recycling – Mondays 21 June and 5 July

• Refuse – Mondays 28 June and 12 July

• Garden waste – Thursdays 1 and 15 July

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

Welcome to the 62nd issue of this regular Sunday Email.

It was unfortunate that the appeal for volunteers to help tidy up the churchyard last Sunday seemed to fall on deaf ears. Only a couple of people turned up to help, making it very hard work for them. Anyway, the churchyard is now looking very presentable and perfect for the Village Picnic from 12 noon today. We haven’t had much chance for village events this past fifteen months so hopefully lots of people will be keen to join in today. You need to take along food, drinks, rugs and chairs and, of course, your family and friends. There is plenty of space available so there’ll be no difficulty for everyone to sit in socially distanced groups. It could be a very pleasant afternoon, so please try and attend.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number is now between 1.2 and 1.4 – a significant increase on last week’s figures. When the figure is above 1, an outbreak can grow exponentially but when it is below 1, it means the epidemic is shrinking.

• 41.3 million first doses given. 29.5 million second doses. 78% of the adult population has now had the first jab and over 56% the second.

• 47,868 people tested positive for Covid in the last week. That is an increase of 52%.

• There were 1,089 patients in hospital with Covid on10 June. That’s a 15% increase on a week earlier.

• There were 12 deaths reported yesterday and 60 in the last seven days.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at 128,000.

• Worldwide, the global death toll is 3.8 million.

The roadmap out of lockdown

Tomorrow is decision time for the government. It has to decide what it will do about lifting restrictions in a week’s time on 21 June. Naturally most people are desperate to see a return to normality but ministers have always said 21 June was not set in stone and that it could be affected by changes in the pandemic, including the emergence of new variants. There has been much speculation and political argument about what should happen, and there’s speculation that the ending of all restrictions will be delayed by four weeks. It is clear that the government will be weighing up key factors as they make their final decision. The four key numbers involved are:

1. The number of people in hospital: there are just under 1,100 people with Covid in hospitals in the UK. That’s far below the peak of nearly 40,000 people in January, but an increase week on week. The people in hospital aren’t as seriously ill as they were in early waves. They are younger, or don’t require intensive care as much – and they’re coming out sooner. That means this wave is different, and better, than previous ones but eventually rising admissions will mount up.

2. The speed of rising infections: the main type of coronavirus in the UK is the Delta, variant first identified in India. It is at least 40% more transmissible than the version that sparked the winter wave caused by the Alpha variant first seen in Kent. As Delta has become prominent the number of infections has risen. Last week, the Office for National Statistics suggested that UK infections had risen by 60% in a single week. If that growth rate remains steady or picks up, it suggests that cases will rise pretty quickly if and when restrictions are lifted further. But rising infections on their own aren’t a reason to extend lockdown. The government’s key test is whether rising infections risk a surge in hospitalisations which would put unsustainable pressure on the NHS. That also depends on your chances of getting seriously ill if you catch coronavirus.

3. The chance of becoming seriously ill if infected: that is much harder to predict now than it was in the first or second waves, when scientists could predict what proportion of cases would need treatment. That’s because vaccines do reduce your chance of getting really sick if you do get infected with any variant. While people who have been fully vaccinated make up more than 50% of the population, they make up fewer than 5% of people who have been admitted to hospital with the Delta variant. But it does look like it takes two doses before someone gets high levels of protection from that variant. So, there’s a race on to double-jab as many people as possible, before the virus spreads enough to find the vulnerable or to put pressure on the NHS.

4. The number of people who have been fully vaccinated: More than 50% of adults have been given the best protection possible – two doses of the vaccine. That’s still a way off herd immunity, even if you add in people who have some immunity from having had coronavirus in the past. But every person vaccinated helps to slow the spread.

Juggling all the data and reaching sensible conclusions is a mammoth task and one that will require some old-fashioned political judgement as well as hi-tech epidemiological models.

Covid Testing

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. Seen as a significant step forward, the test kits can be obtained to use twice a week. One in three people with Covid do not experience any symptoms and may be spreading the virus unwittingly. 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

Today we celebrate St Columba’s Day

The annual celebration of the Patron Saint of our parish church – St Columba – takes place today. There’ll be a special service at 10.45am led by the Archdeacon of Cleveland, the Venerable Dr Amanda Bloor.

Immediately after the service everyone is invited to a Village Picnic in the churchyard from 12 noon until 4pm. Anyone can attend whether or not they have been at the service. Take along your family and friends, along with food, drinks, rugs and chairs. There’s plenty of space so picnicking groups will find it easy to keep socially distanced. During the course of the afternoon there will be guided tours covering the long history of the church and also opportunities to climb the Church Tower and enjoy the fabulous views. Numbers will be limited each time to no more than five and masks must be worn.

Covid risk assessments have been prepared to ensure everyone’s safety. If you have not already signed in before the service, you will need to sign in on arrival at one of the church gates. Should you be following the football, there will be plenty of time to join in before the match starts at 2pm!

Soup and sweet lunches are back!

Topcliffe residents Karen Morley and Linda Carver are restarting the popular soup and sweet lunches in the Village Hall. They’ll be held fortnightly starting 12 noon on Wednesday 23 June. They aim to provide an opportunity for older and younger folk to meet and socialise in a friendly atmosphere whilst enjoying a light lunch. Instead of paying a set price for lunch, customers will be asked to make a small donation according to their means. Any surplus will be donated to a different charity each week.

British Falconry Fair – Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 June

Duncombe Park, Helmsley This world class event at Duncombe Park, Helmsley will showcase amazing flying demonstrations from the best display falconers in the business. Saturday night BBQ and bar. No dogs allowed. Onsite basic camping area – you must prebook and spaces are limited. Tel: 01439 772080 – https://britishfalconryfair.com

Thirsk Museum

Did you know you could experience the history of Thirsk at the Thirsk Museum, which is in the house where Thomas Lord, founder of Lord’s Cricket Ground, was born in 1755? You can explore rooms full of exhibits featuring local life and industry, cricketing memorabilia, farming equipment, furniture, costumes and toys. You’ll also find the chilling bones of our local Saxon giant and read about the legend of the Busby Stoop Chair. The museum is in Kirkgate, across the road from The World of James Herriot and admission is free. Open 10.30am to 3.30pm with last admissions at 3.00pm (closed Thursdays and Sundays). http://thirskmuseum.org

Markenfield Hall – An online talk – Tuesday 29 June

This remarkable moated manor house is on our doorstep, between Ripon and Harrogate, but is probably unknown to many of us. It’s the seat of the Grantley family, builders of Grantley Hall, and dates from the 14th century. Janet Senior, a volunteer guide at the hall, will talk about this remarkable building, its remarkable families and interesting history. Click

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87967635163?pwd=S04zSUNoRGgrZUxZdkFuUkNmeEs5Zz09 1.45 for 2pm start.

Post Office and Shop

An announcement from John and Anne-Marie Mulley: “We have been reluctant to give an official update regarding the sale of the Post Office and Shop as the recruitment of a new sub-postmaster is proving to be a lengthy process – made more difficult by the pandemic. But now we are delighted to inform everyone that Debbie Roberts of the Milk Churn Farm Shop has been accepted by the Post Office and will be taking over the whole business. There are still some hoops to jump through so we cannot give you an actual date yet, but hopefully we aren’t too far away. Congratulations to Debbie on her stamina and successful completion of the process and if the Milk Churn is anything to go by, we are keen to see what exciting plans she has in store for us.”

PO counter assistant needed

The change of ownership at the Post Office has created a job opportunity for a counter assistant. This is a position of responsibility: the successful candidate will assist with the running of the Post Office as well as working on the shop side. Applicants must have excellent organisational, communication and customer service skills, and be prepared to develop a knowledge of all Post Office procedures and products, including Foreign Exchange. Experience would be a benefit but is not essential as full training will be given. Under its new ownership the business will strive to innovate by introducing new products and ideas. Some weekend working will be required as the shop is open six days a week. 21 hours per week, 8.30am to – 12noon, Monday to Friday mornings with two Saturdays each month. Salary £9,828 p.a. with performance bonus. Anyone interested is invited to send their CV to deboraalderson

Music @ Junction 50

Three concerts will be held over the summer months in the lovely church at Baldersby St James as part of the Music @ Junction 50 event. The first is on 30 June at 7pm. Ian Watt will present an evening of classical guitar music. Described by Classical Guitar Magazine as a guitarist of outstanding skill and originality, Ian is a rising star in demand around the world. A multi award winner in competitions, he has performed with many major orchestras as a soloist and is often heard on radio stations in many countries. Ian’s programme includes works by Sor, Grieg, Turina and de Falla. Tickets are available from Sue Brown at the shop in Baldersby – 07840 381558 or Colin Reid on 01765 640624 or can be purchased at the door.

The Moors Bus

Starting from early July there’ll be three buses each Sunday and on Bank Holidays from Thirsk Market Place to Helmsley, travelling via Coxwold, Byland Abbey and Ampleforth. From Helmsley, Moors Bus travellers can take connecting services to locations all over the Moors. A Rover day ticket costs £9.50, child £4.50. National concessionary passes are accepted. Timetables and maps for all 16 bus routes are at www.moorsbus.org

Parish Council meetings

• The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be at 7.30pm on Wednesday 21 July 2021 in the main hall at the Village Hall. www.asenby.net

• The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7pm on Thursday 1 July in the main hall at the Village Hall. topcliffeparishcouncil Covid safety arrangements will be in place at the Village Hall.

Boot Camp to get you fit!

There’s a new fitness class launching in Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Mariola James Fitness is running the full body workouts which, it is claimed, will improve your health, wellbeing and cardiovascular performance. This week classes are on Tuesday 15 and Friday 18 June at 7pm and they are for 45 minutes and are £4 per session. They’ll be every Tuesday and Friday thereafter. All levels of ability are welcome. Equipment will be provided and sanitised after every use. Get in touch to book or for more information https://www.facebook.com/mariolajamesfitness/

Ask the scam experts

With fraudsters continuing to target victims with ever more sophisticated scams which involve the victims giving access to their online accounts or being persuaded to transfer money, here’s an opportunity to learn about the tricks the scammers use and how to spot them. North Yorkshire Police are hosting an online ‘Ask the Experts’ event in partnership with HSBC Bank to help people learn about the types of online banking fraud currently operating, how to spot them and how to stay safe. It takes place on 22 June between 7 and 9pm. To register go to www.eventbrite.co.uk/ask-the-experts

Funny Night

The Angel is restarting its popular Comedy Night on Tuesday 6 July. Tickets are on sale now – £10 in advance, £12 on the day.

What happened to the Methodist Chapel’s finial?

Stephen and Eloise Horley, the new owners of the Methodist Chapel, are continuing their search for information about the ball finial that once sat proudly on the roof of the building. It’s now known that the ball was removed in the 1980s as it was thought to be in danger of falling off the roof. The likelihood is that the ball has survived and is an ornament in somebody’s garden. It would be great to see the finial returned to the chapel. Stephen and Eloise are also considering replacing the metal fencing that once graced the Church Street frontage. It’s presumed the fencing was removed during the war. Does anyone have a photograph showing the fencing in place? Get in touch with Doug Allan on 07785 223707 or doug if you have any information that can be passed on to the Horleys.

St Columba’s Church

Services planned are:

• Today, 13 June, 10.45am – Festival Eucharist for St Columba’s.

• Sunday 20 June, 10.45am – Sung Matins

• Sunday 27 June, 10.45am – Holy Communion with Revd. Mary Rolls.

Bake Sale

Some residents will have had a leaflet about this event through their letterbox last week, others may not have had one and in any case it does no harm to repeat the information here. There’s a bake sale to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. It will be on Friday 18 June between 2.30 and 4.30pm at The Holdings, Dalton Y07 3HS (it’s just opposite Springfield Garage). There’ll be a selection of wonderful home-baked tasty treats available. If any Topcliffe or Asenby home bakers a would like to contribute some of their own home-made cakes, please text 07764 739120.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall

Existing hirers will have free use of the hall until 31 December 2021. Fee 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). This is intended to encourage a new range of activities to get going. Confirmed bookings:

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

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

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

• Asenby Parish Meeting – 7.30pm, Wednesday 21 July.

• Topcliffe Parish Council – 7pm, Thursday 1 July.

• Soup and sweet lunches will start again on Wednesday 23 June and then fortnightly thereafter.

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

• Attic Auction – Saturday 5 September.

Bookings for new activities and for events such as parties will be possible from 21 June. 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 – now fully reopened with a new menu. Check out full details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

• Asenbee Honey – as well as selling local honey, this Asenby-based business makes beeswax candles and a range of hand-carved spoons and oak chopping boards. www.asenbeehoney.co.uk

• 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 are in place with two households/bubbles in the gallery at any one time. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

• John Aston Flooring Ltd – operating from The Old Hatchery in Asenby. There’s a large selection of carpets and flooring to suit all tastes. Appointment only. 01845 421111 – info

• The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – currently based at the Milk Churn farm Shop but due to lack of space is planning to relocate to Melmerby soon. The company provides beautiful hampers for all occasions. Hampers contain the best of produce from small Yorkshire food and drink producers. www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk Tel: 07793 775987

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – Revised opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9am – 5pm; Thursday 9am – 1pm; Saturday 9am – 4pm and Sunday 10am – 3pm. Closed on Mondays.

Customers are still required to keep to social distancing rules. 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 is now operating normal hours again. Providing traditional home-cooked food with a new menu and ‘specials board’, extra choices on Wednesday Pie Night, take-away meals, Sunday lunch served 12 noon to 4pm and on Saturdays food is served 12 noon until 8.30pm and the bar stays open until late!

• The Thirsk Food Bank now has a collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. The following foodstuffs are welcomed: tins, pasta, rice, biscuits, cereals, jars, crisps, juices, bottled products, soups, crisp breads, anything in packets. 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 – Mondays 21 June and 5 July

• Recycling & green waste – Thursdays 17 June and 1 July

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Refuse – Mondays 14 and 28 June and 12 July

• Garden waste – Thursdays 17 June and 1 and 15 July

• Recycling – Mondays 21 June and 5 July

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

Welcome to the 61st issue of this regular Sunday Email.

In preparation for next week’s St Columba Day celebrations a working party of volunteers is being formed to tidy up the churchyard. It plans to gather between 10am to 1pm today. Are you prepared to help? If so, please take whatever tools you might feel appropriate. Strimmers, rakes and forks would be great. Any help will be very much appreciated.

This week a surprise package dropped through my letterbox. It was a letter from Hambleton Council informing me that I had been nominated for a Hambleton Hero award…and that the council was pleased to recognise the fact that I had gone ‘an extra mile’ to make a difference to the lives of residents during the pandemic. It was extremely kind and thoughtful of the person or persons who made the nomination. Whoever you are, thank you very much. It was totally unexpected but greatly appreciated. I’d like to offer my sincere congratulations to Annemarie Barningham who also received an award for her services in the community.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number continues to be between 1.0 and 1.1 meaning that, on average, every 10 people infected will infect between 10 and 11 other people. When the figure is above 1, an outbreak can grow

exponentially but when it is below 1, it means the epidemic is shrinking.

• 40.1 million people have now had a first dose vaccination. The number of second doses is over 27 million. 76% of the adult population has now had the first jab and over 51% the second.

• There have been 4.6 million confirmed cases of Covid in the UK. Over 6,000 people tested positive for Covid in the last 24-hour reporting period.

• Over 4.7 million Covid tests were conducted last week. That’s 25% lower than the week before.

• There are 932 Covid patients in hospital, latest government figures show compared to the peak of 39,249 in January.

• There were 13 deaths reported in the UK yesterday and 61 in last seven days.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at 127,836. Separate figures show there have been more than 150,000 deaths registered in the UK where Covid was

mentioned on the death certificate. So far, 1,166 people have died from Covid in North Yorkshire. Worldwide, the global death toll is 3,732,930.

Battle of the variants

Delta is the new name for what we knew as the Indian variant. It has become the dominant strain of Covid in the UK, the latest figures from Public Health England reveal. The variant is believed to have overtaken the Alpha variant, which was previously known as the Kent variant. Early evidence suggests there is a significantly increased risk of hospitalisation from the Delta variant in comparison to the Alpha strain. One expert said on Saturday that there’s a number of concerning signs related to the Delta variant, in particular the rate of transmission is potentially going to cause us some significant problems. We are looking at a strain that is 40-60% more transmissible than the Kent variant, and that means infections are spread rapidly across the country.

The roadmap out of Lockdown

There’s just two weeks to go until we reach the next stage of easing of restrictions on Monday 21 June. It’s anticipated that on that date all legal limits on social contact will be removed. However, some health experts are still arguing that the 21 June date should be delayed until a much higher proportion of people are vaccinated with two doses. Experts suggest that the decision about lifting restrictions is significantly more finely balanced than in earlier lockdowns. The Delta variant is more transmissible, many people are still not vaccinated and the NHS is extremely busy catching up on non-Covid health issues.

The government will announce its decision on Monday 14 June.

Jabs for youngsters?

The UK’s medicines regulator has given its approval for 12 to 15-year-olds to receive the Pfizer vaccine. However, there are no plans to invite young people in that age group to be vaccinated yet. There are a number of ethical considerations that need resolving before a decision is made.

Travel confusion continues

In the latest twist to the foreign holiday and travel saga, Portugal will be removed from the green list from Tuesday 8 June. Portugal was one of the original twelve countries on the green list and the only one which could reasonably be called a regular holiday destination for UK holidaymakers. From Tuesday UK tourists should not visit the country and anyone returning from a visit must isolate for 10 days. The change to Portugal’s status means holidaymakers face a scramble for flights home before the new rules come into force. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps cited rising cases and a Covid mutation found in Portugal, saying ministers did not want to take risks before the planned final easing of England’s restrictions. In the first review of the status of countries in the ‘traffic light system’ since its introduction in May, no countries were added to the green list. Now, most of the easily accessible European holiday spots are classified as amber, meaning no travel is allowed to them, except in exceptional circumstances. Seven more countries have been added to the red list. The next review is on 28 June.

Covid Testing

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. Seen as a significant step forward, the test kits can be obtained to use twice a week. One in three people with Covid do not experience any symptoms and may be spreading the virus unwittingly. 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

Military Challenge

Soldiers of the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery Regiment based at Alanbrooke Barracks have set themselves a target of completing five gruelling endurance challenges this year to raise funds for two charities – The REME Charity and Forever Fourth. Both charities do tremendous work to support military personnel and their families. They aim to raise at least £1,500. The next event is a five-day coastal ride on 28 June. If you would like to give sponsorship, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/james-phillips-616?utm_term=6eRB5nq7E

Deer Shed – Base Camp Plus

Although the popular Deer Shed Festival at Baldersby Park has had to be cancelled this year because of insurance uncertainties, the organisers have announced a smaller event, Base Camp Plus, will be staged.

It will be along the lines as last year’s hugely successful Base Camp, but with extra bits. The idea is to create a safe camping weekend, with plenty of space, loads of camping extras including your own loo, parking next to your own pitch, plus arrangements so that you can be close to your families and mates’ pitches. There’ll be live music and comedy performances, food, drink, partying, campfires, workshops, theatre, well-being, swing-balls and anything else the organisers dream up. It will be staged over the weekend 30 July to 1 August and you can find out more at www.deershedfestival.com

Rural Arts at the Courthouse, Thirsk

After months of closure due to lockdown The Courthouse has reopened with a spectacular range of activities to suit all ages and levels of expertise. Most residents will have received a leaflet about the centre through their letterbox last week, so there’s no point in listing all the opportunities here. In any case, there are just far too many to list! Best thing to do is read the leaflet if you still have it or go to the Rural Arts website www.ruralarts.org or check their Facebook page @RuralArtsNorthYorkshire.

Soup and sweet lunches are back!

Now that the pandemic is easing, Topcliffe residents Karen Morley and Linda Carver are restarting the popular soup and sweet lunches in the Village Hall. They’ll be held fortnightly starting 12 noon on Wednesday 23 June. They aim to provide an opportunity for older and younger folk to meet and socialise in a friendly atmosphere whilst enjoying a light lunch. Instead of paying a set price for lunch, customers will be asked to make a small donation according to their means. Any surplus will be donated to a different charity each week.

1st Topcliffe Scout Group

The 1st Topcliffe Scout group, which covers scouts, cubs and beavers, is desperately seeking more volunteers to act as assistant leaders and give support to the existing leaders. Scouting remains one of the most popular activities for young people and Topcliffe scout sections are attracting growing numbers of youngsters. The team of leaders is dedicated to providing a quality scouting experience with informative and exciting fun-packed programmes. Beaver members are aged six to eight and cubs cater for those aged eight to ten and a half years of age. Both meet on Wednesday evenings. Scouts take those aged ten and a half to fourteen and they meet Friday nights. No experience is necessary and training will be given to provide volunteers with the confidence and knowhow to become part of this caring group. Anyone interested is asked to call Group Scout Leader, Stuart Carter for a chat on 01765 640360 or email carter-stuart

Music @ Junction 50

Three concerts will be held over the summer months in the lovely church at Baldersby St James as part of the Music @ Junction 50 event.

• 30 June at 7pm – Ian Watt presents an evening of classical guitar music. Described by Classical Guitar Magazine as a guitarist of outstanding skill and originality, Ian is a rising star in demand around the

world. A multi award winner in competitions he has performed with many major orchestras as a soloist and is often heard on radio stations in many countries. Ian’s programme includes works by Sor,

Grieg, Turina and de Falla.

• 24 July at 11am sees the return of local harpist Mary Reid who has played in Baldersby St James a number of times. In this shorter more informal ‘coffee concert’ she will perform pieces from composers

such as Bach, Paganini and Salzedo.

• 2 September at 7pm 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.

Tickets are available from Sue Brown at the shop in Baldersby – 07840 381558 or Colin Reid on 01765 640624 or can be purchased at the door.

Methodist Chapel

The new owners of the Methodist Chapel at the corner of Church and Long Streets aim to convert the building into a four-bedroomed house. Stephen and Eloise Horley plan to retain as many features as possible and also replace some that are long lost. In particular, they wonder what happened to theball finial that once sat proudly on the roof of the building? Does anyone know its fate? They are also considering replacing the metal fencing that once graced the Church Street frontage. It’s presumed the fencing was removed during the war. Does anyone have a photograph showing the fencing in place?

Get in touch with Doug Allan on 07785 223707 or doug if you have any information that can be passed on to the Horleys.

Snooker club reopens

The snooker club is now open again and pairs and doubles games are allowed. Responsibility for hygiene and cleanliness rests with snooker players who are advised that there is no system for daily cleaning of the tables and equipment. Players are advised to use hand sanitiser and to clean the table edges, club cues and balls before and after play. Thanks to all members who have renewed their membership for this year. Membership can still be taken up for the remainder of this year, and fees for the new membership year will be due in September. The snooker facility is a ‘key club’ meaning all members have their own key so they can gain access at any time. It’s expensive having to continually have more keys cut so could any past members who are still in possession of a key please return it to the Treasurer, Dave Bowman, on 577843. The club has two snooker tables, one full-size and the other three-quarter size. Under 18s can play as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Parish Council meetings

• The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be at 7.30pm on Wednesday 21 July 2021 in the main hall at the Village Hall. www.asenby.net

• The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7pm on Thursday 1 July in the main hall at the Village Hall. topcliffeparishcouncil Covid safety arrangements will be in place at the Village Hall.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall

Existing hirers will have free use of the hall until 31 December 2021. Fee 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). This is intended to encourage a new range of activities to get going. Confirmed bookings so far:

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

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

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

• Asenby Parish Meeting – 7.30pm, Wednesday 21 July.

• Topcliffe Parish Council – 7pm, Thursday 1 July.

• Soup and sweet lunches will start again on Wednesday 23 June and then fortnightly thereafter.

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

• Attic Auction – Saturday 5 September.

Bookings for new activities and for events such as parties will be possible from 21 June. 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.

Ask the scam experts

The next online ‘Ask the Experts’ event at which police officers talk about online banking safety will be on 22 June between 7 and 9pm. To register go to www.eventbrite.co.uk/ask-the-experts

Northern Dales Farmers’ Market

Today at the Northern Dales Farmers’ Market in Thirsk there’ll be a fantastic selection of food and drink producers selling a wide range of goodies.

Thirsk Hall gardens open to view

A quick reminder that Thirsk Hall in Kirkgate, Thirsk is taking part in the NGS Open Gardens day next Saturday (12 June). There are 20 acres of gardens which have been sensitively restored. There’s even a sculpture park. Homemade teas will be available. Wheelchair access. 2 to 5.30pm. Tickets at the gate.

St Columba’s Church

Services planned are:

• Tonight at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong

• Sunday 13 June, 10.45am – Festival Eucharist for St Columba’s Day led by the Archdeacon of Cleveland, the Venerable Dr Amanda Bloor (also see entry below).

• Sunday 20 June, 10.45am – Holy Communion (Modern Language) Rev’d Mary Rolls

• Sunday 27 June, 10.45am – Sung Matins

Celebration of St Columba’s Day 13 June at 10.45am

The annual celebration of the Patron Saint of our parish church – St Columba – will take place next Sunday 13 June with a special service led by the Archdeacon of Cleveland, the Venerable Dr Amanda Bloor.

There are plans for a Village Picnic in the churchyard immediately after the Sunday service on 13 June, from about 12 noon. Anyone can attend whether or not they have been at the service. Take along your family and friends, along with food, drinks, rugs and chairs. Groups will need to be suitably distanced, but there is plenty of space for everyone. There will be guided tours of the church from time to time during the course of the afternoon, and those able to will be invited to climb the church tower to admire the fabulous views. Covid risk assessments have been prepared and will be regularly monitored and updated before and during the weekend to ensure everyone’s safety. Naturally the whole event is subject to the Covid situation, but the plan is to proceed unless there is any government announcement about gatherings. If you have queries about the St Columba Day programme please contact John Phillips on 01845 577034.

Local traders

• The Angel at Topcliffe – now reopened fully with a new menu. Please call to book indoor tables. Breakfast is served 8 to 10am to non-residents every day. • Lunch is served Monday to Friday, 12noon to 2.30pm and dinner 5 until 9pm. • The restaurant is open 12noon to 9pm on Saturdays and 12 noon to 8pm on Sundays. • The bar is open Monday to Thursday, 12 noon to 11pm; Friday and Saturday 12 noon to midnight; Sunday 12 noon to 10.30pm. • The tents and gazebos in the garden are still in place so those who are still reluctant to eat inside can still enjoy a meal. • The Angel at Home service will continue until further notice Wednesday to Sunday (please try to book in advance and check the new menu before ordering). • Comedy Night is planned to resume on 6 July, tickets will be available next week (£10 in advance, £12 on the day). Check out full details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

• Asenbee Honey – as well as selling local honey, this Asenby-based business makes beeswax candles and a range of hand-carved spoons and oak chopping boards. www.asenbeehoney.co.uk

• 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 are in place with two households/bubbles in the gallery at any one time. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

• John Aston Flooring Ltd – operating from The Old Hatchery in Asenby. There’s a large selection of carpets and flooring to suit all tastes. Appointment only. 01845 421111 – info

• The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – currently based at the Milk Churn farm Shop but due to lack of space is planning to relocate to Melmerby soon. The company provides beautiful hampers for all occasions. Hampers contain the best of produce from small Yorkshire food and drink producers. www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk Tel: 07793 775987

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop -The café is now open again. It offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, homemade cakes, traybakes and scones. Wheelchair access is available at the rear of the property. Customers are still required to keep to social distancing rules so the café is providing tables each with just three chairs as the seating area is too small to have more. Takeaway teas and coffees with cake is still available. Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9-5pm. Thursday and Saturday 9-1pm. 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 is now operating normal hours again. Providing traditional home-cooked food with a new menu and ‘specials board’, extra choices on Wednesday Pie Night, take-away meals, Sunday lunch served 12 noon to 4pm and on Saturdays food is served 12 noon until 8.30pm and the bar stays open until late!

• The Thirsk Food Bank now has a collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop. The following foodstuffs are welcomed: tins, pasta, rice, biscuits, cereals, jars, crisps, juices, bottled products, soups, crisp breads, anything in packets. 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. Both closed on Sundays.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Recycling & green waste – Thursdays 17 June and 1 July

• Refuse – Mondays 7 and 21 June

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Recycling – Mondays 7 and 21 June and 5 July

• Refuse – Mondays 14 and 28 June and 12 July

• Garden waste – Thursdays 17 June and 1 and 15 July

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

Welcome to the 60th issue of this regular Sunday Email.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• 39 million people have now had a first dose vaccination. The number of second doses is over 25 million. 74% of the adult population has now had the first jab and over 47% the second.

• There have been 4.5 million confirmed cases of Covid in the UK. A further 3,398 people tested positive for Covid in the last 24-hour reporting period. That’s a 23% increase over the week before.

• Over 6.1 million Covid tests were conducted last week.

• There are 870 Covid patients in hospital, latest government figures show, compared to the peak of 39,249 in January. The head of NHS Providers said very few Covid patients in hospital in England have

received two coronavirus jabs – showing the vaccines provide high levels of protection. He also said patients tended now to be younger – meaning there was a lower need for critical care.

• There were 7 deaths reported in the UK yesterday and 59 in last seven days.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at 127,583. Separate figures show there have been more than 150,000 deaths registered in the UK where Covid was

mentioned on the death certificate. Worldwide, the global death toll is 3,467,722.

The R value increases

The coronavirus R value in England is now above 1, according to the latest government figures. R represents the average number of people each Covid-19 positive person goes on to infect. When the figure is above 1, an outbreak can grow exponentially but when it is below 1, it means the epidemic is shrinking. An R number between 1.0 and 1.1 means that, on average, every 10 people infected will infect between 10 and 11 other people.

Single-shot jab approved

Johnson & Johnson’s single-shot vaccine has been approved for use in the UK. Trials have shown the jab to be 67% effective overall at preventing moderate to severe Covid-19 and is thought to be 85% effective in preventing severe disease or admission to hospital. The government has secured 20 million doses of the jab, produced by the Belgian-based pharmaceutical company. It’s expected to be available at the end of the year.

Over on the Continent, the EU’s medicines’ agency has approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for 12-15 year olds – the first jab allowed for this age group.

The Roadmap out of Lockdown

The next stage of easing is scheduled for Monday 21 June. It’s anticipated that on that date all legal limits on social contact will be removed. It’s also the date that the government has stated that nightclubs can reopen and restrictions will be lifted on the number of guests allowed at weddings and at large events such as festivals. However, some health experts believe the 21 June date should be delayed until a much higher proportion of people are vaccinated with two doses. The government will announce its decision on Monday 14 June.

Covid Testing

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. Seen as a significant step forward, the test kits can be obtained to use twice a week. One in three people with Covid do not experience any symptoms and may be spreading the virus unwittingly. 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

Music @ Junction 50

Three concerts will be held over the summer months in the lovely church at Baldersby St James as part of the Music @ Junction 50 event.

• 30 June at 7pm – Ian Watt presents an evening of classical guitar music. Described by Classical Guitar Magazine as a guitarist of outstanding skill and originality, Ian is a rising star in demand around the

world. A multi award winner in competitions he has performed with many major orchestras as a soloist and is often heard on radio stations in many countries. Ian’s programme includes works by Sor,

Grieg, Turina and de Falla.

• 24 July at 11am sees the return of local harpist Mary Reid who has played in Baldersby St James a number of times. In this shorter more informal ‘coffee concert’ she will perform pieces from composers

such as Bach, Paganini and Salzedo.

• 2 September at 7pm 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.

Tickets are available from Sue Brown at the shop in Baldersby – 07840 381558 or Colin Reid on 01765 640624 or can be purchased at the door.

Well done Miss Talbot

Over the past year, North Yorkshire County Council has run a campaign to identify the county’s ten most important sons and daughters. It looked at widely unknown people from our county’s history who have made North Yorkshire what it is today. After a public vote the winner of the accolade is Miss Bridget Elizabeth Talbot, a formidable political campaigner who fought for decades to restore and save Kiplin Hall. Her invention of the watertight torch, which was used to rescue naval crew and boats at sea, helped to save thousands of lives during World War Two.

Dalton plan – final chance to comment

The planning application for a major development at Dalton Industrial Estate will be decided by Hambleton Council in the next week or two. Thirty six local people have so far commented on the plans and generally given their support to creating more jobs and boosting the local economy, but are emphatic that it must not happen at the expense of more traffic problems in Topcliffe and Asenby. The view is that any planning approval must be accompanied by strong and enforceable rules that will stop illegal traffic on weight-restricted village roads. To add your views simply go to: https://planning.hambleton.gov.uk/online-applications/caseDetails.do?caseType=Application&keyVal=QO7ZETHUHHI00 insert the reference number 21/00331/HYB in the search box and follow the instructions.

Parish Council meetings

• The next meeting of Asenby Parish Council will be at 7.30pm on Wednesday 21 July 2021 in the main hall at the Village Hall. www.asenby.net

• The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be at 7pm on Thursday 3 June in the main hall at the Village Hall. topcliffeparishcouncil Covid safety arrangements will be in place at the Village Hall.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall

Existing hirers will have free use of the hall until 31 December 2021. Fee 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). This is intended to encourage a new range of activities to get going. Confirmed bookings so far:

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

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

• Topcliffe Parish Council – 7pm, Thursday 3 June.

• Soup and sweet lunches will start again on Wednesday 23 June and then fortnightly thereafter.

• Asenby Parish Meeting – 7.30pm, Wednesday 21 July.

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

• Attic Auction – Saturday 5 September.

Bookings for new activities and for events such as parties will be possible from 21 June. 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.

The Tattler – June edition

The summer edition of The Tattler will be published and delivered door to door this coming week.

How to: protect yourself from scam callers

The majority of frauds reported to the police involve victims being contacted by the scammer via the telephone. There are a number of ways you can protect your phone and help prevent scam or nuisance calls:

• If you have a landline, purchase a new phone with a built-in call blocker or purchase a stand-alone call blocker.
• Contact your phone provider to discuss what call blocking services they offer.
• Register your phone number/s with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) – this can help to stop nuisance calls. You can register online at the TPS website: www.tpsonline.org.uk
• Be careful where you share your phone number and what opt ins you choose when providing your information to companies and organisations.
• If you receive a call that doesn’t feel right, hang up.

Ask the experts

The next online ‘Ask the Experts’ event at which police officers talk about online banking safety will be on 22 June between 7 and 9pm. To register go to www.eventbrite.co.uk/ask-the-experts

Zoom talk about LS Lowry

The Arts Society Hambleton is staging a lecture entitled ‘LS Lowry; A Visionary Artist, A painter of the human condition’. It will be an online Zoom event presented by Michael Howard, artist and teacher at

the Manchester School of Art. 2pm on Tuesday 1 June. Tickets: hambleton or check out the website at http://www.theartssociety.org/hambleton

Mad Hatters Tea Party

There’s an opportunity to learn how to make your very own colourful ceramic cups and saucers inspired by the story and characters of Alice in Wonderland. This event is being staged at Rural Arts, Westgate, Thirsk at half term – Wednesday 2 June 10.30am-noon. Tel: 01845 526536 or book online at https://ruralarts.org/workshops

Northern Dales Farmers’ Market

There’ll be a fantastic selection of food and drink producers selling a wide range of goodies at next Sunday’s Farmer’s Market at Thirsk’s Market Square. Sunday 6 June.

Thirsk Hall gardens open to view

Thirsk Hall in Kirkgate, Thirsk is taking part in the NGS Open Gardens day on Saturday 12 June. There are 20 acres of grounds and gardens which have been sensitively restored. There’s even a sculpture park.

Homemade teas will be available. Wheelchair access. 2 to 5.30pm. Tickets at the gate.

St Columba’s Church

Services planned are:

• Tonight – 30 May, 7pm – Compline for Trinity Sunday

• Sunday 6 June, 6.30pm – Choral Evensong

• Sunday 13 June, 10.45am – Festival Eucharist for St Columba’s Day led by the Archdeacon of Cleveland, the Venerable Dr Amanda Bloor

• Sunday 20 June, 10.45am – Holy Communion (Modern Language) Rev’d Mary Rolls

• Sunday 27 June, 10.45am – Sung Matins

Celebration of St Columba’s Day 13 June

John Phillips writes: “As we emerge from months of pandemic and lock-down, and summer at last now seems to be with us, it is rather fortuitous that the feast of St Columba appears just at this time, giving us a chance to celebrate with a special Choral Eucharist on Sunday 13 June at 10,45am. We are very pleased to be welcoming the Archdeacon of Cleveland, the Venerable Dr Amanda Bloor to lead us. This annual service celebrates our Patron Saint Columba and the centuries of Christian worship that have taken place on this holy spot in the heart of our village over nearly 1,400 years. St Columba’s Choir will sing a favourite setting of the service composed by our own Kit Norris. Please do join us, in numbers if you can, as a show of support for the continued work of the church in our villages. The planned historical events usually associated with this weekend have had to be postponed again until next year, but nevertheless we invite you to also join us for a ‘Village Picnic’ in the churchyard to follow the service from 12 noon onwards. Please bring your families and friends, food, drinks, rugs, chairs and surround the church with colour, laughter and fun. Groups will need to be suitably distanced, but I am sure we can still make this a great occasion. For those unfamiliar with the long history of our church, descriptive tours will be available from time to time during the course of the afternoon, and we should also be able to offer the ever-popular climb up the church tower to admire the fabulous views. Covid risk assessments have been prepared and will be regularly monitored and updated before and during the weekend to ensure everyone’s safety. Naturally the whole event is subject to the Covid situation, but we plan to proceed unless there is any government announcement about gatherings.”

Anyone wishing to join in the preparations for the event would be welcome to join working parties to tidy up the churchyard next weekend – Sunday 6 June between 10am to 1pm. Please take whatever tools you might feel appropriate. Any help will be very much appreciated. If you have queries about any of this please contact John Phillips on 01845 577034.

St Robert of Newminster

Everyone knows the well-known Yorkshire saints, such as St Hilda of Whitby, but there are many others less famous such as the catholic St Robert of Newminster whose feast day is celebrated on 7 June, the day of his death. Robert was born in Gargrave near Skipton and after studying in Paris returned to serve Gargrave as parish priest. He later became a Benedictine joining the monks of Saint Mary’s Abbey in York, but not finding the life strict enough, he helped establish a monastery in a valley near Skelldale in 1132. Because of the many natural springs in the area, the monastery was called Fountains Abbey. In about 1138 he headed a group of monks sent out from Fountains to establish Newminster Abbey west of Morpeth in Northumberland where he became abbot and where he is buried. The small monastery was one of the first to be dissolved in 1535 by Henry VIII.

Local traders

• Asenbee Honey – as well as selling local honey, this Asenby-based business makes beeswax candles and a range of hand-carved spoons and oak chopping boards. www.asenbeehoney.co.uk

• The Swan is now operating normal hours again. George, Jane and the team are looking forward to welcoming customers old and new for drinks, meals and good company.

• 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 are in place with two households/bubbles in the gallery at any one time. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop -The café is now open again. It offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, homemade cakes, traybakes and scones. Wheelchair access is available at the rear of the property. Customers are still required to keep to social distancing rules so the café is providing tables each with just three chairs as the seating area is too small to have more. Takeaway teas and coffees with cake is still available. Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9-5pm. Thursday and Saturday 9-1pm. Check out Facebook page for information about new lines in fresh and frozen foods. 01845 400446. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/

• The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – currently based at the Milk Churn farm Shop but due to lack of space is planning to return to Melmerby sometime soon. The company provides beautiful hampers for all occasions. Hampers contain the best of produce from small Yorkshire food and drink producers. www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk Tel: 07793 775987

• 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. Both closed on Sundays.

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

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

• John Aston Flooring Ltd – operating from The Old Hatchery in Asenby. There’s a large selection of carpets and flooring to suit all tastes. Appointment only. 01845 421111 – info@johnastonflooring.co.uk

• The Angel at Topcliffe – now reopened fully with a new menu. Please call to book indoor tables. Breakfast is served 8 to 10am to non-residents every day. • Lunch is served Monday to Friday, 12noon to 2.30pm and dinner 5 until 9pm. • The restaurant is open 12noon to 9pm on Saturdays and 12 noon to 8pm on Sundays. • The bar is open Monday to Thursday, 12 noon to 11pm; Friday and Saturday 12 noon to midnight; Sunday 12 noon to 10.30pm. • The tents and gazebos in the garden are being retained for a few more weeks, so those who are still reluctant to eat inside can still enjoy a meal. • The Angel at Home service will continue until further notice Wednesday to Sunday (please try to book in advance and check the new menu before ordering). • Comedy Night is planned to resume on 6 July, tickets will be available next week (£10 in advance, £12 on the day). Check out full details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

Jobs at The Angel

The Angel is looking for front of house staff to work evenings and weekends. Anyone interested please call Greg or Steve on 01845 578000 for more details.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Recycling & green waste – Friday 4 June (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday)

• Refuse – Mondays 7 and 21 June

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Refuse – Tuesday 1 June (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Mondays 14 and 28 June

• Garden waste – Friday 4 June (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday)

• Recycling – Mondays 7 and 21 June

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