Posted on 21 August 20222 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 122

Welcome to the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707

The Topcliffe Big Race – Saturday 10 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open at 7pm and the first race is off at 7.30pm.

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

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

The 2022 Produce Show
Just two weeks to go to the Topcliffe and Asenby Produce Show. It will take place at the Village Hall on Saturday 3 September. Any resident of Topcliffe and Asenby, as well as individuals who grow produce on allotments within the boundaries of our two villages, can put entries in the show. There’ll be 47 horticultural classes, as well as 16 baking/preserves classes, three floral classes, 10 hobbies classes and five classes just for children to enter. The full list of rules, categories and classes are available on both village websites – http://www.topcliffe.org.uk and http://www.asenby.net or from Produce Show Secretary Judith Lowe (577911).

Asenby Parish Council
Last Sunday, Asenby’s parish councillors walked around Asenby village to check out a number of issues which had been raised at the last meeting of the council. These included: the Bank Top footpath, the playing field, location of litter bins, traffic issues, Green End parking. These issues will be discussed at the next Parish Council meeting on Monday 12 September at 7pm at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

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

You can contact your Parish Council at [email protected] or via the Facebook page.

St Columba’s services

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

All services conclude with refreshments.

Thirsk Garden Centre Summer Market
TODAY – Sunday 21 August – is the second day of the garden centre’s Summer Market. There are lots of stallholders featuring independent businesses from the area and further afield. Also serving Gardener’s Afternoon Tea at just £8.50 and a 20% discount off plants, BBQs, water features and furniture.

Funeral of Garry Key
A final mention and reminder that the funeral of former Topcliffe Parish Council chairman, Garry Key, will take place at 1pm on Wednesday 24 August at Maple Park Crematorium, near Skipton Bridge. Everyone is welcome to attend.

A MESSAGE FROM DAVE & LIZ AT THE ELM GALLERY
Next Wednesday is Ukraine Independence Day and it’s a very special day in that country. Some of you will be aware that we have a Ukrainian guest, Nataliia, living with us and we know that Independence Day is very important to her, especially since the Russian invasion. We know from Nataliia that life in Ukraine is still very far from normal and people are experiencing huge problems because of the war.

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

Message from Sahra Rayner, Willow View Farm, Topcliffe
24 August is Ukraine’s Independence Day. It’s been thirty one years since their independence from Russia in 1991 and sadly six months since the invasion started. ‘Flowers from the Farm’ (https://www.flowersfromthefarm.co.uk/about-us/) has been asked by the Cabinet Office to support the UK-wide campaign and as a member I want to show my support. I’ve grown some beautiful sunflowers in my flower field this year and a selection will be available at The Elm Gallery next Wednesday 24 August. Please take a free bunch whilst available, leave a donation if you wish. Please do a selfie with your sunflowers or take a photo of your sunflowers at home and share with the hashtag #sunflowersforukraine to show your support to Ukraine and their special day.

Post Office shop trials longer opening hours
The Thursday and Friday late opening of the shop at the Post Office (not Post Office services, which will continue to close at 5pm) will continue until further notice. The shop will stay open until 7pm. Lottery tickets will be available during these evening openings. If the trial works well, the longer hours may be extended to Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday openings.

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

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

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

In the main, the Sheepwash is a peaceful place but now and again the presence of fishermen who quite clearly have no right to be there, can cause concern. It’s not unknown for minor disputes to develop between local residents and trespassing anglers…and some fishermen can be upset when residents’ dogs decide to swim in the water and disturb the fishing! But the fact is that there’s no excuse for illegal fishing: the Parish Council’s private fishing signs are quite explicit.

Yorkshire Water introduces Hosepipe Ban
Last week a drought was officially declared in Yorkshire and this week sees the start of a temporary hosepipe ban throughout the entire county of Yorkshire. From Friday 26 August Yorkshire Water will introduce its first hosepipe ban for 27 years as reservoir levels fall below 50% of their normal capacity. Over 5 million customers will be affected and anyone breaking the ban faces a fine of up to £1,000. You can read the full list of banned activities here.

Energy Price Shocker
Ofgem, the energy regulator, is due to announce the next energy price cap this coming Friday, 26 August. It will come into effect from 1 October and it will remain at the announced level until 31 December. Last week, an energy consulting firm predicted an increase in the cap could see the typical energy bill reach £4,266 per year by January 2023. This comes after another surge in wholesale energy prices and confirmation from the regulator that the energy cap review would move from a biannual to a quarterly event, meaning new caps will be introduced more regularly.

As the market is in crisis, with wholesale prices at unprecedented highs, there is nothing meaningfully cheaper than price-capped tariffs, so the vast majority of consumers are having to face up to the steep increases. If you want to learn more about the energy price cap and what it means for consumers, a good place to start is Martin Lewis’s Money Saving Expert website.

Christmas Fayre
This year the Christmas Fayre will be held at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Saturday 12 November. Bookings for stalls now are being taken. They’re just £5 each – that’s much cheaper than the price stallholders have to pay at other Christmas events in our area. There’ll be more about this event nearer the date.

Knit and Natter
The next session will be at 1.30pm on Thursday 25 August in the TV lounge at The Angel. The cost for refreshments remains at £3 and everyone is welcome to attend, whether for a knit, just for a natter or both!

Soup & sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 31 August at 12 noon. Cash raised at this lunch will be donated to the Boot Shop charity in Easingwold. The last lunch raised £70 for Community Works Thirsk.

Covid booster jab on its way
The second booster jab (fourth vaccination in total) will be rolled out starting early September. Care home residents and people who are housebound will be among the first to be vaccinated from September 5 and a wider rollout to all over-50s will start on September 12. Individuals will be contacted by the NHS when it is their turn to get the jab.

RAF Leeming
Here’s a reminder that this week we’ll see increased aircraft movement out of RAF Leeming. It’s a major air and ground exercise taking place from 23 August to 23 September 2022. Low flying for short periods may be necessary, along with 24-hour operations. A spokesperson said: “The airfield understands its responsibility as good neighbours and hopes residents will bear with it as these additional flying activities take place. Every effort will be made to keep disturbance to a minimum”.

New Fitness Class in Village Hall
Lianne Ayling, who currently runs a range of outdoor fitness classes at the Sowerby Sports Village Track, is planning to launch an indoor class at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall this autumn. From Tuesday 4 October she’ll be starting a programme that rotates on a three-weekly basis between Bodyblast (small handweights), Kettlehiit (using Kettlebells) and Legs, Bums and Tums. These classes are child/buggy friendly so parents can come along with their children.

Contact can be made via her Facebook page. If you would like to join this class or for any others Lianne provides, use the link below and use the code FIRSTCLASS50 for 50% off! Link- https://linktr.ee/lianneayling

Topcliffe Village Hall Committee Meeting
The next meeting of Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee will be on Tuesday 13 September at 7.30pm.

St James Coffee and Chat
There’s a weekly coffee and chat session held at the church in Baldersby St James Tuesday mornings between 10am and 12 noon. A popular morning to meet friends old and new…and to swap your books at the same time.

The Ritz Cinema

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

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

Horse Racing at Thirsk

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

And to attract families to the racecourse, there’s now a family ticket for two adults and accompanied children for the Grandstand paddock for just £20. Book online at https://www.thirskracecourse.net

Children’s summer holiday events
A wide range of children’s activities is being held at Thirsk Community Library over the school holidays.

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

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

Events at The Catton Kitchen
Here’s news of a few events planned at The Catton Kitchen over the coming weeks:

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

Check out Facebook and Instagram for more information. Or call 07747 083155
http://www.thecattonkitchen.co.uk

Concerts at Thorp Perrow
Last chance to get tickets for Flash! A tribute to Queen, which is on Friday 26 August. Gates open at 7.30pm. Performance starts at 8.30pm and ends at 10.45pm. Picnics can be taken in, but there’s also hot and cold food and drinks on sale. Tickets via the website at: https://www.thorpperrow.com/

Wensleydale Show
Held in Leyburn just off the A6108 Leyburn to Richmond road on Saturday 27 August. Family (2+3) £25, Adult £10, Child (5-16) £5, Under 5s free. Online or at the gate: https://www.wensleydaleshow.org.uk

Fireworks Champions
This annual event at Newby Hall is back with a bang! On Saturday 27 August, three of the UK’s best firework companies competing against each other with a 10 minute professional firework display choreographed to music followed by a larger huge finale display. The event is the only one of its type in the UK where the audience have the capability to vote for the team they liked the most using their mobile phone. £23, child £13 (+£1.50 booking fee). Book online https://www.fireworkchampions.co.uk

Malton Food Festival
The Malton Food-lovers’ Festival is a celebration of Yorkshire’s finest produce and cooking. Expect artisan stalls, delicious street food, talks, tastings, celebrity chefs, demos, festival bar and live music. It’s recommended you arrive hungry! From 9am on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 August and from 10am on Sunday 28 August.

Newburgh Priory Plant Fair
Go along and be enchanted at the plant fair held within the beautiful gardens and grounds of Newburgh Priory. There will be select plant growers presenting a huge selection of plants for sale. Afterwards enjoy home-made savouries and cakes in the old Refectory Cafe. Monday 29 August from 11am to 4pm, with last entry 3pm. Tickets £4 per adult, children free. On the gate or in advance from https://www.flowerpowerfairs.co.uk

Events at The Angel

Bank Holiday Monday – 29 August – 12noon until 5pm, BBQ, children’s games and lots of fun! Free entry.
Tuesday 6 September – Hilarity Bites Comedy Club – Doors open at 7.30pm, show starts at 8pm.
Saturday 1 October – 2pm until late – Octoberfest – wide range of German beers, BBQ and live bands. Free entry.
More information and tickets from the venue or online at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/

Music at Junction 50
Thursday 1 September at 7pm – Sirocco Winds – five young talented musicians of the highest quality will perform a wide range of music and will speak about the music they play and why it is important to them. £10 including refreshments. For tickets telephone 01765 640624 or on the door on the day.

Baldersby St James – Book Sale
The Book Sale is on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September – open from 10am to 5pm each day. If anyone has books to donate for the sale just drop them into the church. Lots of helpers are needed from Thursday 8th to put out books, and on Sunday 11th to tidy up. If you can help please email Susan Brown at [email protected]

Helperby Beer Festival
It’s been three years since the last beer festival in Helperby…but it’s back on Saturday 17 September starting 12.30pm. It’ll be better than ever with a huge choice of amazing and cool beers and lagers, wine bar, prosecco & gin bar, and food. There’ll be a great music line up including Rory Hoy, Chu Ma Shu, The Bootleggers, Borderline, All the King’s Men, The Feds, What the Duck and Mark Stevenson.

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

Tickets and vouchers for food and drink are available online now.

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:

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

The Angel at Topcliffe – http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk
Asenbee Honey – http://www.asenbeehoney.co.uk
John Aston Flooring Ltd – [email protected] – 01845 421111.
The Catton Kitchen – http://www.cattonkitchen.co.uk – 07747 083155.
Chip ‘n Dales – Friday teatime – 5 until 7pm in Topcliffe. https://www.chipndales.co.uk
The Elm Gallery – http://www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk – 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.
Fotiá Candles – http://www.fotiacandles.co.uk – 07879 447953.
Joanna’s Touch Photography – 07732 941758. Also on Facebook and Instagram.
The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – http://www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk 07793 775987.
Milk Churn online shopping – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/shop
Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
The Swan – 01845 595185 The Swan, Topcliffe | Facebook
The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop.
Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

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

Harrogate (Asenby):

Refuse – Monday 22 August
Garden waste – Thursday 25 August
Recycling – Tuesday 30 August (one day later than usual).

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

Posted on 14 August 20222 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 121

Welcome to the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707

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

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

There’ll be more about Garry and his long service to our community in the September edition of The Tattler.

Asenby Parish Council goes walkabout
TODAY, from 10am, Asenby’s parish councillors will be walking around Asenby village to check out a number of issues which were raised at the last meeting of the council. These include: the Bank Top footpath, the playing field, location of litter bins, traffic issues, Green End parking.

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

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

You can contact your Parish Council at [email protected] or via the Facebook page.

Ripley Agricultural Show
TODAY – The popular Ripley Agricultural Show is on at Ripley Castle Park on Sunday 14 August. It promises to be a great day out. Family (2+3) £30, adult £12, child (5-16) £5.50, under 5s get in for free. https://www.ripleyshow.co.uk

St Columba’s services

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

All services conclude with refreshments.

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

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

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

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

In response, the following message was sent:

Thank you for your update on planned repairs to Topcliffe Bridge. It is certainly good news that some progress is finally been made, but I am most surprised that the preparation of procurement details and documentation has taken so long and we still face potentially months of waiting before the work is tackled. “This financial year” presumably means to 31 March: I think people in Topcliffe and Asenby will be entitled to be very unhappy if it takes until then.

The Big Race Night
The Big Race night will take place on Saturday 10 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open at 7pm and the first race is off at 7.30pm.

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

There’ll be a cash bar serving draught beer, lager, wines and soft drinks.
There’ll be eight races on the big screen.
Entry includes a beef in red wine and crispy dumplings supper or vegetarian alternative, which will be served at about 8.45pm.
Each entry ticket is numbered and will be entered in a draw, the winner of which will win a night’s bed and breakfast at Crab Manor Hotel.
There’s be some great prizes to be won on the raffle.

Summer Fayre Success
Last Sunday’s Summer Fayre and Afternoon Tea raised £304 to help support the village hall. Other charities benefited from cash raised by various tombolas.

Christmas Fayre (that’s the first mention of Christmas in this year’s email!)
The date has been set for a Christmas Fayre on Saturday 12 November. Some stalls have already been booked by people who had a stall last week, but there’ll be plenty of room for more at just £5 each. That’s much cheaper than what stallholders have to pay at other Christmas events. in our area! There’ll be more about this event nearer the date.

Post Office shop trials longer opening hours
Topcliffe Post Office is trialing extended opening hours for the shop (not Post Office services, which will continue to close at 5pm). On Thursdays and Fridays the shop will remain open until 7pm to see if there is any demand to stay open later. Lottery tickets will be available during these evening openings. If it works well, the longer hours may be extended to Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday openings.

Knit and Natter
The fortnightly Knit & Natter had its first meeting in the TV room at The Angel last Thursday. It went very well and the new venue proved a good choice. A big thank you to the Angel management and staff for making the group so welcome. The next meeting will be at 1.30pm on Thursday 25 August. The cost for refreshments remains at £3 and everyone is welcome to attend, whether for a knit, just for a natter or both!

Open Days at Sutton Park, Sutton on the Forest

Each day in August.
Gardens Open – 11am – 5pm. Adult £5 / Child £2.50 / Concessions £4.
House Tours – 1:30pm and 2:45pm. Ticket includes entry to Gardens. Adult £10 / Child £5 / Concessions £6.50.
Tickets on the door or by email (advisable) – [email protected]
www.sutton-park.co.uk

Soup & sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 17 August at 12 noon. Cash raised at this lunch will be donated to Community Works Thirsk.

The 2022 Produce Show
Just three weeks to go to the Topcliffe and Asenby Produce Show. It will take place at the Village Hall on Saturday 3 September. Any resident of Topcliffe and Asenby, as well as individuals who grow produce on allotments within the boundaries of our two villages, can put entries in the show. There’ll be 47 horticultural classes, as well as 16 baking/preserves classes, three floral classes, 10 hobbies classes and five classes just for children to enter. The full list of rules, categories and classes are available on both village websites – http://www.topcliffe.org.uk and http://www.asenby.net or from Produce Show Secretary Judith Lowe (577911).

RAF Leeming
There will be increased aircraft movement for an exercise taking place from 23 August to 23 September 2022. The Station will be hosting an exercise involving increased air and ground movement. Low flying for short periods may be necessary, along with 24-hour operations. The airfield understands its responsibility as good neighbours and hopes residents will bear with it as these additional flying activities take place. A spokesman said: “Every effort will be made to keep disturbance to a minimum”.

Yorkshire Water
Our water supply company has become the latest to announce it is to introduce a temporary hosepipe ban. It’s the first ban for 27 years. It says reservoir levels have fallen below 50% for the first time since the drought of 1995 and it would take months of rain for them to recover. Over 5 million customers will be affected and anyone breaking the ban, which starts on 26 August, faces a fine of up to £1,000. You can read the full list of banned activities here.

The Yorkshire Young Achievers’ Awards
These awards aim to recognise and reward outstanding achievement by young people in or from Yorkshire. Anyone can make a nomination and anyone can be a winner, as long as they meet the requirements. The winners are decided by a panel of senior members of the Yorkshire community representing different walks of life and awards are presented at a Gala Dinner.

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

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

For more information click here
To nominate please click here

Topcliffe Village Hall Committee Meeting
The next meeting of Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee will be on Tuesday 13 September at 7.30pm.

The Yorkshire Flea
Thirsk Auction Mart will be displaying an exciting and interesting selection of vintage, antique & collectable items from the 18th 19th & 20th centuries. Around 50 to 80 dealers from across the north of England and beyond. Ample free parking. Saturday 20 August. Open 11am-6pm. Adult £3. Accompanied under 16s free. NHS staff with official work photo ID free. Tickets: [email protected]

The Ritz Cinema

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

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

Horse Racing at Thirsk

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

Children’s summer holiday events
A wide range of children’s activities is being held at Thirsk Community Library over the school holidays.

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

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

As You Like It – a brilliant outdoor performance
William Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ will be performed at Newby Hall’s outdoor theatre on Friday 19 August at 7pm (gates open at 6pm). Performed by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men. Tickets also include access to the gardens from 12 noon for those who wish to make a day of it. Tickets £17 adult, £10 child. Book online or buy at the gate https://www.newbyhall.com/events

Thirsk Hall Festival – 19 to 21 August
Thirsk Hall Festival kicks off with Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro performed at St Mary’s Church, Thirsk at 7pm on Friday 19 August. Semi-staged performance of the Mozart comedy classic. Directed by Sarah Helsby-Hughes of Heritage Opera and conducted by Benjamin Ellin. Features festival chorus of singers from across the region. Tickets: adults £15, under 16s £7.50

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

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

Events at The Catton Kitchen
Here’s news of a few events planned at The Catton Kitchen over the coming weeks:

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

Check out Facebook and Instagram for more information. Or call 07747 083155
http://www.thecattonkitchen.co.uk

Thirsk Garden Centre Summer Market
Held over two days – Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 August – with lots of stallholders featuring independent businesses from the area and further afield. Also serving Gardener’s Afternoon Tea at just £8.50.

Concerts at Thorp Perrow
Flash! A tribute to Queen on Friday 26 August. Gates open at 7.30pm. Performance starts at 8.30pm and ends at 10.45pm. Picnics can be taken in, but there’s also hot and cold food and drinks on sale. Tickets via the website at: https://www.thorpperrow.com/

Events at The Angel

Bank Holiday Monday – 29 August – 12noon until 5pm, BBQ, children’s games and lots of fun! Free entry.
Tuesday 6 September – Hilarity Bites Comedy Club – Doors open at 7.30pm, show starts at 8pm.
Saturday 1 October – 2pm until late – Octoberfest – wide range of German beers, BBQ and live bands. Free entry.
More information and tickets from the venue or online at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:

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

The Angel at Topcliffe – http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk
Asenbee Honey – http://www.asenbeehoney.co.uk
John Aston Flooring Ltd – [email protected] – 01845 421111.
The Catton Kitchen – http://www.cattonkitchen.co.uk – 07747 083155.
Chip ‘n Dales – Friday teatime – 5 until 7pm in Topcliffe. https://www.chipndales.co.uk
The Elm Gallery – http://www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk – 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.
Fotiá Candles – http://www.fotiacandles.co.uk – 07879 447953.
Joanna’s Touch Photography – 07732 941758. Also on Facebook and Instagram.
The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – http://www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk 07793 775987.
Milk Churn online shopping – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/shop
Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
The Swan – 01845 595185 The Swan, Topcliffe | Facebook
The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop.
Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

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

Harrogate (Asenby):

Recycling – Monday 15 August
Refuse – Monday 22 August
Garden waste – Thursday 25 August

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

Posted on 8 August 20222 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 119

Welcome to the Sunday Email. This is edition No. 119.
Doug
07785 223707

St Columba’s services

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

All services conclude with refreshments.

Thirsk Model Railway Show
TODAY – To be staged at Thirsk Town Hall, Westgate, Thirsk on Sunday 31 July between 10am and 4pm. Ten model railway layouts, modelmaking demonstrations, trade stands and refreshments. All profits to Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Adults £5. Accompanied children free. Pay in advance or at the door. http://www.expo-thirsk.co.uk

Yorkshire Day
Monday 1 August is Yorkshire Day. There are events to mark the day all across the county.

Strange goings on in the cat world
There’s something worrying going on in Topcliffe as far as cats are concerned. In recent weeks it would seem that a lot of cats have mysteriously gone missing and a few have died in unexplained circumstances. Local noticeboards have recently carried ‘lost cat’ posters produced by desperate cat owners who have lost their pets. And the Top Residents Facebook page has featured several lost cat appeals. It’s reported that three cats have been found dead in recent months and some people have suggested that poison might be involved, which would be extremely sad and serious if true. That situation is certainly something that needs to be monitored.

Most cats are the outdoor types, so there will always be a degree of risk when they are out and about. Last week one was struck and killed on a village road. Cats are prone to wander and some may go further afield than is good for them and find it difficult to get back home. Please look out for cats that appear to be ‘lost’ and put up a message with a photograph if you find one in your garden that maybe needs reuniting with its owner.

Summer Fayre and Afternoon Tea
The Summer Fayre & Afternoon Tea at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall will be held next Saturday 6 August between 11am and 3pm. Entry will be free of charge.

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

Appeal for Help – Karen Morley and Linda Carver will be running a cake stall as well as organising afternoon teas. They would welcome any help from those able to supply baking – cakes, buns, quiches or sausage rolls etc. Please contact Karen (01845 577426) or Linda (01845 578014) if you can assist.

Knit and Natter: Last meeting at the Milk Churn
The final Knit & Natter session at the Milk Churn Farm Shop was held last Wednesday (27 July). The farm shop closes down on Friday 5 August. Discussions are underway that may see future taking place at the Village Hall.

Open Days at Sutton Park, Sutton on the Forest

Monday 1 August to Tuesday 30 August.
Gardens Open – 11am – 5pm. Adult £5 / Child £2.50 / Concessions £4.
House Tours – 1:30pm and 2:45pm. Ticket includes entry to Gardens. Adult £10 / Child £5 / Concessions £6.50.
Tickets on the door or by email (advisable) – [email protected]
www.sutton-park.co.uk

Soup & sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 3 August at 12 noon. Cash raised at this lunch will be donated to Cancer Research.

Topcliffe Bridge – still no update received
Three weeks ago North Yorkshire County Council’s latest response regarding repairs to Topcliffe Bridge was mentioned in the Sunday Email. It suggested a meeting of people involved in planning the repairs was being held the following week, after which it promised to provide an update. Regretfully, and despite a reminder, that update is still awaited.

Booking the Village Hall online
The new online booking system – Hallmaster – allows enquiries and bookings to be made directly on the village website. Payments are completed via PayPal or BACs. The Hallmaster booking pages can be found at
https://www.topcliffe.org.uk/village-hall/hall-booking-system/ Anyone experiencing any difficulty making a booking, should call 07857 836332.

Asenby Parish Council
Asenby’s new Parish Council met for their first full meeting on 20 July. The minutes will be available on the village website as soon as possible – (http://www.asenby.net). In brief the following issues were considered:

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

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

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

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

You can contact your Parish Council at [email protected] or via the Facebook page.

Topcliffe Village Meetings

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

These meetings will take place at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.

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

The Big Race Night
Enjoy a brilliant evening at the races, with an excellent supper and lots of excitement and fun.

The Big Race night will take place on Saturday 10 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open at 7pm and the first race is off at 7.30pm.
There’ll be eight races on the big screen and supper will be served at the halfway point.
Tickets are on sale at £6 each. Entry includes a beef in red wine and crispy dumplings supper, or vegetarian alternative. Each ticket is numbered and will be entered in a draw, the winner of which will win a night’s bed and breakfast at Crab Manor Hotel. And there’ll be some great prizes to be won on the raffle.
There’ll be a cash bar serving draught beer, lager, wines and soft drinks.
You can buy tickets now from Topcliffe Post Office, Doug Allan (07785 223707) or Judith Lowe in Asenby (01845 577911).

Energy bills discount
There has been mounting pressure for the government to do more to ease cost of living pressures, with UK household energy bills due to spike to £3,850 in January – almost twice the level of today’s record high.

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

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

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

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

County Council help with the cost of living

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

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

Horse racing at Thirsk Racecourse

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

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

Book online at https://www.thirskracecourse.net

Car rally to pass through Topcliffe
Next Sunday, 7 August, the annual St Wilfrid’s Classic Car Rally, run by Ripon Motor Sports Club, is being staged. The cars will pass through Topcliffe between 9.55 and 11.30am. The event is a mixture of special tests on private land and rallying (at designated highway speeds or less) through a number of villages surrounding Ripon. It should be quite a spectacle to see these classic motors going through the village.

Thirsk and Sowerby Festival
Great fun for all the family at this event being staged on Sowerby Flatts on Sunday 7 August. Bouncy castle and an inflatable obstacle course, and as ever, this will be free for all to use. There’ll also be traditional family carnival rides, birds of prey, pony displays, archery and axe throwing displays, stalls and lots more. Kando Canine Capers will be returning to the festival again this year to seek out the dog with the most agility. 10am-4pm. Free. https://www.facebook.com/FestivalontheFlatts

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
Northern Dales Farmers’ Market will be in place in the Market Square on Sunday 7 August. There’ll be hand-picked, local independent stallholders, so you can be sure that the market presents some of the very best food and drink producers in the country. http://northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com

Ripley Agricultural Show
The popular Ripley Agricultural Show is on at Ripley Castle Park on Sunday 14 August. It promises to be a great day out. Family (2+3) £30, adult £12, child (5-16) £5.50, under 5s get in for free. https://www.ripleyshow.co.uk

Events at The Catton Kitchen
Here’s news of a few events planned at The Catton Kitchen over the coming weeks:

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

Check out Facebook and Instagram for more information. Or call 07747 083155
http://www.thecattonkitchen.co.uk

Malton Food Festival
The Malton Food-lovers Festival is a celebration of Yorkshire’s finest produce and cooking. Expect artisan stalls, delicious street food, talks, tastings, celebrity chefs, demos, festival bar and live music. It’s recommended you arrive hungry! From 9am on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 August and from 10am on Sunday 28 August.

Music at Junction 50
Thursday 1 September at 7pm – Sirocco Winds – five young talented musicians of the highest quality will perform a wide range of music and will speak about the music they play and why it is important to them. 7pm. £10 including refreshments. For tickets telephone 01765 640624 or on the door on the day.

Children’s summer holiday events
A wide range of children’s activities is being held at Thirsk Community Library over the school holidays.

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

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

The Ritz Cinema

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

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

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:

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

The Angel at Topcliffe – http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk
Asenbee Honey – http://www.asenbeehoney.co.uk
John Aston Flooring Ltd – [email protected] – 01845 421111.
The Catton Kitchen – http://www.cattonkitchen.co.uk – 07747 083155.
Chip ‘n Dales – Friday teatime – 5 until 7pm in Topcliffe. https://www.chipndales.co.uk
The Elm Gallery – http://www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk – 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.
Fotiá Candles – http://www.fotiacandles.co.uk – 07879 447953.
Joanna’s Touch Photography – 07732 941758. Also on Facebook and Instagram.
The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – http://www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk 07793 775987.
The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ – 01845 400446.
Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
The Swan – 01845 595185 The Swan, Topcliffe | Facebook
The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop.
Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

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

Harrogate (Asenby):

Recycling – Mondays 1 and 15 August
Refuse – Mondays 8 and 22 August
Garden waste – Thursdays 28 July and 11 August.

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

Posted on 7 August 20222 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 120

Welcome to the Sunday Email. This is edition No. 120.
Doug
07785 223707

Sad news
Last Thursday morning, Topcliffe resident Garry Key, sadly passed away. Garry will have been known to most of you as he had served on Topcliffe Parish Council for 23 years, and was chairman for 20.

All our thoughts will be with his family, wife Nikki and their three children Sam, Georgina and Edward.

Funeral service details will be included in next Sunday’s Email. There’ll be more about Garry and his long service to our community in the September edition of The Tattler.

Car rally passing through Topcliffe today
TODAY – Watch out for the annual St Wilfrid’s Classic Car Rally passing through Topcliffe between 9.55am and 11.30am.

Thirsk and Sowerby Festival
TODAY – Great fun for all the family at this event being staged on Sowerby Flatts. Bouncy castle and an inflatable obstacle course and, as ever, this will be free for all to use. There’ll also be traditional family carnival rides, birds of prey, pony displays, archery and axe throwing displays, stalls and lots more. Kando Canine Capers will be returning to the festival again this year to seek out the dog with the most agility. 10am-4pm. Free. https://www.facebook.com/FestivalontheFlatts

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
TODAY – the Northern Dales Farmers’ Market is on today at Thirsk Market Square. There’ll be hand-picked local independent stallholders, so you can be sure that the market presents some of the very best food and drink producers in the country. http://northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com

St Columba’s services

TODAY– Sunday 7 August at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong
Sunday 14 August at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Sunday 21 August at 10.45am – Sung Matins
Sunday 28 August at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Sunday 4 September at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong.

All services conclude with refreshments.

Summer Fayre and Afternoon Tea
There was a good turnout at the Summer Fayre & Afternoon Tea held in the Village Hall yesterday. A big thank you to everyone who attended and to those that took a stall or organised a tombola. many thanks to those who made sandwiches, baked a cake or contributed in some other way. We are indebted to Karen Morley and Malc Morley, Linda Carver and Linda Robinson for organising the event and working so hard to make it a success.

Farewell to the Milk Churn Farm Shop
Friday was the final day of trading for the Milk Churn Farm Shop on Topcliffe’s Long Street. Opening the shop was always going to be a challenge but two years of Covid, the cost-of-living crisis and huge increases in energy and other costs, finally proved too much. But Debbie, Hannah and Rob – thanks for trying.

Hello to Milk Churn online shopping
Customers can still get their favourite items by shopping online at the Milk Churn’s website. There’s a wide range of locally produced items on sale including biscuits, sauces, pickles, chocolate and sweets…and more produce will be available as the site develops. Orders can be delivered to your home or collected from Topcliffe Post Office. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/shop

New Knit and Natter
Following the closure of the Milk Churn Farm Shop, the fortnightly Knit and Natter group is moving to the TV room at The Angel. The next meeting will be at 1.30pm on Thursday 11 August…and then every fortnight after that. The cost for refreshments remains at £3 and everyone is welcome to attend.

Ideas for positive action in villages
Sometimes, when you know you want to take positive action in your community, having that initial inspiration is the hardest part. Now Community First Yorkshire, an organisation involved in community-based work across the county, has produced a leaflet offering fifty-two ideas that could be of interest. From setting up a photography club to running a car-sharing scheme, it’s got some great ideas on what any community can do…if only there’s a willingness to get involved. Some of the ideas presented are already a reality in Topcliffe & Asenby, but there’s plenty of food for thought in the guide.
https://communitysupportny.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/52-Things-Version-12-Final-Version.pdf

Asenby Bus-stop Library
Heather and David Allon are back home after a few months of travelling abroad and have quickly got involved again with the bus stop library in their village. They have repaired and cleaned the bookcases, sorted out the books so that they are readily accessible for residents to view and borrow. and generally cleaned-up the shelter. Heather has asked for a big thank you to be offered to those who have helped maintain the library in their absence.

Open Days at Sutton Park, Sutton on the Forest

Each day in August.
Gardens Open – 11am – 5pm. Adult £5 / Child £2.50 / Concessions £4.
House Tours – 1:30pm and 2:45pm. Ticket includes entry to Gardens. Adult £10 / Child £5 / Concessions £6.50.
Tickets on the door or by email (advisable) – [email protected]
www.sutton-park.co.uk

Soup & sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 17 August at 12 noon. Cash raised at this lunch will be donated to Community Works Thirsk. The last lunch raised £74.15 for Cancer Research.

Topcliffe Bridge – still no update received
It’s now four weeks since North Yorkshire County Council’s promised an update regarding repairs to Topcliffe Bridge. The last email from a Highways Engineer suggested a meeting of people involved in planning the repairs was being held after which he promised to provide an update. Regretfully, and despite a reminder, that update has not yet arrived.

Cross Talk
The August edition of Cross Talk, the local parishes newsletter for villages in our area, has been published, You can see it here.

Asenby Parish Council
Asenby’s parish councillors will be walking around Asenby village on Sunday 14 August to look at a number of issues that were raised at the last meeting of the council. These include: the Bank Top footpath, the playing field, location of litter bins, traffic issues, Green End parking.

The Big Race Night

The Big Race night will take place on Saturday 10 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open at 7pm and the first race is off at 7.30pm.
There’ll be a cash bar serving draught beer, lager, wines and soft drinks.
There’ll be eight races on the big screen and supper will be served at the halfway point.
Entry includes a beef in red wine and crispy dumplings supper, or vegetarian alternative.
Each ticket is numbered and will be entered in a draw, the winner of which will win a night’s bed and breakfast at Crab Manor Hotel.
There’ll be some great prizes to be won on the raffle.
Tickets are on sale at £6 each from Topcliffe Post Office, Doug Allan (07785 223707) or Judith Lowe in Asenby (01845 577911). If you’re planning to attend, please get your ticket now so that the organisers can be confident about numbers for catering.

Topcliffe Village Hall Committee Meeting
The next meeting of Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee will be on Tuesday 13 September at 7.30pm.

The Ritz Cinema

To Thursday 11 August (Matinee Wednesday 10 August) – Thor: Love and Thunder.
Friday 12 to Thursday 18 August (Matinee Wednesday 17 August) – The Railway Children Return.

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

Horse racing at Thirsk

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

Children’s summer holiday events
A wide range of children’s activities is being held at Thirsk Community Library over the school holidays.

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

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

Events at The Catton Kitchen
Here’s news of a few events planned at The Catton Kitchen over the coming weeks:

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

Check out Facebook and Instagram for more information. Or call 07747 083155
http://www.thecattonkitchen.co.uk

Events at The Angel

Bank Holiday Monday – 29 August – 12noon until 5pm, BBQ, children’s games and lots of fun! Free entry.
Tuesday 6 September – Hilarity Bites Comedy Club – Doors open at 7.30pm, show starts at 8pm.
Saturday 1 October – 2pm until late – Octoberfest – wide range of German beers, BBQ and live bands. Free entry.
More information and tickets from the venue or online at https://theangelattopcliffe.co.uk/

Music at Junction 50
Thursday 1 September at 7pm – Sirocco Winds – five young talented musicians of the highest quality will perform a wide range of music and will speak about the music they play and why it is important to them. 7pm.£10 including refreshments. For tickets telephone 01765 640624 or on the door on the day.

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:

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

The Angel at Topcliffe – http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk
Asenbee Honey – http://www.asenbeehoney.co.uk
John Aston Flooring Ltd – [email protected] – 01845 421111.
The Catton Kitchen – http://www.cattonkitchen.co.uk – 07747 083155.
Chip ‘n Dales – Friday teatime – 5 until 7pm in Topcliffe. https://www.chipndales.co.uk
The Elm Gallery – http://www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk – 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.
Fotiá Candles – http://www.fotiacandles.co.uk – 07879 447953.
Joanna’s Touch Photography – 07732 941758. Also on Facebook and Instagram.
The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – http://www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk 07793 775987.
Milk Churn online shopping – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/shop
Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
The Swan – 01845 595185 The Swan, Topcliffe | Facebook
The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop.
Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursdays 11 and 25 August.
Refuse – Monday 15 August

Harrogate (Asenby):

Refuse – Mondays 8 and 22 August
Garden waste – Thursday 11 August.
Recycling – Monday 15 August

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

Posted on 24 July 20222 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 118

Welcome to the 118th issue of the Sunday Email.
Doug
07785 223707

Aldborough & Boroughbridge Agricultural Show
TODAY – Sunday 24 July, at Newby Hall between 10am-4pm. Baking, handicrafts, horticulture, children’s classes, flower arranging, photography and farm produce. Dog, cattle, sheep, horse and donkey classes. Tickets include entry into the gardens and legendary adventure playground. Book online or buy at gate. http://www.boroughbridgeshow.co.uk

St Columba’s services

TODAY– Sunday 24 July at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Sunday 31 July – the Fifth Sunday in the month – No Service

All services conclude with refreshments.

Leyburn 1940s Weekend – CANCELLED
Anyone who read last week’s information promoting this show and thought they might drive over to Leyburn today should note that the whole event has been cancelled

Topcliffe Bridge – an update on the missing update
Two weeks ago North Yorkshire County Council’s latest response regarding repairs to Topcliffe Bridge was mentioned in the Sunday Email. It promised an update last week but unfortunately that update is still awaited.

Asenby seat takes shape
The seat being constructed to surround the venerable old chestnut on the green at the north end of Asenby village is nearing completion. Our photograph shows Blacksmith Louis testing the fit before sending it away to be galvanised. The chestnut was planted in 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee and the metal seat is being provided to mark the Platinum Jubilee. The project is being organised by Asenby Institute, which has been awarded a grant by Harrogate Borough Council towards the cost.

The Big Race Night
One of the most popular events on the village calendar is back following postponements during the pandemic. You can have a brilliant evening at the races, with an excellent supper and lots of excitement and fun. There’ll be a cash bar serving draught beer, lager, wines and soft drinks. And there’ll be some great prizes to be won on the raffle.

The Big Race night will take place on Saturday 10 September at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Doors open at 7pm and the first race is off at 7.30pm.
There’ll be eight races on the big screen and supper will be served at the halfway point.
All the horses now have an owner and have been given names. If anyone wants to check their purchase and chosen horse name they can call 07785 223707 or email [email protected].
Tickets for the event are now on sale at £6 each. Entry includes a beef in red wine and crispy dumplings supper, or vegetarian alternative. Each ticket is numbered and will be entered in a draw, the winner of which will win a night’s bed and breakfast at Crab Manor Hotel.
You can buy tickets now from Topcliffe Post Office, Doug Allan (07785 223707) or Judith Lowe in Asenby (01845 577911).

Ryedale Agricultural Show
Staged at Wellburn Park near Kirbymoorside from 8.30am on Tuesday 26 July. Adult £16, Child 5-16s £8, under 5s free. Tickets online or card payment on the day. https://www.ryedaleshow.co.uk

Knit and Natter: Last meeting at the Milk Churn
There’ll be a Knit & Natter session as usual at the Milk Churn Farm Shop on Wednesday 27 July between 1.30 and 3.30pm. But after that the venue will change as the Milk Churn Farm Shop is closing down.

It’s hoped that Knit & natter will transfer to the Village Hall …but more on this once details are confirmed.

The Repair Cafe
You can get your broken items repaired, learn how things are made and socialise over a cup of tea or coffee at The Repair Cafe, behind the Community Works re-use store in Thirsk. Be greener by avoiding creating waste and also saving money by letting a team of dedicated and talented volunteers try to repair your broken or ‘worn our’ items. Access will be best from Gillings Court to the workshops behind the store. Saturday 30 July, 10am – 1pm. Voluntary Donation – https://www.repaircafe.org/en

Ryedale Festival
Fifty inspiring performances are planned on various days through to Sunday 31 July. It might be called the Ryedale Festival but there are events everywhere – including Sowerby, Coxwold, Ampleforth and Husthwaite. Many will book up quickly, but there are others for which you can still buy tickets. Book online https://ryedalefestival.com

Thirsk Model Railway Show
To be staged at Thirsk Town Hall, Westgate, Thirsk on Sunday 31 July between 10am and 4pm. Ten model railway layouts, modelmaking demonstrations, trade stands and refreshments. All profits to Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Adults £5. Accompanied children free. Pay in advance or at the door. http://www.expo-thirsk.co.uk

Open Days at Sutton Park, Sutton on the Forest

Monday 1 August to Tuesday 30 August.
Gardens Open – 11am – 5pm. Adult £5 / Child £2.50 / Concessions £4.
House Tours – 1:30pm and 2:45pm. Ticket includes entry to Gardens. Adult £10 / Child £5 / Concessions £6.50.
Tickets on the door or by email (advisable) – [email protected]
www.sutton-park.co.uk

Soup & sweet lunch
The next soup and sweet lunch will be held at the Village Hall on Wednesday 3 August at 12 noon. Cash raised at this lunch will be donated to Cancer Research. Last week’s lunch raised £90.50 towards this year’s pensioners Christmas lunch.

Summer Fayre and Afternoon Tea
The Summer Fayre & Afternoon Tea at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall will be held on Saturday 6 August between 11am and 3pm. Entry will be free of charge.

Few stalls still available for produce, crafts, hobbies etc. – £5 each.
11am to 12 noon – tea/coffee will be served with a choice of cake for £2 per head.
From midday through to 3pm – afternoon teas (sandwiches, savouries, scones, cakes, plus tea, coffee or soft drink) all for just £5 per adult and £2.50 for children.

Can you help? Karen and Linda will be running a cake stall as well as organising afternoon teas. They would welcome any help from those able to supply baking – cakes, buns, quiches or sausage rolls etc. Please contact Karen (01845 577426) or Linda (01845 578014) if you can assist.

Car rally to pass through Topcliffe
The annual St Wilfrid’s Classic Car Rally, run by Ripon Motor Sports Club, is being staged on Sunday 7 August and the organisers have indicated that the cars will pass through Topcliffe between 9.55 and 11.30pm. The event is a mixture of special tests on private land and rallying (at designated highway speeds or less) through a number of villages surrounding Ripon. It should be quite a spectacle to see these classic motors going through the village.

Events at The Catton Kitchen
Here’s news of a few events planned at The Catton Kitchen over the coming weeks:

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

Check out Facebook and Instagram for more information. Or call 07747 083155
http://www.thecattonkitchen.co.uk

Horse racing at Thirsk Racecourse

Saturday 30 July – The William Hill Thirsk Summer Cup Day. Gates open 11am, first race 2.05pm.
Friday 5 August – Circus Family Day. Gates open 11am.
Friday 12 August – Evening racing. Gates open 3pm, first race 5.07pm.
Friday 26 August – All Creatures Great and Small Family Day. Gates open 11am.

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

Book online at https://www.thirskracecourse.net

Concerts at Thorp Perrow
Flash! A tribute to Queen on Friday 26 August. Gates open at 7.30pm. Performance starts at 8.30pm and ends at 10.45pm. Picnics can be taken in, but there’s also hot and cold food and drinks on sale. Tickets via the website at: https://www.thorpperrow.com/

Music at Junction 50
Thursday 1 September at 7pm – Sirocco Winds – the 2022 concert series has featured five young talented musicians of the highest quality who will perform a wide range of music, and will speak about the music they play and why it is important to them. 7pm. £10 including refreshments.

For tickets telephone 01765 640624 or on the door on the day.

St James Coffee and Chat
There’s weekly coffee and chat session held at the church in Baldersby St James Tuesday mornings between 10am and 12 noon. A popular morning to meet friends old and new…and to swap your books at the same time.

Children’s summer holiday events
A wide range of children’s activities is being held at Thirsk Community Library over the school holidays.

Wednesday 27 July and Thursday 1 September – Aquatic Fanatic live animals workshop. 2 to 3pm. Children aged 4+ accompanied by an adult. £3 per child or £5 per family. Booking essential.
Thursday 28 July and Thursday 11 August – Young Gadgeteers, 2 to 3pm for 4-7 year olds. 3.15 to 4.15pm for 7 years+ age group. Become a mechanical engineer for the afternoon. £2 per child. Booking essential.
Tuesdays 2, 16 and 30 August – Lego and Duplo drop in. 2 to 4pm. Come and make your own creations. All ages welcome and under 8s need to be accompanied by an adult. Just turn up. Free.
Friday 5 August and Monday 15 August – Young Gadgeteers. 2 to 3pm for 4-7 year olds. 3.15 to 4.15pm for 7 years+ age group. Become an electronic engineer for the afternoon. £2 per child. Booking essential.
Thursday 25 August – Pin Ups. 2 to 3pm. Join local artist Chris Jeeson to create your own pin up and pop-up books. Children aged 5+ years. £2 per child. Booking essential.
Friday 2 September – Warhammer War Gaming taster session. 10.30 to 11.30am. Free session to find out what war gaming is all about. Suitable for children 7+ and no booking needed. Just turn up.

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

The Ritz Cinema

To Thursday 28 July (Matinee Wednesday 27 July – Elvis
Friday 29 to Thursday 4 August (Matinees – Saturday 30 July, Sunday 31 July, Wednesday 3 Aug) – Minions 2: Rise of Gru

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

Deer Shed Festival
The 12th Deer Shed Festival, Baldersby Park is taking place between Friday 29 and Sunday 31 July. Full ticket details are available at http://deershedfestival.com

Rural Arts events at The Courthouse, Thirsk
For information on classes and workshops, and to book places, go to https://www.ruralarts.org/:

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

The Angel at Topcliffe – http://www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk
Asenbee Honey – http://www.asenbeehoney.co.uk
John Aston Flooring Ltd – [email protected] – 01845 421111.
The Catton Kitchen – http://www.cattonkitchen.co.uk – 07747 083155.
Chip ‘n Dales – Friday teatime – 5 until 7pm in Topcliffe. https://www.chipndales.co.uk
The Elm Gallery – http://www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk – 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.
Fotiá Candles – http://www.fotiacandles.co.uk – 07879 447953.
Joanna’s Touch Photography – 07732 941758. Also on Facebook and Instagram.
The Little Yorkshire Hamper Company – http://www.thelittleyorkshirehampercompany.co.uk 07793 775987.
The Milk Churn Farm Shop & Cafe – https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ – 01845 400446.
Studio 18 Hairstylist – Nicola James, 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery). 07851 034815.
The Swan – 01845 595185 The Swan, Topcliffe | Facebook
The Thirsk Food Bank – collection point at the Milk Churn Farm Shop.
Topcliffe Post Office – 01845 577517.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursdays 28 July and 11 August.
Refuse – Mondays 1 and 15 August

Harrogate (Asenby):

Refuse – Mondays 25 July and 8 August
Garden waste – Thursdays 28 July and 11 August
Recycling – Mondays 1 and 15 August

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