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Sunday Email: Issue 53

Welcome to the 53rd issue of this regular Sunday email. As usual, do get in touch with me if you have any news or information that you think Topcliffe and Asenby residents might like to hear about.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number – which takes into account cases, hospitalisations and deaths – remains between 0.7 and 0.8.

• Over 32 million people have now had a first dose vaccination. And the number of second doses is 7 million. On Friday the largest number of second doses was administered – 450,135 jabs.

• There have been more than 4.37 million confirmed cases of Covid in the UK. Yesterday 2,589 cases were confirmed (18,970 in seven days).

• Over 5 million Covid tests were conducted last week. That’s two million down on the week before.

• 221 people were admitted to hospital yesterday (1,606 in the week). The number of Covid patients in hospital dropped again, week on week, to a new low of 3,124 (3,536 last week).

• Yesterday 40 UK deaths were reported. There were 254 in the seven-day period to Saturday (that’s the same number as the week before).

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at over 127,080. Separate figures published by the UK’s statistics agencies show there have been 150,000 deaths

registered in the UK where Covid-19 was mentioned on the death certificate. Worldwide, the number of deaths now exceeds 2.9 million.

The Roadmap out of Lockdown

Currently we are able to meet outdoors with up to five other people from different households, and two households totalling more than six people are also now able to meet outdoors. We’re still not allowed to meet others indoors. Outdoor sport and leisure facilities have reopened, with any number of children and adults allowed to participate. Formally organised outdoor parent and child groups with up to 15 parents have again started to operate. We are advised to continue to minimise travel – it’s up to our own judgement what is reasonable. And there’s definitely no holidays yet. At all times the advice is that we maintain social distance, exercise hand hygiene and wear face coverings where required. On 12 April the following relaxations come into force:

• All retail shops, as well as hairdressers, beauty salons and other ‘close contact services’ will be allowed to open.

• Indoor leisure, including gyms and spas, can reopen for use individually or within household groups.

• Restaurants and pub gardens will be allowed to serve customers sitting outdoors. The requirement to order, eat and drink while seated (‘table service’) will remain.

• Domestic holidays and overnight stays in the UK will be permitted, with self-contained accommodation able to reopen for use by members of the same household.

• Children allowed to attend indoor play activities, with up to 15 parents or guardians allowed to join them.

• Libraries, community centres, outdoor attractions, theme parks, zoos and drive-in cinemas can reopen.

• Funerals (30 attendees), wakes, weddings and receptions (15 attendees) will be able to take place.

• Rules on visits to care homes will be relaxed to allow two people indoors (children under two years of age can also visit).

The ‘rule of 6’ or two households mixing outdoors will still apply… and still no household mixing indoors. People should continue to work from home where they can and the advice is to minimise domestic travel. International holidays are still not allowed at this stage.

Covid passport controversy

Controversy over vaccine passports burst into the open last week after an official government paper confirmed that they are ‘likely to become a feature of our lives’ and made clear that a national scheme is being drawn up for their possible use to access nightclubs, theatres, festivals and sporting events, as well as international travel after the end of lockdown on 21 June. The document indicated that passports might be optional for pubs and restaurants but ruled out asking people to prove their Covid status to use public transport or enter “essential’ retail premises. But it did not spell out exactly which shops would be exempt and later it became clear that Downing Street is considering making them mandatory for clothes shoppers. That caused anguish among the industry and many MPs. Trials of vaccine passports and other Covid security measures are to be carried out at clubs, cinemas and sports events over the coming weeks, culminating in a bid to allow 20,000 football fans into Wembley for the FA Cup Final on 15 May and a full house at The Snooker World Championships in Sheffield on 3 May. No final decision on whether to go ahead is expected before these pilots are complete, with the crucial vote likely to come as late as June.

Progress with vaccination programme

  • Over 32 million people have now received a first dose of a vaccine and 7 million people have had a second jab. Phase two of the priority programme – groups 10 to 12 – covers all adults aged between 18 and 49 and it’s still intended they will be offered a first dose by the end of July. Before then most people in phase one will have been called for that all-important second dose.
  • It was always known that the vaccination programme would slow down in April, but over the Easter holidays the reduction in numbers was much greater than anyone anticipated. On Easter Saturday, Sunday and Monday the lowest daily rate of jabs were given since the start of the programme in January. Things have picked up again since then.
  • The vaccination programme has prevented the deaths of some 10,400 older people in England since it began, new analysis suggests. According to its estimates, 9,100 deaths were prevented in those aged 80 and over, 1,200 were avoided in those aged 70 to 79, and 100 lives were saved in those aged 60 to 69.
  • A trial of the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine on children has been paused while a rare link with blood clots is investigated. Regulators are carrying out a review into reports that a very small number of recently-immunised people suffered an extremely rare form of blood clot, called a cerebral sinus vein thrombosis (CSVT). Seven people who received the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine in the UK have died from unusual blood clots – though a total of 18.1 million doses of the jab were administered up to and including 24 March. Experts continue to state that the benefits of the jab far outweigh the risks One expert said: “It’s not so much about looking at the absolute risk, it’s weighing up the risk and benefit. In the context of a pandemic – you’ve got to be clear the vaccine is going to reduce the chances of you becoming sick."
  • There’s now a third vaccine being administered in the UK. Last week the first dose of the Moderna vaccine was given in Wales and it will now be available throughout the UK. A total of 17 million doses of Moderna have been ordered by the government.
  • Here’s an odd snippet spotted the other day: the Knaresborough vaccine centre had 210 ‘no shows’ over two days. That is a truly terrible situation and if that level of no shows is repeated at other centres, that’s an appalling waste of appointments and NHS time. We have to hope that the authorities are tackling the problem.

International travel still up in the air

An interim review into the restart of international travel concluded that for the moment people should not book summer holidays abroad yet, but instead wait until the picture is clearer. Given the state of the pandemic abroad, and the progress of vaccination programmes in other countries, our government is not yet in a position to confirm that non-essential international travel can resume from 17 May, the date pencilled in the roadmap. Taking into account the latest situation with variants and the evidence about the efficacy of vaccines against them, Ministers appear unwilling to confirm in advance whether non-essential international travel can resume as initially planned, or whether there’ll be more delay before the outbound travel restriction is lifted. At last Monday’s press conference it was confirmed that the UK ban on international travel, when lifted, will be replaced with a traffic light system that designates countries either green, amber, or red. While returnees from red and amber countries will need to comply with quarantine rules, those arriving from green countries will be able to avoid a period of self-isolation if they pay for coronavirus tests. The plan has raised concerns that the cost of holidaying will sky-rocket unless away is found to make the tests affordable. Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, said he will be looking at why these tests cost so much in the UK compared with other countries. He added that the ‘colour’ of countries in the traffic light system will be announced early May.

The Covid Testing

Lateral Flow Tests

Anyone, even those without symptoms, are now able to take a free rapid lateral flow test twice a week. Test kits are available from various designated sites and pharmacies or through a home ordering service. If someone returns a positive test, they will need to take a more accurate PCR test.

Tests for people with symptoms

Testing sites in North Yorkshire are operated and managed by the Department of Health and Social Care/NHS and private contractors employed by them. People who don’t have access to the internet, or who have difficulty with the digital portals, can ring the 119 service to book their test. The permanent testing sites are open every day for between 8am and 11:30am. The nearest permanent testing sites are:

• Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB (Interestingly, this coronavirus testing centre will close on 1 June).

• Northallerton – The Forum, Bullamore Road, Northallerton, DL6 1LP

A full list of NHS Mobile testing sites can be viewed on the county council’s website at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test Mobile sites are open for testing from 8am to 8pm. Before you attend at either a permanent or mobile site you must book a test. Tests can be booked from 8pm the night before. If test sites are fully booked they will not appear on the government’s website. To book a test visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ Use North Yorkshire County Council’s website to request a home test – https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-testing

Tests if you live or work with a nursery/school/college student

If you live, work or are in a support bubble with nursery, primary or secondary school pupils or college students you should carry out lateral flow device tests at home twice a week. Testing kits can be collected from the two permanent sites listed above every day between 1pm and 8pm.

His Royal Highness Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh

Funeral preparations are under way for Prince Philip who died on Friday aged 99. The ceremonial royal funeral will be held at St George’s Chapel, in the grounds of Windsor Castle, at 3pm on Saturday, 17 April. The event will be televised. The duke will have a ceremonial funeral, rather than a state funeral. There is a subtle difference – state funerals are usually reserved for monarchs, although wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill was given a state funeral. Regardless of protocol, Prince Philip asked for minimum fuss and indicated he did not want to lie in state.

St Columba’s Church

The church will be open for private reflection and the lighting on candles from 2pm to 6.30pm today (Sunday). Everyone is very welcome to come along. There will be stewards to direct as necessary. As always covid rules apply. Plans are afoot to hold a special service of Choral Evensong in memory of Prince Philip next Friday, 16 April (on the Eve of his funeral) at 6.30pm. There’ll be an extra email distributed later this week to confirm details. (See service details in later entry).

Books of Remembrance

Because of the continuing covid restrictions, St Columba’s will be not have a book of condolence to sign. However, the Church of England has an online book of condolence at https://www.churchofengland.org/remembering-his-royal-highness-prince-philip In addition, you add a message of condolence on this Royal site https://www.royal.uk/condolence A selection of messages will be passed onto members of the Royal Family, and may be held in the Royal Archives for posterity.

Asenby Bus Stop Library

Heather and David Allon have expressed their thanks to all of those who have given support to the Bus Stop Library over the last year or so. Although local libraries will be opening this month it is intended to continue with the Bus Stop Library for as long as residents continue to use it.

Bird Feeders of Topcliffe

Last year in one of these Sunday Emails it was mentioned that Malc and Karen Morley had set up bird feeders at several points across the bridge along Winn Lane. They took care of the feeders, filled them every day and were pleased that they were attracting all sorts of interesting birds. What a great story. Problem is that this week the news is that someone has destroyed the bird feeders. Karen and Malc are obviously very upset that somebody could smash the feeders and deprive villagers out on their walks from enjoying the birdlife. And of course, the birds have been deprived of their daily meals too…at least until the feeders are replaced. Why anyone would do this is a complete mystery and if anyone involved has a conscience, they may want to tell the police who did it.

And vandalism at the Playing Field

Whilst we are on the subject of vandalism, somebody must know who is systematically destroying the roof of the climbing frame/play equipment on the playing field. The equipment is being torn apart bit by bit and before long it will be unsuitable for use by local children. Could people please keep an eye out for any wanton vandalism? It’s the minority who are trying to spoil things for everyone else.

Bags2School textile recycling

The next Bags2School recycling event will be held outside the Village Hall on Front Street, Topcliffe on Friday 23 April. The organisers are hoping that villagers have started their spring clean and have sorted out lots of textiles to donate. If you’re sorting out your cupboards and wardrobes, please bag your unwanted items and bring the Village Hall a week Friday between 8.30am and 12 noon. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and Scouts’ Association.

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

Yorkshire Air Ambulance benefits from coffee and crepes

Dozens of people enjoyed coffee and crepes from Van Chaud (Hot Van) on Bank Holiday Monday, raising over £400 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Jen Gould, who lives at The Granary on the Topcliffe Mill site is launching a new catering business from her classic 1969 Citroen van and she served coffee and crepes to anyone passing by. It was a bit of a test run for Jen, her partner Andy and daughters Issy and Lucy, before launching out to cater at private functions, garden parties, local markets and festivals. But throughout the afternoon lots of people ambled by and stopped for refreshments…and in so doing giving the catering team some excellent practice and experience, as well as raising much-needed funding for the Air Ambulance.

Easter Trail a great success

The Easter egg trail through Topcliffe and Asenby was an enormous success with dozens of families looking for eggs over the Easter break. A big thank you to The Milk Churn Farm Shop for organising the distribution and collection of forms. The event raised £85 for The Friends of Topcliffe School. The winner of the Easter Bunny Chocolate hamper was Natalie Henfrey.

Planning deadline extended…local views on traffic just might be getting through!

The consultation on the major Dalton industrial development, which was initially due to end last Friday, has now been extended until for a few weeks. It’s apparent that the council understands the importance of this application and its potential impacts on our two villages. So far over 20 residents have added their comments to the planning application, indicating that there is significant concern locally. Now there is time for more residents to have their say. It is extremely important that as many as possible let the authorities know that developments should only proceed if every action possible is taken to protect our villages from increased traffic and nuisance. We all live with very high levels of traffic, including too many HGVs which are breaking existing weight restrictions and damaging the conservation area in Topcliffe. New developments bring more cars and many more commercial vehicles so, if development plans are approved, they must be accompanied by enforceable safeguards. If you object to more HGVs, cars, noise and smells polluting our villages please take action now.

Please have your say on this major planning application as soon as possible. Unless villagers act now to have the application changed, or planning conditions applied, we will experience many more heavy lorries, hundreds of extra cars each day, and noise, light and odour pollution in our villages. The greater the number of people that respond, the more impact we will have. If we stay silent it will be too late. The sooner people respond the better chance of getting influencing the developer to change the plans. Please take some time over the next few days to respond to the consultation and comment on the plan. You can add your views to the planning application at: https://planning.hambleton.gov.uk/online-applications/caseDetails.do?caseType=Application&keyVal=QO7ZETHUHHI00 This link will take you straight to the planning application. But if for any reason it does not work for you, simply Google Hambleton Council’s website, look for ‘Planning’ and ‘Applications’, and follow the instructions on how to find an individual application. The reference number is 21/00331/HYB, which can be inserted in the search box. To help you construct your comment you’ll find key points listed in the attachment. It’s always best to write in your own words, but use the pointers as a checklist.

A little bit of good news

Last week there was some indication that our concerns about the Dalton development may have struck a chord with the developer. Having noted local concerns about a possible increase in HGV movements through Topcliffe and Asenby, and the impact this would have on the villages and communities, the developer’s agents Johnson Mowatt checked existing directional signage on the local road network and concluded that there are elements of possible ambiguity and deficiency which could result in ‘less appropriate’ routes being taken by commercial vehicles. They have drawn up a scheme of improved signage which the company believes will improve this situation and presented it to Hambleton District Council , with a copy to North Yorkshire County Council highways. Johnson Mowatt has indicated that the developer will fund a signage scheme as a planning obligation should permission be granted and the development proceeds. The signage scheme is available to view on the Hambleton planning application website (application ref. 21/00331/HYB). It’s a welcome start, though the scheme isn’t as comprehensive as it needs to be. Nonetheless the scheme shows good faith and shows a willingness to listen and act upon residents’ concerns.

Parish Council meetings

• Topcliffe Parish Council – the AGM will be on Thursday 6 May 2021 and it will also be online. Check out the website at www.topcliffe.org.uk

• Asenby Parish Council – the Annual Meeting will be held at 7.30pm on 19 May 2021. Check out details on www.asenby.net Details of the venue will be announced in due course.

May Election

The Police and Crime Commissioner election will take place on 6 May 2021. The Village Hall will be the Polling Station in Topcliffe. Asenby residents will have to travel to Rainton Village Hall to vote.

The Village Hall

The Village Hall Committee met online last Thursday evening to consider the government’s roadmap out of lockdown and set a date for the restart of activities in the hall. It has been decided that plans will be made to reopen the hall for existing hirers (those that were hiring sessions prior to the pandemic) from Monday 17 May. New bookings for events such as parties will not be possible until 21 June. The use of the hall for polling purposes on 6 May is a special one-off booking.

Some Pleasure & Leisure

• Kipling Hall & Gardens – now open six days a week (closed on Thursdays) 10am-5pm. There will be takeaway refreshments served from the tearoom menu. There is a one-way system and toilets are open.

The Hall itself remains closed for the time being. Tel: 01748 818178. You can just turn up, tickets not necessary.

• Newby Hall & Gardens – the gardens, playground, restaurant (outdoor) are ow open. The miniature railway and river boat will open from 14 April. The House, Dolls House exhibition and Teddy Bear House

will open on 19 May, but the dancing water jets (Tarantella) are likely to remain closed until 23 June. Telephone 01423 322583 or checkout the website at https://www.newbyhall.com

• Lightwater Valley – will re-open to visitors on Saturday 17 April. In order to manage numbers and ensure social distancing guidelines are maintained, the theme park will initially be operating with reduced

capacity. Telephone 01765 635321. Book tickets online https://www.lightwatervalley.co.uk

• Mother Shipton’s Cave at Knaresborough is open but online booking is essential. 10.00am – 5.30pm. Telephone 01423 864600 Tickets: Online www.mothershipton.co.uk

• HowStean Gorge – visitors can explore natural caves, walk through flowing ravines, climb up rocks, participate in a high wire adventure, and more! Reopens on the Monday 12 April for the gorge and caves

attraction, outdoor activities and cafe (eat out only). www.howstean.co.uk

• Dalby Forest – key facilities have remained open and Forestry England is now working to fully reopen safely. Please plan your trip to avoid crowding. Park responsibly, legally and not blocking gates. Stick to

marked trails and forest tracks. No fires or BBQs.

• Castle Howard – 1000 acres of parkland and sweeping vistas, lakeside terraces, woodlands, temples, statues and formal gardens. The Coffee Shop is open daily 9am-5pm and the Boathouse Café 10am-3pm

Monday – Friday) and from 10am-4pm on weekends, both offering a grab-and-go takeaway offer. Castle Howard Farm Shop and Garden Centre are open daily from 10am-5pm. www.castlehoward.co.uk

• Thorp Perrow Arboretum – one of the largest collections of shrubs and trees in the North of England, including the national collections of Ash, Lime, Laburnum, Walnut and Cotinus. The Arboretum is near

Bedale. The playground and garden centre are open. The Tearoom offers a takeaway service for food and drink, with outdoor seating. The bird of prey and mammal centre is not yet open. Mobility

scooters can be pre-booked by phoning 01677 427203. Open daily from 10am-4pm. All visitors, including season ticket holders, must pre-book their tickets at www.thorpperrow.com

• Sutton Bank Visitor Centre – the National Park centre will open for retail only on Monday 12 April, 10am-4.30pm daily. The café will be operating a limited takeaway service at their Grab-and-Go Express

hatch (10am-4pm daily). The exhibition area, children’s craft table and seating at the bird watching area remain closed for the time being. www.northyorkmoors.org.uk

• Rievaulx Abbey – escape to this tranquil valley of the North York Moors and discover the impressive ruins of one of England’s most powerful Cistercian monasteries. The grounds of Rievaulx Abbey are

open. Takeaway catering is available but all indoor areas remain closed. You need to book your visit in advance. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/rievaulx-abbey

• Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal – this World Heritage site’s abbey and water garden as well as the Studley deer park are open. The visitor centre restaurant, Studley tea-room and Mill kiosk are open for

takeaway but the shop remains closed. Please book a ticket online before setting off. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey-and-studley-royal-water-garden

St Columba’s services

• Today, Sunday, 11 April, 10.45am – Holy Communion (Rev Terry Dyer)

• Friday, 16 April (on the eve of Prince Philip’s funeral) – A special Evensong at 6.30pm.

• Sunday, 18 April, 10.45am – Matins

• Sunday, 25 April, 10.45am – Holy Communion – (Rev Terry Dyer)

The PCC continually assesses the Covid risks and it operates ‘track and trace’ arrangement. All the usual precautions apply – please bring a face covering with you – and we will provide hand sanitiser for use before and after each service. Most importantly, for everyone’s sake, if you have any suspicion you might have contracted Covid, please don’t join us on that particular occasion.

New flooring centre based in Asenby

There’s a new flooring outlet opening in Asenby this coming week The location may be new, but the business owner started as a carpet fitter nearly 40 years ago and more recently has been operating from units in Carlisle and Stockton-on-Tees. Trading under the name John Ashton Flooring Ltd, the business is starting a local showroom at The Old Hatchery in Asenby. The unit will have a large selection of carpets and flooring to suit all tastes. Viewing will be by appointment only. John Aston Flooring Ltd – 01845 421111 – info

Studio 18 Hairstylist

A unisex hairdressing salon will be launched in Topcliffe tomorrow, 12 April. It’s such a popular idea that bookings are already filling the April calendar. The business, Studio 18, will be run by Nicola James from a well- equipped unit at the rear of 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery) and will be open Monday to Saturday. Nicola has years of experience as a hairstylist and can style the hair of male and female adults as well as children. Initially only one customer at a time can be in the salon so business will be a little slower than normal. For an appointment call Nicola on 07851 034815.

The Angel at Topcliffe

The Angel’s garden is reopening on Thursday 15 April now taking bookings for outdoor dining and drinking. Tables are available for up to six people and there’ll be marquees erected over each table to protect customers from inclement weather. There’s limited space, so you’re advised to book early. Call 01845 578000 (phones are only monitored Wednesday to Saturday 3.30-8pm and 11am-6pm on Sundays). Don’t forget your coat or your blanket. Garden dining will see a limited food menu including burgers, skewers, steak pies etc as well as lunchtime sandwiches, sharers and daily specials. Temporary openings times are: Wednesday – Thursday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm); Friday 12 noon – 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm); Saturday 12 noon to 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 8pm); Sunday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 7pm). Closed Mondays and Tuesdays until 16 May. The regular ‘Dine at Home’ takeaway service menu has been changed. It’s also on The Angel’s website. Take away times are Wednesday to Saturday, 4.30-8pm, with orders taken from 3.30pm, and Sundays 12-6pm, with orders taken from 11am. Call 01845 578000 to place an order or book a time slot in advance. Check out the details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

The Swan

The Swan will reopen tomorrow – Monday 12 April for drinks and food in an outdoor setting. George, Jane and the team are really looking forward to welcoming back customers old and new. There’ll be a reduced menu available and the take-away service will again be on offer.

The Milk Churn Farm Shop

Current opening times: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9-5pm. Thursday and Saturday 9-1pm. The shop is operating on the basis of two customers in the shop at any one time. This is to protect customers and staff. There are many new lines in fresh and frozen foods. Takeaway teas and coffees with cake have resumed. Why not enjoy a walk and call in for a freshly made hot chocolate or other hot drinks…or for an ice cream? Or order in advance by calling 01845 400446. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ Thirsk Food Bank is now collecting food and there’s a box at the Farm Shop into which your donations can be placed.

The Elm Gallery

The Elm Gallery is opening tomorrow (12 April). For the first week the gallery will be open every day from 10am to 5.30pm. After that it will revert to the normal opening times and will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Two people or two households are allowed in the gallery at the same time, keeping a safe distance from each other. When there are two people/groups in the gallery, there will be a notice on the inside door asking people to wait until someone comes out. Liz and Dave have been very busy during lockdown creating new paintings and the new originals will be on display. Liz has also been busy making lots of new bags, so there will be plenty to see. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

Other Local Traders

• 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.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Mondays 12 & 26 April.

• Recycling & green waste – Thursday 22 April.

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Recycling – Mondays 12 and 26 April.

• Refuse – Monday 19 April.

• Garden waste – Thursday 22 April.

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

Make sure your voice is heard.docx

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Sunday Email: Issue 52

I’d like to wish all readers a very Happy Easter. Welcome to the 52nd issue of this regular Sunday email. We’ve reached that amazing milestone of one year’s worth of emails. Who would have thought that the pandemic would still be going on or these emails being issued after all this time? I get the distinct impression that these messages have been helpful and appreciated, so I am happy to have played my part in helping to keep residents informed about the Covid situation and village matters.

As usual, do get in touch with me if you have any news or information that you think Topcliffe and Asenby residents might like to hear about.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number – which takes into account cases, hospitalisations and deaths – remains between 0.7 and 0.9.

• Nearly 31.4 million people have now had a first dose vaccination. And the number of second doses now exceeds 5.2 million – that’s 10% of adults and 50% of over 80s have had the second jab,

• There have been more than 4.33 million confirmed cases of Covid in the UK. Yesterday 3,423 cases were confirmed.

• Over 7 million Covid tests were conducted last week.

• 273 people were admitted to hospital yesterday (2,245in the week). The number of Covid patients in hospital dropped again, week on week, to a new low of 3,536 (4,560 last week).

• Yesterday only 10 UK deaths were reported. That’s the lowest daily number since last September. There were 254 in the seven-day period to Saturday. Deaths from Covid have fallen by 43% in a week.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at over 126,826. Worldwide, the number of deaths is now almost 2.85 million.

The Roadmap out of Lockdown

Since last Monday we’ve had a range of freedoms returned to us including being able to meet outdoors with up to five other people from different households. Two households totalling more than six people have also been able to meet outdoors – giving greater flexibility for friends and families. We’re still not allowed to meet others indoors and at all times the advice is that we maintain social distance, exercise hand hygiene and wear face coverings where required. On a wider front, outdoor sport and leisure facilities have reopened, with any number of children and adults allowed to participate. Formally organised outdoor parent and child groups with up to 15 parents have again started to operate. We are advised to continue to minimise travel – it’s up to our own judgement what is reasonable. And there’s definitely no holidays yet.

As long as the four tests that govern the relaxation of rules are met, we can now look forward to 12 April which i the next key date on the roadmap. On that day:

• All retail shops, as well as hairdressers, beauty salons and other ‘close contact services’ will be allowed to open.

• Indoor leisure, including gyms and spas, can reopen for use individually or within household groups.

• Restaurants and pub gardens will be allowed to serve customers sitting outdoors. The requirement to order, eat and drink while seated (‘table service’) will remain.

• Domestic holidays and overnight stays in the UK will be permitted, with self-contained accommodation able to reopen for use by members of the same household.

• Children allowed to attend indoor play activities, with up to 15 parents or guardians allowed to join them.

• Libraries, community centres, outdoor attractions, theme parks, zoos and drive-in cinemas can reopen.

• Funerals (30 attendees), wakes, weddings and receptions (15 attendees) will be able to take place.

• Rules on visits to care homes will be relaxed to allow two people indoors (children under two years of age can also visit).

The ‘rule of 6’ or two households mixing outdoors will still apply… and still no household mixing indoors. People should continue to work from home where they can and the advice is to minimise domestic travel. International holidays are still not allowed at this stage.

Update on Monday

It’s understood that the Prime Minister will give an update on the Covid situation tomorrow. According to media sources, he is expected to confirm that data suggests the next stage of lockdown will be able to ease as planned on 12 April. Another suggestion is that he could announce a traffic light system for foreign travel, with countries being categorised as red, amber or green. However, a restart for international travel is not on the cards until 17 May at the earliest.

Progress with vaccination programme

Over 31.4 million people have now received a first dose of a vaccine and more than 5.2 million people have had a second jab. Priority groups 1-9 of the first phase of the vaccination programme is very nearly complete. Phase two – groups 10 to 12 – covers all adults aged between 18 and 49 and they will be offered a first dose by the end of July. Before then most people in phase one will have been called for that all-important second dose…and as you can see, the numbers are rising rapidly week on week. Closer to home the vaccination roll-out is equally impressive with 410,000 people across North Yorkshire and York having had their first vaccine and 48,000 a second dose. The county is on course to meet all of the government’s vaccination targets, so by July all adults over 18 will have had their Covid jab. The vaccination take-up so far in the county is 88.5 per cent. That means 47,000 are still to take up their vaccine offer. The authorities are asking friends, neighbours and family to encourage anyone they know who has not so far had a jab to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Are Covid passports on the cards?

The government has said that no final decision has been made about the idea of launching Covid passports or certificates. The Daily Telegraph has reported that a series of pilot tests for Covid passports were being planned as part of a review into whether such a system could help to boost the economy. The report suggests that theatres and stadiums will be involved in the first vaccine certificates rollout, with pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and cinemas possibly taking it up later on. Speaking during a visit to Middlesbrough on Thursday, the Prime Minister said: “There’s definitely going to be a world in which international travel will use vaccine passports. You can see already that other countries, and the aviation industry, are interested in this and there’s a logic to that.” But not everyone is in favour of introducing passports. More than 70 cross-party MPs and peers have launched a campaign opposing Covid passports, stating that any demand to prove vaccination status to access jobs, businesses or services would be divisive and discriminatory.

The Covid Testing

Tests for people with symptoms

Testing sites in North Yorkshire are operated and managed by the Department of Health and Social Care/NHS and private contractors employed by them. People who don’t have access to the internet, or who have difficulty with the digital portals, can ring the 119 service to book their test. The permanent testing sites are open every day for between 8am and 11:30am. The nearest permanent testing sites are:

• Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB

• Northallerton – The Forum, Bullamore Road, Northallerton, DL6 1LP

A full list of NHS Mobile testing sites can be viewed on the county council’s website at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test Mobile sites are open for testing from 8am to 8pm. Before you attend at either a permanent or mobile site you must book a test. Tests can be booked from 8pm the night before. If test sites are fully booked they will not appear on the government’s website. To book a test visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ There’s a link on the North Yorkshire County Council website to request a home test – https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-testing

Tests if you live or work with a nursery/school/college student

If you live, work or are in a support bubble with nursery, primary or secondary school pupils or college students you should carry out lateral flow device tests at home twice a week. Testing kits can be collected from the two permanent sites listed above every day between 1pm and 8pm.

Sweet and Savoury Crepes

Now here’s a special treat for anyone who happens to be planning a walk down Catton Lane past Topcliffe Mill on Bank Holiday Monday afternoon (5 April). Jen Gould will have her classic 1969 Citroen catering van parked up at The Mill car park between 12 noon and 4pm and she’ll be serving coffee and crepes for free (or more precisely free unless you’d be happy to make a donation to raise funds for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance!). It’s a test run for Jen so she’ll also be looking for constructive suggestions/criticisms/seals of approval before she takes her van out to events during the summer. Looking at the weather forecast it might not be the best of days but Jen will go ahead unless gale force winds and snow drifts prevent her from doing so.

Bags2School textile recycling

It’s only two weeks until the next bags2School recycling event is staged at the front gates of the Village Hall on Front Street, Topcliffe. Have you started to undertake a spring clean yet? If you’re sorting out your cupboards and wardrobes, please bag your unwanted items and bring the Village Hall on Friday 23 April 2021 between 8.30am and 12 noon. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and Scouts’ Association.

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

THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT: Have your say on Dalton planning application…and make sure our villages are protected from further traffic congestion

Do you want more lorries, more cars, more noise and more smells in our villages – 24 hours a day, seven days a week? If not, you need to act NOW and have your say on a major new planning application currently being considered by Hambleton District Council. Unless everyone acts now to have the application changed, or planning conditions applied, we will experience many more heavy lorries, hundreds of extra cars each day, and noise, light and odour pollution in our villages.

The proposal is for a 43-acre site mixed industrial and distribution centre development just over Dalton Bridge. This is much closer to Topcliffe and Asenby than the current Industrial Estate. It will clearly bring many more HGVs. It is forecast to bring an additional 1,000 jobs to the site, which is good news on thew employment front, but that means many more cars will be going through our two villages as people drive to and from work.

The developers, North Yorkshire County Council’s highways department and Hambleton District Council planners have already indicated a willingness to hear and address our concerns. The developer has recently offered some changes in response to what villagers have already said. So, it is worth speaking up. We need to make our voices heard and shout about the worries we have. We must do this NOW so that our concerns can be addressed during the planning process. Once the plan is approved it is too late!

The greater the number of people that respond, the more impact we will have. If we stay silent it will be too late. Please take some time over the next few days to respond to the consultation and comment on the plan. You can add your views to the planning application at: https://planning.hambleton.gov.uk/online-applications/caseDetails.do?caseType=Application&keyVal=QO7ZETHUHHI00 This link will take you straight to the planning application. But if for any reason it does not work for you, simply Google Hambleton Council’s website, look for ‘Planning’ and ‘Applications’, and follow the instructions on how to find an individual application. The reference number is 21/00331/HYB, which can be inserted in the search box. The closing date for comments is Friday, 9 April 2021.

Parish Councillors have met with Hambleton Councils planners and district and county councillors. They have said that the best way to have our voice heard and concerns addressed is for as many individuals as possible to respond to the consultation. Please act NOW. You should set out as briefly as possible what your concerns are. If you are requesting a particular solution (e.g., better road signs) state that too. It is important that you respond in your own words. You can use the following checklist to ensure that you have covered the main points:

• It is best to register your response as ‘Neutral’ and say you support the application in principle, subject to your concerns being addressed.

• You might wish to welcome any new jobs the development may bring.

• Flag up concerns about additional HGV traffic in our villages, noting this is already a problem from existing businesses at Dalton.

• Mention that the existing road signage is totally inadequate and that enforcement of weight limit restrictions is extremely poor.

• State that the developer’s assumptions that traffic will all use the A168 for access and egress, and not come through our two villages, is not our reality.

• Refer to concerns about additional light traffic and cars in the villages, with up to 1,000 extra employees going to and from work on site.

• Express your concerns about proposed operations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and the impact of traffic movements, HGVs and cars, through the villages.

• You can ask for improvements to direction signs, weight limit signs, weight limit enforcement and for planning conditions to be applied specifying vehicle routes to and from the site avoiding Topcliffe and

Asenby, limiting access/egress times, etc.). You can also ask for other solutions you have in mind.

• Add reference to concerns about potential additional noise, light and odours as this development is very close to Topcliffe, may operate 24/7, and food production odours are already a problem.

• Request that the developer and the council’s planners work closely with Topcliffe and Asenby Parish Councils in considering this application.

Protect your car – Locked, Lit and Empty campaign

Car crime is a real problem in the UK. Alarmingly, one car is stolen every ten minutes. With Covid-19 and the recent lockdowns, many people aren’t driving or checking on their cars as much as they used to. That’s why Neighbourhood Watch, is reminding car owners to remain vigilant about where and how they park their cars, in order to keep them safe. Apparently, most car crimes happen because cars are left unlocked. There is a misconception that some cars are auto-locking and lock themselves if left unattended after a period of time. This isn’t always correct. Another misconception is that a car is too old and no one will bother stealing it. This is also incorrect – both new and old cars are at risk. Having a car stolen or broken into is more than simply a hassle, it can impact on people’s livelihoods. The good news is that there are simple steps everyone can take to help reduce the risk to their car. With only a 46% recovery rate Neighbourhood Watch is reminding everyone to leave their car locked, lit and empty.

  • Locked – a simple mistake that can prove calamitous: 44% of cars are broken into via an unlocked door.
  • Lit – 80% of car crime occurs during the evening or at night. Parking near street lights or in a busy area can deter thieves.
  • Empty (or with no items on show) – owners often forget that personal belongings within the car are at as much risk of being stolen as the car itself.

Take a look at this video for more information: www.ourwatch.org.uk/protectyourcar

Parish Council meetings

• Topcliffe Parish Council met online last Thursday and in due course the minutes will be available to read on the village website at www.topcliffe.org.uk The next meeting on Thursday 6 May 2021 will be the Parish Council’s Annual Meeting and it will also be online.

• Asenby Parish Council’s Annual Meeting will be held at 7.30pm on 19 May 2021. Check out details on www.asenby.net Details of the venue will be announced in due course.

Local Government Reorganisation

There’s a consultation underway about the planned reorganisation of local government in North Yorkshire. The last date for comments is Monday, 19 April 2021. You can express a view at https://consult.communities.gov.uk/governance-reform-and-democracy/northyorkshire/

May Election

The Police and Crime Commissioner election will take place on 6 May 2021. The Village Hall will be the Polling Station in Topcliffe. Asenby residents will have to travel to Rainton Village Hall to vote.

Services at St Columba’s Church

• Sunday, 11 April, 10.45am – Holy Communion (Rev Terry Dyer)

• Sunday, 18 April, 10.45am – Matins

• Sunday, 25 April, 10.45am – Holy Communion – (Rev Terry Dyer)

The PCC continually assesses the Covid risks and it operates ‘track and trace’ arrangement. All the usual precautions apply – please bring a face covering with you – and we will provide hand sanitiser for use before and after each service. Most importantly, for everyone’s sake, if you have any suspicion you might have contracted Covid, please don’t join us on that particular occasion.

The Angel at Topcliffe

The Angel is now taking bookings for outdoor dining and drinking from 15 April. Tables are available for up to six people and there’ll be marquees erected over each table to protect customers from inclement weather. There’s limited space, so you’re advised to book early. Call 01845 578000 (phones are only monitored Wednesday to Saturday 3.30-8pm and 11am-6pm on Sundays). Don’t forget your coat or your blanket. Garden dining will see a limited food menu including burgers, skewers, steak pies etc as well as lunchtime sandwiches, sharers and daily specials. Temporary openings times are: Wednesday – Thursday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm); Friday 12 noon – 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm); Saturday 12 noon to 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 8pm); Sunday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 7pm). Closed Mondays and Tuesdays until 16 May. The regular ‘Dine at Home’ takeaway service menu has been changed. It’s also on The Angel’s website. Take away times are Wednesday to Saturday, 4.30-8pm, with orders taken from 3.30pm, and Sundays 12-6pm, with orders taken from 11am. Call 01845 578000 to place an order or book a time slot in advance. Check out the details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

The Elm Gallery

Liz and Dave are looking forward to reopening The Elm Gallery on Monday the 12 of April. The gallery will be open every day from 10am to 5.30pm in the first week then it will revert to the normal opening times and will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. It will now be possible for two people or two households to be in the gallery at the same time, keeping a safe distance from each other. When there are two people/groups in the gallery, there will be a notice on the inside door asking people to wait until someone comes out. Liz and Dave have been very busy during lockdown creating new paintings and the new originals will be on display. Liz has also been busy making lots of new bags, so there will be plenty to see. Call 01845 577316 or 07709 223920 or check out the website at: www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk

Other Local Traders

• 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.

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop – Current opening times are: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9-5pm. Thursday and Saturday 9-1pm. Once lockdown has been lifted, Saturday openings will return to

9 to 5pm. The shop is still operating a one out, one in system to protect customers and staff. Ring 01845 400446. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ Takeaway teas and coffees with cake have

resumed. Why not enjoy a walk and call in for a freshly made hot chocolate or other hot drinks…or for an ice cream?

• The Swan – The Swan remains closed for now but is planning to reopen on Monday 14 April. George, Jane and their staff look forward to welcoming everyone.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Recycling & green waste – Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

• Refuse – Mondays 12 & 26 April.

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Refuse – Tuesday 6 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Monday 19 April.

• Garden waste – Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

• Recycling – Mondays 12 and 26 April.

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

Posted on

Sunday Email: Issue 51

Hello and welcome to the 51st issue of this regular Sunday email. I hope you find this email’s contents interesting and informative. As usual, do get in touch with me if you have any news or information that you think Topcliffe and Asenby residents might like to hear about.

Doug (07785 223707)

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number – which takes into account cases, hospitalisations and deaths – is now between 0.7 and 0.9.

• Nearly 30 million people have now had a first dose vaccination. And the number of second doses administered now exceeds 3.3 million.

• There have been more than 4.33 million confirmed cases of Covid in the UK. Yesterday 4,715 cases were confirmed.

• 8.4 million Covid tests were conducted last week. An average of 1.2 million each day.

• 363 people were admitted to hospital on a daily basis (2,704 in the week). Those figures are 20% down on the previous week. The number of Covid patients in hospital dropped again, week on week,

to a new low of 4560 (6,162 last week).

• Yesterday 58 UK deaths were reported. There were 451 in the seven-day period to Saturday. Deaths from Covid have fallen by 31% in a week.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at over 126,573. Worldwide, the number of deaths is now almost 2.8 million.

The Roadmap out of Lockdown

Tomorrow we set out on the second part of the roadmap leading us out of lockdown. From 29 March the following applies:

• The ‘Rule of 6’ is back, meaning six people from different households can meet outdoors. There’s also a new measure allowing two households totalling more than six people to meet outdoors – giving

greater flexibility for friends and families. Getting together outdoors will be good for our mental health and wellbeing, but it is important that we do so safely. Follow the rules, maintain social distance and

hand hygiene and wear face coverings where required.

• There can be no household mixing indoors.

• Outdoor sport and leisure facilities to reopen. Organised outdoor sport allowed with any number of people (children and adults).

• We are advised to continue to minimise travel. No holidays yet.

• Formally organised outdoor parent and child groups with up to 15 parents can operate. Children under five will not be counted.

People will no longer be legally required to Stay at Home. Many of the lockdown restrictions, however, will remain in place. Unless an exemption already applies, it will not be possible to meet people from other households indoors and many business premises will remain shut.

The next date for further easing of restrictions is 12 April. As long as the four tests continue to be met the following will apply:

• All retail shops allowed to open. Restaurants and pub gardens will be allowed to serve customers sitting outdoors, including alcohol. The requirement to order, eat and drink while seated (‘table

service’) will remain.

• Indoor leisure, including gyms and spas, can reopen for use individually or within household groups.

• Hairdressers, beauty salons and other ‘close contact services’ can reopen.

• Domestic holidays and overnight stays in the UK permitted, with self-contained accommodation able to reopen for use by members of the same household.

• Children allowed to attend indoor play activities, with up to 15 parents or guardians allowed to join them.

• Libraries, community centres, outdoor attractions, theme parks, zoos and drive-in cinemas can reopen.

• Funerals (30 attendees), wakes, weddings and receptions (15 attendees) can take place.

Social contact rules in England will not change further at this point. The ‘rule of 6’ or two households mixing outdoors will still apply… and still no household mixing indoors. People should continue to work from home where they can, we are asked to minimise domestic travel and international holidays are not allowed at this stage.

The complete roadmap – Details of the complete roadmap are shown in the attachment.

Are we facing a third wave of Covid?

Lockdown is, step-by-step, beginning to ease across the UK. But with infection rates rising in Europe, the British public is also being warned of the risk of a third wave. The Prime Minister says it is only a matter of time before the wave from Europe washes up on our shores. But with more than half of adults vaccinated, what would that look like?

There’s a number of issues that will be crucial in determining exactly what happens from here. As well as protecting those vaccinated, the vaccine programme will also help slow transmission. Early evidence suggests the AstraZeneca jab could stop two-thirds of people who are vaccinated from passing it on. On top of that those who have already been infected – estimated to be about a quarter of the population – will have some immunity. Secondly, seasonality could help. Respiratory viruses tend to thrive in the winter but are less likely to spread in the spring and summer. UK chief medical adviser Prof Chris Whitty says it is possible a significant rise may not actually come until the winter, giving more time for the vaccination programme to rollout. He said the UK should be confident the "path from here does look better", but we should still expect "bumps and twists" along the way. The most immediate problem, he said, was likely to be local outbreaks – and variation in uptake between different areas leaves some places particularly vulnerable.

The initial reaction of most people as the easing of restrictions happens will be to think everything will be fine, says Prof Sir David Spiegelhalter, a Cambridge University expert in understanding risk. He says that it is obvious that we will want to start enjoying ourselves again. But we should not trust our intuition on this, he says, and we should take each step very cautiously. He said: "The government is determined not to go backwards, so that could mean taking longer to take steps forward. The aim, of course, is to balance the need to open society while trying to control the virus. While some people have called for a ‘zero Covid’ approach, the government and its advisers are clear this cannot be achieved given the nature of the virus, which can spread without people being aware they are infected. This week, chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said there was basically ‘zero chance’ of zero Covid.

So how bad could a third wave get? Modelling done for the government has suggested if there is a third wave that as many as 30,000 people could die by the summer of 2022, even with a gradual reopening and good vaccine rollout. That is four times fewer than the number of deaths we have seen over the past year. And while it sounds high, it is worth noting that in a bad winter, 25,000 people can die from flu. But the toll could be much higher if things do not go as well as assumed, the modelling suggested. There are, of course, as always caveats around these models. But they should act as a warning – while the UK may be in a strong position, nothing should be taken for granted with this virus.

Progress with vaccination programme

Almost 30 million people – that’s well over half the UK’s adult population – have now received a first dose of a vaccine and more than 3.3 million people have had a second jab. Priority groups 1-9 of the first phase of the vaccination programme is nearly complete, with only 2 million left to do and two weeks in which to achieve it. Phase two – groups 10 to 12 – covers all adults aged between 18 and 49 and they will be offered a first dose by the end of July. Before then most people in phase one will have been called for that all-important second dose.

Booster jabs

The over-70s could begin getting booster vaccines to protect them against new coronavirus variants in September under plans for the future of the rollout. The first booster doses would go to the top four priority groups, including care home staff, NHS workers, the clinically extremely vulnerable and over 70s. The government is expecting up to eight different jabs to be available by the autumn, including one protecting against three different variants in a single dose. A number will reportedly be manufactured in the UK, which could ease the pressure on supplies amid tensions with the European Union as it faces shortages from AstraZeneca.

The Covid Testing Regime

Tests for people with symptoms

Testing sites in North Yorkshire are operated and managed by the Department of Health and Social Care/NHS and private contractors employed by them. People who don’t have access to the internet, or who have difficulty with the digital portals, can ring the 119 service to book their test. The permanent testing sites are open every day for between 8am and 11:30am. The nearest permanent testing sites are:

• Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB

• Northallerton – The Forum, Bullamore Road, Northallerton, DL6 1LP

A full list of NHS Mobile testing sites can be viewed on the county council’s website at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test Mobile sites are open for testing from 8am to 8pm. Before you attend at either a permanent or mobile site you must book a test. Tests can be booked from 8pm the night before. If test sites are fully booked they will not appear on the government’s website. To book a test visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ There’s a link on the North Yorkshire County Council website to request a home test – https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-testing

Tests if you live or work with a nursery/school/college student

If you live, work or are in a support bubble with nursery, primary or secondary school pupils or college students you should carry out lateral flow device tests at home twice a week. Testing kits can be collected from the two permanent sites listed above every day between 1pm and 8pm.

Did you remember to put your clocks forward an hour before you went to bed? If not, do it now!

Bags2School textile recycling

Topcliffe Village Hall and the Scouting Association have joined forces to organise another ‘Bags2School’ recycling event. Everyone is encouraged to have a cupboard and wardrobe sort out and bring unwanted items in black bags to the village hall garden on Friday 23 April 2021 between 8.30am and 12 noon. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and Scouts’ Association.

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

Dalton 49 planning application – ACT NOW!

Last week’s email presented information about the outline planning application for a major industrial development at Dalton. The 43-acre site, known as ‘Dalton 49 Thirsk’, is adjacent to Eldmire Lane, just over Dalton Bridge. The application has been lodged with Hambleton District Council and comments are now being invited. Whilst recognising that the development will provide a range of job opportunities and a huge boost to the local economy, new developments on this scale potentially create increased traffic through Topcliffe and Asenby. Our two villages already experience significant problems with HGVs ignoring weight restrictions and passing through the villages and over Topcliffe bridge. The problem is already bad and new development will only exacerbate the situation unless appropriate measures are taken to protect our villages. It is strongly felt that whilst the planning application (and developer’s pre-planning consultation) identified the need to protect Dalton village from through traffic, it failed to adequately address the needs of both Topcliffe and Asenby. It is therefore crucially important that residents of both villages collectively make their voices heard to ensure that our concerns are addressed and acted upon.

That’s why our two Parish Councils and a number of individuals are keen to encourage all villagers to comment on the planning application. There is a limited time in which views can be expressed so if you want your voice to be heard, now is the time to do something about it. You can add your views to the planning application at:

https://planning.hambleton.gov.uk/online-applications/caseDetails.do?caseType=Application&keyVal=QO7ZETHUHHI00 This link will take you straight to the planning application. But if for any reason it doesn’t work for you, simply go to Hambleton Council’s website, look for ‘Planning’ and ‘Applications’, and follow the instructions on how to find an individual application. The reference number for ‘Dalton 49 Thirsk’ is 21/00331/HYB, which can be inserted in the search box.

It is vital that as many people as possible add their comments to the application. It’s really important that councillors understand the concern locally. We must make it clear that our villages must be protected from existing illegal lorry movements and from the threat of increased heavy traffic. It’s the quantity and quality of comments from individuals that can make all the difference so please comment in your own words – but use this checklist to ensure you make all the key points:

• Welcome the development of new jobs and employment opportunities.

• Welcome the intention to protect Dalton from the HGVs, general traffic, noise, odour and light pollution impacts of the development.

• Seek equal commitment and proposals to protect Topcliffe village and Conservation Area and Asenby from the potential negative impacts.

• Flag up concerns about additional HGV traffic in our villages, noting this is already a problem from the current Dalton site and that the road signage and weight limit enforcement is poor. The developer’s

assumptions that traffic will all use the A168 for access and egress, and not come through our two villages, is not our reality.

• Refer to concerns about additional general light traffic, again due to poor signage, and potential 24/7 operations being proposed.

• Add reference to concerns about potential additional noise and odours as this development is very close to Topcliffe, and food production odours are already a problem in Topcliffe.

• Request that the developer and HDC Planners work closely with Topcliffe and Asenby Parish Councils in progressing this application and any future development.

Reporting speeding vehicles

Many people are concerned about the speed that some vehicles are doing when they pass through Topcliffe. It’s incredible how fast some drivers seem to think is acceptable and they seem oblivious of the dangers to pedestrians and other road users. There is now a page on North Yorkshire County Council’s website where reports of speeding can be lodged. Here’s the link: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/speed-limits-speeding-and-road-safety-concerns

Apparently, the police say that the more reports they receive, the more likely it is that they will take follow-up action, such as bringing a mobile camera van to the village

Census 2021 – It’s not too late to submit your form

Census day has come and gone and millions of people have completed their questionnaires and left their mark in history. If you haven’t yet completed your census form, you should do so as soon as possible.

The information collected will ensure that our future services accurately reflect the needs of each locality. Uniquely, it will also record how life in England & Wales was affected by a pandemic. You will be able to complete the questionnaire on your tablet, smartphone or computer. This shouldn’t be difficult and everything has been made as straightforward as possible. If you are not confident online you can still

request a paper questionnaire. Over the coming days and weeks census staff will be visiting any households who haven’t completed their forms and will be able to help you. All staff will have ID badges and full personal protective equipment (PPE) and will remain socially distanced at all times. They will not ask to enter your house and you should never pay for help. Help is available by phoning 0800 141 2021 or visiting www.census.gov.uk NOTE: I have been informed that the census telephone help lines have been extremely busy and some people are still awaiting the paper questionnaires that they have ordered. This may be causing some anxiety for some people, especially the elderly. If you are having any difficulty, please be aware that the fines for not completing the census questionnaire will only apply to people who have actively refused to participate – and that won’t happen for some months.

Another thank you for Jake and Amelia

In last week’s email it was reported that Jake and Amelia Pearson (and dad John) had cleaned up the church steps and pathway. Today John Phillips, who is closely involved with parish affairs, wants to add his thanks. He said: “On behalf of the Parochial Church Council I would like to express our thanks for their work. I noticed last Sunday as I walked up to church how beautifully tidy and clean the steps and paths were. I was very impressed and rather overwhelmed that someone had taken the initiative to kindly do this themselves, and Jake and Amelia really did a beautiful job. It is lovely to see many people enjoying the churchyard as a village ‘green space’ and we shall be looking to organise a spring working party to tidy up the whole area, but the work on the steps and path meanwhile was a tremendous help.”

Parish Council meetings

• The next Topcliffe Parish Council meeting will be held at online at 7pm on Thursday 1st April 2021. Any members of the public wishing to join the meeting should contact the clerk for log in details by mid-

day on the day of the meeting by email to topcliffeparishcouncil There is a period of 10 minutes at the beginning of each meeting set aside to receive questions and comments from members

of the public. More information is available at www.topcliffe.org.uk

• Asenby Parish Council’s AGM will be held at 7.30pm on 19 May 2021. It’s uncertain at present whether this will be a Zoom or face to face meeting. An announcement will be made nearer the date. Check

out more information on asenbypc

Local Government Reorganisation

The consultation about the reorganisation of local authority areas in North Yorkshire is now well underway. There are basically two proposals – one based on the whole county and another based on an east/west split. The closing date for receipt of comments is 19 April 2021. You can express a view at https://consult.communities.gov.uk/governance-reform-and-democracy/northyorkshire/

May Election

The Police and Crime Commissioner election will take place on 6 May 2021. The Village Hall will be the Polling Station in Topcliffe. Asenby residents will have to travel to Rainton Village Hall to vote.

Postal Voting

The deadline to apply for a postal vote for the elections on 6 May 2021 is 5pm on Tuesday 20 April.

• Write to Electoral Registration, Hambleton District Council, Civic Centre, Stone Cross, Northallerton DL6 2UU – elecreg or call 01609 779977 or print off a form from

www.hambleton.gov.uk/electoralregister

• Write to Electoral Registration, Harrogate Borough Council, Civic Centre, St Luke’s Avenue, Harrogate HG1 2AE – call 01423 500600 or apply using the online form at

https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/voting-elections/postal-voting

Services at St Columba’s Church

• Wednesday, 31 March at 7pm – Compline (or Night Prayers, a short evening service (approx. 15 minutes) of prayers, readings and responses, providing a simple and peaceful way to close the day).

• Saturday Easter Eve, 3 April 7.30pm – Easter Vigil and First Eucharist of Easter (with choir accompaniment). Rev Terry Dyer will lead the service. Celebrated organist Matthew Atherton will be playing at this

service, which will be a real treat.

• Sunday, 11 April, 10.45am – Holy Communion (Rev Terry Dyer)

• Sunday, 18 April, 10.45am – Matins

• Sunday, 25 April, 10.45am – Holy Communion – (Rev Terry Dyer)

The PCC continually assesses the Covid risks and it operates ‘track and trace’ arrangement. All the usual precautions apply – please bring a face covering with you – and we will provide hand sanitiser for use before and after each service. Most importantly, for everyone’s sake, if you have any suspicion you might have contracted Covid, please don’t join us on that particular occasion.

Easter Chuckle

There is an interesting comment in the latest edition of the church newsletter, CrossTalk. It is: ‘Church notice: This being Easter Sunday, we will ask Mrs Cusworth to come forward and lay an egg on the altar.’ Apologies to the editor but I did, for just a moment, think of sending this lovely statement to the BBC’s comedy programme ‘I’m sorry I haven’t a clue’.

The Angel at Topcliffe

The Angel is now taking bookings for outdoor dining and drinking from 15 April. Tables are available for up to six people and there’ll be marquees erected over each table to protect customers from inclement weather. There’s limited space, so you’re advised to book early. Call 01845 578000 (phones are only monitored Wednesday to Saturday 3.30-8pm and 11am-6pm on Sundays). Don’t forget your coat or your blanket. Garden dining will see a limited food menu including burgers, skewers, steak pies etc as well as lunchtime sandwiches, sharers and daily specials. Temporary openings times will be: Wednesday – Thursday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm); Friday 12 noon – 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm); Saturday 12 noon to 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 8pm); Sunday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 7pm). Closed Mondays and Tuesdays until 16 May. The regular ‘Dine at Home’ takeaway service menu has been changed. See attachment. It’s also on the The Angel website. Take away times are Wednesday to Saturday, 4.30-8pm, with orders taken from 3.30pm, and Sundays 12-6pm, with orders taken from 11am. Call 01845 578000 to place an order or book a time slot in advance. Check out the details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk or follow The Angel on Facebook to get regular updates.

Local traders

• 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.

• The Elm Gallery – The gallery remains closed, though it looks forward to reopening mid-April. In the meantime, Liz and Dave continue to promote items on the gallery’s Facebook page and website.

Collection of purchases at the gallery door can be arranged. More information can be found on their website at www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk and they can be contacted on 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop – Current opening times are: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9-5pm. Thursday and Saturday 9-1pm. Once lockdown has been lifted, Saturday openings will return to

9 to 5pm. The shop is still operating a one out, one in system to protect customers and staff. Ring 01845 400446. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ Takeaway teas and coffees with cake have

resumed. Why not enjoy a walk and call in for a freshly made hot chocolate or other hot drinks…or for an ice cream?

• The Swan – The Swan remains closed for now but is planning to reopen on Monday 14 April. George, Jane and their staff look forward to welcoming everyone.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Mondays 29 March and 12 & 26 April.

• Recycling & green waste – Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Refuse – Tuesday 6 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Monday 19 April.

• Garden waste – Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

• Recycling – Mondays 12 and 26 April.

Green waste will only be collected if you have paid the subscription for April 2021 to March 2022. (this is the last time this information will be included in the Sunday Email)

• A Hambleton licence for the year will cost £40 per bin. To subscribe or for further information please visit www.hambleton.gov.uk/newbins

• A licence from Harrogate will cost £41 per bin. To subscribe or for more information go to https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/garden-waste-subscription-service

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

The government’s roadmap out of lockdown Feb 2021.docx

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Sunday Email: Issue 50

Hello and welcome to the 50th issue of this regular Sunday email. Yes, fifty editions and only one week (over Christmas) missed since the beginning of the first lockdown on 23 March 2020. Just two more weeks and we’ll be celebrating the Sunday email’s first 12-month anniversary. Amazing! Where did that year?

I hope you find this email’s contents interesting and informative. As usual, do get in touch with me if you have any news or information that you think Topcliffe and Asenby residents might like to hear about.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number – which takes into account cases, hospitalisations and deaths – is now between 0.6 and 0.9.

• Nearly 27 million people have now had a first dose vaccination. And the number of second doses administered now exceeds 2.1 million. Friday was a record day for vaccinations in the UK with 711,156

jabs given.

• There have been more than 4.3 million confirmed cases of Covid in the UK. Yesterday 5,587 cases were confirmed. That’s a slight increase on last week.

• 8.8 million Covid tests were conducted last week.

• 496 people were admitted to hospital on a daily basis (3,540 in the week). Those figures are 23% down on the previous week. The number of Covid patients in hospital dropped again, week on week,

to a new low of 6,162 (8,029 last week).

• Yesterday 96 UK deaths were reported. There were 659 in the seven-day period to Saturday. Deaths from Covid have fallen by 37% in a week.

• In North Yorkshire there have been over 1,130 deaths – 13 in the last week alone.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at over 126,122. Worldwide, the number of deaths is now over 2.7 million.

The Roadmap out of Lockdown

We are now two weeks along the route out of lockdown. Since 8 March and until we reach the next milestone on 29 March, here’s what is different and what is allowed:

• Schools and colleges have reopened. Practical Higher Education courses have recommenced.

• Recreation or exercise outdoors with your household or one other person. No household mixing indoors.

• Wraparound childcare.

• Funerals (30), wakes and weddings (6)

Stay at Home restriction continue but people can leave home for recreation, as well as exercise outdoors, with their own household, support or childcare bubble, or with one person from another household. Social distancing and other safe behaviours should be followed.

The next key date is 29 March when the easing of restrictions will allow:

• The ‘Rule of 6’ is back, meaning six people from different households can meet outdoors. There’s also a new measure allowing two households totalling more than six people to meet outdoors – giving

greater flexibility for friends and families. However, there can be no household mixing indoors.

• Outdoor sport and leisure facilities to reopen.

• Organised outdoor sport allowed (children and adults).

• We are advised to continue to minimise travel. No holidays yet.

• Outdoor parent and child groups with up to 15 parents can operate.

People will no longer be legally required to Stay at Home. Many of the lockdown restrictions, however, will remain in place. Unless an exemption already applies, it will not be possible to meet people from other households indoors and many business premises will remain shut.

Details of the complete roadmap are shown in the attachment.

Progress with vaccination programme

Almost 27 million people – that’s more than half the UK’s adult population – have now received a first dose of a vaccine and more than 2 million people have had a second jab. Phase one of the vaccination programme aims to have everyone in priority groups 1 to 9 offered a jab before 15 April. That is 32 million people…and so far the programme is on schedule with only 5 million left to do in these priority groups in three weeks. Phase two – groups 10 to 12 – covers all adults aged between 18 and 49 and they will be offered a first dose later than first reported, but certainly by the end of July. Before then most people in phase one will have been called for that all-important second dose.

Vaccine supply issues are expected to hit the UK for a month from the end of March. A letter to local health leaders in England asked vaccination centres and community pharmacy-led services to close unfilled bookings and “ensure no further appointments are uploaded” to booking systems in April. NHS bosses said that as a result of the supply issues, people under the age of 50 should only get the jab if they are in a priority group, meaning younger adults could face a longer wait to be vaccinated. Apparently, the supply issues have been caused by a need to retest almost two million doses and by delivery delays from India. “Events like this are to be expected in a manufacturing endeavour of this complexity and it shows the rigour of our safety checks," a spokesperson said. The government insists however that the UK remains ‘on track’ to meet its vaccination targets, first doses will be carried out as well as second doses, and no appointments will be cancelled due to the shortage. The vaccine will be offered to everyone aged 50 or over by 15 April and to all adults by the end of July.

What’s the problem in Europe?

In January, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) approved the use of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine for all age groups, but a number of EU countries initially refused to recommend its use for people over 65. France and Germany eventually revised their stance and approved the vaccine for people aged 65-74 at the beginning of March. However, they were among 13 European countries who paused the AstraZeneca rollout again in March, after reports that a small number of people developed blood clots after receiving the jab. They restarted it after the EMA said there was no evidence that the vaccine caused the clots. However, the French authorities say only people aged 55 and over should get the Oxford-AstraZeneca jab. The headlines surrounding AstraZeneca may have led people to be reluctant about taking the jab. Some countries are reporting that as many as half of the doses delivered to them are currently unused.

The NHS advice here in the UK is crystal clear – safety is their number one priority and they say all the evidence available does not suggest there is a link with blood clots. There is no evidence that there are more blood clots than would normally be expected. So, the advice is that when you are invited for vaccination make an appointment and if you have any questions or concerns just ask the health professionals when you go along. The vaccine may well save your life or that of someone you love – the benefits of having the vaccine are great…greater than the dangers faced by anyone who gets Covid.

The Covid Testing Regime

Tests for people with symptoms

Testing sites in North Yorkshire are operated and managed by the Department of Health and Social Care/NHS and private contractors employed by them. People who don’t have access to the internet, or who have difficulty with the digital portals, can ring the 119 service to book their test. The permanent testing sites are open every day for between 8am and 11:30am. The nearest permanent testing sites are:

  • Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB
  • Northallerton – The Forum, Bullamore Road, Northallerton, DL6 1LP

A full list of NHS Mobile testing sites can be viewed on the county council’s website at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test Mobile sites are open for testing from 8am to 8pm. Before you attend at either a permanent or mobile site you must book a test. Tests can be booked from 8pm the night before. If test sites are fully booked they will not appear on the government’s website. To book a test visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ There’s a link on the North Yorkshire County Council website to request a home test – https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-testing

Tests if you live or work with a nursery/school/college student

If you live, work or are in a support bubble with nursery, primary or secondary school pupils or college students you should carry out lateral flow device tests at home twice a week. Testing kits can be collected from the two permanent sites listed above every day between 1pm and 8pm.

National day of reflection – Tuesday 23 March

A minute’s silence and a national doorstep vigil will form part of a day of reflection to mark the 12-month anniversary of the UK’s first Covid lockdown. The event is spearheaded by the charity Marie Curie, to reflect on our collective loss, support those who have been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future. There’ll be a minute’s silence at 12 noon and householders are encouraged to light a candle on their doorstep that evening. Prominent buildings and landmarks will also be illuminated across the UK.

Spring has sprung!

Yesterday – Saturday 20 March – was officially the first day of spring. Next Sunday, 28 March, the clocks go forward an hour.

Well done…and a big thank you to Jake and Amelia

Jake and Amelia Pearson and their dad John deserve a big thank you for some great work they did in the village yesterday. Last weekend they walked up the church steps from Long Street and noticed that they were looking extremely untidy and overgrown. So, yesterday they popped back with some tools and bags to clear the steps and the path leading up to the main church entrance. It was a brilliant community-spirited job and they deserved all the praise they got on the Top Residents’ Facebook page. Oh, and dad agreed to give Jake and Amelia a pocket money bonus for their time and effort!

Today is Census Day

The census officially takes place today – 21 March. Everyone should by now have received a letter from the Census Office with a personalised online code to complete their online census. From tomorrow,

22 March, reminder letters will start arriving and field officers will visit houses still to respond. The census results will be available in 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years. For more information and advice on how to answer the questions, visit www.census.gov.uk

Beware of Census scammers

Scammers, it would seem, will take any opportunity to try and separate individuals from their money…and it’s likely there’ll be some scamming activity going on over the coming weeks. Here are some tips on how to tell genuine Census communications from fraudsters. Householders will only ever be contacted for the Census by letter, unless you have arranged a call with the contact centre. Your Census form will ask for personal information but will never ask for your national insurance number, passwords, bank account details, or your credit or debit card numbers. Census officers may visit to offer help if you’re yet to complete the questionnaire. They may also visit to make sure that everyone has been counted. They will identify themselves as being from the ONS and carry an official ID badge. Census staff will never ask to enter your property. Census officers work during the following times: Monday to Saturday: 9am to 8pm. Sundays and bank holidays: 10am to 4pm.

Easter Trail in Topcliffe and Asenby (see attachment)

This is an eggcellent idea that children of all ages should enjoy this Easter. A special Easter egg hunt will take place in Topcliffe and Asenby villages over the Easter weekend – 3, 4 and 5 April. There are lots of eggs to be spotted and some great prizes for those who take part. Participants need to collect an entry form and pay a £1 per family fee at The Milk Churn Farm Shop. Then you simply walk around looking for the hidden eggs, complete the entry form and hand it back in at the farm shop when you’re done. Find them all and win a prize. Each completed entry is automatically entered in a draw for a big Easter Bunny chocolate hamper. All proceeds go to the Friends of Topcliffe School.

Road repairs at Mill Bank

The repairs to the unsafe railings and support wall on the A167 above Mill Bank (Catton Lane) are well underway. The work involves re-pointing various worn areas of the wall, re-building an 8m long section of the wall, near the centre, installation of a new drainage system within the wall itself and a soakaway at the base, and repairs to the public footpath steps between the A167 and Mill Bank. The works should be completed by 24 April. Though the road remains open to traffic with a traffic light arrangement, the highways department warn of some disruption throughout the contract period. Access to private properties is being maintained, though there may be temporary restrictions from time to time.

Bags2School textile recycling

Topcliffe Village Hall and the Scouting Association have joined forces to organise another ‘Bags2School’ recycling event. Everyone is encouraged to have a cupboard and wardrobe sort out and bring unwanted items in black bags to the village hall garden on Friday 23 April 2021 between 8.30am and 12 noon. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and Scouts’ Association.

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

Hairstylist to launch salon in Topcliffe

A new unisex hairdressing salon will be launched in Topcliffe next month when the Covid roadmap allows close contact services to open for business. But calm down and keep your hair on because it’s already booked solid from 12 April and into May! The business, Studio 18, will be run by Nicola James from a well- equipped unit at the rear of 18 Long Street (opposite the surgery) and will be open Monday to Saturday. Nicola has years of experience as a hairstylist and can style the hair of male and female adults as well as children. Initially only one customer at a time can be in the salon so business will be a little slower than normal. For an appointment call Nicola on 07851 034815.

Comments invited on plans for Dalton 49 Thirsk

Hambleton District Council has received an outline planning application for industrial units at a site just over the bridge on Eldmire Lane. The site, ‘Dalton 49 Thirsk’, named after the A168 junction number, will be a 43-acre development which will provide a range of job opportunities and a boost to the local economy. No doubt some residents will have responded to the pre-planning consultation to express their views about the proposed development and perhaps to welcome the potential for new jobs for the area. But whilst new developments bringing much needed jobs are important, the growth of Dalton Industrial Estate over the years has led to increased concern in Topcliffe and Asenby, about heavy lorries ignoring weight restrictions and passing through the villages. There is much local worry that the recent pre-planning consultation undertaken by the developers failed to adequately consider the impact that Topcliffe and Asenby could suffer.

But the real consultation is the one staged by Hambleton Council so if you want your voice to be heard now is the time to do something about it. You can add your views to the planning application at:

https://planning.hambleton.gov.uk/online-applications/caseDetails.do?caseType=Application&keyVal=QO7ZETHUHHI00

If you would like a reminder of the main issues, please refer to the article attached that appeared in this month’s Tattler newsletter. There’s some uncertainty about the closing date for comments, so make sure you add your views fairly soon…and certainly before mid-April.

Parish Council meetings

• The next Topcliffe Parish Council meeting will be held at online at 7pm on Thursday 1st April 2021. Any members of the public wishing to join the meeting should contact the clerk for log in details by mid-

day on the day of the meeting by email to topcliffeparishcouncil There is a period of 10 minutes at the beginning of each meeting set aside to receive questions and comments from members

of the public. More information is available at www.topcliffe.net

• Asenby Parish Council’s AGM will be held at 7.30pm on 19 May 2021. It’s uncertain at present whether this will be a Zoom or face to face meeting. An announcement will be made nearer the date. Check

out more information on asenbypc

Local Government Reorganisation

The consultation about the reorganisation of local authority areas in North Yorkshire is now well underway. There are basically two proposals – one based on the whole county and another based on an east/west split. The closing date for receipt of comments is 19 April 2021. You can express a view at https://consult.communities.gov.uk/governance-reform-and-democracy/northyorkshire/

May Election

The election for our local Police and Crime Commissioner will take place on 6 May 2021. The Village Hall will act as the Polling Station in Topcliffe. Residents in Asenby will have to travel to Rainton Village Hall to cast their vote.

Postal Voting

The deadline to apply for a postal vote for the elections on 6 May 2021 is 5pm on Tuesday 20 April.

• Write to Electoral Registration, Hambleton District Council, Civic Centre, Stone Cross, Northallerton DL6 2UU – elecreg or call 01609 779977 or print off a form from

www.hambleton.gov.uk/electoralregister

• Write to Electoral Registration, Harrogate Borough Council, Civic Centre, St Luke’s Avenue, Harrogate HG1 2AE – call 01423 500600 or apply using the online form at

https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/voting-elections/postal-voting

The Tattler

Back copies of The Tattler are available to read on the Topcliffe village website at www.topcliffe.net

Services at St Columba’s Church

• Wednesday, 24 March at 7pm – Compline (or Night Prayers, a short evening service (approx. 15 minutes) of prayers, readings and responses, providing a simple and peaceful way to close the day).

• Wednesday, 31 March 7pm – Compline

• Saturday Easter Eve, 3 April 7.30pm – Easter Vigil and First Eucharist of Easter (with choir accompaniment). Celebrated organist Matthew Atherton will be playing at this service, which will be a real treat.

• Sunday Easter Day, 4 April – No Service

• Sunday, 11 April 10.45am – Holy Communion (Rev Terry Dyer)

The PCC continually assesses the Covid risks and it operates ‘track and trace’ arrangement. All the usual precautions apply – please bring a face covering with you – and we will provide hand sanitiser for use before and after each service. Most importantly, for everyone’s sake, if you have any suspicion you might have contracted Covid, please don’t join us on that particular occasion.

Topcliffe Post Office

Opening hours of the Post Office and Shop 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.

The Angel at Topcliffe

The gardens at The Angel will re-open on 15 April. Greg and his team will be offering a limited food menu to include favourites such as burgers, skewers, steak pies etc as well as lunchtime sandwiches, sharers and daily specials. Marquees will be erected above all tables to protect customers from inclement weather but don’t forget to take your coat or a blanket in case it’s cold. New temporary openings times:

• Wednesday – Thursday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm)

• Friday 12 noon – 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm)

• Saturday 12 noon to 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 8pm)

• Sunday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 7pm).

• Bookings for food (tables up to 6 or two households only) will start to be taken soon. Closing times will be subject to weather conditions.

• The Angel will be closed Mondays and Tuesdays until 16 May. Follow them on Facebook for all the latest updates.

The regular ‘Dine at Home’ takeaway service menu can be found on The Angel website. Take away times are Wednesday to Saturday, 4.30-8pm, with orders taken from 3.30pm, and Sundays 12-6pm, with orders taken from 11am. Call 01845 578000 to place an order or book a time slot in advance. Check out the details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk

Other Local traders

• Fish and Chips – The Fish & Chip van is in Topcliffe on Fridays between 5 and 7pm.

• The Elm Gallery – The gallery remains closed, though it looks forward to reopening mid- April. In the meantime, Liz and Dave continue to promote items on the gallery’s Facebook page and website.

Collection of purchases at the gallery door can be arranged. More information can be found on their website at www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk and they can be contacted on 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop – Current opening times are: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9-5pm. Thursday and Saturday 9-1pm. Once lockdown has been lifted, Saturday openings will return to

9 to 5pm. The shop is still operating a one out, one in system to protect customers and staff. A home delivery service remains available to anyone in Topcliffe, Asenby or Cundall. They are also making free deliveries to Dalton, Sessay and Husthwaite every Tuesday and to Rainton, Dishforth and Ripon areas every Wednesday (£10 minimum order applies). Ring 01845 400446 to arrange a delivery. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ Takeaway teas and coffees with cake have resumed. Why not enjoy a walk and call in for a freshly made hot chocolate or other hot drinks? And here’s a bit of good news – ice creams will soon be going on sale.

• The Swan – The Swan remains closed for now but is planning to reopen on Monday 14 April. George, Jane and their staff look forward to welcoming everyone.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Recycling & green waste – Thursday 25 March and Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

• Refuse – Mondays 29 March and 12 and 26 April.

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Refuse – Monday 22 March, Tuesday 6 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Monday 19 April.

• Garden waste – Thursday 25 March, Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

• Recycling – Saturday 27 March (two days earlier than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Mondays 12 and 26 April.

Green waste will only be collected if you have paid the subscription for April 2021 to March 2022.

• A Hambleton licence for the year will cost £40 per bin. To subscribe or for further information please visit www.hambleton.gov.uk/newbins

• A licence from Harrogate will cost £41 per bin. To subscribe or for more information go to https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/garden-waste-subscription-service

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

The government’s roadmap out of lockdown Feb 2021.docx

Welcome to new jobs.docx

Posted on

Sunday Email: Issue 49

Hello and welcome to the 49th issue of this regular Sunday email. Mother’s Day is very special and I hope all mums reading this have really wonderful day.

I hope you find this email’s contents interesting and informative. As usual, do get in touch with me if you have any news or information that you think Topcliffe and Asenby residents might like to hear about.

Doug

07785 223707

The week’s Covid statistics

• The R number – which takes into account cases, hospitalisations and deaths – is now between 0.6 and 0.8 – a slight improvement on last week.

• Nearly 24 million people have now had a first dose vaccination. And the number of second doses administered now exceeds 1.5 million.

• There have been more than 4.2 million confirmed cases of Covid in the UK. Yesterday 5,534 cases were confirmed.

• 8,284,494 Covid tests were conducted last week. Presumably this huge figure is because of lateral testing in schools.

• 570 people were admitted to hospital on a daily basis (4,325 in the week). Those figures are 28% down on the previous week. The number of Covid patients in hospital dropped again, week on week,

to a new low of 8,029 (10.898 last week).

• Yesterday 121 UK deaths were reported. There were 1,045 in the seven-day period to Saturday. Deaths from Covid have fallen by 32% in a week.

• The total number of UK deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test now stands at over 125,464. Worldwide, the number of deaths is now over 2.65 million.

The Roadmap out of Lockdown

We are now a week along the route out of lockdown. Since 8 March and until we reach the next milestone on 29 March, here’s what is allowed:

  • Schools and colleges have reopened. Practical Higher Education courses have recommenced.
  • Recreation or exercise outdoors with household or one other person. No household mixing indoors.
  • Wraparound childcare.
  • Funerals (30), wakes and weddings (6)

Stay at Home restriction continue but people can leave home for recreation, as well as exercise outdoors, with their own household, support or childcare bubble, or with one person from another household. Social distancing and other safe behaviours should be followed.

The next key date is 29 March when the easing of restrictions will allow:

  • The ‘Rule of 6’ is back meaning six people from different households can meet outdoors. There’s also a new measure allowing two households totalling more than six people to meet outdoors – giving greater flexibility for friends and families. No household mixing indoors.
  • Outdoor sport and leisure facilities to reopen.
  • Organised outdoor sport allowed (children and adults).
  • We are advised to continue to minimise travel. No holidays yet.
  • Outdoor parent and child groups with up to 15 parents can operate.

People will no longer be legally required to Stay at Home. Many of the lockdown restrictions, however, will remain in place. Unless an exemption already applies, it will not be possible to meet people from other households indoors and many business premises will remain shut.

Details of the complete roadmap are shown in the attachment.

The fight against Covid continues

The UK’s chief medical adviser Prof Chris Whitty warned this week that the fight against the virus is far from finished. "A lot of people may think this is all over. It is very easy to forget how quickly things can turn bad," he said.

Back to School

Schools across North Yorkshire reopened last Monday, although the return of secondary school pupils was staggered over the week. Preliminary data shows that attendance in our primary schools was as high as 97 per cent. Perhaps such high attendance rates show how much confidence families have in schools, in the safety measures that have been put in place and the high value they place on the quality of teaching and learning provided.

Progress with vaccination programme

Almost 24 million people have now received a first dose of a vaccine – around a third of the population – and more than 1.5 million people have had a second. The current seven-day average for first doses is around 295,000 doses a day – down from more than 400,000 a day in early February. According to the government, this drop in first doses can be partially explained by an increase in the number of second doses now being administered but also on supply issues.

Phase one of the vaccination programme aims to have everyone in priority groups 1 to 9 offered a jab before 15 April. That will be around 32 million people…and so far the programme is on schedule.

Already 24 million first dose jabs have been given, so only 8 million left to do in four weeks. Phase two – groups 10 to 12 – covers all adults aged between 18 and 49 and they will be offered a first dose by the end of July. Before then most people in phase one will have been called for that all-important second dose.

NHS text alerts for Covid jab

The NHS has started texting people inviting them to book their jab, making it quicker and more convenient to get an appointment. Almost 400,000 people aged 55 and over and 40,000 unpaid carers were the first to get a text alert inviting them to book a slot as part of the latest development in the NHS vaccination programme. The messages include a web link for those eligible to click and reserve an appointment at a vaccination centre. Reminders will be sent 2-3 weeks after the original alert to encourage people to get their vaccine if they have not taken up the offer.

GP-led and hospital vaccination services, which operate their own booking systems, have been using texts for invites since the start of the vaccination programme. Introducing texts to the national booking service will help increase uptake of the jab, particularly as the NHS moves on to younger groups. Texting is also likely to enable the NHS to react faster to changing vaccine supplies and fill appointments quickly. People will continue to receive letters inviting them to book an appointment as well as a text alert, to ensure that people who don’t have a number registered or need information in different languages or formats don’t miss out. People should not receive a text message or a letter from the NHS if they have already been vaccinated and this has been recorded. If people cannot or would prefer not to travel to a vaccination centre or pharmacy-led site, they can choose to wait to be invited by a local GP-led service.

In some cases, text messages have been used by scammers to try to collect personal details from people, get them to ring premium rate numbers or enter their banking details. The NHS text message will be sent using the government’s secure ‘notify’ service and will show as being sent from ‘NHSvaccine’. The NHS will never ask for payment or banking details.

Book a coronavirus test locally

Permanent sites are open every day for testing between 8am and 12pm. Between 1pm and 7pm they are open for collecting tests if you live or work with a school/college student.

• Every day – Harrogate – Dragon Road Car Park, Dragon Road, Harrogate, HG1 5DB

• Every day – Northallerton – The Forum, Bullamore Road, Northallerton, DL6 1LP

People who don’t have access to the internet, or who have difficulty with the digital portals, can ring the 119 service to book their test. The full list of mobile sites the NHS is operating in North Yorkshire can be viewed on the county council’s website at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/book-coronavirus-covid-19-test Mobile sites are open for testing from 8am to 8pm.

Before you attend you must book a test. Tests can be booked from 8pm the night before. If test sites are fully booked they will not appear on the government’s website. To book a test visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ There’s a link on the North Yorkshire County Council website to request a home test – https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-testing

Covid anniversary to be marked with day of reflection

A minute’s silence and a national doorstep vigil will form part of a day of reflection to mark the anniversary of the UK’s first Covid lockdown. The original idea to remember those who have died in the pandemic came from the Marie Curie charity but the plan is finding widespread support across the country. It will be held on Tuesday 23 March and will feature a minute’s silence at 12 noon and householders are encouraged to light a candle on their doorstep that evening. Prominent buildings and landmarks will also be illuminated across the UK.

Real Superheroes

Children in the Seedlings Nursery Class at Topcliffe CofE Academy have been celebrating World Book Day by reading a book called ‘Real Superheroes’. The book recognises all the amazing people who have worked super hard over the last year throughout the Covid pandemic. The children enjoyed a day dressing up as real superheroes, including doctors, police officer, postal workers and chefs (See photograph attached). They also enjoyed a variety of other activities, such as creating a ‘gallery of hope and thanks’ (see second photograph attached) and making rainbows in as many different ways they could think of.

National anti-littering campaign called for

The problem of littering in our two villages and on surrounding country roads, verges and hedgerows has been mentioned several times in Sunday Emails and The Tattler. Littering is a real problem – it is an eyesore that spoils the countryside, ruins the enjoyment of walking, is a demonstration of extremely selfish behaviour on the part of the litterers and is simply unacceptable. But what can be done about it? How can the behaviour of a minority be changed? Well one answer might be to increase public awareness and promote anti-littering messages. That’s what a campaigner is hoping to persuade the government to do by launching a petition on the parliamentary website. Her petition reads: “I would like to see the government fund a national anti-littering campaign, to put this issue back into public awareness. The campaign should include advertising on tv, online, in schools, at bus stops and anywhere else that it can be seen.’ If you are prepared to support the initiative, please sign the petition at: https://petition.parliament.uk/signatures/108239917/verify?token=7uTlJCy_10ykxCuMWtFG

The Tattler – Spring edition

The latest Tattler newsletter was distributed in our two villages last week. Everyone should have received their copy by now. Anyone living on farms or in outlying areas who doesn’t get a delivery through their letterbox can pick up a copy at The Post Office, Milk Churn Farm Shop. Alternatively, they can contact me – doug and I’ll add them to the circulation to receive an electronic version.

Traffic concerns

The main article in The Tattler was about existing traffic concerns and potential new issues relating to a planned extension to Dalton Industrial Estate which could easily worsen the situation in Topcliffe. It would be great if lots of residents were to write to or email elected representatives at both District and County level to comment on the current and future concerns about illegal HGV traffic through the village. Write to:

  • Cllr Mark Robson, Leader, Hambleton District Council, Civic Centre, Stone Cross, Rotary Way, Northallerton DL6 2UU Email: cllr.mark.robson
  • County Cllr Robert Baker, North Yorkshire County Council, County Hall, Northallerton DL7 8AD Email: cllr.robert.baker
  • You can also refer any specific concerns about traffic issues to the Thirsk & Easingwold Neighbourhood Policing Team – Jonathan.Harrison

Potter Eggs commitment

Topcliffe Parish Council has written to local hauliers asking for cooperation in reducing their HGVs usage of the village’s streets. As a result, the parish council has received a commitment from Potter Eggs agreeing to instruct their drivers to use alternative routes where possible. Thanks Potter Eggs. Now let’s hope that a similar response comes from Potter Plant Hire.

Next Sunday is Census Day

The census officially takes place next Sunday – 21 March. The census, which takes place every ten years, aims to shed light on the needs of different groups and communities, ensuring the big decisions facing the country – on education, health, transport and many more issues – are based on the best information possible. The Office for National Statistics – which runs the Census – should by now have delivered letters with a personalised online code to all households explaining how they can complete their online census. People can also request a paper questionnaire if they’d prefer to complete the census that way. From Monday 22 March reminder letters will start arriving and field officers will visit houses still to respond. Census 2021 includes questions about your gender, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity. For the first time, there is a question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces. There are also some voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity. The census results will be available in 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years. For more information and advice on how to answer the questions, visit www.census.gov.uk

Road repairs at Mill Bank

After continual lobbying by Topcliffe Parish Council, repairs to the unsafe railings and support wall on the A167 above Mill Bank (Catton Lane) are finally underway. The work involves re-pointing various worn areas of the wall, re-building an 8m long section of the wall, near the centre, installation of a new drainage system within the wall itself and a soakaway at the base, within the highways verge and repairs to the public footpath steps between the A167 and Mill Bank. The works should be completed by 24 April. Though the road remains open to traffic with a traffic light arrangement, the highways department warn of some disruption throughout the contract period. Access to private properties is being maintained, though there may be temporary restrictions from time to time.

Thirsk town centre webcam

Did you know that there is a webcam operating in Thirsk town centre that can be accessed 24 hours per day? It beams out the view of the Market Place all over the world every day of the year. The current statistics reveal 680 people are taking a look every single day. It’s much used by locals checking up on how busy the marketplace is before they set off to do the shopping…but people all over the world are known to take a look, either because they are homesick or because they are checking out places to visit. The Tourist Information Centre believes that many who first see the town online will come to visit, stay in local accommodation, and buy in the town’s shops, pubs, restaurants and visitor attractions. See the webcam for yourself at www.VisitThirsk.uk/webcam

The World of James Herriot

The popular and famous museum in Thirsk has won the ‘Triumph over Adversity Award’ in the prestigious Rural Business Awards 2021. The World of James Herriot team is celebrating following the national final held online in February. The award was presented by Jules Hudson, the BBC Escape to the Country presenter. For more information about the museum visit: www.worldofjamesherriot.com

Bags2School textile recycling

Topcliffe Village Hall and the Scouting Association have joined forces to organise another ‘Bags2School’ recycling event. Everyone is encouraged to have a cupboard and wardrobe sort out and bring unwanted items in black bags to the village hall garden on Friday 23 April 2021 between 8.30am and 12 noon. The proceeds of the event will be shared between the Village Hall and Scouts’ Association. There’ll be more details about this fundraising event in future Sunday Emails.

Parish Council meetings

• The next Parish Council meeting will be held at online at 7pm on Thursday 1st April 2021. Any members of the public wishing to join the meeting should contact the clerk for log in details by mid-day on the

day of the meeting by email to topcliffeparishcouncil There is a period of 10 minutes at the beginning of each meeting set aside to receive questions and comments from members of the

public. More information is available at www.topcliffe.net

• The next Asenby Parish Council meeting will be held online at 7.30pm on Wednesday 17 March 2021. Residents wishing to join this meeting should email the clerk at asenbypc for log in

details. More information is available at www.asenby.net

Local Government Reorganisation

The consultation about the reorganisation of local authority areas in North Yorkshire is now well underway. There’s basically two proposals – one based on the whole county and another based on an east/west split. The closing date for receipt of comments is 19 April 2021. You can express a view at https://consult.communities.gov.uk/governance-reform-and-democracy/northyorkshire/

May Election

The election for our local Police and Crime Commissioner will take place on 6 May 2021. The Village Hall will act as the Polling Station in Topcliffe. Residents in Asenby will have to travel to Rainton Village Hall to cast their vote.

Postal Voting

There’s still time to apply for a postal vote:

• Write to Electoral Registration, Hambleton District Council, Civic Centre, Stone Cross, Northallerton DL6 2UU – [email protected] or call 01609 779977 or print off a form from www.hambleton.gov.uk/electoralregister

• Write to Electoral Registration, Harrogate Borough Council, Civic Centre, St Luke’s Avenue, Harrogate HG1 2AE – call 01423 500600 or apply using the online form at

https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/voting-elections/postal-voting

All change at Swaleside Holiday Park

The family behind a group of North-East holiday parks says it is ‘proud and delighted’ to have taken ownership of a top-rated Swaleside Holiday Park in Topcliffe. Maguires Country Parks, which owns a range of five-star graded holiday parks, has announced the acquisition of the site. It brings to eight the number of parks now owned by the family. And we welcome Brian and Karen Hills as the new managers of the site. They replace Andrew Balderson and Amanda Kenny who, after many years at Swaleside, have moved on to manage a bigger site near Selby. The couple were great friends of Topcliffe and they have promised to come back to join in some of the village’s events in the future.

Church Services

• Wednesday, 17 March at 7pm – Compline (or Night Prayers, a short evening service (approx. 15 minutes) of prayers, readings and responses, providing a simple and peaceful way to close the day).

• Sunday, 21 March at 10.45 am – Matins (Book of Common Prayer)

• Wednesday, 24 March at 7p – Compline

• Wednesday, 31 March 7pm – Compline

• Saturday Easter Eve, 3 April 7.30pm – Easter Vigil and First Eucharist of Easter (with choir accompaniment)

• Sunday Easter Day, 4 April – No Service

• Sunday, 11 April 10.45am – Holy Communion (Rev Terry Dyer)

The PCC continually assesses the Covid risks and it operates ‘track and trace’ arrangement. All the usual precautions apply – please bring a face covering with you – and we will provide hand sanitiser for use before and after each service. Most importantly, for everyone’s sake, if you have any suspicion you might have contracted Covid, please don’t join us on that particular occasion.

Topcliffe Post Office

The revised opening hours of the Post Office and Shop 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.

Mother’s Day

• The Angel at Topcliffe – If you have forgotten to get that all important Mother’s Day present don’t despair as The Angel has the answer. From 11am today you can pop in to purchase a Gift Voucher for

future use in their restaurants.

• Thirsk Garden Centre believes that mums should be made to feel special all year round, but today of all days that extra effort needs to be made to give them that little extra attention. The garden centre is

open from 10am to 4pm and there’s a wide range of perfect gifts – plants, garden furniture, gift cards and lots more – available for anyone who forgot to buy something in advance. Check out their website

at https://www.thirskgardencentre.co.uk/ The centre is open 9 to 5pm Monday to Saturday.

The Angel at Topcliffe

Greg and the team are very much looking forward to re-opening the garden on 15 April. They will be offering a limited food menu to include favourites such as burgers, skewers, steak pies etc as well as lunchtime sandwiches, sharers and daily specials. Marquees will be erected above all tables to protect customers from inclement weather but don’t forget to take your coat or a blanket in case it’s cold. New temporary openings times:

  • Wednesday – Thursday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm)
  • Friday 12 noon – 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 2.30pm and 5 – 8pm)
  • Saturday 12 noon to 10.30pm (food served 12 noon – 8pm)
  • Sunday 12 noon – 9pm (food served 12 noon – 7pm).
  • Bookings for food (tables up to 6 or two households only) will start to be taken soon. Closing times will be subject to weather conditions.
  • The Angel will be closed Mondays and Tuesdays until 16 May. Follow them on Facebook for all the latest updates.

The regular ‘Dine at Home’ takeaway service menu can be found on The Angel website. Take away times are Wednesday to Saturday, 4.30-8pm, with orders taken from 3.30pm, and Sundays 12-6pm, with orders taken from 11am. Call 01845 578000 to place an order or book a time slot in advance. Check out the details at www.theangelattopcliffe.co.uk

Other Local traders

• Fish and Chips – The Fish & Chip van is in Topcliffe on Fridays between 5 and 7pm.

• The Elm Gallery – The gallery remains closed, though it looks forward to reopening mid- April. In the meantime, Liz and Dave continue to promote items on the gallery’s Facebook page and website.

Collection of purchases at the gallery door can be arranged. More information can be found on their website at www.the-elm-gallery.co.uk and they can be contacted on 01845 577316 or 07709 223920.

• The Milk Churn Farm Shop – Current opening times are: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9-5pm. Thursday and Saturday 9-1pm. Once lockdown has been lifted, Saturday openings will return to 9 to 5pm. The shop is still operating a one out, one in system to protect customers and staff. A home delivery service remains available to anyone in Topcliffe, Asenby or Cundall. They are also making free deliveries to Dalton, Sessay and Husthwaite every Tuesday and to Rainton, Dishforth and Ripon areas every Wednesday (£10 minimum order applies). Ring 01845 400446 to arrange a delivery. https://www.milkchurnfarmshop.co.uk/ Takeaway teas and coffees with cake have resumed. Why not enjoy a walk and call in for a freshly made hot chocolate or other warm hot drinks? And here’s a bit of good news – ice creams will soon be going on sale.

• The Swan – The Swan remains closed for now but is planning to reopen on Monday 14 April. George, Jane and their staff look forward to welcoming everyone.

Bin Collections

Hambleton (Topcliffe):

• Refuse – Mondays 15, 29 March and 12 and 26 April.

• Recycling & green waste – Thursday 25 March and Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

Harrogate (Asenby):

• Recycling – Monday 15 and Saturday 27 March (two days earlier than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Mondays 12 and 26 April.

• Refuse – Monday 22 March and Tuesday 6 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Monday 19 April.

• Garden waste – Thursday 25 March and Friday 9 April (one day later than normal due to Bank Holiday) and Thursday 22 April.

Green waste will only be collected if you have paid the subscription for April 2021 to March 2022.

• A Hambleton licence for the year will cost £40 per bin. To subscribe or for further information please visit www.hambleton.gov.uk/newbins

• A licence from Harrogate will cost £41 per bin. To subscribe or for more information go to https://www.harrogate.gov.uk/garden-waste-subscription-service

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

The government’s roadmap out of lockdown Feb 2021.docx