Sunday Email - Page 9 - Topcliffe and Asenby Sunday Email

Posted on 4 January 20262 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 296

Welcome to your first Sunday Email of 2026.

I wish all of you a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
[email protected]

St Columba’s Services

TODAY: Sunday 4 January at 8.30am – Said Holy Communion (BCP)
TODAY: Sunday 4 January at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong for Epiphany, followed by pre-supper drinks and nibbles
Thursday 8 January at 11am – Midweek Morning Prayer
Sunday 11 January at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Thursday 15 January at 11am – Midweek Morning Prayer

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
TODAY: Sunday 4 January 9am to 2pm. At this Thirsk market all stallholders are local independent businesses who grow, rear or produce the food or drink on their stall. They’re passionate about what they do and it shows.

Sunday Quiz Night

Last Sunday’s challenging quiz was set by David and won by Bob, Irene and Sheila. Well done the winning team and everyone else who took part.

Here’s a selection of questions from the quiz. See how you do. The answers are at the end of today’s email.

1. Who was in the charts with ‘Only a Winter’s Tale’ in January 1983?
2. What spirit is used in a Sidecar cocktail?
3. What were the three tunnels called in the film The Great Escape?
4. Name the two brothers who founded The Guiness Book of Records.
5. In which of these three towns was Actress Wendy Richards born – Manchester, Middlesbrough or Milton Keynes?
6. Lawyer Billy Flynn was a character in which film and musical?
7. What kind of animal is a Scottish Fold?
8. The Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge universities goes past which football ground?
9. Who wrote the book ‘Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde?
10. Which sea does not have a coastline?

Apologies to all those who enjoy the weekly quiz but were a bit confused by several questions and answers last week. I can only blame the Christmas fuddle for the mix up. For those still wondering, the correct questions and answers to numbers 8, 9 and 10 were:

8. The mountain range that separates Europe and Asia is The Urals.
9. The movement of mountains over millions of years is Continental Drift (or Plate Tectonics).
10. The animal with the highest blood pressure is the Giraffe.

The Toll Booth
There are several matters relating to the Toll Booth that may be of interest to residents.

First, the ‘additional’ structural survey that Topcliffe Parish Council recently agreed to fund – and which was scheduled to take place over the festive holidays but had to rearranged at the surveyor’s request – will now take place on Friday 9 January.

Second, at the last meeting of the Parish Council on 18 December, councillors broadly discussed the next steps they may take in connection with the Toll Booth, including calls for commencement of sale arrangements, but the Clerk to the Council advised that no decisions could be made as the matter was not listed on the agenda.

At the next meeting of the Parish Council, which will be at 7pm on Thursday 29 January in the Village Hall, the results of the survey will be considered along with any next steps, which may (or may not) include a decision to progress investigations into the viability of selling the building.

Big Garden Birdwatch
It’s nearly time for the annual RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch -the world’s largest garden wildlife survey. Across the UK, over 590,000 people took part in the 2025 survey, counting a whopping 9.1 million birds! House Sparrows took the top spot, but counts of these chirpy birds are down by 60% compared to the first Birdwatch in 1979. In fact, the RSPB reckons we’ve lost 38 million birds from UK skies in the last 60 years.

The 2026 survey takes place between Friday 23 and Sunday 25 January. You are asked to spend an hour watching and recording the birds that land in your garden or selected patch of ground, such as an allotment or in a park.

We can all help to build a picture of how garden birds are faring. Every bird you do – or don’t – count will give valuable insight into how garden birds are faring.

You can register your interest in participating at RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation Charity

Cross Talk church newsletter
The January edition of Cross Talk, published on behalf of several local churches, is now out. You can read it here.

Monumental Brass
In the December edition of The Tattler an article was published about a medieval brass hanging in St Columba’s Church. It caused local resident David Bowman to dig out the above postcard that at some time in the past must have been on sale at St Columba’s and local shops.

As a reminder, the St Columba’s brass is a ‘Monumental Brass’ which is one of the finest examples of Flemish brass in the country. The article outlined the interesting history of the large-scale brass which was initially built into the floor, first in the north aisle and later the chancel, before being wall-mounted during a church restoration programme in the mid-1850s. The brass is a ‘palimpsest’, which means that it is made up of pieces of earlier brasses which have been turned over and reused to create a new design. Experts found that one piece was dated 1335 and another 1361 – making them 691 and 66 years old respectively.

It depicts full-length effigies of Thomas de Topcliffe who died in 1362 and his wife Mabel who died in 1391. The couple were obviously important people in Topcliffe at that time and were related to the Percy family which have long associations with the village.

If anyone has any other postcards showing scenes from Topcliffe or Asenby, please get in touch so that they can be featured in future Sunday Emails…and maybe The Tattler. ([email protected]).

Your local councillor…always available to help
Topcliffe’s local councillor, the Rev. Dan Sladden, who represents the Sowerby & Topcliffe division on North Yorkshire Council aims to be accessible to people and to listen to their concerns and ideas for our community. His email address is [email protected] and his phone number is 07466 487989 – so do not hesitate to contact him if you have any issues you would like to discuss with him.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall – bookings and hire
The Village Hall is available for hire to local organisations, businesses and individuals. It is a superb venue with fully equipped kitchen – an ideal place for family parties. Book online for your event by scanning the QR code or visiting either the Topcliffe or Asenby village websites.

Topcliffe Academy new term

Monday, 5 January – Staff Training Day
Tuesday, 6 January – School re-opens

Art classes in the Village Hall
Here are details of art classes coming up in the Village Hall in the new year.

TOMORROW: Monday 5 January – A block of six weekly classes begins. 10am to 12 noon. An opportunity to work on your own artwork ideas with advice and guidance from Rebecca.
‘Capturing the Light’ – a special class using oils. 10am to 3pm on Friday 9 January.
‘Lift the Spirit’ – paint colourful garden scenes in acrylics. 10am to 1pm on Thursday 29 January.
Calm Winter Art Retreat – a two-day experience using paint and pastels to create fur and feather works on day one or beautiful big skies on day two. Thursday 12 and Friday 13 February, 10am to 3pm. Choose your preferred day or attend both!
Winter sketch and draw in pencil and charcoal – 10am – 2pm on Thursday 26 February.
‘Painting the night in acrylics’ – inspired by the work of Georges Seurat. Friday 6 March, 10am to 2pm.
‘Welcoming Lights’ – lighthouses, lanterns or fairy-lights in acrylics – Friday 17 April, 10am to 2pm,

For more information and to make a booking, check out the website at https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/

Warm Hub Lunch
The first Warm Hub of 2026 will take place this Wednesday 7 January between 11.30am and 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of home-made meals, followed by puddings and tea or coffee. All welcome. There’s no set charge, but donations are welcome to help pay the cost of hiring the Village Hall and for essential food and drink items that must be purchased for each lunch.

Residents of Topcliffe and Asenby can have a meal delivered if they are housebound – either on a short-term basis because of illness, or longer-term. If you wish to have a meal on the day the Warm Hub is held, please get in touch with Karen Morley on 01845 577426.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee
The next meeting of the Village Hall Committee will be held at 7.30pm on Tuesday 13 January in the Village Hall.

Chip & Dales
Paul and Karen are taking a well-earned festive break and will be serving fish and chips again in Topcliffe on Friday 23 January between 5 and 7pm.

Local traders and businesses
See here for a list of businesses and traders based in or close to Topcliffe.

EVENTS ON ACROSS THE WIDER AREA

The Ritz Cinema

Zootropolis 2 – TODAY – Sunday 4 January – all are matinees.
Ella McCay – to Thursday 8 January. Matinee, Wednesday 7 January.
Fackham Hall – Friday 9 to Thursday 15 January . Matinee, Wednesday 14 January.
Marty Supreme – Friday 16 to Thursday 22 January. Matinee, Wednesday 21 January.
Song Sung Blues – Friday 23 to Thursday 29 January. Matinee, Wednesday 28 January.
Hamnet – Friday 30 January to Thursday 5 February. Matinee, Wednesday 4 February.

Evening shows start at 7.30pm. Matinees at 2.30pm.

Thirsk repair cafe
Be greener by avoiding waste and save money by letting a team of dedicated and talented volunteers try to repair your broken or “worn-out” items. Saturday 10 January between 10am and 1pm at Thirsk Library, Chapel Street. No set charge but a voluntary donation welcome.

Concerts and Events at Ripon Cathedral

The Eagles by Candlelight – Saturday 10 January 2026 at 7.30pm.
Bruce Springsteen by Candlelight – Saturday 28 February at 7.30pm.
70s Disco Hits by Candlelight – Friday 10 April at 7.30pm.

Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/

Baldersby St. James Church

Plough Sunday – Sunday 18 January – an important service in the farming calendar. There’ll be a bring and share lunch and everyone is welcome.

Events at Rural Arts, The Courthouse, Thirsk

Mixed Media Journalling – Join Dove Armistead for a 2.5 hour Mixed Media Journalling workshop on either Saturday 24 or Wednesday 28 January. Explore textures, colours and ideas. Materials and a hot drink – 1 to 3.30pm. Tickets £25
Music Monthlies: Edwina Hayes – A concert featuring one of the finest female singer/songwriters this country has produced in years. Edwina brings together English folk, Americana and the rich northern tradition to create a sound that’s truly her own. Thursday 5 February at 7.30pm. Tickets £15.
After Supper Ghost Stories – A Victorian-inspired evening of comic ghost stories by Jerome K. Jerome, paired with a ghostly supper: a charcuterie board for two and your choice of drink. Friday 6 February. Doors open and supper served from 6pm, Stories from 7pm. £25 or £20 concession.
Watercolour and Calligraphy – Explore watercolour and calligraphy in this two-hour workshop with artist Dove Armistead. Learn colour, composition, and lettering while creating personalised pieces. Includes all materials and a hot drink. Perfect for beginners. Saturday 7 and Wednesday 11 February. 10.30am to 1pm. £25.
Macrame Wall Hangings – Join artist Claire Ford for a three-hour workshop where you’ll learn the art of macramé and create your own stunning wall hanging. Friday 13 February 10.30am to 1.30pm. £35.

Buy tickets online at https://www.ruralarts.org/

Jigsaw Puzzle Exchange
The Coffee and Chatter Group that meets in St James’ Church at Baldersby St James will be holding jigsaw puzzle exchanges on the fourth Tuesday of each month. The next ‘exchange’ is on Tuesday 27 January between 10am and 12 noon. Please take along any puzzles that you would like to swap. This is a great opportunity to obtain new ones without having to buy them.

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
All stallholders on this market on Thirsk’s Market Place are local independent businesses who grow, rear or produce the food or drink on their stall. They’re passionate about what they do and it shows. Sunday 1 February, 9am-2pm.

Thirsk Brick Show
A small, one day LEGO show featuring exhibits, traders and activities for LEGO fans of all ages. Thirsk & Sowerby Town Hall, Westgate on Saturday 7 February from 10am until 4pm. £4, child (5-15) £2. Tickets: On the door, cash or card.

Thirsk Artisan Market
Sunday 15 February between 10am and 3pm. An artisan market that wants to help serve local communities with the best artisan stalls, whilst giving traders an opportunity to showcase and sell their handmade goods.

Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Until Sunday 15 February 2026 admission is at half price.

Quiz answers

1. David Essex
2. Cognac or Brandy
3. Tom, Dick and Harry
4. Ross and Norris McWhirter
5. Middlesbrough
6. Cabaret
7. Cat
8. Fulham
9. Robert Louis Stevenson
10. Sargasso Sea

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

Posted on 28 December 20252 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 295

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
[email protected]

St Columba’s Services

TODAY: Sunday 28 December at 10.45am – Holy Communion.
Thursday 1 January – New Year’s Day – No Service
Sunday 4 January at 8.30am – Said Holy Communion (BCP)
Sunday 4 January at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong for Epiphany, followed by pre-supper drinks and nibbles
Thursday 8 January at 11am – Midweek Morning Prayer
Sunday 11 January at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Thursday 15 January at 11am – Midweek Morning Prayer

Sunday Quiz Night

Last Sunday’s challenging quiz was set by Andrew and won by Carly, Geoff, Kate and David. Well done the winning team and everyone else who took part.

Here’s a selection of questions from the quiz. See how you do. The answers are at the end of today’s email.

1. Which angel appeared to Joseph in a dream to tell him to take Mary as his wife?
2. Which country has the longest coastline in the world?
3. What gifts did the three wise men bring, and what was the symbolically association of each of them?
4. In cooking, what is the term for partially cooking food by boiling or steaming, then finishing it later?
5. In household plumbing, what is a “p-trap” used for?
6. Baking soda and vinegar can unclog any household drain. True or False?
7. What is the term for animals that eat both plants and meat?
8. What mountain range separates Europe from Asia?
9. What is the term for the movement of continents over millions of years?
10. Which animal has the highest blood pressure of any land animal?

Decider: Place these locations in order of distance from Topcliffe Village Hall (nearest to furthest): Munich, Oslo, Lisbon, Paris, Rome, Barcelona

The Mummers in Topcliffe

The Wakeman Mummers performed their annual play in various locations around Topcliffe yesterday. The Mummers have three specific plays relating to Ripon, Skelton-on-Ure and Topcliffe. The traditional performances go back centuries but no one knows for certain where they originated or why they started. The Mummers have been coming to Topcliffe for over forty years.

Topcliffe Academy – Emergencies during school closures
Neighbours of the school often ask what they should do if they are aware of incidents at the school during holiday periods. Unfortunately, there’s no live-on-site caretaker so calls need to be made as follows:

If you think there is a break-in taking place, please call the police on 999.
If there is something else that needs reporting, please call 01845 577412 and leave a message (this will be picked up) or email [email protected]
Or call Elevate Multi Academy Trust on 01423 541996.

The Angel opening times at New Year

New Year’s Eve – Wednesday 31 December – The Doubtful Bottle will sing in the Year. Food 12 noon to 2pm and 5 ‘til 9pm. Bar until 1am.
New Year’s Day – Thursday 1 January – Food 12 noon to 4pm; bar 12 noon to 6pm.

Check out The Angel’s Facebook page for confirmation of timings.

The Swan opening times at New Year

New Year’s Eve – Wednesday 31 December – Drinks only – 5pm to close.
New Year’s Day – Thursday 1 January – Closed.
Friday 2 January onwards – normal opening.

Check The Swan’s Facebook page for confirmation of timings.

Planning application – deadline for comments is imminent
The deadline for comments on the planning application for the erection of an agricultural building and associated works immediately adjacent to the allotments at Asenby, is Friday 2 January. The proposed development is on land known as Cricket Bat Willows (on the Asenby to Rainton road). Councillors are encouraging residents to view the information and submit their comments. Please follow this link to view the application: https://publicaccess.northyorks.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=T6MV07LTK8G00&activeTab=summary

Topcliffe Academy new term

Monday, 5 January – Staff Training Day
Tuesday, 6 January – School re-opens

Art classes in the Village Hall
Here are details of art classes coming up in the Village Hall in the new year.

A block of six weekly classes begins on Monday 5 January. 10am to 12 noon. An opportunity to work on your own artwork ideas with advice and guidance from Rebecca.
‘Capturing the Light’ – a special class using oils. 10am to 3pm on Friday 9 January.
‘Lift the Spirit’ – paint colourful garden scenes in acrylics. 10am to 1pm on Thursday 29 January.
Calm Winter Art Retreat – a two-day experience using paint and pastels to create fur and feather works on day one or beautiful big skies on day two. Thursday 12 and Friday 13 February, 10am to 3pm. Choose your preferred day or attend both!
Winter sketch and draw in pencil and charcoal – 10am – 2pm on Thursday 26 February.
‘Painting the night in acrylics’ – inspired by the work of Georges Seurat. Friday 6 March, 10am to 2pm.
‘Welcoming Lights’ – lighthouses, lanterns or fairy-lights in acrylics – Friday 17 April, 10am to 2pm,

For more information and to make a booking, check out the website at https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/

Warm Hub Lunch
The first Warm Hub of 2026 will take place on Wednesday 7 January between 11.30am and 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of home-made meals, followed by puddings and tea or coffee. All welcome. There’s no set charge, but donations are welcome to help pay the cost of hiring the Village Hall and for essential food and drink items that must be purchased for each lunch.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee
The next meeting of the Village Hall Committee will be held at 7.30pm on Tuesday 13 January in the Village Hall.

Chip & Dales
Paul and Karen are taking a well-earned festive break and will be serving fish and chips again in Topcliffe on Friday 23 January between 5 and 7pm.

Local traders and businesses
See here for a list of businesses and traders based in or close to Topcliffe.

EVENTS ON ACROSS THE WIDER AREA

The Ritz Cinema

Nuremberg – to Tuesday 30 December.
Zootropolis 2 – Friday 2, Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 January – all are matinees.
Ella McCay – Friday 2 to Thursday 8 January. Matinee, Wednesday 7 January.
Fackham Hall – Friday 9 to Thursday 15 January . Matinee, Wednesday 14 January.
Marty Supreme – Friday 16 to Thursday 22 January. Matinee, Wednesday 21 January.
Song Sung Blues – Friday 23 to Thursday 29 January. Matinee, Wednesday 28 January.
Hamnet – Friday 30 January to Thursday 5 February. Matinee, Wednesday 4 February.

Evening shows start at 7.30pm. Matinees at 2.30pm.

New Year in Ripon

Wednesday 31 December – Watchnight Service and Torchlight Procession – From Ripon Cathedral to the Market Square starting at 11am.
Wednesday 31 December – New Year’s Eve Celebration – Ripon Market Square from 9pm. Live music and the ringing in of the new year with fireworks at midnight.

Thirsk Farmers’ Market
At this Thirsk market all stallholders are local independent businesses who grow, rear or produce the food or drink on their stall. They’re passionate about what they do and it shows. Sunday 4 January 9am to 2pm.

Concerts and Events at Ripon Cathedral

The Eagles by Candlelight – Saturday 10 January 2026 at 7.30pm.
Bruce Springsteen by Candlelight – Saturday 28 February at 7.30pm.
70s Disco Hits by Candlelight – Friday 10 April at 7.30pm.

Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/

Baldersby St. James Church

Plough Sunday – Sunday 18 January – an important service in the farming calendar. There’ll be a bring and share lunch and everyone is welcome.

Events at Rural Arts, The Courthouse, Thirsk

Mixed Media Journalling – Join Dove Armistead for a 2.5 hour Mixed Media Journalling workshop on either Saturday 24 or Wednesday 28 January. Explore textures, colours and ideas. Materials and a hot drink – 1 to 3.30pm. Tickets £25
Music Monthlies: Edwina Hayes – A concert featuring one of the finest female singer/songwriters this country has produced in years. Edwina brings together English folk, Americana and the rich northern tradition to create a sound that’s truly her own. Thursday 5 February at 7.30pm. Tickets £15.
After Supper Ghost Stories – A Victorian-inspired evening of comic ghost stories by Jerome K. Jerome, paired with a ghostly supper: a charcuterie board for two and your choice of drink. Friday 6 February. Doors open and supper served from 6pm, Stories from 7pm. £25 or £20 concession.
Watercolour and Calligraphy – Explore watercolour and calligraphy in this two-hour workshop with artist Dove Armistead. Learn colour, composition, and lettering while creating personalised pieces. Includes all materials and a hot
drink. Perfect for beginners. Saturday 7 and Wednesday 11 February. 10.30am to 1pm. £25.
Macrame Wall Hangings – Join artist Claire Ford for a three-hour workshop where you’ll learn the art of macramé and create your own stunning wall hanging. Friday 13 February 10.30am to 1.30pm. £35.

Buy tickets online at https://www.ruralarts.org/

Thorp Perrow Arboretum
Until Sunday 15 February 2026 admission is at half price.

Quiz answers

1. Gabriel
2. Canada (Approx. 125,000 miles long)
3..Gold (kingship), frankincense (divinity/priesthood), myrrh (death/embalming)
4. Parboiling
5. To prevent sewer gases from entering the home
6. False (it may fizz but rarely clears serious blockages)
7. Omnivores
8. Igneous rock
9. Giraffe
10. The Ural Mountains

Decider: Paris, Oslo, Munich, Barcelona, Rome, Lisbon

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

Posted on 21 December 20252 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 294

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Today is the winter solstice – the shortest day and longest night of the year. The winter solstice marks the exact moment when half the earth is tilted the farthest away from the sun. But things can only get better from now on: days will get longer and each day the sun will rise higher in the sky.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.

Best wishes

Doug Allan
07785 223707
[email protected]

St Columba’s Services

TODAY: Sunday 21 December at 10.45am – Said Matins.
TODAY: Sunday 21 December at 6.30pm – Service of Nine Lessons and Carols
Tuesday 23 December at 2pm – Crib Service
Wednesday 24 December at 11.30pm – Midnight Mass (please note that this is the correct time for this service and that what was shown last week was incorrect!)
Thursday 25 December at 10am – Christmas morning Service
Sunday 28 December at 10.45am – Holy Communion.

Meet Father Christmas at Thirsk Garden Centre
TODAY: Sunday 21 December is the final day that Santa and his elves will be welcoming children to his grotto at Thirsk Garden Centre. There’s gift for every child. All money collected goes to the Rotary Club of Thirsk to be used to support local good causes. £7 per child.

Thirsk Artisan Market
TODAY: Sunday 21 December between 10am and 3pm. A market on Thirsk’s Market Place with a wide variety of artisan stalls which gives traders the best opportunities to showcase and sell their handmade goods.

Christmas Quiz Night

Last Sunday’s excellent Christmas quiz was set by Shirley and, as it was a special party night, there were prizes for the first three teams. First prize went to Roger, Edna and Andrew (pictured). Second place went to David and Pat (Shepherd) and Rachel and Stuart (Middleton). The third prize, after a decider with four other teams, went to Jim, Nigel, Malcolm and Andy. Well done all the winning teams and everyone else who took part.

Here’s a selection of questions from the Christmas quiz. See how you do. The answers are at the end of today’s email.

1. In which country did eggnog originate?
2. Which Matt had a number one Christmas hit with ‘When we Collide’ in 2010?
3. In ‘Home Alone 2’, who does Kevin bump into in the Plaza Hotel in New York?
4. What name is given to the feast day marking the arrival of the Three Wise Men?
5. What is the name given to the traditional German mulled wine?
6. There are two Christmas Islands. In which oceans are they?
7. Which radio DJ originally complied the BBC festive 50 songs?
8. What is the Grinch’s dog called?
9. What is Chionophobia the fear of?
10. Which cartoon characters featured on the 2010 Christmas stamps.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall – bookings and hire

The Village Hall is available for hire to local organisations, businesses and individuals. It is a superb venue with fully equipped kitchen – an ideal place for family parties. Book online for your event by scanning the QR code or visiting either the Topcliffe or Asenby village websites.

Asenby Carol Singing
The carol singing around Asenby last Wednesday evening went very well. The night was just perfect for carols, being crisp and starry, and there was a nice group of singers. The response from the village was most appreciative and generous. A door to door collection for the Herriot Hospice at the Lambert in Thirsk, augmented by a significant anonymous donation, raised £1,005.

The kind donor wished to recognise another great community event in the village. They said: “I really believe in the power of community, and the more we can achieve together locally, gives me hope for future generations.”

Thanks as usual to all involved including the singers led by Linda Hewlett and some members of St Columba’s Choir, the cash collectors and, of course, the many generous donors. The carol singing was a great reflection of all that is done in Asenby by the Parish Council and the separate Village Events Team.

Carols around the Christmas Tree in Topcliffe

Over 60 residents of Topcliffe and Asenby gathered around the Christmas tree outside the Village Hall on Friday evening to sing carols and festive songs. Children who are members of Topcliffe Academy’s choir were in full voice and musical accompaniment was provided by the Barber family and a couple of their friends. Afterwards, mulled wine and mince pies were served in the hall.

A huge thank you to the singers and musicians and to Karen and Malc Morley for volunteering to organise the refreshments. And a thank you also to the many parents and children who braved the cold to come along to sing carols and join in the festive cheer.

Topcliffe Bridge repaired
North Yorkshire Council last week delivered a wonderful Christmas present to the villages of Topcliffe and Asenby. Workmen spent a couple of days repairing Topcliffe Bridge, which had been damaged by a motorist a few months ago. It’s lovely to see the bridge wall looking pristine again, so a big thank you to the local authority.

There are rumours that someone has opened a ‘book’ on how long the bridge ramparts will stand before the next vehicle misjudges the bend at speed and destroys the stonework. If true, I’ll have a fiver on April 2026.

Festive bin collections

Topcliffe Asenby

If there is something else that needs reporting, please call 01845 577412 and leave a message (this will be picked up) or email [email protected]

Or call Elevate Multi Academy Trust on 01423 541996.

The Angel at Christmas

Christmas Eve – Wednesday 24 December – Frank Sinatra tribute act – Food 12 noon to 8pm; bar until 10.30pm. Live music from 7pm.
Christmas Day – Thursday 25 December – Bar only, 11.30am to 1.30pm.
Boxing Day – Friday 26 December – Food 12 noon to 4pm; bar 12 noon to 6pm.
New Year’s Eve – Wednesday 31 December – The Doubtful Bottle will sing in the New Year. Food 12 noon to 2pm and 5 ‘til 9pm. Bar until 1am.
New Year’s Day – Thursday 1 January – Food 12 noon to 4pm; bar 12 noon to 6pm.

Check out The Angel’s Facebook page for confirmation of timings.

The Swan opening times over the festive season

Christmas Eve – Wednesday 24 December – Food 4 to 8pm, drinks 4pm until close.
Christmas Day – Thursday 25 December – drinks only 11am to 2pm.
Boxing Day – Friday 26 December – Food 12 noon to 4pm, drinks 12pm to 8pm.
Saturday 27 to Tuesday 30 December – normal opening.
New Year’s Eve – Wednesday 31 December – Drinks only – 5pm to close.
New Year’s Day – Thursday 1 January – Closed.
Friday 2 January onwards – normal opening.

Check The Swan’s Facebook page for confirmation of timings.

Planning application – deadline for comments is imminent
Asenby residents, in particular, are reminded that the deadline for comments on the planning application for the erection of an agricultural building and associated works immediately adjacent to the allotments at Asenby, is Friday 2 January. The proposed development is on land known as Cricket Bat Willows (on the Asenby to Rainton road). It would appear to be a replacement application following a similar application made in March 2025 and withdrawn in August.

Asenby Parish Council is considering the new application in detail and will submit its own response before the deadline date. Councillors are encouraging residents to view the information and submit their comments. All relevant information can be found on the North Yorkshire Council website. Please follow this link to view the application: https://publicaccess.northyorks.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=T6MV07LTK8G00&activeTab=summary

Topcliffe Academy

Monday, 5 January – Staff Training Day
Tuesday, 6 January – School re-opens for start of Spring Term.

Art classes in the Village Hall
Here are details of art classes coming up in the Village Hall in the new year.

A block of six weekly classes begins on Monday 5 January. 10am to 12 noon. An opportunity to work on your own artwork ideas with advice and guidance from Rebecca.
‘Capturing the Light’ – a special class using oils. 10am to 3pm on Friday 9 January.
‘Lift the Spirit’ – paint colourful garden scenes in acrylics. 10am to 1pm on Thursday 29 January.
Calm Winter Art Retreat – a two-day experience using paint and pastels to create fur and feather works on day one or beautiful big skies on day two. Thursday 12 and Friday 13 February, 10am to 3pm. Choose your preferred day or attend both!
Winter sketch and draw in pencil and charcoal – 10am – 2pm on Thursday 26 February.
‘Painting the night in acrylics’ – inspired by the work of Georges Seurat. Friday 6 March, 10am to 2pm.
‘Welcoming Lights’ – lighthouses, lanterns or fairy-lights in acrylics – Friday 17 April, 10am to 2pm,

For more information and to make a booking, check out the website at https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall
The next meeting of the Village Hall Committee will be held at 7.30pm on Tuesday 13 January in the Village Hall.

Chip & Dales
Paul and Karen are taking a well-earned festive break and will be serving fish and chips again on Friday 23 January between 5 and 7pm.

Local traders and businesses
See here for a list of businesses and traders based in or close to Topcliffe.

EVENTS ON ACROSS THE WIDER AREA

The Ritz Cinema

Love Actually – TODAY: Sunday 21 December.
It’s a Wonderful Life – Monday 22 and Tuesday 23 December.
Nuremberg – Saturday 27 to Tuesday 30 December.
Zootropolis 2 – Friday 2, Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 January – all at 2.30pm.

Christmas in Ripon
The city of Ripon has a packed programme of festivities, including lights, markets, food and gift fairs, carol services, exhibitions and concerts, this Christmas. Here’s just some of the events you might want to know about.

TODAY: Sunday 21 December – Christmas Carol Concert in the nave of Ripon Cathedral – 5.30pm. Hear the wonderful Cathedral Choir accompanied by the renowned St Cecelia Orchestra. Book online at www.riponcathedral.org.uk
Tuesday 23 and Wednesday 24 December – Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols – Ripon Cathedral at 5.30pm. The Christmas story told in readings and music. Entry is free but pre-booking is necessary – www.riponcathedral.org.uk
Wednesday 24 December – Journey to Bethlehem – 11am in Ripon Cathedral. Children tell the story of Christ’s birth. Children are invited to dress up as characters from the nativity story.
Wednesday 24 December – Midnight Mass at 11am in Ripon Cathedral.
Thursday 25 December – Christmas Day Festal Eucharist – 10.30am in Ripon Cathedral.
Friday 26 December – Eucharist for St Steven’s Day – 9.30am at Ripon Cathedral.
Wednesday 31 December – New Year’s Eve Celebration – Ripon Market Square from 9pm. Live music and the ringing in of the new year with fireworks at midnight.
Wednesday 31 December – Watchnight Service and Torchlight Procession – From Ripon Cathedral to the Market Square starting at 11am.

Dalton Church and Village Festive Events

Red Riding Hood Pantomime, Tuesday 23 December, 6pm for 6.30pm start. Tickets are available from Eleanor on 07841 036340.
Angels and Shepherds Service, Wednesday 24 December at 4pm. This is a family service and children are encouraged to dress up either as an angel or a shepherd.

Christmas in Baldersby St. James Church
There’s a number of festive services and events coming up, including:

Carols by Candlelight – at 6.30pm on Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24 December.
Plough Sunday – Sunday 18 January – an important service in the farming calendar. There’ll be a bring and share lunch and everyone is welcome.

Free Afternoon Tea on Christmas Day
This Christmas, Maple Park Café wants to help bring a little warmth, comfort and company to anyone who may be spending Christmas day alone or finding times a little tough. The cafe, between Busby Stoop and Skipton on Swale, will be open from 12pm, with a free Afternoon Tea served from 2pm until 4pm. The tea is free of charge. If you, or someone you know, would benefit from enjoying this kind offer, please get in touch to reserve a place. Ring 01845 813115.

Boxing Day at Thorp Perrow Arboretum
On Boxing Day – Friday 26 December – Thorp Perrow Arboretum is offering free admission to all visitors. And from Saturday 27 December to Sunday 15 February 2026, admission is at half price.

Concerts and Events at Ripon Cathedral

The Eagles by Candlelight – Saturday 10 January 2026 at 7.30pm.
Bruce Springsteen by Candlelight – Saturday 28 February at 7.30pm.
70s Disco Hits by Candlelight – Friday 10 April at 7.30pm.

Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/

Quiz answers

1. Britain
2. Cardle
3. Donald Trump
4. Epithany
5. Gluhwein
6. Indian and Pacific oceans (Christmas Island in the Indian Ocean is an Australian territory. Christmas Island in the Pacific is also known as Kiritimati)
7. John Peel
8. Max
9. Snow
10. Wallace and Gromitt.

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

Posted on 14 December 20252 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 293

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
[email protected]

St Columba’s Services

TODAY: Sunday 14 December at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Wednesday 17 December at 7pm – Compline for Advent
Thursday 18 December at 11am – Morning Prayer service
Sunday 21 December at 10.45am – Said Matins.
Sunday 21 December at 6.30pm – Service of Nine Lessons and Carols
Tuesday 23 December at 2pm – Crib Service
Wednesday 24 December at 10.45pm – Midnight Mass
Thursday 25 December at 10am – Christmas morning Service
Sunday 28 December at 10.45am – Holy Communion.

Quiz Night

Last Sunday’s entertaining quiz was set by Roger. It was a mixed-up teams event and won by Shirley, David, Steve and Stuart. Well done the winners and everyone else who took part.

Here’s a selection of questions from the quiz. See how you do. The answers are at the end of today’s email.

1. What was the name of Maureen Lipman’s character in the BT advert?
2. What is Spanish for pomegranate? It’s also the name of a Spanish city.
3. How many numbers are there on a standard Bingo card?
4. Who was the first woman to read the BBC TV news?
5. Whose advert said ‘tested by dummies, driven by the intelligent’?
6. Which French town is famous for the manufacture of nougat?
7. In 1901 who transmitted the first radio signals across the Atlantic?
8. Name the ship found drifting and deserted in the Atlantic in 1872?
9. Which two fruits are an anagram of each other?
10. What creature was on the reverse of the old farthing?

Rita and Peter say thank you
Rita and Peter Simmerson, who live in Asenby, wish to publicly thank the many friends and neighbours who have helped them over the last year when they have both suffered from illness and poor health. Peter has Alzheimer’s and very poor mobility and needs constant care, whilst Rita, who is Peter’s main carer, has also had health issues this year involving a number of hospital appointments and is awaiting operations for the replacement of both knees.

Rita said: “Many thanks to all who have helped us in any way during the past year. Life would have been a lot more difficult without everyone’s kindness. People have helped out by taking Peter to hospital appointments, picking him up when he has fallen, sitting with him whilst I have visited clinics and pushing him out in his wheelchair.

“The volunteer team running the Boccia Club have also been very kind, looking after Peter at the regular Tuesday sessions…and giving me time to pop out to do some shopping. I am forever grateful to the communities of Topcliffe and Asenby, and now fully appreciate the benefits of living in a village with wonderful friends neighbours.

Looking forward to spring
Asenby Parish Council has planted 300 daffodil bulbs at the two entrances to the village, and around the bus shelter. Hopefully they will all bloom next spring and add a bit of colour to the village. Thanks to the volunteers who helped plant them last week.

Message from Liz and Dave at The Elm Gallery
A big thank you to all the people who came to our 10th birthday celebrations last weekend and helped to make it a huge success. As well as the support we had from our local customers, some people travelled a considerable distance to come and join us. We thought we might have bought too much cake, but we’re pleased to say that we got through most of it! It doesn’t feel like ten years since we opened our gallery in Topcliffe, but we often say that it was the best thing we ever did.

The Gallery will be open normal hours up to Christmas, including Christmas Eve for your last minute shopping. We will re-open in the new year on Friday 2 January.

Christmas lunch a great success

The Senior Citizens’ Christmas lunch held last Wednesday was a fly-away success and an excellent opener for the festive season in our two villages. Nearly 50 paying guests sat down for a delicious three-course lunch with drinks and entertainment.

A huge thank you goes to organiser Judith Lowe and a team of volunteers, including Karen and Malc Morley, Linda Robinson and Linda Carver who prepared the meal and managed the kitchen, to Chris Wiggins and Clare Phillips who served the tables and to Doug Allan and Peter Lowe who kept the drinks topped up.

After lunch entertainment was provided by the remarkable Cherry Tones – Julie and Fern – who sang and danced their way through a festive repertoire and had couples up dancing and joining in with percussion instruments. They were brilliant.

The surplus funds, after all expenses, are being distributed in equal shares to the Village Hall, Boccia Club and Warm Hub.

Dancing together again after forty years

A lovely photograph was doing the rounds at the Christmas lunch last Wednesday. It was taken forty years ago at the New Year’s Eve party at The Angel and was of Asenby resident Marion Snelling and Topcliffe’s very own, Dave Bowman. As you can see, Marion looks very beautiful and seems to be enjoying the waltz around the dance floor. But how many villagers can remember Dave with that amazing lumberjack’s beard? Great memories…and to mark the occasion, Marion and Dave danced again to the music of the excellent Cherry Tones.

Asenby Christmas in the Park
The crowds turned out to welcome Santa last Friday evening in Asenby. He arrived on a special sleigh and paraded through the village to the Community Park where he welcomed children into his grotto to hear their Christmas wishes and to give them a small present.

It was an excellent event and the Parish Council and volunteer organisers deserve a big pat on the back for making it such a success. Thanks are also due to Dave and Maggie from the Angel Inn in Topcliffe who provided and served hot drinks, mulled wine and mince pies.

The photographs show:

Top left: Children write letters to Father Christmas.
Top right: Three-year-old Hugo and his mum, Charlotte, meet Father Christmas.
Bottom left: Dave and Maggie Mathews, owners of The Angel, with Holly Knowles.
Bottom right: Alison Robertson and members of the Topcliffe Academy children’s choir, who sang a wonderful selection of carols and Christmas songs.

Withdrawn planning application is resubmitted
A planning application for the erection of an agricultural building and associated works immediately adjacent to the allotments at Asenby has been resubmitted to North Yorkshire Council.

The proposed development is on land known as Cricket Bat Willows (on the Asenby to Rainton road). It would appear to be a replacement application following a similar application made in March 2025 and withdrawn in August.

According to Asenby Parish Council, which objected to the initial planning application, the key stated details are:

Dimensions – length 24m x width 15m (360 sq m) and 6m high at eaves, with 520 sq m of hard standing
The building is for agricultural use only – no industrial or commercial activities
To be used for the storage of machinery, fuel and harvested crops by a tenant, Northern Lavender.

Asenby Parish Council is considering the new application in detail and will submit its response before the 2 January 2026 deadline. Councillors are encouraging residents to view the information and submit their comments, particularly if they object to, or support, the application. All relevant information can be found on the North Yorkshire Council website. Please follow this link to view the application: https://publicaccess.northyorks.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=T6MV07LTK8G00&activeTab=summary

The Parish Council would also welcome any resident feedback over the next week. Please email to [email protected]

Last Inland Posting Dates

2nd Class – Wednesday 17 December
Royal Mail Tracked 48 hours – Friday 19 December
1st Class – Saturday 20 December
Royal Mail Tracked 24 hours – Sunday 21 December
Special Delivery Guaranteed – Tuesday 23 December.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall – bookings and hire

Evri: Where’s my Parcel?
Residents of Topcliffe and Asenby who have experienced the poor service dished up by the delivery firm Evri, will be interested to hear that the BBC programme Panorama went undercover inside the company to investigate what’s really going on behind the scenes.

Evri is one of the UK’s most complained-about delivery companies. So, if you’ve ever wondered why your parcel ended up in a hedge, why some drivers seem to just lob packages at your door, or why 16 parcels get dumped on one doorstep while yours goes missing – this programme finally gives you some answers.

The documentary, ‘Evri: Where’s my Parcel?’, which will be broadcast at 8pm on Monday 15 December on BBC One, explores the pressures facing workers in Evri delivery units, speaking to unhappy customers and couriers who say they struggle to make a living.

Carols in Asenby village
Members of St Columba’s choir will be leading carol singing around Asenby on the evening of Tuesday 16 December. They’ll be singing all of your favourite carols starting at 7pm from Asenby Hall. There’ll be a collection for the Herriott Hospice. Singers are invited to Asenby Hall afterwards for mulled wine and mince pies, by kind invitation of John and Clare Phillips.

Warm Hub Lunch
The last Warm Hub lunch of this year will take place on Wednesday 17 December between 11.30am and 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of home-made meals, followed by puddings and tea or coffee. All welcome. There’s no set charge, but donations are welcome to help pay the cost of hiring the Village Hall and for essential food and drink items that must be purchased for each lunch.

In the New Year, Warm Hub lunches start again on Wednesday 7 January. And then fortnightly thereafter.

Topcliffe Academy – important dates this term

Wednesday, 17 December – Carol Service at St Columba’s Church, 2.15pm
Friday, 19 December – Break up for Christmas, 3.15pm
Monday, 5 January – Staff Training Day
Tuesday, 6 January – School re-opens for start of Spring Term.

Topcliffe Parish Council
The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be held at 7pm on Thursday 18 December in the Village Hall.

Chip & Dales
The mobile fish and chip van will be in Topcliffe on 19 December between 5 and 7pm. Paul and Karen will then be taking a festive break and will start serving again on Friday 23 January.

Carols around the Christmas Tree in Topcliffe

Last year’s carol service photographed by Adam Clark.

Residents of Topcliffe and Asenby are invited to gather at the Christmas tree outside the Village Hall to sing carols at 7pm on Friday 19 December. The children of Topcliffe Academy’s choir will once again be making an appearance. Sheets with the words of the carols…and a few other festive songs…will be provided, but you’ll need to bring a torch or a mobile phone to light your way. And don’t forget to wrap up warm! Afterwards, mulled wine and mince pies will be served in the hall. Refreshments for children too. There’ll be no set price, but donations will be welcome to help cover the cost.

Christmas at The Angel
The Angel Inn at Topcliffe is holding a number of special evenings this festive season. On Christmas Eve there’s a Frank Sinatra tribute act and on New Year’s Eve, The Doubtful Bottle will help sing in the new year. Check out the Angel’s Facebook page for confirmation of timings.

Festive Opening Times

Christmas Eve – Food 12 noon to 8pm; bar until 10.30pm. Live music from 7pm.
Christmas Day – Bar only, 11.30am to 1.30pm.
Boxing Day – Food 12 noon to 4pm; bar 12 noon to 6pm.
New Year’s Eve – Food 12 noon to 2pm and 5 ‘til 9pm. Bar until 1am.
New Year’s Day – Food 12 noon to 4pm; bar 12 noon to 6pm.

Art classes in the Village Hall
Here are details of art classes coming up in the Village Hall in the new year.

A block of six weekly classes begins on Monday 5 January. 10am to 12 noon. An opportunity to work on your own artwork ideas with advice and guidance from Rebecca.
‘Capturing the Light’ – a special class using oils. 10am to 3pm on Friday 9 January.
‘Lift the Spirit’ – paint colourful garden scenes in acrylics. 10am to 1pm on Thursday 29 January.
Calm Winter Art Retreat – a two-day experience using paint and pastels to create fur and feather works on day one or beautiful big skies on day two. Thursday 12 and Friday 13 February, 10am to 3pm. Choose your preferred day or attend both!
Winter sketch and draw in pencil and charcoal – 10am – 2pm on Thursday 26 February.
‘Painting the night in acrylics’ – inspired by the work of Georges Seurat. Friday 6 March, 10am to 2pm.
‘Welcoming Lights’ – lighthouses, lanterns or fairy-lights in acrylics – Friday 17 April, 10am to 2pm,

For more information and to make a booking, check out the website at https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/

Local traders and businesses
See here for a list of businesses and traders based in or close to Topcliffe.

EVENTS ON ACROSS THE WIDER AREA

The Ritz Cinema

Wicked – to Thursday 18 December. Matinee on Sunday 14 and Wednesday 17 December.
Die Hard – Friday 19 and Saturday 20 December.
Love Actually – Sunday 21 December.
It’s a Wonderful Life – Monday 22 and Tuesday 23 December.
Nuremberg – Saturday 27 to Tuesday 30 December.

Meet Father Christmas and his Elves at Thirsk Garden Centre
Santa welcomes children on Sunday 14, Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December. Every child can tell Santa what they’d like to find in their Christmas stocking. He’ll do a quick check that they’re not on his Naughty List, and give them each a gift. All money collected goes to the Rotary Club of Thirsk to be used to support local good causes. £7 per child. http://www.thirskgardencentre.co.uk

Christmas in Ripon
As usual the city of Ripon has a packed programme of festivities, including lights, markets, food and gift fairs, carol services, exhibitions and concerts, this Christmas. Here’s just some of the events you might want to know about.

TODAY: Sunday 14 December – Jazz meets the Classics – a special concert featuring the David Gordon Trio at Holy Trinity Church. 3pm.
Friday 19 to Sunday 21 December – Illuminated Winter Wonderland in Ripon Spa Garden – 2-8pm. Free entry but donations gratefully received.
Sunday 21 December – Christmas Carol Concert in the nave of Ripon Cathedral – 5.30pm. Hear the wonderful Cathedral Choir accompanied by the renowned St Cecelia Orchestra. Book online at www.riponcathedral.org.uk
Tuesday 23 and Wednesday 24 December – Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols – Ripon Cathedral at 5.30pm. The Christmas story told in readings and music. Entry is free but pre-booking is necessary – www.riponcathedral.org.uk
Wednesday 24 December – Journey to Bethlehem – 11am in Ripon Cathedral. Children tell the story of Christ’s birth. Children are invited to dress up as characters from the nativity story.
Wednesday 24 December – Midnight Mass at 11am in Ripon Cathedral.
Thursday 25 December – Christmas Day Festal Eucharist – 10.30am in Ripon Cathedral.
Friday 26 December – Eucharist for St Steven’s Day – 9.30am at Ripon Cathedral.
Wednesday 31 December – New Year’s Eve Celebration – Ripon Market Square from 9pm. Live music and the ringing in of the new year with fireworks at midnight.
Wednesday 31 December – Watchnight Service and Torchlight Procession – From Ripon Cathedral to the Market Square starting at 11am.

Christmas in Baldersby St. James Church
There’s a number of festive services and events coming up, including:

TODAY: Sunday 14 December at 5pm. A carol sing along followed by mulled wine and nibbles. If you would like to choose a favourite carol please either fill in the sheet in church or e-mail to: [email protected]
Carols by Candlelight – at 6.30pm on Christmas Eve, 24 December.
Plough Sunday – Sunday 18 January – an important service in the farming calendar. There’ll be a bring and share lunch and everyone is welcome.

Carols at The Golden Fleece, Thirsk
There’ll be carol singing in the Courtyard at The Golden Fleece in Thirsk on Thursday 18 December at 7pm. The courtyard will come alive with festive cheer as the Thirsk Royal British Legion fills the air with beautiful Christmas carols. Free event with mince pies and mulled wine or hot chocolate. All welcome.

Jack and The Beanstalk
Join Same Difference as they go on an adventure into the Christmas story of Jack and the Beanstalk. Jack’s adventure to save his mum’s cafe may just save Christmas! Packed with laughs, songs and festive fun for all. Thirsk & Sowerby Town Hall 0n Friday 19 December 7 to 8pm. £10 or £8 concession. Book online http://www.ruralarts.org/whats-on/

Thirsk Artisan Market
A market on Thirsk’s Market Place with a wide variety of artisan stalls which gives traders the best opportunities to showcase and sell their handmade goods. Sunday 21 December between 10am and 3pm.

Dalton Church and Village Festive Events

Red Riding Hood Pantomime, Tuesday 23 December, 6pm for 6.30pm start. Tickets are available from Eleanor on 07841 036340.
Angels and Shepherds Service, Wednesday 24 December at 4pm. This is a family service and children are encouraged to dress up either as an angel or a shepherd.

Concerts and Events at Ripon Cathedral

The Eagles by Candlelight – Saturday 10 January 2026 at 7.30pm.
Bruce Springsteen by Candlelight – Saturday 28 February at 7.30pm.
70s Disco Hits by Candlelight – Friday 10 April at 7.30pm.

Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/

Quiz answers

1. Beattie
2. Granada
3. 15
4. Angela Rippon
5. Volvo
6. Montelimar
7. Marconi
8. Marie Celeste
9. Lemon and Melon
10. A wren.

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

Posted on 7 December 20252 October 2026 by Doug Allan

Sunday Email: Issue 292

Welcome to your Sunday Email.

Doug Allan
07785 223707
[email protected]

Senior Citizens’ Christmas Lunch
This is a final call for anyone who wishes to book a place at the Senior Citizens’ Christmas Lunch on Wednesday 10 December at the Village Hall. If you are over 65 years of age you can enjoy a festive lunch and drinks, plus entertainment, for just £15. Places must be booked in advance and the organisers are unable to accept non-ticket holders on the day. Get in touch with Judith Lowe on 01845 577911.

Warm Hub Lunch
Here’s a reminder that as the Senior Citizens’ Christmas lunch is taking place on the date originally scheduled for a Warm Hub lunch – Wednesday 10 December – the next Warm Hub lunch will take place on Wednesday 17 December. In the New Year, Warm Hub lunches start again on Wednesday 7 January. And then fortnightly thereafter.

At each lunch there’s a selection of home-made meals, followed by puddings and tea or coffee. All welcome. There’s no set charge, but donations are welcome to help pay the rental cost of hiring the Village Hall and for essential food and drink items that must be purchased for each lunch.

Gallery celebrates its 10th birthday
TODAY: 7 December Sunday – from 12 noon to 5.30pm. The Elm Gallery in Topcliffe is celebrating its tenth anniversary this weekend. To mark the occasion Liz and Dave have invited everyone to call in for cakes, tea or coffee…and maybe something stronger. It’s a treasure trove of beautiful things right in our village

Fountains Abbey – Christmas carols
TODAY: Sunday 7 December and next Sunday, 14 December at 2pm, in St Mary’s Church in the Studley Deer Park, there’ll be carols by candlelight, accompanied by Ripon City Band. Tickets are £5 per person and must be pre-booked on www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Christmas Carol Service
TODAY: Sunday 7 December at 3pm. Thirsk Friends of the Lambert Hospice are holding a Christmas Carol Service, plus raffle, children’s tombola and bar. It’s to be held at Thirsk Auction Mart and the cost is £5 per person to include mince pie and mulled wine, under 16s free.

St Columba’s Services

TODAY: Sunday 7 December at 6.30pm – Advent Choral Evensong
Wednesday 10 December at 7pm – Compline for Advent
Thursday 11 December at 11am – Morning Prayer service
Sunday 14 December at 10.45am – Holy Communion
Wednesday 17 December at 7pm – Compline for Advent
Thursday 18 December at 11am – Morning Prayer service
Sunday 21 December at 10.45am – Said Matins.
Sunday 21 December at 6.30pm – Service of Nine Lessons and Carols
Tuesday 23 December at 2pm – Crib Service
Wednesday 24 December at 10.45pm – Midnight Mass
Thursday 25 December at 10am – Christmas morning Service
Sunday 28 December at 10.45am – Holy Communion.

Village Quiz

TONIGHT: Sunday 7 December – the quiz will take place at 8pm this evening in the Village Hall. All welcome.

Last Sunday’s entertaining quiz was set by Derek and won by Jean, Sue, Judith and Roger. Well done the winners and everyone else who took part.

Here’s a selection of questions from the quiz. See how you do. The answers are at the end of today’s email.

1. Goa in India was once governed by which country?
2. On which river does Peterborough stand?
3. Was the yo-yo originally used as a weapon? Yes or no.
4. The name of what kind of vegetable is also a dog’s name?
5. What was the ancient name of the people of Scotland?
6. Who sang the 1960s hit song ‘Catch the Wind’?
7. What is the North American name for a saloon car?
8. In which Clint Eastwood film was he accompanied by an Orangutang and what was the Oranutang named?
9. Which food poisoning bacteria is often associated with soft cheeses?
10. Which common flower is a Bell’s Perennis?

Village Christmas Tree
Topcliffe’s Christmas tree was put up yesterday outside the Village Hall and it is looking brilliant. The tree has been purchased jointly by the Village Hall Committee and Topcliffe Parish Council. Once again, Josh Barningham, Malcolm Morley and Doug Allan are thanked for putting up the tree and adding the newly purchased mains-powered Christmas lights. Throughout the festive season the lights will be on from 4 to 11pm each day.

A Heck of a good lunch
It seems that there is such a thing as a free lunch! Residents of Topcliffe and Asenby were invited to lunch at the Village Hall last Wednesday (3 December) by Heck, the company famed for its sausages, and by all accounts those who attended had a great meal with all the festive trimmings. It was perhaps a little unfortunate that only twenty one residents took up the offer, but the low numbers certainly didn’t affect the event or the diners’ enjoyment of it. Heck organised the meal as part of a community initiative to put something back into local communities. A big thank you to the company and to their staff who prepared and served the meal.

Village Hall seeks accounts examiner
For as many years as Village Hall committee members can remember, John Graham, has undertaken the annual “examination” of the hall’s accounts, despite the fact he moved from the village twenty years ago. John, a former parish councillor and the author of The Millennium Book of Topcliffe, last month examined and approved the accounts for 2024/25 and gave them a ‘clean bill of health’.

But John has decided that it is time for him to give up the job of examiner, so next year the Village Hall Committee will be needing a new person to undertake the task. It’s hoped that someone in Topcliffe or Asenby might volunteer to “examine” the next set of accounts. That person doesn’t have to be an accountant, though that would be great, but simply needs to be a competent person with some understanding of finance and accounts.

The Trustees of the charity, ie the Committee, are required to produce an annual report and accounts each year. At the current level of the hall’s finances, the Committee is able to have its accounts independently “examined” instead of formally audited. The examination can be carried out by a suitable independent person. Such a person could still be a supporter of the Village Hall, provided that they do not have a close relationship with it or its Trustees and they are not involved in the day-to-day administration of the hall.

Anyone who thinks that they may be able to help is asked to get in touch with Richard Byas, chair of the Committee on 07801 721528.

Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall – bookings and hire

Festive Workshop at The Angel

There’s just one festive workshop left to take place at The Angel Inn, Topcliffe. It’s a Macrame Garland Workshop, which is taking place on Wednesday 10 December, 10.30am to 12:30pm and 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Tickets £25. A glass of mulled wine and a mince pie is included. For more details and to book please call The Angel reception team on 01845 578000.

Christmas extravaganza planned in Asenby

The festive season in Asenby kicks off with a magical evening of community cheer at Asenby Community Park next Friday 12 December starting at 6pm.

The Parish Council invites you to bring the whole family for carols and songs led by the local children’s choir, refreshments courtesy of The Angel Inn and to visit Santa in his grotto to share their Christmas wish list and capture a festive photograph. Entry to the Community Park will be just £2 per person (adults and children), which includes refreshments and a gift from Santa for all children.

Join Santa at 5.45pm on his journey from Asenby’s jubilee bench through the village to the Community Park at the end of Jamesville Way. Glow bands will be handed out to all children joining the procession or watching from the roadside.

Topcliffe Academy – important dates this term

Wednesday, 17 December – Carol Service at St Columba’s Church, 2.15pm
Friday, 19 December – Break up for Christmas, 3.15pm
Monday, 5 January – Staff Training Day
Tuesday, 6 January – School re-opens for start of Spring Term.

Topcliffe Parish Council
The next meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council will be held at 7pm on Thursday 18 December in the Village Hall.

Carols around the Christmas Tree in Topcliffe
Residents of Topcliffe and Asenby are invited to gather at the Christmas tree outside the Village Hall to sing carols at 7pm on Friday 19 December. The children of Topcliffe Academy’s choir will once again be making an appearance. Sheets with the words of the carols…and a few other festive songs…will be provided, but you’ll need to bring a torch or a mobile phone to light your way. And don’t forget to wrap up warm! Afterwards, mulled wine and mince pies will be served in the hall. Refreshments for children too. There’ll be no set price, but donations will be welcome to help cover the cost.

Art classes in the Village Hall
Here are details of art classes coming up in the Village Hall in the new year.

A block of six weekly classes begins on Monday 5 January. 10am to 12 noon. An opportunity to work on your own artwork ideas with advice and guidance from Rebecca.
‘Capturing the Light’ – a special class using oils. 10am to 3pm on Friday 9 January.
‘Lift the Spirit’ – paint colourful garden scenes in acrylics. 10am to 1pm on Thursday 29 January.
Calm Winter Art Retreat – a two-day experience using paint and pastels to create fur and feather works on day one or beautiful big skies on day two. Thursday 12 and Friday 13 February, 10am to 3pm. Choose your preferred day or attend both!
Winter sketch and draw in pencil and charcoal – 10am – 2pm on Thursday 26 February.
‘Painting the night in acrylics’ – inspired by the work of Georges Seurat. Friday 6 March, 10am to 2pm.
‘Welcoming Lights’ – lighthouses, lanterns or fairy-lights in acrylics – Friday 17 April, 10am to 2pm,

For more information and to make a booking, check out the website at https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/

Chip ‘n’ Dales
The fish and chip van is in Topcliffe every Friday from 5 – 7pm.

Local traders and businesses
See here for a list of businesses and traders based in or close to Topcliffe.

EVENTS ON IN THE WIDER AREA

The Ritz Cinema

Blue Moon – to Thursday 11 December. Matinee on Wednesday 10 December.
Wicked – Friday 12 to 18 December. Matinee on Sunday 13 and Wednesday 17 December.
Die Hard – Friday 19 and Saturday 20 December.
Love Actually – Sunday 21 December.
It’s a Wonderful Life – Monday 22 and Tuesday 23 December.
Nuremberg – Saturday 27 to Tuesday 30 December.

Meet Father Christmas and his Elves at Thirsk Garden Centre
Santa welcomes children today (Sunday 7 December) and on the weekends of 13 and 14 and 20 and 21 December. Every child can tell Santa what they’d like to find in their Christmas stocking. He’ll do a quick check that they’re not on his Naughty List, and give them each a gift. All money collected goes to the Rotary Club of Thirsk to be used to support local good causes. £7 per child. http://www.thirskgardencentre.co.uk

Christmas Prints
Explore the art of linoprinting at this festive workshop at Rural Arts, The Courthouse, Thirsk. You will have the opportunity to use the printing press, specialist tools and explore different techniques to carve and create your very own lino prints – perfect for unique Christmas cards or gifts. Wednesday 10 December 10:30am – 4:30pm. £20. Book online at http://www.ruralarts.org/whats-on/

Jennyruth Workshops Christmas Fair
Christmassy workshop, refreshments and raffle – and have lots of fun – at Jennyruth Workshops, Red House Farm, Ripon. Thursday 11 December between 1.30pm – 5pm.

Wreath Making Workshop
Join the Rural Art’s festive Christmas wreath workshop at The Courthouse. Get creative, enjoy a festive drink, and leave with your handmade wreath to proudly display this holiday season. Two sessions available: on Friday 12 December 2.30 – 4:30pm or 7 – 9pm. £45. Book online at http://www.ruralarts.org/whats-on

Dalton Church and Village Festive Events

Carols by Candlelight, Friday 12 December at 6.30 pm. Everyone welcome.
Red Riding Hood Pantomime, Tuesday 23 December, 6pm for 6.30pm start. Tickets are available from Eleanor on 07841 036340.
Angels and Shepherds Service, Wednesday 24 December at 4pm. This is a family service and children are encouraged to dress up either as an angel or a shepherd.

A merry Christmas in Ripon
As usual the city of Ripon has a packed programme of festivities, including lights, markets, food and gift fairs, carol services, exhibitions and concerts, this Christmas. Here’s just some of the events you might want to know about.

Saturday 13 December – Ripon Choral Society present Handel’s Messiah in the beautiful surroundings of Ripon Cathedral. 7.30pm. Book online at www.riponchoralsociety.org.uk
Sunday 14 December – Jazz meets the Classics – a special concert featuring the David Gordon Trio at Holy Trinity Church. 3pm.
Friday 19 to Sunday 21 December – Illuminated Winter Wonderland in Ripon Spa Garden – 2-8pm. Free entry but donations gratefully received.
Sunday 21 December – Christmas Carol Concert in the nave of Ripon Cathedral – 5.30pm. Hear the wonderful Cathedral Choir accompanied by the renowned St Cecelia Orchestra. Book online at www.riponcathedral.org.uk
Tuesday 23 and Wednesday 24 December – Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols – Ripon Cathedral at 5.30pm. The Christmas story told in readings and music. Entry is free but pre-booking is necessary – www.riponcathedral.org.uk
Wednesday 24 December – Journey to Bethlehem – 11am in Ripon Cathedral. Children tell the story of Christ’s birth. Children are invited to dress up as characters from the nativity story.
Wednesday 24 December – Midnight Mass at 11am in Ripon Cathedral.
Thursday 25 December – Christmas Day Festal Eucharist – 10.30am in Ripon Cathedral.
Friday 26 December – Eucharist for St Steven’s Day – 9.30am at Ripon Cathedral.
Wednesday 31 December – New Year’s Eve Celebration – Ripon Market Square from 9pm. Live music and the ringing in of the new year with fireworks at midnight.
Wednesday 31 December – Watchnight Service and Torchlight Procession – From Ripon Cathedral to the Market Square starting at 11am.

Fabric Crackers
In this creative session, you’ll learn to cut simple patterns and explore textile techniques like appliqué and embellishment, all while crafting sustainable, reusable fabric crackers. The Courthouse, Westgate, Thirsk on Saturday 13 December between 2 and 4pm. Perfect for beginners or experienced makers, you’ll leave with beautifully handmade crackers to brighten your festive celebrations. £20. Book online http://www.ruralarts.org/whats-on/

Northallerton Male Voice Choir
Christmas Concert o be performed at The Forum, Northallerton on Saturday 13 December. The choir will be singing a varied selection of Christmas themed songs. Their guests once again will be the Easington Colliery Band. 3pm and 7.30pm. £12. Book online, at http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

Christmas in Baldersby St. James Church
There’s a number of festive services and events coming up, including:

Carols – Sunday 14 December at 5pm. A great sing along followed by mulled wine and nibbles. If you would like to choose a favourite carol please either fill in the sheet in church or e-mail to: [email protected]
Carols by Candlelight – at 6.30pm on Christmas Eve, 24 December.
Plough Sunday – Sunday 18 January – an important service in the farming calendar. There’ll be a bring and share lunch and everyone is welcome.

Concerts and Events at Ripon Cathedral

The Eagles by Candlelight – Saturday 10 January 2026 at 7.30pm.
Bruce Springsteen by Candlelight – Saturday 28 February at 7.30pm.
70s Disco Hits by Candlelight – Friday 10 April at 7.30pm.

Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/

Quiz answers

1. Portugal
2. The River Nene
3. No
4. Collie
5. Picts
6. Donovan
7. Sedan
8. Either, ‘Every which way but Loose’ or ‘Every which way you can’ and Clyde.
9. Listeria
10. Daisy.

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