Welcome to the Sunday Email – the 150th edition!
Today marks the start of a sponsorship deal that will ensure that the Sunday Email will remain a weekly publication. Faro Finance Ltd (a company operated by my son’s partner) has agreed to pay MailChimp costs associated with the distribution of the email for a period of one year. In exchange he’ll get a small banner (see end of email) advertising his accountancy business and space for timely messages about important financial matters, such as when tax returns must be lodged with HMRC.
I may have been presumptious in arranging a full year’s sponsorship without asking recipients whether or not they want to continue receiving the Sunday Email. I can see that on average 65 to 70% of recipients actually open the email each week – that’s not a bad average, I guess. And people I meet at various events or even just in the village, generally provide positive feedback that leads me to believe the weekly email is welcomed and appreciated. In the end everyone has a choice – they can read it or delete it…or even unsubscribe! But I hope that the majority will continue to read and enjoy this weekly community newsletter.
Doug
07785 223707
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Hello from Timothy at Faro Finance
I’m really pleased to be sponsoring your Sunday email which brings you news of things you might not always find out about without a lot of digging around.
That sounds a bit like our world, our clients don’t have the time to search out the best way to manage their accounts, tax and tax returns, payroll, how VAT works and much more. Faro Finance can do the digging and come up with better solutions for you.
Once a month, starting next week, the Sunday Email will have a message from us covering things you might not know about. It will be timely because the end of the tax year is looming. We are going to let you know about HMRC’s ‘Trivial Benefits’. Actually it isn’t trivial at all – it’s a tax free benefit for both employees and employers.
Timothy Potter | 07726 775533 | farofinance.co.uk
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St Columba’s – Lent Services
Throughout Lent there’ll be a service of Compline at 7pm every Wednesday. Compline for Lent is a quiet reflective service of prayers and readings for the end of the day and the service lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. The usual services will be held on Sundays.
The church won’t be organising Lent lunches this year as the Warm Space lunches are being held each Wednesday.
- TODAY at 10.45am – Holy Communion
- Wednesday 15 March at 7pm – Compline led by Rev’d Robert Williamson
- Sunday 19 March at 10.45am – Choral Matins on Mothering Sunday.
- Wednesday 22 March at 7pm – Compline
- Sunday 26 March at 10.45am – Holy Communion led by Rev’d Robert Williamson
- Wednesday 29 March at 7pm – Compline
- Sunday 2 April at 6.30pm – Choral Evensong for Palm Sunday
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Dalton Film Club
TODAY – A newly formed film club starts at Dalton Village Hall. There’ll be a matinee at 2pm featuring Matilda the Musical. Then at 7pm the 15+ film will be Top Gun: Maverick. Entry is free of charge. The bar will be open and popcorn and sweets will be on sale.
Films will be shown every second Sunday of the month. Check out the hall’s Facebook page for details.
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Platinum Park Project
As reported in the latest edition of The Tattler, Topcliffe Parish Council has confirmed the Platinum Park Project in the village will go ahead this year.
The exciting plans for the playing field, which were developed following a community wide survey, and will cost £95,000, include an accessible pathway/trail with raised areas for walking and bikes, a new gate for better pedestrian access, significant upgrades to the children’s play equipment, including some accessible items, and a fully-fenced allotment area. There will also be tree and wildflower planting to increase the diversity of the wildlife in the area. Pictures of the plans will be available to view on the parish website in due course. Sincere thanks are offered to Cllr Mark Robson, our local councillor and Leader of Hambleton District Council, for giving his backing to this project and enabling the use of Community Infrastructure Levy funds towards make it possible.
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Topcliffe Bridge repairs delayed
In January, North Yorkshire County Council’s highways engineers promised that repairs to the Asenby side of Topcliffe Bridge would be completed before 31 March 2023. Unfortunately, that won’t happen now and there will be further delay before this job is tackled. Highway chiefs are saying that the Environment Agency is suggesting repairs can’t be undertaken whilst fish in the river are breeding. This restriction is being questioned but a new date for work to start will be required. Let’s hope this is soon sorted and our 400 year old bridge is repaired and tidied up before too long.
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A bench fit for a king
Asenby will be commemorating the coronation of King Charles lll by installing a bespoke metal bench at the Whaites Lane entrance to the village. The bench will be forged by Asenby blacksmith Louis Sturt who designed and installed the Platinum Jubilee Bench under the chestnut tree in 2022. The Coronation Bench will replace a dilapidated seat which was donated to the village many years ago by a fishing syndicate. It will be funded by the recently defunct Asenby Institute whose last committee meeting voted to use remaining funds – previously donated by villagers – for this celebratory purpose.
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Flying the flag for Topcliffe
Topcliffe resident Andrew Eckersley is seeking views on a plan he has developed for a commemorative flagstaff and pole above the old stone cross on Long Street. He sees it as a way of commemorating both the late Queen Elizabeth II and recognising the coronation of our new King.
The flag staff – see illustrations here – would be built in solid oak around the cross, taking care that the old blockwork is appropriately preserved and protected. It’s envisaged that the flag staff base would have four corners in solid oak coming to a point about 12 feet from the ground, and the flagpole itself would be around 30ft high. It has been estimated that the cost might be around £20,000, though it’s hoped that a much keener price might be achieved.
It will require both planning permission and support from Topcliffe Parish Council, which owns the land, and some councillors have already indicated their support in principle, subject to sight of a formal proposal. It will also require a major fund raising scheme.
At this point in time, Andrew is simply wishing to see what villagers think of the idea. If you have any thoughts or can offer any support for this initiative, then please email Andrew at alieneck1963@gmail.com
Any feedback received will help determine whether or not he invests more time and effort in trying to bring the project to fruition.
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The Flying Oysters
Tickets for The Flying Oysters dance on 22 April have sold out! There may be a few more available if those people who have reserved tickets do not actually buy them. Email doug@dougallan.co.uk or call 07785 223707 to be put on a reserve list.
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Village Hall needs new committee members
Our villages are fortunate to have a very successful village hall that provides a fantastic venue for regular activities – like the Warm Lunch hub, boccia, indoor bowls, art classes, scouts and brownies – as well as one-off events such as private parties, the Produce Show, Race Night and dances.
The hall needs volunteer committee members to make it work and the search is on for new blood to help secure this vitally important venue’s future. The committee meets six times a year, though it’s hoped volunteers might get a bit more involved in organising and running events. If you might like to be involved, please get in touch with the Chairman, Andrew Eckersley by email – alieneck4000@gmail.com
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Scout Leader dies
A scout leader well-known to many past and present scouts in Topcliffe and Asenby has sadly passed away. Stuart Carter, who lived at Baldersby St James, was a leader with various local scout troops for 40 years including many with 1st Topcliffe Scouts. He was a passionate, dedicated, funny, inspiring, understanding and caring leader, always willing to teach and pass on his skills. He certainly knew everything there was to know about scouting and he was an excellent ambassador for scouting in this area and beyond.
Last Friday evening at the troop meeting in Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall, there was a short period of reflection to remember Stuart and everything he did within the District. Details of Stuart’s funeral will be in next Sunday’s Email.
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The Angel seeks old photographs
Kelly Shackleton, an Interior Designer commissioned to design the public rooms being refurbished at The Angel, is on the lookout for historic photographs, maps and newspaper articles of Topcliffe and the surrounding area. If any resident has anything she can look at and borrow for copying, please get in touch on 07368 175145.
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Thirsk improves webcam capability
The webcam window onto Thirsk now shows the Market Place in full-speed video with optional sound. About 10,000 people a month watch what is going on in Thirsk. Improved infrastructure, including faster
broadband and new software, has enabled the upgrade. The webcam is sponsored by The World of James Herriot. http://VisitThirsk.uk/webcam
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Quiz night at the Village Hall
The weekly Sunday quiz is on tonight at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Come along at 8pm. Please bring your own drinks and nibbles. Glasses are available, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.
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Knit and Natter Club
The Knit & Natter club meets at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall from 1.30 to 3.30pm every Thursday.
Cash donations continue to be accepted towards a wool fund so that the group can knit a range of decorations for the King’s Coronation on Saturday 6 June. Donations can be left at Topcliffe Post Office. If there is any cash left over, it will be used to purchase red and black wool for Remembrance Day poppies in November.
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Topcliffe & Asenby Community Warm-Up
Last week 49 meals were served. A total of £138 was raised of which £50 has been donated to the Blue Cross animal shelter in Topcliffe, with the remainder going into the Community Warm-up fund.
The final weekly Warm Space lunch of this winter will be held on Wednesday 29 March. The volunteers will revert to providing Soup & Sweet on a fortnightly basis starting Wednesday 12 April.
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Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van is in Topcliffe each Friday tea time – 5 to 7pm.
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Golf for the little ones
The Little Golfers scheme is being introduced at Thirsk & Northallerton Golf Club during April. They are running four free taster sessions for boys and girls aged 4 to 12 throughout April with PGA professional, Bradley Rowntree. Equipment will be provided on the day. To book a child onto a taster session contact 01845 525115 or go to brgolfshop@gmail.com
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Art classes at the Village Hall
The latest weekly art class led by artist and teacher Rebecca Jayne are underway and remaining dates are 13, 20 and 27 March. Each class is two hours from 10 am to 12 noon at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Rebecca will guide you with helpful tips and techniques and support you with creating your own artwork. On booking further details will be sent about the session.
Don’t forget that there are two special one-off classes scheduled:
- Thursday 30 March – 10.30am to 1pm – Spring Flowers and Garden Birds painted in oils.
- Thursday 27 April – 10.30am to 1pm – Escape to the Sea – paint a seascape in oils.
These art class are for artists of every level of experience…or none! Expert guidance is offered throughout the sessions. Equipment and paint provided. Refreshments included. More information and online booking at http://www.rebeccajayneartist.co.uk
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The RItz Cinema, Thirsk
- To Thursday 16 March (no matinees) – Magic Mike’s Last Dance.
- Friday 17 to Thursday 23 March (no matinees) – Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.
- Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 – Matinees only – Marcel the shell with Shoes On.
- Friday 24 to Thursday 30 March – CLOSED for film work on a popular TV series.
- Friday 31 March to Thursday 6 April (matinee on Wednesday 5 April) – What’s love got to do with it?
- Friday 7 to Thursday 13 April (Matinee on Wednesday 12 April) – Allelujah.
New ticket prices: On 3 March all ticket prices are £6, unless otherwise stated.
Opening times: evenings – doors open 7pm for 7.30pm. Matinees doors open 2pm for 2.30pm.
Updates: Please check the cinema website for the latest information – https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/
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Free concerts at Ripon Cathedral
The free lunchtime concert series at Ripon Cathedral continues in March. Although entry is free, there is a voluntary collection at the end. Refreshments are served at 12.30pm and the 50 minute performances start at 1pm. Here’s what’s on:
- 16 March – Performance by students from Leeds University.
- 23 March – Ed Jones on the organ.
- 30 March – Prima Musica students.
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Dream & Doodle
A new weekly event is running in Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Thursday mornings led by Katrina Addison. Her intention is to provide relaxing classes where participants are encouraged to take a very free artistic approach using a variety of media from pencils to paint…and with relaxing music in the background. “These are classes to help you unwind”, says Katrina “it’s not about demonstrating a particular artistic strength, but more to do with relaxation and expression.”
Forthcoming classes are from 10 to 11am on Thursdays 16 and 23 March, and others may be organised if these go well. Each hour-long session is £7.50. For further information call 07890 429159 or email – dreamanddoodleart@gmail.com
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Thorp Perrow events
- Spring Pruning – Thursday 16 March – 10am to 3pm – a hands-on educational workshop covering the fundamentals of what, when, where and how to prune. Tickets include refreshments and a light lunch.
- Easter Wreath Making – Thursday 30 March – 10am to 4pm – celebrate the joys of springtime creating a beautiful, nature-inspired door wreath. Tickets include refreshments and a light lunch.
- Guided Daffodil Tour & Afternoon Tea – Thursday 6 April – 2 to 5pm – A walk and talk tour when the daffodils are in glorious bloom. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea and a glass of champagne served in the Summerhouse.
- Watercolour with John Harrison – Thursday 13 April – 10am – 4:30pm – Capture the beauty of the Arboretum in your own hand with John’s Harrison’s Watercolour Workshop. Lunch provided.
- An Introduction to Bushcraft – Tuesday 18 April – 10am to 4pm – Paul Holden Ridgway demonstrates bushcraft and wilderness skills, from shelters and fire lighting to navigation and plant identification. A course designed for beginners (adults only). Ticket includes lunch and refreshments.
For more information, prices and bookings, go to: https://www.thorpperrow.com
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Dalton Village Hall Ceilidh
There will be a ceilidh on Saturday 18 March with music provided by Blind Stag. A pie and pea supper will be served. Tickets are £12, available from Eleanor on 07841 036340.
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Sights & Sounds of Ripon 2023
This year’s Sights and Sounds event is being staged at venues across Ripon on Saturday 18 March between 11am and 2pm. It’s a great day to explore the city and find out more about the amazing range of opportunities to get active at various venues involved including the Cathedral and library. There’s something for everyone and families are especially welcome.
Ripon Cathedral – Family crafts and games, music by local choirs, pop up café, and twenty local voluntary and community organisations showcasing their services. Plus – North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. Dancing from Ripon City Morris Dancers and Betty Lupton’s Ladle Laikers.
Ripon Library – Lego club, storytime for children up to 5 years of age (11.30 – 12 noon) and for ages 6+ from 1 ‘til 2pm. Throughout the day you can meet representatives and find out more about the services provided from Digital Champions, Skell Valley Project, Citizens Advice, Ripon YMCA, Harrogate Council’s tenant involvement and recycling teams, Horizons adult drug and alcohol recovery and Stop Smoking campaigns. And between 2.30pm and 4.30pm look out for the Thackray Medical Museum Outreach team giving an extra special free drop-in event all about brains and senses – suitable for ages 5+.
Ripon’s three museums will be open throughout the day.
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Sunday Lunch at The Swan
The Swan serves great Sunday lunches every week, but there are two special treats coming up soon:
- Mothering Sunday – 19 March – A day to celebrate and appreciate the wonderful women in our lives mums/grannies/aunties and everyone in between. Serving lunch 12noon to 4pm.
- Easter Sunday – 9 April – A great time to spend time with family and friends. Serving lunch 12 noon to 4pm.
- Please call 01845 595185 to book or message us on Facebook.
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Artisan Market
The next Artisan Market on Thirsk Market Place will be held on Sunday 19 March between 10am and 3pm. It offers locally-produced arts, crafts, food and drink. A diverse, quality, shopping experience that celebrates independent producers and makers. http://www.littlebirdmade.com
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Hilarity Bites Comedy Night
- There’s a comedy night at Sessay Village Hall on Wednesday 22 March starting at 7.30pm. It will feature Rob Rouse and Peter Brush, with host Jon Pearson. The bar will be open. It is £12 on the night or £10 if booked in advance call 01845 577906.
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Dishforth Military Wives in concert
‘Spring into Song’ is the name of the concert the Dishforth Military Wives’ Choir will give at 7pm on Saturday 25 March at All Saints church, Thirkleby. Tickets are £20 and include the first drink and nibbles. The concert will raise money to be split between All Saints Together, a charity that supports the church in Thirkleby, and Herriot Hospice at The Lambert, Thirsk. Tickets from Gill Walmsley on 07969 571002.
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Dalton Domino Drive
The next Domino Drive will be on Saturday 25 March at 7pm in Dalton Village Hall. It will raise funds for St John’s Church. Admission is £2. All are welcome.
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The Sky at Night
Sutton Bank National Park Centre is organising a special event to give people the chance to get a step closer to the cosmos and to unlock its many treasures using its powerful telescopes. The Hub provides a warm indoor space for colourful presentations with a purpose-built viewing area alongside. If it’s cloudy, you’ll still see stars thanks to a brilliant computer based planetarium show. The event is suitable for adults and children over six years old and is perfect for novices. Saturday 25 March, 7.30-9.30pm. £17 adults and £11 for children. Price includes warm refreshments. Tickets online at:
http://tinyurl.com/venusnym
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British Summer Time
Clocks go forward one hour – Sunday 26 March at 1am.
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Parish Council meetings
Both Asenby Parish Council and Topcliffe Parish Council will hold meetings at 7pm on Thursday 30 March at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall.
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Springtime Live
This special springtime show is on at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate on Saturday 1 April. Families can get up close to farm animals including rabbits, goats and sheep. There’s lots of activities to choose
from, including rides on tractors, cookery workshops, face painting, felting,
moosical fun with Moo Music, wizard wand whittling and much much more! There’ll be Peppa Pig as well as Peter Rabbit who will be making his debut
and both will be on stage throughout the day. Diggerland will also be at
Springtime Live for the first time. £12, child £7, family (2+3) £33. Tickets
online only. http://springtimelive.co.uk
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Thirsk Farmers’ Market
On the Market Place, Thirsk on Sunday 2 April from 9am to 2pm. 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. http://northerndalesfarmersmarkets.com
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Racing in Thirsk
The season opener at Thirsk Racecourse is the Easter Family Day on Tuesday 4 April. There’ll be some fantastic racing but also lots of entertainment for all ages, including face painting and balloon modelling, plus live music from Georgia Grace. Gates open from 11am. First race at 1.10pm.
https://www.thirskracecourse.net/fixtures-tickets/
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Sandro Botticelli and Renaissance Art
The next event at Solberge Hall Hotel, Newby Wiske will see James
Lindow’s illustrated lecture on Sandro Botticelli and the golden age of
Renaissance Art. Botticelli’s art epitomises this period under the patronage of Lorenzo de Medici and his circle. Tuesday 4 April – 1.45pm-3.15pm free to Art Society members, visitors £7. Tickets on the door or online from: http://theartssociety.org./hambleton
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Middleham Stables Open Day
A unique chance to look behind-the-scenes in Middleham stables. This year eight racing yards will be open. There will be a shuttle bus service running from car parks located at DL8 4PP or DL8 5SG throughout the day. 9am-4pm on Friday 7 April. Tickets: Book online.
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Local traders
A list of local traders in Topcliffe and Asenby can be viewed here.
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Bin Collections
Hambleton (Topcliffe):
- Refuse – Mondays 13 and 27 March.
- Recycling & Garden Waste – Thursday 23 March.
- Subscriptions for the 2023/24 garden waste service are now open. The charge is £43.50. The current (purple) licences are still valid until 31 March 2023. The 2023-24 service starts 3 April 2023 and ends 29 March 2024. https://www.hambleton.gov.uk/garden-waste/garden-waste-service
Harrogate (Asenby)
- Recycling – Mondays 13 and 27 March.
- Refuse – Mondays 20 March and 3 April.
- Garden Waste – Wednesday 22 March (only for those who have paid the annual subscription). The charge for 2023 is £43.50 for 19 fortnightly collections and you can apply now at http://www.harrogate.gov.uk/garden-waste-subscription-service
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That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.
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This email is proudly sponsored by Faro Finance
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