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Sunday Email: Issue 184

Welcome to the Sunday Email.

Today’s Remembrance Service at St Columba’s Church at 10.45am will be led by Rev’d Stephen Wilson, Military Chaplain from 4th Regt. RA, based locally within the parish at Alanbrooke Barracks. He will be accompanied by personnel from this Regiment.

Because of Regimental deployments, it has not always been possible to arrange their presence at our local Remembrance Service, so it will be wonderful to have them involved. Maybe the visible efforts of the Knit and Natter group in commemorating this time of remembrance, might in some way have influenced their decision?

The Remembrance Service today is a short stand-alone service. It will include a two minute silence at 11am, an Act of Remembrance, the laying of wreaths by the military and Topcliffe Parish Council at the village War Memorial, and the reading of the Roll Call of the Fallen (some of whose family names are still familiar).

So, a special opportunity for all villagers to remember with gratitude the sacrifice of past residents, and to show thanks and indebtedness to those currently serving. After the service refreshments will be served.

Jubilee Gardens
Today also at 11am a few villagers will gather in Jubilee Gardens to mark Remembrance Sunday. It will be an informal acknowledgement of the service and sacrifice of all those who have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life. Please come along if you can.

Doug
07785 223707

St Columba’s Services

  • TODAY (12 November) at 10.45am – Remembrance Service.
  • Sunday 19 November at 10.45am – Sung Matins
  • Sunday 26 November at 10.45am – Holy Communion

Everyone is most welcome to come along for any of these services. Refreshments are served after every Sunday morning service.

Quiz night at the Village Hall
TONIGHT – the Sunday quiz is on at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall at 8pm.

Above: photograph shows last week’s winning team – The Long Street Mafia.

Skipton on Swale Bridge
Skipton-on-Swale bridge has now reopened to traffic following recent resurfacing works.
Christmas Fair
The Christmas season got off to a fine start with the excellent Christmas fair held yesterday at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. Lots of people visited the many stalls and enjoyed a pork & stuffing sandwich, cakes and a cuppa.

A big thank you to the organisers and helpers who made this possible, including Karen and Malcolm Morley, Karen’s daughter Nicola, Linda Robinson, Linda Carver, Richard Byas, Julie Coldbeck and Jane Burnett.

Two charities will benefit from the funds raised. Exact calculations are still to be made but it is anticipated that both the Herriot Hospice in Thirsk and Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall fund will receive over £200 each.

Senior Citizens’ Christmas Lunch
Residents of Topcliffe & Asenby 65 and over are invited to the Christmas lunch in the Village Hall on Wednesday 13 December. The cost for a full seasonal three course dinner, drinks and entertainment is £15 per head. Places are limited so please apply early to Judith Lowe 0n 01845 577911.
Raffle and Chocolate Tombola
The Friends of Topcliffe School are organising a Christmas raffle and tombola drive as part of their fundraising campaign for children’s equipment for the forthcoming year. They are looking for donations and hope residents of Topcliffe and Asenby will give their support. Donations can be left with Nicky at the school office or with Karen Hotham (07875 331277) before 24 November. See their poster here.
Asenby Parish Council Updates

Volunteers’ Meeting
A volunteers’ meeting will be held on Tuesday 14 November at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall. This is an opportunity for those who’ve expressed an interest in volunteering to come together for an initial discussion. The aim is to consider how the village can move forward with the suggestions for the play park and any other general activities. All are welcome to attend, so even if you haven’t already volunteered you’ll be most welcome, with no obligation. Plus, if you know of someone else who may be interested, please bring them along. It would be useful for planning if you could let the Parish Council know if you will be attending. Please mail: asenbypc

New parish website: The Parish Council has launched a new website containing lots of information about the work of the Parish Council itself and lots of other village matters. It can be found at http://www.asenby.org

Christmas gift from the Topcliffe & Asenby Charity
Here’s a reminder about the Christmas gift that will be offered to those in permanently residing in Topcliffe and Asenby who are aged 80 and over. If you received a gift from the Feoffees of Topcliffe and Asenby charities last year you will still be listed to receive one this Christmas. Anyone who is eligible to receive a gift and have not received one in the past, please contact your village Feoffee before November 30:

  • Asenby – Carole Ford – 07904 015942 or put a note through her letterbox at Dunnock House giving your name and address.
  • Topcliffe – Anne-Marie Barningham – 07740 175311 or catch her on her milk round.
  • Topcliffe – Doug Allan – 07785 223707.
Power Supply
Northern Powergrid has indicated that the power supply in the Topcliffe will be interupted between 9am and 3.30pm on Thursday 23 November whilst some equipment repairs are carried out. This letter appeared on the Village Hall noticeboard last week.

It’s unknown precisely which properties in the village will be affected. A call to the company seeking clarification produced no further details: in fact, the person that answered the call was unable to find any evidence that a supply cut was scheduled in Topcliffe! He did suggest that anyone who wanted to know if their house was affected should call 105 – a direct line to the company’s emergency unit.

Citizen Researchers
Zoë Metcalfe, the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for York and North Yorkshire is looking for adults from diverse backgrounds across North Yorkshire to become Citizen Researchers and to represent their local community. The North Yorkshire Community Commission on Police, Fire, and Crime is a brand-new project aimed at fostering community engagement and inclusivity in decision-making processes. Citizen Researchers will become the voice of their community, directly influencing the direction of police, fire, and crime-related policies. This role requires a commitment of approximately five meetings and two peer research events, both in-person and online, between December 2023 and April 2024. The closing date is 4 December and more information and how to apply is available from the Commissioner’s website: https://www.northyorkshire-pfcc.gov.uk/vacancies/
Honey Decorations
Local small business, Asenbee Honey, has introduced a new beeswax Light Catcher or Christmas tree decoration for sale this festive season, though they can be used at anytime during the year. These are not candles but they have cotton wick loops so can be hung to give a gorgeous honeyed scent and cast pretty shadows anywhere in your home.

There are limited numbers available. Check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/search/posts/?q=asenbee%20honey

Scam Loft Insulation Callers
There’s an old scam that appears to be doing the rounds again. Residents receive a telephone call from someone claiming that they need to visit the property to inspect the loft insulation so that they can supply a certificate as part of a ‘Government Scheme’. The caller advises that a moisture test is required and then a new certificate will be issued and sent via Recorded Delivery.

But it is most likely a scam, so always be wary of any approach made in a telephone cold call. Always check the credentials of any company or individual that contacts you out of the blue. And always check any claims made, especially when the company are claiming to work with other agencies.

If you have any concerns about a company that has contacted you, call Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133. If you believe you have been a victim of a scam please contact us on 101 or via North Yorkshire Police website at https://www.northyorkshire.police.uk/

Centre of Thirsk roadwork closures
Vehicular access to the centre of Thirsk continues to be restricted on weekday evenings. The roadworks should be completed by Friday 17 November.
Autumn art classes at the Village Hall
The new series of six art classes started last Monday and will continue through to 11 December. The classes are 2 hours long, from 10-12pm. Rebecca Jayne, artist and teacher will guide you with helpful tips and techniques and support you with creating your own artwork.

There’ll be a special class in the ‘Paint and Relax’ series on Thursday 7 December between 10.30am and 1pm. The subject will be how to paint a Festive Scene in Acrylics.

Book online at https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/product-category/classes-workshops

Twinkle Toes Dance & Play
Every Wednesday between 10am – 10.45am in the Village hall. The sessions, which are suitable for pre-school children and their parents or carers, and will involve bopping along to some action songs, telling stories though movement, creating characters, using colourful props and just having fun with dance and movement. Classes are led by Hazel Summerbell, a fully qualified dance teacher with many years’ experience. Pre-booking is required as there are limits on numbers. Please get in touch to book your little one’s place on twinkletoesdanceuk
Slow and gentle Yoga with Alex
Another yoga class that may be of interest to Topcliffe and Asenby residents is organised by Alex at two locations close by:

  • Thirsk Town Hall, Tuesday 1.45 to 2.45pm and Thursday 11.15am to 12.15pm.
  • Coronation Hall, Boroughbridge, Wednesday 9.45 to 10.45am.

Suitable for anyone wishing to improve or regain their balance, strength and mental well-being. Call 07927 141616 or email Alex on yogawithalex2020@gmail.com

Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Lucy Day is holding Vinyasa Flow yoga sessions at Rainton Village Hall every Saturday morning at 9am.

Beginners Yoga
Build strength, mobility and flexibility, through traditional yoga asana and more contemporary mobility drills at this class for beginners planned for Saturday mornings at Rainton Village Hall. Learn breathing techniques to calm and quiet the mind.

If you are interested in attending either class, please email lucy@lucyoga.uk or call 07970 049928 for more details.

Chip ‘n Dales
The Chip ‘n Dales fish and chip van is in Topcliffe each Friday tea time – 5 to 7pm.
Events at The Angel

Sunday lunches: Sunday lunches are served in the conservatory and function room. Booking is essential. Menus can be viewed here.

Festive Lunches: The Angel would be happy to cater for companies and family groups wishing to book lunches during the festive season. Lunches can only be provided if the numbers make it worthwhile. Menus, prices and booking forms can be seen here.

Christmas: Opening for food on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (booking essential). There’ll be no food served on Christmas day, however drinks will be served from 11.30am to 1.30pm.

Wreath making class: Here’s a date for your diary. Plans are being made for a wreath making class on Monday 4 December both at lunchtime and in the evening. See full details here.

Please call 01845 578000 for more information.

The RItz Cinema, Thirsk

  • To Thursday 16 November – matinee on Wednesday 15 November – The Great Escaper.
  • Friday 17 to Thursday 23 November – no matinees – Typist Artist Pirate King.
  • Sunday 19 and Wednesday 22 November – matinees only – A Matter of Life and Death.
  • Friday 24 to Thursday 30 November – no matinees – Dance First.
  • Friday 1 to Thursday 7 December – no matinees – Dream Scenario.
  • Friday 8 to Thursday 14 December – no matinees – The Marvels.
  • Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 December – matinees only – Trolls: Band Together.
  • Friday 15 to Thursday 21 December – matinee on Wednesday 20 December – Napoleon.
  • Friday 22, Saturday 23, Wednesday 27, Thursday 28, Friday 29, Saturday 30 December and Tuesday 2, Wednesday 3 and Thursday 4 January 2024 – matinees on Wednesday 27, Saturday 30 December and Wednesday 3 January 2024 – Wish
  • The Ritz will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Opening times: evenings – doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm. Matinees – doors open at 2pm for 2.30pm. https://www.ritzcinema.co.uk/

The Forgotten War – The English Civil War in Yorkshire 1642/43
A Northallerton & District Local History Society talk by Mike Turpin of the Campaign for British Archaeology (Yorkshire). Starts at 7pm on Tuesday 14 November at Sacred Heart Church Hall, 41 Thirsk Road, Northallerton, DL6 1PJ (rear hall). Non members £3. (free for those in full-time education). Contact: heritage1138@outlook
Bible talks at the Village Hall
Undenominational bible talks will be held at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall on Tuesdays 14 and 21 November from 7.30 to 8.30pm. Everyone welcome.
Warm Hub lunch
The next Warm Hub lunch at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall will be on Wednesday 15 November. As usual, lunch will be served from 11.30am to 12.45pm. There’ll be a selection of meals followed by delicious cakes and bakes and tea or coffee. All welcome. No set charge, but donations welcome.
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club
The ever-popular Hilarity Bites Comedy Club will be on at Rural Arts, 4 Westgate, Thirsk at 7.30pm on Wednesday 15 November A fast-paced evening with three top comedians. Host Pete Otway is a former BBC New Comedy Award finalist. £10 if booked in advance and £12 on the door. Book online at http://www.ruralarts.org
Knitting and Stitching Show
The popular Knitting & Stitching Show returns to the Harrogate Convention Centre from Thursday 16 to 1Sunday 19 November. A great chance to meet up with like-minded crafters, discuss ideas, learn new skills and shop for your annual craft supplies all under one roof. 10am-5.30pm (Sun 5pm). £17.50, Child (0-18) £8.50, Concessions £16. Tickets: Book online at theknittingandstitchingshow.com/harrogate
International Day of Older Persons
To celebrate this special day, Thirsk Community Library is hosting a free boccia and curling session on Friday 17 November between 10.30am and 12.30pm. This is a fun and fully inclusive activities session in a seating position. Numbers are limited to please contact the library to book your space on 01609 534589 or email: library
Christmas Make-Up Class
Topcliffe resident Joanna Brierley is holding a special festive Makeup class at 10am on Saturday 18 November at in The Angel Inn. She’ll be sharing some makeup tips and tricks that will be useful for ladies as the party season is approaching. This hour-long event is suitable for everyone aged 10 to 100 and participants should ideally take along their own make-up, though this is not essential. Ticket are just £10 including coffee and cake kindly provided by The Angel. Thanks to generosity of The Angel owners you will also be supporting Topcliffe Academy as £5 from each ticket bought will go to the Friends of Topcliffe School and subsequently to the school. Contact Joanna on 07732 941758. See leaflet here.
Dalton Village Events
A number of events are planned at Dalton Village Hall to raise the £20,000 that is needed for St John’s church repairs.

Dalton Jumble Sale: On Saturday 18 November between 10am and 1pm. Lots of stalls selling a wide variety of items including clothes, toys, household and Christmas decorations and gifts. Refreshments available. 50p entry per adult. Under 16s free. See leaflet here.

Christmas Fair: Dalton’s Christmas Fair will be on Saturday 2 December between 10am and 12 noon. There will be bacon sandwiches for sale. Lots of stalls, selling a variety of items, a tombola. Santa will be visiting with a little gift for all the children and the Dalton Ladies will be singing carols.

Artisan Market
On Thirsk Market Place on Sunday 19 November between 10am and 3pm. Locally-produced arts and crafts, food and plus drink. A diverse shopping experience that celebrates independent producers and makers. http://Little Bird Artisan Market, Organiser at Pedddle
Village Hall Committee
There’ll be a meeting of Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee at 7.30pm on Tuesday 21 November in the village hall.
Lunchtime talk: Wensleydale Railway
A lunchtime talk about the Wensleydale Railway by Connor Lagus and Christine Butterworth at the North Yorkshire County Records Office, Malpas Road, Northallerton. Noon on Friday 24 November. Christine will play the part of Elizabeth Newton, the Station Master’s wife, telling the story of her family’s life and how they came to work at Leeming Bar Station in the 1920s. Talk 45mins followed by discussion. £2 including refreshments. No need to book.
Ripon Christmas Food & Gift Fair
100 stalls with a lovely selection of Christmas gifts, food and drink in the
stunning setting of Ripon Cathedral. Enjoy mulled wine and festive treats,
including hot turkey sandwiches, mince pies and homemade cakes whilst listening to Christmas music. Family activities, Christmas prize draw. Friday 24 and Saturday 25 November 9.30am-4.30 pm. £6.13, children free (0-15). Book online at http://riponcathedral.org.uk/events/christmas-food-gift-fair or just pop along.
Thirsk Christmas Fayre
Taking place on the Market Place and at the Town Hall. The Christmas Lights big Switch-On takes place at 6.30pm on Friday 24 November on the Market Place, but there’s lots going on before and after. There’ll be stalls, café and Santa in the Town Hall from 4-7.30pm on Friday and 10am-3pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Festive Wreath Making – Three opportunities

1. Wreath making classes will be held at Rainton Village Hall on the following dates:

  • Saturday 25 November, 12.30 to 3.30pm.
  • Sunday 26 November, 9.30am to 12.30pm.
  • Monday 4 December, 10am to 1pm.
  • Friday 8 December, 10am to 1pm.
  • Sunday 10 December, 10am to 1pm.

Tuition, materials, drinks and cake included in the price of £30. Contact Gill Common on 07585 151910.