St Columba’s Services
- TODAY: Sunday 31 May at 10.45am – Benefice Holy Communion for Trinity Sunday, followed by refreshments.
- Thursday 4 June at 11am – Midweek Morning Prayer, followed by refreshments.
- Thursday 4 June at 7pm – A special Choral Eucharist to celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi with the choir singing the glorious mass setting by Thomas Tallis. All are warmly invited to join this service of thanksgiving. Wine and pre-supper nibbles will be served afterwards.
- Sunday 7 June at 8.30am – Holy Communion.
- Sunday 7 June at 6.30pm, Festival Choral Evensong for St Columba’s Day, followed by wine and finger food.
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Free walking tour of Thirsk
TODAY: Sunday 31 May at 11am. Meet by Thirsk’s information centre, Market Place to join a walk exploring the history of Thirsk on this 90-minute walking tour. Discover ancient skeletons, local legends, and a connection to Lord Nelson. A journey through the town’s fascinating past. Please wear sensible shoes. Free, but donations welcome. Just turn up.
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Racing at Thirsk
TODAY: Sunday 31 May – Sky Bet Sunday Series – gates open at 1pm and first race at 3.45pm.
Book online at http://www.thirskracecourse.net or on the gate.
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TONIGHT: Sunday 31 May – the quiz will take place at 8pm this evening in the Village Hall. All welcome.
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Another great music and general knowledge quiz last week set by Jim and won by Mike, Kate and David. Well done the winners and everyone 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.
Questions on Live Aid
1. In what year was Live Aid?
2. Which group opened the event?
3. Can you name the two cities in which the Live Aid concerts were held?
4. Which performer appeared at both venues?
5. Can you name the two individuals that were responsible for the Band Aid single from where Live Aid evolved?
Questions on Water
6. The book Three Men In a Boat by Jerome K Jerome is set on which river?
7. What is the stretch of water called between Anglesey and the Welsh mainland?
8. Which UK river is the most Tidal?
9. Can you name the waterway that connects Fort William to Inverness and that includes Neptune’s Staircase?
10. The Wirral Peninsular is bordered by which two rivers? |
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The Tattler – June edition
Most households should have received the latest edition of The Tattler before or over the weekend. There’s lots of news and information in it, so I hope you enjoy reading it. The next issue will be in September. Anyone who doesn’t receive a copy direct to their letterbox, can be added to an email circulation list. Just drop the editor a message at – doug@dougallan.co.uk
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Cross Talk Newsletter
The June edition of the church newsletter, Cross Talk, is now in circulation. You can read it here.
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Smugglers Concert
There’s a waiting list of people wishing to buy tickets for the Smugglers event in the Village Hall on Sunday 28 June, so if anyone who has purchased a ticket and now can’t attend, they can get a full refund if they return them to the organiser. Call Jane Gallon on 07909614086.
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Summer Crime Prevention – Stay Safe & Secure
As we head into the warmer summer months, North Yorkshire Police is encouraging residents to stay vigilant and take simple steps to protect their homes and communities. With longer days, open windows, and more people away on holidays, opportunities for crime can increase, but a few small precautions can make a big difference:
Secure Your Home
- Always lock doors and windows, even when you’re at home or in the garden.
- Don’t leave valuables on display where they can be seen from outside.
- Consider using timer switches for lights when you’re away.
Going Away?
- Ask a trusted neighbour or friend to keep an eye on your property.
- Cancel or redirect deliveries so parcels don’t build up on your doorstep.
- Avoid advertising your holiday plans on social media until you return.
Protect Your Vehicle
- Lock your car and remove all valuables, including loose sat navs and charging cables.
- Park in well-lit, busy areas where possible.
- Double-check that your vehicle is securely locked.
Stay Alert & Look Out for Others
- Report any suspicious activity or unfamiliar behaviour in your area.
- Get to know your neighbours and look out for one another.
- Trust your instincts – if something doesn’t feel right, report it.
Report Concerns
Any suspicious activity in the area, please report it immediately. Call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. |
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Leeming noise warning!
There will be increased movement by aircraft on exercises operating from RAF Leeming from Monday 1 to Friday 12 June. The aerodrome will be hosting rotary aircraft for events which will include low and night flying. The commander of the Station apologies in advance for any noise inconvenience and says every effort will be made to keep the disturbance to a minimum.
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The Elm Gallery
The Elm Gallery will be closed from Friday 5 June and will reopen on Saturday 13 June.
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St Columba’s Festival and Heritage Day
Don’t forget that the annual celebration of Columba, the Patron Saint of our parish church, and the church’s amazing heritage will take place next Sunday ( 7 June).
Plans include the annual village BBQ in the church hall and churchyard, starting at 12.30pm, to which everyone is very warmly invited. Please take with you your preferred wine and soft drinks, though some will be available. And if you would like to take along a salad and/or cake to share that would be most kind and helpful.
Then, from 2pm, why not join one of the groups climbing the church tower to enjoy the magnificent views from the top? The last group will leave at 4pm. For those without a head for heights you might wish to linger over the various display boards in the church, or join a guided tour to discover in more detail the history of the church and its features, some still remaining from the mediaeval church even after the Victorian rebuild. Or else just enjoy exploring our beautiful churchyard, our village ‘greenspace’, which is now emerging thanks to the tireless work and dedication of our team of local volunteers.
The day concludes at 6.30pm with a festival service of Choral Evensong sung by the full church choir directed by Linda Hewlett. Choral Evensong is said by some to be the jewel in the crown of Anglican church music and we are lucky to have this sung every month throughout the year. So why not come give it a try and end your busy day with some glorious music, followed by a glass of wine?
All events, BBQ included, are completely free, but if you would like to give a donation to help cover a few costs and hopefully also add to our much-needed building repair and maintenance fund, that would be very much appreciated.
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Soup & Sweet
The next Soup and Sweet lunch at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall will be on Wednesday 10 June between 11.30am and 12.45pm. Everyone, of all ages from Topcliffe and Asenby and surrounding areas, is welcome to attend. There’s no set charge, but donations are welcome to help pay the rental cost of hiring the Village Hall and other unavoidable expenses.
Last week’s lunch (27 May) saw 30 lunches served and a donation of £50 was made to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.
Just a reminder that the Soup & Sweet lunches will end after the lunch on 24 June – so only two more to go!
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A ladies nature evening
Join a ‘Curious by Nature’ relaxed and welcoming outdoor evening either on your own or with friends. Cook tea over the fire using fresh farm ingredients and practice fire-lighting and outdoor cooking skills. Try your hand at woodcraft or decorate pre-loved glassware with stained glass painting and give it a new life. Or if you prefer, bring a book, unwind, and soak in the peaceful surroundings. Saturday 13 June from 6 to 8pm. All tools and materials for activities provided, including fresh ingredients to cook a delicious shared meal. Hot drinks and juice. £16.50 per adult. Feel free to bring your own drink or tipple to enjoy throughout the evening. https://booking.page/en/company/book/curiousbynature?book=1
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The Big Yorkshire Do
The Angel Inn at Topcliffe is organising its second annual summer do and this year they’ve gone bigger, bolder, and twice the size! Expect an all-day summer party packed with multiple live music acts throughout the day, two gardens open in which to roam and relax, and an unbeatable atmosphere from start to finish. It’s on Saturday 11 July.
A standard ticket, priced £16.96 (which includes a £1.96 booking fee) gives you entry to the event for the full afternoon through into the night. It includes access to all outdoor areas (excluding the VIP area), plus entertainment throughout the day and evening, and the chance to enjoy food and drink available to purchase on the day.
It’s a ticket only event – only 450 tickets available – and bookings should be made online.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-big-yorkshire-do-tickets-1982671571041?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
Tickets cannot be purchased on the day, all guests must have a valid ticket in advance. Please note that the entire venue will be closed to the general public on Saturday 11 July for this private event.
Please note that all VIP tables have now been sold.
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Topcliffe Summer Fair
This year’s annual summer fair at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall will be held on Saturday 1 August between 10am and 2pm. Besides a variety of stalls and a raffle, the summer fair will include brunch – bacon sandwiches and veggie option and endless mugs of coffee or tea. Funds raised on the day will help support the Village Hall.
Organiser, Karen Morley says there’s still a few stalls available for crafters, groups, charities or other organisations that would like to be involved. They are available at just £10. Please contact Karen on 07736 086369. Watch out for more details on Top Residents nearer the date.
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Big events later in the year at the Village Hall
Here’s a reminder of two dates you may wish to put in your diary. They’re both big fundraisers for the Village Hall.
BBQ & Boogie Night
The ever-popular BBQ and Boogie Night will be held on Saturday 22 August. The organisers – Jim, Carol, Andy, Chrissy, Malcolm and Myra – have committed themselves to the third annual shindig.
The Flying Oysters
Top north east band, The Flying Oysters, has been booked for another performance later this year. It’ll be on Saturday 7 November. Organiser Doug Allan, promises another fantastic evening of music and dancing, along with an excellent pie and pea supper.
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Chip & Dales
Paul and Karen will be serving fish and chips in Topcliffe on Friday evenings between 5 and 7pm.
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EVENTS ACROSS THE WIDER AREA
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The Ritz Cinema
- The Sheep Detectives – to Thursday 4 June. Matinee on Sunday 31 May.
- Paris 75: The European Cup Final Football Tried to Forget – including Q & A with Leeds United legend Paul Reaney – Sunday 31 May.
- The Playboy of the Western World – National Theatre Live – Friday 5 June at 7.30pm.
- The Christophers – Saturday 6 to Thursday 11 June.
- Finding Emily – Friday 12 to Thursday 18 June. Matinee on Wednesday 17 June.
- Glastonbury the Movie: The 30th Anniversary Cut – Friday 19 June at 7.30pm.
Evening shows start at 7.30pm. Matinees at 2.30pm.
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Racing at Thirsk
- Afternoon Racing – Friday 5 June – gates open at 11am. First race at 2.15pm.
- Afternoon Racing featuring Royal Ascot – Tuesday 16 June – gates open at 11am. First race 2.15pm.
- Afternoon Racing – Wednesday 1 July – gates open at 11am
- Afternoon Racing – Thursday 16 July – gates open at 11am.
- Summer Family Day as part of the Go Racing in Yorkshire Festival – Friday 24 July – gates open at 11am. Saver rate available for early bookings.
Book online at http://www.thirskracecourse.net or on the gate.
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Concerts at Ripon Cathedral
- Pink Floyd by Candlelight – performed by What the Floyd? – Friday 5 June at 7.30pm.
- The Music of Coldplay by Candlelight – Friday 19 June at 7.30pm.
Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/
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Once Upon a Fairytale
Story Craft Theatre performance at St Mary’s School, Baldersby Park, Topcliffe on Saturday 6 June. Goldilocks is missing and we need your help to find her. Aimed at 2+ years. 10.30am, finish 11am. £5 per family. Tickets: Book online – queenmarys.org/events/once-upon-a-fairytale
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Northallerton Male Voice Choir
Their ever popular summer show, singing a wide range of male voice and more modern songs, with something to please everyone. Saturday 6 June at 7.30pm at The Forum, Northallerton. Guest this year is Nicola Mills, described as being a cross between Victoria Wood and Pavarotti. Nicola brings her Northern charm, strong vocals and witty story-telling to you in a down to earth way. Tickets £12 online or on the door. http://www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk
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UK’s largest tractor festival
Newby Hall, Ripon on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June. More than 1,400 vintage and modern tractors and another 2,200 exhibits including stationary engines, commercial vehicles, cars, trucks and motorcycles will be on show across 120 acres of the Newby estate. 10am-4pm. £22, Child (4-15) £16, Family (1+3 or 2+2) £65. Tickets via http://www.tractorfest.uk
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Free Open Farm Sunday
All over UK Visit a farm on Open Farm and find out about the story behind our food and how farming affects our everyday lives. Sunday 7 June. Open Farm Sunday is a wonderful opportunity to connect farmers and the public to discover the world of farming and all that farmers do producing food, nurturing nature, and protecting the environment for future generations. See website for details. Free. Book online. http://farmsunday.org/visit-a-farm
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Thirsk Farmers’ Market
Sunday 7 June between 9am and 2pm on the Market Place, Thirsk. 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.
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Great Knaresborough Bed Race
Bed race with supporting parade. Saturday 13 June – starts at about 10:30am, parade at 1pm, Bed
Race 3pm. Free. More information at – http://www.bedrace.co.uk
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Gardeners’ Question Time in Sessay
A special Gardeners’ Question Time is being held at Sessay Village Hall on Saturday 13 June. Tickets are just £10 online from http://www.sessayvillagehall.co.uk or from Heather Dale on 07467 549302. Best to buy as soon as possible as tickets will be in high demand.
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North Yorkshire Agricultural Show
will be held at Otterington Hall, South Otterington, on Sunday 21 June from 8am. £35 family, £12 adult, £8 child, under 5s free. Tickets online or at gate. http://www.northyorkshireshow.co.uk
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Thirsk Artisan Market
An artisan market that wants to help serve local communities with the best artisan stalls, whilst giving traders the best opportunities to showcase and sell their handmade goods. Sunday 21 June – 10am-3pm.
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Events at Rural Arts, The Courthouse, Thirsk
- Something Social: Pennants and Pimms – Friday 26 June, 7-9pm
- Tetrapak Adventures: Intaglio Printing – Saturday 4 July, 10.30am to 3.30pm.
- Silverdrop Earrings – Saturday 4 July, 10am to 1pm.
Buy tickets online at https://www.ruralarts.org/
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Ladies Pop-up Shop & Fun Fashion Show
Buy your favourite high street brands at really low prices. Friday 19 June at 7pm. at Dalton Village Hall. To raise funds for new tables and chairs. Tickets £5 include a glass of prosecco if purchased in advance. Call Beckii on 07734 474781.
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Repair Cafe
The next Repair Cafe at Thirsk Library, Meadowfields, will be on Saturday 20 June between 10am and 12.30pm. Be greener by avoiding waste and save money by letting a team of dedicated and talented volunteers try to repair your broken items. Voluntary donations.
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Sunday 28 June 2026 between 10am and 4pm there’ll be 36 slots available. Each slot is 30 minutes inside the aviary. Maximum six people in at any given time. Morndyke is the only parrot sanctuary in Europe that runs a mixed aviary ecosystem on this scale and with species diversity. Pre booking required: £18 pp. Must be 8yrs and above.
Email contact@morndykeparrotsanctuary.org.uk to book a slot. First come, first served.
Payment required at the time of booking. Bank Transfer to: Morndyke Parrot Sanctuary
Sort Code: 20-59-43 Account Number: 33268462.
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de Mowbray Music Festival 2026
There’s a wide variety of events on at this year’s de Mowbray Music Festival at venues around Thirsk, from Thursday 13 to Sunday 16 August. Tickets are now on sale and full details are available on the festival website – https://www.demowbraymusic.com/festival
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Night of Nature concert
If you love nature and music, this RSPB event is for you. It’s at the Royal Hall, Harrogate on the evening of Saturday 15 August. Experience stunning cinematic visuals of jaw-dropping wildlife and habitats, brought to life by the soaring harmonies of the UK’s leading harmonies group, G4, alongside the spellbinding strings of the Blackheath Quartet.
With a cinema-sized screen and immersive music, this is a visceral celebration of nature like no other. From moving moments that invite quiet reflection to uplifting rhythms that’ll have you tapping your toes (or even on your feet!), this event is truly a feast for the senses. Rediscover the magic of our planet in a way you’ve never seen – or heard – before.
Book online at: https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/night-of-nature?utm_source=20260313_EEVT_Night_of_Nature_Concert_Invite_2026&utm_medium=email&utm_term=&utm_content=4&utm_campaign=
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Quiz answers
1. 1985 (13 July)
2. Status Quo
3. London and Philadelphia
4. Phil Collins
5. Bob Geldoff & Midge Ure
6. The Thames
7. The Menai Strait
8. The River Severn
9. The Caledonian Canal
10. The Mersey and the Dee
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That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.
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