St Columba’s regular services
- TODAY: Sunday 18 October at 10.45am, Sung Matins
- Thursday 22 October at 11am, Midweek Morning Prayer.
- Sunday 25 October at 10.45am, Holy Communion
- Thursday 29 October at 11am, Midweek Morning Prayer
- Sunday 1 November at 8.30am Said Holy Communion (BCP)
- And at 6.30pm, in celebration of the Feast of All Saints, a special Choral Evensong, followed by wine and pre-supper nibbles
- Monday 2 November at 7pm, in celebration of the Feast of All Souls, a special service of Compline, to include the reading of names of the faithful departed
Refreshments follow Sunday and Thursday services, but not the Sunday 8.30am Said Holy Communion.
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Thirsk Artisan Market
TODAY: Sunday 18 October between 10am and 3pm. On the Market Place, Thirsk – 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.
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The Sunday Quiz
TONIGHT: Sunday 18 October – the quiz will take place at 8pm this evening in the Village Hall. All welcome.
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A very challenging quiz prepared and presented by Mike last Sunday. The winners were David, Mike, Kate and Chloe, pictured on the right. Well done to them and everyone else who took part.
The photograph on the left is of the winners the week before (Linda, Mike, Karen and Malc) which I somehow managed to leave out of last week’s Sunday Email. Apologies to them!
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Here’s a selection of questions from the quiz. The answers are at the end of today’s email.
1. Which famous sculptor is responsible for The Kiss and The Thinker?
2. Which US spacecraft exploded 72 seconds after take-off in 1986?
3. Who played Howard Hughes in the biopic film The Aviator?
4. What does GI and GO in computer language mean?
5. Who said ” you too, can have a body like mine”?
6. How many time zones are there in Russia?
7. What was Ethiopia originally called?
8. The CIA is based in which US state?
9. Which ex policeman was the World’s Strongest Man in 1985?
10. In which country are the Adirondacks?
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Summary of key topics considered at Topcliffe Parish Council meeting
The Clerk to the Parish Council has supplied this summary of matters considered at last Tuesday’s meeting of Topcliffe Parish Council held in the Village Hall:
- Councillors considered the results of the Old Tolbooth village vote, which saw 143 residents vote in favour of selling the building, 51 vote to retain it and 2 spoiled ballot papers. It was agreed that an independent valuation of the property will now be obtained. Members also discussed the current arrangements relating to the Snooker Club, with further clarification to be sought from the Parish Council’s insurers and supporting documentation requested from the club.
- Members reviewed the recent ROSPA Play Area inspection report and agreed that quotations should be obtained for the necessary remedial works identified.
- An update was received regarding damage to the Jubilee Gardens wall, with repair quotations and insurance enquiries progressing.
- Councillors discussed the current use of the allotments and ways to increase uptake, including extending the geographical area for tenants and exploring opportunities for a community allotment project.
- The next meeting will be held on a Tuesday to allow for use of the main hall. Date to be confirmed.
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Ready for spring
Dishforth Nurseries have kindly supplied Asenby Parish Council with replanted baskets at the bus stop library. A big thank you to the nursery for their generosity. Pictured next to the bus stop and one of the baskets is parish councillor Josie Noble.
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Digs required
A gentleman named Ricky, who works at Dalton-based DS Transport, is on the lookout for accommodation every Friday and Saturday and wonders if any reader of the Sunday Email can help? He wants to book every Friday and Saturday although some weeks he won’t need the accommodation, but he’ll still pay! If you can help, please give him a call on 07508 765169.
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Poppy appeal
In recent years, Debbie and Rob Roberts have undertaken the task of putting up the Remembrance Sunday poppies and other decorations around Topcliffe. However, this year Debbie has decided she isn’t able to tackle the physical job and will be taking a back seat. Rob is still going to be involved and is appealing for two or three volunteers who can help our erecting and taking down the displays. Some ladder climbing is involved, so ideally younger, relatively fit people are asked to step forward. If you might be able of support this very worthy endeavour and can offer a couple of hours early November and the same after Remembrance Sunday, please get in touch with Debbie at Deb.roberts1295@gmail.com
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Parish Councils continue search for new councillors
- Topcliffe Parish Council is looking for applications from residents of the parish for a co-opted councillor vacancy. The ideal candidate will have a keen interest in local matters, be available to attend monthly meetings and actively participate in the work of the Parish Council. Interested parties should apply in writing or via email by Saturday 31 October to The Parish Clerk outlining the reasons they wish to be considered, including any skills and experiences they would bring to the role. Either email parishclerk@topcliffe.org.uk or write to Alexandra Robson, Clerk to Topcliffe Parish Council, Town Hall, Westgate, Thirsk, YO7 1QS
- Asenby Parish Council also continues its search for a volunteer resident who is willing to be co-opted as a new councillor. Anyone who might be interested is asked to message Parish Clerk, Colin Grimston, to set up an informal chat – clerk@asenbyparish.gov.uk
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Transport to James Cook Hospital
The pilot transport initiative connecting North Yorkshire patients to James Cook Hospital in Middlesbrough from Friarage Hospital is being expanded and eligible patients can now be picked up directly from their homes.
Since July, the service has provided an affordable travel option for people living in rural areas who may not qualify for free NHS patient transport or have a condition that makes using public transport difficult. While the shuttle service was helping people travel to James Cook, some residents in rural communities still faced difficulties reaching Friarage Hospital to access the shuttle bus. Now, the extended service aims to remove this barrier and make it easier for eligible patients to attend appointments.
Patients who have an appointment at James Cook but are unable to travel to Friarage Hospital to access the shuttle service may now be offered free transport to and from their home in rural North Yorkshire. The extended service will benefit patients living in Thirsk and surrounding communities, like Topcliffe and Asenby.
There will be strict eligibility criteria for the service, with each request assessed on a case-by-case basis by the in-house transport team. Individuals will still need to pay the £10 charge for the shuttle journey between Friarage Hospital and James Cook. Home pick-ups and return journeys to and from the patient’s home will be provided free of charge.
For more information, including eligibility criteria, how to book, and a detailed FAQ section, go to: Rural North Yorkshire patients offered improved transport access to specialist hospital – South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
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Topcliffe School – key diary dates
- Tuesday, 20 October – Harvest Service at St Columba’s Church at 2.15pm
- Thursday, 22 October – School closes for half term
- Monday, 2 November – School re-opens for second half of Autumn Term
- Monday, 9 November – Service Children’s Festival of Remembrance at Ripon Cathedral (KS2 pupils)
- Wednesday, 11 November – SATs Parents Information Evening, 5.30 – 6pm
- Friday, 13 November – Children in Need Day
- Friday, 27 November – FOTS Christmas Fair
- Monday, 14 December – Carol Service at St Columba’s Church at 2pm
- Thursday, 17 December – Christmas Dinner & Christmas Jumper Day
- Thursday, 17 December – School Closes for Christmas Holidays
- Tuesday, 5 January – School re-opens for Spring Term.
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Following the success of the coffee morning on 26 September to raise funds to support the Tattler and Sunday Email, the Coffee Morning Team will be organising two more events this year to support local organisations. They are:
- Wednesday 28 October – 10.30am to 12 noon – to assist with the running costs of the Boccia Club, which provides exercise and coordination activities for elderly villagers.
- Saturday 5 December (date changed from 21 November to avoid a clash with a similar event being held at The Angel Inn) – between 10.30am and 12 noon – to raise funds for the Topcliffe-based Blue Cross animal shelter and re-homing centre.
The former Warm Hub team is discussing the idea of putting on occasional ‘winter warmer’ lunchtime get-togethers in the new year at which a delicious dish of homemade soup and sausage rolls will be served, along with coffee tea and biscuits. More details in due course.
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Tickets for the Halloween party in the Village Hall on Saturday 31 October have sold well and there’s only a few left, so if you plan to go please buy a ticket as soon as possible.
It starts at 7pm and a night of fun and games, music and laughter is promised. Children are welcome to attend, but only if accompanied by their parent(s) or guardian. Those attending are asked to take along a sharing plate of spooky food and guests are asked to note that this is a Bring Your Own Drinks event. Some of the games will be charged at £1, so please have plenty of change if you can. It would be great to see your fancy dress outfits, but it is optional.
Tickets are just £2.50 per person and they’re available from Topcliffe Post Office or from Sheila Squires at Swaleside Holiday Park on 07803 008461. Any surplus funds will be shared equally between the Village Hall and the Blue Cross Rehoming Centre at Topcliffe.
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Art classes
The following special one-off classes are planned and anyone interested in attending is invited to get in touch:
- Paint a Glass Vase/Storm Lantern – create beautiful floral designs in gorgeous colours. Thursday 5 November between 10.30am and 12.30pm at Topcliffe Village Hall.
- Paint an autumn sunset with bright reflections and beautiful hues. Friday 6 November between 6.30 and 9.30pm at Thirsk Town Hall.
- Painting in Acrylics: Sparkly winter landscapes and fun festive scenes. Learn how to add silver and gold leaf to enhance your painting. Thursday 3 December between 10am and 1pm at Topcliffe Village Hall.
- Seasonal Special crafts experience: creating and painting baubles, paper Nordic stars and glass hanging tealights. Friday 4 December between 6.30 and 9.30pm at Thirsk town Hall. Only 15 spaces available. £45.
All classes are friendly and non-competitive, allowing participants to proceed at their own speed. For more information and to book classes online, go to https://rebeccajayneartist.co.uk/
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Flying Oysters at the Village Hall
The Flying Oysters will be returning to Topcliffe on Saturday 7 November. Organiser Doug Allan promises another fantastic evening of music and dancing, along with an excellent supper consisting of pie and peas and a pudding.
Chrissy Findlay will be organising the raffle at the event and she has brought together a fantastic selection of prizes donated by local businesses and organisations.
All funds raised will help support the Village Hall. Last few tickets, priced £15, are now on sale at Topcliffe Post Office or from Doug Allan.
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Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall Committee meeting
The next meeting of the Village Hall Committee will be on Tuesday 10 November at 7.30pm in the Village Hall.
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Christmas Fair in Topcliffe
The annual Christmas Fair at Topcliffe & Asenby Village Hall will be held on Saturday 14 November between 10am and 1pm. All the available stalls have been allocated and there’ll be a wide selection of local traders and organisations hoping to tempt you to purchase Christmas and other items. The catering team will be putting on a Brunch with bacon rolls, cakes, tea, coffee and squashes. There’ll also be a raffle. All funds raised will go to the Village Hall fund.
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Festive Activities at The Angel Inn
The Angel Inn is planning a few festive workshops before Christmas:
Whether you’re creating your own beautiful Christmas wreath or learning the art of perfectly wrapped presents, both workshops offer a lovely opportunity to get into the festive spirit.
And looking ahead to Christmas itself, here are some advance details of two live music evenings to get you in the festive mood:
- Wednesday 23 December – Christmas Eve Eve – Freddie Cleary will perform from 6–8pm.
- Thursday 24 December – Christmas Eve – The fantastic Stevie Kay performs his brilliant Frank Sinatra tribute, bringing timeless classics and a wonderful atmosphere to Christmas Eve in The Angel. From 6.30pm.
Whether you’re just popping in for a few festive drinks or making an evening of it, The Angel team look forward to seeing you. On Christmas Eve, all children must leave the premises by 7pm.
Bookings are strongly advised. To reserve your table, please call 01845 578000.
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Auction Night to raise cash for Topcliffe School
The Friends of Topcliffe Schools are organising a grand auction to raise funds for Topcliffe CoE Primary School. It’s on Saturday 5 December between 6 and 10pm at Dalton Village Hall and it promises to be an amazing evening of entertainment, fun, food, music and fundraising. There’s some fantastic auction lots. Tickets, priced at £25 per person, include food and welcome drink, and are available from Amie on 07576 179 0009.
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Seniors’ Christmas lunch
Bookings are now open for places at the annual Senior Citizen’s Christmas lunch in the Village Hall on Tuesday 15 December and the price this year for a three-course festive lunch is £18.
There’ll be a choice of prawn cocktail or pate for starters; turkey or pork with all the traditional vegetables for main course; and choice of Christmas pudding or trifle for sweet. Wine will be served with the meal and tea or coffee and mince pies afterwards.
Following last year’s extremely well-received entertainment, courtesy of the Cherry Tones, the duo has been invited back for an encore performance. The Cherry Tones are a vintage vocal harmony duo who love all things retro. They perform a wide range of favourite classic vintage songs in harmony with an upbeat edge. They’re guaranteed to get everyone singing and dancing along.
All this for just £18! Senior citizens are encouraged to book their place as soon as possible as numbers that can be catered for are limited. Contact organiser Judith Lowe on 01845 577911 or 07526 354445.
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Chip & Dales
Paul and Karen will be serving fish and chips in Topcliffe on Fridays between 5 and 7pm.
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The Ritz Cinema
- Sense & Sensibility – to Thursday 22 October – Matinee on Wednesday 21 October.
- Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom – Friday 23 to Thursday 29 October – matinees on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October.
- National Theatre Live: Golden Boy – Friday 6 November. 7.30pm
Evening shows start at 7.30pm. Matinees at 2.30pm.
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Coffee and Chat
Every Tuesday from 10am in the church at Baldersby St James. Please drop in to church for coffee and a feast of home-made scones and biscuits. Jigsaws always available to borrow.
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Church supports RNLI
On Wednesday 21 October St John the Evangelist Church in Dalton will hold a coffee morning in support of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. It will be at Dalton Village Hall between 10.30am and 12 noon. No set charge, but donations gratefully received.
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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. At Thirsk Library on Meadowfields. The cost is a voluntary donation. Saturday 24 October from 10am to 1pm, last repair 12.30pm.
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Concerts at Ripon Cathedral
- The Music of Adele by Candlelight – Saturday 24 October at 7.30pm.
- The Rozzers – Saturday 31 October at 7.30pm.
- Motown by Candlelight – Friday 27 November at 7.30pm.
- The Rat Pack – A Swingin’ Christmas by Candlelight – Friday 4 December at 7.30pm.
- G4 Christmas – Saturday 5 December at 7.30pm.
- The Music of ELO – Friday 12 February 2027 at 7.30pm.
- The Eagles by Candlelight – Saturday13 February 2027 at 7.30pm.
- Bowie by Candlelight – Friday 12 March 2027 at 7.30pm.
Book online at https://riponcathedral.org.uk/whats-on/
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Thirsk Yarnbombers
Watch out for the latest display by Thirsk Yarnbombers starting Sunday 25 October in Thirsk Market Place.
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An Autumn Adventure Canal Cruise
Enjoy a wonderful autumn Ripon Cana cruise for all the family between Saturday 24 October and Monday 2 November – no scary Halloween frights in sight. A fun canal bank quiz, with a prize for every child (up to 14yrs). Suitable for ages 1 to 100, disabled accessible and SEN suitable. 10.00am – 3.30pm. £6 pp or family ticket (up to 4, one must be an adult) £23. Tickets: https://buytickets.at/riponsceniccruises/2
Ripon Scenic Cruises, 12 Canal Wharf, Bondgate Green, Ripon, HG4 1AQ
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Live comedy comes to Sessay Village Hall
The Laughing Pug Comedy Show is coming to Sessay Village Hall on Saturday 24 October with the brilliant Paul Tonkinson, Helen White, Fran Garrity & Chris Lumb. The show will start at 7pm (doors open from 6pm) and tickets are £15. There’ll be a fully licensed bar available on the night. Follow this link for tickets and further information:
Sessay Village Hall Comedy Night at Sessay Village Hall event tickets from TicketSource
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The Yorkshire Flea Market
At Thirsk Auction Mart on Sunday 25 October between 11am and 4pm. Around 100 dealers in antiques and vintage items. Free parking, cafe. See website for more details:
http://www.antiquesfairs.com/thirsk.html
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Family Pumpkin Night
Experience the magic of The Great Yorkshire Pumpkin Patch after dark! at Monk Park Farm on Sunday 25 October between 5.30 and 8.30pm. Enjoy evening farm admission, thousands of pumpkins, entertainment, carnival games, pumpkin carving and fantastic family photo opportunities. Delicious food and drinks available. Wrap up warm and enjoy an unforgettable autumn evening. Prices starting from £3pp. Tickets: online or on the door.
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Perfectly Spooky Halloween Ghost Walk
From the Clock Tower, Thirsk Market Place on Saturday 31 October at 6pm. Enjoy a wonderful autumn treat this Halloween and explore the old haunted streets of Thirsk and hear ancient tales of history and ghosts with the Historic Experiences team. A 75 minute tour of spooky places, legends and creepy tales. The tour is led by Tina, an archaeologist, tour producer and writer of over 30 years who is passionate about bringing
the past to life! After exploring Thirsk end the evening with a delicious hot chocolate at a historic location. Price £16.96.
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Thirsk Farmers’ Market
on at Market Place in Thirsk between 9am and 2pm on Sunday 1 November. 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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Fireworks at the Farm
There’ll be fireworks at Monk Park Farm near Bagby on Thursday 5 November. Gather around the roaring bonfire before watching a magical low-bang fireworks show set to Disney music. Enjoy carnival games, marshmallow toasting, delicious street food, a visit to the animal barn and an on-site bar. 5.30pm-8.30pm. Prices starting from £3pp. Tickets: Online – www monkparkfarm.co.uk – or on the door.
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Thirsk Artisan Market
Sunday 15 November between 10am and 3pm. 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.
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Dalton Christmas Fair
The village’s Christmas Fair will be held in the village hall on Saturday 28 November between 10am until 12 noon, a week earlier than our usual date. There will be various stalls, tombola, a visit from Santa for the children, and bacon butties on sale.
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The Thirsk Friends of the Lambert Hospice
Friends of the Lambert Hospice are holding a winter fundraising lunch, with guest speaker, in partnership with The Angel Inn at Topcliffe on Thursday 3 December. Details, times and prices are at http://.www.thirskfriendsofthelamberthospice.org The funds are needed to support end of life and palliative care services in the area.
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Quiz answers
1. Auguste Rodin
2. Challenger
3. Leonardo DiCaprio
4. Garbage in…garbage out
5. Charles Atlas
6. 11
7. Abyssinia
8. Virginia
9. Geoff Capes
10. New York State, USA.
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That’s all for this week. Keep safe and remain well.
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