Ripon Masham InFocus Winter 2014

Ripon Masham &

Quarterly Royal Mail distribution: 14,900 homes & businesses www.jkanorth.com/ripon | Winter 2014 / ‘15

InFocus

FREE

How to stay safe in Taxis this Winter • Know the difference between a black cab and a minicab.

Taxis may all look the same when you’ve had a few glasses of wine, but there are some very important differences. In fact the only types of taxis that are legally allowed to stop when hailed in the street are black cabs.

All legitimate black cabs are licensed by the local authorities (or in London by the police) and have a white licence plate on the boot and a smaller one inside. Other taxis are called minicabs.

• Beware taxi touts.

In addition to black cabs and minicabs there are an increasing number of ‘taxi touts’ operating around Britain, particularly late at night. These are unregistered, untraceable drivers who attempt to pick up fares in busy areas, often offering cheaper fares than registered vehicles.

The police warn that these cabs are being used by some criminals to target vulnerable women and should always be avoided. ‘When people get into these cabs they are effectively getting into a stranger’s car which is untraceable,’ says a spokesman for the Police.

‘We know that some men are deliberately using these cabs to target and then sexually abuse

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women. If this happens there is often no way of tracing the offender as they are not registered taxi drivers, may have borrowed the car for the night or even changed the number plates. Women particularly should never get into these cabs.’

• If using a minicab always pre-book it.

Although legitimate minicabs are now licensed they are only legally allowed to carry passengers who book them in advance. If you intend to take a minicab, take the phone number of a reputable firm you know and trust with you when you go out for the night.

If you don’t know the number of a reputable firm ask a friend for the number of a firm they trust, or approach the Community Safety Officer at your local police station for a number.

• Be cautious if you are ordering a cab in a public place.

Always remember if you are calling a cab from a public place to make sure that you can not be overheard by strangers as this could give away your address. To be extra secure, when you are ordering a cab to pick you up from a public place do not give your full name and full address - just in case someone can hear you.

• Don’t get into an ordered cab until you’re sure it’s yours.

After a night on the tiles it’s tempting to jump into your taxi as soon at arrives. But police warn that it’s easy to get into the wrong cab, even if you take care to order one in advance.

Ideally, when you phone for a cab, ask what kind of car is coming to pick you up and the driver’s name.

When the taxi arrives, before you get into it make sure you ask the driver the name of the customer he or she is there to pick up - rather than giving them your name - and the name of the company they work for. That way you can be sure you are safe and in the right cab.

• Trust your instincts.

It’s a cliche, but if you don’t feel comfortable with the taxi that arrives for you or stops for you then trust your instincts and take another cab. .......................................................................................

Pre-book your taxi this Winter with one of these 2 professional local Ripon taxi companies: A’n’B Cars: 01765 603030 (Advert on Front Cover) Arrow Taxis: 01765 608080

Please mention InFocus when contacting any of our advertisers

For advertising contact Christine: 01609 777401 or Dwight: 01609 779097 | www.jkanorth.com

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inside ripon & Masham infocus

winter

Workhouse Connections

exciting, new, 2 day event launches at Ripon Workhouse Museum 20 An this February

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Nature in the Garden How to help garden wildlife this Winter

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06 local news: 08 new businesses: 10 news: 12 advertorial: 15 out & about 16

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local news

Ripon area Music & Arts Dairy FEATURED

Update from Jennyruth Workshops FEATURED

New businesses and services FEATURED

World Book Day

FEATURED

Nature in the Garden Local Events this Winter

12

World Book Day

The annual celebration of books and how to get involved

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16 recipe: 18 local news: 20 garden view 22 27education 31local news out & about

Local Events this Winter featured

2 delicious Valentines recipes featured

Workhouse Connections event Seeds of Change The role of School Governors Ripon Library Events

Welcome to the Winter issue of Ripon & Masham InFocus In this issue we look forward to Spring with a whole host of great local activities for all the family to enjoy (p16-17). We have updates and news from local organisations such as the Jennyruth Workshops (p8) and Ripon Library (p31) as well as an exciting new event launch at Ripon Workhouse Museum (p20). For those romantics amongst you, see p18 for 2 great Valentines meal ideas.

I hope you all enjoy the magazine and I’ll see you again in Spring.

Best wishes as ever,

T: 01609 777401 T: 01609 779097 www.jkanorth.com

Christine Campbell | Editor

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Please mention InFocus when contacting any of our advertisers

We ask Mauro from Cathedral Financial Planning:

Which savings type is the best?

Pensions and ISAs are both a great way for tax savvy investors to save, but which plan is the best for building up your retirement fund?

The major attraction of pensions is that the money you pay in is topped up by tax-relief, meaning a basic rate taxpayer’s contributions are boosted by 20%, a higher rate taxpayer gets a top up worth 40% while additional rate taxpayers get 45%.

However, because pensions are designed specifically for retirement they aren’t as flexible as other savings plans. This means you won’t be able to get your hands on the money until you are 55, but this will be pushed back at the same pace as the State Retirement Age and so will move to 57 in 2028. Strict rules have also governed what you do with the pot of cash when you do eventually retire, however this is all set to change following announcements made in the 2014 Budget.

ISAs don’t get the upfront tax relief that pensions enjoy, however, unlike retirement savings plans there is no tax to pay when you cash them in. With pensions only 25% can be taken as tax-free cash so you’ll have to pay income tax on the remainder and will be taxed as earned income at the relevant income tax rate.

ISAs were given a boost in this year’s Budget, allowing you a bigger annual allowance of £15,000 a year which can be spread across cash and stocks and shares in whichever way you choose. Unlike pensions you can access your money whenever you like.

So with these pros and cons in mind, which savings plan will net you the biggest retirement pot?

For a basic rate taxpayer with a £15,000 investment in an ISA, this would increase to £34,725 after 25 years (assuming 6% growth a year), but if that money had received upfront tax relief in a pension it would have been worth £43,406. Respectively, a higher rate taxpayer at the 40% level paying £15,000 into an ISA would still get £34,725 after 25 years, but thanks to the higher tax relief on their contributions, they would end up with £57,875 in a pension.

On balance our preference is for pension saving as the primary source of funding for retirement, especially for higher rate tax payers who might be basic rate taxpayers in retirement. However, those that are best prepared for retirement have broadly equal pots of pension and non-pension assets such as ISAs, which provides greater flexibility for the retirement years. Both ISAs and pensions are good savings plans for financial independence and the bottom line is: however you go about it, just make sure you are saving.

Please call for a free, initial no obligation chat. .........................................................................................................................

Next issue: Know the benefits of the different types of mortgages available.

Tel: 01765 604481 Mob: 07999 196984 www.cathedralfp.co.uk

• Investments • Personal Pensions • Work Place Pensions • Mortgages • Equity Release • Life & Critical Illness Cover • Income Protection • Mortgage Protection • Key Person / Shareholder Cover & Commercial Loans

For advertising contact Christine: 01609 777401 or Dwight: 01609 779097 | www.jkanorth.com

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Events Diary

Music &Arts 24th January - 7:30pm

14th February - 7:30pm

Richmondshire Subscription Concerts Influence Church, Richmond

Harrogate Philharmonic Orchestra St Mark’s Church, Harrogate

‘Hungarian Dances’

Bradley Creswick (Violin), Margaret Fingerhut (Piano) & Jessica Duchen JESSICA DUCHEN (Reader) Jessica Duchen reads from her latest novel, ‘Hungarian Dances’ (highly praised

by András Schiff, among others) about a Gypsy violinist during the onset of Nazism in Europe. The readings are interspersed with music by Brahms, Bartók, Kreisler, Monti and other Gypsy-inspired composers, performed by the superb pianist Margaret Fingerhut and the multi-talented leader of Royal Northern Sinfonia, Bradley Creswick. Copies of the novel will be available for sale and for signing. Tickets at rsconcerts.org or at the door, subject to availability.

Adult: £13, Full-time student: £1, www.rsconcerts.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

24th January - 8:00pm

Winter Concert of Schumann Poulenc & Haydn Academy of St Olave’s - St Olave’s Church, York

Guest Conductor: Alasdair Jamieson Soloist: Keith Wright Schumann Overture, Scherzo and Finale, op. 52 Poulenc Concerto for Organ, Timpani and Strings in G minor (soloist Keith Wright) Haydn. ‘London’ Symphony no 104 Concessions: £11, Full price: £12, Students: £5, www.academyofstolaves.org.uk - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

7th February - 7:30pm

English Song - From Wilbye to Whitacre St Paulinus Singers - St John’s Church, Sharow

Linden Lea - Vaughan Williams The Blue Bird - Stanford In youth is pleasure – Howells Walking in the snow – Howells Here is the little door – Howells My soul, there is a country - Parry I know my soul hath power to know all things - Parry As Torrents in Summer – Elgar Music, When Soft Voices Die – Parry See, see the shepherds’ Queen Tomkins Since Robin Hood - Weelkes Sing we at pleasure - Weelkes Sweet Suffolk owl - Vautor Flora gave me fairest flowers - Wilbye Adieu ye city prisoning towers - Tomkins Justorum Animae – Stanford Water night – Whitacre Locus iste - Bruckner Beati quorum via - Stanford And So It Goes - Billy Joel Shenandoah - arr Erb My spirit sang all day - Finzi Adult: £8, Under 19: £5, 01677 450566 www.stpaulinus.org.uk - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

9th February - 7:30pm

Ivana Gavric Piano

Cathedral Concert Society Ripon Cathedral Ivana was BBC Music Magazine Newcomer of the Year in 2011 - they described her playing as “altogether of an extraordinary calibre” She will be playing: Bartok Suite op 14; Schubert Sonata in A minor D784; Grieg ‘Ballade’; Rachmaninov 4 Preludes For ticket information please contact via: 01423 864099 www.riponconcerts.co.uk - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

14th February - 7:30pm

Winter Concert

York Guildhall Orchestra York Barbican From the glorious slow movement from Mozart’s 21st Piano Concerto through to Ravel’s Bolero – Puccini’s “Your Tiny Hand is Frozen” through to the drama of Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet, our second concert is unashamedly celebrating Valentine’s Day – glorious tunes and wonderful soloists. Full Programme Wagner Prelude and Liebestod from Tristan und Isolde Mozart Andante from Piano Concerto No. 21 (Elvira Madigan) Mozart Ch’io mi scordi di te Prokofiev movements from Romeo and Juliet Puccini Che gelida manina (La Boheme) Ravel Bolero soloists - Rebecca Taylor (piano), Celine Forrest (soprano), Oliver Johnston (tenor) A, , £22, Central Stalls; B, , £19, Side stalls; C, , £15, Rear stalls; D, , £5, Students and children under 16; 08448542757 http://www.yorkguildhallorchestra.com/html/future_season.html - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Harrogate Philharmonic Orchestra St Mark’s Church, Harrogate

HPO Winter Concert 14th February - 7:30pm

Programme: Beethoven Symphony No.6 Bruch Kol Nidrei (Cellist: Laura Armstrong, Winner of the Harrogate Competitive Music Festival Concerto Class) Tchaikovsky Mozartiana Mozart Magic Flute Overture Adult: £10, Student: £5, 16 and under: £0 www.harrogatephilharmonicorchestra.org.uk - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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HPO Winter Concert

Programme: Beethoven Symphony No.6 Bruch Kol Nidrei (Cellist: Laura Armstrong, Winner of the Harrogate Competitive Music Festival Concerto Class) Tchaikovsky Mozartiana Mozart Magic Flute Overture Adult: £10, £0, Student:£5, 16 and under: £0 www.harrogatephilharmonicorchestra.org.uk - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

14th February - 7:30pm

Dante Quartet

Richmondshire Subscription Concerts Influence Church, Richmond The Dante Quartet has won the Royal Philharmonic Society’s chamber music award and BBC Music Magazine’s ‘Chamber Choice’.

Violinist Krysia Osostowicz and cellist Richard Jenkinson are repeat visitors to Richmond with the Endymion Ensemble and with pianist Benjamin Frith. Tonight, the quartet plays works by Haydn, Bartók and Beethoven.

Tickets at rsconcerts.org or at the door, subject to availability. Adult: £13, Full-time student: £1, www.rsconcerts.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

15th February - 3:00pm Sowerby Music St Oswald’s Church, Sowerby

Albion Chamber Ensemble Celebrates John Ireland

The Albion Ensemble - James Toll, violin, Jonathan Rees, cello, John Paul Ekins, piano and William Morgan, tenor play sonatas for violin and piano, cello and piano, a medley of songs and his Fantasy Trio in A minor Unreserved: £12, 01845 518001 www.sowerbymusic.org.uk - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

9th March - 7:30pm

Ariana Kashefi Cello with Tim End Piano Cathedral Concert Society Ripon Cathedral, Ripon

Ariana is a Philip and Dorothy Green Making Music Young Artist 2013-15 and will be playing Beethoven’s C major cello sonata; Poulenc’s cello sonata; and Brahms’s E minor cello sonata Schumann fantasiestucke For ticket information please contact via: 01423 864099 www.riponconcerts.co.uk - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

14 March - 7:30pm

Brahms - Ein Deutsches Requim & Dvorak - Te Deum Harrogate Choral Society Royal Hall - Harrogate, Harrogate

Tickets on sale soon from Harrogate Theatre Box Office www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk or phone 01423 502116.

For ticket information please contact via: 01423 502116 www.harrogatechoral.org.uk - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

14th March - 7:30pm

Antara Duo - Flute & Harp

Sowerby Music St Oswald’s Church, Sowerby For ticket information please contact via: 01845 518001 www.sowerbymusic.org.uk - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

21st March - 7:30pm

Reformation & Revival

Micklegate Singers, York National Centre for Early Music, York Vaughan Williams’ deep love of Tudor music, whether elaborate polyphony or the restraint of Tallis’ psalm tunes, is reflected in his modally-inflected Mass. Stanford’s much loved Motets are contrasted with settings of the same texts by Byrd and the contemporary American composer James Lavino. William Byrd - Ne Irascaris, Domine, Thomas Tallis - Sancte Deus, Thomas Tallis - Tunes for Archbishop Parker’s Psalter, Ralph Vaughan Williams - Mass in G Minor, James Lavino - Beati Quorum Via, Charles Villiers Stanford - Beati Quorum Via, Charles Villiers Stanford - Justorum Animae, William Byrd - Justorum Animae.

Full Price: £12, Concessions: £8, Students: £6 07825715011 www.micklegatesingers.org.uk - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Please mention InFocus when contacting any of our advertisers

For advertising contact Christine: 01609 777401 or Dwight: 01609 779097 | www.jkanorth.com

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Jennyruth Workshops

Look back @ 2014 As I write this, it is that time of the year when we not only look back at what 2014 brought but also have a long hard look at the opportunities that a New Year brings.

Jennyruth Workshops had a great 2014 celebrating ten successful years of Jennyruth Workshops. We received the Duke of York Community Initiative Award, saw completed many enhancements to the workshops, bought additional equipment such as a laser cutter, and were pleased to welcome and support several more Workers.

So what does the road ahead offer? Well, more of the same. We have in place a wide ranging programme to invest in the future. We are planning many more enhancement of the building and internal improvements particularly focusing on upgrading the paint room, enhanced Health & Safety provision in the machine room and major improvements to the common areas and toilets.

Running alongside this we will be launching a new Ripon Range of products as we are very proud of our Ripon roots and of the support we receive from the people of Ripon and the surrounding villages. We intend to increase our bespoke offering and will continue to grow our online presence. We will also continue to work closely with the local community with talks and presentations, sales events and craft and storytelling workshops for schools and other interested groups.

Jennyruth Workshops offers our Workers an enjoyable, creative and productive place to grow and develop. But don’t just take our word for it, please gives us a call and arrange to visit us at Red House Farm. We are easy to find and parking could not be easier.

We wish one and all the very best for 2015 Richard Plummer Chief Executive, Jennyruth Workshops

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Please mention InFocus when contacting any of our advertisers

For advertising contact Christine: 01609 777401 or Dwight: 01609 779097 | www.jkanorth.com

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new businesses & serournvd oicurearesa in & a

“New To The Area” is a new business feature specifically designed to help new businesses and those that are offering new businesses and services to promote themselves cost effectively.

Businesses are invited to submit their adverts to this feature at the regular price (Advert sizes available: 1/8 and

Total Distribution:

Over 45,000

14,600

homes & businesses every quarter Low North Cowton Entercommon

Danby Wiske

Catterick

Ripon & Masham

Great Fencote

14,900

Thimbleby

Northallerton Romanby

Leeming Bar

Bedale

Over Silton

Landmoth

Nether Silton

Borrowby

Newby Wiske

homes & businesses

Knayton Boltby

Maunby South Kilvington

Pickhill

Rookwith

Leighton

Swainby Osmotherley

Brompton

Carlton Miniott

Masham West Tanfield Grewelthorpe

Wath

Felixkirk

Thirsk

Thirkleby

Dishforth

Grantley

Humberton

Farlington

Aldwark

Markington

Brearton Clint

Knaresborough Harrogate

15,700 homes & businesses

Did you work at Bettys, the Royal Hall, in the spa industry, or in one of Harrogate’s fashionable shops?

Have you always lived in the town and how has it changed over the years? Did you visit Harrogate on day trips, perhaps to do some shopping? Have you moved here from another part of the world?

If you have a story to tell and any objects or images you would like to show then please contact Nicola Baxter or Sheila Asante by emailing museums@ harrogate.gov.uk or calling 01423 556188.

A drop-in event will also be held at the Mercer Art Gallery on Sunday 15th February from 1pm to 4pm for anyone interested in contributing to the exhibition.

Please mention InFocus when contacting any of our advertisers

Sutton-onthe-Forest

Thirsk Easingwold

Ripley Nidd

The exhibition will cover the period from 1945 to the present day and will look at the themes of Leisure and Entertainment, Visits to Harrogate, Work, Home and Changing Lives and Harrogate’s Communities.

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Tollerton

Huby

Copgrove Hardwith

Marton Abbey

Boroughbridge

Bishop Monkton

Enlightening tales about life in our historic spa town

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Skewsby

Raskelf

Easingwold

Harrogate Stories

The Royal Pump Room Museum will be holding an exciting new community exhibition ‘Harrogate Stories’ from April 2015 which will feature stories from the people who have visited, lived and worked in the town over the last 70 years. The museum is keen to speak to anyone with a fascinating tale to tell.

Yearsley

Thormanby

Crakehill

NEW EXHIBITION

Do you remember the V.E. day celebrations in Harrogate? Did you experience the swinging sixties or the era of the disco diva, punk rocker or new romantic? Do you have any interesting stories about life in Harrogate that other people might be keen to hear? – if the answer is yes, then Harrogate Museums Need You!

Wass Coxwold

Ripon

* Editorial must be supplied completed.

Kilburn

Dalton

North Stainley

Greygarth

Scawton

Sutton-underWhitestonecliffe

Sowerby

Baldersby

Sawley

To feature within this section of the magazine please contact us on: 01609 777401 | 01609 779097 | christine@jkanorth.com

homes & businesses

West Rounton East Harlsey

Streetlam

Fearby

¼) and they will receive the equivalent space in complimentary editorial*.

This editorial provides excellent business exposure to 14,800 homes and businesses and allows further explanation of the new business or services available.

Northallerton

Images Courtesy of Harrogate Museums and Arts, Harrogate Borough Council

York

Professional Medal Mounting & Framing Would you like personal or family medals professionally mounted? I also frame medals with photo’, a cap badge and Title and/or Writeup as needed. I have a range of box frames you can choose from.

Medals are cleaned and given new ribbons and a bar of the correct size, as required. Medal research undertaken if you wish.

I can also mount unusual items into a suitable frame: for instance, I recently mounted a Cavalry Officer’s spurs with his horses decorated head-trace into a frame with other items. There

are not many items that I cannot frame in this way.

The years 2014 to 2018 mark the centenary of World War 1. A number of anniversaries for WW2 are also imminent. This would be a good time to dig out Dad’s / Grandad’s medals and get them spruced up for future generations to treasure and enjoy.

Please contact me at the office by phone or email, or please call in.

CHINESE NEW YEAR

of the Sheep

T’ai Chi Qigong project is being launched in your area!

years’ study with Harmony T’ai Chi achieved Instructor status.

My new “Rainbow Qigong Project” delivers regular classes around Hambleton and includes a NEW weekly Friday class in Masham Town Hall 10-11am – cost £5 per session.

I look forward to hearing from you. I wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

In 2002 I started to learn T’ai Chi Qigong – an ancient Chinese martial art that is made up of slow and flowing moves practiced with the breathing to create an inner sense of peace. For 12 years I have used Qigong as a daily routine and found my eye condition and general wellbeing greatly improved.

Barry J. Parsons, Cathedral Court Medals, Ripon.

Through the AMA I graded to Black Sash level and after three

Email “Rainbow Qigong Project” annieanwar7@gmail.com or contact me on 07889 852 360 – sharing a rainbow!

New Shop opens in Ripon With its founding store in the Victoria Shopping Centre Harrogate, Tobacco Not Included is pleased to open its second store on Fishergate, Ripon (opposite Costa Coffee).

When entering either store you will be served by a trained member of staff who understands the Electronic Cigarette Industry, the forthcoming regulations for 2016 and who are more than happy to help to provide instore demonstrations.

Tobacco Not Included’s range of E-Liquids are all manufactured in the UK using the highest quality ingredients so you can relax in Knowledge you are ‘Vaping’ the best not to mention over 45 different flavours in 5 different nicotine strengths.

We cater for Beginners Starter Kits to advanced Vapers and Mechanical Mods along with replacement tanks, coils and batteries. So now, there is no excuse to leave regular cigarettes behind for good.

Tobacco Not Included is a growing electronic cigarette retailer, priding itself on quality and service.

Tobacco Not Included caters for absolute beginners with our excellent value ‘electronic cigarette starter kit’ as well as having a range for the most experienced users from leading manufacturers Innokin, Kangertech and Kamry.

Our Services: ‘Electronic Cigarette Starter Kits’ for the absolute beginner.

Ranges for most experienced users from leading manufacturers.

Vast flavour range of UK made e-liquid deliver ‘throat hit’ and ‘vapour cloud’.

Excellent product advice and customer service from e cigarette experts.

Tobacco Not Included - 5 Fishergate, Ripon www.tniecigarette.co.uk

For advertising contact Christine: 01609 777401 or Dwight: 01609 779097 | www.jkanorth.com

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World Book Day

A Good Read

- 5th March 2015 -

Kept n DJ Taylor

‘There are many little ways to enlarge your child’s world. Love of books is the best of all.’

Billed as a Victorian Mystery, this novel by DJ Taylor is a true page turner in the style of Dickens, Wilkie Collins and the like. With multiple narratives and a range of perspectives, Taylor weaves a web of intrigue around the life and death of Mr Henry Ireland and his wife, which surprises and delights the reader.

The novel begins with an arresting episode in which two men find themselves by a Scottish loch undergoing a series of challenges to steal rare birds’ eggs. This links them to the strange but eminent naturalist James Dixey, who in turn becomes the guardian of a strangely disturbed young woman.

At times the narrative thread is truly puzzling, and the reader must connect and theorize for themselves – but this is no bad thing, and at least we can read on at our own pace rather than having to wait, in the Victorian manner, for the next instalment. There are plenty of potential heroes and heroines, and a smattering of particularly villainous villains, for us to engage with too.

So said Jackie Kennedy Onassis, and in support of this philosophy, more than 100 countries worldwide will be commemorating World Book Day on Thursday 5th March. This year marks the eighteenth anniversary of the event, which is designed to encourage children to explore the pleasure of books and reading.

How exactly the occasion is celebrated is up to the individual school or library, with ideas and resources for activities available from the website www.worldbookday.com, but regardless of the outcome, every child in participating schools will receive a book token that can be exchanged for a free book. There are ten specially selected titles on offer, with the option to use the token to receive a £1 discount on an alternative book if you prefer to choose your own.

One for those dark winter nights in front of the fire – abandon the television and curl up with a good book instead. Although be warned – you may stay up later than you had intended, reading on to the finish! .................................................................................................................................

Cars and Trucks and Things that Go! n Richard Scarry

Millions of children have grown up with picture books written and illustrated by Richard Scarry.

By the time he died in 1994 he’d sold more than 100 million copies around the world. One of the best known is Cars and Trucks and Things that Go! To celebrate its 40th birthday recently, the Designer Paul Smith – a huge Scarry fan himself - was asked to redesign the work while retaining the charm of Scarry’s original drawings. There was also a boxed set which was limited to just 1000 copies and is already re-selling for hundreds of pounds a copy.

While most of us will never get the chance to own the boxed set, the new-look book is well worth seeking out. It has certainly impressed Scarry’s son Huck, also a children’s writer and illustrator, who said: “Paul Smith and his team have amazed me. It’s Richard Scarry seen with Paul Smith’s eyes.”

For those who don’t know the work, every manner of moving machinery is riotously depicted in a story which sees the pig family head to the beach for a picnic. On their journey they encounter every vehicle known, from the forklift to the locomotive, and many vehicles that are not known, from the pumpkin car to the broom-o-cycle. Each detailed spread provides the opportunity to make up stories and describe situations. Will Officer Flossy catch Dingo? Will Rollo Rabbit catch his runaway steamroller? And can you find the goldbug on every page?

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There are many benefits to encouraging a healthy attitude towards reading from an early age.

The main one is that it exercises the brain. “Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body,” stated Joseph Addison. It improves concentration, builds vocabulary, develops imagination, teaches about the wider world, is a great form of entertainment and helps relax and calm the body and mind.

So, enlarge not only your child’s world but your own too, by discovering the joy of books! Visit: www.worldbookday.com for full details.

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

Please mention InFocus when contacting any of our advertisers

For advertising contact Christine: 01609 777401 or Dwight: 01609 779097 | www.jkanorth.com

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Enjoy out this Winter!

N Oa1walk 5 Low Burton

with Masham church spire in distance.

Take care down steps and turn R at river to pass through stone gate piers.

From the seat at Sandbed Hut Turner painted the view of Mowbray Castle in 1816. Bear L at fork to follow narrow riverside path. On river bend look up to see Fisher’s Hall on R and then approach the octagonal folly by taking steps (or path) after 100 metres.

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26

Masham

B6

Black Sheep Brewery North Cote Farm

Theakston’s Brewery

1

A6

10

Hotel

8

Upbank Wood

4

Swinton

Swinton Park

2

Badger Lane Farm

Low Swinton

Ro om er La ne

Aldburgh Hall

Nutwith Cote Farm

Roomer Farm

6

River Ure South Cote

Nutwith Common Oak Bank

3 Magdalen Wood

1 kilometre

4

Tanfield Lodge

1/ mile 2

5 Main route Hackfall extension Ripon Rowel Walk Woodland Trust wood Other woodland Car park Viewpoint Public house Church

Hackfall

Rip on R Wa lk

ow el

Mowbray Hall

Grewelthorpe

Masham to Hackfall 7¾ OR 8½ MILES 3½ OR 4 HOURS MODERATE WITH SHORT, STEEP SECTIONS

1

START

From Masham market place, go down Millgate, pass school on left (L) and cross cattle grid. Follow Ripon Rowel Walk waymarks and pass through metal gate with water-treatment works on L. Continue with river on L, and after shallow steps into woods bear right (R) to follow tributary river to road bridge.

Turn L and L again down green lane to rejoin River Ure. 2

1½ MILES

Continue along path, taking care over narrow footbridge and along eroded riverbank. Once over two old stiles, cross meadow to R of two large oaks. On hillside to R is Nutwith Cote Farm, an

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A WA L K I N T H E W O O D S

18th-century manor house that was previously owned by the monks of Fountains Abbey. Look out for an earlier row of stone beehives along one side and the remains of a dovecote on top of the hill. Cross another stile and follow path on higher ground up from river’s edge. Go through estate woodland (may be muddy), climbing hill as path bends to R. Pass through kissing gate, cross small stream and turn L for 100 metres across meadow to enter Hackfall via kissing gate.

3

3 MILES

Bear L and follow signposts up to Limehouse Hill viewpoint – at top turn round to see view back along the river

Richmond

A1

3½ MILES

For extension through Hackfall, Y incorporating steep steps up to Mowbray Castle, return down steps (or path) and turn R. Cross small streams and, after approximately ½ mile, climb steep steps on R with care. Follow high path to Mowbray Castle to enjoy excellent views of The Ruin and Masham church.

Continue on and, as path bends L and levels off, turn R on narrow path just before small stream crosses main path (easy to miss). Go down to Alum Springs and carefully cross the weir using stepped stones over to Kent’s Seat.Turn R and after 100 metres turn L to rejoin main route.

From Fisher’s Hall continue up hill. Do not cross stream; instead turn L to climb back up to the top. At fork bear L to explore Alum Springs and Kent’s Seat.

Retrace steps back to main route.

5

castellated during the Georgian and Victorian eras, and is now a luxury country-house hotel. Turn R on road, taking care where it crosses the river.

Pass golf course with clubhouse on L. At T-junction turn L into Thorpe Road, take next R down Chapman Lane and back to the market place.

3¾ MILES

Continue up hill. At next junction turn R and follow path to The Ruin, built as an eye-catching folly and used by William Aislabie as a banqueting house with its extensive views across the Vale of York. It is now let as a Landmark Trust property and access is restricted before 11am and after 3pm, although there is an alternative route around.

Continue along path, pass through two kissing gates and turn L to car park.

Cross road, turn L and immediately R into woodland. Follow track up to junction and turn R down to road. Turn L on wide grassy common, staying parallel with road, and follow minor road to L leading down to Roomer Farm.

6 5¾ MILES After approximately ½ mile follow footpath sign to cross stile to R. Follow footpath diagonally across five grass fields with a view of the turret of Swinton Park to L. After crossing sixth stile and narrow footbridge, follow fieldedge path to L. After 150 metres, bear L just past two large sycamore trees to climb ladder stile in front of main gates of Swinton Park. This building dates from the late 1600s, was extended and

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Northallerton

A19 Thirsk

Masham

A170

A168 A1(M) A19 A61 Knaresborough

A59 Harrogate Skipton

Wetherby

York

TERRAIN Riverside, meadow and woodland paths with two short road sections.There are 10 stiles and the route can be wet and muddy in places, especially through Nutwith Cote Wood.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT Bus stop in Masham market place. Nearest mainline train station is at Northallerton with a station at Bedale on the Wensleydale Railway.

For information on train and bus services call Traveline on 0871 200 2233 (www.traveline.org.uk).

For details of coach services contact National Express on 0871 781 8181 (www.nationalexpress.com).

PARKING Masham market place (grid reference SE225807), suggested donation 50p.

The Woodland Trust’s Hackfall car park (grid reference SE231775).

REFRESHMENTS Pubs, cafés and restaurants in Masham.

Refreshments available at the Black Sheep Brewery and Theakston’s Brewery visitor centres in Masham (follow signposts).

ACCOMMODATION AND TOURIST INFORMATION Mashamshire Community Office, Little Market Place, Masham HG4 4DY (grid reference SE225808; telephone 01765 680200). Open 10am–3pm Monday to Saturday (except Thursday 10am–1pm). Walk leaflets available. Go to www.visitmasham.com Public toilets round back of community office open 8am–8pm.

Nearest youth hostels are less than 20 miles away in Kettlewell, Grinton and Osmotherley (telephone 01629 592700 or visit www.yha.org.uk).

The Landmark Trust lets out The Ruin at Hackfall all year round. Visit www.landmarktrust.org.uk

MAPS Ordnance Survey Explorer 298 & 302; Landranger 99

WOODS TO VISIT i OTHER See the Our Woods section on the Trust’s website at woodlandtrust.org.uk or the Exploring Woodland guide for Yorkshire and the North-east.

Nature Wildlife

Special

in the Garden

It’s early morning and you see the glistening winter garden lays dormant, bejeweled in frosted diamonds. As the sun’s warming fingers stretch out the garden begins to stir. The snowdrops are peeking through, the hedgehogs are snoring away and Mr Robin Redbreast is foraging in the leaf litter. There’s magic all around if you know how to look!

Plants in Focus: Food & Shelter

helpers. When allowed to flourish they create a balanced system between themselves and help to improve garden health and diversity.

Ivy - Hedera helix Provides year round evergreen shelter for birds, nectar in winter and berries in spring

So give them a little food and shelter through winter and they will return your investment with interest through the rest of the year.

Crab Apple – Malus sylvestris A small tree supplying 2-3cm fruits that persist well into winter and flowers in spring

Winter’s frosty embrace has slowed nature’s rhythms once again. However, under this sometimes bleak cocoon there still lies a wealth of life and the nascent stirrings of spring.

We must do our bit as stewards in the garden through the winter months by supplying food and shelter for our wildlife.

This is the hardest time for much of the flora and fauna and helping it to come through into spring in good shape will get the garden off to a healthier and more balanced start.

Rather than seeing wildlife as unwanted inhabitants we should embrace them as nature’s little

If you want to create your own wildlife retreat or have any questions at all regarding your garden then please contact Timothy Campbell Landscapes (BSc (Hons) Environmental Conservation) on 07739071012 or visit: www. timothycampbelllandscapes.co.uk

Firethorn - Pyracantha teton Another evergreen providing effective thorny shelter, berries through winter and flowers in spring

Happy Gardening!

Wildlife Corner Bird’s Buffet

There are many species of bird that visit our gardens through winter and they each have their favourite feasts. Why not take the time to make your own bird snack bar and sit back to enjoy the show.

Here are a few species and what they like.

• Wrens – finely chopped animal fat and grated cheese.

• Sparrows, Finches and Nuthatches – sunflower heads, herbaceous plants and berry cakes.

• Starlings – peanut blocks • Tits – insect slabs • Thrushes and Blackbirds – apples and raisins on the ground are a must • Goldfinch – niger seed

-

It’s important to provide a balanced diet. In addition, caged feeders can help to control unwanted guests such as squirrels and pigeons. Finally, try to provide some ice free water every day for them to drink, and have fun.

Call TimFornow forcontact gardening and777401 landscaping advice: 071012 / 01765 601151 advertising Christine: 01609 or Dwight: 01609 77909707739 | www.jkanorth.com

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Out & About

The

Yorkshire Sky

Various Dates - every Friday

A look back in history at Orion

Look towards the South West on a clear wintery evening and you will see the constellation of Orion working its way Eastwards.

To many, Orion is the most majestic and easily recognisable of the constellations. Each of its main stars has a story to tell and has captivated generations of inquisitive minds. So let us look at each star in turn, but before doing so bear in mind that one light year represents the distance travelled by light in one calendar year and light travels at approximately 180,000 miles a second.

Betelgeuse – distance 430 light years

left to right, this takes you higher in the sky where you will locate the Pleiades star cluster commonly known as the Seven Sisters.

Orion Nebula – distance 1,600 light years Below Orion’s Belt is the Orion Nebula which is an area where stars are being formed. Presently it looks like a fuzzy haze when viewed by the naked eye, but when observed through a telescope it is a beautiful site.

Saiph – distance 2,000 light years Saiph is the bottom left hand star and it is believed that it was once the brightest star in the sky.

Betelgeuse is the top left hand star, and it is difficult to imagine that when we look at Betelgeuse we are observing the star as it was approximately 60 years before Isaac Newton was born. In size it would envelop Jupiter if it replaced our Sun, and being a Red Giant it is due to explode sometime during the next 20,000 years into a Super Novae.

When it does it will take 430 years before we know of its demise.

Orion’s Belt - Alnitak, Alnilam and Mintaka – distances 800, 1,300 and 900 light years respectively These 3 stars aligned in the centre are referred to as Orion’s Belt. Follow an imaginary line from right to left through Mintaka, Alnilam and Alnitak and it will take you to Sirius which is the brightest star in the sky.

Now follow the imaginary line from

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n Masham Lunch Club The lunch club takes place at Maple Creek in Masham, every Friday, from 11.45am until 1pm, when those aged 65 or over can enjoy the companionship of others and a hot meal. The cost is £5 and transport might be possible but would incur an additional charge.

If you are interested in becoming a member please contact Helen Flynn on 01765 603631. ........................................................

Various Dates

n Fit 4 Life This is a free 12 week lifestyle programme offering advice and support on nutrition and physical activity to those with a body mass index of 30 or more. It will help you to lose weight and enable you to maintain a healthy weight. Free information pack and weekly weigh-in.

Contact Natalie Smith by phone on 01423 500600 ext 58382, or 07525 988160, or email Natalie.smith@harrogate.gov. uk. The course will be held in Masham on Monday mornings 10 – 11.30am. .......................................................

9th January (6 week course)

Rigel – distance 780 light years Rigel is the bottom right hand star.

It is a Blue Supergiant and 50,000 times brighter than our Sun. It is the sixth brightest star in the sky. Allow your eyes to customise to the night light and you will notice a distinct difference in colour between Betelgeuse and Rigel.

n T`Ai Chi Qigong for Beginners A six week course at Masham Town Hall, starting on 9th January from 10 – 11 am.

When practiced regularly T`ai Chi Qigong helps maintain general health and energy levels for people of all ages. £5 per session, or £25 for the course.

For further information contact Annie on 07889852360 or email annieanwar@ gmail.com. ........................................................

24th January

n The Wedding Affair: Traditional and Vintage Wedding Show The definitive wedding event in the North of England, in aid of the Ripon Cathedral Development Campaign.

10am - 3:30pm. Entry: £2.50 per person. www.riponcathedral.info ........................................................

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28th January - 7.30pm

n ‘Sweetgrass’ - Curzon Cinema, 7:30pm Ripon Film Society 16th Season.

Membership £20 plus £2.50 per film Guests £6.00 per film. You can join at a showing or by contacting Mike Howard on 01765 600933 For more details: www.riponfilm.org ........................................................

3rd February

n Movies in Masham Film Festival Films start again at 7.30pm on Tuesday 3rd February, at Masham Town Hall.

Tickets cost £5 each and can be bought from Mashamshire Community Office, or on the night.

For programme details contact the Community Office on 01765 680 200 or email info@visitmasham.com. ........................................................

4th - 7th February

n Fearby Pantomime Puss in Boots at Fearby Village Hall from 4th – 7th February inclusive, with a matinee performance on Saturday afternoon at 2pm. Curtain up at the evening performances at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £7 for adults and £4 for children.

Tickets available from Masham Town Hall on Saturday 17th January, between 9 and 11 am. ........................................................

8th February - 11am

n St Wilfrids Muddy Boots 10k & Fun Run An undulating multi-terrain course through picturesque countryside, including road, footpaths & trails. Please wear suitable footwear. The course is unsuitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Roadside parking. Toilet facilities, refreshments & home baking available. Fun Run 10am - Main Race 11am. PLEASE NOTE: There are NO ENTRIES on the day for the 10k race. Fun Run entries are accepted on the day. annekeimeson@hotmail.co.uk www.facebook.com/muddyboots ........................................................

Having an event?

Email us your event details to: events@jkanorth.com and we’ll publish it for you. Magazine distribution dates are on p30.

9th February

n Masham W.I. Meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7.15pm, in Masham Town Hall. All are welcome, with entrance for non members costing £3. The subject of January`s meeting, on Monday 12th January is Lady Spencer and My Mum`s Bus Pass! There is also a W.I. Craft Group which meets separately.

Details available from Mashamshire Community Office on 01765 680200. ........................................................

10th February

n Cairn Hotel Tea Dance Come and join us in the Promenade Ballroom which boasts itself as one of the largest sprung dance floors in the North East of England. Enjoy live music from Terry Wadkin & Dancing from 1400hrs. Enjoy a cup of Yorkshire Tea or freshly brewed Coffee with Finger Sandwiches and Homemade Scones with preserves served at 1500hrs. Then continue to dance the afternoon away until approx 1630hrs.

Only £7.95 per person of which £2.50 goes to our nominated charity.

Other 2015 dates available.

Call our Events Office on 01423 504005 to book your place.

Phone: 01423 504005 cairnevents@strathmorehotels.com Ripon Road Harrogate HG1 2JD ........................................................

17th February - 7.30pm

n Masham Photographic Club The Photographic group meets monthly and the next meeting will be held on 17th February at 7.30pm in The King`s Head conference Room. All welcome, with a nominal charge of £3 for nonmembers.

For further information contact: mashamphotoclub@outlook.com. www.mashamphotoclub.com ........................................................

22nd February

n Riponian Rally The 2015 Riponian Rally is brought to

you through the joint efforts of Ripon Motor Sport Club and Whitby & District Motor Club. This year’s event offers some 44 stage miles in the North Yorkshire forests to the east of Thirsk Auction Mart where it is based, and is a round of the ANCC, ANECCC, EMAMC, ANEMMC and ANWCC championships.

More details: www.riponmotorsportclub.co.uk .......................................................

7th March 7.30pm

n Live Music Charity Evening Raising money for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research and beating bowel cancer. Join Northallerton Woodwind Ensemble and Alverton Brass for an entertaining evening of music in the Yorkshire Suite of The Golden Lion Hotel, Northallerton and help raise money for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research and beating bowel cancer. Tickets are £7 with accompanied school students FREE. For further information visit www.northallertonwoodwind.com or telephone 01609 774158. ........................................................

7th March - 7.30pm

n Fundraising Race Night Racenight - Ripon City Band are hosting a fundraising racenight to raise funds for our training band. The evening will be filled with excitement for those budding jockeys!! Bring along your family and friends. Free Entry Ripon Bowling Club, Boroughbridge Road. Ripon ........................................................

3rd May

12th Ripon Spring Classic Car & Bike Show & Auto Jumble Large displays of classic cars, motorcycles, vans, trucks, ex-military plus classic Land Rover display, arena & commentary. Large Autojumble and trade area. Well behaved dogs on leads welcome, free parking. Adm adult £6.50 child £2.50, 10am – 4pm.

Ripon Racecourse, HG4 1UG. ........................................................

Please note: the editors cannot be held responsible for any changes to events listed. Please contact event organisers directly.

All events correct at time of going to press.

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For a delicious Valentines meal Smoked salmon with prawns, horseradish cream & lime vinaigrette • • • •

•

Ingredients 1 tbsp crème fraîche 1 tsp horseradish sauce 4 slices smoked salmon 10 large cooked prawns, peeled but tails left on

• • • •

1 tsp clear honey ½ tsp finely grated fresh root ginger 2 tbsp light olive oil 2 handfuls small leaf salad

For the salad juice 1 lime, finely grated zest of ½

Method Mix the crème fraîche with the horseradish and a little salt and pepper.

For the dressing, whisk the lime juice and zest with the honey, ginger and seasoning, then whisk in the oil. Lay the smoked salmon and prawns on 2 plates, then top with a dollop of the

horseradish cream. Toss the salad in most of the dressing and pile on top. Drizzle the remaining dressing around the plate and serve.

Tiramisu with honeycomb crunch • • • • • • • • •

Ingredients 1 egg yolk 2 tbsp caster sugar ¼ tsp vanilla paste or extract 85g mascarpone 150ml double cream 2 tbsp Kahlúa 5 tbsp very strong coffee 85g sponge fingers cocoa powder, for dusting

For the honeycomb a little mild oil, like sunflower, for greasing 85g caster sugar • • 2 tbsp clear honey • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda •

Method Whisk the egg yolk with the caster sugar and vanilla paste until pale. Add the mascarpone and cream, then beat with an electric whisk until smooth and thick.

Put the Kahlua and coffee in a bowl and dip in enough sponge fingers to cover the bottoms of 2 small bowls or ramekins. Cover with half the creamy mixture, repeat with some more soaked biscuits, topping with more creamy mixture, until your dishes are full. Dust with a little cocoa powder and chill for at least 2 hrs or overnight.

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For the honeycomb, oil a baking tray or tin or line with a non-stick mat. Gently heat the sugar and honey with a splash of water in a heavy-based pan until melted. Increase the heat and bubble to a good caramel colour, then lift off the heat, whisk in the bicarb and tip onto the baking tray to cool.

Once cold, crush with a rolling pin or thinly slice into shards, and scatter a little over the tiramisus to serve. Leftover honeycomb will keep for a week in an airtight tin.

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1 in 10 People have an Ancestor who was in a Workhouse

Are You One Of Them?

Workhouse Connections, a new two day event at Ripon’s Workhouse Museum this February will help you to discover if you have any workhouse connections in your family history as well as to explore your relative’s experience as an inmate.

Over two days (Friday 27th and Saturday 28th February 2015) you will have the opportunity to get hands-on experience with original workhouse records, find out more about using archives and hear from leading experts in both family research and workhouse history.

Walk in the historic footsteps of previous inmates with a special guided tour of one of the best preserved Workhouse sites in the country and book a one-to-one session with one of the experts to receive specific advice on your own research.

Aimed at people with an interest in family history, from beginners to those whose research is well under way, this unique event will show you what to do next when you discover a relative in a workhouse, reveal what sources are available and how you can access them.

There is an impressive line up of speakers including: • Dr Andy Gritt, a specialist on Victorian poverty and public history • Peter Park, an expert in nineteenth century Poor Law Commission, and regular speaker at Who Do You Think You Are? Live.

• Peter Higgenbotham, a Workhouse expert and a familiar figure from TV shows such as Heir Hunters and Who Do You Think You Are? • Piers Dudgeon, a biographer who made the shocking discovery that author Barbara Taylor-Bradford’s grandmother had spent time in Ripon Workhouse.

The event also includes: • One-to-one sessions with specialists • Advice on using archives from Northallerton County Record Office and the opportunity to have a closer look at original Workhouse records • A Guided Tour of Ripon Workhouse Museum and Site, an opportunity to look around the museum when it is shut to the public, speak to the curator, and handle objects from the collection.

• Evening Public Lecture: ‘Please Sir, can I have some more?’ using clips from film and TV. Places on the event are £180 per person which include lunch and refreshments as well as a 3 course dinner on Friday night.

Full details about the weekend and booking information is available on: www.riponmuseums.co.uk/workhouse_connections or contact: kathrynbedford@riponmuseums.co.uk The Workhouse Museum, Sharow View, Allhallowgate, Ripon HG4 1LE info@riponmuseums.co.uk | 01765 690799

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Garden View Seeds of change How many seeds have you eaten today? Probably more than you realise. As a nation, we consume tons of them every day and whether they are ground to make our bread, mushed to accompany our chips or sprinkled on our burger bun, seeds play an important role in our diet, as well as in our garden!

Most of the seed heads that were left over from autumn have now fallen over, disintegrated, or been eaten by hungry birds, so as part of my ‘outdoor housework’ I’m cutting them down to ground level before the new growth begins to emerge next month. The stately seed heads of Stipa gigantea looked fantastic for such a long period of time, as did the erect stems of Calamagrostis ‘Karl Forester’, but even these have been defeated by the wind.

It may be cold outside, but now is the perfect time for planning what to grow this year, from seed of course! Over recent years the popularity of growing your own vegetables has meant that veg seed sales have overtaken those of traditional flowers,

but you really can’t beat the satisfaction of plants from seed.

The first plants I ever grew were Snap Dragons.

I was fifteen, and I found the packet in the back of a drawer (presumably they had been stuck to a box of cereal at some stage). I diligently followed the instructions for sowing and placed them on top of my wardrobe (I’m not quite sure why I did that). What happened next really was a miracle.

They germinated! It was hard to believe that the old seed, uneven layer of compost, wardrobe location and over watered soil, produced a rash of new seedlings. It wasn’t long before they had grown to around 2 inches high and bent towards the light, narrowly avoiding the artex ceiling!

I potted them on and they produced the most beautiful range of colours all summer long, and that was the moment I became hooked on gardening.

It wasn’t really a surprise that they germinated, as that’s what seeds are designed to do. They can survive in their dormant state for years, and because there are often more seeds per packet than you

know what to do with, I always sow just a few more than I need and return the rest to a sealed container in the fridge. Stored like this they keep for years.

To give them the best start in life, most seeds require just a tray of compost and some warmth.

Large seeds should be covered over with compost, but small seeds left uncovered as they often don’t have enough energy to push new leaves through the soil. Prick out singly once large enough to handle and grow on somewhere frost-free, before gradually hardening off ready for life outdoors.

Until next time, happy winter gardening.

Lee

Top 10 January Garden jobs 1

Recycle your Christmas tree by shredding it for mulch

6

Prune apple and pear trees

2

Ventilate the greenhouse on sunny days

7

Start forcing rhubarb

3

Dig over any vacant plots that have not been dug already

8

Plan your vegetable crop rotations for the coming season

4

Repair and re-shape lawn edges

9

Keep putting out food and water for hungry birds

5 22

Inspect stored tubers of Dahlia, Begonia and Canna for rots or drying out

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10

Prepare a polythene shelter for outdoor peaches and nectarines, to protect them from peach leaf curl

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School Governors Do you want to make a positive contribution to education and the community? Then have you considered the prestigious and rewarding role of becoming a School Governor?

Who are the School Governors?

Every School has a Board of Governors which is reconstituted every four years when members complete their term of office and may be replaced. School Governors must ensure that the children receive as good an education as possible and this objective must always be in forefront of any decisions that they make. They have the responsibility of ensuring that the head teacher is held to account with his/her performance, overseeing the financial position of the school and ensuring that the school has future plans in place and is being run within the legal framework.

Not all governing bodies have the same structure and some schools are granted more flexibility than others, but each school should publish its governance structure on its website.

The structures will vary from school to school dependent on what the board consider a good balance and indeed the regulations differ between maintained schools and academies.

Members can be from any part of society provided the board is confident that the potential member has the necessary skills, including the willingness and ability to learn and develop as a governor.

It is not unusual to have as many as 20 members on the board and a typical Board of Governors can comprise of representatives from: • Parents • The Local Authority, The School Staff, The Community, Co-opted members, Sponsors • Clerk to the Governors – this could be a member of the administrative staff and is a paid position. The Clerk has no voting rights.

There may also be someone responsible for the training of new members in the form of mentors or indeed arranging for them to attend appropriate courses.

School Governors are also the largest volunteer force in the country. They qualify for certain expenses and em-

ployers must give School Governors reasonable time away from work in order for them to carry out their duties.

However employers are not required to pay the person for the time they are absent from work.

Why become a School Governor?

• Play a positive part in children’s education.

• Give something back to society.

• Develop new skills that will help in expanding your CV. • The opportunity to learn first-hand of the mechanisms of education in our society.

Do I have the expertise?

Yes you do if you have the enthusiasm and commitment. Should you be a parent you will be aware of other parents concerns. If you are a member of the local community your local knowledge will be valuable. On the other hand you may be fortunate to have your own business or other skills which your local school may appreciate.

Do I have the time?

Being a School Governor can be time consuming. Estimates of the time required vary depending on the school and its circumstances. Some reports say you will be required for 6 or more meetings a year others say 4 or 5 meetings a term. Regarding hours expect a minimum of 8 to 10 hours a week.

How to become a School Governor

The following information is taken from: www.nga.org.uk/Be-a-Governor.aspx • You can contact your local school to make them aware of your interest.

• You can contact SGOSS (www.sgoss. org.uk/) – Governors for Schools, which recruits Governors nationally.

• You can contact your local council.

• You can use the Inspiring the Future website. (inspiringthefuture.org) Additional Information can be obtained from: www.gov.uk/become-school-collegegovernor www.bbc.co.uk/schools/parents/ school_governor/ John Harris

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at your finger tips YOUR MONEY SAVING LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY Reach over: 45,000 potential customers from only ÂŁ25.00 a month!

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THIRSK&EASIN

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Thirsk & Easingwold Dist: w/c 16th March Copy: 20th February

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Builders & Contractors Ashwoods: p5 Duffield Timber: p23

Business Services Printing.com: p28

Care Care Designed For You: p25 St Johns House: p16

Childrens Services Rhythm Time: p17

Cleaning Services Anita’s Cleaning Services: p8 Maid & Mend: p25 OvenU: p25 Oven Wizards: p8

Dentists Clock Tower Dental: p19

Design & Print Printing.com: p28

E-Cigarettes Tobacco Not Included: p32

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Aerial & Sat Fix: p8 Aerial Team: p4 B & P Don Electrician: p9 Electrocare: p28 Handy Andy: p28

Footprints To The Past: p20

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Equine AJ Horseboxes: p13 Westwoods Country Living: p13

Castaway: p17 Cathedral Court Medals: p11 Cognito Cycles: p17 Danny Piper Creative Metalwork: p23

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Life Alignment: p30 Rainbow Qigong Project: p11 Specsavers: p3

Home & Interiors Dales of Thirsk: p27 Holme Design: p9 Thirsk Decorating Centre: p9 Value Doors: p28 Westwoods Country Living: p13

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Jamesons Country Store: p13 Westwoods Country Living: p13

Ashwoods: p5 Dales of Thirsk: p27 Holme Design: p9

Firewood Lindrick Logs: p1 Logs To Burn: p23

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Cloudy 2 Clear: p28 Handy Andy: p28 Maid & Mend: p25 MH Joinery: p5 Neil Green Services: p29 Resin Drives: p32 Rooflines: p31 Value Doors: p28

Property Lets Get Ready To Sell: p5

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Renewable Energy Johnsons Heating: p29 Peak Power Systems: p4

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Buck Inn: p17 Lamb Inn: p21 So! Bar & Eats: p7 Wiltshire Farm Foods: p25

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Plumbing Silverdale: p19 Westwoods Country Living: p13

Healthcare & Wellbeing Care Designed For You: p25 Clock Tower Dental: p19 Dales Physiotherapy: p1

Johnsons Heating: p29 Neil Green Services: p29 Oilforce: p29

Property Maintenance ADI Communications: p29 Aerial & Sat Fix: p8 Aerial Team: p B & P Don: p9

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Storage Sycamore Storage: p9

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Happening @ Ripon Library: January - March 2015 Library consultation - your views matter We are consulting on proposals to change how library services are run across North Yorkshire.

The consultation runs from 3 November 2014 to 8 February 2015. To find out more and take part in the consultations please visit: www.northyorks. gov.uk/libraryconsultation or visit your local library January – March 2015 – “Ripon at War (1914-1919) – Impact of War on Ripon” an illustrated exhibition in partnership with Ripon Historical Society. A FREE exhibition available to all visitors during the library opening hours. For more information please visit: www. riponhistoricalsociety.org.uk or contact Derek Edmondson (Vice-Chairman) via email at: derek. edmondson@btinternet.com 8th Jan – 5th Feb – Use your iPad – 5 weeks FREE course, Ripon Library – meeting room. Learn how to use your iPad. 10 places available. Please contact NYCC Adult Learning Services on 01609 533936 to book your place.* 19th – 27th January – display for Holocaust Memorial Day 2015 (27 January).

19th January – 14th February – a special display for National Libraries Day (7 February), to celebrate the library’s place in the local community.

Fri 23rd January, 10.30am – 12noon – FREE, drop-in Health MOT session for residents of Ripon delivered by Harrogate Borough Council’s Sport

Development Team. An opportunity to check your weight, BMI, blood pressure, peak flow and resting pulse and to get advice on healthy eating and how to lead a healthy lifestyle*.

Fri 23rd January, 11am – 1pm FREE, drop-in advisory session for residents of Ripon delivered

by Carers’ Resource, with focus on Winter Warmth and accessing all available assistance.

Find out more about Carers’ Resource at: www. carersresource.org Fri 23rd January 2015, 10.30-11am – Being healthy! A special storytime for 2 ½-5 year olds and their families.

Please contact NYCC Adult Learning Services on 01609 533936 to book your place.*

Fri 30th January, 10 – 11am – My Neighbourhood surgery – a FREE drop in advice session with Ripon Police and North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue*. Also on Friday 27th Feb & Friday 13th March

Sat 14th March, 11am – 2pm, Sights and Sounds of Ripon – your community! – a FREE family friendly multi-agency community safety and health and well-being event for residents of Ripon.

The event will take place across all sites of Ripon Museum Trust and in Ripon Library. Details TBC*.

Thurs 5th February – Harry Potter Book Night – details to be confirmed.

Sat 7 February – National Libraries Day – details to be confirmed.

Wed 18th March, 9.30 – 11.30am, library meeting room – Speech and Language Drop in Session. For more information contact Ripon Children’s Centre on 01609 532608.

Wed 11th February, 9.30 – 11.30am, library meeting room – Speech and Language Drop in Session. For more information contact Ripon Children’s Centre on 01609 532608.

*This event is delivered through partnership work with My Neighbourhood Project.

9th – 28th February – table top book sale (library reference area).

For more details on these, or any other events call:

26th Feb – 26th March – Use your iPad – 5 weeks FREE course, Ripon Library – meeting room.

Learn how to use your iPad. 10 places available.

For advertising contact Christine: 01609 777401 or Dwight: 01609 779097 | www.jkanorth.com

0845 034 9524 The Arcade, Ripon, HG4 1AG

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01609 777401 | 01609 779097 | www.jkanorth.com