Thirsk & Easingwold InFocus Autumn 2011

Autumn 2011

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AUTUMN

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Remember September Get involved with the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning!

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Competition Time!

Your chance to win a family ticket to Cinderella!

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Autumn Lawn Masterclass Use our advice to help your lawn flourish in the Autumn months

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Blue Cross Update

Details of the Blue Cross Sponsored Walk & other news!

Also in this issue...

05 finance

16-17 leisure

20 local news

Budget 2011 - What does it mean for your business?

Autumn Events

AFC Hillside

18 local news

28 service

What’s On at Rural Arts?

At Your Fingertips

20 local news

30 service

Thirsk Clock Sponsored Cycle Ride

InFocus Index

06-08 new businesses A number of new businesses in and around our area

14 local news On the Catwalk

I hope that you enjoy this edition of Thirsk & Easingwold infocus. Please contact us if you would like to advertise your business in this publication.

Best wishes, t: 01609 777401 www.jkanorth.com Christine Campbell Editor

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Budget 2011 – What does it mean for your businesses?

• Part 1

Those of you who have looked at the budget in depth will be inundated with over 240 pages of Budgetary notes from HMRC and might find hard to pinpoint what the key changes are and how they affect you. Here’s a summary of what you need to be aware with helpful Tax-Tips: • Research and Development One of this year’s most generous changes has been to increase the amount of relief available for small and medium sized companies engaging in Research and Development. The amount of relief previously available of 175% has been increased to 200% since 1st April 2011.

Tip: We offer a health check to see if your expenditure on research and development activities qualifies for the enhanced reliefs.

• Enterprise Investment Schemes (EIS) The coalition government have made investing in EIS schemes even more rewarding since 6th April 2011, increasing Income Tax relief from 20% to 30%. The limit for investment is currently set at £500,000. This means the change in rates could potentially save you up to £150,000 in a single Tax year!

The government will also be looking at raising the amounts available for relief for future years, in addition to changing the levels for qualification as EIS companies.

So investing in an EIS scheme could be a great way to reduce the levels of Income Tax Payable, as well as securing an Investment.

Tip: If you are considering an investment in an EIS scheme advice should be sought from a financial adviser to ensure the correct type of investment is chosen.

For advertising contact Christine on: 01609 777401 | www.jkanorth.com

Peter Tarren For business planning and tax advice call Peter on: 0845 330 0451 or email him at: p.tarren@euraaudituk.com or drop in at: 87 South Parade Northallerton

• Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) ISAs continue to be a great way to save money free of Tax. For 2011/2012 the amounts you can invest into an ISA Tax free are as follows: • Cash ISAs only - £ 5,340 • Stocks and Shares - £10,680 The maximum that can be invested in ISAs is restricted to £10,680 for the 2011/2012 Tax year. The government confirmed that Finance Bill 2011 will introduce a Junior ISA. This will be available for all UK resident children under the age of 18. It will be available in both Cash ISAs and Stocks and Shares ISAs. It is expected that these will be available from October 2011.

Tip: Make use of your ISAs by ensuring that each family member with an ISA contributes up to the annual limits.

Tip: Consider taking out an ISA for each child that you have once junior ISAs become available.

• Gift aid As part of the raft of incentives introduced to help charities in the Budget, there will be changes to the amount of benefit that can be obtained from donating to charities. The limits for 2010/2011 have been increased from a maximum of £500 to £2,500 where donations of more than £10,000 are made. The effective date for this change was 6th April 2011 for individuals and 1st April 2011 for Corporate Donors.

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New & exciting businesses come to

Thirsk Easingwold & surrounding areas this Autumn New Businesses we’re introducing: • Planet Jewels Accessories

Planet Jewels Accessories

Nestled in 14 Millgate, Thirsk, Planet Jewels Accessories boasts a vast selection of unique handbags and fashion accessories. This small but relaxed shop offers customers the opportunity to browse unique, special handbags, jewellery, accessories, fashion jewellery and much more, all at affordable prices, typically £5 - £60.

NEW! Business • Lemontree Architecture

• Practical Car & Van Rental

NEW! Business • Euro Tech

NEW! Business To feature within this section please contact us on: 01609 777401.

You can also email: Christine@jkanorth.com or visit: www.jkanorth.com

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Having recently added Whitby Jet, Fiorelli Silver, Fiorelli Handbags and Fossil Handbags (coming November) to their range, we’re sure Planet Jewels Accessories will be a huge success.

14 Millgate, Thirsk | 01845 524908

NEW! Business

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Manageress Sue Bell tells us more, “Planet Jewels Accessories offers the people of Thirsk and the surrounding areas the chance to browse locally the special and unusual boutique handbags and jewellery amongst nice, carefully selected everyday fashion jewellery. We want to assist customers in finding that perfect item and to enjoy shopping with us.”

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A Practical Solution to Vehicle Hire Practical Car & Van Rental Thirsk, Yorkshire, we are the official car and van rental location for Thirsk and the surrounding areas, including Northallerton, Bedale, Catterick, Leeming, Ripon and Easingwold.

We have a comprehensive fleet of rental cars available, from small economy to large saloon, executive and estate car with automatic and diesel variants too. 7 seater people carriers and a 15 seater minibus can accommodate larger parties. Thirsk depot opens 7 days a week and can accommodate car rental during Bank Holidays and ‘out of hours’ by prior arrangement. Car hire can be arranged via local railway stations at Thirsk and Northallerton and the coach terminals at Thirsk, Northallerton and Ripon. Short and long term rental enquiries from

tourists, residents and the local business community are welcomed and all vehicles are offered at competitive car hire rates.

Van Rental - Thirsk, Yorkshire Thirsk’s commercial fleet ranges from small courier style vans through short wheel base (swb), medium wheel base (mwb) to long wheel base (lwb) and extra long wheel base (xlwb). Luton vans with and without tail-lift are also available to rent.

Short and long term rental enquiries from residents and businesses alike are welcomed and preferential hire terms may be offered for extended rental durations.

Practical Car & Van Rental Busby Stoop Garage, Busby Stoop, Thirsk, Tel: 01845 587232

For fast & friendly service...

Mr Davison and Mr Wallis welcome you to EuroTech service and MOT test centre.

Situated on Europark, Station Road, the business has flourished over the past few years and has enjoyed great local support.

Since moving from John Robson Motors at the end of 2010 due to the need for larger premises, EuroTech has expanded its range of services to ensure the needs of their customers are met swiftly and professionally.

By offering MOT tests 8am – 8pm by appointment and opening Saturday mornings, EuroTech are striving to accommodate customer requirements.

The range of services include: • MOT’s • General Service & Repair • Diagnostics & Tyres

Units 3 & 4 Europark Station Road Thirsk YO7 1QH

For fast and friendly service, ensure you visit EuroTech.

Tel: 01845 522574

For advertising contact Christine on: 01609 777401 | www.jkanorth.com

More new businesses overleaf 7 >> Thirsk & Easingwold infocus

New & exciting businesses & services come to

Thirsk Easingwold & surrounding areas this Autumn New Businesses & Services we’re introducing: • Beauty Studio

NEW! Treatments

For a beautiful Autumn...

Feet Company have been established as a podiatry company since 1998 and brought the service to Thirsk in 2009. We spoke to owner Wendy for more information about the business, “We have incorporated beauty treatments to the company this year to provide the ultimate package and by running special offers every month we’re giving people the opportunity to try our services for less.”

• Spectrum Picture Framing

NEW! Framing Equipment

Wendy continues, “We cater for kids parties, mini manicures, prewedding packages, pamper days, holiday packages, gift vouchers, which are all tailored to suit your individual needs with an overall discount. We are based in a Court Yard, Millgate away from the hussle and bussle of the High Street. We are registered with Guild Of Beauty Therpists, HPC and The Institute Of Chiropodists/Podiatrists. Our aim is to provide a relaxing and caring environment.”

To feature within this section please contact us on: 01609 777401.

You can also email: Christine@jkanorth.com or visit: www.jkanorth.com

Feet Company Just off The Market Place, 3 Court Arcade, Milgate, Thirsk, YO7 1AA Telephone: 01845 527085 www.feetcompany.co.uk

In the Frame and looking forward…

TIM AND JO ROBERTS, both of whom are highly trained picture framers, have just celebrated their fourth trading year at Spectrum Picture Framing and Gallery in Thirsk. Business is booming and as a result their Workshop and Gallery has been getting a major overhaul and refurbishment.

Says Tim; “we have opened up the Workshop area and installed new equipment, including a new computerised mount cutter, to increase efficiency and cost effectiveness”.

Says Jo, “We always try to get a feel from the customer why their piece of artwork is important to them. The new technology helps us to offer a range of solutions which is in keeping with the piece, its sentiment and the emotional attachment so often evident.

Choosing the right frame is definitely a collaborative process between the framer and customer.

This consultation is a key part of the process and should not be rushed”.

As for the Gallery, look out this autumn for exciting new images from Angela Davidson, Becky Mair and Peter Dworok. Work from Jo

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Stockdale, Sue Howells, Robert E Fuller and Mary Ann Rogers is ever present in the Gallery. A wonderful new range of solid bronze hares have been added to their exclusive British made gift range.

Tim and Jo regularly take their work out on the road. Contact them for details of their next exclusive shopping evening at the Fauconberg Arms, Coxwold on 3rd November.

Spectrum is open from 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Saturday.

A Home Consultation Service is available. ....................................................

Spectrum Framing and Gallery, 5 Kirkgate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 1PQ. Telephone: (01845) 527773 www.spectrumframing.co.uk Also on twitter and facebook

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Adverts from £40!

1/4 page from only:

£105.00 £180.00 90mm width x 130mm height

1/2 page from only: 190mm width x 130mm height

Call today for Free Advertisement Design & Royal Mail Delivery!

Tel: 01609 777401

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A Celebration of Life after Cancer

on the

catwalk with

Barkers Northallerton

Remember September

Thursday October 13th Barkers Northallerton

Tickets: £5

to include a complimentary glass of wine, soft drink, tea or coffee

For tickets & more details please call: 01609 772303 Store closed 5.30-6pm to allow set-up 1st Show: 6.30pm | 2nd Show: 7.30pm Tickets must be purchased for each show.

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Macmillan volunteers from the Cancer Information Centre, Friarage Hospital are making plans for Macmillan’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning to be held on 30th September 2011 from 10am until 1pm.

They are hoping to come somewhere near the astonishing £665 they raised last year, thanks to a donation of £463 from the Lakeland Store on Northallerton High Street.

This money helps Macmillan Cancer Support to provide medical, practical and emotional support to people affected by

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cancer including patients and carers.

The event will be held in The Hub at The Friarage Hospital. As well as Refreshments, Tombola, and Book Stall there will be a wide range of new Jewellery on sale which has been kindly donated by a patient to help in the fund-raising event.

Donations of raffle and tombola prizes would be gratefully received, please contact Amanda Cormican on 01609 764033.

We hope you can join us on the day and look forward to sharing a coffee with visitors, patients and staff.

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Autumn Events 24th September • Guitarist John Etheridge In Concert Easingwold Galtres Centre - 7.30pm John Etheridge rightly enjoys a glowing reputation throughout the jazz world and beyond. He toured and recorded with the iconic Stephane Grapelli for many years, as well as the legendary jazzfusion group, Soft Machine. This gig provides a wonderful opportunity to relax with John as he shares his warmth and his considerable talent with his audience.

Adults: £10.00 16 & under £8.00 | www.johnetheridge.com Galtres Centre Box Office Open Monday-Friday 9.00am-5.00pm | Tel: 01347 822472 ......................................................................................................................

25th September • Easingwold Cycling Festival and Arthur Metcalfe Memorial Ride A great cycling fun day for all ages and abilities is in store for Easingwold! Covering routes of 25 - 75 miles, this annual event is in memory of the late great Arthur Metcalfe, winner of the milk race and competitor in the Tour de France and a local hero in the north east. And if you think you could not manage 75 miles then try our Family route to Boroughbridge and back along quiet country roads, all well marked. For further details, including routes and and application forms please visit: www.jjhardy.co.uk/charity-events. A great family day out then, with the added bonus of all proceds going to Macmillan Cancer Relief! ......................................................................................................................

1st October • Borrowby Book Exchange Borrowby Village Hall 10.30-noon. Freshly brewed coffee, tea, home-made cakes and a large collection of second-hand books. Paperbacks 50p, hardback £1. A social event not to be missed! ......................................................................................................................

1st October • Live Music - Jodie & The Lost Boys Crown & Anchor, Sowerby - 9pm Sowerby band playing covers by artists such as The Clash, Guns n Roses, Feeder, Janis Joplin, Florence & The Machine, K T Tunstall, Greenday & Kings of Leon. Free Admission.

Tel: 01845 522448 ......................................................................................................................

1st & 2nd October • James Herriot Convention Bookings are now being taken for this unique event, a must for ‘Herriot fans’ everywhere. If you would like to join Herriot fans from around the world you can book a place using the online booking form (you will be required to pay separately through the online shop once you have completed the form details from the World of James Herriot) Full details: www.worldofjamesherriot.org ......................................................................................................................

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8th October • Last Night of The Proms Galtres Centre - 7.30pm The Shepherd Group Brass Band (formerly known as the Rowntree Brass Band) returns to the Centre for another rousing evening at Easingwold’s very own Last Night of The Proms! The Band, and local singer Jessa Liversedge, will perform all of the celebrated classics including Jerusalem, Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance March, The Fantasia on British Sea Songs and, of course, Land of Hope and Glory. With plenty of singing, flag waving and cheers for “more”, this is an event not to be missed.

Adults: £8.00 16 & Under: £5.00 | www.shepherdgroupbrassband.co.uk Box Office Open Monday-Friday 9.00am-5.00pm | Tel: 01347 822472. ......................................................................................................................

12th October • Coffee Day Golden Fleece Hotel, Thirsk - 10.00am - 3.00pm Held to raise money for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

Admission £1.50 including Coffe & homemade biscuits. Christmas Cards, Cakes, Raffle, Bring & Buy, Tombola etc ......................................................................................................................

15th October • The Chapter House Choir of York Minster St Mary’s Church Leake - 7.30pm Tickets £14 from 01845 537008 to include a glass of wine.

In aid of the “Raise the Roof fund”. ......................................................................................................................

22nd October • Live Music - Midnite Bears Crown & Anchor, Sowerby - 9pm Free Admission ......................................................................................................................

26th October • Easingwold Cinema presents: 127 Hours Galtres Centre - 7.30pm Director: Danny Boyle and Starring: James Franco, Amber Tamblyn and Kate Mara. The plot: A mountain climber becomes trapped under a boulder while canyoneering alone near Moab, Utah and resorts to desperate measures in order to survive.

Adults £4.50 16 & under £3 | Running time 94 mins Box Office Open Monday-Friday 9.00am-5.00pm Tel: 01347 822472. The Galtres Centre, Market Place, Easingwold ......................................................................................................................

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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What’s on this Autumn?

With the launch of their new Autumn programme, Rural Arts have a great range of fun events and creative workshops for you to get involved in at their venue, The Courthouse in Thirsk.

All our courses are run by professional artists and tutors so why not refresh a skill or learn something new…

Free internet classes continue to run every Monday, 10am -12 noon (booking is advised) and we will also be running courses in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop and Introduction to Mac in September/October.

• If you are looking to improve your fitness, why not try our weekly Zumba classes on Monday and Thursday evenings, 6pm -7pm? (Please note, due to high demand these classes are run by Rural Arts at Thirsk Town Hall).

• From mid October to mid November we will be host to a collection of work produced by students who attend the drawing, painting and life drawing classes here at the Courthouse. This will be followed by a vibrant Christmas exhibition with seasonal goodies and gifts for sale.

• We regularly feature local artists in our exhibitions with a wide variety of one off pieces at affordable prices on display. Our permanent exhibition features jewellery, ceramics, textiles, prints and greetings cards.

• Other exciting courses beginning in September include flower arranging, drawing and painting and life drawing. We will also be running workshops in ceramics and willow sculptures/ Christmas wreaths.

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• Why not call in and have a browse or enjoy morning coffee or a light lunch in the café…our menu includes homemade soup, paninis or quiche with salad and a mouthwatering selection of cakes. Opening times (café/exhibition) are 10.00am-4.30pm, Monday to Saturday.

• For further information or to book a place, please contact Janice McVay, Courthouse Manager on 01845 526536/e: Janice@ruralarts.org or visit our website, www.ruralarts.org. Alternatively call in to the Courthouse and pick up one of our Autumn programmes.

• The Courthouse is a community venue and is available to hire for meetings, training, wedding receptions, christenings etc. You may not be aware that we also have a variety of fully equipped spaces with full disabled access available to hire for business use, workshops and private events.

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Successful Coast to Coast Cycle Ride in aid of Thirsk Clock Staff and volunteers from Thirsk Clock (Youth Café and Community Centre) have completed the Coast to Coast cycle ride over four days, raising almost £2000 for the charity.

The team of nine people had never attempted anything like this before.

Cycling experience within the team varied from one very experienced cyclist to those who have never cycled more than a couple of miles on a bike at one go. They were accompanied by a volunteer support team.

The group set out from Morecambe, on the west Lancashire coast, in glorious sunshine and survived a gruelling uphill route to reach their overnight accommodation in a bunk barn at Ribblehead. Abigail Homer, the Clock’s manager, led by example. “I was extremely apprehensive about the challenge but once we got going it was an incredible experience” she said.

The second day dawned equally brightly and everyone enjoyed a mainly downhill cycle to Leyburn for the second night’s stay. Sadly the final two days were marred by constant heavy rain but despite this spirits remained high and the team triumphantly rode the last leg from Osmotherley into Saltburn–by- theSea on Sunday afternoon. They had covered a total of 122 miles (190 kilometres ).

Jon Ptolomey, one of the main organisers said, “ Because of our varying abilities the challenge was not about individuals finishing, it was about completing the ride as a team.”

Thirsk Clock are grateful for the generous sponsorship of the Coast to Coast Ride by the Barker Partnership of Thirsk and Coles Solicitors of Northallerton. The riders were also especially encouraged by all the supporters who endured a cold, wet Sunday to greet them as they crossed the finishing line. Adam Wilding, a youth worker at The Clock, said, “ It was a challenge I was proud to overcome – I enjoyed every minute of it!”

The money raised will be used to fund those activities and resources that are essential for the work of the charity but for which it does not receive any other means of support. These include working with homeless young people and assisting with food, transport, toiletries and other everyday needs. It will also be used to help attract matched funding from other sources.

AFC Hillside Football Club

The nomadic history behind them Formed in 2000 as Old Red House FC, the club started out playing Saturday football in the RJF Beckett league and found things tough. The club changed name for one season in 2002 to Black Bull, Thirsk when sponsorship changed.

The club then reverted to Carlton Utd and the results started to improve.

Current Saturday manager Paul Reynard returned from being captain in 2001 to manage the side in 2003.

As results improved the team wanted a more consistent challenge and by joining the Harrogate & District league in 2005 they got this. In doing so the team had to find a pitch with shower facilities and in doing so started to play their home games in Helperby. The local sports association required the club to change their name so in 2006 the club became known as Brafferton Rangers.

The team has continued to improve and in order to attract more players to the club added a Sunday league team in 2008. This team began playing its games at Carlton Miniott, the original home of the Saturday side. In 2009 though the chance came for the Sunday team to play at Hillside Rural Activities Park , Knayton and they took up the opportunity to play on a lovely big pitch.

The Sunday team are managed

by Stephen Gibson and in his first season in charge last season they won the Scorpion Cup and finished second in the league to gain a well deserved promotion.

Thirsk Clock offers Autumn Training Course Thirsk Clock is running a course for people aged between 16 and 25 years who wish to develop their skills and gain a qualification. The course has been made possible through the sponsorship of a charitable trust, The Hilden Project.

The course details are: OCN Level 2 Unit: Understanding Youth Work Principles and Practice: By the end of the course learners will be able to identify aims and

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principles of youth work, plan effective youth work activities and understand youth work policies and procedures.

Dates: 28th September, 12th October 2011.

Time: 6.30pm - 8.30pm Venue: Thirsk Clock, St James Green, Thirsk.

To register or to find out more details: Contact Siobhan on 01845 525594 or e-mail Siobhan@ thirskclock.com

The Saturday team have now joined the Sunday team playing at Knayton and 2010/11 was their first season there. The club have decided to add a reserve team on a Saturday in order to try and continue the improvement the club has made year on year. Sean Ovington has taken over as reserve manager and the club wishes him

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well in what will no doubt be an interesting first season.

This summer the club have decided that Brafferton Rangers no longer meant anything and would need a name they could now keep no matter what. AFC Hillside has been born and with their roots now firmly at Knayton there is no reason why the club cannot continue to grow. The club plans to add youth and veteran teams in the future and anyone interested in getting involved should contact Paul Reynard at paulreynard7@ hotmail.co.uk for details.

The clubs trains on a Thursday at Thirsk Astroturf and has been training for pre season on a Tuesday at Knayton. The Saturday team have played out a 2-2 pre season friendly against Thirsk falcons res and have games against Wetherby A, Kirby Malzeard res and Helperby Utd. The club are always looking for new players and anyone interested can contact Paul Reynard for details.

The club try to hold regular fundraising activities and recently held a race night at the Blacksmiths Arms, Thirsk. This was kindly sponsored by AW Decorating, a business run by the clubs long serving chairman Andrew Worsnop. Andrew has been involved in the club since its formation in 2000 in various roles and does a lot to support the club.

The club are always looking for new sponsors and currently need kit sponsors especially. Anyone interested should contact Paul Reynard on the above or Andrew Worsnop at andrewworsnop@ tiscali.co.uk.

It’s

Competition Time!

Darlington Civic Theatre has a family ticket to give away for the opening night of this year’s magical pantomime Cinderella, which will be on stage from Saturday 3 December 2011 to Sunday 15 January 2012.

Dancing on Ice and X Factor star Ray Quinn heads the cast alongside Emmerdale’s Deena Payne and legendary comic Jimmy Cricket.

An unmissable treat for all ages, Cinderella will be brought magically to life from page to stage in a sumptuous production complete with an abundance of comedy, stunning sets, outrageous costumes and beautiful ponies that transport Cinderella and her coach to the Ball!

Tickets for Cinderella are available from the Box Office on 01325 486 555 or online at www.darlingtonarts.co.uk For your chance to win a family ticket for Saturday 3 December just answer the question below and send together with your name, address and telephone number to Cinderella Competition, Marketing Dept., Darlington Arts Centre, Vane Terrace, Darlington DL3 7AX. Entries must be received

by Friday 14 October.

Q: Which X Factor star heads the cast of Cinderella?

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n w a L n Autum

master class Your lawn can get worn out, compacted and full of weeds during the summer months. Find out what to do to give it a seasonal boost.

It’s traditional to give lawns a pick-me-up in September, to revitalise them after dry summer weather and to ensure they are fit enough to get through winter. However, with longer summers and lack of water in areas hit by hosepipe bans, it’s best to hold on until after some decent rain and you can see the grass is growing again.

Tackle moss and thatch

Improve drainage

Start off by controlling moss, which is often found in patches under trees or hedges. Treat by spreading a mosskiller across the lawn and within two weeks the weed will have died and turned black. To prevent it from thriving in the future, it makes sense to tackle its cause. Either remove branches or lower hedges that cast shade or improve drainage.

Areas of the lawn that get heavy traffic, such as play areas often become very compacted which can cause problems with drainage, weeds and moss. Improve by pushing a garden fork into the ground as far as you can, then wiggle it backwards and forwards to make air channels. Repeat this every 10cm (4in) across the lawn.

Remove the dead moss by vigorously raking the surface with a spring-tined lawn rake. At the same time you’ll remove masses of old grass clippings and other debris that can build up on the surface of the lawn, forming a layer called thatch. This can hinder drainage and encourages weeds and turf diseases. Throw the material into a wheelbarrow and put on your compost heap when finished.

If you have a large garden, it’s possible to hire an electric raking machine.

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Brush a sandy top dressing across the surface of the lawn so that it fills the holes, allowing air and water into the lawn - ready mixed bags can be bought from garden centres.

On larger lawns you could hire a powered aerating machine or if your lawn is very heavy, use a hollow tining tool that removes plugs of grass, which can be filled with top dressing. Both hand held and powered versions are available to buy from garden centres or to hire.

Feed

Autumn & Winter aftercare

To finish off, perk up tired lawns by giving them a feed. Use an autumn lawn fertiliser, which is high in phosphates and potash. This will help strong roots to develop, which will produce healthy leaves.

As autumn turns to winter, make the most of any dry days and rake the lawn to keep it free of leaves. A thick layer of leaves will smother a lawn and weaken the grass, and it also provides winter shelter for unwelcome garden pests.

Don’t be tempted to use a spring fertiliser. These contain high levels of nitrogen, which encourages soft, sappy leaf growth that’s vulnerable to disease and could be damaged by frost.

If your lawn is in a hosepipe ban area, wait until you’ve had some decent rain and the grass is actively growing before carrying out any work.

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Avoid walking on your lawn if it’s frosted, as this can also damage the grass.

Lawn Mower Care

• Idleness can sometimes cause more damage to an engine than constant use.

• Thoroughly clean your mower.

Even though it is kept reasonably clean throughout the mowing season, all clippings, dirt and grime should be removed.

• Apply a generous coating of oil to all exposed metal. Aerosol oil does a good penetrating job; wiping with an oily cloth will also suffice.

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Update

Blue Cross

Sponsored dog walk

Sunday 2nd October

The annual Blue Cross sponsored walk takes place once again in the beautiful surroundings of Studley Royal, the stunning World Heritage Site in Ripon.

You can take part with or without your dog and join the leisurely stroll of three miles (start between 9am and 2pm) or the more challenging eight mile walk (start between 9am and noon). All walks start from the main car park near the lake.

Well behaved dogs on leads will receive a special certificate.

All funds raised on the day will greatly help The Blue Cross care for the many homeless and unwanted cats and dogs who stay at the local animal adoption centre.

The Blue Cross is a registered charity and does not receive any government funding so it relies on the support of the public to continue its vital work.

Cats with thumbs?

The Blue Cross animal adoption centre in Thirsk recently cared for a couple of somewhat unusual cats. The pair of siblings each had an extra claw on their front paws, which looked like they had ‘thumbs’!

Woolie and her brother Smudge were at the centre for a few months and staff were worried that their strange extra digit was putting potential owners off!

Caroline Thompson, Blue Cross deputy manager a Thirsk said: “We’d all seen the advert where cats with thumbs had plans to take over humans so we thought that people didn’t want Woolie and Smudge because of this. However, these cats weren’t interested in world domination, just a home where they would be loved”. Happily Woolie and Smudge have now been adopted and are enjoying life in a new home. ......................................................................................................................

Could you love us?

If you are considering taking on a pet please come and see us. We always have lots of cats and dogs who really deserve a second chance and there are many benefits to taking on a pet from The Blue Cross.

Firstly, all of our animals are carefully assessed and we match each individual pet to potential new owners. All pets go to their new homes after being checked over by the vet, all are vaccinated, neutered and microchipped and we are also on-hand for the rest of the pet’s lifetime if you need any advice on their behaviour.

We particularly have many cats at the centre who have been with us for a while and are desperate to find new homes. Cats like Miss Tibbs who has been staying at the centre since March and would love to find a home to call her own. She is an independent but friendly nine-year-old cat. Her favourite pursuit is to explore the great outdoors.

If would like to find out about the pets looking for homes at The Blue Cross in Thirsk, or about our events, contact the centre on 01845 577759, visit the website: www.bluecross.org.uk/thirsk or join us on Facebook and Twitter!

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at your finger tips YOUR MONEY SAVING LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY We can save you money and help you reach 44,500 potential customers each quarter.

Northallerton

14,500 homes & businesses

Ripon & Masham

14,500 homes & businesses

Thirsk & Easingwold

15,500 homes & businesses

Our directory service is for small local businesses who wish to advertise with us across all our 3 areas from as little as £25 a month.

Call us on 01609 777401 or visit: www.jkanorth.com

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Over 44,500 reasons to advertise with us!

Our publications are Royal Mail delivered every quarter to over 44,500 homes & businesses across Northallerton, Thirsk, Easingwold, Ripon & Masham.

High Quality Editorial Features including Seasonal Local Events and ‘New to the Area’ feature Advertising: 1/8 page from only:

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£65.00 £180.00 £105.00 £350.00 Christine Editor

01609 777401 07742 595747 christine@jkanorth.com

Dwight

Kate

01609 779097 dwight@jkanorth.com www.jkanorth.com

When’s the next issue?

Ripon & Masham Distribution: w/c 17 October ‘11 Copy: 22 September ‘11 .....................................................

Northallerton Distribution: w/c 14 November ‘11 Copy: 20 October ‘11 .....................................................

01845 523250 07703 809655 kate@jkanorth.com

Thirsk & Easingwold Distribution: w/c 21 November ‘11 Copy: 27 October ‘11

Index Art

Spectrum Framing & Gallery: p8

Architecture

Lemontree Architecture: p6

Bee Keeping

Agricultural Supply Services: p23 Northern Bees: p22

Boiler Servicing Oilforce: p29

Book Binding

York Book Binding: p1

Builders & Contractors

About The House: p28 Flat Roof Company: p31 H. Harper Builder: p24 Jason Hammond Joinery: p11 MH Joinery: p25 Miles Bainbridge: p27 Property Repair Services: p28 W Gaunt Ltd: p25

Business Services

White Horse Timber: p22

Dentist

Flooring

Clock Tower Dental: p13

About The House: p28

Design & Print

Food & Drink

Bedale Copy Shop: p28 Foxes Copy Centre: p9 Printing.com: p17

Elderly Care

Indian Garden: p16 Jaipur Spice: p19 Old Station Yard: p17 Raj Of India: p32 Thermomix: p18

Electrical Services

Furniture

MV Mobility: p13 Oaklands Nursing Home: p12 A Turner Electrical: p25 Electrocare: p28 Handy Andy: p28 Visual Systems: p19

Furniture Traders: p11 Pond Cottage: p27 Simply Beds: p32

Entertainment

Mark Kinghorn: p23 Miles Bainbridge: p27 North Yorkshire Tree Care: p9 Property Repair Services: p28 White’s Garden Services: p28

Garden Services

Choose 2 Reuse Fairs: p15 Good Company Yorkshire: p5 Kids Party Yorkshire: p21 Masham Sheep Fair: p16 North Yorkshire Vintage Machinery Rally: p16 Precious Gems: p28 Sutton Village Hall: p17

Bedale Copy Shop: p28 Printing.com: p17

Equine Services

Cleaning Services

Fashion & Clothing

Daily Poppins: p10 Highfield TS: p1

Children’s Services Kids Party Yorkshire: p21 Paul Stride: p21 Socatots: p21 Stagecoach: p1

Cookery

Thermomix: p18

AJ Fabrications: p23

Humphrey & Tilly: p2 Philippa Hall: p14 Planet Jewels Accessories: p6 Well Heeled: p2

Finance & Legal Eura Audit: p5 NFU Thirsk: p1

Firewood

PJ Taylor Forestry: p23

Hair & Beauty Beauty Within: p5 Feet Company: p8

Healthcare & Wellbeing

Amanda Haywood: p2 Aranya Massage: p19 Clock Tower Dental: p13 Easingwold Osteopath: p2 Feet Company: p8 Hearing Company: p17 Holistic Therapies: p13

Hearing

Hearing Company: p17

Hire

Moss’s Motors: p17 Sutton Village Hall: p17

Painters & Decorators

Home & Interiors

Pets & Animals

Brian Jones Upholstery: p10 Curtain Room: p9 Dales of Thirsk: p24 Easingwold Bathrooms: p4 Highfield TS: p1 Howdens Joinery: p4 Hovingham Fireplaces: p10 Nigel Atkinsons Bathroom Emporium: p9 North Yorkshire Blinds: p18 Rooms By Design: p11 Rydenor Paints: p10 Scott Lawson Upholstery: p9 Stairs & More: p10

Jewellery

Planet Jewels Accessories: p6 Precious Gems: p28

Kitchen Design

About The House: p28 Dales of Thirsk: p24 Howdens Joinery: p4 Rooms By Design: p11

Mobility Assistance MV Mobility: p13

Motoring

Brian Fall Car Repairs: p27 Euro Tech: p7 Moss’s Motors: p17 Practical Car & Van Rental: p7 Station Autos: p24

Opticians

Hall Opticians: p3

Paul Williams: p28

Chapman’s Pets: p26 Farmway: p1 Thirsk Auction Mart: p27

Piano Tuition

Piano & Keyboard Tuition: p5

Picture Framing

Spectrum Framing & Gallery: p8

Property Maintenance About The House: p28 AMR Locksmiths: p28 F & P Alarms: p24 Flat Roof Company: p31 Handy Andy: p28 Jason Hammond Joinery: p11 MH Joinery: p25 Miles Bainbridge: p27 Property Repair Services: p28 South View Property Maintenance: p25

Solar Energy Solarwall: p29

Sports & Leisure Socatots: p21

Tree Surgery

North Yorkshire Tree Care: p9

Windows

Terry Dicken Windows: p31

Worship

Hollybush Fellowship: p12

Practical Car & Van Rental: p7 The Index is a free service offered to our customers. No responsibility can be held for errors or omissions.

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