thirsk&easingwold Quarterly Royal Mail distribution: 16,700 homes & businesses www.jkanorth.com/thirsk | Winter 2019

InFocus

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inside

THIRSK & EASINGWOLD infocus

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News from the National Park

We find out about calls for landowners to assist in the Woodland Creation Grant Scheme

Rural Arts

We find out about the Winter schedule at Rural Arts!

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06 good read 06 astronomy: 08 local news: 10 events 12 local news

News from The Clock A recent book release reviewed FEATURED

The Transit of Mercury FEATURED

Update from Rural Arts Local events this Winter

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The Blue Cross

A Winter update from The Blue Cross

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14 garden view: 16 local news: 18 local news: 20 infocus 22

local news: FEATURED

Local Christmas Events

FEATURED

All about pots of plants FEATURED

News from the National Park FEATURED

Winter at Blue Cross Advertising Details & Index

Welcome to the Winter issue We welcome Winter and the approaching festive period with a wide range of local updates and news, including the festive events planned in Thirsk, Northallerton and the York area villages (p14-15). There’s also news from The Clock (p6) as well as a full festive calendar of activities at Rural Arts (p10). Don’t forget, if you have any news, events, updates or stories of local interest, please send them to editorial@jkanorth.com and we’ll do our best to publish them for you. I hope you all enjoy this issue and I’ll see you again in Spring. Best wishes,

T: 01609 777401 www.jkanorth.com

Christine Campbell | Editor InFocus Magazines are published in good faith and the editors cannot be held responsible in any way for inaccuracies in reports or advertising in reports or advertising that appear in this publication and the views of the contributors may not be the those of the editors. Adverts and advertisers appearing in the InFocus Magazines carry no implied recommendation from the magazine or the publishers. AllPlease rights reserved. All information is mention InFocus infocus correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of going to press. InFocus Magazines cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

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Winter Update @ The Clock Annual General Meeting The Clock is holding its’ AGM on Wednesday 27th November in Thirsk Methodist Church. Come along and help us celebrate another year of achievements at The Clock; from securing jobs to passing qualifications. The first part starts at 4pm and finishes at 6pm when there will be a chance to find out about the services The Clock and Thirsk Community Care offer, discuss volunteer opportunities and meet our staff. From 6.30pm we will be recognising and celebrating the achievements of our members, so come along to hear from them why The Clock is so important. The AGM itself starts at 7.30pm which will be an opportunity to hear about our plans for the future. Job Fayre We are holding a Job Fayre on the 20th November between 3pm and 6pm. It will be a fantastic opportunity for job seekers to meet potential employers. Please pop along we will have stalls from local businesses of all types. If you are an employer and want to take part please get in touch with oliver@ theclock.org Christmas at The Clock Christmas is fast approaching and we need your support to help our members at what can be a difficult time. We are organising Christmas Hampers for our members

and their families who are struggling over the Winter period and would appreciate donations of food and toys. The last day we can accept donations for the hampers is Monday 16th December. Our Christmas Schedule is Monday 23rd December: 9-5.30pm open as normal with drop-ins 14:30-16:30, Shop is open 10am-4pm Tuesday 24th December: 10-1pm we are hosting a Christmas Brunch for any of our members to attend. Staff will be available to provide support if needed. Christmas Day and Boxing Day: Closed Friday 27th December: Shop is open 10am4pm Monday 30th December: We are having a Christmas Party Day 12noon till 4pm for all ages. Shop is Closed. Tuesday 31st and Monday 1st: We are Closed Thursday 2nd January: Shop is open 10-4pm Friday 3rd January: open 9-12.30pm as usual, Shop open 10-4pm All opening times back to normal from then on. Help at Home We are launching a new service from our Clock Works social enterprise called ‘Help at Home’. This aims to provide a basic household maintenance/DIY service ran by

volunteers, to assist with the small one-off tasks people would normally do themselves but are unable to because of age, fragility, illness or disability. It is available to people living in the YO7 postcode area and is for one-off tasks that may be too small to call out a professional handyman/woman or tradesperson, but nevertheless are causing a headache or interfering with your peace of mind. Example tasks might be changing lightbulbs, hanging curtains, moving furniture, weed killing, doorstep painting, setting up a PC, taking meter readings or submitting them online. The service costs £12 per hour (not including parts) with a minimum charge of one hour and charged in 30 minute increments thereafter. Where a face-to-face assessment is required (for more complex jobs or ones requiring measurement a fee of £6 will be applied for an appointment of up to 30 minutes. If you are interested or want to know if we can help for an informal, no obligation chat about your requirements please ring 07917 743 799 to speak to Suzy or Kev. Dale School Pop Up Scone Café The Dale School, a co-educational special school for children with severe and complex learning needs, holds a pop-up scone café during term time every Tuesday morning 10.30-12.00 in The Clock café. It is £1.50 for a Scone and a Drink, please pop along!

Keeble Gateway Academy opens in Sowerby, Thirsk Thirsk’s newest primary school has opened the doors to its first cohort of pupils. The new school has had an amazing start to the school term and the children are already so settled in their new environment. Situated on the new Sowerby Gateway development, Keeble Gateway Academy offers excellent teaching, with highly qualified teaching staff and an innovative approach to the curriculum. “It has been such an exciting start to the term. The children love their new classrooms, have built positive relationships and are already making excellent progress through our play-based approach. Staff have worked really hard to ensure the learning environments are inspiring and meet the needs of all of our learners. Parents have been so supportive and it has been a real pleasure to start this journey surrounded by such a great team.” Nikkie

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Beniams, Executive Head The school embodies the aspirational ethos of Elevate Multi Academy Trust where the philosophy of “Keep Up Not Catch Up” means there is a relentless determination that no child will fall behind, and every child can succeed with the right support. Applications are now being welcomed for Reception 2020. Please visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/apply-place-primary-or-secondaryschool. Alternatively, for more information regarding our Nursery, or to book a visit please contact the School Office on 01845 448227 or email admin@ keeblegatewayacademy.org .

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The

The Connection Gallery & Framing

Yorkshire Sky The Transit of Mercury By coincidence Remembrance Day coincides with the rare event of

The Planets

Mercury aligning itself directly

Mercury

between the Sun and the Earth.

The transit of Venus occurs on No-

This is referred to as a transit and

vember 11th. Following the transit

last occurred on May 9th 2016 and

Mercury can be observed early

will not occur again until November

mornings above the south eastern

13th 2032.

horizon during November eventually

As always, our focus here at The Connection Gallery has been just that, the connections we have with the customers and the connections that they have with art and treasured items. To enhance these relationships, we have thought long and hard about what else we can offer. The answer seemed obvious, which is why we are pleased to announce that The Connection Gallery & Framing now includes an independent framing service, run by Richard Gladstone.

disappearing by mid-December. In astronomy terms the transits of

Venus

both Mercury and Venus are spec-

Venus is very prominent during the

tacular astronomical events from

early evening during November

which early astronomers worked

culminating on the 24th November

out the size of the Solar System

at around 16.00 – 17.30 hours

and the distances of the Earth from

low in the south west within close

the Sun. This was done by timing

proximity to Jupiter, Venus being

how long it took the inner planets

the brightest by far. The planet con-

to cross the Sun and then apply the

tinues its journey during December

timing with other known data.

being very bright but setting at the relatively early hour of 18.00 hours.

However; you need to be warned

Mars

NOT TO LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE

Mars rises early during November

SUN.

and December at around 5.00 hours

The transit can be observed safely

and can be observed easily in the

only:

south east skies from between

1 If you have an approved solar filter

06.00 and 07.00 hours.

fitted if using a telescope.

Jupiter

2 “Or by projecting the Sun’s image

Jupiter can be seen early evenings

through a small telescope onto

in the south west to the upper left

a securely-held shaded piece of

of the very bright Venus during the

white card, located at a correctly

first 3 weeks of November. From

focused distance from the telescope

the 24th November their positions

eyepiece” (courtesy of Astronomy

will have changed with Jupiter

Now).

being to the lower right of Venus.

3 Alternatively the safest way of all

Jupiter sets at 17.00 hours during

will be by using the internet. There

December.

will be numerous sites projecting

Saturn

the transit live.

Saturn is easy to identify during

Timings: Transit commences at

November following Jupiter but the

12.35pm and is midway across the

beautiful planet sets early between

Sun at 3.20pm and will still be in

18.00 and 19.00 hours. By Decem-

transit at sunset which occurs at

ber it is to the upper left of Venus

around 4.30pm.

and sets around 18.00 hours.

Diary

May I take this opportunity of

Winter Solstice – Sunday 22nd

wishing all our readers A Merry

December 04.19 hours this is the

Christmas and A Happy New Year –

shortest day and the longest night

John Harris

We firmly believe that the piece of art your three-year-old proudly produced should be treasured and protected as carefully as the picture of your Great Grandfather, your hard-earned qualification certificates, family military medals and of course your artwork or photography. A Professional & Friendly Service Despite already having years of experience in hanging art under his belt, Richard recently undertook additional accredited training to receive qualifications from the UK School of Framing (where he was taught by Members of and Certified Framers of the Fine Art Guild). We would expect our artwork and treasures to be treated with the utmost respect by a professional framer therefore that is what we work hard to offer you. Framing Services Offered Our innovative framing service means that you may choose from a number of contemporary or more traditional frames, mouldings and mounts, ensuring that the item once framed fits perfectly where it is hung and offers maximum protection. We are happy to offer recommendations and guidance where appropriate. If you have been into The Connection Gallery before you will know that we are always welcoming and keen to help you find what you want and need. For a no-obligation quotation that is specific to your individual needs feel free to contact us or pop into The Connection Gallery & Framing on Finkle Street. Richard looks forward to helping you with all of your framing needs. More details: www.theconnectiongallery.com

of the year but from this day on the days gradually get lighter.

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Winter at Rural Arts Get into the festive season or snuggle into a live show this Winter! Visit us: Rural Arts, The Courthouse, Westgate, Thirsk, YO7 1QS We are open Monday to Saturday, 10am – 4pm

ARTIST WORKSHOPS Get inspired at one of our unique workshops ran by friendly and experienced artists. All workshops are suitable for beginners.

Find out more and book online at www.ruralarts.org or call 01845 526 536

From January; Mondays (Textiles), 10am – 3pm, £12 per session

Colourful Birds Paper Decorations, Thurs 20th Feb

EVENTS

Wreath Making Sat 7 Dec (10am-12pm) or (2-4pm) £25 Mince pies and mulled wine available!

PERFORMANCES iPAD WORKSHOPS Friendly and informative sessions with iPad expert Claire Ford. Sessions are 2 – 4pm and £12.50 each Willow Stag Head with Wendy Bristow Mon 9 Dec (10am-4pm) £70 Willow Chicken or Cockerel with Wendy Bristow Sat 25th Jan (10am-4pm) £67 Woven Table Runner with Agnis Smallwood Sat 8th Feb (10am-4pm) £65 Ceramic Heads: Animal, Human and Mythological with Kay Latto Sat 7th March & Sun 9th March (10am – 4pm) £65 per day

Using your Built In Camera, 16 Nov Built In Apps Part 1, 7 Dec Built In Apps Part 2, 14 Dec

WORKSHOPS FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN Crafty Tales Every Tuesday, 12 Nov – 3 Dec, 10.15am – 11.15am Ages 2-5, £4, booking essential A weekly crafting and storytelling session run by professional theatre makers, Story Craft Theatre.

Five Loose Chippings Sat 7 Dec, 7.30pm Adults: £8, U18s: £6 These Thirsk based group of musicians play a whole range of music from Blues and Country through to a variety of popular songs. They have all played in other formats to sell-out audiences at Rural Arts for the last few years. Pocket Panto: Mother Goose Sat 14 Dec, 1pm Adults: £8, U18s: £6 Join loveable Mother Goose and her friends as she discovers that while it’s very nice to be important, it’s more important to be nice. With singing, dancing and lots of audience participation there’s something for everyone in this cracking production.

TASTE OF… With all materials included and each workshop suitable for beginners, our Taste Of… sessions give the perfect introduction to a range of artistic styles and techniques. Wednesdays 10.30am12.30pm. Ceramic Christmas Garlands 13 Nov, £18 Festive Fabric Stockings, 27 Nov, £15 Papercut Christmas Robins, 4 Dec, £12 Christmas Wreaths, 11 Dec, £20 Zodiac Ceramic Plaques, 8 Jan, £18 Painting Twilight Landscapes, 15 Jan, £12 Taste of Mini Mosaic Tile, 22 Jan, £15 Paper Decorating and Bookbinding, 29 Jan, £12 With more available every Wednesday throughout the year!

WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Open Studio with The Arts Collective Thursdays (Ceramics) and Friday (Printmaking), 10am – 3pm, £12 per session

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hilarious West End and Broadway hit returns to the big screen to mark NT Live’s 10th birthday.

Podcast Social Club Fri 22 & Sat 23 Nov Tickets available at www.podcastsocialclub.com Be the audience in an eclectic mix of live podcasts, over a drink and some food, meeting people from the community you might not normally bump into. Christmas Maker’s Market Sat 30 Nov, 10am-4pm, free entry Pick up some perfect Christmas gifts – and festive decorations along the way – at our annual showcase of contemporary art and craft by local makers. Print Sprint Fri 21st & Sat 22nd Feb A celebration of all things print! Come along to either day or both days to watch demonstrations and learn a variety of different printmaking techniques in our adult or children’s workshops. Women and Science Sat 7th March In recognition of British Science Week and International Women’s Day, we will be hosting a variety of creative workshops inspired by famous female scientists, including prints, ceramics, sculpture and collage.

EXHIBITIONS Exhibitions at Rural Arts are free and open 10am – 4pm Art Club Thursdays, (4pm – 5.15pm), ages 6-16 Saturdays, (10am – 11.15am), ages 6-10 Saturdays, (11.30am – 1pm), ages 10-18 £6.50 per session. A programme of arts, crafts and digital activities that changes each term to remain appealing and challenging! Children’s Christmas Workshops 4pm-5.15pm, £4.50 per session Paper Christmas Wreaths, Tue 17 Dec Christmas Decorations, Wed 18 Dec February Half Term Workshops 10.30am – 12 noon, £4.50 per session (£6.50 for ceramics) Big Cats Collage, Tues 18th Feb Lizards and Snakes Ceramics, Weds 19th Feb

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE Tickets – Adults: £10, U18s: £8 Present Laughter (Encore) Thu 21 Nov, 7pm A classic Noël Coward comedy. Andrew Scott (Sherlock, Fleabag) plays Garry, whose colourful life is in danger of spiralling out of control as his many admirers vie for his attention. Fleabag (Encore) Thu 28 Nov, 7pm See the hilarious, award-winning, onewoman show starring Phoebe WallerBridge, that inspired the BBC’s hit TV series Fleabag, screened at cinemas from London’s West End. One Man, Two Guvnors (Encore) Thu 5 Dec, 7pm Featuring a Tony Award-winning performance from James Corden, the

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Verge Sat 2 – Sat 16 Nov A group exhibition exploring the concept of verges: the edges of physical space, the periphery of society, the cusp of psychological breakthrough or the transition between different states of emotion.

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Out & About

Various

n Husthwaite & District Gardening Club Following the first two very entertaining talks of the season the Husthwaite & District Gardening Club the Club looks forward to welcoming Paul Cook to deliver the next talk on November 14th. Paul is Curator of the RHS Garden at Harlow Carr where he manages eighteen garden staff plus apprentices, trainees and many volunteers. Paul trained at Arley Hall and Kew before returning to Arley Hall as head gardener then on to Ness Botanic Gardens before taking up the post at Harlow Carr over five years ago. The Club’s talks are followed by free refreshments and an opportunity to swap gardening stories and ask questions. Meetings are held in Husthwaite Village Hall on the second Thursday of the month and gardeners of all levels and experience are welcome, including those with no experience at all. Annual membership costs just £20 and benefits include a 10% discount on garden products at Dean’s Garden Centre, Castle Howard Garden Centre and some other local centres and generous discounts from Suttons Seeds. The cost for guests/visitors is just £5. For further information please contact Simon Eedle on 07970 246033or look at our web site www.husthwaitevillage. com/organisations.php and click on Gardening Club. ........................................................

23rd November

n Concert Mowbray Singers with Strings Attached “John, George - and Tony” 7.30 pm on Saturday St Oswald’s Church, Sowerby. F​ amous and popular choruses by Bach and Handel, together with two concertos by Vivaldi with guest guitar soloist Adrian Bramley, are on the programme for The Mowbray Singers and Strings Attached concert. Bach’s Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring and Sheep May Safely Graze, Handel’s “Largo” and See The Conquering Hero

Comes together with his best-known coronation anthem Zadok The Priest are just some of the Baroque delights in this concert. If you want to know more about us have a look at our website (www. mowbraysingers.co.uk) and come to the concert. Tickets are £7,(16s and under, free) and are available from White Rose Books, Thirsk, choir members or at the door. ........................................................

24th November

n Husthwaite Village Christmas Market Husthwaite Village Hall YO61 4PY 11.00am – 3.00pm All you want for Christmas at Husthwaite Village Market. Shop and browse at our popular quarterly market to help start your festive season shopping! Decorations, plants, wreaths, gifts and stocking fillers! Plus candles, art and crafts, cards, books, jewellery and beauty products. Refillable eco-friendly cleaning products and of course a pair of socks from Husthwaite’s very own Beacon Alpaca! Order your favourite Christmas bird and more from Husthwaite’s free range, organic Farm Gate Farm shop. See what’s on offer at the Rare Breed meats stall. Of course you will need those little extras like cheese, honey, pies, pastries, oils and sweet treats, not to mention a selection of gins and a bottle or two of Husthwaite cider. Don’t forget a treat for the dog! Everything you need for the festive season! The Apple Tree Café will be serving up delicious home-made hot and cold food, beverages, mince pies and a little festive cheer!! Charity number 1013186 ........................................................

29th Nov – 1st Dec

n Thirsk Christmas 2019 Weekend Plans are already underway for Christmas in Thirsk for 2019 and we will bring you more information soon. See p15 for further details. www.christmasinthirsk.com ........................................................

A Renaissance Christmas The next Easingwold Singers concert is to be held on Saturday 30th November 2019, 2.30 pm at St John the Baptist & All Saints Church, Easingwold. Pictures Opposite: Spring Concert - Brahms German Requiem at St Oswald’s Church, Sowerby Photographs from start to finish on Saturday 18th May 2019 with beautiful music in between

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As a choir we are rising to the challenge of adding more exquisite music to our repertoire under the expert guidance of our Musical Director, Ed Venn. The result is truly beautiful and we hope to share it with our loyal audience. Therefore please do come along and join us for the afternoon celebrating the joys of Christmas as well as the light refreshments that are provided.

The concert will encompass a selection of Christmas motets (short pieces extolling the joys of Christmas, together with carols in the Renaissance style), and of course the community carols which our audience love to participate in. Full details of where to obtain tickets and prices are shown in the advert and we look forward to seeing you there.

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Having an event?

Email us your event details to: events@jkanorth.com and we’ll publish it for you. Magazine distribution dates are on p22.

29th November

13th December

n Christmas Fair Stillington Village Hall: 6pm-8pm Christmas cakes, crafts, cards, plants, raffle, tombola and more. Start the festive season with a mulled wine and mince pie. In the lull after the Christmas celebrations, just remember that Pocket Panto will be presenting Mother Goose on Friday 27th December at 6.30pm. Tickets are available now from ruralarts.org at £10 adults, £5 under 18s or 01347 811544 ........................................................

n Winter Concert Northallerton Woodwind will be presenting their 10th Anniversary Winter Concert on Friday 13th December 2019 at Kirby Hill Church, Kirby Hill, Boroughbridge starting at 7.00pm. Raising funds for Kirby Hill Church. Tickets are £7 with under 18s free and available from Margaret 01423 325405 or Marcia 01423 323712 ........................................................

1st - 24th December

n Santa schedule See p15 ........................................................

6th - 8th December

n Homemade & Vintage Pop-up shop Byland Abbey: 10-4 pm. There will be a treasure trove of vintage and homemade items as well as English Heritage gifts for sale. The Abbey tearoom will be open 10 am to 3.30 pm. There will also be a wreath making workshop on all 3 days for which people would need to pre-book. Contact details are as follows:- The Abbey Tearooms - 01347 868204 Wreath making – Lindsay 07926355855 Abbey Inn, Byland, Coxwold, York YO61 4BD. www.english-heritage.org.uk www.facebook.com/englishheritage www.twitter.com/EnglishHeritage ........................................................

7th December

n Thirsk Royal British Legion Band Christmas Concert (also featuring the Training Band) 7.30pm in the Thirsk and Sowerby Town Hall, Westgate, Thirsk YO7 1QR. The concert will include a wide selection of music including many of the Christmas favourites. Free admission. For further information please contact Mr and Mrs Worley on 01845 523511 ........................................................

21st December

n 40th Carol Concert with Easingwold Lions & Town Band Easingwold Market Place: 5:00pm. A big Thank You to all our supporters during the year. ........................................................

29th December

n Theatre: The Snow Queen Sutton-under-Whitestonecliffe Village Hall presents the Northumberland Theatre Company in ‘The Snow Queen’ A new magical theatre adaptation of Hans Christian Anderson’s Tale. 7.30pm—doors open at 7.00pm Booking essential—01845 597329 Adults £10.50; Under-16s £5.50; Family (2+2/3) £30.50 ........................................................

17th December

n Christmas Carols, Songs & Words With The Mowbray Singers in Sowerby Methodist Church at 8 p.m. The choir’s short programme will mix well-known and popular Christmas carols and songs, in famous arrangements, with some beautiful pieces that may be less familiar to the listener - a programme to enhance the season’s joy! Admission is free with a retiring collection in aid of the charity” The School for Joy: Bethlehem”. If you want to know more about us have a look at our website (www. mowbraysingers.co.uk) ........................................................

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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Santa Sunday This year Santa Sunday returns to Northallerton on Sunday 1st December, 2019. Santa will be welcomed into the town on his sleigh from midday ready for all the good boys and girls to visit him in his secret grotto in the Town Hall with free entrance and a free gift for each lucky child. J oin us on the High Street for a fun day from 12-4pm where there will be the 3 wise men’s Camels, entertainment acts throughout the day getting us into the Christmas spirit, scrumptious food stalls ready to feed your appetite, fairground rides and much more. Why not do a spot of Christmas shopping, grab a mulled wine and join in on the activities with the whole family! We hope to see you there, so wrap up warm and stay tuned for more updates. If you would like to know more please contact Sophie Garside on 01609 776718.

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Thirsk Christmas 2019 Weekend About Thirsk Christmas Fayre The Fayre was brought to life by three like minded residents who have lived here many years and are devoted to the place we call home. Quite simply we love living here and after talking to many tourists over the years who come here in the summer they said they would come back ANYTIME because they love it too! Christmas is a time for celebration, shopping, relaxing and of course reflection. We could not think of a better place for you to do all of those. We can’t thank the people of Thirsk and surrounding areas that have helped us enough. Whether they have given financial sponsorship/donations or just “chipped in” with resources, time and ideas their input has brought the event to what it is today. Thank you everybody! ...................................................................... Switch-on events Christmas Lights Programme. FRIDAY 29TH NOVEMBER 4.45pm – YO1 Radio playing background music 5.00pm – Thirsk Royal British Legion Band 5.20pm – Butterflies 5.40pm – Rock Choir 6.00pm – Adi & Jake 6.22pm – Santa Arrives Into Market Place 6.30pm – Lights Switched On 6.35pm – Cinderella PAntomime – Featuring (BGT) Danny Posthill 6.50pm – Event ends. YO1 Radio close down the evening – reminding all that the Town Hall is open We have a range of stall holders over the three days of the Fayre, with different stalls each day. The fayre will be open: Friday 29th Nov – 4pm to 7:30pm Saturday 30th Nov – 10am to 4pm Sunday 1st Dec – 10am to 4pm Yorkshire Vet Peter Wright will be signing copies of his new book. Santa will be around to talk to the kids throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday.

For more details visit:

www.easingwold-lions.org

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GARDEN VIEW

Pots of Cabbage! November can be a bit of a grey, miserable month. My kids would call it ‘meh’. I like to inject some colour with winter bedding plants. A cheerful pot by the front door can make you smile on the gloomiest morning. Obviously, the choice of plants for winter is not as large as during the summer months but there are enough varieties around to make very attractive combinations for pots. My favourite plant for winter pots has to be the ornamental cabbage. These robust beauties come in wonderful colours including cream, pink and purple – with either attractive frilly or very spiky leaves. They pair beautifully with winter-flowering pansies and hardy cyclamen. Try planting three pots of different sizes using a colour scheme which co-ordinates with the cabbages. Plant a 50cm / 20inch pot with four large ornamental frilly cabbages surrounding a central spiky one, to give some height to the display. Then choose a smaller pot (38cm

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/ 15inches) and plant one frilly ornamental cabbage surrounded by pink and purple winter-flowering pansies. Finally plant a small pot (25cm / 10inches) with a mixture of hardy cyclamen and white pansies. The resulting display will give you pleasure through November, December and January. Tips Select a frostproof container because these pots need to withstand wintery conditions. The most dependable pots are made of fibreglass, lead, iron, heavy plastic, or stone. Most terracotta will crack in cold temperatures, but some glazed varieties are frost-proof. Use a good general-purpose compost. There are mixes specifically made for use in containers, which provide the essential drainage that plants living in pots need. Make sure you place plenty of drainage material in the bottom of the pots. A good compost will contain enough slow release fertiliser to maintain the plants for several weeks during autumn

and winter. If they still going strong as winter turns to you can give them a bit of a feed, but by February or March you will want to think about replanting your pots with spring bedding. Think about gravel – I like to use a layer of gravel over the soil of my winter pots for several reasons. It gives the planted pots an attractive finish, keeps rain from splashing back on to the plants, provides some insulation for the soil and reflects light and warmth in any winter sun thus creating a little microclimate in which the plants will be happier. Water them! The plants will need moisture around their roots so water as needed unless the soil in the container is frozen. Do not water frozen pots because the plants are unable to absorb the water. Happy gardening, By Rachael Leverton

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Landowners called to reap rewards of Woodland Creation Grant A major bid to increase the amount of woodland areas within the stunning North York Moors National Park is now calling on more landholders to champion the scheme. In the last three years farmers and private estate owners within the National Park have been the driving force behind planting over 65,000 trees as part of the Woodland Creation Grant Scheme, a fully-funded programme offered by the North York Moors National Park Authority. Other than the benefits to wildlife, the introduction of trees into the landscape can have lots of advantages, from slowing the flow of water downstream to providing shelter for livestock. It is also an ideal alternative to bracken on unproductive slopes. Alasdair Fagan, Woodland Creation Officer said: “The environmental gains from planting trees can be huge. One is that low density woodland can be created, which often fits into the local landscape better than dense woodland. “The other is that 100% of the costs of the woodland creation are paid for. Also, as we administer the scheme ourselves it is easy to access and there isn’t even an application form to fill in. If you are interested in planting deciduous trees on your land please just give me a ring.” Planting trees on farmland can also boost production and enhance animal health and welfare. Schemes such as The Pontbren Project, ran by a group of Welsh farmers, have shown how shelter created from trees can help to moderate wind speeds, increase soil temperatures and extend

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the growing season of grass. Other studies have found how tree shelter can reduce the amount of newborn lambs being lost by providing ewes with greater isolation during lambing. This increases the chances of the ewe and her lambs developing a strong bond, resulting in better feeding and reducing the risk of disease. There are more farreaching advantages from woodlands that benefit everyone. For example, at a time of such ecological uncertainty the need to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide entering our atmosphere is vital. Trees are able to do this through the process of photosynthesis. Alasdair added: “23% of the National Park is currently covered by woodland and forest, however only 2% is Ancient Semi Natural Woodland, which is the highest quality for biodiversity. We therefore want to work alongside landowners to create a lasting legacy of sustainable, native woodland within our much-loved National Park.” In order to benefit from the Woodland Creation Grant Scheme the plot needs to be over 1 hectare (2.4 acres), but can

be made up of multiple pieces of land. The trees must also be mixed deciduous species and result in over 20% mature woodland canopy. Funding is available for 100% of the costs in the first year, which includes all the costs of the trees, labour, materials and fencing. It also covers five years maintenance. If you would like to learn more about the grant please visit northyorkmoors.org.uk/ woodlandcreation. Alternatively, you can contact Alasdair via email at: a.fagan@ northyorkmoors.org.uk or by phone on: 01439 772700.

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Winter at the Blue Cross Come along to our Christmas Market! Join us for our Blue Cross Christmas Market at Thirsk Town Hall on November 10th. With over 20 stalls dedicated to Christmas Gifts, Handmade Goods, Books and Crafts. We will also have our fabulous raffle, and no Christmas event would be complete without our very own Santa’s Grotto hosting the fabulous Santa Blake! Refreshments will be served in our festive pop up cafe with mulled wine and mince pies! Christmas themed family and pet photoshoots will be on site - printed the same day courtesy of Yorkshire Photography Studio’s Harvey Cooper! Celebrate in true festive style and get in the spirit and have Christmas all wrapped up with a bang!

Top tips to keep pets safe over the winter season If left outside cats may seek warmth in dangerous car engines, or get trapped somewhere without access to food and water. Make sure their catflap doesn’t become frozen over and stuck so they can’t get back in. It is a good idea to keep them inside when it gets really cold, make sure they have a litter tray to use indoors. Make sure pets are not left outdoors for too long, just like us they can develop hypothermia if they remain in the cold for long periods. Small pets like rabbits and

guinea pigs are particularly vulnerable and you may want to bring them inside if possible, or make sure they have extra bedding to keep them warm. Salt and grit can also be harmful to dogs and irritate their paws. After walks, wash their feet and make sure there is nothing stuck between their pads. Keep fur between pads trimmed to prevent ice-balls forming which can also be painful to them. Be very careful if it is icy outdoors and keep your dog on the lead if you may pass frozen water. Call for help but don’t go after your dog if they do run onto ice, it can be extremely dangerous. For more information about the homeless pets looking for homes at Blue Cross in Thirsk visit www. bluecross.org.uk. The website also has lots of advice and more pet care tips. Blue Cross wishes readers and pets a very merry Christmas!

A Good Read

Enchanted Palace

n Rosie Banks

It is clear from the minute you look at this book who it is aimed at. A pink and sparkly cover welcomes young readers into the world of ‘The Secret Kingdom’. This is the first instalment of this successful series of books that follow the adventures of best friends Ellie, Summer, and Jasmine.

King Merry needs their help. His wicked sister, Queen Malice is plotting to destroy the kingdom and turn it from a joyful place, full of unicorns, fairies, and mermaids, into a dull and dreary land, making everyone as miserable as she is.

As the book begins, the three friends are helping their teacher run a stall at their local jumble sale. As they are packing up, they find a strange-looking locked wooden box. Too late to sell it they take it home with them to try and open. What happens when they do shows them a world they never knew existed: The Secret Kingdom.

Can Ellie, Summer, and Jasmine, solve the riddles that will let them save the Secret Kingdom from the Queen? Join them on an adventure of a lifetime, riding on the backs of the royal swans and rainbow slides.

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Christmas tips for happy pets 1. Keep cables from Christmas tree lights out of reach or get a cable guard they can’t chew through, because rabbits, cats and dogs will try!

gifts under the tree. Raisins are also toxic for dogs – so do not feed pets items such as Christmas cake, mince pies and Christmas pudding.

2. Vacuum regularly to reduce the risk of real or fake pine needles being ingested by your pet.

4. Don’t give your pet turkey bones or chicken bones – they can splinter and cause serious issues for your pet.

3. Don’t give your pets chocolate, it contains theobromine which is toxic to dogs and other pets – be careful with edible decorations and chocolate

5. Christmas plants may look pretty but poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, amaryllis, ferns and pine sap are poisonous to cats and dogs.

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Index Art & Antiques Connection Gallery: p8 Granary Picture Framing: p21 Spectrum Framing & Gallery: p5 Attractions & Events Easingwold Singers: p12 Husthwaite Village Market: p12 Markets: p13 Boiler Servicing Johnsons Heating: p18 Builders & Contractors Design Exteriors: p1 NYG Ltd: p19 Peter Cox Ltd: p19 Resin Drives: p24 T. G & H Harper Builders Ltd: p16 Yorkshire Loft Ladders: p23 Business Services Printing.com: p22 Sycamore Storage: p9 Carpets & Flooring Searles Carpets: p3 Childrens Services Keeble Gateway Academy: p1 Poppits Baby Boutique: p11 Christmas Trees Mill Farm Christmas Trees: p1 Cleaning Daily Poppins: p4 Zero Dry Time: p9

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Thirsk & Easingwold

Copy: 21st February 2020 Dist: w/c 16th March 2020

Farlington

Aldwark

Clothing BATA: p17 Poppits Baby Boutique: p11 Council Christmas Message: p7 Dental Market Place Dentistry: p3 Smile Denture Clinic: p7 Design & Print Printing.com: p22 Education Keeble Gateway Academy: p1 Elderly Services St. Johns House: p8 Electrical Services Aerial Services York: p19 Electrocare: p22 Handy Andy: p22 Event Services Photophoria: p11 Finance & Legal NFU Thirsk: p1 Funeral Services Dales of Thirsk Memorials: p9 Furniture Brian Jones Upholstery: p4 Harelooms: p4 Garages Station Autos: p23 Gardens & Outdoors Design Exteriors: p1 Resin Drives: p24

Tollerton

Huby Sutton-onthe-Forest

Gifts BATA: p17 Connection Gallery: p8 Granary Picture Framing: p21 Mill Farm Christmas Trees: p1 Spectrum Framing & Gallery: p5 Hair & Beauty Beauty Within: p3 Watkins-Wright: p24 Healthcare & Wellbeing Market Place Dentistry: p3 Smile Denture Clinic: p7 Home & Interiors BATA: p17 Brian Jones Upholstery: p4 Court Homemakers: p2 Dales of Thirsk: p9 Dream Doors: p5 Granary Picture Framing: p21 Harelooms: p4 Jody Gray Upholstery: p5 Searles Carpets: p3 Spectrum Framing & Gallery: p5 Kitchen & Bathrooms Court Homemakers: p2 Dales of Thirsk: p9 Dream Doors: p5 Logs Corners Warmers: p16 Machinery Black Dog Machinery: p22 Memorials Dales of Thirsk: p9

Royal Mail delivered FREE Index Service Free Advert Design Motoring Station Autos: p23 Pets & Animals Abbotsway Kennels: p21 Doggy Doos Salon: p21 Photo Booth Photophoria: p11 Plumbing Johnsons Heating: p18 Property Maintenance Aerial Services York: p19 Design Exteriors: p1 Handy Andy: p22 NYG Ltd: p19 Peter Cox Ltd: p19 Resin Drives: p24

T. G & H Harper Builders Ltd: p16 Yorkshire Loft Ladders: p23 Removals Smart Removals & Storage: p4 Solar Power Peak Power Systems: p19 Sport & Leisure Venture Cycles: p13 Storage Sycamore Storage: p9 Windows NYG Ltd: p19

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