Thirsk & Easingwold infocus Winter issue

winter

2010

Merry

Christmas

from us!

welcome

to the Winter issue of Thirsk & Easingwold infocus

6 feature: Happy Birthday!

8-10 FEATURE: New to Thirsk & Easingwold 12 LOCAL NEWS: Blue Cross Winter Update 14 LOCAL NEWS: Rural Arts: What’s On? 16 LOCAL NEWS: Thirsk Clock Update 18-19 LOCAL NEWS: Winter Christmas Events 20 feature: Christmas Around Our Market Towns 21 EDUCATION: Christmas Activities for Children 22 Winter Gardening Diary 30 COMPETITION TIME 32-33 At Your Fingertips 34 infocus Production Details

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I hope that you enjoy this edition of Thirsk & Easingwold infocus and I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Best wishes, t: 01609 777401 www.jkanorth.com

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To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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Please mention Thirsk & Easingwold infocus when contacting any of our advertisers

An MBA in a Nutshell: Business Ethics - Part II : The Environment for Business Research shows - Businesses, big and small, add to the pollution of the earth, air and water; the depletion of natural resources for future generations and creation of land-fill waste which increases greenhouse gas emissions. Increased Greenhouse gases like methane from landfills, and carbon dioxide from deforestation and the burning of fuels for energy, create global warming and climate change.

Here’s how you as a business can do your bit for the Environment and our future: Waste Management & Recycling (can also save 4% of annual turnover!)

Non-biodegradable waste goes to landfills somewhere on earth, increasing methane emissions. Electronic waste with mercury and other toxins is also a growing problem. When possible, purchase products made from recycled materials, segregate your rubbish and recycle everything you can. Keep electronics for as long as you can, then recycle or donate them. Recycling one toner cartridge will keep approximately 2.5 pounds of metal and plastic out of landfills and conserve about a half gallon of oil. Inform your employees about what can and can’t be recycled.

Transportation, Purchasing & Conservation Consider options for online storing, posting and updating of documents and manuals. Think of emails instead of fax. Get printers and fax machines with options for duplex printing (prints on both sides of the paper), lower print quality, and using lower melting point inks. Switch to Fair Trade, organic and local products. Buy furniture, carpeting and paint that are free of volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) and toxic chemicals. Put a plant in every room to absorb indoor pollution.

Encourage public transport, videoconferencing and technological solutions to reduce the amount of employee travel. Install a water diffuser in your taps to save water. A dripping tap can cost you £400 a year!

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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 Energy Conservation to reduce Carbon Emissions (your ‘Carbon Footprint’) and energy bills Office equipment policies should include enabling energy saving features on all equipment, switching off computers after work, putting PC’s on standby mode (screensavers don’t conserve energy) and plug-in 7 day timers for printers, if need be.

When replacing equipment, check energy efficiency ratings – Energy Star Models for computers, monitors, printers and fax machines use up to 70% less electricity and have the capability for duplex printing. When needed, replace kitchen and digital display equipment with European Ecolabel Scheme or ‘Energy Saving Recommended’ branded products.

Switch to energy-saving light-bulbs. It’s worth noting laptops use 10% of the energy of desktops, flat screen monitors use less energy by two thirds, photocopiers use most energy but digital photocopiers use less (and require less maintenance). Turning your thermostat down one degree can save 8% on your heating bill.

Position equipment in cool places, implement a good maintenance schedule and prevent overheating by cleaning equipment filters and fans regularly.

The Government has introduced incentives for renewable heat deployment and interest free energy efficient loans. New green legislation is mandatory for commercial buildings from 2016 – businesses that own property, especially property dealers, should plan ahead – talk to your accountant for further details.

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Happy Birthday! to

Country Cookers & Stoves Country Cookers & Stoves has just celebrated its third birthday!

Starting out as Dovetails Country Cookers, primarily selling re-conditioned AGAs, the name changed in January of this year. This reflected the increased importance of the multi-fuel stoves to the business. However, there is a third string to the businesses’ bow, which is the increasing range of accessories for the home.

When visiting Country Cookers & Stoves, you will quickly notice the warmth given off by the multi-fuel stove, which is matched by the friendly service offered by its owners, Chris Pern and Clare Greenock. Whilst Chris concentrates on the AGA and Multi-fuel stove side of the business, Clare devotes her time to developing and promoting accessories and giftware.

Local crafts people sell their products through the shop, including cushions, knitted tea cosies, memo boards, witty plaques, heart-shaped chalk boards and chopping boards. A local farmer supplies lintels, log stores and wine racks. Even ribbon is available to add that “finishing touch.”

Clare has recently introduced some “Fair trade” products alongside those of larger suppliers such as Gisela Graham, Ulster Weavers, Gatsby’s baskets and Mermaid kitchenware. They are always looking to increase their product range, and this year saw the introduction of AGA teapots, recycled briquettes, environmentally safe firelighters, picnic hampers and our most recent acquisition, “The Egg Skelter!”

to uld like lare wo C d e n s a pre nt Chris rs past, e m o t s m and wish cu re a war and futu s&

ma Christ y r r r e M ew Yea N y p p a Ha

This Christmas, responding to many requests, customers will be able to buy from Gisela Graham’s range of beautiful glass baubles for their Christmas tree. The New Year will bring an even greater range of products including a wide selection of accessories for Easter.

Country Cookers & Stoves is situated a short walk from Thirsk’s Market Place, with nearest parking in Tesco’s car park .The shop is open Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 9:30 – 5pm. Country Cookers & Stoves is supporting the Thirsk Christmas lights appeal and the shop will be open on Sunday 28th November from 12-6pm.

Contact details during shop opening hours are: Tel: 01845-574614 Website: www.countrycookersandstoves.co.uk or Email: dovetails1@btconnect.com Country Cookers & Stoves Ltd, 1 Sowerby Road, Thirsk, YO7 4RP

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New to Nor Thirsk & Easingwold New and exciting businesses come to the

Every issue we showcase a range of exciting, new local businesses in our area!

New Businesses we’re introducing: Page 10

Try our new businesses for your Christmas shopping!

Fashion For Everyone Since recently opening in Thirsk, Peaches Boutique has gone from strength to strength.

Owner Joanna Jackson tells us more, “I wanted to open a clothing and accessories boutique that offered women of all ages a really diverse selection of high fashion pieces at affordable prices. Peaches Boutique demonstrates that fashion is accessible to all and that unique style really is just around the corner! Whether you are looking for a chic dress or a new handbag, we have a great selection and pride ourselves on constantly updating our collection.”

The Boutique, located on the corner of Thirsk Market Place, was formerly Curly Lu’s and Joanna has been delighted with the response they’ve received since opening, “People were genuinely sad when Curly Lu’s closed and I am delighted to be able to re-open the shop and develop the collection into new areas.”

Christmas at Peaches!

Our late night Christmas

Why not pop in to Peaches Boutique and opening hours are: Thursday 9 December browse the collection.

Thursday 16 December Christmas Gift Vouchers available.

Thursday 23 December Tel: 01845 523525 9.30am - 8.00pm 2 Market Place, Thirsk, YO7 1LB

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Please mention Thirsk & Easingwold infocus when contacting any of our advertisers

rthallerton area this Winter

• To feature within this section of Thirsk & Easingwold

infocus please contact us on: 01609 777401

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

Finding their feet!

A new business from March 2010, Feet Company is a family run business set in a lovely courtyard just off Millgate, Thirsk.

Wendy Blakebrough, the Podiatrist, runs the business alongside her daughter Nicole Blakebrough (Nail Technician) and Marjorie, the head of the family, who keeps them right. We offer chiropody treatments without referral from your G.P, this is anything from painful feet to general foot care, to nail surgery with the use of L/A. Wendy holds POMS which enables her to prescribe anti-biotics when appropriate. If you would like to pamper yourself or that special someone, we offer pedicures, manicures, leg and foot massages and warm paraffin wax. Paraffin wax helps improve circulation and relieves pain from arthritis. The ancient holistic therapy of reflexology is offered by Wendy.

Sit back and let your worries drift away in a warm candle-lit room, reduce all your stresses and feel a sense of well-being. Reflexology promotes relaxation, improves circulation, reduces pain and soothes tired feet.

Feet Company not only offers beauty and chiropody treatments but also has a dedicated shop area with unique, handmade gift baskets, pharmacy products and specialised chiropody products. We can also order specialist products on request. Visit our new website www.feetcompany.co.uk for more information and to purchase our products.

From 1st – 23rd December all of our customers can enjoy a shot of herbal punch and a mince pie. We would like to wish everybody a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

MORE THAN JUST A SHOE SHOP ‘well heeled’, the new ladies’ shoe boutique in Kirkgate, Thirsk, opened its doors in August this year.

Jane Jackson, the owner, having previously worked in wholesale banking for Lloyds Bank, where she looked after accounts within the motor industry, and previous to that worked as the business manager for Mercedes Benz, decided to take voluntary redundancy after a health scare earlier on in the year.

This health scare made Jane re-evaluate her outlook on life and re-assess her priorities: as she had always had a passion, verging on obsession, for beautiful shoes, she felt that now was the right time to follow her dream of opening her own shoe boutique; and so, with the unstinting support of her husband David, from a local farming family, who was born and bred in Thirsk and who is related to Joanna Jackson who owns ‘Peaches Boutique’, she realised her dreams and opened ‘well heeled’. ‘well heeled’ is more than just a shoe shop, it offers something extra special for the ladies of the area. With a lovely ambience it is the perfect place to browse and find those elegant, but very wearable shoes and boots by German, Spanish and Italian designers.

Jane also stocks Ochre Cashmere and beaded cardigans as well as accessories to suit everybody’s taste and price range; these accessories make the ideal gift, or are just perfect for a personal treat. ‘well heeled’ and ‘Peaches Boutique’ in Thirsk will be open for late night Christmas shopping on: Thursday 9 December, Thursday, 16 December and Thursday 23 December, 09.00hrs to 20.00hrs

Gift Vouchers are available. Feet Company: 01845 527085 To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

Turn over for another new business > Thirsk & Easingwold infocus 9

New and exciting businesses come to the

Thirsk & Easingwold area this Winter

A shop full of delights Faerie Delights was created out of the necessity of being made redundant. We have been open for over 2 months now and established a regular clientele. None of this would have been possible without the help of a damned good handyman! (Simon Midcalf: 0800 0988725) We would like to wish all customers New and Old a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Introducing...Oberon.

Oberon is a strong feature of the shop. He doesn’t bark loudly and is a pleasure to work with. Adults and children are always taken back with how real he looks. We sell brothers of him in several different sizes.

Vast array of Christmas presents available!

We will be selling magical Christmas gifts for young and old. There are crafting kits displayed on the shop shelves on a regular basis. Look out for the limited editions Faerie figurines or beat the recession and select items from our vast range of crafting materials to make your own Christmas cards. During the school holidays, school children can come and make their own cards for a small fee. (All staff at Faerie Delights are CRB checked) We stock German sentiments, etc. for making cards. Sessions of cardmaking are also available on request.

Faerie Delights is able to offer customers a wide selection of competitively priced craft materials and accessories; advice, guidance and help is always freely given. Crafting sessions are held on a regular basis, please enquire.

Tel: 01845 574636 - 21b Millgate, Thirsk, YO7 1AA

A Blue Christmas?

‘I just dread Christmas’ said Susan, as she put her coat on and went back home.

Susan’s house felt very empty since her husband died. It was all so sudden and just before Christmas too. Last year was bad enough but at least she had neighbours who rallied round. Local support has dropped off now and she is feeling so very lonely. She was wondering how she was going to get through Christmas this year.

She felt a drain on the family – they had their own lives to live after all – but her life seemed empty. Susan had found her way to Holy Rood House.

A friend had said she knew of someone who’d been there and it helped them to get through life at a tough time, so Susan decided to give it a go and phoned up. Fortunately someone was there to pick up the phone and reassure her. She has been seeing a counsellor now for a few weeks and finding some light at the end of the tunnel – but Christmas is looming!

Christmas and New Year seem to go on for much longer than years ago. Places close just when we need them, and everyone else seems to be having a great family time – but we all know that probably isn’t really so. Memories of better times may come flooding back, or we may even find it hard to recall those happier Christmases. All we know is the feeling of wanting Christmas to be over as quickly as possible.

At Holy Rood House, we understand these feelings, and try to be there alongside people at such times. Our doors are open at Christmas and New Year, and people find a warm and genuine welcome, even entering into the peace and happiness Christmas is able to bring. New Year too can be a good experience as we

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are able to look to the future more confidently among friends and that feeling of being looked after. Holy Rood House wishes every reader a glimpse of joy this Christmas, which will lead to confidence for the New Year, so that whatever we are facing we may know we are not alone, and that there are many folk around who really care and can offer support.

Artist in residence: Ruth Goodheir

December at Holy Rood House: • Thursday 2nd ‘A blue Christmas?’

A Day Course for all who support and care for people who are struggling with Christmas this year • Weekend 3rd - 5th Advent Retreat - Waiting for…? (residential or non-residential) • 23rd - 27th Christmas House Party • 30th December - 2nd January New Year House Party Tel: 01845 522580 www.holyroodhouse.org.uk

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Power up your Pension If it had a different name would it get more attention?

Although pensions are a tax efficient way of saving for retirement, the topic is often at the bottom of most people’s to-do list.

If you are currently saving into a pension or if you have some old pension pots that you are not sure what they are worth, here are some questions that you should think about.

• Am I saving enough into my pension?

• Are my pensions going to give me the income I need when I retire?

• Is my pension fund (or funds) invested in line with my risk appetite?

These questions are inter-related and it is only by looking holistically at your pensions that you can understand where you currently are and come up with a strategy to get you to where you want to be.

Am I saving enough into my pension?

Are my pensions going to give me the income I need when I retire?

To answer these questions you need to think about when you would like to retire and how much income you will need when you retire.

Often the State Pension benefits will be paid later. By thinking about these and what you can afford to contribute you can begin to answer these questions.

It’s worth giving your pensions some attention as they will be important in helping you live the lifestyle you want in retirement.

Will Mowatt finds pensions interesting and would be very happy to help you develop a strategy to power up your pension!

Is my pension fund (or funds) invested in line with my risk appetite?

If you are in a defined contribution company pension or if you have several old pensions, the answer might be no. In which case it makes sense to align your investment strategy with your risk appetite. If you have several pension pots it can often make sense to consolidate them to make it easier to follow one investment strategy and there can often be cost benefits as well.

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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Winter update

The Blue Cross

animal adoption centre in Thirsk The Blue Cross in Thirsk are offering some top tips to help pet owners care for their animals over the forthcoming winter months.

The Blue Cross animal adoption centre in Thirsk have had a very busy year. At the time of going to print we have taken in 193 dogs and 217 cats so far this year and found more than 390 pets loving new homes. We anticipate more enquiries and pets needing to come to us to find new homes over the months ahead so we really appreciate the support we receive from local animal lovers.

In this issue, we are offering advice to help pet owners look after their pets over the winter months ahead.

Just like us, our pets are often reluctant to spend much time outdoors when the weather turns wet, windy and cold.

It is important that our cats and dogs still get the exercise and mental stimulation they need to keep them happy and healthy if they aren’t out and about as much. If possible, try and keep to your usual routine with your pet. Even when the weather is plain awful, try and make sure your dog gets time for a walk every day, vary the route if you have to keep it short.

Some cat owners chose to put their cat out overnight but they must remember that it is up to them to make sure their cat still has somewhere safe and dry to rest, otherwise cats may have no choice but to shelter in unsuitable places, get trapped or become lost.

Make sure your pets are microchipped to improve your chance of being reunited if the worst happens and they are lost, and remember to keep your contact details updated with the microchip company if you change your number or move house. Cats and dogs need to have an active mind. Frustrated dogs may become destructive and resort to learned

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instinctive behaviours like guarding or stalking if they are bored.

Chew toys are particularly good to have dotted about so that your dog isn’t tempted to chew unsuitable objects, like your favourite slippers or the furniture. Make sure they are safe and strong so they won’t splinter or break into small pieces. Also ensure they are the appropriate size for your dog - small rubber balls can get stuck in the throat of larger dogs and even swallowed, which may need veterinary treatment to remove them.

It is a good idea to have only one or two chew toys out at a time and change them around from day to day. This should keep your dog interested and prevent them being tempted by a table leg! But if you do come home and they have had a nibble on something they shouldn’t, it is really important not to tell them off.

It is too late for them to understand what is wrong and they might start to associate your homecoming with being told off. Make sure you praise your dog when he chews his toys and if you spot him about to go for something he isn’t allowed, quickly switch his attention to his toy and make a fuss.

Regularly play games with your cat to keep them entertained. Lots of toys are available from pet shops including fishing rod toys, balls and artificial mice. But cats will be equally entertained by feathers, cotton reels (without the cotton) and cardboard boxes.

Look out for hidden dangers around the home.

Some plants, including lilies and poinsettia, are poisonous to cats so do not have them in the house.

Consult your vet immediately if your cat has eaten any part of a lily.

In the run up to Christmas you also need to make sure tinsel is out of pets reach, it is very tempting for them to play with, especially cats, and they often eat or accidentally swallow it. Every Christmas, Blue Cross vets have to remove tinsel from a cat’s gut or rear-end – not much fun for either the cat or the vets!

For more pet care advice visit www.bluecross.org. uk. For more information about The Blue Cross animal adoption centre in Thirsk contact them on 01845 577759 or join them on Facebook at www. bluecross.org.uk/thirskfacebook

Cats usually scratch outdoors to keep their claws sharp and leave scent marks in their territory. To prevent them doing this activity on your furniture, carpet and walls it is important to provide them with scratching posts as an alternative outlet. Encourage your cat to use a scratching post by gently wiping their paws on it to show them what to do and leave their own scent on it, also sprinkle some cat nip on it.

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Local business goes from strength to strength Having begun trading in 2007, local business Phlebotomy Training Services Ltd. have gone from strength to strength. Phlebotomy Training Services was established by Alison Purkiss, a local phlebotomist with a Certificate in Education. She felt that there was insufficient training for phlebotomists and chose to do something about it – and PTS was born.

The local business has also helped the local area with it’s success.

When Arla Creamery closed earlier this year, PTS provided government funded training to ten of their recently made redundant employees. PTS are also registered with the Department of Work and Pensions and as a result regularly provide funded training to the unemployed, both in the local area, and nationally.

Alison wrote one of the first accredited courses for basic and advanced phlebotomy in the country. Since it’s beginnings, Alison and her ten tutors have trained in excess of 3000 people, with 95% of people passing the courses, and obtaining certification from the accrediting body Open College Network North East Region.

Not only do the company train the general public, they have also delivered a range of bespoke courses to corporate clients, including Manchester Metropolitan University, DRC Locums, BMI Healthcare and Cambridge Medical Innovations.

OCNNER work closely with Phlebotomy Training Services Ltd. to ensure that the standards of training that are provided are as high as possible – assisting with the companies aim to create highly skilled phlebotomists to send out into the workplace.

Last year, Phlebotomy Training Services Ltd. moved into new premises at Evolution Business Centre and since then, business couldn’t have been better. The company now train in 15 cities nationwide, including London, Manchester and Birmingham, and run at least two courses most weekends.

And progressions aren’t stopping there for PTS – they’re now able to offer new courses, covering Health and Safety in the Workplace, First Aid and Movement and Handling.

Phlebotomy Training Services Ltd. is located at Suite 21, Evolution Business Centre, Northallerton DL6 2NQ For more information, or to review upcoming course dates, please see the website at: www.phlebotomytraining.co.uk

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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What’s on in December?

Throughout December Rural Arts have a fantastic range of events and workshops for you to get involved in at their venue, The Old Courthouse in Thirsk.

• From now until December 23rd, Rural Arts are hosting a Christmas selling exhibition featuring work from various artists. Items for sale include jewellery, textiles, ceramics and greetings cards – come along and do some Christmas shopping! Whilst you’re having a browse, why not let the children have fun with some festive themed table top activities (1st -23rd December, £1.50 per child); and don’t forget about our café which is now open serving teas, coffees, light refreshments and homemade cakes from 10.00am – 5.00pm.

own feature film screenplay. No previous experience is necessary; the workshops are open to ages 16 and above at a cost of £75. To book visit parashoots.com or email: training@parashoots.com

stick – something for all the family! The show starts at 2.30pm with tickets priced at £6 for adults and £4 for children; these can be purchased directly from Rural Arts or online at www.digtickets.co.uk.

• Other events lined up for December include a Christmas themed session of our after school art club on December 15th. Children aged 8 to 11 years are invited to join us between 4.00pm and 5.30pm whilst 12 to 18 year olds attend between 5.45pm and 7.15pm. The cost is £12 per session including materials and refreshments are provided.

• For more details or to book tickets call Rural Arts on 01845 526536. To receive updates on all Rural Arts events and to catch up with what’s on in January 2011 follow us on Twitter, Facebook or via our website, www.ruralarts.org.

• Start feeling festive by joining one of our willow weaving workshops and make your own decorative Christmas wreath. There are two sessions available on 26th or 28th November from 10.00am until 1.00pm. The cost is £20 plus £7 for materials. Alternatively, have you ever wanted to try your hand at screenwriting?! Rural Arts are hosting a two day course on 27th and 28th November (10.00am – 5.00pm) which offers an introduction to the principles and practice, looking at a basic three act structure and its application, how to create characters and write character biographies as well as examining ways in which dialogue can be written to create your

• You may be aware of the recent national campaign to encourage people to get online and become confident using the internet. The Old Courthouse is an official UK Online centre and offers free classes every Monday from 10.00am until 12 noon. Booking is advised and dates for the rest of this year are 29th November and 6th, 13th and 20th December.

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• The Pocket Panto Theatre Company join us on 5th December with their version of ‘Aladdin’. With a cast of three talented professional actors, the company bring the whole pantomime experience to their audience with live singing, dancing, and slap-

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Thirsk Clock goes into cyberspace

THIRSK ClocK

Summer fun for young people For the seventh year running, Thirsk Clock arranged a very successful programme of activities for young people over the Summer. The programme was planned by young people and the activities included fishing, paintballing, swimming and, new this year, surfing and powerboating.

Thirsk Clock now has an exciting and informative new website. The website (www.thirskclock. com) has been designed and put together by Oliver Lewis, a trainee youth worker attached to the staff of Thirsk Clock, and was funded by St. James’s Place, a local investment company.

The aims of the summer activity programme were to raise aspirations, increase confidence and to give the young people things to engage them and to look forward to. Jack Stout, winner of the go-karting, said: “I’ve really enjoyed this year’s activities”. In total, 96 young people took part in the activities including 33 new members.

Whilst the young people make some financial contribution to the activities they choose, funding also comes from 4Youth, Hambleton District Council, Extended Services and Pertemps People Development Group.

Awards are given for achievement such as “Most helpful”, “Most enthusiastic” and “Best newcomer”. The trophies will be given out at this year’s AGM (November 24th) The programme came to a climax with a football tournament and BBQ. The football tournament was won by Elsworth Allstars with Thirsk Clock Staff coming a close second! Details of further activities are available from Thirsk Clock on St. James’ Green, or by phoning Abigail Homer on 01845 524494.

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Liam & Sam Dodsworth, Adam Dixon, Matthew Davison, Stuart Ferguson enjoyed an afternoon surfing

Mike Clark & Jamie Jewitt spent a day fishing at Woodlands Lakes

The website contains a lot of information about Thirsk Clock and the activities it runs. There is a list of events and activities, as well as links to a “job-search” section and to a photo gallery. Particularly interesting to those less familiar with the work of Thirsk Clock is a page entitled “Members’ Stories”.

Thirsk Clock is always looking for volunteers to help with fund-raising and publicity. Anyone interested in the work of this lively centre for young people from Thirsk, Sowerby and the surrounding villages is invited to meet up with the Manager of Thirsk Clock, Abigail Homer – telephone 01845 524494 or to talk to the Chair of the Trustees, Linda Gibbon - telephone 01845 537421.

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4th December

Alverton singers present their Christmas Concert, an evening of choral music for the festive season at the Town Hall Northallerton from 7.30pm.

Tickets available at Greensleeves, Central Arcade, Northallerton or at the door.

Duncan Wallace: 07712 140477 or Phyllis Wallace: 01609 776890 e: enquiry@alvertonsingers.org.uk w: www.alvertonsingers.org.uk

Winter & 1st - 4th December • White Rose Winter Festival – Ripley Castle The event presents a sought after combination of heritage, culture, and hospitality with the very best opera, dance, classical and exciting musical entertainment over the 4 nights and 1 matinee show.

The Castle’s courtyard will be transformed into a magical auditorium with seating for 1, 600 people (all under cover and carpeted throughout), fully heated with a range of winter treats on offer; a winter bar, festive food and drink outlets and festive cheer throughout!

Please note that seats will be allocated on a first come, first serve basis and according to the ticket category.

For more information on this event, please visit www.whiterosefestivals. com or call 01423 563 563. .................................................................................................................

1st - 5th December • Lightwater Shopping Village Dickensian Festival 10:00am – 5:00pm every day. Free Entry & Free Parking. With over 75 stalls selling a huge range of high quality contemporary and traditional merchandise, why not come along and soak up the enchanting atmosphere. With so many festivities in one place, it’s no wonder that our Dickensian Festival was short-listed for a White Rose Award!

For more information, call 0871 720 0011 or visit the website at: www.lightwatervalley.co.uk .................................................................................................................

3rd December • Christmas Concert The Carol Andrew Singers Northallerton Methodist Church from 7.30pm for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Tickets £6 available from Greensleeves Music Shop, telephone 01609 772620, or from Northallerton Methodist Church Coffee Pot Café (Wednesday & Saturday 10am-12noon). Tickets will also be available on the door. All are welcome.

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Christmas EVENTS

3rd - 5th December • ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ – Kiplin Hall An interpretation of those well-known gifts and their meanings. Twelve rooms of beautiful Christmas decorations created by the Friends and Volunteers of Kiplin Hall and local groups using fresh flowers and greenery.

Decorative theme and Christmas activities for children.

Christmas Shop – unusual gifts, original artwork and prints, crafts, stocking fillers and cards. Tea Room – cakes, scones, and festive goodies.

Adult £6, Child £3, Concession £5, Family (2+3) £17. .................................................................................................................

4th December • Christmas Cake Decorating Demonstration On Saturday 4th December, from 10.00 until 15.00 there will be a demonstration at Faerie Delights, 21b Mill Bank, Thirsk, YO7 1AA on how to decorate your Christmas cake and how to make decorations using icing. The demonstration will be free and a small charge will be made if you would like to produce your own decoration. The cake and decorations produced by Paul Jephcott will be used to raise funds for Help the Heroes Fund. There will also be a festive raffle to support Help the Heroes. Please support this good cause.

Phone: 01845 574636 .................................................................................................................

5th December • Pocket Panto Theatre Company The Pocket Panto Theatre Company are joining up with Rural Arts at The Courthouse in Thirsk on 5th December with their version of ‘Aladdin’. With a cast of three talented professional actors, the company bring the whole pantomime experience to their audience with live singing, dancing and slapstick - something for all the family! The show is due to start at 2:30pm with tickets priced at £6 for adults and £4 for children; these can be purchased directly from Rural Arts - 01845 526536. .................................................................................................................

11th - 12th December • Victorian Fair – Masham A full weekend of festive Victorian fun; including stallholders and shop staff in period costumes, a craft fair in the Town Hall and a Bishop Baizes procession from Maple Creek to the Town Hall after dark. Selected shops will also be taking part in the window dressing competition (won for the past 2 years by ‘The Cutting Room’!).

For further details, contact David Airton on 07840 446599

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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Christmas around our market towns Thirsk

Sunday 28th november

• Christmas Lights switched on at 4pm • Christmas Fair at The Golden Fleece Hotel • 12-6pm free admission • Brass Band

Easingwold

Saturday 18th december • Easingwold Lions Carol Service Held in the Market Place from 7pm - 8:30pm Free entry, with food and refreshments available

Friday 24th december

• Santa’s Sleigh Comes To Town!

Market Place from 9am - 1pm Get the whole family into the festive spirit by visiting Santa’s Sleigh For more information on these events, please contact Claire from Easingwold Town Council on 01347 822422

Northallerton Friday 26th november

• Christmas Late Night Shopping • Official switch on of the lights on the Christmas Tree on the Town Hall at 6pm • Arrival of Father Christmas at Barkers at 6:30 pm • A free children’s disco will be held in the Town Hall between 7pm and 9pm and Seasonal Refreshments will be provided.

Ripon

Friday 26th november • Christmas Lights Switch-on

Takes place on the Market Square, 6:00 pm. Join Father Christmas in the fun and take advantage of late night shopping as the shops will remain open until late.

For further details contact 01765 601100

Saturday 18th december • Christmas Spectacular

Ripon City Band and Community Choirs join in the magnificent surroundings of Ripon Cathedral in an evening of spectacular music, 7:30 pm. Tickets will be available from mid November.

For further details contact 01765 601100

Friday 31st december Bring the New Year in with the annual Watchnight and candle light parade to the market square for fireworks at midnight.

For further details contact 01765 601100

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CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES FOR THE CHILDREN Are you looking for ideas to keep your children’s minds occupied during the winter months?

The Internet is an amazing educational tool that can offer ideas to captivate the minds of all. The ideas from the list of websites opposite are too many to mention and would fill many pages of this magazine. Please visit them and you will be surprised how captivated you and your youngsters will become.

To start the season’s entertainment encourage your youngsters to attempt the Christmas crossword puzzle which is taken from www.dltk-holidays.com. A word list is added to assist the very young and, if you are like me at solving crosswords, the not so young.

I wish you all a Happy Festive Season.

John Harris

Websites offering free activities for children • www.dltk-holidays.com • www.christianfreebies.com • www.thekidzpage.com • www.allfreecrafts.com • www.mes-english.com • www.northpole.com • www.holidays.kaboose.com See p34 for the crossword answers.

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Across 1 Pretty baubles to hang on the Christmas tree 3 Guardians who announce the good news 6 Wrapped with love 7 Jolly old Saint 8 Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Donner and Blitzen 9 9 Warm snacks for Santa 11 Sweet and red and white 12 We wish you a Merry

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Cupid,

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Down

Word list: Angels, Candycane, Christmas, Comet, Cookies, Gingerbread, Nicholas, Ornaments, Presents, Shepherd, Star, Stockings

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2 Keeper of the flocks 4 House made of sweet treats 5 The were hung by the chimney with care 10 Bright light marks the way

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Wensleydale Railway Santa Specials 4th & 5th December 11th & 12th December 18th – 24th December inclusive Most trains from Leeming Bar station but there will be some trains running between Leyburn and Redmire.

Bookings before 31st October at a discount.

All seats must be booked.

www.wensleydalerailway.com

Tel: 08454 50 54 74

Travel with Santa from Leeming Bar!

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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Winter

Gardening Diary

Winter jobs and Yule Time Safety

December is the time to take a step back from your garden, and to replan any parts that you are not happy with. New beds can be dug if the weather permits, of course. Paths can be laid and wooden constructions can be mended and treated.

Now is the time to: • Give the lawn a final rake and spike it to give aeration.

• Reconstruct your rock garden if you wish.

• Do NOT lay concrete in the frost, or if frost is forecast.

• Prepare window boxes with fresh soil and plant with wallflowers or winter flowering pansies.

• Improve soil by digging in humus-forming materials (manure).

• Take cuttings of Perpetual flowering Carnations and Chrysanthemums.

Also don’t forget to: • Protect any tender plants from hard frosts.

• Cover delicate wall shrubs or climbers.

• Cover tender rock garden plants with glass to protect them from frost damage and to stop them from getting excessively wet.

• Bring in any roses planted in pots .

• Buds of Jasminum nudiflorum can also be brought indoors as soon as they appear, pop them into water to help them to open before Christmas.

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Keeping Safe at Christmas • Christmas lights are beautiful and much safer than candles, but all that electricity can cause problems if not used properly.

Christmas lights can get hot enough to burn or ignite other decorations.

The cords can fray, leading to a short. Decorating with lights often requires the use of a ladder, and improper use could lead to an injury. Practice ladder safety when you are putting up Christmas lights.

• Inspect your lights before use and ensure they meet current safety standards – check they have a ‘CE’ mark or kite mark.

• Discard any set with cracked or broken sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections.

• Verify that all strings designated for outdoor use are weatherproofed and if an extension lead is required make sure that the junction is thoroughly water proofed and kept off the ground.

• Try to use the cooler-burning “mini” Christmas lights or the new LED lights as they are safer and more energy efficient.

When you put up Christmas lights over the festive period be sure to follow these Christmas light safety tips.

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• Ensure Christmas lights have fuses in the plugs and outdoor lights are plugged into a RCD safety outlet.

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

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“Floating Ghost stairs” How do they do that?

So often on house renovation or grand design programmes you see stairs apparently floating out of the wall without any support.

Well really they don’t float but instead use well engineered minimal components, mainly consisting of a very strong steel structure bolted securely to the brickwork of the wall. This provides the strength necessary to hold the steps and the glass balustrade.

After attaching the steel to the wall this is then plastered over leaving just the steel supports for the steps protruding. At this stage the small step lights are fitted into the plaster for later.

To advertise with us, please contact Christine on 01609 777401

Next stage is to fit the steps onto the steel supports and the glass balustrade is mounted to the steelwork with concealed fittings. The final stage is to fit the external wood blocks to the outside of the balustrade.

The end result—steps seemingly coming out of the wall and running straight through the glass balustrade. The Ghost stairs give a light airy feel to any room with their stunning design.

At Stairs and More we specialise in working with the style and layout of the property to reach the best staircase solution for any type of development contemporary or classic straight or spiral.

For further details have a look at our website: www.stairsandmore.co.uk or speak to Steve Dunn on 01845 577200.

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Darlington Civic Theatre is giving away a family ticket for this year’s pantomime, Peter Pan, for Thursday, 9 December at 7pm Leading icon of British pop music and entertainment, David Essex, stars as Captain Hook alongside Darlington favourites, comedy duo The Grumbleweeds, as Smee and Starkey in our swashbuckling panto adventure Peter Pan. An abundance of comedy, fabulous sets and costumes and stunning flying sequences make Peter Pan another must-see Civic Theatre pantomime.

Peter Pan runs from Saturday 4 December 2010 to Sunday 16 January, tickets are from £12.50 - £20 with group offers and discounts available at selected performances.

For your chance to win a family ticket just answer the question below and send your entry together with name, address and telephone number to: Peter Pan InFocus Competition Marketing Dept.

Darlington Arts Centre, Vane Terrace, Darlington DL3 7AX

Q) What is the name of this year’s pantomime?

Entries must arrive by Friday, 3 December

Tickets are available from the Box Office on 01325 486555 or online at: www.darlingtonarts.co.uk

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at your finger tips

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Northallerton

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Ripon & Masham

14,000 homes & businesses

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Thirsk & Easingwold

15,200 homes & businesses

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Get your business noticed!

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

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1/8 Page from only

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Christine 01609 777401 07742 595747 christine@jkanorth.com

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Kate 01845 523250 kate@jkanorth.com

Northallerton

14,400 homes & businesses

Ripon & Masham

14,000 homes & businesses

When’s the next issue?

Crossword Answers

Ripon & Masham - Winter ‘10 Distribution: w/c 24 Jan ‘11 Copy: 15 Dec ‘10

............................................................

Thirsk & Easingwold

Northallerton - Spring ‘11 Distribution: w/c 14 March ‘11 Copy: 18 Feb ‘11

15,200

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Thirsk & Easingwold - Spring ‘11 Distribution: w/c 21 March ‘11 Copy: 25 Feb ‘11

WALKING FOR HEALTH November & December 2010

Meet at 10.15 for Walks to start at 10.30 a.m.

• Lunchtime 30 minute walks start from County Hall, Northallerton at 12.15 on Wednesdays.

• Pick up a leaflet at GP Surgeries, Tourist Points, Libraries, Hambleton Council offices or call 01609 771624 for more information

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11 Candycane 12 Christmas Down 2 Shepherd 4 Gingerbread 5 Stockings 10 Star

homes & businesses

Hambleton Strollers

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Across 1 Ornaments 3 Angels 6 Presents 7 Nicholas 8 Comet 9 Cookies

NOVEMBER 2010 Tuesday 23 Northallerton - Mowbray House Surgery Wednesday 24 Northallerton - County Hall (12.15) Tuesday 30 Northallerton - Mayford House Surgery Tuesday 30 Easingwold - Galtres Centre DECEMBER 2010 Wednesday 1 Thirsk - Swimming Pool Wednesday 1 Northallerton - County Hall (12.15) Friday 3 Northallerton - Hambleton Forum Tuesday 7 Northallerton - Mowbray House Surgery Wednesday 8 Northallerton - County Hall (12.15) Tuesday 14 Northallerton - Golden Lion, Romanby

Tuesday 14 Easingwold - Galtres Centre Wednesday 15 Northallerton - County Hall (12.15) Thursday 16 Thirsk - East Thirsk Community Centre Friday 17 Northallerton - Hambleton Leisure Centre Tuesday 21 Northallerton - Mowbray House Surgery Wednesday 22 Northallerton - County Hall (12.15) Thursday 23 Bedale - Leisure Centre Tuesday 28 Northallerton - Mayford House Surgery Tuesday 28 Easingwold - Galtres Centre Wednesday 29 Thirsk - Health Centre Wednesday 29 Northallerton - County Hall (12.15) Friday 31 Northallerton - Tourist Information Point

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