Thirsk & Easingwold InFocus

Winter 2011

www.jkanorth.com/thirsk Quarterly Royal Mail distribution: 15,600 homes & businesses

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inside Thirsk & Easingwold infocus

winter

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New to Thirsk & Easingwold We showcase a number of new businesses & services

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Christmas Tree Lights Safety Stay safe this Christmas with our handy tips

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The Home Of Herriot Golf

We learn about Thirsk & Northallerton Golf Club’s most famous member!

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Blue Cross Winter Update

Latest news from the Blue Cross & Top Tips for happy pets this Christmas

Also in this issue...

05 finance

20-21 leisure

Budget 2011 - Part 2

Winter Events

08 local news

23 leisure

Thirsk Clock Christmas Update

Christmas around our Market Towns

08 local news

24 local news

What’s On At Rural Arts this Winter?

Easingwold Players News

26 24 competition Your chance to win tickets for Swan Lake!

28-29 house & garden How to store Firewood

30 local news HMRC Finds It’s Teeth

I hope that you enjoy this festive edition of Thirsk & Easiningwold infocus. Please contact us if you would like to advertise your business in this publication. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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

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Budget 2011 • Part 2 As promised we are revisiting the highlights of this year’s budget Here’s Part II in the series: • VAT With VAT at 20%, many people were hoping that the Government would have had a change of heart. No such luck though – the rate stayed at 20%. But the threshold for registration for VAT increased to £73,000.

At the same time VAT may be payable on more imported goods because the low value consignment relief for goods imported from outside the EU reduced from £18 to £15.

• Inheritance Tax (IHT) Once again, the IHT nil rate band has been frozen and will remain at £325,000 for the 2011/2012 Tax year. Estates with a value of more than £325,000 will continue to have a tax rate of 40%.

From 6th April 2012 there’ll be a Tax rate of 36% available to people who leave more than 10% of their net estate to charity.

Tip: If you think that your estate is going to exceed the nil rate band of £325,000

any assets left to a spouse will be free from IHT. Tip: If you invest in assets which qualify for Business Property Relief you don’t have to pay IHT on these on death, provided you’ve held the assets for two years before death. You will also retain control of these assets up until death so there’s no loss of access or decision making.

• Capital Gains Tax The limits for Entrepreneurs’ Relief increased from £5 million to £10

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

Peter Tarren For business planning and tax advice call Peter on: 01609 779400 or email him at: p.tarren@euraaudituk.com or drop in at: 87 South Parade Northallerton

million since 6th April 2011. Obtaining Entrepreneurs’ Relief on the disposal of your business or business assets could now save you up to £1.8 million.

The Annual Exemption has also been increased to £10,600 for 2011/2012.

Tip: If you’re looking to sell your business in the coming years then it may be possible to take action now to reduce the Capital Gains Tax further. Get advice even if only to ensure that you secure the maximum available Entrepreneurs’ Relief (sometimes double what you think!).

• Income Tax and National Insurance Contributions The government also said they would help businesses by reducing the administrative burden of Income Tax and National Insurance Contributions. They

are consulting with businesses about this and measures should be in place in a few years. (Taxes won’t decrease though just the paperwork!)

• We can help With so many changes outlined in the 2011 Budget, now is the time to act to ensure that you don’t pay a penny more Tax than you need to. We can help by ensuring that you’re aware of the changes that will affect you, your family and your business. For more information, go to www.euraaudituk.com/locations/ northallerton

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What’s on this Winter?

• Throughout November and December visitors to The Old Courthouse will have the chance to browse the Christmas Exhibition; a selection of unusual, high quality textiles, ceramics, jewellery and cards. Come along and buy someone beautiful something special, then relax in the cafe, open 10am to 4:30pm, with a tea, coffee, a light meal or one of our delicious

Festive Cheer at Thirsk Clock As the weather changes and the clocks have gone back, many of us are beginning to make plans for Christmas. Christmas should be a time for friends and family.

For far too many people though, living alone, it is the coldest and loneliest time of year. Thirsk Clock tries to make the lives of some young people a little bit easier by providing hot meals, warmth, friendship and a wide range of essential services that they often miss out on.

This year Thirsk Clock will be providing a hot meal on 23rd December and a party day on 29th December. It will also be open on Christmas Day for young people who have no where to go. Last year 63 people benefitted from Thirsk Clock’s Christmas activities.

In previous years, local businesses and members of the community have generously donated money, food and toiletries. These have been used to make sure that young people and families in need have got food, electric and gas over the Christmas period. Staff are hoping that they will receive donations again so that they can provide the same.

Some of the generous donations received so far

One young person said that, ’I don’t know what I would do without Thirsk Clock. Knowing I have somewhere to go over Christmas makes things so much better for me’. Another said, ‘Last year I was dreading Christmas on my own.

Instead I spent a lot of time at the Clock feeling that I belonged. I had lots to eat, money for gas and a food parcel to take home. I can’t thank the people who donated things enough.

When I am back on my feet, I will make a donation to Thirsk Clock’s Christmas appeal’.

For more information contact Abigail at the Clock: 01845 524494

Thirsk Clock Training Success Story Over the past year, following the award of new contracts, the delivery of training has become an important part of Thirsk Clock’s development.

More than 40 members and volunteers have successfully completed accredited training, including training in youth work and in health and safety.

Laken Robson, a young person who herself was once a member at Thirsk Clock, successfully completed her youth work training earlier this year.

This has given her the necessary entry level to enable her to start on a B.A. (Hons) in Youth Work at York University. Laken commented, “Without Thirsk Clock, I would not have been able to start this training for my dream career”.

Another who has recently completed a youth work course delivered by the Clock is Natalie Reed. Having just started her Foundation Degree in working with young people, Natalie is now undertaking a work placement at Thirsk Clock.

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Natalie said, “Having the opportunity to train and undertake work experience at Thirsk Clock has enabled me to enhance the skills I need to become a youth worker. As the Clock offers such a wide range of services and adopts a holistic approach to its work with young people and the community, I have been able to gain experience in all aspects of youth work.”

homemade cakes.

• From 5th November, until 31st January, Rural Arts is also playing host to the INKERS printmaking group. Based around the Leeds and Huddersfield they use a wide range of print processes and styles in their work including collograph, drypoint and screenprinting.

• As part of the Thirsk Christmas Fayre you have the chance to glaze a piece of pottery, to be fired in a dustbin kiln and see the amazing effects of this spectacular firing technique. The workshop will be held on 25th November 2pm to 5pm.

There is a small charge (£5-£20) for materials.

• Hand-printed Christmas paper and cards can add that personal touch to the festive season. “A Taste of...” adult taster Art sessions will give budding printmakers a chance to try different techniques to make their own unique decorative paper and cards. Sessions will run on the 2nd and 9th December from 1pm2:30pm and cost £7.50. As part of the ever popular Saturday Kids Art Club, young artists will be able to make their festive mark, using vegetable stamps, silk-screen, lino and monoprint. Sessions will be

Natalie continued, “The staff team have made me feel very welcome and are always on hand to give advice. I am sure that having been a part of the Clock team will help me be a better youth worker when I have completed my training”.

During the year staff members have also undertaken a wide range of training in order to meet the needs of young people at the Clock. Three members of staff have completed relevant Level 4 qualifications and one member of staff has completed a Level 7 teaching qualification.

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held on the 3rd and 10th December.

8-11 year olds are invited to come along from 10am to 11am, 12-16 year olds between 11:30am and 12:30am. Each session costs £5. An exciting new spring programme will soon be published.

• Rural Arts holds and friendly UK Online sessions designed to help anyone who has never used the internet, or wants to build their confidence online. UK Online is every Monday morning, 10am to 12 noon, and completely free.

Introduction to Mac, will be held at The Old Courthouse on 10th December, 10am to 12:30am, and costs £15.

• Pocket Panto returns to The Old Courthouse on Saturday 7th January, with the traditional family pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk.

Tickets cost £6 adults/ £4 children.

• To help keep active this winter why not come along to Zumba. Sessions are held between 6pm and 7pm in Thirsk Town Hall. Each class costs £5, but you can save £2.50 by booking both sessions at the Monday class.

• 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 2012 follow us on Facebook, Twitter or via our website www.ruralarts.org

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New businesses & services come to

Thirsk Easingwold & surrounding areas this Winter New Businesses we’re introducing: • Angi Almond Holistic Therapies

NEW! Business • Dog & Gun - Carlton Miniott

NEW! Ownership

Qualifying in massage in 1996, Angi is vastly experienced in providing a host of massage and holistic therapies including Aromatherapy massage, body massage, Indian head massage, hand and foot massage and is currently studying more treatments which will be available soon. Being FHT Accredited, you can be sure Angi is qualified to provide professional therapies.

• Little Quackers

NEW! Business

Since returning to work this Summer following a career break, Angi has refreshed and updated her knowledge and skills. Based in Knayton, she is happy to cover Thirsk, Northallerton, Bedale, Ripon and surrounding areas.

• Calder Meynell

NEW! Premises 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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Professional Holistic Therapist in our area

Holistic Therapy should not be viewed as simply being an indulgence or pampering treatment. They are beneficial in everyday life, bringing a natural balance to your body by treating not only the physical body but also your psychological, emotional and spiritual state.

For more details call Angi on: 07891 480159 or 01845 537054

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For your

Little Quackers: the family run children’s clothes shop on Millgate, Thirsk.

Run by mother and daughter partnership Clare and Emily Savage, the shop offers a very warm welcome for mothers and children alike with toys to keep the little ones amused while you browse the lovely selection of children’s clothes from newborn through to thirteen years.

gap in the children’s clothing market as attempting to buy anything for pregnancy or children was almost impossible in Thirsk. They felt that the choice of children’s clothes was very limited and so decided to open a shop which would offer lovely clothes at everyday prices.

Due to popular demand a range of occasion wear for purchase or hire is also being developed; this is available from newborn to teenage for both boys and girls.

Little Quackers has a wide range of maternity clothes and beautiful natural skin care products for mother and baby, during pregnancy and beyond.

Since opening Little Quackers they have also introduced a range of personalised gifts with bunting and Santa sacks currently on offer.

Bunting priced at just £2.00 per flag and Santa stockings starting from £9.95 which are proving very popular. .......................................................

Clare and Emily opened Little Quackers after realizing there was a

Little Quackers 18 Millgate, Thirsk Tel: 01845 527831

Professional Legal Service After successfully launching their legal practice in Northallerton, Howard Meynell and Kerri Calder are delighted to announce that on the 1st December they will be opening an additional office in Thirsk at The Old Post Office, Market Place. They look forward to welcoming clients old and new.

Between them and their staff they have been giving legal advice for over 25 years. The firm offers all aspects of High Street Legal services to include buying and selling houses and all types of property work, wills, probate, lasting powers of attorney and court of protection work, agricultural, commercial and business law including some services usually undertaken by large city firms of solicitors such as corporate work.

The team at Calder Meynell LLP understand that it can be a daunting experience instructing a solicitor and ensures that clients receive a friendly professional response from the first contact. Communication is key to building and maintaining relationships with their clients. The

team prides itself in taking the time to listen to those issues that are important to their clients so that they can offer the most appropriate advice.

Calder Meynell LLP do not believe in dragging things out or making matters unnecessarily complex and clients can be assured of an efficient and cost effective service at all times.

It is understood that people have commitments or personal circumstances which require appointments either at their home or workplace and the team at Calder Meynell LLP are always happy to accommodate such requests both in and out of normal working hours if required.

Calder Meynell LLP can be found above Northallerton Estate Agents at 143 High Street, Northallerton, DL7 8PE and from the 1st December First Floor, The Old Post Office, Market Place, Thirsk, YO7 1TF. For more details, or an informal chat, please contact one of the team on 01609 761444 or visit the website at www.caldermeynell.co.uk

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New businesses & services come to

Thirsk Easingwold & surrounding areas this Winter New Businesses we’re introducing: • OTW Caravan Services

NEW! Business • Planet Jewels Accessories

NEW! Business • Jonny Almond

NEW! Services • Coles Solicitors

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

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

From Gardening to Gritting...

Having successfully run his landscape gardening and paddock management business for over 10 years, Jonny Almond is now extending his range of services to include path and drive way clearing using his snow plough fitted quad bike.

Jonny adds, “So many people struggled with the bad weather last year and found the paths and walkways around their homes deadly with snow and ice. My quad can fit down most paths and with the snow plough it’ll make light work of clearing them. I’ve got plenty of grit too so people can be sure their paths and drives will be safe to walk on”.

Jonny offers a professional and reliable service with each job being individually priced to ensure value for money for his customers.

For more details call Jonny on: 01845 537054 / 07891 480159.

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Coles Solicitor’s Third Office Opens in Thirsk

Following the closure of Shirtcliffe Law Solicitors Peter Gibson on the 30th September Coles Solicitors, have taken on part of the premises at 1 Finkle St and many of the former staff have been re-employed by Coles, ensuring continuity of service for hundreds of clients.

Coles Solicitors, with its head offices in Northallerton, can trace it Yorkshire roots back 1908, and has been proudly serving clients ever since.

The firm has changed over the years, and operated in a variety of locations but in recent years has grown to be a leading light of the legal landscape in North Yorkshire.

The firms Managing Director, Peter Gibson, said “Having made my home near Thirsk some ten years ago, and having taken the place and its people to heart, I am thrilled to be able to consolidate our position in Thirsk and re-establish our presence in the Town. We are now able to offer our full complement of services including Wills, Power of Attorneys, advice on bereavement, moving house, personal injury and divorce and separation from all three of our North Yorkshire offices.”

Peter went on to say “I pay tribute to the staff who have joined us at Thirsk, for their dedication and professionalism in these challenging times. I also pay tribute to the clients who have shown incredible loyalty to the team at Thirsk, and for the faith and trust they have placed in Coles. And I pay tribute to Charles Shirtcliffe, who did so much for Thirsk.”

Coles Solicitors have a number of specialist lawyers throughout their offices including members of STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practioners), APIL (Association of Personal Injury Lawyers) and Resolution and Collaborative law for family law work.

If you have a legal problem, make Coles your first port of call. They can be contacted on 01845 526222 or info@coles-law.co.uk

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Out & about in 23rd - 25th November

• Easingwold Players present - Waiting in the Wings The Galtres Centre Theatre - 7.30pm Directed by Loretta Knaggs. A clasic Coward Comedy, set in a retirement home for actresses.

Box Office open Mon-Fr, 9.00 - 5.00pm - Tel 01347 822472 The Galtres Centre, Market Place, Easingwold, York. YO61 3AD. For more details see p24. ......................................................................................................................

25th - 27th November • Thirsk Christmas Fayre

Various venues around Thirsk A fantastic weekend of festive fun around Thirsk, highlights including: Real Reindeer for kids to stroke/feed and have their pictures taken with, Santas Grotto and picture opportunity with Reindeer.

Shops are staying open longer and offering you the Christmas spirit, Light switch on at 7pm Friday 25th, Kids fairground rides, Craft fair, Rural Arts workshops and Christmas arts market, Live acts stage with dance and music acts. A Yorkshire food market!

No frankfurters, paella or olives! Just proper Yorkshire made grub!

For more details visit: www.thirskchristmasfayre.com ......................................................................................................................

1st - 4th December

• Lightwater Shopping Village Dickensian Festival Free entry & free parking. With over 72 stalls selling a huge range of high quality contemporary and traditional merchandise. Jazz Bands, Handbell Ringers, Barrel Organs, Santa’s Grotto, Festive Carol Singers, Superb Local Choirs, Stilt Walkers & Fire Eaters. www.lightwatervalley.co.uk ......................................................................................................................

2nd - 4th & 9th – 11th December • A Victorian Christmas

Kiplin Hall - 11.00am–5.00pm £7/£6/£3 Family (2+3) £18. Beautiful decorations throughout the Hall. Victorian food and costume. Children’s Trail - ‘A Christmas Carol’. Christmas Gift Fair in the Maryland Centre. Unusual gifts, stocking fillers and cards. No admission charge. Tea Room in the Hall. Cakes, scones and festive goodies. No admission charge.

Kiplin Hall, Richmond, DL10 6AT. Tel: 01748 818178 Email: info@kiplinhall.co.uk ......................................................................................................................

3rd - 10th December Christmas exhibition - “A Celebration of Christmas” St. Mary’s Church, Thirsk - 10.00 - 4.00pm (Sunday 12.00 - 4.00 pm) Refreshments are available in the Crypt on Saturday 3rd December and Monday 5th December when there will also be soup lunches. Tel: 01845 523247 ......................................................................................................................

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our area!

3rd December • Easingwold Christmas Charity Market Market Place: 9.00am - 1.00pm A great morning of atmosphere and merryment!

Guide Dogs for the Blind, The Firefighters Charity, Scouts (selling bacon butties and hot dogs), Macmillan, Womens Institute (cakes and preserves), Alzheimers society (Christmas decorations and stationery), Cheshire Homes - Alne Hall (selling mulled wine and mince pies plus tombola), Friends of St Monica’s Hospital, Stillington Hall Restoration Fund, Knit & Natter - EDCCA (hand knitted garments and novelties), United Response - The Boot Shop (hand made Christmas goods), Fair Trade via Easingwold Methodist Church (food and goods), Home and Away Group via Easingwold Anglican church, Cancer Research UK, Easingwold Senior School Sax quartet (music), Sing Easingwold (choir), Lynn Slater raising funds for Holly’s new wheelchair - member of Flyball (cakes and crafts), Easingwold Play Group, Food for the Hungry via all Saints Huntington (raffles), WWF (good second hand books and toys) ......................................................................................................................

9th December • Christmas Carol Concert York Minster - 7pm One of the most highly-anticipated and popular concerts of the year, set inside the stunning Minster ave. Joined by the Band of Yorkshire Volunteers and guest readers Edward Stourton (BBC Radio 4 presenter) and Wendy Cope (award-winning contemporary poet). Tickets: Unreserved side aisle £10 Front and Rear Nave: SOLD OUT. Tickets £10 - £20 Tel: 0844 9390015 www.yorkminster.org ......................................................................................................................

9th & 16th December

Christmas Party Nights At Castle Howard See Castle Howard dressed for Christmas and celebrate the festive season in style at our stunning Christmas Party Night. The evening starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost £48.50 per person, which includes drinks reception, threecourse dinner and dancing. For more information, or to book, please call 01653 648632. ......................................................................................................................

11th December 2011

Handel’s Messiah at Ampleforth Abbey Performed by The Schola Cantorum & Schola Puellarum of Ampleforth Abbey. Orchestra led by Dara de Cogan Conductor : Ian Little. For bookings and information please contact: Claire Evans, Development Office Ampleforth College Tel: 01439 766777 | Fax 01439 788182 E-mail cee@ampleforth.org.uk By kind permission of Rt Rev the Abbot of Ampleforth All proceeds to Ampleforth Arts Development ......................................................................................................................

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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Christmas Lights Safety General Christmas safety tips from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents • If you have old lights, seriously consider buying new ones which will meet much higher safety standards

Buying • Look for safety marks e.g. BS Kitemark; • Buy from a reputable store • Avoid buying second-hand unless you have them professionally checked first • New lights are transformed down to 24 volt for added safety, or they may be double insulated

Checking • NEVER insert or remove bulbs when switched on • Inspect cables and bulbs for damage • Do not use lights which are damaged, dispose of them safely

Using • Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions • Use an RCD (Residual Current Device) for added protection against shock • Do not use the lights outdoors unless specially made for such use

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• Don’t run the cable under carpets or where it can be damaged • Keep lights clear of decorations and other flammable materials • Avoid cables becoming a tripping hazard • Use a stable support when hanging the lights • Don’t leave the lights on when the room is empty.

• Remember to switch them off when you go to bed and when you go out of the house • Don’t allow children to play with the lights

Storing • Take care when dismantling and packing the lights not to damage them • Keep them safely stored away out of reach of children • Avoid damp or excessively hot conditions

General • Please remember - accidents need not happen, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from injury by following RoSPA’s safety advice for a safe Christmas.

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Christmas

around our market towns Don’t miss out on these fantastic festive events!

Thirsk

Friday 25th - Sunday 27th November

• Thirsk Christmas Fayre & Lights Switch-On • Lantern Parade sets off 6.30pm (25th) • Lights switch on at 7pm (25th) • Weekend highlights include:

- Santa’s Grotto

- Live Reindeer

- Christmas Market

- Hog Roast

- Thirsk British Legion Brass Band

- Chilren’s Workshop at The Courthouse

• For more details visit: www.thirskchristmasfayre.com ...........................................................................................................................

Ripon

3rd December

• Easingwold Christmas Charity Market • Market Place: 9.00am - 1.00pm • A great morning of atmosphere and merryment! ...........................................................................................................................

Northallerton Friday 2nd December

• Christmas Late Night Shopping • Official switch on of the lights on the Christmas Tree on the Town Hall: 6pm • Carol Singing from 5.30pm onwards • Arrival of Father Christmas at Barkers at 6:30 pm

Bedale Winter Festival is Sparkling on Ice!

Friday 25th November

• Lighting Up Ripon For Christmas • • • • •

Easingwold

Commences at 5pm with: Live Music Rides and entertainment for the children Arrival of Father Christmas Festive food and drink Lights switch on at 6pm

Saturday 17th December

• Christmas Market - Market Square

• Festive live music and carol singing plus Santa will be visiting to meet the children • 11.00am - 3.00pm

Saturday 17th December

• Ripon’s Annual Christmas Spectacular • Ripon Cathedral, 7.30pm • Ripon Festival presents ‘The Christmas Spectacular’ at Ripon Cathedral • A Great Evening of Carols & Christmas Music with the St Cecilia Orchestra, Festive Singers, School Choirs and Special Guest Artists • Tickets £14, concessions £12. Available from Knowledge Magnet, Hays Travel, Ripon Cathedral Shop, Tourist Information Centre and Ripon Cathedral Shop.

• A Great Annual Evening of Carols and Christmas Music ...........................................................................................................................

Lifetime Windows have kindly Bedale is all set to host the most sponsored a Christmas window exciting festive treat of the year. competition, so why not admire the On Saturday 3rd December, displays, chose your favourite and families, shoppers and visitors alike see if you agree with the winner. will be delighted an abundance • ‘Twas ThebyNight Before Christmas’ of winter festivities • Fountains Abbey in this pretty The Winter Festival, organised market town. to rouse your Christmas spirit, a great • Guaranteed

by Bedale Chamber of Trade and to the for allstreet, the family.

- 9.30pm Tourism, will take place from 10amNotstart only willseason the high full 7.30pm •to Pre-theatre suppers available 5pm, followed by the Christmas the brim with independent •• Booking Christmas Late Night Shopping essential, tel: 01765 643198 light switch on at 5.30pm. Then, boutiques and restaurants, provide • Official switch on of the lights on the Christmas Tree on the Town Hall: 6pm why not top the evening off with a the opportunity to browse at leisure, • Carol Singing from 5.30pm onwards Festive BBQ Bash in Bedale Hall. but Bedale Hall will also be full of • Street Entertainers fabulous food, drink and gift stalls, With bar and disco, rodeo bull •• Arrival Charity Christmas of Father Christmas at Market Barkers atand 6:30 ice pm skating, don your winter making Christmas present shopping •a pleasure.

Ripon Town Hall, sponsored by Conservatives.

A free children’s disco will be held inRipon the Town Hall boots and sparkly tops and kick the There’s a fun-packed day 7pm and 9pm &tostory-time Seasonal will provided.

• between Several Charities supportRefreshments at Christmas plusbeoff party season in style. Tickets for for familieslocal on offer; with ...........................................................................................................................

Santa will beBedale in his grotto children the BBQ Bash are available from trails around Park, toa welcome visit • 11.00am - 4.00pm to Santa’s grotto for the little ones, Bedale Beauty 01677 427557 and with free face painting, Christmas are priced £20.00. Only available Many more festive running, more those aged 16 or over. story readings in theevents library and - for to please call: Ripon on: theinformation icing on the Christmas cakeFestivals -a Tickets for the Ice Skating Rink are 01765Rink 601100 or Ripon Cathedral Skating outside Bedale Hall. on 01765 603462 available at a discounted advance ....................................................................................... price from Patchwork Rose (01677 Tempt your taste buds with hot roasted chestnuts, or a festive burger, 427627) and cost £5.00 for half an hour. (£7.00 when bought on provided by Cockburns butchers, the day). Book your place now, to or simply settle down with a mochaccino or cosy hot chocolate, ensure you get the time-slot you • Lights on at 6pm want. and soak up switch the atmosphere.

• Victoria Shopping Centre / Station Parade For more information on the Winter Enjoy the high street ringing with the sound of children singing Christmas Festival, please contact Patchwork Rose, 01677 427627, and for carols, and playing festive music, information about the BBQ Bash, or take a moment to sit quietly in contact Bedale Beauty on 01677 St Gregory’s Church and enjoy a 427557 soothing organ recital.

Thursday 8th December

Northallerton Friday 2nd December

Saturday 10th December

Harrogate

Thursday 17th November

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Easingwold Players

No More

“Waiting in the Wings” For Loretta One of Easingwold Players’ most experienced and popular directors returns to the theatre this autumn to direct Noël Coward’s popular comedy “Waiting in the Wings”. Loretta Knaggs has been a member of Easingwold Players for over 10 years and has already directed Oscar Wilde’s play “Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime” and produced “The Wizard of Oz” and “Oliver!” “’Waiting in the Wings’ is a wonderful play” said Loretta, “it’s not only very funny but Coward is brilliant at reminding people of all generations that just because people live in a retirement home doesn’t mean to say that that haven’t led extraordinary lives, continue to be vibrant and witty and still have ambitions for the future.

Also, there are some wonderful acting opportunities, particularly for our more mature actresses and I think our audience will enjoy the associated music.”

“Waiting in the Wings” was Noël Coward’s fiftieth play and Michael Redgrave’s original production, starring Sybil Thorndike, opened in the West End in September 1960.

The play is set in a charity home for retired actresses but Coward took the view that old age needn’t be dreary and sad so the play is full of humour mostly based on the residents’ previous relationships which were not always amicable!

Indeed, Noël Coward considered “Waiting in the Wings” to be his wittiest play and described two of the scenes in the play as the best he’d ever written. So it is not surprising that the play has remained popular for over 50 years and enjoyed an excellent revival on Broadway in 1999 and 2000 starring Lauren Bacall and Rosemary Harris.

Noël Coward strikes a familiar pose

Easingwold Players will stage the play in the Galtres Centre between 23 and 26 November 2011.

You can learn more about the play at: www.easingwold-players.co.uk

Simon Stephens, the Chairman of Easingwold Players said, “we’re delighted that Loretta is directing for us again. Despite losing her husband Arthur earlier this year she bravely continued her role in “Good” last April and her positive outlook on life is mirrored in Noël Coward’s lovely play.”

Your Chance to Win! WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS FOR SWAN LAKE AT DARLINGTON CIVIC THEATRE Darlington Civic Theatre is offering you the chance to win a pair of tickets for the opening night of Swan Lake on Thursday 19 January.

The greatest romantic ballet of all!

This is an immortal love story filled with magic, emotion and beauty. From the opulence and splendour of the magnificent court room to the exhilarating lake scenes where swans play in perfect formation, Tchaikovsky’s hauntingly beautiful music creates a truly unforgettable experience.

Swan Lake can be seen from Thursday 19 - Friday 20 January and performances of The Nutcracker from Saturday 21 – Sunday 22 January. Ticket prices from £24.50 - £31.50 are available from the Box Office on 01325 486 555 or online at www.darlingtonarts. co.uk For your chance to win tickets to the opening evening performance of Swan Lake, simply answer the following question and send your answers to: Marketing Department, Arts Centre, Vane Terrace, Darlington, DL3 7AX. Closing Date is Friday 9 December 2011.

Q: Who wrote the music for Swan Lake?

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The Home of Herriot Golf!

The Golf club was first formed in 1914 and we are now approaching our centenary year. It started as a 9-hole course and was named Thirsk Golf Club, but, during the 2nd World War Northallerton Golf Club was taken over by the Government and the land returned to agriculture to help the war effort. The members of Thirsk Golf Club invited the members of Northallerton Golf Club to join them; hence the name was changed to Thirsk and Northallerton Golf Club.

One of our most famous members was the world renowned vet and author, James Herriot (Alf Wight) who loved to play the course because the views from many of the fairways allowed Alf to see the countryside where he worked and walked, and loved so much. Alf played most of his golf with his close friend Dr Harry Haddison, who was also the family GP. When they played golf they took with them their pet dogs, both were beagles, Alf’s dog was called Dinah and Harry’s dog was called Playful (the mother of Dinah). Harry was a very accomplished golfer and played off a handicap of one, while Alf played off a steady 18 handicap. When Harry retired he moved to Scotland and became a member of St Andrews Golf Club. This left Alf and his dog at a loose-end because the then committee had stopped Alf from taking Dinah onto the course. Alf, having only enough time to do either golf or walking his dog, and being the animal lover that he was, put his golf clubs away. If only the then committee had a crystal ball?

Thirsk & Northallerton Golf Club was awarded GolfMark accreditation by the English Golf Union in 2010, demonstrating the hard work and dedication given to both junior and beginner’s golf. Since then we have gone from strength to strength, growing the

junior section and helping develop junior golf not only at the club but also the setting up the schools sport club partnership for the Thirsk and Northallerton area. The professionals at Thirsk & Northallerton actively go into the local schools providing them with instruction, equipment and a taster session of the game.

Thirsk and Northallerton Golf Club also offer beginners a free taster session from their award winning coaching team Mike Nicholson and Robert Garner. Places are limited so to avoid disappointment please call 01845 525115 ext 4 or email the club on proshop@tngc.co.uk. Lessons are available at all times of the year, whether you are a beginner or an expert. The professionals use video technology in some of their lessons to assist the learning process.

Ian Stevenson, Captain of the Club in 2011, paid tribute to both PGA Coaches Mike Nicholson and Robert Garner and the Club’s Junior Organiser Nigel Davison for their tremendous hard work and commitment in raising and maintaining the required standard of achievement necessary at the Club.

The professional shop at Thirsk & Northallerton can cater for all your golfing needs. There is a wide stock

of equipment and golfing apparel. With Christmas almost upon us, the proshop have all those Christmas stocking fillers that golfers love to receive. Pop in to see their winter deals!!

Lesson vouchers are available from only £20. Lesson Packages have proved to be a very popular Christmas gift and are also available. A playing lesson voucher can be the ideal gift for those golfers who want an overall improvement in their game without practicing.

On course coaching has become an essential part the development process of most established golfers.

It gives the golfer continuous ideas and strategies whilst playing with the professional.

The ladies have a friendly and active section. Weekly competitions are played on Wednesdays and Saturdays for the working lady, we play both 9 and 18 hole formats.

There is a full ladies fixture list for scratch, A and B teams, and for non-team members there are friendly matches both home and away to take part in. Ladies of all golfing standards and experience are welcome to come and join us, we are welcome on the course at any time, and there are no artificial mats in winter.

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Update

Blue Cross

lucky to be alive

The Blue Cross animal adoption centre in Thirsk recently looked after an extremely lucky black cat. Little Mags, who is only about 18-months-old, was discovered in a field near Easingwold. She had been trapped for about two weeks because her front paw was stuck in her elasticated collar and she was unable to move.

Not only was she starving and had lost about half her bodyweight, her attempts to get free had caused a nasty wound in her ‘armpit’. This had become infected and riddled with maggots-literally eating her alive!

Thankfully she was eventually found and rushed to the Bishopton veterinary practice nearby. She is now recovering and, at time of going to press, looking for a new home.

Caroline Thompson, Blue Cross deputy manager a Thirsk said: “Mags has been through an horrific ordeal which could easily have been avoided if she had been wearing a collar that snapped open when she became trapped. We’re urging cat owners to avoid using elasticated collars to prevent incidents like this in the future.”

top tips for happy pets this winter Just like their owners, many pets prefer to spend more time indoors when the weather turns cold and wet.

It is important to make sure pets are still getting the physical and mental stimulation they need if they are not going out and about as much as usual.

Cats naturally want to scratch outdoors to keep their claws sharp and leave scent markings. Make sure you provide scratch posts for them so that they don’t take this out on your furniture! Encourage them to use it by gently wiping their paws on it and sprinkle some cat nip to tempt them.

Hide pet treats around the house to encourage your pet to do some exercise and to keep them mentally active. Remember to give them less dinner if you give more treats than usual though, to prevent them putting on weight.

unsuitable objects - like your favourite slippers or the furniture.

Try and keep to your dog’s usual walk routine. If you do take them on shorter walks then vary the route to keep it interesting. Always keep dogs on a lead if your usual walk is near water, if it has frozen over it can be very dangerous for them to walk on.

At Christmas, keep pets away from decorations. Shiny tinsel and wrapping paper looks fun to play with but if swallowed it can be dangerous to your pets, they may even need emergency surgery to remove it. Chocolate is for people only, it is poisonous to dogs and bad for the health of all pets. Some plants are also poisonous, pet owners should avoid Poinsettia, lilies, holly and yew in their Christmas decorations.

Make sure you play other games with your pets too. Cats like fishing rod toys, balls and even cotton reels (but remove the cotton!), and hiding in cardboard boxes.

Provide chew toys for your dog to keep them entertained and prevent them from chewing

Could you love us?

If you are considering taking on a pet please come and visit the Thirsk animal adoption centre. We always have lots of cats and dogs who really deserve a loving home and there are many benefits to taking on a pet from The Blue Cross: • All Blue Cross pets are carefully assessed and we match each individual pet to potential new owners.

• Every animal has been checked over by the vet, vaccinated, neutered and microchipped • Blue Cross animal behaviourists can give advice for the rest of the

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pet’s lifetime if you notice a change in their behaviour.

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!

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How to Store

Firewood

for the Winter Storing firewood for the winter is all about keeping your firewood protected from the elements and exposed to plenty of air circulation to properly season it. In order for firewood to burn and give off heat to its full potential, it needs to be dry and free of rot. Attempting to burn wet firewood is an exercise

in frustration, and can cause damaging creosote to build up in your chimney. The seasoning process normally takes at least six months in proper storage conditions, but a few storage techniques exist which can cut the length of seasoning time by at least half.

• To properly store and season firewood for the winter season, you’ll need to have easily stackable, stove-sized pieces of firewood. The most common length for firewood is 18 inches.

Before stacking, lay two long 2X4 boards on the ground, parallel to each other and spaced anywhere from twelve inches to fifteen inches apart. If the 2X4 boards are significantly long, you may need to place an additional shorter piece of 2X4 lumber under the middle of the two long parallel boards to prevent them from sagging and touching the ground.

• Next, drive the pointed ends of four posts into the ground at both ends of the parallel 2X4s. These posts will hold the sides of the wood stack in, preventing it from collapsing out at the sides. The height of the posts used to contain the stack will depend on the amount of wood you’ll be stacking, though an eight foot high post (at least one foot of which will be underground) is usually sufficient to contain most stacks.

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• Stack the firewood lengthwise across the two parallel 2X4s lying on the ground, and between the four end posts, completing a single layer before moving up to the next. The firewood should overlap the 2X4s a little on both ends. By stacking the firewood on these 2X4s, you’ll be keeping it off the damp ground, where it would be subject to saturation, rot and insect infestation.

Keeping the wood elevated by a few inches also allows air and wind to circulate underneath and up into the firewood stack, drying it out thoroughly for proper burning.

• After you’ve stacked the last, uppermost layer of firewood, drape a large, rectangular and clear plastic sheet, three to four millimeters thick, over the top of the firewood. Adjust the sheet so that it it’s roughly straight and drapes down to cover most of the firewood. The protective plastic sheet doesn’t need to reach the ground, with air circulation actually being better served by a sheet which ends about a foot from the ground on all sides. The sheet will not only serve to protect the firewood from precipitation, but will also act as a sort of makeshift “greenhouse” in which the drying process is sped up due to heat from sun exposure. To prevent the sheet from blowing off the woodpile, drape pieces of twine sideways over the woodpile and tie weights to both ends of the twine. The twine should be long enough to clear the top of the pile and drape down with at least a foot of length to spare on both ends. If you follow these instructions, you should have dry firewood all winter long.

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HMRC finds its teeth HMRC has previously been criticised for using all carrot and no stick in its tax-collection campaigns. But plumbers should move fast if their tax affairs are not up to date, as a series of raids are planned for the coming weeks.

Plumbers and others had the opportunity this spring to “come clean” and declare any underpaid tax. Reduced penalties were offered with the threat of investigation and tough treatment for non-conformers. It now seems that the threat was not idle.

Already five plumbers have been arrested and around 600 are under investigation. Mike Wells, director at HMRC said “These arrests are just the start. HMRC are considering hundreds of other cases for criminal investigation.”

A disclosure route is still open for anyone who suspects they may have underpaid. As well as plumbers, teachers and instructors should beware, with private tutors and fitness coaches being among HMRC’s next targets.

More information can be found at www.HMRC.gov.uk or at www.lmebdon.co.uk.

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at your finger tips YOUR MONEY SAVING LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY We can save you money and help you reach 45,000 potential customers each quarter.

Northallerton

14,600 homes & businesses

Ripon & Masham

14,800 homes & businesses

Thirsk & Easingwold

15,600 homes & businesses

Advertise with us across all our 3 areas from only £25.00 a month.

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

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Over 45,000 reasons to advertise with us!

Our publications are Royal Mail delivered every quarter to over 45,000 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:

1/2 page from only:

90mm width x 60mm height

190mm width x 130mm height

1/4 page from only:

Full page from only:

£65.00 £180.00 £105.00 £350.00 90mm width x 130mm height

Christine Editor

01609 777401 07742 595747 christine@jkanorth.com

Dwight

190mm width x 270mm height

Kate

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

When’s the next issue?

Ripon & Masham Distribution: w/c 23 January ‘12 Copy: 16 December ‘11 .....................................................

Northallerton Distribution: w/c 12 March ‘12 Copy: 16 February ‘12 .....................................................

01845 523250 07703 809655 kate@jkanorth.com

Thirsk & Easingwold Distribution: w/c 19 & 26 March ‘12 Copy: 23 February ‘12

Index Art & Picture Framing Spectrum Framing & Gallery: p4

Bee Keeping

Agricultural Supply Services: p29

Book Binding

York Book Binders: p1

Boiler Servicing

Oilforce: p33 Rumdoodle Gas Services: p32

Builders & Contractors About The House: p32 Flat Roof Company: p31 Horleys Builders: p31 Jason Hammond Joinery: p7 MH Joinery: p6 Property Repair Services: p32 Southview Proprty Maintenance: p30 T.G & H Harper Ltd Building Contractors: p6 W Gaunt Ltd: p6

Business Services Bedale Copy Shop: p32 Printing.com: p20

Design & Print

The Carpenters Arms: p36 The Dog & Gun: p10 The Durham Ox: p3 The Oak Tree Inn: p36

Bedale Copy Shop: p32 Printing.com: p20

Elderly Care

MV Mobility: p17 Oaklands Nursing Home: p16

Equine Services AJ Fabrications: p28

Electrical Services A Turner Electrical: p6 Aerial & Sat Fix Ltd: p4 Electrocare: p32 Handy Andy: p32

Entertainment

Good Company Yorkshire: p5 Kids Party Yorkshire: p20 Precious Gems: p32

Fashion & Clothing

Fire Safety

Cleaning Services

Firewood

Dentists

Clock Tower Dental: p17

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Garden Services

Jonny Almond: p12 Mark Kinghorn Garden Services: p32 North Yorkshire Tree Care: p32 Property Repair Services: p32 Southview Proprty Maintenance: p30 Tree’Scape: p28 White’s Garden Services: p32

Healthcare & Wellbeing

Carpets & Flooring

Little Quackers: p11 Socatots: p20

Furniture Traders: p14 Simply Beds: p2

Finance & Legal

OTW Caravan Services: p12

Children’s Services

Furniture

Hair & Beauty

Caravan Repair & Sales

A & M Cleaning: p7 Daily Poppins: p21 Domestic Cleaners: p15

Kettlewell Fuels: p18-19

Humphrey & Tilly: p3 Little Quackers: p11 Planet Jewels Accessories: p12 Askham Tax & Accountancy: p32 Calder Meynell Solicitors: p11 Coles Solicitors: p13 Eura Audit: p5

About The House: p32

Fuel Supplies

North Yorkshire Fire Service: p22

Beauty Within: p13 Feet Company: p5

Horticulture

Socialising

Joinery

About The House: p32 Dales of Thirsk: p31 Dream Doors: p14 Lowmac Kitchens & Bathrooms: p15 Rooms By Design: p7

Livestock Sales

Thirsk Auction Mart: p30

Mobility Assistance MV Mobility: p17

Hall Opticians: p1

Food & Drink

Brian Jones Upholstery: p15 Dales of Thirsk: p31 Dream Doors: p14 Easingwold Bathrooms: p7 Hovingham Fireplaces: p15 North Yorkshire Blinds: p14

Property Maintenance

Kitchen Design

Planet Jewels Accessories: p12 Precious Gems: p32

Hire

Home & Interiors

Rumdoodle Gas Services: p36

Jason Hammond Joinery: p7 MH Joinery: p6 Southview Proprty Maintenance: p30

Jewellery

Motoring

Moss’s Motors: p20 Sutton Village Hall: p21

Plumbing

About The House: p32 AMR Locksmiths: p32 F & P Alarms: p31 Flat Roof Company: p31 Handy Andy: p32 Jonny Almond: p12 MH Joinery: p6 Property Repair Services: p32 Rumdoodle Gas Services: p32 Southview Proprty Maintenance: p30

Baldersby Plant Centre: p29

Angi Almond Holistic Therapies: p10 Easingwold Osteopath; p3 Holistic Therapies: p17 Marcus Watson Osteopath: p13 Podiatrist / Chiropodist: p17

PJ Taylor Forestry Services: p29 Rural Forestry Services: p28 White Horse Timber: p28 Feversham Arms: p27 Jaipur Spice: p35 Old Station Yard: p21 Raj Of India: p2 Rose & Crown: p9

Rooms By Design: p7 Rydenor Paints: p15 Stairs & More: p15

Brian Fall Car Repairs: p30 Moss’s Motors: p20 Station Autos: p27

Good Company Yorkshire: p5

Solar Energy

Green Energy Projects: p5 Solar Panels 4 U: p35

Sports & Leisure

Socatots: p20 Thirsk Northallerton Golf Club: p25

Tree Surgery

North Yorkshire Tree Care: p32 Tree’Scape: p28

Taxi

K A Taxis: p20

Opticians

Tuition

Pets & Animals

Volunteer Work

AJ Fabrications: p28 Animal Antics: p32 Chapman’s Pets: p26 Farmway: p1 Thirsk Auction Mart: p30

Piano & Keyboard Tuition: p17 Citizens Advice Bureau: p8

Windows

Terry Dicken Windows: p33

Worship

Hollybush Fellowship: p16

The Index is a free service offered to our customers. No responsibility can be held for errors or omissions.

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