Your Local Link Magazine December 2011 by Your Local Link Ltd

YORK BORN & READ! Delivered monthly to every home and business in York and the villages

Christmas

n Issue 99 December 2011

BIG STARS: Exclusive interview with York’s panto dame Berwick Kaler

LITTLE STARS: Great festive kids’ pull-out mag free inside!

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the best of york

Welcome... Happy Christmas, everyone! You might have only just started thinking about your Christmas shopping, but we’ve been in a festive mood for ages, putting together our bumper Christmas edition. This month you’ll find ideas for gifts and gadgets, as well as money saving tips and offers and loads of inspiration for making this Christmas as stress-free as possible!

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Best of York Your Motors Health & Beauty Weddings Your Family Your Pet Your Home Your Environment Your Garden York on a Fork Your Events Trades & Services Your Jobs

Not that Christmas is exactly a stress-free time here in the office. Bonfire night is barely over before the annual “What am I going to wear for the Christmas party?” stress fest begins. For the next fortnight, the postman will be buckling from delivering the results of some desperate lunchtime online shopping. Wardrobes will be raided, dresses and accessories will be swopped, and the office will ring to the sound of “Maybe it will look better if I lose a stone/have a fake tan/stick a bag over my head”. And that’s just the boys... And if it’s not party dresses causing panic, it’s the annual office horror that is Secret Santa. While some inventive

people can come up with the perfect gift for under a fiver, others spend the weeks leading up to Christmas with a look of increasing panic on their faces, wondering if a multi pack of pop socks would make an appropriate festive gift (no, is the short answer). As if that wasn’t enough to cope with, Gini has now come up with the Great Gingerbread Man Decorating Competition. We have yet to see how this turns out, but if it’s anything like the Great Pumpkin Carving Competition, we expect carnage. Who knew those sales people could be sooo competitive? At least this time they won’t have sharp implements in their hands, although we reckon you could still do quite a bit of damage with an icing nozzle... Anyway, we hope you have a fab Christmas. And don’t forget to look out for our super duper January issue. Don’t know about you, but we’re starting 2012 with a bang!

Advertising: Gini, Tracy, Sarah, Mim, Kelly, Richard, Avril, Vicky, Carl & Gary Accounts: Helen & Claire Distribution: Dean, Jon, Ronnie Design: Rachel, Lisa & Jerry Editorial: Donna & Jessica Publishers: Tracy Outram and Gini Guttery

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TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE DEADLINE...

New Shop Opening Soon!

We’re all a year older and Christmas has come again, But after our December deadline, we feel like we’ve aged by ten. We love this time of year in our super duper city, Even though the weathers really starting to get nippy. We’ve traipsed into the office in hats and gloves and scarves, (You should know by now that in this office, we don’t do things by halves). Rachel’s presents are all bought in August – a serious office peeve. And Donna tends live on the edge and buys them on Christmas Eve. Whether you’re like Rachel or Donna, we’re sure you can relate Battling through the Christmas crowds is something we love to hate. The tree is up in St Helen’s square and the lights look rather grand, All of a sudden York is transformed into a winter wonderland. Santa’s coming soon but the kids definitely won’t mind waiting, With Narnia, fun fairs, winter markets, oh don’t forget the Ice skating! The pantos are perfect for a laugh, boo, hiss and a shout, We guarantee that by Christmas Eve, you’ll have definitely worn them out. We hope you have a lovely Christmas and a well deserved break, Crack open the mulled wine and stuff your face with cake. Good will to all men and we’ll pray the boiler doesn’t go on the brink, Merry Christmas to Everyone, from the team at Local Link!

Call: 01904 767881

Email: info@yourlocallink.co.uk Fax: 01904 764843 Write: Your Local Link, Oak Tree Farm, The Moor, Haxby YO32 2LH

Space booking, copy, cancellation and editorial deadline for the January edition is 9th December 2011 and 16th December 2011 for recruitment.

your competitions... WIN... WIN... WIN...

York School of Sewing WIN A

Win a

Christmas party pamper package Let’s face it, half the fun of Christmas parties is getting ready. And Innovations in Boroughbridge Road is offering one lucky reader a very special early Christmas gift – a fab party pamper package. The prize includes everything you need to shine this festive season. They’ll apply glam false eyelashes, give your nails a long-lasting Shellac polish, and either blow dry or put your hair up party style. And generous people that they are, they’ll even throw in a selection of beauty products! To win this brilliant prize, all you have to do is answer the following question: Where will you find Innovations salon? Send your answers on a postcard marked ‘Innovations Competition’ to the address on page five, to reach us no later than Monday 5th December. Don’t forget to include your contact details, including a daytime phone number. n Even if you don’t win the prize, you can enjoy some festive pampering at Innovations. Call 01904 798705 for an appointment.

SEWING WORKSHOP AND ACCESSORIES! Master the art of sewing with this fantastic competition courtesy of York School of Sewing. York School of Sewing offer a range of sewing, needlework and craft courses for beginners to advanced learners. The courses are small and friendly in groups of six with all the equipment provided, including high quality Janome sewing machines. All you need to do is turn up and just start sewing! The first prize consists of a one day workshop of the winner’s choice worth £50. The second prize is a pair of Janome dressmaking scissors and a pair of embroidery scissors. And the third prize is a £10 fabric voucher to spend at Fletcher’s Fabrics on Clifton Moor. Fancy being in with a chance of winning? Simply answer the following question; What brand of sewing machines does The York School of Sewing use? Send your answer on a postcard to the address on page five. Mark your entry ‘York School of Sewing competition’ and include your name, contact number and email address. Competition date closes 20th December. To find out more about the school’s classes and what they have to offer, visit www. yorkschoolofsewing.co.uk or telephone 0750 3510 733. Good Luck!

WHERE THERE’S NO VALID WILL….

A Case Study

Tom and Sarah met in 1988 and married the same year. In 1989, Sarah had twins, a boy and a girl, Jack and Abigail. They were a very close and happy family. Tragically, in 2005 Tom was killed in a road accident. Tom did not leave a will and everything passed to Sarah. In 2008 Sarah met Peter. Peter was much older than Sarah, divorced, with two adult children from whom he had been estranged for some years. Sarah and Peter had much in common and they married in 2009. Sarah and Peter lived together in what had been Tom and Sarah’s house. Sadly, Sarah was killed in a terrible accident in March 2011. Peter suffered a massive heart attack and died 6 weeks later.

had become fond. They believed that their family home and their mother’s property would now pass to them as their mother had told them she had made a will leaving everything to them. They were wrong. Although Sarah had made a will soon after their father Tom died, leaving everything to Jack and Abigail, she did not make a new will after she married Peter. Her marriage to Peter had automatically revoked her will and she died intestate. As Peter had survived Sarah, he had inherited all of her property.

Peter had never made a will. He also died intestate. Following his death, all of his property (including Sarah’s property which he had inherited) passed to his two adult Jack and Abigail were children, whom Jack and Abigail devastated by the loss of IS0422_Rich.LocaLink/Straps/AW had20/7/11 never11:49 met. Page Jack2 and Abigail their mother and by the were not entitled to anything loss of Peter of whom they

under the rules of intestacy. Peter’s children made it very clear to Jack and Abigail that they had no intention of giving any of the money or property to them. Jack and Abigail had to consider whether or not to pursue a claim against their late mother’s estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975. There is no doubt Jack and Abigail’s parents would never have wanted their children to be put in that position. They would have wanted their property to go to their children, not to total strangers. Had Sarah made a new will either before she married Peter specifically in contemplation of that marriage (so that her marriage to Peter would not revoke that particular will) or soon after she married Peter, setting out her wishes, no doubt her children

RICHARDSON GILDENER SOLICITORS 1 Peckitt Street, Opposite Clifford’s Tower, York YO1 9SF. Tel 01904 642727 Email mail@richardsonlaw.co.uk Website www.richardsongildener.co.uk

would have inherited her estate following Peter’s death. Had Peter also made a will after his marriage to Sarah, expressing his wishes, again, things would have turned out very differently. And the moral of this sad story is….. If you want to ensure your wishes are carried out after you die, make a will and review your will if circumstances change to ensure you always have a valid will. Richardson Gildener offers a FREE 30 minute consultation. Should you require further information upon wills, probate or Lasting Powers of Attorney, please e-mail me at carolines@r ichardsonlaw. co.uk or, alternatively, contact me on 01904 642727 or make an appointment for a FREE 30 minute consultation.

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your competitions

Win a family ticket to

It’s panto time again – oh, yes it is! And we’ve got a free family ticket to give away to the opening night of Aladdin at the Grand Opera House on 9th December. York's beloved family pantomime is a magic carpet ride of fun, thrills and festive cheer. Steven Arnold (Coronation Street’s own Ashley Peacock) takes the title role, with Opera House favourite Aiden J Harvey returning as Wishy Washy and seasoned Dame Phil Randall taking them down a peg or two as the hilarious Widow Twankey. If you ask your genie for songs, laughs and a sprinkling of stardust this Christmas he'll be sure to grant all your three wishes in one with an unforgettable night out at the Opera House. To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is answer the following question: Which TV soap did Steven Arnold star in? Send your answer on a postcard to the address on page five to reach us by 7th December. Mark your entry ‘Aladdin competition’, and don’t forget to include your contact details, especially a daytime contact number.

WHERE THERE’S A WHEEL THERE’S A WAY! The Bike Rescue Project love bikes; old bikes, pretty bikes, sporty bikes, fixie bikes, bikes with three wheels, bikes in bits, bikes galore! Since 2006 they have managed to save over 5000 bikes from becoming waste, so not only do they provide a sterling service, they are also super duper green. After the great success of their Hub Station, The Bike Rescue Project is opening their Walmgate warehouse up to the public on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. This means you can bag the best bikes before they go on sale in The Hub Station and get some cracking deals while you’re at it! They are selling refurbished children’s bikes from just £25, and have plenty of adult bikes too! And because they’re such darlings, the guys at The Bike Rescue Project are currently offering free bikes to family projects and nurseries. If you are part of a relevant organisation, get in touch and see if they can help you! In return, you can also donate any old or unwanted bikes to them. Call 733789 for information.

Not Too Shabby! friends and family started commissioning them to make them pieces as they loved their work so much. After first selling their renovated furniture at vintage fairs, they haven’t stopped since! They aim to produce character pieces rather than mass produced items using the highest quality Annie Sloan or Farrow and Ball furniture paint. They also take commissions if you have any old furniture that needs jazzing up!

Dotty Birds is York’s newest furniture shop, but with a twist! By restoring and painting both vintage and modern furniture, owners Caroline and Hilary have produced beautiful ranges of ‘shabby chic’ and country furniture with era characteristics. The duo started by renovating their own furniture, and

The shop will be officially opened on the 10th December at 11am by none other than Emmerdale’s Chris Chittell (Eric Pollard), a man who definitely knows a bargain! n You’ll find the shop on Blossom Street above the barbers by Reel Cinema. Email info@dottybirds.co.uk for more info.

Silver celebrations Back in 1987 two surgeons, Steve Leveson and John Craven and research scientist Colin Garner decided more could be done in York for people living with cancer. So, working with both the NHS and York University, they set up York Against Cancer, which celebrates its silver anniversary next year. Since they began the focus has been on care, education and research. From training doctors receptionists to beer mats with testicular cancer information YAC is always looking for innovative ways to help the people of York deal with cancer. They also provide specialist oncology nurses, a care centre, give health education

talks to schools, encourage medical research and help transport patients to treatment. Their next venture is to provide a holiday cottage where patients and their families will be able to take a break from treatment. Living with cancer can bring many challenges emotionally, financially and daily routines are disrupted. A place to rest, reflect and be with loved ones is something YAC believes would benefit patients. n To find out more about forthcoming fundraising events, visit www.yorkagainstcancer. org.uk or look out for their newsletter delivered with this magazine.

She bakes, she makes, she decorates – frankly there’s nothing our very own domestic goddess Rachel doesn’t know. Every month she’ll be passing on some of her favourite money and time saving tips... • Red wine spills on a carpet are a festive nightmare. Don’t use salt, as this will set the tannin in the wine and make the stain permanent. Blot the stain with a piece of kitchen towel, then spray with a mixture of one cup of water mixed with 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide mixed with a little soap. It won¹t get rid of it completely, but it will take away the colour so it becomes invisible (NB do a patch test first). • Remove stains from teacups by giving them a good soak with a denture tablet! It also works like a charm for burnt on food on Pyrex and glass vases that have gone a bit green. • Roll a lemon, or other citrus fruits, with your hands, back and forth on the worktop surface before squeezing it and you will get more juice. You can also give the lemon a quick blast in the microwave to get more juice – a few seconds should do the trick (you don’t want exploding lemons in your microwave!).

...if you really love them (we sell

boys ones too)

• Prolong the life of your tights by washing them before you wear them, preferably by hand. Use soap, not detergent. Plunge the tights into lukewarm water, getting them completely wet. Rub the soap on to your hands, not directly on to the tights. Get a nice sudsy lather and gently wash with a squishing, not rubbing, motion. Rinse thoroughly, blot with a towel and let them dry naturally.

Learning made easy at home Email, Google, Skype & more! Computer set-up

in the know... money & more From smart ways to manage your money to cash saving tips and special offers, we’ve got everything you need to make your finances go further...

TAXI!! York Cars are a new taxi firm in York that offers a unique service to customers 24 hours a day. The new company is proud to employ a team of women drivers, as well as wheel chair access vehicles. York Cars have handpicked all their staff to ensure each one brings you a friendly and reliable service. Their drivers have been vetted to the highest CRB standards so you know you will be travelling in safety as well as in style. They can cater for airport journeys at competitive rates and all special occasions. Although York Cars are a town based firm, they don’t charge an out of town tariff to out of town customers, which could save you a packet!

To celebrate their one year anniversary of new ownership, Dutch Nurseries are offering a handy

Double Dutch

15% off for all Local Link readers until 4th Dec.

And just when you thought they tick all the boxes, the friendly guys at York Cars are offering all Local Link readers £1 off their journeys over £6 until 1st January by quoting ‘Local Link’. What more could you want from a taxi firm?

Dutch Nurseries, here in our very own Haxby, has been a much loved and thriving family run business for over 40 (yes 40!) years. The business has recently been bought by Sarah Roberts and her husband, who are celebrating their one year anniversary of new ownership this month.

refurbished the shop and invested in a flower cooler, which means a longer life span for all their beautiful flowers. Despite all their new features, they are proud to have kept the same staff, some of which have worked there for over 30 years (so they really do know their lilies from their limoniums!).

n Give them a try and call 765765, or better still, get them on speed dial!

They are embracing modern technology, with a new website, online shopping and a fancy smart phone ordering service. Not only that but they have

n You will find them at 5 Wyre Court, The Village, Haxby, YO32 2ZB, or visit www. dutchnurseries.co.uk or call 768439.

Ainsty Dental Practice

Heavenly Savings We all love hitting the January sales, but how annoying is it you see all your Christmas gifts at half price!? Cycle Heaven agree, which is why half of their bikes have been discounted this December down to January sale prices (bonkers we know!).

incorporating Hileys of Thirsk and Easingwold

Fresh thinking

So that means you can scoop up some cycle prezzies just in time for Christmas, smug in the knowledge that you’ve already saved a bomb. They have top of the range kiddies and adult bikes on offer with huge savings, so you’re getting the best price around without compromising on quality. Not only that, but Cycle Heaven provide free bike checks and a comprehensive range of servicing from just £19.99. So if you’re thinking of buying a bike for a loved on this Christmas (or just fancy bagging yourself a pre-Christmas treat), head down to Cycle Heaven and see the savings for yourself. It would be rude not to! Cycle Heaven is open 7 days a week at 2 Bishopthorpe Road. Call 636578.

THOMPSONS PETS CALENDARS THOMPSONS Country NOW FOR SALE Store A QUESTION OF BALANCE

F R I E N D LY & E X PERT ADVICE G IVEN FROM EXP E R I E N C E D S TA F F. E s t : 1 9 2 6

Last summer we asked you to send 2012 PET CALENDAR in photos of your furry friends for the Thompson’s of York pet calendar competition. We were flooded with entries Telephone:01904 488388 and the winning photos were selected and sent off to our design team to create an adorable 2012 calendar. In fact, we loved the photos so much that many runners up also feature in the calendar, so get yours now to see if your pet was a winner! The calendars are now on sale for just £4 at Thompsons of York Country Store, Murton, YO19 5UT. Thompsons Country Store stocks everything you need for your pet, large or small, leading brands and loads, loads more!

Jubilee Mill (opposite York

Auction Centre) Murton , York. YO19 5UT www.thompsons-feeds.co.u k

For the... key stages in your life Much of our work involves helping people deal with key stages or events in their lives. This month we highlight some of the issues you need to think about in the context of partners and children “Relationships and families are becoming ever more complex. Whether you are planning positively for the future or are facing difficulties in a relationship, an experienced legal adviser can help explain the option on how best to protect your interests and those of your children.” John Reynard, Partner Many people think solicitors’ advice can focus rather narrowly on issues like making your Will or representation if a relationship fails. In reality, there are a whole range of things we can do to help - whether it is making agreements between unmarried couples concerning joint assets, appointing guardians to look after children, financial planning to protect your family or, if things don’t work out, helping you manage the process of separation in a way that is right for you. Visit www.harrowells.co.uk to view our innovative guides to different stages or events in life and to find out more about how we can help you deal with the choices they can present.

T: 01904 558600 E: advice@harrowells.co.uk www.harrowells.co.uk Business advice I Personal advice I Disputes & claims I Property Harrowells LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (No 471957) and by the Financial Services Authority (FSA register number 470834).

CAN YOU HELP? LOCAL PEOPLE... LOCAL CAUSES...

Help the ‘A’ Team! Can you provide a regular meeting place for a group of adults with learning disabilities? Up until recently, the ‘A’ Team has been using Siemens’ conference room in Poppleton Road for its regular Wednesday meetings. However, due to an office reorganisation, the company can no longer offer the space, which is why the group is now appealing for new premises. “Siemens offered us the free use of its conference room for a couple of years, and we can’t thank them enough,” says Fiona Walker of Talkback, the organisation which supports the ‘A’ Team. n If any organisation in York has a spare meeting room available for the ‘A’ Team’s Wednesday meetings from 12.30 pm for two hours please contact Talkback on 01904 634890.

Team talk Severus SC is an established Division One football club based at Severus Social Club in Acomb, competing in the York Sunday Morning League. They are currently looking for a team sponsor to help with anything from team kit to pitch fees, etc.

n Could you help them achieve the success they deserve? If you can help, please call team manager Nick on 07775 43 55 03 or team secretary Sharon on 07545 810609.

Want to shout about a recent success? Let us know about it, and we’ll do it for you! Just write to us at the address on page five, or email us at info@yourlocallink.co.uk, marking your message ‘Didn’t they do well?’ and we’ll do the rest. And if you’ve got a photo for us, even better! Go on…big yourself up. You know you want to…

Y rk Cars

FREE

DELIVERY

OLIVE R WHITBY FURNITURE Established 1897

2011 in 2011

Novice runner Shona Wood has set herself a mammoth challenge – to run 2011 miles this year! That’s the equivalent of running a marathon a week, every week this year, or from York to Gibraltar. So far Shona’s run locally, as well as in the heat and humidity of Texas. She has also taken part in several events including the Sutton Park 10km, Beaumont half marathon in the USA and more recently the Bridlington half marathon. Shona is raising money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, a charity close to her heart as her Godmother is suffering from this incurable and distressing disease. She has already surpassed her target of £2011 and is striving to raise even more money for this very needy cause by the end of the year. n You can follow her progress and make a donation by going to www.Justgiving.com/shona2011. Alternatively donations can be made by texting SHON49 to 70070

MAKE A STAND FOR THOMAS Thomas Arnett is a young lad from Strensall who suffers from cerebal palsy and has lost the ability to walk. His friends and family have created a charity called ‘Make a Stand for Thomas’, in order to raise enough money for him to undergo a life changing operation called Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy which would help him to one day walk again. The charity is holding plenty of fun events over the Christmas period, including a post Christmas disco and a midnight walk and everyone is welcome. Please show your support for this worthy local cause by getting involved in these fab events. Alternatively, you can donate whatever you can afford via www. justgiving.com. n Simply search ‘MAKEASTANDFORTHOMAS’ and donate online. Call Clare on 07932 392231 for more information

The way I see it... The ups and downs of life as seen by our very own (very) Grumpy, (almost) Old Woman

Just what I always wanted..? It’s better so give than to receive, so they say. And having been on the receiving end of some truly awful Christmas presents, I can absolutely agree. I know you shouldn’t knock Christmas gifts, and it’s the thought that counts and all that. But if you’ve ever been faced with a giant electric slipper or a five litre bottle of bubble bath from the pound shop, it does make you wonder – what were they thinking, exactly? So if you’re just about to start the mad panicky dash around the shops and you’re stuck for ideas, here’s a quick guide to what not to give this Christmas...

The insulting present. This includes any type of personal grooming item, unless specifically requested by the recipient. It cannot be said loud enough that nose and ear hair clippers are not a good Christmas gift. Neither is deodorant. Toiletries of any kind are in fact a grey area – are they saying you deserve pampering, or are they just saying you need a good wash? Also in this category are any handy gadgets that hint at being old – ie, magnifying mirrors or lap trays – or fat. Frankly, who really wants to unwrap the new Davina workout DVD when they’re getting stuck into their third box of Maltesers?

“Who really wants to wake up on Christmas morning to a breadmaker (unless it happens to be Paul Hollywood)”

Practical presents. Yes, a set of Le Creuset casserole dishes don’t come cheap. And yes, you can never have too many labour saving electrical gadgets in the kitchen. But be honest, who really wants to wake up on Christmas morning to a breadmaker (unless it happens to be Paul Hollywood). I don’t care if it is a Dualit, a toaster/ kettle will never elicit quite the same excitement as an Elemis gift set. My all time festive low was the day I received a wire kettle descaler ball – ‘because you could really do with one’. Thereby achieving the double whammy of being dull and vaguely judgmental at the same.

Then there are the lazy presents, the ones that have taken no thought at all. If you suspect you are the result of a 3 for 2 binge in Boots, then you’ll know what I mean. Let’s face it, they only bought you that Strictly Come Dancing false eyelash set so they could get extra Advantage card points. A friend of mine got the Guinness Book of Records every year from his gran because she knew he liked it. Correction – he liked it when he was ten. By the time he got to forty, the novelty was starting to wear off. These are the type of presents that go into next year’s charity tombola.

out of the tombola. Sarah our Sales Manager recalls getting a charity shop handbag for Christmas still stuffed with the previous owner’s receipts. Another friend got used to receiving some cheap and not cheerful Christmas gifts from one particularly mean relative, including a shoe box full of complimentary hotel toiletries, and a carrier bag full of leeks. So she was surprised last year to receive what seemed to be a very nice bale of towels. “These are lovely,” she said. “Yes,” her relative replied, “my friend didn’t have time to use them very often before she died, so it seemed a shame to waste them.”

Which leads me on to the next type of gift.

Worst of all, though, are the presents that come

As I say, it’s the thought that counts...

Why do women insist on taking men Christmas shopping? You see them in all the department stores, leaning against the festive displays with a ‘someone shoot me’ look on their faces. They really don’t enjoy it and all they do is block the aisles and getting in the way of us serious festive shoppers! Do us all a favour – leave them at home! Wendy, Dringhouses

I hate it when you’ve been standing for ages at the supermarket and they open a new checkout and the person behind you runs and gets to it first. It really winds me up! Pauline, Holgate Why do the January sales always start two days after I’ve finished my Christmas shopping? It breaks my heart to see my festive party frock reduced to a tenner! SF, Strensall

I love Christmas music, but the Band Aid song Do They Know It’s Christmas always makes me stop spending! Whenever I hear it I’m usually about to buy an illuminated musical Santa or some other tat, and it always makes me feel guilty! LK, Clifton

Now it’s your turn!

Is there something you’d like to rant or rave about? Whether it’s buses or banks, or life in general, we want to hear about it. Just write to the address on p5, or email

Donna@yourlocallink.co.uk

Horoscopes December 2011

Starsign of the month... Sagittarius

(22nd November - 21st December)

here’s a few famous faces you share your sign with

L to R: Tina Turner, Donny Osmond, Christina Aguilera, Brad Pitt

by James Christie n For details of private readings phone 07884 107100 or 01423 339770 Email: jcp@magepublishing.co.uk

Sagittarians are probably the most stoic and well-adjusted signs within the Zodiac. They always have their feet (all four of them) planted firmly on the ground, and most of the time, they’re able to see both the woods and the trees. They are very practical people and it takes an awful lot to ruffle their feathers. They make excellent parents, but tend to expect a lot from their children, and in a worse case scenario, can sometimes end up living their own lives through the lives of their children. Balancing that, they are usually very fair and honest people, with a powerful work ethic and a good eye for detail. They are fiercely loyal but tend to choose their friends carefully and selectively. The other big thing about Sagittarians is that they LOVE Christmas! This year they will enjoy a very domestic December with the accent firmly on all family matters. Some important Christmas reunions look likely and they’ll be making up at least one extra bed before the festive season. While 2011 may have been a frustrating year on the job scene there are better days ahead in 2012 providing members of the sign can go along with some of the changes enforced by our present economic climate. This could be awkward, because Sagittarians are very traditional people who tend to resist change until it is absolutely forced upon them.

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

(21st March - 19th April)

(20th April - 20th May)

(21st May - 20th June)

(21st June - 22nd July)

Surprisingly for December there are some really good money vibes in the wind and although you might be working overtime you should be able to enjoy a really festive Christmas. There will be the usual division of family loyalties, but for once (and you can regard this as a minor miracle!) you should be able to please everybody!

Not much cash in the Christmas kitty, but there are a lot of other pressures coming off that should help you relax and go with the flow. Don’t rock any boats and let others take the lead. Providing you keep your head down and go with the flow, Christmas should be a whole lot better than you might expect.

Emotions and affairs of the heart dominate December but this is no bad thing if it leads to the reignition of old flames or brings the sparkle of new romance. The down side of this is that is could cause some jealousy and suspicion in a third party, and you’d be naïve not to take this into account.

A secretive and moody month and one which may tax your abilities to act and put on a cheerful face. Too many old issues looking for closure and wherever you are, you’ll wish you were somewhere else. Perhaps, because you’re not expecting too much from it, Christmas will be a whole lot nicer than you think.

CANCER

Despite lots of distractions you’ll navigate December on an even keel, putting off any major decisions until the New Year. This is wise, because it gives you extra time to plan your next moves. There will be some pressure from a partner to conform to their wishes, in which you need to bend like a Reed in The Wind.

VIRGO (24th August - 22nd September) Despite a low key start, December brings lots of goodies and a major boost to both your love life and your social life. Travel plans clash with family loyalties, leaving little room for compromise. No doubt you will enjoy Christmas a lot, but you’ll be looking forward to the New Year even more.

LIBRA (23rd September - 22nd October) Very good financial outlook for this month, enabling you to splash out on a five star Christmas! Lots of support from lovers, friends and family, and it would seem that you can do no wrong! Having said that, if you want to avoid a health around the 27th 28th and 29th restrict yourself to just one helping of the Christmas pud.

SCORPIO (23rd October - 21st November) You’ll be anxious and determined to tidy up a few loose ends before the end of the year, and if you end up using a sledge hammer to crack

a walnut, well, at least it gets things done! There are some really nice romantic vibes directly around Christmas, especially if you are female and unattached.

the best of york

LEO (23th July - 23rd August)

CAPRICORN (22nd December - 19th January) A relatively easy month on the work scene, with some nice family vibes keeping you happy at home. Partnerships and relationships flourish and this Christmas could be the best you’ve had in years, providing you don’t try to plan everything down to the last detail. Stay flexible and don’t be afraid of changing plans at the last minute.

AQUARIUS (20th January - 18th February) Whether you want it or not, you’re going to be the centre of attraction and other people will look to you to make most of the choices and decisions. This is great, but it does put more responsibility on your shoulders. No problem here and it does at least mean you get to have your own way.

PISCES (19th February - 20th March) Speak slowly and carefully and make sure other people understand what you’re saying. No need to raise your voice, but there is a need to be firm in articulating your needs and expectations. You can take great strength from one key partnership or friendship, and Christmas should bring feelings of deep intimacy.

It,s all about you. . .

Been injured in an accident that wasn't your fault? Yes! Are you moving house?

Yes! Thinking about separating from your partner? Yes! Need some honest legal advice? Yes! We're here T: 01904 679 990 to help! E: info@coles-law.co.uk www.coles-law.co.uk 96 Micklegate, York YO1 6JX 17

Join

the

club ildren!

Dolls houses aren’t just for ch

group of enthusiasts who meet The Yorkshire Miniaturists are a collecting or making dolls house monthly to share their interest in looking to welcome new members miniatures. The Miniaturists are fascinating hobby. They meet the who want to be involved in this . Friends Meeting House, Friargate the at th first Saturday every mon es, leng chal club rts, s, guest expe There’s lots going on with workshop ities. outings and exhibitions for char 795361. 4 0190 n For more details call

Junior footballers wanted

is running Fulford Football Club ining Tra Fun ll tba Foo some es. The six der un for ns sio Ses from 6pm – sessions will be held hts at York St nig day urs 7pm on Th s in Heworth. John’s Astroturf Pitche d is welcome n Anyone intereste ht, or for nig the on to turn up l Richard cal n, tio ma or inf more 07769 on on 733985, Graham m@ ha gra ail 901914 or e-m o.uk. thearchitectshop.c

Something for York’s walkers

Ladies Bowling Club

ng Club Minster Ladies Bowli mbers me new for is looking . son sea 2 201 ir the to join rence They are based at Cla gardens and the season mid runs from early May to t. Augus sted n If anyone is intere on ith Jud g please rin 3906. 626990 or Dot on 62

Male singers needed Haxby Singers are a frie ndly local choir in desperate need of new tenors and bas ses to join their predominant ly female choir. They perform a wide range of music and the y’re currently rehearsing for their Christmas concert. n No auditions are required just call Judy on 760 281 and join in the fun.

Social opportunity for over

50’s

The Greater York Retired Members Association meets at the Tramways Social Club on Mill Stree t on the third Friday of every month at 1-30pm-3pm (except for December). The monthly meetings include association busi ness, guest speakers, bingo and a bar. They also hold social nigh ts, day trips and holidays for over 50’s. Anyone interested is welcome to attend their December social evening to find out more and meet some friendly faces.

The York Hoboes Rambling Club has been running since 1933 and is looking to recruit more like minded ramblers to join their club. They have a coach ramble on the second Sunday of every month between seven and eleven miles.

n Call Barry on 425840 after 5pm for information on the December social evening and how to become a member for the New Year.

n To get involved, call Paul on 07939143846 or email millybogs@btinternet.com.

Or maybe you have some news you’d like to share. If so, get in touch with us. Write to us at the address of page five, or email us at info@yourlocallink.co.uk. Mark your message ‘Club News’.

Does your club or group need new members?

CSMA Relocating

st private home, motoring The CSMA is part of the UK’s large talks and trips in and around nise orga They and leisure association. bers to bring along their friends the York area, and encourage mem g to The Holiday Inn on Tadcaster and family. The CSMA is relocatin bring new members with them to Road in January, and would like night in The Holiday Inn is titled to their new venue. Their first club will be held on Wednesday 25th ‘Humour of the Yellow Lines’ and you there! January at 8pm. They hope to see more information. n Call Michael on 763698 for

Clinical Negligence and Catastrophic Injury Solicitors

Fighting Chance Amdram Calling Jorvik Gilbert & Sullivan Company are looking for new members to take part in their spring performance,

The Mikado. There are no auditions to join the chorus and auditions for principles will be held on 28th November. Rehearsals begin 23rd January at 7.30pm at Huntington Methodist Church. n For information email info@jorvikgsc.org.uk or see www.jorvikgsc.org.uk

A new martial arts club is looking for members interested in learning traditional Wing Chun Kung Fu. They meet every Tuesday, 6 – 7.30pm at Poppleton Road Memorial Hall, just off Poppleton Road. The class is aimed at adults wishing to learn Kung Fu in a relaxed setting. No previous experience or knowledge of martial arts is required. It’s a great opportunity to go along and try something new. Newcomers always welcome – just to turn up on the night! n For more information email neville.abbott@ btinternet.com

Support and advice for victims of serious injury or illness SPECIALISTS IN COMPENSATION CLAIMS FOR:

• MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE • BRAIN & SPINAL INJURY • FATAL ACCIDENT • ASSAULT & ABUSE • ASBESTOS DISEASE • SERIOUS INJURY

0845 601 4499 www.cnci.co.uk

CNCI is a specialist service provided by Harrowells LLP

T: 01904 558600 www.harrowells.co.uk Harrowells LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (No 471957) and by the Financial Services Authority (FSA register number 470834).

Here come the girls! A panto without a dame is like a chip butty with no HP. And here in York we have no less than three lovely ladies. We went to meet them... Barry Benson must be one of the hardest working dames in the business. Not only does he star in the Rowntree Players’ Christmas panto, he also co–writes it – and helps build the scenery! But Barry says he never intended to take centre stage. He started his showbiz career helping out backstage at the New Earswick Musical Society, where his son was a member. “I’m quite an outgoing character, and people kept telling me I should be on stage, but I was quite happy behind the scenes.” He changed his mind after joining the Rowntree Players. “I saw their dame on

stage and thought ‘I’d like to have a go at that’. By the following year, he’d got a job in a professional production, so I decided to audition for the part – and got it!” This will be Barry’s fourth time as panto dame. He’s playing Sue Purbly-Built in Babes in the Wood at Joseph Rowntree Theatre. “We’ve got all the usual panto favourites – a loud dame, an idiot son, old jokes, a baddie, a fairy – and a few surprises too!” But some of the biggest surprises happen on stage. “Last year during Mother Goose, there was a scene when I had to stand on a stool to turn a stopcock off while one of the other characters was having a show. I fell off and when I turned around my dress had come undone all down the front. It got such a big laugh we kept it in!” n Babes in the Wood runs from 3rd – 10th December at Joseph Rowntree Theatre. For tickets call 07927 026071.

24-26 COLLIERGATE,YORK 01904 625601 51 YORK ROAD,ACOMB,YORK 01904 797170 www.barnitts.co.uk 20

ASK THE EXPERT

with sUZIE BOGLE MA, FCIPD, FCMI WIDOW TWANKY: Phil Randall

Tis the season to be Jolly – well usually! It’s that time of year again....As a HR consultant, every year, without fail, I have had to advise on issues created from an office party - from minor incidents to full blown fights and fall outs. Here are some points on how to handle festive parties and celebrations at this time of year:

Phil Randall is an old hand in the dame game. This year will be his 22nd panto, and his fourth time at the Grand Opera House. He’s playing Widow Twankey in Aladdin, alongside Coronation Street’s Steven Arnold. “I’ve played other roles in panto when I was younger, but the dame is definitely my favourite,” he says. “You get involved with all the other characters, you get the best lines – and the best costumes!” Costumes are very important to Phil. He gets all his specially made by a designer friend in London. “I come up with the ideas and she makes them to my exact specifications,” she says. “I’m very fussy about them – they have to be exactly right!”

But even then he suffers the occasional wardrobe malfunction. “There was one time I was playing an ugly sister with Lionel Blair, when I had an accident with a false leg and as I bent over my wig dropped off. It stayed in the show! “Disasters happen on stage and you have to make the best of them. Like the time a set got stuck. It was supposed to be a kitchen scene but the backcloth didn't come down so we were stuck in a forest. I just said, ‘Let’s have a barbeque instead!’ The audience loves it when things go wrong – it’s all part of the fun!”

n Aladdin runs from 9th December – 1st January at the Grand Opera House. For tickets, call 0844 847 2322.

Employment claims can occur even if you consider the party to be offsite and not in working hours. Make sure employees are aware of the policies which are there to help prevent harassment and discrimination. Make sure they are aware of the types of behaviour that is unacceptable (fighting, excessive alcohol consumption, use of illegal drugs). Make sure you have plenty of soft drinks and water available, so people have a choice and those who aren’t drinking are not discriminated against. There’s nothing worse than a party, when you don’t drink, and all they have is cola and it’s not diet! Be alert to potential problems, ask for volunteers to remain sober so they can supervise the event and spot/prevent potential behaviour before it becomes a problem. Be aware that employers have a potential for third-party harassment, act promptly and take any complaint seriously. Use the discipline and grievance procedures as needed. Check that the Secret Santa presents are appropriate and not likely to give offense. Remember if you are inviting partners, all partners are welcome, opposite and same-sex. Check that it is on a day that all employees are able to attend, Friday night might not be suitable for Jewish invitees, and also those with childcare responsibilities might find an evening party difficult to attend. Check everyone is old enough to get into any venue, that the venue is generally going to make all feel comfortable and relaxed, that it is not going to cause offense (lap dancing bars might not be an idea for that last drink). Check that from a health and safety prospective, that potential hazards have been considered and if you are holding it on the premises - check the insurance policy, particularly if third parties are invited. Check dietary requirements Take steps to prevent drink driving and manage the trip home, ordering taxis or laying on transport is an idea - employers have a duty of care to ensure the safety of employees and non-employees. And afterwards... make sure employees are clear that they are expected to attend work the following day if required. Don’t let absence go undealt with. If it’s a lunchtime party, make sure people know if they are expected to return in the afternoon. Remember if your employees use machinery or driving, make sure there are fit and able to do so on return to work if they have been consuming alcohol - even if it is the night before

Suzie Bogle MA, FCIPD, FCMI Managing Consultant of Breathing Space providing practical and effective HR support and consultancy for small and medium sized businesses in Yorkshire. If your business needs help with staffing or HR, we are here to help.

Call 0113 386 9270 Email suzie.bogle@breathingspacehr.co.uk These answers are general in nature and are not intended to substitute for specific expert advice.

Here come the girls!

(Continued from P21) Not many cities can boast their very own pantomime dame. But Berwick Kaler has been a permanent fixture at York’s Theatre Royal for an incredible 33 years. This year sees yet another unique production – The York Family Robinson. His association with York began when he appeared as an ugly sister in an early production of Cinderella. “It was so bad I ended up ad-libbing all the way through it, and that was how it all started!”

“I take three weeks off when no one is allowed to mention the ‘p’ word to me” Berwick now writes, directs and stars in the panto, which has gained a reputation as one of the must-see Christmas shows in the country. “We joke about it being ‘rubbish’, but we put a lot of effort into what we do,” he says. “We’re also very proud of the fact that our panto has the longest annual run in the country.” CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN: With Berwick and Martin

Planning for the next show starts almost immediately after the last. “I take three weeks off when no one is allowed to mention the ‘p’ word to me, then we’re off again,” he says. “I have to come up with the first concept by April, because that’s when work has to start on the sets.” But as any panto fan will know, the script is very up to date – and can even change on stage, as Berwick’s long time sidekick Martin Barrass knows only too well. “There was one panto when Martin and I were standing in the wings and he suggested we add a particular line – ‘The man from Del Monte says yes’,” recalls Berwick. “I said no, and we had quite a heated discussion in the wings. But as we walked on stage, I put my hand over his mouth and announced, ‘The man from Del Monte says yes!’ It got a huge laugh, and Martin was speechless. Then I made it worse by telling the audience – ‘I don't know how I think them up!’” n The York Family Robinson runs from 15th December – 4th February. To book, visit www. yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

5 fab panto facts 1. It may be as British as pie and mash, but panto actually comes from Italy. Commedia dell’ Arte was a type of 16th century travelling street entertainment involving a stock set of characters – a hero and heroine, over-protective father, plus a daft servant or two – and generally included dance, music, acrobatics and much larking about, usually with lots of encouragement from the audience. Later, this combined with old-fashioned music hall to provide the good old panto we know and love today.

2. There’s a theory that the comical dame goes back to Elizabethan times, when men traditionally played the female roles in plays. Similarly, the Principal Boy evolved during the Regency and Victorian period, when women needed a good excuse to show more than a shapely ankle!

3. The goodies and the baddies owe their origins to the first medieval morality plays, where the forces of good battled against those of the Devil. It may also explain why in the most traditional pantos, the baddie always enters from the left, or ‘sinister’ side of the stage.

4. No pantomime would be complete without its slapstick scene. The word comes from a device used in Commedia dell’ Arte, when the hero carried a sword or bat with a hinged flap, which created a very loud slapping noise when used, generally to give a more theatrical effect.

5. Some of the biggest stars have had their big break in panto. Silent screen start Charlie Chaplin, for instance, began his career as the front end of a horse at the Hippodrome Theatre, Stockport!

ASK THE EXPERT with simon crack

Business Property Leases This month we take a look at tenancy issues around renting commercial property. Q. I am in the process of setting up my own business and have found the perfect premises. The landlord has given me what he calls his standard lease and asked that I just sign and return it to him. When I suggested I might need a solicitor he replied that there was no need. Is he correct? In a word - no. There are many examples of inexperienced tenants entering into leases without taking the appropriate advice and finding themselves in difficulty in a matter of months. You may well be personally liable for the lease. This could mean that your personal assets such as your house could be at risk if you fall behind with your rent payments. There are a number of questions you need to ask yourself before you sign any lease agreement: Have you really thought about the term of lease? If you enter into a lease with a term of 10 years you may want to move on after two years but the so called “standard lease” may not allow you to move or sell on the lease and, if so, you are obliged to keep paying the rent for a further eight years. Are the planning permission and the permitted use correct for what you want to do? It is no good taking the lease of a shop you intend to run as a florists and then finding out the building can only be used as an office. Are you sure who is responsible for the upkeep and repair of the premises? Commercial leases vary on this point but as a tenant you would not want to be unexpectedly asked to pay for a new roof. Q. Having read the “standard lease” there is mention of rent reviews every two years. What does this mean? It is possible the landlord will be able to increase the rent by a substantial amount and you will have no right to contest the rise. You need to ask yourself: will you be able to transfer the lease to a buyer of your business if you decide to sell? You certainly should be able to but this needs to be written into the lease. All the matters discussed above are crucial aspects of commercial leases, both large and small, and there are real-life examples of tenants who have not taken the correct advice and regretted it. A lease for a small independent business involves many of the same issues as a major high street chain. At Hethertons we guide our clients through the whole process from making their initial offer on the premises right through to the grand opening. Taking the right advice at the outset can save you from making some very expensive mistakes in the future.

Simon Crack is a partner at Hethertons LLP solicitors and Head of the Business Support Unit. Based at York Business Park, Hethertons provide the full range of legal services to businesses and individuals.

Tel: 528200 email: bsu@hethertons.co.uk, www.hethertons.co.uk Tudor Court, Opus Avenue, York Business Park, York, Yo26 6Rs. 23

YORK BASED WEB DESIGN Not all business owners can be computer pros, but that doesn’t mean your business website should suffer. A strong website is one of the core attributes needed to develop and sustain a successful business, and for those of you less computer-literate, professional help is at hand. Waindigo is a web design company based right here in York, that specialises in bespoke websites for small businesses. Waindigo ensures you deal with the same web designer from start to finish and the beauty of their locality means you can arrange friendly and regular meetings to discuss your exact requirements.

Breakfast Briefing

Employment law has undergone some changes over the past year, with further changes on the horizon for 2012. If you’re a front line manager or a director, you can keep up with the current legislation and find out how it affects you at an Employment Law Breakfast Briefing being held by Harrowells LLP. Marie Horner and Annie Noble from the Employment Law team will, in their usual engaging style, present an overview geared to the needs of front line managers and directors and those with overall responsibilities for HR. They will highlight how recent and forthcoming developments are likely to impact

on your organisation and also update you on developments in case law which have not received media attention but nonetheless may have significant implications.

The seminar will provide an essential checklist of changes to enable you to review policies and working practices and is a must for any employer. The briefing will take place on Tuesday 6th December at the Innovation Centre, York Science Park. A buffet breakfast will be served at 8am, followed by the seminar at 8.45 – 9.45am. n To book, please call Peter Mills on 01904 558664.

Web design can sound like a financially daunting concept, but Waindigo’s Fair Play Guarantee ensures you are never overcharged. You are charged by the hour and will receive live updates of the hours spent designing your website. The cyber boffins at Waindigo are so confident that you’ll love your new website they all provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee. This means, if there’s any aspect of the design you’re not happy with, they’ll work for free until you’re completely satisfied. That’s a sterling service if you ask us! n Call 410649 or visit www.waindigo.com.

Working it out Are you looking for help with employment law? Perhaps you’re involved in a dispute with your boss and you need to know where you stand? Get some professional advice at Minster Law’s Employment Law Clinic, every Thursday throughout December. They’re offering free consultations with their top law team on all aspects of employment law, from contracts to complaints procedures. The clinic opens at 9am till 8pm – no need to book, just turn up. You’ll find Minster Law at Alexander House, Hospital Fields Road, Fulford. n Call 01904 663927, visit www.minsterlaw.co.uk

businessdiary

Ask the Expert...

investments advice with julie wilson

Planning Ahead Many people adopt a “do-it-yourself” approach to financial planning, particularly if their affairs are fairly straightforward. But there are many stages in life when the help of a professional can guide you to making better decisions for you and your family. Let’s take a look at just some of those stages:

FEDERATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES (YORK BRANCH) Meets on the third Monday of the month. Call Christine on 629777.

NABO NETWORKING YORK

YORK & NORTH YORKSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.

WIRE (WOMEN IN RURAL ENTERPRISE) YORK

9th December, Chamber Annual Lunch York, The Royal York Hotel, 12pm-3pm.

Group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at The Cottage Inn, Haxby. Visit www.wireuk.org

14th December, Pure Networking, King’s Manor, York. 7.30am-9am. Successful business breakfast networking.

WOMEN’S BUSINESS CLUBS

NETWORK NORTH group Group meets every Wednesday 7.309am, Beechwood Hotel, Shipton Road. For information email anne@acusmartpa.co.uk

Group meets every Tuesday 7.30am9.30am at Riverside Farm, Shipton Road, Skelton. Call John on 890582.

6th December, York Premier Club, The Grange Hotel, Clifton 10am-12noon. Visit www. thewomensbusinessclubs.com n If you have a business networking event coming up, email details to info@yourlocallink.co.uk.

Just starting out? In many ways, this is the stage when it’s most beneficial to make sure you have your affairs in order. Strong foundations laid now can make all the difference in the future. Do you want to buy your own property? Sure, you could go to a bank or building society – but how do you know they have access to all the different types of mortgages available? What about life cover – if you have a family, you need to make sure you have looked at any unforeseen risks, and put strategies in place to cover them if the unthinkable does happen. What about further education for children? We all know that education is set to get more expensive – have you got plans in place? The sooner you start, the easier it will be. What about pensions and savings? We get many clients approaching us in their late fifties with little or no retirement funding. Most of us won’t be able to live on state pensions – and the later you leave it, the harder it is to building up a meaningful pension fund. What about approaching retirement? Most will need to convert savings to income – do you know how to achieve this tax effectively to provide you with enough money for a comfortable retirement, no matter how long that may be? Professional advisers can help you shop around to get the best return from your money. Getting this wrong could be a costly mistake – and you could paying for it for the rest of your life. Older clients tend to worry about Inheritance Tax – the tax which is payable on death when you have assets (such as your home, savings, investments etc) above a certain limit – currently £325,000 – is particularly painful at 40%. Strategies to avoid this tax can take several years to become effective to early planning is crucial if this is a worry for you. Some people don’t bother to plan to avoid this tax on the basis that it’s not really their problem – after all, it only becomes payable after you have died. Most, however, don’t want to leave such a burden to their loved ones and prefer to put plans in place and leave their affairs in order. Professional financial planners can help guide you through. No matter which stage of life you are at, it makes sense to take control and revise your financial plans so that you end up where you want to be. And the guidance of a caring professional can make all the difference. If you feel you would benefit from a no-obligation chat about your own circumstances, one of our advisers would be more than happy to meet you – at our expense – for an exploratory discussion.

n Pen-Life Chartered Financial Planners, Equinox House, Clifton Park, York YO30 5PA Tel: 01904 661140; Fax: 01904 466206; Email: Julie@pen-life.co.uk; www.pen-life.co.uk Julie Wilson is a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society and Director of Pen-Life Associates Ltd, Chartered Financial Planners, who help individuals and small businesses make the most from their money including advice on residential and commercial mortgages and equity release, individual and business protection, pensions and retirement planning, savings, investments, tax planning, Inheritance Tax and long term care.

Local

Sport report round up... Another year comes to a close, 2011 has been one of ups and downs for local sport. York City look like they are now in the best position to ever get promoted back to the football league. York City Knights got relegated, reinstated, and now have a new manager in Chris Thorman hoping to bring sustained success at the club. Heworth Boxer Matthew Doyle sadly announced his retirement from the sport due to persistent injuries whilst Harry Matthews has a chance for an early Christmas present when he takes on Andrew Lowe in a rematch for the vacant English Masters title in Newark on the 3rd after a draw at Elland Road earlier in the year.

Glory supporters... One of the biggest highlights for me in 2011 was the recent 6-1 pasting Man City gave neighbours United. As a rule I follow York City and pretty much anyone who is facing Man United such was the amount

of irritating, Yorkshire based glory supporters I had to contend with growing up. Obviously nothing can compare with witnessing York City’s stunning 3-0 win at the ‘Theatre of Dream’s’ but watching David Silva and co destroy the champions in their own backyard was such a joy to behold that I accidentally claimed to my wife that it had made my year….. we only married in August! Luckily I live to tell the tale of the hotline set up for grieving Man United fans…01616161.

“As a rule I follow York City and pretty much anyone who is facing Man United” Looking ahead... So what can we expect in 2012? A new community stadium perhaps? Its seems we have been waiting longer than a First York bus to arrive on time but it now finally looks like its moving in the right direction. Obviously the

Olympic Games are going to be the biggest sporting event on everyone’s lips though one of the things that always comes to the forefront is the aspect of performance enhancing drugs. I recently read about Homobrassinolide, which is found in the mustard plant, which produces an anabolic effect. I can just imagine an athlete getting Gold then found guilty of drugs and claiming someone spiked their hot dog.

city boys... December will see York City play home games against Kettering Town, who they battered 5-1 away from home back in August, on Saturday 3rd before a televised clash with Kidderminster Harriers on Monday 12th. At time of writing York’s star striker Jason Walker’s phenomenal over head kick goal against Grimsby had over 150,000 hits on youtube; a great advert for non league football. In fact news of England’s non-league football travels far and wide as Italian Policeman Gianfranco Giordano can testify, as a season ticket holder for

with DAN TAIT

Ebbsfleet United travelling around 1,100 miles per game to get to and from Kent back to his home in Turin.

Boxing bozella... Gianfranco Giordano is not the only impressive sports story from abroad I have come across recently as 52 year old Dewey Bozella fulfilled a life long dream by boxing professionally. He would have done it sooner had it not been for the 26 years he spent in prison for a murder he didn’t commit but he made up for lost time (slight understatement) with a win on the undercard of a top fight bill in America, then promptly retired unbeaten.

Redundancy

Dealing with redundancy can be daunting for both employers and employees: employers need to ensure that they follow correct procedures and apply them fairly. Whilst employees have a number of rights in a redundancy situation and both parties need to understand what these are.

What is Redundancy?

Redundancy payments

Redundancy occurs where the employer:

Employees who are dismissed by reason of redundancy may be entitled to a statutory redundancy payment. Additionally, they may have a contractual right to an enhanced contractual redundancy payment.

• ceases or intends to cease to carry on the business for the purposes of which the employee was employed by it • OR ceases or intends to cease to carry on that business in the place where the employee was so employed • OR has a reduced requirement for employees to carry out work of a particular kind or to do so at the place where the employee was employed to work

Employees with a least two years continuous employment are entitled to a statutory redundancy payment. Statutory redundancy pay is calculated according to a formula based on age, length of service and pay.

Redundancy and unfair dismissal

Contractual redundancy payments

An employee who has at least one year’s continuous employment is entitled not to be unfairly dismissed

In addition to a statutory redundancy payment, an employee may also be entitled to an enhanced redundancy payment based on their contract of employment.

It is likely to be unfair if the employer fails to: • consult with individuals • OR identify the correct pool for selection or fails to apply objective selection criteria to those in the pool • OR offer suitable alternative employment where appropriate

Statutory redundancy payments

Redundancy terms may be implied into an employee’s contract of employment where a set of redundancy terms are regularly applied in a particular trade or industry or by a particular employer (custom and practice).

An employer must be careful to ensure that the manner in which it applies enhancements will not leave it open to the accusation that it has disadvantaged some employees over others in a manner that is discriminatory.

Alternatives to redundancy At the outset of a fair redundancy procedure, an employer should consider whether it can avoid making compulsory redundancies. This is likely to involve suspending or restricting recruitment, reduction or removal of overtime opportunities and not renewing the contracts of contractors and workers supplied by agencies. If these initial steps are unavailable or insufficient, an employer may be able to lay off employees, put them on short-time working, request volunteers for redundancy or ask that they consider early retirement. n Should you require further information, please e-mail me at davidh@richardsonlaw.co.uk or, call me on 01904 642727 or to make an appointment.

Local sports This month’s local sport feature delves into the world of Hamilton Panthers, and in particular Phil Sanderson (pictured) who has been involved with the club since its formation back in 1988. From the humble beginnings of meetings at the Puss N Boots on Hamilton Drive from where they took inspiration for the team name leading to numerous local successes over the years including the all conquering 2008 Men’s York Saturday Premier League winning side of which three quarters of the team had grown up playing in Panthers junior sides. Hamilton Panthers are a community based football club run by volunteers currently working on goals off the field as well as on it including looking to acquire some sponsorship from local businesses to raise enough funds to rebuild the clubhouse

into a modern facility. They hope to achieve this target by August 2013 which poignantly signals the clubs 25th anniversary. For more information on these exciting plans or potential sponsors they should visit the clubs website www.hamiltonpanthersfc. co.uk Phil Sanderson, club secretary and a runner up at the 2010 Community pride awards, has over seen all of the up’s and down’s of Hamilton Panthers and confesses he could write a book covering and the highs and lows. Phil says “Watching young persons enjoying football for the first time and watching them grow over the years and develop into young adults brings a great sense of pride”. The very first side from 1988 are pictured on the local link facebook page where all players except one are named. If you are that player or recognise them then Phil would love to piece together a significant part of the club’s history.

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guide

iPHONE APPS

The world of gadgets is a bewildering place (trust us, we’ve just been there). Whilst some gadgets are seemingly pointless, others win you over in disbelief that you’ve ever lived your life without it. We’ve scoured cyber space to bring you the best gizmos on the market in the run up to Christmas, from the ingenious to the down right bizarre. The mind boggles… friendly button and watch the tea whizz around in a swirly plughole type manner. Madness. Gadget rating 4/10.

SELF STIR MUG £12.99 Yes, we’re being serious. This actually exists; the ultimate drinking accessory for any tea slurping enthusiast. Instead of having to physically grab a teaspoon and stir, press the thumb-

MINI DIGITAL LUGGAGE SCALE £15.95 This nifty little thing saves you desperately dragging your luggage onto the bathroom scales just hours before your flight. Just attach the strap around your luggage handle, pick it up and the clear digital display reads how much you’re carrying. You’ll never be franticly unloading shoes at the checkin desk again! Gadget rating 8/10.

THE APPBLASTER £19.99 App, shoot, fire! Introducing the world’s first interactive gun for app gaming. Simply pop your iPhone in the viewfinder and get ready for a new generation of App game wars. With a unique trigger connecting to the touch screen and tilt back reload technology, you can transform your lounge into a battleground of destruction! Gadget rating 5/10.

TRAMP-it JUMP SHOES £99.99 Put a spring in your step for absolutely no reason whatsoever with these tigger-tastic boots. Thanks to their super strong, flexible strip beneath the sole, you can jump further, bounce higher and

look more ridiculous than you could ever have imagined. We must admit that they do look pretty fun though! If you see any strange women hopping about Haxby shops, it’s probably one of us! Gadget rating 6/10. DIGITAL WINE CHILLER £49.99 This is the ultimate VIP treatment for vino. For all you wine connoisseurs out there, the digital wine chiller takes your bottle to its optimum temperature. Whether you’re sipping on chardonnay or champagne, this device cools your wine with pre-programmed settings. Best of all, your posh wine will no longer need to socialise with the mouldy cheese in the fridge! Gadget rating 8/10.

BUILD YOUR OWN ROBOT: LEGO MINDSTORMS £209.99 For anyone that’s always wanted to build their very own superadvanced homemade robot. No degree in electro-mechanics required! At the heart of the ingenious concept is the NXT, a super intelligent brick that acts as your robots brain. It’s so advanced, we can’t go into the technicalities, but this thing is the bee’s knees in gadget world. Gadget rating 8/10.

TOP MOTORING GADGET POCKET CLASSICS £9,995 Ok, so this is slightly more than just your average gadget, and no, the pricing is not a typo! Pocket classics are half-scale fully functioning replicas of history’s most sought after cars. The petrol powered miniatures can reach up to 46mph and come in 4 models; the Speedster, 300SL, E-Type or Jeep. So if you fancy spoiling the kids (yourself) this Christmas and you’re absolutely insane, this is the gadget for you! Gadget rating 9/10.

Sunday 4th December , 11am – 5pm Askham Bryan Animal Management Department

Get up close and personal with some of Askham Bryan’s weird and wonderful animals! Do not miss your chance to meet the Meerkats, hold an Owl, Talk to Santa, Feed the Goats and even warm up with our creepy crawlies in the Tropical Room.

Real Christmas trees for sale Tombola prizes

Donated by businesses and local shops, prizes worth up to £200

Make your own Christmas Wreaths Refreshments

Mince pies, tea, coffee, alcohol free mulled wine and juice

Meet Santa Claus in his Grotto!

Meet the Meerkats

Feed and interact with the Meerkats (£3 per person, maximum group of 10)

Scheduled meetings and feeding times with the animals Raccoon, Skunks, Goats, Pigs, Snakes, Reptiles and many more!

Hold an Owl Colouring Competitions Meet the Rescue Dogs Including a real Snow Dog

All proceeds will go to the Animal Unit @ Askham Bryan and Nuzzlets Charity (1118698).

n These products are available to buy at www.iwoot.com and www.firebox.com *Prices correct at time of going to press

£4.00 entry for children (under 13 years) £2.00 entry for adults £10.00 entry family ticket (2 adults, 2 children)

Dr John Sentamu, the Archbishop of York sends a special Christmas Message to the readers of Your Local Link

A Yorkshire

Christmas York is one of the greatest cities in Britain. When you look around, it’s not hard to see we have many fantastic things. We have great tourist attractions, great architecture, great history – and a great rugby and football teams! But we have something even greater than all these things put together, right on our doorsteps. Can you guess what it is?

human beings that God lovingly and fearfully created us to be. Everyone who lives in York adds something to our local community and helps to create the real buzz that surrounds the city. York wouldn’t be the same without you!

In my opinion, the most valuable and most precious resource we have in our city is you – the people of York.

Yorkshire people may be famous for being straight-talking, but they are also renowned for being warm-spirited, kind-hearted and very welcoming to visitors. These are exactly the qualities that we need to see embodied in people at Christmas time.

We should never underestimate the contribution we can all make to society just by being the wonderful

Up and down the country, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ over 2000 years ago, people will be

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welcoming family and friends to their homes over the Christmas period to share in the festivities. However we need to extend that sense of hospitality not just to those we love but also to those who are excluded. The poor, the vulnerable, the lonely. We are going through tough economic times. Unemployment has risen in the UK, with over 2.6 million out of work – and 1 million of those affected are young people aged between 16 and 24. People are increasingly finding it hard to put food on the table and provide for their families. It is a desperate and tragic situation. This Christmas let us think how we can reach out to others, particularly those who are in need. It is a great privilege to be able to encourage and support other people. Oscar Wilde talked of knowing the price of everything and the value of nothing. We need to be careful that we do not see everything in our society in terms of pounds and pence – you cannot put a price-tag on the innate value of another human being.

Often we can take what we have around us for granted. Whether it is the wonderful local services, amenities and attractions in the city; or whether it is our jobs; or whether it is our neighbours and colleagues – let us look afresh at what God has given us, and how we can use our gifts to serve others. You may think that your own small contribution may not make a massive difference, but from small acorns mighty oaks grow. Imagine what would happen if everyone reading this article decided to do something? We have around 200,000 people living in York at the current time, if we all pulled in the same direction then things would radically transform overnight! Let our whole nation learn from the wonderful example of the people of Yorkshire. Let us reignite a culture not just of hospitality, but also of valuing others – particularly those who are going through tough times. May I wish you and your family a wonderful and blessed Yorkshire Christmas.

Word Search

S T H G I L Y E N M I H C V G Q R

G N A D V E N T H J B L I T Z E N

O R E C N A D O C U P I D E Y S C

C A R O L S L P S N O W S R T H P

O G R M S L E D D L R O D O R N M

advent dancer joy reindeer tinsel baubles dasher lights

D S I E Y H S Y K K N O C I M F I

T A V A G Y N F K D N K S N K S S

J L Y I N G I N E N I T V O G E T

E I E E O X T R E N M S I R N L L

I L N N K G D R G A M Y X T I B E

S N G G N A X R S K H O E H D U T

D G Y I L D L M U T Q T N P D A O

rudolph toys blitzen december merry santa tree cake

E D S S C E E F Q D X J M O U B E

E K C T H O B C W Z O V Y L P P Q

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T S H C O R A D L M N H P A Z K W

R A R O R M N E R L B S C H L P Q

E N I Y V A E Z R E S E S T F I G

H T J O V F T T T W C N R X G N P

donner mistletoe sing turkey carols eggnog north pole sleigh

S A O U P K V S R E I N D E E R P

A D I M E R Y S T Y Q J E D X K R M R N W U A B T M Y N W R F O R X N E A S M Y R E K N P I F T W N V

In association with:

How would you like to win some fabulous flowers, courtesy of Dutch Nurseries in Haxby? Every month they’ll be giving a gorgeous hand-tied bouquet to the winner of our wordsearch. This month’s puzzle has a Christmas theme! Send your completed puzzle to ‘December Puzzle Competition’ at the address on page five, to reach us no later than Friday 18th December. The first correct entry will win the flowers! n Dutch Nurseries, 5 Wyre Court, Haxby. Tel. 01904 768439.

vixen chimney elves peace snow wreath christmaS gifts

pine snowflake cold holly prancer snowman comet ivy

pudding star cupid jingle bells red nose stocking

your motors

Cold comforts

Driving in winter means more than sticking on a pair of driving gloves. Follow our tips and you won’t get caught out by the big freeze... • Allow more time for your journey. Be prepared to change your travel plans – could you work at home when snow is forecast? Don’t drive if you can avoid it. • Check your vehicle is ready for winter. Check and replace the anti-freeze in the radiator; make sure your windscreen and lights are clean and check the bulbs. Replace the battery if it's not reliable. Ensure your tyres are correctly inflated and replace them before the tread has reached the legal minimum. • Keep an emergency kit in your car. This should include ice scraper, de-icer; torch and spare batteries; warm clothes and blankets; boots; first aid kit; jump leads; a spade and road atlas. • Before you set off, clean any snow and ice from all windows, lights, number plates and the roof of your vehicle. Make sure you can see clearly and be seen. • Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged, and take some food and a warm drink in a flask in case you get stuck. Don't forget to take any personal medication too. • Pay attention to the changing road, traffic and weather conditions. Be ready to slow down and take more care if you need to, particularly on bends and exposed roads. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security – even if you drive every day on the same stretch of road. Drive carefully and adjust your driving to the conditions. n For further information, please visit www.highways.gov.uk/winter

Our very own ‘Stig’ looks at hot topics in the land of petrol heads quick to get your hands on one - only 54,000 have made it to the shelves. The BBC had to axe the novelty gadget due to Jeremy’s endorsement breeching company policy. Well, it was good while it lasted!

MARIO KART MADNESS

THE IN-CAR CLARKSON

Ingenious. Why didn’t they think of this before? The BBC and sat nav manufacturer TomTom have launched a Jeremy Clarkson sat nav voice. In true Clarkson style, the sat nav features Jezza barking: ‘Turn right. Turn RIGHT’, ‘you missed it!’ and ‘for the love of …!’. But you’ll have to be

Chances are, you’ve dabbled in a bit of Mario Kart at some point in your life and can vouch for its pure awesome-ness. Whizzing around the streets in those little zippy carts, how fun would it be to actually do that in real life? That’s what a legendary pair of Japanese lads from Tokyo asked themselves, before deciding to jump into a pair of 40mph, 4bph X-Karts dressed as the Italian duo. They took to the streets of downtown Tokyo and entertained the unsuspecting public. Next stop, York?

£15

> SAT NAG: Just you wait till it starts arguing with your voice activated bluetooth....

Sat Nav Stress....

Are you one of the many millions of drivers coming a cropper on the roads because of your pesky sat-nav? The supposedly useful devices are driving motorists around the bend (literally) because of their outdated road information, sending victims down longer routes, wrong roads and one-way streets. The only way to maintain the love / hate relationship with your sat nav is to regularly fork out for pricey software updates. Alternatively, just put it out in the doghouse for a few hours - that usually works for us!

Anyone that’s ever attempted a caravan holiday knows too well how it can be a bit of a snug fit, until now! Design experts in Switzerland have designed a 15ft camper van that doubles in size thanks to a flip-out top deck. It’s so swish it can sleep five people, has a kitchen, bathroom and lounge...so what’s the catch? Well it’s not due to hit the market til 2014, but it promises to be worth the wait.

your motors

The Space Age Caravan...

great present!

> Pretty impressive: may look slightly odd for a weekend away in Filey though…

TINY TEMPER

We’re all for thinking on our feet in a sticky situation, but one wee guy took it a bit too far when he had a run in with the coppers for drink driving. 4ft 6in motorist Tom Barber claimed he was over the limit because his body absorbs alcohol so slowly. He gave a breath test which recorded a whopping 84 microgrammes of alcohol (the legal limit is 35). Once he realised he’d been busted, the mini man made a get-away dash and caused a chase through the nearest town - talk about a short fuse!

THE TIME TRAVELLER

As much as we still wish we owned Dr Who’s tardis and Bill and Ted’s teleporting phone box, we are now saving up our pennies to buy the bona-fide time travelling DeLorean which starred in Back to the Future. Yep that’s right, it’s the real deal, and you can own your very own piece of epic movie history. The car will go to the highest bidder at an auction in Hollywood and is expected to fetch $600,000 – that’s £379,000. (We may have to re-asses the savings).

This month we are proud to HAIR AND BEAUTY SPA YORK introduce our newest recruit to the Local Link team (we did warn her about the madness, but she still insisted on taking the job!). WINTER COSMETIC Vicky is now overseeing all advertising OFFERS...... within the Health and Amazing offers throughout Beauty section, which is now in association with theavailable December & January fabulous Kuki Spa!! So if you advertise £50 with us here, OFF Lip Augmentation she’s your new gal! £50 OFF Dermal Fillers £100 OFF Radiesse Treatment n You’ll catch her on 735205. & also receive a free voucher for a spray tan, Welcome to the team Vicky! eye rescue or Shellac hands or feet

KUKI

Ten years of

Helen Howard-Mawer, the Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Clubs franchisee in the York area is celebrating ten successful years with the company, during which time she has helped thousands of people in the area to slim down and become fitter and healthier.

A great smile starts with white teeth, and thanks to the latest teeth whitening methods, it’s actually a lot more affordable and accessible than you think. Gone are the days when teeth whitening was only for the likes of Hollywood A-listers. In fact, professional teeth whitening is available right here in York at Clock House Dental.

Rosemary Conley, CBE, presented Helen with her Ten-Year Award and a diamond watch at a ceremony held at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, Milton Keynes last month.

Clock House Dental is based in Heworth Village and offers professional home whitening kits which whiten the enamel of your teeth. Firstly, your teeth are checked by a Clock House dentist and impressions are taken to produce a

fab fitness

smile about to

Whilst we are all for the latest nail art wotsists and new fangled hair styling technology, sometimes it’s nice to go back to basics and remember what really makes a difference to your appearance; a great smile.

Join our Christmas Market on 28th November, 5-8pm for a consultation Please phone Kuki 01904 659 007 to book an appointment & free consultation with Catherine - Aesthetics nurse

n For details of how Helen can help you get in shape, give her a call on 01904 790922 or visit www.rosemaryconley.com

Something

custom made whitening tray that will fit your mouth perfectly. Once you have your tray, all you need to do is place the whitening gel in the tray and wear it for a few hours at a time. Gradually your teeth will begin to whiten - a bit like magic! Similarly, if you think your dark fillings are spoiling your smile, the dentists at Clock House offer a procedure to change them for white fillings. And now you can give the gift of a perfect smile this Christmas! For a limited time only, Clock House Dental is offering their professional home whitening kits for just £120. They are available as gift vouchers which can be redeemed in house. n Call 442918 for more information.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

Pamper in your PJs!

These dark nights don’t get any easier do they? We think that it is a fully acceptable time to go into hibernation now, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up your pampering! Thanks to Claire at Mobile Nail & Beauty, you can keep up your treatments to keep you feeling fabulous, without having to brave the arctic conditions. This December Claire is offering an Xmas Pamper Package for just £38 to get you in tip top condition for your all important Christmas parties. Not only that, but she’s also offering 20% off all treatments when you quote ‘Local Link’ on booking. Now don’t say we never do anything for you! n Give her a buzz on 07968551728 or visit www.mobilenailandbeautytreatments.co.uk for more info.

Italian style... If there’s one thing we’re all short of at this time of year, it’s time. Especially when it comes to looking good. With everything else to be done, how do you find the time to visit a salon? It was spotting a gap in the market for busy women who wanted a high end salon experience that fitted in to their lives that persuaded top Italian hairdresser Raphael to go mobile. Raphael, the former director of an established salon in York, now brings his wealth of experience to the comfort of your own home. He offers all aspects of hairdressing, including cutting, colouring, tinting and finishing. Whether you need home hairdressing for a special occasion or you just want to look good without taking the time to visit a salon, Raphael can help. n Call him on 07808 852692.

The revolutionary

way to lose weight

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

Beauty What’s hot and what’s not in the world of beauty and fashion? We’ve got the inside scoop. Hot.... Smokey eyes It’s that time of year when the Essex gal in us jumps for joy, as we know the dark nights mean we can get away with wearing a tad more slap on an evening! Winter is the perfect time to take advantage of the sexy smoky eyes look to lure your man to standstill. GYM BUNNIES Just because the Quality Streets are out on the coffee table and the mince pies are becoming a daily indulgence, it doesn’t mean it’s time to hibernate and ditch your fitness regime!

Keep up the gym and stay active over the Christmas period to avoid piling on those extra festive pounds. You’ll thank us in January! JUMPSUITS Bang on trend this winter in silks and satins, jumpsuits make looking ultra glam easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy. These babies lengthen your body making you look taller and slimmer (and you don’t even have to shave your legs!). Pair a jumpsuit with a skinny waist belt and a pair of knockout heels and your ready to party! JEWEL TONES Seriously hot this season, jewel tones have the power

to make you look all rich and sophisticated... (even though we know the truth!). Shades of sapphire, emerald and ruby are taking the lime light and for maximum impact, wear one colour from head-to-toe, as seen on this season’s catwalk. MESSY UP-DO’s The messy up do takes looking effortless to another level (it’s meant to look like it took two minutes even if it really took you two hours). They key is to ensure there is plenty of volume and texture in the length of your hair before twisting it round into a big bun or a messy top knot, sort of like a trendy birds nest?

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

not reason enough, fuller eyebrows accentuate your eyes. For a helping hand, use an eyebrow pencil to subtly define your new shape. UNDER DRESSING The ultimate no-no: too much flesh on show when it starts getting chilly outside. Rather than braving arctic conditions in minimum clothing, make the most of winter’s comfy staples with loose fabrics and stylish layering. Your mum would definitely approve!

Not.... WINTER TANGOS Seeing as not all of us can pull off the ‘pale and mysterious’ look, most of us do need a cheeky bit of fake tan over the winter months to attempt some form of a ‘healthy glow’. That said, slapping so much on that you look like you’ve spent a summer working in Ibiza is just not feasible in winter – everyone will know your faking it! OVERPLUCKED BROWS Don’t get us wrong, caterpillar eyebrows are not a good look for anyone, but over plucked brows don’t do anyone any favours. All the celebs and models are embracing a thicker, natural arch, and if that’s

NOVELTY HATS These things should come with an age restriction. We’re sorry to be a party pooper for all you big kids out there, but anyone wearing a bird, panda or leopard ears on their head over the age of 21 is just not acceptable. They’re cool for school, so let the kids pull them off and find some animal free related head gear. CHIPPED NAILS Nothing looks nicer than a beautiful set of polished nails, but nothing looks worse than when they begin to chip. Try more permanent treatments like Shellac and acrylic nails, or invest in a clear anti-chip top coat. And if that sounds like too much hard work, just give up and go for naked nails!

£Unisex 39 flat rate

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

Q. I really want to get my tongue pierced but I’m worried it will get infected. Is it safe? Charlotte, Bishopthorpe. The tongue is covered with bacteria, and when pierced, that bacteria can get in the bloodstream and underlying tongue tissues. Like with any piercing, you run the risk of infection, but you can lower the chances of infection by going to a reputable piercing studio. Make sure you ask about their sterilisation procedures and appropriate after care before you go through with the piercing. If you decide to go through with it, don’t touch the piercing as this can cause infection from bacteria on your fingers and keep a close eye on it for any sign of infection.

Q. I’ve been having blonde highlights for years but I really want a change. I have fair skin and green eyes but I don’t know what other hair colours would suit me. Cheryl, Acomb.

If you have a health or beauty question, write to us at the address on page five, or email info@yourlocallink.co.uk. Don’t forget to mark your question ‘Q & A’.

Go for it! Sometimes it’s great to take the plunge and give yourself a new look.. There are three elements to consider when choosing a new hair colour; your skin tone, your eye colour and your natural hair colour. Because of your fair skin and green eyes, you could experiment with warm darker tones such as auburn. Green eyes and auburn hair is a gorgeous combination and it would compliment your skin tone perfectly. If you’re still unsure, it’s worth getting a colour consultation with a professional colourist who will guide you through all your options.

Q. Now that the cervical cancer vaccination has been given from girls aged 14-17, is it going to become available to older women, and if so, when? Christine, Wheldrake. At the moment, the NHS is still focusing on giving the vaccine to young teenage girls before they begin having sex. Unfortunately, if you’re an adult it is very unlikely that your GP could get NHS approval for giving you the vaccine. If you do feel very strongly about getting the vaccine, the only option is to go private and pay for the jab for about £80. Your GP

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

can advise you on the best way to do this. Remember that it is important to always attend your smear test appointments, as these can protect you from cervical cancer developing.

Q. I’m getting married in April and I want to use extra lashes on my wedding day. I’ve tried using fake eyelashes but I can’t find any that suit me. I’ve heard that eye lash extensions are good but I don’t know how they work? Emma, Huntington. Because fake eyelashes are mass produced in generic shapes, nine times out of ten they won’t suit or fit the shape of your eyes. Eye lash extensions are great as they are applied by professionals in a way to compliment your eye shape and natural lashes. Your new lashes are gradually built up by tiny strips and come in different shapes, colours, lengths and effects. The lashes last for about two weeks but can be topped up to last for months. The only down side to lash extensions is that they can sometimes pull out your natural lashes, so leave their removal to the professionals. Good luck for your big day!

HAIR AND BEAUTY SPA YORK

KUKI

WINTER COSMETIC OFFERS......

Amazing offers available throughout December & January

£50 OFF Lip Augmentation £50 OFF Dermal Fillers £100 OFF Radiesse Treatment

& also receive a free voucher for a spray tan, eye rescue or Shellac hands or feet

Join our Christmas Market on 28th November, 5-8pm for a consultation Please phone Kuki 01904 659 007 to book an appointment & free consultation with Catherine - Aesthetics nurse

Q. My fingernails break all the time. I’ve tried conditioning nail polishes but my nails still split and snap off. What else can I try? Lesley, Clifton. Unfortunately not everyone is blessed with knockout nails. Getting weak nails in tip-top condition is no easy task. Firstly, keep your nails trimmed short for at least a month until they’re strong enough to go long. It’s important to give them regular attention, so file your nails twice a week to smooth down any tears or damage along the edges. Invest in a nourishing nail oil with vitamins A, C, D and E and finish them off with a top coat of polish. After a month or so of TLC, your nails should be long enough to grow. If your nails do split, use a dot of nail glue and buff over the glue for a smooth finish.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

Celebrations

at Innovations

DANCE IN THE ROUND Looking for a light way to exercise and have fun at the same time? Circle Dance in York teaches circle dances from all around the world to catchy music and rhythms. Beginners are more than welcome and you don’t need to bring a partner. Circle Dance in York will be offering free taster sessions starting on the 16th of January so you can discover it for yourself! n To find out more about the wonderful world of circle dance call 788058 or visit www. circledanceinyork. co.uk.

It’s all go at Innovations, and they’ve made lots of positive changes recently to make their gorgeous salon even better than before! Jess, who has owned the salon for 8 years, and told us; ‘we would like to welcome all our new staff and clients that have joined us over recent months’. Lisa Godson, former owner of Frizz Clarence Street, has moved over to Innovations part time and would like to invite all her clients to join her.

Innovations are also welcoming Catherine, their new hairdresser, and Katie, their new beautician. Having Katie means that beauty treatments are now available 6 days a week (hooray!). And better still, Catherine and Katie are offering 20% off all their treatments whilst they settle in. So that’s good news all round! Oh and one more thing, the ladies at Innovations are offering custom made gift packages for a perfect pampering Christmas gift. n To find out more or book a pre Christmas appointment call the ladies on 798705.

A BOAB WELCOME! Have you heard of Boab? It’s the gorgeous new hair and beauty salon that has opened up in Roko Gym, and the lovely new owners Adam and Edwina have brought a wealth of experience and skill with them. Having previously worked at York’s finest spas and salons, the staff at Boab are proud to offer an extensive range of holistic and natural treatments, as long as most well known treatments in the beauty world. They specialise in Hopi ear candling, a therapy that has been used for thousands of years to help treat problems with the ears, throat and sinuses. Its benefits are endless and can even help you prevent colds, flu and headaches. Boab is also one of the rare salons in York to offer threading, an ancient Indian hair removal technique that removes the entire hair follicle lasting up to six weeks (hallelujah!) n To discover these effective natural treatments and much more, book yourself an appointment with Boab today! Call 476391.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

BEAUTY HAVEN IN THE HEART OF YORK Don’t let the stress of Christmas get on top of you – Belezza Spa is based right on Coney Street, which means you can escape the festive madness into a haven of calm right in the heart of York. Whether you need some personal pampering after shopping til you drop, or you need some inspiration for some gorgeous luxury gift packages, the team at Belezza are exactly who you need. As well as all their regular heavenly treatments, this December you can choose from some luxury packages at great prices, from ‘Make Me Up Party’ to ‘The Luxury Works’. They even have the ‘Men’s Special’, perfect for any men who need spoiling too. Intrigued? You should be! Better still the beautiful Belezza Spa offers a generous 10% discount for staff at the NHS, York Council, Aviva and Nestle and a cheeky 15% off for all you students. n For appointments, call 620050 and for more information, visit this www.belezzayork.co.uk. Go on, Indulge!

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

Blood donor

sessions

Does eating

rule your life?

Are you one of those people who think about food all the time and constantly monitor your weight? You’re not alone. There are more people than you think dealing with the exact same issues as you, and help is at hand if you feel you need support.

The eating behaviour experts at Nudge can help you make real sense of your eating problem by helping to boost your psychological health, build resilience and overcome chronic hold backs. Nudge are currently offering free, no obligation

assessments in their city centre office. The assessments last one hour and will help you discover the deeper reasons that triggered your problem. Their chartered psychologists have over 10 years experience and are registered with both the British Psychological Society and the Health Professionals Council, so you know you’re in safe hands. n If you feel you need a nudge in the right direction, then call Kirstin on 07586509284 and take this valuable help that could change your life.

5 December Wiggington Recreation Centre (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) Copmanthorpe Recreation Centre (2pm-4pm, 5-7.30pm) 7 December The Village Hall, Stamford Bridge (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) 13 December Parish Church Hall, Acomb (2pm-4pm, 5-7.30pm) 14 December Merchant Taylors Hall, York (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) 23 December Priory Street Centre, York (10am-12pm, 1pm-3.45pm) 27 December Osbaldwick Primary School, Osbaldwick (10am-1pm) 28 December Wiggington Recreation Centre (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) 29 December Merchant Taylors Hall, York (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) n For more details, call 0300 123 2323

PERFECT PARTY HAIR The party season is upon us, and whether you have a girly Christmas night out, a work do or a hot date, you can get salon styled hair for a lot less than you think. The stars at Molita can tame, style and groom your locks into perfect party hair, all for just £15. They’re currently offering 15% discount for all new clients, as well as a super Xmas package for £40 including a full set of nails and an LA tan. Ready, steady, go! n You’ll find Molita at 55 Gale Lane and on 784055.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

Festive

fabulous!

With so much Christmas shopping, wrapping, decorating and cooking to do, finding a bit of me-time can be as tricky as tracking down the last box of mince pies in Asda. So why not let the beauty therapist come to you? It saves time and stress; there’s no struggling through Christmas shopping crowds, or tearing your hair out trying to find a parking space. Just settle back, relax and enjoy! Beauty therapist and master nail technician Marcelle of Heavenly Nails & Beauty offers a wide range of treatments, from manicures and pedicures to facials, spray tans, waxing and massage. She’s also the only therapist in York to offer Mabel Plus, fast, pain free face and body contouring. The Mabel Plus machine uses heat to stimulate collagen production in the skin, smoothing out cellulite before you dare to bare in that Christmas party frock! And if your friends are as frazzled as you are, why not invite them round for a pamper party? You can choose from a wide range of treatments, including mini manicures, eyebrow waxing and neck and shoulder massage. Or why not go for the ever-popular Minx Party, where you can all get your Minx on together for a bargain price – the more the merrier! n For more details call Marcelle on 07710 669945.

THE TANNING LOUNGE

01904 652025

31 Brockfield Park Drive, Huntington, York IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

INTRODUCING E-CIGARETTES We all know that cigarettes have been banned from clubs and pubs in recent years and as a result, they’ve become less publicly acceptable. But this may all be about to change due to the latest innovative technology. Electronic cigarettes, otherwise known as e-cigarettes, have been backed by the government and are designed to get smokers to switch to a new form of smoking that won’t damage their health or cost them a fortune. These new fangled e-cigarettes actually replicate the process of smoking and deliver the user with the same sensation that smoking does. The advantages to switching are endless, but for starters, they don’t contain any of the cancer causing nasties (toxic carcinogenic chemicals) that are in traditional cigarettes. They taste the same and are up to 75% cheaper. Sounds like a win win situation to us!

Top treatment Did you know that as a patient you now have a choice of which hospital you can be treated at in your local area? Traditionally, if you were being treated by the NHS, your GP referred you directly to your local NHS hospital. Over the past few years this has changed, with new NHS treatment centres being built and also private hospitals allowed to take NHS patients for certain procedures. As a result, Nuffield Health York Hospital can offer two areas of treatment for NHS patients; Orthopaedics (covering such things as key-hole surgery, joint replacements, foot and ankle surgery and upper limb surgery) and Cataract operations. Once your GP has decided to refer you to a specialist Consultant, you should be offered the choice of the local providers offering this service. If you aren’t offered a choice you are entitled to ask your GP if the procedure is offered by the hospital you would prefer to attend.

There are many advantages in giving you the choice of local hospital, not least reduced waiting times and a greater choice of appointment times. Importantly, there is no cost to you as the patient, other than for any extras you purchase while there. Your treatment costs are paid by the NHS. Nuffield Health York Hospital provides a first rate experience for patients using its services. All patients benefit from their own private bedrooms with en suite facilities. They also have zero rates of serious infections such as MRSA and Clostridium.Difficile. n If you want to access any of their services then please contact the hospital on 01904 715000, visit nuffieldhealth.com or ask your GP.

PLATINUM POWER!

York business woman Marie Skyes has backed the product by managing the advice site following her personal battle to quit her lifelong habit. The site is designed to guide people through the alternative smoking options and to review all major brands on the UK market.

Platinum Hair opened their doors on the 1st November, and put a whole lot of work into re-doing the salon. Owners Chloe and Laura decided to re-do the whole place after taking it on from the previous owner, and are very proud of the finished product! Platinum Design prides themselves on their near city centre salon, without the city centre price tags (with great student and OAP discounts thrown in too!). Laura told us; ‘We love welcoming clients into our friendly atmosphere and providing them with fresh and funky ideas whenever they come to get their hair done’. Oh and don’t forget, gents are welcome too!

n For more information visit www.e-smokereviews.com.

n You’ll find the girls at Platinum at 65a Lawrence Street. For appointments call 430768.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

It’s not every day you hear about a ‘surprise’ wedding. But Lisa Carlyle, owner of Kuki Hair & Beauty Spa, did just that when she arranged a dream wedding for her parents. Here’s her story; Young, naive and sixteen. That was Lisa’s parents, Brian and Irma, almost 43 years ago. They met when Brian asked Irma for directions (and a date) and it was love at first sight! When Irma fell pregnant at sixteen, Brian asked her to marry him immediately, but their wedding day was a disaster. Lisa told us; ‘my parents are wonderful people and I always promised myself that one day I would treat my parents to a wedding they deserved’. She said; ‘I told them I was having a big birthday party’. As Brian and Irma live in Spain, they flew back especially for their daughters ‘birthday party’, only to be told about their surprise wedding on arrival in the UK! (luckily they both said yes!) 100 guests attended the gorgeous black and white themed wedding at Merchant Taylors Hall. The wedding was a great success, and Irma said ‘‘I have never been so nervous but it was the best day of my life. I have finally had the wedding of my dreams’.Who says romance is dead!?

your family

Advertisers Announcement

Unmaried couples Why you MUST put in place a “Co-habitation Agreement.” When purchasing a property with your partner, your conveyancing solicitor should ask whether you wish to own the property as either: • “Joint Tenants” (a form of joint ownership where all the owners have an identical legal interest in the property): or • “Tenants in Common” (joint ownership of property where each joint tenant owns a separate share in the property)

be apportioned. The Court decided that the best test to apply was to consider what was “fair and just” between the parties, taking into account the whole course of dealings between them. Prior to issues of this nature, they were determined by the Court examining and assessing the common intention of both parties in order to decide whether or not to depart from the usual 50:50 split when they initially bought the property.

It is usual for both married and unmarried couples to hold the property as joint tenants; as if one of the parties dies the survivor automatically inherits the deceased partner’s share in the property.

What happened in the case of Kernott v Jones?

Should you decide to own the property as “Joint Tenants,” you might well assume that should you ever separate from your partner that you would be entitled to a 50% interest in the property, however you would be mistaken.

• The couple subsequently had two children together;

In a recent case before the Supreme Court (formerly known as the House of Lords i.e. the highest Court in the Land), the Court was required to determine how property owned by joint tenants should

• Once Mr K left the family home he did not contribute towards the mortgage or make any payments towards the maintenance of the children;

• In 1985, Mr K and Ms J purchased a house together in joint names for £30,000 with Ms J providing a £6,000 deposit; • Mr K spent time, effort and money in carrying out improvements to the property, including building an extension; • In 1993 the parties separated and Mr K moved out of the family home;

• In 2006, Mr K demanded his half share in the property.

towards the maintenance of the children or the mortgage once he had vacated the family home coupled with the fact that Ms J had contributed more than 80% toward the cost of purchasing the home, Mr K’s legal entitlement amounted to a 10% share with Ms J entitled to 90%. So what does this mean for all the Cohabiting couples out there? In the event that an unmarried couple’s relationship breaks down, it is now uncertain as to what percentage the parties would each be entitled to from their joint property. What should I do? Anyone purchasing a property with their partner should seek legal advice and enter into a Cohabitation Agreement and/or a Declaration of Trust. In the event that the relationship comes to an end the parties would have a legal document setting out exactly what percentage interest both parties own and what each party’s intentions are. Drawing up a simple Cohabitation Agreement or Declaration of Trust could save on lengthy and costly legal proceedings in the future. I charge from £295 plus VAT and disbursements for this service.

The Court decided that as Mr K failed to contribute

n Should you require further advice on this matter, I offer a free 30 minute consultation and I would be more than happy to go through your options with you and your partner. Please email me at sarahb@richardsonlaw.co.uk or alternatively contact me on 01904 642727

your family

Culture At The Breakfast Table! Last September saw another increase in the amounts of overseas students studying at boarding schools in the York area and the rest of the UK.

These bright young students are full boarders at schools during term time, but need host family accommodation when schools close for half terms and holidays. Many of the students hail from as far as Hong Kong, China, Russia, Kazakhstan and Thailand, and flying home often isn’t an option for them. Bright World is a long established Guardianship company dedicated to offering host accommodation to these international students. Becoming a host can be a really fulfilling and rewarding role which brings a new understanding of culture into your home. Your own children will also benefit from sharing their home with an international student, leaning about new cultures and countries (think of it as a geography lesson at the breakfast table!) What’s more, Bright World pays a generous nightly rate to cover expenses, which can offer a valuable extra income to families. n For more information on becoming a host family for Bright World Guardianships contact Lana Foster on lana@brightworld.co.uk

YORK IS ‘EXCELLENT’ FOR KIDS City of York’s Children’s Services have once again been assessed as ‘excellent’ for the fourth year running by independent Ofsted inspectors. Children’s Services is assessed by a combination of school inspections, early years settings, fostering / adoption services, residential care and council services for children. York is in fact the only area outside London to have been consistently awarded top marks during the lifetime of the assessment. Councillor Ruth Potter, Cabinet member for Education, Children and Young People’s Services, said: “I’m delighted that our services for children and young people in York have once again been rated as amongst the very best in the country”. Something to be proud of we think!

Making music Young school age musicians could receive financial help with their instrumental lessons, through the launch of a new bursary scheme. Up to 20 pupils a year could receive a bursary towards the cost of their music lessons with a City of York Council Approved Tutor. This means that youngsters who are on Free School Meals, or Looked After Children, could receive up to £200 a year to put towards their lesson costs. n Details of the bursary scheme, and York Arts Academy can be found at www.york.gov.uk

Help for parents As parents, we need all the help we can get. And now City of York Council has introduced a new programme that promises to do just that. ‘Strengthening Families Strengthening Communities’ is aimed at supporting working parents of five to 13 year olds who need advice and information to help them feel confident in their role as a mother or father. “It’s a chance for mums and dads to relax after work with other parents to explore family life in the 21st century,” says Liz Savage, programme co-ordinator at City of York Council. “They share their experiences and learn new strategies in an informal environment.” n Daytime and evening programmes are available. For more information or to book a place, call or text Liz Savage on 07833 482 284.

HOW TO...

Have a stress free Christmas! It’s not easy juggling everything in the run up to the big day. Frantic supermarket sweeps, wrapping presents in record timing, hyper active children, turkey traumas, charades with the in-laws... (trust us we can relate). We’ve had our fair share of Christmas disasters here at Local Link! So, as we are simply brilliant, we have some top tips to ensure you will get through the festive season as cool as a cucumber. • Sort the kid’s advent calendars in late November to avoid any disappointed faces come 1st of December! • Stock up non-perishable and freezable food and drink in the first week of December; booze, condiments, chocolates etc (and resist opening them early!). This saves doing one huge food shop when many popular items have sold out.

• Beat the crowds and take advantage of online shopping. It can be a lifesaver and many sites offer free delivery and gift wrap. You can even send the gifts straight to the recipient. • Post your Christmas cards out early doors, something easy to tick off the list and will give you peace of mind. • Fresh produce is best bought from 22nd-24th December – mouldy sprouts will not go down well! • Reserve your bird instead of elbowing fellow shoppers in the meat aisle. Butchers and the like expect at least one weeks’ notice. • Try to get the kids off sweet treats by 4pm on the 24th. Kids, sugar rush and Christmas Eve is a lethal combination!

your family

Ask the ExpertS...

Family Law

A way with words

with ni C K I M I TC H E L L & M ark H epworth

A York College A Level student’s poem has made it on to the shortlist for a prestigious literary prize. Liam Morgan’s poem, Me Second Dad, was shortlisted from 7,500 entries for the Foyles’ poetry prize. Liam, aged 17, came up with the poem after attending a Creative Writing course. Says Liam, “As part of the course I attended a workshop on how to get work published, which mentioned the Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award competition. I entered four poems, one of which was selected for the final. I was amazed, I really didn’t expect it because so many people entered and I didn’t even think my poetry would be seen. It was a shock, but a good one!”

Me Second Dad by Liam Morgan E’ed slum around in t’orange vest, That’d never stay tucked in. An’ ‘is face war grey an wrinkly As he smiled a toothless grin.

E’ed wesh and rinse his fine, black hair And use his metal combs While singing ‘Snot Unusual’ A ringer for that Tom Jones.

One seeing eye war narrer As he’d look in my direction He’d seh a grumpy ‘mornin’, And I’d stand to his attention.

I’d feel a smack upon mi’ ‘ed I’d wonder what wor up. “Yer can’t wesh reyt yer mucky sod” E’ed point right in his cup.

“Pour us a pot ‘o’ tea,” he’d seh. An I’d peck his grizzled cheek He would sit ‘n’ slurp ‘n’ splutter And claim me brew were weak.

If it want that, or summat else He’d still be bloody moanin’ So off me mam went to special court Deciding to disown him.

Last month the Supreme Court gave judgment in the case of Kernott v Jones, the terms of which will affect huge numbers of unmarried couples. In next month’s article, I will consider what the effect of the judgment will be but first let us look at how Ms Jones and Mr Kernott got themselves into such a mess. What follows also goes to show that the old phrase “ignorance of the law is no excuse”, although correct, is a million miles from reality when the country’s top judges cannot agree what the law is in the first place! The saga of Mr Kernott and Ms Jones began over 30 years ago in 1980. At that time, they were an ordinary couple blissfully unaware of the problems that lay ahead and the everlasting fame they would achieve, at least in legal circles, as the parties in the leading case of Kernott v Jones. In 1983 Mr K moved in to live with Ms J in her mobile home. They had their first child the following year and bought a new home in Thundersley, Essex. Importantly, although Ms Jones provided £6,000 of the £30,000 purchase price and Mr Kernott provided nothing, the property was bought in their joint names, as a result of which they acquired joint and equal ownership. In 1993 Mr K moved out but neither party sought to do anything about the joint ownership of the property. Ms Jones continued to live there and paid the mortgage whilst Mr K bought his own house in neighbouring Benfleet. By 2006 the property was worth approximately £240,000 and, on the face of it, Mr K was entitled to one half of that amount. Ms J took a different view, telling her former partner that his absence from the property and his failure to contribute anything to the mortgage had severely dented any claim he might have against it. Ms J applied to the Court seeking a declaration that she owned the entire property. For reasons which I shall consider next month, the Judge decided that she and Mr Kernott did not own the property equally; instead, he found that she owned 90% and Mr K only 10%. In other words, he reduced the value of Mr K’s interest from £120,000 to £24,000. Incensed, Mr Kernott stormed off to the High Court where a more senior Judge ruled once again in favour of Ms Jones. Mr K then issued yet another appeal, this time to the Court of Appeal in London where three Lords Justice of Appeal solemnly considered who was right and who was wrong. Of these three, two said yes and one said no; in other words a majority found in favour of Mr Kernott! However, such was the importance of the legal basis of the decision of the Court of Appeal, that Ms Jones was allowed to petition the Supreme Court in an attempt to overturn the Court of Appeal. Finally, on 9th November 2011 five Law Lords sitting as the Supreme Court decided that the Court of Appeal had got it wrong and the original Judge had been right all along. Ms Jones kept her house and Mr Kernott was left with his 10% which will be nothing compared with the vast legal costs that this legal saga will have created. All of this could, however, have been avoided if the parties had entered into a Separation Agreement back in 1993. For ordinary members of the public, that surely is the moral of this case. Next month we will look at the reasons which underpinned the Supreme Court’s decision, although you will not be surprised to hear that, although the five judges reached the same decision, their individual reasons were rather different.

n For legal advice on this or any aspect of family law, contact Mark Hepworth or Nicki Mitchell at Denison Till solicitors on 01904 611411 mgbh@denisontill.com or ncm@denisontill.com

your family

TAKE TO THE STAGE! Whether you’re destined for the stage or you just fancy doing something new, Jorvik Gilbert & Sullivan Company invite you to join their spring performance of The Mikado. After great success with their performance of the Pirates of Penzance earlier this year, they are planning something even bigger and better for the New Year. The Mikado will be a fun, sing-a-long adventure which will be just as fun to perform as it will be to watch! The show will be performed at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre on the 18th of March 2012, so rehearsals are getting underway next month. And before you break into a cold sweat at the thought of auditioning in an X Factor type manner, don’t worry, there’s no need to audition for chorus parts. All you need to do is turn up to their first rehearsals at Huntington Methodist Church on the 23rd January at 7.30pm; they’d love to see you there. For those wanting principal parts, auditions are held on the 28th November. n If you fancy getting involved, email info@yorvikgsc.org.uk or visit www.jorvikgsc.org.uk for more info. Oh and break a leg!

Child’s play? Working with children in York is a rewarding career with many benefits. But where do you start? The recruitment pages at www.yor-ok.org.uk/jobs is an excellent place to find out more. You’ll find all the information you need on: • Helping with starting or developing a career in Early Years • Information relating to the children’s workforce in York • Details of the types of roles available within Early Years • Qualifications within the Early Years sector • Current job vacancies • Details of support services to assist with your application.

York employs over 2400 member of staff, with 70% of these roles in paid employment. So there is a career for you!

Still not sure about what role is best for you? Then why not volunteer? York has over 250 voluntary and community organisations working with children and

n If you’d like any further information, please contact the Family Information Service on 01904 554444 or email fis@york.gov.uk.

do you want to host an international student for bright world guardianships?

‘This is a great job and has provided our family with a valuable extra income as well as being lots of fun and a cultural experience for us all.’ Bright World Guardianships Ltd takes care of international children studying at UK boarding schools in the York area. We are looking for families to host our students for some weekends and half terms.

For more information please contact: Lindsay Tribe, Host Family Recruitment Manager lindsay@brightworld.co.uk or call 01273 835745 52

young people in York. Visit the starting work section of the website for details of current volunteering opportunities or visit www.do-it.org.uk for more volunteering opportunities.

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CHRISTMAS AROUND THE GLOBE

We Brits love our festive traditions and Christmas wouldn’t be the same without them; the Queen’s Speech, the Quality Street variety tin, the epic battle for the last pig-in-blanket, Dad falling asleep on the sofa by 5pm. You get the gist? But whilst we are tucking into our turkey, how else is Christmas being celebrated around the world…? • AUSTRIA The gifts under the tree are opened after dinner on Christmas Eve (great for eager beavers) and baked carp is traditionally served for the Christmas dinner. • RUSSIA Babushka is the traditional Christmas figure who delivers gifts to children. So that’s where Kate Bush got her inspiration? • MEXICO Kids are blindfolded and try to break a decorated clay piñata that dangles on the end of a rope and is filled with sweets and toys. Sounds like fun after a few Sherries… • AUSTRALIA Bikinis and Santa hats is the festive dress code in Oz, with temperatures in the mid 30’s, Australians have beach parties, barbeques and picnics on the 25th. • netherlands Kids eagerly await the arrival of ‘Sinterklauss’ on 5th December. Instead of mince pies and brandy by the fireplace, they fill their shoes with hay and sugar for his horse. Cute, but extremely impractical!

your family

Christmas Giving Christmas is a time for giving, and whilst we love spoiling our little ones, why not give them something that will help others too? Here’s a little inspiration if you’re looking for an alternative gift to give the kids this Christmas. •

Oxfam Unwrapped – Oxfam Unwrapped offers gifts from as little as £5 which will benefit people in developing and third world communities all around the world. You can give a village teacher training, fresh water, green energy, livestock, food and more. Visit www.oxfam.org.uk/unwrapped.

•

WWF Adopt an Animal – The WWF offer 12 exotic and endangered species to adopt from as little as £3 a month (or a one off payment of £40). Choose from snow leopards, dolphins, elephants, tigers and more. The sponsor will receive a pack with certificate, stickers, soft toy, animal fact book, magazines and more. Visit www.wwf.org.uk.

•

RSPCA – If you’re thinking of adopting a dog, why not turn it into a Christmas gift for the kids? Plenty of dogs in York are going free to a loving home and the kids will be delighted. Call 654949.

•

Cats Protection – If you’re more of a cat person, The Cats Protection has plenty of gorgeous cats this Christmas that need friendly family and a cosy home. Call 760356. Remember - animals are for life - not just ofor Christmas!

your family

LESSONS FOR LIFE It’s a simple fact of life that stress is a big part of our daily lives. Whether it’s at work, at home or out and about, there’s no getting away from it. But the key thing is to learn to deal with it more effectively by making small and simple changes. By enrolling in a ten week course with York School of Philosophy, you’ll discover ways to deal with everyday stress and emotion. They can teach you how to calm an overactive mind and to overcome limiting habits and thoughts. By exploring practises to help improve concentration, you will actually work more efficiently and enjoy stronger relationships with the people around you. So go and try it for yourself and make the first steps to a more stress free you. The course is open to everyone – all you need to bring with you is an open and enquiring mind. The course begins on 24th January at the King’s Manor, next to the Art Gallery, from 7.15pm – 9.30pm. n To find out more call 643586 or visit www.philosophycourse.com

Musical minis

It’s never easy entertaining the kids during the Christmas holidays (there are only so many times you can play on the WII without going round the bend!). So why not get them involved in something really productive that will give them a great experience, and you a well deserved break. Yorchestra is a non-residential holiday orchestra which runs during the school holidays for up to four days of orchestral playing, sectionals and workshops, giving young players a chance to acquire new orchestral skills. The group is lead by a team of professional musicians who have four orchestras to cater for kids with just six months playing experience to those of grade 8+ standard. n The next course runs from 28-30th December and places are offered on a first-come-first-served basis. Application forms can be found at www.yorchestra.org.

Whether you’re looking for a fun family portrait or a great glamour shot, Portfolio is the place to go. Their new studio in Micklegate really does have something for everyone. can dream it, we try to do it,” they say, and with recent requests including a dad and daughter flying Mary Poppins style over York Minster, they could be right! Portfolio offers a free family consultation before your photo session, and there are also two large changing areas.

dedicated to putting your dreams into pictures...

Their fantastic infinity studio with its ‘endless’ curved white walls is the ideal place for families, kids, babies, pets or anyone looking for something a bit different. The spacious studio means children and pets can run around happily, while family photographer Madeline captures the perfect informal shot. They also have a state of the art green screen, which means they can superimpose any backdrop. “If you

Tracy took along her kids for a session. “The staff were extremely patient with two very lively boys, and were happy to let them take along their own props. They had a fantastic time and I was really pleased with the results.” she says. For something completely different, there’s also the glamour side of the business. This is a real event in itself. You’ll spend an hour in the dressing room, having your hair and makeup professionally done, before a photo session with experienced

photographer Brendan in the studio. There are a huge number of sets and backdrops to choose from, from a graffiti or Manga wall – perfect for teenagers – to a motorbike and even a bed! “The bed is popular for ‘boudoir’ style shots, but it also makes a cute family portrait with kids peeping out from under the duvet,” says Jennifer from Portfolio. After your shoot, you can view the results in the plush viewing room. Unlike other studios, there is no high pressure selling – although with prices so reasonable and the quality so high, you might want to buy them all! Portfolio Studios can present your prints in a variety of ways, including stylish double sided acrylic mounts and block mounts, which are not only attractive but also virtually indestructible! And if you are spoilt for choice, why not go for a block montage of all your favourite shots?

n For more information on what they can do for you, give them a call on 01904 652522.

your family

Need a helping hand?

Are you a mum, dad or carer who is bringing up children? You are doing what is probably the most challenging job anyone can ever do! Being a parent can often be very pleasurable and rewarding, but there are also times when you can feel exhausted, stressed, frustrated overwhelmed and inadequate. The added pressures of life today can also sometimes make parenthood feel even more difficult and isolated. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re finding things difficult being a new parent, dealing with toddler tantrums, supporting with homework, understanding your teenager or worrying that they are safe and healthy you are not alone. There are a range of parent programmes and information to support parents of children and young people of all ages. Many parents find that going along to a course can be a great help as they realise they are not the only one finding things tough. To find out what is available please contact the Family Information Service on 01904 554444 or visit the Parents Zone of the Yor-Ok website (www.yor-ok. org.uk/parenting) where you can get information to help you decide what might work for you. You can also make an online self referral so that someone can contact you with ideas about what might help with the things you are finding challenging about parenting.

your family

Support local

charity cd

Here at Local Link we love spreading the word when someone local does something really special, which is why we are supporting Norman Green and his charity CD, Quiet Country. Norman was part of the 1960’s skiffle group The Off Beats, who were extremely popular in York and the surrounding areas. He lost his dear wife Margaret to cancer nine years ago and this year Norman had to undergo radiotherapy himself due to prostate cancer. During his treatment, he decided to do something positive by dusting off his guitar and recording a CD which is being sold in aid of The Prostate Cancer Charity and St. Leonard’s Hospice, York. Norman has put a huge amount of time, effort and investment into this CD and he hopes that it will be enjoyed and also increase awareness that Prostate cancer can be easily treated when detected early. The CD costs £12 and is being sold in various outlets such as Dean’s Garden Centre (Stockton on the Forest), Barnitts (Colliergate) and St Leonards Hospice (Tadcaster Road) and Langlands Garden Centre (Shiptonthorpe). Alternatively you can email quietcountry@f2s.com or call Norman on 400085 for a copy.

Love your laptop! Is your computer a mystery to you? Are you scared by Skype and confused by Google? You could be missing out on a whole world of opportunities, says Anita of Computer Start. For the past year, York’s mobile computer tutor has been showing people of all ages how to email, skype, shop online and showing them the wonders of the web. And now she’d like to do the same for you. She’s running a ‘Bring your own laptop’ tuition day every Tuesday in Heworth. Sessions will be in groups of up to four, each lasting 75minutes. A free computer health check

will be available if you need one and where anti-virus is required, this will be installed free of charge. Learn to use your laptop in a friendly environment and perhaps make new friends with others just starting their computer journey! n Booking is strictly by appointment. For more information, contact Anita on 07944 717019 or email anita@computerstartyork.com

your family

Homecare that cares

Once a loved one needs care, we go to any lengths to ensure they are well looked after. But with all strains of daily life, this isn’t always easy. Sometimes people need a little extra help, and SureCare York is in a position to support carers in more ways than one. From weekly half-hour visits to 24 hour live-in care, Surecare can meet all your needs whilst your loved ones enjoy the comfort of their home. After being established for over ten years, it’s no surprise that Surecare offers the highest quality homecare to elderly and vulnerable clients. Whatever your need is, a fully trained member of staff will be appropriately hand-picked to suit your individual requirements. Whether you need help with personal care, domestic or social support, Surecare can take the strain off your responsibilities. Jane Kitt, manager of SureCare York explains, “The service we can provide is aimed at helping people enjoy a level of confidence and independence, enabling them to keep hold of the household reins. At the same time, it can complement the excellent support given by family, friends or neighbours, so everyone has the chance of a break from routine”. SureCare pride themselves on giving a value for money service and can advise on funding options for care. York’s homecare services are calculated at an hourly rate, with the minimum length of a visit set at 30 minutes. n For more information on their services, please call 01904 520192.

your pet

in association with:

Got a problem with your pet? Tracey Pulleyn of Minster Vets has the answer! Ned help? Write to us at the address on page 5, or email info@yourlocallink.co.uk. Mark your question ‘Pet talk’.

Q. My cat has always brought us “little

Q. I am thinking about getting a real

presents” home, especially mice. Apart from locking her in the house is there anything I can do to discourage her from doing this?

Christmas Tree this year and decorating it traditionally, what advice can you give me to keep my dog and cat safe?

a. Unfortunately hunting is part of a cats natural behaviour and you will find it difficult to stop this. The fact is that your cat is bringing presents home for you for her is a sign of affection! As hunting is a natural behaviour and has been taught by the mother to chase and catch and bring home for her kittens to practice their hunting instincts, this is effectively what she is doing for you. Try not to over exaggerate your fear/disgust of her bringing in her prey. Ignore her and remove the prey. Over exaggerating could cause you cat to seem that you are pleased with their catch. Unfortunately, once a cat has been free to roam outside to then stop this could instigate behaviour problems, such as house soiling and aggression. Try using a bell on her collar to make her prey aware of her presence. Always ensure that you have an appropriately fitted collar.

There are many hazards at Christmas that you must be aware of. Anything new in the home is bound to create a stir in the house and draw your pets attention. Ensure that the tree is sturdy and won’t topple over if you cat decides to investigate it. The needles that fall from the tree are indigestible and should be cleaned away to avoid them been eaten. Glass baubles if played with may shatter and could end in a cut paw or mouth if pets play with them. Place baubles at a height to stop temptation. Chocolate decorations may be great for the kids, but chocolate is toxic to dogs. Tinsel may look very pleasing to the eye, but can cause gastrointestinal blockages if eaten. Avoid placing lights on the lower branches as chewing the wires could cause serious harm or even electrocution. Lots of plants that are

associated with Christmas can be very harmful too. Holly, Poinsettia, mistletoe, and lilies if ingested could be poisonous.

Q. Are there any Christmas foods that I need to avoid giving my pet? The foods that we eat are very rich even for digestive system but even more for our pets. Avoid giving you dog the leftovers of the Christmas pudding as they often contain alcohol, but most toxic are raisins/grapes which can cause liver failure. We all like to think that our pets will enjoy joining in with the Christmas dinner, but it can cause our pets a lot of discomfort. A change in our pets diet can cause vomiting and diarrhoea and can often lead to pets been hospitalised over the Christmas period because of this. Even small amounts can cause an upset tummy so avoid the temptation

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your pet

Give us a

home... All over the city there are animals looking for homes. Could you be the one to offer them the love they need?

Who could ever resist this handsome pair? MUTTON and GEOFF are not only beautiful to look at, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also gentle and nice-natured. Mutton is an undeniable heartbreaker, while Geoff, although ever so slightly quieter, is no less a treasure. As is often the case with white cats, both lads are deaf, and would therefore need to be kept as indoor cats. There will also need to be much in the way of stimulation around the home to keep their environment as interesting and engaging as possible. They would be best suited to a household without very young or boisterous children. n If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interested in finding out more about Mutton and Geoff, or any of the cats at York Cats Protection, call 01904 760356.

Cody neutered male x breed 2yrs old. Cody has been at the centre quite a long time after coming to us as a stray. He has been on a training program and is coming on leaps and bounds, all he needs now is for someone to find room in their heart and let Cody in. He will need an experienced owner but will reward you ten fold. He is such a sweet heart who just gets passed by day after day. Sorry no young children. Snoozer Elderly Gent. Snoozer came to us after his owner sadly passed away, he is such a sweet, gentle fella that constantly gets passed by. He is good with most dogs and could possibly live with cats. He will be a foster dog so his vet bills will be covered at our clinic. Please give Snoozer his second chance of happiness. Snoozer just loves to sit on your knee and be cuddled, all he wants is to feel part of a family again and not be left in an Animal Shelter at his time of life. Bruce Bruce is a sweet lad who would need an experienced owner. He came to the centre after his needs were not getting met. A real favourite with staff as he is such a lovely playful lad. Please look at his beautiful eyes and come and ask about him.

If you could give any of these dogs a home Call: 01904 654 949 or visit RSPCA, Landing Lane, York 61

PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

£299,950

Strensall Road, Earswick £330,000 Looking for a large 5 bedroom detached house with over 1860 sq ft? This great family house has it all with a large lawned rear garden, a gravel driveway and garage as well as spacious living accommodation to include a 33ft lounge/dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, family room/bedroom 5, a ground floor shower room/WC and upstairs you will find two ensuites and a family bathroom/WC.

Do you work from home? Maybe you’re looking to set up your own business and you need premises? Then look no further than this fantastic Brisby built four bed semi-detached family home. It comes with its own bespoke timber outbuilding, complete with shower, bedroom and 17 ft square studio room. You won’t be short of space inside either. On the ground floor you’ll find a lounge, breakfast kitchen/family room and a useful conservatory. Upstairs you’ll find three bedrooms, a family bathroom and separate WC, then up in the loft there’s a spacious bedroom with shower room. Outside there is parking for several cars and larger than average garden with a private deck area. The property situated in a quiet cul de sac. It’s a lot of house that’s bound to appeal to a variety of buyers. And how much is it going to cost? A snip at £299,950.

£164,950

Church Lane, Moor Monkton £295,000 A spacious stone built 4 double bedroom dormer bungalow with gardens and garage and set admist countryside yet within easy reach of York and Harrogate. The extended property has over 1640 sq ft and includes a large contemporary open plan kitchen/dining room providing a great place to dine and socialise, lounge, conservatory, master bedroom with ensuite shower room/WC and bathroom/WC.

For more details or to arrange a viewing call

01904 621532 62

Talk about feeling the love...you can certainly feel it in this delightful, homely two bedroom bungalow being offered for sale by our friends at OPUS Estate Agents. It’s set in a prime residential location with views to the front overlooking open fields. The accommodation briefly comprises a cosy lounge leading off to a sunny conservatory; kitchen, dining areas, inner hall, two bedrooms and a bathroom. To the front of the property there is a block paved drive providing parking for several vehicles, to the rear is a fully enclosed garden. To the rear the garden is laid mainly to lawn with feature pond, patio area and a greenhouse. It’s a very pretty, easily maintained property in a quiet cul de sac that would make a lovely home. And at just £164,950, the price is rather attractive, too. n For more details or to arrange a viewing contact OPUS on 790070 www.opusmove.co.uk.

YOUR PROPERTY with PAULA MATTHEWS

On the move... Paula Matthews at Opus Estate Agents has been chatting to buyers and sellers all over York answering their concerns and queries Q. We are in the process of buying a

type of property. This should ensure that there are minimum periods when your property is not let out. This is a bit of a minefield if you haven’t done it before but if you get it right can be a very lucrative business.

property for nearly £600,000. The property has been down valued by £30,000, but we really love the property and have big plans for it. We would like to proceed with the sale – what do you think we should do? A. If you are part of a chain, negotiate down the chain to keep the sale together. If there is not a chain try to negotiate with the sellers to keep the sale together, they will probably realise in today’s market conditions it’s as much about having the right buyer as having the top price and hopefully you can come to a compromise that means you are both happy to proceed.

Q. We have an interested buyer in our

Q. My house has been on the market for four months with no interest whatsoever, no viewings or calls from the agent to advise if there is anything we can do. I have signed a contract for five months; will I be able to change my agent? A. If you speak to them and tell them how unhappy you are with the service, they may let you switch or at least let you go with another agent as well as them. It would not be in our best interest to hold a seller to a contract if they are not happy with the service provided. We do not feel at OPUS it is necessary to tie our sellers into long contracts as we are confident we provide a first class service...

bespoke design

Q. I am considering buying to let but haven’t done this before. How can I make sure I get it right? A. Firstly sort your finances then do lot’s of research to find out what makes a good rental property. Consider the areas you would like to buy in and the types of client you want to attract. Make sure you will be charging the right level of rent and offering the most desirable

manufacture

house who would like to put down a deposit to secure the property. Their house is not on the market yet. Do you think we should give them first refusal and what if their property doesn’t sell? A. I would always recommend that the house goes on the open market. However If you are not in a rush and they are offering you the price you want you could set them a time limit to sell their house and accept a non refundable deposit, this gives them chance to sell their property and means you are not entitled to sell to anyone else. A solicitor would need to do the paperwork for you both. This could work for you both as long as you are both realistic in your expectations but is not an ideal position for either of you.

n Opus Estate Agents Tel: 01904 790070 www.opusmove.co.uk

fitting

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LT D

It could be black mould and may be damaging the health of you and your family For a FREE survey and a guaranteed lifetime cure call Envirovent today on 01423 876345

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your home

Revive your roof for year round use

Conservatories can be a great option for home improvement, adding much needed space to your home. But does your conservatory seem freezing in winter and boiling in summer? Roof Revive is a roofing company based in Sherrif Hutton that has had nationwide success due to its state of the art insulation system. The system can be installed to transform your conservatory into a fully functioning part of the house that can be used 12 months a year.

If you’ve noticed our December supplement ‘Little Stars’, you’ll see that roof revive have sponsored it throughout. The money given from sponsors within our mini mag will go towards buying gifts for children in York Hospitals Children’s Ward and the Special Care Baby Unit, so we’d like to say a huge Thank You to Roof Revive for their generous and valuable support.

The benefits to Roof Revives genius insulation are endless. Not only does it control extreme temperatures, but it also reduces glare and reduces rain noise. By maintaining a consistent temperature, it can significantly reduce your energy costs, so will be saving you valuable pennies in the long run. And best of all, no alteration or removal is needed from your existing conservatory roof, so the procedure is easy peasy.

n For your no obligation consultation call them on 0808 1789358.

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What’s hot &what’s not We’ve got the lowdown on what the well dressed home is wearing WHAT’S HOT Outdoor lights We love it when houses and streets go crazy and light up their homes for charity. Not sure how we’d cope with all those flashing Santas, snowmen and the ice skating penguins, though!

Decorated mantelpieces Want a designer look? Fill your mantelpiece with candles, then fill in the gaps with fresh foliage, pine cones and festive baubles. Stick to a simple

colour theme and different heights to avoid a cluttered look. But be careful not to leave your candles unattended – you don’t want a festive fire!

White Christmas When it comes to tree decorations and table settings, it’s definitely all white on the night! White looks classy and dramatic, whether teamed with gold, antiqued silver or crystal and cut glass.

Door wreaths Give your guests a warm welcome with a festive door wreath. Buy one ready made from any florist, garden centre or nursery, or get creative and make your own. Simply buy a ring of florists’ foam, and use wire to attach foliage, baubles, ribbons, pine cones – anything you like!

Real trees Yes, you’ll be picking needles out of your carpet until Easter, but you can’t beat the real thing. To keep your tree

looking great past Boxing Day, keep it well away from fires and radiators, place it in a container that holds water and keep it topped up regularly.

Scents of Christmas Scented candles, pot pourri, diffuser sticks – or even just a Glade Plug-in at a push. Whatever you use, fill your home with the scene of mulled wine spices, cinnamon, satsumas and cloves. You can even get pine scented oils to make your artificial tree smell like the real thing!

your home

WHAT’S NOT Coloured Christmas trees Yes, those novelty black, pink or purple trees are different. But mark our words, you’ll be bored of them by next year. Green looks good in any decor setting, so keep it traditional!

Epic tree light failure They worked last year, and they were fine when you scrunched them up and stuffed them back into the box – oh wait. Maybe that’s the problem...

Rubbishy themed Advent calendars Since when was Justin Bieber or Dora the Explorer anything to do with the Nativity – or even Christmas come to that? And the chocolate’s naff, too. Treat yourself to a stylish advent calendar you can fill with your own treats – you can use it again and again!

Overpriced candles £80 for a Jo Malone candle? Sorry, but we haven’t got money to burn! Look out for our handy tips to find out how you can make your Christmas candles last longer.

Festive table arrangements Crackers, check. Personalised place settings, check. Hand crafted table centre, tea lights, baubles and gems scattered down the middle of the table, check. Just one question – where do we put the food?!

Paper tablecloths and candles Advent Calendar Lakeland, High Ousegate, York or www.lakeland.co.uk

Take it from us, they don’t mix. Go for battery operated tea lights – it’s a lot safer!

FRee

Measuring & fitting service

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no:1

choice for blinds

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Space for rent

Looking for some extra sp

ace?

Maybe your family’s cars have outgrown your drive, or you need som ewhere to keep that new Porsche you got for Christmas (well, you never know...). The Joseph Rowntree Housin g Trust have some garages available to rent in New Earswick. tobacco smells and alcohol residue from carpets. For more information, give them a Chemspec is a van mounted cleaning unit with a call on 01904 735000. connecting pipe and vacuum device to enter the building. The vacuum device combines high pressure steam and top quality cleaning chemicals to sanitise carpets and kill all carpet mites, all undertaken by their skilled staff with over 5 years experience.

Carpet TLC Americans don’t do things by halves; food portions, theme parks, plastic surgery... get the gist? Everything seems to be bigger and better across the pond, and their advanced Chemspec carpet cleaning technology is no exception. Stamford Bridge based company Hi-Tech is one of the very few companies in the UK to have imported the Chemspec system, from New York to York! More and more local households and businesses are discovering the endless benefits of using the Chemspec system. Chemspec has long been established in the US as the most thorough method to remove stains, bacteria,

Hi-Tech is a family business that prides themselves on providing the lowest prices and will beat any like-for-like price. Give them a ring for a friendly free quote and mention ‘Local Link’ on enquiry.

n Call 01759 371984 or visit www.carpetcleaningyork.com for more information.

Woodwork Tuition Bob Lambert has an impressive 45 years of experience in the woodwork business, for 20 of which he’s been passing on his woodwork wisdom as a qualified tutor. Now that he is semi-retired, Bob takes great pleasure in offering one-to-one tuition, as he is able to pass down the skills to those who enjoy working with wood as a hobby. Bob told us ‘I love working with wood and showing others how to enjoy the same. My passion is woodturning but I can teach most aspects of woodworking and help students with their woodworking projects’. Bob can teach you in your own work space or you can arrange one or two days to spend with him at his workshop. Students have ranged from 18 to 85, but no matter what their age, Bob ensures his students have fun, are challenged, and go away even more enthusiastic about woodwork than before. Sounds good to us! n For details call 348343 or visit www.woodworkingacademy.co.uk

Bi-fold Doors From £990

Composite Doors From £400

Remember last winter when the snow came down and caught us all out? Be prepared this year by stocking up on rock salt before the big freeze sets in. Rock salt mixes with moisture to form a saline solution. This freezes at a lower temperature than water, so it stops frost and ice forming. For that reason, rock salt is even more effective if you spread it early, before the snow starts to fall. Rock salt is cheap and easily available at this time of year, so stock up and stay ahead of the game! Look out for suppliers in this month’s Your Local Link.

Fantastic Deals Available Conservatories From £1250

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your home

New Year, New Kitchen The guys at Express Kitchens are proud to introduce a new concept in kitchen fitting - giving your old kitchen a professional make over in just one day!

Express Kitchens make it easy for you, ensuring top quality along the way. Your new kitchen is made to measure ensuring it’s a perfect fit, and come at prices you will love. One person will see you through your project from start to finish, which means you won’t have to deal with 5 different sales men in the process (hallelujah!). And if that wasn’t enough, all the parts for your new kitchen are delivered in one go, and take just one day to fit. Just think of the minimal tea making! The smarty pants behind Express Kitchens is managing director Jeremy Pickup, who said ‘having spent 12 years fitting other company’s kitchens, I wanted to create a unique way of selling affordable kitchens, to delight customers without compromise’. With the New Year round the corner, there’s never been a better excuse to give your kitchen some TLC. n Call 01759 305 492 for a no obligation quote or visit www.xpresskitchens.co.uk

www.a-ablinds.co.uk 71

survive Christmas!

ents Did you know that around 80,000 accid d perio s stma Chri the over e hom occur in the d rstan unde you e, hom same (not all in the – that would just be weird). Here’s how to protect your home and yourself from festive mishaps... • Familiarise yourself with your fuse box and electricity isolation valve (usually found together); your gas isolation valve (next to your gas meter) and your stopcock (under the kitchen sink or in the downstairs loo). ding • Keep a first aid kit handy, inclu indigestion relief, painkillers, antihistamines, antiseptic and plasters. Also make sure you know where your nearest 24 hour chemist is in case of emergencies. • Check your insurance policy. Many tradespeople charge extra for a Christmas Day call out, so it’s worth getting specialist insurance to cover this.

News, tips and money saving ideas for inside and outside your home...

Handy (festive) hints & tips... She makes, she bakes, she decorates – and she’s got Christmas all wrapped up! Our very own domestic goddess Rachel shares her favourite festive wisdom... • Save the cardboard middles from your wrapping paper, and use them to wind your lights for storage. It will save having to untangle them next year! • For cheap and cheerful decorations, fill a big glass vase with old baubles. Alternatively, pile them high on a cake stand or glass fruit bowl. • Coloured baubles make unusual placecard holders – just stick name cards to the wire hook at the top! • Defrost the freezer to make space for Christmas food; it’ll also run more efficiently. • Store your candles in the fridge – it will stop them burning down too fast.

• Got a special candle that’s too nice to use? Burn it down slightly to make a space in the top, then put in a tea light. You can light your candle as often as you like and it will never burn down! • Candle wax on carpets can be removed by covering it with a piece of kitchen towel and then using a hot iron on top to melt the wax. If you want to get wax off a hard surface, such as a table, use an ice cube to freeze it solid, then carefully pick off the wax. • Never use hot water to clear snow from paths, as it may refreeze into black ice. Try scattering a tablespoon of dishwasher or table salt over every square metre of snow.

your home

The heat is on As festive disasters go, having your heating pack up on Christmas day is right up there with finding The Best of Daniel O’Donnell in your stocking. Having a heating health check will not only save you a big festive freeze, it can also make your heating 20% more efficient, saving you money too! Darren at DRS has 12 years experience in boiler servicing and gas repairs. For more information, give him a call on 01904 499247 or 07866 387846.

Easily spooked? We all know an outdated bathroom or dodgy pub carpet can put off homebuyers. But how about a ghost? A recent report by property website Globrix found that 15% of homebuyers don’t believe in ghosts, but still wouldn’t buy a house that was allegedly haunted. Almost a quarter of house hunters would expect to pay less than 50% for a haunted property. Not surprisingly, 54% reckon they wouldn’t tell if they suspected their house was haunted. “For most prospective buyers, how a property feels is often just as important as how it looks,” says Jennifer Warner from Globrix. “It’s therefore interesting that many people would choose to live with the possibility of a few unexplained bumps in the night than miss out on their dream home.”

Floor show Carpets get some seriously harsh treatment around Christmas. As well as all those visitors’ muddy shoes, there are also the inevitable party spillages. Sometimes it’s more than a vacuum cleaner can cope with, so why not treat your carpet to some TLC with a good professional clean? Abbey Carpet Cleaning offers a professional service, including odour and stain removal. They’re fully insured, and right now they’re offering 10% off with their ad in Your Local Link. They’ll even include a free deodoriser! For more information, call 01904 360174.

Price Match Guarantee

Top tree tips Create a designer look for your Christmas tree with these tips...

• Start with the lights. Work from the bottom and work upwards, weaving lights over one branch and under the next. If you only have a short length of lights, go to the back of the tree and then loop up around a branch to hold it in place and head to the front again.

• Ditch the tinsel. Festoon your tree with ribbon instead. Or attach pretty bows on the ends of branches to compliment your colour scheme.

And when it’s all over…

• Choose a colour theme that compliments your home colour scheme. Choose three or four different types of baubles – they look smarter than a mish mash.

Getting rid of your tree without filling your house with needles is a challenge. You can buy special tree disposal bags from many hardware stores and garden centres, or for a budget option, an old bed sheet does the same job.

• Place small decorations at the top, and larger at the bottom, mixing colours as you go. Place treasured decorations on inside branches – it will keep them safe and help give your tree depth, too.

Pick up any dropped needles with a dustpan and brush or the crevice tool of your vacuum cleaner – avoid using the standard cleaning head, as the needles tend to get stuck inside!

LOOKING TO SELL? We URGENTLY need more PROPERTIES due to our recent SALES SUCCESS

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Free roof check Why do disasters always seem to happen at Christmas? Ovens break down as soon as the turkey goes in, the heating packs up as you’re settling down for the Queen’s Speech, the roof springs a leak all over the guest room just as Granny’s settling down for the night...Avoid disaster by getting your roof checked out before the festive season. Ebor Roofing & Plastics is offering free winter roof check. They can also carry out a whole variety of roof work, from new roofs and repairs, slating, tiling, repointing and much more. And just in case disaster does strike, they offer an emergency 24 hour call out service. n For more information, call 0800 7471766 or 07581 332457.

making the move work for you Call us today to book a FREE No Obligation Valuation Tel 01904 790070

your home

Wood’s good What do Prince Charles, Jeremy Clarkson and TV interior guru George Clark all have in common? They all own woodburning stoves. Woodburners are not only eco friendly and save on bills, they’re also healthier too. According to the Solid Fuel Association, woodburners promote the healthy circulation of air in a house, minimising condensation and getting rid of mould spores which can cause bronchial irritation. "Medical research has demonstrated that people living in houses with solid fuel heating are significantly less likely to suffer from asthma and hay fever compared to those living in houses with other forms of heating,” says a spokesman. And they’ll give Santa a warm welcome, too... If you want a woodburning stove, you’ll need a chimney with a large enough flue to cope with the output you’ll need for your room. If you haven’t got a chimney can you use a twin wall flue system. Ask your supplier for advice.

A glass act

Johnny Gregory has been making windows in York for a quarter of a century. He recently put all his experience and expertise to excellent use, setting up his own business in Malton Road. As well as making and supplying a whole range of UPVC windows, JG Trade Windows is the only company in York to make their own composite doors. Composite is a popular choice for exterior doors – not only are they more secure, they also come in a range of colours and finishes to suit any style of home. And since all the doors and windows are made to measure on the premises, Johnny and his team can help solve even the trickiest window problems. To find out more, call him on 01904 421646. n JG Trade Windows, Unit 2, 219a Malton Road YO32 9TD.

Here are some top tips from Zero Waste to help you have a greener than green Christmas...

Have a green

Christmas As you read this, York will be buzzing with people buying tonnes of gifts and goodies to make Christmas extra special. When the presents are wrapped and the fridge is stocked up, we feel a great sense of achievement don’t we? But what happens to all your Christmas waste once the fun is over?

‘Britain will create 3 million tonnes of rubbish this Christmas - the equivalent of 400,000 doubledecker buses. Over half of this could be recycled. A little thought and preparation can make this year the greenest Christmas ever!’ As well as all your lovely gifts, sitting under your Christmas tree is a pile of wrapping paper, packaging, boxes and

bubble wrap. But that’s not all. Along with your delicious Christmas dinner, chilling in your fridge is a heap of plastic bags, containers and paper packaging.

York Rotters are spreading the word about the importance of composting your Christmas waste. They said ‘over a third of the contents of the average rubbish bin can easily be composted. By composting your own waste, you save valuable space in your bins and landfill sites’. So give it a go this Christmas and produce some green and guilt-free waste (you’ll just have to find other ways to feel guilty!).

Q Plan your festive meals. It is one of the most effective ways you can cut wastage and food bills. Q Dec the halls with real holly. Try using sprigs and branches with berries and pine cones to make a festive mobile, or wreath. Q Be battery wise Cut costs by using rechargeable ones and recycle your old ones. Q Give unwanted gifts a new lease of life via Freecycle or drop off at a charity shop. Q Earn yourself a warm green feeling by taking reusable bags when you go shopping. at Check out their Green Christmas page .com ress rdp .wo www.zerowasteyork

n For more information on how to go green call the York Rotters on 412861 or visit www.stnicksfields.org.uk.

your environment

Here today...gone tomorrow? Christmas is fun while it lasts. But what can you do with all your unwanted bits and pieces once the festive season is over? Christmas cards Most supermarkets offer recycling facilities for Christmas cards. If you take them to Marks & Spencer, they’ll donate any money raised to The Woodland Trust Trees Artificial trees aren’t easy to recycle (another good reason for the real thing!), but you could give it away to www.freecycle.org. Real trees can be composted, put in your green recycling bin, or taken to any of City of York Council’s household recycling centres, where they will be turned into soil improvers. Fairy lights Have your lights finally twinkled for the last time? Don’t throw them away – they have to be recycled as part of the WEEE directive. Look for the ‘Electrical items’ section at the recycling centre Wrapping paper Makes a great addition to your compost bin at this time of year. Or better still, use 'furoshiki', a Japanese style of wrapping presents with material that can then be reused. Find out more (and pick up more seasonal recycling tips) from www.recyclenow.com.

Fun phones Looking for a unique gift for a style conscious loved one? Then look no further than All Mod Comms Ltd. Experienced telecoms expert Ralph Jackson has a selection of fab original retro phones and answer machines ideal for fans of all things vintage. But these are no mere museum pieces – each one has been lovingly cleaned and restored and fitted with a modern BT plug to bring it bang up to date. Vintage gems on offer include original 1960s Bakelite phones, and original Ericsson Jubilee Commemorative telephone from 1980, and that 1970s classic, the Trimphone. York-based All Mod Comms Ltd can post phones to anywhere in the UK.

n For more information, give Ralph a call on 01904 425952 or 07940 817925.

your garden

Ask Amanda...

Got a gardening problem? Amanda from skelton garden centre can help

Q. I have failed miserably

weather was very testing for all sorts of plants. The first frosts will blacken the top growth and this should be removed and protection given in the form of straw, bracken or sacking to protect the crowns and give them a head start in the Spring.

growing Arum Lillies around my pond, they either don’t grow at all or start Ok then die. What can I do to grow these beautiful plants? A. There are two forms of Zantedeschia. The hardy form is Zantedeschia aethiopica and Z.pentandii and are called Arum lilies and have white or white/ green marked spathes (flowers). The other form is referred to as Calla lilies and these are used as houseplants or seasonal outdoor bedding for containers and have pink, yellow, purple and orange spathes. Callas will flower freely during the summer but if outside the rhizomes must be lifted before the first frosts and stored in compost in a cool, dark, frost free place such as a garage or shed. Replant each spring after risk of frost has passed.

Q. What plants can I grow to Arum lilies (hardy ones) thrive in moist soil in full to partial shade in a sheltered spot. Your lilies may not be growing well because your soil is too dry so water freely during the summer. Consider growing them as a marginal and plant them in water up to 30cms deep. Use aquatic compost and a 30cms deep planting basket. Another reason they are not progressing could be winter cold damage. Although they are hardy, last year’s cold

attract bees into my Garden to help pollinate my fruit trees next year? A. Insect pollination is essential for the cropping of most fruit and some vegetables. The best way to encourage bees into your garden is to provide flowers from February to November. Plants in most Garden centres carry bee friendly labels. To help you choose from the large selection the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) website has a list called Perfect Pollinators so it’s worth looking at that. Here

are some recommendations. Winter- Crocus, Galanthus Nivalis (Snowdrops) Hellebores, Sarococca (Winter box) Spring – Aubretia, Berberis thunbergia, Cheiranthus (wallflower) Ilex (holly) Malus (crab apple) Muscari (grape hyacinth) and Primula vulgaris (native primrose) Summer- Alliums (ornamental onions) Lavatera (mallow) Lonicera (honeysuckle)and Nepeta (catmint) Autumn – Heleniums, Anemone x hybrid (Japanese anemone) Aster (Michaelmas daisy) Dahlias, and Ceratostigma plumbagnoides.

Q. I want to introduce my grandchildren to gardening, what simple things can I grow with them indoors to start them off? A. Broad beans are very easy to

If you have a question for Amanda, write to her c/o Oak Tree Farm, The Moor, Haxby YO32 2LH

There is a fantastic range of seeds for children called Little Gardeners by Johnsons Seeds which offer carrots, pumpkins and runner beans although these will need to be started off in the Spring. Lettuce, herbs and cress can be sown all year round indoors. For an egg cress head use an empty egg shell, paint a face on the shell and watch the edible cress ‘hair’ grow ! For now plant up a planter with bulbs such as Hyacinths or Paper Whites (scented indoor narcissus) something the grandchildren can give as Christmas presents.

Q. Do you have any suggestions for a quick growing tree - not a conifer - to shield the new house that has just been built at the bottom of my garden?

the mood and style as well as practical considerations of space. Be responsible in choosing a tree so both you and your neighbour can enjoy it. I don’t know how much space or distance from your house you have so here are a few suggestions

your garden

grow. Sow in the Autumn to get an early harvest of beans in May or June. Start them off indoors in 9cms pots. Place outside and protect from frost with a cloche. To make a cloche with the grandchildren you will need an empty clear plastic large drinks bottle. Remove the lid and the adult cuts the bottle in half across the middle. You now have two individual cloches to place over your seedlings.

Acer platanoides ‘Drummundi’ (Norway maple) White margined foliage.15m Acer plat. ‘Crimson King’ (Norway maple) Deep purple crimson leaves.15m Betula utilis ‘Jacquemontii’ (Silver birch) White bark. 15m Eucalyptus gunnii (Gum tree) Silver leaves and attractive bark. 10-40m Sorbus.aria. lutescens (Whitebeam) Very striking silver leaves in spring lovely round headed tree. 10m Malus x robusta ‘Red Siberian’ (Crab apple) 12m Crataegus laevigata ‘Pauls Scarlett’ ( Flowering thorn) Double pink flowers. I know this is not a tree but consider Prunus Laurocerasus (Laurel ) This is a dense, bushy evergreen that will grow to 6-8m with a wide spread making it an ideal screening shrub.

A. A trees shape and form is as important as its size in setting

your garden

GROW YOUR OWN with Debbie Pendle from Brunswick Organic Nursery Growing your own fruit and veg is rewarding, good for the planet – and your pocket. Here’s how…

Winter round up! As the year draws to a close it’s a time to reflect on the highs and lows of the past growing season. With a lot of hard work (and a bit of luck!) your plots will be brimming with brassicas and root vegetables, freezers full of summer harvested produce and an ample store of potatoes, onions and apples all ready and waiting for their staring festive role – or perhaps not!

Start by tackling the easy bits first! Cut out any dead, diseased or crossing branches by making a cut as close to the branch or trunk as possible, avoiding the ‘coat hook’ appearance. Secateurs are only suitable for small thin branches so you will need loppers or a folding pruning saw to tackle the more challenging branches.

It’s easy for new gardeners to get disheartened when a particular crop didn’t work and the fruits of their labour go unrewarded. There is a chance that a particular crop under performed generally and even the veteran gardener struggled to see it through to harvest. The long dry spell in spring was a particularly testing time, the consequence being reduced size and yield if regular watering was not maintained. On the positive side, it did reduce slug and snail activity!

Consider the overall shape of the tree – The aim is to achieve an open (wine glass) shape so that each branch is exposed to the maximum amount of light and air required for healthy growth and ripening. Always prune just above an outward facing bud, making a slanting cut away from the bud. Its easy to get up a head of steam at this point, but don’t be tempted to over prune as this will just encourage lots of new growth to develop and where there is real uncertainty the branch is best left unpruned.

The pace may be slowing on the veg patch, but there is lots to do in the fruit garden. Annual maintenance of fruit trees and bushes is essential to promote healthy growth and ensure a decent fruit crop next year. December is a good time to prune apple and pear trees as the tree is now at its dormant stage, but even the experienced gardener can feel a little daunted when faced with the task of pruning an established fruit tree.

Top Tip: Pigeons are very keen on their greens so keep them off yours with by covering brassicas with suitable netting. During the early snow fall we had around this time last year they feasted on our Kale plants in the walled garden as they stood tall above the snow and were easy targets for hungry pigeons. Before netting remove any decaying leaves that may encourage disease.

JOBS FOR DECEMBER 3 Lift and store carrots 3 Harvest leeks when needed 3 Start digging up jerusalem artichokes 3 Check stored veg for signs of rot

Local Suppliers: Brunswick of York CIC, Appleton Road, Bishopthorpe, York. YO23 2RF

n Brunswick Organic Nursery is a growing charity that provides opportunities for adults with learning difficulties in horticulture. www.brunswickyork.org.uk

your garden

It’s no secret that we here at Local Link love a bit of Christmas shopping and we love it even more when we can find unique gifts that aren’t available on the high street. That’s why were spreading the word about the Christmas Open Day at the Poppleton Community Railway Nursery. It’s set to be a Christmas cracker, with everything for your festive foliage under one roof. You’ll find a selection of gorgeous holly wreathes, hyacinths, pot decorations, terracotta, Christmas cards, candles and more. So whether you’re looking to decorate your home or find some thoughtful alternative green gifts, you’re bound to find what you’re after.

n The Christmas Open Day is on Saturday 3rd December from 11am to 3pm. Call Graham on 797623 for more information.

ARE YOU GOING TO POT? The Askham Bryan College Gardening Club invites the green fingers of York to their evening ‘Going to Pot’. The evening will be lead by Roger Burnett and his team of experts, who will be answering your horticultural questions (Roger Burnett is the head of Scarborough Parks Department and the chief judge of Britain in Bloom).

Tired Looking

IRONWORK

n The evening starts at 7:30pm in The Conference Hall, Askham Bryan College. Free admission for member and £5 for visitors. Call David on 707208 for more information.

Christmas Trees

ACASTER BLAST CLEANING • Fire places • Gates • Garden Furniture • Vehicle Parts / Wheels • All Steel Works Andy 07909 229329 Jim 07710 072358 Ofﬁce 01904 701513

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A59 York >

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your garden

gardening Plant a tree

make a difference! Groups in York are branching out to make the city a greener, healthier, more attractive place by planting 50,000 trees. ‘Treemendous York’ is a new initiative set up with the aim of planting 50,000 trees by April 2014. And they want you to get involved. Whether it’s donating trees, helping to plant them and dealing with their after care, giving land for planting and suggesting locations for more planting, they want to hear from you. Leaflets explaining how to get involved in Treemendous York will be distributed in libraries, City of York Council’s customer service centres reception at 9 St Leonard’s Place and other public buildings around the city. You can pledge your support by emailing community.planning@york.gov.uk or completing the form on the leaflet and returning it by freepost. More information is available at www.york.gov.uk or by calling 01904 551474.

Meet Amanda!

If you’re a fan of our very own Ask Amanda column, here’s your chance to meet the woman herself. Amanda from Skelton Garden Centre will be appearing at the Living North

Essence of Christmas at Harewood House from 25th – 27th November. Go along, say hello, and browse her range of gifts for home and garden. It’s the ideal place to get some Christmas shopping inspiration! For information, visit www.livingnorth.com

Call PVC-UK Today on

Freephone 0800 0371947 01262605690 / 07831 584119

The RHS needs you! Do you have an interest in euphorbia and stipa? Would you like to help inform other gardeners? The Royal Horticultural Society is looking for amateur gardeners to become members of two new assessment panels. The new panels will bring together specialist plant societies,

professional gardeners and the horticultural trade, as well as interested amateurs. The aim is to ensure the RHS is assessing plants that interest UK gardeners and help them make informed decisions when purchasing plants. All panel members must be members of the RHS. To find out more, email trials@rhs.org.uk.

You’ve seen the mugs and the teatowels, now prepare yourself the very first Royal Wedding Clematis! Yes, you could become the envy of your friends by being one of the first people in the country to get your gardening gloves on ‘Princess Kate’, an unusual clematis with two-tone, trumpet shaped flowers. It’s being introduced by Thorncroft Clematis in Norwich, and will be available from next spring. Ask your local nursery or garden centre for details!

Wild for wildlife When it comes to gardening, we Brits are

your garden

Wedding flowers

a conscientious lot, according to a recent survey. The Horticultural Trades Association’s PlantforLife campaign says that a third more people are encouraging wildlife into their gardens than the last time the survey was carried out, four years ago. And 92 per cent reckoned it was important to have trees, shrubs and flowers grown in built-up areas. “Over the last four years we’ve seen more people taking action by planting shrubs, flowers and trees to encourage wildlife, insects and birds,” says an HTA spokesman. “The report highlights the huge role that gardening has to play in improving our environment.”

Quick tip Create your very own ivy topiary frame using old wire hanging baskets. Simply wire two baskets together and secure in the centre of a planted pot of young ivies. Thread the stems through the basket and leave to settle and grow. Remove shoot tips to encourage side shooting and bend wayward growth through the frame. Hey presto – your very own cut price topiary feature!

Decorations Fibre Optics Artificial Trees Garlands Lights

your garden

Make sure everything in the garden’s lovely with the team at

Cornus(Dogwood) This month...

There are 3 main types of Dogwood: the species with brightly coloured winter stems, the small/medium sized flowering tree types and the low growing creeping form Cornus canadensis

Spectacular stems

The dogwoods that are grown for their spectacular stem effect are usually cultivars of Cornus alba, C. stolonifera and C. sanguineum. As well as the stem colour, several have brightly variegated or coloured foliage. The best being C. alba ‘Sibirica Variegatum’, C.alba ‘Elegantissima’, C.alba ‘Spaethii’, and C.stolonifera ‘White Gold’. Cornus alba siberica has excellent autumn leaf colour bright red stems. C. alba kesselringii has deep purple almost black stems and C. stolonifera flavrimea has bright green. Along with the bright stem colours C. stolonifera ‘White Gold’ & C. alba elegantissima have excellent white-edged variegated foliage and C. alba spaethii gold edged foliage, therefore making good dual season plants. Cornus sanguineum ‘Winter Fire’ is an improved form of our native dogwood that also has a spectacular autumn foliage effect, as well as bright yellow, orange and red stems throughout the winter months.

Foliage colour The foliage colour and effect is also enhanced, by regular

Dean’s Garden centre

hard pruning. To get this spectacular winter stem effect with dogwoods, it is necessary to cut the shrubs back hard each spring. Mid-March is fine, but a little earlier or later will be ok depending upon the weather at the time. These types are best planted in open areas where the winter sunlight can shine on the stems improving the effects of the colours even further. They thrive in damp soils and are idea if you have an area in the garden liable to short term water logging. The Flowering Dogwoods include Cornus kousa, C. florida, C. alternifolia, C nuttallii C. controversa variegata, C. florida Rubrum The ‘flowers’ on these Cornus are actually brightly coloured bracts surrounding the small true flowers in the centre they are mostly produced between April & May. Flower colours are usually white, pinks & reds but C. mas produces sweetly smelling small pale yellow flowers during the late winter and early spring, these are flowed by translucent cherry like edible fruit that is something of an acquired taste.

Tree forms

One of the best tree forms is C. controversa variegata, commonly known as the wedding cake tree because of the way the branches grow in distinct horizontal layers and the creamy variegated foliage gives the impression of icing. Although it requires space to produce its best effects

it makes a superb specimen for the centre of a lawn growing to around 5-6m (15-20ft) tall. C. kousa and C. florida also have the added benefit of superb red/purple autumnal colours. Absolute minimal pruning is the key to success – Any pruning carried out, should be done in late winter/early spring and would normally consist of removing the odd side growth, crossing branches and any dead wood. Most of this group flower on flowering growths made during the previous. Any drastic measures taken will invariably cut out the flowering growths. Cornus canadensis is a creeping form of Dogwood, rarely reaching more than 15cm (6”)high. It forma a dense carpet of pale green foliage and is covered in white flowers in the spring, it thrives in sun or shade making it an idea alternative groundcover plant Newby Hall near Ripon is well worth a visit at it has an excellent collection of Cornus.

n Dean’s Garden Centre, Stockton Lane, Stockton on the Forest, York • Tel: 01904 400141

york onafork Maximum quality, minimum stress!

If you’re anything like us, you’ll be doing everything you can to avoid the dreaded Christmas food shop. The handbags at dawn, the mile long checkout cues, stray children running wild. Ok maybe we’re being a bit dramatic but you get our point. We thought we’d died and gone to heaven when we heard about The Farm Shop (slightly dramatic again), where you can reserve all your festive food essentials in preparation to be collected in Christmas Eve. Not only does this mean that all your produce will be waiting to be collected as fresh as a daisy, you will also save yourself the stress of scrambling for the last bag of sprouts in the supermarket! You can reserve a wide range of quality produce, including locally reared and organic turkey, goose, duck, plenty of home grown veggies, delicious homemade cakes and more. The Farm Shop are proud of all their purely Yorkshire produce, giving everything an extra little bit of TLC. And you’ll taste the difference. Better still, you can even bring the kids along too and take them to visit Santa in his magical Winter Wonderland, where they’ll discover Santa and real reindeer (see our events listings for more information). You’ll find The Farm Shop on Wiggington Road or call 766822.

Verdict VVVV

they’d cooked it perfectly so it was really moist and delicious. Accompaniments included creamy mash, a selection of vegetables – cooked just right, not too hard or too soggy – herb stuffing balls, Yorkshire puddings and roasties. Our only criticism was that there weren’t roasted enough for our liking, but they were still very tasty. “To finish off, we had sticky toffee sponge, which was very light and tasty, and ice cream, which was also good. We had a bottle of house white wine, and followed it up with a coffee.

York Racecourse is making a name for itself with its series of top quality but reasonably priced theme and comedy nights. We sent Gill and Tony Conroy from Riccall Carers along to the recent Halloween Michael Jackson Tribute Night. But was it a Thriller..? “The decoration and theme setting was tremendous and put us in the Halloween mood straightaway. The racecourse staff had obviously worked very hard on the décor, and lots of the audience had made a big effort with their fancy dress, too. There were some

brilliant costumes and it was a great atmosphere. “Our meal started with a bowl of tomato soup, which had a lovely consistency, fresh and smooth without being too spicy or peppery. It came with an accompaniment of tasty fresh tomato focaccia with plenty of butter. “This was followed by a selection from the carvery. There was plenty to choose from, including tender, beautifully cooked beef and turkey. This can sometimes be bit dry and disappointing, but

“The food was great, and the staff were very pleasant and attentive. But what we’d really come to see was the tribute act. And we have to say, Michael Jackson was absolutely fabulous! He was an excellent impersonator, very energetic with all the moves you’d come to expect from the man himself. And the costumes were great, too! “Overall, I would certainly recommend that people give the theme nights a try at the Racecourse. They are great fun and excellent value for money, especially for families, groups of friends or just for couples.”

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Straight from the Farmers Cart!

Christmas is coming and the geese – and turkeys – are getting fat at The Farmer’s Cart. So which delicious bird will you choose? Will it be a traditional free-range ‘Bronze’ – superior to normal turkeys their slower growth produces a fantastic depth of flavour and succulence. Or will it be a goose, locally sourced from Simon Waudby of Flawith, North Yorkshire? Or, for something completely different, why not go for some rare breed pork or Aberdeen Angus beef? The team of Master Butchers will be on hand to offer a full range of fresh cuts. That’s not the only tasty treat on offer. As well as the farm shop overflowing with Farmer Geoff’s home grown seasonal veg, the Christmas marquee is bursting with inspiring and unique gift ideas and foodie treats. Why not create a personalised hamper – simply select items yourself and let the team wrap it up for you! And just in case all that food shopping makes you hungry, the chefs will be serving up a fabulous Christmas lunch with all the trimmings throughout December. There’s fun for all the family at Piglets, too. Visit Santa in his warm and cosy ‘sleigh port’, and enjoy some festive fun, including Snowball Splat and gingerbread decorating. All well behaved children receive a gift from Santa and parents enjoy a mince pie and a festive mulled drink. Santa’s sleigh will be landing at Piglets from 3rd December – see our events diary for more information, or call 01904 499183 or visit www.thefarmerscart.co.uk

Christmas and New Year at The Bay Tree

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Super Duper Swirly Sweet

Market days

24 -27 November St Nicholas Fayre, Parliament Street. The ever popular fayre has everything from gifts and crafts to the best local produce. 1 – 18 December Made in Yorkshire Christmas Market, St Sampson’s Square. Bringing together some of the finest arts and crafts from around the North and East Yorkshire region, including ceramics, textiles, paintings, woodwork, pottery and glass. 3 - 18 December York’s Festive Fayre, Parliament Street. The Fayre has a stylish, modern flavour which brings with it a sweep of global Christmas traditions with decorated wooden huts decked out in seasonal livery, with festive music. There is also Ye Olde Festive Inne serving real ales and Winter Pimms. 21 December Farmers Market, St Sampson’s Square and Parliament Street. Last minute local produce for the festive holidays. n For more details about the city centre events, go to www.york.gov.uk/markets

We think it’s safe to say that in recent years, cupcake making has become an art form, which the cupcake experts at Swirly Sweet have definitely perfected! Swirly Sweet is a cupcake company based in York that specialises in tailor made cupcakes for any occasion. They’re all freshly baked using the finest ingredients and decorated by hand (are you drooling yet?). Whether it’s a child’s birthday, a corporate function or just fancy impressing the family at Christmas, Swirly Sweet will work with you to create unique cupcake designs. You can even learn how to create their delicious treats by taking part in their cupcake classes. With all ingredients and materials provided, all you need to do is turn up! At the end of the class you will go home with 12 decorated cupcakes and a new found love of baking. And last but not least, their beautifully wrapped gift boxes containing 12 tailor made cupcakes

are the perfect gift for anyone with a sweet tooth. They may not last as long as flowers, but they’ll taste a whole lot better!) ♥ Visit www.swirlysweet.co.uk for more information or call the cupcake connoisseurs on 07783 802270.

CHRISTMAS SPARKLE AT CEDAR The decorations are up and the presents are wrapped, now it’s time for you to sit back and enjoy some fine food in fine surroundings. If you fancy making this Christmas extra special, there’s a whole host of delectable options at The Cedar Court Grand. Whether you’re organising a family get together, staff dinner function or just want someone else to take the strain of the all important Christmas meal, Cedar Court have it all covered. Treat yourself to one of their delicious festive menus and receive the famous five star treatment Cedar Court is known for. The Cedar Court Grand is hosting its Afternoon Tea with Christmas Carols on 11th December at 3pm. Enjoy the festive themed Afternoon Tea, including mulled wine, and relax with some heavenly Christmas carols - the perfect way to spend a cosy December Sunday! ♥ To find out about everything Cedar Court has to offer this Christmas, call 380038.

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A culinary christmas you won’t forget! The carrots need peeling, the pigs need their blankets, the turkey needs stuffing... sometimes it’s just nice to let someone else do all the hard work for once! Take the stress out of Christmas day and treat yourself to The Bay Tree’s gorgeous Christmas menu. The lovingly refurbished country pub is nestled just 20 minutes from York in the village of Stillington, and has become a popular haunt with all the local foodies. The delicious five course menu features a traditional dinner, with all the trimmings, and a few modern twists too (great vegetarian options are also available of course!). Their festive party menu is great for winding and dining with friends and family over the Christmas period, and promises a delicious four course experience! ♥ To find out more about their festive menus, visit www.baytreestillington.com or call 01347 881 394.

A PROPER YORKSHIRE YULETIDE We love York and we love Christmas! So why not combine the two with some delicious local farm produce to make this year extra special? The Balloon Tree Farm Shop and Cafe has plenty on offer, from poultry to pies and chutney to cakes. All their food produce is homemade and home grown (so you could even try and pass some off as your own!). Christmas food orders are now being taken, which means you can reserve a high quality bird and save yourself the sprint for a supermarket one. Their impressive range of festive goodies is well worth a browse, so head down today and see for yourself! Whilst you’re there, be sure to enter their fab competitions to win a luxury hamper and a turkey you’ll find more details in the farm shop. Local fresh trees and wreaths are also available, so you can get all things Christmassy under one roof! ♥ Christmas food order forms are available in the farm shop or at www.theballoontree.co.uk. Call 01759 373023.

Wishing to Welcome Customers Old & New

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Treacleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mince pies

You will need...

Makes 24 pies.

3 450g Mincemeat: shop bought is fine but once you have tried homemade you will never go back - order yours from www.treaclescakes.co.uk. 3 350g plain flour 3 75g lard 3 75g cold butter 3 2 medium egg yolks beaten 3 2 tbsp icing sugar 3 a little milk for the tops 3 two 12 hole bun tins 3 one fluted 7.5cm pastry cutter 3 one fluted 6cm pastry cutter

We were pretty chuffed with ourselves when we had the idea to ask the lovely Helen from Treacleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to send us over a perfect mince pie recipe - partly because we were able to share her recipe with you good people (but mostly because we just wanted to race home and whip up a batch ourselves!). Treacleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are pros in homemade cakes and sweet treats, and this month they have plenty of delicious seasonal offerings too. Visit www.treaclescakes.co.uk to find out more.

1. For the pastry sift the flour and icing

sugar into a bowl and rub in the lard and the butter with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs (alternatively whiz in a food processor). Stir in the egg yolks a little at a time - a knife works best for this - until the mix starts to come together. Add a little cold water if needed until the dough leaves the bowl clean - do not over work. Leave the pastry to rest in a polythene bag in the fridge for 30 minutes.

2. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees C or gas

mark 6. Roll out half of the pastry on a lightly floured surface, as thinly as possible and cut out 24 rounds using the 7.5cm cutter. Do the same with the other half of the pastry using the 6cm cutter.

3. Lightly grease the bun tins and line with

the larger rounds. Fill with a heaped teaspoon of mincemeat and lightly dampen the edge of the pastry with your fingertip. Using the tip of a knife make a small slit in each of the smaller rounds and position to for the lids, sealing the edges.

4. Brush the tops lightly with milk and bake

in the oven for 15-20 minutes until light golden brown. Leave to cool on a wire rack and once cool can be stored into an airtight tin for up to a week. They also freeze brilliantly - to serve pop in the oven for 5 minutes and lightly dust with icing sugar and impress your guests with freshly baked homemade mince pies.

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yorkonafork

Cafe and Catering

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yorkonafork

THE

STAY YOU 速

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n WALKS & TOURS n LOCAL & COMMUNITY EVENTS

events

EVENTS KEY:

n DAYS OUT & ATTRACTIONS n CONCERTS n ANTIQUES FAIRS & AUCTIONS

n Yorkboat Santa Cruises, Lendal landing. For an extra magical Christmas this year, why not join a YorkBoat Santa Cruise and meet a very special guest? Every child onboard will receive a personalised gift from Father Christmas. With refreshments and fun onboard, what better way to get in to the Christmas spirit this December? Call YorkBoat on 01904 628324 to make a booking or check availability.

Muir, and sculptor Paul Smith. Says gallery owner Terry Brett, “We always try to strike a balance between serious art and fun. I hope visitors to this year’s Christmas Collection will be impressed with the standard of work on display but also amused by some of the exhibits. Jewellery is always one of our most significant niches, and this year’s 50 designer/makers have sent in some stunning work.” Call 01904 641187 for more information.

presents, games and the museum’s toy collection from years gone by. From here Santa’s helpers will then climb onboard a beautiful festive carriage pulled by a steam train to take part in a special interactive story telling adventure. Before the magical steam journey is over, children will meet Santa Claus himself and receive a special present to take home. Visit www.nrm.org.uk or call 0844 815 3139 to book your special visit.

Every night

Until 15 January (PIC)

24 -27 November:

n Malcolm Ludvigsen Exhibition,

n St Nicholas Fayre, Parliament Street. The ever popular St Nicholas Fayre has everything from gifts and crafts to the best local produce.

n Ghost trail of York, West Doors of York Minster. 7.30pm. Dare you cross the centuries and discover York’s spine-chilling history? From tragic plague victims to murdered orphans and the plumber who spotted an entire Roman legion marching through a basement, you’ll find out how York earned its reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the world. No need to book, just turn up. Call 633276 for more information.

Until January 2012 n Christmas Collection, Pyramid Gallery, 43 Stonegate. 10am – 5pm daily, 11am – 4.30pm Sundays. Local artist David Baumforth’s exhibition of paintings form of Pyramid Gallery’s Christmas Collection. Other exhibitors include London artist printmaker Anita Klein, Jewellers Jane Macintosh and John Field, glass maker Graham

Cafe 68, Gillygate. A chance to see some of Malcolm’s snowscapes, painted locally last year during the Big Freeze. For more information, visit http://www.malcolmludvigsen.org.uk/snowscapes. htm.

19, 20, 26 & 27 November; 3,4, 10, 11, 17 – 23 December n Santa’s Steam Adventure, National Railway Museum, Leeman Road. 10am – 5.30pm. Santa isn’t delivering his presents by reindeer this year – instead he’s using a very special steam train at the National Railway Museum. Visitors of all ages are invited to help Santa with his seasonal task by riding on board his special steam train with him. The journey begins in the Station Hall which has been transformed into Santa’s depot filled with

24 November n Mansion House at Christmas 10am – 4pm. Explore the Mansion House dressed for Christmas and have a drink and mince pie in the beauty of the stateroom. Post a letter to Father Christmas in the Lapland Letterbox. Why not try the delicious chocolate wine in the stateroom? No need to pre book.

25 November – 8 January n Christmas Unwrapped, York Minster. Discover how York Minster prepares and celebrates Christmas.

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events

26 November – 8 January n The Ice Factor, McArthur Glen Designer Outlet. Located outside the designer outlet, the award-winning Ice Factor promises to be better than ever this year as the ice rink will become the centre piece for Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland, surrounded by a festive market and traditional fair rides alongside the skating, all adding to the Christmas magic. The Ice Factor’s 900sqm real ice rink will be turned into a Winter Wonderland village square, flanked by heated skate hire and café/bar marquees and surrounded by log cabins, an illuminated forest with reindeer, and a 30ft giant Christmas tree in the centre of the rink. For booking and more information, visit www. theicefactor.co.uk or call 0844 847 1523.

26 November – 18 December n Christmas at Castle Howard. Open daily from 10am. See Castle Howard’s dramatic 18th-century interiors transformed at Christmas time when the Hon Simon and Mrs Howard decorate each room for the festive season. Attractions include live musical performances and ‘audiences with Father Christmas’ (weekends only - tickets must be pre-booked online from www. castlehoward.co.uk). Discover present ideas for all the family in the gift shops, seasonal local produce in the Farm Shop and estate-grown Christmas trees at the Garden Centre.

26 & 27 November n An audience with Victorian Father Christmas, Clifford’s Tower. 11am – 4pm. A Victorian Father Christmas, dressed in sumptuous traditional colourful costume will tell

tales of Christmas past and recite famous yuletide stories and poems. Join the audience to relax and listen to these heart warming stories.

raffle, toys, gifts and more. Admission is just 30p and kids go free. Santa’s grotto costs £2.50 including gift.

26 November – 24 December

n Contemporary Jewellery workshop, Space 109, 109 Walmgate, York

n Winter Wonderland, The Farm Shop, Wiggington Road, YO32 2RH. Weave your way along an all weather woodland path through the enchanted land of Santa. Visit his real life reindeer Donder and Dancer who are resting there before their big night and play in the elves workshop. The kids can make special reindeer food for Christmas Eve, enter a colouring competition and follow a treasure hunt before meeting Santa himself. Call 01904 766822.

26 November n The Four Seasons by Candlelight, York Barbican. 7.30pm. (PIC). A sublime evening of baroque classics crowned with Vivaldi’s masterpiece The Four Seasons, performed in an evocative candle-lit style setting. The programme will also feature Bach’s Air on the G String, Mozart’s Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, Charpentier’s Te Deum, Purcell’s Dido’s Lament, Handel’s Trumpet Suite, Vivaldi’s Concerto for Two Trumpets and Handel’s Let the Bright Seraphim. The performers will include: Mozart Festival Orchestra, David Juritz (conductor/violin), Crispian Steele-Perkins (trumpet), Tom Rainer (trumpet) and Ruby Hughes (soprano).

n Charlie’s Angels Christmas Fayre and Santa’s Grotto, The Folk Hall, New Earswick, 1pm. Head along to this wonderful Christmas Fayre in aid of York Multiple Sclerosis. There’s plenty going on with a tombola,

YO1 9UA. Mo Burrows will share some secrets of how to make a unique freeform necklace or bracelet and earrings in a day. Feel free to bring some of your favourite beads to add to the mix. Suitable for beginners and intermediates. For more information, visit Www.mo-beads.talktalk.net

30 November-10 December n Early Music Christmas Festival, National Centre for Early Music, St Margaret’s Church, Walmgate. The popular festival of Christmas music from the Renaissance to the present day features some of the world’s finest early music specialists including violinist Rachel Podger, directing Brecon Baroque; The Cardinall’s Musick led by Andrew Carwood; lutenist Elizabeth Kenny, Clare Salaman, Clara Sanabras and Alison McGillivray working together Strange and Ancient instruments; Joglaresa led by Belinda Sykes; Sara Stowe and Matthew Spring of Sirinu working colleagues Ute Goedecke and Per Mattsson to look at music from a Scandinavian Christmas and The Ebor Singers looking at the Christmas of King Charles I. For further information contact The National Centre for Early Music on 01904 632220 or visit www.ncem.co.uk

30 November n Festive Lunch Club, Treasurers House. 12.30 – 2.30pm. Are you single, widowed or looking to make new friends? Why not join like-

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and a chance to win a beautiful hand-decorated Christmas cake. No ticket is required for this event and you will receive a voucher for a complimentary drink and mince pie, so why not come along and be inspired this Christmas.

2 & 4 December n Art Exhibition – ‘The other stuff we do’, Space 109, 109 Walmgate, York YO1 9UA. 7 – 9pm (Fri); 1 – 4pm (Sun). An exhibition of works by the Life Drawing group. There will also be an auction of life drawings to raise funds for Space 109 projects. Wine and soft drinks available. For further details email contact@space109, visit www. space109.org , or call 01904 612790.

2 December

minded folk for a festive lunch in the Treasurer’s House tearoom. Includes warming mulled wine and homemade mince pies. Booking Essential 01904 624247.

including ceramics, textiles, paintings, woodwork, pottery and glass.

1 December

n Deck the Halls 1-3 pm. Explore the background to holly, ivy, mistletoe and other ever-greens, the Yule log, Father Christmas, the religious and secular rituals, the entertainments and the food. Based on documentary sources from the north of England, there will also be the small gift of some hand-outs to take home. To book call 01904 552806 or http://www.yortime.org.uk/

1 – 7 December

n Christmas Event, Dean’s Garden

n House Tour & Festive Lunch,

n Autumn Art Exhibition, Merchant Adventurers Hall, Fossgate. 9.30am – 3.30pm (9.30am – 1pm on 7th). York Art Society presents its 194th exhibition, with plenty to browse and buy.

1 – 18 December n Made in Yorkshire Christmas Market, St Sampson’s Square. Bringing together some of the finest arts and crafts from around the North and East Yorkshire region,

Centre, Stockton on the Forest. 2-8pm. Anthony and Sandie will be giving demonstrations and inspirational ideas for the home this Christmas, from holly wreath making, festive table arrangements, indoor planted arrangements to gift wrapping. There will also be smaller demonstrations and stalls including a calligraphy writing demonstration, Christmas hampers, Yorkshire Countrywomen’s Association doing a ‘Rag Rugging’ demo, MIND York & District, Edible Expressions selling cup cakes, a tombola

Treasurer’s House. Join the guide to discover more about the fascinating Frank Green and wrap up the afternoon with a hearty two-course Christmas lunch. The 45 min tour will reveal more of Frank’s hidden collection and delight you with his quirky stories. After the tour, enjoy a twocourse Christmas lunch including mulled wine and homemade mince pies. Booking essential – call 01904 624247.

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n Craft Fair, Nostell Priory & Parkland, Doncaster Road, Nostell, near Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF4 1QE. 11am – 4pm. Nostell’s regular Craft Fair with lots of stalls with lots of wonderful gifts and beautiful things for you and your home. All made by local craftsmen and women.

n Christmas Tree Festival, Haxby Memorial Hall. Local schools, businesses and youth organisations are invited to decorate a tree to be displayed in Haxby Memorial Hall. For further details about decorating a tree please ring Denise on 01904 761825. All proceeds are to go the the Raise The Roof Appeal and the general upkeep of the hall.

3 & 11 December n The Hall Prepares for Seasonal Jollity, Barley Hall. 10.30am – 4pm. Join members of the household of William Snawsell, a 15th century Lord Mayor of York, as they dress his home for Christmas celebrations.

3 & 17 December n Antique & Collectors Fair, Town n Art Exhibition, Mannions Cafe, 1 Blake Street. In aid of Save The Children. Various artists have donated works for display with a rough guide price – bid for your favourite! Tickets £6 including wine and nibbles. n Christmas Fair, Manor CE School Millfield Lane , Nether Poppleton, YO26 6PA. 6.45 to 8.45pm. Tickets at the door only £1 which includes tea, coffee or mulled wine and a mince pie. Children free. Huge variety of stalls and

activities. If you would like to have a stall, please contact Julie on 07914 962254 or the school on 01904 798722.

3 & 4 December n Victorian Christmas, Helmsley Castle. 11am and 1.30pm. Discover how Christmas was celebrated during Victorian times with Heuristics and their shows of fascinating facts and plenty of laughter.

Hall, Market Place, Wetherby. 9.30am – 4.30pm. 01937 582803.

3 – 18 December n Christmas Experience, Beningbrough Hall, Beningbrough YO30 1DD. 11am – 3pm. Beningbrough prepares for Christmas, the house dressed in Georgian theme and the Stables in Victorian style. Christmas lunches with all the trimmings. Father Christmas makes his popular stop off at the weekends.

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n York’s Festive Fayre, Parliament Street. The Fayre has a stylish, modern flavour which brings with it a sweep of global Christmas traditions with decorated wooden huts decked out in seasonal livery, with festive music. There is also Ye Olde Festive Inne serving real ales and Winter Pimms.

3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 22 & 23 December n Santa’s Village, Yorkshire Museum of Farming, Murton YO19 5UF. 10am – 3pm. Take a guided tour around Santa’s village, and a train ride to meet the big man himself. Children receive an early Christmas present, adults a glass of sherry and a mince pie. Call 01904 489966 or visit www. murtonpark.co.uk

3, 4, 10, 11, 17 – 24 December n Christmas at Piglets, The Farmer’s Cart, Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe. 10am – 3.30pm. Santa has had a spruce up for this Christmas, with a new and improved warm and cosy ‘sleigh port, and this year Santa’s elves have added loads more festive fun including Snowball Splat, gingerbread decorating, indoor sandpit, ride on mini tractors, and meeting our donkeys. All well behaved children receive a wonderful gift from Santa and parents enjoy a minced pie and a festive mulled drink.

3, 4, 10 & 11 December n Santa’s Grotto, Nostell Priory & Parkland, Doncaster Road, Nostell, near Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF4 1QE. 11am – 3.30pm (3/4);

11am – 3pm. Santa’s here again waiting to see what you have to say to him. Come and chat to Santa, He’s here in his winter wonderland for a few days, so don’t miss the chance to tell him how good you’ve been this year. No booking needed.

3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10 December n Open House, Nostell Priory & Parkland, Doncaster Road, Nostell, near Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF4 1QE. 11am – 4.30pm (3/4); 11am – 4pm. Nostell at Christmas is a wonderful sight. Come and see the house all dressed up for Christmas by their team of volunteers. Trails and tinsel, spiced wine and stories.

3, 4, 10, 11, 17 December n Meet Father Christmas, Beningbrough Hall, Beningbrough YO30 1DD. 11am – 2pm. Father Christmas will be here to check that he has got his list right, so that there are no surprises on Christmas morning. Booking essential – call 01904 472027

3 December n Bach – Christmas Oratorio, York

day, giving visitors the opportunity to pick out their perfect Christmas party outfit. Children can be entertained by a visit to Green Santa in his grotto where they might even pick up an early Christmas gift. Visitors can learn new crafts and get inspired to create a homemade Christmas at one of the many free interactive workshops happening at the fair. Dozens of unique stalls with everything from amazing rag rugs and the latest in upcycled fashion to beautiful furniture and decorations made from reclaimed wood will be available for visitors to browse at their leisure.

n Felt Christmas Decorations workshop, Space 109, 109 Walmgate, York YO1 9UA. Join Lucy Antwis and try your hand at creating your own Christmas tree display this year, from wool and silk baubles to hand sewn Christmas puddings. Teas and coffees provided, please bring a packed lunch. For more information email lantwis@googlemail.com www.ltwis.co.uk

n Coffee Morning, Haxby Methodist Church. 10am – 12 noon. Drinks and cakes, DVD and books for sale, together with some Christmas stalls. All in aid of Flying Ducks Youth Theatre.

Minster. 7.30pm. Book online at www.yorkminster. org

n Christmas Traditions in Medieval York and Yorkshire,

n Choose2Reuse Fair, York Racecourse.

Mansion House 10am - 12 noon. A traditional Christmas: tree, turkey, carol singers at your door. Less than two hundred years ago you would be most unlikely to find any of these in a Yorkshire Christmas. Explore the food and traditions of a preVictorian Christmas: Yule logs, Christmas Boughs, wassailing, real mince pies, and much more. To book call 01904 552806 or http://www.yortime. org.uk/

10am – 4pm. The free festive fair oozing with Christmas spirit aims to showcase the fantastic and unique range of gifts, fashion, homeware, furniture and much more that is available in the redesign and reuse market. Fashion shows showcasing fabulous collections of charity and vintage chic and amazing upcycled creations from local designers, artists and crafts people will be happening throughout the

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3 - 18 December

events

n Nativity Christmas Paintings, Mansion House. 1-3pm. A session where you can help direct the flow of things. Bring along any Nativity cards and Christmas images that puzzle you and together we will try to make sense of them. We will also examine some key Renaissance Nativity pictures; discuss who made them, for whom, and what they were used for. To round things off, we will try to decide whether all that glitters is gold or not. To book call 01904 552806 or http://www.yortime.org.uk/

n Print and Pattern workshop, Space 109, 109 Walmgate, York YO1 9UA. Create seasonal gift wrap, tags, cards and presents with artist Griselda Goldsbrough. For further details email contact@space109, or call 01904 612790.

n The Stamford Bridge Singers, The Bar Convent. 7.30pm. Prepare for Christmas by enjoying an evening of celebration during Advent. Tickets cost £10 each and include a glass of wine and a mince pie. Please book in advance to avoid disappointment by calling 01904 643238 or email reception@bar-convent.org.uk

n Yoga Benefit Day, Priory St Centre, 15 Priory Street YO1 6ET. In aid of the White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood. Full day workshop suitable for all abilities. Also pregnancy yoga, active birth talks, information on water births, independent midwives and doulas. For booking information, email info@yogaco.co.uk or call 07811 950938.

n York Does Vintage @ Christmas, St William’s College. 10.30am – 4.30pm. York Does Vintage is a truly fantastic, lively event bringing you gorgeous vintage goodies, gems and bargains,

bustling vintage tearoom and live music, hair and makeup girlies, nail bar and mini treatments, York’s Clothes Swap, workshops and much much more! Whether you are after affordable vintage dresses for the Christmas party scene or an original, impeccably stylish vintage outfit then ‘ York Does Vintage @ CHRISTMAS’ is for you. With a great mix of both trend-lead and era inspired traders York Does Vintage is a perfect event for students, tourists, families and vintage enthusiasts - promising you THE perfect Christmas vintage gem!

n JS Bach: Christmas Oratorio, York Minster. York Musical Society chorus and orchestra with Grace Davidson, Andrew Radley, Nicholas Mulroy and Jimmy Holliday. Conducted by Robert Sharpe. Tickets cost £9-£20. Call 08449390015 for tickets.

4 December

District and Macmillan Cancer Support. Also don’t forget to bring your camera as photos can be taken whilst visiting Santa. For further details, visit www. deansgardencentre.co.uk.

n Make Do and Mend, Barley Hall 10.30am. A fun, day-long workshop. Bring your own unloved items or rummage through a selection of clothes to create your own vintage masterpiece, all under the guidance of our expert workshop leaders. Suitable for ages 12 and up. Prebooking essential: 01904 615505.

n COMMUNITY HU CHANT, The Garden Room, York Library, Museum Street, YO1 7DS, 11.15am. Experience the uplifting HU chant, a way of connecting with the divine presence within. A brief discussion on the spiritual topic follows the chant which aims to help you better understand your own spiritual and personal growth. For more information contact Jim Backlar on j.backlar@ btinternet.com

n Greyhound walk, meet Fulford Arms. 10am for 10.30am start. All greyhounds, lurchers, whippets, salukis and other sight hounds are welcome for the monthly York greyhound walk on the first Sunday of the month. The December walk will have a festive feel and will raise funds for Greyhound Gap, national greyhound rehoming charity. For further details contact Tina Abbott of York Walkies on 07974 757 927

Howard. 10am – 4pm. Discover over 20 stalls selling a mix of handmade crafts and local produce all made in Yorkshire .

n Santa’s Grotto, Dean’s Garden Centre,

5 December

Stockton on the Forest. Santa will be paying a visit on various days throughout December and tickets can be bought in advance or on the day from the Garden Centre priced at £4.50 for children which includes a gift from Santa and 50p for each adult accompanying them. All proceeds from the grotto will be split equally between MIND York &

5 & 6 December n Made in Yorkshire Christmas Craft and produce market, Castle

n Brother Anthony Tour, Rievaulx Abbey, Nr Helmsley YO62 5LB. 11am-12.30pm & 2pm-3.30pm. Join Brother Anthony on a tour around Rievaulx Abbey and explore the history of one of Yorkshire’s finest Cistercian Abbeys. Uncover the secrets of monastic life with this witty and educational tour.

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6 December n Christmas Evening, Skelton Garden Centre. 7.30pm. If you want any festive inspiration for decorating your home this Christmas Amanda is holding a demonstration of Christmas tree decorating, she will also show you how to plant some festive pots and show you tips and ideas for decorating your home. There will be time for shopping in the Christmas shop and Garden centre and the Café is open for refreshments.

7 December n University Symphony Orchestra, Sir Jack Lyons Concert. 7.30pm. Programme includes Elgar’s Sea Pictures, Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 6 and The Chairman Dances by John Adams

8 – 11, 15 – 18 December n A Christmas Carol, The Golden Fleece Inn, 16 Pavement YO1 9UP. 6.30pm. York Horror Tours presents a new twist on the Dickens classic. The audience will be lead through the historic streets of York as Scrooges story unfolds around them. Christmas markets, street parties and spectral ghosts wait in readiness to spring into life around the city as the audiences are shown Scrooge’s past, present and future. Tickets from 01904 623568.

8/9 December n Christmas Crackers, Mansion House. 7.30pm. Gather in the glorious setting of the stateroom for a mixture of seasonal music and

carols together with songs from musicals based on the Christmas stories of Dickens, all presented by York Musical Theatre Company. This intimate evening is just the thing to get you in the festive spirit! £12. Includes a mince pie and a mulled wine. Pre-booking essential on 01904 615505.

8 December n Late Night Shopping Event, Brunswick Organic Nursery & Craft Workshop, Appleton Road, Bishopthorpe YO23 2RF. 8pm. Holly wreaths, handmade Christmas crafts, gifts and cards with mulled wine and mince pies. See website for details www.brunswickyork.org.uk or call 01904 701869

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n OCAY Annual Christmas Fair, The Guildhall, YO1 0TA, 10am-4pm. This fair will be officially opened by the Lord Mayor and there will be various local charities and small business selling goods from Christmas cards to homemade cakes. There will be a grand raffle draw with cash prizes and music from the York University music department. Everyone is welcome!

9, 10, 16 & 17 December n Yorkboat Christmas Nights Afloat. Enjoy your Christmas Party this year onboard a Christmas Party Cruise! Celebrate the festive season in style with friends and colleagues by enjoying a delicious two course barbeque buffet, professional disco and three hour evening cruise. Call YorkBoat on 01904 628324 to book.

9, 10, 16 and 17 December

includes drinks reception, three course dinner and dancing. For more information, or to book, please call 01653 648632

10,11,17,18,20,21,22 December n Narnia Christmas Grotto, RockPlex Centre, Priory Street. 10am – 4pm. Take a trip into the kingdom of the White Witch, find out how Aslan brought Christmas back to Narnia, then pay a visit to Santa himself! Tickets available on the door or book your Fast Pass by calling 01904 659475 (note, tickets not available on the door 20, 21 and 22nd)

10 - 11 December n Festival of Angels, Swinegate. 11am – 6pm (Sat); 11am – 5pm (Sun). The heart of the city centre will be transformed into a winter wonderland of ice-sculptures, stalls, al fresco dining, street entertainment, live ice-carving and guaranteed ‘snow’ showers.

n Evening Sleigh Rides, The Farmer’s Cart, Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe. The evening sleigh rides will be a magical experience for all the family – this is a limited ticket event only with tickets on sale in the shop on a first come first served basis only.

Nursery. 10am – 12 noon.

9, 29, 30 & 31 December

10 December

n Antique & Collectors Fair, Town

n Christmas Fair, Dunnington Primary

Hall, Market Place, Helmsley. 9.30am – 4.30pm. Call 01937 582803.

school. 11am-2pm. There will be many exciting local stall holders to purchase Christmas gifts, lots of games, a raffle, refreshments and Santa will be available to visit. Fun for all the family!

9 & 16 December n Christmas Party Nights at Castle Howard. 7.30pm. See Castle Howard dressed for Christmas and celebrate the festive season in style at the stunning Christmas Party Night. Tickets cost £48.50 per person, which

10 & 17 December n Plant Sale, Poppleton Community Railway

n Festive Fun, Mansion House. 2 – 4pm. Parlour games, stories, a Christmas tea party and a chance to meet Father Christmas, who has a present for each child to put under their tree. Also

includes a cup of tea and a mince pie for parents. Pre-booking essential on 01904 615505

11 December n Santa Jog, York City Rowing Club Boathouse (next to Lendal Bridge along West Esplanade). Registration from 9am, Children’s Fancy Dress Competition at 10.20am, starts 10.30am. Join hundreds of Santas in the traditional one mile dash in aid of the British Heart Foundation. All adults taking part will receive a Santa Suit and children under 16 are encouraged to come in fancy dress so they can enter the Children’s Fancy Dress Competition, with prizes for best costumes. Entry is £5 for adults who register before 2nd December and £6 on the day. Children under 16 are free when accompanied by a fee-paying adult. To register call the York Santa Jog Team on 01623 624 558 or email north@bhf.org.uk or visit bhf.org. uk/yorksantajog

12 December n Luke Jermay, Las Vegas Magician, Basement, City Screen, YO1 8QL. 8pm-11pm. Straight from a two year run in Las Vegas, Luke Jermay (Derren Brown’s coach) is performing a new show, ‘Urban Mystic’ and is in York for one night only. Be amazed as Jermay impossibly knows you, your memories, your past, present and future; sometimes even better than you do. Tickets £12.

13 – 15 December n Christmas Gift Fair, The Guildhall. 10am – 4pm. A unique shopping experience showcasing many items not available on the high street. Free admission. For more information, visit www.allseasonevents.co.uk

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16 December n British Music Society Concert, Sir Jack Lyons Hall, University of York. 8pm. The Heath Quartet will be performing works by Haydn and Beethoven.

14 December n University Choir, York Barbican. 7.30pm. Programme features Carmina Burana by Orff and The Rio Grande by Lambert. n Christmas Quiz Night, The Bar Convent, 6.30pm. Come in from the cold and enjoy the fun! Tickets £7.50 each, including entry to the Quiz and a Pie & Pea Supper. The evening will start with drinks available from the licensed cafe and then at 7pm its down to business! Maximum of 6 per team, book by calling 01904 643238.

15 December n Comedy Night, York Racecourse. 7pm – 11pm. Have some pre-festive entertainment

at the Racecourse’s curry and comedy evening. Eat, drink and laugh at four fantastic comedy acts – Alan Francis, Michael Fabbri, Tim Clark and Phil Knoxville. For information call 01904 638971.

n Ring Out Wild Bells – A Concert in Music and Words to Celebrate the Season of Christmas, St Giles Church, Copmanthorpe. 7.30pm. With The Occasion Choir and Television Presenter Geoff Druett. In support of Admiral Nurses (for Dementia UK). Tickets £7.50 (to include refreshments). Call 01904 707965/707149/707065.

n Feast of Christmas, Bedern Hall. 7pm Ancient Recipes and Theatrical Prose will be intertwined with 1940’s costumed

n Carols by Candlelight, York Barbican. Herald Christmas in the most elegant way with this joyous concert of carols and seasonal classics presented with all the grace and charm of the 18th Century in an evocative candle - lit style setting. The Mozart Festival Orchestra in dramatic period costume will be performing a whole host of much-loved classical treats from Mozart, Bach and Handel, plus a selection of festive favourite carols for everyone to join in. To book, call the box office on 0844 8542757. www.raymondgubbay.co.uk n Christmas Cruse, Central Methodist Church, St Saviourgate. The York branch of the bereavement care charity presents an event with special guest Gervase Phinn. To book, call 01937 834702 or email York@cruse.org.uk.

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characters delivered by Ars Ludendi the local character artists group, regulars in the York Mystery Plays. Characters include Mike Tyler as an ARP Warden, Rob Wright an Army officer and Paul Toy the ‘Impresario’ with his impression of how black market suppliers became part of WWII folklore. The event is popular for its celebration of the season in food, wine, music and words. Anyone curious about the foods eaten during the festive season will enjoy this, as they attempt to provide answers with humour and style. They are joined again by Ars Ludendi whose music and japes will keep you entertained throughout the evening. Tel: 653698

17 – 18 December n Dressing the Christmas Table, Barley Hall. 11.30am, 4pm. Fun workshops for all the family to create unique and historic table decorations. Includes centrepieces, place settings, crackers and other essential details. Pre-booking: 01904 615505.

17 December -1 January n Twinkle Pike Way, daily 4pm -10.30pm. Despite some residents moving out and electricity costs rising some of the remaining householders are still lighting up down twinkle Pike Way in Wigginton (YO32 2FF if you need the postcode for your Sat Nav). Any kind donations will be given to a local charity yet to be decided. Get all festive and wander down the little cul-de-sac with the big lights.

17 December n HUGE – The Ultimate Xmas Party, York Barbican. Deck the halls with boughs of holly ...tis the season to be jolly and it doesn’t get any jollier than HUGE. Big Ian and the boys return to York Barbican seven months after re-opening it in May. York’s own party band will be turning the Barbican into a winter wonderland of funky festivity and brassy baubles! It’s the ideal party night out for all the family, from five year olds to funky grannies. his year will feature the voice of The X Factor introducing the show. The boys will be playing tunes by the likes of Take That, Queen, The Who, Amy Winehouse as well as Motown , Northern Soul and even songs from GLEE ! The night will also have a show-stopping finale with a Christmas singalong of all your yuletide favourites as Big Ian

dons his Santa gear. Book your tickets at www. yorkbarbican.co.uk or call 0844 854 2757. For all other HUGE info visit www.hugepartyband.co.uk.

19 – 23 December

n Book binding workshop, Space

activities at the Hall to make historic Yuletide decorations.

109, 109 Walmgate, York YO1 9UA. Learn how to make several types of book from instant very simple books to quite complicated. Hopefully at the end of this workshop you will be on the road to being able to make your own books in the future. For details email contact@space109 or call 01904 612790.

n ‘Vision of Angels’ Exhibition, Memorial Hall, Haxby, 10am-4pm. The Story of the Christmas Angels in Art and Craft. Fun quiz, ‘angelic’ refreshments, children’s activity table, donations to local charity. For further information please contact Miriam Sigston tel: 01904 764291 or Pam Mills tel: 01904 760896.

18 December n Christmas Carols, Rievaulx Abbey, Nr Helmsley YO62 5LB. 1.30pm. Join the Bilsdale Silver Band for seasonal festive music at the Abbey. Plus a chance to buy some unique festive gifts.

n York’s Festive Fayre, Parliament Street. Don’t miss the Christmas wooden huts lit up like little Germany in the heart of York. Producers, designers, jewellers, potters and much more.

n Christmas Confectionary, Mansion House. 12 noon - 2pm. Discover the delights of chocolate and Christmas, with your very own chance to make some of the festive delights to take home. Tickets littleprettything@gmail.com or call 01904 550099

n Salt Dough Decorations for Kids, Barley Hall. 10.30am – 4pm. Drop-in

20 –22 December n Christmas Tales for Children, Mansion House. 11am, 12 noon, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm. Join a storyteller in the atmospheric Great Hall to hear grim tales of yesteryear, all with a festive twist!

31 December n Dancing on the Green, New Earswick & District Bowls Club, Huntington Road YO32 9PX. With the fabulous Steve Cassidy Band plus support from top Yorkshire DJ Johnny Whiteshoes. Call 01904 750230.

7 January n York One Day Book Fair, Knavesmire Suite, York Racecourse. 10am – 4.30pm. 100 leading book dealers under one roof. Free Buses to the fair departing from outside York Railway station every 20 minutes, starting from 9.30am. The Fair and main cafe-restaurant opens at 10am.

16 January n Circle Dance Taster Evening, Priory Street Centre, Priory Street, 7.30pm. A light way to exercise and have fun at the same time. Circle Dance teaches dances from all around the world to catchy music and rhythms. Beginners welcome, no need to bring a partner. Tel 788058.

Sunday 22nd January 2012 12noon to 4.00pm - Free Admission

102 EVENTS KEY: n WALKS & TOURS n LOCAL & COMMUNITY EVENTS n DAYS OUT & ATTRACTIONS n CONCERTS n ANTIQUES FAIRS & AUCTIONS

19 January n Circle Dance Taster Sessions, Huntington Memorial Hall, 10am and Clement’s Hall, Nunthorpe Road at 7.30pm. A light way to exercise and have fun at the same time. Circle Dance teaches dances from all around the world to catchy music and rhythms. Beginners welcome, no need to bring a partner. Tel 788058.

20 – 21 January n York Stamp & Coin Fair, York Racecourse. 10am – 4pm. There are around 95 Stamp Dealers plus 60+ Coin, Banknote and Medal Dealers with stands, buying and selling material. You can buy or sell, get valuations or just browse and see what the hobby is all about. There are often specialist society meetings to which everyone is welcome, whether member or not.

21 January n Delius 150th Birthday Concert, St Olave’s Church, Marygate. The Academy of St Olave’s presents this celebration concert, featuring the works of Vaughan Williams, Sibelius, Warlock, Grainger, Grieg, as well as the birthday boy himself. Tickets available on the door or from Visit York, 1 Museum Street. Call 01904 550099.

31 January n Lunchtime Limber Circle Dance for fun and fitness, York Explore Library, YO1 7DS. A light way to exercise and have fun at the same time. Circle Dance teaches dances from all around the world to catchy music and rhythms. Beginners welcome, no need to bring a partner. Tel 788058.

Angela Bare

CORSETS & FANCY DRESS Appointments only www.angelabare.co.uk

Tel: 07919 961459 SS & CORSET BRIDLINGTON’S NEWEST FANCY DRE & probably the cheapest around too! Find us on facebook!

Takeaway Available

Selected Pizzas and Pastas

£5.00 pick up only

Kids cooking parties

let the kids have fun in the kitchen. 6 children

£30.00 (2hrs of cooking)

BUSINESS

Why not arrange a home visit?

Parties of 6 or more by arrangement.

Bellezza Award Winning

ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3 course menu STARTER, MAIN & DESSERT

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104 Quay Road, Bridlington

EVENTS KEY: n WALKS & TOURS n LOCAL & COMMUNITY EVENTS n DAYS OUT & ATTRACTIONS n CONCERTS n ANTIQUES FAIRS & AUCTIONS 103

Theatre A YORKSHIRE CHRISTMAS CAROL – ON TOUR (Dates Between 1 – 23 December) Enjoy a family treat for Christmas and join the much lauded BadappleTheatre for their latest ‘theatre on your doorstep’ production. Writer Kate Bramley (Land Girls of Yorkshire) and her itinerant band of actors put their classic Yorkshire comedy slant on the Dicken’s Christmas story. Full of local stories and carols, puppets and mayhem, this is a winter warmer to put a smile on everyone’s face this Christmas. Badapple Box Office 01423 339168 (1st - Long Marston Village Hall, 10th- Pocklington Arts Centre, 11th - Tockwith Village Hall, 15thSand Hutton and Claxton Village Hall, 23rd- Green Hammerton Village Hall) .

THE MERRY WIVES OF WINSOR (12 December)

BABES IN THE WOODS

There’s a right raucous romp going on in jolly old Windsor town! Hold onto your 1950 style hats, as two merry wives give that lovable ‘naughty knight’, Fatty Falstaff, a shock he’ll never forget, in return for his unwanted amorous attentions. Laughter, surprises and fun for all the family guaranteed, so hurry along now and bag your tickets for an exciting evening of infectious frivolity! Joseph Rowntree Theatre. Box office 07927 026071.

If you go down to the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise. Look out for the evil Sheriff of Nottingham who’s plotting to boost his riches whilst Robin Hood and Maid Marion do all they can to stop him. Then there’s catering supremo Sue and her dippy assistant son, Preston. Add in lots of children, a woodland fairy, Willy & Diddy (the sheriff’s henchmen), plenty of jokes, catchy songs and dazzling dancing and you have the Rowntree

(3-10 December)

Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol Tom Cruise returns in the latest instalment of the mega-successful spy movie franchise. The Impossible Mission Force is shut down when it’s implicated in the bombing of the Kremlin, causing Ethan Hunt and his new team to go rogue to clear their organisation’s name.

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo: Can this Hollywood remake match up to the Swedish original? Daniel Craig stars as campaigning journalist Mikael Blomkvist, who joins forces with troubled young computer hacker Lis Salander to search for a woman who has been missing for 40 years.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows Robert Downey Jr and Jude Law return as Baker Street’s finest crime fighting duo, Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson. This time the supersleuth and his sidekick join forces to outwit and bring down their fiercest adversary, Professor Moriarty. 104

HANDS OFF (1 – 3 December) A devised collaborative piece arranged by Six Lips Theatre, Hands Off explores the ego and the role of the performer in modern culture. Inspired by the concept of speed dating, the local performers of various and diverse specialities and backgrounds will dazzle you as they share their successes and commiserate their failings. Performances will be held in the Bar Lane Studios basement nightly at 7.30pm. Box Office 623568.

THE MAGIC HATTER’S CHRISTMAS CRACKER! (19, 21, 22 December)

Join York children’s entertainer and magician The Magic Hatter, in a magical extravaganza suitable for ages 3 to 103! Brand new for 2011, this seasonal show is jam packed with magic, illusions, comedy and more surprises than in Santa’s sleigh. Plus special guest Frostbite the penguin all the way from the North Pole. This show is guaranteed to get your family in the Christmas spirit. The shows are performed at the Upstage Centre Youth Theatre.

Vue: 08712 240 240 www.myvue.co.uk City Screen: 0871 902 5726 www.picturehouses.co.uk/york Reel Cinema: 0870 801 0870 www.reelcinemas.co.uk

Happy Feet 2 in 3D Mumble the penguin

New Year’s Eve: The lives of several

has a problem: his son Erik, who is reluctant to dance, encounters The Mighty Sven, a penguin who can fly! Things get worse for Mumble when the world is shaken by powerful forces, causing him to bring together the penguin nations and their allies to set things right. Featuring the voices of Brad Pitt, Robin Williams and Ray Winstone.

couples and singles in New York intertwine over the course of New Year’s Eve. Featuring whole galaxy of stars, including Ashton Kutcher, Hilary Swank, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sarah Jessica Parker, Sienna Miller, Halle Berry, Zac Efron and Robert De Niro

Puss In Boots: Ever wondered what happened to the sword fighting cat before he joined forces with Shrek, Donkey and Co? This story tells all! Featuring the voices of Antonio Banderas, Billy Bob Thornton and Salma Hayek.

Alvin & The Chipmunks – Chip-wrecked: Playing around while aboard a cruise ship with their manager Dave, the Chipmunks and Chipettes accidentally go overboard and end up marooned in a tropical paradise. They soon discover their new turf is not as deserted as it seems...Have the chipmunks finally met their match?

A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas: Six years after their Guantanamo Bay adventure, stoner buds Harold Lee and Kumar Patel cause a holiday fracas by inadvertently burning down Harold’s father-in-law’s prize Christmas tree. The unlikely team then embark on a mission through New York City to find the perfect Christmas tree, once again stumbling into trouble at every single turn.

Camp Hell: Jesse Eisenberg stars in the thrilling story of a group of children from a Christian community who go on a spiritual retreat deep into the woods – and find themselves encountering something very evil indeed...

*Listings correct at time of press.

Film guide

Players 2011 Christmas Panto, Babes in the Wood. Joseph Rowntree Theatre. Box office 07927 026071.

To book tickets visit www.magichatterbirthdays.co.uk or email info@magichatterbirthdays.co.uk.

JOHAN STRAUSS GALA (13 JANUARY) A new show for 2012, the acclaimed Johann Strauss Dancers and Orchestra invite you to experience the magic of their Viennese Ball. Enjoy music directed from the violin in the traditional Viennese manner by David Juritz and the dancers in glorious period costumes. Sparkling soprano Amy Freston delivers wonderful arias and songs, making this a classical all singing all dancing night to remember! The Barbican, Box office 0844 854 2757.

YORK THEATRE ROYAL PRESENTS...

THE TEMPEST (1 – 2 December) ajtc Theatre Company returns to York Theatre Royal with their production of The Two-Man Tempest. The two actors conjure storms and apparitions, lay bare treasons and counterplot, and finally transport you to a brave new world of love and reconciliation. Adapted and directed by Geoff Bullen, with a specially commissioned score by the internationally renowned composer Tot Taylor including contributions from Stacey Kent, Alan Barnes and Simon Warner. Box Office 01904 623568.

THE YORK FAMILY ROBINSON (15 December – 4 January)

York’s loudest, wackiest panto returns for its 33rd year. From York to Whitby and then on to Australia, but will the comically dysfunctional “York Family Robinson” ever reach their final destination? Join them as they challenge the world’s most

Pocklington Arts Centre 4 8

Studio Night Destiny Africa Children’s Choir Rhythms of Life Tour 10 A Yorkshire Christmas Carol Badapple Theatre 15 Mirth Control Christmas Comedy Club

THE DUCHESS 1 Malcolm Middleton 2 Phatfish 4 Glen Tillbrook 6 Amplifier 7 Fish 8 Steve Harley (Cockney Rebel) 9 Stephen Fretwell 10 The Jamm

treacherous waters in a desperate attempt to find the only living link with the beginning of time. Laugh yourself silly as they encounter dastardly fey pirates and find themselves shipwrecked on No Man’s Land. Confused? You will be! Box Office 01904 623568.

THE TRIAL (8 & 10 December) Joseph K is under arrest. What he has been accused of and by whom he does not know. The accused must fight his case in the dark as he battles against an ensemble of increasingly grotesque characters. Steven Berkoff’s adaptation of Franz Kafka’s seminal novel thrusts audiences into the nightmarish world of unjust bureaucracy and an unfair judicial system. The play follows the psychological and physical journey of everyman, K, as he enters a surreal world in search of some answers and a way to break the binds of unyielding red tape. Suitable for 12+. Performed The University of York’s Department of Theatre, Film and Television at Black Box Theatre. To book tickets visit www.yorktheatreroyal. co.uk

METAMORPHOSIS (9 & 10 December)

Gregor Sama lives a life of routine. Everyday he wakes up, goes to work to earn enough money to support his family and returns home. Once day, without explanation, Gregor wakes up to find that he has transformed into a gigantic insect. Steven Berkoff’s dark adaptation of Kafka’s most famous story places the family’s struggle in coming to terms with Gregor’s transformation at the heart of the narrative. Suitable for 12+. Performed The University of York’s Department of Theatre, Film and Television at Black Box Theatre. To book tickets visit www.yorktheatreroyal. co.uk

THE GRAND OPERA HOUSE PRESENTS...

BEYOND THE BARRICADE (2 December)

Back by overwhelming public demand, the most successful and popular touring show of its kind Beyond the Barricade returns with a brand new 2011 production. Recreating original West End musical hit songs, a cast of past principal performers from the West End production of Les Miserables bring you an unmissable performance. Featuring songs from Miss Saigon, The Lion King, Phantom Of The Opera, Love Never Dies, Mamma Mia, Blood Brothers, The Jersey Boys and many more hit musical productions, climaxing with a spectacular finale from, of course, Les Miserables! Box Office 0844 871 3024.

ALADDIN (9 December – 1 January) Panto time again? Oh yes it is! York’s beloved family pantomime returns with Aladdin, a magic carpet ride of fun, thrills and festive cheer. Steven Arnold (Corrie’s own Ashley Peacock) takes the title role, with Opera House favourite Aiden J Harvey returning as Wishy Washy and seasoned Dame Phil Randall taking them down a peg or two as the hilarious Widow Twankey. If you ask the genie for songs, laughs and a sprinkling of stardust this Christmas he’ll be sure to grant all your three wishes in one with an unforgettable night out at the Opera House. Box Office 0844 871 3024

11 Bury Tomorrow 17 Glamour of the Kill 18 Captain Zippy 23 With One Last Breath 29 Fraser

FIBBERS 1 Kobra and the Lotus 2 Wreckless Eric & Emma Rigby 3 The High Llamas 6 Castrovalva 7 The Pineapple Theif 8 Dan Baird & Homemade Sin 11 The Mick Ralphs Blues Band 13 The Treatment 14 101% Pantera Dimebag Memorial Tour 17 Stolen Earth 23 A Jokers Rage

27 Skylights

BASEMENT 12 Luke Jermay ‘Urban Mystic’

York Acorn Rugby Club 3 Eton Rifles,

STEREO 2 The Sex Pistols Experience 6 This Town Needs Guns 8 Liz Green 24 GLEEEEEEEEEE, Tapeworm Death, Goats Int’ Throneroom, Kittees Kinx

Venue Contacts: Pocklington Arts Centre 01759301547, The Duchess 641143, Fibbers 651250, Stereo 612237. Basement 612 940.

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J Myers Joinery 07877 756584 117 Lewis Carpentry 07565 890702 117 MSB Joinery 07925 323536 118 Paul Meillam Joinery 07766165116 118 Redberry Joinery 07501 144383 118 S M Maintenance 752969 111 Wood `n All 07947 001520 117 York Door Services 07973 889232 117 locks/Security/Alarms Access All Locks 410069 118 Afford a Lock 625635 118 loft conversions Yorkshire Loft Conversions 423511 74 logs/fuel ACG Wood Fuels 01937 830700 68 Dry Logs 652742 77 Dry seasoned logs 07885 594303 78 Hardwood Logs 07882 847164 79 Rix Fuel 01482 838383 30 Mobility/hearing/care Forward Mobility 769300 59 Home Instead Senior Care 690884 59 Minster Mobility 788592 59 MV Mobility 01937 558604 59 Oaklands Care Home 01423 330600 58 St Johns House 01423 330480 59 Surecare 520192 53-59 motor parts/services Automotive Solutions 792652 33 Barkers Garage 760020 35 C & M Auto Services Ltd 796718 33 car buyer today . com 07931 573307 32 Central Body Repairs 791176 32 Chips Away 07810 243 444 34 Copmanthorpe MOT`s 700755 35 D & J Woodcock 430130 128 Dave Woods Motorcycles 633000 33 HP Maintenance 792899 35 Ivinson Autos 767675 32 JB Auto Cosmetics 693101 34 Manor Garage 611802 33 North Yorkshire Motors 691078 33 Osbaldwick Motors 412417 35 Pigotts Auto Parts 490978 35 Pristine Cars 01937 589099 35 R Walker Cars 797720 35 richard hollings auto svs 793386 32 Self Drive Van Hire 07423 327303 35 U Pull It 0844 8751914 34 Wigginton Car Repairs 750272 33 Wigginton Car Resprays 765948 33 Wrigglesworth & Son 634894 33 York Suzuki Centre 625404 33 York Vehicle Test Centre 541888 32 Oven Cleaning Cooker Cleaners Ltd 07831 700113 115 Cookerburra 672859 114 Kitchen Rescue Ltd 0800 6127252 114 Ultra Clean 01759 371741 114 Pest Control Commercial Services 625751 111 Huntcatchkill 492535 27 Pet Care A Cut Above Dog Grooming 422629 61 Alisons Dog Grooming 422905 61 Fulford Pet Supplies 289363 60 German Shepard Training 703504 61 Lost Cat 07759 485914 61 Marmadukes Mobile Pet 07786 025698 61 Minster Vets 643997 61 Oscars Pet Food 07572 983362 61 Perfect Paws Dog grooming 07877 962791 61 Sweeney Dog Ltd 890666 60 The Dog House 701079 61 Top Dog Grooming 07846 794257 60 Treat Me Nice Dog Walking 620429 60 Walks 4 Paws 07786 037527 60

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pictre framing Steve Garnett 07950 443096 Plastering A Crosier Bathroom Fitter 07855 970895 Colin Hardgrave 07881 733344 Ernie Jeffrey & Reese Plastering 639619 M Simpson Plastering 332568 Paul Bell Plastering 07904 203537 paul sellars plastering 07789 677251 Plumbing/heating 1A Rapid Response 295344 All Cisterns Go 07946 346928 BPH Services 07973 542283 C Hudson Plumbing & Heating 07966 344950 Chris Myers Plumbing 07860 434643 Colin Bell Plumbing 07885 514332 DJC Plumbing 07770 754215 DRS Installations 07866 387846 E Martin & Sons 07966 486329 Fox Plumbing 659476 Gas Servicing 07793 355168 Gastech 07793 814172 Glen Plumbing & Electrics 424169 Glen Plumbing & Electrics 424169 GPE Services 07501 465392 GW Plumbing 07525 858008 Haxby Plumbing and Heating 270308 Hurrells Plumbing & Heating 07712 107208 Jupiter Heating & Plumbing 07840 870352 Luke Mitchell Plumbing 07974 025903 Melbourne Heating York 07984 742264 Mermaid Plumbing 07970 200 035 Nunthorpe Services 07906 592872 Pipe solutions Plumbing Svs 707484 Poppleton Plumbing & Heating 07903 979712 Radtek Heating 750302 S Williams Plumbing & Heating 07716 788680 Skelton Plumbing Services 07766 625584 Sleepsafe Gas Services 07799 474565 T P Plumbing 761919 T Whitelam Plumbing 07729 980253 The Direct Boiler Co 295033 Tom Plumb 07971 437359 Yorkshire Central Plumbing 780780 pointing Grove Property Repairs 780910 property Services Garages to Rent 735000 YORKEYS 693888 recycling Waste Strategy 553292 Removals/Storage 1 Van 1 Man 785022 2 Anywhere 07952 843398 A2B 07772 568526 Andy Vans 422268 Mr Shifter 07710 450672 Ridings Removals 07854 747129 Riverside Removals 07979 523076 YDL 01653 618171 renewable energy Solar Panels 4 U 01423 322915 Roofing Able Roofing (York) 07908 558954 advanced roofing 07867 774747 Direct Roof Care 07502 148876 Ebor Roofing and Plastics 07581 332457 Elite Roofing 750166 Flat Roof Company 0800 212548 Flat Roof Company 0800 212548 Future roofs 07773 388141 Haxby Roofline Company 0771 8521107 J & P Construction 676697 J Foster & Son Building/Roofing 07768 401277 Mark Winters Lead Work 07976 845678 roofs above 0800 0855 688 SD Roofing 07889 652091

7 118 118 118 118 118 118 118 118 118 120 121 120 120 119 119 119 120 120 119 75 120 120 121 120 121 119 121 121 120 121 121 3 121 121 119 119 119 120 119 120 110 71 111 77 121 121 121 121 121 121 121 24 77 121 121 121 9 123 67 121 122 122 122 121 123 122 121

Top Roofing 07979 676333 121 Shops/stores 22 Interiors 620090 67 All Mod Comms 425952 14 Barnitts 625601 20 Blue Moon trading 624141 9 Bluebells Of York 289795 103 Cycle Street 427510 19 Dotty Birds 640522 5 Fantasy World 621328 15 Herbert Brown 689938 21 Lavender and Celery 637890 3 Londons of Heworth 424544 15 Mccawley Grange 792392 28 Monkbar Model Shop 659423 25 Paul Dawson (York) Ltd 07801 537 412 7 Rydenor 476216 31 Supersave 625735 25 The Corner Stitch 620034 13 Time out 626949 27 Wall of Sound 704107 27 Whitby Oliver Furniture Ltd 652424 12 Wiltshire Farm Foods 01423 339666 58 York Community Furniture 426444 16 York Golf Range 499275 29 Skips/Waste Removal A - Z Waste 07802 434349 77 Acomb Waste Disposal 07724 441630 83 D Boswell 488632 77 Ebor Skip Hire 400997 83 Martins of York 412476 80 Wrights of Crockey Hill 620626 84 Solicitors Ardent Law Ltd 782958 31 Coles Solicitors 679990 17 Denison Till Solicitors 0800 2797500 51 Harrowells 558600 11 Harrowells 558600 19 Hethertons Solicitors 528200 23 Hethertons Solicitors 528200 Minster Law 663927 128 Richardson Gildener Solicitors 642727 48 Richardson Gildener Solicitors 642727 6 Richardson Gildener Solicitors 642727 26 Tilers CM Tiling 07976 675527 71 Mr Multitrade 07946 378 665 117 travel/holidays Leo Travel 07790 886 806 7 York Cars 765765 12 Upholstery Neilson Interiors 762023 75 venue for hire Haxby Memorial Hall 764358 14 Weddings Mariott Hotel 701000 102 York Register Office 654477 47 will Writing JMD Associates UK 799282 13 Window Cleaning Claires Window Cleaning 07717 756431 114 Window/Door Repairs Access All UPVC Repairs 410069 123 All Double Glazing Repairs 481148 123 Arrow Homecare 07581 006900 123 DR Glazing 654274 123 Afford a Lock 625635 123 D.G.M.S Windows 479944 14 Express Trade Windows York 310222 4 JG Trade Windows 421646 11 PVC Window Doctor 07732 822525 123 Secondary Glazing D.G.M.S 479944 17 Square Deals Ltd 0800 7315435 3 The Sliding Sash Window Co 07947 001520 123 Window Solutions 07842 532133 123 York Millenium Window 691122 18 York Trade Windows 541919 70 worktops Dales of Thirsk Ltd 01845 522523 66 Work Top Man 07891 858873 69