Your Local Link Magazine May 2011 by Your Local Link Ltd

YORK BORN & READ! Delivered monthly to every home and business in York and the villages n Issue 90 May 2011

Great days out the only events diary you’ll need!

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Well, we gave Robin a good send-off (some of us – mention no names – still have the hangovers to prove it). We sent him packing with a whole bunch of gifts, including a giant cupcake courtesy of resident domestic goddess Rachel, and one of the best mocked up covers we’ve ever done (again, courtesy of Rach). Now it’s a case of “Robin who?” as we welcome Claire, the latest addition to our busy accounts team.

even more when she brought in a packet of Hobnobs. But, as she learned when she discovered a packet of crumbs about ten minutes later, it’s never wise to offer to share any food in this office. We reckon she’s already learned her lesson – but little does she know that we know she’s hiding that jar of posh coffee somewhere in her desk. And it’s only a matter of time before we find it. Be afraid, Claire, be very afraid...

So what can we tell you about Claire? Well, she’s married to Jonny, has two lovely little girls, and she is training to be a florist. She’s already brightened up the office with some of her brilliant floral designs. She brightened it up

Anyway, it’s great to have Claire with us. She’s a very happy, smiley lady – especially when someone comes in to pay a bill! So why not pop in and say hello? We’ve had some other good news

recently. Do you remember Shereen, who used to work on our advertising team? Well, she’s just announced she’s getting married – to one of our advertisers! We’d all like to wish them all the best for their forthcoming wedding. Maybe we should start the Your Local Link Introduction Agency..?

6 26 29 40 44 48 50 58 61 75 79 92 113 118

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Hatched, matched & dispatched! Best of York Your Wedding Health & Beauty Your Family Your Education Your Pet Your Garden Your Environment Your Home York on a Fork Your Events Trades & Services Your Motoring Your Business

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

Space booking, copy and cancellation deadline for the June edition is 13th May 2011 and 20th May 2011 for recruitment. Please book early - space is limited! Publishers: Tracy Outram and Gini Guttery

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your competitions

Win a free treatment at Future Beauty! We could all use a little help when it comes to looking good which is why we love the treatments on offer at Future Beauty in Rawcliffe. They specialise in advanced skincare, including botox, fillers, skin resurfacing and permanent hair reduction. We’re particularly excited about Collagen Induction Therapy. It’s a non-surgical treatment that’s proved very effective for a range of skin problems, from lines and wrinkles to sun damage, uneven pigmentation and acne scars. A roller with hundreds of tiny needles stimulates the skin to regenerate and repair itself naturally and safely, increasing collagen and elastin production and creating smoother, brighter, healthier and younger looking skin. Now the lovely team at Future Beauty is offering one lucky reader the chance to win a fantastic free facial or skin resurfacer. To be in with a chance of winning, all you have to do is answer the following question: Where is Future Beauty located?

Win drama

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The Helen O’Grady Drama Academy in York is offering a term of free drama lessons for the two winners of its fantastic competition. The academy is casting for four exciting plays designed to inspire budding thespians aged between 5 and 17. One play puts an interesting twist to the familiar story of The Old Woman In The Shoe. Circus Capers is set to go with a bang in the big top when Charlie Buchannon puts too much gunpowder in the cannon. The drama academy is also presenting two brilliant plays for its youth theatre students: Murder At Mornington Manor is an atmospheric whodunit, while A Score To Settle sees two busloads of football supporters stranded in a haunted house. The academy stages classes for all ages from 5 to 17. If you would like to be part of a fabulous and exciting experience, make new friends, and work together as a team, call Lindsay on 332882.

Send your answers on a postcard to the address on page five, to reach us by Friday 13th May. Mark your entry ‘Future Beauty Competition’ and don’t forget to include your name, address, email and phone number.

To have a chance of winning the free drama lessons, please answer the following question:

n Future Beauty@Fresh Dental Smile Clinic, Manor House, Village Street, Rawcliffe YO30 5XY. Tel. 07525627358 or log on to www.future-beauty.co.uk

Send your answer on a postcard to Helen O’Grady Drama Competition, Your Local Link, Oak Tree Farm, The Moor, Haxby YO32 2LH to reach us by Friday, May 20. Please include your name, address and phone number.

Who put too much gunpowder in the cannon?

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Win free tennis coaching Andy Murray, Britain’s top tennis player, started playing the game at the age of three. Now York’s youngsters can follow his example – thanks to Tennis Tykes coming to the city. Pre-school age children learn tennis and ball skills during indoor tennis play sessions that incorporate lots of games and music for added fun. The lessons are taught by Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) qualified coaches using mini-tennis equipment. Caroline Buncall, an LTA coach who runs the classes, says: “Our approach is a fun, play-based programme, teaching and developing agility, balance and co-ordination, social, language and numeracy skills. The children hit balls over a mini-tennis net from the very first session and Tommy and Tessa, the Tennis Tykes characters, are always around to bring the programme to life.” To book your free taster session, call Caroline on 0784 334 2662. To win a term’s free tennis coaching for a pre-school age child in York (aged between two and four) simply answer the following question At what age did Andy Murray start playing tennis? Send your answer on a postcard to Tennis Tykes Competition, Your Local Link, Oak Tree Farm, The Moor, Haxby YO32 2LH to reach us by Friday, May 20. Please include your name, address and phone number.

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Fat Cats

The way i see it

The ups and downs of life as seen by our very own Grumpy (very) Old (almost) Woman My cat Trevor has been signed up for catty fat camp, and I’m utterly mortified. It all started when we took him to the vet’s for his vaccination. While we were there I mentioned the fact that he’d been limping recently. The vet checked him over and declared that his leg was stiff, but that it was made worse by the extra weight he was carrying. Extra weight? We both looked at Trevor, who was busy trying to eat her notes. Okay, he looked like a badly stuffed bin bag with a head attached. But could you really call him fat? Surely he was just big boned? “He needs to lose a third of his body weight,” said the vet.

Self esteem I felt terrible. I half expected a couple of social workers to burst in and take Trev into care. I thought Jamie Oliver might come in and make a documentary about him. “But we hardly feed him anything,” I protested. The vet looked at me sceptically, but it’s true. It’s not what he eats at home that’s the problem; it’s all the takeaways he has. For a big lad, Trevor

is like a silent assassin; the feline equivalent of Jason Bourne. He is also a very friendly chap, and is not averse to cuddling up to strangers in exchange for food.

none was forthcoming, he wasn’t happy. I don’t know if it’s possible for a cat to have a look of contempt, but he definitely did. He practically curled his lip.

“Then he’ll have to wear this around his neck,” said the vet. She produced a badge with the words ‘I’m on a diet, don’t feed me’, on it.

Poor pigeon

“Won’t that give him self esteem issues?” I asked. We looked at Trevor again. He was sprawled out on the vet’s table, sunning himself under her lamp. He had a number of problems, but a lack of self esteem clearly wasn’t one of them.

“I half expected a couple of social workers to burst in and take Trev into care” So we left with an overweight cat, a badge and a bag of reduced calorie food. I don’t know about Trev, but we were certainly several pounds lighter. We gave him a meagre amount of diet food. He ate it happily – in seconds. Then he looked around for his main course. When he realised

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The diet sheet also recommended increasing his exercise. So I got out his ball on a string toy for a mini workout. I worked off a few calories, running up and down the room trailing it behind me. Trevor just lay in the middle of the room, watching me with a cynically raised eyebrow. Surprisingly, he seemed to take to his diet. He no longer begged for food, and even left some of his dinner. Then we found out why. On Friday, I discovered a pigeon’s tail in the garden. I’m guessing it hadn’t read Trevor’s badge. So if you see a big fat black cat wandering around looking hungry, please do us a favour and don’t feed him. You won’t see his badge, though. I’m wearing that myself. It didn’t do much for Trev but it comes in very handy when I go into Thomas’ for a Chelsea Bun...

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We’re the tops!

We all know York is the best place in Britain, but now it’s official! Travel publisher Rough Guides has just conducted a poll of Britain’s favourite small towns and cities, and York came out on top, beating competition from other hugely popular Top 10 destinations including Bath, Brighton, Chester 1. York and St Ives. The city’s history, architecture and 2. Bath people were among the reasons why people 3. Brighton love coming here to visit. 4. Chester The news comes as no surprise to many 5. St Ives York residents. “We believe that no other 6. Durham city of its size offers such diversity of culture, 7. Whitby world class visitor attractions, superb shops, 8. Blackpool fabulous restaurants and all set amidst stunning 9. Keswick architecture, and we know our visitors agree 10. Stratford upon with us,” says John Yeomans, Chairman of Visit Avon & Cambridge York. “York truly is the jewel in the Yorkshire crown.”

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BOOK REVIEWS Page turners! It’s quite a responsibility to be put in charge of an international institution. So it must have been a bit nerve-racking when Jeffrey Deaver got the gig of writing a new James Bond novel. Luckily Jeffrey’s a bit of a dab hand with the bestsellers. Unlike Sebastian Faulks’ recent effort, Carte Blanche has a very contemporary setting. As part of his latest assignment, Bond travels with Emirates Airline and spends a number of thrilling hours in Dubai both meeting up with an old friend and tracking a very disturbing villain. And probably sleeping with a lot of women on the way. Anita Shreve’s novels are always intriguing, and Rescue is no exception. It begins when rookie paramedic Peter saves a young woman from a car wreck. The couple embark on an intense love affair and have a child. Eighteen years later Sheila is long gone and Peter is bringing up their daughter alone. But Rowan is veering dangerously off course and for the first time in their quiet life together Peter fears for her future. He seeks out the only person who may be able to help Rowan – her troubled mother...

with York author

donna hay

Think of Susan Hill and you probably imagine something a bit gothic – troubled spirits, haunted houses, swirling mists, that kind of thing. But did you know she writes some stonkingly good crime novels, too? Her contemporary novels feature detective Simon Serrailler, a Detective Chief Inspector in the southern cathedral town on Lafferton. The sixth in the series, Betrayal of Trust, is out now. So if you’re a crime fan, why not treat yourself?

Hays Baker and his wife Lizbeth possess super-human strength, extraordinary intelligence, stunning looks, a sex life to die for, and two beautiful children (don’t we all?) They’re Elites, endowed at birth with the very best that the world can offer. This is the imaginative premise of James Patterson’s latest novel, Toys. But Hays’ life is turned upside down when he finds himself a hunted fugitive, thrown into the task of saving humankind from extinction.

If you are a crime fan, you won’t need to be told about Wallander. Henning Mankel and Laurie Thompson’s detective helped launch the current craze for moody Scandinavian crime stories. In the latest, The Troubled Man, Kurt Wallander becomes involved with the mysterious disappearance of retired naval officer Hakan von Enke. And since Wallander’s daughter is engaged to Hakan’s son, he has some personal reasons for wanting to know where the old man has gone. It’s Wallander’s last case – will it be the one to defeat him?

Paradise, the latest offering by Katie Price, is bound to make it into a few million suitcases this summer. It’s six months since beautiful model Angel Summer found herself having to choose between a life with Ethan Turner, the laid-back Californian baseball player, or giving her marriage to football star Cal Bailey another go. And it looks like Angel made the right decision when she picked Ethan. But nothing is perfect; Ethan has secrets in his past that could threaten their relationship and when he faces financial ruin the couple are forced to star in a reality TV show about their life together.

Award for York drama school Stagecoach has named Sally Thrussell, of York, as its franchise holder of the year. She won the award for having the highest pupil retention rate out of 700 Stagecoach performing arts schools throughout the United Kingdom and abroad. Sally says 95% of her pupils have been attending her Stagecoach school, which meets at Archbishop’s Holgate on Saturdays, for at least a year. To build on this success, she is launching a new Stagecoach school that meets on Fridays, between 4.30pm and 7.30pm, at All Saints’ Upper School, Mill Mount, York, from May 6th. Sally says: “I am very chuffed about winning the award. I have a strong team of teachers and a lot of the children have stayed with us for several years. We are always finding new experiences for them.” Her pupils will be performing Alice In Wonderland at the West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds on June 11th. n Stagecoach offers quality training for four to 18-year-olds in the disciplines of dance, drama and singing. Sally is holding an open meeting on May 4th at 6pm in All Saints’ Upper School, Mill Mount, York, for parents and prospective Stagecoach students. For more details, call her on 672662.

A month in the life of the

Lord Mayor

Last year, Councillor Sue Galloway became the new Lord Mayor of York. We’ve been following her and the rest of the civic party as they go about their duties...

“The big event this month was the very first Lord Mayor’s Inspection of the Walls, introduced by the newly formed Friends of York Walls. A group of local schoolchildren met me at Mansion House, then we made our way from Bootham Bar along the wall to Monk Bar. The way was lined with children, all waving their home-made daffodils! I was in my full civic regalia, and some of the children commented that I looked like I was wearing a pirate’s hat! Some of the grown-ups were also confused that the ‘Lord Mayor’ was a woman – so much for equality! “In the evening we went to a variety performance in aid of SPARK – Securing Potential and Releasing Knowledge – which is organised by the students of York St John University. It was an excellent evening, with live music, African drumming, poetry and dancing. I also met Valentine Nkoyo, a 27 year old student from the Maasai tribe who has just been named Yorkshire International Student of the Year. Listening to her talk about her love for her adopted city was very inspiring – I’m sure we’re going to hear great things from her in the future. “We also attended the official opening of Auden House, York’s first extra care apartments, followed by a civic supper with representatives of the residents’ committee, builders and York Housing Association to say thank you to them for all their hard work. Getting Auden House

up and running has been a long and difficult task bu,t looking at the finished result, it’s all been worth it. “We visited the Technology Tournament at the National Railway Museum, which is organised by York Rotary. It’s a competition for York schools to come up with a technological solution to a set problem. It was fun to see all those furrowed brows as they tried to come up with an ingenious answer! “My sister the Lady Mayoress and I also paid a visit to our old primary school, Woodlands and Wedderburn in Harrogate. We were amazed at how little it had changed – the library had become an ICT suite, the craft hut had been turned into a library and the air raid siren had gone, but apart from that it was exactly the same! “This will be my last month as Lord Mayor, and we have a couple of interesting charity events coming up in May to raise some funds for my charities, the British Heart Foundation and Our Celebration. On 10th there will be an exclusive tour of Bishopthorpe Palace, with food and wine. Then on 16th the Chandini Indian restaurant in Goodramgate will be hosting a spicy evening of good food and fundraising. And there’s still time to buy your ticket for our Royal Wedding celebration in the Mansion House on 29th April. Call 551011 for more information on all our events.”

Don’t forget to vote With City of York Council’s elections and the national referendum on voting reform being held on Thursday, May 5, the local authority is urging voters to have their say. City council chief executive Kersten England, the returning officer, says: “It’s vitally important that people exercise their democratic right and vote.” n For more details, visit www. york.gov.uk, call the council’s Electoral Services team on 551052 or email electoral services@york.gov.uk

Panto tickets on sale York’s Grand Opera House, in conjunction with New Pantomime Productions, will be presenting Aladdin from Friday, December 9th, until Sunday, January 1st, with breathtaking stage sets and costumes guaranteed to wow the whole family. n Tickets are on sale now on 0844 871 3024.

Thoughtful, holistic homecare

putting you first Do you need someone to care for you, in your own home? Wouldn’t it be good to have someone reliable round the house, helping you get the most out of every day? SureCare York is a well-established business, providing the highest quality homecare to elderly and vulnerable clients. From a half-hour visit a week to round-the-clock attendance, we can meet every care need while you enjoy the comforts of home. Our fully trained and hand-picked carers can offer personal, domestic and social support, organised to suit your individual requirements, so you can concentrate on living your life to the full. SureCare York’s Manager, Jane Kitt, explains, “What we aim to do is help you enjoy a level of confidence and independence, enabling you to keep hold of the reins. You might need help with anything from light housework, shopping and cooking to writing to a friend or scheduling your medication. Sometimes just knowing there’s someone to talk to, can make all the difference.” Our homecare services are calculated at an hourly rate, with the minimum length of a visit set at 30 minutes. We pride ourselves on giving value for money and as part of our service we can advise on funding options for care. We are happy to provide the highest quality homecare for anyone who needs support, for however long they need it. n For more information on all our services, please call 520192.

Exclusive!

Down to earth

We meet Yorkshire lass Jane McDonald as she prepares for her homecoming gig at the new look Barbican York Barbican re-opens this month after a major revamp. The £2 million investment by SMG Europe includes a £1.5 million refurbishment of the venue which features a restaurant looking out on to the piazza, meeting rooms and public spaces. The centre will also be a boon to local business, hosting a range of events from large conferences to smaller meetings and private events. “To be re-opening and improving a major venue like the Barbican when the rest of the UK cultural sector is bracing itself for cuts and closures is a remarkable story for York,” says Nick Reed, Theatres Director, SMG Europe. “We look forward to a long and successful association with the city.”

New show One of the first acts to be appearing at the new-look Barbican is singer Jane McDonald, star of ITV’s Loose Women. The Yorkshire lass is really looking forward to playing to her home crowd. “I was born in Wakefield, so York is like a second home to me,” she says. “Me and my other half absolutely love the city. Who needs London when you have Bettys, or all those posh new city centre shops? And I must visit the Macarthur Glen Designer Outlet at least once a month. I have to go south to work but I come back home to spend my money!” She also has fond memories of the original York Barbican. “I appeared there several times before it closed, and it’s a

great honour to be one of the first people to play there again. It’s going to be a great asset to the city. I just hope I do my fans in York justice!” From the sound of the show she has planned, she won’t have any trouble wowing local audiences. “It’s going to be massive, the kind of spectacle you don’t often see on stage these days,” she promises. “I’ve got a whole new show planned that’s bigger and better than ever. Ken Dodd always says I’ll never make money because I spend so much on my shows, and he’s right.

“All I ask for is a kettle and some tea bags!” There are 15 of us on stage, including Daniel Pearce, who was a finalist on The X Factor. He’s lovely and very talented and I can’t wait to show him off – I feel like a proud mum! I also have three gorgeous blonde girls as backing singers – but obviously I make sure I keep them well in the background!” As well as all the crowd-pleasing favourites, the show will include a lot of new material, including some songs that Jane has written herself. These include The Hand That Leads Me, which she wrote for her mum, Not A Day Goes By, which is dedicated to her grandma, and I See It In Your Eyes, which Jane penned

during her marriage break-up. “I’ve always written songs but I’ve never really thought myself as a writer until I started working with Tina Turner and Andrea Bocelli’s arrangers who encouraged me to perform them,” she says. “All my songs mean something to me, and from the feedback I’m getting from audiences they seem to mean something to other people, too.”

On the road Jane’s life on the road may be nonstop, but she loves it. “I travel with my best mate in the van, and we have a great time,” she says. So is she a typical diva, demanding Cristal on tap and kittens to play with backstage? “Are you kidding?” she laughs. “My mum would slap me if I started behaving like that! No, all I ask for is a kettle and some tea bags. I bring my own wine – I don’t see what’s wrong with paying for things yourself.” She has the same down to earth approach to her success. “The problem with some young performers is they’ve never experienced failure so they can’t appreciate success,” she says. “I’ve played at big venues like the London Palladium, and also for four people and a whippet waiting for the bus home. But whatever the audience, you’ve got to give them a show to remember.”

Horoscopes May 2011

ARIES (21st March - 19th April) Parties and reunions both at the beginning and the end of the month but the middle bit is dedicated to some hard graft on the work scene. Cash aspects quite good, especially around the 15th to 20th but take care with health aspects from the 22nd onwards.

TAURUS (20th April - 20th May) A boost of energy makes play times more playful and work routines more rewarding. Money spent on advertising brings good results and money spent on personal appearance coincides with new clothes and health regimes.

GEMINI

(21st May - 20th June) You’re in charge, you’re in control, but if you don’t do anything then nothing gets done. Some aggression and confrontation during week one, with financial affairs dominating week two. A very reflective mood takes over in week three with one major decision in week four.

CANCER

aspects will need sorting out between the 7th and the 15th and business responsibilities will press heavily between the 14th and 22nd. Good deals done during the last week.

VIRGO (24th August - 22nd September) New work routines or business pathways open up for you at this time but you’ll face a lot of opposition from people who resent your independence. A determined stand made between the 14th and 21st will have far reaching (and very beneficial) consequences.

LIBRA (23rd September - 22nd October) Minor medical niggles like dentists and opticians coincide with a bit more cash in the kitty, so you’ll go first class rather than the budget route. Mature ladies will become involved in a family squabble involving children, while younger members of the sign will be enjoying romantic delights and youthful follies. SCORPIO (23rd October - 21st November)

(21st June - 22nd July) Not an easy month so negotiate your pathway forwards with care. Health situations will cause problems for some while others will experience some disruption to their plans caused by angry lovers or partners. If you’re under pressure to make impossible decisions then play for time.

Having burned a few bridges and boats you should now start enjoying a new sense of freedom and confidence – much to the chagrin of others who want to keep you in your place. However, you’re in the middle of a personal revolution and anyone or anything that tries to hold you back will be swept to one side.

LEO (23th July - 22nd August) “Love is in the air” – along with a fair bit of flattery and one or two bribes! Some legal

SAGITTARIUS

(22nd November - 21st December) Quite a good month for jobs and money, but

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

it’s also a month of endings and things coming round full circle, Anything to do with education is highlighted and there be at least one unscheduled journey as you rush to someone’s rescue towards month’s end. Across the board, family aspects and re-alignments dominate.

CAPRICORN (22nd December - 19th January) Social aspects highlighted at the beginning and the end of the month with special celebrations between the 3rd and the 7th and interesting travel opportunities around the 22nd. Finances are probably quite static at this time but there is a buzz of enthusiasm in affairs of the heart that should give you a lift right through the summer. AQUARIUS (20th January - 18th February) All aspects regarding property are relevant this month with the 10th being a red letter day for doing deals and signing contracts. It is also a very busy period on the work front so not a lot of time for pleasure or leisure pursuits. You’ll make the necessary sacrifices and concentrate on drawing the money strings together.

PISCES

(19th February - 20th March) If someone has been behaving badly do you risk making things worse by speaking your mind – or do you keep your mouth shut and hope everything will blow over? For the time being, I’d hold my tongue because, even without your knowledge, steps have already been taken to right a wrong. Be passive and patient.

Youngsters take part in a breakdance workshop at last year’s York Youth Festival

Youth festival needs you York’s Youth Council is appealing for youngsters to get involved in its second festival this summer. More than 2,000 people came to the inaugural event last year, enjoying a range of attractions, including karate, rock bands, breakdancers, cheerleaders, crafts, face-painting, ‘extreme golf’ and young magicians. Annabel Jelley, treasurer of York Breakdance, enjoyed taking part in last year’s youth festival. She says: “Our breakdancers held some workshops so people could have a go at some of the moves and they also did a public show which was very impressive and attracted new members to our club.” Annabel, a 44-year-old breakdancer, adds: “Our members are very dedicated and work hard to improve their dancing skills.” York Breakdance meets at York’s Railway Institute each Sunday between 4pm and 6pm. The breakdancers will be back and acts are being sought to join them at this year’s youth festival. The Youth Council, made up of representatives aged 11 to 18, is looking for groups, bands and drama acts and other acts to strut their stuff at Rowntree Park on July 16th. Nathan Bargate, of the Youth Youth Council, says: “We want to showcase what young people can do. If you are 18 and under and want to take part please get in touch.” n If you want to get involved, email carole.pugh@york.gov.uk or call 552358

Moving on It’s a situation we all dread having to face; what happens when your mum or dad is too old and frail to cope on their own? Home care is one alternative, helping them retain their independence without too much upheaval. But sometimes, for instance in the event of illness or after an accident, full time residential or nursing care is the better option.

You can find reports on all local care homes on the Care Quality Commission website – www.cqc. org.uk/. But a good report is only half the story; atmosphere, care and the lifestyle on offer is just as important.

But it can be a huge emotional hurdle. The fact is, many elderly people fear the idea of going into residential care. They worry about losing their identity and independence, saying goodbye to friends and memories in their old home.

Try to emphasise the positive aspects of the move – no more struggling with housework or worrying about paying bills, and the chance to escape isolation and make friends. But at the same time, don’t underestimate the powerful emotional wrench this will be. It isn’t just a matter of moving house; they’re saying goodbye to their old life.

So how do you make it easier on them – and yourself? Much depends on your circumstances. If they’re very poorly or confused, it may be too distressing to face them with an array of choices about their future. But if possible, involve them as much as you can in finding residential care. This is their future home, and it’s important it feels right for them.

Try to build a relationship with the team who will be looking after them. Tell them about your loved one, their life history, who they were before they became ill. If they have any likes or dislikes, or even a name they prefer to be called, make sure the staff know about it.

How soon should you make your first visit after they’ve moved in? Some homes recommend leaving it a few days, while others encourage you to stay until they’ve settled in. It very much depends on your circumstances. But even with the best preparation in the world, this is bound to be a difficult time for all of you. Try to accept that there will be problems at first, but that in time things will settle down.

we can help! We can help with: Alcohol Treatment Drug Treatment Counselling Family Support

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Going the extra mile

A York man with cerebral palsy is enjoying the thrills of mountain biking – thanks to the ingenuity of a bicycle mechanic.

For more information on

food & drink please call Lee on:

01904 767881

Simon Keaney, aged 30, bought a bike from CycleStreet, in York, and Jon Dean, the shop’s owner, adapted the controls so he could ride it despite his disability. Jon says: “Simon has limited use of his right arm, so I adapted the controls of the gears and both sets of brakes so he could operate them with his left hand.” Simon, a teaching assistant at Ralph Butterfield Primary School in Haxby, is delighted with his mountain bike which he uses to explore Dalby Forest, near Pickering. He says: “I can’t speak highly enough of the time, effort and skill Jon put into adapting my bike.” Jon adds: “There is no reason why disabled people cannot enjoy cycling. With a little bit of thought and ingenuity we can usually come up with a practical solution.” n CycleStreet, Heworth Village, York. Tel: 427510.

Caring for life Glenn Pickersgill has literally spent his whole life in the care sector. His grandmother and mother both owned care homes and as a teenager Glenn grew up playing cards with the elderly residents. After successfully providing residential and domicilary care in the north east for many years, Glenn is now bringing a lifetime of experience to York. His company, Heritage Healthcare, recently signed a four-year contract with the City of York Council to provide personal and domestic care. The services they offer range from personal care to helping them lead active, fulfilling lives. “For instance, we have an elderly gentleman who loves golf but can’t walk,” says Glenn. “We take him to the golf course and drive him around in a buggy so he can still enjoy a game. It’s all about enhancing people’s lives.” n For more information on Heritage Healthcare, call 567362.

Join

the

club

uit new singers, particularly A York ladies chorus wants to recr man Lisa says: “We are a baritones and basses Spokeswo us that is looking for ladies to 28-strong ‘a cappella’ ladies chor petitions and generally have a sing in local shows, concerts, com great laugh.” on 0781 744 1821 or n If you are interested, call Lisa Pam on 651294.

Rainbows wanted

Footballers wanted

Try the game of bowls

Support Group wants more

The 13th York Rainbows is recr uiting new girls, aged five to seve n, to come and have fun. Rainbows play games, sing songs and have fun being creative while making lots of friends! They meet once a wee k during school term time in The Groves. There’s a waiting list avai lable for girls under five. n For more details, call Gem ma on 0779 150 3926 or go to www.girlguiding.org.uk

Members of Poppleton Bowls Club, after completing the refurbishment of their bowling green, are now offering a friendly welcome to anyone wishing to try the game of bowls. The club holds a beginners’ class every Tuesday, between 6.30pm and 8pm. Just turn up to benefit from some coaching. n For more details, call Dennis Speechley on 794686.

Does your club or group need new members? 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’.

Wanted: singers

Rawcliffe JFC Under -14s to Players are urgently required by season. A spokesman next for d squa strengthen the club’s times in succession and are says: “We have won the league six of the league table. Versatile currently in two cup finals and top of friendly lads.” Recruits set t players are needed to join a grea -11. 31-8 by 14 of must be under the age Pilmoor on 0773 673 2251 n For more details, call Graham . or Paul Keen 0793 900 2113

members

York Orthopaedic Support Grou p is appealing for more members. The group, which mee ts monthly at the Hospital Services Club, White Cross Road , off Haxby Road, raises money for York Hospital’s Orthopaedic Unit. Last year, members donated £7,000 towards new equipment for the unit – thanks to various fundraising events, including coff ee mornings, tombolas and a card stall. Morag Francis, the grou p’s secretar y, says: “Members feel this is their way of repaying the wonderful attention they received in the unit.” The group was founded ten years ago by Sister Pauline Palmer when she was in charge of Ward 26 at York Hospital. She has since retired, but still chairs the group. She wanted to give former patients the opportunity to enjoy social events and discuss any concerns they might have. n Anyone who has had orthopa edic surgery or is interested in joining the gro up can call Morag on 430809 .

Sponsor Holgate Windmill Do you fancy sponsoring an important part of York’s heritage? Inspired by the success of its shutter scheme, Holgate Windmill Preservation Society now offering other parts of the mill for sponsorship. Items vary in size and cost from a metal pick used by the miller to dress his stones to something more substantial, such as set of stone furniture.

Names of people to whom the items are dedicated will be displayed in a commemorative book kept at the windmill. Richard Foster, our journalist and photographer, sponsored one of the 200 shutters to be used in the sails. He says: “It’s a great way of supporting the ambitious project to get the windmill working again.” n For more details, call Richie Green on 0792 615 1132. Holgate Windmill is opening its doors to the public between 11am and 4pm on May 14 & 14 to celebrate National Mills Weekend.

Paint it black The restoration of Flying Scotsman is gathering pace. The locomotive’s boiler has passed both its hydraulic test and out-of-frames steam test and the wheels have been re-fitted to the chassis. Steve Davies, Director of the National Railway Museum (NRM), says: “Passing these tests and refitting the wheels represent huge milestones in the restoration.” During a Preview Weekend on 28-30 May, visitors to the NRM will see No.4472 take centre stage on the turntable. They will also be able take part in a range of talks and craft activities about Flying Scotsman, which will be in wartime LNER black for the first time since the 1940s. n For more details, go to www.flyingscotsman.org.uk

Best foot forward

It’s all about walking this month. From 16th to 20th, kids all over the city will be taking to the streets for Walk to School Week. Then from 9th to 13th, grown-ups will be getting in on the act for Walk to Work Week. But how practical is it to walk to work? And does it really make you feel better? We set our writer Donna the challenge of walking to work every day for a week just to see if it could be done... “As I don’t drive, my journey to work usually consists of two bus rides, one into the city and then the No. 1 out to Haxby. As anyone who’s ever travelled on the ‘Jo Ro Express’ will tell you, this isn’t always a relaxing experience – some mornings we half expect Kate Adie to be reporting from the top deck in a flak jacket. “But could I face the alternative – a six mile walk – instead? More to the point, could I do it in heels and lugging a laptop? “Luckily the sun was shining on the first morning. But I hadn’t left the house before the first problem cropped up. What do you wear for a mammoth trek and not arrive at the office looking like you’ve just tackled the Three Peaks? I spent so long dithering over my wardrobe it was a wonder I ever left the house. “The first half an hour was great. I listened to my iPod, watched the sun coming up over the Minster, and saw a lot more of the world than I would usually have noticed dodging missiles on the bus. But the novelty had definitely worn off by the time I arrived at the office – nearly half an hour late. “I cheated and got a lift home. It’s ‘Walk To Work’ Week, remember – not a mention of walking home again.

CALL DAWN: 0800 1244133 01904 693936

sales@getbrandedworkwear.co.uk www.getbrandedworkwear.co.uk

“Walking to work wasn’t as tiring as I thought it would be – in fact, I had more energy. But by Day Three, I’d cracked and caught the bus. From a practical point of view, I just didn’t have the time for over an hour’s walk every day. But having found out how beneficial a regular walk can be, I now compromise. Instead of catching two buses, I walk into town and then catch the bus out to Haxby. It takes the same amount of time, I feel fitter and I also save a couple of quid in bus fares every day, too. Not to mention that gym membership...”

Walk your way to health City of York Council organise a programme of guided health walks designed to help people get fit, enjoy fresh air and have fun. The walks, which vary from 30 minutes for beginners to two hours for more advanced walkers, are all led by a trained volunteer. They’re suitable for all ages and abilities, and you don’t have to book. n Call 553372, or download a programme from www.york.gov.uk/leisure/walking/health/ Or why not try Nordic Walking? It’s the new walking craze that claims to be twice as effective as ordinary walking, as it uses two poles to work out your upper body as well as your legs. The Nordic Walking group meets every week. Walks are free but you can hire poles for £2. n For more information, call Fiona Barker on 553440.

GreenLane

York estate agent Scott Anscomb, left, and Ralph Magee, director of York Against Cancer, invite golfers to take part in a charity golf day at York Golf Club on July 7.

Carpets

ﬂooring specialist

Your Move Anscombs has been named as the main sponsor of York Against Cancer’s popular golf day. Managing director Scott Anscomb, who is a keen golfer, is delighted to support the charity event at York Golf Club, Strensall, on Thursday, July 7. The estate agent succeeds Garbutt & Elliott whose stint ended last year, having helped to raise more than £25,000 for the charity. As well as playing in the annual competition as a member of the Your Move team, Scott will be utilising his auctioneering skills at the charity sale which takes during the slap-up evening meal at the ‘19th hole’. n The golf starts at 2pm and entries are invited from ladies’, gentlemen’s and mixed teams of four. For more details, call 764466.

Team GB Will Kaye and Sean McDermott, of York Triathlon Club, have booked their GB team age group slot for the World Duathlon Championship event in Gijon, Spain, in September. The challenging Rutland Water course in the Midlands was the setting for the race, which saw competitors completing a 10km run, 42km bike and a 5km run. Will posted a time of 2hr 06mins 32secs, finishing fourth in the 40-44 age category, and Sean’s time of 2hr 20mins 27secs earned him first place in the 55-59 age category.

FREE EsTiMATE ON WATcH & clOcK REPAiRs WiTH THis ADvERTisEMENT

Local

Sport report now say “I was there… when Audley Harrison actually threw a punch”.

London Olympics The countdown is well and truly under way for the 2012 Olympic Games in London, and the race is on to get tickets for the great sporting extravaganza. My Dad is trying to buy tickets, but it’s an Olympic event in itself to try getting a ticket for an event that doesn’t cost an arm and leg, and picking an event we are good at. It would be fantastic to say “I was there when Britain won Gold”. We plumped for boxing tickets though Brits who went to Sydney in 2000

I don’t think we help ourselves in Britain in creating budding Olympians with school sports days consisting of egg-and-spoon, sack and threelegged races taking precedent over a 100-metre sprint. If someone asked me if I could shot put I would say no but I can throw beans bags into a hula-hoop pretty well. A more typical British touch was given to the giant Olympic countdown clock in Trafalgar Square which stopped dead after its first day.

Football

May could be a significant month for York City if they have continued their impressive form under Gary Mills and sneaked into the play-offs. Promotion at City of Manchester Stadium on May 21st would certainly appease the fans who have suffered seven years of non-league football. Some supporters do have massive expectations though, especially in the main stand. I overheard one spectator shout, harshly, at David McDermott to “get

CONSERVATORIES

off” for being “too small” when a cross went about 8ft above his head. McDermott may be pint-sized at 5ft 5in but Peter Crouch would have struggled to get his towering frame on the end of that cross. At the time of writing, York City were hot on the heels on the promotion pack after nine home wins in 10 games at Bootham Crescent. The one blemish was the home draw with champions Crawley which attracted a season’s best crowd of 3,060. After a cracking game, an unsavoury scuffle broke out between two York fans in the stand over a blocked view. Security staff, normally so efficient at getting people to take lids off bottles and even making an old guy change his bright coat inside out, confusing him for one of their own staff, asked the very person who threw a punch “did you see what happened?”. Classic Columbo tactics.

Rugby League York City Knights having achieved

with DAN TAIT

promotion last season have been finding the going a bit tough in the Championship following two heavy defeats to Barrow Raiders (42-16) and then Widnes (72-12) leaving them near the bottom of the league after their opening four fixtures. They will be hoping for home support to get them through the games at Huntington Stadium in May. They face Dewsbury Rams on the 1st, and then take on Leigh Centurions on Sunday 29th.

Boxing Professional Boxing returns to York on May 14th when York’s representatives Harry Matthews, Graham Fern, Matthew Doyle and Lee Stewart will all fight at Acomb’s Energise sports centre. For Matthews, the ‘Pocklington Rocket’, there will be extra significance as he fights over ten rounds to decide the British Masters Middleweight title against Kevin Hammond. Lee Stewart, York’s impressive amateur boxer, will be making his pro debut.

Charity cyclists Neil, Steve and Jamie with volunteer driver Paul Gill in the Ripon Land Rover support vehicle

Charity cyclists call for sponsors A big-hearted trio from York are preparing to cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise funds for Yorkshire Cancer Research. Neil Huntington, Jamie Winspear and Steve Carlyle reckon it will take them nine days to cycle more than 1,000 miles and they are appealing for sponsors, both corporate and private. Training consultant Steve, whose wife Amanda recovered recently from breast cancer, says: “We all know someone who has been touched by cancer and it’s a terrible experience. The more we can help Yorkshire Cancer Research, the more they can improve people’s lives.” Ripon Land Rover is donating a support vehicle to follow the cyclists during their epic ride which starts from Land’s End on Friday June 10th. Sales executive Howard Harrison says: “We’re more than happy to help Neil, Jamie and Steve with their challenge. It’s for a very worthy cause and we wish them all the best.” n To sponsor the trio go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ chaingangyork. If you’d like to offer corporate sponsorship or equipment, call Neil on 01904 738489.

Millfield Industrial Estate Wheldrake, York.YO19 6NA 5 minutes away from York Designer Outlet

your wedding

Perfect Day?

Suits being delayed, the best man cancelling at the last minute and the photographer getting locked in a hotel room. It hardly sounds like the stuff dream weddings are made of, does it? But that’s what happened when our very own Sales Executive Lee married his fiancée Danielle last month.

Lee and Danni had been planning their wedding for many months. But even the best laid plans can go awry, as Lee discovered. “There was a minor panic a few days before the wedding, when the men’s suits didn’t arrive on the date we’d been given,” he says. “We we worried there wouldn’t be time to do any alterations, but luckily they were perfect!” The non-appearance of the best man was another disappointment. “My friend is in the Royal Navy and at the last minute his leave was cancelled,” says Lee. “Luckily I had two best men who were splitting the duties between them, so my friend Steve took over both roles. He was nervous but he made a really good job of it. “Then on the morning of the wedding I woke up to a big black cloud hovering overhead. Just our luck – even the weather was refusing to co-operate!”

Luckily the skies cleared and the sun shone for their wedding, which took place at The York Pavilion Hotel in Fulford. The happy couple chose one of their all-inclusive wedding packages, which included everything from room hire for the ceremony and the reception, to a four-course wedding breakfast, wine, champagne and canapés, and evening buffet. It also included all kinds of extras such as chair covers, table centrepieces and the services of the hotel’s Master of Ceremonies.

“There might have been a few hiccups to start, but it ended up being a perfect day,” A family friend offered to do their photography as a wedding gift. “There was a tricky moment when he got locked in his hotel room, but he managed to attract attention from his balcony!” says Lee. Danielle’s dress came from Mila Brides in Acomb,

and she opted for silk flowers from Silk Floral Art. “She chose silk flowers because she wanted to keep them afterwards,” says Lee. “They looked gorgeous and just like the real thing, and Anne from Silk Floral Art says she will turn her bouquet into a centrepiece we can use for years to come.” On the wedding morning, Danielle treated herself to hair extensions from Vida in Boroughbridge Road, while Lee underwent a makeover of his own at the Meditteranean Barber’s Shop in Goodramgate. “I had the Groom’s Package – haircut, hot towel, shave and flame, followed by a massage.” At the wedding, the guests tucked into French onion soup, followed by chicken wrapped in bacon and a lemon tart with Chantilly cream to follow. Later, at the evening party, the couple had their first dance to Drowning by The Backstreet Boys. “There might have been a few hiccups to start, but it ended up being a perfect day,” says Lee.

your wedding

Cara Bradsbury, left, and Emma Smith drive a carriage pulled by Brigadier and Bosen in York’s Museum Gardens watched by Hospitium staff, from left, Holly Bland, Claire Fitzgerald and Jennifer Cork. Picture: Richard Foster

Five-star service

One of York’s premier wedding venues has gained a five-star rating on a leading wedding website – with every reviewer giving it top marks. For the last two years newly-weds have been able to give their views on the Hospitium, in the Museum Gardens, on www.hitched.co.uk All 25 reviews gave the venue five stars – with comments such as “flawless” caterers and staff, “the most perfect location” and “the most amazing venue for the most amazing day”. The 14th century Hospitium is located near the ruins of St Mary's Abbey which provides a picturesque backdrop for the wedding photographs. The venue combines its historic Grade One listed features with contemporary facilities. It is fully licensed and can host weddings, wedding breakfasts or just the receptions up to a maximum of 135 for a seated dinner. n For more details, call York Venues on 687671

Ask Emily...

Need help with a wedding dilemma? Q. Help! We’re getting married next year and my sister in law has offered do the catering for the wedding. I’d rather get a professional to do it, but I don’t want to hurt her feelings. What do I do? A. To be fair, she probably thinks she’s being helpful. My tip is to show her how much her offer is appreciated while subtly putting her off the idea. Pile on the praise, tell her how grateful you are but tell her you really want her to be able to enjoy the day as a guest, rather than rushing around sorting out the vol au vents. Good luck! Q. The dress of my dreams is way too expensive. My friend told me I could email a photo to the Far East and get it copied for a fraction of the price. Do you think this is a good idea? A. You’re taking a hell of a chance. You’ve no idea of the quality or the finish you’ll get, or even if it will fit when it finally arrives. It may seem like a money-saving option but it could end up being an expensive mistake if it’s a disaster. If you want to cut costs, why not show your dream dress to a local dressmaker instead? You can choose your own fabric and trimmings so you know exactly what you’ll be getting. Take your ideas to a local wedding dress shop. They may be able to find a similar style that will fit your budget.

Sales executive Emily Cuthbert is in charge of our wedding pages, which means she has access to experts from all over the city. Whatever your wedding woes, Emily can find out the answer for you! Q. I’ve heard it’s traditional to keep the top tier of your wedding cake. Can you tell me how to store it, please? A. First remove the cake topper and any other big decorations from the top tier of the wedding cake. Transfer the cake onto a foil covered cardboard or plastic plate. Place the cake in the freezer for an hour to harden the icing, then wrap it in cling wrap, making sure that it’s airtight and completely covered. Double wrap it with foil, then freeze until needed. This should keep it as fresh as the day it was baked! Q. I recently read about a couple whose wedding day memories were ruined by a really terrible wedding videographer. How do I make sure this doesn’t happen on my big day? A. If you don’t want your wedding DVD to consist of pictures of grass and people’s shoes, then you must choose your videographer wisely. Obviously you should ask to see examples of their work. It’s also a good idea to get personal references from satisfied customers.

n If you have a wedding problem you’d like answered, write to Emily at the address on page three, or email info@yourlocallink.co.uk. Mark your message ‘Ask Emily’ 27

your wedding

With this ring... Choosing the right wedding ring is almost as important as choosing your groom. After all, you’re going to be stuck with both for the rest of your life! So how do you find the right one? Buying a ring When searching for the right ring, there are several things you need to consider. Which metal you opt for is a personal choice. Most people go for gold (either yellow or white). 24k is the purest but is softer than 14k and 18k varieties, which are more hard-wearing. It’s important to choose the same metal for your wedding band as you have in your engagement ring, otherwise one may wear away the other. Other metals to consider are platinum – pricey but highly resistant to damage – or ultra modern titanium. This is very durable and can be carved without losing its strength. The shape of your ring – whether flat, rounded-edged or high-domed - is also dictated by your engagement ring. The two should sit snugly next to each other. You can buy matching engagement and wedding bands that are designed to fit well together. Bespoke rings If you can’t find exactly the ring you want, why not think about having one made to your own design? It’s not as expensive as you might think, and there are practical reasons why it’s a good option. Our editor Gini Guttery opted for a bespoke engagement ring. When she’s not busy on Your local Link, she¹s working on her farm. “I have farmer¹s hands and there was nothing suitable off

the shelf,” she says. “I chose platinum because I needed a hardwearing ring. Three sapphires and four diamonds were set into the band so they would not snag on anything.” Gini¹s engagement ring was designed and made by TCJ Designs, of Stonegate,York. She recalls: “They were really helpful throughout the whole process. I¹m very happy with my engagement ring. It¹s unique and I will be able to pass it down as a family heirloom. Also, it didn¹t work out more expensive than a mass-produced ring.” DIY rings Another alternative is to make your own ring. This is not as outrageous an idea as you might think. The York School of Jewellery in Fulford runs workshops for all abilities. They will teach you the basics of jewellery making and help you work through your own project using their state of the art equipment. They have an ingenious idea for people wanting to make their own wedding or engagement rings. “Often we find people have an heirloom piece of jewellery which they never wear because it’s old fashioned or they just don’t like it,” says Nik Stanbury of York School of Jewellery. “We can melt it down into an ingot for them to create their own unique piece.” n For more information, call the York School of Jewellery on 674767.

A head for style All eyes might be on the bride, but if you’re a mother of the bride (or groom), you’ll want to look special on the big day, too. Whatever outfit you choose, a hat is the perfect finishing touch. But how do you find one that’s right for you? Grosvenor Design is a York-based company owned by talented textile designer Faye Grosvenor. With her eye on the latest trends, she can design and create the perfect bespoke hat or fascinator to complement your outfit and your personality. Whether you’re looking for something eye-catching and flamboyant or chic and understated, Faye’s designs will really go to your head! n For more information, call Faye on 07891049061 or email faye_grosvenor@hotmail.com. You can view her designs online at www.grosvenordesign.co.uk.

Fashion at your fingertips Have you been Minxed yet? You’ve probably read a lot of about Minx Nails (we certainly go on about them a lot), but what are they exactly? Well, they’re a solid nail coating that is heat bonded to your existing nail to give you a high fashion, long lasting finish that won’t chip or smudge. It also comes in a range of wild designs, so you can let your imagination run riot! You might think all this A-list glamour would come with an A-list price tag. But right now mobile master nail technician Marcelle of Heavenly Nails and Beauty is offering Minx Nails for only £18. n Give her a call today on 07710 669945.

Mind over matter We’ve all heard about the gastric band, but have you heard of the Virtual Gastric Band? It involves no invasive surgery, there are no complications, no ongoing medical intervention, and it’s cost effective, too. Best of all, unlike the traditional gastric band procedure, it will change your eating habits forever. The Virtual Gastric Band uses hypnotherapy to train your mind and body to accept less food. The programme consists of four weekly sessions. You will be given advice, guidance and some simple rules to follow to aid your weight control. You’ll also receive a back-up CD to listen to daily as well as a personalised CD on your fourth hypnotherapy session. Angie Doig-Thorne carried out of trial of the Virtual Gastric Band in December. Each participant lost 5 – 6lb in weight (impressive considering it was over the Christmas period) and all of them reported a change in their eating and exercise habits. n If you’re looking to lose weight, why not give Angie a call on 489142 or 07919 577522 and see how she can help you?

There is more to seeing then meets the eye with RUTH PERROTT Exams using only the eye chart do not measure how well a child can see at near distances, nor do they evaluate depth perception, eye coordination or numerous other visual skills required in the learning process. They also don't evaluate the visual abilities that are needed to extract information off a page. According to Dr Dan L. Fortenbacher, Behavioural Optometrist: "We're dealing with far more than just 'eyesight'. Our concern and primary focus is with identifying and treating a delay in the patient's ability to access and process visual information in ways that are the necessary prerequisites for developmental learning. These issues can be treated through vision therapy, but particularly when diagnosed early" Vision is more than 20/20 - the 20/20 test does not test how well you see at reading distance. In fact the 20/20 test fails to evaluate many other important aspects of normal vision such as: n n n n n n

Eye focusing Eye coordination Eye teaming (binocular vision) Eye movement Visual perceptual skills Colour vision

Behavioural Optometrists urge parents, teachers and all other decision makers involved in the health and welfare of children to study more about how vision impacts children's ability to learn. Two articles recently published in Optometry & Vision Development, found that children with vision problems have a hard time learning basic mathematical skills and that if the appropriate vision therapy is given, these skills improve. Parents and teachers are encouraged to make a comprehensive eye examination as part of their preparations for the new school year and to look for the following indications that vision problems may be contributing to learning challenges of their children and students: n n n n n n n n

Frequent loss of place when reading Confusing similar looking words Failure to recognize the same word in sequential sentences Complaints of eyes hurting or headaches after reading Poor reading comprehension Sloppy handwriting Attention problems Avoidance of close work (such as reading)

Any of the above symptoms may be a sign that your child may be struggling with a learning-related vision problem. Fortunately, through vision therapy, many learning-related vision problems can be corrected. Protocols typically involve a prescribed programme aimed at eliminating faulty vision skill patterns and rebuilding them correctly.

n For information on behavioural optometry, vision therapy and the critical link between vision and learning 30 York Road, Acomb, York YO24 4LZ

Tel: 01904 784040 www.rperrott.co.uk acomb@rpcopt.co.uk 29

health & beauty for you

Look like a

winner!

The York race season starts this month. And it’s not just the runners and riders that need to get into training for the big event. We’ve been asking some regular race-going fillies for their tips to looking good on race day... Take flat shoes with you. This is the number one top tip from everyone we asked. High heels are glam, but trust us, after a few hours your feet will be screaming for mercy! You can buy flat pumps that fold up and fit in the tiniest of handbags – sheer genius!

permitted, but most men go the whole hog and wear a smart suit). Ladies are advised to dress as if for a smart wedding, which generally includes a hat. In the Grandstand & Paddock and Course Enclosure, the dress code is more relaxed, with shorts, jeans and T-shirts.

will sit right with your up-do.

The weather in May can be as hard to predict as the winners of the Dante Festival. Goosebumps are so last season, so choose an outfit with a chic matching coat or jacket you can peel off if the weather warms up. An umbrella might be handy too, just in case the heavens open and drown your up-do. Don’t forget there’s a cloakroom at the racecourse, so you can stash your unwanted belongings until you need them.

A spray tan is a must – pale winter skin just doesn’t look right with revealing dresses! Get yours done a couple of days in advance so it has time to settle down into a nice, golden glow – you really don’t want to rock up to the County Stand looking like Pocahontas’ patchy cousin!

This may well be the first time this year your feet are on show in strappy sandals, so give them a treat with a professional pedicure to make sure they’re fit to be seen! Minx nails look especially fab on feet – you could ever choose a design to match your outfit!

Whether or not you’re opting for a hat, most ladies like to have their hair up on race day. You’ll find lots of local hairdressers specialise in hair-ups for special occasions. It’s best to have a practice session first to avoid race day disasters. If you’re planning to wear a hat or a fascinator, take this along with you to make sure it

Make-up needs to stay looking good all day, from the starting line to the finishing post. So why not treat yourself and have it done professionally? If you’ve splashed out on an eye-catching outfit, you owe it to yourself to look well groomed and polished from head to toe!

Should you dress up? It depends where you are. In the County Stand, gentlemen are required to wear a jacket, collared shirt and tie (jeans and trainers are technically

10% OFF

IN MAY With this advert

health & beauty for you

Let’s Talk About... with Jane Tai

Hypnotherapy and how it can stop you smoking Which? magazine and the New Scientist have both reported that hypnotherapy is the best stop -smoking method. In Oct 92 the New Scientist published the largest study ever done (72,000 people). The first line of the report said: “Hypnosis is the most effective way of giving up smoking”. Other studies also show that hypnotherapy is the most effective method of stopping smoking, twice as effective as nicotine replacement therapies like patches and gum.*

10% off at Top to Toe

If you live in the Dunnington area, you’ll know all about Top To Toe. The superfriendly hair and beauty salon has been making clients look and feel great for ten years now. And the good news is, they’re now expanding to offer even more pampering hair and beauty treats. “We’ve added three new treatments rooms upstairs, and we’re doubling the size of the hair salon downstairs,” says owner Sam. More space means many more new treatments on offer. Top To Toe really does live up to its name, with everything from non-surgical facelifts to teeth whitening, spray tans, permanent hair reduction, Shellac and Minx nails and even hypnotherapy and life coaching! They also offer the latest in hair technology, the amazing Brazilian Permanent Blow Dry, which aims to stop frizz for up to four months. Or say goodbye to straighteners with their Permanent Hair Straightening. n To celebrate their expansion, they’re offering Your Local Link readers 10% off all their beauty treatments for the month of May. Give them a call today on 481378.

Hypnotherapists don’t have weird or magical powers. They are ordinary people, trained in a particular psychological therapy. Today, people are realising this and hypnotherapy is now used in fields like medicine, dentistry, sports and education. Look for a hypnotherapist registered with a body like the GHR which is administered by the General Hypnotherapy Standards Council. Registered practitioners must have approved qualifications and must subscribe to a Code of Ethics and Disciplinary Code. So How Does Hypnotherapy Work? Our minds work on two levels – the conscious and unconscious. We make decisions, think and act with our conscious mind. From your experiences in life the unconscious mind builds neural connections which control everything you do automatically, from the way you walk and talk, to the way you clean your teeth. It controls all of your habits, including smoking. As most people who try to stop smoking know, it’s very difficult to change a habit consciously. Your conscious efforts can’t get through to your unconscious mind which controls the habit. Scientists have shown that the neural connections in the brain can actually be changed. Hypnotherapy, like other psychological therapies, helps people to find better ways of thinking, feeling or behaving. But unlike other therapies, it does this by changing neural pathways in the subconscious mind, rather than trying to change conscious behaviours. What Happens In A Hypnotherapy Session? The hypnotherapist usually uses guided meditation or progressive relaxation to help you into a nice, relaxed state, then talks to you, combining the power of your own imagination with techniques such as NLP, storytelling, metaphors or direct suggestions. It’s completely safe. You are always aware and in control and can end the session at any time. You are not asleep, nor can you get “stuck” in hypnosis. You can’t be made to do anything against your will. It’s a safe, relaxing and enjoyable experience. Does Hypnosis Work For Everyone? Generally, every person of normal intelligence, with no severe mental disorder, is “hypnotisable”. The most important factors are that you really want to change (contrary to popular belief, a hypnotherapist can’t make you do anything you don’t want to do), you feel at ease with your hypnotherapist and are willing to work with them. * Law & Tang (1995), Arch. Intern. Med and Ahijevych et al (2000) Int. J. Clin. Exp. Hypn

Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? Unhappy? Overweight? Or Lacking Confidence? Do you need to Stop Smoking now? Or Make other Changes in your life? At MINDWORKS SOLUTIONS I use a unique blend of solution focussed therapy combined with NLP and Hypnotherapy so you can use your Mind to Work for, not against, you. You have the ability to Heal your Life and find the Solutions to your problems. I can show you how.

Call : Jane Tai (GHR Registered) FREEPHONE 0800 083 1681 www.mindworkssolutions.co.uk Follow me at www.janetai.co.uk

health & beauty for you

Club class “I joined Bannatyne’s Health Club in York in December 2010 having given up the unequal struggle of mountain bike riding using 50 year old knees versus the freezing cold and snow,” says David. “Over many years my weight had steadily crept up from an ideal 13 stone to around 16 and I was starting to slow down.

“I looked at a couple of health clubs in York, but straight away felt at home at Bannatyne’s. I was introduced to the Fitness Manager who asked me what my goals were. I explained I wanted to lose weight and gain upper body strength and he created an initial fitness programme, guiding me through the different types of equipment available that were suitable for my level of experience and would help me achieve my targets. My fitness programme was revised after about five weeks to vary the routine and focus on different muscle groups. “With a combination of a sensible diet and using the health club around four times a week I have lost almost two stone in three months. I’ve also branched out a little into spinning, which can be tough, and Yoga. The reward of the sauna after exercise is always well earned! “I’d also add that the equipment is always well-maintained, the levels of cleanliness are excellent and all the staff are, without exception, friendly and helpful. I’d recommend Bannatyne’s Health Club to anyone.” Looking to get into shape for summer? Joining a health club could be the answer for you. But what does it entail and what results can you expect? We spoke to York resident David Fielden about his experiences.

n Contact Bannatyne’s Health Club membership team for more information on 606100.

£60 beauty packages The beauty salon at Bannatyne’s gym in York has been re-launched as Life Hair Design. To celebrate, customers can get £150 worth of salon services for only £60 over three visits. The beauty package includes in-depth consultations, scalp massages and Alchemy hair treatments. Hair stylist Keelie Marwood, who has 16 years experience, has taken over running the salon after working there for eight years. She wants to develop the salon, which is open to members of the gym as well as non-members. It is open every day of the week except Sunday and there’s plenty of free parking. n For more details, call 789340.

Please contact the cancer research nurses at York Hospital on 01904 726955 / 01904 726488 / paula.strider@york.nhs.uk or the study coordinator on 0207 882

Please contact the cancer research nurses at York Hospital on 01904 726955 / 8488 / 07920 501312 / michele.caneppele@bartsandthelondon.nhs.uk 01904 726488 / paula.strider@york.nhs.uk or the study coordinator on 0207 882 8488 / 07920 501312 / michele.caneppele@bartsandthelondon.nhs.uk

Please contact the cancer research nurses at York Hospital on 01904 726955 / 01904 726488 / paula.strider@york.nhs.uk or the study coordinator on 0207 882 8488 / 07920 501312 / michele.caneppele@bartsandthelondon.nhs.uk

N.B. This is for ladies 35 years and above. N.B. This is for ladies 35 years and above. Participants will not benefit financially. Participants will not benefit financially.

health & beauty for you

New weight loss help

Are you trying to get in shape for the summer? You’d think it would be easy to cut down and shed those pounds, but it’s amazing how often we lack the willpower to do it. Somehow we just can’t help sabotaging our own efforts. Wouldn’t it be nice to have someone on your side, to give you the motivation you needed to stick to your weight loss plan and help you achieve your goal? Green Shoots Weight Loss Coaching Programme has been designed to do just that. It’s a brand new, one-to-one Coaching support programme which offers practical support without any fads or gimmicks.

Special offer for Local Link readers for the first 15 new members via this advert, get their first month free! Subject to conditions.

Here’s how it works. You can choose from a choice of three monthly membership levels to suit your budget and needs. As well as email support and a monthly motivational newsletter, you’ll receive between 20 and 80 minutes of one-to-one support, to be split as you wish. This is ideal if you belong to a slimming club but find yourself flagging between However you choose Grow yoursessions. potential info@greenshoots-coaching.co.uk www.greenshoots-coaching.co.uk to lose weight, your Coach will offer personal, focused support to make sure 01904 733663 07847 300914 you stay on track to reach your goal. Sessions can be either over the phone or face-to-face if you live in York.

20% OFF When quoting Your Local Link

Weight loss is just one of the programmes Green Shoots Coaching offers. Founder Michaela is a qualified coach through The Oxford School of Coaching and Mentoring (OCM) and a member of the European Coaching and Mentoring Council (EMCC). She offers motivational coaching help with a range of life’s challenges, from redundancy to relationships, careers to confidence and self esteem. n If you’d like to know more about the Weight Loss Coaching Programme or any of the other services Michaela offers, call her now on 733663 or 07847 300914, or email info@greenshoots-coaching.co.uk

health & beauty for you

Eyes right The A-listers may use them for hiding from the press, but sunglasses protect you from more than the paparazzi. Wearing sunglasses reduces glare and shields your eyes from damage by the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Exposure to dangerous UVA and UVB rays can cause long-term eye damage and may even trigger eye disease. When choosing sunglasses, look out for lenses that offer at least 99% UV protection. Cheap sunglasses are a false economy; not only are they useless at protecting your eyes, they also probably won’t last till the end of your holiday. But what if you already wear glasses? Most people tend to go for clip-on shades that fit over their existing glasses, or wear ordinary sunglasses over contact lenses. Neither is an ideal option; clip-ons can be easily misplaced, and are tricky to fit, especially if you’re driving. Contact lenses can be a problem on holiday, where sand can be blown into your eyes, and swimming can trigger eye infections. Which is why prescription sunglasses are a worthwhile investment. They’re available for virtually any lens prescription, whether you need reading glasses or you have a vision problem that needs correction. They’re also available in all lens materials, from glass to plastic and polycarbonate (a popular choice for sunglasses as it’s tough

and shatterproof – ideal for holidays). There are a choice of lenses, too. Regular lenses will evenly reduce brightness, while polarizing lenses are designed to reduce glare – especially helpful if you’re into outdoor activities. Photochromic lenses can darken when out in the bright sun and then lighten when indoors, allowing you to see clearly and easily in different environments. You don't have to sacrifice style, either; prescription sunglasses are available in a wide choice of designer frames, whether you go for Top Gun style aviators, or oversized sunnies a la Victoria Beckham. You can even go for ultra-fashionable wraparound styles (although these tend to have less extreme curves which may distort vision). n They may be a celeb must-have, but prescription sunglasses don’t have to come with an A-lister price tag. In fact, Hall Opticians on Clifton Moor are offering a free pair of prescription sunglasses this month when you buy a complete pair of glasses. You’ll find them at Tower Court Health Centre, Oakdale Road, Clifton Moor, YO30 4RZ. Call 479555 to book!

LOOKING GOOD Choosing sunglasses to suit your face shape can be tricky. Here are some tips: Round faces need a contrasting frame. Go for straight, narrow or angular frames, and make your face look thinner by choosing a clear bridge over the nose. Oval faces are lucky, because they suit almost any frame shape. Look for frames which are as wide as the broadest part of your face. Square faces need a slightly curved frame. These need to sit high enough to minimise the jaw line. Long, narrow faces need frames that have a shortening effect – go for a deep frame with a bit of bling to draw attention upwards. Triangular faces have a broad forehead and narrow chin. Lucky you – you can also wear those oversized sunnies without looking like a bluebottle! Inverted Triangle faces have a narrow forehead and wide chin. 1950s cat’s-eye styles will help broaden the upper part of your face. Bright, blingy sunglasses will also help draw attention away from your heavy jaw.

health & beauty for you

Try Spa at The Grand Have you experienced the amazing Spa at Cedar Court Grand yet? It truly is the last word in luxury, with a unique underground 14m pool, Cybex-equipped gym, whirlpool, aromatic steam room and Nordic dry sauna. And right now those nice people at The Grand are offering Your Local Link readers a very special treat. From now until the end of May, you can have access to the Spa’s exceptional facilities for a whole week (excluding Sundays) for just £15. Try it and we guarantee you’ll be hooked! To take advantage of this amazing offer, just call 380050 and quote ‘Your Local Link Membership Offer’.

Welcome to Dorothy! Kuki Hair & Beauty Spa in Huntington is pleased to welcome Dorothy Orme to their happy and successful team. Dorothy has seven years of experience as a beauty therapist, and now she’s looking forward to bringing her expertise to new and existing Kuki clients. To celebrate Dorothy’s arrival, Kuki Spa is offering 20% off beauty treatments with her during May and June (offer excludes IPL, Hollywood Lashes and sports massage). n The offer is open to customers old and new, so call 659007 to book your appointment today, or log on to www.kukispa.com.

Fancy experiencing

this whenever you like?

Until the end of May, we’re offering Your Local Link readers trial membership of Spa at The Grand for just £15.

You’ll get a week’s access* to our exceptional facilities, which include Cybex-equipped gym, 14m pool, spa whirlpool, aromatic steam room, Nordic dry sauna, and towel & slippers on each visit. *Excluding

Saturday.

Call Spa at The Grand on 01904 380 050, quoting ‘Your Local link Membership Offer’ Cedar Court Grand Hotel & Spa, Station Rise,York www.cedarcourtgrand.co.uk

Visit other Cedar Court properties across Yorkshire: www.cedarcourthotels.co.uk 35

health & beauty for you

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Got a health or beauty question? Whether it’s about healing or hair extensions, fitness or foundation we can help! Q. I’ve worn the same make of foundation for the past ten years now, and I think it’s time for a change but I’m confused by what’s on offer. Any ideas? I’m 48, by the way.

A.You’re right, it really is time for a change. Technology has moved on a huge amount in the last ten years, and you’re missing out on some great skinboosting benefits. Many modern foundations now include ingredients such serums and minerals to treat your skin, and SPFs to protect. First, decide what kind of coverage you need. For maximum, long-lasting coverage, look for a powder to cream formulation which gives a lon- lasting finish without making your skin look too cakey. If you need something more sheer, a tinted moisturiser will give you a healthy, natural glow. Whatever you choose, look for a light diffusing foundation which gives your skin a soft focus effect, minimising fine lines. Q.

I want to bare my legs for summer, but my problem is they’re covered in tiny red veins. They’re not painful but they’re really unsightly. I don’t want to stick to opaque tights all summer so what can I do?

A.Thread veins are very common and can be embarrassing, mostly affecting the face, body and legs. No one really knows what causes them, although they

may be caused by changes in temperature, smoking, hormonal changes, alcohol and prolonged standing. Genetics can also be a factor. Laser and Intense Pulse Light (IPL) therapy can remove fine veins quickly and effectively – usually only a few treatments are needed. Sclerotherapy is another alternative – a very fine needle is used to inject a solution into the vein, which causes it to perish. The number of treatments needed depends on how many areas need to be treated.

Q. I’m desperate to lose weight for the summer. I’ve been going to aerobics and zumba three times a week, but I’ve stopped shedding the pounds. Is there anything else I should be doing?

A. First of all, well done for keeping up all those classes! While cardio is really useful for burning fat, strength training (ie, with weights) is just as important. Strength training helps build lean muscle tissue. And the more muscle you have, the more calories you’ll burn (a pound of muscle burns 10 – 20 calories a day, while a pound of fat burns less than five calories. Your metabolic rate is raised for longer after a strength training workout, burning even more calories. That doesn’t mean you should ditch the aerobics – an effective fat loss programme should include regular strength training as well as cardio workouts.

n 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’.

health & beauty for you

Half price treatments

at Revive!

Have you discovered Revive Hair & Beauty yet? It’s Heworth’s best kept beauty secret and now there’s even more reason to discover this hidden gem. Revive has just opened The Beauty Suite, a luxurious haven where you can enjoy a whole range of treatments, from massages to manicures and pedicures, facials to body treatments and spray tans. The newly refurbished and extended rooms are perfect for weddings, hen parties, and pampering girly get-togethers. The team has also been joined by Laura Brown, an experienced beauty therapist from a top city centre spa. To celebrate the opening of The Beauty Suite, they’re offering Your Local Link readers a massive 50% off all their beauty treatments (apart from Fake Bake spray tans, Shellac and Minx) during May. Yes, that’s right – all their treatments are half price! Just mention us when you book. And what could be better than half price? How about free? Revive is also offering a special prize of a facial and blow dry to one of our lucky readers. To be in with a chance of winning, just answer this question: What is the name of Revive’s new team member? Send your answer on a postcard to the address on page five, to reach us by Monday 16th May. Mark your entry ‘Revive Competition’, and don’t forget to include your name, address and a contact phone number.

Welcome back, Charlotte! Silkwood Hair Studio in Stockton Lane is happy to announce the return of stylist Charlotte. She’s looking forward to welcoming new clients, as well as saying hello to some old faces. If you’ve already met Charlotte, you’ll know she’s the go-to girl for all kinds of cutting and colouring, hair-ups and blow dries. And if you’ve never visited Silkwood, now’s the time to go, because Charlotte is offering a free semi-permanent colour when you book a cut and blow dry. So what are you waiting for? Give Silkwood a call today on 424851.

Smiles better A white smile radiates confidence and beauty, but sadly our teeth inevitably become discoloured by certain drinks such as tea, coffee, red wine, and smoking.

designed for the home.

Deeply stained teeth cannot be treated with a scale and polish or whitening toothpastes; the only way to get truly white teeth is with professional treatments.

She recalls: “I had a laser treatment to get my teeth sparkling and, to keep them white, I apply a gel using a specially-designed tray at home.

Dentists apply Hydrogen Peroxide-based whiteners that use the oxygen release to break down the stain molecules which remove the stain without damaging the teeth. They offer a number of ways to whiten teeth, ranging from the cheaper take-home professional kits to the more immediate power whitening “one hour” in surgery and follow-up treatments

Tracy, a director of Your Local Link, now has a smile she’s much happier with – thanks to Crystal Clear Dental Spa in Blake Street, York.

“I am really happy with the results. It has made a difference because family and friends have asked me if I’ve had my teeth whitened and I’ve recommended the treatment to them. It’s not the most comfortable procedure I have ever had to endure, but it is well worth it.” n If you fancy getting a winning smile, call Crystal Clear on 642595.

Blood donor

sessions

4 May Merchant Taylors’ Hall, York (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) 5 May Merchant Taylors’ Hall, York (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) 12 May York Priory Street Centre (10am-noon, 1pm-3.45pm) 18 May National Centre for Early Music, York (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) 23 May Copmanthorpe Recreation Centre, York (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7.30pm) 25 May Merchant Taylors’ Hall, York (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) 27 May Ebor Stand, York Racecourse (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) 31 May Acomb Parish Church Hall (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7.30pm) 31 May Reading Rooms, Dunnington (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) n For more details, call 0300 123 2323

onelife oneclub

£0joiningfee!

Spring into Summer at Bannatyne’s Health Club York Join during May 2011 and receive your free Personalised Plan by one of our highly qualified fitness team! Plus you will receive: £0 Joining Fee Bannatyne Starter Pack Club Vouchers £48 worth of VIP Passes! York Business Park, Nether Poppleton, York

01904 606100

Bannatyne’s Health Club w w w. b a n n a t y n e . c o . u k

*Terms and conditions apply. Admin fee applies.

Try a free trial class Do you want to be the proud owner of a wonderful new body this summer? Then why not try a free class at the Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Club? Helen Howard-Mawer runs Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Clubs throughout the York area. In her ten years as franchisee she has seen many successful slimmers. Like Wendy Luke, who transformed herself from a size 22 to a size 12. “I believe that the support and encouragement that members receive in class plays a vital role towards their success in reaching their target weight,” says Helen. “The atmosphere in class is friendly, fun and the expert diet advice coupled with a safe exercise session really works.” The cost of joining a Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Club is just £10 for a membership pack, which includes a copy of Rosemary Conley’s brilliant Amazing Inch Loss Plan along with a set of Portion Pots, an Introductory DVD and a Magic Measure. But these could be free when purchasing a block of five classes, cost £29.00. See the ad for details. n Helen is also offering a free one-to-one consultation and weigh-in, plus a free 45 minute exercise session. Check the ad in this issue to find your nearest class, or call Helen on 790922.

Tan for a tenner Let’s face it, a tenner doesn’t buy you a lot these days, does it? A latte in your average city centre coffee shop. A spending spree in Primark. It goes nowhere. Well, how about a full body spray tan for £10? Sounds unbelievable, doesn’t it? But that’s the amazing offer J.A.M.M. Hair Design in Clifton Moor has going on until the end of May. Just hand over the voucher included in their ad in Your Local Link, and they will make you look all bronzed and gorgeous for summer – for just a tenner! n Call them now on 690678 to take advantage of this fabulous offer.

your family

To mark Foster Care Fortnight (16-29 May) we meet a foster parent and a foster child

Caring for kids Foster parent

She could not cope and suffered a mental breakdown, spending several weeks in a psychiatric hospital undergoing electric shock therapy.

Former aid worker Michael Marchant has been shot at and held hostage by armed bandits in the mountains of northern Iran.

Michael and his sister spent a short time with their grandparents before moving in with their father, his new girlfriend and her two children. They resumed living with their mum when she left hospital. “It was a very traumatic time,” recalls Michael.

But, he says, being a foster carer has been the most difficult thing he has ever done. As a bachelor in his late 40s who has never had children, he expected to be “laughed out of the office” when he enquired about becoming a foster parent in York. However, after a long chat with a social worker, he attended a preparation course with other budding foster carers. He then had a series of intense one-to-one meetings with a social worker where they explored whether he would make a good parent. He found the process

cathartic because it compelled him to confront his difficult childhood. Michael’s father had left home when he was 11, leaving his mother to look after him and his 13-year-old sister.

When his application to be a foster carer was finally approved, Michael became very emotional; he jumped for joy and hugged his social worker. “There were a few tears,” he recalls and then he realised his life would never be the same again. He had opted for the most difficult category of foster care – challenging

teenagers – and is now looking after a 16-year-old lad. Looking back on his first year as a foster parent, Michael says: “It’s been unbelievable. It’s been a huge learning experience. It’s been the most difficult, the most challenging and the most satisfying thing I have ever done. “I used to work in international rescue. I’ve been held hostage by armed bandits in the mountains, I’ve been shot at, but this is the most difficult thing I have ever done.” There have been times when Michael’s relationship with his foster child has been on the verge of breaking down. But Michael, aged 50, made a big promise when he welcomed the teenager into his home. He looked him in the eye and

For more information on

the family pages please call Zoe on:

01904 767881

your family

said “I will never kick you out.” It’s that promise that has kept Michael going. He says: “The good times more than compensate for the bad. You learn to savour those precious moments. If I could just make a difference to one youngster that would be an amazing achievement.”

Foster child Jade Aitkin left her foster parent at the age of 16. Now, five years later, she said it was “a massive mistake”. Her message to foster children looking to leave early is “stay put”. Jade admits she was seduced by the notion of having her own home and partying with her friends. She recalls “I went off the rails. It was a party life for about six months. I loved it and then I started getting really lonely. I ended up getting quite ill. I finally picked myself up at 19. It was not easy.” Jade, aged 21, now has a job she loves, working for the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust as a support worker for disabled people. She also regrets how her decision to leave had such a traumatic effect on her foster parent. Jade recalls: “She was heartbroken; I had never seen a grown woman cry so much. If I could, I would have gone back to her, but I couldn’t because another foster child was living with her.” Fortunately, their relationship

survived the split. Jade says: “If I have a problem I will go to her. She’s a remarkable lady.” City of York Council was chosen to pilot Staying Put, a scheme that encourages foster children to stay with their foster families until they are mature enough to start living independently. Jade supported the scheme by chatting to foster children.

Wanted: more carers York has 230 children and teenagers in care but only 113 fostering houses. More carers are urgently required; if you are interested, call the duty family placement officer on 551550, email adoptionandfostering@york. gov.uk or go to www.york.gov.uk

your family

“I enjoy meeting young people and introducing them to the English way of life and encouraging them in their studies. It is also an enjoyable way to earn a little extra cash especially during this credit crunch” Mrs S from Huntington

“I have been a Homestay Provider since the English Language Centre opened 13 years ago. I have had lots of students during this time and made so many friends around the world. Many of them are still in touch with us” Mrs M from Bootham

“We enjoy meeting young people from different countries and learning about their culture. We have had lots of laughs with them and we are always very sorry to see them leave” Mr and Mrs P from Rawcliffe

your family

I’ll sing for you

Live music helps any celebration go with a swing. That’s why professional musician Paula Marie is offering her keyboard skills and dulcet tones to the readers of Your Local Link. If you are holding a birthday party or wedding anniversary, Paula Marie is the girl for you. Her repertoire includes popular songs of the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, swing, jazz, easy listening, country, show songs, old time sing-a-longs and instrumentals. Her act is popular with residents in sheltered accommodation. She began singing professionally in 2000 while studying for her music degree at Manchester Metropolitan University. After graduating in 2002, she worked as a resident singer and entertainment host for various holiday companies. She also developed a solo cabaret act and was lead female vocalist in various shows. n Book Paula Marie on: 07740 101650.

Charity’s X Factor A Candy Ball in York raised more than £12,000 for Sweet Charity which helps people from the confectionery industry. Some 200 guests attended the event at York Racecourse where acts were judged on their performances by an X Factor-style panel. The winning act, 007: Hollywood, from the Big Red Curtain Stage School in Leeds, received £500 and the two runnersup each won £100. Patrick Davis, of Sweet Charity, says: “The money will go a long way in helping vulnerable members of our industry.” n For more information, visit www.sweetcharity.net

your education

May marks the start of the exam season. We talk to a parent and student about alleviating the stress of revision.

Beating stress

Stress is a natural part of being human. When you're getting stressed about an exam - it just means that you really care about the result you will get. That can be useful if it pushes you into working extra hard, but it can be bad if you get too worried and the effects of the stress stop you doing well. Stress symptoms include feeling tired, aches, feeling sad, panic attacks, broken sleep, stomach upsets, itchy skin rashes and reduced immunity leading to colds and flu. Developing a positive mental attitude will transform your stress into positive energy that can enhance your performance. Following a revision timetable to ensure you have plenty of time to revise all your subjects while allowing you to allocate breaks will reduce stress and help you relax. The parent’s view Jill Sissons, a media officer at York College, has two daughters – Harriet, aged 17, who is taking AS-levels at Joseph Rowntree School, and Bethany, who is in her third and final year studying English literature at Newcastle University. Jill says: “I do totally understand the huge amount of pressure that young kids have these days. They really are up against it.

“It’s the parent’s role to be understanding and supportive to encourage their children to do well in their exams. I always say to my children ‘As long as you feel you have done your personal best, the end result doesn’t really matter.’ “It would be awful if they ended up regretting the fact that they didn’t do their best. These days, if they don’t have qualifications, they really are going to struggle. It’s hard enough to get a job even with qualifications, so they need all the help they can get.” The student’s view Bethany Sissons, aged 21, says: “Mum was brilliant. She didn’t nag me about revision but she always encouraged me.” She adds: “People all revise in different ways. What works for one student may not work for another.” Rather than read pages and pages of notes, Bethany used revision cards and she also liked revising with friends. She recalls: “We are all in this together and decided to help each other out.” Variety is the spice of life when it comes to revision. She would revise different subjects each hour to maintain her interest. She says: “You need to mix up what you are doing. If you do the same thing every day you get really bored.” Bethany is a great believer in using treats as

incentives. “If I revised for an hour I would treat myself with a biscuit. I snack a lot when revising to keep my energy levels up,” she says. Her advice to students revising and taking exams this summer is simple: Don’t panic and keep positive.

your education

Hone your

parenting skills

Being a parent is the most tiring, hardest, crazy, rewarding and best job anyone could ever do. Every phase of childhood presents problems but, as a parent, you always try to do what you think is right as you strive to help your children grow up to be well balanced, loving human beings. However, it’s unrealistic to do it all on your own; that’s why it’s worth enrolling on a course designed to hone your parenting skills. n To book your place, call the Baobab Centre, at York’s Raylor Centre, on 422733 or email office@baobabcentre.com

The course, to be held in York on Saturday, July 2, from 9.30am to 4.30pm, will help parents: • consider the role of parenting; • understand and be understood by their children; • understand patterns in family dynamics and how they can be passed along the generations. The course will also cover communication, negotiation and theories of learning.

French lessons for kids Learning a foreign language should be child’s play. That’s the view of York language teacher Maureen Bebb. She uses the acclaimed La Jolie Ronde programme to teach French to children between the ages of three and 13 in informal, friendly groups. Each weekly lesson combines fun with exciting games, songs and activities. Maureen, who speaks fluent French, taught young children in France to speak English before moving to York. She says: “Young children learn a second language so much quicker because they are still learning their mother tongue. They are very receptive and less inhibited than adults.” n To book a lesson, call Maureen on 471234.

How important is your child’s education? Maths and English After-School Programmes Every parent wants their child to realise their true potential. At Kumon we can help your child to excel in their maths and English, and boost their confidence too.

YORK FULFORD

Contact your local Instructor today.

01757 268114

kumon.co.uk

Every child can shine

STUDY CENTRE For more information contact Jenny Scanlon

Open Days 2011 Monday 4 July Saturday 20 August Wednesday 24 August Saturday 10 September

DISCOVER York St John University for yourself We think you'll love it!

To book a place T: 01904 876598 | E: opendays@yorksj.ac.uk www.yorksj.ac.uk/opendays

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Lasting Power of Attorney: What is it and more importantly, do I need one? In circumstances where a person becomes incapable of making decisions for themselves, a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) gives an appointed person the right to make decisions on their behalf. When would you need a LPA? You may wish to apply for a LPA yourself should you worry about what might happen if you became the victim of a serious accident or serious illness. Most people use LPAs as they become elderly and wish to entrust their affairs to a close relative or friend in order to safeguard against future illness or lack of mental capacity. It is prudent to put in place a LPA at the first signs of dementia whilst you are still of sound mind or if you have been diagnosed with a serious illness or for example if you have had a minor stroke. The reason for this is simple, it empowers you to appoint a suitable attorney to deal with your property, health and welfare in the event of such disabilities in the future. Taking the steps and talking about the future when you are of sound mind is not something people like to discuss. By preparing a LPA you specifically appoint an Attorney who is authorised to deal with your affairs if you become incapacitated in the future as well as determining what you wish to happen

with certain property should you lose mental capacity or become unable to manage your affairs. But why have one? If you do not appoint an Attorney and your mental capacity deteriorates a Public Guardianship Officer will act as your attorney to look after your affairs; it will be too late for a family member or close friend to be appointed. The Public Guardianship Officer would then appoint a Receiver and your family would have to discuss every decision with the Receiver. Whilst a family member can apply to the court to be appointed as your Official Receiver, nevertheless this takes time and costs money. What are the benefits of an LPA? An LPA can help you plan your property and affairs, health and wellbeing to ensure you are looked after in the future. It allows you in advance to plan the decisions you want to be made on your behalf should you lose mental capacity; you are empowered to appoint the person that you want to make the decisions and how you want that person to make the decisions for you. By appointing an Attorney, it is a safe way of maintaining control over decisions made because

Sarah Burt, Richardson Gildener Solicitors

the formal document has to be registered with the Office of Public Guardian before it can actually be used by the Attorney. How Many People Should I appoint as my Attorney and Who? Depending upon the circumstances it may be better to appoint more than one person as Attorney in order to minimize or prevent any abuse of the responsibility. You are best placed to choose someone that you trust implicitly. You should consider how well they look after their own financial and personal affairs and whether you can trust them to use your money to meet your needs and to act in your best interests and not in their own to your detriment. Does this mean that my Attorney can deal with my affairs straight away? No, the LPA only comes into effect once it is registered. You can either register this yourself, or your Attorney can if they think you are not able to make decisions for yourself. Should your Attorney determine to register the LPA, you would be notified and can object to the LPA being registered if you have any cause for concern.

n For further advice on Lasting Powers of Attorney and any other issues, please contact Sarah Burt at Richardson Gildener Solicitors on 01904 642727.

For a healthier, happier you visit www.justafewminutesmore.com

your education

Childcare with a

difference As any working parent knows, finding high quality, flexible childcare can be a real problem. So it’s good to know that Poppleton Pre-School is expanding after its hugely successful first term and now offers childcare to fit in with most working arrangements, five days a week. Poppleton Pre-School is a small, friendly, family-run group which only takes ten children per session. This allows for very good staff to child ratios and a secure, homely environment where children and parents feel welcome. “All the children who attend pre-school sessions love coming back each week because they know there’s a great variety of activities on offer in a fun and educational setting,” says a spokesman for the group. The sessions available vary from three hours up to all day (8am-6pm) and there’s also a school collection service available for pupils from Poppleton Ousebank Primary School for teatime club. Parents are able to pay with childcare vouchers after Easter and there is a waiting list for funded places for three year olds from September. n For further information visit www.poppletonpreschool.co.uk or email info@poppletonpreschool.co.uk.

School’s Out New Earswick & District Indoor Bowls Club has been running an After School Club since January. Their next session starts on 7th June between 4pm and 5pm and runs for seven weeks. The club is open to children aged 6 – 14 and booking is advisable as spaces are limited. The session costs £14. n Details are available by calling the manager, Andy Webster, on 750230 or log on to the club’s website www.newearswickibc.co.uk

For a healthier, happier you visit www.justafewminutesmore.com

your pet

Diary of

No fleas, please!

a puppy

Much as we love our pets, we’re not so keen on the fleas they sometimes bring. So how do you get rid of them?

Connie may look cute, but the little pup has a very big future ahead of her. She’s been selected to train as a Hearing Dog for Deaf People. But before Connie can begin her official training, she’s spending her first year with socialiser Sheila Pilliner and her family in Copmanthorpe, learning the basics of good behaviour. Poor Connie’s been in the wars lately. She’s recently had the second of two operations to repair slipping kneecaps. She was also spayed at the same time. “I was supposed to pick her up from the vet’s on Monday afternoon, but I got a call at 3pm to say she hadn’t yet had the operation so I couldn’t collect her until the following day,” says Sheila. “She spent the night of her operation at the vets’. I was worried about how she’d got on, but Jane the Socialising Trainer rang to let me know she was fine.”

Speedy recovery At first it seemed as if Connie was going to make the same amazing

recovering she did after her first operation. “She was so lively that when I took her back to the vet’s for her check-up I even suggested someone should tell her she was supposed to be poorly!” But after a few days sadly Connie took a turn for the worse. “She’d been on complete cage rest and was just starting to potter around a bit when I noticed her leg looked swollen,” says Sheila. “She was also worrying at her wound, which was a bad sign.

Bed rest “I called Hearing Dogs, and the vet said I should keep an eye on her over the weekend. But by Monday I was still worried, so she was taken back in.” After being prescribed antiinflammatories, Connie returned home for more bed rest. She is now

allowed out for short walks, but Sheila is waiting to find out if she’ll need another operation. “The first time I took her out she was so excited about being in the fresh air she went off like a little whirligig. I have to keep a close eye on her to make sure she doesn’t get over-excited and put too much strain on her leg.”

Meet Connie! How would you like to say hello to our very own canine celeb? On 8th May Connie will be making an appearance at York Lions’ Annual Sponsored Dog Walk in aid of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People and Safe & Sound Homes. The walk covers 1.5 miles from Millennium Bridge to Skeldergate Bridge. n For more information call 07549 150647 or 701574.

Make your pet a calendar star!

As well as infesting your pet, fleas lay eggs which fall to the floor and develop into larvae and pupae around your home. That’s why you should use a combination of two different types of insecticide that target the fleas and their eggs. Treat every cat and dog in the house. Use an insecticide specifically for your pet; dog flea treatments can be toxic for cats. You’ll also need to persevere; although flea infestations should clear within a few days, the eggs laid around your home can survive in the carpet for up to nine months. During this time, they can hatch and jump back aboard the pet. If you persist with treating your pet, the fleas should die out after they take a bite. Consult your vet for the most effective flea treatment for your pet.

Look out for more categories next month!

It’s the second month of our fantastic competition, which gives you the chance for you to turn your pet into a celeb! Thompsons of York are putting together their 2012 calendar, and they’re looking for our readers’ real life pets to star every month. Not only that, but three finalists for every month will receive a goodie bag of products from Thompsons of York’s Country Store in Murton. And the overall winner in each category will also win a year’s free feed for your star pet! Every month between now and September we’ll be introducing two different pet categories and asking readers to send us their pet photos. Our favourites will be sent an application form to hand in at Thompson’s Country Store. If chosen, their photograph will make it into the 2012 Thompsons calendar!

This month’s categories are Cats and Reptiles. Either email your photos to us at kelly@yourlocallink.co.uk, or send them to the address on page five to reach us by Friday 6th May. Mark your entry ‘Thompson’s Calendar Competition’ and don’t forget your own contact details. We regret we are unable to return photos sent in the post. 48

your pet

Give us a

home

All over the city there are cats and dogs looking for homes. Could you be the one to offer them the love they need? Brotherly duo TRISTAN and SEAMUS arrived at the York Adoption Centre gate after a life on the farm. After intermittent bouts of sneezing, the handsome pair were transferred to the isolation unit where, sadly, they have remained. But they really do deserve a loving home. Though slightly twitchy at first meeting, both are curious, increasingly confident and cheery in themselves. Seamus and Tristan are about as gentle as cats come, with bags of character and affection for all. They will need a quiet home in which they are allowed the necessary time to settle, where occasional recurrence of cat flu-like symptoms will not be met with alarm. Due to the nature of their symptoms, Tristan and Seamus will need to be the only animals at home. n If you’d like to offer these cats a loving home, call York Cats Protection on 760356.

Awww!

That’s all we’ve been hearing in the office since we launched our Thompson’s of York calendar competition last month. Your entries in the dogs category were so cute, we couldn’t resist giving you a sneak peak of some of the best! Don’t forget, we’ll be introducing a different pet category every month for you to send in your pics.

HARRY is your typical English bull terrier; he’s lively, active and playful. “He loves his toys, particularly tennis balls,” say our friends at the RSPCA home in Landing Lane, York. Harry would suit a home where he’s an only dog, with teenage children and plenty of tennis balls! DARCY, a four-year-old lurcher, is good with children and would make an excellent house dog. She’s a springy jumper, so her new garden would need a 6ft fence. n If you can offer either Harry or Darcy a good home, call the RSPCA on 654949.

your garden

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

Rhododendrons compact, slow growing and very hardy hybrids that come in a wide range of colours and are ideal for containers. Some of the most popular are Fred Peste, Golden Torch & Percy Wiseman. The second way is by building a raised bed railway sleepers are ideal for this as brick or stone built beds that are mortared in contain a lot of lime in the mortar but again this can be got around by lining the sides with polythene. The bed is then filled using the lime free ericaceous compost.

For anyone who gardens on acid soil Rhododendrons are some of the most prized ornamental shrubs. Profuse trusses of bell shaped flowers in a wide variety of bold colours and the generally evergreen foliage give year round form and texture to the garden. They range in size from giant tree sized forms to tiny low growing alpine varieties. Rhododendrons require moisture retentive but well drained acidic soil with plenty of organic matter and a pH of between 5 and 6; if you are not sure of your pH, cheap testing kits are available. These are a good investment as they can prevent you spending £10-£20 on a plant that won’t thrive in your soil. Even if you’re not blessed with acidic soil there are still a couple of ways to grow Rhododendrons and other acid loving plants like Pieris and Gaultheria in your garden. The first and most simple way is to use pots and containers filled with special ericaceous compost, this is a peat based compost that contains no lime and has a pH of 5.5. The only drawback to pots is if you live in a hardwater area and water with tap water, as lime builds up in the compost making the plants yellow and

sickly with a lack of vigour (chlorotic), but even this can be got around by either collecting and using rain water or applying a specific fertiliser that feeds the plant and counteracts the lime. Another problem growing Rhododendrons in pots is bud drop; flower buds form in midsummer and should compost in the pot dry out even for a short period of time the stress will cause the buds to fail to develop correctly and fall prematurely. Over the last few years many new hybrids of Rhododendron yakushimanum have been bred, these are known as Yak hybrids; they all are floriferous,

Rhododendrons usually start flowering in this area in February, with Rhododendron praecox being one of the first. It requires a sheltered site as the rosy purple flowers are slightly susceptible to damaging frosts, but the real show starts in late April and builds to a stunning climax. Rhododendrons can be planted all year round provided that the soil is not frozen or water logged but the optimum time is September when the ground is still warm but moist. Spring planting can be equally effective but requires very regular watering throughout the summer months to ensure successful establishment. A good thick organic mulch on the soil surface

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

your garden

Lawn care tips Rolawn, Europe’s largest turf grower, regularly emails free tips on how to get the best from your lawn. To receive regular lawn care tips via email from the company, based at Elvington, near York, visit www.rolawn. co.uk/free-lawncare-tips

Gardening club’s AGM Askham Bryan College Gardening Club is holding its AGM on Tuesday May 10th followed by a presentation by the Regeneration Unit at St Nicholas Fields, York, entitled Sustainability In The Garden. The meeting starts at 7.30pm in the college’s Conference Hall. n For details, call David Whiteman on 707208 or Peter Powell on 795059.

Tip opening times

York’s three household wa ste recycling centres at Ha zel Court, Beckfield Lane and Towthorpe are now on summer opening times. Hazel Court will be open Monday to Saturday, 8.30am – 7pm, and Sundays 8.30am – 4pm. Beckfield Lane wil l be open Monday to Frid ay, 5pm – 7pm, and Saturd and Sundays 10am – 2pm ay . Towthorpe will be ope n daily 8.30am – 7pm. Anyone wanting to visit the sites with trailers, vans, hire vehicles or other large vehicles will need a permit . City of York Council’s Wa ste and Recycling team says permits are provided free of charge to household ers . Permit applications can take up to ten workin g days, so applicants are ask ed to ensure that they leave plenty of time when applying for a permit. Residents can get a permit application form by calling 551551 or by downloading one from the council’s website at www.y ork.gov.uk

your garden

Make the ultimate

hanging basket! Hanging baskets add the perfect finishing touch to any garden. But there’s a knack to putting them together if you want a big, abundant display and not a stingy little effort. Sadly we’ve never had that knack. In fact, we are to gardening what Charlie Sheen is to sobriety. So we consulted the King of Containers, Chris Brown of Brown’s Nursery, to get some expert tips on creating the perfect hanging basket. Chris’ top tip is to build up your basket in layers. He starts by lining the bottom of the basket with sphagnum moss (you can also add plastic to help keep in more moisture). Moss holds water and breathes air into the soil, but it’s important to make sure the moss you use comes from an environmentally friendly source.

another layer of soil, to two thirds full. Now add your next layer of plants. Chris recommends Scavola Blue Fan, Bidens Yellow, Diascia, Sanvitalia, and four Busy Lizzies spaced evenly around the basket. Top with moss, then add more soil almost to the top of the basket.

‘Build up your basket in layers’

Now it’s time for your final layer of trailing plants. Chris’ favourites include Busy Lizzies, Centradenia Felicia, Gold Helychrysum and Brachycome. Finish off by placing some plants in the top of the basket. Don’t skimp on this – you’re looking for an overflowing, abundant effect. Chris recommends bedding and trailing Begonias, bedding and trailing Geraniums and Fuschias, Dianthus, Petunias, Bacopa, Salvia, and African Marigolds.

Fill the basket about a third full with Once you’ve created your basket, you need Chris Brown specialised hanging basket compost, to look after it. That means watering it at least of Brown’s Nursery then add your first layer of plants. Chris every other day, whatever the weather. Plants recommends Trailing Verbena, Variegated Nepeta, Million need regular food and water, just like people. As well as Bells, Silver Helychrysum and four mixed Trailing Lobelias. slow release fertiliser in the compost, your basket will Poke them through the holes in the basket with their roots need a top-up feed every week with a high potash feed. resting in the soil. Top with a layer of moss, then put in

your garden

Garden centre is top five hit Dean’s Garden Centre in York is one of the best in the country, according to the Consumers’ Association. The family firm, which also runs a garden centre at Scarborough, has been placed joint fourth in a Which? survey to find the top 10 garden centres in the UK. Helen Jones, a partner at Dean’s, says: “It is a wonderful achievement and it is due to our excellent team of staff that all work incredibly hard and know how important it is to offer excellent customer service at all times. Our aim is to have the best garden centres in the York and Scarborough areas and amongst the very best in Yorkshire and this shows that we have achieved this.” Dean’s has been serving gardeners for more than 40 years, selling everything from seeds to greenhouses. Helen says: “We grow a large range of bedding plants, perennials, vegetable plants and cyclamen at our own nursery to ensure fresh stock and the correct quality.” Dean’s has also achieved top marks for food hygiene at both its coffee shops – The Bothy at York and the Gardener’s Choice at Scarborough. Scores On The Doors, a national food standards scheme, gave Dean’s five stars – the highest score. n Dean’s Garden Centre, Stockton Lane, Stockton-on-the-Forest, York YO32 9UE. Tel: 400141

your garden

Ask Chris...

Got a gardening problem? Chris Brown from Brown’s Nurseries can help Dead and gone? Q. I think I have lost quite a few shrubs this last winter where the leaves have gone brown. These include Cordylines, Bays, Callistemons, Ceanothus, Choisya, Hebes, Myrtus, Phormiums and Tree Ferns. Will any of these recover this spring? This winter, like last winter, was very severe. Damage due to frost is usually self-evident, causing blackening or dying back of growing shoots with total leaf loss in early spring. Frost damage occurs largely through the formation of ice crystals in the plant’s tissues. It will probably take until this month for the ground temperatures to warm up before you will see any signs of new growth from the thicker woody stems. There are various things you can do to minimise freezing injury to plants. Stick to species hardy for local conditions – ask at your local nursery for advice. Using horticultural fleece can also lessen the damage of severe frost.

Made for shade Q. I have a raised decking area that is shady but has fencing around it. Can

you suggest some plants that will make it colourful, please? The cooler conditions normally found in places that do not receive the sun’s glare directly suit a good number of climbers. Clematis Nelly Moser has large, single pale mauve flowers with a carmine stripe on each petal if planted in shade (their colour fades in strong sunlight). You could also try Berberidopsis ‘Coral Plant’, which has long rambling stems with heartshaped evergreen leaves and pendant, globular flowers from summer to autumn. There is also a beautiful climbing rose that does very well in a shady position. Mme Alfred Carriere has large, sweetly scented cupped blooms of white tinged with flesh pink. It’s a good old rose that grows very strongly, blooms freely and continually, and is very fragrant.

Pruning jasmine Q. I have a flowering jasmine that I planted last year. Can you tell me when I can prune it, please? A. Jasminum Nudiflorum is a deciduous climbing shrub bearing primrose-yellow flowers on bare stems in winter and early spring on the

previous summer’s shoots. Fully hardy, it thrives in sun or shade but flowers best in sun. It looks best when grown against a wall. If not pruned annually, new growth covers older growth, leading to an untidy amount of dead wood. It’s best to prune it in spring, immediately after flowering. After planting, cut back young shoots by up to two thirds of their length to encourage strong growth from the base.

Tree of life Q. The leaves on my Eucalyptus have gone brown over the winter. What can I do to rejuvenate the tree, please? Eucalyptus is fully hardy if sheltered from cold, dry winds. But as last winter was so cold it has left a lot of trees covered with dead leaves. By May, you should be able to see which branches have died and which have survived. The best course for trees that have suffered damage or extensive die-back is to cut the tree back hard. All Eucalyptus will tolerate hard pruning, and are often pollarded or coppiced to form large shrub-like specimens, grown for their attractive silver foliage.

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

C 0, M 53, Y 100, K 0 R 247, G 143, B 30

C 68, M 0, Y 100, K 28 R 63, G 144, B 54

C 57, M 77, Y 100, K 15 R 119, G 76, B 46

C 8, M 10, Y 10, K 0 R 216, G 192, B 176

your garden

Swap surplus plants A plant sharing event is being held in Haxby where gardeners can swap surplus seedlings, outdoor or indoor plants and excess seeds. The Creating Cooperating Community (CCC) event takes place at St Mary’s Church Hall on Saturday May 21st from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. Spokesman Tim Bos says: “We shall also continue to make further plans for picking excess fruit in the autumn with the help of Abundance York.” n Anyone wanting more information and volunteers who wish to be involved in fruit picking can call Tim on 760659.

Garden trail A number of gardens in Dunnington will be open to the public on Sunday, May 22nd, from 1pm to 5pm. Refreshments will be provided in the Reading Rooms. Advance tickets are available from Nick Lister at Dunnington News, Chris Carr on 488338 or Jean Sutcliffe on 488069. They are also available on the day from the Reading Rooms or at any of the open gardens. Look for the balloons.

your garden

GROW YOUR OWN with Sandra Geere Growing your own fruit and veg is rewarding, good for the planet – and your pocket. Here’s how…

Peas Please...

There can be no greater pleasure than sitting outside in the summer sun, shelling a bowl of freshly picked peas. Whether you are six or sixty it never loses its magic and you will still be unable to resist the temptation to steal a few. But first you have to produce a good crop and that can be a challenge in some gardens.

I receive as many requests for advice about nursing peas to a size where they can look after themselves as I do for how to tackle slugs. Pea seeds are a favourite with mice who make nocturnal expeditions to feast on them. Some gardeners swear by dipping them in paraffin (the peas not the mice) but I’ve never quite fancied the idea, even though I have been assured that the mature peas don’t taste of paraffin. You could try humane mouse traps. Peas will not germinate in cold, wet soil, although once established retaining moisture with a mulch of compost is beneficial. Birds and slugs will make short work of young shoots and the pea moth can ruin a crop of mature peas. But all is not lost. Spring sown peas are the easiest to grow and you can grow them outside in late May in rich, moisture-retentive soil with a covering of fine mesh and slug protection.

Starting them off under cover is probably best though. Fill root trainers with good quality, pre-soaked sowing compost. Push the seeds in about 2 inches (5 cms) deep and plant out when 4” (10 cms) tall and hardened off.

Alternatively, drill holes in the bottom of a length of plastic guttering and fill with compost as before. Unless absolutely necessary don’t water either containers until the peas have germinated. Once they are this size they will be strong enough to resist pests but may still need protecting against birds with chicken wire or fine netting. Dig a trench to accommodate the length and width of the guttering and carefully slide the contents in. The small caterpillars of the pea moth sometimes develop inside the pods and feed on the peas. Powdery mildew can affect peas in late summer dry conditions and the best defence is to grow resistant cultivars. Don’t forget the wild food you may have on your plot at the moment. The leaves and flowers of dandelions, wild garlic and heartease can all be used in salads. Nettle tops make delicious soup and dandelion petals make delicious jams and jelly.

JOBS FOR MAY 3 Set slug traps 3 Sow peas, beans, salads 3 Hang pheromone traps in fruit trees LOCAL SUPPLIERS Nick Milner 07928647430 Rustic birch bean poles. Phone for current prices and special discounts for bulk orders. Mr Thomas 01759371549 £12 for 5 bags delivered (Please notice new price) n Sandra specialises in creating sustainable organic kitchen gardens in small spaces and can show you how to grow crops all year round. Contact Sandra Geere Kitchen Garden Design & Consultancy 01904 655366 or email kitchgard@geere.demon.co.uk

TO SHERIFF HUTTON NELSONS PARKS

CEMETERY NEW LANE SHIP INN THE VILLAGE - STRENSALL

your garden

Open Gardens

Every year, thousands of enthusiastic gardeners open their gardens to the public under the National Gardens Scheme, either for charity or for the joy of sharing their passion. Here are some of the gardens open this month... Croft Cottage, Boroughbridge Road, Green Hammerton YO26 8AE. Secluded ½ acre cottage garden divided by a number of garden rooms. Edwardian children’s playhouse open for games. Open 1st May, 12 – 5pm. Rewela Cottage, Skewsby YO61 4SG. ¾ acre ornamental garden, featuring unusual trees, shrubs and archectural plants. Other features include a pond, pergola and natural stone sunken garden. This month you’ll find Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Magnolias and spring bulbs. Open 8th May, 10am – 5pm.

• Fencing & All Landscaping Work • Patio & Driveway Powerwashing • Garden Maintenance & Tidy Ups • Shed/Garage Clearances & Demolition • Grass Cutting Specialists

Stillingfleet Lodge, Stewart Lane, Stillingfleet YO19 6HP. Plantsman’s garden subdivided into smaller gardens, each based on colour themes with emphasis on use of foliage plants. Wild flower meadow and natural pond. Open 16th May, 1 – 5pm. 24 Red Bank Road, off Whitcliffe Lane, Ripon HG4 2LE. Plants enthusiasts’ small garden, planted for year-round interest. Raised beds, rockeries and gravel contain a wide variety of perennials including species peonies, alpines and shrubs. Open 18th and 22nd May, 2 – 5pm. Sleightholmedale Lodge, Fadmoor YO62 7JG. Hillside garden, walled rose garden and herbaceous borders with delphiniums, roses, plus species tulips and meconopsis in May. Views over peaceful valley. Open 28th and 29th May, 2 – 6pm. Cobble Cottage, Rudgate, Whixley YO26 8AL. Imaginatively designed, constantly changing small cottage garden full of decorative architectural plants and old family favourites. Black and white courtyard garden and Japanese style garden with growing willow screen. Tinkers Hollow, Church Field Lane, Great Ouseburn YO26 9SG. Just over one acre, with wide range of features. Ponds connected by waterfall and small stream. Several pergola walkways link bog, perennial and shrub borders, plus extensive area left to nature. Open 30th May, 11am – 5pm.

your environment

Learn how to compost

Free compost City of York Council and Yorwaste Ltd have teamed up to give residents free compost this summer. Green-fingered gardeners can collect their compost from Yorwaste’s Harewood Whin site, in Tinker Lane, Rufforth, on the first Sunday of each month, between 9.30am and 2.30pm. This month’s date is May 1st. Residents should bring a shovel and bags or containers to take the compost home in.

Vicki Hill thought she knew about composting until she attended a course run by York Rotters. She recalls: “I soon found out I had been doing basic things wrong.” Now, after a year of York Rotters-inspired composting, her garden is burgeoning with flowers and vegetables and her black bin – the one emptied by the dustbin men – has virtually nothing in it. Vicki says: “Everything goes into my compost. Tear up your old bills and put them in your compost bin; you can even compost rubber gloves, balloons and wrapping paper. There’s really very little that needs to go in your black bin.” Now, as a volunteer for York Rotters, she is encouraging other people to start composting as well as reduce the amount of food they waste. “We waste so much food in this country; it’s criminal,” she says. Vicki, who works for the sustainable transport charity Sustrans, enjoyed the composting course. It was packed with practical stuff and the tutors were

inspirational. She recalls: “There was nothing heavy or serious. It was free and they even provided a wonderful lunch. As well as learning to compost, I made some good friends.” As part of Compost Awareness Week (1 – 7 May), York Rotters are holding a training course on Tuesday May 3rd between 7pm and 9pm at York Environment Centre, Rawdon Avenue, York YO10 3ST. n To book a free place, call 412861 or email rotters@stnicksfields.org.uk

n For more details, call City of York Council’s waste team on 551551.

Renewable energy Call today to find out how the Government ‘feed-in-tariffs’ can give you great savings and a guaranteed tax free and inflation linked income for up to 25 years. British Eco Ltd was established in 2002 and is a National MCS Accredited Renewable Energy installer. Its Yorkshire office is based near York. n Tel: 01904 234543.

your environment

SAVE ENERGY, SAVE MONEY with graNT henderson Solarwall Ltd

The clean, green cash back scheme and how it can work for you. Solarwall managing director Sue Lamb and renewables director Grant Henderson

Two awards for Solarwall Solarwall, the York-based renewable energy experts, have picked up two awards at the 2011 Yorkshire and Humber Microgeneration Dinner. The awards were for Best Business Initiative and Best Commercial Installation, both given in recognition of Solarwall’s Energy Centre. The centre promotes the economic and environmental benefits of renewable technologies to homeowners, businesses and local authorities. Sue Lamb, managing director and founder of Solarwall, says: “It is a great achievement that the Energy Centre should be recognised in both these categories by the Microgeneration Partnership. The centre demonstrates, in a simple and uncomplicated way, just what is possible with modern renewable technologies. Not only can people save energy and reduce their carbon footprint, but they’ll also be saving themselves a lot of money.” The Yorkshire and Humber Microgeneration Awards showcase the very best in small-scale renewable energy projects. The ceremony, held at the Majestic Hotel, Harrogate, was presided over by BBC Look North’s Paul Hudson. The Energy Centre is located at Solarwall’s head office on the Green Lane Trading Estate in Clifton. For more details, go to www.theenergycentreyork. co.uk

01904 234 543 infoyork@britisheco.com

www.britisheco.com

Not many people understand or even know about the Feed in Tariff (clean green cash back scheme); the governments’ incentive for electricity generating technologies, find out more about how it could work for you here… The Feed in Tariff has been available throughout England & Wales for almost a year now and many have already benefited from this fantastic cash back scheme. But still it is shrouded in misconceptions about what the actual payment is; hopefully the below information will help to answer any questions you may have:

So how does the Feed in Tariff work? Anyone who chooses to install an electricity generating technology will be eligible for the cash back scheme. Technologies that qualify are Solar electricity (PV), Wind turbines For an example of what you could & Hydroelectricity. You will be paid earn , here are details of a 2.4 in three ways for the electricity you kWp eak system fitted to a south produce: facing elevation: Generation: a set rate paid by your Estimated Install Cost £11000 energy supplier for each unit (or Generation: (2080 kWh x 41.3) kWh) of electricity you generate, this paid by your utility company payment will be paid for 20 years or = £859 .04 25 for solar electricity (PV) Export: sold back to the grid at Export: you will receive a further the agreed utility rate of 3p per 3p/kWh from your energy supplier kWh = £31.20 for each unit you export back to the Electricity Bill Saving: electricity grid. (1040 kWh x 12.96*) = £134.79 Total saving = £1025.03 Electricity Bill savings: anything for 25 years you generate and use yourself will Givin g you a annual rate of return be free so you will be making savings of 9.7% ! *estimated annual utility on your electricity bills , because company charge for electric generating electricity to power your appliances means you don’t have to buy as much electricity from your energy supplier Most electricity generating technologies are easy to install, especially solar electricity (PV) which can be used in most domestic situations as long as the panels are in sunlight. Make sure that your installer is MCS accredited (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) to enable you to claim the Feed in Tariff and shop around for quotes as there is a wide variance in price and actual quality of the products. Check your installer offers a guarantee; the better solar electricity (PV) kits for example carry output guarantees for performance. Also check after care service too – your payment is guaranteed for 25 years but only if it is working. Make sure the company you use have a proven track record and offer some kind of service package to ensure you get the best payment from the Feed in Tariff. n For more information contact Solarwall Ltd at the Energy Centre on 0500 127 005

Green Lane Trading Estate, Clifton, York, YO30 5PY. 59

your environment

A mum’s tale Mother-of-three Margaret Webster is a self-employed agent for a couple of real nappy companies. She holds rea l nappy demonstrations to enable parents to check out different styl es and brands. Margaret, of Copmanthor pe, uses real nappies for her threeyearold son and 16-month-old twins for environmental reason s and to save money. n For more details, call Margaret on 07957 208212 or email margaretwebst er3@ yahoo.com

Real nappy benefits

Two of the biggest benefits of using real nappies are helping the environment and saving money. Real nappies have next to no impact on landfill sites as opposed to the three billion disposable nappies that are thrown away each year in the UK. By the time your baby is potty trained he or she could have had as many as 4,000 nappy changes; that’s about 4,000 disposable nappies in a landfill site, or 24 real nappies hanging on your washing line, according to the Real Nappy Information Service. It adds: “Parents who choose disposables end up throwing away their hardearned cash along with the dirty nappy. You can kit your baby out with all the nappies they need from the high street for under £80 (the cheapest real nappy option), add £1 per week to wash them and you’ll still save £500. Once you have your nappies, why not try making some fleece liners to save a further £75? Making your own wet wipes could save you a further £250.”

For more information on

the gardening pages please call Mim on:

01904 767881

Eco appliances at bargain prices Have you heard of Gorenje? It may sound like an Eastern European holiday resort, but the Slovenian appliance manufacturer has been making a name for itself recently with its creative and innovative designs which not only look good but are great for the planet, too. In fact, its WA60125 washing machine has just been awarded Best Eco Washing Machine by none other than Good Housekeeping magazine! The Domestic Appliance Warehouse on Clifton Moor stocks a wide range of Gorenje products at fantastically discounted prices. Right now they’re offering the WA60125 for an amazing £270. It’s just one of many Gorenje appliances on offer, including their stunning retro styled refrigerator for just £640, gas hob for £170 and Multi Functional Electric Oven with an eco-friendly A rating for £360. The Domestic Appliance Warehouse sells high quality appliances from leading manufacturers such as Bosch, Indesit, Cannon and Hotpoint. Because they sell direct to the public, they can pass on amazing discounts to their customers. They offer a five year parts and labour guarantee, and can even deliver and fit your new appliance, as well as taking your old one away! n So if you’re looking to replace your appliances with new energy-saving models, or if you’re re-fitting your kitchen and you want to save some cash, why not pay a visit to the Domestic Appliance warehouse at 31 – 32 Auster Road, Clifton Moor YO30 4XA, or give them a call on 692275.

your home

Managing your building project – simple steps to success

Curtains with class

Think of bespoke tailored curtains and you probably think ‘Way out of my price range’. But having your curtains hand made by a professional can actually save you money in the long run, says Christine Alker. She makes curtains with a variety of handmade headings, as well as blinds, pelmets and soft furnishings to customers’ individual requirements. For instance, having your curtains interlined is a cash-saving option. Interlining not only makes your curtains look better, it also helps them last longer. And it’s excellent for insulation, saving on your fuel bills. “Hand making can add class to the cheapest fabric, whether it’s adding weight with interlining or specialist handmade headings like French pleats, goblet or double pleats,” says Christine. Moving house can prove expensive, especially if you have to invest in brand new curtains for every room. Christine can alter customers’ existing curtains to fit, or transform curtains into stylish blinds for your new windows. If you’re looking for a more opulent look on a budget, Christine suggests putting up Roman blinds and then dressing the windows with curtains. “You don’t have to pull the curtains across the windows, so you’ll use less fabric,” she says. n For more interior design inspiration, give Christine a call on 339214 or take a look at her website – www.curtainsandblindsyork.co.uk.

You have a good idea of what you want to do. You can imagine your finished project. But where do you start? At ADDS we can recommend a few simple steps that will turn your vision into reality. Over the coming months we will be showing you how we can help and guide you to plan your new extension and share our valuable knowledge with you. These are the first steps to success:

Work out a budget Before you do anything else, you need to get an idea of how much your project is going to cost. Sit down and think about everything that your project involves – from initial concept designs and drawing up plans right down to light fittings and soft furnishings. Allocate a cost against every single part of the process. This will be easier for some things than others. If you have had work done in the past you should find it fairly straight forward, but if not, you will probably wonder where to start.

Get verbal quotes Average costs per square metre for typical extensions range from £800 per square metre upwards. This will give you a rough estimate of the cost of your own project. There really is no substitute for asking the trades people involved to give you a verbal quote for each of the stages of your project, from groundworks through to redecoration. Obviously these quotes will not be set in stone, but they should give you a starting point to put a budget together. This stage takes time and patience – but it’s worth doing if you don’t want an unpleasant surprise when the work is underway.

Appoint an architect/designer

bespoke design

manufacture

fitting

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LT D

Not every building project needs an architect or designer. Before you decide whether you need one, it’s worth asking ‘What exactly does an architect/designer do?’ Put simply, an architect or designer can bring a wealth of knowledge of planning & building regulations, building materials & technology, and design styles to your project. At the most practical level, they will draw up accurate plans and specifications to help you get any necessary permissions, and help you price your project accurately. At the other end of the scale, if you so desire, you can contract a designer to oversee your whole project, from initial design sketches through to completion. A designer is trained to think about space and light in three dimensions, and may come up with ways of achieving what you want in a way you have never thought about. We will be giving you more help and advice next month or if you want to get started now then you can get details of our full design and drawing service by calling us at: n ADDS on 01904 762691 or visit our website www.addsyork.co.uk

Design | Plan | Build 61

Roofing firm hits top spot It’s time to upgrade your G-rated fridge Refrigeration appliances are big users of domestic energy, because they are on all the time. New fridge-freezers are now labelled A++, A+, A, B or C, based on their energy consumption. An A++ rating indicates the most efficient category, C the least. If your current fridge-freezer was bought before September 1999, it could be anything up to a G rating, with no limit on how much energy it uses. Matthew Todd, of York electrical retailer Herbert Todd & Son, says now is a good time to get a new energy-efficient fridge-freezer... as the weather gets warmer. If you buy a new A++ fridge-freezer it will pay for itself, in terms of reduced energy costs, inside three years, according to the manufacturers who are offering various incentive packages to encourage customers to buy their most economical appliances. Fridge-freezers are termed as hazardous waste, which means your old appliance must be disposed of properly. If you buy an A++ or an A+ fridgefreezer from Herbert Todd & Son, the retailer will dispose of your old appliance free of charge. nHerbert Todd & Son has shops in Percy’s Lane, off Walmgate, York, and York Road, Acomb. Tel: 628676.

York family firm Geoff Neal Roofing Limited has won a national competition to highlight the best roofing and construction specialists across the UK. The company’s restoration work Geoff Neal, MD of Geoff Neal Roofing Limited, receives the Specialists Award on the 600 year old St Nicholas’ trophy with his son, Oliver Neal (second Church in Wetwang earned it from left) from Construction News Editor, Nik Edwards, and awards host and a first place in the ‘Specialists comedian, Alun Cochrane. Awards’, run by Construction News magazine and the National Specialists Contractors Council. A total of 80 companies from across the country made it onto the awards shortlist across 18 categories. The company submitted an entry in the ‘Special Projects’ category of the awards for a £161,000 renovation project. The three month project involved the removal of the church’s existing lead roof and its replacement together with ancilliary leadwork using traditional techniques. “This roofing project is the biggest initiative involving leadwork that we’ve ever undertaken, so we’re delighted to have won this prestigious award,” says Managing Director, Geoff Neal, who set up the company 29 years ago. “The age and heritage of St Nicholas’ Church demanded great expertise and sensitivity so it’s hugely rewarding to receive industry recognition for all our team’s hard work.”

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your home

On the move Square Deals Ltd has moved to a larger showroom in York. The specialist in windows, doors and conservatories has moved from Clifton Moor to Boroughbridge Road. Managing Director David Clarke, who has more than 25 years experience in the industry, is inviting readers of Your Local Link to take a look at the new showroom. He says: “All our windows, doors and conservatories are manufactured to the highest standards and feature the most up-to-date security features. Come on down and take a look.” n Square Deals Ltd, 39 Boroughbridge Road, York YO26 5SQ. Tel: 795225.

Quality upholstery Do you have a favourite armchair that’s showing signs of wear and tear? If so, then contact upholsterer Abe Charles who gives quality furniture a new lease of life. n A & V Upholstery can also make bespoke furniture. For more details, call Abe on either 01977 699222 or 07889 431691.

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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.

I am looking to sell in the near future. Do you think there are more buyers coming to the market and would now be a good time to sell?

A. Spring is usually a good time for selling a property. We’ve noticed activity levels have definitely increased over the last few weeks, with lots more viewings and offers coming in. But the buyers on our mailing list are looking at everything in their price range and taking their time. They want to feel that they are getting a bargain before they will make an offer. There are also a lot of buyers who have been renting who want to come out of their rental properties and take advantage of the low mortgage rates currently on offer. Q.

We have recently agreed a sale on our house and it is due to complete at the end of the month. Our buyers would like to go into the house and do some work before it completes. What are your thoughts on this?

damage the property still legally belongs to you, and you would not be covered for insurance purposes. I would certainly speak to your solicitor before agreeing to this as a lot will depend on the type of works that they are intending to carry out.

Please help, I am really confused. We are looking to sell our house and have had four local estate agents out to value our home, the fees vary considerably. How do I choose?

A. You need to be comfortable working with your chosen agent. Trust is the key. You also need to be sure that they have the ability to get you the best possible price in the current market conditions. Some agents will quote a low fee to win the instruction and stock their windows, a bit like a supermarket that stacks them high and sells them cheap. You must be confident they will work hard on your behalf, 100% of the time, 24/7 and with no compromise on the service that they provide.

A. I would never recommend this. Even if the property exchanges before the end of the month, which almost guarantees the sale will complete, if your buyers go in and do some work and cause any n Opus Estate Agents, Tel: 01904 790070, www.opusmove.co.uk

Keeping pace with technology Now is an exciting time to be selling hi-fi systems as retailers work hard to keep pace with the latest developments in digital sound. More hi-fi buffs are storing their music on computer hard drives – yet they still want to be able to play it through their hi-fi systems in high-quality sound, says Philip Smith, of Vickers Hi-Fi. That’s why the manufacturers are bringing “wireless streaming devices” on to the market. These clever units are designed to link your PC with your hi-fi. n Vickers Hi-Fi, 8 Concorde Park, Amy Johnson Way, Clifton Moor, York. Tel: 691600

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your home Tel: 01904 690400

New fabric collections Problems with colour schemes? Too many choices?

If you want to find a way through the interior design maze, then make a trip to Easingwold Bathrooms & Interiors. Owner Ruth Snowden says: “Visit our inspirational showroom and let our friendly and imaginative team of designers help you to create an interior, tailormade for you, with that extra touch of style. Relax and browse in a friendly atmosphere where help is always at hand. “Our own in-house experienced and skilled curtain-makers and upholsters will produce beautiful curtains, blinds, soft furnishings, quilted bedding and revitalise old furniture just for you. Our enthusiasm will help and inspire you.” Easingwold Bathrooms & Interiors has teamed up with Colefax and Fowler, Jane Churchill, Larsen & Manuel Canavas. Ruth says: “We are delighted to announce the arrival of these beautiful fabric collections into our showroom, to add to an already extensive range of fabrics and wallpapers from Sanderson, Mulberry, GP & J Baker, Robert Allen, Swaffer, Harlequin, Voyage, Lorient and many more.” n Easingwold Bathrooms & Interiors, Unit 2, Easingwold Business Park, Birch Way, Easingwold YO61 EFB. Tel: 01347 824777

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your home

Property of the month

Alma Terrace, York £224,500 EXCELLENT LOCATION • VICTORIAN TERRACE • ATTRACTIVELY PRESENTED • TWO BEDROOMS • SOUTH FACING COURTYARD Situated in one of York’s most sought after streets this is an attractively presented two bedroom end terraced house. Situated between Fulford Road and the riverside the property is ideally located for access to all parts of the city centre, York University and the A19/A64 bypass. The Victorian property benefits from UPVC sealed unit double glazing, gas radiator central heating and a South facing rear courtyard. The accommodation briefly comprises an entrance hall, dining room, lounge and fitted kitchen with appliances, to the first floor are two bedrooms and a family bathroom. Outside to the rear is a walled courtyard.

Tel: 01904 621026 www.huntersnet.co.uk

Hawthorne Mews, Strensall £450,000 Hawthorne Mews is a delightful development of just four executive homes designed in the style of a barn conversion yet with all the convenience of a modern home. Tucked away in the heart of Strensall village, overlooking paddocks and the river Foss to the rear the property has 5 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a fabulous 28ft through kitchen/dining room and spacious lounge with French doors onto the rear garden.

For details or to arrange a viewing call 01904 621532

your home

Property of the month

Attention first time buyers! If you’re looking to take your first step on the property ladder, Opus Estate Agents have a three bedroom mid terrace property that offers a lot of house for your money. The house couldn’t be more convenient for local shops and amenities, as well as the District Hospital, Nestle, York St John University and the city centre. So it could also make an excellent investment buy. The property consists of a modern lounge with tiled fireplace and laminate floor; a spacious dining kitchen with integrated fridge, dishwasher, electric oven and hob and stylish Belfast sink. Upstairs you’ll find three bedrooms, two with recessed wardrobes, and a family bathroom. There’s useful off-street parking out front, with a fully enclosed garden to the rear. And guess how much all this would set you back? A real steal at just £139,950. n For more details or to arrange a viewing contact OPUS on 790070.

On the tiles

From rustic stone to sleek marble and classy ceramics, tiles are the most versatile option around. Most at home in kitchens and bathrooms, they can also look great throughout the house, especially in an open plan scheme. are not suited to busy areas – pick a tougher stone like granite or slate. Stone can be pricey, but if you can’t afford the real McCoy, there are naturallooking man-made options available. They’re just as durable as the real thing, and cost a lot less. n Ceramic is available in a huge variety of sizes, styles and finishes. Glazed tiles may get scratched easily, which means they’re not always suited to worktops, but they’re ideal for use on walls. If you’re planning to use ceramic tiles on floors, make sure you choose specialised floor tiles with a non-slip.

Types of tiles n Stone, ranging from limestone and slate to marble and granite, is a very popular choice. As you can imagine, it’s extremely hard-wearing, keeps its looks for many years, and suits any kind of home decor. Slate, for instance, can look perfect in a contemporary apartment, while limestone adds a touch of homely character to a country style scheme. Stone will need treating with a sealant to prevent staining, and softer stones like limestone

n Quarry is the name given to any kind of tile made from a mixture of clays. These tiles are used mostly for interior floors because they're usually porous and irregular in shape. The surface of these tiles can be sealed or left unsealed, although, they may stain if left unsealed. n Mosaic are very small tiles which are usually used to create borders and patterns. They come in a wide range of finishes. Mosaics are suitable for almost any surface because they resist moisture, are stain-proof and will not chip easily. They come in sheets which makes them easier to work with, but are still a job best left to a professional fitter.

Tile tips...

Our guide to getting the best results everytime 3 Make sure you have a solid base on which to lay your tiles; too much movement may cause the tiles to crack. A concrete subfloor or floorboards and ply are ideal.

3 Larger tiles can make your room look more spacious as there are less lines of grout to distract the eye.

3 Light coloured tiles will always make a small space appear larger. White or cream are a good option as they give a light, clean and airy feel. If plain white is too bland for your taste, try adding interest with tiles that have an unusual surface texture or introduce a subtle border for a bit of colour. You can always add colour with accessories later.

3 Look at the positioning of the fixtures and fittings before deciding on the size of your tiles. If the bath, toilet and sink are all in close proximity with little wall area in between, smaller tiles will create a better flow.

3 Tiles can feel a bit chilly underfoot. Fortunately, they’re ideal for underfloor heating, as they release heat gradually to maintain a pleasantly warm temperature.

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your home

Hand-crafted paint and wallpaper Style Flooring, which has one of York’s most complete range of floor coverings from leading manufacturers, now stocks Farrow & Ball paint and wallpaper. The hand-crafted products are known for their unsurpassed purity and depth of colour. While other paint manufacturers switched to cheaper acrylic paints with a high plastic content, Farrow & Ball continues to make paint to its original formulations, using the finest raw materials. Martin Couchie, owner of Style Flooring, says: “Farrow & Ball chose us to be an official stockist after a thorough vetting process. It’s a real feather in our cap. They produce top-quality products that work out cheaper in the long run because they last so well.” n Style Flooring, 65 East Parade, Heworth, York. Tel: 289266

First-time buyers ‘need more help’ Chancellor George Osborne’s moves aimed at helping first-time buyers into the property market, while welcome, will not really make a huge difference, says York estate agent Kevin Hollinrake. Mr Osborne announced a £250 million Government-backed shared equity scheme to help 10,000 first-time buyers called Firstbuy. Mr Hollinrake, Managing Director of Hunters, which has offices across the North and Midlands, points out that in a normal year about 200,000 first-time buyers purchase property. He adds: “The issue of people struggling to get on to the property ladder is going to continue. We would like to see much more political pressure put on the lenders to make mortgages available to the first-time buyer. This is a huge social as well as economic problem that needs resolving.”

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Learn skills in woodworking Master craftsman Bob Lambert is holding an open day at his workshop on Saturday, May 14, at 10am, as well as six courses this month. n The Woodwork Room, York Riding School, Clifton Road Business Park, Wigginton Road, York YO32 2RH. For more details, call 348343 or email bob.lambert@ woodworkingacademy.co.uk May courses 4&5 Router course 7 Woodturning basics 19, 20 & 21 Cabinet making 24 & 25 Woodturning course 28 Router basics 30 & 31 Router course

Store offers internet prices A business in York that combines internet prices with old fashioned personal service has just celebrated its first birthday. The Domestic Appliance Warehouse, at Clifton Moor, is an Aladdin’s Cave of bargains. It offers a wide range of white goods, from built-in and freestanding cookers to washing machines, tumble-driers and fridge freezers. The venture was started by Zaine Thorpe, who knows a great deal about domestic appliances. During his career he has been both a store manager and a service engineer; he’s happy to offer advice to his customers. He says: “The first 12 months have exceeded my expectations. I put my success down to offering a personal service while keeping my prices very competitive.” Zane got the business off the ground by selling ‘R grade’ appliances, which means they have slight cosmetic damage but are still in excellent working order.

Now the vast majority of his sales are factory-fresh appliances in mint condition – with not a dent in sight. However, if customers want an ‘R grade’ appliance, Zaine can still get one. n The warehouse at 31 – 32 Auster Road, sells quality brands such as Hotpoint, Indesit and Creda. It is open six days a week (closed Thursdays) and offers a delivery and installation service. Zaine can also dispose of your old appliance. For more details, call 692275.

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Verdict VVVV

Where can you get a decent

Sunday roast in York?

double joy for him as there were also enormous Yorkshire puddings. Yorkshires are a bone of contention in our house; as a southerner, I am genetically incapable of making them. The puddings on offer at the Marriott were so massive, I’m guessing the chef must be a Yorkshireman (or woman).

a place? I’ll tell you where. The Chase Bar & Grill at the Marriott Hotel in Tadcaster Road.

It’s a question we often ask, usually when we find ourselves in the middle of the city on a Sunday lunchtime with friends or family in tow. You want to find somewhere within a short distance of the centre, where you can all sit down and enjoy the best of British in relaxed surroundings. Somewhere with a view might be nice, too. But where do you find such

Now lunch in a smart hotel might be something you’d think of as a treat, maybe to celebrate a birthday or anniversary. And it’s true, with its elegant but welcoming surroundings, decorated in spicy shades of ochre and deep red and overlooking the broad green expanse of the Knavesmire, the Chase Bar & Grill is a great special occasion venue. But with a three course carvery lunch for only £14.95 (one course for £9.95 and two courses for £12.95), it’s affordable enough to make any Sunday a special day. The food is pretty special, too. There are three choices on offer for each course. I started with the special soup of the day, which was creamy and delicious leek and potato. My husband opted for the haddock and spring onion fishcakes with chunky

tartar sauce. These were also fab, and pretty substantial, too – ideal for big appetites. And talking of big appetites – then came the main course. There was a carvery choice of roast topside of beef, roast leg of pork, or red onion and cheddar cheese tarts for the vegetarians. All came with an interesting and beautifully cooked selection of roast root vegetables, broccoli mornay and roast potatoes. I had the beef, which to me was perfectly cooked, with just a hint of pink in the middle. My husband had the pork, which came with a separate serving of crispy crackling. There was

Sadly we were too full after all that to do anything but share a delicious apple and cinnamon crumble with crème Anglaise (posh custard to you and me). But it was well worth the effort. Afterwards, we had the option of taking our tea or coffee on the sun terrace overlooking the gardens and the racecourse. So that’s my Sunday lunchtime dilemma solved. Next time friends come to stay, we’re taking them to the Marriott. And we’ll make sure we take an enormous appetite with us. n The Chase Bar & Grill, York Marriott Hotel, Tadcaster Road. Call 701000 to book.

york on a fork

Our favourite

sandwiches Congratulations to British Sandwich Week (May 15-21) celebrates one of Britain’s best loved institutions.

Mim: Hot bacon egg and mushroom because it sets you up for the day.

The snack was named by the 4th Earl of Sandwich in 1762 after he asked his servant to bring him slices of meat between two slices of bread during a protracted card game. The sandwich is wholesome, healthy and ideally suited to today’s hectic lifestyles where people want foods that are portable and easy to eat. We at Your Local Link love a tasty sandwich and our favourite fillings conjure up images of California Dreamin’ and seaside holidays:

Dickie: Tuna with a hefty splash of vinegar and mayonnaise. Lee: Chicken club salad sandwich. Dean: Egg. Emily: Wensleydale cheese and homemade chutney.

Gini: Ripe avocado, Monterey Jack Cheese, bacon, alfalfa sprouts and mayo because it reminds me of happy times in San Francisco.

Zoe: Jumbo king prawn on malted brown bread with rocket salad accompanied by chilled Chardonnay.

Robin: smoked Wiltshire ham, Bavarian smoked cheese, English mustard, mayonnaise and rocket salad served on a thick soft white loaf with a large glass of Rioja. This is a truly splendid sandwich, perfect for any occasion. Lisa: Bacon and egg – good hangover cure!

Sarah: Mature cheese with caramelised onion chutney on granary bread because I like a sandwich to have a strong taste and it should never be too dry. Another favourite is a warm squashed cheese and tomato sandwich liberally sprinkled with grains of sand because it reminds me of childhood picnics on the beach.

Kelly: Orange cheese and tomato sauce – the perfect hangover cure. We wonder what this says about us – too many hangover cures and accompanying wine in this office…what does your favourite filling say about you?

the Bay Tree! The Bay Tree in Stillington has achieved a major hospitality milestone, just months after it was taken over by new owners.

The popular restaurant and bar was recently assessed by AA inspectors, who awarded one rosette for the restaurant and four stars for its adjoining holiday accommodation. Restaurants with one rosette achieve standards that stand out in their local area. They serve food prepared with care, understanding and skill, using good quality ingredients. Farmer John Sparrow took over The Bay Tree four months ago. “We’re really pleased,” he says. “We know from the feedback we get from our customers that they’re happy with what we’re doing. As well as serving evening meals, we’ve now become a popular destination for people stopping off for lunch on a country drive. We’re now aiming for two or three rosettes by this time next year, so watch this space!” n Bay Tree, Stillington

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york on a fork

Get your fresh

asparagus

The Balloon Tree Farmshop at Gate Helmsley, near York, is harvesting its earliest ever crop of asparagus. The crop is ahead by about three weeks, brought on by the warm spring weather, and the first spears actually came on March 20th. The asparagus should last until mid-July. The Balloon Tree offers a great day-out for the whole family, with the farm shop selling a great choice of fresh home-grown fruit and vegetables, rare breed meat, free range eggs, award-winning home made cakes, awardwinning chutneys, local honey, preserves and lots more. It also has a children’s play area, animal corner, landscaped cafe garden and a wide range of ‘Pick Your Own’ fruit and vegetables in the summer months. n For more details, call 01759 373023, go to www.theballoontree.co.uk or email info@theballoontree.co.uk

Taste of Yorkshire Yorkshire food producers are adding new flavours to York's Newgate market. The group, which calls itself Yorkshire Truly, can be found at stalls behind Cox's Leather shop, near the Shambles entrance, every Friday. Liz Druce and Claire Davies started the initiative with the aim of giving small independent producers the opportunity to bring their artisan products to local customers and tourists alike. With everything from artisan gingerbread biscuits to home-made pesto, Yorkshire Truly offers the customer a range of carefullycrafted products in a relaxed shopping environment.

Claire, of Grace Preserves, York, says: “All our members make their products from home in small batches. This means we can guarantee items which are unique and always of great quality.” Yorkshire Truly has a core of regular traders, with guest producers joining the group each week. They aim to hold demonstrations, tasting events and children’s activities throughout the year. n If you are a local producer who may be interested in joining Yorkshire Truly, call Liz on 01947 895775.

Off to market 30th April & 1st May Italian Market & Alfa Romeo Owners’ Club, York city centre. 2nd May Italian Market, York city centre. 20th -22nd May Made in Cumbria Regional Food Fayre, York city centre. 21st May Local meat, vegetables, Yorkshire cheeses, homemade soups and fruit wine. Farmers’ Market, York Auction Centre, Murton. 26th - 29th May Made in Yorkshire Crafts, York city centre. 27th May Enjoy the best of Yorkshire’s local produce at the Farmers’ Market in York city centre. Fresh vegetables, local meat and the best of British baking! n For details about the city centre events, go to www.york.gov.uk/ markets

2 Courses £12.95 3 Courses £15.95

The 100 seater can restaurant p ou cater for gr s ing ok bo

We use the best quality ingredients and local produce wherever possible

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york on a fork

Your FAVOURITE RECIPEs

Bacalao al horno

Ingredients 3 1.5kg Cod thick pieces 3 Tinned chopped plum tomatoes 3 5 large potatoes, peeled and cut into slices 4 3 spring onions chopped into1 cm pieces (inc. green) 3 4 cloves of garlic 3 1tbs oregano 3 1 glass white wine (dry) 3 Extra virgin olive oil 3 Flour to dust 3 Salt pepper to season and sugar to sweeten

This month’s recipe comes from Pablo Bouza-Causier of The Bay Tree in Stillington. Pablo, who comes from Palma de Mallorca, has come up with a fab fish dish. Bacalao al horno is a traditional Spanish dish which was originally made using salt cod. Fresh cod may be substituted if you are unable to find the salted version. Remember, salt cod needs to be soaked overnight and the water changed Method Preheat the oven to 180*. • Peel the potatoes and cut into thin slices suitable for frying, salt and lightly toss then leave, allowing liquid to drain away. • Finely chop garlic, Slice spring onions • Cut cod into roughly 10cm square pieces. Lightly coat with seasoned flour • Take a heavy bottomed frying pan, pour 15cm of the oil into the pan and heat. Cook cod on a medium heat

until golden in colour, turning carefully ensuring the fish does not break. • When cooked, drain and place in the bottom of an oven proof dish • Shallow fry the potatoes until they begin to soften and turn golden. Remove from pan and leave to drain. Cook the potatoes in small batches to prevent them sticking. • In a heavy bottomed pan, add 1cm of extra virgin olive oil then cook finely chopped garlic and spring onions gently until softened. Add tinned tomatoes, oregano and a good slug of white wine. Season to taste. • Layer the sauce and cooked potatoes over the cod. Finish with a healthy covering of sauce. • Place in a pre-heated oven to cook for 30 mins

Be a winner at

The Grand A trip to York Races is always a big event. So why not make it super special with one of the great Race Day packages available at The Cedar Court Grand from 11th – 13th and 21st May? Start the day in style with a Pre-race Brunch – just £24.95 per person including a glass of champagne. You can also book a private room for brunch – prices for room hire are £100 for the Gibb/Leeman/Ridley rooms, and £150 for the Chairman’s Suite. Prepayment is required for all reservations – call the sales office on 380038 . And whether you’ve won or lost, you can still celebrate with a Grand Afternoon Tea for £18.50 per person, or the Champagne Afternoon Tea for £31 per person. You may not scoop a fortune on the horses, but their five star service will make you feel like a winner!

Win theatre tickets

The Rowntree Players are staging The Importance Of Being Earnest - Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy of manners. Two young gentlemen living in 1890s England have taken to bending the truth in order to put some excitement into their lives. Things start to go awry when they end up together in country and their deceptions are discovered - threatening to spoil their romantic pursuits. The show will take place at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York, at 7.30pm between May 19 & 21. The Rowntree Players are offering four tickets as a prize for one lucky reader. To have a chance of winning them, simply answer the following question: Who wrote The Importance Of Being Earnest? Send your answer on a postcard to Rowntree Players Competition, Your Local Link, Oak Tree Farm, The Moor, Haxby YO32 2LH to reach us by Friday, May 13. Please include your name, address and phone number.

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JORVIK Viking Centre, Coppergate, York. Researchers have helped create the most accurate picture of Viking life yet with two new exciting exhibitions. The ‘Investigate Coppergate’ exhibition examines the Vikings’ diet, recreates the facial features of a Viking and also investigates the diseases from which the Vikings suffered. ‘The End Of The Vikings’ exhibition features skeletal remains showing battle wounds and a full skeleton with evidence of severe trauma, alongside discussion about how they died. For more details, visit www. jorvik-viking-centre.co.uk or call 543400. Pink Moon Cruises, The Ship Inn, Acaster Malbis. Sit back and enjoy a relaxing cruise on a luxury boat on the River Ouse. You may even get a chance to steer the 37ft twin-diesel cruiser. On the approach to the historic city of York, you will pass Bishopthorpe Palace, home of the Archbishop of York, the striking Millennium Bridge, the design of which is based on a bicycle wheel, and many more interesting riverside features. For more details, call 07950 551031 or go to www.pinkmooncruises. co.uk Ghost Trail of York, West Doors of York Minster. 7.30pm every night. Whether you’re a visitor or you’ve lived in York all your life, the chances are you don’t know much about the supernatural side of the city. Dare you cross the centuries and discover more about York’s spine-

tingling history? Join an Equity-qualified guide and hear tales of murder, mayhem and unexplained death – and possibly have a giggle or two along the way! The tour is now in its 18th highly successful year. Call 633276.

York Dungeon, 12 Clifford Street. The York Dungeon brings York’s horrible history to life with 11 live shows, actors and special effects. Face the drop with Dick Turpin, see a witch burned alive

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before your eyes, enter the Labyrinth of the Lost and witness the darker side of our Viking ancestors. Or if you’re feeling really brave, face the Judgement of Sinners and pray the judge has pity on your soul (warning – it’s very unlikely!). And if all that leaves you lost for words, the city torturer can always be guaranteed to get you talking, whether with the hook, the castrator, the jaw breaker, or the creeping agony of the rack. Call 632 599 or 0871 423 2260 for bookings.

events

YorkBoat, The Boatyard, Lendal Bridge. Yorkboat is one of the largest fleet of modern sightseeing, restaurant and party boats outside London. Every YorkBoat has modern toilets, heated lounges with large windows for maximum viewing and comfort, tea/coffee and bar facilities and open sun-decks. Hop on board the YorkBoat River Bus and enjoy a relaxing, hassle-free journey from Naburn to the city centre and back again. There’s plenty to see as you travel upstream past the Archbishop’s Palace straight into the heart of the city – and no getting stuck in traffic! Call 628324.

Until 2 May Quilt Art, Quilt Museum & Gallery, Peasholme Green, York . An international group of 20 textile artists celebrates its 25th anniversary with an exhibition in the Great Hall. The museum’s Bailey Gallery is staging an exhibition devoted to the work of influential quiltmaker Averil Colby (1900 – 1983).

Living Rivers, The Deep, Hull, 10am-6pm. This exhibition looks at five of the world’s major river systems and features piranhas, emerald tree boa, fish-eating spiders and suriname toads. Visit the exciting Amazon Flooded Forest and see turtles, ripsaw catfish and pacu, and enjoy a trip to the Explorers’ Den where you can get up close with creepy crawlies. Walk through Europe’s deepest viewing tunnel and enjoy a ride in a glass lift through the 10-metre tank. With more than 3,500 fish, including sharks and rays, there is something for everyone. Call 01482 381000.

Until 5 June Cartoon show, Nunnington Hall, near Helmsley, is hosting an exhibition called ‘Three Centuries of Cartoon Art’ that celebrates some of history’s finest cartoonists. Tel: 01439 748283.

Until 12 June Hockney art: The largest painting David Hockney has ever created is on show in York Art Gallery. Bigger Trees Near Warter, measuring 12m by 4.5m, is made up of 50 smaller canvasses of a landscape near the East Yorkshire village of Warter.

Until September Shipwrecks, DIG, St Saviourgate. A 400-year-old merman, discovered with the remains of a 17th century merchant ship in Dorset, is just one of the fascinating exhibits at the

York Archaeological Trust’s fascinating exhibition. Shipwrecks will enable visitors to explore the underwater world of marine archaeology and find out how shipwrecks are discovered, recovered and preserved for future generations. The exhibition will also include other finds from the Swash Channel wreckage such as a swivel gun and an apothecary jar. Gunpowder containers from an Elizabethan wreck from Alderney; expanding bar shot; and a mysterious rescued object which can only be seen through X-rays will also form part of DIG’s Shipwrecks exhibition. Visit www.digyork.com.

Until 30 October The Battle of Towton, Micklegate Bar Museum, York, 10am – 4pm. This year sees the 550th anniversary of the Battle of Towton, one of the turning points in the Wars of the Roses. This innovative exhibition tells the triumphant and tragic

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30 April

Victoria and 20th century monarchs. Tel: 622303.

Artist and Aristocrat, Castle Howard.

Table-top sale, Clements Hall, Nunthorpe Road, York, 11am – 4pm. Sell your surplus items and/or crafts; no electrical items or food. Tel: 466086.

Secret passages, Museum Gardens Gates, 2.15pm. Visit parts of York not open to the public, including some of York’s fine guildhalls, the Roman East Angle Turret and a hidden crypt. Call Yorkwalk on 622303 for more details.

An exhibition of paintings by George Howard, 9th Earl of Carlisle (1843-1911) is on display at his ancestral home near York. The exhibition tells the story of how, from an early age, George Howard demonstrated an irrepressible need to draw and paint. Although his ambitions were frequently questioned by his family, he remained determined to be an artist. Visit www.castlehoward.co.uk

30 April - 2 May Civil War Wedding, Rievaulx Abbey, near

28 April – 2 May

Helmsley, 11am - 5pm. Musketeers and camp followers gather to seek refuge, plan an attack and capture enemy soldiers as the citizens celebrate a 17th century wedding.

Harrogate Antique & Fine Art Fair, Harrogate International Centre, 11am

Newton on Ouse Art Society’s annual exhibition, Newton on Ouse

start. For more details, call 01823 323363 or go to www.harrogateantiquefair.com

Red, White and Blue May Fair,

29 April - 2 May

Village Hall, near Beningbrough Hall. Beningbrough Hall. A traditional English nostalgia fair, with period vehicles: cars, trains, scooters, plus cream teas and red, white and blue celebrations!

Royal’s Weekend, National Railway Museum, York. Celebrate the Royal Wedding at interactive storytelling sessions about the royal trains. Wander down the red carpet of the majestic ‘Palaces on Wheels’ exhibition, featuring the largest and finest collection of royal railway vehicles in the world.

Abbey Tours, Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal. Daily 11am, 1pm & 2pm. Join a tour to discover fascinating facts and stories about the Abbey and monks. Tel: 01765 608888.

Explore the Warehouse, a treasure

Mr Aislabie's Garden Tour, Fountains

trove of fascinating items including furniture and crockery used onboard the Royal Trains. Tel: 0844 8153 139.

Knights Family Fun Trail, Clifford’s Tower, York, 10am - 6pm. The Queen has asked you to invite the English Heritage knights and squires to a banquet. Can you find them? You'll be royally rewarded!

1 - 31 May

Abbey & Studley Royal. Daily 11.30am. Tel: 01765 608888.

1 May Royal tour, Museum Gardens Gates, 10.30am. Yorkwalk celebrates royal visits to York, including Roman emperors, Anglo-Saxon and Viking kings, medieval monarchs, Stuart kings, Queen

Monuments & Masons Walk, York Cemetery YO10 5AJ, 2pm. Guide David Poole looks at tombstones and their makers.

1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 May Car boot sale, Home Farm, Wigginton, York, 7am-1pm. Do you want to make a bit of cash for the summer holidays or raise funds for your favourite good cause while decluttering the house? If so, why not make what could be a lucrative trip to this well-established car boot sale and sell your surplus items. You can celebrate a good sale with a well-earned snack as refreshments and toilets are provided at this well-run car boot sale. Tel: 768463. St Mary's Church Tour, Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal. 11am. Take a free tour of the richly decorated Victorian High Gothic church designed by William Burges. Meet at St Mary's Church. Tel: 01765 608888.

1 & 2 May Kite Festival & Country Show, Driffield Showground YO25 9DN, 9am-5pm. Last year’s event attracted more than 8,000 visitors and organisers are hoping for even more this year. Attractions include kite flying, kite making, classic and vintage vehicles, Harley Davidson motorcycles, birds of prey, dog show, charity football, fun fair, flight simulator, hot-air balloons (weather

Half Term Family Fun IN YORKSHIRE

Sat 28 May – Sun 5 Jun Time Travellers Go…Medieval Whitby Abbey Fairies and Dragons Week Brodsworth Hall & Gardens Tudor Family Fun Trail Clifford’s Tower www.english-heritage.org.uk/events or call 0870 333 1181

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events

story of Britain’s bloodiest battle, which decided the fate of a kingdom and left thousands dead.

events

permitting) and a flypast by a Lancaster bomber from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. There will even be a teddy bear drop and picnic as well as shopping avenues, crafts and a food & drink court. Visit www.kite-festival.co.uk

1 & 2 May Cowboy Weekend, Yorkshire Museum of Farming, Murton, York. Experience life in the Wild West as the fort is taken over by cowboys. Try your hand at panning for gold or tossing a horseshoe, and take a ride on the train. With tractor rides and traditional cowboy foods in the café,there’s something for every cowboy and gal. Tel: 489966.

2 May Copmanthorpe Street Fair, Low Green, noon until 4pm. The Royal Wedding provides the theme of the 21st fair. There are stalls, refreshments, music and rides too.

3 May Jazz supper, Court Cafe, Dean Court Hotel, York, 8pm. Enjoy good food and live music from a guest jazz trio. Tel: 625082.

York Rotters, compost course, York Environment Centre, Rawdon Avenue, York YO10 3ST, 7pm- 9pm. To book a free place, call 412861 or email rotters@stnicksfields.org.uk

Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York, on October 8 & 9. The Sound Of Music will be staged at York Theatre Royal, March 6-17. For more details, call 01757 704150.

York Light Opera, Lidgett Grove

3 May

Methodist Church, off Boroughbridge Road, York, 7.30pm. Auditions for autumn concert and The Sound Of Music. Please bring sheet music for the song of your choice; you need to be at least 16 years old. A Night With The Light takes place at the

York Ramblers, Dunnington Market Cross, 7pm, six-mile walk. Tel: 628134.

4 May Gardener’s Question time Treasurer's House, behind York Minster, noon to 2pm. A National Trust gardener will answer your questions and give hints, tips and demonstrations to get you from plot to plate, whether your plot is a window box or an allotment. Book on 624247. Stagecoach All Saints’ Upper School, Mill Mount, York, 6pm. Parents and prospective students can find out what the performing arts

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school has to offer. The open meeting coincides with the launch of Stagecoach’s new Friday evening school (4.30pm to 7.30pm) at the upper school on May 6th. The new Friday school is building on the success of Stagecoach’s Saturday sessions at Archbishop Holgate's School, Hull Road, York. Stagecoach offers quality training for four to 18-year-olds in the disciplines of dance, drama and singing. For details, call Sally Thrussell on 672662.

5 May Hypnotherapist Peter Wall, New Earswick Folk Hall, York, 7.30pm. Peter will be asking for volunteers to experience their past lives using his relaxation technique. He will also expose the myths and misconceptions surrounding hypnosis. Tickets from 01226 792342.

6, 13 & 27 May. Antiques and Collectors Fair, Helmsley Town Hall. 9.30am- 4.30pm.

6 May Stagecoach, the performing arts school, is launching its Friday evening school (4.30pm to 7.30pm) at All Saints’ Upper School, Mill Mount, York. For details, call Sally Thrussell on 672662.

Jorvik Woodturning Group, Earswick Village Hall, Earswick Chase, Earswick, York, 7.30pm. Joey Richardson will give a talk entitled ‘Floral Forms’. Tel: 704092. York Rotters are celebrating National Compost Awareness Week by staging a wormcharming competition at Scarcroft Green at 3.30pm. The team charming the most worms will

win a backyard gardening kit. Plots will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis, so please arrive early. Tel: 412861.

The Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, York Minster, 7.30pm. Royal British Legion 90th Anniversary Concert. Tel: 0844 939 0015.

Porcelain, York Cemetery. An illustrated talk and evaluation of 15 pieces by Derrick Sanderson, previously of TV's Great Antiques Hunt. Leave a contact number by calling 610578 and details of the piece you would like Derrick to evaluate; 15 items will be chosen at random prior to the event.

7, 14, 21 & 28 May. Antiques and Collectors Fair, Wetherby Town Hall. 9.30am – 4.30pm.

7 May Last Music Concert, Unitarian Chapel, St Saviourgate, York, at 7.30pm. Opening with Richard Whalley’s response to M.C. Escher’s print lithograph, Three Worlds, the programme interweaves pieces by composers based in Manchester and York. Richard Casey’s piano recital is framed by two works by John Adams and, at the centre, a Late Music commission by Composerin-Residence, Michael Parkin. Intriguingly, there is a new work by 17-year-old Joe Howard, Kaleidoscope. Joe is a sixth-form student at Lady Lumley’s School in Pickering. There will be a preconcert talk by Michael Parkin at 6.45pm. Tickets: www.latemusic.org or on the door.

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Poppleton Tithe Barn, Church Lane, Nether Poppleton, is holding an open afternoon, between 2pm and 4pm, to raise funds for the venue. There will be stalls for second-hand books, cakes, plants, bric-a-brac plus refreshments and tombola.

Charlie’s Angels, the dedicated fundraising group, is holding a Spring Fair, between 1pm and 4pm, at the Orchard Park Community Centre, Huntington, to raise funds for the York branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Tel: 762358 or 769101. Art & music, The Pyramid Gallery in Stonegate, York, is launching an exhibition of work by Cornish artist/printmaker Trevor Price who will be attending the opening between noon and 3pm when York guitarist/composer Peter Byrom-Smith will play classic guitar pieces. Gallery owner Terry Brett says: “Trevor enjoys a busy and successful career. He has shown his work here without a break for 16 years.” The exhibition is open daily from 10am to 5pm and continues until 4 July. It also includes the work of Peter Layton and glass-makers from the London Glassblowing Workshop. Visit www.pyramidgallery.com

Lollipop, Open evening to mark National Deaf Awareness Week at Creepy Crawlies Adventure Play Park, York, 6pm-9pm. Activities include a mobile climbing wall and a snowboard simulator. Tel: 446510 or SMS 07890 886996. Early Birds, Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, 7am - 9am. Set your alarm clock and come and listen to the chatter of early birds. Tel: 01765 608888.

7 – 12 May Residents Free Week, Treasurer's House, behind York Minster, 11am to 4.30pm. Enjoy free entry to the National Trust property on production of a York card. Tel: 624247.

8 May Open Eco House, campaigner Anna Semlyen opens her Victorian terrace house at 24 Grange Street, off Fulford Road, YO10 4BH, which has halved its carbon use. Learn about solar electricity and thermal water and solid wall insulation between 2pm and 4pm. Email anna@ yogainyork.co.uk or call 654355 for more details. Barley Hall wedding fair, 10.30am – 4pm. Meet the suppliers and chat with one of Barley Hall’s function co-ordinators. Bookings taken on the day will receive a 10% discount.

History of York Cemetery, York Cemetery, 2pm. Walk led by Alwyn Fletcher. Spring Wedding Fair, Haxby Memorial Hall, 11am-3pm. Free admission. Tel: 07912 532856.

10 May Storm the Barbican York party band Huge are preparing to storm the city’s new-look Barbican at a charity concert on Tuesday, May 10. Frontman Ian Donaghy is banking on a 1,500 capacity audience to raise as much money as possible for York Against Cancer and the Lord Mayor’s charities - the British Heart Foundation and Our Celebration. The venue’s first official event to mark the completion of its £2 million refit is a

concert on Saturday, May 14, featuring the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra and trumpeter Alison Balsom.Tickets for Huge can be bought at www. yorkbarbican.co.uk, by calling 0844 854 2757 or from Visit York in Museum Street.

11 May Open Cabinets, Treasurer’s House, behind York Minster, 11am – 4.30pm. Find out what lies behind the doors of some of the furniture at the National Trust property. Tel: 624247.

Parkinson’s UK, Community Centre, Strensall Road, Huntington, 7pm. Members will listen to a talk by a hospital director entitled ‘How The Patients’ Voices Can Be Heard’. Call 758355.

11-14 May Burgher Hall Piggyback Theatre Company presents its new comedy at York’s Upstage Theatre, Monkgate, to raise money for St Leonard’s Hospice. Written and directed by local writer Ged Cooper, the play follows the fortunes of the three Burgher siblings as they try to preserve the family home amidst huge debt. The play starts at 7.30pm with a 2.30pm Saturday matinee. Box office: 623568.

11 – 15 May York Spring Festival of New Music features jazz, folk, opera and ballet. Highlights include The Hebrides Ensemble, Ballet Bewegung and a folk evening. For more details, go to www. yorkspringfestival.co.uk

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12 May York Ramblers, Great Ouseburn village hall, 7pm, six-mile walk. Tel: 628134.

New Mill Male Voice Choir, York Minster, 7.30pm. The award-winning choir, with sopranos Sarah Ogden and Stephanie Ball, will be singing for York Against Cancer. Tel: 0844 939 0015.

19 May Snooker Legends: 2011 Champions Tour,

Moth & Insect Night, York Cemetery

Site Tour, Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal,

YO10 5AJ, 7.30pm. A multimedia show led by David Chesmore and Anneliese Emmans Dean.

10.30am-1pm. Tel: 01765 608888.

York Barbican, 7pm. Three times World Champion Ronnie O’Sullivan and new World Seniors Champion Jimmy White go head to head in this exhibition match with commentary by John Virgo. Tel: 0844 854 2757.

14 & 15 May

20 May

13 - 14 May

Holgate Windmill, in York, is celebrating

Museums at Night, Whitby Abbey,

National Mills Weekend by opening its doors to the public between 11am and 4pm. For more details, call Helen on 331402 or Bob on 795851.

York Priory Choir is presenting a charity concert at Holy Trinity Church, Micklegate, York, at 7.30pm to raise funds for St Leonard’s Hospice. The women’s choir sings a variety of songs that will appeal to all ages. For more details, call Kathy Pickard on 705530.

13 May

6.30pm – 9.30pm. Visit the Abbey at twilight with recorded medieval chant.

14 May Access To Music, Jam Factory, Eldon Street, York, 11am. Open day for those thinking about forging a career in the music business. Access To Music runs two courses at the Jam Factory Performing Musician and Digital Musician. Both last two years and are the equivalent of three A-levels; there is also an option to do a one-year Foundation course in digital music. Tel: 655290.

Coffee morning, Lidgett Grove Methodist Church, Wheatlands Grove, off Boroughbridge Road, York.

Classical music, York Barbican, 7.30pm.

York does Vintage meets SOUK Fashion & Lifestyle Bazaar, St William's College, York, 10am4.30pm. Relax with one of Curiositea’s gorgeous cupcakes and a cup of Yorkshire Tea; let make-up and hair artist Alison, of Beauty Call, transform you into a gorgeous princess; get snap happy with lots of photo opportunities from Random Acts; create vintage bunting in the up-cycle workshops; shop for fabulous creations from up-and-coming designers; grab yourself a cutting-edge ethical bag from Onfriday and treat yourself to some sumptuous organic skincare from Green Therapy. Call Alex on 07824 559272 or Sam on 07896 840397.

15 May

Join the BBC Philharmonic and trumpeter Alison Balsom as they perform works by Haydn, Tchaikovsky and Elgar. Tel: 0844 854 2757.

Minster Nights, York Minster, 6.30pm9.30pm. Explore the cathedral’s museum in the Undercroft. Tel: 0844 939 0015.

The Petal Garden of King Shubash, Explore York Library Learning

18 May

Centre, 7pm. A tale of deceit and cunning from Peter Chand and Shonaleigh. Tel: 552815.

York Ramblers, Stillingfleet church, 7pm, six-mile walk. Tel: 628134.

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Prison Life Today, Wigginton Recreation Hall, York, 2pm. Talk by Graham Holgate, of Askham Grange Prison. For more details, call U3A on 764688. Aura Energy Photography, Black Swan Inn, Peaseholme Green, York, 7.30pm9.30pm. Can you see an aura? Learn about the facts and myths of aura photography. There will be a demonstration of aura reading.

21 May Spring Fair, York Steiner School, Fulford Cross, 11am-4pm. Maypole dancing is a way to get rich, according to our ancestors who believed that wealth would be showered on all who took part in this annual ritual. You can put this to the test by taking part in beginner’s sessions. The organisers say: “We make no guarantee of an immediate lottery win, but we promise that dancing the Maypole will be an enriching experience!”

events

Other attractions include live music, stalls selling plants, toys, home produce and the wares of local craftspeople, storytelling and craft activities plus home-cooked food. Tel: 654983.

Command Apprentices, Yorkshire Branch of the Western Front Association, Holgate Block, York St John University, 2.30pm. Michael Orr will talk about the Great War experiences of Britain Second World War generals. Tel: 01484 531412.

21 May Blackheart, Haxby Memorial Hall, 7.30pm. An intimate concert with gifted musicians Chrissy Mostyn and Rick Pilkington. The last three years have seen the folk duo headline their own successful tours across the UK and Ireland, a major city tour as guest of Jared Osmond of the famous Osmond family, a TV commercial soundtrack and worldwide radio play including BBC Radio 2 Spotlight Song of the Day twice. To book your ticket, call 764404. Barn dance: Take part in a ceilidh at 7.30pm in the refurbished De Grey Rooms in St Leonard’s Place, York. Tel: 623568.

York Guildhall Orchestra, York Minster, 7.30pm. A rare performance of Mahler’s monumental 8th Symphony at York Minster at 7.30pm with Leeds Festival Chorus, the Halle Chorus and the cathedral’s choir to raise money for the North Yorkshire Music Therapy Centre in Malton and mark the centenary of Mahler’s death. The ‘Symphony of a Thousand’ is expected to feature 350 voices, including eight soloists, and 120 musicians. Lynne Dawson, president of the

orchestra, says: “This is a unique opportunity to see this rarely performed work. We think this is a York premiere.” Tickets are selling fast, secure yours by calling 0844 939 0015.

Activities Day, St Oswald’s Primary School, Fulford. A fun day out for children, with all kinds of activities from face-painting to sumo wrestling.

21 & 22 May Heritage Tractor Rally, Yorkshire Museum of Farming, Murton, York. With trade stands and working demonstrations you can find out what it takes to restore a vintage tractor, then see them at work. Tel: 489966.

22 May Sixth Annual York Walk. More than 300 walkers will be walking along the river to raise money and awareness for the charity Crohn’s and Colitis UK. Visit www.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk

Antique & Collectors’ Fair, Driffield School. The fair, which was previously at Driffield Showground, features a large collection of quality collectables. Tel: 01377 254768.

23 May York Ramblers, York Millennium Bridge, 7pm, six-mile walk. Tel: 628134.

Sales & Auctions 6th, 13th and 27th May. Antiques and Collectors Fair, Helmsley Town Hall. 9.30am4.30pm. 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th May. Antiques and Collectors Fair, Wetherby Town Hall. 9.30am – 4.30pm. 28th and 29th May. Antiques and Collectors Fair, Ripley Village Hall. 9am – 4.30pm. Call 01423 889163 or 0776 5006996 Tennants, The Auction Centre, Leyburn. Tel 01969 623780 4th May. Coins & Banknotes 12 noon 86

7th May. Antique & Home Furnishings Sale. 9.30am 14th May. Antique & Home Furnishings Sale 9.30am. Scientific & Musical Instruments, Cameras and Tools 11.30am 21st May. Antique & Home Furnishings Sale 9.30am. Textiles, Dolls and Teddy Bears 11.30am 25th May. Stamps & Postal History 12 noon Boulton & Cooper Fine Art. Tel 01653 696151 18th May. York Antique Sale, York Auction Centre, Murton. 10am.

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27 May

Freya North, Explore York Library Learning

Buddy Holly & The Cricketers,

Centre, 7pm. The bestselling author will be talking about her new book ‘Chances’ to celebrate York Explore’s first birthday. Tel: 552815.

who have delighted audiences across the globe for 18 electrifying years, are stopping off at York’s Grand Opera House. Their new show for 2011 features all of Buddy’s classics plus hits by the likes of Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Eddie Cochran, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, The Everly Brothers, Little Richard and The Beatles. Box office: 0844 871 3024.

25 May Ebor Lecture on Theology & Public Life, York Minster, 7pm. John Milbank, Professor in Religion, Politics and Ethics at Nottingham University, will give a talk entitled ‘Geopolitical Theology’. Book your ticket by calling: 876474 or at www.yorksj.ac.uk/eborlectures

Psychic Evening, New Earswick & District Bowls Club, Huntington Road, York (next to Flag & Whistle), 7pm for 7.30pm. Enjoy an evening of psychic entertainment with Sue Warren who has dedicated her life to helping others through her natural abilities as a medium and psychic. Sue has been consulted for guidance by individuals from across the globe on matters of health, relationships, family, bereavement, finances, psychic & spiritual guidance... bringing insight and inspiration to everyone who has sought her help. Call 750230.

Hidden Tours, York Minster, 7pm & 8.30pm. Explore the bell towers, masons’ loft or the Five Sisters Window with expert guides and discover parts of the cathedral normally hidden from view. Tel: 0844 939 0015.

River Foss Society, The Ship, Strensall, 6.30pm. 90-minute walk around Strensall led by John Millett. Meet in the pub car park.

28 May Environment Celebration, York Minster, 10am-4pm. There will be drama from Riding Lights Theatre Company, ecological and art exhibitions and hidden tours of the cathedral. Fair Trade tea and coffee will be available throughout the day. Tel: 0844 939 0015.

Georgian dance, York’s Mansion House, 3pm. Learn the basics behind the fashionable dances enjoyed by Jane Austen under the careful instruction of our dance mistress. Suitable for ages 16 and up. Pre-booking essential on 615505. Rachmaninov Vespers, York Minster, 7.30pm. The Ebor Singers perform this fine example of Russian Orthodox choral writing. Tel: 0844 939 0015.

Fashion show, Barley Hall, York, 10am – 5pm. Explore the changes in fashion from the Tudors to the early 20th century through this display of costumes from The King’s Speech, Sweeny Todd, Lark Rise To Candleford, Pride & Prejudice and Cranford. It features film and TV costumes worn by Cate Blanchett, Colin Firth,

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Helena Bonham-Carter, Daniel Radcliffe, Elizabeth Taylor, Kate Winslet and Heath Ledger.

28 & 29 May. Antiques and Collectors Fair, Ripley Village Hall. 9am – 4.30pm. Call 01423 889163 or 0776 5006996.

28-30 May Get Medieval, Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, 11am-5pm. Join the costumed re-enactors around their medieval encampment. Watch and take part in activities based on 15th century life. Tel: 01765 608888.

Medieval combat, Whitby Abbey, 11am5pm. Marvel at the medieval knights as they take part in hand-to-hand combat, archery competitions and much more.

28 May – 5 June Barley Hall crafts, 10.30am and 4.30pm. Make your own mini corsage or boutonnière. Add a touch of elegance to your outfit by using our craft materials to make one of these fun accessories. Tudor Trail for Children, Clifford’s Tower, York, 10am - 6pm. Uncover the grisly story of Henry VIII and his six wives, who are all hiding around the grounds. Can you find them all and earn yourself a prize?

The Path to Paradise & Presence, Rievaulx Abbey, near Helmsley, 11am-4pm. Follow the mysterious labyrinth as costumed guides create song lines, poetry and music to help you on your way. You can also find the installation sculpture of Presence by Eva Milleusnic in the abbey ruins.

events

24 May

28 May – 5 June

1 – 5 June

Half Term Family Trail, Rievaulx Terrace & Temples, Rievaulx, near Helmsley, 11am – 5pm.

A Latvian Festival is being held in York

Children’s Trails, Treasurer's House, behind York Minster, 11am - 4.30pm. Children of all ages will be able to explore the National Trust property. Tel: 624247.

28 & 30 May Chocs away, Museum Gardens Gates, 10.30am & 2pm. Hear the history of Terry’s and Rowntree, visit choccy and sweetie shops and taste free samples! Call Yorkwalk on 622303 for details.

29 & 30 May Trailblazers, Yorkshire Museum of Farming, Murton, York. See the Trailblazers in action at our fort demonstrating the cowboy way of life. Get dressed up and join them for some rootin’ and tootin’. Tel: 489966.

30 May David Gray, York Barbican, 7pm. The acclaimed songwriter’s intimate acoustic evening centres around songs from his current album, and US Billboard Top 10, Foundling, plus reinterpretations of songs from his entire catalogue. Tel: 0844 854 2757.

31 May Bistro sounds, Dean Court Hotel, York, 8pm. Enjoy the music of York singer-songwriter David Ward Maclean as he sings and introduces a fellow-musician/singer. Tel: 625082.

featuring two gifted young musicians: Evita Zalite, a soloist with Latvian National Opera; and Kristine Adamaite, an internationally-known organist. Concerts, all starting at 7.30pm, will be held at St Columba’s URC Church, Priory Street, York, on June 1; Easingwold Parish Church on June 3: and at All Saints’ Church, Poppleton, on June 5. Poppleton Tithe Barn will host a Latvian Festival at 7pm on June 4. The festival celebrates the historic links between Easingwold Parish Church and St Saviour's Church in Riga, which was founded in 1857 by British traders, one of whom was the grandson of the vicar of Easingwold, the Rev J.W. Armitstead, whose son went out to Riga as a flax merchant in 1812. For more details, email issyarts2@tiscali.co.uk

Jane McDonald, York Barbican, 7.30pm. A magical evening of music and laughter, starring one of Britain’s best-loved divas. Tel: 0844 854 2757.

10 June Rock’n’roll night, New Earswick & District Bowls Club, Huntington Road, York (next to Flag & Whistle). The Moonshiners are a rock’n’roll band from West Yorkshire who play all the classic hits from the 1950s and 1960s. Come and listen to them along with DJ Johnny Whiteshoes. To book your ticket, call 750230.

16 June Ladies Day at Royal Ascot, York Marriott Hotel, Tadcaster Road, noon. Why go all the way down south for Royal Ascot when you

can have just as much fun here in York? That’s what the Georgina Grace Trust thinks, anyway. They’re inviting you to celebrate Ladies Day at Royal Ascot at the Marriott Hotel. There’ll be a drinks reception, followed by lunch, afternoon teas/ coffees. Watch the day’s racing on large screens and have a little flutter on the charity tote. Why not get a group together and have a girly day out? Numbers are limited, so book your ticket early. Call Ruth on 780880 or go online

18 June The Academy of St Olave’s, St Olave’s Church, Marygate, York, 8pm. The chamber orchestra plays music of the 17th century to that of the present day; from Corelli and Purcell through Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven to Stravinsky, Britten and Tavener. Its summer concert will feature Prokofiev’s Symphony No 1, Fantasia on

SportsFixtures Horse racing

Racing; Evening)

40 League)

Horse racing (Flat Racing unless otherwise stated)

Fri 27th

Pontefract (Evening)

Derbyshire, Headingley (40L)

Sat 28th

Beverley

Mon 2nd

Beverley (Family Day)

Sat 28th

Catterick

Nottinghamshire, Trent Bridge (LVCC 1)

Tues 3rd

Catterick (Evening)

Mon 30th Redcar (Championship; Family Day)

Thurs 5th Wetherby (Jump Racing; Evening)

Tues 31st Redcar

Fri 6th

Ripon (Evening)

Sat 7th

Thirsk (Evening)

York City Knights

Mon 9th

Redcar

(Co-operative Championship) Sun 1st (H) Dewsbury Rams

Wed 11th York (Championship)

Sat 14th (A) Barrow Raiders

Fri 13th

York (Championship)

Sat 14th

Thirsk

Sat 14th

Doncaster (Evening)

Sun 15th

Ripon (Family Day)

Thurs 19th Wetherby (Jump Racing; Ladies Day)

11 Hampshire, Headingley (LVCC 1) 15 Kent, Headingley (40L)

Tues 10th Beverley Thurs 12th York (Championship)

8 Kent, Canterbury (40L)

Fri 20th

Catterick (Evening)

Thurs 19th (A) Batley Bulldogs

Sat 21st

York (Championship)

Sun 29th (H) Leigh Centurions

Mon 23rd Thirsk (Evening) Tues 24th Ripon Wed 25th Beverley (Championship; Evening) Thurs 26th Wetherby (Jump

Yorkshire County Cricket Club ( LVCC1 – County Championship division one; 40L – Clydesdale Bank

18 Lancashire, Liverpool, (LVCC 1) 22 Worcestershire, New Road (40L) 24 Somerset, Taunton (LVCC 1) 29 Sussex, Hove (LVCC 1)

Midnight Walk, York College, Sim Balk Lane, York. Have fun in the small hours while raising much-needed funds for St Leonard’s Hospice. The 6.5-mile circular walk starts at midnight from the college. The closing date for entries is June 5; no entries will be allowed on the night. Entry forms are available from the hospice in Tadcaster Road, York, as well as its charity shops and at www.stleonardshospice.org. uk Tel: 777777.

25 June Dirty Dancing, Bustardthorpe Field, York. Gates open 7pm. Sit back and enjoy this screen blockbuster beneath the stars. A Drive-in Movie is a fun way to spend a night-out or celebrate a special occasion; you can even host your own car pyjama party - the possibilities are endless! Why not have a marriage proposal or other announcement shown on the huge movie screen? Just make sure you book your time-slot in good time. Bring your own snacks or enjoy a variety of food and drink on offer. To listen to the soundtrack, your car will need a FM stereo to tune into. For more details, email julietrigg1@ hotmail.com or call 0774 661 9588 or 01274 619800.

EVENTS AT

Helmsley Arts Centre 5 May Lady Chatterley’s Lover, Helmsley Arts Centre, 7.30pm. Stage adaptation by Hull Truck Theatre of DH Lawrence’s bestseller. Lady Constance Chatterley is trapped in a loveless marriage. Injured in battle, her husband Clifford is unable to satisfy her sexual desires and so Constance finds herself drawn towards a man she meets in the woods. Box office: 01439 771700 or www.helmsleyarts.co.uk

29 May Paradise Steel Band, Helmsley Arts Centre, 2pm-4pm. Formed in 1962, the Paradise Steel Band is well known as the North’s most experienced steel band. Check out their uplifting musicianship.

26 May An Honorary Yorkshireman, Helmsley Arts Centre, 7.30pm. Badapple Theatre Company presents a comedy by Kate Bramley. Set in a Yorkshire pub in the farming heyday of the 1940s, The James Herriot Story sets off the early biography of the late Alf Wright - better known under his pen name of James Herriot - against a myriad of local characters inspired by his All Creatures Great And Small novels. Box office: 01439 771700 or www.helmsleyarts.co.uk

events

Greensleeves by Vaughan Williams, Nielsen’s The Fog Is Lifting and Shostakovitch’s Cello Concerto No 2 showcasing the musical skills of soloist Heather Tuach, of the Fitzwilliam Quartet. To book your ticket, call 550099.

Spring wedding fairs Haxby Hall: Looking for some inspiration for your big day? Then head along to the Spring Wedding Fair at Haxby Memorial Hall on 8th May from 11am – 3pm. You’ll find a whole host of great ideas and services from local businesses, all aiming to make your special day even more memorable! Entry to the fair is free, and there’ll be tea and cakes on sale, with proceeds going to Haxby Memorial Hall. Also, if you’d like to exhibit at the Spring Wedding Fair, give Joyce Widd a call on 07912 532856. Barley Hall: Medieval Barley Hall provides a truly unique setting for your wedding. The Hall is licensed for civil ceremonies and civil partnerships and can also offer you a beautiful venue for receptions, from canapé parties to medieval banquets. Whatever you select, you can be assured of a memorable day, in a remarkable setting, with beamed ceilings, flickering candlelight, and medieval ornamentation, with personal dedicated service from one of their experienced team of wedding coordinators. Barley Hall is hosting a Spring Wedding Fair on 8th May. Meet their recommended suppliers, sample the specially designed menus and enjoy the exceptional atmosphere created by fresh flowers and candlelight. Special discounts will also be available for couples booking celebrations during the fair.

Featuring Girl Band the Bon Bonz (The newest girl band sensation)

YOUR Night LIFE

Theatre

Verdict (2 - 7 May)

The Agatha Christie Theatre Company is presenting Verdict at York’s Grand Opera House. Having been forced to flee persecution in his home country, the brilliant Professor Karl Hendryk leads a content life, but his world is turned upside-down when the prospect of life-saving treatment for his invalid wife persuades him to take on a new pupil against his better judgement. Box office: 0844 847 2322.

Calamity Jane (4-7 May) Members of New Earswick Musical Society are presenting at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre this energetic musical about the unlikely romance of famed Western tomboy Calamity Jane and gunfighter Wild Bill Hickok. The stage show is based on the popular movie, released in 1953, which starred Doris Day as Calamity Jane with Howard Keel as Hickok. The screen musical was devised by Warner Brothers in response to the success of the 1950 movie Annie Get Your Gun. Curtain up: 7.30pm. For tickets, call 768182 or 623568.

Absent Friends (5-7 May) Dringhouses Dramatic Society is performing Alan Ayckbourn’s black comedy at Friargate Theatre, York, at 7.30pm, with a 2.30pm Saturday matinee.

Colin must be comforted in his grief over the death of his fiancée. His friends, who never met the girl, arrange a tea party for him. However, by the time he arrives, their unease contrasts dramatically with his air of cheerful relaxation. Tickets are available at Woodthorpe Post Office, www. dringhousesdramaticsociety.org.uk/ or on 613000.

The Crucible (7-28 May) When girls are discovered dancing naked in the woods late one night at Salem, Massachusetts, in 1692 rumours of witch-craft and devil-worshiping spread through the small community. Jealousy and superstition divide farmer John Proctor and his virtuous wife Elizabeth. Defence of the truth and pursuit of justice drives the play to its thrilling conclusion. Arthur Miller’s classic drama is performed in the round at York Theatre Royal. Box office: 623568.

Tango Fire – Flames of Desire (10 May) Direct from Buenos Aires, following sell-out seasons in New York, London, Barcelona, Hamburg, and Cape Town, Argentina’s hottest dance show stops off at York’s Grand Opera House at 7.30pm. This sizzling show features ten sensational dancers, including three world Tango champions, accompanied by Quatrotango, a

Film guide Water for Elephants For once a role Robert Pattinson can’t get his teeth into (Teeth? Vampire? Oh, please yourselves). But he does manage to stay mean and moody in this gritty and compelling film about a veterinary student who abandons his studies after his parents are killed and joins a second rate circus struggling to survive during the Great Depression.

Arthur We never really understand the reasoning behind remakes, but this one might just turn out to be as good if not better than the original. Russell Brand is a natural to step into Dudley Moore’s shoes as the naughty playboy who refuses to grow up. But his defiance looks set to cost him dear when he stands to lose his inheritance by marrying the wrong woman. Pirates of the Caribbean 4: On Stranger Tides We thought we’d seen the last of Captain Jack Sparrow and Co when they sailed off

quartet of brilliant musicians and one of Argentina’s finest young singers. Box office: 0844 847 2322.

Blood Brothers (16-21 May) Willy Russell’s acclaimed musical, being staged at York’s Grand Opera House, tells the captivating tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with tragic consequences. Box office: 0844 847 2322.

The Importance of Being Earnest (19-21 May) The Rowntree Players present Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy of manners at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York, at 7.30pm. Two young gentlemen living in 1890s England have taken to

CINEMAS: 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

into the sunset at the end of POTC 3. But apparently not. Johnny Deep is as mad and bad as ever in this action-packed prequel. He and Barbossa set off on a quest for the elusive fountain of youth, only to discover that Blackbeard (Ian McShane) and his daughter (Penelope Cruz) are after it too.

The Hangover 2 The long-awaited sequel to The Hangover sees the hapless foursome deep in trouble again. After the disaster of the bachelor party in Las Vegas, bridegroom Stu is taking no chances with his big day. He’s planned a nice, subdued wedding – in Bangkok. What could possibly go wrong? What indeed...Mike Tyson, who stole the show in the original, makes another guest appearances, as does (rumour has it) Bill Clinton. Something Borrowed Talented lawyer Rachel (Ginnifer Goodwin) finds her friendships challenged when she falls in love with Dex, the fiancé of her best friend Darcy (Kate Hudson). When Rachel and Darcy’s lifelong friendship collides

with true love, it leads to unexpected complications and potentially explosive romantic revelations in this thoughtprovoking chickflick.

Hanna Boldly original suspense thriller, starring Academy Award nominee Saoirse Ronan (The Lovely Bones) in the title role. Raised by her father (Eric Bana), an exCIA man, in the wilds of Finland, Hanna’s upbringing and training have been geared to making her the perfect assassin. Sent into the world by her father on a mission, Hanna faces startling revelations about her existence and unexpected questions about her humanity.

Win Win Struggling attorney Mike Flaherty (Paul Giamatti), who moonlights as a high school wrestling coach, becomes legal guardian of an elderly client in an attempt to help keep his practice afloat. When the client’s teenage grandson runs away from home and shows up on his grandfather’s doorstep, Mike’s family life and his wrestling team are turned upside down.

For a healthier, happier you visit www.justafewminutesmore.com

YOUR Night LIFE bending the truth in order to put some excitement into their lives. Things start to go awry when they end up together in country and their deceptions are discovered - threatening to spoil their romantic pursuits. For tickets, call 07927 026071, email tickets@rowntreeplayers.co.uk or go to www.rowntreeplayers.co.uk

Billy Elliot The Musical – excerpts (22 May) The Grand Opera House is working with Billy Youth Theatre to celebrate ‘Billy Elliot the Musical’. Drama groups will be performing excerpts from the worldwide stage hit at 7.30pm. A selection of participating groups will then be offered the opportunity to follow in the steps of Billy and perform at a West End Gala at the Victoria Palace Theatre, Billy’s London home, in July. Billy Youth Theatre, which is open to performers aged between 10 and 19, gives schools and youth groups the opportunity to stage their own productions of the acclaimed show. Box office: 0844 847 2322.

Yvette Fielding’s Night Of Fright (24 May) Are you ready for the darkest, most spine-chilling experience of your life? Look no further as Yvette Fielding, with her ‘Ghostfinders’ Team From Living TV’s Most Haunted, hosts an evening of sheer fright at York’s Grand Opera House. Her show features ghost hunters, mediumship, witchcraft and demonology. Box office: 0844 871 3024.

1 MAY Mike & The Mechanics, Grand Opera House // Ginger, Fibbers //Martin Harley, Stereo // Indie Alldayer, The Duchess

2 May Swimming, Fibbers // Pray For Daykin, The Duchess

4 May Show of Hands, The Duchess // Lunasa, Fibbers // Masters In France, Stereo

5 May Anna Calvi, Fibbers // Peter Case, City Screen // Singers & Musicians’ Night, Black Swan Folk Club

6 May Heaven’s Basement, The Duchess // Matt Schofield, Fibbers

Thriller Live (30 May to 4 June) This spectacular concert at York’s Grand Opera House brings to life the sensational dancing and distinctive sound of Michael Jackson. In a career spanning 40 years, Jacko sold 750 million records worldwide before his untimely death. Expect your favourite Jackson songs delivered by an exceptionally talented cast and live band, including ABC, Off The Wall, Beat It, Billie Jean, Thriller plus many more. Box office: 0844 847 2322.

falling. Follow Sid, aged 14, as he attempts to find out what happened to the world from his Grandpa. This co-production by York’s Pilot Theatre and Milan’s Elsinor Theatre is part of the Platform 11+ project, which involves 13 European theatre companies creating new work for 11 to 16-yearolds. What Light is part of the European Platform Festival, a three-week festival that brings Platform 11+ partners to York Theatre Royal and involves performances from three York schools. Box office: 623568.

What Light (11-21 May) It’s 2061 and there’s no school, no shops, no internet and no escape from the rain that keeps

Yksoul Charity Soul Night, Post Office Club

The Duchess: 641413

City Screen: 0871 902 5726

Fibbers: 651250

Grand Opera House: 0844 847 2322

Stereo: 0121 234 5678

Black Swan Folk: Club: 679131

15 May

Fixers, Fibbers

Moon Duo, The Duchess // Save Sam’s Spine Benefit Show, Fibbers

8 May

16 May

7 May

Miles Kane, The Duchess

10 May The Wave Pictures, The Duchess // Tango Fire, Grand Opera House

12 May Terry Reid, The Duchess // Kirsty McGee & Mat Martin, Black Swan Folk Club

13 May

21 May

Gentleman’s Dub Club, The Duchess // Hope & Social, Fibbers

The Good Lovelies, Selby Town Hall // Ian McNabb, The Duchess // Misstallica, Fibbers // Back Heart, Haxby Memorial Hall

17 May

22 May

The Young Knives, Fibbers // The Duke Spirit, The Duchess

The Boxettes, Fibbers // Thank you (us, thrill jockey) Stereo

18 May

23 May

Smoke Fairies, The Duchess

19 May

Lucy Kaplansky, Selby Town Hall //The Alarm, Fibbers // The Urban Voodoo Machine, The Duchess

Broken Ground, Pocklington Arts Centre // Eureka Machines, Stereo // Boo Hewerdine, Black Swan Folk Club

14 May Aabama 3, The Duchess

Duchess // Francesqa, Fibbers

Glenn Hughes, Grand Opera House // The Phoenix Foundation, The Duchess

Pocklington Arts Centre // Brooks Williams, Black Swan Folk Club

27 May Ben Waters Trio, Selby Town Hall // Buddy Holly and The Cricketers, Grand Opera House // Wilko Johnson, Fibbers // The Lovely Eggs, City Screen // D:Ream, The Duchess

28 May Lost Effect, Fibbers // The Buccaneers, The Duchess

29 May Captain Sensible, The Duchess

25 May

30 May

Loudon Wainwright III, Grand Opera House York // Sound of Guns, Fibbers

David Gray, Barbican // Thriller Live, Grand Opera House

20 May

26 May

31 May

Owen Brinley, The

Piaf The Songs,

Thriller Live, Grand Opera House

*Listings correct at time of press.

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AERIALS

trades&services

directory

Local businesses at your fingertips

AERIALS / Building

For more information on the trades and services directory please call Mim on:

01904 767881

Aerials 92 Building & Property Maintenance 93 Cleaning 96 Decorators 98 Electricians 99 Fascias & Soffits 100 Garage Doors 100 Handypeople 101

Joinery 101 Locks / Security 102 Plastering 102 Plumbing 103 Removals 106 Roofing 107 Worktops 108

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building

MEET THE ADVERTISER Keeping busy Away from running BJ Building Contractors Ltd, Barry Greenaway relaxes with his mates at the Cross Keys Inn, Dringhouses, York. And it’s not just about quaffing ale; Barry represents the hostelry in a local pool league and he’s also a member of the pub’s golf society. He says: “We play at various golf courses; it’s a great way of relaxing.”

WAYNE LAST

A lot of Barry’s spare time is devoted to his family. His wife, Elizabeth, helps him run the business and they have two children: nine-year-old Benjamin and Megan, aged 13. They are all looking forward to a sun-drenched holiday in Florida in June. They also go caravanning at weekends. Barry started in the building trade as a 15-year-old, working with his father. He is proud of the stonework he did during a refurbishment of the National Gallery at Trafalgar Square in London. n For extensions and new builds, refurbishments, garages, patios and garden walls, call BJ Building on 332650 or 07950 061411.



      

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TOP TIPS Building

When Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m cleaning windows Windows look best if they are cleaned on a regular basis, at least twice a year on the inside and outside. Here are some useful tips for cleaning windows: 3 Wash one side of a window with horizontal strokes and the other side with vertical strokes so you can pinpoint which side of the window has a streak. 3 Use a squeegee on a long handle to prevent streaks on large windows. 3 Wash windows from the top down to prevent drips. 3 Eliminate tiny scratches on glass by polishing them with toothpaste. 3 Wash windows on a cloudy day, because direct sunlight dries cleaning solutions before you can polish the glass properly. 3 Use a soft toothbrush or cotton swab to clean corners. 3 To give an extra shine to window glass, polish it with well-washed cotton T-shirts. 3 Don't let cleaning solutions drip on the window sill where they can damage the paint or varnish. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to check out the window cleaning adverts in Your Local Link.

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ESTIM ATES

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building / CLEANING

NEWS IN BRIEF

Focus on age

A photography competition has been launched in York to get people thinking about ageing in a more positive way. The organisers of ‘Full of Life’ are asking residents to send in photos of people aged 50+ doing something they love in York – whether working, playing, volunteering or socialising. The aim of the competition is to

Local businesses at your fingertips

cleaning

generate a bank of photographs that can be used to show older people in a more positive light. Age Concern, York Cares, York CVS, York Older People’s Assembly, York Racial Equality Network and other groups are supporting the competition, along with York University, The Press and City of York Council. There are five categories: primary school age; secondary school/further education age; aged 19+; aged 50+; and professional photographers. Winners will be able to spend a day with the photographers at York’s daily newspaper or be given an exclusive tour of York University’s Theatre, Film & TV department. Submissions must be received by noon on Monday May 23rd. Photos can be emailed to fulloflifeyork@gmail.com or sent to Full of Life – Photography Competition, c/o York Cares, Careers Service, York University, Heslington YO10 5DD. For more details, go to https://sites. google.com/site/fulloflifeyork/

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CLEANING / DECORATORS

NEWS in brief

Cleaning services Highway

Domestic & Commercial

Sue Smith, a housing support worker at Auden House, York, examines the friendship quilt. Picture: Richard Foster

Community art in action

A ÂŁ6 million social housing complex in York has been given a dash of colour â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thanks to a community arts project. Auden House, near York Cemetery, consists of 41 apartments and

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DECORATORS / electricians

communal facilities for people over 55 who need care or support in order to live independently. Now, proudly on display in one of the meeting rooms, is a friendship quilt that was inspired by a poem called ‘The Language of Friendship’ written by the York-born poet W.H. Auden. It was created by social housing residents with a little help from York artist Suzi Tibbets and City of York Council’s Inclusive Arts team. The Discus Arts Project is part of the Discus Housing Project, which is based across three sites in York, including Auden House. The arts project is creating bespoke public artworks to be incorporated into the three sites. Members have been inspired to create an arts hub for the wider community and plans include using Auden House as one of the venues displaying work for York Open Studios during the first two weekends in April. The public cafe in Auden House is also set to be transformed in to gallery space, where interns from Bar Lane Studios, near Micklegate Bar, will be able launch an exhibition in May. The arts project is also planning to develop a workshop programme, which will bring people together and help them learn new skills.

To advertise in the next edition please call us on 01904 767881

ELECTRICIANS/ FASCIAS & SOFFITS/ garage doors

MEET THE ADVERTISER King of the road When builder Steve Heels is not doing loft conversions, he can be found applying elbow grease to his 1970 Lambretta scooter to keep the classic machine in pristine condition. He’s a member of the York Inset Scooter Club, which meets every Tuesday at the Shoulder of Mutton public house in Heworth. The club organises weekends away to places like Scarborough and the Isle of Man. Steve, who founded SH Joinery in 1990, says: “I’ve been riding motorbikes since I was a teenager and I got into scooters about five years ago because I wanted to slow down a bit. There’s a great social life at the scooter club.” SH Joinery does the complete range of building projects from extensions and garages to loft conversions and kitchen re-fits. Steve says: “We can manage the project from start to finish. It’s part of our customer service.” n For expert advice and free estimates, call SH Joinery on 331188 or 0794 441 3842.

FASCIAS • SOFFITS • GUTTERING

POLYPLAS FASCIAS • SOFFITS • GUTTERING

We Are 100% Roofline!

York’s Longest Established Fascia & Soffit Replacement Company

Find us at www.polyplas.net E: info@polyplas.net

Tel: 01904 782300

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handypeople / joinery

what a result... Advertising in Your Local Link has done very well for me, getting my business in the public eye. The magazine must be well read because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attracted a lot of good students to my courses.â&#x20AC;? Bob Lambert, The Woodwork Room, Tel: 348343 Your Local Link Publication is where I get all my business from, I am very happy with the work I am getting even though we are in a recession, well done local link girls (and boys) Richard, RS Electrical Tel: 425483 After the company profile appeared in the new Your Local Link, my phone just rang off the hook. Thanks you, please let me know when I can have another one!! Neil Webster, UPVC Window Doctor Tel 07732822525 We did a survey at our event and we found most people had heard about the event from Local link, well done. The Pavilion.

K l W

No VAT

To advertise in the next edition please call us on 01904 767881

101

JOINERY / LOCKS & Security / plastering

COMPANY PROFILE doors Fitted

£35

lOcK Fix sEcuRiTY

kitchens Fitted

£395

Fitted wardrobes

£395PER MTR

n Give them a call or call into the shop at 69 Walmgate, Y01 9TZ, 01904 623108 www.lockﬁx.uk.com Shop open Mon-Fri 8.30am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 2.30pm

RGS Joinery

DL J 102

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plumbing

COMPANY PROFILE

    

The Plumbing & Heating Experts

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plumbing

Pest control Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let creepycrawlies spoil your summer. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how to get rid of some unwelcome guests:

Wasps: If you can see wasps entering through air vents, under tiles and under eaves, then you have a nest, which needs to be treated as soon as possible as wasps can chew through plaster board ceilings and their nests can block air vents. If left untreated, there is a high risk of wasps migrating into the property when the nest is dying at the end of the summer. Due to the aggressive nature of wasps, you should call a pest control company to treat the nest with an insecticide spray. They will remove the nest if it is safe to do so. If the nest is not accessible, a dust will be pumped into the opening where the wasps are gaining entry. The returning wasps walk through the

YORK 01904 295033

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Ants: Application of a residual insecticide to wall/ floor junctions where ants are foraging and underneath door frames, window frames where ants may be nesting. Spray to immediate perimeter of building to prevent ants migrating in from outside.

Competitively Priced

Cockroaches: A residual insecticide is applied into kitchen cupboards, under kitchen units, behind fridges and freezers and other kitchen equipment. Insecticidal gel bait would also be applied into gaps in tiles and around pipes and above suspended ceilings. Two or more treatments may be necessary, as no insecticide can kill the egg stage of the life cycle.

To advertise in the next edition please call us on 01904 767881

105

plumbing

dust into the nest which becomes contaminated and will die off within a few hours.

plumbing / removals / roofing

COMPANY PROFILE

A.P.M. 106

Local businesses at your fingertips

COMPANY PROFILE removals / roofing

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107

roofing / windows / worktops

NEWS in brief New firm of solicitors leads the way Less than a year after it was launched, York firm of solicitors Richardson Gildener is already leading the way in bringing friendly, informative legal services to Yorkshire. Richardson Gildener was launched last September following the merger of Richardson and Co Solicitors LLP, a new and innovative Leeds based firm, with Gildeners, a well established York firm with roots dating back to 1967. The firm, located on Peckitt Street opposite Clifford’s Tower, offers a wide variety of legal services, from commercial and domestic property to personal injury, divorce, family and children law. Richardson Gildener’s philosophy is one based on true innovation and the firm aims to be a market leader in legal services. Judging by the company’s remarkable growth in a short period of time, that philosophy is working. “Year on year our turnover has increased in excess of 45 per cent, to a seven-figure turnover in three years – all from a standing start during a recession,” says Senior Partner Danny Richardson. Sarah Burt, Richardson Gildener Solicitors

window solutions

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Specials Board

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at a glance Accountancy services D Inglis Accountancy 345103 118 Hare and Co 692585 118 Lorraine Hart 07968 474409 118 Rowley Ward 628663 118 aerials ADI Communication 07850636902 92 Aerial Man 07974 954846 92 Aerial Services 678823 92 Aerial Solutions 654144 92 Armstrong Aerials 07806 836353 93 BLTV 07977 044778 92 Castle Aerials 07711 222307 93 DBS Aerials 692266 92 DR Aerial Services 0808 1605678 93 Icon Installations 07870 606492 92 Asbestos Removal Asbestos Services 678823 96 Attractions/events/shows Academy of St Olaves 550099 81 Dringhouses Dramatic Society 613000 86 Drivein Movies Ltd drivein-movies.co.uk 86 English Heritage 0870 333 1181 81 Grand Opera House 0844 8472322 83 Grand Opera House 0844 8472322 80 Helmsley Arts Centre 01439 772112 Jorvik Viking Centre 543426 26 Land Rover Owner 0871 230 7152 87 Latvian Festival 790064 86 New Earswick Bowls Club â&#x20AC;&#x153;750230 81 New Earswick Musical Society 768182 82 Newgate Market 07887 754455 85 Pyramid Gallery 641187 85 St Leonards Hospice 01904 708553 84 The Deep 01482 381092 82 The Kite Festival kite-festival.co.uk 85 Wigginton Car Boot 768463 86 York Barbican 0844 8542757 79 York Guildhall Orchestra 0844 939 0015 83 York Light Opera Company 623568 84 York Museums Trust 687687 1 York Theatre Royal 623568 83 Bathroom/tiles/kitchens Ajm Installations 07846 380086 71 Almurad 476333 2 Bath & Kitchen Craft 07900 313151 70 Dream Doors 622234 17 Easingwold Bathrooms 01347 824777 10 GA White 624643 24 Southbank Kitchens 679666 3 White Rose Interiors 448775 25 York Bathrooms 794867 13 bedrooms Moonlight Bedrooms 01759 302388 7 blinds Blind Image 693069 63 Blind Options 608666 73 Blinds By Mark Harrison 630449 68 Blinds Direct 701260 70 Haxby Blinds 769277 71 The Fine Blind Company Ltd 658222 69 bouncy castle hire Bouncing Around York 490769 40 Building Plans A P Design Services 678045 69 ADDS 762691 61 Architectual Services York 07841 039833 71 Arkon 700188 71 Bootham Architects 07882 751171 73 CA Architectural Services 07989 663243 71

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Drawing Services 07764 319697 71 JCT Contractors 07872 932762 95 Stuart Loxton 799961 69 Building/property Maintenance Able Roofing (York) 07908 558954 108 Acomb Builders 07989 116729 96 Alan Robinson Building 07702 814746 95 All Points 07752 538461 95 B&L Maintenance 07543 569188 95 BJ Building Contractors 07950 061411 95 Boothams of York 07594 330950 96 Bradshaws North Yorkshire 07970 643817 93 Building Services 07764 319697 95 Clifton Moor Property Svs 07952 435022 96 D & M Building & Paving 07817 380181 95 Gregson Builders 07860 548516 93 J & P Construction 676697 95 John B Coxon 07882 505403 95 Justin Higginson 790856 94 Keith Brown 07754 498673 94 Loft Space Company 0800 5876662 63 M Bailey Builders 337756 93 Mark Thorne Property 07880 726122 93 MW Developments 07958 321014 95 Paul Simpson Property Repairs 07919 368867 95 Peter Wright Building services 07941 914434 94 S M Maintenance 752969 95 Sanderson Builders 07859 882972 94 SDT Builders 766236 94 T & A Builders 07903 956963 94 Wallwood Construction 690400 69 Wayne Last 07799 721965 94 Welbuild 07770 686989 94 WMG Builders 07981 333654 94 TMW Renovation 635197 95 Business Services Cartridge World 733999 123 Clements Hall 466086 23 Handepay Merchant Services 07872377591 21 Rousseau Associates 07794 476430 123 What Pensions 476095 16 Car Valeting Attention 2 Detail 07714 769981 23 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Abbey Carpet Cleaning 360174 98 Andyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Carpet Cleaning 07805 129559 98 Future Carpet Cleaning 529529 97 Peter Hopwood 07769 896902 96 carpet Fitting Ewen Carpets Fitted 07718 153433 69 Carpets/Flooring Calverts Carpets 788222 3 Carpets @ Home 448817 5 Green Lane Carpets 799541 23 Osbaldwick Carpets 07841 599614 69 Style Flooring of York 289266 71 Charities MS Society York Branch 758577 19 Relate 625971 19 Childrens Activities Calicocow www.calicocow.co.uk 43 Carol Saunders Swimming 01757 709703 40 CYC Family Information Svs 554628 47 CYC Fostering 555333 41 CYC Sharing Care 555310 21 Enjoy-a-Ball 08452262694 43 Get Animated 07816272744 43 Helen O Grady 01904 332882 47 Home to Home Montessori 490339 41 Imaginative Childcare 407803 43

Kate Middlebrook 01757630356 40 La Jolie Ronde 471234 40 Limelight Dance 07846327554 43 Margaret Webster 07957208212 47 Painty Party 07981 205539 17 Poppleton Pre School 782047 40 Pretty in Pink 07849 329251 47 Proper Soccer Parties 07787 846250 23 Stagecoach Theatre Arts 672662 43 Talking Tots 07521 680949 43 Tennis Tykes 07843 342662 43 Tread The Boards 08458 124421 40 York City Church 541444 43 York Dance Works 07981 553465 30 cleaning/Ironing 24h Cleaning 0800 566 8285 97 A & M Cleaning 07754 285742 98 Bella Casa (York) Ltd 08719 512345 98 Claires Cleaning Services 07717 756431 97 Dave The Sweep 07761 083072 97 Dolly Char York 0800 0324372 97 Highway Cleaning Services 07976 867235 98 Lynda Starkey Cleaning 07778 862368 97 Maid 2 Clean 0800 0439370 97 Proactive Facilities 07724 042513 97 Synergy Cleaning 0800 1522101 96 Tim Stockdale 413612 97 Top 2 Bottom Cleaning 07849 518899 97 Ultra Clean 01759 371741 97 Ultra Clean 01759 371741 computers/Web Design Aldwark Computers 654954 118 Bishopwood Accountancy 400660 118 Computer Geeks York 07917153741 118 Computer Start 07944 717019 3 Gemini PC Solutions 639488 118 Mobile Computor Tutor 07969 141198 11 Nycom Ltd 653383 15 The Computer Doctor 07904 478440 118 We R Your IT 08000 470181 5 York PC Solutions 07729 291234 119 Curtains/Soft furnishings Carolines Curtains 332949 70 Christine Alker Curtains 339214 69 Curtain Make Up & Alteration 470331 71 Curtains Up 627239 15 Cycling Bob Trotter Cycle Centre 622868 21 Cycle Street 427510 7 Damp Proofing Envirovent 0845 2727807 70 Holland Damp Proofing 0808 155 2571 62 decorators Alan Kitson 07801 346218 99 Bright Interiors 07952 947536 99 C Mcleod Decorating 07789 816602 99 C.K.W.Decorators 07803 99 Gary Ambler 07762 551845 99 Gary Nellis Decorators 07792 185009 99 Gary Roe Painter & Decorator 07717 116489 98 Graham Richardson 07505 759543 98 K Walton Painting 07535 004212 99 NG Decorators 07790 015966 98 Quality Decorators 778466 99 Ray Webster Painting 07742 077743 99 Richard Cole 07979 571012 99 Richard Driscoll 332030 98 RJH Decorating 07833 105296 98 SJB Painting & Decorating 07876 782020 98 Steves Decorating Services 07766 379736 98

Dentists Blossom Street Dentures 653278 39 Crystal Clear 642595 39 Denture Care 626629 2 distribution Link Distribution 767881 Domestic Appliance Repairs Clyde Electrical - Eric Clyde 768698 71 driving schools Richard SOM 07904 142108 115 education/tuition Access To Music 655290 44 Baobab Centre 01904 422733 85 Cruise Control 07521282108 47 Dobbs Associates Consultancy 07407 360641 45 Drawing & Painting 07789 277382 15 Goodmans Piano Tuition 636340 45 Kumon Maths 01757 268114 45 Little Fidgets 706565 41 Lucy Ford piano tuition 412381 41 phil simpson guitar lessons 07708 923540 49 Ryedale & York Piano Services 01653 696390 45 Spanish Talk 07800 634510 43 Teach York 07906450293 47 The Wood Work Room 348343 13 York College 770200 45 York St John University 876598 45 Electrical goods Domestic Appliance 692275 74 Herbert Todd 628676 9 Herbert Todd 628676 7 Electricians Active Electrical Solutions 07999 357647 100 Court Electrical Services 07766 887179 100 D Carrington Electrical Svs 07809 534791 99 Electric Blew 07980 054547 100 Electrical Connections 07724 177824 99 Haxby Electrical 07846 380086 108 HC Engineering 477623 100 Judge Electrical Ltd 07919 033113 99 M Fletcher Electrical Services 07850 349926 99 Martin Clancy 767480 99 Martin Starkey Electrical 750893 108 S Electrics 795205 99 Yorvik Electrical Services 422157 14 Estate/letting agents Hunters 621026 67 Hunters 621026 1 Northwood Residential 638999 1 Opus Estate Agents 790070 68 Unique Lettings 798777 68 Your Move Anscombs 621532 64 Fascias/soffitts Mark Leslie Roofline 07754 205625 100 PD Plastics 438799 100 Plasti-Fit 07765 142505 100 Polyplas 07966 373525 100 Financial advisors Pen-Life Associates Ltd 661140 121 Food & Drink 31 Castlegate 621404 77 Balloon Tree Farm Shop 01759 373023 76 Chapman Butchers 655382 75 Coach House Hotel 652780 77 Dean Court Hotel 625082 76 Il Treno/sidings 470221 75 Istanbul Grill 646411 109 Lady Anne Middletons Hotel 611570 77 Pizza Choice 622022 The Steer Inn 01759 380600 76 The White Swan 728287 76 Thompson Fish Restaurant 468022 77 Funeral Services JG Fielder & Sons 654460 19 Garage Doors Haxby Garage Doors 07889 152242 101 Hobman Garage Doors 608951 71 Premier Garage Doors 07887 940084 100

SJL Garage Doors 416284 York Garage Door Centre 788822 Gardening A & M Groundworks` 758021 AJ Lawn Care 07584199001 Andrew Kent 738646 Apex Shed & Fencing 415735 Arborwise 07841 719672 Ascot Fencing 337225 Asset Cleaning Solutions 07592 066396 Aztek Landscapes 07803 257347 Brighter Gardens 790112 Browns Tree Service MOBILE Brunswick Organic Nurseries 701869 C& C Contracting 448239 David Waudby Fencing 670711 Deans Garden Centre 400141 Direct Driveway Company 295033 Eden Landscapes 07737 825621 Eden Treescapes 07737 825621 Fencing,Paving and Decking 07813 752954 Foss Feeds 706376 Future Landscapes 07969 354674 Gardens Cared For 400753 Greenthumb 01423 359048 Groundworks & Digger Hire 07702 126380 Grumbleweed 750157 Horse Manure 4 Sale 01347 811202 Howarth Timber 629931 Insight Landscaping 07891 023347 Lawnmower Services 01347 822456 Lawns for Lifestyles 488868 Lewis Tree Surgery 0783 1692275 M & M Landscapes 07967 656142 Malcolm Collins Fencing 01347 878275 Mick Lambert Landscaping 07702 126380 Mike Walmsley Landscapes 700921 Orchard Nurseries 421153 PH Fabrications 07984 737084 Portal Fencing 07958 181642 Richard Ounsley 470943 Rock n Stone York Ltd 608300 Rolawn 0845 604 6075 Rowan Tree Garden Design 411487 Rowan Tree Garden Design 411487 Sandalwood Gates 608542 Signature Landscaping 07771 543493 Skyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Limit 07547 877189 Spectacular Driveways 07737 190150 SRB Fencing 07841 187928 SRC Paving & Groundworks 423511 Top Soil 4 Sale 07702 126380 Trevor Smith Landscaping 489998 Waterdale Landscapes 07960 603025 York Sawmill 705198 York Timber Products 01757 248927 Yorskapes 07795 097563 gates/railings Acaster Forge 701513 PVC-UK 0800 0371947 SR Fabrications 07711 359620 Guttering Guttering Of York 07711 222307 Heworth Guttering 07957 901639 Rawcliffe Guttering Solutions 07725 857621 Handypeople DIY Guy 07946 296731 Dockers Tiling Services 731638 Handy Al 07958 571219 Handyman Services 410356 Hire a Handyman 07870 660 350 Home Maintenance 761479 KLW Property Maintenance 798584 Lukafz Druzic 07704 995987 My Handyman (Ian Parkyn) 07774 2672000 Health & Beauty Angie Doig-Thorne 489142 Bannatynes Health Club 606100

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Beautycare 769954 35 Cancer Research Team 726488 32 Capricorn Nails 413660 33 Caren Vollans 01904 750002 30 Cedar Court Grand Hotel 380050 35 Chiropody By Angie 01759 306374 39 City Of York Council 554513 18 Claire Henson 0113 21082408 39 Essence Hair Salon 07824506574 29 Face-It York 07887628808 36 Future Beauty 07525 627358 35 Green Shoots Coaching 01904 733663 33 Halls Opticians 01904 479555 37 Hannah Olivia Jewellery 01759 368593 33 Heavenly Nails & Beauty 07710 669945 32 Hire Fitness Yorkshire 08456435105 36 Jamm Hair Design 01904 690678 36 Jane Tai 08000831681 31 Just 30 Minutes More 553383 79 K8 Nails 07590 267809 38 Kuki Skin, Hair & Beauty 659007 31 Lesley at Innovations 798705 35 Life Hair Design 07988 890345 33 Lloyds Outside Clinic 08009 549100 10 Maureen Payne 709688 33 Moda Hair 01904 622111 30 Northern College of Acup. 343305 35 Paulines Hair & Beauty 798522 39 Pilates with Louise 07773 794301 39 Renes Revellers 470292 30 Revive 430612 37 Rosemary Conley 790922 33 Sarah Johnson Beauty 07748 994941 30 Stacey Beavers Mobile Hair 07904 429 627 38 Stepping Stones 611467 32 The Gents 07596 313859 36 Top To Toe 481378 30 Yippy Ltd 07825 410673 38 York Chiropractic Clinic 430300 33 York Community Acupuncture 07951 777136 38 Yorkshire Fitness Hire 0700 3496 856 34 Ironing Creases Away Ironing Svs 758482 13 joinery Armstrong & Butler 785549 102 Armstrong Joinery 07791 147734 102 Cass Joinery 07521 292926 102 Duncan Littlechild Joinery 07830 289107 102 J Myers Joinery 07877 756584 102 Jimmymac Joinery 07719400024 102 Lewis Carpentry 07565 890702 102 MSB Joinery 07925 323536 102 Redberry Joinery 07501 144383 101 RGS Joinery 07721 785800 102 SH Joinery 07944 413842 101 Wood `n All 07947 001520 101 York Door Services 07973 889232 101 leadwork Mark Winters Lead Work 07976 845678 107 locks/Security/Alarms Access All Locks 410069 102 Afford a Lock 625635 102 Lockfix Security 623108 102 Neil Webster Locks 07732 822525 108 Proactive Security 0845 6769732 118 loft conversions Yorkshire Loft Conversions 423511 69 Mobile Phone Repairs Fone Fix 689999 21 Mobility/hearing/care Forward Mobility 769300 19 Minster Mobility 788592 19 MV Mobility 01937 558604 19 Paula Marie Vocal 01430 431397 19 St Johns House 01423 330480 19 Surecare 520192 7 Surecare 520192 9 Surecare 520192 11

The classified listings is a free service offered to you by Your Local Link. Although every effort is made to ensure your information is correct we cannot be held responsible for any errors. Conditions of acceptance: All advertisements and editorial are subject to our standard terms and conditions of acceptance which is available on request from Your Local Link Ltd. 111

Surecare 520192 13 Therapy for Speech 758598 19 motor parts/services A Ivinson Autos 767675 115 Auto Cosmetics of York 01347 811100 117 Auto Services 780093 23 Automotive Solutions 792652 115 Birch Park Vehicle Test Ctr 627444 116 C & M Auto Services Ltd 796718 115 Cars and Vans Wanted 07518 021259 117 Chips Away 07810 243444 116 D & J Woodcock 430130 128 Dave Woods Motorcycles 633000 25 Dead or Alive Motorcycles 07966 417182 23 Hometune 07802 722330 117 HP Maintenance 792899 115 Incartec Ltd 479907 115 JB Auto Cosmetics 693101 115 JJB Motors 01904 426691 113 North Eastern Tyres 692500 117 Osbaldwick Motors 01904 412417 117 R Walker Cars 797720 115 Six Five Nine Six Five Nine 659960 115 Take Away Chips 07866 261097 17 Transit Motorcycles 637169 114 U Pull It 0844 8751914 116 Wigginton Car Repairs 750272 115 Yorvac 07545 382286 115 optomerist Ruth Perrott 784040 29 oven Cleaning Cookerburra 672859 98 Oven U 471517 96 pet Care A Cut Above Dog Grooming 422629 49 Alisons Dog Grooming 422905 49 Helens pet boarding 07546 487287 49 Kute k9s & Kats 07851 240108 49 Leaping Lizards 422588 48 Oscar pet Food 704198 49 Pet Pals UK 07740 985831 49 Precious Pets 07565 758214 49 Sweeney Dog Ltd 890666 49 The Dog Walker 07956 040661 48 Top Dog 07846 794257 49 picture framing Steve Garnett 761624 13 Plastering A B Plastering 07702 265476 103 Colin Hardgrave 07881 733344 103 Ernie Jeffrey Plastering 639619 103 GW Plastering & Tiling 07813 965885 103 M Simpson Plastering 332568 103 Oak Tree Plastering 07579 189942 103 Paul Bell Plastering 07904 203537 103 Paul Sellars Plastering 07789 677251 103 SM Bradley Plastering Svs 07826 270335 102 Williams & Son 07879 071943 102 plumbing/heating 1A Rapid Response 708000 103 All Cisterns Go 07946 346928 105 APD Plumbing Services 07900 603113 105 Aquatec Utilities Ltd 07977 133061 105 BPH Services 07973 542283 105 C Hudson Plumbing 789447 103 Carl Potter Plumbing 07734871932 105 Chris Murray Plumbing 07912 575963 105 Clarkes Plumbing 07739 165681 105 Colin Bell Plumbing 07885 514332 105 DJC Plumbing 07770 754215 105 DRS Installations 499247 104 E Martin & Sons 07966 486329 104 Gas Servicing 07793 355168 105 Geoff Sloane Plumbing 07966 438722 105 Glen Plumbing & Electrics 424169 104 GW Plumbing 07525 858008 103 HC Engineering 477623 105 Ian Taylor Plumbing 339877 105 Luke Mitchell Plumbing 07974 025903 106 Melbourne Heating York 07984 742264 105

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Mermaid Plumbing 07970200035 Nunthorpe Services 07906 592872 P H Plumbing 07976 406388 Pipe Solutions Plumbing Svs 707484 Pocklington Boiler Service 01759 304789 Poppleton Plumbing & Heating 07903 979712 Scorfield Plumbing 07950 929889 Skelton Plumbing Services 07766 625584 T P Plumbing 07709 711137 T Whitelam Plumbing 07729 980253 The Direct Boiler Co 295033 Tom Plumb 07971 437359 Williams Plumbing & Heating 07716 788680 Yorkshire Central Plumbing 780780 pointing Grove Property Repairs 780910 Heworth Pointing 07957 901639 Link Print 767881 recruitment 247 Professional Health 557640 Aloe Vera 339432 Bluebird Care 691992 City of York Council 07901 813436 Driver Hire York 0845 6023652 ERA Health Care 622322 Everycare 430999 F1 Security 786444 Goldsborough Home Care 425841 Heritage Healthcare 567362 Home Instead Senior Care 690884 independent Living Schemes 427251 independent Living Schemes 427251 Lynette Shaw - Host Families 762740 Minster Cleaning Services 01482 882200 New Earswick Folk Hall 769621 Papillon 01904 635 566 Pitman Training 624260 Principal Teachers 693587 Quilt Museum & Gallery 613242 RAF Riccall Carers 720700 Riccall Carers 720700 Surecare 520192 The English Language Centre 672243 Wilf Ward Family Trust 520568 York Childcare Ltd York Helpers 655422 York Pullman Bus Co 622992 Yorks. & Humberside Teacher 01757 633160 CYC Waste Strategy 553292 York Rotters 412861 removals/Storage 1 Van 1 Man 0800 955 0200 2 Anywhere 07952 843398 A2B 07772 568526 Andy Vans 422268 Move It Removals 07971 048729 Mr Shifter 07710 450672 Ridings Removals 07854 747129 Riverside Removals 07979 523076 renewable energy British Eco Renewable 234543 REnewable energy Henderson Property Services 07812 768806 Solarwall 0800 1380079 Solarwall 0800 1380079 Roofing Able Roofing (York) 07908 558954 Advanced Roofing 07867 774747 Alans Property Maintenance 07725 574860 Almsford Roofing 795121 BMB Flat Roofs 769762 Dave Trelfa Roofing 01937 530478 Elite Roofing 750166 Fibretech Ltd 07880 726122 Flat Roof Company 0800 212548 Flat Roof Company 0800 212548 Future Roofs 07773 388141 Haxby Roofline Company 0845 4671947 Haxby Roofline Company 0845 4671947

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Ian Young Roofing 07906 590626 107 Phil Summerbell 07919 021994 107 Roofs Above (Kevin Garnett) 0800 0855 688 106 Your Roof 07858 652759 107 Shops/stores Barnitts 625601 4 Coppergate Centre 20 Paul Dawson (York) Ltd 07801 537412 7 Richard James 468100 109 Supersave 625735 15 TCJ Designs 611366 28 The York Bed Co. Ltd 777070 71 Time out 626949 23 Vickers Hi-Fi 691600 20 Walker and Preston Jewellers 670600 2 Whitby Oliver Furniture Ltd 652424 9 Wiltshire Farm Foods 01423 339666 19 York Community Furniture 426444 12 York Golf Range 499275 89 Skips/Waste Removal A - Z Waste 07802 434349 58 Acomb Waste Disposal 07724 441630 59 D Boswell 488632 60 Ebor Skip Hire 400997 54 Wrights of Crockey Hill 620626 59 Solicitors Coles Solicitors 679990 8 Denison Till Solicitors 0800 2797500 119 Harrowells 558600 11 Richardson Gildener Solicitors 642727 46 Richardson Gildener Solicitors 642727 46 Sports/Clubs/Activities Get Branded 693936 22 Heworth Golf Club 426156 80 York Martial Arts 783459 47 Tilers 3R Tiling 07817 847992 73 Mr Multitrade 07946 378665 101 travel/holidays Caravan 4 Hire 07773 388143 15 Upholstery A & V Upholstery 07889 431691 71 York House Interiors 414939 25 Weddings Ashberry of York 679000 28 Burn Hall Hotel 01347 825400 78 Grosvenor Design 07891049061 27 Monkey Puzzle 653443 28 Silk Floral Art 01757248710 27 York Pavilion 622099 27 York Register Office 654477 27 will Writing JMD Associates UK 799282 9 Window Cleaning Claires Window Cleaning 07717 756431 98 Shine Windows 07817 641314 Window/Door Repairs Access All UPVC Repairs 410069 108 All Double Glazing Repairs 481148 108 Windows/Doors/Cons Arrow Homecare 07581 792731 108 D.G.M.S. 479944 17 DR Glazing 654274 108 House & Homes 692329 24 Lockwood Window Comp. 289048 73 Newspan 0800 5873423 12 Protech Windows 01653 917202 68 Sash Windows 01751 431449 108 Square Deals Ltd 692255 6 UPVC Window Doctor 077328 22525 108 Window Solutions 07842 532133 108 York Millenium Windows 691122 14 worktops Dales of Thirsk Ltd 01845 522523 61 Work Top Man 07891 858873 108

Sponsored by JJB Motors , Unit 1, The Raylor Centre, James Street, York, YO10 3DW Tel: 01904 426691

Bring back that showroom shine! How do you clean your car? If like many of us you stick it through the automatic car wash whenever it’s looking a bit grubby, you’re probably doing it more harm than good. “The rollers on an automatic car wash pick up filth from everyone else’s cars and smear it all over yours,” says car valeting specialist Rich Horner of JJB Motors. “They also damage the lacquer surface with hundreds of tiny invisible scratches that over time can dull the surface. If you put a black car through a car wash 30 times and compare it to a car that’s been washed by hand the same number of times, I guarantee you will notice a big difference.” When it comes to valeting cars, Rich really knows what he’s talking about. He’s been in the business for

more than 15 years, both as a car valeter and sales manager for a major cleaning products company. He has even won competitions for his valeting skills. He’s now bringing his expertise to Alfa and Audi specialist JJB Motors. As well as offering a standard wash, leather and vac service to all cars coming in to JJB for a service, Rich offers specialist valeting to make your car look as good as new. Even if your car has been dulled by years of abuse, he can restore it using a specialist machine polisher with a compound on a soft pad to buff away the scratches and bring back the showroom shine. He can even work his magic on scratches. “We often get customers coming in after they’ve had a brush with another car’s bumper,” says Rich. “They think

their car is scratched, but it’s actually just heated plastic from the other car’s bumper that’s been left on their paintwork. It only takes a couple of minutes to make it look as good as new.” He uses specialist Autoglym products – the market leader in car cleaning for more than 40 years. “It’s the best and always has been,” says Rich. Unlike some valeters, his skills don’t come at a premium price. “There are some lads I’ve taught who have set themselves up as car detailers and charge upwards of £300 to valet a car,” says Rich. “We can offer a superior service for far less than that.” n For details on how Rich can bring back that showroom shine back to your car, call 426691.

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your motors

Drive on home...

How to

lower your car

insurance premium Change your car: Many cars are designed to be eco-friendly and these models tend to attract lower premiums as well as cheaper road tax. Research reliability leagues and MOT failure rates. Insurers favour cars with a good reputation for lasting a long time while needing minimal repairs. Getting an alarm, immobiliser and/or tracker professionally fitted can also bring down premiums. Third party cover is not always cheaper: Most people assume that third party insurance is always cheaper than fully comprehensive - but that's not always true. The latter sometimes costs less and, even if it turns out slightly pricier, it's often worth paying extra for the additional cover.

Shop around: According to price comparison websites, motorists can save an average of £230 a year by shopping around. Despite this, around one in four drivers still prefer to renew their policy with their existing provider rather than search for a better deal. Of these, 10% say they “can’t be bothered” to find a better quote.

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Increase your voluntary excess: You'll probably see the premium fall dramatically. Remember, if your car needs repairs resulting from an accident that was not your fault, you can recover the excess. Pay the premium in one go: This almost always works out cheaper than paying by instalments. You avoid costly interest charges and many insurers provide an extra discount for paying in full

Man gets parking ticket after 30 seconds A motorist was furious to return to his car and find a warden issuing a parking ticket - only 30 seconds after he had parked there. Andrew Oxley, aged 29, had found a space in Exeter Central Train Station car park and had gone to pay for a ticket. On his return he found a warden writing out a £75 penalty fine. The female warden, from Premier Parking Solutions (PPS), was taking a photograph of his car and warned him that failure to pay within seven days would see the fine jump to £100. Mr Oxley was taking the matter through the courts.

Teenager quoted £24,000 to insure £700 Volvo An astonishing insurance quote has highlighted just how difficult it is for young drivers to get behind the wheel. Daniel Gray, aged 18, was quoted £24,000 to insure a 12-year-old Volvo S40 he’d paid just £700 for. He was flabbergasted when AA Insurance quoted him a price 34 times the value of the car - particularly as he has a Pass Plus certificate which entitles him to a discount on his car insurance. AA Insurance is a broker that collates quotes from various insurance providers. A spokesman for AA says: “Some insurers quote very high premiums which don’t necessarily reflect the risk if they don’t really want the business.”

your motors

Brave new world Think of green cars and you probably imagine a souped up milk float being driven by a vegan partial to brown rice and open-toed sandals. But the latest super cars show it’s possible to save the planet while looking cool.

3D driver display Concepts show motorists a path to the future. If this BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Concept Car shows us what we can expect, than the future looks bright. This two-seater roadster combines current and future in-car technology for optimising comfort, safety and infotainment. Advanced Head-Up Display takes the technology currently available in production BMWs even further, placing a three-dimensional display of key information in the direct sight line of the driver, eliminating the need for the driver’s eyes to refocus.

Sparky sports car It may be a concept, but the Nissan Esflow electric sports car proves it's possible to remain environmentally sympathetic without having to give up the joy of driving. Using technology pioneered in the award-winning Nissan Leaf, the EV concept looks like a sports car, handles like a sports car and performs like one too.

Plug-in Rolls-Royce Rolls-Royce Motor Cars proudly presents 102EX - the world’s first battery electric vehicle for the ultra-luxury segment. Rolls-Royce is planning for long-term sustainable growth and the 102EX, also known as the Phantom Experimental Electric, is an important step in that process. There are no plans to build a production version of the electric Rolls-Royce; rather it is being used to test the opinions of enthusiasts, members of the public and the media.

BEFORE

AFTER

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Drive Talkin’

Our very own ‘Stig’ looks at hot topics in the land of petrol heads cars with what we call the ‘Ex-Factor’ – those that have become unroadworthy, unused or unloved.” Tom’s idea has proven ‘the wheel deal’ for Giveacar’s growing list of affiliated charities, who have benefited by more than £250,000 by the initiative so far. Arun Sharma, of Marie Curie Cancer Care, says: “Giveacar provides a unique way for people to support Marie Curie Cancer Care and we are delighted to have their support. The funds raised from the cars donated help Marie Curie nurses provide free home nursing care and support for terminally ill people and their families.” The initiative is also supported by local authorities and environmental charities for the ‘green’ way in which it disposes of unroadworthy cars.

Giveacar is a social enterprise that turns unwanted cars into charity cash. In its first year it has collected 3,000 vehicles, including an iconic classic car, a jetski and even a mobile recording studio.

convertible which netted £3,300. But the title of top-fund raiser went to a Vauxhall VX220 – complete with a sought after personalised number plate.

Prized manufacturers such as Jaguar, BMW and Land Rover figure prominently in the top ten earners for charities – as does as a 1960s MGC

Giveacar, which works with more than 300 good causes countrywide, was founded by 24-year-old Tom Chance. He says: “We specialise in collecting

We don’t repair so you know it’s fair

cars Motor Homes Vans

£15

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Regardless of their condition, cars are picked up by Giveacar free-of-charge direct from people’s homes and sold at auction or disposed of at an authorised treatment centre. Proceeds from the sale are donated to a charity of the car owner’s choice, or one of the Giveacar’s partner charities. Even if the banger is scrapped, it still nets the selected good cause a minimum £40. n For more details, visit www.giveacar.co.uk or call 020 0011 1664.

A 26-year-old woman, of Southwark, London, has failed the driving theory test 90 times, Driving Standards Agency (DSA) figures have revealed. The failure rate, a UK record, has cost the learner £2,790. The test, which costs £31 a time, consists of 50 questions. Students must answer at least 43 questions correctly to pass. The DSA figures also revealed that a 39-year-old man from the West Midlands failed his driving test 39 times. The record holder, however, is Git Kaur Randhawa, of Middlesex, who passed on her 48th attempt in 1987 at the age of 49 after taking more than 330 lessons.

Drink-drive limit unchanged The North Review, has decided not to reduce the drink-drive limit from 80mg per 100ml of blood to 50mg. Instead Transport Secretary Philip Hammond said more would be done to enforce the existing law. He went on: “The number of drink-driving deaths has fallen by more than 75% since 1979. But drink-driving still kills hundreds of people so we need to take tough action against the small minority of drivers who flagrantly ignore the limit.” The decision was heavily criticised. Professor Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC Foundation, says: “The Secretary of State is absolutely right to focus on enforcement. If people think they can break a law without being caught then it becomes meaningless. However, we also believe it is correct to have a long-term strategy for reducing the existing drink-drive limit and we are disappointed Philip Hammond has not taken this opportunity to show Britain will come into line with much of continental Europe.” Robert Gifford, of the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety, says: “It is deeply disappointing the Government has failed to take up this opportunity to save lives on our roads.” The AA said the Government’s decision was a “missed opportunity”.

your motors

Learner fails theory test 90 times

Safe Motoring with

NORTH EASTERN TYRE & AUTOCARE

Richard Loft Store Manager

Keeping your cool in the traffic As I write this, the sun is blazing in a glorious blue sky above the businesses on Clifton Moor. The flags outside the workshop barely flutter and everyone has a spring in their step. It’s amazing how a sunny day can really lift our spirits. That is until we are stuck in nightmare Bank Holiday traffic and the air conditioning breaks down!

Most modern cars today come with the all important ‘climate control pack’. Gone are the days when drivers have to wind down every window and slide back the sunroof to try and circulate some warm, exhaustfume filled air around what feels like an oven. Now, at the click of a snowflake adorned button we can enjoy cool, fresh air washing across our over-heated bodies. We can keep our lovely tinted windows firmly shut and remain within the peace and privacy of our little automobile worlds. But to continue enjoy this luxury you need to make sure your air conditioning is properly maintained. Most vehicles will need an air conditioning recharge every 1 to 2 years, depending on how often the air conditioning is used. To run efficiently and do its job of providing cold air, the air conditioning will need to have the refrigerant gas recharged. The system will gradually lose this gas at a rate of around 10% per year, diminishing the performance until eventually it stops working altogether. When we perform a recharge we also add the lubricant oil which protects the seals. Lack of lubricant can cause seals to crack and open which puts strain on the engine and uses more fuel. The whole process only takes around 20 minutes and doesn’t need an appointment.

So an Air Conditioning Recharge keeps the car cool, but what about fresh? Air conditioning systems are a place where bacteria can breed. So when you turn the vents on, all the bacteria, fungus and mould can be blown into the car and up your nose! An Air Conditioning Deodoriser is a simple and safe additive which provides a hygienic way of eliminating bacteria and odours from the ventilation system. This can be done at the same time as a recharge. Every now and then your vehicle may also require a Pollen Filter Replacement. This is sometimes carried out with a Full Service. The air conditioning system has a pollen filter that traps particles of dust and carbon. A blocked or dirty filter exerts unnecessary strain on the ventilation components and reduces air flow into the vehicle. For any advice on maintaining your vehicle for best performance and fuel economy, just call in any time. We’ll give you straightforward, honest advice that will help you get the most out of your vehicle.

Call: 01904 692500 www.nete.co.uk

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your business

Business your

Business is buoyant in York, despite what some people are saying. Here’s your chance to tell the city about your successes, talk about new products or services, offer tips and praise the people behind your business. Call Your Local Link (01904) 767881

THE SOCIAL NETWORK

Over the past few years there has been an explosion in new media. From Facebook to Twitter, websites to blogging, there are so many ways for businesses to reach potential customers. But what works and what doesn’t? Every month we’ll be talking to a different business or organisation to find out how they make the new media work for them – and how you can do the same.

onfriday

This month...

Onfriday is a new York-based online business selling fairtrade and upcycled bags. As an online business, new media is especially important. “Your website is your only shop window, so it has to be right,” says Director Ali Gane. “It has to communicate the personality of your business and be easy for potential customers to navigate. I’ve worked with a fantastic web design and marketing company who have put together the onfriday website. I wanted it to be cool and try to build in a little bit more personality so we’ve included the stories behind the brands we sell. I also have a blog attached to the website which is another way of making the brand more personal. Although I have to admit I don’t change it as frequently as I

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should, which can be a drawback.

board. It’s also an instant way of gauging response.”

“You have to commit to making changes to your website to keep the information current and make sure people have a reason to keep coming back to it. My designer developed a bespoke admin system that makes it easy for me to go in and change the website myself whenever I need to. I’m not technologically minded, but they’ve been fantastic in holding my hand through that whole process.”

She’s also on Twitter, although she uses it in a different way from Facebook. “When you first sign up there’s a temptation to follow a whole bunch of celebrities, but after a while you get bored of knowing what so-and-so had for breakfast. It only started to work for me when I got into a little network of York business people all helping each other. Twitter is not so much about reaching customers as promoting your business and professional networking. You can keep up to speed with what’s new and what’s happening instantaneously.”

Ali reckons it’s important to use social media in different ways to appeal to different markets. “For instance, Facebook is about engaging directly with fans, whether it’s through offering discounts or giving information about new designers coming on

n www.onfriday.co.uk

knocks

“The harder you work, the better you do.” That was the message of Allan Leighton’s keynote address to York Chamber of Commerce’s annual black-tie dinner. The former chief executive of ASDA, speaking at the National Railway Museum, said: “There’s a lot of gloom and doom around at the moment. There’s a danger people will start to use that as an excuse for underperformance and businesses not performing.”

He said good leaders did not just thrive during good times, they also did well when the economy was struggling. He urged companies to hone their competitive edge and predicted that wellmanaged businesses would come out of the current hard times stronger. The acid test of business leadership was “can you do well in bad times”? Mr Leighton, aged 58, added: “Although things are very tough, those businesses that invest in their people, making sure they absolutely focus on what needs to happen over the time scale that it needs to be done, will come out of this stronger. The economy is under pressure, but it’s still a big economy.” He told business leaders: “Your competitive edge, that’s largely driven through people, has never been more important than it is today.”

This space could be yours for only

£55.00 Call: 767881

your business

Opportunity

Ask the Expert...

Family Law

w i th n i C K I M I TC H E LL

Happy Families? Few would argue that grandparents can play a very important role in the lives of their grandchildren. They are often a source of practical, emotional and even financial support, frequently providing crucial childcare free of charge. That support can be particularly important when parental relationships break down. Grandparents not uncommonly represent continuity for children when their parents split up and provide a haven for them at difficult times. The sad reality is that today many grandparents lose all contact with their grandchildren following their parents’ separation – statistically the father’s parents fare worse than the mother’s. They are drawn, often unwittingly and unwillingly, into the conflict and are seen as identifying with their own child. So what can grandparents do about it if they are being denied contact? Section 8 of the Children Act 1989 lists the people who have an automatic right to apply to the court for a contact order. Grandparents are not mentioned. Depending on the circumstances they may fall within one of the categories of people who have an automatic right to apply, eg if the children have lived with them for a defined period of time, but they are not a category in their own right. Under the current law, most grandparents have an extra legal hurdle to get over if they want the court to order contact. They must ask the court for permission to make the application. Usually, provided there is no risk to the child and the grandparent can demonstrate a genuine interest and commitment to the children, permission is granted. However, this involves cost, time and additional stress. Once the application is made, the court will go on to consider whether it is in the children’s best interests that contact should be ordered. There is no automatic right to contact and the court often has to carry out a difficult balancing exercise, often when one of the parents is also arguing through the courts that they have insufficient time with the children. Is there any prospect of change? The government has recently ordered a review of the family justice system. Recommendations have been published which will be the subject of consultation before any changes are made to the law. There is some cause for optimism for grandparents in the report. Parents are to be encouraged to enter into “Parenting Agreements” setting out agreed arrangements for the care of their children following a separation. They will be urged to consider the role of grandparents, amongst others, when formulating the Agreement. The idea is that if the parents then go back on the arrangements, this is something which will be taken into account by the courts. There is however no proposal to give grandparents specific rights or even to remove the requirement to obtain permission before asking the court to order contact. These days one in three couples will divorce before their fifteenth wedding anniversary. A generation ago, when the Children Act came into force, it was one in five. Presumably the lawmakers did not foresee the problem or at least its extent. It remains to be seen whether the current proposals will make a difference.

For more information on the

business pages please call Dickie on:

01904 767881

n For legal advice on this or any aspect of family law, contact Nicki Mitchell at Denison Till Solicitors on 01904 611411 (ncm@denisontill.com). Nicki is a Specialist Family Solicitor and an accredited member of Resolution – First for Family Law. She is also a Collaborative Lawyer. See www.yorkcfl.com for further information

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your business

SECRETS OF MY SUCCESS

York retailer Jeremy Piercy is a fair trade pioneer. Believing we can all contribute to making a better world, he founded Shared Earth 25 years ago when he opened a shop in York selling crafts from Africa, Asia and South America. It was a small shop with a big aim addressing the imbalance of wealth. Jeremy says: “Fair trade is about paying fair prices to people to allow them to make a living, send their children to school and have access to health care. Our products are not especially more expensive than elsewhere, actually they are sometimes cheaper.” It’s a concept that chimes with the times, with 13 Shared Earth

Jeremy Piercy checks out some fair trade goods. Picture: Richard Foster

shops now trading in York, Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Bristol, Liverpool, Stratford-uponAvon, Canterbury, Brighton, Maidstone, the Isle of Wight and Tenterden, a market town in Kent. Shared Earth, which has an annual turnover of £3 million, also sells through its online shop and

“Fair Trade is about trying to pay fair prices to people to allow them to make a living, send their children to school and have access to health care.”

wholesales to more than 800 retailers around the UK and abroad. Jeremy regularly travels with other Shared Earth staff to visit overseas producers. He says: “This keeps everyone focused on the same goals; to create ethically sustainable products and check that the money is getting to the people who need it

York's tourism

Drug treatment website for York

Now in their 14th year, York's tourism ‘Oscars' recognise excellence.

A new online service has been launched by York’s Substance Misuse Partnership to help drug-users, their families and local drug action teams.

The glittering awards ceremony at York Racecourse, attended by 450 tourism businesses, celebrated individuals and companies who offer that extra special service to their customers.

hiwecanhelp.com provides first-time users, their families and other health workers with easy access to local and national sources of support dedicated to helping them beat drug and alcohol addictions.

‘Oscars’

York Theatre Royal picked up the gong for best marketing campaign with its ambitious production of ‘The Wind in the Willows’ which was featured heavily in the pages of Your Local Link last year. We are also pleased to report the success of the Yorkshire Museum; it was named Visitor Attraction of the Year (over 50,000 visitors). York Museums Trust teamed up with Your Local Link last year to publicise a £2 million revamp of the historic building in Museum Gardens. The marketing campaign included a Golden Ticket Day which attracted nearly 2,500 visitors to the new-look museum. This stunning success impressed former Tory Cabinet Minister Michael Portillo when he visited the Yorkshire Museum as a judge in the Art Fund’s prestigious Museum of the Year competition. The title of York Tourism Ambassador went to Ivan Martin and the Association of Voluntary Guides for their commitment to showcasing York to more than 700,000 visitors over 60 years. Celebrating too was Tom Pearcy owner of the York Maze, which scooped the new People’s Choice Award. 120

The brainchild of Roweena Russell, a former Harm Reduction Strategy Manager based in the North East, the online package is tailored to meet the needs of drug action teams. Karen Batters, City of York Council’s substance misuse business support officer, says: “It’s a fantastic resource which will help the Substance Misuse Team get helpful messages about treatment and recovery to those affected by drugs and alcohol abuse. It allows us to tell people how they can find the right kind of help locally.” hiwecanhelp.com has been created as a national hub to help tackle the growing problem of drug abuse. As well as online discussion forums and contacts database, the site includes a host of resources for drug action teams including: relapse prevention activities; training materials; health promotion activities; meal recipes; referral forms; drug treatment information; and hepatitis C treatment. n Information about York’s Drug and Alcohol services can be found at www.hiwecanhelp.com/local-services For further information, call the city council’s Drugs and Alcohol Action Team on 554513 or email acedat@york.gov.uk

most.” This year almost 1,000 new products have arrived from countries as far afield as India, Kenya and Ecuador. Shared Earth is well known for its recycled products, the latest being made from bicycle parts in India. Jeremy says: “My aim is to recycle a whole bicycle. We already sell gifts made from the tyres, chains, cogs, sprockets and spokes. But the frame and handlebars are a bit more difficult.” n Shared Earth, 1 Minster Gates, York. Tel: 632896. Web: www.sharedearth.co.uk

Jeremy’s five tips for success 1) You must have a passion for your business. This enthusiasm will give you a great drive to achieve your aims and motivate your staff. 2) It is vital to have a sound understanding of profit and loss and cash flow. 3) It pays to cultivate a good relationship with your staff and suppliers. Over the years I have become personal friends with many of our suppliers, which means we can help each other out when times are tough. Shared Earth employs

about 70 people; they are extremely committed to the business and have a good balance of skills, which complement mine. 4) Never stand still. We are always looking for new products to sell in our shops and we regularly change our window displays. We encourage our staff to come up with new ideas about how to run the business more efficiently. 5) As a fair trade company it’s important that we trade ethically. We always try to pay our bills on time and this has helped us to develop excellent relationships with our suppliers. They trust us, as do our customers who know that, through buying fair trade goods, they are helping to do good in the world.

Child labour Jeremy Piercy is passionate about fair trade because he believes it can stop the exploitation of children. Visiting Calcutta in India he came across a textile sweatshop where scores of kids were sat on the floor huddled over sewing machines making garments destined for shops in the West. “They were about 10 years old and working 14-hour shifts,” recalls Jeremy.

Business Diary...

WiRE (Women in Rural Enterprise) York Branch meets on the first Tuesday evening of every month. nVisit www.wireuk.org or for more information. Federation of Small Businesses York Branch meets on the third Monday of each month. n Call Christine on 629777. York & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce 4th May Chamber Business Lunch, York Marriott Hotel. 12 noon – 2pm.

24th May Chamber Networking Breakfast, Grange Hotel. 7.30 – 9am. York Professionals 12th May York Professionals Dinner, Ron Cooke Hub, Heslington East, University

of York. 7pm. Greg Dyke, Chancellor of the University of York and former Director– General of the BBC, will speak after dinner on ‘The importance of leadership – why having the right strategy isn’t enough’. n Email hjackson@yorkprofessionals.co.uk to book York Women in Business 17th May Auden House, St Ann’s Court, Cemetery Road. 6pm. York Housing Association will give a short talk followed by a 15-20 minute tour of the development, finishing with a light buffet and chance to network. n To book, log on to www. yorkwomeninbusiness.co.uk If you have a business networking event coming up, email details to info@ yourlocallink.co.uk

your business

SECRETS OF MY SUCCESS

Ask the Expert...

investments advice with julie wilson

April Fool? You will all have heard about the latest Government wheeze to grab your money and give it to a new bank who will start lending again? No this is not an April Fool’s Joke. (Although I am writing this on 1 April so who knows? The Government have dreamt up crazier things!) I have been contacted by several investors keen to keep their hands on their cash and thought it might be useful to have a closer look at the proposals. “The Big Society Bank”, as it’s going to be known, will be funded by “dormant” bank and building society accounts - i.e. those with no activity for at least 15 years. (You know that account you were saving up for little Johnny’s 18th?!!) What with all the acquisitions and mergers of banks and building societies over the last few years, it’s hardly surprising that some people have lost track of their cash. I don’t know about you but I can’t remember what I did last week let alone 15 years ago. So here’s the deal. Any account that has had no activity for 15 years is raided and popped into this new Big Society Bank, which in turn will make this money available to “some of our most dynamic social organisations”. As we speak, I’m still in the process of reading the Government’s rather lengthy strategy document on “Growing The Social Investment Market” (incidentally, do let me know if you want a copy – I know you like to keep up!) which includes the plans for the Big Society Bank. But so far it raises more questions than it answers. Firstly, the Big Society Bank is not a charity – it will be expected to cover its costs, and secondly, it won’t put money directly into these “dynamic social organisations” but rather it will act as a wholesaler. Anyway, back to the point. If you and your money have parted company somewhere along the way, all is not lost. You can attempt a reunion via the website - mylostaccount.org.uk – jointly run by the Building Societies Association and National Savings & Investments. (Check out the little green dog on the site that fetches the £ !). Of course, this won’t affect all of you who have taken my advice and conducted an annual review of your savings accounts to make sure you’re getting the best rate and that the account still meets your objectives. Don’t assume, as was once the case, that the longer you tie your money up or the more you have in the account, the better rate you get. And you need to carefully check that the account you think you have is the one you actually have. One high street bank (yes, you know who you are!) has two accounts with very similar names but totally dissimilar interest rates. A £20,000 deposit in the best one will bag you £2,961 gross interest over 5 years; the worst one just £200. And you wondered where all those bank executive bonuses came from ! And all of you waiting for the MPC to raise interest rates to curb rising inflation, I wouldn’t hold your breath. True, interest rates won’t remain low forever, but I’m not entirely convinced the MPC will be willing to sabotage the fragile recovery by raising interest rates too soon.

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 Chartered Financial Planner with Pen-Life Associates Ltd who help individuals and small businesses make the most from their money including advice on residential and commercial mortgages, individual and business protection, pensions and retirement planning, savings, investments, tax planning and wealth preservation.

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your business

Just the job!

10 top interview tips Whether you’re the CEO of a major corporation, or you’re applying for your first job, everyone gets nervous about interviews. So how do you make sure you shine? We’ve been getting some top tips from Roxzanne Jones, York branch manager for the Advantage Group recruitment agency... 1. Make sure you are clear what type of work you want: You need to be certain from the beginning that you actually want the job, otherwise you may be wasting your own time and that of your interviewer. 2. Do your homework: Make it your business to learn about the company; it shows you are genuinely interested in working for them. 3. Plan how best to present youR skills: Re-read your CV and make new notes on the points you want to emphasise during the interview which are particularly relevant to the job description. 4. Dress appropriately: Always look professional and smart. Find out the dress code at the company. Always err on the side of being smarter. 5. Make a positive first impression: Offer a firm handshake on introduction and look your interviewer in the

eye to ensure a perception of openness and enthusiasm. An open smile gives a clear and positive first impression. 6. Ask questions: Wait for the right opportunity, then ask questions about the job, your potential prospects and personal career development. 7. Be punctual: Always arrive on time. Don't be tempted to cut it fine. 8. Be part of the team: Make sure you come across as a team player; this is very important in the majority of roles. 9. Don¹t lie! It always comes back to haunt you. Stick to facts and your integrity will remain intact. 10. Wish yourself good luck: Luck will probably play some part in getting any job. So, if you don't get it, it may not be your fault. Pick yourself up and try again. n You can contact Advantage Group¹s York office on 428780.

business in brief An evening with Greg Dyke Greg Dyke has become a well-known and sometimes controversial figure on the national stage. He is perhaps best known for his former role as Director-General of the BBC, when he helped guide the channel into the new digital age. Greg has also been a nonExecutive Director of Manchester United Football, a Trustee of the Science Museum, and Chairman of the British Film Institute. He is also an advisor on leadership to the NHS and Chancellor of the University of York. On 12th May, Greg will be speaking at the York Professionals 2011 dinner on ‘The importance of leadership – why having the right strategy isn’t enough’. He hopes to bring inspiration, insight and innovation to the evening. The dinner will begin with a drinks reception, followed by a three course dinner with a Yorkshire theme. It takes place at the Ron Cooke Hub, Heslington East, University of York at 7pm. Tickets are £55 each, or £500 for a table of 10. To book, contact Helen Jackson hjackson@york-professionals.co.uk . Places are limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment.

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Does your business deserve a boost? The Chamber of Commerce is looking for entries for its Chamber Awards 2011. The awards are designed to recognise and reward the success, innovation and hard work of businesses all across the country. And as we at Your Local Link know, they don’t come more hard-working or successful than here in York! As well as recognition, your business could also receive a share of £50,000 worth of cash prizes, courtesy of RBS/ NatWest, as well as raising your business profile across the country. So fly the flag for Yorkshire and get your business the recognition it deserves. The entry deadline is 24th June, and you can download an entry form at www.leedschamber.co.uk.

Business school lectures Kersten England, chief executive of City of York Council, will deliver the York St John Business School Annual Lecture. Her talk is entitled ‘Pride and passion - local government in its element’. Professor Roger Steare, Corporate Philosopher and Professor of Organisational Ethics, will give a lecture entitled ‘The Power of Love in Business’. The lectures take place on Wednesday, May 11th, between 10am and noon at the Dianne Willcocks Lecture Theatre, De Grey Court, York St John University. Registration and refreshments from 9.30am. Booking is essential for this free event. For more details, email business. school@yorksj.ac.uk or call 876868.

Anna Jaques is a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD, and has over 15 years of experience in HR, with the last six operating at Director level. Anna now runs her own business, Rousseau Associates Limited, supporting businesses of all sizes with people-related matters. Anna’s direct, down to earth and pragmatic approach enables businesses to quickly find appropriate solutions to their HR challenges, thus enabling their people to thrive. Anna’s expertise includes a broad range of generalist and specialist HR subjects. She joins Your Local Link as a columnist this month, and will be contributing on a variety of topics over the coming months.

Pedal power After three weeks of fierce competition, 54 teams representing major employers in York have completed the York Cycle Challenge. The combined efforts of the hundreds of people who commuted by bike during the challenge period prevented 20,201 kilograms of CO2 from being released into the environment – enough to fill more than four million balloons! What’s more, York beat Cambridge in an exciting battle between two of the UK’s most prominent cycling cities by persuading the most new cyclists to take part; York attracted 134 compared with Cambridge’s 111. Cycling to work is a tradition at Shepherd Group Industrial Division that was established by Donald Shepherd, inventor of the Portakabin, who started cycling to work from the early-1960s. Steve Edison, Facilities Manager, Portakabin Ltd, says: “Cycling is seen as a healthy and cost-effective method of commuting and employees have formed a Bicycle Uses Group to promote cycling, organise rides and events and improve facilities for cyclists at the Huntington site.”

EMPLOYMENT MATTERS WITH ANNA

JAQUES

Q I saw in the news recently that the National Minimum

Wage will increase in October. My company takes on casual workers over the summer, and some of my employees are under 18. Which rate applies to the younger employees, and does the minimum wage apply to the casual workers? On the 1st of October 2011, the National Minimum Wage will increase. From this date employers must pay their workers at least these minimum hourly rates, which vary based on the age of the worker, and whether they are an apprentice or not. Those aged 21 and over must be paid at least £6.08, those aged between 18 and 20 must be paid at least £4.98 and for workers aged 16 to 17, the rate will be £3.68. The rate for apprentices who are under 19, or who are 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship, will increase to £2.60. Therefore, for your younger employees, from the 1st of October, you will need to pay them at least £3.68 until they reach 18, when the higher rate of £4.98 will apply. The National Minimum Wage was introduced in 1999, and is reviewed each year by the Low Pay Commission. Most workers in the UK are entitled to the National Minimum Wage (NMW) so this will include your casual workers, any agency workers and home workers. It’s also worth noting that some agricultural workers may be due more than the NMW, if the Agricultural Minimum Wage applicable to their grade is greater than the NMW. There are some workers who aren’t entitled to the NMW; examples of those who aren’t entitled to be paid the rates above include workers under the school leaving age, those who are genuinely self-employed, company directors and those on certain types of work experience.

I run a business, and fortunately have very low levels of sickness absence, but last week I was handed the first fit note I have seen. How are they different from the old style sick notes? The fit note (also known as a Statement of Fitness for Work) was introduced in April 2010, and replaced the sick note, which had been in place since 1948. The changes aim to give employers and employees greater flexibility to deal with sickness absence, and to encourage a successful return to work after a period of illness. The previous sick note gave GPs only the choice of stating that an employee was, or was not fit for work. Instead of focussing on what the employee cannot do, the fit note focuses on what the employee can do. GPs now have the option of stating that an employee is either not fit for work, or that they may be fit for work, taking account of the ‘following advice’. This advice may include duties that can be performed despite the person’s condition, and a GP may also offer suggestions of the types of adjustments an employer can make to assist getting an employee back to work. The fit note hasn’t changed the way that statutory sick pay (SSP) is applied, so this remains payable for sickness absence of four days or more, providing your employees meet the qualifying conditions. If you receive a fit note with advice from the employee’s GP, it’s important that you take time to discuss this with the employee. Suggestions may include different duties or a gradual return to work. If you are unable to make the changes or adjustments suggested by the GP, you should explain the reasons to the employee and treat the fit note as if the ‘not fit for work’ option had been specified. Rousseau Associates Limited offers support and advice to businesses of all sizes. Contact us for an informal discussion about what we can do to help you, your business and your people.

Tel: 01937 830 173 or 07794 476 430. Email: anna.jaques@rousseauassociates.co.uk. These answers are general in nature, and not intended to substitute specific advice from an expert.

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Local Culture

Jurassic jaws One of the biggest sea monsters ever found in Britain is back on display in York as a complete fossil for the first time in decades. The giant ichthyosaur would have been about eight metres long and swam in the tropical waters which covered North Yorkshire 180 million years ago. Its jaws were big enough to swallow a child in one gulp! For the last 12 months the fossilised remains of the marine giant have been painstakingly conserved and now, for

the first time in 20 years, the whole of the fossil has been put back on display at the Yorkshire Museum. The project has been made possible thanks to a £20,000 grant from the PRISM Fund which was match-funded by York Museums Trust. Isla Gladstone, curator of Natural Science at the Yorkshire Museum, says: “These are the remains of a huge creature which we think looked a bit like an enormous dolphin. It would probably have been an active hunter, seeking out prey. It is rare to find such a complete example and we are delighted that

With even more variety than ever,

York’s Coppergate Shopping Centre is gearing up for a fantastic summer. The Centre’s undergone a couple of changes to make way for ARK Clothing, who’ve moved into a completely remodelled Coppergate store next door to Caffè Nero and Appy Feet.

Coppergate for Fashion – the Shopper’s Guide... ARK offers a unique blend of branded fashion, stocking favourite labels including Superdry, Fred Perry, Carhartt, Levis, Gio Goi and Motel Clothing, alongside the cream of the exciting new brands. Topshop, Topman & Miss Selfridge are now under one roof, with their flagship store offering a whole load of style for the summer - always well worth checking out. JOY If you’re after something a bit different, then JOY should be on your radar. Stylish clothes alongside homeware and gifts, from the unique and flamboyant to good quality every day wear. Fenwick The fashion brands on offer are second-to-none and include new ranges from Hugo Boss Menswear and All Saints. Fenwick also have one of the best selections of cosmetics and fragrances in York. Shoes & Accessories why not finish off your outfit by popping into Clarks, Charles Clinkard and Pia to get the bag and shoes to match! 124

BY Richard foster

we can now put all of it back on display.” The Yorkshire Museum’s ichthyosaur was found in Jurassic rocks near Whitby and acquired by the Yorkshire Philosophical Society in 1857. For the last 12 months the fossil has been in the hands of conservator Nigel Larkin from Natural History Conservation. Isla, Nigel and Stuart Ogilvy, assistant curator of natural science, had the task of putting together the intricate 3D jigsaw.

Copy an Old Master Do you fancy having a go at copying an Old Master? The Norman Rea Gallery at York University wants artists to contribute to an exhibition called Wink by copying the ideas of art’s famous names. Organisers of the 2011 summer open exhibition are keen to receive sculpture, installation, video and performance, as well as paintings and photographs. Work for the exhibition, which opens on June 6th, needs to be submitted before the end of May. n Visit www.thenormanreagallery.com

York artist’s centenary An intimate display featuring the drawings and sculpture of Austin Wright is being displayed at York Art Gallery to mark the centenary of his birth. Austin Wright (1911-1997) spent most of his life working from York, with his sculpture gaining him recognition around the world. Laura Turner, curator of art, says: “He had a huge influence on the artistic scene in the city. We are delighted to be able to mark his centenary year with a display showing some of his most interesting and intimate drawings and small sculptures – many of which have not been seen by the public before. We have worked closely with Wright’s widow, Sue, who still lives in York.” The Friends of York Art Gallery are holding a lecture on Austin Wright at the Tempest Anderson Hall on Thursday, May 12, at 6.30pm. To book a ticket, write to Susan Parker, 29 St Paul’s Square, York YO24 4BD enclosing a stamped address envelope.

Youth theatre boost York charity Upstage Centre Youth Theatre is one of only 52 groups countrywide to receive a grant as from the BBC Performing Arts Fund’s Young People’s Musical Theatre scheme. The grant will support the youth theatre’s programme of workshops, leading to a largescale musical production in the studio theatre at 41 Monkgate in the autumn. n Visit www.upstagecentre.org.uk

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