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Your Local Link: August 2026

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August, Already?

Dear Reader, August is a special month for the people of God’s Own County, with Yorkshire Day taking place on the first day of the month, to mark the passing of the Slavery Abolition Act 1833 (which was given extra traction by Yorkshire MP William Wilberforce’s emancipation campaign), and the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry’s victory in the Battle of Minden in 1759. If you’re thinking of celebrating Yorkshire Day in style, within these pages, you’ll find all sorts of events

perfect for marking the occasion, as well as the usual plethora of walks, talks, tours, workshops, and community get-togethers taking place throughout the month.

We’ll also be providing information about the best free and discounted local attractions to enjoy with the kids over the summer holidays, giving you a breakdown of Mansion House’s 2026 York Georgian Festival programme, and chatting with popular local band Skylights, and Horrible Histories author Terry Deary.

Design/Editorial & Social Media: Scott, Sophie, Vincent, Ted &

Advertising: Mim, Craig, Mackenzie & Jack.

Call: 01904 767881 Email: info@yourlocallink.co.uk

This month’s issue also contains our annual York Against Cancer feature, in which we’ll bring you up to speed with the latest news, announcements, and accomplishments made by this crucial local charity, as well as some important information for anyone who may wish to get involved, help out as a volunteer, or put their money toward a good cause. Enjoy the summer, while it lasts! Until next month, The YLL Team

Quotes of The Month

“August is the border between summer and autumn: it is the most beautiful month I know.”

Tove Jansson

“Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August.” Jenny Han

Gini. Deputy MD: Mim.
Clifton Moor, York YO30 4XF.
Simon
Gini Scott Sophie
Mim Craig Mackenzie
Molly Jack Matt Louise
Ted Nicola Vincent
Image courtesy of Visit York

What’s Inside this month AUGUST 26

14 - WIN, WIN, WIN!

This month, our readers could be in with a chance of winning FOUR FREE TICKETS for the ‘BE LIKE BLIPPI TOUR’ at York Barbican, and TWO FREE TICKETS for ‘THE SELFISH GIANT’ at Friargate Theatre!

8 - WALKING WANDERER

Take in stunning views of an often-overlooked corner of the Howardian Hills on a 4-mile stroll around Huttons Ambo, with our Walking Wanderer.

16 - HOROSCOPES

Find out what the coming month has in store for you, courtesy of our new starry-eyed astrologer, Sasha Elizabeth Parker!

50 - FASHION FOCUS

Keep your wardrobe up to scratch with our late-summer selection, focusing on statement stripes and sustainable fashion.

42-49 - YORK AGAINST CANCER FEATURE

Find out about York Against

Cancer’s crucial services, recent breakthroughs and latest news in our annual feature. Can you do your bit to help support local people affected by cancer?

37 - YORK GEORGIAN FESTIVAL 2026

Before you powder your hair, peruse our pick of this year’s York Georgian Festival programme, which includes the standout event of the season, the York Georgian Masquerade Ball.

58 - BE LIKE BLIPPI TOUR

Next month, the Be Like Blippi Tour rolls into York Barbican for one day only, inspiring little ones to move, play, and explore - just like Blippi! Get a head start and book your tickets early.

56 - HOPING YORK STREET KITCHEN

We’re proud to introduce the award-winning food charity HOPING York Street Kitchen (HOPING) as our featured charity of the month. HOPING serves home-cooked, two-course

meals to the homeless and those in need, each and every week!

38 - INTERVIEWS

We grabbed local indie guitar heroes Skylights for a chat, and had a chinwag with the author of Horrible Histories, Terry Deary!

35 - WE TRIED

Find out what our team made of this year’s side-splitting York Comedy Festival, and their a-maize-ing day out at the world-famous York Maze!

10 - TIME TRAVEL

Get to grips with the fascinating history of one of York’s most iconic Grade I listed townhouses, The Judges’ Lodging, which is favoured today as a popular summer sipping spot.

32 - PANDA MAMI REVIEW

See what our discerning food reviewer made of one of York’s finest buffet restaurants, Panda Mami, which offers an enormous array of more than 160+ international dishes!

Clear step-by-step guidance

Reduce stress and uncertainty

Avoid mistakes and delays

Transparent pricing

STEP qualified team members

Advice on tax, property and legal formalities

•Date: 17th September 2026

•Location: PenLife Associates, 3 Tudor Court, Opus Avenue, York, YO26 6RS

•Parking: Available

Life doesn’t always go to plan…

If illness, injury or worse were to happen, what would that mean for you and the people who matter most? That’s where personal protection can really help. Book a complimentary consultation for a chat to help you get your ducks in a row and feel more confident about the future, whatever it may bring.

Why book a consultation?

• Protect what matters most: Explore how unexpected events could affect you, and how you could prepare.

• Understand your options: We’ll explain things clearly from life cover to critical illness cover and income protection.

• Take a fresh look: We’ll check whether your current plans still suit you and offer good value.

If you’re a business owner, we can also talk through how to protect your business and the people who depend on it.

How to book

Walking with THE WANDERER

Huttons Ambo

IS THIS WALK FOR ME?

This short walk has a few ups and downs, none steep. There are no stiles. Cattle may be grazing in the fields at Direction Points 1 and 3. The riverside path at Direction Point 9 was overgrown but passable when walked. Flooding may affect this section when the river is high.

GETTING THERE

The recommended starting point is the small carpark near the river at Low Hutton accessed from Buck Lane, then Water Lane off the green in the centre of Low Hutton. Another starting point is High Hutton near the church. It’s also possible to start from the opposite bank of the Derwent where there is a small parking area. This involves crossing the suspension bridge to start at Direction Point 1. Low and High Hutton are 15 miles from York using the A64. Coastliner buses run regularly from the Station and Stonebow. Alight at the junction of the A64 with Barrygate Lane and walk down the lane for 500 metres to start at Direction Point 6.

REFRESHMENTS

There are no opportunities on route. The closest options are in Welburn or Malton.

WHAT TO SEE

Low & High Hutton are secluded villages mainly with stonebuilt houses. The suspension bridge over the Derwent (accessed from the far end of the recommended parking spot) is an unusual feature that provides good views of the river. The woodland section has a mix of trees and a rich flora in spring and early summer. Wildlife spotted when the walk was checked include sand martins on the river, marble white butterflies in woodland clearings, and roe deer.

Directions

1. Starting from the car parking area, walk back under the railway bridge and continue on the lane back into Low Hutton village. At the green and war memorial, bear left into the road marked by a No Through Road sign. Continue on this until you reach the end of a grassy area to the left and a wooden seat. Here, go left on a track (house sign The Tofts). Continue passing buildings right, going downhill on an enclosed track until you reach a kissing gate.

2. Through the gate (convenient seat at the left), follow the obvious path over the grass field parallel to the river and with the railway to the left. At the far side, go through a gate into the wood, taking the main (left) of two paths. Now continue through the wood on a narrow footpath, eventually coming to a clearing. Beyond this, the path widens to a vehicle-wide track. Keep going through several smaller clearings, then go downhill with the track to the wood edge. Stay on the clear track with the wood to your right, until you reach to a gate.

3. Go through the gate, continuing on the track, which now begins to ascend the hillside. Stay with it as it climbs to the top of the field close to the A64, at which point the track curves right.

4. Here, do not go through the kissing gate,

but stay on the track as it curves further right, doubling back at a higher level to run alongside the hedge on the left. Keep beside the hedge to a gate going through to a grassy track, with woodland to the right and a hedge to the left. Continue for about 500 metres. Ignore a footpath going right, but 100 metres beyond this, look for a path junction marker post, partly obscured by vegetation to the right.

5. Here, take the path left (look for a prominent ash tree if you don’t spot the marker post) that runs along the edge of a field. At the field corner, turn right with a hedgeto the left, continuing to a tarmac lane.

6. Turn right, but at a road junction in 150 metres, turn off left, still on tarmac (signed church). At a bend in a short distance, go right (church and information board about Huttons Ambo parish to the left) with houses at your left. Stay on the road as it bends sharply right again, ignoring a

This route, easily walked in a half day or summer evening, visits a sometimes-overlooked corner of the Howardian Hills National Landscape area between the A64 and the River Derwent. As well as woodland and a short stretch by the river, it passes through the tucked-away villages of Low and High Hutton that make up the parish of Huttons Ambo.

signed footpath to reach a T junction.

7. Turn left and walk on the roadside pavement downhill. At the bottom of the slope, turn left on a narrower tarmac lane, soon passing a large house at the left, behind a hedge. Continue on the lane until it reaches a T junction. Here, go ahead to a wooden gate marked by a footpath signpost.

8. Through the gate, follow the enclosed path to another gate. After this, keep ahead in the ridged field, staying close to the hedge on the left. Soon, the river comes into view along with a prominent three-way footpath signpost.

9. Reaching the signpost, turn right alongside the river, going through a gate (waymark). Pass under the railway bridge and forge ahead on the narrow path beside the river, soon arriving back at the parking area.

Exploring York’s past, one place at a time Time Travel

The Judge’s Lodging on Lendal is a building many of us will have walked past countless times without even giving it a second thought. This month, I decided to take a closer look and see what stories this Grade I listed building has to tell us...

A fun fact before we start: the name Lendal comes from ‘St Leonard’s Hill’, which was a part of the 12th-Century St Leonard’s Hospital. You can see the remains of the hospital in the Museum Gardens today.

Before the building was built, it was actually the site of St Wilfrid’s church, which was demolished during the 16th Century. In the years between 1711 and 1726, when this Georgian townhouse was being constructed, many human remains were dug up from the site of the churchyard.

The building was originally built as a private residence for Dr Clifton Winteringham. Although the architect is still unknown, it is thought to have been designed by Lord Burlignton, who also designed and built York Assembly Rooms.

Lord Burlington was from London, and often known as ‘the Architect Earl’. He designed his own property, Burlington House in London’s Piccadilly, as well as Chiswick House and a dormitory at Westminster School, amongst others.

The house is an example of the early Georgian architecture style, recognised by the curved front steps, the brick front and decorative Venetian doorway, which features fruit and a statue.

From seeing old photographs of the building, the courtyard in front once had two rows of trees which

THIS MONTH: The Judge’s Lodging

It was a similar to a modern-day apprenticeship, and they would learn how to perform surgeries and treat people.

Surgeons are addressed as ‘Mister’, a title that dates back to the profession of a barber-surgeon, which emerged in the 11th century.

Apothecaries were even further down on the social ladder, since their profession was seen as a trade. They also learnt from their elders, similar to surgeons, and if they lived in more rural areas, they would sometimes also perform surgeries and visit patients.

murder by poisoning.

Mary had a reputation as a wise woman, where she would help people find lost property, cure ailments and influence the weather. She made different potions and charms as well as telling peoples’ fortunes.

Mary began to treat a lady called Rebecca Perigo who believed that she had a nervous or spiritual ailment. In just a few months, Mary had charged Rebecca and her husband at least £70 for her services, which would have been more than a tradesman could earn in a year back then.

would have created a picturesque entrance for the elegant Georgian townhouse.

Francis Drake, a local historian and surgeon, said that The Judge’s Lodging was “one of the best-built houses in the city”.

Dr Clifton Winteringham was a well-regarded physician in York and practiced here for over 35 years. He was also an author of medical books that explored his theories about medicine at the time. Winteringham worked at York County Hospital and eventually became a governor there.

Dr Winteringham’s high position as a physician is clear to see from the sophisticated townhouse that he lived in.

His son was also a physician, who worked in the military, and he later became King George III’s surgeon. He has a monument dedicated to him in Westminster Abbey.

During the 18th Century, medicine was still heavily focused on herbal remedies and balancing the four humours: blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile. Physicians were held very highly in society, in comparison to the surgeons and apothecaries.

A physician was at the top of the social ladder, having been university educated, they were considered a gentleman. They would diagnose patients and write prescriptions, but they would not under any circumstance perform manual labour, which was done by the surgeons.

Surgeons learnt from hands-on experience, taught by older doctors.

On the front door of The Judge’s Lodging, the statue is of Aesculapius, the Greek god of healing, which was possibly put there in relation to the doctor who lived here.

It wasn’t until later, in 1806, that the judges arrived.

The building was bought by York Council to be used for the judges who were in town for the Assize Courts.

The assizes were courts that would travel around England to try the most serious crimes, like treason, murder, riots and burglary with violence. These were later replaced by the Crown Courts.

The arrival of the courts was always very grand, hence the need for the impressive townhouse that the judges stayed in.

York was used for some of the most high-profile cases in the country at the time. One of the worst cases tried was in 1809, when Mary Bateman, known as the Yorkshire Witch, was found guilty of

Mary told them that they were both about to become ill and that they would need to follow her instructions or they would die. She gave them a white powder that was to be mixed into a pudding. After eating all of her pudding, Rebecca died, her husband went to the authorities, and Mary was charged with her murder and hanged at York Castle.

Crimes like this needed to be judged by a jury and professional judges, who were often aristocrats, knights or holders of government office.

In The Judge’s Lodging, the rooms on the top floor of the building were allocated for the judges and their staff, whilst the right wing was for the housekeepers.

The building was used by the judges up until 1976, after the Assize courts were finally abolished in 1972.

Now a hotel and bar, the building has been redesigned and refurbished, but much of the original features are still there.

For example, the Cellar Bar was the original wine cellar for the judges who stayed here, and in the Ladies’ Room, the stonework on the walls is from when the building was first built. A lot of the rooms are named after various workers from the past, and the doctor’s offices where Dr Winteringham practiced from are still there.

The Judge’s Lodging remains one of York's most impressive Georgian buildings. From physicians, to travelling judges and hotel guests, its rooms have witnessed generations of York's history, making it far more than just another building on Lendal.

Dear

Daphne

Got a problem? Of course you do! Lucky for you, our sharp-tongued yet warm-hearted agony aunt Daphne is here to slice through the chaos and help tackle all your burning life dilemmas with wit, wisdom, and just the right amount of tough love!

living his own life. Come up with a reasonable time period, be it six months or a year, and let him create a plan. It is much harder to ignore the set date. What if he reacts in an angry way?

Let him. Sometimes the most loving thing a parent can do is make their kids’ lives not quite as easy. After all, you've already raised him. You don't need to keep raising a 36-year-old man.

Daphne x

Dear Daphne,

Dear Daphne,

I am convinced my partner is seeing someone else. The other day I smelt perfume on his clothes and it definitely wasn't mine. He keeps saying nothing is going on but I just can't stop thinking about it. My head is all over the place and I don't know if I'm overthinking everything or if my gut is trying to tell me something. What do I do?

R, York.

Dear R,

The problem is that the perfume itself doesn't prove anything really. It might have come from a hug, a crowded lift, another co-worker or someone else. Right now you have one piece of information but at least fifty theories.

Avoid trying to figure everything out alone. If there's a feeling that things aren't as they should be, just tell him about it. Let him know what you've noticed, but more importantly, how you feel about it. You aren't trying to figure out a murder mystery, you just need to listen.

On the other hand, keep an eye out for patterns. Has his behaviour been changing? Has he become more secretive about his phone or anything else? Can you say that your instinct came from this one bottle of perfume, or from a long time of experience with the guy?

In either case, it's worth asking tough questions. If it’s the second, don't make one smell ruin it all.

Sometimes our gut is trying to protect us. Other times it's just

fuelled by fear. Your job is to work out which one is speaking.

Daphne x

Dear Daphne,

My son is 36 and still lives at home. We lost his dad 4 years ago, and at first it was nice having the company, but I just can't afford it anymore. I've tried talking to him but nothing changes. How do I get him to move on without pushing him away?

Sandra, York.

Dear Sandra,

There is one thing that I would like you to realise - he is 36, not 16!

The loss of his father was devastating for you both, and it sounds like you managed to pull through some very tough times together. However, grieving should not become a life-long lease.

You have tried to talk to him, now it's time to move from hints to being open and clear about things. Say that you love him, you feel proud about yourself being there for him, but you cannot finance him any more. This does not mean you are being heartless, it means that you are being honest.

Do not make it all about getting rid of him. Make it about him

I had my baby 4 months ago and ever since then my best friend of 20 years seems to be avoiding me. She hardly replies to my messages anymore and we never see each other. I don't know if I've done something wrong or if she just doesn't want to be around me now I've got a baby. Vicki, York.

Dear Vicki,

Being a mum is a completely transformative experience, and yet at the same time, it transforms relationships around you in ways that no one ever warned you about. Don't rush into assuming anything negative on your part. Your friend may just be having difficulty coming to terms with this new role in life. If she doesn't have kids of her own, she may feel like she would be in the way, or perhaps, that you are too busy to spend any more time with her. There are those who distance themselves without even realising why - just because they do not know how to approach the situation.

Nevertheless, friendship is a twoway relationship. Twenty years is a lot of time to lose touch with someone. What I would do is send her a message inviting her out for a cuppa or just a stroll together like old times. Either she will come along, and it will all be fine, or she will make all kinds of excuses again, and then you can try to address it.

True friends don't abandon you when a baby is born. They sometimes take a bit of time adjusting, thats all.

Daphne x

Dear Daphne,

Every time we go to my partner’s parents house, his mum tells my kids off, overrules me or tells me how I should be parenting. It’s really starting to get on my nerves. My partner just says, “That’s how she is.” How do I get her to stop? Liv, York.

Dear Liv,

Come on, I bet “that’s just how she is” has caused more family feuds than Christmas dinner!

The real issue here is not the mother-in-law per se, it’s the fact that your husband uses that excuse to get away with anything. Just because he’s always done it, it doesn’t mean that everybody should tolerate it!

Your children deserve a united front, not a council of elders.

The next time she bosses you around or gives the kids a dressing down after you’ve sorted things out, smile sweetly and tell her “thanks, but we’ve got this” or something like that. Brevity is key here. You don’t owe anybody a lengthy explanation.

I would also have a word with your husband. Tell him that you’re not trying to make him choose sides, you just want him to support you as a parent and make your life easier as a parent. That’s a big difference.

Grandparents are usually wellintentioned, but somewhere down the line they’ve forgotten that their position has changed. They’re no longer the Head Teacher, now they’re happy, retired advisors. Just hold your ground politely but firmly. People usually stop crossing boundaries, once they realise they’re actually there.

Daphne x

Have you got a question for Daphne?

Send it to info@yourlocallink.co.uk with the subject "FOR DAPHNE" and check back here next month to see if your question is featured!

PUZZLES & COMPETITIONS

WIN: FOUR FREE TICKETS TO SEE THE ‘BE LIKE BLIPPI TOUR’ AT YORK BARBICAN

On 5 September, the Be Like Blippi Tour will arrive at York Barbican for one day only, offering young fans of the viral YouTube show the chance to move, play, explore, and see Blippi (as well as his trusty sidekick Meekah) on stage in the flesh. York Barbican has kindly offered our readers four free tickets for the 1.00pm show!

To be in with a chance of winning four free tickets for the 1.00pm

show of the Be Like Blippi Tour, simply answer the following question:

What is the name of Blippi’s trusty sidekick?

C. Maureen

Send your answer (along with your name, address and daytime contact number) on a postcard marked ‘Blippi Competition’ to Unit 3A Kettlestring Lane, York, YO30 4XF, or by email to competitions@yourlocallink.co.uk. The closing date is Friday, 28 August. Terms and conditions apply.

WIN: TWO FREE TICKETS TO SEE ‘THE SELFISH GIANT’ AT FRIARGATE THEATRE

Running from 1-5 September at Friargate Theatre, The Selfish Giant is an unmissable Riding Lights Theatre production of Oscar Wilde’s classic tale, adapted for the stage by Jon Boustead. Perfect for children aged 3+, this wonderful play offers a memorable mix of storytelling, interactive games, live music and puppetry. This 5-day run is the last chance you’ll have to watch the show before it embarks on an extended UK tour!

To be in with a chance of winning two free tickets for the show on a date of your choice, simply answer the following question:

Which local theatre company is producing The Selfish Giant at Friargate Theatre?

A. Riding Lights Theatre Company

B. Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC)

C. Royal National Theatre

Send your answer (along with your name, address and daytime contact number) on a postcard marked ‘Giant Competition’ to Unit 3A Kettlestring Lane, York, YO30 4XF, or by email to competitions@yourlocallink.co.uk. The closing date is Monday, 24th August. Terms and conditions apply.

Send your completed puzzle, marked

August Puzzle Competition’ along with your address and telephone number to Unit 3a Kettlestring Lane, Clifton Moor, York, YO30 4XF, to reach us no later than 31st August. The first entry picked out of the hat will win the prize. Good luck!

4 8 1 2 5 3 7 1 6 2 4 2 9 7 1 5 3 9 7 2 4 7 1 3 5 9 1 8 2 6

•

• Single & double glazed replacements

• Toughened safety glass

• Glass shelves

• Bespoke mirrors

• Glass Splashbacks

• Glass staircases/balustrades

• UPVC windows & doors

• Composite doors

• Shop fronts

• Secondary glazing systems

Horoscopes

Sasha Parker is a local writer, performer and storyteller with a long-standing passion for astrology, symbolism, and the art of making the cosmos feel personal. Search @femmefatalefaerytales on Instagram to get in touch or find out more about Femme Fatale Faerytales.

Leo

This is your month to shine, Leo, and you begin August on full display, like the lion sunning himself in the midday heat. But as the month moves on, you head to the shadows to avoid overheating. Mercury prompts you to pause, recalibrate, and ask: what is this heat costing me, and how do I sustain it? Open your eyes - the answer lies in the other animals of your kingdom. This month, they are your mirror.

Virgo

(August 23 – September 22)

You are not the performer, but the playwright in your theatre of life. While Leo lingers beneath the spotlight for most of the month, you wait patiently in the wings, pencil in hand, writing, refining, and editing your script until opening night in the second half of the month, when the Sun enters Virgo, and the curtain finally rises on all you have so carefully prepared. But listen - you are not the grand applause; you are the bated breath of the audience, waiting for your first step.

Libra

(September 23 – October 22)

The orchestra has already begun. You can hear the music drifting along the corridor. But as you make your way into the ballroom, don’t rush to take the hand of the first person who offers it. Choose your partner wisely. Venus moves towards Libra this month, gracing the dance floor with her quiet elegance. Let her presence guide you. She’ll remind you that the greatest dances are neither led nor followed - they are felt!

Scorpio

(October 23 – November 21)

You have been busy at work in your apothecary of late, but this month, Mars, your traditional ruling planet, asks you to stop and take a sip of the tea you have so carefully prepared. Let it soothe you and quieten your mind. Pluto, your modern ruling planet, invites you

to take another look at your recipe book. What can you taste? Perhaps it isn’t about the measurements, but your expectations. Don’t forget - our taste buds evolve as we grow…

Sagittarius

(November 22 – December 21)

Like the true traveller you are, this month you arrive at a crossroads between what has been and what is yet to come. But before you gallop forward, consider what you’d like to pack in your satchel. Jupiter, your ruling planet, reminds you that you don’t have to pack only the essentials. There’s room in your satchel for treasure too. Just remember - don’t pack the slippers that gave you blisters!

Capricorn

(December 22 – January 19)

Throughout August, you’re building the home before playing house. Don’t feel daunted - you’ve already laid the foundations, and the scaffolding is coming down. Now, it’s time to check that your work can bear the weight of the roof. Saturn asks for patience during this process. Towards the end of the month, you smile beneath your builder’s helmet as rewards begin to appear. It’s true - your project can be both ambitious and stable. Pause and admire the pattern in your brickwork.

Aquarius

(January 20 – February 18)

You are the Water Bearer, standing with the pitcher in your hands. But this month, your traditional ruler, Saturn, asks: Is this the best way

to pour the water? And whose cup are you filling? Uranus, your modern ruler, may surprise you with the answer, like a summer breeze changing direction. You have always been able to see tomorrow before everyone else, but it isn’t only about everyone else - it’s about you too.

Pisces

(February 19 – March 20)

You stand upon the deck of your ship. Neptune, the god of the sea and your modern ruling planet, is retrograde this month, turning your inner compass back towards you. You are no longer adrift. Turn inwards to discern what is a mirage and what is solid land. Jupiter, your traditional ruling planet, will show you where to drop your anchor. Guided by both, you’ll discover that the joy lies not only in the destination, but in the voyage itself.

Aries

(March 21 – April 19)

You rest beneath a tree with the Book of Life in your hands this month, as Chiron sits beside you. You’ve read this book before, but this time you choose to see it differently. You no longer read with a critical eye, but with compassion, as you revisit the chapters you know so well. Only then do you notice how much the protagonist has changed. Mars asks which pages you’ll protect, and which characters you’ll invite to journey into the next chapter with you…

Taurus

(April 20 – May 20)

The Sun spends most of August

in Leo, her rays pouring through your window. Polish the panes, and you’ll have a clearer view of who sits around your table. As the host, ask yourself who nourishes you, and who deserves to stay for every course. Remember: this is your kingdom. You wear the crown, so guard your court wisely. Venus, your ruling planet, moves into Libra this month, watering the roses in your garden. Look closely - the roses whisper that softness blooms where the sword cannot.

Gemini

(May 21 – June 20)

The invitation has been sitting on the shelf. Don’t let it gather any more dust. It’s time to send that RSVP you’ve been mulling over. Mercury, your ruling planet, encourages you to write with clarity rather than haste. You’ve taken the time to think. You know what needs to be said. Uranus may gift you insight and unexpected conversation, should you decide to go to the party.

Cancer

(June 21 – July 22)

You have the hardest shell, and you need it, for you have the softest centre. This month, the Moon, your ruling body, reminds you of the importance of turning inwards and trusting the intuition you hold in abundance. You are the shell upon the shore, carried back and forth by the ebb and flow of the ocean. Go with the tide; don’t fight it. Mars reminds you to protect your home— your shell—as the tides turn.

Join a Club

EBOR PROBUS CLUB YORK

First established in 1973, the Ebor Probus Club York provides an opportunity for retired or semiretired men to socialise over a cup of tea or coffee, and hear interesting talks from visiting speakers about a wide variety of subjects. The club meets on alternate Wednesdays between September and June, from 09.30am-11.30am at the Church Hall of St Edward The Confessor C Of E Church, YO24 1QG. Its annual subscription fee currently amounts to around £3 per visit! If you are interested in finding out more about Ebor Probus Club York, contact Secretary Brian Fielding on 01904 950345 or email b.fielding108@btinternet. com. Once you’ve registered your interest, you’ll be sent a welcome pack!

FEEL GOOD MENOPAUSE WITH KIRSTY

Struggling with the menopause? Looking for support, reassurance, and a new social outlet? Join Kirsty for her monthly Let’s Walk and Talk in York and Menopause Cafe events! Held on the last Saturday of each month, Menopause Cafes are open to all, regardless of age or gender. There’s no need to bookjust turn up, grab a brew, and have a chinwag with some like-minded folk! On 16 August, there will be a Let’s Walk and Talk in York event around the beautiful village of Knapton, meeting at 10.30am. This month’s Menopause Cafe will run on 29 August at York College, focusing on red light therapy. Call Kirsty on 07871 183939 to get in touch, register your interest, or find out more about upcoming meetings and events.

Do you run a club or society in York?

Thinking of joining a club? Whether you’re stuck for things to do in York or are simply hoping to give your social life a bit of a boost, there are all sorts of groups and clubs available to join in and around the city. Check out our pick of some of the best!

YOUNG AT HEART

Are you an elderly person based in the local area looking to make new friends, have a laugh, enjoy a fun afternoon out, or engage in great conversation in a warm and welcoming atmosphere? Young at Heart could be just the ticket! Meeting on the first Monday and Tuesday of the month from 12.00pm-2.00pm at Flying Legends in Clifton Moor (YO30 4XY), this popular social club is aimed at older members of our community, and offers a great opportunity to get out and about and socialise each and every week. New members are always welcome! Call 01904 693239 to find out more.

BEYOND MONOPOLY

Are you a board game lover keen to meet, socialise, and compete with others? Beyond Monopoly is a group of discerning players which usually meets at the Bar Convent on every first and third Saturday of the month (although occasionally on Sundays) from 10.00am9.00pm, and every second and fourth Friday, from 5.00pm9.00pm. Members are welcome to bring their own games, or select a title from the group’s extensive board game library, which features all of the titles you might expect, as well as lesser-known gems. Your first session is free! Visit www. bmyork.wordpress.com to find out more or stay up to date with the latest news and announcements from Beyond Monopoly.

If you’d like to feature on our Join a Club page, email us at

info@yourlocallink.co.uk

1 JULY - 31 AUGUST

SUTTON PARK OPEN GARDENS, Sutton Park, YO61 1DP. 11.00am-5.00pm. Marvel at the stunning gardens of the Sutton Park stately home, with guided house tours also running from the 1st of August. Call 01347 810249 or email suttonpark@statelyhome.co.uk to book or find out more.

24-25 JULY

MUSIC SHOWCASE WEEKEND 2026, York Racecourse, YO23 1EX. Various times. Enjoy two days of horse racing and live music in York, with Craig David performing after the EBF Lyric Stakes on Friday, and Tom Grennan hitting the stage after the Sky Bet York Stakes on Saturday. Visit www.yorkracecourse.co.uk/racing-fixtures. html?dates_step=2&meet_id=163 to book.

8-9 AUGUST

THE GREAT ANTIQUES & VINTAGE FAIR, Wetherby Racecourse, LS22 5EJ. 9.00am5.00pm on Saturday & 9.00am-4.00pm on Sunday. Organised by Jaguar Fairs LTD, this unique show regularly pulls in up to 55,000 visitors. Expect to catch a wide range of 120 exhibitors, showcasing all manner of soughtafter antiques and vintage pieces to suit the tastes of any buyer, browser, or collector. Featuring both indoor and outdoor exhibits, the fair is located between the Millennium Grandstand and Bramham Hall Exhibition Centre. Visit www.jaguarfairs.com for further details.

21-23 AUGUST

BEETLEFEST 2026, Beetle Bank Farm, YO19 5XD. Various times. Enjoy a big family weekend under a cosy canopy of stars, featuring live piano music, kids’ fun, camping, BBQ, and stargazing with York Astronomical Society. Visit shop.beyonk.com/a7s9ctcz/experiences/ pz6wtl57 to book your tickets.

29-31 AUGUST

ART IN THE BARN EXHIBITION – 25TH ANNIVERSARY, Tithe Barn, Poppleton, YO26 6LF. Sat-Sun 10.00am-5.00pm, Mon 10.00am-4.00pm. See original artwork, greeting cards and sculpture by 30 local artists in the 16th-century Tithe Barn. Enjoy home-baked deliciousness from the pop-up cafe! FREE Admission & Parking. The preview evening will run on 28 August from 7.00pm-9.00pm. Email gill.griffiths1@hotmail.co.uk for tickets. Visit Facebook: Art in the Barn Poppleton for details.

30 AUGUST

YORK UNLEASHED COMIC CON, York Racecourse, YO23 1EX. 11.00am-5.00pm. Get your geek on and celebrate the end of the summer at this much-loved convention, featuring gaming & interactive zones, local artists and comic creators, traders, collectables, cosplay and more! Visit www.yorkracecourse. co.uk/york-unleased-comic-con.html to find out more.

OPEN EVERY DAY

YORK’S CHOCOLATE STORY, York’s Chocolate Story, YO1 7LD. 10.00am-5.00pm. This month, adults and children alike can sink their teeth into one of the Chocolate City’s best-loved attractions, with a sweet summer discount. Discounted entry includes an immersive tour, chocolatier demo, lolly decoration, and samples galore! Visit www.yorkschocolatestory.com to find out more and pre-book your tickets.

OPEN EVERY DAY

EDEN CAMP MODERN HISTORY MUSEUM, Eden Camp, YO17 6RT. Enjoy a fun and educational family day out at Eden Camp, perfect for history buffs of all ages! This month, events include Modern Military Weekend, Fire Services Preservation Group Rally, and World War I Weekend. Visit www.edencamp.co.uk to book or find out more.

OPEN

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

SUMMER @ YORK GOLF RANGE, York Golf Range, YO32 9ST. Various times. Bring in the summer with a range of fun-filled golf activities at Strensall’s York Golf Range, including FootGolf, Crazy Golf, a Driving Range, and a high-quality 9-hole course! Visit www.yorkgolfrange.co.uk or call 01904 499275 to find out more.

OPEN THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

DREAMERY GARDENS & MUSEUM, Stamford Bridge, YO41 1AP. Various times. Home to one of England’s best-loved lost Fairy Gardens and an intriguing Fairy Museum, this magical nature sanctuary features a range of beautiful fairy houses set against wonderful woodland. A must-visit attraction just a stone’s throw from York! Book your visit now! Visit www. dreamerygardens.co.uk for details and bookings.

OPEN THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

DARK TALES OF YORK, Meeting at Roman Bath, YO1 8RN. Various times. Discover the darker side of York, known as one of the most haunted cities in the UK! 90-minute private guided tours are available to book now. To find out more, visit www.darktalesofyork. com today.

OPEN THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

VAN GOGH: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE, St. Mary’s Church, YO1 9RN. 10am-6pm. This unique and immersive experience offers a window into the works of Van Gogh, as you’ve never seen them before! Combining the artist’s classic paintings with an all-encompassing light and sound show, this exhibition enables visitors to step into the mind of the great ‘little painter fellow’. Visit www.vangoghexpo.co.uk/york to book your tickets today.

TUESDAYS TO SUNDAYS

THE HILT, 57B Goodramgate, YO1 7LS.

Various times. Unleash your inner Viking at the first indoor axe throwing venue in York, which offers 8 lanes for friends and family to come together for a unique, action-packed experience! Visit www.thehilt.co.uk to find out more.

TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS

PURE RELAXATION EVENINGS, Poppleton Road Memorial Hall, YO26 4SE. 7.30pm8.30pm (Tuesdays) & Poppleton Centre, YO26 6JT. 8.30pm-9.30pm (Wednesdays). Escape the stress of the week and enjoy an hour of deep guided relaxation. Leave feeling calmer, lighter and recharged! To book, call Kirsty on 01904 793288.

EVERY FIRST WEDNESDAY

STUTTON & TADCASTER WI, Calcaria House, LS24 9HR. 7.15pm. A friendly and welcoming Women’s Institute with a varied programme of meetings held on the first Wednesday of each month. New members and visitors always welcome, and the first visit is free! Email tadcasterwi@gmail.com to find out more or get in touch.

OPEN EVERY SUNDAY

WIGGINTON CAR BOOT, Home Farm, Wigginton, York, YO32 2RD. 6.30am-1.00pm. This giant car boot is held every week, with general admission at just £1 per car. Get yourself down early to scoop up some bargains! Call 01904 768463 or 07964 027362 for further details.

UNTIL 3 SEPTEMBER

YORK MAZE, Elvington Lane, YO19 5LT. 10.00am-6.30pm. Enjoy a fantastic day out at York Maze, featuring an array of corn-tastic attractions and the world-famous giant maze, which is themed ‘David Attenborough: 100 Years on Planet Earth’! Call 01904 6088000 or email info@yorkmaze.com to get in touch. Visit www.yorkmaze.com to book your visit.

Events & ATTRACTIONS Events

27 JULY - 1 AUGUST & 3-8 AUGUST

TORNADO: THE STEAM SUPERSTAR IS BACK AT THE NYMR, North Yorkshire Moors Railway, YO18 7AJ. Various times. NYMR brings back one of Britain's most famous steam locomotives, the Tornado! Visit www.nymr.co.uk/ tickets-experiences/whats-on/ tornado-the-steam-superstar-isback/ to book.

30 JULY - 2 AUGUST

SEASIDE FUN & YORKSHIRE DAY

MARKET, Parliament Street, York, YO1 8SE. Celebrate Yorkshire Day in the heart of the city. Enjoy typical seaside fare, exciting activities, and support local makers. Visit www. visityork.org/events/yorkshire-daycelebrations-in-york for details.

30 JULY

DUO LÉGER IN CONCERT, Holy Trinity Goodramgate, YO1 7LF. International chamber music duo Duo Léger, composed of opera singer Shawn Mlynek and harpist Eleonora Congiu, make their UK debut in York at the invitation of the Churches Conservation Trust. Visit www.visitchurches.org.uk.

31 JULY - 3 AUGUST

FLOWER FESTIVAL, St. Oswald's Church, Flamborough, YO15 1PE. 10.30am-4.00pm. See beautiful flower displays, specially created with the theme ‘On This Day’ in mind. There will also be a children's craft table, quiz, raffle, tombola, second-hand books, and various stalls, plus hot and cold refreshments. Please call 07933149155 to find out more.

1 AUGUST

BRUNSWICK ORGANIC FOOD FESTIVAL, Brunswick Organic Nursery, YO23 2RF. Find organic vegetables, herbs and fruit from expert growers, plus gorgeous gifts, bakes, drinks and food tastings from a wide range of local businesses and stallholders. Enjoy workshops, demonstrations,

Itching for something to do? Read on…

Information is correct at the time of printing but subject to change. Check with venues ahead of your visit.

children's games and activities, as well as relaxing live music. Visit www.brunswickyork.org.uk or call 01904 701869 to find out more.

1 AUGUST

YORKSHIRE DAY AT CARLTON TOWERS, Carlton Towers, DN14 9LZ. 10.00am-6.00pm. Enjoy a fun Yorkshire Day out with the whole family. Experience good old-fashioned Yorkshire fun no matter your age, with activities including a dog show and market stalls. Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ yorkshire-day-at-carlton-towerstickets-1985815086380 for details.

1 AUGUST

YORKSHIRE DAY AT AMPLEFORTH ABBEY, Ampleforth Abbey, YO62 4EN. 10.00am5.00pm. Enjoy the special offers that await you at Ampleforth Abbey's Yorkshire-inspired menu to celebrate Yorkshire Day. Visit www. ampleforthabbey.org.uk/yorkshireday to book.

1 AUGUST

THE MUSIC OF ABBA AT YORK MINSTER, York Minster, YO1 7HH. 7.30pm-9.30pm. Enjoy live performances of all your favourite ABBA classics in the Minster, from 'Waterloo' to 'Dancing Queen'. Visit www.igniteconcertsyork.com/ events/the-greatest-shows-atyork-minster-2-211/ to book.

1 AUGUST

PAINT AND SIP - MARTINIS AND PERELLOS, Plonkers, YO1 9SW. 12.00pm-2.00pm. A fun, 2-hour art session led by experienced artists and assistants - create a masterpiece to take home to the family! Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/paint-and-sip-martinisand-perellos-plonkers-wine-bartickets-1990577176921 for tickets.

1 AUGUST

ART WORKSHOP FOR KIDS, Clements Hall, YO23 1BW. 3.30pm4.30pm. These fun and informal art workshops enable little ones

to explore their imaginations and creativity in the heart of York! Visit www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61570481781437 for details.

1 AUGUST

CANDELA FEST 2026: YORK LATINOS + CUMBIA COLLECTIVE, The Crescent, YO24 1AW. 7.30pm11.00pm. Candela Fest is returning with a night of live music bringing together sounds and genres from across Latin America. Visit www. thecrescentyork.com/events/ candela-fest-2026-york-latinoscumbia-collective for bookings.

1-16

AUGUST

YORK RIVER ART MARKET, Dame Judi Dench Walk, YO26. 10.00am-5.30pm. Browse and buy an extensive range of art across the first three weekends of August, with more than 30 different local artists displaying their work on each day. Follow York River Art Market on Instagram or Facebook.

2 AUGUST

YORK 10K, Knavesmire Road, YO23 1EX. 9:30am-12:00pm. Apply now for one of Yorkshire's most popular 10Ks and get the chance to raise money for charity, stay fit, and meet like-minded folk. Visit www.tickettailor.com/events/ stleonardshospice/1807531.

2 AUGUST

HEARTBEAT DAY, Murton Park, YO19 5UF. 10.00am-4.30pm. Step back in time and experience the sights, sounds, and popular music of the 1960s while experiencing a great day out with family and friends. A must-visit for Heartbeat fans! Visit www.murtonpark.co.uk/ events/heartbeat-day/ for details.

3 AUGUST

YORKSHIRE DAY RAFFLE DRAW, Wilberforce House, YO24 1AN. This special Yorkshire Day Raffle, in aid of Club Wilber, will be drawn on Monday, 3 August. Tickets are priced at £2, or £10 for a book! Tickets can be bought from the Wilberforce House reception, or by emailing enquiry@wilberforcetrust. org.uk. Call 01904 760037.

3 AUGUST

WILLOW WEAVING DRAGONFLY WORKSHOP, TeaHee, YO61 3AB. 7.00pm-9.00pm. Learn how to

weave your very own dragonfly with willow! All materials will be provided, and no previous experience is needed. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/willow-weaving-dragonflyworkshop-tickets-1988392881635.

3 AUGUST

THE GUT-BRAIN CONNECTION: NOURISH YOUR MIND, BODY & MICROBIOME, Temple Hall, YO31 7EX. 7.00pm-9.30pm. Fancy learning more about how the food you consume daily is affecting your physical and mental health? This talk explores the three-way communication between the gut, brain and immune system. Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ the-gut-brain-connection-nourishyour-mind-body-microbiometickets-1987917741478 for details.

3-5 AUGUST

STILLINGFLEET LODGE GARDEN WALK, Stillingfleet Lodge Garden & Nurseries, YO19 6HP. 2.00pm3.00pm. Get top tips on the best plants to grow for beautiful borders throughout the year, and learn how you can make your garden more wildlife-friendly! Visit www. stillingfleetlodgenurseries.co.uk/ event/garden-walk-in-august.

3, 10, 17 & 24 AUGUST

PURE LIFE DRAWING, Clements Hall, 6.30pm-8.30pm. A minimalist life drawing sanctuary in which visitors can find presence through Tingsha bells, breathing exercises, and charcoal. Materials provided. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/pure-life-drawingtickets-1988236096687 to book.

4 AUGUST

MARTIN LATHAM - THE BOOKSELLER’S TALE, Topping & Company, YO1 7DT. 7.30pm. Catch Martin Latham discussing his love affair with books, uncovering the curious history of book obsession, and exploring comfort reads. Visit www.toppingbooks.co.uk/events/ york/martin-latham-booksellerstale to book.

5 AUGUST

MAKING WAVES: THE MAGIC OF MATERIALS, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. 12.00pm-12.30pm. An insightful talk exploring the materials of Japanese printmaking, from traditional inks and woods for carving to the ‘water magic’ of washi. Visit www. yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/whatson/events/making-waves-themagic-of-materials-with-professorhelen-smith/ for details.

6 & 27 AUGUST

JORVIK IMMERSIVE THEATRE, Coffee Yard, York, YO1 8AR. 6:00pm & 7:30pm. Step back in time to Viking-occupied Eoforwic with an immersive mix of live combat, storytelling, music, and audienceinspired magic. Call 01904 615505 or email barleyhall@yorkat.co.uk.

7 AUGUST

SUMMER GARDEN LATES, Castle Howard, YO60 7DA. Last entry @ 7.00pm. See Es Devlin’s luminous revolving artwork, Library of the Four Winds, at dusk with late entry to the stunning gardens of Castle Howard. Visit www.castlehoward. co.uk/whats-on to book.

7 AUGUST

ALPACA MEADOW RELAX & RESET, Sheriff Alpacas, Goodness Farm, YO32 5TP. 9.00am-9.45am. Improve your breathwork, take part in Yoga, and get a massage whilst being surrounded by Alpacas grazing in the beautiful meadows! Visit wellbeingwithjaydene.setmore. com/classes/38975dd4-30c44198-898f-b969186ac604 to book.

8 AUGUST

LITERARY ESCAPE FESTIVAL

YORK, Priory Street Centre, YO1 6ET. 10.30am-3.00pm. Support independent booksellers, meet new indie authors and enter a community where writers, readers and makers celebrate the joy of books and the magic of storytelling. Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ literary-escape-festival-yorktickets-1978216933099 for details.

8 AUGUST

SUMMER SUPPER CLUB, Sketch Café, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. 6.30pm-9.00pm. Try incredible new foods and expand your taste

Events

& ATTRACTIONS

palate with a unique 4-course seasonal menu. Visit www. yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/whatson/events/summer-supper-club-3/.

8 AUGUST

RSPCA SUMMER FAIR, Homestead Park, YO30 6WP. 10.30am-3.00pm. The summer dog show provides a fun day out for the whole family, with food, prizes, games and a raffle. Visit www.rspca-yorkhome.org.uk/getinvolved/events/summer-fair-2026.

8 AUGUST

SCULPT AND SIP, Plonkers, YO1 9SW. 12.00pm-2.00pm. Perfect for those looking to expand their skill set, this 2-hour step-bystep session is led by artists and assistants. No prior experience needed. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/sculpt-and-sip-plonkerswine-bar-tickets-1990576925168.

8 AUGUST

THE MUSIC OF JAMES BOND, Central Hall, YO10 5DD. 7.30pm. An orchestral tribute to the music of the Bond movies, performed by world-class musicians and vocalists. No licence to kill required! Visit boxoffice.xperiencelive.co.uk/ events/xperiencelive/2098797.

8-9 AUGUST

THE FREI COMPAGNIE, Murton Park, YO19 5UF. 10.00am-4.30pm. Relive the 15th century with an exciting living history display and explorations of traditional crafts. Visit www.murtonpark.co.uk/ events/the-frei-compagnie.

8 & 29 AUGUST

FISHERGATE POSTERN

TOWER OPEN DAY, Fishergate Postern Tower, YO1 9AF. 10.00am4.00pm. Discover the hidden wonders of Fishergate Postern Tower, including its spiral staircase, model portcullis, garderobe, masons’ marks, roof beams and replica displays. Visit www.yorkwalls. org.uk/?p=8842 for details.

9 AUGUST

YORK CITY FC LEGENDS VS LEEDS UTD FC LEGENDS, Tadcaster Albion AFC, LS24 9AY. 12.30pm-6.00pm. See legends of

York City FC and Leeds United FC battle it out on the pitch, and raise money for a good cause. Visit www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/york-city-fclegends-vs-leeds-utd-fc-legendstickets-1989894939330 for details.

9 AUGUST

GUIDED BATTLEFIELD WALK OF TOWTON, Old London Road, LS24. 10.30am-2.00pm. Explore the Towton battlefield and view the key locations of the battle in this illuminating guided tour. Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ guided-battlefield-walk-of-towtontickets-1904550364409 to book.

11-16 AUGUST

FAULTY TOWERS - THE DINING EXPERIENCE, York Pavilion Hotel, YO10 4PJ. Various times. This immersive live comedy show has been wowing audiences since 1997 - catch Basil and Manuel in the flesh! Visit www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/faulty-towersthe-dining-experience-in-yorktickets-1991188170419 to book.

14 AUGUST

TAROT & COCKTAILS, The Hi Ho Club, YO1 8BH. 7.00pm-10.00pm. Settle down for tarot readings over a cocktail or two - you’ll need a secret password to gain entry! Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/ tarot-cocktails-at-the-hi-ho-clubtickets-1343701028949 to book.

15 AUGUST

POPPLETON VILLAGE SHOW, Upper Poppleton, 10.30am. Running since 1839, the show returns with a vintage car display, handicrafts, baking and floral art, music from the Shepherd Brass Band, and more! Visit www. poppletonvillageshow.uk.

15 AUGUST

WW2 COMBATATIVES BEGINNERS COURSE: LEARN TO FIGHT LIKE A COMMANDO, Poppleton Road Memorial Hall, YO26 4SE. 10.00am-5.00pm. This unique experience offers an intensive 1-day course exploring the brutal efficiency of the Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife. Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ww2combatives-beginners-courselearn-to-fight-like-a-commandotickets-1990077898566 to book.

15 AUGUST

FREE CLOTHES SWAP, New Earswick Folk Hall, YO32 4AQ. 10.00am-2.00pm. This free community clothes swap event enables locals to swap pre-loved clothing, shoes and accessories - any items in good

condition are accepted, aside from swimwear and underwear. Visit www.newearswickfolkhall. com/2026/04/24/free-communityclothes-swap-2026/ for details.

15 AUGUST

MINISTRY OF SOUND

CLASSICAL, Castle Howard, YO60 7DA. Ministry of Sound Classical heads to the stunning grounds of Castle Howard for a spectacular open-air concert featuring a live orchestra performing iconic dance anthems, with special guests Paul Oakenfold, Judge Jules, Ellie Sax & Danny Rampling. Visit www. castlehoward.co.uk to book tickets.

15-16 AUGUST

MURTON PARK HISTORY

FESTIVAL, Murton Park, YO19 5UF. 10.00am-4.00pm. A family-friendly history festival offering a range of activities from historical storytelling to creative workshops. Visit www. murtonpark.co.uk/events/historyfestival to book.

16 AUGUST

YORK CREED COMIC CON, York Railway Institute, YO24 1AD. 10.00am-4.00pm. This much-loved Comic Con offers an enormous range of geeky goodies to suit every taste, visiting actors and creators, and costumes galore! Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/yorkcreed-comic-con-august-2026tickets-1991070898656 for tickets.

16 AUGUST

NORTH YORKSHIRE GRAND

PRIX CYCLE RACE, Ampleforth Abbey, YO62 4EN. 9.00am-6.30pm. The North Yorkshire Grand Prix Cycle Race covers two circuits of the stunning Abbey grounds. A fun, competitive day for the whole family! Visit www.ampleforthabbey. org.uk/north-yorkshire-grand-prixcycle-race for details.

16 AUGUST

THAT! COLLECTOR SHOW

YORK, York St John University Sports Fields, YO31 8TA. 10.00am4.00pm. Browse, buy and trade a wide range of desired cards and collectables. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/that-collector-show-yorktickets-1990565457869 for tickets.

WHAT’S ON AT Gigs & Concerts

Gigs and concerts in York and the surrounding area.

1 AUGUST

Niklas Juritsch & Chuck Walton

FortyFive Vinyl Cafe

The Detours

Severus Social Club

Jukebox Jive

The Edinburgh Arms

Plug In Maybe

The Fulford Arms

2 AUGUST

Rootz & Bootz

The Edinburgh Arms

Memphis Cruisers

Severus Social Club

Surya + Crescent

Halo + Voidwalker +

Catastrophize

The Fulford Arms

5 AUGUST

Everette

FortyFive Vinyl Cafe

The Jazzville Duo

Museum Street Tavern

The Blues Collective

The Gillygate

6 AUGUST

Washington Whirligig

Dringhouses Sports Club

The Manhattan Sound Big Band

Huntington Working Men's Club

Josh Murray Thor's Tipi

Bad Saloon

Golden Ball

7 AUGUST

Karl Mullen

The Phoenix Inn

GhostUK

The Fulford Arms

8 AUGUST

Revelry

The Fulford Arms

Supercharged

The Edinburgh Arms

9 AUGUST

The Working Poor

The Fulford Arms

Glamrockz

The Edinburgh Arms

Black Ice

Severus Social Club

10 AUGUST

The Howl and The Hum Angel on the Green Champion Trees + Kasper Hauser The Fulford Arms

11 AUGUST

Macartney Reinhardt FortyFive Vinyl Cafe

12 AUGUST

Blake Henderson

FortyFive Vinyl Cafe

13 AUGUST

Steve Cassidy Band Dringhouses Sports Club

Holly & Brendan Thor's Tipi

Andy Gamov Quartet Eagle & Child

15 AUGUST

The Inspectors The Edinburgh Arms

16 AUGUST

The Big Finnish Thor's Tipi

Linda Smith + Troutflies The Crescent

Recall The Remains + Pryma The Fulford Arms

17 AUGUST

Lakelin Lemmings FortyFive Vinyl Cafe High Fade The Crescent

18 AUGUST

Tori Darke FortyFive Vinyl Cafe

20 AUGUST

Jess Gardham Thor's Tipi Solstice The Crescent

21 AUGUST

The Magic Numbers The Crescent

Papa Shango + Dead Drummer The Fulford Arms

22 AUGUST

Tenacious G The Fulford Arms

Flaming Pies

The Edinburgh Arms

Bite The Bullett

The Derwent Arms

23 AUGUST

The Y Street Band

Thor’s Tipi

Ezee Goin

Severus Social Club

25 AUGUST

Nicole Croteau FortyFive Vinyl Cafe

27 AUGUST

Josh Murray Thor's Tipi

This Is The Kit +

Seamus Fogarty

The Crescent

James Lancaster

Quartet

Eagle & Child

28 AUGUST

Dani Stacy FortyFive Vinyl Cafe

The Dalton Gang

The Hi Ho Club

29 AUGUST

James Lavelle The Crescent

The Black Charade The Fulford Arms

31 AUGUST

EarthBall The Crescent

York Cinemas

From 7 August: ICE CREAM MAN

This Eli Roth-directed slasher is set in an idyllic summer community that quickly descends into madness when a local ice cream vendor begins serving kids sweet treats, with horrifying results!

From 7 August: PAW PATROL: THE DINO MOVIE

When their ship gets caught in a treacherous storm, the PAW Patrol pups wash up on a tropical island populated by dinosaurs! While exploring their new surroundings, they befriend Rex, a baby dino who has been stranded on the island for years…

From 7 August: SUPER TROOPERS 3

When Farva’s wildly over-the-top engagement to Thorny’s sister spirals into chaos, the Super Troopers must band together to navigate the brother-in-law-tobe’s elaborate schemes to break up the relationship.

From 14 August: THE END OF OAK STREET

A mysterious cosmic event rips Oak Street from suburbia, transporting its residents to a new, unknown neighbourhood. The Platt family soon discover that their very survival depends on sticking together, as they navigate their now unrecognisable and unpredictable surroundings.

From 14 August: HOLY DAYS

Directed and written by Nat Boltt, this bittersweet comedy drama follows a chaotic journey across New Zealand, as three unconventional nuns and a young boy embark on a wild road trip to retrieve the deeds to their convent. When an unexpected snowstorm derails their travel plans, the journey takes a poignant turn.

From 14 August: MOMO & THE TIME THIEVES

Momo, a young orphan girl living in the ruins of an old Roman amphitheatre, loves spending her days with her neighbours and best friend, Gino. However, when the interference of a powerful international corporation suddenly disrupts her social life, Momo must embark on an extraordinary quest to fight the Time Thieves and take back what was stolen.

From 21 August:

MUTINY

1 AUGUST The Streets

2 AUGUST

Sex Pistols with Frank Carter

8 AUGUST

Scissor Sisters

14 AUGUST

Holly Johnson

22 AUGUST

Nile Rodgers & CHIC

From 14 August: THE POUT-POUT FISH

Based on the bestselling children's book series, this heartwarming tale follows Mr. Fish, a prickly recluse, and Pip, a hyperactive sea dragon, as they embark on a daunting undersea quest in search of a mythical, wish-granting fish. Can they save their beloved homes?

After being framed for the murder of his billionaire boss, Cole Reed (Jason Statham) finds himself trapped aboard a cargo ship. To clear his name and survive, he must battle a ruthless gang of thugs and uncover a massive international conspiracy.

From 21 August: INSIDIOUS: OUT OF THE FURTHER

This supernatural horror sequel follows Gemma, a young mother who discovers she has the unique ability to travel into a purgatorial realm of lost souls; When an evil force begins hunting her, she makes the shocking realisation that she can bring what lives there back into the real world…

21 AUGUST

YORK SUMMER CHEMISTRY

MIXER, Manahatta York, YO1 8AX. 8.00pm-10.00pm. Aimed at ages 40-55, this night is ideal for those looking to meet new people without the awkward speed dating, small talk and dating apps. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/york-summer-singleslock-and-key-party-ages-30-45tickets-1987656907316 for tickets.

21 AUGUST

DAY FEVER SILENT DISCO, Museum Gardens, YO1 7FR. 6.30pm10.00pm. Let your hair down and have a boogie in the Museum Gardens with the Day Fever crew. Visit www.universe.com/events/ day-fever-silent-disco-ticketsSRLGP7 for tickets.

26 AUGUST

SPICE: 30TH ANNIVERSARY PERFORMANCE, Micklegate Social, YO1 6JX. 7.30pm-10.00pm. Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Spice Girls’ smash-hit debut album in style. Spice up your life! Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/spice30th-anniversary-performancetickets-1989910174900 for tickets.

27 AUGUST

WINE TASTING CLUB, York Distillery, YO1 6DS. 7.00pm-9.00pm. A relaxed club offering the chance to sample new tipples and meet likeminded wine lovers. Visit www. yorkdistillery.co.uk/wine-tastingclub for details.

29 AUGUST

SHERBURN IN ELMET BEER FEST, Eversley Park Centre, LS25 6BA. 4.00pm-11.00pm. A beer-filled evening of brews, laughs, and 80s bangers, with music including punk, ska, and soul. Visit www.eventbrite. com/e/sherburn-in-elmet-beerfest-tickets-1985815994095.

29 AUGUST

THE ART OF KOKEDAMA, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. 11.00am12.00pm. Join Alice from The Outside In for a step-by-step guide to moss ball creation. Those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Visit www.yorkmuseumstrust. org.uk/whats-on/events/the-art-ofkokedama/ for details.

Events

29-30 AUGUST

& ATTRACTIONS

MAKING WAVES: A CLOSING CELEBRATION, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. 10.00am-5.00pm. See out the landmark local exhibition Making Waves in style, with food and refreshments included. Visit www.yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/ whats-on/events/making-waves-aclosing-celebration-2/ for details.

30 AUGUST

PEDAL IN THE PARK, The Little Yorkshire Coffee Co, YO23. 10.30am-12.00pm. The Pedal In The Park event taking place in York on the 30th of August offers a fun activity for all the family to get involved in. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/pedal-in-the-park-yorktickets-1990863199422 to book.

UNTIL 31 AUGUST

THE WATCHERS OF YORK SCULPTURE TRAIL, Various times and citywide locations. See York Minster’s iconic stone guardians making mischief across the city, in a citywide sculpture trail perfect for sparking imagination in visitors of all ages. Visit www.visityork.org/ events/the-watchers-of-yorksculpture-trail for details.

UNTIL 4 SEPTEMBER

SUMMER OF PLAY AT BENINGBROUGH, Beningbrough Hall, Gallery & Gardens, YO30 1DD. Various times. Enjoy a packed programme of family-friendly outdoor events and activities, including activity trails around the gardens, tansy beetle days, and much more! Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/ beningbrough/events.

UNTIL 27 SEPTEMBER

LIBRARY OF THE FOUR WINDS, Castle Howard, YO60 7DA. 10.00am-4.00pm. A new installation created by Es Devlin to mark the

National Year of Reading, inspired by Castle Howard’s visionary architect, Sir John Vanbrugh. Visit www.castlehoward.co.uk to book.

REGULAR EVENTS:

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

YORK RIVERS TRAIL, Various times and citywide locations. Follow the River Ouse and explore nature, exhibitions and special events across some of York’s best-loved green spaces, including Homestead Park, Rowntree Park and the Museum Gardens. Visit www.york. gov.uk/york-rivers-trail/york-riverstrail-1/2 to find out more.

OPEN EVERY DAY

YORK WITCHES & HISTORY WALKING TOUR, Meeting at Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate street sign, YO1 7LZ. 3.30pm & 5.30pm. Are you interested in York’s bewitching history? Attend a 70-minute tour around York explaining its wicked links with witchcraft! Visit www. witches-tour.com/york-witcheswalking-tour/ to book.

OPEN EVERY DAY

THE HOLE IN WAND, Coppergate Walk, YO1 9WY. In the heart of York, discover a magical family experience like no other. Calling all witches, wizards and mythical creatures… your quest awaits! Book now at www.theholeinwand.com/ york.

MONDAYS, THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS

SELF-GUIDED PRINTING HISTORY WALKING TOUR, Thin Ice Press: The York Centre for Print, YO1 7PW. 10.00am-5.00pm. Collect your illustrated map from Thin Ice Press, learn more about contemporary printmaking, and delve into York’s rich history of printing on this interesting self-guided city tour. Visit www. thinicepress.org to book.

MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS

DISTILLERY TOUR & GIN

TASTING, Hooting Owl Distillery & Lounge Bar, YO1 6HZ. Various times. Familiarise yourself with the Hooting Distillery, see the Master Distiller at work, and taste a tipple or two along the way. Visit www. hootingowl.co.uk/pages/yorkdistillery-lounge-bar for bookings.

MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS

NEW TREASURES GALLERY, The Bar Convent, YO24 1AQ. 10am-4pm. Following the discovery of a rare scroll in the Bar Convent’s archive,

the museum is sharing more of its hidden history. Go along to see their treasures with your own eyes, including an illuminated medieval scroll known as the Arma Christi, of which there are only ten other copies to be found anywhere in the world! Visit www.barconvent. co.uk to book your tickets today.

EVERY SATURDAY

DRAWING WORKSHOPS, Castle Howard, YO60 7DA. 12.00pm. Weekly 45-minute outdoor drawing workshops taking place at Es Devlin’s new installation, Library of the Four Winds. Materials provided. Visit www.castlehoward.co.uk.

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY

ARTFUL AT THE DODGER, The Artful Dodger, YO1 6LJ. 12.30pm4.00pm. This monthly informal art workshop session is free to attend, and materials are provided (donations are welcome). Drop in and out as you wish, whatever your experience level. Follow Navigators Art & Performance on Facebook for further details or to get in touch.

SUNDAYS & BANK HOLIDAY WEEKENDS

DVLR TRAIN RIDES, Murton Park, YO19 5UF. Various times. Ride a DVLR train at Murton Park, for just £1 per person or £5 per group of five people, with park admission. Visit www.murtonpark. co.uk/events/dvlr-train-rides/.

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY

NEW EARSWICK VILLAGE MARKET, New Earswick Bowls Club, YO32 9PX. 10.00am-2.00pm. Browse locally made artisan crafts across more than 30 stalls, with free parking on site and refreshments available. Search ‘New Earswick Village Market’ on Facebook for details.

EVERY FOURTH SUNDAY

CONNECT SERVICE, Holy Redeemer Acomb, YO26 6AB. 3.00pm-4.15pm. This inclusive group is aimed at supporting

children with additional needs. All families are welcome to mingle in this relaxed and friendly environment, learn about God, and enjoy a range of activities including crafts, songs, toys, and stories. The venue is wheelchair accessible, and Makaton signing is also included so that all can feel included!

EVERY MONDAY

PILATES AND YOGA

CLASS, Southlands Methodist Church, YO23 1NX. 7.45pm8.30pm. Focusing on precision, alignment, and correct movement, this class provides a safe and effective workout to build functional strength and mobility. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/pilates-and-yoga-classtickets-1979455609012 to book.

EVERY FIRST MONDAY

MENFULNESS KNIGHTS TALK GROUP, York Knights Shop/Office, YO32 9AF. This is a great way to vent your problems, no matter what you're going through, in a pressurefree environment. Pizza and light refreshments provided. Visit www. meetup.com/menfulness/ events/313155205/ for details.

EVERY FIRST MONDAY

BINGO NIGHT, Strensall Village Hall, YO32 5XW. Doors open at 7.00pm, eyes down at 7.30pm. Enjoy a competitive game of BINGO, with a top cash prize of £100 (which will increase to £150 if 100 players attend), and refreshments and raffle during the interval. Email strensallbowlschair@ gmail.com for further details.

MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS COME AND PLAY PÉTANQUE, Stockton Fox Pétanque Club, at the rear of Stockton-on-the-Forest Village Hall, YO32 9UR. 7.00pm.

& ATTRACTIONS Events

Get to grips with Pétanque (French Boules) at this friendly club, with equipment provided.

EVERY TUESDAY

LIFE DRAWING WITH RAE, Pica Studios, Y01 9TT. 6.30pm-8.30pm. A relaxed, friendly, supportive atmosphere to build confidence in drawing. All paper, easels and drawing materials are provided, plus complimentary teas and coffees at break time. Open to all skill levels! Visit www.artwithrae.com to book your spot today.

EVERY FIRST TUESDAY

COFFEE MORNING, Mossdale Residence Care Home, YO31 0AF. 10.00am-12.00pm. Open for all visitors to join, this friendly monthly coffee morning offers a welcoming space to meet, mingle, and have a chinwag over a cup of Joe. Call 01904 293061 or email pauline. hagan@hc-one.co.uk for details.

EVERY THIRD TUESDAY

EAST RIDING COMMUNITY

BEREAVEMENT CAFE, Hospitality Suite, East Riding Crematorium, YO25 3BL. 9.30am-11.30am. Hosted by qualified counsellor Sue Dixon of Evolve Talking Therapies, this café has been created to provide a calm and supportive environment where local people can meet others who understand the experience of grief. Entry is free, with no booking required. Call 07712 567659 or email evolvetth@gmail.com.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

TAP DANCING CLASS FOR CHILDREN - PRE-SCHOOL, Southlands Methodist Church, YO23 1NX. 10.00am-10.45am. These fun Rhythm Tap dancing classes offer little ones the chance to move to different styles of music, learn new dancing skills, and sing nursery rhymes. Visit www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/tap-dancingclass-for-children-pre-schooltickets-1235895329199 to book.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

QUINGO - QUIZ MEETS BINGO!, SPARK York, YO1 9PB. 7.00pm. Get ready to jump into a world of fun quizzes and interesting problems. Bring your friends - teams of up to 6 people are welcome! Visit www.sparkyork.org/

events/quingo/ for further details.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

YORK HACKSPACE OPEN EVENINGS, York Hackspace, YO31 7UU. 7.00pm-9.00pm. This weekly makerspace allows hackers to get together, share ideas, work on projects, chat and make things together. Under-18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Visit www.york.hackspace. org.uk/wiki/York_Hackspace.

MOST WEDNESDAYS & EVERY THURSDAY

MEDIUMSHIP & TAROT

SESSIONS, The York Group of Spiritualists, YO32 2PU. 7.00pm8.30pm. These regular sessions include soundbaths, shamanic drumming, and healing. Email Vince at sensingspirit@ymail.com.

WEDNESDAYS TO THURSDAYS

COUNTESS OF YORK, National Railway Museum, YO26 4XJ. Various times. Enjoy a delicious, traditional afternoon tea aboard the Countess of York, an iconic dining carriage set within the museum’s Station Hall. Visit www.opentable.co.uk/ countess-of-york-national-railwaymuseum to make a booking.

EVERY THIRD WEDNESDAY

YORK FLOWER CLUB, St Chad’s Church Hall, YO23 1PE. 1.00pm. Running every third Wednesday except in August, York Flower Club offers a variety of events for local flower lovers, from demonstrations and talks to quizzes and socials. This month’s club will feature a ‘Floral Wonderland’ demonstration from Rachel Kirkwood. Email Rita. nat.judge.speaker.judge@gmail. com to find out more.

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

ART OF MOTIONCLOCKWORK TOYS AND OTHER WONDERS, York Castle Museum, YO1 9RY. Various times. A fascinating display inspired by the history of automata, clockwork devices resembling lifelike forms, which peaked in popularity in the 18th century. Visit www.york castlemuseum.org.uk/exhibition/ art-of-motion-clockwork-toys-and -other-wonders for details.

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

CHOCOLATE MANUFACTORY

TASTING JOURNEY, York Cocoa Works, YO31 8AE. Various times. Explore the chocolate-making process and sample the finest treats produced in the heart of Chocolate City! Visit www. yorkcocoahouse.co.uk/pages/ workshop-calendar to see the full list of upcoming workshops.

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

EXHIBITION: THE SIXTIES, York Castle Museum, YO1 9RY. Various times. See fascinating objects that typify the social history, art, fashion, music, sport, and counterculture of the Swinging Sixties! Visit www. yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk/ exhibition/the-sixties.

UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER

RACE ACROSS THE WORLD: THE EXPERIENCE IN YORK, Various times, citywide locations. Inspired by the award-winning BBC TV show, this immersive live experience offers Yorkies the chance to embark on a thrilling, adventurous race across the city, solving riddles, challenges, and physical puzzles along the way! Visit www. raceacrosstheworldexperience. com/york to book or find out more.

UNTIL DECEMBER

SNICKELWAYS & SILLY STREET NAMES TRAIL, Various times and locations. A fun, self-guided, family-friendly walking adventure across the city. Download the map, get your boots on, and immerse yourself in York’s maze of magical snickelways and unique streets. Visit www.little-vikings. co.uk/events/snickelways-trailyork/ to download the map.

UNTIL 31 DECEMBER 2027

CRESSIDA COWELL’S HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON SCHOOL EXHIBITION, DIG St Saviour’s Church, YO1 8NN. 10.00am-4.00pm. Perfect for young dragon trainers in the making, this exciting interactive exhibition offers fun activities and hidden treasures inspired by Cressida Cowell’s beloved book series. Visit www.digyork.co.uk/ cressida-cowells-dragon-school.

Be the first to know about upcoming events! Scan the QR code to receive our events e-shot!

Theatre & SHOWS Theatre

GRAND OPERA HOUSE

To book, call 0333 009 6690 or visit atgtickets.com

28 JULY - 1 AUGUST

THE BALLAD OF JOHNNY AND JUNE

From the Tony and Olivier Awardwinning director of Jersey Boys, this must-see musical tells the story of June Carter and Johnny ‘The Man in Black’ Cash, from the perspective of their son, John Carter Cash.

30 AUGUST

THE ROCKET MAN - A TRIBUTE TO SIR ELTON JOHN

A tribute to the much-loved star offering an amazing night of dazzling costumes, stunning vocals and a journey through Elton's life and music.

23-28 NOVEMBER

PICK ME UP THEATRE PRESENTS: WE WILL ROCK YOU

This Pick Me Up Theatre production of Queen and Ben Elton’s smashhit musical features over 20 iconic hits from Freddie and the boys, including ‘We Are The Champions’, ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’, and ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’.

YORK THEATRE ROYAL

To book, call 01904 623568 or visit yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

10-14 AUGUST

PLAY IN A WEEK - GRIMM’S FAIRY TALES (5-7S)

Take a journey through your favourite fairy tales, from Snow White to Hansel and Gretel. Five days of adventure, entertainment and making new friends.

10 -14 AUGUST

PLAY IN A WEEK - THE TEMPEST (8-11S)

A fun-filled five days offering youngsters the chance to make new friends whilst exploring the magical world of William Shakespeare's The Tempest.

17 AUGUST

MAIN STAGE SUMMER 2026: 11-19S YOUTH THEATRE

A chance for young theatre enthusiasts to explore their acting

ability and perform on the main stage in a summer production of Wendy & Peter Pan.

24 AUGUST - 5 SEPTEMBER

MAIN STAGE SUMMER 2026: BACKSTAGE COURSE

A chance for young people aged 1219 to explore their acting interests through the production of Wendy & Peter Pan on the main stage of the Theatre Royal.

YORK BARBICAN

Head to yorkbarbican.co.uk or call 01904 676332 to book.

1 & 5 AUGUST

PAUL SMITH - HAPPY

The famed funnyman returns with his new tour - expect a night of hilarious comedy and outrageous audience interaction.

5 SEPTEMBER

BE LIKE BLIPPI TOUR

Join the beloved characters Blippi and Meekah live on stage in this educational, all-singing, all-dancing stage show for little ones. A oneof-a-kind interactive adventure that inspires kids to move, play, and explore - just like Blippi!

7 AUGUST

NEW YORK BRASS BAND & HYDE FAMILY JAM

Catch the homegrown New Orleans-inspired brass band bringing party energy and bassfilled vibes, with support from local heroes, Hyde Family Jam.

25 AUGUST

SPARKS

See the iconic pop duo in the flesh, who’ve inspired generations of musicians across multiple genres.

26 AUGUST

CBEEBIES HOUSE PARTY

Join CBeebies superstars for a day of sensational music, celebrating inclusivity and togetherness.

28 AUGUST

QUEEN OF THE NIGHTA TRIBUTE TO WHITNEY

HOUSTON

This tribute to Whitney Houston honours the music, legacy,

unmatched talent, and timeless songs of ‘The Voice’.

29 AUGUST

AARDMAN IN CONCERT

Celebrate 50 years of Aardman Studios with special screenings and orchestral accompaniment, featuring all of your favourite characters from Wallace & Gromit and Morph to Shaun the Sheep.

31 AUGUST

THE DEAD SOUTH

Catch the acclaimed Canadian folkbluegrass outfit performing a range of wild and entertaining music in the heart of town.

3-31 OCTOBER

THE NUTCRACKER

Settle down for an evening of world-class entertainment from the Imperial Classical Ballet team, performing the Christmas favourite The Nutcracker to a large live orchestra.

JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE

To book, email boxoffice@ jrtheatre.co.uk or 01904 501935

31 JULY

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

The Four Forty Theatre team take their hand to A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Expect breakneck character changes, inventive staging, and an imaginative take on one of The Bard’s best!

1 AUGUST

WRONG JOVI

Widely considered one of the world’s leading Bon Jovi tribute acts. Don’t be living on a prayerget your tickets now!

7-8 AUGUST

RAISE YOUR VOICE: MTI BROADWAY JUNIOR REVUE

Get ready for a high-energy celebration packed with heartfelt moments, and support the next generation of talented performers.

9 AUGUST

UK ULTIMATE PHYSIQUES NORTHERN CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026

A chance for bodybuilders to come

Information is correct at the time of printing but subject to change. Check with venues ahead of your visit.

and show off their impressive physiques. A family-friendly show for bodybuilding enthusiasts!

15 AUGUST

MIRROR, MIRROR

A villainous, Snow White-inspired story that’s bound to keep the whole tribe on the edge of their seats.

22 AUGUST

21ST CENTURY ABBA

An amazing tribute to honour the legacy of ABBA and reflect on their impact on music. A memorable night for all the dancing queens!

23 AUGUST

MEAT LOUD

A powerful live tribute to the legendary Meat Loaf, founded by classically trained vocalist Andy Plimmer.

FRIARGATE THEATRE

To book your tickets visit, www.ridinglights.org/whatson

1-5 SEPTEMBER

THE SELFISH GIANT

Step into the Giant’s magical garden! Featuring storytelling, interactive games, music and puppetry, The Selfish Giant is an inspirational tale of love and generosity, perfect for those aged 3+ and their families.

SCARBOROUGH SPA

To Book your tickets visit www.scarboroughspa.co.uk

29 JULY - 26 AUGUST

THE MAGIC MIKE SUMMER SHOW

Packed with ventriloquism, dazzling illusions and laugh-outloud comedy, this enchanting family stage show is a top ticket in Scarborough this summer!

2-5, 9-12, 16-19, 23-26 & 30

AUGUST - 2 SEPTEMBER

SCARBOROUGH SPA ORCHESTRA

Hear 35 musicians give incredible daily concerts, and enjoy worldclass music from the sandy beaches of Scarborough.

Markets, Car Boot Sales

2 AUGUST

SKIPTON ARTISAN MARKET

Coach Street, BD23 1LH. 10.00am-4.00pm.

2 AUGUST

REAL MARKETS - ILKLEY

Ilkley, LS29 9EE. 10.00am-3.00pm.

2 AUGUST

HARROGATE VALLEY

GARDENS ARTISAN MARKET

Valley Gardens, HG1 2SZ. 10.00am-3.00pm.

6, 13, 20 & 27 AUGUST

STORE & BREEDING STOCK MARKET

York Auction Centre, YO19 5GF. 11.00am.

8 AUGUST

EASINGWOLD ARTISAN MARKET

Easingwold Market Square, YO61 3AN. 9.00am-2.00pm.

8 AUGUST

ACOMB FLOURISH & FEAST MARKET

Front Street, YO24 3BZ. 10.00am-4.00pm.

8 AUGUST

THE ARTISAN STREET FAYRE @ JUNCTION 32 OUTLET

Castleford, WF10 4FR. 10.00am-5.00pm.

Lifestyle & COUNTY SHOWS

9 AUGUST WETHERBY ARTISAN MARKET

Market Place, LS22 6NE. 10.00am-3.00pm.

13 AUGUST

HARROGATE FARMERS MARKET - REAL MARKETS

Cambridge Street, HG1 1RW. 10.00am-4.00pm.

15 AUGUST ACOMB ARTISAN MARKET

Front Street, YO24 3BZ. 10.00am-3.00pm.

16 AUGUST

THIRSK ARTISAN MARKET

Market Place, YO7 1HQ. 10.00am-3.00pm.

22 AUGUST

MALTON MONTHLY ARTISAN MARKET

Market Place, YO17 7LX. 10.00am-3.00pm.

23 AUGUST

BISHY ROAD BAZAAR

Bishopthorpe Road Car Park, YO23 1NA. 11.00am-3.00pm.

23 AUGUST

RIPON ARTISAN MARKET

Market Place, HG4 1BP. 10.00am-3.00pm.

30-31 AUGUST

OUTDOOR FARMERS & MAKERS MARKET

Driffield Showground, YO25 9DN. 10.00am-3.00pm.

Regular markets & car boot sales:

MONDAYS TO SUNDAYS

YORK SHAMBLES MARKET

Silver Street, YO1 8RY. 9.00am-5.00pm.

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY THE DERWENT ARMS CAR BOOT

Osbaldwick Village, YO10 3NP. 9.00am-12.00pm.

EVERY SUNDAY

RUFFORTH CAR BOOT

Wetherby Road, YO23 3QH. 8.00am-1.00pm.

EVERY TUESDAY

POCKLINGTON MARKET

Market Place, YO42 2AL. 9.00am-4.00pm.

EVERY THIRD

WEDNESDAY

EASINGWOLD FARMERS MARKET

Market Place, YO61 3AA.

THURSDAYS AND SATURDAYS

RIPON MARKET

8am-3pm/8.30am-12pm.

EVERY FRIDAY

HELMSLEY MARKET

Market Place, YO62 5BL. 8.30am-4.00pm.

EVERY SATURDAY

YORK RACECOURSE CAR BOOT SALE

York Racecourse, YO23 1EX. 7.00am-1.00pm.

Race Meetings

28 JULY

RYEDALE SHOW

Duncombe Park, YO62 5EB. 9.00am-5.00pm.

1 AUGUST

OSMOTHERLY SHOW

Home Farm, DL6 3PY. 10.00am-10.00pm.

1 AUGUST

EMLEY SHOW

Emley Moor, HD8 9TE. Gates open at 9.00am.

4 AUGUST

EGTON BRIDGE OLD GOOSEBERRY SHOW

Egton Manor, YO21 1UY. From 2.00pm.

5 AUGUST

THORNTON-LE-DALE SHOW

The Showfield, YO18 7SA. From 9.00am.

7 AUGUST HINDERWELL SHOW

The Show Ground, TS13 5HR. 9.00am.

12 AUGUST

THE 164TH DANBY AGRICULTURAL SHOW

Near The Vicarage, YO21 2NQ. 9.00am.

15 AUGUST ROSEDALE SHOW

Milburn Arms Field, YO18 8RA. 9.00am.

15 AUGUST

POPPLETON VILLAGE SHOW

Upper Poppleton. From 10.30am.

26 AUGUST

EGTON SHOW

Egton Showfield, YO21 1TZ. 9.00am.

29 AUGUST

114TH BILSDALE AGRICULTURAL SHOW Thornhill Farm, TS9 7JS. 10.30am-5.00pm.

30 AUGUST

RASKELF PRODUCE SHOW

Raskelf Village Hall, YO61 3SD. 1.00pm-3.00pm.

31 AUGUST FARNDALE SHOW

The Show Field, YO62 7LE. 8.00am.

1 SEPTEMBER KILNSEY SHOW

Kilnsey Showground, BD23 5PS. 8.00am.

REVIEW:

Panda Mami

Originally founded in Chester in 2016, the acclaimed buffet chain Panda Mami first opened its York restaurant in 2018, offering a huge array of more than 160 delicious dishes, as well as an exciting live cooking station.

This month, my family and I were lucky enough to pay the York branch of Panda Mami a visit for a meal together, and we all found it a wonderful experience. When we arrived, the staff greeted us with friendly smiles and quickly showed us to our table. The restaurant has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, and although it was busy, it never felt too overcrowded or uncomfortable. Sitting around us, we noticed many families and groups enjoying themselves, which made the restaurant feel lively and inviting - seeing packed tables of happy diners is always a good sign!

St Sampson’s Centre

memorable.

For my money, one of the best things about Panda Mami is the huge variety of food available. The huge buffet includes Chinese, Indian, Italian, Thai, Japanese, and British dishes, so there truly is something here to suit every taste. My family really enjoyed trying different meals, instead of being limited to just one type of cuisine. The food was fresh, hot, and regularly replenished, so there were always plenty of options to choose from. Even the pickiest eaters in our family found several dishes they loved.

Throughout our visit, the restaurant remained clean and well organised. Staff regularly cleared away empty plates and were polite, attentive, and happy to help. Despite the number of customers, the service was efficient, and we never had to wait long for anything!

Authentic Lebanese cuisine

The dessert section was another highlight of our visit. Our eyes were on stalks when we saw the excellent selection of cakes, pastries, ice cream, fresh fruit, and even a chocolate fountain (as you can imagine, this was especially

Overall, our visit to Panda Mami in York was an enjoyable family outing. The combination of delicious food, excellent variety, friendly staff, and a relaxed atmosphere made it a great dining experience. We felt the meal was great value for money, and we would happily return in the future. I would definitely recommend Panda Mami to anyone looking for a fun and satisfying family meal in York.

Panda Mami is located at 19 Bridge St, York, YO1 6DA. Call 01904 633800 or email manager.york@ pandamami-restaurant.com to get in touch with the team. Visit www. pandamami-restaurant.com/york to find out more, browse the menu, or book your table today.

Lifestyle

& CULTURE

SHORT STORY

The Long Wait

OF THE MONTH

The Shambles

When I was a child, I couldn’t tell the difference between the mock-up streets in the museum and this one which was real so you could buy things in the little shops and perch on the ledges where once butchers displayed their meat.

That’s where it got its name, Fleshammels, now The Shambles, meaning butchers row.

I looked at the gutters and imagined blood running downhill to St Crux, then up where people emptied buckets into the street.

Carole Bromley

When we walked past the gift shops to the house where Margaret Clitheroe lived I could see her being dragged away to be executed for harbouring priests leaving her daughter her one pair of shoes.

It’s harder now to find that silence you need for the past to come whistling in, making you shiver. When it’s dark, though, I see her daughter putting them on, striding down the cobbles past the queues.

Taken from the pamphlet collection, Ghosts and Ginnels.

Midsummer Madness

Barbecuing sausage in a howling gale, Swatting wasps from around your ale - dodging the rainMidsummer madness.

Disco music from passing cars, Students laughing from pavement bars - spending their loansMidsummer rashness.

Men in baseball hats and stripey shirts, Girls in see-through tops and skimpy skirts - showing their waresMidsummer brashness.

Cricketers in white across a park, Packs of cyclists out with the lark - bottoms akimboMidsummer fitness.

Strawberries in punnets, tennis on tele, Dad in a deck chair showing his belly - heat for a day?

Midsummer Gladness.

Pauline Kirk

A Farewell to York

A city island where the stone wrought walls keep strong and safe the difference that is York: the crowded houses, churches, gates and halls the buskers, markets, tourists and ghost walk.

Above the ancient tangle of the street the watching Minster’s bells peal out the hour.

The mighty Ouse and languid Foss still meet below the daffodils of Clifford’s Tower.

All this will stay: as quiet and still as stone awaiting my return in future years, but there’s a special York which, once I’m gone, will, like memory or smoke, just slip away. Fears hopes and struggles pass: the people that I know in time will leave. Today’s my turn to go.

Neil Davidson

The World Cup final took place on Sunday, July 19th at MetLife Stadium in New York, and many games in the tournament were screened in the middle of the night for viewers in England and York.

Robin Lewis-Light lives in York, and loves to write.

It was a cold, wet day, and it had turned into a cold, wet evening. His mother and father had been up all day. It seemed as if they had been up for years now. They had not heard from him in months, and the news about him had been scarce at best from his friends and all those who knew him. Now was the night they were going to be able to ‘see’ him, at least. The wait to get here had been excruciating. They did not know when he was going to be able to speak to them, but from today, they could start to make plans. They could start to understand what was going to happen next.

They had been sitting by the phone. It had not rung, but that was to be expected. His mother said that she could not listen any more, that it was too much for her. His father nodded in agreement, but knew that they both had to know, that this was the defining moment of possibly all their lives. Their son was the love of their life. What he was doing was what he loved, and for that, they wished him all the best. The question was, were the people around him good enough? Was he good enough? They would love him whatever happened, but she knew that he

would return a changed man. Would he have time to see them again? Would their son be allowed to be part of their life? Would their son want to be part of their life, after leaving them and heading so far away and doing so much? His father touched his mother’s hand and then moved it to the television, turning it on. The sound now filled the room, it filled the house. The next hour and a half took too long. It was a slow, terrible time, frustrating and difficult, and there was nothing either his mother or his father could do about it.

“Well?” said his mother. His father shook his head.

“Nothing yet,” he said. “But there is not much time to go, until…” Then, the television commentator said something, and his voice grew in volume, until it became almost a shout. Outside in the street, there was a huge roar that matched it.

“Is it?” said his mother.

“It’s him!” shouted his father. “He’s scored in the 91st minute! He’s won us the World Cup!”

“That’s our son!” said his mother, as the tears started, but they were tears of joy.

York Maze

York Maze is back for 2026, and what a fantastic day out it is! With so much to see and do, here's a glimpse of everything we got up to during our visit…

From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed by the friendly team, who handed us our maps, explained what was on throughout the day, and pointed us in the right direction. Walking past the Terrace Café, Bar & Coffee, Fodder Barn & Donuts and Sweet Kiosk, we made a mental note to come back later for a bite to eat before heading off to discover the attractions.

It didn't take long to see just how much fun everyone was having. Families were enjoying favourites including the inflatable Cobstacle Course, Corn Snake Tower Slides, Volcorno, and the popular Popcorn Pillow. We headed over to Corn on the Quad and Cornula 1, where there was plenty of friendly competition as visitors raced family and friends. There was still so much more to explore too, including the Crowmania Ride, Crowler Bowler, Cornwall and many more attractions.

We then took on the world-famous Giant Maze. We navigated our way through and climbed the viewing platforms for a fantastic elevated look across the maze. This year, the theme is ‘David Attenborough: 100 Years on Planet Earth’ – if you’re

thinking of taking on the maze for yourself, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the hidden wild animals along the way!

The sunshine made it the perfect day to explore and, after finding our way out of the Maze, we wandered over to the Cornpendium of Mazes to look back at the incredible maze designs from previous years.

Don't be fooled into thinking there's only one maze! Alongside the Giant Maze, we also tackled the Maze of Illusions, Jurassic Maize, the Mineshaft Maze and, finally, the Musical Maze. Each one offered something completely different.

One of the highlights of our visit was the beautiful Wildflower and Sunflower Corner. Filled with colourful blooms and peaceful pathways, it was the perfect place to slow down for a few minutes, and was definitely our favourite spot of the day.

After all that exploring, we were ready for a well-earned break. We stopped at the Terrace Café for food and drinks, before relaxing in the shade. Feeling refreshed, we made our way to the House of Cornfusion, a brilliant walkthrough attraction packed with mind-bending illusions. From the mirror maze and shrinking rooms to spinning tunnels and tilted spaces, it's definitely not to be missed. Our final adventure took us to Pharaoh's Corn Quest, where we stepped back into ancient Egypt to hunt for the Golden Corn Cobs and restore the magic to the harvest.

With dozens of exciting attractions, marvellous mazes, and an array of delicious food, York Maze is far more than just a maze. Don’t forget to visit The Ivy Store on your way out to find some unique gifts!

Follow @yorkmaze on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook to find out more, or visit www.yorkmaze.com to book your tickets!

YORK COMEDY FESTIVAL @ the Museum Gardens

Last month, the Museum Gardens was transformed into a hotbed of live music and world-class comedy, when Futuresound Group treated us to a fun-filled weekend including Live in York Museum Gardens and the 2026 York Comedy Festival.

After three nights of music, where featured big-name acts included Self Esteem, Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark, Super Furry Animals, and Baxter Dury, there seemed no better way to wind down the weekend than settling down in the Gardens for a chuckle, courtesy of some of the finest stand-up comedians the UK has to offer.

Everyone needs a little laughter in their lives, and for this year’s festival, we were fortunate enough to wrangle premium tickets, which offered easy access to the site and seats close enough to the comedians to be targeted as the butt of a joke or two! I felt particularly sorry for Barry, who seemed to be the main victim - he was a good sport with the requests thrown at him throughout the night, so well done Barry!

It was roasting hot in the sunshine, and we enjoyed a full afternoon of amazing comedians, including the likes of Suzi Ruffell, Joanne McNally, Barry from Watford, Russ Noble, and Russell Howard, to name a few. I have never laughed so much, and after a while, I didn’t think I had any laughter left in me - but it kept coming! The howling eruptions of laughter from the York crowd were truly a sight to behold.

The day could not have been compered by a better host, MC Jarred Christmas, who kept the crowd roaring with his quickwitted jokes; with a name like that, you can only imagine the

self-deprecating gags he levelled against himself, giving our Barry a much-needed break from all that good-natured abuse.

I particularly enjoyed the female comics, and found many of their wisecracks painfully relatable, especially those poking fun at what women have to put up with in their daily lives - Suzi Ruffell’s embarrassing memories of ‘women trouble’-related visits to the doctor, discussing dating preferences with her dad, and living with neurodiversity really hit home for me. Irish upstart Joanne McNally was another highlight, presenting a barrage of jokes about her dating experiences as a single 40-yearold with no kids. I would say more, but most of her material was too explicit for these pages!

Russell Kane’s characteristically bouncy energy, which saw him bounding around the stage, seemed to resonate most with Generation Z audience members, while the famous headliner, Russell Howard, brought the evening to a close - as a top-tier comic at the top of his game, it was a pleasure to see him perform in the flesh. Hats off to Futuresound Group - we can’t wait until next year’s festival! Visit www.futuresoundgroup.com to stay up to date with the latest announcements, news and events from Futuresound Group. They stage regular live events in York, Leeds and beyond!

Lifestyle

Renowned artist brings Vanbrughinspired installation to Castle Howard

A landmark installation from acclaimed multimedia artist Es Devlin is now open to visitors! Created to mark the National Year of Reading and celebrate the tercentenary year of Sir John Vanbrugh, the visionary architect behind Castle Howard, one of the best-loved country houses in North Yorkshire and the most famous in Britain, Library of the Four Winds is a luminous sculpture artwork currently available to view and explore in and around the iconic venue’s famous Temple of the Four Winds.

Award-winning artist Es Devlin, whose renowned works in set and stage design include the 2022 Super Bowl Halftime Show, Adele’s Griffith Observatory performance, and West End productions of Chimerica, The Lehman Trilogy, and

Hamlet, said: “It’s a very special privilege to be invited to make a new work within Vanbrugh’s exquisite Temple of the Four Winds at Castle Howard. The Library of the Four Winds is a luminous oval revolving bookshelf - reflected to double height through a mirrored base.

It draws on Vanbrugh’s dedication to literature, architecture and political activism within his final architectural masterpiece.”

Library of the Four Winds will be available to visit until 27th September, and accessible on 7 August and 4 September as part of the Friday Lates programme. There will also be Drawing Workshops running every Saturday until 26 September. Visit www.castlehoward.co.uk to find out more and book your tickets.

Volunteer celebrates

A long-serving volunteer member of York Hospital Radio, a registered charity and radio station which broadcasts around the clock, seven days a week, recently celebrated his 50th anniversary with the organisation.

Philip Bewers, from Acomb, has presented thousands of shows at the station since joining in 1976, and was instrumental in helping it obtain its licence to broadcast on DAB radio. As a lifelong football fan, he looks back with particular pride on commentating on York City at Wembley on two occasions. Speaking on his five-decade stint with the station, he said: “Fifty years with York Hospital Radio has been a real privilege, giving me countless memories, including many years in sports broadcasting.

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David Hockney 1937-2026

The Golden Boy of God’s Own County

The recent news of famed artist David Hockney’s passing has been met with sadness in his native Yorkshire, with shockwaves resonating amongst artists and creatives across the county and beyond.

The Bradford-born artist, one of the most recognisable pop art pioneers, is best known for vibrant, colour-laden works including A Bigger Splash, the refined portraiture of My Parents and Christopher Isherwood and Don Bachardy, and various, vibrantly realised depictions of local Yorkshire landscapes, including Garrowby Hill and The Road to York Through Sledmere.

It's about connection, community and making someone's day a little brighter. I'm proud to have been a part of that for half a century.”

Over the years, Philip has worked as a Public Relations Officer, Treasurer, Chairman, and Secretary, and is currently a trustee. York Hospital Radio Chair Ian Clennan added: “Congratulations to Philip on 50 amazing years! We can’t imagine the station without him – he has played an absolutely vital role in keeping us afloat financially over many years, and his contribution to running the organisation, and to broadcasting for us, has been immense.”

Search for ‘Yorkhospradio’ on DAB or visit www.yorkhospitalradio. com to listen to York Hospital Radio.

figures ranging from Grayson Perry and Tate Britain Director Alex Farquharson to Sir Kier Starmer and King Charles.

Hockney’s enduring legacy is evident in the work of countless international artists, from the famed YBA disruptor Dame Tracey Emin and Nigerian-American artist Dawn Okoro, to the Spanish post-pop art explorer Coco Dávez, and British sculptor Schoony. In the wake of his death, we’ve seen an outpouring of tributes from

Hockney’s overarching influence on artists and creatives across the world is evident, even in the Your Local Link office! Our longstanding Designer, Scott Turner, said: “I had the privilege of hearing David Hockney speak many years ago. It was a talk I will never forget, and I left feeling truly inspired for my own creative journey ahead. His creativity, curiosity and passion for art were infectious. He wasn't just one of our country's greatest artists - he encouraged people to see the world differently. He leaves behind an incredible artistic legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.”

Visit www.hockney.com/home to find out more about David Hockney, see his work, find resources, and stay up to date with the latest exhibition announcements.

York Minster bellringers scoop NATIONAL AWARD

York Minster’s bellringers emerged victorious from the National 12-Bell Striking Contest Final this summer, ‘ringing in’ the remarkable centenary of the building’s famous twelve bells with a bang!

The Minster bellringers were one of nine finalist teams taking part in the competition, with each set of ringers being allocated a 30-minute slot to perform a practice piece and a test piece, the latter being in the Stedman Clinques method, which is widely regarded as one of the trickiest and most demanding forms of change ringing.

This year’s final saw the introduction of the first-ever allfemale judging panel, and marked the contest’s first return to York

since 1999, when local ringers last secured victory on home soil. Our homegrown ringers beat bands from Bristol and Birmingham, the most successful in the competition’s history, to pip the top spot!

Band Leader, Ed Mack, said: “I am incredibly proud of the York team. Success in this contest comes from dedication, hard work and teamwork over many months. To win on our own bells during their centenary year, in front of so many friends from across the ringing community, makes the achievement even more special.” Visit www.yorkminster.org/latest/ bells-ringing-results to find out more.

Lifestyle

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York’s Little Admiral returns to public display

The St Martin public clock, located on Coney Street, has long served as a meeting point for Yorkies, but many locals may not be aware of its unique history. Dating back to at least 1668 in its original form, the clock was replaced in 1856, but since 1778, its most unique and beloved feature has been the famed Little Admiral, a carved wooden naval officer figure that’s been overseeing the passing of time for centuries. Sitting atop the clock drum, and originally rotating to follow the movement of the sun, the Little Admiral has mysterious origins - it’s unknown where the figure was carved, and which, if any, real-life naval officer it’s meant to portray. However, after a period of absence, the Little Admiral has been painstakingly restored by York Archaeology experts, and is now on public display once again!

While the Little Admiral’s fall from grace was initially thought to be due to infiltration by the dreaded deathwatch beetle, upon closer inspection, Morgan Creed, Senior Conservator at York Archaeology, put its deterioration down to good-old fashioned Yorkshire weather: “Whilst it was encouraging to see that the ironwork was still in good condition, the wood itself had been somewhat battered by the elements, with deep cracks appearing. Protective paintwork had failed, allowing fungi to penetrate and start breaking down the wood from within.”

The restored Little Admiral is now publicly displayed inside St Martin-le-Grand church. Will you be paying the little fella a visit?

Visit www.yorkarchaeology.co.uk to find out more and stay up to date with the latest news from York Archaeology.

York Georgian Festival 2026: What’s

STEP BACK IN TIME TO 18TH-CENTURY YORK

This month, the fourth annual York Georgian Festival, hosted by York Mansion House, will transport us to the 18th century, with a varied programme of events. Participating venues include some of the city’s most iconic Georgian-era buildings, including the 18thcentury high-society haunt the Assembly Rooms, which will host the standout event of the season, the York Georgian Masquerade Ball.

6 AUGUST

GEORGIAN DANCING FOR LITTLE LORDS AND LADIES, Mansion House. 10.30am.

CURATOR TOUR: FASHION IN FOCUS, Fairfax House. 11.00am.

DRESSING A GEORGIAN LADY WORKSHOP, Mansion House. 2.30pm.

TERRY DEARY PRESENTS: MURDER IN THE GEORGIAN THEATRE, Mansion House. 5.30pm.

6-9 AUGUST

GEORGIAN LEMON CREAM COOKING DEMO, Mansion House. 11.30am.

6, 7, 8 & 10 AUGUST

SELF-LED GEORGIAN FESTIVAL TOUR, Bar Convent. 10.00am-5.00pm.

7 AUGUST

THE RIVERS AND US: EXPLORING NEW WALK AND YORK’S RIVERS, Millennium Bridge, 10.30am.

GEORGIAN DANCE LESSON, The Guildhall. 11.00am.

MIDDAY MASS, Georgian Chapel, Bar Convent. 12.00pm.

AWAKENING THE PAST, Fairfax House. 12.00pm.

MINIATURE GEORGIAN HOUSE PAPERCRAFT WORKSHOP BY VISCOUNT FOLLY, The Guildhall. 2.00pm.

GEORGIAN FAN LANGUAGE WORKSHOP, Mansion House. 2.30pm.

GUIDED GEORGIAN FESTIVAL TOUR, Bar Convent. 2.30pm.

CURATOR’S TALK: GEORGIAN DRESS AND TEXTILES, York Castle Museum. 3.00pm.

CONVICT WOMEN IN YORK AND BEYOND, Barley Hall. 6.30pm.

GEORGIAN CHEESE AND WINE EVENING, Mansion House. 7.00pm.

8 AUGUST

AWAKENING THE PAST, Fairfax House. 10.00am5.00pm.

A PROMENADE THROUGH THE CITY OF YORK, led by His Majesty’s 33rd regiment of foot, Starting at Clifford’s Tower. 11.00am.

GALLIARD DANCERS PERFORMANCE, St Helen’s Square. 11.30am, 1.30pm, 3.00pm.

GEORGIAN LEMON CREAM COOKING DEMO, Mansion House. 11.30am.

YORK GEORGIAN MASQUERADE BALL, The Grand Assembly Rooms. 7.00pm.

8-9 AUGUST

DRILLS AND DISPLAYS BY HIS MAJESTY’S 33RD REGIMENT OF FOOT, St Helen’s Square. 12.15pm & 3.45pm.

8-9 AUGUST

GALLIARD DANCERS PERFORMANCE, St Helen’s Square. 11.30am, 1.30pm, 3.00pm.

LIFE AS A GEORGIAN INFANTRYMAN FROM HIS MAJESTY’S 33RD REGIMENT OF FOOT, Mansion House. 2.30pm.

9 AUGUST

AWAKENING THE PAST, Fairfax House. 10.00am4.00pm.

NO PRIEST BUT LOVE: AN AFTERNOON EXPLORING ANNE LISTER’S LOVES, Holy Trinity Goodramgate & Merchant Taylors’ Hall. 2pm.

GEORGIAN LOVE LETTER WORKSHOP, Fabrication York. 2.00pm.

10 AUGUST

BLACKMAIL AND SCANDAL AT THE HEART OF THE COURT, Mansion House. 11.00am.

SHOES AND THE GEORGIAN MAN, Mansion House. 1.30pm.

SANCHO AND STERNE: A MEETING OF MINDS IN GEORGIAN BRITAIN, Mansion House. 3.30pm.

THE UNNATURAL TRADE, Mansion House. 5.30pm.

Lifestyle

INTERVIEWS

AN INTERVIEW WITH TERRY DEARY

“The most important day in history is tomorrow”

Ahead of his York Georgian Festival appearance this month, we touched base with the acclaimed Horrible Histories author to talk murder, warfare, and life in the Georgian era…

Hello Terry. What would life have been like for the average, workingclass Yorkie during the Georgian era?

Life for the majority - the underclasses - would be solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short. The writer Defoe said there were seven classes of people in Britain, from Class 7, The Miserable, ‘who really suffer want’; in 1757, they included a mother and two children in Cumberland who had no bread and tried to survive on horse bran. They were all found dead one morning, and the children had straw in their mouths. The list went up to Class 1, The Great, ‘who live profusely’; people like the Earl of Cork, who whinged: 'At election time I have to open my doors to every dirty fellow in the county who has a vote. All my best floors are spoiled by the hobnailed boots of the farmers stamping about them. Every room is a pigsty and the Chinese wallpaper in the drawing room stinks so terrible of tobacco that it would knock you down to walk into it.’

hope to entertain readers, and not just challenge their thinking.

Your new novel, Actually, I’m A Corpse, reprises key characters from Actually, I’m A Murderer. Did the process of writing for characterisation differ the second time round, and did you see any characters in a new light?

The characters are all real people in my mind. I know who they are, but in Actually, I'm A Corpse, I wanted to explore how they got there. How did Mr Brown become an assassin? It's their backstories I have expanded on. Even though I thought I knew them, they still surprise me when they reveal their past lives, relationships and motivations.

What can ticketholders expect from Murder in the Georgian Theatre, and Terry, if you were forced to ‘knock off’ any historical figure, who would it be?

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Skylights

York indie rockers Skylights reflect on chart success, the city's music scene, and their next move.

First founded in 2008, local indie rockers Sylights have been at the forefront of our city’s music scene for nearly two decades. This summer, their barnstorming single, ‘Fever’ (recorded and pressed in York), hit number 4 in the official UK vinyl charts! We caught up with guitarist Turnbull Smith to chat about the best local live music venues, achieving success in the charts, and York City FC…

Hello, Skylights! How does it feel to have charted so highly in the UK vinyl charts with ‘Fever’?

We were absolutely over the moon to chart so high. It was an honour to be up there with such big acts, and that's all down to our fans, who are amazing. We thank every single one of you who bought a copy!

The band has been going since 2008 - has York’s music scene changed over the years?

Do you have any favourite local venues to play?

My favourite has to be The Crescent, it's brilliant. We’ve had some fantastic nights there, but you can't forget the Fulford Armsthat’s a cracking little venue. A little birdie tells me you’re Leeds United fans, but what did you make of York City’s recent promotion?

Yes, Scaz and Johnny are big Leeds fans, they have been since they were kids - their dad is from Scarborough and he's a big Leeds fan. We did go to York City games when we were kids, we had a lot of fun. Myles is still a season ticket holder at York, and obviously, we were bouncing around for joy when they got promoted. It was such an incredible finish to the season!

What’s on the horizon for Skylights?

Your upcoming release, A History of the World in Ten Wars, covers everything from Mongol guerrilla tactics to the unification of the Ancient Greeks. What do you hope readers will take away from the book?

The most important day in history is tomorrow - if the past doesn't inform our future, then there's no point in studying it. So, Ten Wars tries to demonstrate how past wars have led to today's wars, and project into the future of warfare. Something that affects us all. I also

An entertainment based on the theatre and history of the period, and an introduction to Actually I'm A Corpse. There is a murdermystery and a look at the men and women who brought sensation to the period.

I'd 'knock off' Henry VIII, the man who got away with murder…

Terry Deary presents: Murder in the Georgian Theatre takes place at Mansion House on 6 August. Visit www.mansionhouse.tygit.com/ shop/dates/pk to book. Turn to p37 for more York Georgian Festival events, or p39 to find out more about York’s Georgian history!

Wow, yeah. Things have changed a lot - we only played in York back then, just Fibbers and The Duchess. We played a few support slots, which were a lot of fun. I do think it's great now with The Crescent and Fulford Arms. It's very disappointing that Fibbers and the Victoria Vaults have gone, but hopefully, moving forward, we can get more venues. We mainly gained our new following (since 2018) in Leeds, so when we played the Barbican in 2024, it was amazing to see faces from our school and college days, as well as all our old mates. It was a really beautiful experience.

We have a new single called ‘Need Me’, and we really love this one, it's a really emotional song. We are playing Project House in Leeds on the 3rd of October, which we’re buzzing about, then we're up in Edinburgh at Sneaky Pete’s, and then we've got a huge one at the end of the year at the Music Hall in Aberdeen. We can't wait to see you all there…

Visit www.musicglue.com/ skylightsband or follow @SkylightsYRA on Facebook, X, or Instagram to stay up to date with Skylights.

How LinkTeresting!

about

YORK

Ranging from 1714 to 1830, the Georgian era marked a Golden Age for York, due to the social and cultural changes that transformed the city. In anticipation of the upcoming York Georgian Festival, taking place this month, we thought we’d take a closer look at our city’s Georgian past…

1. Did you know that York was known as the social capital of Northern England during the Georgian period? Wealthy visitors travelled to the city for elegant balls at the Assembly Rooms, seasonal gatherings and opportunities to socialise or do business.

2. Horse racing was a prominent factor which brought about most of York’s visitors, and the races on the Knavesmire were one of the biggest events in Georgian York!

3. Did you know that during the Georgian period, lemons became highly fashionable, as Britain's trade with the Mediterranean expanded? Since they could not be grown easily in Britain, lemons were expensive to import, making them a luxury item and symbol of wealth and refinement amongst well-to-do Yorkies.

4.

Some of York's most impressive buildings were built during the Georgian period by an individual named John Carr. He is known as one of the most important architects in Northern England, and his work helped shape the city's elegant appearance.

5.

Notable designs said to have been completed by Carr, which are still visible today, include the three-storey Micklegate House, Bootham Park Hospital, and the interiors of Fairfax House.

Lifestyle

www.mansionhouseyork.com/ york-georgian-festival

6. Did you know that the Assembly Rooms, first opened in 1732, served as the premier hub of high-class entertainment for York's Georgian elite? The venue offered Londonstyle entertainment to locals without excessive travel or expense.

7.

First opened in 1744, York Theatre Royal helped to establish York as one of Northern England's leading centres for theatre and entertainment. Wealthy residents and visitors attended plays, operas and concerts, making it an important part of Georgian York’s culture.

8.

York Mansion House, completed in 1725, was built to show York’s importance as a wealthy and powerful city. It provided an official home for the Lord Mayor and a place to host formal civic events and entertain important visitors.

9. During the Georgian period, York’s location on major routes between London and Edinburgh made it an important coaching hub. Improvements to the turnpike system increased traffic, reinforcing York’s role as a key stopping point in Northern England’s transport network.

10.Did you know that York is home to one of the oldest societies dedicated to the Georgian era? Founded in 1939, York Georgian Society is the secondoldest society of its kind in the UK, outside London!

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Hidden Bookshops to discover in York

Are you looking for quirky, lesserknown bookshops in York? If so, then we've got some hidden gems to share with you that will be sure to get you reading. Instead of heading straight down to your local chain store, why not take the chance to explore some independent bookshops in the local area, where you could discover your next favourite read?

Books & Bevs

Books & Bevs is a unique independent bookshop and reading cafe in the heart of Acomb. It offers a carefully curated selection of new and pre-loved books, including fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, and poetry. Visitors can also enjoy hot and cold drinks with delicious baked treats, making it the perfect place to relax with a new read. www. booksandbevs.co.uk.

The Blue House Bookshop

The Blue House Bookshop is an independent children’s bookshop in Bootham, just a short walk from York Minster. If you’re thinking of popping in to browse its handpicked selection of children’s books, you’d better hurry - the physical shop is set to close this September! www. thebluehousebookshop.co.uk.

Criminally Good Books

Criminally Good Books is a small independent crime-fiction specialist bookshop in York, located near The Shambles. Unlike chain bookshops, it focuses entirely on crime writing, and is touted as a “crime lover’s hub”, where readers can browse a carefully curated selection, discover new authors, and get

personalised recommendations from staff who are truly passionate about the genre! www. criminallygoodbooks.co.uk.

The Minster Gate Bookshop

While this longtime York fixture may be well known by Yorkie bookworms, it remains one of the best independent bookshops in town. Located opposite the south door of York Minster, The Minster Gate Bookshop has been in business since 1970, and sells antiquarian and secondhand books to suit every taste and interest, from Art & Architecture to Occult History. www.minstergate books.co.uk.

Lucius Books

Originally started in 1993 as a buyer and seller of first edition crime fiction novels, Lucius Books first set up shop in York in 2003, before moving to its current Grade II listed Micklegate site earlier this year. Today, Lucius Books is a veritable one-stop shop for all manner of rare books, art, manuscripts and unique autograph material - perfect for bookworms on the lookout for rarities, whatever their pleasure! www.luciusbooks.com.

Janette Ray Booksellers

First established in 1996 and operating from its charming Bootham site (directly next to St Mary’s Abbey) since 2000, Janette Ray Booksellers specialises in fine, rare, and out-of-print books, mainly those published between 1800-1950. Janette Ray Booksellers is a reliable place to find titles focused on niche topics including design history, architecture and building, photography, fine art and beyond. www.janetteray.co.uk.

& CULTURE Lifestyle

Reviving a Dead Economy

In last month's issue, I wrote an article entitled “Haunted or Hoax? How the folklore of York’s ghost tourism came to be”, in which I discussed the history of the rumours surrounding York’s reputation as ‘the most haunted city in the world’.

The claim had shaky origins. Many of the famous accounts we’ve all come to know are largely exaggerated, and in many cases, the myths were being pushed by eager businesses looking to turn a profit. So, for this month's issue, I wanted to delve deeper into the impact this mythology has had on the economy here in York, and how it could affect you, the readers of Your Local Link…

Readers of the last article may remember that much of the hullabaloo came from one specific article from the BBC in 2008, which claimed that a group called the Ghost Research Foundation International* conducted a study**, finding that there were 508 hauntings said to be occurring in the city. The claim proliferated into a kind of ghostmania around York that has seen significant growth in the form of increasing numbers of ghost tours and shops selling ghost paraphernalia.

significant level of success as a result of the craze is the York Ghost Merchants, whose clever marketing strategy following the Covid-19 pandemic has seen them go from strength to strength, currently commanding a whopping 149,000 followers on Instagram.

But, alongside wholesome stories about various local successes, there is also an aspect of this phenomenon which must be analysed critically. I wanted to take a more in-depth look at how tourism in York has grown over the years, especially since these claims surfaced, and what I found out gave me a surprising insight into how heavily the tourism industry has taken over the landscape of the city.

After submitting a freedom of information request to the City of York Council, I discovered that the tourism sector was generating a relatively modest income pre-2008, with some pretty standard fluctuations that you’d expect in any other city.

Find out how York’s haunted reputation has reshaped the city’s tourism economy.

which the Council holds no figures. These gaps likely reflect changes in the methodology being used rather than any meaningful economic dip, though the broader context of the 2008 financial crisis is worth keeping in mind.

2005

£321.55

Million

£405 Million

One shop that has enjoyed a

As seen in the table below, the income of York's tourism sector was estimated at £321.55 million pounds back in 2005 - adjusted for inflation, that’s around 585 million pounds today. The figures remained at a pretty stable level from what can be seen, other than the omission of 2008-2010, a period for

By 2011, tourist sector income had risen to £433 million. By 2012, using the same Cambridge Model, it reached the £606.4 million milestone. The years that followed saw some fluctuation: £573 million in 2013, £608 million in 2014, £564 million in 2015, and £512 million in 2016. Then, a sustained upward trend: £625 million in 2017, and a jump to £714 million in 2018.

2012

£606.4 Million

2013

£573

This dramatic spike continues to this day. In 2024, Make It York revealed that tourism had contributed a handsome total

of £2.01 billion in 2026, with a breakdown of this figure revealing that most visitors to the city stayed in York for an average of 3.3 nights. While there are many reputable serviced accommodation options in York, the city has seen exponential growth in the number of short-term lets in the local area, many of which are operated out of residential properties. Many residents and businesses have called for legislation to regulate the rapid growth of these holiday lets, but despite estimates reporting that around 1 in 10 properties in the city centre are holiday lets, the trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down.

Rachel Maskell, MP for York Central, has been campaigning for years to enforce an act that would “Give Local Authorities new powers to control the spread of Airbnbs and Holiday Lets across their communities”. At the reading of the proposed bill, Maskell said: “The unregulated holiday let market is fuelling York’s housing crisis as local families try and get on the housing market, investors from London and the South East are hoovering up York’s housing stock to profit out of short city stays.”

Tourism and holidaymaking are doubtless a vital part of York’s economy. It’s imperative that, as we see this industry grow, we put our local businesses at the heart of this success first.

*That didn’t exist

**That also didn’t exist!

Image Courtesy of Visit York
Image Courtesy of Visit York
Image Courtesy of Visit York

BEN’S BOOK REVIEWS

As summer comes to a close, what better way to mark the changing of the seasons than to read a book that’ll leave you feeling fulfilled? It can be especially hard as the warm days come to an end, but I have the perfect selection of fiction that is worth your time during those months that can feel tedious at the back end of the year. Whether you’re savouring the last warm evenings or looking forward to cosy nights indoors, this month’s column is all about discovering stories you’ll love.

Yellowface:

This is a sharp and addictive literary satire that takes readers behind the scenes of the publishing industry. Packed with dark humour and uncomfortable truths, ‘Yellowface’ explores the consequences of working in the publishing sector for anyone who is different from the norm. Pulling in themes such as ambition and societal pressures, this is a compelling read that will have you questioning who gets to tell which stories, and how they are told…

James:

Winner of the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, ‘James’ brilliantly reimagines Mark Twain's ‘Adventures of Huckleberry Finn’ from Jim's perspective. As James and Huck travel together down the Mississippi River, the novel transforms a familiar American classic into a gripping story of survival, freedom, and dignity. Everett combines wit, humanity, and powerful social commentary to create a novel that is both entertaining and deeply moving. It really is a fantastic modern reimagining.

The Midnight Library:

What if you could revisit the choices you’ve made and see how your life could have turned out differently? This story follows Nora Seed, a woman who finds herself in a mysterious library between life and death, where every book holds a different version of her life based on the choices she could have made. As Nora explores these alternate realities, she begins to understand the meaning of life. This book shot to recognition across the world, and rightly so, with its ability to make the reader feel seen.

Remarkably Bright Creatures:

Heartwarming, charming, and completely original in its ideas, this novel follows a widow whose unexpected friendship with an exceptionally intelligent octopus helps uncover long-buried family secrets. In what has now become a Netflix movie, the book offers a deeper and more intimate view of the tale. Full of humour, hope, and absolutely unforgettable characters, it's the perfect feelgood read to welcome a new season as the evenings draw in.

L EGAL A DVICE TH AT MAKES AN I

A Message from York Against Cancer’s CEO, Andy Knowles

When I was asked to become Chief Executive of York Against Cancer, I didn't hesitate for long. Not because it was the easiest decision, leaving a business built over nearly eight years never is, but because some opportunities are much less about career and more about a calling. I joined in February 2026, and all these months on, nothing I read in the job description fully prepared me for the reality of what this organisation does, and who it does it for.

I have spent these months listening, learning, and quietly being humbled. I have become part of an incredible and committed team, and met volunteers who give their time with nothing asked in return. I have heard from families who leaned on our services at the most difficult moments of their lives and found comfort,

Book your place today!

care, and community here. And I have been moved by the many supporters who make donations and contribute in ways that are rarely seen or celebrated, yet are absolutely vital to everything we do. You know who you are. Thank you.

York Against Cancer has been standing beside people affected by cancer in this city for decades, from The Leveson Centre to our Mobile Chemotherapy Unit, our minibus journeys to treatment, to respite breaks, exercise classes, and support groups. Behind every service is one simple truth: nobody should face cancer alone.

As we look ahead, 2027 will mark an extraordinary milestone: our 40th Anniversary. That’s four decades of care, research and community. It is a tribute to every person who has ever given their time, money

or energy to this cause, and to our founders, whose vision made it all possible. One of those founders, Professor Steve Leveson, has recently been awarded an MBE, which is, quite simply, a just reward for a remarkable career and a lifetime of dedication. We are proud that Steve remains a member of our Trustee Board to this day.

What has also struck me is the warmth of York's business community. I have been privileged to welcome York Professionals, Yorwealth Ltd, MAR-CO Digital Ltd, The Riverfront York, York City F.C., York RLFC, and Hunter Gee Holroyd

as charity partners. A special mention goes to The Dean Court Hotel, whose 'Deano' bear, proudly carrying our logo, is reaching guests from across the world who travel to York, taking our brand and awareness truly global.

And, at the heart of our research ambitions sits the Jack Birch Unit at the University of York, where worldclass scientists are doing vital work right here on our doorstep.

People, partnerships, purpose. Thank you for being part of it.

Booking your place on our minibus, exercise classes or your break away is simple! Just give us a call on 01904 764466, email office@yorkagainstcancer.org.uk or visit yorkagainstcancer.org.uk to learn more.

Did you know?...

We provide patient transport to radiotherapy in Leeds

If you live in York and are due to receive radiotherapy treatment at St James’s Hospital, Leeds, you can hop on our minibus!

Our minibus service transports patients every working day to and from the hospital, picking them up from their door or a nearby pick-up location and taking them to their radiotherapy treatment in

Leeds. We aim to take all the worry of parking, fuel and driving away, making the journey a pleasant one – and completely free of charge!

Patients can get moving in our FREE exercise classes

Cancer patients can take part in five free exercise classes at York Community Stadium! Fully funded by York Against Cancer, these classes are dedicated to patients looking to regain strength, fitness and flexibility following a cancer diagnosis or treatment. Each class is run by a specialist, tailoring sessions to fit everyone’s unique needs and ensuring all exercise is undertaken safely.

YOU CAN TAKE A BREAK – ON US!

Cancer patients under the care of the York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust can enjoy a free 3-4 night break away in either of our beautiful respite properties:

The

Take a cosy couple’s retreat in Yapham, surrounded by gorgeous views of the Wolds and with friendly sheep and alpaca right outside the door. Just two miles outside of Pocklington, enjoy the peace of being away with the security of home not too far in the distance. Take a countryside stroll, bask in the tranquil scenes, and relax in this beautifully refurbished cottage.

Serenity House, Filey Enjoy a seaside getaway in our

family home at Filey’s stunning coast. Sleeping up to 8 guests, Serenity House is situated in an award-winning holiday village, The Bay. Guests can make use of the on-site leisure centre, take a short walk down to Filey Beach, or simply enjoy time away from their everyday routines.

In 2017, we were proud to fund Yorkshire’s first Mobile Chemotherapy Unit. Helping to make treatment more accessible for those who live a long distance from their nearest hospital, the MCU travels to locations in Malton, Selby, Scarborough and Bridlington

each week. In its first year and a half alone, the unit saw more than 1,500 visits, with some patients visiting more than 20 times. To see if the MCU is right for you, speak to your hospital consultant or chemotherapy nurse.

Old Tithe Cottage, Yapham

PROUD TO SUPPORT YORK AGAINST CANCER

LEGAL ADVICE FOR PRICKLY SITUATIONS

Our cancer support centre, The Leveson Centre

The Leveson Centre continues to be a place where anyone affected by cancer can find support, understanding and community. Whether someone has recently received a diagnosis, is undergoing treatment, is living beyond cancer, or is supporting a loved one, our doors are always open.

We aim to provide the missing piece for people affected by cancer, offering a welcoming, non-clinical environment that focuses on wellbeing, practical support and human connection. People can drop in whenever they need us - on the difficult days, the better days, and everything in between. Alongside this open-door approach, we offer a wide range of wellbeing services, support groups, complementary therapies and activities designed to help people feel informed, supported and less alone.

Over the past year, we have continued to develop our services in response to the needs of our local community. We have expanded our programme of support groups, introducing several new initiatives including a Brain Tumour Support Group, Menopause and Cancer workshops, a Secondary Breast Cancer Support Group, and an andrology seminar providing specialist advice on pelvic floor health, incontinence and sexual wellbeing. These additions ensure we are supporting people through a wider range of experiences, and helping to address topics that are often overlooked but can have a significant impact on quality of life. The impact of the Centre continues to grow. Over the last 12 months,

we have supported an average of nearly 900 people each month. During this time, we have provided 1,104 complementary therapy appointments, offering treatments that help improve wellbeing and reduce the physical and emotional effects of cancer. None of this would be possible without our incredible volunteers, who have contributed more than 2,500 hours of their time over the past year, helping to create the warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes The Leveson Centre so special.

At The Leveson Centre, we often talk about the importance of community, but what does that really mean? For us, it is found in the everyday moments. It is celebrating someone's progress, no matter how big or small. It is welcoming a new face with warmth and kindness. It is taking the time to truly listen and meet people where they are, without judgement. It is being there for someone on both their best days, and their hardest.

Over time, something truly special has grown within the Centre. It has become more than a support service; it has become a home from home, where people can share experiences, build friendships and find strength in one another, while still accessing meaningful, practical support. Every day, we are reminded of the power of community, and we are incredibly proud of what we continue to build together for everyone affected by cancer across our region.

VOLUNTEERING at York Against Cancer

At York Against Cancer, volunteers make up a huge part of our team. From working in our two gift shops and offering a listening ear in The Leveson Centre to helping out at fundraising events and so much more, we simply couldn’t do what we do without them.

We sat down with Trish, one of our dedicated Leveson Centre volunteers, to find out what volunteering at York Against Cancer means to her…

What made you decide to start volunteering at The Leveson Centre?

I felt comfortable volunteering here, with a nursing background in palliative care. I felt I could have an understanding of people’s concerns and would be comfortable listening to them.

What’s your favourite thing about volunteering?

The people, the staff, the things on offer. I love the art classes and the diversity of each one. When you talk to people, at first, they say, “I couldn’t do that”, but you watch them come along and see how proud they are at the end. They become immersed in it, and it distracts from what might be going on outside of the class. I love the fun, laughter and sense of achievement.

What’s something specific you could say about what you do here in The Leveson Centre?

I clean and ready the coffee machine for all our visitors. One Tuesday, I made about 40 coffees, one after another, for the wellbeing choir.

What’s your go-to coffee order? Americano – nothing too fancy! What would you say to other people who are thinking of volunteering?

Come along, don’t be afraid to walk through the door. You’ll be made most welcome. It’s so interesting listening and talking to people –you do a lot of listening, but also a lot of talking, a lot of conversations. You’ll enjoy it – it’s really worthwhile. We couldn’t be more grateful to people like Trish, who offer their time and effort to help us support cancer patients and their loved ones across the region. To find out more about joining our volunteering team, scan the QR code or visit our website, yorkagainst cancer.org.uk.

FUNDING AWARDED to bladder cancer prevention scientist

Research has always been at the core of York Against Cancer’s activities, which makes us all the more excited to announce that we recently partnered with Kidney Research UK to offer long-term support to one of our outstanding scientists. Dr Simon Baker has worked in the Jack Birch Unit at the University of York for over 20 years, and has been developing an exciting theme in his research. Working with George Hatton and Jenny Baker (both York Against Cancer-funded scientists), Simon’s work suggests a common infection nearly everyone has (known as ‘BK virus’) can get out of control in some people and risk the development of bladder cancers.

The reason BK virus has been missed for so long is that the infections don’t cause obvious

symptoms, and the virus isn’t present in the final cancer. The potential of this work is huge because, just like HPV vaccination is eradicating cervical cancer, it may be possible in the future to stop BK virus and completely prevent bladder cancer. This new senior fellowship funding will allow Simon to make the most impact from his research. We can’t wait to hear what he discovers in these next five years of research, and we will bring you updates as soon as we can.

Art Workshop
Wellbeing Choir
Coffee Morning

PROUD TO SUPPORT YORK AGAINST CANCER

LEGAL ADVICE? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

At York Against Cancer, you’re always sure to find a whole host of exciting fundraisers and activities going on! Here’s a quick highlight reel from 2026…

R U Taking the P…?

We had a truly memorable Father’s Day this year, as hundreds of runners set off from Rowntree Park to take on 5k or 10k their way. Raising vital awareness of prostate cancer, we were honoured to receive a message of encouragement from Sir Stephen Fry himself!

We want to say a massive thank you to every runner, marshal, organiser and individual who helped make the day such a success! We loved cheering on all our runners, meeting them at the finish line with huge congratulations. Thanks to each and every one of you, along with our sponsors Pool Bridge Farm, Portakabin, Wards Catering, Marc

Pick up a gift that keeps on giving

Did you know that every single purchase made in our two gift shops helps fund the vital support, research and education we offer? 100% of our profits go directly to York Against Cancer. Our shops are a little different from traditional charity shops. Rather than relying on donated stock, we carefully source high-quality gifts, homeware, jewellery, cards, seasonal products, and treats that people would like to buy for themselves or as gifts for others. Every product is chosen with purpose. We want our customers to enjoy shopping with us, knowing that each purchase makes a real difference. Whether someone buys a greeting card, a candle, or

Bathrooms, Tiles & Kitchens, York Knavesmire Harriers, York Professionals, Harrisons Signs Ltd, SG Petch, PMG and Angus McDonald Photography, we raised a phenomenal amount over £14,000! That equates to more than 40 breaks away in our respite properties for cancer patients and their loved ones.

Next year’s run is all booked and set for Sunday, 20th June 2027. Scan the QR code to sign up or visit yorkagainst cancer.org. uk today.

a special gift, they're helping to support the services and care that our charity provides.

We're also fortunate to be supported by a fantastic team of volunteers. Their time, enthusiasm, and commitment help us create welcoming shops and maximise the funds we can raise. By shopping with us, recommending us to friends and colleagues, sharing our social media posts, or even exploring opportunities to work together, you become part of the difference we make. So, pop in and see us at York Hospital or York Community Stadium! We’re sure you’ll find just what you’re looking for.

Golf Day

This year’s Golf Day saw a record 38 teams join us at York Golf Club for a great day on the course. The sun came out to make way for a fantastic day of fundraising as our golfers competed for the top spot, took on the pro, and tested their skills in the swing studio. Thanks to all of our amazing teams and our generous sponsors, Cellhire and Your Move Anscombs York, we raised an incredible amount over £13,000! That pays for almost 6 months of patient transport on our minibus, taking patients to

their radiotherapy treatment at St James’s Hospital, Leeds, every working day.

We’re looking forward to next year already! Secure your spot for Wednesday, 16th June 2027 early by emailing golf@ yorkagainstcancer.org.uk.

Rant and Ramble Coffee Rave

A spectacularly unique fundraiser has taken York by storm this year – early morning raving! Organised by Rant and Ramble, this event saw hundreds of morning ravers take to Vallado Lounge and venues across the city to start the day with a dance party. Meeting for a walk at 6:30am and raving at 7am, these fundraisers grant the opportunity to let your hair down

before heading into the office for a day of work. Keep your eyes out for the next one!

Brides for a Cause

We held our first-ever pre-loved wedding dress sale earlier this year, with amazing results! An incredible number of bridal boutiques and generous individuals made the remarkable decision to part with their dresses, lining The Leveson Centre with rails of beautiful gowns. On the day of the sale, we had a line down the street before our doors even opened!

Thanks to everyone who donated their gowns and all the brides-tobe who said YES to the dress, we

York Pride

raised an incredible £4,600.

We are delighted to announce our next wedding dress sale is right around the corner, taking place in The Leveson Centre on 13th September 2026.

This June, we were thrilled to attend York Pride with our very own York Against Cancer stall! We had a spectacular day of fundraising, raffling off a sea of teddies and rainbow bags. But what we can’t put a price on is the huge number of amazing people we met. All day long, our stall was filled with laughter and conversation, sharing information on our services, hearing your stories and connecting with the community. We can’t wait for next year!

Oliver

PROUD TO SUPPORT YORK AGAINST CANCER

L EGAL A DVICE TH AT MAKES AN I

Business support in 2026 and beyond

This year, we have spent a significant amount of my time doing something we know really matters for the growth of York Against Cancer: opening our doors and inviting people in. We have been meeting with business leaders and partner organisations and taking them to The Leveson Centre so they can see what we do first-hand, and why it makes such a difference.

It’s one thing to describe our work in words on the website and social media; it’s another to walk people through the Centre, meet us, and feel the warmth and calm that our team and volunteers create every day. Visitors have been able to see the care and support available through our Centre staff and volunteer team, and the breadth of what we offer beyond information and signposting. From our wonderful complementary therapists to the choir and art class, and even a hello from Luna, our therapy dog, they have seen and felt for themselves how The Leveson Centre is a place where people affected by cancer can find practical help, human connection, and a bit of hope.

We are honoured to be supported by so many generous businesses this year. From hosting fundraisers and taking on group challenges to sponsoring and attending York Against Cancer events, we have been blown away by the generosity shown by the business community.

For us here at York Against Cancer, partnerships must be a two-way agreement. We always support our partners with jointly branded social media posts and events, and by promoting what they offer. We would be delighted to welcome more businesses to take a look around The Leveson Centre, learn up close about what we do, and have a chat about supporting each other. Ways your business can get involved:

• Nominating us as your Charity of the Year

• Volunteering through your business

• Setting up a Give As You Earn scheme

• Organising fundraisers

• Sponsoring York Against Cancer events

Where your money goes…

To put business support in perspective, here’s a breakdown of what you’re helping us achieve:

£100 funds a young person’s first counselling session with Chartered Clinical Psychologist Rebecca and therapy dog Luna, helping them come to terms with and process their feelings about family members living with cancer.

£1,000 pays for a week of benefits and welfare advice in The Leveson Centre, helping to alleviate some of the financial burdens that cancer patients face.

£5,000 funds 6 months of maintenance for our Mobile Chemotherapy Unit, keeping the unit on the road and removing the challenges of travelling to chemotherapy appointments for patients on the outskirts of York.

£10,000 pays for Clinical Trial Nurses at York Hospital for 6 months, ensuring we can continue to research and discover more effective drug treatments with fewer challenging side effects for cancer patients.

We want to say a huge thank you to all of the generous businesses who have selected us as one of their Charity Partners in 2026!

• York Professionals

• MAR-CO Digital

• YorWealth limited

• Vallado Lounge

• York City F.C.

• York RLFC

• The Riverfront York Limited

• Techscend Limited

• Dean Court Hotel (Part of the Inn Collection Group)

• Hunter Gee Holroyd Limited

• Ardent IFS Limited

Plus, a special shout-out to the amazing teams from RS Cockerill and Wolflabs, who each took on the Yorkshire 3 Peaks this year in aid of York Against Cancer!

To find out more about partnering with us, or to have a chat with our CEO Andy, get in touch on 01904 764466 or email office@yorkagainstcancer.org.uk.

Thankyou! A Big

We would like to thank all advertisers and main sponsors

Hetherons Solicitors who have supported this years feature and helped us to spotlight the incredible work York Against Cancer do. We hope all readers will support the advertisers who have taken part in this feature.

Advertisers Index

ACCOUNTANCY

SERVICES

CJ Ramsay & Associates.

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

AMH Ents & Events

The Hilt

The Hole In Wand

York Maze

York Stage School

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Bathology

Howdens (Monks Cross)

Instyle Kitchens

Studio 35 York

Watermark

York Bathrooms

BEDROOMS

The York Bed Co. Ltd

BLINDS

Blind Image

Blinds Valley

Sterling Shutters and Blinds

BUILDING/PROPERTY

MAINTENANCE

A R Pumpcrete

B&R building & joinery

Blacker Steel

Fabrications

I W Design & Building

J Mark Construction Ltd

J Building Services

L Foster Joinery & Roofing

M Ireland

M. Fairweather

Mill Build

NB Electrical Installations

Neal Construction RJ Hall York Property Group

Moores Property

BUSINESS SERVICES

Fulprint

CARE & MOBILITY

Guardian Angel Carers York

Radfield Home Care

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

Clifton Carpet Cleaning

CARPETS/FLOORING

Ebor Carpets

Kings Carpets

Mike Baddeley Ltd

Waddington Flooring

CHILDRENS ACTIVITIES

Beetle Bank Open Farm

Daisy Chain Day Nursery

Little Acorns Day Nursery

CLEANING/IRONING

Domestic Divas York Ltd

CLUBS/GROUPS

Poppleton Road

Allotments

CYCLING

Cycle Street

ELECTRICIANS

Christian Pote Electrical

D&S Electrical Services

J Lister Electrical

Livewire Electrical

Nfinnerty Electrical Ltd

ESTATE & LETTING

AGENTS

Northwood Lettings

EV CHARGER

INSTALLATION

Herbert Todd

FASCIAS/SOFFITS

PD Plastics

Plasti-Fit

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Pen-Life Associates Ltd

FOOD & DRINK

Caesars Italian York

Delta Hotels by Marriott

Haxby Bakehouse

Sasa Greek Food

The White Bear Inn

FUNERAL SERVICES

Mindful Memorials

JG Fielder & Sons

GARAGE DOORS

First Garage Doors

GARDENING

C&R Landscapes Ltd

Country Gardens

Future Landscapes

K&S Paving

Lewis Tree Surgery

Michael Readman

Lawnmower Services Ltd

The Tree Fella

Toby H Johnson LTD

Vertigrow Limited

York Groundwork

Solutions

HANDYPEOPLE

York Flatpack & Handyman

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Melrosegate Pharmacy

Shabby to Chic

Spine Solutions Ltd

Ultimate Fitness

Xercise Fitness

JOINERY

Inspired Joinery & Projects

Lewis Joinery

RJS Carpentry & Joinery

LOCKS/SECURITY/ ALARMS

Lockfix Security

LOFT CONVERSIONS

Yorkshire Loft Ladders

MOTOR PARTS/ SERVICES

Atkin Motor Engineers

Auto Services

Barkers Garage

Direct Finish Ltd

Fulford Auto Services

Ivinson Autos Ltd

JB Motors Malton

JMR Garage Conversions

OLC Autos

R S Auto Bodyshop

Westmoor Cars

Wills & Ellis

Wrigglesworth & Son

York Suzuki Centre

OVEN CLEANING

AK Oven Cleaning

PEST CONTROL

Huntcatchkill

Pest tec

The Pest Company

PET CARE

Alisons Dog Grooming

Bishopton Vets

Mill Cottage Pet Crematorium

PLUMBING/HEATING

SHOPS/STORES

Antique Restoration Get Branded

Herbert Todd

Poetry Pharmacy Pond Cottage Of Stillington

WLD Textiles

SKIPS/WASTE REMOVAL

Martins of York

SOLICITORS

Hethertons Solicitors

TILE SHOPS

Shaun Wilson Tiling

WEDDING FASHION Thimbelina of York WILL WRITING Family Wills York

WINDOWS/DOORS/

York Professionals
Vallado Lounge

and need guidance

• Want to maximise their savings and investments

PROUD TO SUPPORT YORK AGAINST CANCER

• Want to maximise their savings and investments for a secure retirement

•

•

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Do you need help with

• Are nearing retirement age and need a clear financial strategy

• Have changed jobs and are considering consolidating their pension pots

Here at PenLife, we specialise in helping people who:

• Are starting to think about their retirement plans

• Are self-employed and need customised retirement solutions

• Want to maximise their savings and investments for a secure retirement

• Want to ensure their loved ones are financially protected after retirement

• Are nearing retirement age and need a clear financial strategy

• Have changed jobs and are considering consolidating their pension pots

• Need assistance navigating complex tax implications

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• Are concerned about healthcare costs and longterm care planning

• Want to ensure their loved ones are financially protected after retirement

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To explore how PenLife can guide you towards a

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To

and fulfilling retirement, call us on 01904 661140 or email enquiries@pen-life.co.uk. The initial meeting is held at our expense and there’s absolutely no need to take things further, so there’s nothing to lose. Or, to request our latest Retirement Planning Guide, please scan the QR code or get in touch.

and fulfilling retirement, call us on 01904 661140 or email enquiries@pen-life.co.uk. The

To explore how PenLife can guide you towards a secure and fulfilling retirement, call us on 01904 661140 or email enquiries@pen-life.co.uk. The initial meeting is held at our expense and there’s absolutely no need to take things further, so there’s nothing to lose. Or, to request our latest Retirement Planning Guide, please scan the QR code or get in touch.

Do you need help with retirement planning

Here at PenLife, we specialise in helping people who:

• Are starting to think about their retirement plans and need guidance

• Want to maximise their savings and investments for a secure retirement

you need help with retirement planning? at PenLife, we specialise in helping people who:

• Are nearing retirement age and need a clear

• Have changed jobs and are considering consolidating their pension pots

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Are starting to think about their retirement plans and need guidance

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To explore how PenLife can guide you towards a secure and fulfilling retirement, call us on 01904 661140 or email enquiries@pen-life.co.uk. The initial meeting is held at our expense and there’s absolutely no need to take things further, so there’s nothing to lose. Or, to request our latest Retirement Planning Guide, please

Are self-employed and need customised

or get in touch.

Summer Beauty Essentials

From sun-smart skincare and humidity-defying haircare to beautiful fragrances and innovative beauty tech, our August Beauty Essentials round-up brings together some of our favourite picks for looking and feeling your best this summer, whether you’re jetting off, enjoying weekends in the garden or simply refreshing your daily routine.

SILK’N BRIGHT RED FACE BRUSH

£59 from silkn.co.uk

Rechargeable silicone face brush with 8,000 vibrations per minute, seven speed settings and a waterproof design. Designed to cleanse and massage the skin, it comes complete with a travel case, making it ideal for use at home or away.

OSMO GUARDIAN ANGEL ANTI-HUMIDITY SPRAY

£14.28 from salon-services.com

Designed to help combat humidity and frizz, this vegan-friendly spray coats hair with an invisible, waterresistant veil to help maintain smoothness throughout the day. Ideal for holidays, it can be applied to toweldried hair before blow drying.

DELPH SUN CARE BUNDLE

£18 from delphsun.co.uk

This handy summer bundle includes SPF 50+ and SPF 30 sun lotions, plus a soothing aftersun lotion enriched with aloe vera and vitamin E. Dermatologically tested, water resistant and suitable for vegans, it’s ideal for holidays and sunny days at home.

RESTORE MULTI-CORRECTING DAY CREAM SPF 30

£39.99 from uk.oriflame.com

Formulated for mature skin, this rich day cream combines SPF 30 protection with hyaluronic acid, marula oil and vitamin E to help keep skin feeling hydrated, soft and nourished. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

CHERRY ON TOP EAU DE PARFUM

£27.99 from uk.oriflame.com

This fruity amber fragrance blends juicy cherry and mandarin with floral rose, before finishing on warm chocolate truffle, tonka bean and cedarwood notes. A playful scent that’s perfect for summer days, evenings out and special occasions.

HYALURONIC HYDRATION HAIR DUO

£32 from evolvebeauty.com

Combining a Hyaluronic Hydrating Shampoo and Nourishing Conditioner, this certified organic duo is designed to hydrate, soften and detangle normal to dehydrated hair. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and shea butter, it leaves hair feeling smoother and more manageable.

Statement Stripes

Bold stripes never go out of style, and this season they come with an added benefit: a commitment to sustainability. From timeless Scandinavian-inspired designs and organic cotton essentials, to innovative approaches that reduce waste and extend the life of every garment, these brands are proving that great fashion can also be kinder to the planet.

EAR WAX REMOVAL

& PETS Families

ASK A VET

Keeping Our Pets Safe in the Summer Garden

Summer’s arrival means many of us will be heading to garden centres with a view to sprucing up our outside spaces. Whilst our pets enjoy the warmer weather just as much as us, there are some surprising hazards which lead to veterinary intervention every year. By understanding the risks, you can create a pet-safe outdoor space for a worry-free season.

Laburnum trees

Often prized for their golden blooms, laburnums are highly toxic to pets. Their seeds, pods, and other parts contain cytisine, an alkaloid that can trigger vomiting, tremors, seizures, or even death in dogs and cats.

Azaleas and rhododendrons

Contain grayanotoxins, causing drooling, diarrhoea, or heart issues.

Lilies

Lilies are especially a concern for cats, where a single nibble or pollen contact can lead to a lot of pressure on a cat’s kidneys. Snipping the stamens out of them can lower the risk.

Daffodils and tulips

Both pretty flowers are very common across most gardens, however their bulbs are toxic. Please avoid pets digging them up!

Beyond plants, garden chemicals also pose significant threats:

• Slug pellets, often scattered to protect plants, contain metaldehyde or methiocarb, which are poisonous to dogs and cats. Even a small amount

Give Us a Home

can cause twitching, seizures, or coma.

• Weed killers, like glyphosatebased products, can irritate pets’ skin or digestive systems if they walk through treated areas or lick their paws. Store these products securely and, where possible, use pet-safe alternatives like vinegar-based or washing-up liquid sprays, and keep pets off treated lawns until safe, as advised on product labels.

• Artificial grass, although increasingly popular, can reach scorching temperatures under the sun, burning pets’ paw pads – test with your hand on a very hot day before letting pets run across, and provide shaded areas or natural grass patches for relief.

• Garden hoses left in the sun can heat water to scalding levels – a quick splash, meant to cool off or entertain a dog, could burn a pet badly if the water hasn’t been flushed through first. Always run the hose briefly to cool the water before use.

To ensure a pet-safe garden, research plants before buying, choosing non-toxic options. Check the area for hazardous plants or fallen seeds, especially from laburnum, and supervise pets outdoors. Fence off risky areas and keep hoses in the shade. If you notice symptoms like vomiting or lethargy, bring a plant sample or chemical label to the vet for faster treatment, and if you do suspect poisoning, call us on 01347 821377 – we are always available in an emergency.

Cooper | 2 years, Male

Cooper is a very loving and playful boy who is shy to begin with, but once settled, will make a wonderful addition to a family. He had a tough start and missed out on early learning and socialising, but Cooper is learning to come out of his shell and loves his walks and zoomies off the lead.

Frog | 2 years, Male

When Frog first arrived at the centre, he was very nervous and shy, but with some love and affection he has become much more confident. He loves to run and play with a ball just as much as he loves cuddles. Frog is actually more confident when around other dogs so would be happy to live alongside another pet.

Dotty | 11 years, Female

After living in appalling conditions, Dotty is now ready to look for a new family who can make her feel loved and take her on lots of walks to explore the countryside. She takes everything in her stride and loves to meet new people. She will make a great addition to the family, bringing lots of love and joy.

Bentley | 10 years, Male

Bentley has come to the centre from RSPCA Hull after not receiving much interest there. Bentley is a loving and affectionate dog who will make a really loyal best friend. He needs adopters with experience of dogs, who can help him settle into new surroundings and keep him safe.

Bonnie Bago

| 1.5 years, Female

Bonnie arrived with her three kittens and has done a wonderful job raising them. She's looking for a loving home where she can finally relax, be spoiled, and enjoy all the affection she deserves. Bonnie is a sweet and affectionate girl who will make a wonderful companion for someone ready to give her a happy life.

Cuddle Fern

| 1 year, Female

Cuddle Fern hasn’t had the easiest start in life, so understandably she is very shy and unsure. However, she has grown much more confident and now loves some fuss and attention. She will need patient adopters who can help her settle in and continue to blossom. She will make a really loving and loyal companion.

FamilyWillsYork

“Absolutely

“Couldn't

“Explained

& PETS Families

Smile with pride this summer!

Get those pearly whites in perfect shape

Fancy sprucing up your smile before summer comes to an end?

Time to take your little ones for their first appointments in the dentist’s chair? Been putting off a much-needed visit to the dentist, and finally ready to bite the bullet?

Situated in the heart of York, Clifton Dental & Implant Practice is a trusted dental implant and cosmetic dental practice that’s currently accepting new private patients in the local area. Using the latest state-of-the-art dental technology, the practice provides general, aesthetic and implant dentistry services of the highest quality, taking a patient-centred approach to care and support. Services on offer include Fixed Braces, Single & Full Arch Implants, Teeth Whitening, Composite Bonding, Clear Aligners with Invisalign, Dentures, and Dental Hygienist appointments. Both adult and child plans are available, with completely free consultations -

finance is available with 0% interest for 12 months.

If, like many, visits to the dentist can make you feel a little on edge, you’ll be happy to learn that the welcoming, friendly, and approachable team at Clifton Dental & Implant Practice are specially trained to work with nervous patients, helping them feel comfortable, relaxed and at ease, whatever procedure they’re undergoing. And, if you’re feeling especially nervous ahead of your visit, you’re welcome to give the team a call ahead of time to discuss any concerns you may have.

Clifton Dental & Implant Practice is located at 72A Clifton, York, YO30 6AW. Visit www. cliftondentalpractice.co.uk to find out more. Call 01904 659023 to book your appointment or free consultation today.

Where to Pick Your Own

Cedarbarn Farm Shop & Cafe, YO18 7JX. Call 01751 475614 or email info@ cedarbarnfarmshop.co.uk.

Spilmans, YO7 3NB. Visit www.spilmans.co.uk/pyostrawberries to book.

The Balloon Tree Farm Shop & Cafe, YO41 1NB. Visit www.theballoontree.co.uk/ our-farm/current-pick-your-own for details.

Kemps Farm, YO17 6PP. Visit www.kemps.farm for details. Call 07798 937821 or email info@ kemps.farm to get in touch.

The Fruit Yard, Shiptonthorpe, YO43 3PW. Visit www.facebook.com/ PYOShiptonthorpe for details.

Fruity Berry Fruit Farm, YO7 3DB. Visit www.fruityberryfruitfarm.co.uk for details.

Birchfield Family Dairies, HG3 4JS. Call 01423 781792 or email birchfieldicecream@live.co.uk.

Farmer Copleys, WF7 5AF. Visit www.farmercopleys.co.uk for details.

FREE Summer Fun: York A-Z

Treat the family, without breaking the bank!

The summer holidays are in full swing! If you’re looking for family-friendly outings to enjoy over the long summer break, York is full of fun things to do, many of which can be accessed for FREE, or at a discounted price for York residents…

FREE ATTRACTIONS:

BARLEY HALL, Free for kids under 5, 20% off entry fee with a York Card. www.barleyhall.co.uk.

CASTLE HOWARD, Free for kids under 1. www.castlehoward.co.uk.

DIG, Free for kids under 5, 20% off entry fee with a York Card. www. digyork.co.uk.

EDEN CAMP, Free for kids under 5. www.edencamp.co.uk.

FAIRFAX HOUSE, Free for kids aged 16 and under, 20% off the normal ticket rate with a York Card. www. fairfaxhouse.co.uk.

JORVIK VIKING CENTRE, Free for kids under 5, 20% off entry with a York Card. www.jorvikvikingcentre. co.uk.

LITTLE VIKINGS I SPY TRAIL, Free for all. www.little-vikings.co.uk/ attraction/i-spy-trail-york.

NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM, Free for all. www.railwaymuseum.org.uk.

THE YORKSHIRE MUSEUM, Free for kids under 5 and all York residents under 16. www.yorkshiremuseum. org.uk.

YORK ART GALLERY, Free for kids under 5 and all York residents under 16. www.yorkartgallery.org. uk.

YORK CASTLE MUSEUM, Free for kids under 5 and all York residents under 16. www.yorkcastlemuseum. org.uk.

YORK CAT HUNT, Free for all. www. catsinyork.com.

YORK CITY WALLS, Free for all. www. york.gov.uk/york-city-centre/citywalls.

YORK MINSTER, Free for kids under 16 and all York residents (excluding the tower). www.yorkminster.org.

YORK CARD DISCOUNTED ATTRACTIONS:

MERCHANT ADVENTURERS’ HALL, 50% off entry. www.merchants hallyork.org.

MOUNTAIN GOAT TOURS, 20% off tours. www.mountain-goat.com.

ROMAN BATH MUSEUM, 50% off entry. www.sites.google.com/view/ yorkromanbathmuseum/home.

THE WIZARD WALK OF YORK, 10% discount on tours. www. wizardwalkofyork.com.

YORK ARMY MUSEUM, 50% off admission. www.yorkarmymuseum. co.uk.

YORK’S CHOCOLATE STORY, 20% discount (Sundays). www.yorkschocolatestory.com.

YORK DUNGEON, Up to 30% off admission. www.thedungeons.com/ york.

YORK HISTORICAL GEMS TOUR, 15% off tickets. www.historicalgemstour. com.

YORK SPORT, 10-20% swimming discount. www.york-sport.com.

FREE NATIONAL TRUST SUMMER OF PLAY EVENTS

ADMISSION CHARGES MAY APPLY:

SUMMER OF PLAY AT NUNNINGTON HALL, Nunnington Hall, YO62 5UY.

SUMMER OF PLAY AT BENINGBROUGH, Beningbrough, YO30 1DD.

SUMMER OF PLAY AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, HG4 3DY.

SUMMER OF PLAY AT BRIMHAM ROCKS, Brimham Rocks, HG3 4DW.

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ visit/family-friendly/summer-ofplay to book or find out more.

Visit www.card.exploreyork.org.uk to find out more about discounted access to top local attractions with a York Card. See our events pages from p22-31 to find more fun things to do this summer!

HOPING YORK STREET KITCHEN

& PETS Families

This month, we’re proud to introduce the award-winning food charity HOPING York Street Kitchen (HOPING), which serves home-cooked, two-course meals to homeless people, and anyone else who may be in need of food, company or support.

First established in 2016 as a grassroots organisation of volunteers, HOPING first operated from King’s Square in the city centre, before making the move to the picturesque garden of King’s Manor in 2021, becoming a registered charity in 2023. Initially serving meals to around 30 diners each week, HOPING now provides comforting and nourishing meals for more than 100 local people (that’s around 300 two-course meals!) from its pop-up restaurant, every week, all year round, whatever the weather. Diners in need of a feed can choose from 13 main dishes, a fresh omelette option, and a selection of around 10 desserts each week, which are lovingly prepared by the HOPING team’s 40+ volunteer home cooks, all of whom have been inspected by City of York Council and awarded 5-star food hygiene ratings. As well as a two-course meal, diners also have the option to take extra meals home, to be refrigerated or frozen as necessary for the future - for those who may not be able to access or attend the weekend pop-up kitchen at King’s Manor, HOPING also distributes groceries to households in need across York, each and every week.

In recent years, HOPING’s delivery of services has widened significantly, and the charity now offers local people in need far more than just a nourishing scran.

As well as providing toiletries, thermal essentials, pet food, support, and a tangible sense of community, it also offers signposting and advocacy for important homelessness and poverty-related issues including tenancy and medical care. It also offers education and entertainment through reading via fortnightly Bookcase For All visits, provides support for newly arrived refugees in need, and, with the help of Cycle Heaven, helps people struggling with transport to access serviced, second-hand bikes!

Last year, the charity was selected as a Finalist in the Best Street Food, Take-Away or Small Eatery category at the BBC Food & Farming Awards, and was also declared the Runner-up for the Best Community Project award at York Press Community Pride Awards, a gong it previously won in 2022. This volunteer-driven charity is currently home to a team of around 50 people, who share duties including cooking, serving, and organising the kitchen. If you’d like to get involved as a HOPING volunteer, keep your eyes peeled for the next recruitment drive or get in touch today!

HOPING York Street Kitchen serves food every Sunday from 2.30pm-4.00pm at King’s Manor, Exhibition Square, YO1 7EP. To get in touch with the Hoping York Street Kitchen team or register your interest as a volunteer, follow @HopingYork on Facebook, X and Instagram, or email hopingyorkstk@gmail.com today. Visit www.justgiving.com/charity/ hopingyorkstk if you’d like to donate.

OCAY cuts the cake for its 25th anniversary!

A volunteer-led charity that provides advocacy support to those aged over 50 in York, OCAY (Older Citizens Advocacy York), marked its 25th anniversary this summer, with a celebration attended by guests including Rachael Maskell MP.

Emerging from a 2001 "Better Government for Older People" pilot, OCAY provides a crucial service for local people. Penny Hutchinson, former Project Development Worker, observed: “Twenty-five years ago, the older people who founded OCAY set a bold course: to create an advocacy service that would stand independent, remain free, and earn the trust of those it served. Their greatest triumph is that through every challenge and every change, they never wavered from that original vision.”

OCAY provides much-needed advocacy support for local people facing financial hardship, complex bureaucracy, communication barriers, limited support networks, digital exclusion, or a lack of awareness of their legal

entitlements. In praise of its important ongoing work, Maskell said: “OCAY’s reputation is impeccable, but its true measure is not found in accolades - it is found in the lives it changes.”

Call 01904 676 200 or email info@ ocay.org.uk to get in touch. Visit www.oldercitizens advocacyyork.org.uk to find out more, or www.localgiving.org/ charity/ocay to donate.

Looking Beyond the Care Plan

Most of us think we know what working in care involves. We picture practical support, helping people around their home and assisting with everyday tasks. While those things are certainly part of the role, after spending the last few years working alongside some exceptional Care Professionals, I've come to realise that the very best carers bring something that can never be written into a care plan.

them remain themselves. Many clients aren't simply looking for practical support, but someone who can help them continue living the life they want to live, remaining connected to the people, places and routines that matter most.

They notice when someone seems quieter than usual, or remember that a client once mentioned loving steam trains, gardening, or watching the cricket. They suggest stopping for an ice cream on a warm afternoon, or taking a different route home because the roses are in bloom. Those moments don't appear on a care plan or rota, yet they can become the moments people remember most.

Great care isn't just about helping someone remain safe, but helping

In a world that can sometimes become focused on tasks and routines, perhaps we should spend a little more time recognising the creativity, thoughtfulness and emotional intelligence that great care requires.

Perhaps that's why we need to change the conversation about care…

Email marco.polledri@ radfieldhomecare.co.uk to find out more about Radfield Home Care York & Rural.

York Manor Care Home

York Manor redefines senior living, offering a spacious and thoughtfully designed environment that ensures comfort and elegance. Residents enjoy an exceptional lifestyle experience, supported by our commitment to care and quality. We invite you to discover our home because it’s always the right time to embrace the luxury care you deserve.

& PETS Families

UNIVERSITY OF YORK CLEARING

A level Results Day arrives on 13 August 2026. While it can feel nerve-wracking, you don’t have to navigate your next steps alone. The University of York is here to support you on your journey to university and help you explore the opportunities available to you through Clearing.

Clearing is a way to apply for a university place after you’ve received your exam results. It opens up new paths if you missed your grades, achieved better results than expected, haven’t applied yet, or have changed your mind about what or where you want to study. Whatever your situation, Clearing gives you the chance to discover courses that still have places available.

As the number one university in Yorkshire (CUG 2026) and with a Russell Group education on your doorstep, why not check out UoY courses?

On Results Day itself, the team will be available from 8.00am to provide advice, guidance and support as you consider your next step. Eligible local and commuting students can also claim a £250 award, designed to help you get

started and make the most of your university experience from day one (terms and conditions can be found at york.ac.uk/commuter).

Top Tips for Results Day:

• Add the Clearing hotline number to your phone now: 01904 234868. That way, you won’t need to search for it when lines open at 8.00am on Results Day.

• Find your 10-digit UCAS number in advance - one less thing to worry about on the day.

• Call the University yourselfthey’re unable to make offers to parents or supporters. You’ve got this!

• Keep a pen and paper nearby so you can make notes during your call.

Find your potential at York!

Sign up for Clearing alerts at york. ac.uk/clearing and be among the first to hear about available course vacancies.

Blippi On Tour is set to arrive in York! COVER STORY

Since 2014, when the first-ever episode of Blippi was uploaded to YouTube, the educational show, beloved by toddlers and young children alike, has gone well and truly viral. At the time of writing, the Blippi World YouTube channel has over 3 million subscribers across the world!

If your little ones are mad about Blippi, you’ll be more than familiar with the cheerful character already, who whisks young viewers away on new, learning-packed adventures every week. Next month, kids in York will be treated to a delightful, brand-new stage show, which offers a one-of-a-kind interactive experience, and even the chance to meet Blippi himself, as well as his trusty sidekick, Meekah…

The Be Like Blippi Tour is rolling into York Barbican for one day only, with two very special afternoon shows in which little fans will be inspired to move, play, and explore

- just like Blippi! Packed with highenergy music, plenty of surprises, and singalongs of fan-favourite songs from the show, including ‘Dino Dance’, ‘Monster Truck’, and ‘The Excavator Song’, the Be Like Blippi Tour features professional stage performers faithfully playing the characters, and is as close to the real thing as you’ll get, with no screentime necessary.

Plus, with a Photo Experience ticket, your nippers will also get the chance to meet and take a photo with Blippi on stage!

If you’re after educational entertainment to enjoy with the kids in the coming weeks, the Be Like Blippi tour could be just the ticket - there’s simply “so much to learn about, it’ll make you want to shout”!

The Be Like Blippi Tour runs at York Barbican on Saturday, 5 September, at 1.00pm and 4.00pm. Visit www.yorkbarbican. co.uk/whats-on/blippi to book your tickets.

Can you help?

Two enterprising 13-year-old Scouts from York have turned their fundraising challenge into a creative project by designing and launching their very own video game to help pay for the trip of a lifetime.

Ellie and Juno are hoping to represent York and the UK at the 2027 World Scout Jamboree in Poland, but first they each need to raise £3,600 to attend. Rather than simply asking for donations, the pair decided to create something people could enjoy while supporting their fundraising.

The result is SOFIE SCOUT: Road to Poland, a retro-inspired pixel-art game available on iPhone, Android, PC and Mac for just £2.99.

Players begin their adventure in

York, passing familiar landmarks including York Minster and Clifford's Tower, before racing across Europe towards Gdańsk in Poland. Along the way they'll dash through beautifully crafted pixel-art versions of cities including London, Bruges, Antwerp, Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Berlin, jumping over and sliding under obstacles to reach the opening ceremony on time.

The girls didn't just come up with the idea. They also helped create the artwork, contributed to the gameplay design, tested the game extensively and, with support from their parents, brought the project to life across multiple platforms.

Speaking about the project, Juno said: "We didn't just want to ask people for donations without giving them something in return, so we decided to create something people could actually enjoy.

representing York and the UK at the World Scout Jamboree."

We hope everyone has as much fun playing the game as we had making it, and every download brings us one step closer to

Ellie added: "To raise the funds we need to attend the Jamboree, we need to sell more than 3,000 copies of the game. If you're reading this, we'd really appreciate your support. It costs less than a cup of coffee, and every copy sold helps get us one step closer to the trip of a lifetime."

Use the QR code or web link below to download the game. It will automatically direct you to the correct store for your device, whether that's the Apple App Store, Google Play or Steam.

We think this is an impressive achievement for two 13-year-olds,

and who knows? It could be the first step towards a future career in game development.

Do you or does your organisation need help in any way? Get in touch with us and we will help you get the help you need!

Email info@yourlocallink.co.uk with the details and if we can, we will!

Scan the QR

Scan the QR Code to download them game or find out more!

THE LOOK Get Garden Gatherings

This month’s inspiration is drawn from summer dining and garden parties, with pastel tones and soft textures, perfect for evenings with family and friends.

Vivi Lustre Champagne Saucers Set of Four, £29.50, oliverbonas.com

Pure Linen Napkins, £55, thewhitecompany.com

Glass Beverage Dispenser with Tap, 4L, £8, dunelm.com

Barbary & Oak Hoxton Vintage Salt & Pepper Mill Set, £28, dunelm.com

Glim & Glam, Cutlery Sets Acacia Wooden Handle Stainless Steel 24pc, £33.99, debenhams.com

Set of 4 Coastal Picnic Dinner Plates, £16, marksandspencer.com

Witham Blue Stripe Woven Picnic Blanket, £53, sophieallport.com

Proud to be the

Haxby

Pacific Cabon 4 Seater Rattan Effect Patio Set – Natural, £924.99, habitat.co.uk

& INTERIORS Home

Landmark Passivhaus development wins multiple awards

The city of York’s first Passivhaus development, Duncombe Square (which Your Local Link was lucky enough to get a sneak peek at last year), was honoured at the annual York Design Awards this July, where it picked up a trio of awards.

Located just off Burton Stone Lane, the landmark development features 34 high-quality, Passivhaus-certified homes, designed by leading architects Mikhail Riches with the help, suggestions and consultation of local residents. Representing a positive step forward for the city’s net-zero ambitions, the Duncombe Square development picked up a Multi-Residential gong, as well as the Sustainability Award and Lord Mayor’s Award.

The Rt Hon Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Margaret Wells, said: “Duncombe Square provides much-needed homes for social tenants and lower-income households. Being zero-carbon in use is resulting in low bills for residents, whilst tackling climate change. The high-quality design is exceptional in terms of working well

inspiredblinds

(UK) York

with the local area, blending the open and private outdoor spaces and creating innovative, liveable spaces.”

Sophie Coles, architect at Mikhail Riches, said: “We are thrilled to see Duncombe Square recognised with three wins at the York Design Awards. Congratulations to our clients and the entire project team, whose ambition, collaboration and dedication made these wonderful homes possible. Duncombe Square is a net-zero, child-friendly, green and biodiverse neighbourhood that sets a benchmark for sustainable development.”

Other notable local buildings that were honoured at the 2026 York Design Awards include 99 East Parade and 14 Marygate (Single Dwelling), Rialto House (Multi-Residential), Askham College teaching block (NonResidential) and 60 Goodramgate (John Shannon Conservation Award). Other winners included 77 Walmgate and the updated Station Hall at the National Railway Museum (Heritage) and Marygate (Young People’s Award), while the

newly completed building at 105110 Micklegate also scooped two accolades (Non-Residential and The York Mix People’s Choice Award).

Last month, the city was also awarded another notable accolade at the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) awards, when Acomb’s Lowfield Green development won a Commendation in the Best Homes and Communities Scheme category for the Yorkshire Awards for Planning Excellence.

Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing at City of York Council, said: “Our Housing Delivery Programme has been ambitious from the get-go, and these awards recognise the vision and quality of the housing being created in York to meet residents’ needs and budgets.”

Visit www.shapehomesyork.com/ DuncombeSquare to learn more about Duncombe Square, or www. yorkdesignawards.org to find out more about the York Design Awards, or fill out an application for the next round of awards.

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& INTERIORS Home

Yorkshire-based travel platform launches bed4night to connect walkers and cyclists with local hosts

Emily Brown, an entrepreneur and local outdoor enthusiast from York, has launched bed4night , a new, affordable travel platform connecting walkers and cyclists with local hosts offering clean, affordable beds for the night across Yorkshire and the North of England.

The idea for bed4night was born during a bike-packing trip across France. Emily said: "After a series of travel mishaps and expensive, unsuitable accommodation options, I struggled to find a simple, affordable place to stay. At one point, I considered asking a local farmer if I could sleep in their barn. Instead, I ended up paying €160 for a small room, miles off route. That’s when it clicked: there needed to be a better way. My goal is to build something that benefits everyone. Hosts can earn extra income, travellers get affordable

stays, and communities receive direct support. It’s about creating something meaningful.”

bed4night brings the human element back to travelling, with real people connecting, sharing stories, and supporting each other. The platform connects guests with local hosts offering spare rooms or garden space. Travellers can find a bed in 3 easy steps:

• Create your profile. It’s free to join and easy to set up!

• Connect with verified hosts and make secure payments!

• Rest easy - stay with locals who care about your journey!

bed4night is actively seeking hosts across the UK who have spare rooms or outdoor space and are open to welcoming guests, even at short notice. Visit bed4night.co.uk to find out more.

How to Tell if Your Refrigerator Is Struggling With the Heat

After ninety years in the electrical retail game, I’ve seen more fridges falter during a heatwave than I’ve had hot dinners. When temperatures climb in York, even the sturdiest models can start to feel the strain. The trick is knowing the signs early so you can step in before your milk turns.

The first giveaway is warm shelves. If the top shelf feels noticeably warmer than usual, your fridge may be working overtime. Another sign is longer cooling cycles - a constant hum that seems louder or more persistent. You might also spot condensation build-up inside the fridge or around the door seal, a classic symptom of heat stress.

So, what can you do? Start with proper ventilation. With some models, it’s important to make sure

there’s at least a couple of inches between the fridge and the wall, so warm air can escape. Next, check the door seals. A worn or loose seal lets warm air creep in, forcing the fridge to work harder. Finally, give the coils at the back a quick clean - dust acts like a winter coat, trapping heat where you don’t want it.

If the fridge still struggles, reduce the load. A jam-packed fridge restricts airflow, so reorganise or remove items to help it breathe. And if all else fails, it might be time to book a service. After nine decades in the trade, I can tell you: a small fix now saves a big bill later. Call 01904 628676 or email enquiry@htodd.co.uk to get in touch with the team at Herbert Todd & Son.

& LANDSCAPES Gardens

New Season Eating Apples

Apple seasons are often overlooked. Pomologists, a fancy term for those who study fruit, usually classify apples into three seasonal categories: early (those ready in late July and August); midseason (those picked in September and early October); and late (those harvested into early November). We’re already into the new apple season, but you may not realise this based on the average supermarket selection. The most common usual suspects, Pink Lady, Gala, Granny Smith, and Braeburn, will no doubt still be on shelves. Many of these could be imported - over 60% of apples sold are not produced here, and some may still be from the southern hemisphere crop.

The one new season apple that’s also almost always UK-grown, Discovery, still finds a niche in shops at this time of year. With mainly crimson-red skin, sometimes with patches of yellow, it’s a handsome apple. Picked

when well-ripened, it’s crisp and refreshing, with an appealing, sweet-tart taste. It’s an apple I grow, and one recommended to anyone wanting to start an orchard, but it’s not suitable if you only have space for one or two trees. Like most earlies, it’s not a keeper. By late September, it’ll be soft and mealy. Another downside is that the bright red fruit is especially attractive to birds - damage varies yearly, but if blackbirds discover my Discovery before I do, there’ll be pecked fruits!

and crisp but with a stronger, tangy flavour. An acquired taste perhaps, but different from Discovery and some other early apples. The first George Caves tend to be ready a week or so before Discovery but, conversely, can also outlast it, some hanging on the tree well into September. It is best eaten from the tree, soon softening once picked.

An early apple I grow that’s less bothered by birds is George Cave. Smaller in size and less striking in appearance, it has greenish-yellow skin that’s part red-flushed and striped. Eating-wise, it’s less sweet

An even earlier apple than George Cave and Discovery is Beauty of Bath. This nineteenthcentury variety can be ready as early as late July. Small to medium-sized, ripened it has a largely red skin with a yellow background. An apple definitely best eaten just picked, it has the annoying habit of ‘dropping’, that’s falling from the tree, before

ripening. My one tree does this every year, so much so that most of the apples, which also bruise very easily, end up on the compost heap.

Two other early-eating apples are Baker’s Delicious and Early Worcester. The former is my favourite for flavour, and is also a good looker when fully ripe. It is a soft fruit though, and for this reason is not suited to commercial growing. Early Worcester is a largefruited apple somewhat similar to Discovery, but with a more purple hue. It derives from the old variety Worcester Pearman, a tree that’s often considered the ‘last’ of the early apples, not maturing until mid-September.

It should be said that there are cooking apples that also mature in August. The best of these must be Grenadier, an apple that, if only it kept beyond a month or so, would rival Bramley as king of the cookers. Perhaps more on this and other early culinary types another time.

TREE SURGERY

Castle Tree Surgeons

& LANDSCAPES Gardens

This month at Brunswick...

Brunswick is a community for adults with learning disabilities and Autism in Bishopthorpe, growing organic fruit and veg, bedding plants, perennials and shrubs, all sold at their shop on Appleton Road, with the proceeds supporting the charity.

GOOD TO GROW!

Our experts advise on what to do in August... With Plant Production Manager, Mark Jackson

August is a time when many of us will be on holiday - but what about our pots and hanging baskets? If you can’t find someone to water them, don’t worry.

If possible, move them to a shady part of the garden. Grouping them closely together will help reduce moisture loss. Give them a thorough watering just before you leave. Smaller pots can be immersed in a bucket of water for a few minutes to ensure they are well soaked.

If you have a greenhouse, you could try one of the various watering systems that use capillary action, such as water soaked mats or trays containing water under your pots, which allow plants to take up only the water they need. (Note: this doesn’t work if there are crocks in the pots.)

If you are at home, you can continue

sowing quick-growing vegetables such as lettuce, radishes and spinach now, and in the second half of the month, you can start sowing winter salad leaves, such as rocket, followed by winter cabbage, kale and spring cabbage.

Another easy success for August is potatoes. Choose cold-stored varieties: Maris Peer (good for roasting). Use a container at least 30cm deep and wide, keep it in a frost-free greenhouse or shed and they should be ready for Christmas. Finally, when all the jobs are done, you could sit back in your garden and start thinking about bulbs for next spring. As well as the usual snowdrops, narcissus and tulips, why not try something different, such as Leucojum aestivum, often described as summer snowflakes, which flower in April & May?

Gardening Q&A AUGUST

My compost bin is a disaster. It’s just a sludgy mess and full of woodlice!

Your oxygen-starved "sludge" is holding too much moisture and excess green waste. (Woodlice love these conditions). A lot of people make the mistake of forgetting “brown” waste is as important as “green” to

create air spaces. Crumple up old toilet roll tubes, torn up cardboard and non-glossy junk mail, and make sure you layer the green and brown. You can easily start over –empty the sludge into a veg bed, dig it over, hose out the bin and off you go!

It’s well worth the effort and is the perfect recycling solution.

Hi, I’m Alex, and this month I am focusing on courgettes, which can be grown so easily and could save you a lot of money. While August is too late to start them from seed (sow yours indoors from mid April next year), you can buy young plants now and they will have plenty of time (10 to 12 weeks) to produce courgettes while the sun lasts and probably into Autumn. Here’s what to do:

1: Plant them straight away in a sunny, sheltered place. You can put them in a polytunnel

or greenhouse but you can also plant outdoors - just watch the temperatures in Autumn and put a fleece over if they drop.

2: Water them regularly at the base of the plant, not the leaves (this can cause mildew) and you can add tomato feed once they start flowering.

3: Pick the courgettes regularly to encourage more growth.

4: Mulch. Courgettes lose moisture easily because they have such big leaves. If you mulch the soil around them, this will help keep the roots watered.

With over 20 years of experience, Neil and the team provide professional, reliable and fully insured gardening services across York and surrounding villages.

We offer a wide range of gardening work including; lawn maintenance, garden design, tree pruning, hedge cutting, landscape design, planting, mowing and more.

Working for both domestic and commercial clients.

& LANDSCAPES Gardens

Get inspiration for your green space at Sutton Park Gardens

Located just a stone’s throw from York in Sutton-on-the-Forest, in the ancient Forest of Galtres, Sutton Park is an iconic 18th-century Georgian house that currently serves as the private family home of the Sheffield family. While this iconic country house is a wellknown, popular attraction amongst both residents and visitors to North Yorkshire, its award-winning, beautifully landscaped gardens, which lie on the south side of the house, are simply a must-see for green-fingered enthusiasts.

Highlights to look out for in these stunning grounds include the Water Garden, planted with Chamaecyparis Allumii, the Temple Walk, filled with daffodils, narcissi,

white-flowering shrubs and white cherries, the long Canal Pond, planted with water lilies, and the famous Ice House, which served as an ice storage facility before the advent of electric refrigerators.

More recent additions to look out for include new planting in the fernery, the introduction of lilies and bulrushes in the lily pond, and the creation of a walled garden meadow, which features islands of uncut grass and wildflowers.

Sutton Park Gardens are now open for visitors from 11.00am-5.00pm (last entry at 4.00pm) until 31st August. Call 01347 810249, email suttonpark@statelyhome.co.uk or visit www.sutton-park.co.uk to find out more.

There’s still time to take part in this year’s Big

Butterfly Count!

The people of God’s Own County have already crowned the Peacock as their favourite type of butterfly, but this summer, wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation is calling on Yorkshire residents to get out and about for the annual Big Butterfly Count, to report on how this showstopping species is faring!

The Big Butterfly Count runs until 9 August, so there’s still time to get involved. You don’t need to be an expert - all you’ll need to do is spend 15 minutes in any sunny outdoor space and simply count the number and types of butterflies and day-flying moths you see. You can also use the free ID guide on the app and website to help you identify what you’ve seen!

Butterfly Conservation’s Head of Engagement, Kate Merry, said: “Butterflies are key indicators of the UK’s biodiversity and environmental health, so every single person that takes part and submits their sightings is helping us to see how these vital pollinators are doing, which in turn helps conservationists build a wider picture of how all butterflies and moths are faring. It’s easy, fun for all the family, and a great excuse to get outside and experience the simple joy of spotting butterflies.” Visit www.butterflyconservation.org to find out how you can help to save at-risk butterflies. Visit www. bigbutterflycount.org or download the free Big Butterfly Count app to get involved. Happy counting!

Ten years OF SELFEMPLOYED SUCCESS

A York printmaker and illustrator specialising in original linocut prints celebrates a decade of success in selfemployment this year.

Having lived and worked in York for 20 years, Michelle Hughes set up shop as a self-employed person in 2016, after experiencing a fourth redundancy. Speaking on taking the leap into self-employment, Michelle said: “Leaving a 25year career in design to become self-employed was a leap into the unknown. Celebrating ten years feels incredibly rewarding. What started with a few original linocut prints and local workshops has grown into an international business, with customers buying my work and taking my online courses from around the world. This year also saw the publication of my first book, Printing Birds and Wildlife in Linocut, by The Crowood Press, making the anniversary even more special.”

at Asda, Disney Home Europe, and The Arcadia Group, Michelle said: “Being self-employed has allowed me to steer my own ship and build a business around the things I love. I’ve been able to draw on my background in design, retail, and product development while continually learning new skills, from marketing and website design to photography, filming and editing.”

Does your

licensed venue

‘set the bar’?

APPLY FOR BEST BAR NONE ACCREDITATION NOW!

Are you the owner or manager of a pub, club, restaurant, or licensed premises in York? Do you feel that your bar or business is yet to receive the recognition it deserves? Licensed venues in the city are now invited to apply for the next round of accreditation from Best Bar None, a nationally recognised scheme supported by the Home Office.

Previously working wit big-name brands including George Home

Congratulations, Michelle! Here’s to many more years in business… Visit www.michellehughesdesign. com to find out more about Michelle Hughes Design, get in touch, purchase a print or two, or sign up for a workshop.

FORMER YORK KNIGHTS PLAYER CELEBRATES SEVEN YEARS AT PENLIFE

Kriss Brining, a former professional rugby league player of York Knights and Salford Red Devils fame, celebrates his seventh anniversary as a PenLife Independent Financial Planner this year.

After suffering a serious neck injury when playing for Betfred Super League side, Kriss undertook his journey with PenLife as an apprentice at the end of 2018, later qualifying as an Independent Financial Planner in 2021. Following a further injury in 2022, Kriss decided to hang up his boots once and for all, and focus on his new career. Speaking on the crucial role of the esteemed local firm’s supportive culture in his development, Kriss said: “PenLife has given me the space to grow both personally and professionally. The team works closely together, shares knowledge

openly, and genuinely cares. It’s a fantastic environment to learn and continually improve. Supporting clients throughout life’s different stages is what makes the job so interesting.”

In praise of Kriss’ contribution and unique journey from the rugby pitch to PenLife, Director Deb Jacobs said: “Kriss brings a combination of discipline, empathy, and determination to his work. His journey from professional sport to financial planning is inspiring, and his commitment to clients reflects the values we stand for at PenLife. We are incredibly proud of everything he has achieved and everything still to come.”

Visit www.pen-life.co.uk to find out more about PenLife Associates Chartered Financial Planners or get in touch with the team.

Delivered locally by York BID in partnership with organisations including City of York Council and North Yorkshire Police, Best Bar None celebrates the cream of the crop of licensed premises, and assesses businesses based on four key criteria: venue management; staff training and care; customer safety and welfare; and customer service and community.

Well-known local businesses recognised at the 2026 Best Bar None Awards earlier this

year included Evil Eye (‘Best Independent Venue’), Club Salvation (‘Best Late Night Venue’ and ‘Best Overall Venue’), Circuit York (‘Special Recognition’), Slug and Lettuce, York Riverside (‘Best National Venue’) and The York Dungeon (‘Best Entertainment Venue’). The York Best Bar None scheme was also awarded the ‘Best New Scheme’ gong, championing the city’s safe and welcoming nighttime economy.

If you’re proud to run a wellmanaged business that provides a safe environment for your staff and customers alike, and you feel that your licensed venue is a credit to our city’s hospitality industry, don’t hesitate to stake your claim! Interested in applying?

Email safetynetwork@theyorkbid. com to book an assessment for a time and date that suits you.

BUSINESS DIARY

31 JULY

MAKING CONNECTIONS NETWORKING EVENTYORKSHIRE QUIZ AFTERNOON, BoConcept Monks Cross York, YO32 9JR. 4.00pm-6.00pm. Join YCFC Foundation and more for a Yorkshire Day celebration, including a Yorkshire Day Quiz, Flat Cap hunt, refreshments, cream tea, and networking! Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/makingconnections-networking-eventyorkshire-quiz-afternoontickets-1992598658226 to book.

7 AUGUST

CREATIVE DRINKS: YORK CREATIVES, Patch York, YO1 6FA. 6.00pm-8.30pm. Meet up with like-minded local creatives, expand your network, and gain inspiration for your work over a casual tipple at Patch. This monthly social now runs every first Friday! Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/creative-drinks-yorkcreatives-monthly-socialtickets-304837967567 to book or find out more.

August

12 AUGUST

WIN CLIENTS ON LINKEDINSOCIAL SELLING MASTERCLASS, The Milner York, YO24 1AA. 1.00pm-4.00pm. Looking to get the most out of LinkedIn? This social selling masterclass covers both inbound and outbound mechanics, enabling you to boost your response rates and craft effective content and campaigns. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/win-clients-on-linkedinsocial-selling-masterclass-yorktickets-1987389726170 to book.

20 AUGUST

SUMMER SOCIAL ON BOARD CITY CRUISES YORK, City Cruises - Lendal Bridge Landing, YO1 7DP. 7.00pm-9.00pm. Step aboard the 'Captain James Cook' and network over drinks and a fish and chip supper. This highly anticipated summer social is sponsored by York Against Cancer. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/summer-social-onboard-city-cruises-yorktickets-1659105863299 to book.

ROUGIER ROUTE TRIAL GIVEN THE GREEN LIGHT!

A proposed scheme to restrict traffic in sections of Micklegate, Rougier Street and George Hudson Street between the hours of 7.00am and 11.00pm has been unanimously agreed by City of York Council, with an 18-month trial set to begin in January next year.

According to the new plan, the £2.3m Rougier Route, the installation of a bus gate and bus lane on George Hudson Street to lower Micklegate will work to cut average bus journey times and improve the reliability of local bus services. Blue Badge Holders and Hackney Carriages will be exempt from the traffic regulation order.

Councillor Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport, said: “We

have made great strides in recent years supporting people taking the bus, including reduced bus fares for young people; installation of over 250 individual improvements to bus shelters, and increased operating hours for all six Park and Ride bus services. But now we need to consider how we deliver more reliable, more convenient and more attractive bus services.”

What’s YOUR take on the Rougier Route trial? Will it encourage local motorists to hop on the bus? Email info@yourlocallink.co.uk to let us know!

Rachael Maskell MP takes aim at congestion and expensive hospital parking charges

In last month’s issue, we discussed the consideration of new measures by York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to reduce ongoing congestion around York Hospital. Addressing the issue of “hospital-induced congestion” in Parliament this summer, York Central MP Rachael Maskell said: “The levels of congestion on Wiggington Road are unacceptable. The air quality is affected for residents, people are late for their hospital appointments, and also, our whole city is snarled up because the hospital doesn’t have a sufficient transport plan.” The

MP has aimed further criticism at the Trust following the recent revelation that, at £22.50 for an all-day stay, York Hospital’s car parking charges are now the most expensive in the county. She pledged to meet with Chief Executive, Clare Smith, to discuss these charges and how to alleviate congestion in Wiggington Road. Has your hospital visit been hampered by congestion? Which measures do you think should be taken to reduce traffic on Wiggy Road? Email info@yourlocallink. co.uk with your suggestions.

MOTORING

2 AUGUST

JM RACEWARS, Elvington Air Field, YO41 4XS. 10:00am-5:00pm. See the fastest street cars competing in various disciplines, the Show & Shine showcase, and the JM Racewars Shoot Out, in which the top 8 cars from each class will compete in a Lights racing Battle Mode showdown. Visit www.tickettailor.com/events/ jmracewars/1956163.

22-23 AUGUST

YORK LAND ROVER SHOW, Unit Forest Business Park, YO19 4RH. 9.00am. Browse an array of club and trade stands, autojumble, food stalls, plus a beer truck and ice cream van. Try your luck driving radio-controlled Land Rovers around the YLR Show RC crawler course at this muchloved 4x4 day. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/york-land-rover-showtickets-1981940093171 to book.

30 AUGUST

MILITARY VEHICLE SHOW, Yorkshire Air Museum, YO41 4AU. 10.00am-5.00pm. This celebration of military hardware features a range of vehicles, displays and demonstrations, perfect for history buffspetrol heads. Normal Yorkshire Air Museum admission applies. Visit wwww.yorkshireairmuseum.org/ military-vehicle-show for details.

30-31 AUGUST

WEIGHTON WOLDS ROTARY CLUB

CLASSIC CAR SHOW, Langlands Garden Centre, YO43 3PN. 10.00am4.00pm. See a spectacular two-day display of classic cars, and enjoy delicious food and an exciting tombola, with entrance donations going towards York Against Cancer. Visit www.yorkagainstcancer.org.uk/ events/weighton-wolds-rotary-clubclassic-car-show-2026 for details.

GADGETS Motors

GADGETS OF THE MONTH Summer Entertaining

Everything you need for the ultimate summer get-together! From stone-baked pizzas and perfectly chilled drinks to garden music and seamless Wi-Fi, these clever gadgets will help you entertain family and friends in style all summer long.

CASO DESIGN PIZZACHEF 430° INDOOR

PIZZA OVEN

£199.99 from casodesign.co.uk and Currys

Bring out the authentic stone-baked pizza at home with this compact oven, which reaches temperatures of up to 430°C. With eight automatic programmes, a cordierite pizza stone and settings for different pizza styles, it’s perfect for summer entertaining indoors or in covered outdoor spaces.

SODASTREAM ENSŌ® SPARKLING WATER MAKER

£159.99 from sodastream.co.uk and Amazon.co.uk

Turn tap water into sparkling water at the touch of a button with this premium cordless machine. Featuring adjustable fizz levels, a Quick Connect CO2 system and a wide range of flavours available separately, it’s perfect for creating refreshing drinks when entertaining at home!

NETGEAR ORBI 373 WIFI 7 MESH SYSTEM

£299 from netgear.com

From streaming live sport in the garden to keeping the music playing at your BBQ, this WiFi 7 mesh system delivers fast, reliable coverage throughout your home and outdoor spaces. It supports smooth 4K streaming, gaming and video calls across multiple devices.

HUNGERHUB: THE KITCHEN IN A BUCKET

£199 from thehungerhub.com and Amazon. co.uk

Complete outdoor cooking station packed into a rugged 17-litre bucket. Including two gas stoves, cookware, kettle, griddle, utensils and tableware, it sets up in minutes and is designed to make camping, picnics and outdoor entertaining effortless.

GROOV-E WAVE SPARK PORTABLE WIRELESS SPEAKER

£17.99 from groov-e.co.uk, Tesco, Ryman and Currys

Compact enough to pop in a bag, this 5W Bluetooth speaker is perfect for garden parties, picnics and holidays. Featuring dynamic LED lights, an IPX6 water-resistant design and a handy carry strap, it’s built for music on the move.

SOLENCO LIFE PRECISION WINE COOLER WITH DECANTER

£129 from solencostore.com and Amazon.co.uk

Combining precision cooling with an integrated borosilicate glass decanter, this elegant gadget is designed to keep pre-chilled wine at its ideal serving temperature, while aerating it as you pour. Digital touch controls and ambient lighting complete the premium hosting experience.

NDY’S

AUTOS

YORK’S LOCAL SPORTS

York City FC Foundation expands its disability programme

Are you the parent or carer of a disabled, football-mad child? Are you keen on helping your little boy or girl to develop their confidence, motor skills, and football techniques in a safe, fun, and non-competitive environment?

The YCFC Foundation has recently bolstered its disability football programme, with an FAbacked football offer developed specifically for disabled children. City Comets offers weekly football sessions across three centres: City Comets PD, City Comets ND, and City Comets CP, which is aimed at young people aged 8-14 with cerebral palsy. Sessions run every term-time Saturday morning at York Sport

Village from September to July, and this month, special summer ND and PD sessions are running on the following dates:

As well as extensive offerings for children, the Foundation also operates two Junior and two Adult Pan Disability Teams, aimed at those aged 8-12, 13-16, and 16+ respectively.

To find out more, book a Summer Football Fun session, or book a taster session for the 26/27 season, which begins on 12 September, please email enquiries@yorkcityfcfoundation. co.uk or visit officialsoccer schools.co.uk/yorkcity/disability today.

FORMER YORK RI RFC PLAYER TACKLES DEMENTIA

Can you do your bit to help?

A local rugby league hero who spent time playing professionally with clubs including York RI RFC, and as a longserving coach and player at Heworth ARLFC, has launched a GoFundMe appeal to raise money for crucial stem cell treatment in a bid to beat dementia.

Former professional rugby league player Chris “Smiggy” Smith was diagnosed with early-onset dementia and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) three years ago, which he attributes to concussions and head injuries accumulated during his time on the pitch. According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, “rugby has the highest concussion rate among major sports. Former Scottish international rugby union players were found to be 2.5 times more likely to develop neurodegenerative disease than the general population who hadn’t played international rugby”.

SUMMER FOOTBALL WITH CITY COMETS

3 & 17 AUGUST

CITY COMETS ND, LNER Community Stadium, YO32 9AF. 1.00pm-4.00pm.

City Comets ND summer sessions are aimed at neurodivergent young people from the ages of 5-8/9-13, or those awaiting an ADHD or Autism diagnosis.

10 & 24 AUGUST

CITY COMETS PD, LNER Community Stadium, YO32 9AF. 1.00pm-4.00pm. City Comets PD summer sessions are aimed at disabled young people from the ages of 5-8/9-13, including those with physical disabilities and/or learning or sensory impairments. Due to the playing surface of the 3G mini pitches, these sessions are unsuitable for frame or wheelchair users.

Smiggy has been given a 10-year life expectancy, but hopes that he’ll be able to extend this and spend more time with his wife, Jo, and son, Kaleb; he says: “With your help and stem cell treatment, I may beat dementia.”

Whether you’re part of our city’s close-knit rugby league community or are simply keen on putting your money towards a good local cause, please consider helping Smiggy out and doing your bit to counteract the devastating effects of sports-related dementia and CTE - each and every donation is greatly appreciated!

Visit www.gofundme.com/f/beatingdementia-cte-for-my-wife-boy to read Chris “Smiggy” Smith’s story or donate today. Visit www. alzheimersresearchuk.org/about-us/ our-influence/policy-work/positionstatements/sport-and-dementia/ to learn more about the link between contact sports and dementia.

Women’s National League

Division One North Fixtures:

16 August: Blackburn Rovers (A)

23 August: AFC Fylde (H)

30 August: Norton & Stockton (H)

13 September: Durham Cestria (A)

20 September: Thornaby (H)

11 October: Halifax (A)

18 October: Chorley (H)

28 October: Leeds United (A)

8 November: Stockport County (H)

22 November: Chester-le-Street Town (A)

29 November: Bradford City (H)

6 December: Blackburn Rovers (H)

13 December: AFC Fylde (A)

10 January: Durham Cestria (H)

24 January: Norton & Stockton (A)

7 February: Chorley (A)

10 February: Leeds United (H)

28 February: Stockport County (A)

14 March: Chester-le-Street Town (H)

4 April: Bradford City (A)

11 April: Thornaby (A)

25 April: Halifax (H)

Visit www.yorkcityfootballclub. co.uk/news/ladies-team/ to stay up to date with the latest MinsterBelles news.

New weekly social netball league launches in York

Are you aged 18+ and looking for new ways to stay fit, have fun, and enjoy a spot of friendly competition with like-minded ladies, each and every week?

Play Netball has now launched a new weekly league in York, and is on the hunt for individuals and groups of friends who wish to take part. Whether you’re completely new to the world of netball, are returning to the sport after a well-deserved break, or are already a regular competitive player, the York Monday Adult League offers a welcoming environment in which you can strut your stuff, hit the ring, and apply some scoreboard pressure on the court, whatever your age, ability, or experience level. Each weekly two-hour session will feature three matches of around 36 minutes, with games scheduled at 7.00pm, 7.40pm, and 8.20pm. Because all fixtures, league tables, results and umpires will be organised for you, after you’ve registered, all you’ll need to do is turn up each week and hit the court!

Play Netball’s York Monday Adult League meets every Monday from 7.00pm-9.00pm at Energise Leisure Centre, YO24 3DX. Visit www.playnetball.co.uk/local-netballleague/york-monday/ or WhatsApp 07442 859662 to register your interest or find out more.

ASK THE EXPERT

WHO TO FOLLOW ON SOCIAL MEDIA

LEARNING FOR EVERYONE

Follow York Learning to keep up to date with their latest courses, workshops and taster sessions across a wide range of subjects. Discover inspiring learner success stories, find out about upcoming open days and events, and go behind the scenes to meet the tutors, explore the classrooms and workshops, and see examples of learners' work.

York Learning yorklearning

YORK BARBICAN

Autumn Adventures & Winter Sun Butterfly

out about their latest offers, events and ticket information.

York Mansion House york_mansion_house

THE JUDGE’S LODGING

York Barbican gives you exciting announcements and reminders about all the latest shows and productions. Whether it's a family show, comedy night or concert, there's something for everyone. Enjoy behind-the-scenes content, meet famous performers before their shows and get a glimpse of what goes on backstage.

York Barbican yorkbarbican yorkbarbican

YORK AGAINST CANCER

York Against Cancer keeps you informed about all their events, fundraisers and services. From magic shows and concerts to 10K runs, you'll Find everything that's happening here! Meet the team, read inspiring stories and see what their sponsors, supporters and volunteers are doing to help raise money for local people affected by cancer.

York Against Cancer yorkagainstcancer

YORK MANSION HOUSE

This month, York Mansion House socials will keep you up to date with everything happening, as well as teaching you fascinating facts and uncovering hidden pieces of history. Discover the Mansion House as a beautiful wedding venue, and find

Discover the seasonal dining The Judge's Lodging has to offer, along with their latest deals and offers. Explore the historic building and see everything it has available, whether you're looking for a special meal out, a relaxing weekend break, or the perfect venue for a wedding or event. Meet the team and discover fascinating snippets of the building's rich history along the way.

The Judge’s Lodging judgeslodging

RSPCA YORK, HARROGATE AND DISTRICT BRANCH

Meet the dogs and cats looking for their forever homes, see what they're getting up to, and learn more about each of their personalities. Keep up to date with fundraising fairs, events and campaigns, and meet the dedicated team, volunteers and supporters.

RSPCA York, Harrogate and District Branch rspcayork

RSPCAYORK

CATS PROTECTION

Meet the cats and kittens looking for new homes and learn more about their personalities. Discover helpful cat care advice to keep your feline friend happy and healthy, explore fundraising events and workshops, and find out how you can get involved. Keep up to date with the latest news, events and everything happening at Cats Protection.

North Yorkshire Cat Centre catsprotection cats_protection

DO YOU HAVE A YORK-BASED SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT?

Let us know and we may include it here in future editions. Email info@yourlocallink.co.uk.

With the school summer holidays well underway, now is the perfect time to be thinking about an autumnal break or a touch of winter sunshine. Have some dates in your diary, but need some inspiration? We have got you covered with some of our top picks to consider...

As the summer crowds leave the Italian city of Florence, the museums and galleries become calmer in the autumn, and it also sees the start of truffle hunting season. Head out in the morning with your expert guide and trained dogs, before spending the afternoon with a traditional Tuscan cooking class, using the truffles you collected in the morning. Take a short break just in Florence, or extend your stay and visit Chianti, or the medieval town of San Gimignano.

Seeing the ‘fall colours’ of New England is a popular experience on many people’s travel plans, but if you want to experience lovely colours, coastal towns, and welcoming inns & hotels, an alternative to consider is Nova Scotia, Canada. Accessible by nonstop flight from Heathrow, taking less than 7 hours, begin your stay in the city of Halifax. Visit the Halifax Citadel and learn more about the indigenous Mi'kmaq community, or take a trip to Canada’s most photographed lighthouse, Peggy’s Cove. Leaving the city behind, enjoy the 185-mile highway, looping around the northern tip of Cape Breton Island. The Cape Breton Highlands National Park is home to moose, bald eagles, black bears & red foxes, to name a few. Take the Cape Smokey Gondola for spectacular views of the landscape & coastline. This is a route I did personally 2 years ago, and would be happy to suggest some hidden gem properties to enhance your journey.

Looking for an autumnal feel closer to home? A short break to

Bucharest & Transylvania is around 3 hours flight time away. Spend time in the city, where you can visit Therme București, Europe's largest indoor wellness and relaxation centre, wander the cobbled streets in the old town sampling local dishes, or take a guided tour of the Parliament Palace. Head away from the city to see the castles of Transylvania, including the famous Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle.

Seeking some winter sunshine?

We are very excited to see some new & increased frequency nonstop flights to some firm winter favourites.

Launching this October, Virgin Atlantic will be operating a non-stop service from Heathrow to Phuket, Thailand. This allows you to head straight to the beaches & unspoilt islands of Thailand, avoiding stops in the Middle East or a connection in Bangkok. From flying into Phuket, you can easily experience the beaches of Koh Lak, Krabi & Phi Phi, head inland to Elephant Hills, or get away from it all on Koh Yao Noi.

Over recent years, Sri Lanka has seen a huge increase in those looking to visit, whether for the beaches, or an adventure visiting the famous tea plantations. Head in search of the elusive leopard or elephants in the national parks, and take a journey on the train from Kandy to Ella, taking you over the Nine Arch Bridge. We are very excited to see British Airways introducing 3 times a week nonstop flights to Colombo, starting October 2026, in addition to the already existing service from Sri Lankan Airlines, making access to Sri Lanka easier than ever!

When you are ready to start planning your autumn & winter travel plans, we would love to discuss options with you. Get in touch on 01904 623444 or visit 88 Main Street, Fulford.

Thursday 10th September, 2pm -

ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

CJ Ramsay & Associates. 73

UHY Calvert Smith 5

AERIALS

Aerial Services 78

Aerial Solutions 78

Creative AV Solutions 78

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Appliance Services 2

Aspire Repairs 78

Blackwell & Denton FM 63

Clyde Electrical 78

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Howdens (Monks Cross) 9

Watermark 6

Instyle Kitchens & Windows 9

Kitchen Revive 15

BLINDS

Blind Image 63

Blinds Valley 1, 94

Inspired Blinds 61

BOUNCY CASTLE HIRE

AMH Ents & Events 51

BUILDING PLANS

I W Design & Building 7

PDA 63

BUILDING/PROPERTY

MAINTENANCE

L. Walton Building 78

Paul Bell Building & Joinery 78

Justin Higginson 78

Turners Developments 58

CARE & MOBILITY

Radfield Home Care 55

Care UK - York 92

Minster Mobility 55

Tanglewood healthcare 57

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY

CLEANING

Able Carpet Cleaning 79

Carpet Diem 79

Clifton Carpet Cleaning 79

CARPETS/FLOORING

Kings Carpets & Flooring 13

Clifton Carpet Centre 19

Fully Furnished 73

CCTV

Ultra Fire & Security 82

CHILDRENS ACTIVITIES

First For Childcare 2

CLEANING/IRONING

COMPUTERS/WEB DESIGN

Aldwark Computers 73 Blueboot 73

DECORATORS

Alan Fawcett Painter 79

Bic’s Decorating 79

Brushstrokes York 79

C.K.W. Decorators 79

Chapple Painting 79

Jeff Wright 79

K Walton Painting 79

Samantha Storr Painter 79

S.P Essex Painter 79

SDS Decorator 79

DENTISTS

Clifton dental practice 53

DRAINS

Drain Busters Yorkshire 63

Seven H Drainage 67

EDUCATION/TUITION

Queen Ethelburgas 96

University of York 17

ELECTRICIANS

MH Electrical 80

STN Electrical 80

Active Electrical Solutions 79

Court Electrical Services 79

GB Electrical 80

HC Engineering 83

Jamie Heard 80

Judge Electrical Ltd 80

Keith Brown Electrical 79

Martin Clancy 79

Nfinnerty Electrical 3

OS Electrical 80

ESTATE & LETTING AGENTS

Ponderosa Caravan Park 61

FASCIAS/SOFFITS

Plasti-Fit 80

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Pen-Life Associates Ltd 7

FIREPLACES/MULTI FUEL STOVES

Focus Fireplaces 41

FOOD & DRINK

Bean to Barrel Cafe 96

Delta Hotels by Marriott 32

Everest Gurkha Restaurant 33

Fowlers of York 33

Middle Feast 32

St Sampsons Centre 32 The Parvin 32

Darleys Funeral 55

FURNITURE RESTORATION

Classic Upholstery 7

GARAGE DOORS

Clic Garage Doors (york) 62

Bardsey Garage Doors 94

First Garage Doors 80

Garolla Garage Doors 9

Hobman Garage Doors 80

GARDENING

Ace Tree Services 68 Country Gardens 69 Ground Solution Services 69 Lewis Tree Surgery 69

65

Readman 65 Buckton Homes & Gardens 69 C&R Landscapes Ltd 78

Castle Tree & Landscape 65 Circle Gardening Services 65 FR landscaping Yorkshire 65 Future Landscapes

Can-Be-Asked 81

Minster Maintenance 81

Vision Building & Joinery 81

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Beautycare 57

Clear & Hear 51

Clifton Park Hospital 51

Earwax Away 51

Emma Murphy Fitness 51

ryedale ear clinic 51

Sarah Todd Foot Health 51

Spine Solutions Ltd 95

Yoga With Nestor 51

JOINERY

Duncan Littlechild Joinery 94

Carl Winn Joinery 81

Inspired Joinery & Projects 82

Jolly Jobs Outdoor Spaces 65

Lewis Joinery 81

Matt Hodgson Joinery 81

Precision Joinery Services 81

LOCKS/SECURITY/ALARMS

Keep Safe 82

Afford a Lock 82

Dr Locks Ltd 82

GC Electronics 82

Towergate Locksmiths 82

York Locksmith Company 82

LOFT CONVERSIONS

Yorkshire Loft Ladders 17

MOTOR PARTS/SERVICES

Andy’s Autos 75

Birch Park Test Centre 75

Ivinson Autos Ltd 1, 96

JB Motors Malton 74

Custom Auto Keys 75

Fulford Auto Services 75

OLC Autos 74

Pickering Motor Company 96

York Bodywork Repairs 74

OVEN CLEANING

MC Oven Cleaning 79

PEST CONTROL

York Groundwork Solutions 71

Yorkshire Fencing 64

Yorkshire Gardeners 66

GATES/RAILINGS

PVC UK 71

SR Fabrications 69

York Iron Works 59

GUTTERING

Guttering Of York 80

Southbank Pest Control 65

The Pest Company 67

PLASTERING

JM Plastering 82

R Taylor & Sons 7

Will Neary Plastering 82

PLUMBING/HEATING

Hartleys Plumbing 84

J Robinson Plumbing 83

A1 Yorkshire Plumbing 84

All Cisterns Go 84

Be Warm Gas Services 84

Connor Warren 83

David Bateman 84

DJC Plumbing 83

Fensome Plumbing 83

Gas Man Neil 83

GNT Heating 83

Haxby Plumbing 83

HC Engineering 83

J Building Services 83

Joe Dallin 83, 94

Kenson Gas Ltd 84

MT Plumbing Services York 84

Plumbing & Heating by Jamie 83

York Gas Engineering 83

POINTING

Nick Stannard Property

Maintenance 78

PRESSURE WASHING

Pro- Blast Jet Washing 65

Tina’s Jet Wash Services 65

PRINTING/DESIGN

Fulprint 15

PROPERTY SERVICES

Profix Projects 61

Stonehill Surveyors 61

RECRUITMENT

York Homestay 55

Driver Hire York 15

RECYCLING

Yorwaste 2

REMOVALS/STORAGE

Bens House Clearance 85

DAW Storage Ltd 85

Hooks Removals 85

MWV Removals 85

Removals For You 85

White Rose House Clearances 85

ROOFING

Advanced Roofing 90

All Aspects Roofing 87

FJ Roofing 87

Heworth Roofing 89

Roofcraft 4

Roofs Above 87

Safeway Roofing 86

Able Roofing (York) 7, 87

All Roofs York 89

DSR Roofing 95

Future Roofs 95

Highgate Roofing 87

Roofing 85

SHOPS/STORES

Little Shambles Jewellers 9 Record Plant 13 Vinyl Eddie 2

SKIPS/WASTE REMOVAL D Boswell 52 Phillips Skips 67 SOLICITORS

Hethertons Solicitors 13

Switalskis Solicitors 73

Westminster Law Support 11

SPORTS/CLUBS/ACTIVITIES

York Golf Range 27

TILE SHOPS

The Tile Company 18 TILERS

Shaun Wilson Tiling 91

Classic Upholstery 7 WILL WRITING Family Wills York 53

WINDOW/DOOR REPAIRS Alliance Glass York Ltd 91 Kevin Lea UPVC Specialists 91 WINDOWS/DOORS/CONS D & D Windows 63 Eliments 19 Vision PVC Ltd 91 YRK Windows 91 Cloud9 Windows 15

D.G.M.S Windows 63

Darren Mark Gray Upvc Windows 81

EYG 11

Glass Supplies York 15

Yorkshire Windows Leeds 91

WORKTOPS/KITCHENS

Dales of Thirsk Ltd 60

ADream Clean 79

TCB Laundry 79

FUNERAL SERVICES

JG Fielder & Sons 55

HANDYPEOPLE

York Flatpack & Handyman 81

Nunthorpe Services 83

York Property Group 83

JDL Roofing Ltd 88

KML Roofing 86

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