Your Local Link : December 2025

HO HO HO!

Dear Reader,

Season’s Greetings! We hope you’re keeping well and are in the mood for a good read.

To celebrate Crimbo this year, we’ve put together a pile of pressies to keep you entertained, including an interview with York’s premier panto dame, a sneak peek at a much-anticipated upcoming theatre production, a vast selection of events, and, as always, some goodies from our regular columnists and contributors.

We’ve also gathered a plethora of festive poems by local writers, a seasonal short

Meet Your Local Link Team

story or two, an interesting time-travelling excursion to the iconic Fairfax House, and a rundown of all of the hottest happenings worth knowing about in York this month. We’ve also heard from a little robin that Father Christmas himself will be making an appearance, ahead of the big day.

So, before you open your presents and crack out the Christmas carols, we hope you can find some seasonal joy within these pages…

Have yourself a merry little Christmas!

Until next year,

The Yll Team x

Design/Editorial & Social Media: Scott, Sophie, Correy,

Advertising: Mim, Craig, Mackenzie, Annabelle & Jack.

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

On The Cover This Month

CHRISTMAS AT CASTLE HOWARD: THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ

On the cover this month is Christmas at Castle Howard with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, an immersive experience at the most iconic country house in North Yorkshire! See Castle Howard transformed into the magical world of Oz via installations, soundscapes, and projections, and catch all of your favourite characters. Running until 4 January 2026, this memorable festive attraction could be the perfect seasonal day out. Turn to pg 34 to read our full review of this magical experience!

‘God bless us, every one!’

- A Christmas Carol

home on the internet, www.yourlocallink.co.uk, is jam-packed with York events, stories you won’t find in the magazine, and free printable walks from our Walking Wanderer

Louise & Nicola.

Gini.

Simon

Gini

Scott Sophie

Mim Craig Mackenzie Molly Jack Correy Maddy Annabelle

Louise Ted Delilah

Inside this month...

8 - WALKING WANDERER

Join the Wanderer for a ‘figure of eight’ walk around The Hammertons.

16 - HOROSCOPES

Heather’s back again with some valuable advice to help you through the month ahead.

63-75 - HOME AND GARDEN

Check out the latest entries from our regular columnists Tony Chalcraft and Matt Todd, and get some valuable festive gardening tips.

WIN, WIN, WIN

14 - BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO

WIN a free signed copy of local author Martin Nathanael’s new novel, and a free evening retreat at Subrosa Spa at The Grand, York!

INTERVIEWS

33 - ROBIN SIMPSON

We caught up with York’s bestloved panto dame, who’ll be appearing in Sleeping Beauty at York Theatre Royal!

34 - STEVE TEARLE

Get the lowdown on the upcoming production of Priscilla Queen of the Desert from NETheatre York’s Steve Tearle.

48 - MATT TODD

Find out why our property columnist has embarked on an Icelandic excursion!

FEATURES

46 - SASH

Familiarise yourself with SASH, our featured local charity this month.

10 - TIME TRAVEL

Step back in time for a historical jaunt to Fairfax House.

51-59 - LITTLE STARS

Our annual Little Stars feature is back again, focusing on the important work carried out by York Hospital’s Neonatal Unit. Kindly sponsored by Dream Doors.

44 - AGE UK YORK

Find out how you can help to support older people this winter, with Age UK’s Winter Campaign.

47 - ASK A VET

Join Bishopton Vets for a crash course in autumnal animal safety!

41 - FASHION FOCUS

Keep yourself cosy this Crimbo with our carefully curated selection of fashion picks.

34 - WE TRIED

For this month’s We Tried, our team headed on down to Christmas at Castle Howard with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz!

33-38 - YORK CULTURE

Dig into Ben’s latest book reviews, check out some seasonal local poetry, and have a read of Robin’s festive short story.

REVIEWS

30 - SORA

Join our food reviewer for a bite at Sora, located at Malmaison York.

47 - GIVE US A HOME

As always, we’ve included details of some lovely local animals in need - could you be the one to give them a loving home?

22-29 - EVENTS

From gigs, Christmas Tree festivals and carol concerts to theatre shows and community fundraisers, we’ve listed every event worth knowing about this December!

78-93 - CLASSIFIED

A comprehensive list of the local tradespeople you’ve been looking for. Find our most trusted tradies (who’ve been with us for yonks) in the Trusted Traders section.

The Word became flesh, and dwelt among us

Advent is a time of expectation. The anticipation builds each day, as we await Christ’s coming among us, as one of us and in the most vulnerable form of human life: a newborn baby. And for Mary, of course, the weeks we mark as Advent were literally a time of expectation; they were the ninth month of her pregnancy. For her, these weeks were not only a time of preparation for the birth of her first child, but also a season when she and Joseph had to travel, to be registered by the authorities in Joseph’s home town.

After the journey, there was no rest and no place to stay in the crowded little town of Bethlehem. The familiar Nativity scenes often show a rather picturesque, slightly tumbledown stable, with animals watching on: hardly the ideal place for childbirth. But here, in the midst of all the messy, turbulent reality of the world, God came among us, came and found us in the darkness and the pain and muddle of our human experience, and came as the light which shines

in the darkness, the light which no darkness can overcome.

JOIN A CLUB

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 boost, there are all sorts of groups and clubs available in and around the city - check out our pick of some of the best, which are currently accepting new members!

YORK NEW FRIENDS

God came among us, came and found us in the darkness and the pain and muddle of our human experience, and came as the light which shines in the darkness

Our Christmas card scenes often also show something else rather lovely: wide eyed children, and gifts, hospitality and welcome, decorations and cheerfulness. Wonderful things. And this can give the impression that the particular happiness of Christmas is somehow only available to people who are already happy. But the reality of the stable scene stands as a powerful reminder that God comes among us every day, everywhere, and for everyone. In every circumstance, however painful or broken, Christ comes, with love and healing, justice and forgiveness, reconciliation and liberation. And Christ illuminates the darkness of our hearts and of our world, he sets us free from sin, to know true joy as he is born in our hearts, however broken.

Come, let us adore Him.

The Rt Revd Dr Flora Winfield, Bishop of Selby.

Whether you’re new to the city or have lived here all your life, York New Friends could be a fantastic outlet for revitalising your social life and making valuable, lasting new friendships. Aimed at both single and attached locals of all ages, this group is centred around connecting like-minded people based on shared interests, from cinema, theatre and books, to day trips, weekends away, and food & drink! Visit www.meetup.com/york-newfriends to find out more or sign up as a York New Friends member.

EXPLORE YORK LIBRARIES & ARCHIVES

To celebrate the 175th anniversary of the Public Libraries Act of 1850 (which marked the step towards providing free access to books for all), the Explore York Libraries & Archives team are now recruiting 175 new community members, who will be entitled to have their say in the running of our city’s libraries. This is a great opportunity to contribute to your local community and make a tangible difference to the services enjoyed by local readers, learners, and library users. Membership is only £1! Visit www. exploreyork.org.uk/communitymembership to sign up as a community member.

YORKIE TALKIES OUTDOORS

Calling all fans of the great outdoors! This much-loved local community of walkers, ramblers, and nature lovers runs an extensive programme of outdoor-friendly events, including guided group walks, challenge events, weekends away, adventure holidays, navigation courses, paddleboarding events, and more! For the remainder of 2025, it’s also possible for members to bring a friend along to a Yorkie Talkies Outdoor event for free. Visit www.yorkietalkies.co.uk to find out more or join Yorkie Talkies Outdoors.

CONNECT SERVICE

Meeting every fourth Sunday from 3.00pm to 4.15pm at the Holy Redeemer in Acomb, 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 and welcome! Email revdeaconmairi@ gmail.com for further information.

YORK SOCIAL GROUP

This welcoming community group has been dedicated to reducing loneliness and social isolation in our city since 2021, and is primarily aimed at local people in their 20s and 30s. Whether you’re a new or long-term resident, the York Social Group could help you to make meaningful connections with others in and around the city. This inclusive group is proud to support women’s rights and local LGBTQIA+ communities, and offers a safe and respectful environment for all who wish to attend their diverse range of events. Visit www.meetup.com/ york-social-group to find out more.

WALKING WITH THE WANDERER

5 miles (full walk)

This shortish ‘figure of eight’ walk can be done as a whole or divided into two separate circuits. One circuit (2 miles) includes Kirk Hammerton and the river Nidd, and the other (3 miles) includes the villages of Green Hammerton and Kirk Hammerton.

IS THIS WALK FOR ME?

Whether done in full or as separate circuits, this is an easy walk. The only potentially muddy section is the path alongside the Nidd and the stretch over the fields. Otherwise, the walk is mainly on lanes which carry virtually no traffic. There is only one stile, on the deviation into Helenfield, so it can be avoided if this is omitted.

1/ Starting from Hammerton station, exit the platform and turn right over the level crossing. (If only doing the Kirk Hammerton and Nidd circuit, turn left and go along the road to the village’s small green, at which go left and proceed from Direction Point 5.) Continue to the main road (A59). Turn left on the narrow roadside pavement for 200 metres, until opposite a minor road entrance. Cross with care and walk down the road (Red Lane).

2/ Now, follow this quiet lane through a sharp left bend halfway along, to Direction Point 3. For a pleasant on-route deviation, look out for a wooden gate on the right in about 400 metres, giving access to woodland (Helenfield). To explore, pass through the gap left of the gate, keeping ahead in scrubby trees for 150 metres to an easily missed stile on the left. Cross this and go ahead for a short distance in woodland, until you reach a junction at a seat. Here, turn left, soon arriving at a wooden gate leading back onto the lane, at which turn right, continuing to Direction Point 3.

3/ Approaching new housing, turn right on a track between hedges with houses at the left. Continue as the track turns sharply left (ignore a footpath right), still between hedges. Reaching a tarmac lane at a bend, go right, staying with it as it goes left between farm buildings. This quickly reaches a further junction leading to Green Hammerton’s ‘green’. Keep left with trees and grass right until you reach a junction. Turn left on the main street to reach the pub and post office.

4/ Continue ahead on York Road. In about 250 metres, shortly after

GETTING THERE

The recommended starting point for the full or shorter walks is Hammerton station, to which trains run half-hourly from York. For a Green Hammerton start, bus 82/84 operates roughly hourly from Piccadilly and the rail station to the village daily, except Sunday. If driving, there is roadside parking in both villages, which are just off the A59, about nine miles from the city centre.

Springbank Surgery and a green telecoms box, take the path right, leading to an island crossing of the main road (A59). Cross, going left for a few metres, then right along Kirk Hammerton Lane. Walk down this quiet lane, going over the level crossing in 700 metres to arrive at a crossroads in Kirk Hammerton. Turn left along the main street, until this bends left near the church.

5/ For the full walk, go right of the small green (chain bollards at the right), keeping right again in a short distance with a wall to the right. (For a short circuit, keep left and continue from Direction Point 8.) Now, remain on this dead-end tarmac lane, passing the cricket ground to the right, then a track entrance to the left, through which you later return (Direction Point 7), to reach large and private-looking gates. Go through the pedestrian gate on the left, passing the mill at the right until you reach a house and garden.

6/ Here, turn right through a metal pedestrian gate, going over a bank to follow a grassy path (yellow waymark post) ahead. The route now continues with the river down to the right and woodland to the left. Stay with the path as it bends with the river. At power lines, ignore a stile to the left. Soon after this, at the end of woodland with a fence ahead, go left.

7/ Keep ahead on the woodland edge, staying right at an open area. Where the woodland ends, go through a metal gate to walk over a field towards a lone tree. Here, kink slightly left towards a small white notice, just visible in the fence ahead. At the fence, turn left with a ditch to the right. At a slight rise

REFRESHMENTS

The Bay Horse in Green Hammerton is currently open from 11am at weekends and 4pm on weekdays. The post office/shop opposite has a café, and is open every day except Sunday.

WHAT TO SEE

The main building of interest on the route is the church in Kirk Hammerton, the south aisle of which dates from the ninth century, and the tower from the tenth. Green Hammerton is most notable for its long ‘green’ lined by period houses. The Nidd, not far from its confluence with the Ouse, has a variety of wildlife, as does the newly planted woodland enclosed in one of the river’s long loops. Helenfield (Direction Point 2) is a restored tip planted with woodland.

3

4 6 7 5 8

by a wooden post, keep ahead, leaving the ditch, heading directly over a field to a gate. Through this, follow the enclosed path to return to the tarmac lane. Turn right and retrace your steps to the small green in Kirk Hammerton.

8/ Keep the green left, but then turn right into Old Church Green, passing the village hall. At the end of this short road, go through a kissing gate. Cross the field to the far-left corner and exit through another kissing gate. Turn right on the tarmac road (not the farm access track), continuing to Hammerton station.

2

A Georgian Christmas at Fairfax House: The Legacy of the Fairfax Family.

This Christmas we’re venturing into one of York’s grandest Georgian townhousesFairfax House, a masterpiece of 18th century design.

This Christmas, we’re venturing into one of York’s grandest Georgian townhouses – Fairfax House, a masterpiece of 18thcentury design.

This elegant townhouse on Castlegate was purchased by Viscount Charles Gregory Fairfax in 1759 for his beloved daughter Ann Fairfax. It became their winter home, where they’d enjoy the social season in York. It provided them with an ideal location to enjoy York’s vibrant social life, filled with race meetings at the Knavesmire and parties in the Assembly Rooms (now ASK Italian on Blake Street).

When Viscount Fairfax bought the property, he commissioned architect John Carr to remodel the interior of the House. Carr transformed much of the décor, including the great staircase, marble fireplace, and the stucco ceiling in the dining room, a display of some of the finest plasterwork of the 18th century.

“ My daughter’s house in York is now complete and paid for and drains me of all my monies ”

- Lord Fairfax, written to his bank manager in 1762

Ann

Fairfax. Unmarried and living at a time when women’s independence was limited, her story shows the struggles of unmarried women in the 18th century.

With the loss of her eight siblings, she became the heir to the Fairfax fortune and estates in Gilling and Ampleforth, as well as the townhouse in York. When her father died in 1772, she inherited the family wealth and responsibilities, defying those who doubted her ability to manage the estate. Soon after, Ann sold Fairfax House and retired to Gilling Castle, where she lived out the rest of her life.

The Fairfax story stretches back centuries. Gilling Castle was originally owned by the Etton family in the 12th century. It was Thomas de Etton who built the manor house in the 14th Century, and in 1349, his father settled the manor to his wife’s family, the Fairfaxes, in the event that they failed to produce a male heir. Therefore, in 1489, Thomas Fairfax was able to take claim of the property. It was passed down through the Fairfax family for generations, having various restoration works done, including some by John Carr, at roughly a similar time to when he was working at Fairfax House. Now known as Ampleforth Abbey, it is thought to have been named Ampleforth Lodge, built for Father Anselm Bolton. Ann gifted Father Anselm the house before she died, and the property was then left to the Benedictine Monks in 1802, at the time they were being expelled from France. The monks used the Lodge and it became the basis for the monastery, and then later, the College.

Ironically, after the death of Lavinia

Fairfax in 1885, her branch of the family ended, and Gilling Castle passed through several hands, before Ampleforth Abbey bought the property in 1929 - it was used as the prep school for Ampleforth College until 2018.

In the years following the Fairfaxes, the townhouse has served many purposes, starting as private residences for people such as William Danby, Peregrine Wentworth, and Sir John Lister Kaye.

By the 20th century, Fairfax House had lived many lives - becoming a venue for art exhibitions, a gentleman’s club, and the headquarters of the Friendly Society. In the early 1900s, it was dramatically transformed into a cinema, known as St George’s Hall. The kitchens, laundry rooms and servants’ quarters were removed to make room for a large auditorium.

Fortunately, much of the decorative details were preserved, such as the elaborate plasterwork of the stucco ceilings, which were done by Giuseppe Cortese and James Henderson.

By 1980, the once-grand townhouse had fallen into decline, and with the risk of the house declining further, it was taken on by York Civic Trust, who set out to restore it to its former glory.

The restoration was led by Francis Johnson FRIBA, an architect from East Yorkshire, and took 4 years to complete. The restoration cost £750,000 (in 1980), and 20,000 hours were dedicated to

carefully cleaning the very intricate plasterwork.

In 1984, the Duchess of Kent officially reopened Fairfax House as a museum — a living portrait of Georgian York, furnished with Noel Terry’s exceptional collection of 18th-century furniture and clocks.

The restoration allows us to experience how it would have been decorated and furnished during the time that Lord Fairfax and Ann lived there, offering a glimpse into their fashions and styles, as well as an understanding of the habits and customs of York’s wealthy gentry and aristocracy.

Since 2008, the house has been owned by the York Conservation Trust, ensuring its preservation for the future. Each year, Fairfax House comes alive with the spirit of Christmas, and is a must-see for visitors and residents alike.

This December, visitors can enter the world of Georgian York as the Fairfax family get ready for their spectacular Christmas ball. Watch out for the pesky “Townmice”, causing chaos amongst the decorations...

Scan the QR to find out more on the Fairfax House website.

was the third and only surviving child of the nine children of Lord Fairfax and his wife, Lady Mary

Ampleforth Abbey Image: Sophie Lancaster

Copyright: Fairfax House. Image credit: Christopher John Photography

Copyright: Fairfax House. Image credit: Christopher John Photography

Photo credit: Ian Forsyth

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!

Dear Daphne,

Benjamin here, but my friends and close associates call me Benny Boy. I keep noticing that one of my coworkers hasn’t been appreciating my sense of humour recently. She appears to be down, so I always try and lighten the mood. Last time I was doing a Joker impression whilst she was sobbing, then I switched to Kermit the Frog and she yelled at me. Should I keep trying to make her smile? All the best, would really appreciate your advice, Benjamin Fradley, York.

Dear Benjamin,

Oh, Benny Boy. I think we’ve found the problem, it’s not your audience, it’s your timing. There’s a difference between lightening the mood and auditioning for Britain’s Got Talent beside a woman in tears.

If someone’s visibly upset, they probably don’t need an encore from the Muppet Show. They need space, empathy, or at the very least, quiet! You’re not the office morale officer, and even if you were, this routine would get you fired or at least on the radar of HR.

I’m sure you mean well Ben, but the kindest thing you can do is stop performing and start listening. Next time she’s upset, just say, “Rough day?” and leave it there. No Joker voice. No green felt frog. If she wants to talk, she will. If not, the best way to cheer her up is to let her breathe in peace.

Daphne

Dear Daphne,

I recently started second year at university and this year I am sharing a house with my friends for the first time. I feel like before we lived together, we all got along really well with a strong bond. Since we have moved in together it feels like our relationship isn’t as close, and at times can feel quite strained. Is this just because we are around each other more now or are we actually drifting apart?

Madeline, Osbaldwick.

Dear Madeline,

Welcome to the reality of shared living where nothing tests friendship quite like unpaid bills, mouldy

dishes, and someone who insists their turn to clean the bathroom “just hasn’t come round yet.”

You’re not drifting apart; you’re just discovering what your friends are like when you remove sleep and personal space. It’s perfectly normal for things to feel tense at times. The honeymoon period of friendship usually ends the first time someone eats your yoghurt or drinks your milk!

The trick is to create boundaries. You don’t have to live in each other’s pockets just because you share a roof. Spend time apart, find solo routines, do the things YOU like to do, and stop expecting the same dynamic you had in first year. Living together changes things and sometimes it makes the friendship deeper, sometimes it just makes you appreciate having your own lockable door.

You’ll all survive this as long as you remember to keep communication civil, bills paid, and milk clearly labelled. The friendship will find its new balance, even if it takes a few passive-aggressive notes to get there.

Daphne

Dear Daphne,

My neighbour is an avid gamergreat for him. The trouble is, I can hear him shouting when I go up to bed every night. He's only 14 or 15, so a growing teen who is obviously just socialising with his friends. How can I approach this with his parents without creating a big issue between us? The last thing I would want is tension between us, as at present we do get along fine when we see each other.

Hazel, York.

Dear Hazel,

You’re right to tread carefully here. Few things are more sensitive than telling parents their teenager is noisy, especially when said teenager probably thinks he’s competing in an international gaming final. Start with a friendly, face-to-face chat when you see them outside. Keep it light and avoid sounding accusatory. Something like, “I know teenagers need their fun, but I can hear the gaming quite clearly

at night - is there any chance of turning it down a bit after 10?” That way, you’re not demanding, you’re requesting.

If they’re reasonable people (and it sounds like they are), they’ll understand. They might not even realise how loud it’s become. If things don’t improve, try a polite note before resorting to the council’s noise team. But that should be your last resort as nothing kills neighbourly goodwill faster than an official complaint coming from the council.

For now, a calm chat and a smile should do the trick. Approach it like you’re solving a puzzle, not starting a war with them.

Daphne

Dear Daphne,

My best mate has started a relationship with our other friend’s ex-girlfriend. This is obviously massively controversial and is causing problems in our close friend group. I feel like I'm stuck between my two best mates and I’m really gutted our group isn’t the same anymore. We literally did everything together, now we don’t. What can I do or say to try and resolve this and bring back our good friendship?

Ollie, Heworth.

Dear Ollie,

Ah, the age-old tale of boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy’s mate picks her up like she’s on clearance. You’re right, it’s controversial. And no, you can’t make everyone suddenly get along again. You can, however, stop being the referee.

If two people want to date despite the fallout, that’s their choice. If your other mate feels betrayed, that’s his right too. Your job isn’t to fix this mess, it’s to avoid getting dragged into the drama full stop. Stay neutral, avoid gossip, and make it clear that you care about them both and you absolutely won’t take sides. Friend groups evolve. Sometimes they shrink, sometimes they splinter, and occasionally they recover once the dust settles and the relationship inevitably implodes. Focus on the friendships you can keep, not the ones currently imploding over a

shared ex.

In short, stop playing peacemaker. Let them sort out their own emotional admin. You’re not HR.

Daphne

Dear Daphne,

My girlfriend recently revealed she would like us to take a break from our relationship after a tough few months, both personally and financially. It's been almost four months and I am finding it difficult coming to the realisation we might not get back together. Is there anything I can do to try and turn this around?

Ben, Clifton Moor.

Dear Ben,

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but a four-month “break” isn’t a break darling, it’s a quiet goodbye. If she truly wanted to fix things, she’d be there, not in your rear-view mirror.

It sounds like you’ve been holding on, hoping she’ll realise what she’s missing. But breaks rarely lead to reconciliation; they just soften the blow of a breakup. You can’t force someone to come back, and chasing her will only make you look like the sequel she didn’t ask for. The best thing you can do is start living as though the relationship is over. Get busy, see your friends, pick up hobbies that don’t involve refreshing her Instagram. Focus on yourself, not on convincing her. Ironically, that’s the only thing that might make her look twice - seeing that you’re no longer waiting in emotional limbo. But don’t do it for her. Do it for you! Closure doesn’t come from her message; it comes from your own decision to move on with your own life.

Daphne

HAVE YOU GOT A QUESTION YOU WOULD LIKE TO ASK DAPHNE?

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

Make the Most of Your Tax Allowances Before 5 April Deadline

As the end of the tax year approaches on 5 April 2026, now is the time to take stock and ensure you’ve optimised your finances to make the most of your available 2025/26 tax allowances. The UK tax system offers a range of opportunities to reduce your tax liabilities on income, savings, pensions and inheritance – but many of these annual allowances are use-it-or-lose-it.

Why You Should Start Planning Today

It can be easy to miss out on opportunities by leaving your tax planning until the end of the tax year in April. By acting early, you can avoid unnecessary stress and take practical steps to:

• Take full advantage of your personal allowances – including the £12,570 income tax allowance, £1,000 savings allowance, and £3,000 capital gains tax exemption.

• Optimise your pension contributions and ISA limits – to grow your wealth tax-efficiently.

• Avoid higher tax bands – by managing income and dividends strategically.

• Plan for the future – including gifting and inheritance tax strategies that benefit your loved ones.

By taking action early you’ll have time to make informed decisions, consult with financial professionals, and implement a strategy that aligns with your long-term goals.

How Succession Wealth Can Help

At Succession Wealth, we help individuals and families across the UK make confident, informed financial decisions. With over 190 independent financial advisers and £10bn in assets under advice, we offer expert guidance tailored to your unique circumstances. We’re proud to have a local presence in York, with our office located at Arabesque House, Monks Cross Drive in Huntingdon. Our York-based financial advisers are here to support you with:

• Tax-efficient investment planning

• Pension and retirement strategies

• Estate and inheritance tax planning

• Protection and insurance advice

• Succession and legacy planning

Whether you’re building wealth, preparing for retirement, or thinking about your legacy, our local financial advisers are ready to help you make the most of your financial opportunities.

Don’t wait until the 5 April deadline. The earlier you act, the more of your annual allowance you’ll be able to utilise to protect and grow your wealth before the 2026/27 new tax year.

Book a free, no-obligation consultation with a Succession Wealth financial adviser today. Our York team is ready to help you achieve your financial goals. Visit successionwealth.co.uk or call 01904 235451 to speak to a local financial planner, or email info@successionwealth.co.uk

Let Succession Wealth help you make smart financial decisions today –so you can enjoy peace of mind tomorrow.

Please note: This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only. The content was accurate at the time of writing, changes in circumstances, regulation and legislation after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the article. Succession Wealth is a trading style of Succession Wealth Management Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register number 588378. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate advice on taxation, Trusts, Estate Planning, Will writing and certain aspects of corporate services. Succession Wealth Management Limited is registered in England and Wales at The Apex, Brest Road, Derriford Business Park, Derriford, Plymouth PL6 5FL: Registered Number: 07882611.

SIGNED COPY OF

JOURNEY’ BY

Interfaith minister, meditation teacher, and novelist Martin Nathanael has kindly offered a free signed copy of his new book, The Ring of Truth: A Philosophical Journey to lucky Your Local Link readers. This unique novel follows a young man named Zac, who meets a mysterious stranger who will act as his spiritual mentor.

find all 10 words in our

Send your completed puzzle, marked ‘DEC 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 December. The first entry picked out of the hat will win the prize. Good luck!

to

To be in with a chance of winning your free signed copy, simply answer the following question: What is the name of the book’s main character?

A. Jack

B. Scott

C. Zac

Send your answer by email to competitions@yourlocallink.co.uk with the heading ‘Ring Competition’. The closing date is Monday, 15th December.

5 4 8 1

Heather’s HOROSCOPES

Aries

(March 21 – April 19)

Sagittarius

(November 22 –December 21)

With Mercury entering Sagittarius around 11th December, those of this sign could do well to open up and (honestly) speak their minds this month. Straight talking is likely to work in your favour here, opening up new opportunities and solving any lingering problems at home or the workplace. To tackle a creeping feeling of restlessness, try to embark on new adventures, whether that be a last-minute trip abroad, an exciting new hobby, or an unfamiliar activity that takes you out of your comfort zone.

This month, you’ll see your energy levels running high, which could lead to enhanced productivity in all areas of your life, however, it’s important to be wary of pushing too hard and burning out. If time allows, try to allocate some space in your schedule for a new creative or physical hobby, which could work wonders in providing emotional release and helping you to channel your newfound drive. If single, keep your eyes peeled for potential partners - romance could well be on the cards!

Taurus

(April 20 – May 20)

Taureans are advised to seek inner satisfaction this month, which may be achieved via relaxing hobbies (a spot of gardening or cookery could do the trick), or simply enjoying some restful, well-deserved ‘me time’. You may find yourself feeling nostalgic or even a little down as the weather draws in, so this could be a great time to focus on the little things that perk you up, whether that’s connecting with your family, catching up with long-lost pals, or sprucing up your living space.

Gemini

(May 21 – June 20)

With a full moon in Gemini expected to fall around December 4th, those of this sign are expected to benefit from collaboration and communication this month, whether that be in the context of professional or personal relationships. Remember that sharing is caring, and sharing your thoughts and creative ideas with peers could generate highly positive results in the weeks ahead. Be as clear as possible when expressing yourself - clarity is your ally!

Cancer

(June 21 – July 22)

Cancerians can be a caring bunch. This month, you could find that your nurturing and supportive nature attracts love and recognition from others, so keep the good vibes going! Your emotional and physical health should be in good shape, but it’s important to maintain this with regular, gentle exercise and reflective, soothing pastimes. This

could also be the perfect time to start planning festive gatherings with friends and family, and putting your priorities in order ahead of the impending (and busy) new year.

Leo

(July 23 – August 22)

If you’re a Leo, you may find that rest and downtime are your friends this month - there’s little more revitalising than a good forty winks, so don’t underestimate the positive power of a healthy sleep schedule! You may be in need of an extra snooze due to the fact that you’re likely to be propelled into the limelight, with positive (and potentially negative) attention coming from all angles. You may also find that a potential romantic relationship becomes more passionate - you heartbreaker!

Virgo

(August 23 – September 22)

Virgos are known for being detailoriented, and this could be the month in which their flair for planning and systematic, analytical thinking pays off in earnest. Try to focus on the finer details, whether that be the intricacies of your everyday routines or processes at work, or the dynamics of your family life. This festive period is set to be a fruitful time for streamlining, reorganising, or improving what already exists, both at home and in the workplace, so get proactive!

Libra

(September 23 – October 22)

This December, Librans are advised to focus on their social lives and find joy in connecting with friends, family, and like-minded hobbyists, which could provide solace in what’s shaping up to be a fairly volatile month. Reassess existing partnerships, and brace yourself for potential disharmony - you may be tasked with refereeing an impending dispute! Remember that your current efforts are likely to have a major influence on the beginning of 2026, so tread carefully and remember to enjoy yourself!

Scorpio

(October 23 – November 21)

Scorpios could be in for a transformative month, when old routines, patterns, relationships

and circumstances are removed and replaced with the fresh and new. While shedding previous skins may seem a little daunting, never fear - you’re lined up for bigger and better things! In order to propel new growth, try to think strategically, and maintain honesty and transparency when it comes to expressing your emotions. When it comes to dealing with family and relationships, you could do well to remember that trust is earned…

Capricorn

(December 22 – January 19)

Those of this sign are known for their ability to drive towards long-term goals, but with the Sun and Venus entering Capricorn on the 21st and 24th of the month respectively, this festive season will be a fruitful time for forward planning. As well as celebrating your birthday exactly the way you want to, ensure that you focus on training and preparing for approaching tasks and long-held goals. Don’t be afraid to think months (or even years) ahead, and keep your eyes on the prize!

Aquarius

(January 20 – February 18)

Aquarians may feel the need to seek a little extra freedom this month, whether that be via establishing new friendships with similarly independent-minded folk, or by redefining your existing role as part of a family dynamic. Strive for the unique and unconventional, especially when it comes to hobbies and learning - you could find that embarking on a new journey of discovery will serve you well in the coming new year.

Pisces

(February 19 – March 20)

For those of the Pisces sign, December is likely to be a month where self-expression and creativity are brought to the fore. By expressing yourself and getting creative, you could capitalise on existing connections, whilst adding depth to relationships that are currently working on a surface level. Pay special attention to your spiritual side this Decemberundertaking spiritual practices like meditation and dream journalling could put you in good standing for 2026!

HOW LINK-TERESTING!

Your Top Ten Festive Facts for Christmas:

Long before Christmas existed as we know it, York-based Vikings celebrated ‘Yule’, or ‘Yuletide’, a Nordic winter festival centred around lights, fire and feasting!

Learn more about our city’s festive history at the Jorvik Viking Centre’s ‘Winter Adventure’, running this month…

Wensleydale cheese is probably the most famous fromage produced in God’s own county, but did you know that the longstanding local tradition of eating Christmas Cake with a scrumptious slice of Wensleydale goes back to the Victorian era? Yorkshire families would often save a slice of cake and cheese from Christmas Eve, to be eaten for brekkie on the big day!

From the Middle Ages to the Victorian era, singletons would hang ‘kissing boughs’ (woven, ball-shaped decorations adorned with holly, ivy, and mistletoe) above doorways, hoping to wrangle a festive smooch. In York, the most famous kissing bough was hung at Clifford’s Tower! This tradition remains, although mistletoe is usually used today.

You simply can’t beat a good old-fashioned Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, but did you know that turkey sales increase by a whopping 400% during the festive season? In the UK alone, around 10 million turkeys are gobbled up each year!

Mince pies are a favourite festive treat for many, but did you know that in the Middle Ages, the humble mince pie was filled with a mixture of both chopped fruit and real minced meat? As well as being meaty, old-school mince pies were also huge, and rectangular in shape.

We love a cheesy Christmas song here at Your Local Link, but did you know that the biggestselling festive tune of all time is Bing Crosby’s ‘White Christmas’? Close runners-up include Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want For Christmas’, whereas ‘Silent Night’ remains the most-recorded Christmas song in history.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Speaking of Christmas dinner, did you know that in Japan, instead of roast turkey, fried chicken is the most popular festive meal? This leads to Japanese KFC sales shooting through the roof!

Another of our favourite festive tunes is ‘Fairytale of New York’, but did you know that this Pogues classic was beaten to the number 1 spot in the 1987 charts by none other than the Pet Shop Boys?

Did you know that Rudolph, the best-known of Santa’s reindeer, was first created by a copywriter, Robert L. May? Before settling on the name Rudolph, May toyed with other names including Reginald and Rollo!

Baby Jesus’ crib was first introduced as a symbol of the Christmas Nativity in 1223 by Saint Francis of Assisi, who created the first living nativity scene in a cave near Greccio, Lazio! Modernstyle cribs were not invented in Jesus’ time, and would not appear until the 1600s.

Are you sitting on any little-known facts about York? Is your mind a treasure trove of tantalising titbits and historical knowledge? Send your interesting facts to ted@yourlocallink.co.uk with ‘Link-teresting’ as the subject line!

EXPLORING MALTA’S TIMELESS CHARM

Kerry Lakey

I am on my flight back to the UK after a 3 night trip to Malta & Gozo hosted by Visit Malta as I write this. The Maltese islands are an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, with three inhabited islands—Malta, Gozo, and Comino - and several smaller, uninhabited ones.

Our flight out was just under 3.5 hours and it was lovely to arrive to blue skies and mild temperatures following the recent clock change and dark nights rolling in at home. Security, both on entering & exiting, was very smooth even after the start of the new EU entry & exit scheme.

We had a short transfer of just 30 minutes to our hotel, the Corinthia St George’s Bay, around a 15 minute walk to the centre of lively St. Julians.

A quick change and we left the hotel for a tour of Mdina. Also known as the ‘Silent City’, Mdina was Malta’s first capital city during the time of the Knights of Malta and also a colonial settlement of Imperial Rome. If you are a fan of Game of Thrones you will recognise parts of Mdina’s gates and streets — they were used in scenes from King’s Landing in Season 1.

Once night falls and the crowds leave, the narrow streets filled with baroque and medieval architecture are lit up by lanterns. Many who visit say it is one of the most romantic and hauntingly beautiful places in Europe after dark.

The name the Silent City comes from the lack of cars and a population of around 300 people, making Mdina remarkably quiet. You can often hear just the sound of footsteps and church bells as you wander the streets.

I would highly recommend the Medina Restaurant in Mdina.

The next morning we explored the capital of Malta, Valletta.

A UNESCO World Heritage City, Valletta is nothing short of an open-air museum. It is a living experience of Baroque architecture, a monument donated by the Knights of St. John nearly five centuries ago. Dotted

with quaint cafes and wine bars, the city is today one of Malta’s main tourist attractions with, amongst others, the St. John’s Co-Cathedral with its imposing bastions and treasure of priceless paintings. We then made our way to the Upper Barrakka gardens, from where there are amazing views of the Grand Harbour. Head to the gardens at midday or 4pm to hear the historic artillery battery from the 16th century fire its cannons.

We then made our way to Birgu, accessed by either short road transfer or ferry from Valletta’s Grand Harbour. Birgu is one of the Three Cities, made up of Bormla, Isla, and Birgu. They are known for their rich history, particularly their role in the Great Siege of 1565, and offer visitors a glimpse into authentic Maltese culture through their ancient streets and waterfront promenades. Whilst walkable we took a tour offered by ‘Rolling Geeks’ using electric cars. I was designated driver for our group of four, it was a fun way to explore and something I would highly recommend.

Our final full day saw us take the ferry to Gozo a quick and very reasonably priced journey. The first stop we made was to Dwejra, with its dramatic coastal formations and sea spilling over the rocks. From here you can swim in the deep sea of the bay, in the calm shallows of the inland sea or in the foamy waters around the Blue Hole – one of Gozo’s top dive sites. Then we made our way to the capital Rabat (Victoria). Here we explored the citadel and the amazing views out across Gozo. As the afternoon came to an end we returned on the ferry to Malta for our final evening.

I would highly recommend Malta not only for a summer holiday but also a short city break. The November weather was perfect for a little bit of warmth, plenty to see & do, spa hotels & some really good restaurant options.

If you would like to discuss planning your own trip get in touch on:

Harland & Co.

Amanda Williams, a solicitor at Harland & Co. in York, has successfully been admitted to the Law Society’s Children Panel.

The accreditation is awarded by the Law Society to Solicitors who have demonstrated high levels of knowledge, skill and experience in the area of Child Care legal practice. It is a required qualification in order to represent children in Care and Private Law Proceedings.

The qualification is a benchmark for quality in this often sensitive area of legal practice. Amanda joins Nick Middleton and Sarah Clarkson within Harland & Co. who have also attained this accreditation.

Harland & Co. solicitors advise and represent parents, children and guardians in connection with the following specific areas:

• Child Care Proceedings – where a child is at risk of being taken into the care of the Local Authority

• Local Authority involvement with children including pre-proceedings (PLO) meetings

• Fostering and post adoption issues

• Special Guardian applications and advice

• Child arrangements through the family Courts

• Domestic abuse and non-molestation orders

• Specific issues requiring a Court’s determination

– including Orders relating to family relocation and disputes regarding welfare and school issues

• Divorce related issues involving Children

Harland & Co. accepts work on a private basis and also has a contract to carry out Legal Aid Family work, subject (where applicable) to financial/merits assessment.

Contact us on 01904 655 555 or email reception@harlandsolicitors.co.uk for more information.

Sarah Clarkson, Amanda Williams and Nick Middleton

Harrowell s Solicitors support the AGE UK YORK WINTER CAMPAIGN

Lonely thi s winter...

...please help us to support others.

MANY OLDER PEOPLE WILL STRUGGLE THIS WINTER. It’s the toughest time of the year with people struggling with health conditions, poverty and living on their own.

Help us to support older people in York by donating today to enable us to provide essential companionship, financial advice and warm winter packs.

DONATE HERE

29 NOVEMBER - 10 DECEMBER

YORK MYSTERY PLAYS - A NATIVITY FOR YORK, Various times and locations. This must-see, medieval York tradition offers a Middle English cycle of Mystery Plays, which recount the story of the Bible, from the Garden of Eden to the Last Judgement. To celebrate Christmas this festive season, York residents can experience a unique retelling of the nativity story, to be presented in a range of venues across the city. The York Mystery Plays are only performed once every four years - make sure you get your tickets in early so you don’t miss them this time round! Visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/ york-mystery-plays-supporterstrust to book your tickets.

29 NOVEMBER-23 DECEMBER

ROTARY YORK AINSTY’S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FLOAT, Various times and citywide locations. Santa Claus is coming to town! Catch Father Christmas in the flesh at this much-loved annual Christmas float fundraiser, when Santa’s sleigh will be winding its way around the city! Visit www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/ homepage.php?ClubID=175 to get in touch with Rotary York Ainsty. Turn to page 23 to see Santa’s schedule in full.

2-5 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS, The Citadel, YO31 7EA. 7.30pm. Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, the York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir will be presenting four festive evenings of rich harmony to mark the season, with refreshments and mince pies! Tickets are £15, or £8 for under-16s or those in full-time education. Visit www.yorkphilchoir.org.uk/events to book your tickets.

2 DECEMBER-4 JANUARY

SLEEPING BEAUTY, York Theatre Royal, YO1 7HD. Various times. From the team behind Aladdin, this year’s must-see panto features none other than CBBC favourite Jennie Dale, West End star Jocasta Almgill, and much-loved York dame Robin Simpson! Visit www. yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/ sleeping-beauty to book your tickets.

6 DECEMBER-4 JANUARY

CINDERELLA, Grand Opera House, YO1 9SW. This family-friendly panto is set to be this year’s biggest Christmas show, starring Lisa George (Coronation Street) as the Fairy Godmother, and Tobias Turley (Mamma Mia!) as Prince Charming. York residents in need of a festive treat - you shall go to the ball! Visit www.atgtickets.com/shows/ cinderella-pantomime/grandopera-house-york to book your tickets.

7 DECEMBER

THE SNOWMAN, Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall, YO10 5DB. 2.00pm, 4.00pm & 6.00pm. Experience the magic of Raymond Briggs’ muchloved Christmas classic in a whole new light, with Howard Blake’s iconic score performed live by the Shepherd Brass Band, one of the county’s premier brass bands. The 2.00pm showing will be babyfriendly! Visit www.yorkconcerts. co.uk/whats-on for bookings.

10 DECEMBER

YORK MINSTER MACMILLAN CAROL SERVICE, York Minster, YO1 7HH. 7.30pm. Enjoy traditional carol singing in the beautiful surroundings of the Minster. This free fundraising event is organised by the Macmillan York Fundraising Committee - all donations are welcome! Visit www. register.enthuse.com/ps/event/ YorkMinsterCarolService for tickets.

12 DECEMBER

THE BIG CHRISTMAS CONCERT, Q Church, YO1 6ET. 7.45pm10.45pm. Step into Christmas with York’s biggest festive musical spectacular! You’ll be greeted by a brass band, then taken on a journey through the Christmas classics, from soul-stirring acoustic versions of your favourite carols to

16-22 FEBRUARY 2026

JORVIK VIKING FESTIVAL, Various times and locations. Delve into York’s vibrant viking history with a range of immersive events across 7 days, including Viking Games, The Battle for York, and the JORVIK Viking Festival Feast. Visit www.jorvikvikingfestival.co.uk to see the programme or book your tickets.

Christmas bangers from The Pogues and Slade. Treat yourself to a mulled wine, sing along, and embrace the magical fairytale ambience of old York. There’ll be a Christmas game or two, and festive attire is optional but encouraged, with a fabulous PRIZE for the most outstanding costume! Visit https:// igniteconcertsyork.com/events/ alistair-griffin-presents-the-bigchristmas-concert-12th-december/ to book.

14 DECEMBER

THE BELFREY’S ANNUAL CAROL SERVICE, York Minster, YO1 7HH. 7.30pm. You’re invited to join The Belfrey’s much-loved annual carol service at York Minster. Enjoy traditional carols with moving musical performances and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas in this stunning venue. Not to be missed! Open to all, no booking required. Doors open from 6.45pm. See belfrey.org/ christmas for details.

15 NOVEMBER - 21 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS AT TREASURER’S HOUSE, Treasurer’s House, YO1 7JL. 11.00am-4.00pm. To celebrate the yuletide season, Treasurer’s House will once again be transformed into a festive feast for the eyes, where history and festivities intertwine in

a unique Christmas attraction to remember! Visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/visit/yorkshire/treasurershouse-york/christmas-attreasurers-house for further details.

UNTIL 22 FEBRUARY 2026

WINTER IN JORVIK, Jorvik Viking Centre, YO1 9WT. Marvel at Jorvik’s stunning and authentic recreation of the Viking-age Coppergate, and learn about how locals kept themselves cosy during the winter, back in 10th-century York! Pre-booking is essential - visit jorvikvikingcentre. co.uk to get your tickets.

OPEN EVERYDAY

VAN GOGH: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE, St. Mary’s Church, Castlegate, York. 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.

OPEN EVERYDAY

THE PUZZLING WORLD OF PROFESSOR KETTLESTRING, 14 Merchantgate, YO1 9TU. 11.00am6.00pm, or 10.00am-6.00pm on Saturdays. As one of the city’s best-loved family attractions, The Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring offers a world of mindboggling attractions, where nothing is quite as it seems! Visit www. puzzlingworldyork.co.uk/book to book your tickets.

old

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

Tickets £15 (£8 for under 16s or in full time education) Scan the QR or go to yorkphilharmonichoir.org.uk/events The Citadel, Gillygate, York 2nd - 5th December 2025 Doors open 7:00pm | Concert begins 7:30pm

Join us for an atmospheric telling of the Nativity story based on York’s medieval mystery plays and sparkling with music and candle light.

St Hilda’s Church, Tang Hall 29th November @ 1pm & 4pm

St Mary’s Church, Bishophill Junior, York 2nd & 4th December @ 7:30pm

St Mary’s Church, Haxby 6th December @ 1pm & 4pm

More informaiton and tickets from ympst.co.uk/york-nativity or scan the QR code

lasting change in communities. Rotary York Ainsty supports local charities, youth initiatives, and international humanitarian efforts. Aiming to promote integrity, advance understanding, and improve lives through the spirit of “Service Above Self.”

Theatre & Shows What’s

Grand Opera House

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

6 DECEMBER - 4 JANUARY CINDERELLA

This festive, family-friendly panto stars Lisa George (Coronation Street) as the Fairy Godmother and Tobias Turley (Mamma Mia!) as Prince Charming. York residents in need of a festive treat - you shall go to the ball!

York Theatre Royal

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

6 NOVEMBER - 4 DECEMBER LEAPS AND BOUNDS

Introduce your little tots to a variety of dance styles at these special workshops led by York Dance Space. Explore moving together with your toddler, and don’t forget to wear comfy, dance-friendly clothes, plus a water bottle!

5 DECEMBER CRAFTY TALES AUTUMN 2025

Join Cassie and Janet of Story Craft Theatre for a fun and interactive craft and storytelling session, centred around a ‘Shooting Star’ theme. Weekly sessions (with varying themes) also run from 7th November.

2-3 DECEMBER

ORDINARY DECENT CRIMINAL

This brand-new offering from multiaward-winning playwright and ex-offender Ed Edwards centres on a recovering addict (played by Mark Thomas) who is sentenced to three and a half years in prison, with inspirational results…

2 DECEMBER - 4 JANUARY

SLEEPING BEAUTY

From the team behind Aladdin, this year’s must-see Sleeping Beauty panto features none other than CBBC favourite Jennie Dale, West End star Jocasta Almgill, and muchloved York dame Robin Simpson.

York Barbican

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

14 DECEMBER

YORK’S ANNUAL COMMUNITY CAROL CONCERT

Settle down for an afternoon of festive fun and traditional carol singing, hosted by Adam Tomlinson and Rev Andrew Foster. Proceeds will go to the Christmas Cheer Fund and York Against Cancer.

17 DECEMBER

JOOLS HOLLAND AND HIS RHYTHM AND BLUES ORCHESTRA

Join former Squeeze member (and the undisputed King of Hootenanny) Jools Holland, for a rip-roaring live performance of boogie woogie, blues, ballads and beyond. Imelda May and Ed Richardson will also be appearing!

18 DECEMBER

THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN

Back for its 20th anniversary tour, this much-loved stage show will take you down memory lane with expert live renditions of Motown classics by The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and more.

20 DECEMBER

STEP INTO CHRISTMAS

This festive, feel-good show features all of your favourite Christmas songs, performed live! Expect hits including Last Christmas, Jingle Bell Rock, A Winter’s Tale, Stay Another Day, and White Christmas.

21 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS WITH ANTON DU BEKE

Join Strictly Come Dancing’s one and only Anton Du Beke for a festive song and dance spectacular. Enjoy a dynamic live band, an extraordinary dance troupe, and the vocal talents of Lance Ellington.

Joseph Rowntree Theatre

To book email boxoffice@jrtheatre. co.uk or call 01904 501 935

6-7, 9-13 DECEMBER

THE PANTOMIME ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

Travel to the fantastical world of Neverland at this traditional, family-friendly panto, which follows Peter, Wendy and the gang’s battle against Captain Hook and his evil band of pirates!

14 DECEMBER A CHRISTMAS SELECTION BOX: A MUSIC NIGHT PRODUCTION

Performed in support of Joseph Rowntree Theatre, this annual music night will feature local musician Don Pears and York choir Singphonia, performing a Christmas selection box of tunes to get you into the spirit this holiday season.

16-18 DECEMBER

CHOIRS AT CHRISTMAS

This heartwarming, festive extravaganza will see a range of local choirs and vocal groups performing live across three nights, including York Celebration Singers, Acomb Community Choir, The Wellbeing Choir, and The Rolling Tones.

DEC 25

19-20 DECEMBER

GALA CHRISTMAS CONCERT

A must-see show for brass fans, this Christmas concert will feature the talents of all five of the bands that make up the renowned Shepherd Brass Band family - a highlight of the festive calendar!

Theatre@41 Monkgate

Visit tickets.41monkgate.co.uk for ticket bookings.

4-6 DECEMBER CHMS PRESENTS: BE MORE CHILL

This entertaining and humorous stage show is brought to you by the team behind Grease and Jesus Christ Superstar, and focuses on an average teenager whose life is transformed when he discovers a tiny supercomputer…

12-30 DECEMBER ANYTHING GOES

Take in Pick Me Up Theatre’s charming production of Cole Porter’s musical this month, featuring romance, spectacular dance routines, and iconic tunes including ‘I Get A Kick Out of You’ and ‘Anything Goes’.

A PLACE LIKE HOME

Events

Itching

for something to do? Read on…

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

13 NOVEMBER - 21 DECEMBER

YORK CHRISTMAS MARKET, Parliament Street & St Sampson’s Square. 10.00am-7.00pm. York’s award-winning Christmas Market is back again! See the heart of town transformed into a festive haven, with a huge range of yuletide stalls and treats. Support local businesses and get into the Christmas spirit! Visit www.visityork.org/events/yorkchristmas-market-2025 to find out more.

15 NOVEMBER - 21 DECEMBER AN INSPIRED CHRISTMAS, Treasurer’s House, YO1 7JL. 11.00am4.00pm. To celebrate the yuletide season, Treasurer’s House will once again be transformed into a festive feast for the eyes, where history and festivities intertwine in a unique Christmas attraction to remember! Visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/visit/yorkshire/treasurershouse-york/christmas-attreasurers-house for further details.

29 NOVEMBER - 7 DECEMBER UK CHAMPIONSHIP SNOOKER 2025, York Barbican, YO10 4AH. 1.00pm & 7pm. The UK Championship is returning to the Barbican once again, with players likely to appear including Mark Allen, Judd Trump, Ding Junhui, and Ronnie O’Sullivan. Book early to avoid disappointment! Visit www. yorkbarbican.co.uk/whats-on/ukchampionship-snooker-2025 to book your tickets.

29 NOVEMBER - 10 DECEMBER

YORK MYSTERY PLAYS - A NATIVITY FOR YORK, Various times and locations. This medieval York tradition features a Middle English cycle of Mystery Plays, telling the story of the Bible from the Garden of Eden to the Last Judgement. This festive season, residents can experience the nativity story across a range of citywide venues. Visit www. ticketsource.co.uk/york-mysteryplays-supporters-trust to book your tickets.

29 NOVEMBER - 23 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS AT YORK’S

CHOCOLATE STORY, York’s Chocolate Story, YO1 7LD. Various times. Chocaholics are invited to chow down on a special programme of festive events, including Santa’s Christmas Tour, Christmas Truffle Rolling, Christmas Masterclasses, and the Chocolate and Gin Tour. Visit www. yorkschocolatestory.com/booktickets for details and bookings.

2-19 DECEMBER

THE YORKSHIRE YULETIDE

VILLAGE, The Guildhall, YO1 9QN. 10.00am-4.45pm. This magical Christmas fair will feature festive displays and illuminations, plus offerings from a wide range of local food producers and designer makers, including art, ceramics, soaps, jewellery, and glasswork. Pick up a memorable Christmas pressie for your loved ones! Visit www.madeinyorkshire.org.uk/ events/yorkshire-yuletide-villageguildhall-period-1-3 to book.

5-14 DECEMBER

YORK EARLY MUSIC

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL, National Centre For Early Music, YO1 9TL. Enjoy a wide range of seasonal music from across the ages, with performances from Helen Charlston, Sholto Kynoch, the Chiaroscuro Quartet, and the Consone String Quartet. Visit www. ncem.co.uk/yemcf for tickets and details.

6 DECEMBER

SHEFFIELD CAROLS WITH THE HEDGEROW SINGERS, Holy Trinity, YO1 7LF. 7.00pm8.30pm. Experience the musical tradition of South Yorkshire pubs and villages with the Hedgerow Singers, at this unique evening of traditional regional carol singing. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/sheffield-carolswith-the-hedgerow-singerstickets-1785888252839 to book.

6-23 DECEMBER

SLEDMERE’S MAGICAL SANTA EXPERIENCE, Sledmere House, YO25 3XG. Slots from 9.15am4.00pm. Head on down to Sledmere House to meet the big man himself, Santa! As well as entering Santa’s Grotto, visitors can meet Mrs Clause, choose a present from the Elf Toy Shop, take a Tractor and Trailer Ride, and much more! Visit www.sledmerehouse.com/ events/details/santas-grotto to book.

6 DECEMBER LETTERPRESS FESTIVE CRACKERS, York Castle Museum, YO1 9RY. 10.30am-1.30pm. Add a handmade touch to your festive table this year by crafting your own personalised Christmas crackers at this wonderful workshop. All materials and tools are provided, with refreshments included. Walk away with your very own handmade crackers - you’ll have to come up with your own bad jokes! Visit www. yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/whatson/events/letterpress-festivecrackers to book.

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6 DECEMBER

THE NUTCRACKER, York Minster, York Minster, YO1 7HH. 7.00pm. Join Ben Morris and Gemma Sharp for a child-friendly introduction to classical music, with a magical retelling of festive favourite The Nutcracker. Enjoy spectacular organ music, handmade puppets, and imaginative storytelling - feel free to turn up with a toy and wearing your pyjamas, but remember to wrap up warm… it’s cold out there! Visit www. yorkminster.org/whats-on/event/ the-nutcracker to book.

7 DECEMBER

YORK AGAINST CANCER

CHRISTMAS LUNCH, Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, YO1 9XD. 12.30pm arrival. Enjoy a delicious 3-course meal in aid of York Against Cancer, take part in an exciting raffle, and listen to a festive message from guest speaker, the Right Honourable Lord Mayor of York. Settle down for a fundraising feast to start the yuletide season with a bang! Call 01904 764466 or email office@yorkagainstcancer. org.uk to book.

7 DECEMBER

CHASE THE PUD YORK, York Knavesmire, YO23 1EX. From 10.30am. This festive 10k fundraiser run offers participants the chance to dress up as Father Christmas and belt around the Knavesmire, in a bid to catch that elusive, pesky Christmas Pudding! Registration is open from 9.00am for runners, and all spectators are invited to come on down and show their support. Visit www.racebest.com/ races/63kga to register or find out more.

10 DECEMBER

THE HOLIDAY IN CONCERT, York Barbican, YO10 4AH. 7.30pm. This special Christmas screening of the festive 2006 comedy The Holiday (starring Jude Law, Jack Black, and Cameron Diaz) at the Barbican will be presented with Hans Zimmer’s sumptuous score performed live by a full orchestra. Visit www. yorkbarbican.co.uk/whats-on/theholiday-2025/ to book.

11 DECEMBER

SWARMGATE LAUNCH EVENT, National Centre for Early Music, YO1 9TL. 5.00pm-9.00pm. Come and see artist Gema Woods’ new installation unveiled in situ, illuminated for the first time; it tells the story of Walmgate in a wonderfully imaginative and evocative way. Meet the community and hear from the artist. All are welcome, and entry is free! For updates and further information, follow @YorkCreatives on Instagram.

12 DECEMBER

OLIVIA GRAHAM’S CELTIC CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT , Holy Trinity, YO1 7LF. 5.30pm & 7.00pm. Join God’s Own County’s Celtic resident songsmith and instrumentalist Olivia Graham, for a meditative hour of haunting, traditional music. This seasonal ode to the ancient Celtic church is sure to get you into the spirit this year. Visit www.oliviagrahammusic.com/ shows to get your tickets.

12 DECEMBER

CHARLES DICKENS - A THREECOURSE CHRISTMAS CAROL, Middlethorpe Hall, YO23 2GB. 6.30pm. Take in a hilarious retelling of the Charles Dickens

classic, performed by Young Baggage Productions. Enjoy a reception hosted by Nyetimber English sparkling wine, followed by a luxurious three-course meal including Roasted Guinea Fowl, Smoked and Poached Salmon Terrine, and Chocolate Marquise. Overnight accommodation (including a traditional Yorkshire breakfast) is also available. Visit www.middlethorpe.com/ whats-on-events-at-middlethorpe/ charles-dickens-a-three-coursechristmas-carol to book.

12, 13 & 20 DECEMBER

LAUGH OUT LOUD COMEDY

CLUB, York Barbican, YO10 4AH. 8.00pm. Widely regarded as the best stand-up comedy night in the city, Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club returns to the Barbican for a trio of nights across December. Grab a gaggle of giggles for Christmas this year! Visit www.yorkbarbican.co.uk/ whats-on/laugh-out-loud-comedyclub-dec-13-2025 to book your tickets.

13 DECEMBER

CAROLS AT CHRISTMAS AT THE UNITARIAN CHAPEL, St Saviourgate, YO1 8NQ. 7.30pm9.45pm. Presented by York Opera Chorus and Principals, this festive choral celebration will feature well-loved carols for choir and congregation, plus a rousing rendition of the Christmas Oratorio. Visit www.tickets.yorkopera.co.uk/ events/yorkopera/1927652 for further details and bookings.

14 DECEMBER

GHOST STORIES FOR CHRISTMAS BY EDWYRDIAN TALES, York Castle Museum, YO1 9RY. 7.00pm-8.30pm. Settle in for a spine-tingling evening of live storytelling, featuring ghost stories set during Christmastide. Enjoy spooky tales from classic authors including Marjorie Bowen and M.R. James. Not suitable for those under the age of 10, under18s to be accompanied by an adult. Visit www.yorkmuseumstrust.org. uk/whats-on/events/ghost-storiesfor-christmas-by-edwyrdiantales to book.

14 DECEMBER

THE BELFREY’S ANNUAL CAROL SERVICE, York Minster, YO1 7HH. 7.30pm. You’re invited to join The Belfrey’s much-loved

annual carol service at York Minster. Enjoy traditional carols with moving musical performances and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas in this stunning venue. Not to be missed! Open to all, no booking required. Doors open from 6.45pm. See belfrey.org/ christmas for details.

14 DECEMBER

YORK VEGAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 2025, York RI Sports Centre, YO24 1AD. 10.30am-4.30pm. Browse and buy a delicious range of festive vegan foods across 60 fantastic stalls featuring world food caterers, with inspirational talks and demos running throughout the day. The perfect place to pick up a veggie festive treat! Standard entry is £5, and under-16s go free. Head over to www.veganeventsuk.co.uk/ buy-tickets to book tickets in advance.

16 DECEMBER

LOVE ACTUALLY IN CONCERT, York Barbican, YO10 4AH. 7.30pm. Enjoy a special Christmas screening of the star-studded, highly quotable festive favourite directed by Richard Curtis, with live musical accompaniment from a full orchestra. Visit www.yorkbarbican. co.uk/whats-on/love-actually-inconcert-film-with-live-orchestra to secure your tickets.

17 DECEMBER

FAIRYTALE AT YORK MINSTER: CHRISTMAS HITS BY CANDLELIGHT, York Minster, YO1 7HH. 7.30pm. Get your festive jumper on for a Christmas singalong with Alaistair Griffin and the Ebor Quartet at the Minster. Hear and participate in yuletide favourites including Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, Fairytale of New York, O Holy Night and Last

Christmas. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/fairytale-at-york-minsterchristmas-hits-by-candlelighttickets-1667919033729 to book.

17-22 DECEMBER

CANDLELIT EVENING: A CHRISTMAS MOUSEQUERADE, Fairfax House, YO1 9RN. Various times. Immerse yourself in the music and scent of the 18thcentury festive season at Fairfax House. Experience Christmas with a mischievous Georgian Christmas twist. Visit www.fairfax-house. arttickets.org.uk/fairfax-house/ candlelit-evening-a-christmasmousequerade-68b0702378617 to book.

17-22 DECEMBER

VICTORIAN CAROL SINGERS, York Castle Musuem, YO1 9RY. Various times. Treat yourself to Same Different Arts’ atmospheric and authentic performance of classic Christmas songs from the Victorian period, such as Hark the Herald, O, Christmas Tree, and God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. Performances will be held throughout the day - check Castle Museum opening hours before you visit. Visit www.yorkcastlemuseum. org.uk to book your tickets now.

19 DECEMBER

A BAROQUE CHRISTMAS, Mansion House, YO1 9QL. From 7.00pm. Join Eboracum Baroque for their annual festive performance, featuring a seasonal programme including European carols, Vivaldi’s Winter, and music by Torelli, Handel, and Scarlatti. Email info@ eboracumbaroque.co.uk or visit www.eboracumbaroque.co.uk/ event/a-baroque-christmas-12 for bookings and enquiries.

20 DECEMBER AS YULE LIKE IT LIVE, LOCAL

AND

LOUD!,

The Basement, City Screen Picturehouse, YO1 9QL. 7.00pm. The Basement Sessions returns with a glittering lineup to kickstart your festive week. All cracker, no cheese! Featuring Cast, Si Paton, The Queeries, Toemouse and Vagabond. Fully accessible venue. Some material may not

Photos by Lucy Saggers

be suitable for young children. £8 in advance, or £10 on the door. Visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/ navigators-art-performance to book.

20-21 DECEMBER

POCKLINGTON CHRISTMAS

MARKET, Pocklington Town Centre, YO42 2AL. 10.00am6.00pm/10.00am-4.00pm.

Browse a large traditional Christmas market in the heart of Pocklington, featuring a live entertainment stage, an array of talented local musicians, plus street food, an après-ski bar, and much more. Entry is free! Visit www.facebook. com/p/Pocklington-ChristmasMarket-100087294356960 for details.

21 DECEMBER

WINTER SOLSTICE SOUND BATH, 7pm-8:15pm, Heslington Meeting House.

Discover the benefits of Yoga, breath work, meditation and spirituality on this unique and uplifting Winter Solstice course. Hosted by renowned local artist Lesley Seeger who has worked with the NHS, NSPCC and probation service and was Artist in Residence in the Renal Unit of York Hospital for six years, come away with a renewed sense of purpose and meaning. To book visit: www. lesleyseeger.com.

22 DECEMBER

ST MARY’S BISHOPHILL CAROL SERVICE 2025, St Mary Bishophill, YO1 6EN. 7.30pm. Get into the festive spirit at this traditional Carol service, performed by a full choir. Festive cheer and mince pies to follow. All are welcome! Please call 07905248116 for further details.

22 DECEMBER

THE SNOWMAN, York Barbican, YO10 4AH. 1.00pm & 4.00pm. Presented by Carrot Productions, this award-winning show features a screening of iconic Raymond Briggs Christmas weepie The Snowman, brought to life by a live professional orchestra. There will also be a bonus performance of Prokofiev’s classic, Peter and the Wolf! Visit www.yorkbarbican.co.uk/ whats-on/the-snowman-2025/ to book.

23-24 DECEMBER

NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS, York Minster, YO1 7HH. 3.00pm6.30pm. A traditional celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ across two festive services at the York Minster. Enjoy music from the Choir of York Minster, stirring Christmas carols, and nine special yuletide readings. Visit www.yorkminster.org/ whats-on/event/nine-lessons-andcarols to book.

REGULAR EVENTS

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY

ARTFUL AT THE DODGER,

The Artful Dodger, YO1 6LJ. 12.30pm-4.00pm. This monthly informal art workshop session with collage artist George Willmore 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.

EVERY THIRD THURSDAY

FOLK & WORD, The Artful Dodger, YO1 6LJ. 7.30pm (sign up from 7.00pm). A low-key, welcoming open mic night where writers and acoustic folk musicians can present new and original work. Each month, one writer and one musician co-host the evening and bring a guest, then the floor is open to the audience! Free entry with a purchase from the bar. Follow Navigators Art & Performance on Facebook for further details or to get in touch.

OPEN MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS

NEW TREASURES GALLERY,

The Bar Convent, YO24 1AQ. 10am4pm. 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.

OPEN EVERYDAY

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 allencompassing 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.

UNTIL 4 JANUARY 2026

YORKSHIRE’S WINTER WONDERLAND, York Designer Outlet, YO19 4TA. Listed as one of the country’s top seven ‘fabulously festive and magical’ ice rinks by The Sunday Times, the annual Winter Wonderland rink will be celebrating its 20th anniversary this year! There will also be a funfair, Santa’s Grotto, and The Chalet cafe available to those seeking out some Christmas cheer. Visit www. yorkshireswinterwonderland. com for details and bookings.

UNTIL 4 JANUARY 2026

CHRISTMAS AT CASTLE

HOWARD, Castle Howard, YO60 7DA. Various times. Visit this iconic stately home for an array of family-friendly festive events including wreath making workshops and Christmas afternoon tea. Featuring Santa Paws, Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, and the wonderful Wizard of Oz! Visit www.castlehoward.co.uk/DB/ whats-on-view-4/christmas-atcastle-howard-with-the-wonderfulwizard-of-oz to book.

UNTIL 5 JANUARY 2026

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL, York Minster, YO1 7HH. Various times. A display of 70 beautiful Christmas trees across the Minster’s Nave, Lady Chapel, and Chapter House. Add your own Christmas message to a prayer tree, and wonder at trees beautifully decorated by local schools, businesses, and charities. Visit www. yorkminster.org/whats-on/event/ christmas-tree-festival for details.

UNTIL 5 JANUARY 2026

YORK NUTCRACKER TRAIL, Various locations. This winter, Yorkies are invited to hunt for 10 6-foot Nutcracker statues hidden around the city, lovingly created by local artist MarcoLooks. The trail follows a ‘Christmas Around the

World’ theme. Visit www.theyorkbid. com/york-nutcracker-trail for the trail map and further details.

UNTIL 25 JANUARY 2026

FUTURE TENSE: ART IN THE AGE OF TRANSFORMATION, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. Wednesdays to Sundays, 10.00am-5.00pm. Enjoy immersive works from contemporary artists Liz West and Squidsop at this brand-new exhibition, running in tandem with the Aesthetica Art Prize. Visit www. yorkartgallery.org.uk/exhibition/ future-tense-art-in-the-age-oftransformation for details and bookings.

UNTIL 21 FEBRUARY 2026

OBJECT JOURNEYS, York Army Museum, YO1 9SB. Various times. Delve into the murky colonial past of museum curation and military collecting, and learn how objects were traded, stolen, or claimed. Highlights include three medieval ewers looted by British soldiers during the Anglo-Asante wars. Visit www.yorkarmymuseum.co.uk/ exhibitions-events to find out more.

UNTIL SEPTEMBER 2026

SUGAR, SKILL AND SHIFTWORK: YORK’S CONFECTIONERY WORKERS, York Castle Museum, YO1 9RY. Various times. This new community exhibition focuses on the history of confectionery in our city, sharing the voices and experiences of workers in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the death of Joseph Rowntree. Visit www. yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk/yourvisit/tickets to book.

UNTIL JULY 2027

VIKING NORTH, Yorkshire Museum, YO1 7FR. Various times. Showcasing the finest catalogue of Viking finds to be seen outside of London, this exhibition takes visitors back in time to Viking Age Northern England, with objects from 866 and 1066. Visit www. yorkshiremuseum.org.uk/exhibition/ viking-north to book.

Our Ted Gets Kidnapped By Santa!

’Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the Your Local Link office, not a creature was stirring - apart from me, putting in some overtime to get ahead before my long-awaited, much-needed Christmas holiday! I was just about ready to flee the office and hit the road, when all of a sudden, there arose such a clatter that I nearly choked on my energy drink… Expecting to find a mistakenly locked-in employee, or one of our office dogs chowing down on some leftover carpet crumbs, I spun round on my swivel chair to identify the source of the commotion. Amidst the darkness, I saw the unmistakable outline of a big, round bottom.

It was a large man, all dressed in red, gingerly bending over to claim his plate of Christmas Eve mince pies (and the cheeky glass of brandy on the side). I couldn’t believe my eyes. It was him. It was none other than Father Christmas! “CHUFFING HELL!”, I screamed, “IT’S SANTA!”.

The big fella clasped his mittens over my gob. “Ssshhh! Keep it down, lad. Do you want to wake up all the children in Yorkshire?”.

It was no use, and I continued to shriek with shock - I can be a bit of a scaredy-cat at the best of times. Before I had chance to give him a mitten-muffled reply, the old bloke grabbed me by the scruff of the neck, and chucked me into his sack of pressies…

The next thing I knew, I was awoken by the bright glow of thousands of fairy lights, and the unmistakable smell of pine trees. From underneath a mountain of wrapped

presents, I looked up to see Santa peering down at me, before lifting me out of the sack with one handhe’s stronger than he looks!

“Where am I?”, I shouted, “Where have you taken me?”.

“The North Pole, lad”, Santa said with a smile. “I had to shut you up, in case you gave the game away. I just nipped back to restock some pressies, and I forgot you were in the bag - sorry for the mix-up!”. Just as I was about to give the old coot a piece of my mind, a lady walked into the large fire-lit room and looked at me in surprise.

“Who’s this?” she said to the big man. “Don’t tell me you’ve accidentally taken another one home in the sack, you useless old twit!”. Santa’s jovial smile was reduced to a sheepish grin. “Sorry, love. He was being too noisy, he’s a right wet lettuce. He would have woken up the nippers and scuppered the job!”

The lady (who I assumed was Mrs Claus) continued to berate her husband for a good twenty minutes, while wielding a rolling pin, menacingly. As she was ranting and raving, I took the time to assess my surroundings, and decided to make a break for freedom. Just as I was nearing the door, Santa’s wife barked: “HALT! If you’re going to be spending the night, we may as well make good use of you. You can help the elves make some toys in the workshop, and this silly old sausage will take you back to York in the morning. Don’t worry, there’ll be a pressie or two in it for you.”

“Sorry, Mrs Claus, no can do”, I meekly replied. “I’ll be getting it in the ear myself if I don’t make it back tonight. I’m late enough already.”

She turned her attention away

from her husband, pointed at me with her rolling pin, and gave me a glare I’ll never forget. “Tough turkey! The elves still have lots of toys to make. We’re on a tight deadline, you know!”, she spat. “Anyway, you’ll freeze to death out there by yourself. You’ll stay here with us tonight - it’s settled. Now, enough of your wimpering, you big wuss. Come with me, I’ll take you to the Elves’ Workshop”…

I’d been on the production line for what seemed like days, building toys, making wreaths, and wrapping presents, endlessly! While the elves in the workshop were welcoming and cheerful enough, the constant rotation of Christmas songs blaring out of the speakers nearly had me at my wits’ end. After wrapping my 1000th pressie, I heard the clip-clop of approaching reindeer hooves, and heard a friendly voice say: “Season’s greetings, human. Do you need a lift home?”

It was Rudolph! The red-nosed reindeer had come to save the day. “Oh, yes please, Rudolph! If I hear Last Christmas one more time, I think I’ll go mad!”

Rudolph nodded his head, with a jingle of his reins. “No bother, mush. Hop on!”.

He whisked me back in no time at all, and spent the journey heartily complaining about Santa and Mrs Claus - I think he’s the brains behind the operation. When we landed in York, I invited him to come over for a few carrots, to say thank you for saving me from the gruesome twosome in the North Pole.

“As nice as that sounds, I simply can’t”, Rudolph said. “This is the busiest night of the year. I’ve got work to do!”

No Teds or reindeer were harmed in the writing of this story.

We hope you have a very merry Christmas!

If you’re looking for a chic, cosmopolitan, big city vibe (it’s almost like being in the Big Apple!), the Sora Sky Bar at Malmaison is the place to go. Situated on the rooftop of Malmaison, located right in the city centre, is this very amazing and special restaurant, which offers amazing views of the city, including a spectacular vista of the beautiful, timeless York Minster.

As we are getting close to Christmas, the décor is beautiful

Sora Bar at Malmaison

and very festive, but still caters to the Japanese theme that runs through the menu. We were swiftly seated by one of their lovely staff in a great booth - I must also add that all of the staff were stylishly dressed in black attire, which perfectly complements the feel, atmosphere, and ambience of the restaurant. Our waiter Danny catered to all of our requirements, and suggested that we try a few of his favourites, including the Black Cod and Beef Fillet, which we hungrily added to

our list of choices!

As Pat loves a bit of a kick to his food, he chose the Firecraker Maki, which added a bit of spice to our Sushi. The Wasabi definitely had the punch that Pat likes in his meals! The Beef Fillet was to die for, melting in the mouth, and the Black Cod was also a big hit - very flavoursome, with moreish Miso Sauce on the side. The food kept coming as our bellies were becoming full up, with Korean Lamb

Cutlets arriving next, Tempura King Prawns, and not to forget a favourite of many at the Sora Bar, the Korean Cauliflower. What is nice about having small plates is the choice you get, and the amazing flavours you get to sample. It didn’t disappoint!

Whether you’re enjoying a romantic night, relaxed dinner or bespoke afternoon tea, Sora Sky Bar is the place to go! Mim & Pat BY

Food & Drink Gift Guide

Discover tasty treats and indulgent gifts alongside kitchen essentials and companions. From decadent desserts and artisan hampers to clever cookware and bar tools, perfect for adding flavour and festive flair.

CHRISTMAS BROWNIES

Starting at £17.99 from sponge.co.uk. Sponge’s famous brownies get a festive twist with flavours like Candy Cane, Ferrero Rocher, Chocolate & Chestnut, and Chocolate Orange. Fudgy, rich, and perfectly giftable, they’re a crowd-pleasing Christmas treat.

CHRISTMAS DESSERTS COLLECTION

£15 for 22 chocolates from Morrisons, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose. The ultimate treat for chocoholics, Lily O’Brien’s limited-edition Christmas Desserts Collection features 22 indulgent chocolates inspired by classic puddings. Enjoy Spiced Latte, Zesty Orange, Triple Chocolate Shot and Berry Eton Mess - a perfect gift for anyone who’s “a little bit extra”.

MAKER’S MARK CHRISTMAS WHISKY

£34.50 from Waitrose, John Lewis, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda and Morrisons. This festive limited-edition bottle features a beautifully illustrated label and Maker’s Mark’s signature red wax seal. Smooth and rich with notes of vanilla, caramel and cherry, it’s a perfect seasonal showpiece for sipping or gifting.

SPICED ORANGE AND CRANBERRY CAKE

Starting at £21.99 from sponge.co.uk. Back by popular demand, Sponge’s Spiced Orange and Cranberry Cake blends warming winter spices with zesty orange and tart cranberry, for a truly delicious festive bite. A sophisticated seasonal showstopper that is truly delicious!

THE TASTY TIDINGS CHRISTMAS HAMPER

£57 from porkpie.co.uk. Brimming with British classics, this festive hamper from Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe features Melton Mowbray pork pies, Wensleydale cheese, chutney, crispbreads, mince pies and more. A hearty, nostalgic taste of Christmas straight from Leicestershire’s culinary heritage. A treat for foodie lovers!

LUXURY CHOCOLATE SUBSCRIPTION BOX

£69 per month from thehealthychocolatier.co.uk. Create your own artisan chocolates at home with The Healthy Chocolatier’s luxury subscription box. Each month, you’ll receive premium ingredients, tools, and step-by-step video tutorials— everything needed to craft 50 boutique-quality treats, developed by former Cadbury chocolatier Alix Tomkinson.

WOLFCRAIG 14-YEAR-OLD DELUXE BLEND

£95 from wolfcraig.com. Created by whisky legends Richard ‘The Nose’ Paterson OBE and Ian Macmillan, this triple sherry cask-aged blend offers layers of indulgent flavour. From sun-kissed raisins and chocolate to Madagascan vanilla and spiced gingerbread - the perfect dram for festive celebrations.

HOKAN BOWLS

£25 from hokanbowls.com. Cook, serve, store, and stack in style. Hokan Bowls’ stoneware design replaces plastic tubs with ecofriendly elegance. Oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwashersafe, these colourful, interlocking bowls keep food fresh, save space, and look good doing it. New in Baby Blue and Pink.

We love simple well-cooked food and supporting our local suppliers. We cook seasonal dishes and local favourites using the freshest ingredients.

CHAMPAGNE & PROSECCO OPENER

£28.00 from FindMeAGift.co.uk. Say goodbye to flying corks and fizz-related chaos! The Vin Bouquet Champagne & Prosecco Opener makes every pop feel refined. With its ergonomic wooden handle, it offers perfect grip, control, and style whilst effortlessly uncorking your bubbly with flair.

Merry Christmas to all our customers!

Breakfast | Brunch | Lunch | Eat in or Takeaway 55 Moorcroft Road, Woodthorpe, York, YO24 2RQ www.phillyabootscafe.co.uk - 01904 289898

“We were lured in and had a spectacular time at heavenly desserts, it truly lives up to its name! The staff were brilliant, kind, and the service was amazing! The food was mouthwatering and delicious.”

Open everyday 10am-10:30pm 19-21 Blake Street, YO1 8QJ 01904 349 581

15% off with this advert Christmas Special Offer

EATING OUT

Your Local Guide

Never know which place to pick when you’re going out for a meal? Take a look at some of the spots we’ve chosen below – from juicy steaks to sweet treats and everything in between, there’s something for everyone.

The Marrakesh

Savour the true, authentic flavours of Marrakesh right here in the heart of York. Whether you’re sharing a feast with friends, enjoying a relaxed meal with family, or treating someone special to a romantic evening for two, come and experience the vibrant, unforgettable tastes of Marrakesh.

01904 463318 | 8 Low Ousegate, YO1 9QU themarrakeshyork@gmail.com

Middle Feast

Middle East? ... Or Middle Feast! This Restaurant and Takeaway transports the senses with authentic Lebanese cuisine. Serving expertly crafted dishes, using only the finest ingredients. Expect warm service, bold flavours, and a feast you’ll want to return for again and again.

13 Lendal, York, YO1 8AQ 01904 339072

Nola

Styled in a 1920s Art Deco theme, NOLA offers a vibrant mix of Cajuninspired dishes and global flavours. Served on smaller plates, their menu encourages guests to be adventurous with their choices. An extensive drinks and cocktails list has been crafted to complement every dish and dining experience.

2A Lendal, York, YO1 8AA 01904 622 333

Rad Pizza Shop

@ Angel on the Green

Discover the new Autumn Small Plates Menu — a mix of Greek heritage and Italian flavours.

Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes, hand-crafted small plates, and freshly baked pizza served Wednesday to Sunday.

radpizzashop@gmail.com 2-4 Bishopthorpe road, YO23 1JJ

York Distillery -

Home of York Gin.

A boutique gem in the heart of the city, home to award-winning gins, immersive tasting experiences, and gin school sessions. With cocktail masterclasses, curated gin and wine flights, it’s the perfect spot to sip, learn, and enjoy. It’s York’s mustvisit destination for spirit lovers.

Skeldergate, York, YO1 6DS yorkdistillery.co.uk

Drakes Fish & Chips

Well known for our world-renowned fish and chips, we are one of the city’s most long-standing family-owned and run fish & chip restaurants. Our team is ready to provide you with an outstanding dining experience, with our traditional values of hearty food and great value.

97 Low Petergate, York YO1 7HY 07375 478258

Buongiorno Bistro

A family-run Sardinian gem blending traditional recipes with a modern twist. Enjoy high-quality ingredients, unique flavours, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can even pre-order special dishes or practise their Italian for an authentic experience. Dine in or take away — every meal captures the true spirit of Sardinia.

Acomb Wood Dr, Woodthorpe, YO24 3XN 07917 240024

The White Horse

Enjoy hearty pub classics and freshly prepared seasonal dishes at this welcoming Upper Poppleton pub. With a rich history dating back to 1793, The White Horse now thrives under Chris and Maria, serving quality homecooked food, great beer, wines and plenty of non-alcoholic options. The Green, Upper Poppleton, YO26 6DF 01904 289340

Victor J’s

Looking for the perfect place to host your next celebration? Whatever the occasion, Victor J’s is the ideal venue. We offer a spacious upstairs area that can accommodate up to 35 guests (with a minimum of 20). You’ll have your own dedicated bar and bartender for the duration of your stay. We’ll gift you a complimentary bottle of Prosecco, all for just a £75 initial booking fee. We can offer a hot or cold buffet service for just £12.95 per person (available Thursday-Sunday).

Are you part of the local hospitality industry? We’d love to host your staff Christmas party! Book with us, and we’ll waive the booking fee and offer a 10% discount for everyone. Our upstairs space is available every day except Wednesdays, so don’t miss out on the chance to host your event in our venue. Get in touch today to start planning your celebration at Victor J’s!

1A Finkle St, York YO1 8RW 01904 541771

He’s

Behind You!

An Interview with York’s pantomime dame, Robin Simpson

In anticipation of York Theatre Royal’s upcoming panto Sleeping Beauty, Your Local Link caught up with actor, storyteller, and serial pantomime dame Robin Simpson to see what’s in store this Christmas…

Hi, Robin! Following Berwick Kaler’s retirement, you’ve become York’s most recognised pantomime dame. How does it feel holding such a well-loved position?

I’m very honoured, to be honest. I started working at York Theatre Royal 20 years ago, so I was aware of Berwick, his amazing work, and what he achieved. When they asked me, I was absolutely chuffed to bits! How do you forge your own path? You create something new, while still paying respect to what’s gone before - so that’s what we’re trying to do!

You’ve appeared on stage in Northern Broadsides’ production of Much Ado About Nothing - how does ‘playing it straight’ differ from playing panto dames, and which do you prefer?

I like to mix it up, it’s great to be able to do both. Having the panto is lovely, because I know what I’m doing at Christmas every year! It’s also just an absolute joy to perform, and you get that wonderful reaction from the audiences. Doing a straight show, well, it’s generally a lot less energetic - there are fewer costume changes! Every time the Dame goes off, you have to have a costume change, so you know, I’m doing the scenes, which are quite high energy, and then I’m getting into a new, large, heavy, awkward, (and amazing!) outfit, coming back on, and doing another scene. So yeah, a play is a lovely opportunity to have a bit of a sit down!

You’ll be appearing in Sleeping Beauty this year, but how is your own sleep affected by rehearsing for the panto? Is it a hectic schedule?

It is, yeah! I’m a bit of a night owl, to be honest, so I have to get into the habit of getting up early and getting into work! Generally, I’m okay getting a good night’s sleep during rehearsals, plus I’m knackered - when I get home, I’m absolutely exhausted, so I just go to bed and snore my head off! What can visitors expect from this year’s production?

It’s going to be a fantastic show - we’ve got Tommy Carmichael coming back, who is brilliant and hilarious, and very talented. We’ve got a wonderful ensemble of dancers, we’ve got a fire artist, we’ve got Jenny Dale (she’s playing our Fairy), and we have some wonderful West End actors with singing chops. We’ll have the usual jokes, comic routines, lots of special effects, some quite scary monsters, and a very funny scriptit’s going to be a great night out!

Thanks Robin. Finally, have you had any ‘Prince Charming’ moments in your life that you’d be willing to share?

I don't know, you’d have to ask my wife! No, I’m really bad at that sort of thing, I wouldn’t know how to be a Prince Charming if I tried. I have been a hopeless romantic though, especially when I was younger…

Sleeping Beauty runs from 2 December - 4 January at York Theatre Royal. Visit www. yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/ sleeping-beauty to book your tickets today!

YORK CINEMA GUIDE

From 5th December: FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY’S 2

This bone-chilling supernatural horror is the second silver screen entry in the Five Nights at Freddy’s franchise, based on the wildly popular video game series. Returning director Emma Tammi provides plenty of scares, as well as an insight into the mysterious origins of the Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza restaurant…

From 20th December: THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SEARCH FOR SQUAREPANTS

As the sixth movie in the SpongeBob SquarePants franchise, this family-friendly comedy could be just the ticket this month. Follow SpongeBob (Tom Kenny) on a deep-sea adventure in pursuit of dastardly pirate ghost The Flying Dutchman, voiced with zeal by Star Wars favourite Mark Hamill.

From 22nd December: THE HOUSEMAID

Based on Freida McFadden’s award-winning 2022 novel, this long-awaited psychological thriller stars Sydney Sweeney as a live-in housemaid employed by a seemingly perfect wealthy family - but are they as innocent as they seem? Directed by Paul Fieg (of Bridesmaids and Ghostbusters fame), this sizzling thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat…

From 26th December: MARTY SUPREME

Directed by Josh Safdie (who found acclaim with Good Time and Uncut Gems, along with his creative partner and brother Benny), this inspirational sports drama is packed with comedic elements, and is loosely based on the life of table tennis champion Martin Reisman, as played by the versatile Timothée Chalamet.

RACE MEETINGS

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz at Castle Howard

We had such a magical time at Castle Howard this year. It’s an absolute must-visit for anyone wanting to step into the festive spirit — there’s truly no place like it for Christmas. Join us as we take you through the journey... We had the privilege of visiting the much-anticipated Castle Howard Christmas event – and what a treat it was! The theme this year is The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, following Dorothy’s journey through the land of Oz. Based on the novel by L. Frank Baum, the displays stay true to the story, so don’t be shocked that the slippers aren’t ruby - they were originally silver!

Our adventure began at the Great Staircase, dramatically bedecked with a swirling tornado of feathers and jewels. At the top, Dorothy’s house has crash landed quite haphazardly! Keep an eye out for Toto along the way – he’s up to mischief in more than one corner!

From there, we stepped into Lady Georgiana’s bedroom, which was inhabited by the Good Witch of the North. Covered in sparkles and glitter, she encourages Dorothy to follow the yellow brick road and seek the help of the Wizard of Oz. Next, we met The Scarecrow, surrounded by denim decor - even the Christmas tree was made of denim to match his overalls. The Tin Man followed, bathing in a bath of rust. The room was surrounded in tin hearts, symbolizing his wish for a heart. Venturing onward, we entered the dark and spooky wood, where, amongst the creatures watching from the bushes, we found The Lion, hiding nervously in the bed, before joining the quest in the hopes of some courage.

Back in Munchkinland, we wandered past little merry houses and through the field of poppies,

before arriving at The Emerald City in the Great Hall. The amazing Christmas tree, bedecked in shimmering emerald decorations, surrounded by a miniature of city buildings along the balcony.

In the next room, things were not quite as they seemed. Through the green-tinted spectacles worn by the citizens of Oz, the entire white room turned emerald before our eyes! Then it was time to meet the Wizard himself — though hidden behind his curtain of mystery, a clever peephole let us see the man behind the magic at work.

The newly restored Tapestry Drawing Room featured the ominous evil eye of the Wicked Witch, watching Dorothy and her friends as they travelled through…

Moving into the music room we saw the Wicked Witch scheming with her winged monkeys. Her glittering potion lab was up next - here the Witch finally meets her end beneath a bucket of water, leaving behind only her shoes and hat.

From there, it was joy all around in Winkie’s Workshop, where the Tin Man and Scarecrow got patched up and Toto enjoyed a poodle parlour makeover! A stunning miniature of Oz followed, complete with the Yellow Brick Road winding toward the Emerald City.

Finally, we wandered down the fun-filled Emerald City high street, meeting a friendly Munchkin and exploring whimsical shopfronts like Bristles Boutique and Munchkin Munchies.

At the end, Glinda the Good Witch appeared beside the hot air balloon, helping Dorothy find her way home - and sure enough, we finished back at Dorothy’s Kansas home, decorated ready for Christmas.

NETheatre Director Steve Tearle

Ahead of NETheatre York’s new production of Priscilla Queen of the Desert, we caught up with actor and NETheatre director Steve Tearle to find out what’s in store…

Hello, Steve! Are you excited about staging the new production of Priscilla?

Excited does not sum it up! It’s a fantastic show, and I cannot believe I get to direct it AND play the most amazing role.

You’ll be playing Bernadette in the show. Will you be dressing up in some absolutely fabulous costumes?

How lucky am I! It’s such an honour to play this iconic role, giving such awareness and respect to all transsexual people. Bernadette is one of the standout figures in the show and a great role model, plus, I get to wear the most amazing costumes. Supplied by Charades Costumes, they’re the same as the original West End production, so you’ll see the famous Flip Flop dress, along with many others…

The movie soundtrack is packed with camp classics. Can we expect to hear some over-the-top musical numbers onstage?

What a soundtrack, the songs are so iconic - I must admit I have it on my playlist constantly. Yes, you’ll hear all the songs from the movie and the stage show, from Donna Summer to Kylie.

Along with the songs, the dance routines will leave you feeling that you’ve had a wonderful night at the theatre!

You’ve previously played characters including the King, Roger Debris, and Kris Kringle, but which has been your favourite role so far?

I know people say this, but the role you’re currently playing is always top of the list!

My favourites include Tevye in Fiddler On The Roof (it’s a role that is so humbling), and Fagin in Oliver! - he’s like an onion, so many different layers. In Charlie And The Chocolate Factory, I play the loveable role of Grandpa Joe. I have loved playing every role.

You’re the chair of NETheatre York, but what is it that makes NETheatre stand out from the crowd?

We have now won so many awards for being who we are! NETheatre is run by just 4 people. We believe everyone should have a chance. We actively promote families working together on stage, or even parents working backstage - we run the company like a family, with lots of mams and dads on stage with their children. We are currently visiting schools in York, talking to 6 to 11-year-olds about the theatre, and how important it is to communicate with each other. We strive to make people happy and ensure they’re included and involved. We look at how we can incorporate each person's abilities into our shows. I have now been chair for 14 years, and I’m so proud of everyone in NETheatre for making magic!

NETheatre regularly donates tickets to charities - which charities have you worked with, and are there any local causes particularly close to your heart? NETheatre York really wants to support the community as best we can, whether it’s giving tickets away or supporting local independent businesses. We love making families' lives better. This year, the team got together for our biggest giveaway yet, when we reached out to Snappy York, Stimul8 and Family Fund York. We work with lots of others too, giving away blocks of tickets to charities, or raffles for anyone who may not be able to afford tickets ordinarily.

Do you have a final festive message for our readers?

Have fun, have amazing family times, and have the best Christmas ever!

The show runs from 28 April - 2 May 2026. Tickets go on sale from 8th December. Visit www.facebook.com/NMusicals and www. josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk for details and bookings.

A Christmas Story:

Not Just A Job

Alabaster Snowball is the Naughty or Nice List administrator among Santa’s elves, and Sugarplum Mary is in charge of sweets. Wunorse Openslae is the designer of the sleigh and looks after the reindeer.

As for Rudolph and Santa – well, we all know them!

Robin Lewis-Light lives in York, loves Christmas, and hopes you do too!

“Times are changing,” I said. “But that has never been a problem before.”

My staff – my friends – looked at me uncertainly.

“It won’t change the decisions I make,” said Alabaster. “And I’m sure that Mary will get more than enough business.”

Mary nodded.

“People want the things I supply, but there’s a lot of competition,” she said.

There was a stamping. I raised my hand.

“I’m aware of the threat that the online markets and all-day shops pose,” I said. “But there are things we can do that they cannot.”

There was some careful nodding. I looked over at Wunorse, who looked back, as always, unreadable. He glanced over at his department and frowned, and they all looked away and quietened. Wunorse had been here for almost as long as I had, and he ruled his department firmly but fairly.

“We get it right every single time. They cannot match us for that!” I said, and there was a loud cheer. I smiled.

“I know – and you do not need to know how I know, you should realise that there are some things I just know – that some of you have been looking for work elsewhere.” I looked at my employees sadly. “I am here to reassure you that I am going to take us forward and to remind you

BEN’S BOOK REVIEWS

BY Ben Robinson

Christmas is on the horizon once again. I, for one, love the lights, music, and joy that the season has to offer. However, the Christmas season is never quite perfect without a good book to tie it all together! I thought I would give a little selection of some of my favourite Christmas books, which will help you get in the spirit.

The Christmas Bookshop

By Jenny Colgan

‘The Christmas Bookshop’ by Jenny Colgan is a warm, cosy holiday novel set in Edinburgh. It follows Carmen, who reluctantly takes a job helping to revive a failing old bookshop during the festive season. Surrounded by twinkling lights, quirky customers, and unexpected friendships, Carmen slowly discovers a sense of purpose that she didn’t know she needed. The atmosphere is charming, and exactly what the Christmas spirit is about. Colgan balances humour with heart, making the story feel like a comforting cup of cocoa on a cold winter night. Perfect for readers craving a light and hopeful Christmas read.

that we should never forget the things that made us what we are.”

I looked at them all. “Without you, we could never get this done, but with you, we fulfil dreams!”

There was a more optimistic stamping.

“Yes, the online businesses can get their stuff to anywhere in the world within a very short time, but they are not us. We get our stuff absolutely spot on and always, always, right on time.”

I looked at them all.

“They are saying we are no longer relevant, but I can tell you that we are the thing that needs to be believed in, by children and by adults. I accept that there is more competition, but there is nobody like us. This is not just a job!”

“It is only one day a year, but it is the most important day for so many people,” I said.

I looked at the elves and the reindeer, and they looked back at me.

“Now, who believes in me?” I said, and there was cheering. “Who believes in us?” Everyone was behind me, as I knew they would be.

“We all believe in us and we all believe in you, Santa!” said Rudolph, and I knew that if he was backing me up, then this year’s Christmas was going to work out just fine.

A Christmas Carol

By Charles Dickens

Every year, this Christmas book column rolls around, and every year, I put ‘A Christmas Carol’ on the list - it really is one of the truly great classics. For anyone who hasn’t read it, the tale follows the now worldfamous character of Scrooge, as he is visited by three ghosts who show him Christmases from his past, present, and potential future – that is, if he doesn’t change his evil ways. It encompasses the Christmas spirit so beautifully, and as far as Victorian novels go, it is one of the greats. Year after year, I find myself coming back to this novel, and I always find enjoyment in its pages.

The Christmas Card Crime, and Other Stories.

By Martin Edwards

This anthology serves up eleven short crime stories under a wintry, festive backdrop. From snowy train journeys to bitter old grudges played out at Christmas, there is a story for everyone in this compilation. While some stories remain more classic than others, the collection is charming for fans of GoldenAge crime and mystery tales. The title tale: ‘The Christmas Card Crime’ packs a real story into only a few short pages, and other entries deliver a mix of heist and puzzles. The blend of atmosphere, variety of tales, and occasional unexpected twist makes it an enjoyable seasonal read for anyone craving a touch of crime in their winter reading list.

Pomander

Christmas Pudding The Fourth Magus

All the old stuff dried and stirred up; a silver sixpence a broken tooth.

A brandy flame to start the game and holly leaves to prick the vein.

Coffee to end words not said. Washing up. Hours before bed.

Duncan Chambers

Snow

after Don Paterson

I hate all films that start with snow, Christmas schmaltz the lot of them: Bambi, Love Story, Frozen.

The cynical director, his assistant with the snow machine blowing fluffy cotton-wool flakes

to muffle the cries of motherless fawn, orphaned little girls in castles, a young wife breathing her last.

I’ve nothing against a good cry and I’ll make an exception for Doctor Zhivago and the ice palace

where Yuri will make a fresh start despite the wolves, will write poems in fingerless gloves, ice on his moustache,

even though I know it won’t end well, that she’ll step into the fur-lined sleigh, that he’ll breathe a hole in the ice for one last look.

Carole Bromley

First published in the Peregrine Falcons of York Minster (Valley Press).

We use cloves like little nails to stud a ribboned orange, dusting it afterwards with cinnamon. Cloves are dried flower buds and smell of sadness.

Our decorated orange will shrink, wizening as it releases tangy breaths of citrus, sweetening Christmas darkness.

Its fragrance will ward off chills keep moths away, help us to think of summer on winter’s shortest day.

Sue Norton First published in The North poetry magazine.

Poem with a Satsuma in it

There is no sunset can rival the particular shade of its skin

no sunrise the pimpled texture no noon-glow the zing.

There can never be too many satsumas in poems, each segment a stanza, every metaphor a pip.

I open a book of them and my mouth waters

even before I’ve tasted the opening line.

My grand-daughter can’t say the word, just points more, more, more

Carole Bromley (first published in The Stonegate Devil)

Always just out of frame nobody knew his name.

Reading till late at night, awake before first light.

In cloak of sober grey. His gift? He wouldn’t say.

Duncan Chambers

Troika

What captures the essence of Christmas isn’t so much those shishing jingle bells and icy violins suggesting a sleigh ride through some white-out of snow,

but that boozy tuba at the start, stumbling from bum-note to bum-note, its player swaying from the night before, Sergeant Pepper specs askew

like a trolleyed northern stand-up clasping the mic stand to slur, You’ll never guess wor append to me on the way ere tonigh –

which sums up how I feel every Boxing Day, frowning at the drinkathon the day before, the new year’s resolution fully formed, and wishing we weren’t setting off on a walk in this blare of sunlight, let alone that faint breeze which seems to howl like an Arctic gale.

Will Kemp

Walking York’s Snickelways: Part One

Amongst York’s most uniquely charming features are its snickelways, the often narrow, winding passages that snake throughout the city centre. Popularised in local author Mark W. Jones’ 1983 book A Walk Around the Snickelways of York, the word ‘snickelway’ is an amalgamation of ‘snicket’, ‘ginnel’, and ‘alleyway’, and, whether you’ve lived in York your whole life or are a more recent arrival, chances are that you’re yet to discover all of the numerous nooks and crannies the city has to offer…

COFFEE YARD (FORMERLY LANGTON LANE)

One of the best-known snickelways in York, Coffee Yard is a likely familiar cut-through that can be entered via Stonegate (opposite Evil Eye, next to the famous ‘Printer’s Devil’ statue), or Swinegate (next to Wildes Bar and Bistro). Stretching 220 feet in length, Coffee Yard is considered the longest snickelway in York. It is also the site of the famous Barley Hall, a now reconstructed medieval townhouse that was first erected around 1360.

LADY PECKETT’S YARD

Possibly the most beautiful of all the city’s snickelways, the pictureperfect Lady Peckett’s Yard is favoured by tourists and locals alike seeking a magical, atmospheric,

and Instagrammable snap. This narrow ‘blink and you’ll miss it’ snickelway is located on Pavement, directly between the York Gin shop and Pizza Hut. Lady Peckett’s Yard’s current name was taken from the 1701-1702 Lord Mayor of York, John Peckett’s wife, Alice Peckett.

LUND’S COURT (FORMERLY MAD ALICE LANE)

Another snickleway named after an Alice is Mad Alice Lane, a muchloved and well-known passage that serves as an evocative source of local folklore. Connecting Swinegate and Low Petergate, this reportedly haunted snickelway takes its former title from the notorious Mad Alice, a semifictional figure who is said to have been hanged in 1825. Local legend indicates that poor Alice continues to haunt the site to this day…

POPE’S HEAD ALLEY

As the narrowest of all the snickelways in town, Pope’s Head Alley may not be the best choice for claustrophobic readers! At just 2 feet 7 inches wide, this thin passage is favoured by ghost tour operators, and can be entered via either High Ousegate (it’s located between the Lakeland and Ryman Stationery stores) or Market Street. Catch Part Two of Walking York’s Snickelways in our next issue!

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS!

We’re on the lookout for local photographers willing to submit their snickelway snaps and top shots of town, to be used for our new HIDDEN YORK feature. To submit your pictures of York that will POP on a page, please email info@yourlocallink.co.uk today!

A York Poet’s Lifetime of Verse

Local poet Bill Clayton, who hails from Fulford, has published a captivating collection of 78 poems and hundreds of verses, inspired by his experiences of living with myalgic encephalomyelitis, or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Diagnosed with the condition 19 years ago, Bill said: “Living with ME/CFS is tough both physically and mentally, and doodling verses gave me an outlet. I wanted people to know what it’s like living with the condition, and help raise awareness and understanding.” The Word Doodle Trilogy also features Clayton’s sharp-witted observations

YORK ARTISTS THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX

To celebrate York’s status as a UNESCO City of Media Arts (and to tackle unsightly graffiti tags on old and neglected street furniture in the process), York Art Trail continues to transform the heart of town for the better.

Launched by York BID, the everdeveloping Art Trail’s ‘Outside the Box’ project has seen local artists turn their talented hands to worn-out exchange boxes across the city, sprucing them up with a spot of much-needed colour and character.

The project was kick-started last year when HazardOne, an acclaimed and internationally known graffiti artist from York, created mini murals on 12 BT exchange boxes on Stonebow. Inspired by our city’s close connection with stained glass (as typified by the work of J.W. Knowles and Sons, still available to view via Explore York Libraries & Archives’ Knowles collection), HazardOne’s

of a 24-year stint in the military, and artful musings on the joys and challenges of everyday life. Visit www.meassociation.org.uk for support and information about ME/CFS. Scan the QR to buy your copy of The Word Doodle Trilogy.

vividly coloured spray paint murals inspired further forays into the artistic renovation of street furniture in the city. The most recent ‘Outside the Box’ offerings now available to view in town include a selection of cabinet box mini murals from local artists Leah Pendleton (located in Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square) and Rob Stothert (located at Picadilly, Coppergate, and Fishergate), inspired by our city’s history, culture, and craftspeople. Next time you’re in town, keep your eyes peeled!

Visit www.theyorkbid.com/yorkart-trail to find out more about York Art Trail and see a current map of the walking trail.

We’ve Got #OurThreeWords! What are Yours?

Which three words would you use to describe York? This is the question posed by the #OurThreeWords campaign, launched by One York to find out what it is about our city that makes residents proud.

Locals who’ve submitted words include Adam Raffell, Trussell York Foodbank Manager (welcoming, generous, caring), Ammar Sacha, York Mosque Imam (integrity, harmony, resilience), and Claire Douglas, City of York Council Leader (strong, supportive, determined),

with institutions including Westfield Primary Community School (respect, kindness, resilience), York College (historic, welcoming, beautiful), and York LGBT Forum (equality, community, belonging) also throwing in their two (or three!) cents.

#OurThreeWords as surveyed in the Your Local Link office are: Historic, Safe, and Friendly. Visit www.oneyork.org/ourthree-words to participate in #OurThreeWords. Do our city proud, Yorkies!

GIG GUIDE

18-19

New York Brass Band

The Crescent

19 DECEMBER

P!nk!sh

Bishopthorpe Sports & Social Club

20 DECEMBER

That Guy Called Si

The Three Tuns

20 DECEMBER

The York Waits & Ex Corde

National Centre for Early Music

21 DECEMBER

The Mothers Museum Street Tavern

22 DECEMBER

The Jasmine Lowe

Band

The Fulford Arms

22 DECEMBER

Folk Night

The Corner Pin

23 DECEMBER

Robert Plant’s

Saving Grace

York Barbican

26 DECEMBER

Beats & Bands

Kennedy’s

27 DECEMBER

A Merry Bloody Xmas

The Fulford Arms

27 DECEMBER

The Madchester

Experience

Bishopthorpe Sports and Social Club

27 DECEMBER

The Persuaders

The Edinburgh Arms

28 DECEMBER

The Boneyard Blitz

The Fulford Arms

31 DECEMBER

NYE - DARKLANDS

VS BLEED

The Fulford Arms

31 DECEMBER

The Young Ones

The Edinburgh Arms

31 DECEMBER

La Fox Duo

Katie O’Brien’s

31 DECEMBER

Just Another Jester

The Old Bank

31 DECEMBER

DJ Russ

The Golden Lion

A BIG ‘THANK YOU’ From Your Local Link’s MARATHON MAN!

This summer, Your Local Link was proud to feature the story of father and son duo John and Hans, who took on Australia’s Gold Coast Marathon in memory of their beloved daughter and sister Natasha, who sadly died of leukaemia aged 13 - this momentous and challenging run was also achieved to celebrate John’s 80th birthday.

Generous donations from our readers helped this dynamic duo to become the second-highest fundraisers out of 39,000 runners, smashing their $10,000 target and raising nearly £20,000, contributing to an incredible total of $80,000!

John would like to extend his heartfelt gratitude towards all of those Your Local Link readers who made this possible, in particular those residents of Osbaldwick, Murton, and Rawcliffe who kindly made donations to support John and Hans’ worthy cause.

Affectionately known as ‘John

the Pom’ by the Aussie locals (and dressed for the occasion in a fetching pink running skirt), our Marathon Man managed to complete the marathon within his target time along with Hans, jogging more than 400 miles in training, Despite suffering a small stroke just a month after returning from Oz, John is committed to hitting the road once again, with a 10k run in the works (in aid of a Children’s Hospital) to celebrate his 85th birthday - his message to our readers is simple: ‘life is good, enjoy it!’. Watch this space, Your Local readers - and sincere thanks for making a difference!

Show Your Support for Sports Clubs in Haxby!

Ethel Ward Playing Fields are a crucial part of Haxby’s local sports community, but are in urgent need of refurbishment. Not resurfaced since 1999, the site is now dangerously slippy in cold and wet weather, and no longer safe, suitable, or fit for purpose. Local Haxby sports clubs need your help!

Haxby Netball Club is an inclusive club based in the heart of Haxby. Active in York’s sporting community for more than 45 years, the club offers a safe and welcoming space for women and girls of all ages to connect, exercise, and thrive. With over 60 members competing in leagues across York and North Yorkshire, it’s one of the largest and most active netball clubs in the area.

Founded 20 years ago by local residents, Haxby Junior Football Club supports over 270 players under the age of 17. The club is committed to providing a fun, competitive environment where young people can learn and enjoy the game of football.

Started in April 2020, Haxby

Runners is a friendly local running group committed to supporting physical and mental health through regular running, training and social meetups. Open to all (not just members), the club regularly competes in local events and races, and is always on the lookout for new members!

These teams are working in tandem (along with Haxby Senior Football Club) to transform Ethel Ward Playing Fields into a safe, inclusive multi-sport hub for all ages and abilities. You can help these clubs to achieve their aim of raising £67,000, which will go towards refurbishing the court surface, enhancing the green space and facilities, and supporting local teams currently unable to train at the site.

To learn more or make a donation to support Haxby sports clubs, scan the QR code today.

York’s LOCAL SPORTS

York Knights : RISE TO THE SUPER LEAGUE

For the first time since 1986, York will have a club in rugby league’s top division. The York Knights’ historic promotion to the Super League marks a transformative moment for the sport, and for North Yorkshire.

Confirmed alongside Toulouse Olympique as part of the league’s expansion to 14 teams for the 2026/27 season, York Knights’ ascent completes one of the most compelling stories in modern rugby league. As recently as 2018, the Knights were playing in League One - now they stand shoulder to shoulder with giants like Wigan, St Helens and Leeds Rhinos.

Owner Clint Goodchild called it “a great day for the region,” and it is difficult to argue with that. York Knight’s have becomes the first professional sports team from the city to play in a top division in almost forty years. The rise reflects not only on-field progress, but also the club’s off-field transformation since Goodchild took over in 2022. Strategic planning, financial stability and community engagement have underpinned the club’s rapid climb.

York Knights’ promotion was secured through the IMG grading system, which assesses sporting success, infrastructure, and governance. Their impressive season, highlighted by victory in the 1895 Cup at Wembley and a close Championship Grand Final against Toulouse, showed their readiness for the elite level. More importantly, their modern stadium, strong attendance figures and growing youth system convinced the independent panel that York Knights could enhance the Super League’s profile.

The expansion marks the first time in over a decade that the Super League has featured 14 clubs. It

York is once again preparing to welcome the world’s snooker elite as the 2025 UK Championship returns to the York Barbican from Saturday 29th November to Sunday 7th December.

One of the sport’s most prestigious events, the UK Championship brings a festival atmosphere to the city each year, drawing fans from across the country and beyond. With the world’s top 16 players joined by rising stars from the qualifying rounds, the stage is set for another thrilling showcase of skill and drama.

The event not only highlights

comes as part of a wider effort by the Rugby Football League and IMG to widen the competition’s reach. The addition of York and Toulouse injects fresh markets, new audiences and renewed optimism.

For York Knights, this is the culmination of years of steady growth. The team’s rise from the lower leagues has reconnected the city with rugby league’s top stage. Fans have turned out in growing numbers at the LNER Community Stadium, creating one of the most vibrant atmospheres in the Championship. The club’s connection with local schools and grassroots programmes have helped to spark renewed interest in the sport across North Yorkshire.

The challenge now turns to survival and stability. Competing with established Super League clubs will test York Knights’ depth and resources, but the sense of momentum surrounding the club suggests they are prepared. Recruitment for 2026 has already begun, with the aim of blending experience with homegrown talent.

York Knights have earned their place among the best. Now, they intend to stay there.

York’s reputation as a host city for major sporting occasions, but also provides a welcome boost for local businesses, hotels, and restaurants during the busy festive period. From world-class snooker to the buzz around the Barbican, it promises to be another exciting chapter in York’s sporting calendar.

Correy Conroy BY

Free Taster Session : New Earswick All Blacks

New Earswick All Blacks ARLFC are offering free non-contact taster session for girls aged 7–13 who want to give rugby league a try in a fun, supportive environment.

It’s a great opportunity to build confidence, learn new skills, and be part of a welcoming team.

For more information or to register, contact Emily on 07734 414 591.

The Session will take place at New Earswick Sports & Social Club, White Rose Avenue, YO32 4AG, on the 10th Dec – 5:45 pm – 7:00 pm

If you’ve been thinking about getting back into football, or maybe giving it a try for the first time, York RI Ladies might just be the perfect fit. The squad has had a few injuries recently, so they’re opening the doors to new players and fresh faces. The best part? They genuinely mean that all abilities welcome. Whether you’ve played for years or you’ve never kicked a ball in your life, you’ll be met with encouragement, laughs, and possibly a cheeky pint afterwards. There’s a real sense of togetherness about this club. It’s not just about match days or results. It’s about being part of something. Turning up to training, making new mates, improving bit by bit, and feeling that buzz when things start to click. They’re down-to-earth, friendly, and they’ll make sure you feel part of the team from day one.

Clifton Badminton Club is currently seeking new members with competitive playing experience to join their friendly and active club. With 46 members and a capacity of around 50, the club offers a mix of social and competitive games each week. They’re particularly interested in players who have competed at league or club level, as well as juniors who’ve received coaching and would benefit from playing in an adult environment. Clifton Badminton

The festive favourite Chase the Pud returns to York on Sunday 7th Dec 2025. Expect hundreds of Santas running, jogging, or walking the 3km course, this year chasing a giant mince pie! Organised by the BHF York Fundraising Group, the event has raised funds for heart research for nearly two decades. It’s a fun, family-friendly way to get active, spread some festive cheer, and support a brilliant cause, with a 10km “Chase the Pudding” also available.

Training runs every Thursday from 7pm to 8pm, and matches are played on Sundays at 2pm. If you’re even slightly tempted, just go along and try a session. Meet the players, get a feel for the atmosphere, and see what you think. No commitment, no pressure!

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to get yourself back out there, this might be it. You can contact them on there facebook page by searching ‘York RI Ladies’ or you can show up to one of the training sessions, Hamilton Dr, Acomb, York YO24 4NX

Club provides a welcoming atmosphere for experienced players looking to improve and enjoy regular badminton in a supportive community.

To find out more visit : www. racebest.com/races/63kga Free santa suit included for all entries.

JOIN THE RALLY AT CLIFTON BADMINTON CLUB

BEAUTY ESSENTIALS GIFT GUIDE CHRISTMAS

Whether

BATH BOMB CRACKERS

£14.95 each from www. yorkshiresoap.co.uk.

Each beautifully packaged festive cracker includes three festively flavoured, vegetarian-friendly bath bombs, made using essential oils. Choose from Nutcracker (Spiced Orange, Christmas Candy, Patchouli & Cranberry), Penguin (Caramel Cinnamon Latte, Candy Cane, Winter Snow), and Gingerbread (Gingerbread, Christmas Tree, Hot Chocolate) designs. Cracking!

SPA CEYLON ISLAND ROSE - EAU DE PERFUME

£45.00 from spaceylon.co.uk.

This floral symphony of Exotic Oriental Roses, Violets, and Geraniums evokes a romantic journey to Ceylon’s Misty Mountain Gardens. Sparkling Cassis, Citroen, and Lemons uplift a heart of Rose Otto, while Amber, Musk, and Vanilla create a soothing, lingering base.

YNNY DELUXE SKIN CARE SET

£81.26 from www.ynny.co.uk. Featuring Elixir Floral anti-ageing serum, Foaming Cleanser, Enhanced Collagen

Booster, Organic Rose Water Cleanser & Toner, Exfoliating Face Mask, and Cleanser and Makeup Remover, this deluxe set is also available in a ribboned, rose gold gift box for an additional £4.49.

PURE TRANQUILITY

BODY DUO

£29 from evolvebeauty.com.

Perfect for post-Christmas party recovery, this sumptuous Pure Tranquility body pampering set features Aromatic Hand & Body Lotion and Aromatic Hand & Body Wash, expertly formulated with the soothing scent of Lavender, Sweet Orange, and Rose Geranium - vegan and COSMOS Organic!

ORIFLAME GIORDANI

GOLD ESSENZA MAN

ELIXIR PARFUM

£56 from uk.oriflame.com. Crafted with opulent Olibanum and alluring Ambery Woods, this distinguished, masculine scent is notable for its confident elegance and long-lasting power. Pakaged in an eye-catching bottle featuring 24-carat gold detailing, this refined parfum could make the perfect pressie this year!

Pain management at Clifton Park Hospital

HYDROPEPTIDETHE SKIN CYCLE SYSTEM

£84 from hydropeptide.co.uk.

Designed to provide allencompassing skin rejuvenation and long-lasting, age-defying results, this handy Skin Cycle System kit features travel-sized bottles of Triple Acid Peptide Peel, Retinol Routine Booster, Daily Drench, and Power Luxe. Give your skin a lift this Crimbo!

JASMIN DISCOVERY BOX

£24.95 from frenchsoaps.co.uk.

Try a range of six fragrant soaps with this diverse jasmin-based Discovery Box, including Shea Butter Jasmin Fragranced Soap (La Maison du Savon de Marseille), Coconut Oil Jasmin (Le Chatelard 1802), Jasmin Savon de Provence (La Corvette), and more.

DERMATOLOGY

M INTENSE REJUVENATION SET

£145 from dermatology-m.com.

Offering an effective threestep glow routine, this powerful rejuvenation set includes deeply soothing cleansing balm plus two

of Dermatology M’s most intensely rejuvenating complexes, ideal for dry, dehydrated, mature, dull, or sensitive skin - the ultimate trio for lasting skin rejuvenation!

EVOLVE BEAUTY

BRIGHT

EYES CRACKER

£15 from evolvebeauty.com.

Festively packaged with a stylish Christmas cracker design, this stocking-friendly treat from Evolve Organic Beauty could be the perfect remedy for those who’ve had a tiring, taxing year. Awaken, refresh, and hydrate your peepers with this cooling Hyaluronic Eye Serum!

BELLISSIMA GLAM WAVES

£129.99 from bellissimaitalia.co.uk.

An ideal gift for those looking to cultivate curls, wrangle waves, and add a touch of effortless elegance to their hair this festive season, the Bellissima Glam Waves wave curling wand offers salonquality results from the comfort of your home!

Wrapped Up in Style

York Disability Week: Promoting an Equal, Inclusive and

Accessible York

From 29th November to 6th December, York Disability Week will host over 30 in-person & online (mostly free!) events. Providing plenty of opportunities to create, learn and connect, there’s something for disabled and nondisabled people alike!

Activities on offer include wheelchair rugby, accessible football, tennis, gym and dance lessons, inclusive rambling, and a behind-the-scenes tour of York City FC’s accessible stadium! There will also be the chance to enjoy a singing and signing choir, attend a ‘Not a Book Club’ group, plus woodworking and workshops, exploring creativity for building selfadvocacy skills.

Our readers can discover what York has on offer by attending the Information Fair, where statutory and voluntary organisations will be available to meet. It’s also possible to get advice at drop-in sessions related to your rights as a carer, opportunities for people with Parkinson’s, and Direct Payments, whilst meeting other disabled people (including parents) over coffee. Talks and discussions focus on learning disabilities, digital technology’s successes and challenges, mental health stories,

eugenics past, present and future, energy-limiting conditions, and more! There are also art exhibitions available to enjoy.

Whether you’re disabled yourself, are a family member of a disabled person, a PA or carer, part of a business keen to be more accessible, or are simply interested in learning more and meeting new people, York Disability Week has something for everyone. By participating, you’ll be joining a movement to foster a more inclusive York!

For programmes, visit disability@ yorkhumanrights.org. To find out more, visit www.yorkdisabilityweek. org or get in touch via 01904 702060.

CARING AT CHRISTMAS: COMBATING LONELINESS AND

December is a season often associated with warmth, celebration and togetherness. For many, it is a time filled with family traditions, cosy evenings, and shared meals. But for some elderly people, especially those living alone or with limited support, the festive period can be one of the loneliest times of the year. As the world outside gets brighter with lights and decorations, the contrast can feel even sharper for those who are isolated. Shorter days, colder weather and reduced community activity can make it harder for elderly people to stay connected. This is especially true for those living with health issues, mobility challenges or memory loss.

Supporting an elderly loved one through the festive season does not always require grand gestures.

A regular phone call, a handwritten card, or an invitation for a meal can make all the difference. It is often the little things that bring the most comfort.

For those receiving care at home, Christmas can be a chance to bring joy into everyday routines. Care Professionals often help to decorate the home, prepare a favourite festive dish, or simply offer company during a quiet afternoon. Familiar music, scents and traditions can all help to

create a sense of connection and belonging.

In communities like York and the surrounding villages, neighbours and local organisations also play an important role. Coffee mornings, carol services and community lunches can offer valuable opportunities for companionship. This December, take a moment to think about who in your community might need a little extra support. Whether it is a family member, a neighbour or a friend, reaching out could bring more warmth than you realise. Christmas is not just about celebration — it is about care, compassion and making sure no one feels forgotten.

About the Author

Ed Gill is Director of York’s only CQC Outstanding home care provider and has worked with dozens of care organisations across the country to develop person-centred care and support services.

Caring for York-Based Care Leavers

In 2023, the University of York estimated that care leavers are over ten times more likely to be out of full-time employment or education at the age of 21. Unfortunately, care leavers face more unfavourable outcomes than their peers, but luckily, there are plenty of York-based networks in place to provide the support they deserve…

York Council - The City of York Council’s Pathway Team can perform care leavers’ needs assessments and write a tailored Pathway plan to suit each individual. You could also get extra help with accessing housing, education, and social care. Visit www.york.gov.uk/ looked-children/children-youngpeople-leaving-care to learn more. To find out how you could benefit from the Enhanced Local Offer for Care Leavers, visit www.york.gov.uk/ LocalOfferForCareLeavers.

I Still Matter - This monthly York Care Leavers' Forum is aimed at 17 to 25-year-olds leaving care, or who have already left City of York

Council care. Call 07770 704756 or email michelle.howlett@york.gov.uk to join or find out more.

University of York - The University of York’s Access and Outreach team can offer specific support and guidance to care leavers applying for a place. Visit www.mycovenant. org.uk/opportunities/universityof-york or www.york.ac.uk/study/ undergraduate/applying/careleavers/ to learn more.

York St John University - York St John also offers specialist support for care leavers and estranged students. Visit www.yorksj.ac.uk/ study/student-support/specialistsupport/care-leavers-andestranged-students for further details.

Visit www.speakupyork.co.uk/ york's-children-care-council-careleaver's-forum/groups-meetings to find more local groups for care leavers. Head over to www.supportfor-care-leavers.education.gov. uk/en/home or www.careleavers. com to browse national services on offer.

YORK SUPPORTS CARERS THIS CHRISTMAS!

Caring is a rewarding vocation, but many carers sacrifice Christmas celebrations with their own families, and the yuletide season can be a challenging and isolating time. The following selection of groups, services and events has been curated to give something back to York carers this year!

CHRISTMAS EVENTS FOR YORK CARERS:

2 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING, Oaken Grove Community Centre, YO32 3QW. 1.00pm-3.00pm.

3 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING, St Andrews Church Hall, YO23 2QG. 1.00pm-3.00pm.

9 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS VOLUNTEER SOCIAL, Bar Convent, YO24 1AQ. 10.00am12.00pm

9 DECEMBER

CARERS CONNECT - ACOMB, The Gateway Centre, YO24 3BZ. 1.15pm-2.45pm.

10 DECEMBER

MENTAL HEALTH CARERS GROUP, Friends Meeting House, Friargate, York YO1 9RL. 7.00pm8.45pm. Drop-ins welcome. Please email lindsey.foster@ yorkcarerscentre.co.uk for advance bookings.

Registered practitioner. Friendly, gentle, fast service in your home. Ear wax removal via microsuction, covering York and most of North Yorkshire.

ASK FOR OFFERS

Both ears £65

Mellony Pinkney BScHons

T: 07960 008179

E: earwaxaway@yahoo.com

W: www.earwaxaway.co.uk

16 DECEMBER

WHEN ROBINS APPEAR, York Explore Library and Archive, York YO1 7DS. 5.30pm-7.30pm.

17 DECEMBER

CARERS CONNECT - HAXBY, Oaken Grove Community Centre, YO32 3QW. 1.00pm-2.30pm.

30 DECEMBER

WELLBEING GROUP FOR MENTAL HEALTH CARERS, 30 Clarence Street, YO31 7EW. 6.15pm-8.15pm. Please email lindsey.foster@ yorkcarerscentre.co.uk to arrange a welcome call or to be added to the Mental Health Carers mailing list.

LOCAL SERVICES FOR YORK CARERS:

SHORT BREAKS AND HOLIDAYS FOR CARERS

Visit www.york.gov.uk/carers-1/ short-breaks-holidays-carers to find out more.

CARERS DISCOUNT CARD

Visit www.yorkcarerscentre.co.uk/ start-here-checklist-for-carers/ get-a-carers-discount-card/ to find out more.

YORK CARERS CENTRE is located at 17 Priory Street, YO1 6ET. Get in touch via 01904 715490 or enquiries@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk. Visit www.yorkcarerscentre.co.uk to find out more. Please email or call to make a booking for the events..

Christmas with Age UK York

Age UK York tirelessly works to support the elderly and isolated, and has been serving our city for more than 50 years. Its Winter Appeal makes a huge difference to the lives of older people during the colder months. Let’s take a look at some of the other crucial support services offered to local residents, not just for Christmas, but all year round…

Out and AboutSupporting Independence

The Out and About service supports people in regaining their independence and re-engaging with their community, following periods of illness, difficulty, or crises. Recipients are allocated support for 6-8 weeks to help them get back on track. Call 01904 634061 to refer yourself directly or find out more.

Social Clubs

Running for more than 30 years, Age UK York’s Social Clubs can be a lifeline for isolated people, and a great social outlet for older locals. The perfect place to meet up with others aged 55+, Social Clubs offer activities like quizzes, crafts, entertainers, and chair exercise.

Care at Home

Providing daily high-quality care to residents in their homes across the city (with each visit lasting at least 30 minutes), this service includes meeting personal care needs, preparing meals, and giving medication. For further information, or to discuss how the Care at Home service could help you, call 01904 866070 or email careathome@ ageukyork.org.uk.

Digital Buddies

Age UK York’s Digital Buddy volunteers are there for older people who may need a helping hand navigating unfamiliar new technologies. The Digital Buddies service is extremely helpful for those who are struggling to access online services or stay in touch with far-flung friends and family.

Keep Your Pet

Age UK volunteers are committed to providing short-term care and support for the pets of older and vulnerable residents, when they need it most. Services include vet visits, short-term fostering, dog walking, and feeding pets when their owners may be unable to.

Dementia Activities

Working in tandem with Age UK York, The Alzheimer’s Society offers plenty of activities for local people living with dementia, as well as their carers. These include dance cafes, online and in-person singing groups, and a gardening club.

Befriending

Age UK York’s Befriending Service offers companionship and support to older people living either in sheltered accommodation, or their own homes. Effective in shielding older people from social isolation, this crucial service is at the heart of Age UK York’s ethos.

Visit www.ageuk.org.uk/york to find out more about Age UK York and their wonderful work. To get involved as an employee, volunteer, or fundraiser, or if you’d like to make a donation, visit www.ageuk. org.uk/york/get-involved today.

How Christmas Gifting Can Help Reduce Inheritance Tax

As Christmas approaches, many start thinking about giving. Gifts under the tree, donations to good causes, or gestures to loved ones. But beyond the wrapping paper, this season of generosity can be a valuable time to consider something that could make a lasting difference for you and your family’s future.

What is Inheritance Tax (IHT)?

Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a tax which may be paid on your estate (your money, possessions and your share of any property) when you die. Your estate may be liable for Inheritance Tax (IHT) at 40% on anything above £325,000 (for an individual), or up to £650,000 (for a couple), plus any additional residence nil rate band. For many families that can mean a significant tax bill.

How can you reduce your IHT bill with gifting?

One simple and effective way to reduce a future IHT liability is through gifting. Every tax year, you can give away up to £3,000 without it being added to your estate. You can carry any unused annual exemption forward one year. You can also give small gifts up to £250 per person, make wedding gifts up to £5,000 (for a child), and give regular gifts from surplus income, provided they don’t affect your standard of living. Larger gifts may also fall outside your estate if you survive seven years after making them. However, if you die within those seven years, the gift is included as part of the estate but may be subject to taper relief.

While gifting might sound straightforward, it’s important to understand the rules, and to make sure your generosity supports your long-term financial wellbeing. PenLife can help you build a strategy that balances your desire to help loved ones now with your need for security later.

A Christmas gift for you

Why not take advantage of PenLife’s complimentary financial planning consultation. It’s the perfect chance to see how gifting may help reduce your IHT liability.

To book your complimentary initial IHT consultation: Call 01904 661140, email enquiries@pen-life.co.uk or scan the QR code.

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.

THIS MONTH’S FEATURED CHARITY SASH: Safe and Sound Homes

Safe and Sound Homes (SASH) is an award-winning York-based youth charity that supports 16-25 year olds facing homelessness. Established by a group of local parents in 1996, SASH has supported thousands of young people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, not only by providing them with safe accommodation, but also personalised support.

There are many reasons why a young person may face homelessness, from family breakdown or leaving care to fleeing abuse. Everyone deserves a safe place to stay, and with your help, SASH can help more young people in need have a safe place to call home.

The charity helps young people in need by providing them with a safe environment in which to stay, either on a short-term basis through its emergency service Nightstop, or on a longer-term basis (up to two years) within its Supported Lodgings scheme. In both services, accommodation is provided by a

EYES ON THE PRIZE

network of amazing hosts (hosts are ordinary people with a spare room and an open heart and mind) so that young people in need have a safe place to stay, at a time of crisis.

The charity’s services are as much about supporting young people to resolve the problems which have led to them becoming homeless as they are about putting a roof over their head. This is why SASH offers an enhanced support programme for young people, which helps them to build emotional resilience and wellbeing, gain education, employment and training opportunities, and develop key skills to support them in living independently in the future.

Since its foundation in York, the charity has gone on to support thousands of young people in our city, as well as in surrounding areas including Harrogate, Selby, Rydale, Scarborough, Hambleton, and Richmondshire. Unfortunately, the need for SASH’s services continues to grow, and the charity is always on the lookout for wonderful new

THE AREAS COVERED:

hosts (full training and 24/7 support is available for hosts) and those who may wish to make a muchneeded donation.

To find out more about hosting, please visit www.sash-uk.org.uk/ hosting. To book your tickets for the SASH Christmas Candlelight Concert on 5th December, or browse upcoming SASH events,

visit www.sash-uk.org.uk/event. To donate to the SASH Winter Appeal, visit www.sash-uk.org.uk/ winterappeal. Follow the charity via @sashyorks on Facebook, Instagram, X, or LinkedIn. Tell your friends, family and colleagues about SASH and encourage them to get involved!

Are you a local charity? Are you seeking out prizes for raffles, giveaways, or charitable causes? Here at Your Local Link, we have prizes aplenty! Get in touch via info@yourlocallink.co.uk to find out more!

FARM NEWSLETTER

ASK A VET

Autumn Animal Safety

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, autumn brings a host of joys for pet owners across the UK, from invigorating walks in the woods to cosy evenings by the fire. However, this season also harbours hidden dangers for our furry companions. At Bishopton, we've seen a rise in autumnrelated injuries and illnesses, from paw pads scorched by bonfires to encounters with toxic fungi. Here, we share practical tips to ensure a safe and happy season for all. First, prioritise visibility during those shortening days. With daylight fading by 4pm, evening strolls can turn hazardous, especially on rural lanes or in unlit parks. Invest in lighted collars for dogs and cats. LED options are affordable, waterproof, and rechargeable, glowing brightly to alert drivers and cyclists. We recommend models with adjustable straps, ensuring a secure fit without chafing. Pair these with reflective leads or hi-vis jackets. For nocturnal wanderers like cats, attach a quick-release lighted collar to prevent snags on fences or hedges. Bonfires and leaf piles pose another stealthy threat, particularly to hedgehogs, who hibernate in cosy leaf litter as temperatures drop. Before lighting a garden bonfire, always check thoroughly: rake through piles, probe with a stick, and inspect the base of stacks. Hedgehogs curl into tight balls when scared, making them easy to miss. If you find one, handle gently with thick gloves and place it in a secure box lined with newspaper, offering shallow water and cat food (not milk, which upsets their stomachs). Contact your local British Hedgehog Preservation Society for rehabilitation advice. For indoor pets, keep leaf debris off

paws to avoid ingesting mouldy fungi, which can cause severe gastrointestinal upset.

Every year, many cats (and some dogs) die because they have been poisoned by ethylene glycol - the main ingredient in most anti-freezes. Drinking just a tiny amount (or grooming it off fur or paws) can cause serious kidney damage and suffering, and often kills. Signs of antifreeze poisoning include vomiting, a sleepy or depressed demeanour, an uncoordinated state, as well as seizures and difficulty breathing. Signs can show after 30 minutes, with kidney failure indicators showing after two to three days. If you think your pet has ingested antifreeze, call us immediately!

Wet weather also amplifies risks. Slippery leaves hide glass shards or thorns, leading to lacerated padsclean wounds promptly with saline and seek our help for deep cuts. Conkers, acorns, and berries from trees like yew or holly are toxic; even a few can trigger vomiting, seizures, or organ failure in dogs. Don't overlook parasites thriving in damp conditions. Fleas and ticks surge in mild spells; use vet-recommended preventatives, like spot-ons or collars, and check ears and armpits after woodland romps. Autumn also signals flu and kennel cough season - ensure vaccinations are up to date, as boarding or socialising increases exposure. We are currently offering to restart vaccination programs that have lapsed at a reduced cost.

Ultimately, autumn safety hinges on vigilance and preparation. If you’d like to discuss getting your pet’s vaccinations back on track, give us a call on 01765 602396.

Issie Starkey Veterinarian

Mia 3 Years, Female

Mia is looking for a loving new home who can show her how life should be! She likes to be kept active and loves her walks. Ideally Mia will need someone who can stay at home with her while settling in and will make an extremely loyal companion.

Blue

2 years, Male

Blue is a young and sociable boy with lots of energy. He would love to be part of a family who will take him on lots of exciting adventures, and can live alongside another pet and a family with children.

Dennis 11 months, Male

Dennis came to the centre from the local stray dog service and is looking for a family to take him under their wing. Dennis is a big, friendly giant and is doing very well with his training, which his adopters will need to carry on with. Dennis is a sociable and loving dog looking for an adult home.

e cat care - right at home!

Murphy 3 Years, Male

Murphy is very sweet and wellmannered, but shy and takes a little while to come out of his shell. He loves running around zoomies and playing with other dogs. Murphy will need an adult-only home with a secure garden for him to play in.

Whippets 4 Years, Female

After a rough start filled with chaos, kittens, and way too much stress, this sweet girl is finally ready for her happily ever after. Underneath her gentle purrs is a cat who adores cuddles and craves calm. Whippets dreams of a peaceful home where she can relax, feel loved, and maybe claim the cosiest spot on the sofa…

Cloudette

9 Years, Female

This lovely lady arrived in our care after her previous owner’s health declined. Cloudette is a calm, affectionate cat who enjoys quiet company and a cosy place to rest her paws. She has some arthritis, so will need extra TLC and ongoing support in her new home - in return, you’ll gain the companionship of a truly sweet and loyal feline friend.

AN INTERVIEW WITH: Matt Todd

Matt Todd of Herbert Todd & Son (and regular Your Local Link property columnist) recebtly embarked on an epic trek across Iceland, in aid of St Leonard’s. We caught up with him to get the inside scoop, before he hit the trail…

Why have you chosen Iceland for your trek, and which specific route will you be taking?

It's a place I have always wanted to visit, so it wasn't hard to say yes!

Day 1: REYKJADALUR (14km, 6 hours) - We begin at the foot of Reykjadalur. We will hike across a field of geothermal activity with bubbling mud pools to the top of the Dalaskaro Pass, then continue down to the magical valley of Solfataras and the Reykjadalur hot springs.

Day 2: HENGILL - MT.

VÖRÐUSKEGGI (14km, 8 hours)We drive up to the Mt Hengill area, then hike up to Vörðuskeggi Peak (805m). From the top, we can enjoy stunning views of Lake Þingvellir and Langjökull to the north, and Eyjafjallajökull and the distant Westman Islands to the West. From here, we will hike up to Mt Skeggi, the highest peak in the Hengill Heritage Site.

Day 3: ÞINGELLIR NATIONAL PARKREYKJAVIK (10km, 4 hours) - A short drive brings us to the National Park of Thingvellir, where we will hike along the fault line that divides America and Europe. After the hike, we drive to Reykjavik (approximately 45 minutes) for dinner in town and our last night at Hotel Leifur Eiríkssonm.

Which section of the journey are you most excited about?

We're all very excited to get up close with the incredible natural beauty of Iceland, but the mud pools, hot springs and, hopefully, lava flows will definitely be the highlights for me. Are you an experienced trekker, and are you nervous about undertaking such a monumental task?

My parents instilled in me the benefits of walking when, as kids, the whole family would attempt the best hills that the Lake District had

to offer, often getting quite lost!

We hear that Iceland can be awfully cold at this time of year! We trust that you’ll be wrapping up warm to protect yourselves from the elements?

If the weather is around the seasonal average, then we should be in for temperatures between zero and ten degrees centigradeif it's at the lower end and it starts raining, that's when the foulweather gear will come out of our day packs, and we will have to settle in for the slog!

Aside from the necessary hiking gear, which items will you be packing in your rucksack? Any Yorkshire home comforts?

We're all taking walking poles, as the volcanic rock underfoot can be very uneven but, more importantly, I will have a stack of York’s own KitKats to hand in case energy levels fall off, and a big bag of Jelly Babies for emergencies only!

Why did you decide to raise funds for St Leonard’s Hospice, and is this charity close to your heart?

We all knew of St Leonard’s and the amazing work they do, but Kate, who's trekking with us, has had firsthand experience of the vital role the charity has in providing the best end-of-life care. St Leonard’s guides families with care, compassion and humility. This great work requires six million pounds in funding every year, and that's where we can all do our little bit to help them back. How can Your Local Link readers support your efforts?

If anyone reading would like to help us reach our goal of raising £6000 for St Leonard’s Hospice, please follow the link below. 100% of your donation goes to the charity… Matt and co have hit their target, but you can still do your bit for St Leonard’s Hospice by following this QR code and donating today:

New Local Community Cookbook Launched

After the perfect Christmas pressie for your colleagues, friends, and family this year? Seeking a genial gift for the barbecuers, cooks, and culinarily inclined loved ones in your life? Created in celebration of the Joseph Rowntree Centenary, The New Earswick Community Cook Book could be just right! Offering a moreish mixture of culinary inspiration, and featuring a wide selection of foods ranging from traditional local favourites to more unfamiliar global dishes, this 134-page collection is brimming with delicious recipes guaranteed to inspire and delight. Featuring a range of contributions including Bettys’ famous Florentines and the Little Acorns Nursery’s Raspberry Muffins, The New Earswick Community Cook Book is a special charity initiative,

Struggling This Christmas?

While it’s known as the most wonderful time of the year, for many, the festive season can be a challenging time fraught with financial pressure, stress, or loneliness. If you find yourself struggling this Christmas, or are worried about a loved one who may be finding it hard to keep their spirits up over yuletide, never fearsupport is always close by.

TAKE A BREAK - YOU DESERVE IT!

No matter what circumstances you find yourself in over Christmas, make the most of the downtime and enjoy a well-deserved rest. Focus on the things you enjoy, and celebrate the season (or not) in whichever way you want to, whether that’s picking up lost hobbies, settling down with a good book, catching up with friends, or simply snuggling up and vegging out!

PRIORITISE YOUR MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH

Look after yourself and try

with generous sponsors including the York Common Good Trust and Rotary York Ainsty, and all proceeds helping to support two valued local institutions, New Earswick Swimming Pool and Joseph Rowntree Theatre.

The book was first conceived by Hartrigg Oaks resident Sheila Heckels, who wanted to honour the 100th anniversary of Joseph Rowntree’s passing; “Everyone has a favourite recipe,” she explained, “and many of our residents have travelled widely and could share unique dishes from around the world.”

Priced at £10, The New Earswick Community Cook Book is available to buy now at Make It York, Café Coco, The Bar Convent Shop, and Café Cavo.

to maintain healthy routines, especially those related to sleep and diet. Ensure you get some daily exercise (even if that’s a relaxed walk around the block), and take a few moments for self-care each day - it could make all the difference!

DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP

Most importantly, if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out, seek support, and talk through your thoughts and emotions. Where possible, get in touch with friends, family, or neighbours. Always remember that organisations like Mind, the Samaritans, and local support networks are there to support you.

Call York Safe Haven (07483141310), Mind (0300 123 3393), Samaritans (116 123), Shout (85258), CALM (020 3854 2161), or Togetherall (020 4619 3976) for support. Call 111 if you’re in the midst of an immediate crisis.

Family Wills & Trusts Lasting Powers of Attorney

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Kick recycling to the kerb!

Local families will be happy to learn that recycling in York has now become a hell of a lot easier!

Residents are advised that they can now recycle food and drink cartons, as well as toothpaste tubes, alongside glass, plastics, and tins, following an upgrade to the city’s kerbside recycling service. This milestone simplifies household recycling and aligns with the UK Government’s

BRING ON THE CRIMBO CELEBRATIONS!

While planning a Christmas party for adult pals and colleagues can be something of a no-brainer (although paper hats, regrettable conversations and over-imbibing may need to be avoided), planning a festive, familyfriendly celebration can be a little trickier. Whether it’s keeping the kids entertained, assuaging the wrath of moody teenagers, providing care for more elderly relatives, or keeping a lid on potentially fiery family dynamics (board game, anyone?), throwing a Crimbo party for the entire tribe can be a challenging prospect - trust us, we know!

It’s never a good idea to rely on good weather (especially during winter

Simpler Recycling reforms.

Cllr Jenny Kent said: “This is a fantastic step forward for York. Being able to add Tetrapak cartons and toothpaste tubes to the recycling container on your doorstep helps reduce waste and makes life easier.”

Visit www.york.gov.uk/ recycling for further details.

in Yorkshire), but the braver party planners among us may decide to throw their yuletide bash outdoors. If you’re looking to add extra fun to proceedings, consider hiring an Inflatable Assault Course, Bouncy Castle, Giant Game, or Inflatable Slide. If the weather does inevitably go to pot, it’s also worth having a Gazebo Cover on standby! If you (wisely) decide to throw your do indoors, AMH can also help out with Rodeo Bulls, Candy Floss Machines, Chocolate Fountains, Confetti Cannons, Disco Packages, and more! Visit amh-entertainments.co.uk to see the full list of party services offered by AMH Ents & Events.

Todd’s Tips for Winter Home Energy Savings

By Matt Todd, Herbert Todd & Son

With the temperature dropping and the nights drawing in, heating and lighting our homes becomes more of a priority - but how can families save precious pennies over the winter? We can’t do without lights, but even if we’re vigilant in turning them off as we move around the home, the fact is that they’re constantly using electricity when on. What's the answer? Low-energy light bulbs are now the norm, and chances are, if you’ve replaced a bulb in the last couple of years, it will have been with a light-emitting diode LED lamp, which uses a fraction of the energy (usually about 20%) of old-style incandescent light bulbs. You could also consider putting movement detectors in less-used areas, so that lights come

on and, more importantly, turn off automatically, saving you money! When it comes to keeping toasty with home heating over the winter, there’s no magic pill, because every house and human is different, but there are solutions to save you money, no matter what temperature your family prefers. We can look at lowering the cost of central heating and electric heaters through smart controls, advising different types of heating (depending on what space you’re trying to heat), and helping you avoid potential pitfalls when picking a new heating system. Call 01904 628676 to get in touch, or visit us at the store - we're open six days a week at Monks Cross (next to Taco Bell).

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO COASTLINER AND YORK & COUNTRY BUS OPERATORS!

The Your Local Link team would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to local bus firms Coastliner and York & Country, which kindly footed the travel costs of both current and former Forces personnel to mark Remembrance Sunday and Remembrance Day last month. Both companies offered all-day free travel for current service

personnel with valid Forces ID, as well as veterans in uniform or displaying their medals. This kind gesture was applied to all Coastliner and York & Country bus routes. See full details of Coastliner and York & Country bus services at www.transdevbus.co.uk and on the free Transdev Go mobile app.

ARE PROUD TO SPONSOR

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With the average homeowner replacing their entire kitchen only a handful of times in their lifetime due to costs and disruption, it’s easy see why Dream Doors has continued to evolve throughout the years. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality customer service through our local team of experienced professionals. We ensure that we produce kitchens to the highest standard. Working with leading brands in the UK and across the world, we make sure that our clients receive the very best.

Every kitchen that we install is designed to the unique requirements of our customers, and fitted by our experienced teams of kitchen fitters. Prior to giving you a fixed price quotation we will visit your home to let you see our samples in your own home, discuss your requirements, suggest improvements and take measurements.

From design to delivery, you can be confident that your experience with Dream Doors will be outstanding. We have a team of experienced kitchen fitters who will install your kitchen to the highest standard. No matter how big or small the project is, we’ll maintain our quality standards so that your dream kitchen becomes a reality. We are members of Checkatrade and you can see what customers say about us at www.checkatrade.com./ dreamdoorsyork

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transform your kitchen or bedroom. Alternatively visit our showroom at 110 Fishergate to meet our team, discuss your requirements and view our displays and samples.

Wardrobe Before

Wardrobe After

Regular readers will know that, each December, our Little Stars feature focuses on the crucial and inspirational work carried out by York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity, and the Neonatal Unit (formerly known as the Special Care Baby Unit) at York Hospital. For 2025, you’ll find a year in review of mother, child, baby and maternity-related stories from the Trust, as well as a special appeal story from its dedicated charity. This annual feature is made possible due to the unwavering support of our advertisers, who help us to put these free-to-read pages together every year! Thank you! Until next year, The YLL team.

The Tiny Lives Appeal

HELPING TO GIVE EVERY BABY THE BEST START IN LIFE

The Neonatal Unit at York Hospital, previously known as the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU), provides care for families across York and Scarborough.

Every year, around 375 babies begin their lives in the Neonatal Unitthese are babies born prematurely or with health complications. The unit not only provides a crucial service for babies in need of specialist care, but also their families, who require comfort, reassurance, and support during one of the most challenging times of their lives.

A £2 million refurbishment is currently underway, and the new and improved unit is set to open in Spring 2026. Its transformation will create a state-of-the-art environment for babies to become stronger and healthier, whilst also offering improved facilities to support parents during the often difficult time they spend in hospital with their young ones.

At present, the Tiny Lives Appeal

aims to raise £100,000 to enhance the experience for babies and their families in the new unit. With your support, York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity will be able to fund additional equipment and furnishings to help transform the Neonatal Unit into a calm, tranquil and comforting family-friendly space.

WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS

The Neonatal Unit already delivers vital clinical care, but by supporting York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity’s Tiny Lives Appeal, you can help to create an environment for families that matches the compassionate care delivered by its dedicated team. With your assistance, the charity can fund:

Reclining chairs, which will enable parents to stay close to their babies, day and night.

Twin cots, which will enable twins to be together from the start of their lives, supporting bonding and emotional wellbeing.

Height-adjustable cots to

support mothers recovering from C-sections, which can help them to care for their babies with comfort, ease and dignity. Comfortable furniture, which will help to create a space where families can relax, unwind, and feel at home.

Therapeutic skylights, which will work to soften the clinical environment and bring a sense of calm.

These upgrades will create a calm and comforting space that supports families emotionally and physically. They will help parents feel closer to their babies, alleviate stress, and foster connection.

THE IMPACT OF YOUR GIFT

Your donation to the Tiny Lives Appeal will help to create a space where families feel safe, supported, and cared for. An environment that reflects the exceptional care provided by the Neonatal Unit team. You can help build a brighter, more comfortable future for the smallest patients and their families.

Please support the Tiny Lives Appeal by visiting www. yshospitalscharity.org/ tinylives and donating today.

SCAN HERE

Scan the QR code for more info.

Abbie Joins Harvey’s Gang!

This year, eight-year-old Abbie Hampshire became the first paediatric patient at the Trust to take a tour of the pathology labs, thanks to the Harvey’s Lab Tours project.

The initiative, led by the Institute of Biomedical Science, is designed to help young patients alleviate any anxious feelings they may have about being in hospital, and better explain exactly what happens during tests. Abbie, who has pulmonary hypertension, is under the care of Great Ormond Street Hospital, with blood tests analysed at York Hospital.

Hosted and volunteered by the Scarborough, Hull, and York Pathology Service Laboratory Team, and aided by staff on the children’s ward, Abbie’s tour allowed her to follow ‘the journey of a blood sample’, to look at blood cells under a microscope, and to do a ‘treasure hunt’ around the

labs, searching for equipment including a centrifuge.

Abbie said, “I feel braver now when I have my blood taken at hospital. I enjoyed wearing a white laboratory coat, writing out a blood test label, and finding lots of different equipment around the laboratory. At the end, I got a special certificate and a Harvey teddy, and I took them to school to show my teachers and friends in assembly.”

Hasmita Rana, Blood Sciences

Deputy Training Lead, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Abbie and her family to the pathology labs. She had been scared of needles, but after her tour she is less scared of having her bloods taken. The Harvey’s Lab Tours are all about children becoming better informed about their own care and to ask any questions they want about what happens to their bloods.”

Visit www.ibms.org/resourcehub/harvey-s-lab-tours.html to find out more or sign up for Harvey’s Lab Tours.

The Trust’s Research and Innovation Department is celebrating its first year of involvement in a national study that’s already proven a success.

The BaBi concept first began in Bradford, as part of the world-leading ‘Born in Bradford’ research programme. BaBi is an initiative that aims to find out what influences the health and wellbeing of families when growing up, with a network of local birth cohort studies working together to link existing data in order to create a picture of families’ lives over time. This helps to shape local services and create a healthier environment for families. Every mother who gives birth is invited by midwives to join.

The Trust is one of the highest BaBi study recruiters in the region. Research Nurse Clare Panaser said: “Thank you to all our midwives who are helping women to be part of this groundbreaking research. It’s because of you that this project is such a success and will help to shape future healthcare.” Visit www. babinetwork.co.uk to learn more about the BaBi network and find out how you can participate!

L to R: Abbie with her mum Andrea, and brothers Joey and Freddie

Abbie Hampshire

With a Little Help From Our Friends

February marked Children’s Mental Health Week, and the Trust’s specialist paediatric mental health nurses were on hand to help promote the event, with a little help from Walt Disney’s Inside Out! Although a degree of stigma remains when it comes to openly discussing mental health, this is improving, and it’s important for caregivers and medical professionals to encourage patients (and especially younger people) to talk about their thoughts and feelings, no matter how daunting this can first appear.

To help promote honest and productive conversations about mental health, York Hospital nurses created a special display in the children’s ward, featuring the popular Inside Out characters Disgust, Anger, Fear, Joy, and Sadness. Val Eccles and Beccy Wilson, who offer support to patients in paediatric emergency departments and children’s wards, wanted to mark the week to raise the profile of their crucial roles. They were “able to signpost families

who are struggling to a variety of multidisciplinary teams,” explained Val, who leads the service. She added, “I am very passionate about advocating for children’s mental health, and the more the message reaches people, the better. We are in place to serve families. It’s not just the child who suffers; we see parents who are desperate for help. I think mental health is just as important as physical health.

This year’s national theme about expressing emotions using the Inside Out characters couldn’t be better. It’s a great way to engage children.”

Beccy explained: “The largest part of our role involves listening to families and children. We are starting to see children come in who are a lot younger than normal, presenting acutely with complex mental health issues. Mental health impacts the whole family. We do as much as we can to support them in their short time here, and to reassure them that they are not alone.”

Visit www. childrensmentalhealthweek.org. uk/ to learn more about Children’s Mental Health Week and get involved in 2026!

'ANNIE' DOLLS ARE INVALUABLE FOR NEONATAL CARE TRAINING

York & Scarborough Hospitals

Charity has enhanced neonatal care training with the funding of two advanced premature infant simulators, affectionately named ‘Annie’ dolls.

Used in Neonatal Units across York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals, these lifelike, 25-week gestational models provide hands-on, realistic resuscitation and care training for neonatal nurses, registrars, and allied health professionals. Each ‘Annie’ features detailed accessories, from umbilical catheters to

simulated blood, enabling staff to better prepare for the delicate care of premature babies.

Kelly Dobbin, Neonatal Clinical Educator at York’s Neonatal Unit, said: "The dolls have been an invaluable addition, creating a realistic training experience that enhances clinical learning. The physical differences between a preterm and a full-term infant are considerable, and these smaller simulators have proven invaluable in resuscitation training.”

Kelly Dobbin

‘Annie’ Doll

Asthma Friendly Schools

York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has been inviting schools across York to join its new initiative, Asthma Friendly Schools.

As the most common condition affecting children and young people in the UK, asthma can impact many aspects of young people’s lives, from educational performance to their sense of mental and physical wellbeing.

Asthma is the most prevalent long-term medical condition in children, with approximately one in 11 young people in the UK currently living with a diagnosis. Aside from being extremely distressing and uncomfortable, asthma attacks can be lifethreatening, and deprived young people are more likely to be admitted to hospital with a potentially deadly asthma attack during the school term.

The Asthma Friendly Schools award supports schools by

offering training, resources, and ongoing guidance to improve care and raise awareness for young learners with asthma.

Alex Oliver, Asthma Friendly School Nurse at the Trust, said: “Sadly, children die from asthma each year, and most deaths are preventable. While asthma can’t be cured, proper management greatly improves quality of life. Schools are where children are most likely to experience flare-ups, so it’s vital to start conversations about asthma care in these settings.” Alex’s passion for the programme is personal, as his own child lives with asthma. He understands the challenges of managing the condition during school hours, whilst maintaining a positive learning experience. “We’re encouraging all local schools to become ‘Asthma Friendly’,” he added. “Improved awareness and management can reduce absences, foster inclusivity, and support the health and wellbeing

of pupils and staff.”

Danesgate Community in Fulford recently became the first state school in York to achieve ‘Asthma Friendly School’ status. A specialist setting for children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH), the school trained over 100 staff, boosting confidence and preparedness ahead of the September 2025 intake, a peak time for asthmarelated admissions.

To date, Alex has supported over 24 schools, reaching more than 4,500 pupils. Developed in partnership with Humber and North Yorkshire ICB, the initiative equips schools with practical tools to better support pupils living with asthma and sets a strong precedent for care across the city.

Interested in finding out more about Asthma Friendly Schools, or getting your own school on board? Email yhs-tr. asthmafriendlyschool@nhs.net today!

Alex Oliver, Asthma Friendly School Nurse, presents Danesgate Community with their Asthma Friendly School Award

Alex Oliver

Celebrating 50 Years of Play in Healthcare

RAISING AWARENESS OF THE BENEFITS OF PLAY SINCE 1975

This October, York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s Play Teams celebrated 50 years of Play in Healthcare!

We all know how much young ones love to play, and there’s plenty of substantial evidence to support the idea that enjoying regular playtime in health settings can have a positive impact in reducing the stress and anxiety that often accompany the diagnosis of long-term conditions, treatment, and those often-dreaded visits to the hospital. Hosted by the Society of Health Play Specialists (SoHPS), Play in Healthcare Week was established in 1975, to raise awareness of the benefits of play in the treatment of poorly children. To mark Play in Healthcare Week, Play Teams organise extra special, fun-filled events for young patients each year.

In October 2025, the Trust pulled out all the stops to celebrate the

occasion, with events centred around the theme ‘Celebrating 50 years of Play,’ and children on the ward joined in with the fun by helping to paint fantastic celebration signs!

Healthcare Play Specialist Team Leader, Lynda Robson, who has been part of the Play Team for over 21 years, explained the occasion had been “great fun”, as her colleagues had been given the opportunity to reminisce across the decades. “We looked through a photo album and even spotted a child who is now a nurse! It’s been great seeing all the changes and all the special memories we have created for children and their families.”

L-R: Gemma Granger, Matron; Rachel Wilson, Healthcare Play Specialist; Helen Lamb, Ward Sister; Lynda Robson, Healthcare Play Specialist[LA8] and Team Leader, Ellie Mosey, Ward Sister; Charlotte Taylor, Healthcare Play Specialist; and Melanie Trigg-Ellerby, Play Leader.

Lavender Fields Care Village

ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

CJ Ramsay & Associates.

AERIALS

Aerial Services

Aerius

Dale Comm Aerials Ltd

ATTRACTIONS & EVENTS

AMH Ents & Events

Pick Me Up Theatre

The Parsonage Hotel

York Army Museum

York Guildhall Orchestra

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Howdens (Monks Cross)

Knaresborough Kitchens

MKM Building Supplies

Studio 35 York

Watermark

BEDROOMS

The York Bed Co. Ltd

BLINDS

Blind Image

Blinds Valley Inspired Blinds

BUILDING PLANS

I W Design & Building

BUILDING/PROPERTY

MAINTENANCE

A R Pumpcrete

B & R Building & Joinery

Blacker Steel Fabrications Ltd

CJ Cook Building

Design 16bk

E Ross Builders and Roofing

Gregson Builders

J Mark Construction Ltd

M. Fairweather Groundworks

Neal Construction

RJ Hall Property Maintenance

CARE & MOBILITY

Country Court Care Homes

Fulford Nursing Home

Lavender Fields Care

Neo Walk

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY

CLEANING

Clifton Carpet Cleaning

Ebor Carpets

Nightingales Specialist Cleaning

CARPETS/FLOORING

Kings Carpets & Flooring

Mike Baddeley Ltd

CHILDRENS ACTIVITIES

Northwood Residential Lettings

Washing Well

FASCIAS/SOFFITS

Plasti-Fit

Polyplas

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Pen-Life Associates Ltd

FIREPLACES/MULTI FUEL

STOVES

Flames of York

Stonehouse Fireplaces

FOOD & DRINK

Haxby Bakehouse

Mackerel Sky

PandaMami Resturant

RAD Pizza

The Cats Whiskers

The Hilt

The White Bear Inn (stillington)

Tipsy Fox

FUNERAL SERVICES

J Rotherham t/a Mindful

Memorials

JG Fielder & Sons

FURNITURE MAKERS/ SUPPLIERS

YO1 UPVC Solutions

FURNITURE RESTORATION

Antique Restoration

GARAGE DOORS

Clic Garage Doors (york)

First Garage Doors

GARDENING

Astek Landscapes

C&R Landscapes Ltd

Country Gardens

E Smith Tree Services

Future Landscapes

Gardner Engineering Svs Greenacres Tree Care

Ground Solution Services

Hibiscus Gardens

K&S Paving

Lewis Tree Surgery

Michael Readman

Mick Lambert Landscaping

R Yates & Sons Ltd

Sharps Sheds

SR Fabrications

The Tree Fella

Vertigrow Limited

York Gardens

York Groundwork Solutions

HANDYPEOPLE

Beetle Bank Open Farm

Daisy Chain Day Nursery

Little Acorns Day Nursery

Station House Nursery

CHIMNEY SWEEPS

jp chimney sweep

CLEANING/IRONING

Country Cleaning

Domestic Divas York Ltd

Filey Bay Laundrette

Monster Cleaning

CYCLING

Cycle Street

DAMP PROOFING

Wall Doctor

DECORATORS

Gary Roe Painter & Decorator

Oliver Interiors York Ltd

DRAINS

Dss Drainage Solutions

ELECTRICAL GOODS

Emily’s electricals

ELECTRICIANS

4k Automation

Christian Pote Electrical

D.A Carlton

D&S Electrical Services

J Lister Electrical

MH Electrical

Nfinnerty Electrical Ltd

ENTERTAINMENT

James Kershaw

ESTATE & LETTING AGENTS

Bishops Personal Agents

Hunters Haxby

Wills & Ellis

Wrigglesworth

Can-Be-Asked

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Lishi - Daoist Tai Chi

Mobility Physiotherapy

Pond Cottage Of Stillington

Spine Solutions Ltd

York Reflexology

HOST FAMILIES

York Tutors

INSULATION

Yorkshire Insulation Solutions

JOINERY

D Boyd Joinery and Building

Inspired Joinery & Projects

L Foster Joinery & Roofing

Lewis Joinery

LOCKS/SECURITY/ALARMS

Afford a Lock

Lockfix Security

The Lock Wizard

LOFT CONVERSIONS

Yorkshire Loft Ladders

MOTOR PARTS/SERVICES

ACM

ExecuToy

3DOODLER CHEF

£89.99 from uk.the3doodler.com. Bring your dessert dreams to life with the 3Doodler Chef - the world’s first 3D printing pen that lets you draw with candy. Designed for bakers, foodies, and creative cooks, it makes sculpting edible masterpieces simple, safe, and seriously fun.

CAN YOU SOLVE ME?

£29.99 from amazon.co.uk. This clever tangramstyle puzzle set includes 12 individual challenges across three difficulty levels. Arrange the oddly shaped pieces to match the silhouettes - from simple squares to fiendish stars - and give your logic and spatial skills a proper workout. Expect many “aha!” moments.

GLINDA’S TRAINING WAND PROP REPLICA IN COLLECTOR’S BOX

£56.00 from noblecollection.co.uk. Channel your inner Glinda with this 22-inch replica wand from Wicked, elegantly housed in a pink leatherette collector’s box. Complete with embossed detailing and antique silver finish, it’s a spellbinding keepsake for any collector! © Universal City Studios LLC. All Rights Reserved.

GOCUBE FROM PARTICULA

£59.99 from very.co.uk. The classic Rubik’s Cube gets a smart upgrade with the GoCube -a connected, app-enabled puzzle that teaches you to solve, race, and compete globally. Featuring magnetic speed mechanics, LED tracking, and realtime app feedback, it’s cubing reinvented for 2025.

MONOPOLY POKÉMON EDITION BOARD GAME

£24.99 from Smyths and Argos. Catch ’em all— Monopoly style! In this Pokémon twist on the classic board game, players become Trainers, earning Poké Balls instead of cash as they capture 48 Pokémon and race to fill their tracker mats. Perfect for family game night for Pokémon lovers!

MYFIRST INSTA 20 COMPACT CAMERA

£89.10 from uk.myfirst.tech and currys.co.uk. A mini photo studio made for little hands! The myFirst Insta 20 lets kids snap and instantly print 16MP photos with zero ink mess. Dual screens make selfies easy, and built-in filters and frames turn every photo into creative fun.

Dealing with Traders Who Visit Your Business

The City of York Council’s Trading Standards team is currently encouraging both residents and local businesses to be vigilant when it comes to interacting with, or buying goods and services from visiting traders.

Whether your business premises receives an unexpected knock from a trader offering roof repairs, an unplanned energy efficiency consultation, or a builder or contractor you’ve already invited to undertake planned work, it’s vital to understand where you stand legally!

In most cases, if you’ve already agreed for a contractor to complete work at your home or place of business, you’re entitled to a 14-day cooling-off period, in which you can change your mind or cancel. Remember that traders must not begin work within this period unless you’ve given specific permission in written form, or in the case of emergencies, such as necessary, last-

minute plumbing or heating repairs. Before you sign any paperwork or contracts, visiting traders are legally obliged to provide clear written details pertaining to their business and contact information, as well as a clear description of goods or services, a breakdown of full costs (including VAT), and the cancellation process. If a visiting trader fails to give you these details, your right to cancel (and the specified cooling-off period) will be extended - you’ll then have a further 14 days from the date on which this info is provided to you.

You won’t have to pay for any work that’s been undertaken if a trader begins work without your consent during a cooling-off period, and that contracts valued under £42 (or urgent repairs) may not be eligible for cancellation.

Visit www.york.gov.uk/tradingstandards-consumer-advice for further advice and support.

Sitting on a Business Pipe Dream?

Do you have an ambitious business idea? Have you been dreaming about ditching the daily grind to work for yourself? Are you sitting on plans to expand or grow an established business venture? You could be in luck!

Delivered by Momentic, a leading enterprise development organisation with over 25 years’ experience, the new Start and Grow programme offers budding entrepreneurs and businesspeople in the making crucial advice, practical tools, and hands-on guidance to help their emerging ventures thrive. Whether you’re still refining your idea, putting together a business plan, or navigating the often-bewildering complexities of finance, marketing, and tax, Start and Grow could help you to make

confident, informed decisions for the better.

Participants accepted into the programme can benefit from a range of perks and useful support services, ranging from one-to-one intensive support from their own dedicated Business Adviser and access to specialist workshops and masterclasses, to valuable peer networking opportunities, ongoing assistance from the In Work Support Team once trading begins, and more!

To find out more about Start and Grow or register your interest, visit www.momentic.co.uk/start-andgrow-york-and-north-yorkshire/ or email startandgrow@momentic. co.uk today. Good luck with your next business venture!

The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has launched a new procurement opportunity for the Connect to Work programme, which is an element of the UK Government’s Get Britain Working national strategy. Built to assist those with disabilities, health conditions, or complex barriers to make their way into sustainable work whilst addressing the rising rate of hidden unemployment across the country, this initiative invites experienced providers to deliver locally-led employment support for people in our region. Connect to Work will support around 100,000 people annually, using a voluntary, highquality employment assistance service inspired by and based on the Supported Employment model. In a bid to link health, skills, and employment services, the

programme’s aim is to create a more inclusive economy whilst empowering individuals in need to reach their full potential in the job market.

For those based in York and North Yorkshire, Connect to Work will work to complement the Combined Authority’s key priorities of inclusive growth, thriving communities, and a resilient workforce. It also aligns with our region’s Skills Strategy by promoting accessible career support, creating healthier workplaces, and building locally responsive training systems.

This is a fantastic opportunity for local people - get involved today! Visit www.yorknorthyorks-ca.gov. uk/project/connect-to-work/ for further details, or sign up for the newsletter at yorknorthyorks-ca. gov.uk/newsletter-signup.

From

to 70!

The magazine you’re reading is manned by a small and sturdy team made up of lovely folk, aged from 17 to 70! We’ve all heard the old adage ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks’, unfortunately, the fact remains that ageism in the workplace is an increasingly prevalent problem in the UK, with 26% of adults experiencing prejudice based on their age, according to the Centre for Ageing Better.

With this in mind, local businesses are invited to register for the Age-friendly Employer Pledge, a nationwide initiative that invites employers to recognise the experience, skills, and contribution of workers in their 50s and 60s, and take meaningful steps towards helping them thrive in the workplace.

York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has unveiled a bold 10-year Local Growth Plan, which outlines a strategy for driving economic growth, boosting productivity, and leading the transition to a carbonnegative future in our region.

As one of the first plans of its kind in the UK to receive formal government approval, the 10-Year Growth Plan will build on one of the North’s strongest economies

by focusing on creating secure, high-quality jobs, attracting investment, and ensuring every community benefits from shared prosperity. Key sectors targeted include Food and Farming Innovation, Clean Energy, Life Sciences, Rail, Creative Industries, and Defence.

Visit www.yorknorthyorks-ca.gov. uk/york-and-north-yorkshirelaunches-10-year-growth-plan to find out more.

With employers now facing ongoing skills shortages and an ever-evolving job market, the value of older workers has never been clearer. Employment rates drop sharply after 55, with over half of people leaving work before reaching state pension age; however, compelling evidence shows that multigenerational workforces boost productivity, innovation, and business resilience.

By signing the pledge, employers can publicly commit to creating more inclusive work environments, where age is valued, not discriminated against. After all, as the great Mark Twain reportedly said, ‘Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.’

Visit www.ageing-better.org.uk/ employer-pledge/register-yourinterest to register your interest and sign the Age-Friendly Employer Pledge.

The National Enterprise Network (NEN) has been championing British enterprise across the UK for over three decades now, uniting organisations that provide trusted support to new, emerging, and established businesses.

Businesses and organisations based in and around York are now encouraged to complete the NEN’s

Business Barometer survey, which is designed to provide meaningful insight into our market environment and shape future strategies, support services, and policy in our region and beyond. Whether you’re running an emerging start-up, managing a small team, or are selfemployed, your valuable input will be greatly appreciated!

Scan below to find out more about the NEN Business Barometer or complete the survey today.

Scan the QR code for more info:

BUSINESS DIARY: DEC 2025

3 DECEMBER

BUSINESS BELLES, The Grand York, YO1 6GD. 12.30pm-2.30pm. Held in the luxurious White Rose Lounge at The Grand York, this monthly meetup is designed specifically for local businesswomen, and enables like-minded ladies to connect and converse over coffee and cake! Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ businessbelles-december-2025registration-1668807220319 to reserve your spot.

3 DECEMBER

YORKSHIRE PRESTIGE EVENT

2025, The Hospitium, YO30 7DR. 6.00pm-10.00pm.

Hosted by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, this in-demand evening event is the latest annual celebration of local management accountants and finance professionals. The headline keynote address will be delivered by the famed polar adventurer, three-time Guinness World Record holder, and businesswoman Victoria Humphries! Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/yorkshire-prestigeevent-2025-at-the-hospitiumyork-tickets-1643155866429 for tickets and details.

4 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS FIRST THURSDAY, Impossible York, YO1 8QN. 12.00pm-2.00pm. Get into the Christmas spirit and connect with professionals, traders, business owners, managers and grafters from the York area at this informal and friendly networking event. The festive edition of First Thursday is usually a sellout, so ensure you get your tickets in early! Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/christmas-first-thursdaytickets-1820551310979 to book.

10 DECEMBER

PROPERTY & POPPADOMS, Jaipur Spice, YO31 8JS. 6.30pm9.30pm. This extra-spicy property networking event invites experts and property investors of all experience levels to connect and mingle over a good old Ruby Murray! This popular event runs on every second Wednesday of the month. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/property-poppadomsyork-tickets-1554652370089?aff =ebdiglgoogleliveevents&source= ecat to book a spot.

11

DECEMBER

FACE TO FACE NETWORKING, The Milner York, YO24 1AA. 9.30am-11.00am. Meet, liaise and network with fellow business owners, freelancers and sole traders in the beautiful setting of York’s luxurious Milner Hotel. Visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ face-to-face-networking-at-themilner-hotel-york-networkingtickets-1469167793419?aff=ebdi glgoogleliveevents&source=ecat to book.

Vintage Christmas

WHY MAKE THE SWITCH TO SUSTAINABLE ENERGY?

York aims to be a net-zero carbon city by 2030, but what can local residents do to make their own homes more energy efficient, and what are the benefits of sustainable home energy? By making the switch to sustainable energy in your gaff, you could not only reduce the running costs of your home, but you could also increase the value of your property, improve air quality, and do your bit for the environment.

REDUCE HOME RUNNING COSTS

- By saving energy in your home and switching to more sustainable heating solutions, you could significantly reduce outgoings and utility bills. By simply installing a heat pump, you could cut annual heating bills, and even receive a grant up to £7,500!

INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME - Upgrading your home to be more energy efficient by installing solar panels or smart heating systems could significantly

increase the value of your property. It’s estimated that boosting the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of your home could boost its market value by up to 14%!

MAKE YOUR HOME MORE

COMFORTABLE - Around 55% of York homes have poor EPC ratings, and approximately 31 million Brits live in poorly insulated homes. By sourcing appropriate insulation solutions and upgrading your doors and windows, you could improve the thermal comfort of your home, whilst saving cash and improving health outcomes.

Interested in making the switch? YorEnergy can help you to upgrade your home with solutions including Solar Panels, Heating, Windows and Doors, Insulation and EV Charging, with a Free Virtual Plan Builder to help you make the best choice. Visit www.yorenergy.co.uk today to find out more or get in touch with the team!

Budget blues or budget boom!?

By the time you read this, Rachel from accounts will have unleashed the contents of her red briefcase on the nation; I think, in my living memory at least, we have never been quite so suspicious about what might be in store, given the rumour mill has been running on overdrive for months. But, I'm not going to start down the road of political punditry here - surely, we are all far more interested in making our money go further? So, how can we look after those pennies? At Herbert Todd’s, we can certainly help, especially when it comes to home appliances. When it’s time to buy or replace an appliance, consider the typical lifetime cost of the product, not just its headline price. You might pay £50 less for a product with a

1-year warranty and a low energy rating, BUT consider the typical 5 years any appliance should last, and you could save that £50 many times over, especially if you get a fault; many appliances include a free 3 or even 5-year warranty nowadays, so no repair bills! Add to that the energy savings made by choosing a better, more energyefficient product, and you are on to a winner, even if you may pay a little more to begin with.

Please don't forget that by putting a new kitchen or bathroom in your home, you can add value to pass down to the next generation. We can help with that too!

Call 01904 628676 to get in touch, or visit us at the store - we're open six days a week at Monks Cross (next to Taco Bell).

A Winter’s Garden - Festive plants for Christmas

If you’re thinking of adding a seasonal touch to your garden, conservatory, or greenhouse this yuletide, you’ll be happy to learn that there are a plethora of plants (aside from Scotch Pine and Nordmann Fir trees) that can instantly inject a Christmassy look to any green space…

Christmas Rose - Helleborus niger

Famed for its ability to naturally flower in the depths of winter, this evergreen perennial comes from the buttercup family. With deep green foliage and delicate, white, pink-hued petals, the Christmas Rose is favoured by winter gardeners looking to add a luxurious, festive lift to arrangements.

Jingle Bells - Clematis cirrhosa

Flowering from winter to early spring, this evergreen climber is fit for late-winter layering, and works well as a wall shrub, wall side border, or courtyard or container plant,

best suited to sheltered positions. Boasting bell-shaped blossoms ranging from creamy white to yellow, Jingle Bells are also notable for their delicious, fragrant and festive scent.

Winter Heathers

If you’re looking to add a burst of colour to your winter garden or green space, this hardy and lowmaintenance evergreen shrub could be just the ticket. Typically fowering from December to April (although sometimes as early as November and as late as March), Winter Heathers provide golden, yellow, or red foliage, with flowers of white, purple, red, and pink.

Christmas Cactus - Schlumbergera

Another low-maintenance, yet strikingly colourful option for the lazier winter gardeners among us is the Christmas Cactus succulent, which has earned its name due to its reliable flowering (it flowers multiple times a year, although typically in early-to-mid winter), and its festive, tubular flowers. While these can be grown outdoors, they’re best in a greenhouse or conservatory when winter bites.

Holly

This evergreen shrub has become almost as synonymous with yuletide as the Christmas tree itself, and a few sprigs of holly are sure to spruce up any seasonal centrepiece. Best grown in sunlight or partial shade, holly is also comfortable in medium-sized pots, and is hardy enough to endure the bleak midwinter.

Mistletoe

Mistletoe is another iconic Christmas plant that always works well in traditional festive arrangements. Gardeners should be warned that it can take up to three or four years to flourish, so it may be best to buy it already grown! Apply sprigs liberally to hanging baskets, and above any locations you’re planning on landing a seasonal smooch…

Poinsettia

Flowering in December to January, poinsettias are perhaps the most popular Christmas houseplant, boasting bright crimson flowers and deep green stems, perfectly suited to any festive spread or centrepiece. This vividly coloured flowering plant is best positioned away from direct sunlight, and could be a good choice for conservatory or greenhouse growers.

SOUTH BANK PEST CONTROL

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PINE-ING FOR A CHRISTMAS TREE?

Nothing says ‘Christmas’ quite like a Christmas tree! Whether you’re planning on putting yours up early or waiting until the last minute this year, there are plenty of places in and around York where you can find a stunning selection of festive trees, to suit homes and spaces of all shapes and sizes. We’ve narrowed down a selection of the top local spots for Christmas tree shopping this festive season:

17 NOVEMBER - 24 DECEMBER

CASTLE HOWARD GARDEN CENTRE, Castle Howard Estate, YO60 7DA.

10.00am-5.00pm, 7 days a week. Call 01653 648333 or visit www. castlehoward.co.uk to contact the team or find out more.

19 NOVEMBER - 24 DECEMBER

THE BALLOON TREE FARM SHOP AND CAFE, The Balloon Tree, YO41 1NB. 9.00am-5.00pm, 7 days a week. Contact 01759 373023 or info@theballoontree.co.uk, or visit www.theballoontree.co.uk for further details.

6-7 DECEMBER

HOLY REDEEMER CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL, Holy Redeemer Acomb, YO26 6AB. 12.00pm4.00pm on Saturday, 11.00am3.00pm on Sunday. Visit www. holyredeemeryork.com/whats-on to find out more, or email office@ holyredeemeryork.com to get in touch.

21 NOVEMBER - 24 DECEMBER

YORK CHRISTMAS TREES, York Christmas Trees, YO32 2RH. 9.00am-7.00pm on Weekdays, 9.00am-6.00pm on Saturdays, 9.00am-4.00pm on Sundays. Visit www.yorkchristmastrees.co.uk to find out more. Get in touch via kirstie@yorkchristmastrees.co.uk or 07957 220837.

UNTIL 24 DECEMBER

DAWNAY FARM CHRISTMAS TREES, The Old Barn, YO61 3NZ. 10.00am4.00pm (until dark). Call 07775 672155 or email office@dawnay farmchristmastrees.com for more details.

GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS WITH

28 NOVEMBER - 24 DECEMBER

TOLLERTON STORES & POST OFFICE, The Green, YO61 1PX. 6.00am-6.00pm, Monday to Saturday. Choose your fresh fir tree from Dalby Forest, and browse a lovely selection of locally handmade wreaths. For further details, please contact 01347 838436.

THROUGHOUT DECEMBER

DOBBIES GARDEN CENTRE YORK, Northfield Lane, YO26 6QE. 9.00am-6.00pm on Mondays to Saturdays, 10.30am-4.30pm on Sundays. Visit www.dobbies.com/ york or call 01904 795920 for further details.

THROUGHOUT DECEMBER

MOOR LANE FARM CHRISTMAS TREES, Moor Lane, YO23 3TL. 8.30am-6.30pm, 7 days a week. Visit www.moorlanefarm christmastreesyork.co.uk to find out

more. Call 07581568406 or email moorlanefarmchristmastrees@ gmail.com to get in touch.

THROUGHOUT DECEMBER

VERTIGROW, Vertigrow Ltd, YO32 9TL. 8.00am-5.00pm on Mondays to Fridays, 9.00am-5.00pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Visit www.vertigrow.co.uk or call 01904 400092 to find out more.

THROUGHOUT DECEMBER

ORCHARD NURSERIES, Orchard Nurseries, YO32 9TG. 9.00am5.00pm on Mondays to Saturdays, 10.00am-5.00pm on Sundays. This year, real Christmas trees can be recycled at Towthorpe/Strensall HWRC (YO32 9ST, 8.30am4.00pm) or Hazel Court HWRC (YO10 3DS, 8.30am-4.00pm). Both are open every weekday, except Wednesdays. Please note that both Towthorpe/Strensall HWRC and Hazel Court HWRC will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.

Culinary Pears

It’s often not recognised that pears, as with apples, can be divided into two broad categories: eaters and cookers. Of course, it is possible to use almost any variety of pear for cooking, including the ubiquitous Conference. A search of the web for ideas on how to use pears in the kitchen will bring up no end of sites offering advice. What most of these overlook, and what is generally not appreciated more widely, is that there exists a whole class of pears only suited to cooking. These, to use the term preferred by orchardists, are the ‘culinary pears’.

A culinary pear is one that must be cooked or otherwise processed to be truly edible. Such pears will never ripen or soften, remaining hard throughout their season of use. Trying to eat them fresh will end in disappointment and possibly dental disaster. Newly picked, they’ll be almost impossible to bite into. Even when stored, if used uncooked the texture will be coarse and grainy, and the taste disappointing, if not acrid. Only through cooking

will culinary pears be soft enough to eat and develop their full flavour. These pears have a long history. Sometimes also collectively referred to as ‘Warden Pears’, their origins stretch back to medieval times or earlier. The most common culinary pear in the UK, and possibly the most ancient, is Black Worcester. Its provenance is unclear, but it is closely associated with the city and county of that name. The fruit is large, about 80mm long, and weighs up to 250 grams. Skin colour is an appealing reddish brown rather than black.

I don’t have a Black Worcester in the orchard, but do have two other culinary varieties, Catillac and St Remy. The former, still listed for sale by a few fruit tree nurseries and often considered superior to Black Worcester in quality, originates in France, but was first recorded here in the seventeenth century. It produces a chunky, bulbous fruit with a greenish-yellow skin, sometimes flushed dull red. When cooked, the flesh has a pinkish

tinge with a delicate flavour, especially if baked.

My two Catillac trees are both fairly weak growers and shy croppers. This could be due to their situation in less favourable spots. Because of Catillac’s poor performance, about ten years ago I planted another relatively rare variety: St Remy. I didn’t have high hopes, especially as it can take many years for pears to crop, hence the old adage, ‘plant pears for your heirs’. How surprised I was! St Remy soon delivered and now produces heavy crops most years. When picked, it looks somewhat like Catillac, if a bit less chunky. Cooked, it has similar attributes but is perhaps better poached than baked. Its greatest

asset though, is that it keeps as well, if not better, than Catillac. Stored carefully, it can last well into spring, when the skin will have turned from green to yellow.

It is the keeping quality of St Remy, and indeed most of its cooking cousins, that makes growing culinary pears worthwhile. Unlike most ‘eating’ pears, they’ll not catch you out by going from unripe to overripe, or ‘sleepy’ in orchardist parlance, in the blink of an eye. When all the other pears, even the late dessert types that just about keep to Christmas, have finished, Catillac and St Remy will still be good for three or more months.

GADGETS MOTOR EVENTS

OF THE MONTH

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

Whether you’re shopping for the tech-lover, the gadget guru, or just someone who appreciates a clever bit of kit, our Gadgets of the Month: Christmas Gift Guide has you covered. From smart home essentials and kitchen innovations to next-gen travel tech and winter warmers, these clever creations combine style, practicality, and a touch of festive magic.

DUUX THREESIXTY SMART FAN HEATER

£119.99 from duux.co.uk

Small but mighty, this 1800W smart heater warms rooms up to 30m2 twice as fast as traditional models. Control it from the Duux app, enjoy whisper-quiet heat in every direction, and say goodbye to chilly mornings, stylishly.

TWELVE SOUTH PLUGBUG WITH FIND MY

£79.99 (50W) / £129.99 (120W) from twelvesouth.co.uk

DEC 2025

6-7 DECEMBER

EDIFIER W820NB PLUS

£89.99 from amazon.co.uk

Block out the world in style with these lightweight, foldable headphones boasting hybrid noise-cancelling up to -49dB. With HiRes Audio, LDAC support, and a marathon 88hour battery, they’ll outlast even your longest playlists - and probably your patience.

OCOOPA UT4 EXTREME RECHARGEABLE HAND WARMER

£74.95 from berryuseful.co.uk

Keep your hands toasty wherever you go with the Ocoopa UT4 Extreme. This clever rechargeable hand warmer features a 3-hour fast charge, 60-hour torch, and doubles as a power bank that can charge an iPhone in just 30 minutes!

BRØD & TAYLOR SOURDOUGH HOME

£129.99 from brodandtaylor.com

Give your sourdough starter a home of its own! The Brød & Taylor Sourdough Home maintains the perfect temperature (5–50°C) year-round - keeping your starter happy, active, and low-maintenance. Fewer feedings, no guesswork, and perfect loaves every time.

TOWER 5L AIRX AI DIGITAL AIR FRYER

£79.99 from towerhousewares.co.uk

Meet the UK’s first AI-powered air fryersmart cooking made simple. The Tower AIRX uses sensors and AI to analyse your food and automatically adjust the temperature for perfect results every time. Faster, healthier, and 99% oil-free meals? Genius.

Never lose your charger again. The Twelve South PlugBug is the world’s first USB-C plug with built-in Find My tracking. It powers up multiple devices fast (50W or 120W options), and even alerts you if you leave it behind. Stylish, smart, and seriously travel-ready!

WAFFLEUP

£89.99 from casodesign.co.uk

Flip your breakfast gameliterally! The CASO Design WaffleUp’s smart vertical design ensures perfectly golden, evenly baked waffles without the mess. With five browning levels, non-stick plates, and a built-in drip tray, you’ll be dishing up crispy waffle perfection in minutes.

THE MOTORIST CHRISTMAS MARKET, The Motorist, Sherburn in Elmet, LS25 6JE. 10.00am-3.00pm. Whether you’re thinking of picking up a pressie for the petrolheads in your life or enjoying a festive, motor-centric day out with friends and family, this much-loved Christmas Market is the best place to find motoring-themed apparel, gifts, toys, and more this yuletide season. The event is free to attend, and car and bike club bookings are welcome. Visit www.themotorist. com/events/the-motoristchristmas-market-2025 to find out more.

7 DECEMBER

JACK FROST RALLY, Croft Circuit, Darlington, DL2 2PL. 8.00am6.30pm. See out the 2025 racing season in style at this exciting, noholds-barred motorsport event. Marvel at a range of vehicles tearing around the Croft Circuit race tarmac track, in potentially tricky winter conditions. Children under the age of 15 go free! Visit www.croftcircuit.ticketco.events/ uk/en/e/jack_frost_rally to book your tickets.

13 DECEMBER

YUBIKEY 5C NFC

£55.20 from yubico.com/gb

Lock down your logins with military-grade security. The YubiKey 5C NFC adds instant, hardware-based protection - just plug it into your USB-C port or tap on your phone to authenticate. No passwords, no hackers, no drama.

HAREWOOD SPEED HILLCLIMB, Harewood Avenue, LS17 9LA. 10.00am-7.00pm. This thrilling motorsport event will see a wide range of vehicles and drivers of various experience levels take on Harewood Hill in its most unpredictable state, with the descent of darkness providing extra drama under the spotlight! Enjoy both practice and competitive runs, in changing conditions throughout the daytime and early evening. Visit www.harewoodhill.com/ events-tickets for bookings and further details.

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Haxby Christmas Crew

WINTER OFFER

WINTER OFFER

SUMMER OFFER

9

96

65

65

ADI Communication 94

Smart Home Solutions 78 Ultra Fire & Security Systems83

CHARITIES Age UK 21

CHIMNEY SWEEPS

Sooty The Sweep 94 York Skyline Chimney Sweep79

CLEANING/IRONING

ADream Clean 79

AF Handy Clean 79

COMPUTERS/WEB DESIGN

Aldwark Computers 60

Atech Computers Ltd 60

Blueboot 60

CURTAINS/SOFT FURNISHINGS

Blinds & Curtains By Mark 65

DECORATORS

AB Decorating 80

Alan Fawcett Painter 80

C.K.W. Decorators 80

Chapple Painting 80

K Walton Painting 80

Paul Masiak Decorators Ltd 80

Richard Driscoll 80

Samantha Storr Painter 80

SDS Decorator 80

DRAINS

Drain Busters Yorkshire 65

DSS Drainage Solutions 66

EDUCATION/TUITION

79

Bell Building & Joinery 79

AC Roofing & Exterior 85

C&R Landscapes Ltd 79

Justin Higginson 79

Moores Property 79

BUSINESS SERVICES

GMB Union 60

CARE & MOBILITY

Radfield Home Care 43

AHM Installations 50

Eden Mobility Ltd 50

Minster Mobility 49

Tanglewood Healthcare 45

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

Able Carpet Cleaning 79

Carpet Diem 79

Clifton Carpet Cleaning 79

CARPETS/FLOORING

Kings Carpets & Flooring 66

Craig Pallister Flooring 9 Fully Furnished 67

Queen Ethelburgas 96

ELECTRICIANS

D&S Electrical Services 80

MH Electrical 81

STN Electrical 81

4K Automation 67

Active Electrical Solutions 81

Barratt Electrical Services 80

Court Electrical Services 81

HC Engineering 81

J Building Services 80

Jamie Heard 81

Judge Electrical Ltd 80

Keith Brown Electrical 81

Martin Clancy 81

OS Electrical 81

ESTATE & LETTING AGENTS

Ponderosa Caravan Park 53

FASCIAS/SOFFITS

Plasti-Fit 81

Polyplas 81

FENCING

Dove Timber Ltd 19

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Pen-Life Associates Ltd 44

Succession Wealth 13

FIREPLACES/MULTI FUEL

STOVES

Focus Fireplaces 18

Stonehouse Fireplaces 15

FOOD & DRINK

Buongiorno Bistro 32

Drakes Fish and Chips 32

Fowlers of York 30

Heavenly Desserts 31

Hickory’s Smokehouse 4

Middle Feast 32

Nola 32

PandaMami Resturant 96

Phill Ya Boots Cafe 30

RAD Pizza 32

South

73

York Groundwork Solutions 73

Yorkshire Fencing 69

GATES/RAILINGS

PVC UK 75

York Iron Works 15

GUTTERING

Guttering Of York 81

HANDYPEOPLE

York Flatpack & Handyman 82

Can-Be-Asked 82

DIY Guy 82

HVC Property Maintenace 82

Vision Building & Joinery 82

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Beautycare 43

Clear & Hear 43

Clifton Park Hospital 40

Earwax Away 43

Headstrong Rehabilitation 40

Ryedale Ear Clinic 43

Spine Solutions Ltd 1

Stonegate Medical Clinic 42

The Orthotic Works 42

INSULATION

Yorkshire Insulation 65

PEST CONTROL

MA Pest Control York 19

Southbank Pest Control 69

The Pest Company 69

PET CARE

Birchwood Veterinary 46

Bishopton Vets 46

Kelly’s Kitty Care 47

PHOTOBOOTH

Raspberry Photobooth 60

PLASTERING

JM Plastering 83

QA Plastering 83

PLUMBING/HEATING

J Robinson Plumbing 84

Nunthorpe Services 83

A1 Yorkshire Plumbing 84

All Cisterns Go 83

Alwyn Glover Ltd 84

Angelical Heating & Gas 85

Connor Warren 84

DJC Plumbing 84

Fensome Plumbing 84

Gas Man Neil 84

GNT Heating 83

Hartleys Plumbing 83

Haxby Plumbing 84

HC Engineering 81

Joe Dallin Gas 84, 94

Kenson Gas Ltd 84

GARAGE DOORS

Clic Garage Doors 19

First Garage Doors 81

Garolla Garage Doors 5

Hobman Garage Doors 81

GARDENING

Ace Tree Surgeons 67

Gardens 73

Ebor Skip Hire 69

Ground Solution Services 73

J B Groundwork Solutions 72 J Farrow 73

K&S Paving 70 Lewis Tree Surgery 71 LHF 69 Michael

JOINERY

Duncan Littlechild Joinery 94

Inspired Joinery & Projects 82

Lewis Joinery 82

Matt Hodgson Joinery 82

Paul Meillam Joinery 82

LOCKS/SECURITY/ALARMS

Afford a Lock 83

Dr Locks Ltd 83

GC Electronics 83

Towergate Locksmiths 83

York Locksmith Company 83

LOFT CONVERSIONS

Yorkshire Loft Ladders 17, 94

LOGS/FUEL

Dalby Firewood 72

MOTOR PARTS/SERVICES

Andy’s Autos 77

Alderson Motors 77

Gladstone Tyres 96

Ivinson Autos Ltd 1, 96

Custom Auto Keys 77

JB Motors Malton 77

OLC Autos 77

R S Auto Bodyshop 77

The MOT Man 77

York Bodywork Repairs 77

OVEN CLEANING

Mr Gleam Oven Clean 79

Yorkshire Oven Cleaning 79

MT Plumbing Services 84

Plumbing & Heating by Jamie 84

York Gas Engineering 85

York Property Group 85

POINTING

Nick Stannard Property 79

PRESSURE WASHING

Pro- Blast Jet Washing 69

Tina’s Jet Wash Services 67

PRINTING/DESIGN Fulprint 19

PROPERTY SERVICES Ladderworks Property 79

RECRUITMENT Driver Hire York 60

REMOVALS/STORAGE

DAW Storage Ltd 85 Hooks Removals 85

LMS Waste Removal 5 Mukin House & Waste 85

LOGS 4 SALE

Dry, seasoned, all hardwood logs

• Locally sourced • In bulk bags

• Loose or trailer load

M: 07702 126380 DAYS

T: 01904 764457 EVENINGS

7-days-a-week deliveries