Your Local Link: May 2026

IT MUST BE MAY!

Dear Reader,

The final weeks of spring have all sorts in store for the people of York, from family-friendly fun, live music and theatre shows, to heavyweight cultural events featuring world-class guests and speakers…

In this issue, you’ll get a sneak peek at the star-studded programme for this year’s York Festival of Ideas, read some good news about the York International Shakespeare Festival, and get ready for WizardFest 2026 and York Pride 2026. We’ll also be

chatting with star of stage and screen Frances Barber, appearing in The Psychic at York Theatre Royal this month, and award-winning choreographer George Williamson, ahead of the English National Ballet’s production, My First Ballet - Cinderella, running at the Grand Opera House for two nights.

Have a lovely May, Yorkiessummer is just around the corner!

Until next month, The YLL Team

On The Cover This Month

A Day out with Thomas™ at North Yorkshire Moors Railway!

This month, the Day Out With Thomas: Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll Tour will be rolling into the North Yorkshire Moors Railway! On 23rd-27th and 29th-31st May, visitors will be able to enjoy an array of Thomas & Friends™ games, giveaways, activities, rides and storytelling sessions, and even get the chance to ride behind Thomas, a REAL steam engine! You’ll also get the chance to say hello to Sir Topham Hatt, play with toys, arts and crafts in the Play Pod, watch exciting live shows from Rusty & Dusty, and check out the Thomas & Friends tattoo station, music corner and character hunt.

Visit p14 for the chance to win a free Family Ticket for A Day Out With Thomas at NYMR!

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

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

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

Simon Gini Scott Sophie

Mim Craig Mackenzie Molly

Jack Correy Matt Louise Ted Nicola Lozz Vincent

“O, the month of May, the merry month of May.” - Thomas D’Urfey

Inside this month

8 – WALKING WANDERER

Embark on an easy 4-mile walk with our Walking Wanderer, from Newton-on-Ouse to the beautiful Beningbrough Hall.

16 – HOROSCOPES

It’s written in the stars! Find out what’s in store for the month ahead from our resident astrologist, Heather.

63-71 – GARDENING

Gardening expert Tony Chalcraft will be dishing the dirt on moths and miners, while our team will be exploring safe, seasonal bird feeding and digging into some local upcoming Open Gardens.

44-49 - HOME & INTERIORS

Matt Todd will also be exploring the best television features for watching the footie and we hear from Ryther Alarms about their latest award win!

14 - WIN, WIN, WIN

This month, our readers could win ONE FREE FAMILY TICKET for a Day Out With Thomas™ at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR), FOUR FREE TICKETS for Day Fever at York Barbican, and FOUR FREE COUNTRYSTAND TICKETS for Craig David’s performance at York Racecourse Music Showcase Weekend!

Interviews

40 - FRANCES BARBER

We joined award-winning actress Frances Barber for a chat about spiritualism, séances and cider, ahead of the world premiere of The Psychic at York Theatre Royal.

40 - GEORGE WILLIAMSON

We took to the floor with acclaimed choreographer and movement director George Williamson, for a sneak peek at the upcoming staging of My First Ballet –Cinderella at York Grand Opera House.

Features

60-61 – LOCAL BEAUTY SPOTS

We’ve rounded up the best local salons and beauty spots in York, to help you beautify your month and stay sitting pretty! Check out our picks to find your next go-to place for a glow-up in town.

52 – YOUR LOCAL PET SERVICES

Are you looking for the best local pet services to keep your furry friends well cared for, healthy and happy? We’ve had a scout about and found some trusted businesses that York pet owners can rely on.

10 – TIME TRAVEL

Our resident time traveller explores the interesting history of York’s clocks and their connection with the Newey Family.

53 – ASK A VET

To mark the seasonal increase in adder activity, Bishopton Vets are here to remind our readers how to protect pets from snake bites.

37 – WE TRIED

This month, we wet our whistles at York Distillery (and got full marks at Gin School!), and chucked on our trackies for a Reformer Pilates class at Peak4 Studios…

56 – YORKSHIRE CHILDREN’S CHARITY

Find out more about this crucial local charity, which supports children across the county. See their upcoming fundraising events and find out how they raised £1.2 million in a single evening!

62 – FASHION FOCUS

Looking to glow-up your wardrobe for late spring and early summer? Get reacquainted with the humble polka dot, a must-have pattern that’s in this spring!

44 – GET THE LOOK

Find out how layering patterns, mixing materials and adding decorative details can liven up your living space.

36-42 – YORK CULTURE

Discover the Bar Convent’s latest Hindley clock and get prepared for York Pride, the York International Shakespeare Festival, the Eboracum Roman Festival, and more.

May 26

39 - YORK FESTIVAL OF IDEAS 2026

As one of the largest free festivals of its kind in the UK, York Festival of Ideas is back! Star speakers making appearances this year will include Nicola Sturgeon, Sally Wainwright, Sian Williams and Dame Kelly Holmes.

36 – SHORT STORY & POEMS OF THE MONTH

Dig into Robin’s short story (which delves into the murky history of the ‘Tower of Gold’, Clifford’s Tower), and peruse a poem or two from local wordsmiths, including one of our very own!

41 – HOW LINK-TERESTING!

To celebrate York Pride 2026, we’ve put together some of the most interesting facts we could find about our city’s LGBTQ history.

54-59 – FAMILIES

Looking for something fun to do with the kids? From WizardFest 2026 to Race Across the World: The Experience, there’s simply all sorts going on this May. We’ll also be bringing you some good news from Woodthorpe Primary School, highlighting the community-led project Make Space York, and more.

53 – GIVE US A HOME

Get the inside scoop on some local pets in need of a new home – could you be the one to give them the love and shelter they need?

54 – LEARNING TO FLY

Take to the skies with our work experience student, Charlie, who’ll be flying our readers through his journey towards becoming a young pilot. Let’s hit the runway!

Reviews

34 – PASTELLE SUPPER CLUB

Join Mim and Pat for a delicious 5-course feast at Pastelle’s Seafood Supper Club.

Culture

18-33 – EVENTS

There are all sorts of events going on in York this month – see our jampacked events pages to find every local listing worth knowing about!

30-31 – THEATRE & SHOWS

Find a comprehensive list of every upcoming event occurring at our city’s biggest theatres, from stage shows, plays and musicals, to live music, side-splitting stand-up comedy, and more…

Classified Directory

78-91 – LOCAL BUSINESSES

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.

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 bit of a boost, there are all sorts of groups and clubs available to join in and around the city. Check out our pick of some of the best groups and clubs currently accepting new members!

CASTLE HOWARD VOLUNTEERS

Are you looking to meet likeminded folk and do your bit to help run one of the best-loved country houses in Yorkshire? Castle

Howard’s dedicated volunteer community is looking to expand its ranks with new volunteers willing to do their bit. There are plenty of roles available to suit your experience and interests, from welcoming visitors and supporting events, to maintaining the beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces around the estate. Visit castlehoward.co.uk/ volunteer to find out how to apply as a volunteer at Castle Howard.

PARKINSON’S UK YORK BRANCH

This friendly community offers crucial support for York-based individuals and families living with

Parkinson’s, providing access to fun and therapeutic classes and activities, and opportunities to meet and mingle with like-minded locals. The group meets at 2.00pm on the second Wednesday of each month, at Folk Hall, New Earswick. Email info@yorkparkinsons.co.uk or visit www.yorkparkinsons.co.uk to find out more.

YORK KNAVESMIRE HARRIERS

Welcoming members of all abilities and experience levels, this friendly York-based running club is currently home to more than 300 runners and counting! York Knavesmire Harriers offers a supportive, friendly community and a wide and varied race calendar, providing members with the chance to compete in regular road, trail, fell and crosscountry races. Visit www.

yorkknavesmireharriers.co.uk to find out more, get in touch with the club, or register your interest as a new member.

YORK RECORDED MUSIC SOCIETY

Meeting monthly on Saturday afternoons, YRMS was first founded in 1955, and is the leading classical music listening & appreciation group still active in the city. Currently recruiting new members, YRMS is suited to classical music lovers of every ilk, with all invited to enjoy friendly and welcoming group listening sessions. This month’s meeting will take place on May 16th. Visit www.thefrms.co.uk/affprogs/ york.htm or call 01904 653193 to find out more.

YORK PHOENIX HARMONIES

Keen to make a return to 4-part harmony singing, or try out as part of a vocal quartet for the first time? Whether you’re a seasoned ensemble singer or a newbie, this fun and friendly vocal performance group could offer a perfect opportunity to sing your heart out! York Phoenix Harmonies is currently on the lookout for Soprano, Alto, Tenor, and Bass singers aged 16 and over. Email yorkphoenixharmonies@ hotmail.com to get in touch or register your interest with the secretary, Chris Hagyard.

LOOKING FOR SIGN-UPS?

Do you run a club or society in York? If you’d like to be featured on our “Join a Club” page, please email info@yourlocallink.co.uk

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Walking with THE WANDERER

Time: 2 hours | Distance:

IS THIS WALK FOR ME?

Except for the optional ‘riverside return’ to Newton-on-Ouse, this is an easy walk. Route finding is straightforward, there are no stiles, and paths are generally in good condition and not that muddy, even in winter. However, the ‘riverside return’ option has a few obstacles, several stiles, and can be muddy and wet in places. If the river is high, this section will be impassable. At times of significant flooding, the main riverside path may also be unusable, in which case an option is to walk as far as Direction Point 3 and return along the park drive.

Directions

1/ Starting with The Blacksmiths Arms behind you, walk left along the tree-lined street. At the end, go through the gateway, but immediately after it, turn left (yellow waymark) on an earth path into trees. Remain in the trees for about 700 metres. Where these end, turn right with the path, which now runs in the open with a hedge to the left. After about another 700 metres, just after a pond in bushes on the left, go through a gate leading to a concrete track.

2/ Unless planning to visit Beningbrough Hall, do not follow the concrete but take a gate on the left (blue waymark). If visiting the Hall, follow the concrete track to the tarmac drive, turn right, then turn left at the main approach avenue. Follow the clear path through trees. Where it bends right, either continue or, for a minor deviation, go slightly left on a smaller path that circles an area with several ponds and rejoins the main path in a short distance. 300 metres beyond the bend/deviation, the path arrives at a metal gate and a tarmac drive.

3/ Cross straight over and go through the metal gate opposite. Follow the path as it heads slightly left to a gate. Through this, stay on

GETTING THERE

The recommended starting point is The Blacksmiths Arms pub on Cherry Tree Avenue in Newton-onOuse, where considerate roadside parking is available. Newton-onOuse is nine miles from York using the A19, turning left before Shipton and then following Shipton Low Road, Highmoor Lane and Moor Lane. Turn left off the latter at the small triangular green just before the Dawnay Arms. Bus 80 currently runs four times a day on Monday to Saturday, from Station Avenue in York to Newton-on-Use. Alight at the village hall and walk ahead, turning left into Cherry Tree Avenue. There is no Sunday service.

the path in a narrow belt of trees, between open fields to a gate.

4/ Through the gate, turn right, soon reaching the riverside. Now, continue on the riverside path. In about 800 metres, you’ll reach a ‘beach’ area opposite the confluence of the Ouse and Nidd, and the grounds of Nun Monkton Priory.

5/ Follow the path as it bends right, with the river going through a gate beside the tower in about 600 metres. After this, the path continues dividing in a few places. Stay close to the river, eventually reaching a large open field where the tree line continues right, and the river bends away to the left.

6/ Here, either follow the trees to arrive back at the gated entrance to the park and Cherry Tree Avenue, or take the optional ‘riverside return’. For the latter, follow the riverbank until you reach a stile. Over this, keep ahead with a fence to the right. Remain on the path, which crosses gardens with the river close by on the left. After numerous gardens, the path enters a wooded area, which can be muddy and littered with fallen branches. Emerging from this, go through gardens again, passing a shell-

REFRESHMENTS

There are two pubs in Newton-onOuse. The Dawnay Arms is open daily except Monday, but with some afternoon closures; the Blacksmith Arms is open daily, but not until 4pm on Monday to Thursday. Another option is the refreshment facilities at Beningbrough Hall (admission charge applies, unless a National Trust member).

WHAT TO SEE

Newton-on-Ouse is one of the most attractive villages in the York area. There is a mix of older houses, two pubs and the mostly Victorian church, with its 45-metre spire. About half the walk is in or beside

This circular walk through the parkland and alongside the river at Beningbrough Hall is deservedly one of the most popular in the York area. This route, which doesn’t approach the Hall directly, although it can be visited by deviating at Direction Point 2, makes use of some of the paths created by the National Trust over recent years. These avoid the need to walk on the tarmac drive through the park, which can be busy with vehicles when the Hall is open. The walk ends with a twist, an optional ‘riverside return’ at Newton-on-Ouse, on a path unfrequented by most Beningbrough circuit walkers.

trees. There is a surprising range of plants, including bluebells in spring, as well as nesting sites for many different birds. The riverside has different attractions with both aquatic wildlife and passing boats. At the confluence, there’s even a small beach area, popular in summer (beware of fast currents).

adorned shelter (private) to a small field with a footbridge. Do not cross this, but turn right with the field boundary to reach a footpath sign

at a road. Turn right, then right again at the triangular green into Cherry Tree Avenue.

FREE printable map on our website

Time Travel

Exploring York’s past, one place at a time

THIS MONTH: York’s Clocks & The Newey Family

Behind York’s historic clocks lies the story of the Newey family, whose craftsmanship and care kept the city on time for generations.

With the clocks changing last month for the warmer months ahead, it got us thinking about the historic timepieces that form an important part of York’s history…

Interestingly, before the 1840s, there was no standardised time in England. Noon was simply marked by the sun reaching its highest point in the sky; however, this moment varies depending on where you are. For example, the sun reaches its highest point earlier in the east than in the west, meaning towns each kept their own local time.

achievements of the time.

Wanting to stand out, Newey created a flat-bed movement, combining Lord Grimthorpe’s gravity escapement with a Swiss remontoire. The gravity escapement, developed in the 1850s, allowed larger tower clocks to maintain accuracy despite external factors such as the weather. This mechanism was also used in famous timepieces like Big Ben. Meanwhile, the Swiss remontoire ensured a consistent flow of power in mechanical clocks, further improving accuracy.

www.yorkconservationtrust.org Images: www.yorkconservationtrust.org Church of St Michael, Spurriergate. wikimedia.org/wiki/File:St_

Sundials were used to divide daylight hours, and earlier still, the day was split into 12 hours. However, as the seasons changed, so did the length of hours, meaning an hour in summer was longer than one in winter.

It wasn’t until the rise of new technologies, like the railways, that this became a problem. With towns all running on different times, coordinating trains was difficult. In 1852, brand-new equipment was installed at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to transmit time signals across the country. Within three years, public clocks had all been changed to what was known as ‘railway time’.

The oldest clock in York is one you have probably walked past many times. Located on Spurriergate, the clock face on the side of St Michael’s Church has been keeping residents and visitors informed for over 300 years. Originally positioned on the church tower, it was relocated to the side of the building in the 1960s, when the tower was removed.

In 1896, the clock was updated by George Newey, a well-known York clockmaker and horologist. The Newey family, who were known as ‘York’s very own time lords’, have maintained the city’s clocks for nearly 150 years.

George J. F. Newey founded his business in the early 1880s, opening a shop on High Petergate. As his reputation grew, he gained recognition for his craftsmanship, winning a gold medal at the 1896 Trades, Industrial, Health & Art Exhibition, held in the Exhibition Buildings (now Exhibition Square).

Over the years, the Newey family made and maintained many of York’s clocks, including those on churches, the clock at York Racecourse, Naburn Hospital, and the well-known ‘St Martin le Grand’ clock on Coney Street.

The most famous is the clock now displayed at De Grey House, opposite Exhibition Square, which was designed and built by George Newey in 1906.

Ten years after he won his gold medal, Newey was invited by the British Association for the Advancement of Science to provide clocks for their York gathering. These week-long events showcased the latest gadgets and engineering

The clock that Newey created was hugely successful, and even when the exhibition was over, it drew attention for many years. Newey reassembled the clock at his shop, with the clock face on the front of the building, and the movement displayed in the window. For nearly 50 years, long after his death in 1929, the clock was a unique attraction in York, and was a constant throughout the First World War, the Great Depression, the Second World War, and into the 1950s.

After George’s death, his younger son Basil took over the business. In the mid-1950s, the clock disappeared very suddenly from the shop, which caused an immediate response from the public, with the incident being written about in the York Press. The article mentions that “the timekeeper of York” that had “accurately informed York Citizens for nigh on fifty years”

had disappeared. It tells us that at the end of the year, Basil Newey took the business to Peasholme Green, and with it, went the clock. It was hoped that the clock could be transferred to “some public building in the city”.

It was unclear why Basil Newey had to move the shop; it could have been due to rising rents, or the building in High Petergate needing to be used again as a home to a Minster songman.

www.yorkconservationtrust.org

The clock was ultimately installed at De Grey House, close to both the Exhibition Buildings, where it had first been displayed, and the shop where it was created.

Shortly after, Basil left the business to live in Folkestone, and his elder brother Roland took over. Interestingly, Roland had already established his own clockmaking business on Clifford Street, in competition with his father’s.

Roland’s son, Geoffrey Newey, also played a significant role. Beginning work at just 14 years old in 1919, he spent 66 years as a clockmaker. He was responsible for winding many of York’s iconic clocks and restored the Coney Street clock after it was badly damaged during the Second World War.

Geoffrey was awarded an MBE in 2002. He passed away in 2015, but the legacy of the Newey family lives on.

Today, York’s historic clocks are cared for by the York Clock Group.

BY SOPHIE LANCASTER

Dear Daphne

Got a problem? Of course you do! Lucky for you, our sharptongued 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,

For ten years now, my wife and I have lived in a sexless marriage. We are both in our forties, and she has had some health problems over the years. She claims to be working on "fixing" things, but she hasn't made any effort in doing so, and nothing has changed. I miss the physical intimacy, and I'm not sure how to approach the subject, as I'm made to feel like I'm pestering her every time I bring the subject up. I still love her deeply, and don't want to leave her, but I find the thought of spending the rest of our lives like this deeply depressing.

James

DEAR JAMES,

What you are describing is a very difficult position to be in - loving your partner but feeling like a core part of your relationship is missing. A decade is a long time, and carrying that quietly (and politely, by the sounds of it) can have a huge impact on both you and the relationship.

It’s important to recognise that wanting physical intimacy in a marriage is not unreasonable or selfish. It’s a normal human need, not some optional extra you’re cheekily asking for like a side of chips, and in long-term relationships, it’s often how people feel close and connected. However, it’s also important to understand that your wife’s health issues may be playing a bigger role than has been fully addressed. When people say they’re “working on it” but nothing changes, it can mean they feel overwhelmed, are avoiding the issue, or simply don’t know how to resolve it and are quietly hoping it sorts itself out (it rarely does).

This doesn’t make your needs disappear, but it does suggest the situation may need a different approach. Instead of raising it in moments of frustration, when it’s

already heading for an argument, try to have a calm, intentional conversation. Frame it as a shared issue rather than placing blame.

Be honest about how you feel, while also reassuring her of your commitment. You could also suggest speaking to a professional, such as a couples or sex therapist, to help guide the conversation. Sometimes having a third person in the room stops it becoming the same conversation on repeat and turns a broken record into one that plays again.

Change in situations like this can take time, but it requires effort from both sides. If the relationship is important to you both, it needs to be addressed together, not quietly filed under “we’ll deal with that later” for another ten years.

Daphne

DEAR DAPHNE

I have always been interested in my heritage and where my family came from, so a few years ago I did a DNA test. It showed where I was from, but I didn’t notice anything else, so I left it, and was only reminded about it a few weeks ago. I logged back in to be nosy and see if anything had changed, and it had! I got looking at my family tree, and relatives were tying themselves together, but I noticed some children on my mother’s side that I didn’t recognise. It appeared that my grandad on my mum's side may have had other children from a previous marriage that had never been mentioned - I wasn’t even sure if my grandma knew about them. As much as this is great gossip, I don’t really know how to approach this with my family, especially as my grandad has already passed, so we can’t ask him directly. Do you have any advice?

DEAR MIA,

Well, you went looking for a bit of family history and ended up with a full-blown plot twist. Happens more often than people like to admit.

The first step is to make sure the information you’ve found is actually accurate. These websites are great, but they’re not gospel, and you don’t want to accidentally kick off a family drama based on a dodgy link or someone else’s over-enthusiastic family tree. So double-check before you start connecting any dots.

If it does turn out to be correct, think carefully about how you approach it. This might feel like great gossip to you (and let’s be honest, it is), but for someone else it could land quite differently. Start with someone you trust, your mum being the obvious candidate, so you can talk it through before widening the circle.

Be mindful that people may react in all sorts of ways. Some will be curious, some defensive, and some may wish you’d never opened the Pandora’s box in the first place.

You also need to accept that you may not get all the answers. Your grandad isn’t here to fill in the blanks, and your grandma may have absolutely no interest in revisiting old chapters. As frustrating as that is, you can’t force people to dig up the past just to satisfy your curiosity.

Take things slowly. You don’t need to unravel the entire family saga in one go. Sometimes you just get a piece of the puzzle… and a reminder that families are rarely as straightforward as we like to think.

Daphne

DEAR DAPHNE

My dad has been with his girlfriend for a few years now, and they’ve decided to move in together. She has

children around my age who will also be living with us. We do get along, but I can’t help feeling this will be a big change for all of us. I’m worried that living in such close quarters could lead to us falling out, and I really don’t want that to happen. How do we keep everyone happy and get used to living together?

Freya

DEAR FREYA,

Honestly, this will be a big change for everyone involved. You’re not just gaining housemates, you’re gaining a whole new set of habits and ways of living, so it’s completely normal to feel a bit unsure about it.

It’s important to recognise that families have ups and downs. People won’t get along all the time, especially when you go from seeing each other now and then to sharing space every day. What matters is how you manage it and what expectations you set early on.

Communication is key. Being open about how you feel helps others be more aware of their behaviour. If something bothers you, address it early and calmly, before it quietly snowballs into a bigger issue than it ever needed to be.

It’s also important to set clear expectations from the start. Routines, chores and personal space should be agreed so responsibility is shared fairly. It might feel a bit formal at first, but it saves a lot of frustration later on.

Finally, don’t expect everyone to get along straight away. That takes time. It’s likely others feel the same, even if they don’t say it. Be mindful of your own behaviour as well as theirs, and give everyone a bit of space to settle into it.

Daphne

Here to help

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Maintain independence and dignity whilst receiving professional assistance.

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Help Age UK York continue to support older people in the city by leaving a gift in your will. Your kindness can help future generations to receive the help they need in later life.

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PUZZLES & COMPETITIONS

Win Win Win

WIN: 4 FREE TICKETS FOR ‘DAY FEVER’ AT YORK BARBICAN

Fancy a feel-good afternoon of no-holds-barred tunes, dancing, and smiles in York? This month, our readers have the chance to win FOUR FREE TICKETS for ‘Day Fever’, the much-loved touring day party arriving at York Barbican on Saturday, 23 May. Famed for its good vibes and eclectic mix of feel-good music, with tunes personally curated by Jon McClure, lead singer of Reverend and the Makers, ‘Day Fever’ is the perfect place to dust off your dancing shoes this month…

To be in with a chance of winning 4 free tickets for ‘Day Fever’ @ The Barbican, simply answer the following question:

‘Day Fever’ curator Jon McClure is the lead singer of which band?

A. Eddie and the Hot Rods

B. Echo and the Bunnymen

C. Reverend and the Makers

Send your answer (along with your name, address and daytime contact number) on a postcard marked ‘Day Fever Competition’ to Unit 3A Kettlestring Lane, York, YO30 4XF, or by email to competitions@yourlocallink. co.uk. The closing date is Friday, 15 May.

WIN: 4 COUNTRY STAND TICKETS FOR CRAIG DAVID @ YORK RACECOURSE MUSIC SHOWCASE WEEKEND

Our readers are in for a very special summer treat at the races! York Racecourse has kindly offered FOUR FREE COUNTRYSTAND TICKETS for the Friday performance at this year’s Music Showcase Weekend, where the honey-voiced UK icon himself, Craig David, will be taking to the stage with his new live set, Craig David Presents TS5. Craig will be performing on the evening of Friday, 24 July, after the last race of the EBF Lyric Stakes. To be in with a chance of winning 4 free tickets for Craig David @ York Racecourse Music Showcase Weekend, simply answer the following question:

Which night will Craig David be performing?

A. Monday B. Wednesday C. Friday

Send your answer (along with your name, address and daytime contact number) on a postcard marked ‘Craig Competition’ to Unit 3A Kettlestring Lane, York, YO30 4XF, or by email to competitions@yourlocallink.co.uk. The closing date is Friday, 29 May.

Why change your kitchen?...

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WIN: A FREE FAMILY TICKET FOR

A ‘DAY OUT WITH THOMAS’™ AT THE NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY

Get ready for a Day Out With Thomas™ at the NYMR! We’re giving one lucky reader the chance to WIN ONE FREE FAMILY TICKET including admission for 2 adults (aged 16+) and 2 children (aged 0-15), to visit the NYMR on EITHER the 23rd or 24th May. Each ticket includes a train ride behind Thomas, a real steam engine, as well as access to a full day of activities including live entertainment, a photo with Sir Topham Hatt, garden games, arts and crafts, storytelling, and an exclusive Thomas & Friends™ character hunt.

To be in with a chance of winning , simply answer the following question:

What colour is Thomas the Tank Engine?

A. Green B. Red C. Blue

Send your answer (along with your name, address and daytime contact number) on a postcard marked ‘Thomas Competition’ to Unit 3A Kettlestring Lane, York, YO30 4XF, or by email to competitions@yourlocallink.co.uk. The closing date is Friday, 15th May. Terms and conditions apply.

Simply find all 10 words in our wordsearch!

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

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

Horoscopes Taurus

While this month will begin steadily for those of the Bull sign, a New Moon in Taurus (16th of May) is likely to bring about transformative change, providing newfound energy and a sense of renewal mid-month. To make the most of this dynamic shift, try to focus on improving yourself, initiating change in areas of your life where it’s most needed, and working towards achieving your long-term goals, whether they’re related to your career, appearance, or existing relationships. Taureans - strike while the iron is hot!

Aries

(March 21 – April 19)

Ariens may find this May to be the perfect time to take stock of what really matters in their lives and reconsider their core values. Those of this sign may feel the urge to seek out extra stability in the coming weeks, whether it’s related to finances (saving money may become a key priority) or familial or romantic relationships - you may find that shallow personal connections fade away, to be replaced by more meaningful ones…

Gemini

(May 21 – June 20)

Like their Taurean peers, Geminis are in for a slow and steady start to the month (which may bring about introspection, reflection, and shyness), which will give way to a dose of healthy disruption when the Sun enters Gemini on the 21st. This could bring about a revitalised sense of purpose and confidence, encouraging you to revisit past actions, engage in productive conversations, and make the most of new opportunities as they arise.

Cancer

(June 21 – July 22)

Cancerians are known to be highly selective when it comes to building their social circle, and this month, this pickiness is likely to pay off! Due to Venus entering Cancer on the 19th, those of this sign may see their friendships flourish, workplace alliances solidify, and fleeting romantic relationships develop into something more deep and meaningful - be sure to avoid superficial social connections, and spend your precious energy on those who truly deserve it!

Leo

(July 23 – August 22)

Famed for their outgoing nature and love of the limelight, Leos will be happy to learn that this May is highly likely to deliver lashings of extra attention. In the coming weeks, those of this sign may find extra opportunities to step into the spotlight and take centre stage, both in the workplace and in their everyday lives. While you may garner extra praise and recognition at work this month, take care not to neglect emotional connections at home - remember that balance is key to everything!

Virgo

(August 23 – September 22)

For those of this sign, the coming weeks could provide the perfect opportunity to expand their horizons. You may find fresh opportunities to explore new avenues and find extra depth in your life, intellectually, spiritually, and even geographically! You could find yourself compelled to learn or study new subjects, embark on an unplanned road trip or holiday, or ponder new philosophies or ways of thinking. In the latter part of the month, previously overwhelming challenges could be unexpectedly (and easily) conquered, leaving you with more space and time to think big!

Libra

(September 23 – October 22)

Librans have a reputation for being a little indecisive, but this month, those of this sign are encouraged to make tough decisions, and most importantly, stick to their guns! In the coming weeks, you may be in for an intense and turbulent time, in which you’ll need to face previously

avoided problems (especially those related to finances and romantic relationships) and tackle them head-on! While ‘grabbing the bull by the horns’ will drag you kicking and screaming out of your comfort zone, it’s essential that you take bold, decisive action - you’ll thank yourself later!

Scorpio

(October 23 – November 21)

Scorpios, take note: with a Full Moon in Scorpio occurring on the 1st of May, this month is likely to begin with a bang! You may experience an intense flurry of emotions and activity in the first half of the month, which could leave you feeling more than a little overwhelmed. Despite a full-on beginning to the month, you’ll be rewarded with a sense of calm and clarity in the second half, which will enable you to strengthen relationships at home and consolidate collaborative efforts in the workplace. Hang on in there!

Sagittarius

(November 22 – December 21)

For Sagittarians, this month could be the ideal time to make minor alterations to their lives, which could pay off in spades later down the line. Even the smallest changes related to your health and wellbeing regime, your everyday routine, or your work processes could bring BIG results by the 31st of May, when a Full Moon in Sagittarius will provide fresh clarity and perspective as you move into June.

Capricorn

(December 22 – January 19)

Those of this sign may have been going through a tough old time in recent weeks, but never fear - May

is a month in which you’re likely to see your happiness levels return, in fine form! After a seriously testing period, this month could provide a much-needed release, and new opportunities to let off some steam. Previous worries about romantic relationships may disappear, and you could find yourself embarking on creative, productive, and pleasurable pursuits that provide a sense of joy!

Aquarius

(January 20 – February 18)

Due to the retrograde motion of Pluto in Aquarius on the 6th of May, those of this sign are likely to experience a transformative start to the month, signalling a shift in how they view their own identities. While a sense of deep introspection may encourage you to reassess your life and personality, this is far from a negative - utilise this thoughtfulness to make positive changes to enhance emotional security, wellbeing, and improve family dynamics previously under strain.

Pisces

(February 19 – March 20)

Although Pisceans may be prone to withdrawing when overwhelmed, this month, those of this sign are strongly encouraged to find their voice, and use it! In the coming weeks, your communicative powers could be the key to future happiness, so make sure you engage in productive conversations wherever possible, especially those related to issues you may have previously kept quiet about. This May, stay vocal, and don’t be shy!

This month, check out the cream of the crop of events and attractions taking place across York. From family-friendly fun to must-see shows and seasonal highlights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

9 MAY

RAWCLIFFE CARNIVAL, Rawcliffe Rec Field, YO30 5TS. 12.00pm8.00pm. Rawcliffe Carnival is back! This fun and free community festival will feature entertainment and activities, delicious food and drink, a wide variety of stalls, and plenty of family fun! Email rawcliffecommunityeventsteam@ gmail.com to find out more.

9 MAY

UNIVERSITY CHOIR & SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, York Minster, YO1 7HH. 7.30pm. Join the University of York’s choir and symphony orchestra for an evening of classical music at York Minster, including works by Schubert, Brahms, and Ireland, as conducted by Robert Hollingworth. Visit www. boxoffice@york.ac.uk or call 01904 322439 to book.

10 MAY

GITIKA PARTINGTON: A CAPELLA VOCAL HARMONY WORKSHOP, St Lawrence Church Hall, YO10 3WP. 10.30am-5.00pm. Learn harmonyrich songs by ear, explore groove, blend and texture, and expect a few musical surprises along the way. The first workshop in the new York Vocal Collective series. Visit www.

tickettailor.com/events/theston egatesingers/2082010?ref=locallink1 to book your tickets. Turn to page 19 to find out more about York Vocal Collective.

23-27 & 29-31 MAY

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS - LET’S ROCK, LET’S ROLL TOUR, North Yorkshire Moors Railway, YO18 7AJ. Various times. Enjoy a full day of family-friendly fun with Thomas & Friends at NYMR, where activities will include riding behind a “really useful” Thomas steam engine, saying hello to Sir Topham Hatt, playing Thomas & Friends garden games, listening to storytelling sessions, and more. Visit www.nymr.co.uk/thomas to find out more or book your tickets.

30 MAY - 12 JUNE

YORK FESTIVAL OF IDEAS, Various times and citywide locations. This year’s York Festival of Ideas features over 150 (mostly free) events, with guests including Nicola Sturgeon, Clive Myrie, Sian Williams, Michael Morpurgo, and Dame Kelly Holmes. Visit www.yorkfestivalofideas.com to browse the full events programme.

30-31 MAY

THE GREAT ANTIQUES & VINTAGE FAIR, Wetherby Racecourse, LS22 5EJ. 9.00am-5.00pm on Saturday & 9.00am-4.00pm on Sunday. Catch 120 exhibitors showcasing all manner of sought-after antiques and vintage pieces to suit the tastes of any buyer, browser, or collector. Featuring both indoor and outdoor exhibits. Visit www.jaguarfairs.com for more.

7 JUNE

1-DAY GLASS PAINTING & GLAZING WORKSHOP, The Harriet Centre, York Cemetery, YO10 5AJ. 9.00am-5.00pm. This 1-day practical taster course from Wolds Workshop will guide you through the tricks of the trade of traditional glass painting. You’ll leave with your very own painted, stained, and leaded glass masterpiece! Visit www. woldsworkshop.com/workshops/1day-glass-painting-glazing to book.

OPEN THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

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

OPEN THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

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

OPEN EVERY DAY

VAN GOGH: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE, St. Mary’s Church, YO1 9RN. 10.00am-6.00pm. This 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 EVERY SUNDAY

YORK ELIM PENTECOSTAL CHURCH, Novotel York Centre, YO10 4FD (11.00am) & Elim LINK YO31 7PB (5.00pm). Established in York for over 90 years, this church meets every Sunday, and also holds regular events across the city, including the Elevate Youth Night (1st May) and Men’s Breakfast (2nd May) this month. Visit www.yorkelim.com to find out more.

OPEN EVERY SUNDAY

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

BOOK AHEAD!

12 JULY

YORK COMEDY FESTIVAL 2026, Museum Gardens, YO1 7FR. From 2.30pm. This year’s annual comedy festival features a top-tier lineup of the UK’s finest comedians, including Russell Howard, Ross Noble, Russell Kane, Suzi Ruffell, Joanna McNally, and more! Visit www.futuresound. seetickets.com/event for details.

24 OCTOBER

1-DAY LETTER-CUTTING IN STONE WORKSHOP, The Harriet Centre, York Cemetery, YO10 5AJ. 9.00am4.00pm. Learn the fundamentals of letter design and letter-cutting in stone at this practical 1-day course from Wolds Workshop. Visit www. woldsworkshop.com/workshops/1day-letter-cutting-in-stone/ to book.

25 OCTOBER

1-DAY WOOD CARVING WORKSHOP, The Harriet Centre, York Cemetery, YO10 5AJ. 9.00am4.00pm. Join professional carver Kibby Schaefer for a 1-day introduction to wood carving, in which you’ll be taught how to create your very own 3-dimensional masterpiece! Visit www. woldsworkshop.com/workshops/1day-wood-carving to book.

Friendly, welcoming day workshops in York, open to all abilities. Explore new styles, develop your voice and enjoy singing with others in a supportive environment.

Part of an ongoing programme of high-quality vocal workshops, with more dates and guest leaders throughout the year. For more details and to see more events, scan the QR code to see our website:

Events

Itching for something to do? Read on…

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

21 APRIL - 3 MAY

YORK INTERNATIONAL SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL, Various times, citywide locations. The eighth edition of the annual York International Shakespeare Festival features a jam-packed programme of events celebrating The Bard’s enduring literary legacy. Visit www. yorkshakes.co.uk for further details.

23 APRIL – 17 MAY

AN EXHIBITION OF MODERN MOSAIC, RHS Harlow Carr Gardens, Harrogate, HG3 1QB. This exhibition, themed ‘Up Hill and Down Dale – A Celebration of Yorkshire’, features over 20 local artists displaying and selling their work. Search mosaicsbybammnorth on Facebook for details.

1 MAY

FORGE PRESS x ACID BATH PUBLISHING x YORK WRITERS

OPEN MIC, The Artful Dodger, YO1 6LJ. 7.30 PM. A new open mic open to writers, readers, and listeners of all levels. Attendees are welcome to bring short pieces to read. Visit www.forgepressyork.co.uk.

2 MAY

LIFE DRAWING - MODEL AS A MUSE, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. 2.00pm-4.00pm. This popular life drawing workshop is suitable for artists of every experience level, over the age of 18. Entry is £15 per person, and drawing materials are provided. Visit www. yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/whatson/events/life-drawing-model-asmuse-54/ to find out more.

2-3 MAY

JOIN THE STEM CELL REGISTER, SPARK York, YO1 9PB. 12.00pm7.00pm. An afternoon of stem cell-

centric awareness and recruitment with UK charity Anthony Nolan. If you’d like to make a stem cell donation, you’ll be able to sign up to the register. Walk-ins are welcome. Visit www.sparkyork.org/events.

2-4 & 9-10 MAY

BLOOM AT AMPLEFORTH

ABBEY, Ampleforth Abbey, YO62 4EN. 10.00am-5.00pm. Experience Ampleforth Abbey’s orchard in full bloom, taste its fruits, embark on a family-friendly trail, and enjoy hands-on spring craft activities. Visit www.ampleforthabbey.org.uk/ bloom-ampleforth-abbey.

2-4 & 9-10 MAY

MOUSEMAN TRAIL, Ampleforth Abbey, YO62 4EN. 10.00am5.00pm. Marvel at one of the UK’s largest collections of ‘Mouseman’ furniture, to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of master craftsman, Robert Thompson. Visit www.ampleforthabbey.org.uk/ mouseman-trail to find out more.

3 MAY

BASKET WEAVING WORKSHOP, Wild Harvest School, YO42 4TA. 11.30am-6.30pm. Learn two types of basket weave, receive one-toone instruction from Wild Harvest School’s Di, and create your very own beautiful basket using English willow. Visit www.wildharvest.org/ products/basket-weaving-course.

3 MAY

YORK REGENCY MAY DAY TEA

DANCE, St Lawrence Parish Church, YO10 3WP. 2.00pm5.00pm. Experience a touch of 19th-century elegance, take to the floor and celebrate May Day at the annual Regency Tea Dance. Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/yorkregency-may-day-tea-dance-2026tickets-1963446616685 to book.

3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 MAY

TURNING BACK TIME TOUR, Treasurer’s House, YO1 7JL. 11.00am4.00pm. This insightful and illuminating tour focuses on the lives and legends of past residents

of Treasurer’s House. Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/ treasurers-house-york/events for bookings.

4 MAY

THE MYSTIC MARKET III, The Crescent, YO24 1AW. 12.00pm4.30pm. Browse all manner of witchy wares and handmade fare from local crafters, receive Tarot readings, and enjoy hands-on workshops. Visit www. thecrescentyork.com/events.

5 MAY GUIDED SENSORY TOUR, Treasurer’s House, York, YO1 7JL. Developed in partnership with MySight York, this enhanced sensory tour focuses on Mr Green’s legacy, and other historic elements of the fantastic Treasurer’s House. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ yorkshire/treasurers-house-york/ events.

UNTIL 5 MAY

50TH ANNIVERSARY CHILDREN’S TRAIL, Danby Lodge National Park Centre, YO21 2NB & Sutton Bank National Park Centre, YO7 2EH. Various times. Celebrate 50 years of National Park Centres, explore natural wonders, discover fun facts, and follow the clues to complete the trail! Visit www.shop. beyonk.com/hl3h2ac9/experiences/ qd5kd4p2 to book.

5 MAY

VANBRUGH 300 TOUR - BSL INTERPRETED, Castle Howard, YO60 7DA. 4.00pm. A special tour to mark 300 years since the death of Sir John Vanbrugh, including rare access to the Dome and the Tapestry Drawing Room. Visit www. castlehoward.co.uk to book.

6 MAY

DR MONSTER! WORKING AT THE WRONG END OF QUALITY, De Grey Lecture Theatre, York St John University, YO31 7EX. 6.00pm7.00pm. Join monster movie specialist Professor Steve Rawle (aka Dr Monster) for this inaugural

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film and media studies lecture. Visit www.yorksj.ac.uk/events to book.

6 MAY

WOW! I DIDN’T KNOW THAT!, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, HG4 3DY. 2.00pm-3.30pm. Get to grips with the surprising stories of the wildlife and nature surrounding Fountains Abbey - there’s something to discover for everyone! Aimed at budding young naturalists aged 11+. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ yorkshire/fountains-abbey-andstudley-royal-water-garden/events.

6 MAY

A DEEPER DIVE: HOW JAPANESE PRINTS CHANGED WESTERN ART, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. 12.00pm-12.30pm. Join the University of York’s first Art Curator, Dr Helena Cox, for a deep dive into the history of Japanese prints, as part of ‘Making Waves: The Art of Japanese Woodblock Print’. Visit www.yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/ whats-on/events for details.

6 MAY

CRIES OF YORK, Friends Meeting House, Friargate, YO1 9RL. 7.00pm. Celebrate our city’s rich musical heritage with musicologist Rachel Cowgill, and explore how space, place, and music collide. Visit www. yorkcivictrust.co.uk to book.

6-8 MAY

EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION (EDI) FESTIVAL, Creative Centre Auditorium, York St John University, YO31 7EX. Various times. York Business School’s first EDI Festival offers studentled activities, presentations, and conversations reflecting on the key issues that shape our city’s communities. Visit www.yorksj. ac.uk/events to book.

ROCKS AND ROOTS WALK, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, HG4 3DY. 11.30am1.00pm. Uncover the wondrous stories of the rocks and roots found at the Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal estate. Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/ fountains-abbey-and-studleyroyal-water-garden/events.

7-8 & 9-10 MAY

STONE CARVING COURSE, Murton Park, YO19 5UF. 10.00am4.00pm. Demonstrations, individual tuition, and step-by-step guidance for creating your own stone carving, from scratch! Tea breaks and light refreshments included. Visit www. murtonpark.co.uk/events to book.

8-10 MAY

GLAMPFEST 2026, Market Flat Lane, HG5 9DZ. 9.00am-9.00pm. A fun, family-friendly weekend festival featuring camping, live music, street food, a forest school, artisan stalls, kids’ workshops and more, in aid of Dementia Disco! Visit www.glampfest.com.

9 MAY

YORK RESCUE BOAT CHARITY

GALA, The Milner York, YO24 1AA. 6.00pm-11.00pm. This black-tie charity ball will celebrate the good work of the York Rescue Boat charity, with a welcome drink, threecourse meal, live entertainment and auction included. Visit www. yorkrescueboat.org.uk/event/yorkrescue-boat-charity-gala-2026.

9 MAY

EMERGENCY SERVICES DAY, Monk Park Farm, YO7 2AG. From 10.00am. Meet real-life heroes from the emergency services, see your favourite vehicles up close, interact with more than 300 farmyard friends, and enjoy children’s playtime and adventure areas. Visit www.tickets.monkparkfarm.co.uk/ event-tickets/76153 to book.

10 MAY

CALM HOUR, The Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring, YO1 9TU. 3.00pm-5.00pm. Specially designed for neurodivergent guests, Calm Hour features The Puzzling World’s curious contraptions minus the music and flashing lights, with sensory backpacks provided. Email info@puzzlingworldyork.co.uk to find out more.

10 MAY

YORK STEINER SCHOOL SPRING

FAIR, York Steiner School, YO26

5SD. 10.00am-4.00pm. A fabulous family fair set amidst the grounds and buildings of York Steiner School. Visit www.yorksteiner.org for more.

10 MAY

ART FOR WELLBEING, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. 10.30am-12.30pm. This monthly workshop offers practical art sessions to burgeoning artists of all abilities, designed to foster wellbeing and good health through creativity. Sessions are free with no booking required. Visit www. yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/whatson/events for details.

12 MAY

FRIEND EVENT: STOCKELD PARK, Stockeld Park, LS22 4AN. 12.30pm2.30pm. Enjoy a rare private tour of Yorkshire’s Stockeld Park, see its spectacular staircase, and explore the picturesque parkland and cafe. Tea, coffee, and cake included. Visit www.fairfaxhouse.co.uk/event/ friend-event-stockeld-park to book.

12 MAY

YPS GET TOGETHER LUNCH, Theatre Royal Cafe, YO1 7HD. 12.00pm. Drop in for lunch with the Yorkshire Philosophical Society! Non-members can come along with YPS members, to get a taste of the group. Visit www.ypsyork.org/ events for details.

12-14 MAY

FIFTH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON STEPPED

WEDGE TRIAL DESIGN, Online. Various times. Presentations and discussions focusing on the design, implementation and analysis of the stepped wedge design model. Visit www.york.ac.uk/healthsciences/ research/trials/swc-2026 to register.

14 MAY

BEER, CRISPS & CHEESE

TASTING EXPERIENCE, York Distillery, YO1 6DS. 7.00pm-9.00pm. Join beer expert Emma Moore to taste a selection of 10 beers, each paired with snacks and artisan cheese, and take part in a beerthemed quiz for the chance to win a prize! Visit www.yorkdistillery.co.uk to book or find out more.

FROM 15 MAY

CHARIOTS, TREASURE AND POWER: SECRETS OF THE MELSONBY HOARD, Yorkshire Museum, YO1 7FR. Various times. Running until summer 2027, this exciting new exhibition lifts the lid on the unprecedented discovery of the largest hoard of Iron Age metalwork ever to be found in the UK! Visit www.yorkshiremuseum. org.uk/exhibition to book.

16-31 MAY

EBORACUM ROMAN FESTIVAL, Various times, citywide locations. Organised by the Yorkshire Museum, this annual festival offers a jam-packed programme of events and activities exploring York’s Roman roots, from object handling sessions and mini excavations to re-enactments, demonstrations, and a living history encampment. Visit www.yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk.

16 MAY

THE GREAT YORK WALK, University of York, YO10 5DD. Registration opens at 7.30am, routes begin at 8.30am. This community walk offers Yorkies the chance to set out on three scenic routes (20 miles, 12.5 miles & 6.25 miles) in aid of Mentally Fit York. Visit www.york.ac.uk/york-giving/ mental-health/gyw to sign up.

16 MAY

GHOSTLY GATHERING, Central Methodist Church, YO1 8NQ. 10.00am-4.00pm. York’s third annual Ghostly Gathering will offer a range of spooky stalls and the chance to celebrate the city’s ghostly figures, Ghost Merchants, and ghoulish history. Visit www. york360.co.uk/whats-on/may.

17 MAY

CACTI & SUCCULENTS, York Distillery, YO1 6DS. 6.00pm. Create your own miniature desert landscape with cacti and succulents, with expert guidance from The Outside In’s Alice. Visit www.yorkdistillery.co.uk to book.

17 MAY

DOG DAY, The Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring, YO1 9TU. 3.00pm-5.00pm. Confound your canine at the Puzzling World’s Dog Day, which offers the chance to enjoy mind-bending illusions with your dog, with water bowls and treats provided - perfect for

puzzling your pooch! Email info@ puzzlingworldyork.co.uk.

17 MARCH

SKETCH & SIP, York Distillery,YO1 6DS. 4.00pm-6.00pm. Choose your muse and get creative over a tipple at York Distillery’s welcoming and inclusive sketch night. Free G&T provided on arrival. Visit www. yorkdistillery.co.uk to book.

17 MAY

PLANT STALL, Parish Hall, Newton-on-Ouse, YO30 2BY. 10.00am-3.00pm. Browse and buy a selection of bedding, perennials and vegetable plants, and treat yourself to refreshments in the parish hall, in aid of the Friends of Newton-onOuse church fabric fund.

18-19 MAY

JOHN KEARNS: TILTING AT WINDMILLS, The Crescent, YO24 1AW. 7.30pm. Have a laugh with Edinburgh Comedy Award winner John Kearns (as seen on Taskmaster and Live at the Apollo), who’ll be performing his brand-new standup set. Visit www.thecrescentyork. com/events to book.

20 MAY

A PASSION FOR PASTA WITH CARMELA HAYES, Yorkshire Wolds Cookery School, YO25 9AF. 9.30am-12.00pm. Get to grips with authentic Italian cuisine with cookery tutor and pasta specialist, Carmela Hayes, and explore diverse flavours from the country’s 20 regions. Visit www.woldescapes. co.uk/class/a-passion-for-pastawith-carmella-hayes to book.

20 MAY

CURATOR TOUR @ FAIRFAX HOUSE, Fairfax House, YO1 9RN. 2.00pm-3.30pm. Join Fairfax House’s curator, Dr Sarah Burnage, for a special tour of the House and museum, where you’ll be able to take a closer look at extensive collections and expressions of Georgian architecture. Visit www. fairfaxhouse.co.uk/event to book.

21 MAY

LUKE WRIGHT: LATER LIFE LETTER, Rise @ Bluebird Bakery, YO24 4HD. 7.30pm-10.00pm. Join Luke Wright for an illuminating evening of live poetry and stand-up comedy, exploring the story of his adoption and life as an adoptee. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/sayowt-presents-luke-wright-later-lifeletter-tickets-1966773826459.

& Concerts

1

2

3

Dave

6

7

The Edinburgh Arms 17 MAY Moondogs Severus Social Club The Tirith + HoS The Fulford Arms 20 MAY Western AF: Chris Acker + Northcote + Rachel Baiman

25 MAY

The Expression + Ghostship + A Man Is Scared + Scrap That

27 MAY

CQ

The Jazzville Duo and Guests

Museum Street Tavern

28 MAY

Cian Downing The Fulford Arms

29 MAY

A Tribute to Tomorrowland

Bishopthorpe Sports and Social Club

Best of Foo + Paramoreish + Wheezed The Fulford Arms

30 MAY

Huge Haxby Sports Bar

Tri-Starrs

Museum Street Tavern

31 MAY

The Reply

Severus Social Club

Gowers After Hours

The Hi Ho Club

BOOK AHEAD

Scarborough Open Air Theatre

From 1 May: HOKUM

A supernatural horror film written and directed by Damian McCarthy. Reclusive novelist Ohm Bauman retreats to a remote country inn to scatter his parents' ashes, but finds himself ensnared by the local staff’s chilling accounts of an ancient witch.

From 1 May: THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2

Two decades after their initial encounter, Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci reunite to navigate the high-stakes, ever-evolving landscape of modern style.

From 2 May: THE SHEEP DETECTIVES

George is a dedicated shepherd who spends his evenings reading classic detective novels aloud to his flock, fully convinced his woolly companions are just passive listeners. However, when a real-life crime shakes their quiet pasture, it becomes clear that the sheep have been paying much closer attention than he ever imagined...

From 7 May: IRON MAIDEN: BURNING AMBITION

film brings the world's most formidable fighters back to the arena for a brutal and spectacular showdown where the fate of worlds hangs in the balance.

From 15 May: THE CHRISTOPHERS

After the passing of a oncecelebrated artist, his estranged children devise a desperate scheme to secure their inheritance by hiring a master forger to complete their father's unfinished canvases.

From 15 May: 500 MILES

A fractured family pushed into an unexpected reunion traverse the open road together in a poetic, life-affirming road movie starring Bill Nighy. Through shared miles and honest conversations, they begin to mend the bonds that once seemed irreparably broken.

From 15 May: OBSESSION

9

Amy Winehouse by Caroline Lowe Bishopthorpe Sports & Social

A huge summer of live music is on the way, with an incredible line-up of artists taking to the stage from June through to August. From iconic names like Rick Astley, Madness and Paul Weller to crowd favourites including The Kooks and Michael Bublé. Expect everything from pop and indie to rock, soul and Ibiza classics, with standout performances across the season. Visit www. scarboroughopenair theatre.com

This documentary charts the band's legendary rise from East London pubs to global stadium icons. Boasting unprecedented access to official archives and intimate recollections from members past and present, the film offers a rare look at Iron Maiden's uncompromising vision and their enduring bond with fans worldwide.

From 7 May: MORTAL KOMBAT II

The legendary tournament returns to the big screen in a high-stakes new instalment of the video game franchise. Featuring iconic characters and visceral action, the

A hopeless romantic, in a desperate bid to win over his crush, decides to break a piece of the legendary One Wish Willow. While he soon finds himself receiving exactly what he asked for, he quickly discovers that getting your heart's desire often comes with unexpected consequences.

From 16 May: CHARLIE THE WONDERDOG

Danny’s loyal, four-legged best friend is mysteriously abducted by extraterrestrials, only to return to Earth with incredible superpowers. With his amazing abilities and an even bigger heart, Charlie embarks on a heroic mission to protect his family and the community he loves from impending danger.

From 22 May: THE MANDALORIAN & GROGU

Big screen version of the popular Star Wars TV series. With the evil Empire defeated, the fledgling New Republic struggles to maintain order while scattered Imperial warlords continue to threaten the peace from the shadows.

22 MAY

BAPS’N’BUNS BURLESQUE, Rise @ Bluebird Bakery, YO24 4HD. 7.00pm. Acclaimed drag artist Freida Nipples will be throwing a fun-filled, fabulous night of burlesque, cabaret, and comedy, with a free glass of bubbly or soft drink on arrival. Visit www. bluebirdbakery.co.uk/rise to book.

23 MAY

GREG JENNER’S TOTALLY CHAOTIC HISTORY: ROMAN BRITAIN GETS ROWDY!, Yorkshire Museum, YO1 7FR. 10.30am-2.30pm. Join public historian and podcaster Greg Jenner for a historical romp around Roman Britain. Visit www. yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/whatson/events to book.

23 MAY

REPTILES ARE COMING, The Hole in Wand, YO1 9NT. 11.00am-3.00pm. This special Reptile Encounter Day offers visitors the chance to see and hold cold-blooded creatures, and enjoy a spot of mini golf at The Hole in Wand. Visit www. theholeinwand.com/york to book.

23-24 MAY

MEET GROBBLENOOK AT THE POTIONS CAULDRON, The Potions Cauldron, YO1 7LZ. 1.00pm4.00pm. Say hello and grab a photo with Grobblenook, resident gargoyle at The Potions Cauldron, who’ll be making a very special appearance this month. Visit www. thepotionscauldron.com to book.

23-25 MAY

WIZARDFEST 2026 - YORK’S FESTIVAL OF WIZARDRY!, Various times and locations. A spellbinding three-day extravaganza featuring wizard walks, face painting, magical workshops, craft sessions, quests, trails, wizardry-themed food and drink, and an atmospheric night market. Visit www.wizardwalkofyork. com to find out more or book.

23-25 MAY

THE GREAT BRITISH FOOD FESTIVAL AT HAREWOOD HOUSE, Harewood House, LS17 9LG. 10.00am-5.30pm. This bank holiday weekend food fest offers a smorgasbord of culinary treats, including demos from professional chefs, an array of hot food vendors, fresh fare from local artisan producers, live music and more! Visit www.harewood.org/events.

23-25 MAY

THE CURSE AT THE PUZZLING WORLD OF PROFESSOR KETTLESTRING, The Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring, YO1 9TU. 12.00pm. Professor Kettlestring is confined to the Tubular Trickery Chamber after being cursed by the dastardly Mortius Darktrix - can you lift the curse and save him? Email info@puzzlingworldyork.co.uk.

23-31 MAY

AMPLEFORTH EXPLORERS

- HALF-TERM ACTIVITIES, Ampleforth Abbey, YO62 4EN. 10.00am-5.00pm. Perfect for nurturing little nature lovers and curious young minds, this halfterm activities programme enables visitors to wonder at the natural world with Ampleforth Abbey’s brand-new Explorer Backpacks. Visit www.ampleforthabbey.org.uk.

24 MAY

TERRY DEARY: ‘REVOLTING

- A RIOTOUS HISTORY OF REBELLIONS AND REVOLUTIONS’, Yorkshire Museum, YO1 7FR. 2.00pm. Join acclaimed storyteller and Horrible Histories author Terry Deary for a discussion drawn from his bestselling books, ‘Revolting’ and ‘A History of Britain in Ten Enemies’, focusing on the Roman Republic. Visit www.yorkmuseumstrust.org. uk/whats-on/events to book.

25 MAY

THE CRESCENT RECORD FAIR, The Crescent, YO24 1AW. 11.00am3.00pm. Browse a great selection of bargain and collectable vinyl spanning all genres, across 8 stalls. Admission is free! Visit www. thecrescentyork.com/events.

27 MAY

TALK: BOOTHAM PARK HOSPITAL, Meeting at Medical Society Rooms, YO1 8AW. 2.30pm4.00pm. Learn more about York’s Bootham Park (previously the oldest, purpose-built mental health hospital in use in the country) and the most significant events in its history. Visit www.yorkcivictrust. co.uk/whats-on to book.

27 MAY

GALLERY TALES, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. Join Story Craft Theatre

for an imaginative half-term storytelling adventure, inspired by the artworks on display at York Art Gallery. Visit www. yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/whatson/events to book.

28-31 MAY

WETWANG SCARECROW

FESTIVAL, Wetwang Village Hall, YO25 9XX. 10.00am-4.00pm. This year’s scarecrow festival will feature two categories: “Fairy Tales and Other Magical Stories” and “Other”, with cash prizes for the winner of each. Could your scarecrow emerge victorious? Visit www.wetwang.org. uk to find out more.

30 MAY

YORK PRIDE, 11.00am-7.00pm. North Yorkshire’s biggest LGBT celebration, and the largest free one-day event held in the City of York, returns this month. Enjoy a colourful parade through the city, followed by the Main Event at the Knavesmire. Visit www.yorkpride. org.uk to find out more.

30 MAY

BACK TO THE GARDEN, City Screen Basement Bar, YO1 9QL. 7.30pm. A celebration of green worlds with local poets and folk/ indie musicians and poets, for York Festival of Ideas 2026. Visit bit.ly/ nav-events for details and booking.

30 MAY

DEER WALK, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, HG4 3DY. 1.30pm-3.30pm. Wildlife lovers are invited to explore the deer park and find out more about the Red, Sika, and Fallow Deer that call Studley Royal home. Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/ fountains-abbey-and-studleyroyal-water-garden for details.

30 MAY

VANBRUGH STORYTELLING DAY, Castle Howard, YO60 7DA. Various times throughout the day. This fastpaced, interactive 20-minute family storytelling performance enables viewers to step into Vanbrugh’s shoes and explore history at speed! Visit www.castlehoward.co.uk.

30 MAY

30+ DAYTIME CLUBBING EXPERIENCE, Flares York, YO1 6JB. 4.00pm-9.00pm. Want to relive your clubbing days, without missing out on an early bedtime? This daytime clubbing event offers those aged 30+ the chance to get on down and hit the floor, without the late night. Visit www.skiddle. com/whats-on/York/Flares-York/ Over-30s-Daytime-Clubbing--York/41664633/ to book.

30 MAY

BEYOND THE WOODS 2026, Hazlewood Castle, LS24 9NJ. A jam-packed day festival set amidst the rolling grounds of Hazlewood Castle, featuring yoga and wellness, a hippy market, tales around the campfire, the Forest Food Village, plus live acts including Dungeon Meat, Alisha, and Archie Hamilton. Visit www.skiddle.com/festivals/ beyond_the_woods for tickets.

REGULAR EVENTS:

UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER

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

MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS

DISTILLERY TOUR & GIN

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

OPEN MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS

NEW TREASURES GALLERY, The Bar Convent, YO24 1AQ. 10am-4pm. Following the discovery of a rare scroll in the Bar Convent’s archive, the museum is sharing more of its hidden history. Go along to see their treasures with your own eyes, including an illuminated medieval scroll known as the Arma Christi, of which there are only ten other copies to be found anywhere in the world! Visit www.barconvent.co.uk to book your tickets today.

DID YOU KNOW

You can list your event FOR FREE in York’s BIGGEST Events Diary?

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Highlights include:

• Frankly: Politician Nicola Sturgeon in conversation •

• Behind the Scenes of All Creatures Great and Small •

• Fun for Families at Discovery Zone •

• Journalist Clive Myrie’s African Adventure •

• The Tudor Heart with Rachel King of the British Museum •

• The Power of Anxiety with Broadcaster Sian Williams •

OPEN EVERY DAY

YORK WITCHES & HISTORY

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

OPEN SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS

TULIP PICKING, The Flower Belt, YO62 5EE. 10.00am-5.00pm. Celebrate spring among rows of blooming tulips, hand-pick your favourites, and enjoy a colourful countryside experience set high above Helmsley. Visit www. theflowerbelt.co.uk.

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY

ARTFUL AT THE DODGER, 12.30pm-4.00pm. This monthly informal art workshop session is free to attend, and materials are provided (donations are welcome). Drop in and out as you wish, whatever your experience level. Follow Navigators Art & Performance on Facebook for further details or to get in touch.

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY

NEW EARSWICK VILLAGE

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

EVERY FIRST MONDAY

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

MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS

COME AND PLAY PÉTANQUE, Stockton Fox Pétanque Club, at the rear of Stockton-on-the-Forest Village Hall, YO32 9UR. 7.00pm. Get to grips with Pétanque (French Boules) at this friendly club, with equipment provided.

EVERY FIRST TUESDAY

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

EVERY THIRD TUESDAY

FUTURE LANDSCAPE SEMINARS, Courtyard Cafe, Castle Howard, YO60 7DA. 7.00pm-8.00pm. Running every third Tuesday of the month, these relaxed and informal talks focus on nature and landscapes, with speakers including Tom Hook (Forest of Flowers), Jeff Davitt (Yorkshire Rewilding Network), and Lauren Barnes (University of York). Visit www. castlehoward.co.uk to see the full programme and book your tickets.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

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

MOST WEDNESDAYS & EVERY THURSDAY

MEDIUMSHIP & TAROT

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

WEDNESDAYS TO THURSDAYS

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

WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS

YORK DATABANK, SPARK York, YO1 9PB. 9.00am-10.30pm. Online access is one of the most important factors in navigating the modern world. If you need help getting online, this bi-weekly event is here for you. Visit www.sparkyork. org/events/york-databank/.

EVERY THIRD WEDNESDAY

YORK FLOWER CLUB, St Chad’s Church Hall, YO23 1PE. 1.00pm.

Running every third Wednesday except in August, York Flower Club offers a variety of events for local flower lovers, from demonstrations and talks to quizzes and socials.

Email Rita.nat.judge.speaker.judge@ gmail.com to find out more.

EVERY THURSDAY

ACTING CLASSES, SPARK York, YO1 9PB. 6.30pm-8.30pm. Matt Zina’s Acting classes provide you with the skills, technique, confidence and knowledge for camera-ready performance. Perfect for film and TV performers in the making. Visit www.sparkyork.org/events/mzaacting-classes.

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

CHOCOLATE MANUFACTORY

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

UNTIL 26 JUNE

NORTH YORKSHIRE PULLMAN DINING - SPRING SERVICES, Starting at Grosmont Station, YO22 5QE. 12.35pm (Lunch Service) / 6.20pm (Evening Service). Travel through the beautiful North York Moors National Park in style, aboard the North Yorkshire Pullman train. Eat your way through a new seasonal menu to top off your journey! Visit www.nymr.co.uk/ spring-north-yorkshire-pullman to make a booking or find out more.

UNTIL 26 JUNE

FRIDAY GUIDED TOURS, Fairfax House, YO1 9RN. Various times. Join an expert volunteer guide for an in-depth tour of the iconic Fairfax House. See highlights from its exceptional collection and learn more about its rich history and stories! Visit www.fairfaxhouse. co.uk/event/friday-guided-tours for details and bookings.

UNTIL 28 JUNE

HAROLD GOSNEY: MATERIALS AND MAKING, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. Various times. Celebrating the life and works of the renowned Yorkshire sculptor and artist, this exhibition features works including Jazzman and Four Horseman of the Apocalypse. Visit www. yorkartgallery.org.uk/exhibition/ harold-gosney-materials-andmaking for details and bookings.

UNTIL 22 JULY

NOT A POT, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. 10.00am-5.00pm. This must-see exhibition from York Art Gallery’s renowned Centre of Ceramic Art showcases the wide range of sculptural pottery in its collection, displayed to mark the death of influential British potter Gordon Baldwin (1932-2025). Visit www.yorkartgallery.org.uk/ exhibition/not-a-pot to book.

UNTIL 30 AUGUST

MAKING WAVES: THE ART OF JAPANESE WOODBLOCK PRINT, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. Various times. Covering over 300 years of Japanese woodblock printing history from the 17th to 21st centuries, this must-see exhibition features more than 100 iconic works by the likes of Hokusai, Hiroshge, Utamato, and more. Visit www.yorkartgallery.org.uk/ exhibition/making-waves-the-artof-japanese-woodblock-print.

UNTIL DECEMBER

SNICKELWAYS & SILLY STREET

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

UNTIL 31 DECEMBER

YORK DISTILLERY - GIN

TASTING, York Distillery, YO1 6DS. Various times. Sample all manner of weird and wonderful, locally produced gins. You’ll receive a G&T on arrival, generous tasters of core gin offerings, nibbles, plus an insight into gin history! Visit www.fareharbor.com/embeds/ book/yorkgin/items/680701/ calendar/2026 to book.

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Weber, Bruch, Verdi, Britten & Ravel

Weber Overture to Der Freischütz

Bruch Violin Concerto No. 1

Verdi Overture to La forza del destino

Britten Sea Interludes and Passacaglia from Peter Grimes

Ravel La Valse

Add Event

Theatre

&Shows

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

GRAND OPERA HOUSE

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

1 MAY

MASSAOKE - SING THE MUSICALS

This live band sing-along spectacular features top tunes from the greatest musicals of all time, including Grease, Dirty Dancing, Oliver, and Mamma Mia!

2 MAY

TOM DAVIS: SPUDGUN

Join actor and comedian Tom Davis (Live at the Apollo) for his latest stand-up comedy set.

3-4 MAY

ELLEN KENT: THE FAREWELL TOUR

Celebrate Ellie Kent’s Farewell Opera Tour with a double bill of performances alongside Opera International Kyiv: Madama Butterfly (3rd) & Carmen (4th).

5 MAY

THAT’LL BE THE DAY

This unique blend of rock’n’roll, comedy and pop features live performances of timeless hits from the 1950s to the 1980s.

6 MAY

K-POP ALL STARS

This leading K-Pop tribute show features top hits from the genre, including those by Blackpink, BTS, NewJeans, Jung Kook, and many more!

9-10 MAY

MY FIRST BALLET - CINDERELLA

A new English National Ballet production of the classic fairytale for kids, choreographed by George Williams (read our interview with George Williamson on page 40).

12 MAY

HAMZA YASSIN: MY LIFE BEHIND THE LENS

This inspirational theatre show from the acclaimed wildlife cameraman offers insight from behind the lens…

14 MAY

HENNING WEHN - ACID WEHN

Join acclaimed stand-up and “German Comedy Ambassador to the UK” Henning Wehn, for his latest stand-up set, Acid Wehn.

15 MAY

DAVID OLUSOGA: A GUN THROUGH TIME

Explore the world of historical weaponry, from Lee Enfield rifles to Brown Bess flintlock muskets, with historian, writer, and BAFTA Awardwinning filmmaker, David Olusoga.

19-23 MAY

FAWLTY TOWERS - THE PLAY

Get reacquainted with Basil, Sybil, and Manuel in this laugh-out-loud production of the classic British sitcom, adapted for the stage by John Cleese and directed by Caroline Jay Ranger.

YORK THEATRE ROYAL

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

29 APRIL - 23 MAY

THE PSYCHIC

Brought to you by the team behind Ghost Stories, this production follows psychic Sheila Gold, who is asked to conduct a séance to make contact with a wealthy couple’s late child…

15-16 MAY

DIAL 1 FOR UK

A hilarious and poignant one-man play from Mohit Mathur, an exciting new playwright and rising West End star.

11-14 MAY

JESSE NORTH IS BROKEN

This hard-hitting show shines a light on working-class survival in modern-day Britain, following a carer on minimum wage.

20-23 MAY

CRUMBS

This laugh-out-loud one-woman comedy show stars Kate Bramley as ex-TV baking star Petronella Parfait, who embarks on a lastditch attempt to revive her career.

30 MAY

THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS

Catch Paperback Theatre’s unmissable adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s much-loved children’s novel - can Ratty, Badger, Mole, and Toad save the day?

30 MAY

A COMEDY EXTRAVAGANZA WITH SHAPPI KHORSANDI

Hosted by Kate Butch, this standup extravaganza features top comic Shappi Khorsandi, with support from Tadiwa Mahlunge and Louise Young.

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

1 MAY

THE SONGS OF PAUL SIMON

Join York-based singer/songwriter Gary Stewart and his band for a celebration of the songs of Paul Simon, including Simon & Garfunkel favourites.

4 MAY

THE JAMES BROWN EXPERIENCE

Powered by the New Soul Generals 9-piece funk orchestra, this leading tribute to The Godfather of Soul is presented in association with The James Brown Family Foundation.

9 MAY

A NIGHT AT THE DARTS

A Night at the Darts is coming to York, with a star-studded lineup including Luke Humphries, Gary Anderson, and Robert Thornton.

10 MAY

YORK GUILDHALL ORCHESTRA SPRING CONCERT

Join York Guildhall Orchestra for their final concert of the season,

including works by Weber, Verdi, and Britten, featuring solo violinist Bradley Creswick.

21 MAY

DANIEL SLOSS: BITTER

Much-loved Scottish stand-up comedian Daniel Sloss (as seen on Netflix and HBO) performing his latest set, ‘Bitter’.

28 MAY

DIRTY DANCING IN CONCERT

Get reacquainted with the classic 1980s romance Dirty Dancing, which will be projected in full and accompanied by a live band and singers - “nobody puts Baby in a corner”!

29 MAY

POSTMODERN JUKEBOX - THE FUTURE IS VINTAGE

This family-friendly, time-travelling extravaganza features singers, dancers, and instrumentalists performing classic songs, with a retro spin!

30 MAY

THE ELO EXPERIENCE

This multi-award-winning tribute to Jeff Lynne & The Electric Light Orchestra will be returning to York this month, in celebration of its 20th anniversary.

27 JUNE

THE NIGHT SKY SHOW

Explore the stars and embark on an epic journey across the cosmos with experienced astronomer and author Adrian West, aka VirtualAstro.

29 AUGUST

AARDMAN IN CONCERT

Celebrate 50 years of Aardman! Catch your favourite characters on the big screen, including Wallace & Gromit and Morph, with live orchestral accompaniment.

JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE

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

28 APRIL - 2 MAY

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT

This outrageously awesome NETheatre production follows two drag queens and a transgender woman travelling across the Australian Outback, based on the hit 1994 movie.

3 MAY

STEVE CASSIDY BAND IN CONCERT

Join three-time New Faces winner Steve Cassidy and his band of seasoned players, who’ll be performing a blend of rock and country music for all ages!

14-16 MAY

GREASE THE MUSICAL

Relive the iconic tale of Danny and Sandy’s high school romance with this York St John MPS production of Grease The Musical.

20-23 MAY

CALENDAR GIRLS THE MUSICAL

Members of a Yorkshire Women’s Institute bare all in the York Musical Theatre Company’s production of Gary Barlow and Tim Firth’s hit musical.

24 MAY

THE UPBEAT BEATLES

Relive Beatlemania, from the early days at the Cavern Club to the final days of the Abbey Road era. A must-see show for fans of the Fab Four!

30-31 MAY

RHYTHM OF EARTH

Wonder at showcases from the En Pointe dancers in this inspirational production, celebrating our natural world through ballet, contemporary dance, tap, and beyond.

16-20 JUNE

LES MISÈRABLES

A must-see abridged edition of Victor Hugo’s epic tale, performed by the young talent of York’s awardwinning NETheatre company.

THEATRE@41 Monkgate

To Book your tickets visit tickets.41monkgate.co.uk

2 MAY

YISF WRAP PARTY

Bid adieu to The Bard for another year at the 2026 York International Shakespeare Festival wrap party.

5-9 MAY

THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES

In this hilarious production from Neon Crypt, one of the most popular Sherlock Holmes tales gets a makeover!

14-16 MAY

THE GREAT GATSBY

This new production from Pop Yer Clogs Theatre offers a barnstorming take on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, as you’ve never experienced it before!

20-23 MAY

SPRING AWAKENING

Featuring a score by Duncan Sheik and a book by Steve Sater, this explosive coming-of-age musical tells the story of a group of young people in 1890s Germany. Recommended for aged 15+.

29 MAY

BEN MOOR: A THREE THING DAY

Join acclaimed English actor and comedy writer Ben Moor (Casanova, Black Cocktail, Fist of Fun) for his latest show ‘A Three Thing Day’, which proved a sell-out hit at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe.

FRIARGATE THEATRE

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

1 MAY

ODE TO JOYCE

This must-see Apollo Theatre Company production features a selection of songs and monologues from beloved entertainer Joyce Grenfell, as compiled and performed by Cheryl Knight (Buddy, Pericles, Spend, Spend, Spend).

2 MAY

SHE SAYS… PRESENTS IMPROV BUFFET

A feast of improvisational comedy to suit all tastes, with the She

Says (no) … performers cooking up a storm using locally sourced audience suggestions.

7 MAY RIGHT HERE RIGHT NOW

This much-loved comedy improv night offers a family-friendly night out full of music, mayhem and muppetry.

9 MAY

THE MAGIC OF FILM MUSIC

Settle down for an interactive and engaging talk with film music expert Dr Matt Lawson, who’ll be delving into the magical world of film scores and examining the reasons why cinema and music go hand in hand!

14 MAY JORVIK COMEDY AWARD –HEAT 4

The fourth heat of the Jorvik Comedy Award will feature nine comedians performing sets – you decide which two will go through to the final…

16 MAY

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE… BUT FUNNY!

This irreverently hilarious show gives Jane Austen’s most famous novel a comedic twist, complete with boiled potatoes and at least one soaking wet shirt…

22-23 MAY

CASTE AWAY: FROM TRADITION TO HERESY

This powerful and emotional solo show by Dr Prathiba Batley explores five shades of womanhood through Bharatanatyam classical dance.

25 MAY

THE GIANT BUBBLE SHOW

Marvel at jaw-dropping bubble tricks by the one and only Bubble Wizard, making a special appearance in York for WizardFest 2026.

28 MAY

GET UP STAND UP!

Have a laugh in the intimate Green Room Bar at Friargate Theatre’s very own comedy club, hosted by resident MC Tony Vino.

29 MAY

NOCTURNE

Combining magical music and profound puppetry, this original musical is set in a Scandinavian forest, and inspired by Norwegian folklore.

SCARBOROUGH SPA

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

4 MAY

K-POP ALL STARS

This leading K-Pop tribute show features top hits from the genre, including those by Blackpink, BTS, NewJeans, Jung Kook, and many more!

9 MAY

BOYBAND IN THE BUFF: STARRING GARETH GATES

Relive the golden age of the boy band in this ultimate throwback concert, starring none other than hunky heartthrob, Gareth Gates!

16 MAY

NIGEL KENNEDY: A VIRTUOSO CONCERT PERFORMANCE

Embarking on his first UK tour in over a decade, Nigel ‘The Master’ Kennedy will be taking to the stage for a spellbinding performance in Scarborough.

17 MAY

AN INTIMATE ACOUSTIC EVENING WITH WET WET WET

Get intimate with the Scottish soft rock heroes Wet Wet Wet, who’ll be arriving in Scarborough as part of their hotly anticipated acoustic tour.

Markets, Fairs & CAR BOOT SALES

2 MAY

KNARESBOROUGH MONTHLY ARTISAN MARKET

Castle Yard, HG5 8AS. 10.00am-3.00pm.

2 MAY

THE ARTISAN STREET FAYRE Lakeside Village

3 MAY

SKIPTON ARTISAN MARKET

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

3 MAY

REAL MARKETS - ILKLEY

Ilkley, LS29 9EE. 10.00am3.00pm.

3-4 MAY

HARROGATE VALLEY

GARDENS ARTISAN MARKET

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

7, 14, 21 & 28 MAY STORE & BREEDING STOCK MARKET

York Auction Centre, YO19 5GF. 11.00am.

9 MAY

EASINGWOLD ARTISAN MARKET

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

9 MAY

ACOMB FLOURISH & FEAST MARKET

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

9 MAY

THE ARTISAN STREET FAYRE @ JUNCTION 32 OUTLET

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

10 MAY

WETHERBY ARTISAN MARKET

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

14 MAY

HARROGATE FARMERS MARKET - REAL MARKETS

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

16 MAY

ACOMB ARTISAN MARKET

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

17 MAY

HARROGATE MAKERS MARKET

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

17 MAY

THIRSK ARTISAN MARKET

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

23 MAY

MALTON MONTHLY ARTISAN MARKET

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

24 MAY

RIPON ARTISAN MARKET

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

25 MAY

THE CRESCENT RECORD FAIR

The Crescent, YO24 1AW. 11.00am-3.00pm.

Regular Markets & Car Boot Sales:

MONDAYS TO SUNDAYS

YORK SHAMBLES MARKET

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

MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS

SCARBOROUGH MARKET HALL & VAULTS

St Helen’s Square, YO11 1EU. 8.00am-5.00pm.

Race Meetings

Race Day Ready… Check out our pick of local race meetings happening this month - perfect for making memories or enjoying the thrill of the crowd.

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY

NEW EARSWICK VILLAGE MARKET

New Earswick Bowls Club, YO32 9PX. 10.00am-2.00pm.

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY

THE DERWENT ARMS CAR BOOT

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

EVERY SUNDAY

RUFFORTH CAR BOOT

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

EVERY MONDAY

PICKERING MARKET

Market Place, YO18 7AA. 10.00am-4.00pm.

EVERY MONDAY

SELBY MARKET

Market Place, YO8 4NX. 9.00am-3.00pm.

MONDAYS & SATURDAYS

THIRSK MARKET

Market Place, YO7 1EY. 8.30am-3.30pm.

EVERY TUESDAY POCKLINGTON MARKET

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

EVERY WEDNESDAY KIRKBYMOORSIDE MARKET

The Shambles, YO62 6AY. 8.00am-1.00pm.

EVERY WEDNESDAY KNARESBOROUGH MARKET

Market Place, HG5 8AG. 7.30am-3.00pm.

EVERY THIRD

WEDNESDAY

EASINGWOLD FARMERS MARKET

Market Place, YO61 3AA.

WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS NORTHALLERTON MARKET

High Street, DL7 8LW. 8.30am.

WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS

MASHAM MARKET

Market Place, HG4 4DZ. 10.00am-2.00pm.

THURSDAYS AND SATURDAYS RIPON MARKET 8.00am-3.00pm / 8.3012.00pm.

EVERY FRIDAY

HELMSLEY MARKET

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

EVERY SATURDAY

YORK RACECOURSE CAR BOOT SALE

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

When and where Sundays at 11am Novotel York Centre, Fishergate, York, Y010 4FD Sundays at 5pm (Elim

43 Monkgate, York, Y031 7PB

Email: admin@yorkelim.com Tel: 07970 118384 yorkelim.com

REVIEW:

BY MIM & PAT

Seafood Supper Club @ Pastelle

If you’re looking for something slightly different, away from the bustling streets of town, Pastelle is definitely worth a try. Tucked away in a little street off Leeman Road (Livingstone Street), this is certainly a hidden gem! Pastelle Kitchen and Events offers pop-up restaurants, creative catering services, foodie-friendly event experiences across Yorkshire, plus private and corporate dining and events. Pastelle has also become known for its seasonal supper clubs, and on the evening of our visit, we thought we’d give the Seafood Supper Club a run for its money…

We walked through a narrow alley to find the venue, and were blown away by the horse box and outdoor dining space, which is beautifully adorned with lights. The interior space is just as stunning, and we felt extremely comfortable and relaxed as we entered. Once seated, we were given some water for the table and a drinks menu. I opted for the Apricot Margarita, and Pat went for a local beer - we also made a selection from a lovely list of wines, tailored to complement the five courses ahead.

Before we knew it, the first course came out: a trio of beautifully made canapes, including cured salmon on crackers with caviar. Next up, we were treated to scallop, apple & fennel ceviche with chilli and lime, served with crispy tostadas, which was one of our favourite dishes! The lime and fennel gave the dish a really refreshing kick, and it was beautifully presented in a seashell.

Then, we moved on to the Shellfish course, tiger prawns, tomato & garlic ragu with lemon orzo.

The ingredients used really complemented each other well, and we were interested to learn that all of the produce used is locally sourced, wherever possible. We were feeling pretty full at this stage, but the food kept comingthey definitely know how to feed you up here! Roast sea trout came out next, served with creamy vermouth & parsley sauce. Luckily, this was quite light (it was becoming increasingly hard to fit all the food in), and we couldn’t resist eating this well-prepared fish. Just as I was thinking I couldn’t possibly fit any more in, out came our dessert: a St Clement's Basque cheesecake, served with stewed berries - this was one of the best fish suppers I have had, and although I managed to sample the

Authentic Lebanese cuisine

The Pastelle staff were extremely attentive and always at hand. They were keen to give an overview of each course as it was placed down - a lovely touch. We found the Seafood Supper Club to be very reasonably priced, at £55 per person, including a full 5-course menu. So, come prepared with the slack trousers, and make sure you’re hungry when embarking on one of Pastelle’s dining experiences… Hats off to the chef!

Visit www.pastellekitchen.co.uk to make a booking or see what’s on at Pastelle.

Expertly crafted dishes to the smallest of details, using only the finest and freshest of ingredients, made to order... it’s no wonder our menu is renowned within the area.

CALLING ALL YORK CREATIVES, ARTISTS, MAKERS!

Are you a local creative keen on exhibiting your work to the people of York? Are you a York-based artist, working with painting, printing, drawing, textiles and beyond?

Art in the Park is an annual community arts event in which artwork is printed on

A2 composite boards and displayed on the garden railings in the centre of Rowntree Park. To submit your work, please send an image of your piece to art@rowntreepark.org. uk by 24th June 2026. Visit rowntreepark.org.uk/art-in-thepark-2026-rowntree-park/ for more details.

Days Celebrates Sandwich Success in York

An independent family-run café has been crowned winner of the York Press Best Sandwich Bar 2026 award, cementing its reputation as one of York’s go-to daytime dining spots, and the best place to get a sarnie in town!

Located on Parliament Street, Days has built a strong local following for its bold, fully loaded sandwiches, which are as satisfying as they are visually striking. Formerly Lucky Days, the Days café was given a new lease of life in 2025, shifting its focus to brunch and the humble bap. Rated as a local institution, Days is known for its generous fillings, fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and bold flavour combinations, with lip-smacking ingredients including slow-cooked meats, signature house-made sauces, and freshly baked breads.

the Onion Bhaji (made with homemade onion bhaji, mango chutney and chip shop curry sauce), the Classic Club, and the Hot Honey Chicken, all of which have helped define its distinctive, crowd-pleasing menu. Call 01904 530746 to get in touch with Days café.

New co-owner Rob Collins, who took over the business with his partner in 2025, was keen to point out that the award is a reflection of both the team’s hard work and the loyalty of customers. He said: “We’ve always wanted our sandwiches to stand out — not just in how they taste, but how they

T: 01904 639918 M: 07740 412365 26 Swinegate, York. YO1 8AZ A superior Indian dining

Fully licensed bar

On examining each clod of soil from a cemetery trench

Digging my fingers into the clumpy loam, I squeeze each lump for scraps of us shards of bone and sometimes the larger elements that identify age, sex, body size.

I have crumpled so many clayey clods into my fist, a bump grows on the back of my hand, purplishly swelling off the ridge that is my own fourth metacarpal— it rises sorely each day, is gone by next morning, re-appears by noon.

What does this labor leave upon me, what roughened blemish will be held up to sunlight and squinted at 200, 300 years from now, when MY grave inconveniently blocks progress; when my splinter shards are troweled through on the way to the bucket on the way to the slop heap missing out only the tiniest bits of me…..

I grip dried clay that, exposed to late summer sun has hardened to cheap pottery, grimace, expose another fragment, add some puzzling pathology to my own right hand and dare them someday to guess.

R Drew

THE MONTH

House

I stood here when Victoria was Queen, the dark sweep of two world wars have drawn over while others just like me have been blown to smithereens.

Families have moved in bursting with dreams, they entwine limbs, feel the swell of her stomach, bake scones and preserve peaches, fill my rooms with chattering plates, sing Frosty the Snowman, build train tracks for Thomas, blast rockets to the paper moon, fly jet planes across my walls, harbour small dinosaurs under the beds, spill hot tears, sweat out their illnesses, read That’s not my puppy, see the delightful children grow into monsters then leave home. Jack and Jill fill the vacuum with a gentle rebuilding, the original spark that united them for the better and then all through the worst as time ground Jack back to ashes. The husk of Jill decides to move away, removal men load the cracked crockery, mattress with their indelible shapes, musty album memories, wedding dress wrapped in tissue.

My attic now a cave, bedrooms hold their breath, stairs freeze in mid flight, the hall sits overwhelmed by the hanging silence, the door closes with a ‘click’.

Laurence Parker - Our in-house poet

A Tower of Gold

“That is a beautiful little tower of gold,” said Sian. I smiled.

“Well, yes,” I said. “It’s not always been so happy to look at, though.”

We looked up at the Tower, and all of the daffodils that had decided, this morning, to show themselves. The sun had come out, and we had had a very nice coffee and breakfast in the centre of York.

As a history teacher, my wife did not need to be reminded about the good and the bad things that had happened in York. Clifford’s Tower was beautiful, but like so many things, it had a chequered history. There had been a massacre of the Jewish population, which was difficult to believe had ever happened, but it had.

The daffodils had been planted to remember that date. The six-pointed star of the daffodil resembles the Star of David. They are a beautiful sign that humanity should move towards becoming more tolerant. The tragedy had been in the 12th century, but that did not mean that it should be forgotten. The daffodils are a yearly reminder.

Sian and I are here to enjoy a pleasant morning in York, which never disappoints. Now we are

just looking at the flowers, and remembering the history of the city and the history of our marriage. Sian and I have been married for long enough that we have stopped counting, but we always remember the date. How could I ever forget it? The most beautiful woman in the world had agreed to marry me.

“You are looking very golden today,” I said to her, and she blushed. The sun had caught her blonde hair, and she was shining. She smiled at me and gave me a kiss on the cheek.

“So, how many years is it now? One, or two years since we were married?” I said.

Sian squeezed my hand.

“Oh, it was a little while ago,” she said. “Maybe a little longer than two years.”

I nodded, and then I turned my attention back to the beautiful daffodils that were coating the mound that led up to Clifford’s Tower.

This little tower of gold would remind us of the horrors we can inflict on each other, as well as showing us that there is still beauty to be seen, if we know where to look for it.

Clifford’s Tower was the site of a massacre of the Jewish people in York in 1190. Daffodils were planted 60 years after the massacre, and are still a beautiful sight in springtime.

We’re currently on the lookout for wordsmiths willing to submit their poems, which could be published in upcoming issues of Your Local Link! If you’re a poet and you know it, please email ted@yourlocallink.co.uk with your chosen pieces of poetry!

BY ROBIN LEWIS-LIGHT

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

WE TRIED

Pilates

@ Peak4 Studios

BY MACKENZIE AND MIM

When our Mim and Mackenzie headed down to Peak4 Studios for their first Pilates class this month, it’s safe to say they didn’t quite know what they were signing themselves up for. After grabbing their grippy socks (which you can borrow or buy at the venue), our dynamic duo got ready to get sweaty!

Reformer Pilates classes at Peak4Studios are designed to build core strength, improve posture, and enhance flexibility. Classes are available from beginner level upwards, so those of all experience levels are welcome to come to the party. Beginner-friendly classes tend to be slower, and focus more on building strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. As your pilates skills progress, you’ll be introduced to new, increasingly challenging variations to push yourself further, focusing more on building stamina and core strength. Luckily for them, Mackenzie and Mim’s first session started with a fairly gentle warm-up to helpe ease them in, including some light stretching and a handy introduction to the rather intimidating-looking reformer machines. Let’s just say, some picked it up quicker (and easier!) than others…

As beginners, this Peak4 Studios Reform Pilates class served as a great way for our discerning reviewers to get to grips with the basics - because it was generally

slower-paced, the class gave them the time they needed to get used to the movements, coordination, and balance needed to get into the groove with Reformer Pilates. By the end of their session, Mim and Mackenzie were very red and very sweaty, but most importantly, they left Peak4 Studios feeling motivated, and with a real sense of achievement. Despite feeling knackered and more than a little worked out, the pair were keen to let us know that they’d definitely be coming back for more!

Reformer Classes at Peak4 Studios are available from £22 for one class, or with their special introductory offer of £24 for your first two classes.

If Reformer Pilates isn’t your thing, they also offer Mat Pilates classes, which focuses on low-impact exercises to help align and balance the body. Mat Pilates classes begin at £10 per class, or with a special introductory offer of £14.40 for your first two classes. The more classes you book in one go, the more money you’ll save.

Your Local Link will definitely be back, hopefully moving a bit more confidently on those machines next time!

Visit Peak4 Studios in Clifton Moor Business Village, YO30 4XG, or head over to www.peak4-studios. co.uk to see the classes on offer.

WE TRIED .............................. @ York Distillery GIN SCHOOL

BY MOLLY, MIM AND PAT

Over the Bank Holiday weekend, we had the chance to create our very own gin with York Gin, and it was an absolutely fantastic experience!

As soon as we arrived at York Distillery, a beautiful, speakeasystyle venue on Skeldergate, we were warmly greeted with a perfectly prepared G&T, made with a selection of tonics to complement the gin - the ideal way to start, giving us a taste of the flavours we’d be working with throughout the session…

Our expert guide, Emma, then introduced us to three different gin samples. We were challenged to identify the botanicals through scent and taste - Pat wasn’t too confident with the smelling side (but thoroughly enjoyed the tasting), whilst Mim was very competitive, and managed to guess many of the botanicals correctly!

We were also given an interesting history of gin, which added great context to the experience. One of the stories included the ‘Puss and Mew’, which took place around the 18th century after the Gin Act of 1736 placed prohibitive taxes and licenses on the spirit; Captain Dudley Bradstreet created the ‘early vending machine’ with a wooden plaque of a black cat (or an ‘old tom’). Customers would

approach the cat and ask, “Puss, do you have any gin?”, if the cat meowed, it meant there was a sale. Customers simply placed money in the cat’s mouth, and Bradstreet would pour a measure of gin down the hidden tap. How gin-teresting is that?!

Then came the highlight…making our own gin! At our individual stations, we were guided through the process and encouraged to experiment with botanicals using a helpful reference book. We chose a blend of star anise, chilli, lime zest, and orange zest, but there were a variety of other ingredients for everyone to enjoy. Emma was brilliant throughout, offering advice on combinations and measurements to show us how well the locally sourced ingredients worked together (which Pat tried his best to follow!).

To finish, we added personalised labels to our bottles and got to take our creations home! After all our hard work, we wrapped up the session with an ‘Old Tom’, a favourite York Gin offering made in collaboration with Michelin-star chef Andrew Pern. We now know how it found its name after the fabulous history lesson. The perfect ending to our day!

We’d highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting York! Wet your whistle? Visit www. yorkdistillery.co.uk to book your place for an upcoming Gin School, gin tasting session or cocktail class, or to see what’s on at York Distillery. Head down to Skeldergate (YO1 6DS) to meet the team!

YORK PRIDE IS BACK! York Shakespeare celebration bags Sanctuary Award

North Yorkshire’s biggest LGBT celebration, and the largest free one-day event held in the City of York, returns to the streets of York this month, in what’s shaping up to be the most fabulous York Pride yet!

This fun and fab day will kick off with the annual Pride Parade, which usually pulls in around 7,000 proud participants. Winding its way through the city, the Parade will then make its way to the Knavesmire for the big Main Event show. More than 17,500 people attended the Main Event last year, where The Cheeky Girls and The Angels of the North put a cherry on top of proceedings. Performers already announced for this year’s bustling show include delectable drag queen Janice D, high-energy Hull sax man Dustin Kitsch, award-winning panto dame storyteller Mama G, and comic, cabaret performer, and magical maestro Ada Campe. Other performers taking to the stage this year include hilarious adult clown mime James Hall, award-winning comedian, actor, and musician Kate Pritchard, and her peerless alter-ego, Sir Elton Scone!

Speaking ahead of this year’s

celebrations, David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “York Pride is a highlight of York and North Yorkshire’s calendar, and I’m delighted that we’re supporting this special event as lead partner for what should be another record-breaking celebration. It’s a fantastic opportunity to show our solidarity with York and North Yorkshire’s LGBTQ+ community while welcoming thousands of visitors into the heart of York. I look forward to seeing our streets filled with the love, energy, pride, and inclusivity that runs throughout our region.”

Visit www.yorkpride.org.uk to see the full festival programme. Turn to page 41 to learn more about York’s LGBTQ history, and our city’s links to Pride.

NEW VOCAL WORKSHOP SERIES BRINGS LEADING GUEST ARTISTS TO YORK

York singers are invited to take part in a new series of inspiring one-day workshops led by some of the most exciting vocal specialists working in the UK today. Created by York choir leader and musician Jon Hughes, who runs The Stonegate Singers and VoxBox Choir, York Vocal Collective offers a new programme of friendly, high-quality singing days designed to bring fresh energy, new musical experiences, and outstanding guest leaders to the city. The first workshop, on Sunday 10 May, features Gitika Partington leading a dynamic pop a cappella day. Upcoming dates include Holly TaylorZuntz exploring the powerful sound-world of Georgian harmony, and Guillermo Rozenthuler, known internationally for his joyful and accessible work in circle singing and vocal improvisation. Across the wider series, singers will be able to experience a rich range of traditions and approaches, from world vocal music and improvisation to early music and close harmony. The workshops are open to

adult singers of all levels, and are especially suited to those who enjoy learning in a relaxed, welcoming way. The emphasis is on singing together, learning by ear, and enjoying the thrill of discovering new sounds with others.

York Vocal Collective hopes to build a vibrant new hub for singers in the city and beyond…

Visit www.tickettailor.com/events/ thestonegatesingers?ref=locallink1 to find out more or book your tickets. Visit www. stonegatesingers.com/about-2/ to learn more about The Stonegate Singers, or www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=61569858647911 for further information about Vox Box Choir.

First established in 2014, the York International Shakespeare Festival pays homage to the international influence of The Bard, with an extensive programme of citywide Shakespeare-centric productions and events running each year.

In recognition of its important work undertaken in supporting displaced people in our city (primarily those from Ukraine, and those involved with Refugee Action York), the York International Shakespeare Festival was recently given a Sanctuary in the Arts award by national organisation City of Sanctuary,which recognises and encourages communities which provide welcome, support and opportunity to people seeking sanctuary in the UK.

Festival Director Philip Parr said: “Shakespeare speaks to people across the world, providing a means to protest injustice and oppression; his is a voice that cannot be silenced. We are proud to learn from and work with people from these communities.” Rev. Paul Wordsworth, co-ordinator

of York City of Sanctuary, who championed the award, added: “We’re delighted that this award has been confirmed. Congratulations to all those involved in the management of the Festival, which has been successfully running in York for over a decade.”

This year’s York International Shakespeare Festival runs from 21 April - 3 May, and features a mustsee collaborative project with York Museums Trust, Shakespeare and Rome, plus stellar performances from the Romanian Cultural Institute, Common Ground Theatre, Tempest Wisdom and more. Events will be taking place at local venues including York St John University, Theatre@41 Monkgate, The Yorkshire Museum, York Explore, and the Friargate Theatre. If you’re quick, you’ll still have time to get in on the action!

Visit www.yorkshakes.co.uk to find out more or see what’s going on at the 2026 York International Shakespeare Festival.

Mela Free one-day festival

York Health & Arts Mela, a free one-day festival organised by the Eimaan Culture and Community Services team, will be arriving in style at the Museum Gardens this month, featuring a lively mix of traditional music and dance performances, diverse arts and crafts, and a range of stalls flogging flavourful foods from all over the world.

In 2024, this family-friendly event won a Community Pride Award in 2024, and was commended by BBC Make a Difference award in 2025. This award-winning multicultural South Asian health

festival offers a great opportunity to engage with your community, discover new cultures and experiences, and gain valuable advice and information about NHS services, voluntary sector services, and more!

York Health and Arts Mela will take place on Sunday 17 May from 10.00am5.00pm in York Museum Gardens. Visit www. eimaanccs.co.uk/ york-health-mela to find out more. Email shamim.eimaan@ eimaanccs.co.uk to get in touch with the Eimaan Culture and Community Services team.

returns with world-class lineup

York Festival of Ideas Relive Roman history at the Eboracum Roman Festival 2026

As one of the largest free festivals of its kind in the UK, York Festival of Ideas has been one of the most exciting events in our city’s cultural calendar since launching in 2011. This year, the festival will offer the people of York access to a jam-packed programme of more than 150 (mostly free!) events and activities across the city, focused on everything from archaeology and the arts to health, history, politics and psychology. But which big names will be appearing at this year’s festival?

From 30 May – 12 June, York Festival of Ideas 2026 will present a star-studded lineup of world-class speakers, including Former First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon, award-winning broadcasters Clive Myrie, Sian Williams, and Dallas Campbell, and double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes.

Festival revellers can also expect to hear from stars including visionary screenwriter Sally Wainwright (Happy Valley, Gentleman Jack, Last Tango in Halifax), celebrated historian and author Kate Williams (Becoming Queen, The Storms of War, The Daily Telegraph), veteran of British Retail and current Asda Chairman Stuart Rose, and bestselling author Alexander McCall Smith, famed for writing the acclaimed The Sunday Philosophy Club and The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency book series.

In anticipation of this year’s exciting programme of events, which will run under a ‘Place and Space’ theme, Director of York Festival of Ideas, Joan Concannon, said: “We are delighted to welcome a truly stellar lineup of headline speakers

who have each shaped their own unique ‘spaces’ in the world. We’re also thrilled to host our second Michael Morpurgo Celebration Day honouring our Festival Patron, Michael Morpurgo, who returns to the Festival for a ninth time.”

As the President of children’s reading charity BookTrust, a former Children’s Laureate, and author of beloved children’s novels including War Horse, Kensuke’s Kingdom, Waiting for Anya, and Private Peaceful, York Festival of Ideas veteran Michael Morpurgo was honoured with his very own special day in 2025, ‘Michael Morpurgo Celebration Day’; On 10 June during this year’s festival, he will also be inviting local children to attend the free online event, All Aboard the Story Time Express with Michael Morpurgo, where he’ll be reading excerpts from his much-loved tale, Flying Scotsman and the Best Birthday Ever from a York Railway Museum locomotive!

York Festival of Ideas 2026 takes place at venues across the city from 30 May - 12 June. Visit www. yorkfestivalofideas.com to book tickets for select events or browse the full festival programme.

York, called ‘Eboracum’ by the Romans, is thought to have been selected by the invaders due to its strategic position, being elevated between two rivers, the Ouse and the Foss. York’s Roman roots are never far away, and can still be traced in the city today, from Minster Yard’s Column and Constantine statue to the Museum Gardens’ Multangular Tower - even the famous bar walls are Roman remnants (the first defensive walls in the city were built around 71 AD).

From 16-31 May, York’s muchloved annual Eboracum Roman Festival returns, and we’ll see legions of Romans descend on the city once again. On the 23rd and 24th of May, York Museum Gardens will be transformed into a bustling Roman Living History Encampment, where modern-day visitors can get to grips with the realities of Roman life, interact

TIME

with costumed interpreters, enjoy re-enactments, and even test their mettle in a Roman battle! There will also be all sorts of citywide events occurring, with this year’s festival tying in with the Yorkshire Museum’s brand-new exhibition, Chariots, Treasure and Power: Secrets of the Melsonby Hoard. Special guests will include historian, author and podcaster Greg Jenner (Totally Chaotic History: Roman Britain Gets Rowdy!) appearing on 23 May, and renowned author, history buff, and Your Local Link interviewee Terry Deary (Horrible Histories, Dangerous Days in the Roman Empire), who’ll be giving Roman-centric talks and signing books at the Yorkshire Museum on 24th May.

Visit www.yorkshiremuseum.org. uk/eboracum-roman-festival-2026 to find out more and see the full festival programme.

FOR A VISIT TO SEE A TRIO OF HISTORIC HINDLEY CLOCKS AT YORK BAR CONVENT.

The Bar Convent’s eye-catching and recently recommissioned turret clock, which looks down lovingly over Blossom Street, is one of the best examples of a surviving turret clock made by Henry Hindley, the famous Lancashireborn clockmaker and watchmaker, who’s also thought to have created the world’s first equatoriallymounted telescope. Hindley would set up shop in York in 1731 and work in the city until his death in 1771, from workshops in Low Petergate, and the corner of Blake Street and Stonegate. Surviving examples of Hindley’s longcase clocks, spring clocks, and turret clocks can also be found in York at York Castle Museum, York Minster,

Fairfax House, and Mansion House.

While this distinctive black turret clock may be the most visible and famous Hindley clock displayed at the Bar Convent (it’s regularly rated amongst the best in the world), our readers may be surprised to learn that the site is now the ONLY place in the world to house THREE Hindley clocks, following a recent donation of a rare longcase piece from the family of former Coney Street jewellers and watchmakers, Darling, Wood and Anfield. The newly donated longcase clock (colloquially known as a ‘Grandfather clock’) can now be viewed for free!

Visit www.barconvent.co.uk or call 01904 643 238 to find out more.

Credit: Kirsty Anderson

Credit: Ian Martindale

Credit: Charlotte Hadden

Interview With Award-Winning Coreographer in York This Month

George Williamson

Ahead of this month’s English National Ballet production of My First Ballet – Cinderella at Grand Opera House York, we took to the floor with George Williamson.

My First Ballet introduces youngsters to ballet. What are the benefits of being bitten by the ballet bug in childhood?

I think ballet gives children a world that feels bigger than everyday life - it’s like discovering a new language, one that is physical, emotional and fun. Being bitten by the ballet bug early on teaches real life skills. You fall, you try again, you improve. You learn that progress comes from patience and persistence. Even if a child never becomes a dancer, that confidence and sense of growth tend to stay with them.

What do you hope that youngsters and adults alike will take away from this production of My First Ballet: Cinderella?

For children, I hope they’re absorbed by the world we’ve created and discover how exciting the theatre can be. For adults, I hope they enjoy the silly comedy and blossoming romance and allow themselves to be swept away for a little while. It’s a fantastical theatrical world, with beautiful costumes and a host of vivid characters, where the set shifts in full view and dancers interact playfully with puppetry. There’s plenty of humour, alongside moments of real warmth and heart. I hope audiences leave feeling uplifted.

roots of Cinderella, exploring its earlier mythology. Returning to those sources often reveals simple, strong themes that can be reshaped in a fresh way…

You famously applied to ballet school aged just 13, without telling your parents, and later attended the English National Ballet School in London. Do you have any advice for young, aspiring dancers hoping to get into training?

I think my mum still rolls her eyes when I tell this story, but I was an incredibly determined teenager!

I think ballet gives children a world that feels bigger than everyday life.

How would you describe your style of choreography, and what are your main influences when crafting a new show?

My style shifts depending on the world of the piece. In a narrative ballet like this, the choreography has to serve the story and reveal character clearly. For this production, my influences have been wide-ranging, from Laurel and Hardy and 90s cartoons for the Stepsisters’ comedy, to Iris van Herpen for costume ideas, and studying the movement of wild animals for the Four Seasons. I also looked back at the original

An interview with leading actress Frances Barber

Award-winning actress Frances Barber, as seen in Prick Up Your Ears, Doctor Who, and Inside No. 9, makes her York Theatre Royal debut this month in The Psychic, a thrilling new play by Jeremy Dyson and Andy Nyman. Ahead of the world premiere on 29 April, we had a chat with Frances to discuss everything from cider and séances to psychics and Psychobitches…

You’ll be playing Rosa in The Psychic, which follows a disgraced TV psychic who’s asked to conduct a séance. What’s your opinion on séances and spiritualism - are you a sceptic, or a believer?

I’m not a total sceptic; I’m a believer in, “There are more things in Heaven and Earth Horatio.” I used to do I Ching and taught myself Tarot, all of it fascinating and sometimes uncanny. I’m pretty agnostic in all beliefs, but prepared to give them a go.

When we were students, we often did the Ouija board. Usually, we had drunk very cheap cider, so we didn’t know what was happening… I’m sure we all faked it.

I’d walk over hot coals to work with Jeremy, he’s completely brilliant. Now I also have a new favourite, Andy, who I’ve admired and worshipped from afar. To get to work with both of them is like a dream come true. They are geniuses, and I feel so honoured and lucky.

In Psychobitches, you played an array of iconic ladies, including Bette Davis, Elizabeth I, St Catherine, and Dame Thora Hird. Which of these roles did you find the most satisfying to play?

I loved playing all those characters on Psychobitches, it was a rollercoaster of joy.

Once I decided I needed to further my training, I was convinced that going to a full-time ballet school was the right step, and it’s often the main route into the profession.

But, it’s an incredibly competitive career, and you need to understand what you’re stepping into - not just the intensity of the training, but the reality of the life that follows.

My advice would be to see as much dance as you possibly can. Get to know the world you’re choosing to enter. Learn what daily life as a professional dancer really looks like, and explore different styles and companies. The more informed your decision, the stronger and more confident you’ll feel about the path you’re taking.

When people are desperate, it feels like a wicked thing to do to give them false hope. Without giving too much away, how would you describe the character of Rosa?

Rosa is a woman I wouldn’t want to cross. She’s beyond fierce and sometimes terrifying. I’m trying to find what damaged her in her life to have turned her into such a monster. I don’t believe people are born monsters; they pass on their unhappiness to those closest to them, “man, hands on misery to man”.

You’ve previously worked with Jeremy Dyson on Funland and Psychobitches. How does it feel to be working with Jeremy again, alongside Andy Nyman, this time for the stage?

I think my favourite was Bette Davis, with Mark Gatiss as Joan Crawford. We hooted with laughter all day long! Finally, what can York audiences expect from The Psychic? I think York will be very happy indeed that this brand-new play, from two proven genius writers and directors, is hosting a brand new Hitchcockian thriller in their beautiful theatre. I’m so absolutely thrilled to be part of it and for my debut at York Theatre Royal.

I’ve filmed in York before and I love it, so to open such an exciting new project in your theatre is the cherry on top of a wonderful, delicious cake!

The Psychic runs at York Theatre Royal from 29 April - 23 May. Visit www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/ the-psychic for tickets.

How LinkTeresting!

Ten totally ‘link-teresting’ facts about LGBTQ+ York

There’s nowt so queer as Yorkshire folk! This month, to celebrate York Pride (which runs on 30th May), we’ve amassed ten interesting facts about LGBTQ+ York, past and present…

1. Connecting Low Ousegate with Spurriergate, Church Lane is a picturesque cobbled lane used by many a wandering Yorkie, but did you know that it was once the site of a public toilet and famous gay cottage, which served as a meeting place for men in the days when homosexuality was illegal?

2. At the Church Lane cottage, two local men, Stuart Feather and John Chesterman, would meet for the first time. The couple later moved to London, where they participated in one of the earliest Gay Liberation Front meetings. Between them, Feather and Chesterman would go on to organise the first-ever Gay Pride Parade, which took place in 1972!

3.

Did you know that St Thomas Church on Osbaldwick Lane is the unlikely burial site of what’s thought to be one of England’s earliestrecorded gay couples? Following the 2008 discovery of a stone slab, researchers found that William Hutchinson, an unmarried Coppergate property owner who died in 1772, stipulated in his will that he’d be buried next to Richard Wright, his suspected romantic partner.

4. Another notable queer figure buried in the grounds of St Thomas Church is Eliza Raine, who’s known as the ‘first love’ of pioneering Halifax-born, Yorkeducated lesbian, Anne Lister. Born in 1791, Lister married Ann Walker at Goodramgate’s Holy Trinity Church in 1834 - this is widely regarded as the first lesbian marriage conducted in Britain!

5. Anne Lister was nicknamed “Gentleman Jack” due to her androgynous looks, but did you know that the BBC/HBO TV

series of the same name, which chronicles Lister’s life, was filmed at iconic York locations, including Fairfax House, Grays Court, and Treasurer’s House?

6. Did you know that the now-closed York Arms pub, located on High Petergate, is said to be the oldest gay pub in the city? Completed in 1838, it was a famous watering hole for visiting theatre actors in the 1960s, and was known as an openly gayfriendly venue from at least the 1970s - it’s unknown how long the pub secretly served LGBT locals, as homosexuality was only legalised in 1967…

7. In 2017, to mark the 50th anniversary of the Sexual Offences Act 1967, which decriminalised homosexual acts in England and Wales, the landmark exhibition, York Out of the Closet: 50 Years of LGBT History, was held at York Castle Museum. Did you know that, as part of this exhibition, the Castle Museum’s muchloved 1960s-style boozer was transformed into an LGBT bar?

8. York is well-known for its bookish history, but did you know that in 2019, a bookshop specialising in LGBTIA+ titles was opened on York’s Patrick Pool? In 2022, the Portal Bookshop expanded its upstairs space to include Over The Rainbow Café.

9. Did you know that in the 2021 Census, more than 9,500 locals identified as LGBT+? That’s around 5.6% of York residents!

10.Did you know that an LGBTQ+ shop on Parliament Street, This Shop Is So Gay, opened its doors in March last year? In the wake of homophobic vandalism, York residents banded together to support the shop, raising nearly £1,000 in one night after the removal of its Pride flag, and stirring up a storm on social media after the shopfront was egged, showing that it’s an ‘egg-xtremely’ welcome addition to the city!

How well do you know our Yorkshire Coast?

BY CHARLES PATMORE

Think you know our Yorkshire coast? Think again! Take a look at these photos, taken from Choice Guide to Yorkshire’s Coast, and see how many hidden local coastal places you can identify!

1. Here’s a huge dinosaur footprint on a rocky beach (the red arrow shows a 50p coin to convey its size). What’s the name of the beach?

2. This 1911 Stanley Steam Car could do 50 mph at one mile to the gallon (of water, that is!). It’s in an indoor public collection of vintage vehicles, and also vintage funfair rides, still in working order for us to enjoy. Perfect for a rainy day! Where is it?

3. Can you make out this ghostly gardener, sculpted in wire mesh? He’s in a public garden, near the promenade. At which seaside town can he be found?

Scarborough – realistic miniature naval battles fought on Peasholm Park’s lake throughout summer.

In

Choice Guide to Yorkshire’s Coast is a new guidebook full of information about interesting, varied seaside day trips, easily accessible from York. Visit www. amazon.co.uk/Choice-GuideYorkshires-Charles-Patmore/dp/ B0FLWFZ5JX to purchase a copy!

Burniston Bay, also known as Crook Ness.

Stack’s Pinnacle near the tip of Flamborough Headland.

4.

summer, many boat trips visit this sea cave of jade-coloured water. Where is this cave?

5. An easy question – one of the Yorkshire Coast’s most spectacular views. Where is it?

6. It’s not always peace and quiet on the Yorkshire Coast! Scenes like this keep recurring all summer at one Yorkshire seaside town. Which town is it?

ANDREW KAY, AWARD-WINNING NORTHERN SCULPTOR EXHIBITS

IN YORK

Andrew Kay is an award-winning sculptor based in the north of England, whose stunning steel sculptures (which regularly appear in and around York) have earned him international acclaim.

With a star-studded list of previous clients, including Sir Tom Stoppard, Richard Curtis, and Lady Sabrina Guinness, Andrew Kay has completed recent commissions for English Heritage, The National Trust Lake District, and even Hong Kong Golf Club! While his work may be on display everywhere from Singapore to the Swiss alps, Andrew’s sculptures have also been exhibited all across the UK, including in York and North Yorkshire…

In the summer of 2013, Andrew created a series of eye-catching animal sculptures, which were displayed in the first major sculpture exhibition at Goddards in York, a key property in the Terry family’s chocolate legacy. Andrew’s animals, which included meticulously crafted horses, heron and deer, were later shown at Treasurer’s House, as well as Beningbrough Hall and Gardens; In 2020, Andrew Kaye also created a large Aberdeen Angus bull, which was commissioned to commemorate the life of Edwin, a prize-winning pedigree bull from Oakmoor Angus, in Haxby; Perhaps most famously, Andrew’s iconic Stallion sculpture recently appeared at York Minster, kicking

up a storm on social media earlier this year.

Having graduated from Leeds with a BA Hons in Design in 1992, and honing his skills whilst travelling in Prague and Scandinavia, Andrew’s creative process begins with a simple sketch. He said: “I first choose a subject that appeals to me, predominantly animals native to Britain. Then, with the help of anatomical drawings and photographs, I work up some preliminary sketches. Once happy with the form and posture, this is drawn up full size on a wall in the workshop. Normally starting from the feet up, I offer cut lengths of steel up to the drawing and the sculpture starts to take shape as each piece is welded together.”

Andrew said: “My goal with each subject is to add life and poise. This can be achieved, or not, with surprisingly subtle variance to the form and shape of each piece of steel.”

Each Andrew Kay sculpture is handmade to order, based on specifications from each client. Wildlife sculptures currently available to clients on the Andrew Kay Sculpture website include Curlew at Dawn, River Heron, Two Flamingos, Haughty Cockerel, and the Angus Bull, as seen at Oakmoor Angus.

Visit w to see more of Andrew Kay’s work. Call 07740 306412 if you’d like to discuss a commission.

BEN’S

As summer fast approaches, a lustful romance novel always feels like the perfect beach read. There’s something about the warmth of a summer afternoon that pairs effortlessly with love stories. Whether it’s a whirlwind affair or a slow-burn connection that simmers beneath the surface, these novels capture everything you want from a romantic summer novel.

BY BEN ROBINSON

People We Meet on Vacation –Emily Henry

Emily Henry is undoubtedly one of the great modern day romance novelists, and People We Meet on Vacation might just be her most charming work yet. Following the decade-long friendship between Poppy and Alex, things go awry one holiday and it's never quite the same. What becomes a book of missed chances and slow burning love will entertain you with every page. The novel effortlessly balances humour with an emotional depth that the author always captures. It has an emotional pull and warmth that defines a summer romance novel.

One Day – David Nicholls

Spanning two decades, One Day revisits Emma and Dexter on the same date each year, tracing the evolution of their relationship, from quiet everyday romance to burning desire. This book goes all in. The author has a gift for capturing the small, intimate moments that shape a life, making this far more than a simple love story. It was also adapted for screen, but the novel’s detail and emotional nuance are what sets it apart. It’s reflective and bittersweet in a way that every gutwrenching romance novel should be. Perhaps not the lightest summer read, but certainly one of the most emotive.

The Love Hypothesis – Ali Hazelwood

For something a little lighter but no less addictive, The Love Hypothesis delivers a feel-good romance with a modern twist. Set in the world of academia, it follows Olive, a PhD student who enters a fake relationship with the notoriously intimidating Adam... only for the lines between pretend and real to blur. Not only is this novel filled with wit, it also has an interesting focus on women in STEM, adding a more elevated feel to the book. This is exactly the kind of novel you can read in one sitting, simply because it is such a page turner.

WANT MORE INSPIRATION ON BOOKS TO READ?

Find more of Ben’s Book Reviews on our website at:

Layered Living

York Central regeneration plans get a boost from York Civic Trust

The local heritage group, York Civic Trust, has demonstrated strong support for the £2bn York Central planning application, with its largest comment in support of an application submitted in the last 80 years!

After consulting with transport specialists, landscape designers, urban planners, and external architects, York Civic Trust submitted a 60-page response expressing its support of the application. With the latest York Central proposals being put forward at the end of last year, the application is being led by York Central Ltd, Network Rail, and Homes England. It marks the next phase in the planned regeneration of one of the biggest brownfield sites in the country, located behind York railway station, off Leeman Road, following the long-awaited

opening of the purpose-built pedestrian and cycle route, Hudson Boulevard, last summer. The application lays out plans for almost 1,000 new homes, a green space, an entrance at the west of the station (complete with a cycle hub and civic square), and a 200-bed hotel. Chief Executive of York Civic Trust, Andrew Morrison, said: “York Central is a once-in-ageneration opportunity for the city. It will shape how York grows and how people live, work and travel here for decades to come.”

Scan the QR code to find out more.

The future of one of our city’s best-loved buildings, York Railway Institute, could be under threat!

The iconic, recognisable building, located just a stone’s throw from York railway station on Queen Street, was first established way back in 1889, at the former site of the Railway Tavern. Originally home to a dining room, library, smoking and games room, and classrooms for educating railway workers, the space was extended into the carriage works in the 1920s, with its first badminton court being marked out in 1926. While the old carriage works space functioned primarily as a boxing ring into the 1950s, today, it is home to nine wood-sprung badminton courts, with facilities on offer for locals to enjoy table tennis, pickleball, squash, and judo at the site.

Despite its rich history and well-used facilities, York Railway Institute could be in for an uncertain future, following the end of its lease in April this year. Previous plans, in which Network Rail agreed to sell the building to York RI (a volunteer-led charity that’s been in charge of the sports centre since 1926), may now be disrupted by rising business rates bills at both the Queen Street site, and Acomb site York RI New Lane, which is home to local clubs including York RI AFC, York RI RUFC, and York RI Netball. Email info@yorkri.org.uk or call 01904 624383 to get in touch or find out how to support York Railway Institute.

• Single & double glazed replacements

• Toughened safety glass

• Glass shelves

• Bespoke mirrors

• Glass Splashbacks

• Glass staircases/balustrades

• UPVC windows & doors

• Composite doors

• Shop fronts

• Secondary glazing systems

Image: Make It York

Local security company secures 2026 award

An acclaimed York-based security company specialising in alarms and CCTV recently picked up yet another gong at the 2026 My Local Awards, where it was recognised as Security Company of the YearYorkshire.

Ryther Alarms was founded in 2007 by Anthony Jamieson, who was later joined by business partner and best pal, Gary Lister. Reflecting on the My Local Awards accolade, Gary and Anthony said: “We have been really chuffed to win the Yorkshire Local Award for best local security company, as it reflects what we are all about - involved local owners and a local team that cares about protecting what's important to our customers.”

For the past ten years, Ryther Alarms has been consistently rated as one of the 3 Best Security companies in York by Three Best Rated. In 2024 and 2025, the company also scooped a gong for The Best Security Services in York

at the Quality Business Awards, ‘achieving a quality score of 95% and representing the top 1% of UK businesses’.

Speaking about their latest gong, Gary and Anthony said: “The timing was perfect to coincide with the opening of our new showroom, which provides a relaxed space for our valued customers to visit, have a look, and see a handson demonstration of the latest technology, that will offer them the peace of mind we aim to provide.” Easily accessible to customers based in and around York, Ryther Alarms’ new showroom is well worth a visit for those thinking of beefing up security systems in their home or business.

Visit www.alarmsyork.co.uk to find out more about Ryther Alarms. Email rytheralarms@gmail.com or call 01904 360118 to get in touch with the team, or visit the showroom at 3 Isis Court, Rosetta Way, York, YO26 5NA.

WORLD CUP FEVER is starting already!

BY MATT TODD, FROM HERBERT TODD & SONS

Whether you’re a York City, Leeds United, or Man Utd fan (we have all three in our team - you can imagine the conversations every Monday morning!), the excitement is already building for this summer’s World Cup. Now might be the best time to net a bargain new telly to watch it on! Modern televisions come with a range of technologies, each offering benefits that are particularly wellsuited to watching live football…

LED and QLED TVs deliver excellent brightness, making them ideal for daytime matches when rooms are filled with sunlight. QLED models, which use an extra quantum dot layer, offer more vivid coloursperfect for vibrant kits and lush green pitches.

OLED TVs are often considered the premium choice for sports fans. Each pixel produces its own light, allowing for perfect blacks and outstanding contrast. This makes it easier to track the ball during nighttime matches. OLEDs also have wide viewing angles, so everyone on the sofa gets a great view. For cutting edge performance, Mini LED TVs combine high brightness with precise backlight control, improving detail in both bright

Local Alarm

over 40 years of experience,

stadium lights and darker crowd shots, while a high refresh rate, such as 120Hz, reduces motion blur during fast sprints and long passes. 4K resolution also adds extra detail, especially noticeable on larger screens.

To celebrate 90 years in business, Herbert Todd’s is giving every customer buying a TV before the Semi-final of the World Cup the chance to WIN A SOUND BAR WORTH £199, which will be installed free of charge before the final (a total package worth OVER £250). Pop in to the Monk’s Cross store to see our great selection of TVs, including award-winning brands Sony, Samsung, LG and TCL.

Acomb group campaigns for a better Front Street

Will you be signing the Greater Acomb Community Forum petition?

The Greater Acomb Community Forum has launched a petition encouraging the owners of Front Street supermarket Morrisons to “be better neighbours”. The campaign focuses on three neglected houses that sit adjacent to the supermarket, which the community feels have been left to “decay and crumble” by their owner, Morrisons.

The Greater Acomb Community Forum is imploring that these dilapidated buildings be developed for residential or community use, rather than being left unused, unloved, and unattended.

Chairperson, Luke Walker, said that the neglected properties, which are highly visible in the heart of Acomb shops, act as “a glaring eyesore that casts a shadow over a community working tirelessly to breathe new life into the very street that binds us together”. The group is also proposing that an undeveloped area on the Morrisons site (accessible by Front Street, via steps or a curved ramp) be repurposed with seating, planters,

www.greateracomb.org.uk

and an outside café or social area, creating a more welcoming, attractive, and productive community space.

Walker said, “This is not a petty campaign. It is a plea for accountability for Morrisons to clean up their act and become better neighbours. Acomb belongs to everyone who calls it home; it cannot flourish if part of its story is ignored.”

What’s your opinion? Will you be signing the petition?

Visit www.greateracomb.org.uk to find out more, or www.change. org/p/can-acomb-morrisons-bebetter-neighbours-please to sign the petition.

A WONDROUS FESTIVAL OF WIZARDRY

Is your little one a wizardry whizz, a successful sorcerer, or a magician in the making? If you’ve been looking for magically fun activities to keep both muggle kids and little wizards entertained in town in the coming weeks, you’ll be happy to learn that The Wizard Walk of York and Little Vikings’ spellbinding three-day festival will be returning to the streets of York this month!

After a hugely popular 2025 debut, WizardFest is back for the second year running, with more than a few surprises up its oversized sleeve… Enchanting events on offer this year include The Bubble Wizard’s Giant Bubble Show, a Magical Night Market, the Fancy Dress Parade & ‘Best Dressed’ Contest (all running on Monday only), as well as daily Meet a Dragon events, mindboggling illusions at The Curse of Professor Kettlestring, plus a special screening of Wicked at York City Screen (Sunday only). From 10.00am-4.00pm each day, visitors can also experience the Party Octopus 360 video, Wand Making, Face Painting, and get the chance

to meet the barmy botanist, Professor Grimbleweed. Visitors will also be able to participate in whimsical workshops, including Chocolate Frog & Unicorn Making, Wicked Witch and Wizard Crafts, Brick Magic and Pokémon Play workshops, while tours and trails available to enjoy include The Magical Owl Trail, The Black Cat Quest, and of course, The Wizard Walk of York.

Enjoy, Yorkies… this year’s WizardFest is shaping up to be one for the spell books! WizardFest 2026 will run across the city from 23-25 May. Visit www. wizardwalkofyork.com/wizardfest to find out more.

Race Across the World: The Experience arrives in York. Do you fancy your chances?

It’s been seven years since the first series of Race Across the World hit our TV screens, which was memorably won in fine style by former York teacher Tony Teasdale and his wife, Elaine. Since then, the hit BBC show has run for six successful series, gained countless fans (ironically, all over the world), and even spawned its very own thrilling, hands-on, real-world race: Race Across the World: The Experience!

Created by CityDays, this live citybased adventure is now available for the people of York to enjoy, after rollicking runs in London and Manchester. The experience encompasses three distinct legs that wind around the heart of the city, with a beautiful 4-5km route

CAN YOU HELP MAKE SPACE YORK?

The community-led project, Make Space York, needs your support in securing full ‘Movement and Sports Fund’ funding. This will go towards providing new equipment in a dedicated space in Rowntree Park, co-created by local teenage girls, plus a two-year programme of sports and movement activities.

Abigail Gaines, Make Space York project creator and lead, said: “This isn’t just about equipment. It’s about creating a ‘teenage zone’ - a space girls have designed themselves. It’s a place to swing, climb, chat, sit up high, and spend time together on their own terms.” Due to a generous combination of grants, work began

on the space in May 2024, when the first pieces of equipment were installed, however, in order to unlock the full funding, Make Space York needs your help! The group is now seeking to raise an extra £2,200 by the middle of this month, which is essential to bring the space to ultimate completion.

It’s about creating a ‘teenage zone’

Abigail said: “We’ve come so far with this project, and this final push will help bring the girls’ vision fully to lifesomething we can all be proud of.”

Any and every donation is greatly appreciated by Make Space York, no matter how small. Can you do your bit to help?

Visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/ make-space-york to donate today.

York pupil wins Portakabin ‘Inspiring Libraries’ competition!

A York pupil’s inspirational design for an eco-friendly library has been selected from more than 1,900 entries nationwide to win Portakabin’s ‘Inspiring Libraries’ competition, which supports the government’s pledge to tackle the shortage of reading spaces and provide a library for every primary school.

way of thinking”.

(this typically takes 2-3 hours to complete) featuring cherished local landmarks and locations such as The Shambles, Dean’s Park, York Minster, and York’s famous snickelways. Teams are invited to race against the clock to complete the route in time, dealing with intriguing twists and escape room-style puzzles along the way - just like in the TV show, York adventurers will need to rely on strategy, teamwork, and quick wits to succeed in the race.

Do you fancy your chances? We’ll see you at the finish line!

Visit www.raceacrosstheworld experience.com/york to book your tickets for Race Across the World: The Experience in York.

When asked to design his dream school library, Woodthorpe Primary School student, Archie, created a beautiful eco-themed space, complete with solar panels, a living wall, grass-effect flooring, and cloud-shaped lights. The Inspiring Libraries competition judging panel, which included Kim O’Brien, Managing Director of Educate Magazine, said: “The structure and thoughtfulness of this Eco Library really stood out”, with its features demonstrating a “very architectural

As if this high praise wasn’t enough, Archie’s inspirational design will now be used to inspire the construction of a real new library, in his very own school! Rose Newson, Year 1 Teacher at Woodthorpe Primary School, said: “Archie’s design reflects his passion for creating a vibrant and welcoming environment where books can come to life. Our new library will have a transformative impact on our school community, and we can’t thank the Portakabin team enough! We are incredibly proud of Archie and his enthusiasm towards reading.”

Visit www.portakabin.com/gb-en/ news-and-events/news/inspiringlibraries-competition to learn more about Portakabin’s Inspiring Libraries initiative.

To bin or to box - what do YOU reckon?

City of York Council have been seeking the views of local people to find out whether proposed changes to household recycling cut the mustard.

The recycling review consultation survey, which is open for submissions until 1st May, asks residents to decide whether they’d prefer to keep kerbside box recycling collections as they are, or switch to less regular collections of two 240-litre wheeled recycling bins. As the switch to wheely bins

could provide an extra 315 litres of total recycling capacity (the three recycling boxes currently used offer around 165 litres), it’s thought that the second option could benefit families and larger households in York.

Plenty of Yorkies have already thrown in their two pence - have you had your say?

Visit www.york.gov.uk/ recyclingreview to learn more or have your say. Hurry! The survey expires on 1st May.

BOOK YOUR PARTY TODAY!

Audax Close, Clifton Moor, York, YO30 4XF www.firstforchildcare.com/first-for-childcare-york TEL: 01904 479261 Email:

Coffee Morning

YOUR LOCAL Pet Services

For dog owners, cat lovers and small pet carers, discover trusted local services to keep them happy and healthy.

Pets Pantry

Serving York for over 40 years, offering quality pet food, expert advice, price matching, and personalised fitting services.

01904 620527

Jockey Ln, Huntington, YO32 9NE

Lilling Green Farm

Cattery

Set in a secluded countryside setting, offering warm, friendly, home-from-home care for your cats.

07805 884205

www.lillinggreenfarmcattery.com

Doug & Co Ltd

Delivering City & Guilds qualified, fully insured care with K9 first aid. They are based in Acomb and Bishopthorpe, offering 1-2-1 or salon grooms, including hand-stripping and services for all breeds, including larger dogs.

From full grooms to puppy packages, nail clipping, walking and pet sitting, they maintain consistently high standards for all your pets.

07511 889981 www.dougandco.co.uk

Paws Dog Grooming

All breed dog grooming with over 25 years of experience, caring for dogs of all shapes and sizes. Offering a full range of services including bathing, clipping and nail trimming, each groom is tailored to suit your dog’s needs. Paws Dog Grooming provides a calm, professional service, ensuring your pet looks great and feels comfortable every time.

07984 713050

Golden Paws, Wigginton Rd, YO32 2RH

Fluffs Dog Grooming

At Fluffs Dog Grooming, your dog is treated with the care, patience and attention they truly deserve.

Run by Lucy, a Level 2 & 3 qualified groomer, each appointment is a calm, one-to-one experience tailored to your dog’s breed, coat and personality. Services include full grooms, hand stripping, puppy grooming, wash, dry and de-shed, and nail clipping, all delivered with a gentle approach that builds trust.

07955 270459

Wigginton, York, YO32 2TW

Mill Cottage Pet Cremation

An independent, family-run business offering individual pet cremation. Caring for pets big and small, Mill Cottage offers 24-hour call and message support, carrying out all cremations within 24 hours. Open for four years and DEFRAapproved, they also offer urns, caskets, ashes transfers and pet bereavement services.

07925 218372

millcottagepetcrematorium@gmail.com

Pebbles

A reliable dog waste removal service across York. Fully insured, no contracts, and photo proof. The first visit is just £10!

07356 021270

pickuppebbles@gmail.com

Precious Paws Cat Rescue York

A volunteer-run, foster-based charity that has helped nearly 2,000 cats and kittens in under five years. The team works tirelessly to find loving forever homes for cats in need, and while the work is demanding, it is incredibly rewarding.

They are seeking foster carers, adopters and volunteers. For anyone interested, get in touch today!

07719 259408

preciouspawscats@gmail.com

Claire’s Groom Room

Loving and grooming dogs of all shapes, sizes and personalities as if they were her own. Offering all aspects of dog grooming, including teeth cleaning, in a calm, one-to-one home-based setting. Based in Huntington, providing a compassionate and stress-free experience tailored to each dog’s individual needs, ensuring they look and feel their very best.

07971 811972

cnicholls53201@gmail.com

Alison’s Dog Grooming

Offering trusted, professional grooming services at competitive prices. With great reviews and a no-obligation approach, your dog is always in safe, experienced hands. Providing a friendly, reliable service, each groom is tailored to your pet’s individual needs, ensuring they look and feel their very best after every visit, leaving them happy and well cared for.

01904 422905

29 Penyghent Ave, Burnholme

ASK A VET

Protecting our pets from adder bites!

“I’ve heard that adders are being found more often in our area. What do I do if my dog is bitten?”

Stephen, Boroughbridge

Rusty Spurs 5 ½ Years, Female

Rusty Spurs came to us from a multi-cat home after the sad passing of her owner. Rusty would love a quiet home without other pets, where she can feel safe and build her confidence. She is best suited to an adult-only home or a family with sensible teenagers. She will also need access to the outdoors to explore once she’s fully settled.

Ice

6

years, Female

Ice came to the centre alongside her three puppies, and needs some stability and a loving family to call her own. Ice would benefit from living in a quiet home, outside the noise and chaos of the city. Her training is really coming on, and she is starting to flourish and show her fun and loving personality.

As the spring and summer bring warmer days to the landscapes of Yorkshire, many of us are heading further afield on our dog walks, exploring the moors, woodlands and fields. Whilst they are very shy, it’s worth noting that adder sightings have increased over recent years, possibly due to warmer weather. Whilst adders are not aggressive and more likely to retreat if disturbed, curious dogs can be at risk of a bite!

Usually, there is a successful outcome to an adder bite, but it is a major medical event, and veterinary care is essential. If your dog has been bitten, you may notice sudden yelping or limping, especially after exploring undergrowth or rocky areas.

Common symptoms include swelling around the bite site (often on the face, legs, or paws), pain, lethargy, vomiting, drooling, or difficulty breathing. In severe cases, the venom can cause collapse or affect the heart and nervous system. If you suspect an adder bite, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen – act immediately.

What to do if your dog is bitten:

1. Stay calm and keep your dog still. Panicking can increase your dog’s heart rate, spreading the venom faster. Encourage your dog to remain calm and avoid running or jumping.

2. Carry your dog if possible. If you’re far from your vehicle, try to carry your dog to reduce movement and slow venom circulation.

3. Do not touch the bite area. Avoid running, squeezing or applying ice or heat to the wound, as this can

worsen the injury or spread the venom.

4. In NO circumstances should you attempt to tourniquet a limb – this will result in local tissue necrosis and will not prevent the venom spreading.

5. Do not rely on Piriton or other antihistamines. No studies have been done which prove its efficacy. You do need to see a vet.

6. Contact us immediately on our emergency number, 01765 602396. Let us know if you suspect an adder bite so we can prepare for your arrival. Time is critical, and professional treatment is essential. Our Ripon hospital is open 24 hours a day.

7. Monitor your dog. Note any symptoms or changes in behaviour en route to the vet, as this information will help our team provide the best care.

To reduce risks, keep dogs on leads in adder-prone areas, especially during spring and summer when snakes are active. Stick to clear paths and avoid tall grass or rocky outcrops where adders may bask. Please remember that adders are a protected species and you mustn’t attempt to hurt or injure the snake – and certainly, never be tempted to pick one up!

Remember, if you need us, we are available 24/7.

Kind regards, Immy Allen, Bishopton Vets

Bishopton Vets have been proudly independent since 1943. For further advice for either pets, farm or equine, scan the QR code.

Beano 8 Years, Male

Beano was brought into our care after his owner sadly passed away. We don’t know a lot about Beano’s life before, but he is a well-mannered, mature gentleman with a calm temperament. Despite everything he’s been through, he has handled the change quietly and seems grateful for a warm bed and regular meals. We believe Beano would be happiest in a quieter home where he can enjoy a peaceful routine and the comfort of steady companionship.

Macey 2 years, Female

Macey is very friendly and loves to be out and about exploring. As much as she enjoys discovering new walks, Macey also wants a family who will sit and snuggle on the sofa with her. She is a lovelynatured girl, and would be happy to live with children or another dog.

Lucy & Chase

8 Years, Female & Male

After a long wait, Lucy and Chase can now start looking for a new home. They are both loving and affectionate dogs who love cuddles. They are a little anxious when left alone, so they will need adopters who can be with them and help build their confidence. Lucy and Chase are looking for a quieter home together, where they can relax and get all the attention they deserve.

Merlin 10 Months, Male

Merlin is a lovely and kind dog who has been adopted previously, but through no fault of his own, was brought back to the centre. Merlin was born nearly blind, but this does not hold him back. Visually impaired dogs cope very well when adapting and learn quickly. Merlin loves lots of attention and is keen to learn and experience new things. He would need a family that can dedicate time to help him settle in at the beginning, and he is happy to live with other dogs.

To adopt one of the dogs visit www.rspca-yorkhome.org. uk/adopt-an-animal or for the cats, visit www.cats.org.uk/ york#adopt-17600

Need a helping hand to heat your home?

For many York families, the rising cost of living has made heating their homes trickier than ever. If you’ve been having trouble keeping your household cosy and comfy during cold snaps, the York Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) could provide the helping hand you need to beat those increasing bills. City of York Council is now encouraging residents to apply

for the fund, which can help cover essential heating, electricity, and basic living costs.

Visit www.york.gov.uk/crf to find out more or begin your application.

YORKSHIRE CANCER RESEARCH

OPENS BIG NEW SUPERSTORE

Calling all charity shoppers! Are you partial to picking out preloved clothing and perusing vintage clobber? Maybe your bag is browsing for bargains, books, and bric-a-brac? Whatever your pleasure at the charity shop, the recently opened two-storey superstore, located on Foss Islands Road, is surely worth a visit! As the biggest Yorkshire Cancer Research

store to date, the superstore offers a huge range of high-quality pre-loved goods, and has been designed as a welcoming hub for the local community.

We’ll see you there!

Call 01904 580040 to get in touch.

Visit www.yorkshirecancerresearch. org.uk to find out more about Yorkshire Cancer Research or make a donation.

FURNITURE TRADERS TEAMS UP WITH TEENAGE CANCER TRUST FOR 2026

TCS LONDON MARATHON

Last month, family-owned North Yorkshire retailer, Furniture Traders, joined forces with UK charity, Teenage Cancer Trust, to raise valuable funds at the 2026 TCS London Marathon. First founded in 2006 by Steve and Colette and now run by their sons Josh and Jake, the Thirsk furniture store threw a very special charity sale to raise funds ahead of the big day, offering their customers 20% off all furniture and up to 75% off clearance items, with 10% of all

We’re hoping to raise as much as possible!

MY JOURNEY TO BECOMING A PILOT.

BY CHARLIE GREENBANK

In the last issue, I shared my experiences of soaring in gliders. This month, I’ll be breaking down exactly what it takes to go from a school classroom to the captain’s seat…

Ever wondered how someone becomes a pilot? Well, I haven’t yet got my PPL (Private Pilot’s Licence), but I’ve been researching the path for anyone who shares the dream, needs a bit of guidance, or is simply curious about how they can jump into the cockpit. Surprisingly, it all starts long before you reach the airfield…

Believe it or not, your first "flight school" takes place in a regular school.

radio license, and once you’re 17 and have secured your PPL, you’ll be a pilot who can fly your friends and family around (although your wallet will be significantly lighter)!

Now that we’ve dealt with the fine print, it’s time to embark on our first flight…

My first time in a plane cockpit was nerve-racking, to say the least. We were taxiing toward the runway when suddenly, my instructor noticed that something was wrong with the engine - that’s never something you want to hear!

profits from the sale being donated to the charity. Ahead of his London Marathon run, where he’d be working towards hitting a £5,000 fundraising target, co-owner Josh said: “Through this sale at Furniture Traders, we’re hoping to raise as much as possible to support the amazing work Teenage Cancer Trust does for young people and their families.”

Visit www.teenagecancertrust. org/ to learn more about Teenage Cancer Trust or make a donation.

I’ll be honest, I hate maths (I’m still in the top set, though), however, if you have aspirations to be a pilot, it’s probably the most important subject you’ll study. Flight academies look for good grades in Maths and Physics; you’ll need these to calculate fuel burn, understand aerodynamics, and navigate through changing weather.

Piloting a plane for the first time felt alien, unusual, and above all else, thrilling!

Once we’d fixed the pesky engine issue, we raced back to the runway and lined up once again. We began the takeoff run, accelerating quickly before climbing steeply. After a short time, we levelled out, and the instructor let me take control…

I could hardly believe that I was flying the aircraft - even though I’ve flown gliders before, piloting a plane for the first time felt alien, unusual, and above all else, thrilling!

Let's talk about the PPL: to get yours, you’ll need to complete 9 exams, a medical evaluation, and 45 hours of flight, consisting of at least 10 solo hours (once you're over the age of 16), including at least 150 nautical miles of crosscountry, and 25 hours of dual flight. After this, you’ll need your FRTOL

Due to my gliding background, I got used to the controls pretty quickly and was soon comfortable with the aircraft.

I hope you can join me in the skies soon - just watch out for those helicopters!

If you’d like to take to the skies at Sherburn Aero Club, visit www. sherburnaeroclub.com to book your first flight!

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.

Launched in 2022 , this crucial charity is dedicated to eradicating childhood poverty and giving children across Yorkshire the best possible start in life. Yorkshire Children’s Charity offers a range of programmes to give disadvantaged kids a leg up, from its Schools Out events and grants via The School Network, to its Winter Support Campaign and unique Great Yorkshire Build scheme.

Proudly putting its beneficiaries first, the charity is committed to providing care for local children who need it most, whilst supporting schools, communities, and families in God’s Own County to make Yorkshire a better place for disadvantaged kids. In its first three years, the charity raised a grand total of £7.1 million for local children, supporting 30,000 people!

Yorkshire Children’s Charity also knows how to throw a party - this spring, it raised an incredible total of £1.2 million in just one evening, at its annual luxury fundraising gala, A Night Under the Stars! CEO, Charlotte Farrington, said that this achievement, and indeed all of the charity’s good work, is only made possible due to the “amazing collective efforts” of its committed

Yorkshire Children’s Charity

team of volunteers, made up of “proper Yorkshire folk doing a proper good job”, as well as those who kindly donate and attend events. Charlotte was keen to express that the charity is “immensely grateful” for its volunteers and supporters, and that Yorkshire Children’s Charity recently dished out 15,000 Easter eggs to local children in need – a sweet treat indeed!

The charity runs regular, funfilled fundraising events across the county, ranging from awards ceremonies and galas to polo days and action-packed annual clay shoots. If any Your Local Link readers are looking for a fun way to let off some steam, socialise, and raise much-needed funds to help this crucial charity continue its important work, a day out with Yorkshire Children’s Charity could be just the ticket!

Visit www.yorkshirechildrens charity.org to learn more about Yorkshire Children’s Charity. To make a donation or find out how to register your interest as a volunteer, visit www. yorkshirechildrenscharity.org/ yorkshire-childrens-charity/ support/ today.

Upcoming

7 MAY

YORKSHIRE CHILDREN’S CHARITY EVENTS:

‘THE YORKSHIRES’ COMMERCIAL

REAL ESTATE AWARDS, Rudding Park, HG3 1JH. 3.00pm-10.00pm. Bringing together 1000 heavy hitters from the commercial real estate industry, this awards ceremony offers a full afternoon of networking, fundraising, and award presentations. Visit form. jotform.com/260193861035354 to join the waitlist.

25 JUNE

YORKSHIRE POLO, Allerton Park, HG5 0SE. 11.00am-6.00pm. This summer social offers a

three-course lunch, cocktails, and the chance to catch two polo matches in the stunning grounds of Allerton Park, in aid of Yorkshire Children’s Charity. Visit pci.jotform.com/ form/260294263949366 to book.

26 JUNE

YORKSHIRE CLAY SHOOT, Allerton Park, HG5 0SE. 8.30am-5.00pm. Test out your aim and enjoy a full day behind the barrel at this hands-on Yorkshire Clay Shoot, in aid of Yorkshire Children’s Charity. Visit pci.jotform.com/ form/260293612182352 to book.

GET SUPPORT FROM AGE UK YORK

First founded in 1971, independent charity Age UK York has been supporting older people and their loved ones in our community for over 50 years. Whether you’re an elderly person thinking you could benefit from extra care, or you feel that one of your loved ones could do with an extra helping hand, Age UK York’s dedicated services are here to help you.

Care at Home

The Care at Home service provides local people with high-quality personal care in the comfort of their own homes, with trained volunteers conducting regular 30-minute visits. It offers both long and short-term person-led care, tailored to support individual needs. Call 01904 866070 or email careathome@ageukyork.org. uk to learn more.

Independent Living

The Independent Living service provides local people with valuable short-term support, intended to reduce hospital admissions and enable them to stay active in their community when times are tough. Support services are tailored to individual needs, and include things like collecting prescriptions, taking people for short walks or to GP appointments, and escorting them home after being discharged from hospital. Call 01904 726191 or email ils@ageukyork.org.uk to learn more about the Age UK York Independent Living service.

Can you support Age UK York and help it to continue its important work in York? Please visit www. ageuk.org.uk/york/get-involved/ donate to make a donation.

Understand how to protect your assets for your children and grandchildren.

Enable your family to legally help you when you’re less able to do things yourself.

“Absolutely superb service”

“Couldn't recommend enough!!! 5 STAR”

“Very professional and personable”

“Explained everything in plain English”

Free NHS prescription deliveries for all

Yorkies!

York Delivery Pharmacy is now offering a FREE NHS prescription delivery service to York residents, with same-day deliveries available for new medicines for shortterm illnesses and conditions, and reliable deliveries for urgent medications. This will enable all people in our city to receive crucial medicine when they need it most, even when they’re unable to make it to the pharmacy.

To register, simply fill out the registration form posted through your door, and return it using the pre-paid envelope provided with the NHS letter. If you didn’t receive

an NHS letter or would prefer to register online (doing so takes less than a minute!), scan the QR code below.

Call 01904 463231 or email info@ yorkdeliverypharmacy.co.uk to get in touch.

Scan the QR code to register.

STAYING INDEPENDENT AT HOME, WITH THE RIGHT SUPPORT

By Marco Polledri, Radfield Homecare Director

COULD YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE AS A PARENT ADVOCATE?

Do you have lived experience of interacting or working with Children’s Social Care Services, as a parent or supportive family member? Could you spare some of your time to help local families in need?

City of York Council’s Volunteer Service are currently seeking volunteer parent advocates to provide essential support for parents and families undergoing the child protection process. Volunteers can arrange flexible

schedules to fit around their everyday lives and commitments, and are sure to feel welcomed by a supportive community of fellow parent advocates and confident in building new skills, with full training and supervision provided. Does this sound like you?

To apply, call 07542 510430 or email volunteer@york.gov.uk today. Visit www.york.gov.uk/directoryrecord/2737/parent-advocate to learn more about the role.

York foster carers celebrated with wonderful woodland space

An area of new woodland to the west of York has been designated for special development in recognition of the amazing work carried out by City of York Council foster carers, who help to provide safe, loving homes for children and young people in need.

Located near the village of Knapton, York Community Woodland is a 78-hectare, newly-established community woodland that offers an easy escape into the great outdoors. As well as providing a haven for local walkers, wanderers, and wildlife populations, the site will also help to prevent flooding and alleviate the effects of soil erosion, as it continues to develop and flourish in the coming years. A designated space of the woodland will now benefit from a special design to honour the hard work of local foster carers, which often goes under-appreciated.

Cllr Bob Webb, the council’s

Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “It seems fitting that we highlight the amazing work of our foster carers given their role enabling our children and young people to grow and flourish – just like the growing, developing woodland. I hope that the plaque might encourage other people enjoying the site to consider fostering as a career.”

Visit fostering.york.gov.uk/ or call 01904 555678 if you’re interested in fostering for City of York Council. Visit www.forestryengland.uk/ york-community-woodland to find out more about York Community Woodland.

One of the things we hear most often when we first speak to someone is, “I’m not ready for care.”

And in many cases, they’re right. For a lot of people, it’s not about needing ‘care’ in the traditional sense; it’s about having a bit of support in the right places, so they can carry on living the life they want, in their own home, on their own terms.

We often support people who are largely independent, but who might be finding certain parts of the week a little more difficult than they used to. It might be getting out and about, keeping on top of things at home, or simply not having as much company as they once did.

That’s where companionship can make a real difference.

Something as simple as having a regular visit from a familiar face can help bring structure, confidence, and connection back into someone’s week. It’s not about taking over - it’s about supporting what’s already there.

We’ve seen first-hand how a small amount of the right support can help people stay independent for longer, and just as importantly, feel more like themselves again. If you’ve ever thought, “I’m managing, but a little help might make things easier,” you’re not alone.

Sometimes, it’s the small steps that make the biggest difference.

FULFORD CHURCH AWARDED NATIONAL LOTTERY HERITAGE FUNDING

First opened in 1866 (and later rebuilt after being destroyed by a fire in 1877), St Oswald’s Church remains one of the finest examples of a Victorian Church in our city today. Located on Fulford’s Main Street and designed by Darlington’s JP Pritchett junior, many of St Oswald’s original features can still be marvelled at today, including its stunning stained glass windows, gold mosaic, and stone carvings by Burstall and Taylor of Leeds. Despite its illustrious past and important heritage value, the church has suffered from a lack of heating and facilities, but in recent weeks, this historic gem has proudly announced the receipt of a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant of £68,091, which will be used to carry out physical improvements to the building and its community facilities; this will include improved heating and the installation of an accessible toilet, kitchenette, and new internal porch. St Oswald’s vicar, the Rev Canon Sue Sheriff, said “We are

delighted to have received the grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, the church will be a much more comfortable and welcoming space. No longer will people have to shiver in the pews in winter.”

Funding will also go towards funding research of the site’s history and an illuminating oral history project, which will be open to volunteers, visitors, and staff and students from St Oswald’s CE Primary School.

Call 01904 633261 or email vicar@ stoswalds.church to find out more. Email treasurer@stoswalds.church if you’d like to donate.

Use Your Local Link…

HIDDEN GEMS FOR YOUR FAMILY SUMMER ESCAPE

The months are flying by and, as we enter May, if you have still not planned your family summer holiday, here are four less discovered destinations for you to consider that are closer to home:

The Azores are one of Europe’s best kept secrets for family travel. There are volcanic landscapes, natural adventure opportunities and a relaxed pace. Often compared to Hawaii for the landscape, they offer a pleasant climate even during the summer months.

A trip to the islands feels exotic, whilst still in Europe, and there is so much to see and do, whether you stay on one island or choose an island-hopping adventure.

Fancy a whale and dolphin watching trip? The Azores are one of the best places in the world for spotting marine life, from sperm whales and dolphins to blue whales.

Visit the natural hot springs or walk along volcanic trails, waterfalls, and lush forests.

France is a great option for the summer, with so many options to consider. You might choose to fly, take your own car, or take advantage of the great rail connections.

Both destinations provide a slower pace than major cities, giving families time to reconnect, explore, and create lasting memories together in beautiful, welcoming settings.

The Italian island of Sardinia is an ideal destination for a family holiday, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Its crystal-clear, shallow waters make beaches safe and enjoyable for children, while parents can unwind in stunning surroundings. The island’s laid-back atmosphere, delicious Italian cuisine, and welcoming culture create a stress-free experience for families. A great way to explore the island is to hire a car or even consider a twin centre. Enjoying a stay in the rugged central part of the island, visiting the archaeological site of Tiscali or the Gorropu Gorge, one of the deepest and most spectacular in Europe, before heading to the beautiful beaches of Costa Smeralda.

If you’ve got good-quality furniture that you no longer need, we’ll collect it from your home. Every donation helps fill our charity shops in and around York, raising vital funds for our care.

Visit stleonardshospice.org.uk/ home-collection to book a collection or call 01904 788 777 for any enquiries We’ll collect your pre-loved furniture for free!

The Dordogne is perfect for those who enjoy nature, history, and outdoor adventures. With its rolling countryside, medieval castles, and prehistoric caves, children can explore while learning, and parents can relax in peaceful surroundings. Canoeing along the river and visiting traditional markets make every day feel special.

La Rochelle, on the other hand, offers a vibrant seaside experience. Families can stroll around its picturesque old harbour, enjoy sandy beaches, and visit one of Europe’s largest aquariums. The city’s laidback atmosphere and fresh seafood make it both fun and relaxing.

The Italian Lakes are a beautiful setting but some areas can get very crowded during the busy summer months. A new service from Manchester to the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, makes visiting Lake Bled easier than ever and there is so much to keep you busy. Choose to take a bike ride or walk a 6km path around the lake which is flat, pushchair friendly, and dotted with playgrounds, ideal for all ages. Kayak on the lake or visit Bled Castle, Slovenia’s oldest castle. Still unsure where to start? Get in touch with us to discuss your requirements and we will use our knowledge and experience to get to work on creating your family break.

88 Main Street, Fulford or call 01904 623444.

Kerry Lakey

HOLIDAY The Edit HEALTH & BEAUTY

GIFT GUIDE

Whether you’re jetting off somewhere sunny or just chasing a bit of rare Yorkshire sunshine, these holiday heroes have you covered.

CHITOCARE BEAUTY TRAVEL KIT

£99 from chitocare.co.uk

Skincare sorted, wherever you go. This travelfriendly set includes four 50ml essentials for cleansing, hydrating and nourishing skin, all powered by marine chitosan to help lock in moisture and support the skin barrier. Ideal for keeping your routine consistent on holiday.

IMAGE SKINCARE DAILY PREVENTION PROTECT & REFRESH MIST SPF 30

£41.60 from imageskincare.co.uk

Top up your SPF without ruining your makeup. This lightweight dry-oil mist delivers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection in a fine, clear spray, while hydrating oils help keep skin soft and glowing. Ideal for easy, on-the-go reapplication throughout the day.

FOOTMENDER® ALL IN ONE 100ML

£28.99 from Boots, amazon.co.uk, Well Pharmacy, Pharmacy2u and podiatrists

Sandal-ready feet, sorted. This multi-action foot cream targets dry skin, calluses, corns and cracked heels in one simple step. With clinically proven results and a menthol-fresh finish, it’s an easy, fuss-free addition to your holiday prep routine.

CLIMATE DEFENCE FACIAL CREAM SPF 30

£29.00 from evolvebeauty.com

Daily SPF, done properly. This lightweight, reeffriendly SPF 30 uses non-nano zinc oxide for broad UVA and UVB protection, while hyaluronic acid, prickly pear and lingonberry help hydrate, soothe and support healthy-looking skin.

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE X SCENTBIRD EAU DE PARFUM

From £15.95 at scentbird.com

Sweet, nostalgic and seriously indulgent. This fruity gourmand fragrance blends strawberry jam, bergamot and wild berries with creamy vanilla shortcake and whipped cream, creating a playful, dessert-inspired scent designed to evoke feelgood memories with every spritz.

SPA CEYLON NEROLI JASMINE HYDRATE & TREAT RICH BODY BUTTER 150G

£20 from spaceylon.co.uk

Holiday glow, bottled. This rich body butter blends coconut, mango and cocoa butters to deeply nourish and soften skin, while botanical extracts help improve the look of uneven tone and dullness. Infused with neroli, jasmine and citrus oils, it leaves skin smooth, hydrated and delicately scented.

Peak4 Studios

Peak4 Studios offers Pilates classes six days a week from 7am, with sessions to suit all levels. With both Reformer and Mat classes available, you can find what works for your goals. The friendly, supportive studio creates a welcoming space where everyone can enjoy Pilates, build strength and improve wellbeing. Start your journey today and feel the benefits.

07508 536690 info@peak4-studios.co.uk

Care

Mobile beauty treatments for ladies in the comfort of your own home. To enquire, call Sarah (GNVQ, GPBT

Ear wax removal via microsuction, covering York and most of North Yorkshire.

Registered practitioner. Friendly, gentle, fast service in your home.

Both ears £65

Mellony Pinkney BScHons T: 07960 008179 E: earwaxaway@yahoo.com W: www.earwaxaway.co.uk

Discover our handpicked selection of local favourites to help you find your next go-to. Whether you’re after a fresh look or a little self-care, the perfect place could be just around the corner!

Face Zone - Live Beautifully

Natural lift facials.

A fitness workout for your face.

Sculpt • Tone • Lift • Glow 07779 595499

Face Zone York

Mia’s Beauty Bar

Petal’s Beauty

Known for its upbeat atmosphere, attentive service and personalised treatments, offering lashes, brows, waxing, nails and sunbeds.

01904 947213

Offering a range of professional nail and beauty treatments, including gel and acrylic nails, toes, brows and waxing. Each appointment is tailored to you, delivering high-quality results in a relaxed, welcoming setting. With a £10 deposit, your booking is secured, ensuring dedicated time and care for every client and a smooth, personalised experience from start to finish.

07725 189051

173, Osbaldwick Lane, YO10 3BA

Altered Images Counselling

Run by Dr Lorraine Fisher, offering counselling and psychotherapy for adults and young people in Heslington and surrounding areas. Supporting a wide range of issues, with specialisms in neurodivergence, perfectionism and adolescent mental health. A safe, supportive, non-judgemental space. Get in touch for a free initial consultation.

07858 601407

Heslington, York

Mez The Barber

Mez The Barber offers expert skin fades, haircuts and beard trims in a welcoming, modern space. Alongside barbering, the studio also features tattoos, nails, skincare and facial treatments, making it a one-stop destination for grooming and self-care. Student discounts are available, and walk-ins are always welcome, so you can drop in whenever suits you.

petalsbeautysalon@outlook.com

Aspire Wellness

Kirsty is a solution-focused hypnotherapist specialising in anxiety, stress and overwhelm, helping you feel more in control. Online & in-person appointments.

01904 793288

Tan Lines York

Mobile spray tan artist covering York. Enjoy at-home treatments, from occasion tans to bridal packages, with flexible appointments.

07496 832950

tanlines.york@gmail.com

Salon No32

Based in Rawcliffe, this friendly salon offers hair, nails, eyebrow waxing and tinting. From simple cuts to bold colour transformations, hair extensions and sleek brow treatments, every service is delivered with care and expertise. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and skilled team, expect excellent results. They also have salon space to rent! Get in touch today to find out more.

01904 613592

32 Eastholme Drive, YO30 5SW

Ear and There

Ear and There offers friendly, mobile ear wax removal across York, bringing safe and gentle treatment straight to your home. Run by Katie, a highly experienced and fully qualified practitioner, the service is designed to be calm, convenient and reassuring. With a focus on comfort and care, Ear and There helps you hear clearly again without the need to travel or wait for appointments.

07985 664947

www.earandthereyork.co.uk

Restore 32

Dental Practice

Experience exceptional private dental care in a calm, welcoming setting for the whole family. Our specialist-led team takes a gentle, no-pressure approach, building trust and long-term relationships. From routine care to smile transformations and dental implants, every treatment is tailored to you. Book your consultation and feel at ease.

01904 641167

1 Howard Street, YO10 4BQ

Polka dots are the must-have pattern this spring. Whether you’re after a new accessory to lift your everyday look or a standout statement piece, there’s something here for you. We’ve even embraced the funnel neck trend with these two polka dot jackets…

1. ASOS DESIGN denim funnel neck jacket in chocolate polka dot, £50.00, asos.com | 2. Black Polka Dot Ruched Long Sleeved Mesh Top, £24, next.co.uk | 3. Linen Rich Drawstring Wide Leg Trousers, £28, marksandspencers. com | 4. Satin Printed Neckerchief, £13, marksandspencers. com | 5. WIDE STRAP POLYAMIDE T-SHIRT, £12.99, ZARA. COM | 6. DOTS BOMBER JACKET, £79.99, shop.mango. com | 7. POLKA-DOT HAIR TIE, £12.99, shop.mango.com | 8. POLKA DOT SHOULDER BAG, £27.99, ZARA.COM | 9. New Crush Phone Case, £45.95, uk.burga.com

Advanced CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing

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Transform your skin with our advanced CO2 laser working deep within the skin to stimulate collagen and resurface skin.

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• Acne scars

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• Sun damage / skin laxity

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Moth or Miner? Problems with Leeks

BY GARDENING EXPERT

TONY CHALCRAFT

It was eight years ago when I first wrote about issues with a new pest affecting leeks: the leek moth. Since then, this has become increasingly prevalent in the York area. The presence of the moth now makes it difficult to grow leeks without damage, especially on allotments, where there are lots of plots with leeks. If this wasn’t bad enough, there are also signs that another pest affecting leeks is becoming active locally: the allium leaf miner. As the name implies, this also attacks other members of the allium family, mostly onions and garlic, as well as leeks.

Telling the difference between moth and miner damage on leeks can be difficult. Both attack the foliage first, eating and tunnelling the internal tissue of the leaves (hence the name allium leaf miner) before moving into the stems or ‘shanks’ of leeks. Although foliage becomes distorted and, especially in the case of the leek moth, partly shredded, it is only when the shanks are affected that serious damage

becomes apparent. Brown streaks and rots appear on the outer layers, often extending into the core. If the infestation is severe, plants may be an unusable mush.

With the moth, it is not the flying insect that directly causes the damage, but its larval stage. Eggs are laid on the foliage, from which creamy white caterpillars with brown heads and tiny legs hatch. Similarly, with the leaf miner, it is not the adult stage, which is a fly, but the larva that is destructive.

This is a white, headless and legless maggot. So far, I’ve never found one, but I have seen leek moth caterpillars. While there is some uncertainty which of the two pests is most active locally, on my plots, it seems to be the leek moth that’s the busiest.

In many respects, it doesn’t matter whether it is moth or miner - more to the point is how to stop either ruining leek crops. Chemical controls available to farmers are not an option for home and organic

growers. Fortunately, because both pests are fliers and alight on foliage to lay eggs, it is possible to control both, using protective coverings. This is the method I now use and find reasonably effective. The best option is the durable plastic mesh usually marketed as ‘environmesh’. Pegging or weighing down any cover at ground level is important. It is also advisable to hold the mesh above the leeks on hoops or some other support, to prevent drooping in heavy rain.

Moth and miner activity is most intense from late summer into autumn. For this reason, leek plants set out in June or July need protecting from the moment of planting. And, because the moth is on the wing well into autumn, covers should be kept in place until late October. This does not mean damage from both pests won’t occur earlier in the season. If you sow leeks, as I do in spring for planting out in summer, it is best to protect the seedlings from the start. Also, place leeks a good distance

away from where they were grown the previous season. Evidence and personal experience suggest that moths can emerge from pupae left underground to affect those growing nearby. Another precaution is to avoid placing infested leeks on the compost heap.

It is a pity that leeks, one of the mainstays of any vegetable plot and an easy crop to grow, are now vulnerable to moth and miner. If you grow leeks in the isolation of a garden, you may escape problems, at least for a time. On allotments however, the moth seems to be well established. Here, and perhaps elsewhere, it is becoming difficult to grow an undamaged crop without the use of protective covers.

Visit the Royal Horticultural Society to learn more about leek moths www.rhs.org.uk/biodiversity/leekmoth and allium leaf miners www. rhs.org.uk/biodiversity/allium-leafminers.

IT’S OPEN GARDEN SEASON!

BEAUTIFUL OPEN GARDENS TO VISIT IN YORK

Want to gain inspiration for your garden, or have a nosey at some of the best-kept green spaces in the land? From the rolling grounds of country houses to hidden residential gardens, open garden season offers visitors a peek at wondrous, rarely seen green spaces on their doorstep. If you’re thinking of getting an eyeful of the 2026 season, see our pick of beautiful open gardens worth a visit in and around York, with openings from spring into summer:

2 MAY

WILDLIFE-FRIENDLY

OPEN GARDENS 2026: FOSSGYL, YO32 9PY. Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ wildlife-friendly-opengardens-2026-fossgyltickets-1985098219211.

9 MAY

HUTTON WANDESLEY

OPEN GARDENS & PLANT

FAIR, Hutton Wandesley Stables & Walled Garden, YO26 7NA. Visit events. huttonwandesleystables. co.uk to book.

10 MAY

LITTLE OUSEBURN, Call 07747 848 690 or email richard@mrdynamics.com.

10 MAY - 13 SEPTEMBER

STILLINGFLEET LODGE, Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens, YO19 6HP. Visit www. stillingfleetlodgenurseries. co.uk or call 01904 728506.

24-25 MAY

SUTTON-ON-THEFOREST, Call 01347 810 208 or email djj3@btinternet. com.

OPEN BY ARRANGEMENT

FROM 26 MAY - JULY

BRIDGE HOUSE, Bridge House, YO41 4AA. Visit www. ngs.org.uk/gardens/bridgehouse-yo4 to book.

31 MAY

PADDOCK HOUSE, YO51 9PY. Visit www.ngs.org.uk/ gardens/paddock-houseyo5/ to book.

31 MAY

ORCHARD HOUSE, Orchard House, YO51 9QY. Visit www.ngs.org.uk/ gardens/orchard-houseyo5/ to book.

31 MAY

MARTON CUM GRAFTON, YO51 9QJ. Visit www.ngs.org. uk/gardens/marton-cumgrafton-gardens-yo5/.

31 MAY

GREAT OUSEBURN

GARDEN FESTIVAL 2026, Email gogardenfest@gmail. com or visit www.govh. co.uk/go-garden-festival.

6 JUNE

ORANMORE COTTAGE, Oranmore Cottage, YO43 3PE. Visit www.ngs.org.uk/ gardens/oranmore-cottage.

6-7 JUNE

YORK HOUSE, York House, YO43 3PQ. Visit www.ngs. org.uk/gardens/york-houseyo4/ to book.

7 JUNE

ELVINGTON, Call 07540 311097 for details.

7 JUNE

KIRKBYMOORSIDE IN BLOOM, Call 01751 430 250 or 07980 776 586.

7 JUNE ROBIN HOOD’S BAY AND FLYINGTHORPE, Email hollygray0408@gmail.com.

13 JUNE

PICKERING, Call 07927 653 027 or email pickeringopengardens@ outlook.com for details.

14 JUNE

HUNTINGTON GRANGE, Huntington Grange, YO32 9NA. Visit www.ngs.org. uk/gardens/huntingtongrange-yo3/ to book.

11 JULY

AMPLEFORTH VILLAGE, Call 07900 003 538 or email rdsjsm@gmail.com.

UNTIL OCTOBER

MEADOW CROFT, Meadow Croft, YO62 4DA. Visit www.ngs.org.uk/ gardens/meadow-croftyo6/ to book.

Visit the National Garden Scheme at ngs.org.uk/ gardens/in/york/ to find more about upcoming private garden openings in York.

Are you running an open garden event this summer? Would you like to show off your garden to the people of York? Email info@yourlocallink.co.uk and dish the dirt!

painting, varnishing

Hutton Wandesley Open Gardens

• Large selection of heavy duty and European fence panels and trellises.

• Tanalised timber, concrete and DuraPost posts and gravel boards.

• NEW DISPLAY of tanalised garden buildings including sheds, summerhouses, storage and offices.

• Fencing, timber, decking and sleepers.

• Gates and ironmongery

•

•

• Mole Trapping

•

• Wasp Nest

•

Protecting birds with seasonal feeding

How can you help to reduce the spread of avian disease?

According to the 2026 RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch, in which 650,279 people in the UK (including 49,000 Yorkshire folk) counted more than nine million birds, the most common types of bird you’re likely to see in your garden this year include House Sparrows, Blue Tits, Blackbirds, Starlings, Robins and Wood Pigeons. But while most gardeners welcome the addition of flying friends in their green spaces, the 2026 Big Garden Birdwatch also marks the worrying decline of certain species, including the Greenfinch, which has seen a 67% decline in average numbers since 1979.

A key cause of this downturn is disease, especially one called trichomonosis, which spreads easily between birds when they congregate around feeders, and is most prevalent during the summer and winter seasons. RSPB Chief Executive, Beccy Speight, said: “Feeding birds is something millions of us love and value, but the science shows us that birds such as Greenfinches have been affected by the spread of disease at feeders.”

If you’d like to welcome birds into your garden this summer with some tasty, nourishing treats, which simple seasonal changes can you make to your feeding habits to protect local species in the long run?

Feed seasonally: Due to the prevalence of diseases like trichomonosis during summer and autumn time, any easy way to slow the spread of disease is by NOT filling your bird feeders with seeds and peanuts from 1 May to 31 October. This will reduce the number of birds mingling around feeders during the most risky times of the year.

Feeding birds is something millions of us love and value.

Feed safely: By prioritising hygiene and ensuring that feeders and water baths are given a good old clean at least once weekly (and replenishing fresh drinking water every day), you can keep flying friends safe in your garden. Because disease can spread more easily on flat surfaces, if you want to do your bit for the birds, it’s best to replace bird tables and flat feeders. Wherever possible,

try to reposition your feeders after each clean, which can prevent the accumulation of potentially contaminated debris. As well as altering the way you feed the birds in your garden, you could also consider planting natural, bird-friendly food sources in and around your green space, such as sunflowers, ivy, and teasels, all of which can provide natural sustenance and increase insect populations. As Beccy Speight rightly said: “We’re not asking people to stop feeding, just to feed in a way that protects birds’ long-term health. By making small changes together, we can ensure garden feeding continues to be a positive force for nature.”

Visit www.rspb.org.uk to find out more.

Seeking free legal advice for your small business?

Are you a local small business owner looking for expert legal advice that doesn’t cost the earth? Whether you’re the owner of a fledgling start-up or an established small business, York Law School’s Small Business Clinic could provide the support, advice and assistance you need - for free!

The Small Business Clinic offers practical advice related to a range of common legal issues faced by budding business owners and entrepreneurs, such as how to protect intellectual property, manage data protection compliance, and establish corporate structures. If you’d like to have your case considered

for a Small Business Clinic this summer, get in touch.

To raise your issue as a potential case, email law-clinic@york.ac.uk or call 01904 325819. Visit www. york.ac.uk/law/legal-clinic/legalclinic-for-clients/ to find out about the Small Business Clinic.

A bright future for SPARK York!

SPARK York sees lease extended until 2030

SPARK York has been providing a diverse and inclusive trading space since 2008, from an eye-catching Piccadilly venue cultivated from repurposed shipping containers. This unique York venue was recently granted its fourth lease extension, enabling it to stay in business until at least 2030!

Much-loved local businesses and traders currently operating from SPARK include independent coffee shop Node Coffee, gluten-free-friendly Turning Point Brewing Co project The Outpost,

York’s smallest cocktail bar, BOHO, and award-winning smash burger joint, Baby Boy’s Burgers. The venue is also home to zerowaste supermarket The General Store, second-hand chic fashion market, Florable, and hosts a wide range of regular events, workshops, and communityfriendly initiatives.

In response to the latest extension, SPARK York posted: “We’re thankful for nearly five years of (hopefully) clear water ahead of us, and a chance for some surety over our existence

New specialist appointed at PenLife

York-based financial planning firm PenLife Associates has announced the appointment of a new Protection and Insurance Specialist, bolstering its team and enhancing its services for people across Yorkshire.

“Protection is never a onesize-fits-all solution,” said new appointee, Niall McSharry. “Everyone’s circumstances are

different. For me, it starts with a really good conversationunderstanding what matters most to someone and what they want to protect. Whether that’s income protection, life cover, critical illness cover or business protection, it’s about prioritising what’s most important and structuring solutions that work realistically within someone’s budget.”

for our team and our traders. It feels like some kind of hardearned acceptance from the powers that be for the value SPARK brings to York and validation for the hard work of so many people over the last 10 years.”

Visit www.sparkyork.org to find out more about SPARK York and see what’s on this month. Visit www.sparkyork.org/our-traders/ to see the full list of traders currently operating at the venue.

If you’re a budding local businessperson looking for new ways to get your start-up or small business off the ground, you could significantly benefit from the mentoring, training and funding provided by the Regional Talent Engines programme.

Launched in 2022, Regional Talent Engines has so far helped 186 earlystage small business founders to propel their ventures, secured a further £20m in start-up funding, and created more than 200 new jobs along the way.

Aimed at early-stage engineering and technology entrepreneurs, Regional Talent Engines offers access to a unique 6-month course, which includes training workshops, roundtables, speaker events, and one-to-one business coaching and mentoring. If your application is accepted, you’ll also receive free, lifetime access to exclusive co-working spaces across the UK, and be eligible for an equity-free grant of £20,000! You don’t have to be running an existing business to get in on the action - you simply need an original idea for a scalable business, or new innovations in any area of engineering. The programme can also support engineers and technology innovators who are committed to testing or developing their new ideas. Ready to get your next big idea off the ground? Apply today!

To check your eligibility or get in touch with the Regional Talent Engines Programme Team, email regionaltalent@raeng.org.uk.

Notice is hereby given that The Whisky Shop has applied to East Riding of Yorkshire Council for the variation of a Premises Licence in respect of the premises at 7 The Square, Stamford Bridge, YO41 1AG.

The proposed variation is to allow online sales 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No other elements of the licence will change from its current use.

Any person wishing to make representations in relation to this application must give notice in writing to the Licensing Authority at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, County Hall, Beverley, East Riding of Yorkshire, HU17 9BA.

The final date for representations is 24 April 2026.

A record of the application may be inspected at the offices of the Licensing Authority at County Hall, Beverley, East Riding of Yorkshire, HU17 9BA during normal office hours, or via the public register on the council website.

Visit www.pen-life.co.uk or call 01904 661140 to get in touch with the PenLife team.

GADGETS OF THE MONTH

From smarter home security to everyday charging solutions and next-level audio, this month’s gadget picks are all about making life easier, more efficient and a little more enjoyable. Whether you’re upgrading your tech setup, simplifying your routine or discovering clever innovations you didn’t know you needed, these standout finds prove that great design and practicality go hand in hand.

ULTION NUKI SMART LOCK

£299 from ultion-lock.co.uk

Ditch your keys without compromising security. The Ultion Nuki combines a 3-Star PLUS lock with built-in Wi-Fi and Matter compatibility, allowing remote access and hands-free auto-unlock as you approach. Easy to fit to existing doors, it also retains key access and is backed by a £5000 security guarantee.

FINAL VR3000 RECABLE GAMING EARPHONES

£69.98 from hifiheadphones.co.uk

Hear every detail in-game. The VR3000 Recable earphones are tuned for accurate spatial audio, helping you pinpoint movement and direction in immersive titles. A detachable 2-pin cable improves durability and flexibility, while the lightweight design, inline mic and comfortable fit make them a practical alternative to bulky gaming headsets.

PLANT WITH WILLOW SMART PLANT SENSOR

£34.99 (Starter Pack) from plantwithwillow.co.uk

Struggling to keep your house plants alive? This smart sensor takes the guesswork out of plant care, monitoring soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity in real time! Paired with a WiFi hub and app notifications, it delivers tailored insights to help your indoor plants thrive with minimal effort.

KRAFTED COUCH WIRELESS DEVICE CHARGER

£39.99 from kraftedtech.com

Charge your phone without leaving the sofa. This clever wireless charger drapes over your sofa arm, creating a convenient charging spot exactly where you relax. MagSafe-compatible with up to 15W fast charging, it features a flexible anti-slip silicone design and 2m cable for easy, everyday use.

NOBLE AUDIO SCEPTRE USB-C BLUETOOTH TRANSMITTER

£64.99 from hifonix.co.uk

Upgrade your wireless audio instantly. The Noble Sceptre is a compact USB-C transmitter supporting advanced codecs including LDAC and aptX Adaptive for improved sound quality. With plugand-play setup, Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, charge-through USB-C and wide device compatibility, it’s an easy upgrade for headphones and speakers.

MOTORING

10 MAY

TADCASTER CLASSIC CAR SHOW, John Smith’s Brewery, LS24 9SA.10.00am-6.00pm. This popular local show is a reliable place to see an extensive range of classic cars, with all vehicles displayed being registered before 2005 - the finest cars on display may also enter the Concours d’Elegance. Visit www.leedsmgccc. co.uk/event/tadcaster-classic-carshow-4/ for details and bookings.

10 MAY

CAR RALLY AT MURTON PARK, Murton Park, YO19 5UF. 10.00am4.00pm. Join the North of England Classics and Pre-war Automobiles York Branch to delve into automotive history and marvel at cars from the roaring 1920s all the way up to the 1990s. Chat with vehicle owners to get the inside scoop! Visit www. murtonpark.co.uk/events/car-rally to find out more.

10-11 MAY

KRAFTED CONNEX CABLE ADAPTOR

£29.99 from kraftedtech.com

One cable for everything. The Krafted Connex is a compact adaptor hub featuring USB-A, USB-C, Lightning and micro USB connections for charging and data transfer. Pocket-sized and cable-free, it helps reduce clutter while supporting multi-device use, with durable flexible connectors built for everyday carry.

VINTAGE RALLY AT BURTON AGNES HALL, Burton Agnes Hall, YO25 4NB. 11.00am-5.00pm. Featuring vintage and classic vehicle showcases from members of the East Yorkshire Thoroughbred Car Club, this family-friendly vintage rally will also feature a 1960 Routemaster bus! Visit www.burtonagnes.com/DB/ Events/vintage-rally.html for further details.

25 MAY

YORKSHIRE CLASSIC & PERFORMANCE MOTOR SHOW, Scampston Hall, YO17 8NG. 10.00am4.00pm. Returning for its 42nd year, this much-loved car show offers guests the chance to marvel at an extensive range of classic cars, modified cars & custom builds, supercars & sports cars, motorcycles, scooters, and more! Visit www. greatbritishmotorshows.com/event/ yorkshire-classic-performancemotor-show for tickets and details.

MOTORING

News

SERMI scheme offers rapid repairs at the garage

As many owners of modern cars will tell you, accessing the critical data necessary for repairing newer vehicles can cause lengthy delays and obstacles when it comes to bringing your motor into the garage for repairs, no matter how minor they may be.

Luckily, the SERMI scheme, which went live in the UK last month, now enables accredited independent garages to quickly and easily access security-related repair and maintenance information via a

secure framework, significantly speeding up repair times and eliminating access-related headaches. It also works to protect drivers’ security information, keeping their details and data safe from malicious actors and scammers.

Visit www.sermi.co.uk/alandmark-moment-forindependent-garages-sermiapproved-in-the-uk/ to find out more about the SERMI scheme’s UK launch.

INCREASING NUMBER OF BREAKDOWNS ATTRIBUTED TO POOR ROADS

Last year, drivers experienced a 15% increase in pothole-related breakdowns, according to the most recent RAC Pothole Index, which examines road quality across the UK. While many York drivers (and cyclists riding without suspension) may feel uncomfortably familiar with dreaded potholes, they may be surprised to learn that our city is far from the worst offender – our neighbours in Lancashire were

found to have the second-most potholes on their doorstep (67,439), while the Derbyshire region topped the list (90,596).

Keep an eye out for those potholes, drivers…

Visit www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/ driving-advice/rac-pothole-indexstatistics-data-and-projections to learn more about recent RAC Pothole Index findings.

ARE YOU AN ANXIOUS PARKER?

Are you a panicking parker? Do you feel queasy in the car park, or get spooked out when seeking a space? If so, you could be one of the third of UK drivers reportedly suffering from parking anxiety.

According to Kia, around one in three UK drivers feel “anxious, worried or scared about parking”, even going so far as to avoid precious parking spaces they deem

too challenging to take on. 64% of participants asserted that spaces are not suitably wide enough to park their vehicles, while 50% expressed a preference for remote or self-parking cars.

What do you reckon, Yorkies? Is parking really worth worrying about?

Visit www.kiapressoffice.com/ releases/1965 to find out more.

Investment in York roads revs up

The recently published Highways Maintenance Plan, which outlines an annual budget and plan for York roads, marked a significant increase in investment in our highways when compared to previous years. Covering areas overseen by City of York Council, including 500 miles of roads, 137 sets of traffic lights, and 23,000 street lights, the new £16.5m plan outlines a host of pedestrian, cyclist, and driver-friendly measures to be undertaken in the coming months, including

resurfacing roads, footpaths and cycleways, improving and maintaining street lighting and bridges, and preparing for reactive works such as surface gritting and urgent repairs.

Scan the QR code to view the Highways Maintenance Plan in full.

York’s Local Sports News

BY CORREY CONROY

Excel Rugby Returns to York

York RLFC Foundation, working alongside the York Knights, is bringing back its Excel Rugby League Development Programme for 2026, giving young players the chance to get involved in a fun and professional-style training environment. The programme will take place at York St John University Sports Park on Haxby Road, and is open to boys currently in Year 7 and Year 8 who want to develop their game or try rugby league for the first time.

Training sessions will run on Monday evenings from 7pm/8pm on May 11th and 18th, before players take part in an internal game where they can put their new skills into practice. The sessions will be led by Head of Rugby Andrew

Henderson, alongside a coaching team made up of both professional and community coaches.

The Excel programme is designed to give young players of all abilities the chance to train in a highquality environment and build confidence on the field. Whether they already play for a local club, represent their school team, or have never played rugby league before, everyone is welcome to come along and give it a go!

It’s also a great chance for coaches to spot promising talent, with some players potentially moving into the club’s future development pathways. Visit www.yorkrlfc. com/post/youth-developmentprogramme-ready-for-seasonlaunch for more information!

HISTORIC PROMOTION

City of York Hockey Club is one of the UK’s largest, with over 800 members, and has long been a cornerstone of inclusive, highquality hockey. As the 2025/2026 season concludes, the Ladies’ First Team has made history!

Securing promotion to the England Hockey League as undefeated champions of the Yorkshire and Northeast Premier Division, they finished six points clear at the top. They are the first team in the club’s history to reach this level.

At the heart of this achievement is Head Coach Heather Macdonald. Joining the club as a player in 2016, she quickly rose through the ranks, becoming vice-captain before a devastating injury in 2023 changed her path. Suffering a severe knee dislocation with multiple ligament ruptures, nerve damage, and muscle injury, Heather has since undergone three major surgeries. Where many might have stepped away, Heather chose to lead. During her recovery, she applied for and secured the Head Coach role. From the sidelines, often on

crutches, she became a constant, driving force behind the team’s success. Her resilience, knowledge, and unwavering commitment transformed adversity into inspiration.

Beyond the First Team, Heather’s impact spans the entire club. She coaches players aged 2 to 70+, leads all seven ladies’ teams, supports junior squads, and strengthens ties with the University of York as Head Coach. She has also contributed at regional and international levels while progressing through her Level 3 Advanced Coaching qualification. Heather Macdonald’s story is one of determination, leadership, and extraordinary spirit. An inspiration whose influence has shaped both a team and a historic season.

for a fun new hobby, York?

Cricket is a game for everyone, and more girls across York are being encouraged to pick up a bat and give it a go through the Hit It, Bowl It, Love It campaign, which aims to help girls discover local cricket opportunities and show that there’s a place in the game for players of all abilities.

The Yorkshire Premier League North includes around 140 clubs, many of which already run dedicated girls’ sections that provide fun, welcoming and supportive environments for young players. Several clubs in and around York are taking part

in the campaign, helping more girls get involved in the sport and enjoy everything cricket has to offer. Whether someone has never played before, or already has some experience and wants to develop their skills, local clubs are always keen to welcome new players and help them get started!

Parents and players can find out more or look for a club in York by visiting the campaign page at www.yplncricket.co.uk/womengirls/hit-it-bowl-it-love-it. It’s a great place to start and see just how many opportunities there are for girls in the York area.

Image: Rameez Rehman

YORKSHIRE CHILDREN’S CHARITY

Follow Yorkshire Children’s Charity, which offers financial support, friendship, and help as your child’s needs change and grow. Stay up to date with events throughout the year, including their flagship awards, Yorkshire Polo and Yorkshire Ladies Lunch, all raising funds for disadvantaged children across Yorkshire.

Yorkshire Childrens Charity

yorkshirechildrenscharity

CYCCharity

YORK PRIDE

Follow York Pride to stay up to date with this year’s Pride celebrations, including key dates, announcements, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes content. York Pride 2026 will feature the annual parade, festival, community stalls and food vendors, making it a vibrant and inclusive event for all.

YorkPride

yorkpride

YorkPride

YORK CONSERVATION TRUST

Follow York Conservation Trust to learn more about York’s rich history. Established to prevent historic buildings from falling into disrepair, the trust restores and brings them back to life while preserving their stories for future generations. Follow their socials to stay up to date and discover fascinating facts about the places they care for.

York Conservation Trust

yorkconservationtrust

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY

Follow NYMR to stay up to date with upcoming events, live updates and insights from one of the UK’s most iconic heritage railways. From scenic steam journeys through the moors to special events and experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway northyorkshiremoorsrailway nymr

YORK DISTILLERY

Follow York Distillery to stay up to date with their gin tastings, spirit-making sessions and cocktail masterclasses. With a range of events to enjoy, their socials offer insight into upcoming experiences, along with behind-the-scenes content.

York Distillery yorkdistillery

PEAK4STUDIOS

Follow Peak4 Studios to stay up to date with upcoming events and classes, from ‘Pilates & Acai Bowls’ and ‘Galentine’s Pilates and Candle Painting’ to their regular sessions. With a welcoming atmosphere, their socials offer a great insight into each class, along with behind-the-scenes content and inspiration to get involved.

Peak.PilatesLtd peak4studios

PASTELLE KITCHEN & EVENTS

Follow Pastelle to see the events they’re hosting and what they offer throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or ideas, or planning to attend seasonal specials like festive wreath making or a Burns Night Supper, you’ll find it all here.

Pastelle Kitchen & Events pastelle.events

SPARK YORK

Follow SPARK York to keep up to date with events, street food traders and live entertainment at this vibrant city centre venue. From pop-up kitchens and independent businesses to music, markets and community events, there’s always something new to discover.

Spark:YorkCIC sparkyork SPARK:York

joinery@turnersdevelopments.co.uk projects@turnersdevelopments.co.uk

Two Exceptionally Spacious Homes FOR

£350,000 3

Birch Park, York, YO31 9PA

A well presented three double bedroom, two bathroom end townhouse set over three floors in the popular Huntington area, with excellent access to local amenities, schooling and York city centre.

A spacious and versatile home, ideal for families or flexible living. Recently improved by the current owners, including a modern fitted kitchen and new boiler, making it ready to move straight into.

The ground floor offers an entrance hallway with WC, a generous lounge dining room and a conservatory opening onto the rear garden, along with the updated kitchen featuring integrated appliances.

To the first floor are two double bedrooms and a family bathroom with separate bath and shower. The second floor hosts an impressive primary suite with double bedroom, ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. All bedrooms include fitted wardrobes.

Externally, there is a driveway with ample off-street parking leading to an attached garage, and a landscaped, enclosed rear garden ideal for outdoor dining and entertaining.

Offers Over £500,000 3

Linden Close, York YO32 9RQ

A well extended semi detached bungalow set within a quiet cul de sac in Huntington, offering flexible living, generous gardens and views towards the River Foss.

A versatile home, previously used as three bedrooms, now arranged with two first floor bedrooms and additional ground floor space suitable as a third bedroom if required.

The property opens into a spacious entrance hallway. To the front is a cosy snug, ideal as a second sitting room or bedroom, alongside a modern three piece bathroom. To the rear, a substantial single storey extension with roof lantern creates a bright living dining space, flowing into a contemporary kitchen with handleless units, composite worktops, Quooker tap and integrated appliances.

The first floor offers two double bedrooms and 1 bathroom.

Externally, there is off street parking, a garage and a walled front garden. To the rear, an elevated courtyard leads to an approximately 80 ft garden backing onto woodland towards the River Foss.

A standout feature is the detached outbuilding, currently a stylish bar with concrete flooring, panelled walls and river views.

ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

CJ Ramsay & Associates. 72

AERIALS

Aerial Services 78

Aerial Solutions 78

Creative AV Solutions 78

AIR CONDITIONING

Altherm 2

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Appliance Services 7

Aspire Repairs 78

Blackwell & Denton 59

Clyde Electrical 81

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Watermark 43

Instyle 9

Kitchen Revive 14

York Bathrooms 6

BLINDS

Blind Image 49

Blinds & Curtains By Mark 47

Blinds Valley 1, 94

Inspired Blinds 45

BUILDING PLANS

I W Design & Building 7

PDA 47

BUILDING/PROPERTY

MAINTENANCE

L. Walton Building 78

Paul Bell Building & Joinery 78

RJ Hall 11

Justin Higginson 78

Ladderworks 78

Turners Developments 79

YKD Construction 95

CARE & MOBILITY

Radfield Home Care 56

Minster Mobility 57

Mossdale Care Home 51

Tanglewood healthcare 55

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY

CLEANING

Able Carpet Cleaning 79

Carpet Diem 79

Clifton Carpet Cleaning 79

CARPETS/FLOORING

Kings Carpets & Flooring 14

Allanson Flooring 17

Craig Pallister Flooring 9

Fully Furnished 47

CCTV

Ryther Alarms 46

Ultra Fire & Security Sys 83

CHARITIES

Age UK 13

St Leonards Hospice 59

CHILDRENS ACTIVITIES

CLUBS/GROUPS

York Elim 33

COMPUTERS/WEB DESIGN

Aldwark Computers 72

Blueboot 72

PCI Computers 77

CURTAINS/SOFT

FURNISHINGS

Blinds & Curtains By Mark 47

DECORATORS

Alan Fawcett 80

Bic’s Decorating 80

Brushstrokes York 79

C.K.W. Decorators 79

Chapple Painting 79

Gary Roe 79

K Walton 79

Paul Masiak Decorators 80

Samantha Storr 80 SDS Decorator 79

DRAINS Drain Busters Yorkshire 69

Seven H Drainage 49

EDUCATION/TUITION

Queen Ethelburgas 96

ELECTRICAL GOODS

Herbert Todd 2

ELECTRICIANS

Barratt Electrical Services 80

Electrical Services 80

Electrical 80

Electrical 80

Electrical 80

Electrical Services 80

Electrical 80

Engineering 83 J Electrical Services 81 Jamie Heard 80 Judge Electrical Ltd 80 Keith Brown Electrical 80 Martin Clancy 80

Nfinnerty Electrical Ltd 3

OS Electrical 81

YKD Construction 95

ESTATE & LETTING AGENTS

Ponderosa Caravan Park 48

FASCIAS/SOFFITS

Plasti-Fit 81

Polyplas 81

FENCING

Dove Timber Ltd 65

FINANCIAL ADVISORS Pen-Life Associates Ltd 7 FIREPLACES/MULTI FUEL

The Parvin 34

FUNERAL SERVICES

JG Fielder & Sons 57

Darleys Funeral 56

FURNITURE RESTORATION

Classic Upholstery 11

GARAGE DOORS

Clic Garage Doors (york) 17

First Garage Doors 81

Garolla Garage Doors 7

Hobman Garage Doors 81

GARDENING

Country Gardens

HANDYPEOPLE

York Flatpack & Handyman 82

Can-Be-Asked 82

Housecraft Handyman 78

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Altered Images Counselling 61

Aspire Wellness Coaching & Therapy 61

Beautycare 60

Clear & Hear 60

Clifton Park Hospital 51

Ear and There 61

Earwax Away 60

Face Zone 61

Mez The Barber 61

Mias Beauty 52

Peak4 studios 60

Petals Beauty 61

Restore32 61

Salon No 32 61

Skin Doctor York 62

Tan Lines York 61

Therapy & Counselling 60

JOINERY

Duncan Littlechild Joinery 94

RJS Carpentry & Joinery 94

Lilling Green Farm Cattery 52

Mill Cottage Pet Crematorium 52

Paws Dog Grooming 52

Pebbles 52

Pets Pantry 52

Precious paws cats 52

PLASTERING

JM Plastering 82

Mint Finish Plastering 82

PLUMBING/HEATING

David Bateman 85

Hartleys Plumbing 83

J Robinson Plumbing 85

Nunthorpe Services 84

York Property Group 84

A1 Yorkshire 85

All Cisterns Go 83

Be Warm Gas Services 83

Connor Warren 84

DJC Plumbing 83

DP Complete Plumbing 94

E Martin & Sons 84

Fensome Plumbing 84

Gas Man Neil 84

GNT Heating 84

Haxby Plumbing 84

Homes & Gardens 63

Burfield Blooms 65

C&R Landscapes Ltd 79

Castle Tree & Landscape 63

Circle Gardening Services 65 Future Landscapes 67

Groundwork UK 65

Gus Bishop Tree services 67

HPL Tree Surgeons 67 J Farrow 69

LSQ Garden & Landscape 63

Nigel Scaife 69

Inspired Joinery & Projects 81

Lewis Joinery 82

Matt Hodgson Joinery 81

Paul Meillam Joinery 82

Precision Joinery Services 82

LOCKS/SECURITY/ALARMS

Keep Safe 82

Afford a Lock 82

Dr Locks Ltd 82

GC Electronics 83

Laurel Bank Locksmiths 82

Ryther Alarms 46, 78

Towergate Locksmiths 83

York Locksmith Company 83

MOTOR PARTS/SERVICES

PiKture PerFic PaviNg 78

Garden 63

Paving 70 Safeway Driveways 65 Scarbattan Trees 63 South Bank Garden Svs 69

The Green Man Of York 70

Tina’s Jet Wash Services 67

Universal Weed Control 67

VTA Tree & Landscape 69

York Garden Company 64,94

York Gardens 69

York Greenhouses & Garden

Rooms Ltd 65

York Groundwork Solutions 69

Yorkshire Fencing 63

GATES/RAILINGS

PVC UK 66

Alderson Motors 74

Andy’s Autos 74

Birch Park 75

Ivinson Autos Ltd 1, 96

JB Motors Malton 75

Class A Motor Service 74

Custom Auto Keys 75

Fulford Auto Services 74

OLC Autos 75

R S Auto Bodyshop 74

York Bodywork Repairs 75

OPTICIANS

Extreme Eyewear 96

PEST CONTROL

Huntcatchkill 65

SLR Pest 69

Southbank Pest Control 65

HC Engineering 83

J Building Services 85

Joe Dallin 84, 94

Kenson Gas Ltd 84

MT Plumbing Services York 84

Plumbing & Heating by Jamie 84

Scorfield Plumbing 94

York Gas Engineering 83

Yorkshire Central Plumbing 83

POINTING

Nick Stannard Property

Maintenance 78

PRESSURE WASHING

Pro- Blast Jet Washing 63

Tina’s Jet Wash Services 67

PRINTING/DESIGN

Fulprint 7

PROPERTY SERVICES

Profix Projects 47

PUBLIC NOTICES

Bean to Barrel Cafe 72

RECRUITMENT

Driver Hire York 72

REMOVALS/STORAGE

Bens House Clearance 94

DAW Storage Ltd 85

Hooks Removals 85

MWV Removals 85

Removals For You 85

& DRINK

First For Childcare 51

The Reptile Roadshow 51

CLEANING/IRONING

ADream Clean 79

Bubbles Inc 79

SR Fabrications 70

York Iron Works 70

GUTTERING

Guttering Of York 81

The Pest Company 67

PET CARE

Alisons Dog Grooming 52

Claire’s Groom Room 52

Doug & Co 52

Fluffs York 52

White Rose House Clearances 85 ROOFING Advanced Roofing 87