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handy g a m SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL COMMUNIT Y
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YORK EDITION
BUSINESSES ■ COMMUNITY INFORMATION ■ MOTORING ■ HEALTH & BEAUTY ■ HOMES & GARDENS
WINTER SERVICE PRICES from £50 inclusive of VAT and multiple appliance discounts.
7 YEAR WARRANTY ON ALL NEW WORCESTER BOSCH BOILER - EXCLUSIVE to GFP We also accept £300 warm front vouchers.
WEB OFFER: 15% DISCOUNT when you buy Boiler Breakdown Cover online visit:
www.gfphomeheating.co.uk 0800 0264244
or 01723 377777
Home Heating Care Ltd
HOMES & GARDENS
Sumatra from Now in store at Rodgers soft furnishings department is Sumatra, the latest collection from Crowson. The collection was inspired by the tropics and harks back to the colonial styles of the 1920,s and 1930's. Beautiful and bold floral prints, flowers and tropical birds with intertwined foliage provide a wonderful canvas for the contemporary colour palette. Sumatra will transform your home, making a real statement about your style! Monks Cross, York, YO32 9JR Tel: 01904 610570 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-5pm Sunday and Bank Holidays 10.30am-4.30pm visit our web site www.rodgersofyork.co.uk
• Extensive range of fabrics • All types of blinds • Tracks and poles • Trimmings and accessories • Personal consultations • Expert fitters • info@thehandymag.co.uk
HOMES & GARDENS
december 2010 • issue 64
For all of your
Plumbin
PLUMBING
A complete service from replacing tap washers to installation of new bathroom suites.
requirements
Drains
Domestic & Commercial Unblocks High Pressure Wash Jets • CCTV Surveys Root Cutting • Relining • Excavations uine Gen ur o h 24 out call
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Fixed price dom unbl estic ocks
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BATHROOM SUITES GENERAL PLUMBING DRAINS
For a professional service contact Matthew
07921 760727 or 01904 761242
www.mbplumbing.co.uk 21 Coppice Close, Haxby, York
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www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 •
Editors Letter
Contents Homes & Gardens Wrapping up warm Mistletoe Home lighting
p16 p18 p22
Health & Lifestyle Book Reviews p8 Geek Bearing Gifts p28 We wish you a creative Christmas p34 Fingertip protection p35 Berkshire Cowboys p52
Food Pea and Ham Crostini Spice of the month - Cloves
p50 p51
Motoring Abarth 500c
p38
Community Local groups Huntington Preschool Hovingham Market Local events
p42 p27 p47 p58
Business Working from Home Pension changes ahead
p54 p53
Business Editorials Able to Enable Autosafe Clifton Chips Away
p32 p35 p41
Pets Is my pet happy
p49
Puzzles Puzzle pages Competition
p56 p24
Copy Deadline for the next edition is Tuesday 4th January
I
t’s the December edition already and the last Handy Mag of 2010. No apologies for all the holly and snowflakes this month - I was trying to make myself feel more festival when I was putting this magazine together at the beginning of November! Don’t forget that there’s no January edition of the magazine as the delivery would coincide with Christmas week and whilst my family accept my being tied to a computer the rest of the year, they usually expect a bit more attention then. The lack of a deadline in December also gives me a chance to catch up on all those household jobs before relatives descend on us for Christmas...what is that at the back of the fridge? Such a glamorous life I have! The next magazine will be delivered towards the end of January (the February edition). Christmas is a really important time for all our local shops and businesses. Remember to shop local and support them when you are buying Christmas gifts. There are some great gift ideas in the Handy Mag this month. And some great winter offers. I visited Huntington Preschool this month to see their 40th anniversary celebrations. It took me back to when my children were small seeing so many excited faces. You can read more on page 27. Well done to Mrs Irene Littlewood on winning the Cyril the Spider Competition in the October edition. Until 2011....
Marianne Editor
CONTACT US on 01653 658776
01904 310230 or
info@thehandymag.co.uk
10 The Rise, Leavening, Malton YO17 9TA
www.thehandymag.co.uk Please note that while the publisher takes care to be accurate no liability will be accepted under any circumstances should any of the contents of this magazine be incorrect. The Handy Mag does not endorse any advertising material included within this publication. The views expressed in the articles are not necessarily those of the publisher. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.
Fully qualified local plumber Bathrooms/Tiling • Showers • All domestic plumbing work and repairs • Central heating City & Guilds/NVQ qualified • Full public liability insured • Free estimates • References available
Call
Call Ben Leefe on 07887 852468 or 01904 340801
• Regular and one-off cleans 0800 0439370 for a free no • Fixed hourly rates. • Fully insured and vetted cleaners obligation quote (local company) • Over 50 cleaners available
ben@leefe.com www.leefe.com
www.maid2clean.co.uk/york • email:york@maid2clean.co.uk Please recycle your magazine when the next edition drops through your letterbox!
HOMES & GARDENS
december 2010 • issue 64
LocaL* PLumber.
“as well as taking pride in our work, we arrive on time, we’re honest, professional, tidy and give great service to all our customers.”
• boiler Servicing • boiler installations, breakdowns gas safety certificates and more.
• bathroom design, supply, installation and tiling • Shower repair. • re-new hot water cylinders. • Immersion and header tanks. • Guttering, blocked drains and external waste pipes.
• Leaks, sealing tap re-new and washers. Looking for a local, reliable and tidy plumber? Give Graham a call on
07525 858008 01904 750469
any job? no ProbLem. graham@gw-plumbing.com www.gw-plumbing.com 23 Walmer carr, Wigginton, york yo32 2SX
Designer bathrooms at affordable prices • Extensive showroom - A range of suites to choose from • Affordable luxury • Stockists of Pura/Twyford/Carron/Roca/Aquilisa • Large selection of floor and wall tiles • Jax bathroom furniture stockists • Friendly experienced team • Professional advice • Fully installed or supply only • Free parking
Call in to our showroom now Open Monday - Saturday
Tel 01904 690069 Unit 6 Audax Close, Clifton Moor, York, YO30 4RA www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 •
HOMES & GARDENS
DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL Inspection & Testing • Emergency Lighting Fire Alarms • Part P Registered Free quotations
tel: 01904 492980 mob: 07809 534791 info@dcarrington.co.uk www.dcarrington.co.uk
29 Thompson Drive, Strensall, York YO32 5ZN
Need PlaNs drawiNg? House extensions & New Build Designs Planning & Building Regulation Drawings Housing Layouts, Sketch Designs For friendly & efficient service please contact Andy Perkin tel: 01904 678045 or Mob: 07759 547773
email: andy.perkin@tiscali.co.uk
For all your architectural needs
KB PLASTERING Time served plasterer From patching to full house Artex removal & dry lining
“I do actually turn up! ” Tel: 01904 782820 Mobile: 07518 026561
• info@thehandymag.co.uk
HOMES & GARDENS
december 2010 • issue 64
KITCHENS & BEDROOMS
E L SA
up to
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01904 764383 9a The Village, Haxby York YO32 3HS *on selected ranges
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Built on customer recommendations
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 •
health & lifestyle
Christmas Tree Festivals Haxby Memorial Hall presents their Annual Christmas Tree Festival Saturday 4th December from 10.30am until 4-00pm Sunday 5th December from 11-00 am until 3-30pm There will be a raffle, tombola, cake, and gift stalls and much more.
Huntington Methodist Church Fri 26th November to Mon 29th November. Open from 10am to 5pm on Friday and Saturday, 2pm to 5pm on Sunday and 10am to 3pm on Monday.
There will also be refreshments, turkey sandwiches, mince pies and lots of assorted home made cakes . For the children there is a work shop. Then Santa will arrive in style at the Hall at 1pm where they can visit him in his magical grotto.
There will be 18 trees sponsored and decorated by local businesses and organisations on the theme of Christmas Songs, homemade refreshments will be available all day, and there will be stalls selling gifts, crafts and jewellery. This is an opportunity to see the Church now the refurbishment is complete.
The children can write a letter to Santa and get a reply. They will also get an early present from him, but only if they’ve been good!
Admission is free, and all proceeds are for the Churches’ building and improvements scheme.
Archbishop of York’s CE Junior School Bishopthorpe
Grand Christmas Fayre 2010 Saturday 11th December 10am – 12 noon The Christmas Fayre is our main fundraising event of the year, and the money raised helps us provide a wide range of classroom materials in addition to subsidising school visits and special events. Every single child in school will benefit from the money raised at the Fayre. It’s the perfect opportunity to get organised for Christmas and have fun in the process! A selection of stalls and games that will be running this year are: Adult and Children’s Tombola, Christmas Gifts, Christmas Crafts and Home Decorations, Home Baking, Win a Christmas Hamper, Children’s Craft, Crystal Jewellery and Pens Gifts, Phoenix Cards Pampered Chef, Refreshments, Fun games including Hook-a-Duck, Footballs, Roll-a-Penny and Target Board, Friends of Bishopthorpe Grand Prize Raffle.
Entry: Adults £1
Children 50p (under 3 free) Entry includes refreshment
Everyone is very welcome! • info@thehandymag.co.uk
health & lifestyle
december 2010 • issue 64
CELEBRATING
3 YEARS in York
Looking for a dentist?
General Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ...affordable, approachable dentistry Experience a new way of Dentistry wth our warm welcoming staff in tranquill settings. Treatments include Dental Implants, Tooth Whitening, Crowns and Veneers and much more.
3 SPECIAL OFFERS* to celebrate 3 years of providing high quality dentistry in York
1. £15 for New Patient Exam (normally £55) 2. £15 for Cosmetic Dental Consultation (normally £69) 3. £15 for Facial Aesthetics Consultation (normally £69) Please quote ‘The Handy Mag’ to claim these offers. *Limited period only.
Emergency dental appointments available today. No registration required. York City Centre (across from Betty’s) YO1 8QJ
tel: 01904 642 595
Haxby Family Dental Practice (Next to the Co-op) YO32 3HS
tel: 01904 762 757 www.crystalcleardentalspa.co.uk
...passionate about your smile... www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 •
community
book reviews Pick of the gift books Stuck on ideas for festive stocking fillers? We’ve put together a list of lesser-known titles which are perfect for giving at Christmas.
Ethel & Ernest: A True Story
The Anti-Colouring Book
by Raymond Briggs
A genius interpretation of the traditional colouring book, which encourages children to use their imagination, not just their felt-tips. Ideal for creative youngsters who want to add a new dimension to drawing, this is a brilliant choice for ages 6-12.
A touching tale by the much-loved author of ‘The Snowman’. This story of Raymond’s mother and father is beautifully illustrated and incredibly moving: a lovely book which will be treasured by all generations. Make sure you’ve got the tissues ready!
The Gift Book: A Sumptuous Guide to the World of Giving by Patricia Davidson
Don’t you just love it when you find that perfect present? This fantastic little book is jammed full of tips, ideas, anecdotes, wit and wisdom, all based upon the art of giving. Inspirational and beautifully designed, it’s perfect for those who aim to please. 10 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
by Susan Striker and Edward Kimmel
The Book of Qualities by Ruth Gendler
This American title makes a beautiful present for the more sensitive, thoughtful types. Combining poetic language with visionary illustrations, the author portrays our emotions as clever characters. Excitement wears orange socks, Faith lives in the same apartment building as Doubt, and Worry makes lists of everything that could go wrong while she is waiting for the train. A marvellous and comforting book to treasure.
travel
december 2010 • issue 64
Christmas with Conexo Travel Take a look at our fabulous gift ideas for 2010
European City Breaks & Christmas Markets Theatre Breaks Choose from all the top shows, Billy Elliot, Mamma Mia, Wicked and Oliver
For Him Quad biking, prestige car driving, rallying, golfing
For Her Fashion makeover, spa pamper day, cooking masterclass
Undecided? Why not call in and see us at our shop in Haxby -
Tel: 01904 767511
info@conexo.co.uk www.conexo.co.uk
Vouchers available!
Conexo Travel 32 The Village, Haxby, York, YO32 3HT
101 Poems to get you through the day (and night) by Daisy Goodwin
Daisy’s collections introduce the best poetry for a mood or situation, presented in a lovely hardback book. From stepping on the scales to the school run, this title addresses the ups and downs of life in verse. A thoughtful gift, perfect for busy mums.
Loves Me, Loves Me Not by the Romantic Novelists’ Association
For daughters, nieces, granddaughters or the troubled teen next door – this compilation of forty original stories from some of the best women writers of romance is a lovely book to get lost in, reigniting the flames of passion, love and faith.
Aliens Love Panta Claus by Claire Freedman
From the author of Aliens Love Underpants comes a festive title that will have little ones in stitches, as the aliens set to work with Santa Claus in a bid to distribute their treasured collection of undergarments to children the world over!
Diary of an Amateur Photographer: A Mystery by Graham Rawle
When Michael Whittingham joins his local photography club, he finds a bizarre picture on a second-hand camera, which leads him head-first into the investigation of a 30 year-old unsolved murder. Compellingly weird and wonderful, this ‘scrap book’ is the perfect present for anyone with a curious mind. NB. The solution to the mystery is concealed in an envelope at the back of the book – so don’t peek! www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 11
HOMES & GARDENS
York’s Biggest Blind & Curtain Bargains All expertly made-to-measure to your exact size. Literally hundreds of fabrics, designs, colours and styles for you to choose from.
Vertical Blinds from £29 Roller Blinds from £26 Venetians from £25 Wood Venetians from £36 Conservatory Blinds from £55 Plantation Shutters from £89 Velux Blinds from £39 Roman Blinds from £69 Curtains from £39/ pair Call Michael on 01904 360181 to make an appointment 9am - 9pm, 7 days/ week. Huntington Road, York
Where style is affordable
Your &
Electrical (York)
local
electricians
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Mobile Locksmith & Key Cutting • 24 Hour Call-Out • All makes of lock opened, repaired or fitted • Non-destructive entry where possible • Insurance Approved
For a fast reliable service call Darren on 07977 871194 t: 01904 768959 e: darren.sherlocks@gmail.com 26a The Village, Haxby York YO32 3HT
LOCAL
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Kevin Atkinson Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning speCialists
Domestic / Commercial , Carpets & Rugs, Curtains, Upholstery and Leather All beautifully cleaned and refreshed using the latest equipment and products. Fast drying times
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Please phone
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Office: 01904 767725 Paul: 07894 423995 Andrew: 07738 913809
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(local call rate)
Joiner & Carpenter City & Guilds qualified 20 years experience Call Neil
Jackson on
07800 588172 or 01904 492889
1 Newton Way, Strensall, York YO32 5ZE
12 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
DisCoUnt For 2 or more rooms
HOMES & GARDENS
december 2010 • issue 64
Kitchen or Bedroom
Facelift
Replacing doors, drawers, worktops and appliances costs much less than the cost of a full refit.
01904 764383 9a, The Village, Haxby,York,YO32 3HS
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Domestic, Commercial & Industrial Covering Yorkshire & the rest of the UK www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 13
HOMES & GARDENS
SELECT
BLINDS of york Tel: 01904 769341 Friendly, Reliable & Local Family Firm Est 25 years All Aspects of Electrical Work Undertaken From a Plug to a Power Station NICEIC Part P Fully Approved Contractors
Tel: 01904 769341 Fax: 01904 750364 42 Mill Lane, Wigginton, York, YO32 2PY
Vertical or Roller Blinds upto 6ft wide x any drop white or cream
£65 FITTED FREE (larger sizes available)
Aluminium Venetian upto 6ft wide x any drop white/cream/silver
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Discount prices on Verticals, Venetians, Roller Blinds, Romans, Velux and Perfect Fit Free Fitting & Free Estimates 1 Year Guarantee 15 Years Experience
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yorkshire home & property services Top to bottom, Inside or out For all your home needs, give us a shout! • • • • •
Painting & Decorating All Tiling Flat Roofing & roof repairs Door hanging & Joinery Plumbing & kitchen fitting by time-served professional • Gutters Cleaned & Repaired • Conservatory Roof Cleaning • Patios & Driveways Powerwashed (Using environmentally friendly chemicals)
• Replacement windows fitted For a fast friendly service phone Steve on
01904 760737 or 07716 204030 Haxby-based
14 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
All electrical work undertaken
Phone Nigel Wilson t:01904 761480 m: 07815 294462 e:nigelwilson@talktalk.net Eastfield Avenue, Haxby
INSTALLATIONS • SERVICES • REPAIRS
HOMES & GARDENS
december 2010 • issue 64
High quality
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For new builds, extensions and conversions contact Richard Webster BSc (Hons) Arch Tech for a free initial consultation
Patios/Driveways
tel: 01653 690272
Extensions/Garages
Boundary Walls/Fencing Drainage No job too small For free advice and quotations call:
mob: 07792 700035 e: info@prospectdesign.co.uk
www.prospectdesign.co.uk www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 15
HOMES & GARDENS
Wrapping Up Warm
A
s the days lengthen, the cold strengthens’ is one of those faintly irritating sayings from bygone days. Like most country saws, there was a lot of truth in it. Unless you live in the Scottish highlands, you are unlikely to experience a prolonged period of sub-zero temperatures until the year has turned, and the days are lengthening. So now is the time to think about protecting those outdoor plants that are not absolutely bone-hardy. Many people believe that this is one task too many in the garden, and that plants must take their chance; either they will die, in which case you replace them with something different and potentially more interesting, or else they survive and you will have been justified in doing nothing. But there are plenty of plants on whose survival I really do not wish to gamble. Apart from anything else, I find I can never depend on acquiring a plant a second time around. Most gardens will contain one or two slightly tender plants, which may suffer every year, even if only by way of frosted young leaves in spring. And there are herbaceous plants, which we don’t want to dig up each autumn and preserve indoors, such as dahlias, Salvia patens and Cosmos atrosanguineus. Bubble wrap is almost ideal because, being transparent, it lets the plant continue to receive some light. It’s important not to wrap it tightly round the plant, which must be allowed to transpire without becoming sweaty and fungusprone and, ideally, to photosynthesise once dormancy ends in the spring. Bubble wrap is also ideal for wrapping around inexpensive terracotta pots that are prone to frost-shattering. The growing medium in containers freezes more easily than soil in the border, so the roots of even hardy plants in pots are vulnerable to frost damage in cold spells. In the past, dry straw and dried bracken were popular winter insulators, placed round a 16 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
plant, loosely wrapped round and secured with hessian. Neither is easy to come by now, and hessian isn’t cheap. You can still get it from Nutscene, for example, online. For small plants, much the best material is spun ‘fleece’. Easy to get hold of, not expensive, and excellent for protecting the crowns of tender perennials, such as Salvia patens, because it can be cut to size and held down with pegs or by soil heaped on its edges. It can also be laid in more than one layer in severe weather. It is also ideal for throwing over a small plum or peach tree in flower, or a vulnerable hydrangea, if frost is forecast in early spring. You can buy fleece jackets to slip over containers. Haxnicks supply them in three sizes. They also sell designer-print fleece jackets in ‘Autumn Leaf’, ‘Snowflake’ and ‘Green Leaf’. Fleece can be a bit flimsy for windswept places, easily blown away if not well secured. It rarely lasts more than two seasons, but is so easy to handle that it takes the hard work out of winter protection. In a hard winter, that could be the difference between life and death. So in the words of another irritating saying from my childhood, ‘wrap up warm or you won’t feel the benefit’. © Ursula Buchan, 2010
december 2010 • issue 64
Garden Design and Construction By Richard Keast HNC
FREE CONSULTATION
A ST E K
LANDSCAPES
A long established family business
T: 01904 627764 M: 07803 257347 Visit us online at: www.asteklandscapes.co.uk
HOMES & GARDENS
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ROOFING & UPVC ROOFLINE FITTERS SPECIAL OFFER SPECIAL OFFER SPECIAL OFFER THIS MONTH THIS MONTH THIS MONTH
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BLOCK PAVING GRASS CUTTING HEDGE CUTTING CLEARANCE GARDEN TIDIES TREE & HEDGE REMOVAL DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL
07957 729626 or 01904 769812 www.yorkshiretreesurgeons.com Unit 1,Low Grange farm, Moor Lane, Haxby
For something different Rock & Stone York Ltd
LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES Tel: 01904 608300 www.rockandstoneyork.co.uk Vertigow Plant Nursery, A64 & Elvington Ind. Est, York www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 17
HOMES & GARDENS
European or Common Mistletoe Viscum album T
he Christmas custom of kissing under mistletoe comes from an ancient fertility belief and there are many other historical references to this special plant. Mistletoe is semi-parasitic and grows on native British trees such as apple, poplar, and hawthorn. If you possess one of these trees you could try growing your own mistletoe. You need a good supply of berries because many will fail or get eaten. You will also need a lot of patience as mistletoe grows extremely slowly for the first four or five years and even longer to establish properly. You could save the berries from your Christmas mistletoe, but it’s better to buy them fresh from specialist suppliers and plant in February or March. Squeeze the single seed out of the berry and smear it, together with the sticky pulp, onto the side of a strong branch about 1.5 metres up the tree. They prefer apple trees; but be warned, if the mistletoe takes, it will impair the tree’s growth and fruit yield. The more seeds you ‘plant’, the better chance you have of creating your own mistletoe ‘globes’ in years to come. Growing magical mistletoe is sure to bring you good luck, peace and love, and a lesson in patience and perseverance!
SM Maintenance Qualified Joiner Internal Joinery Fitted Wardrobes Kitchen/Bathroom Units Internal Doors Laminate Flooring Garden Fences Decking & Patios
no Job Too SMall
Quality work guaranteed at realistic low prices Call Steve: 01904 752969 or 07732 172536 18 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
Jupiter
Heating & Plumbing • • • • •
Boiler Servicing (gas and oil) Full installations Extra Radiators New Bathroom/Kitchen Renewable energy - we can help you save money and the environment • Small jobs welcome • 24/7 emergencies
Family run, independent business based in Haxby
• • • •
No call out charge Early evening visits available Fully insured All work guaranteed
Service • Repair • Installation For prompt friendly advice and quotes call Paul:
Telephone: 01904 766732 Mobile: 07840 870 352 email: pgriffin1@btinternet.com www.jupiter-plumbing.co.uk
HOMES & GARDENS
december 2010 • issue 64
Ian’s PS elastering rvice
CEILINGS RE-SKIMS WALLS PLASTERBOARDING RENDERING REPAIRS PATCHWORK
Free Quotations
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TRY US WE’RE MAGIC!
07711 072073 07947 579251
Painter & Decorator
Over 35 years experience City & Guilds qualified
For Free Quotes & Advice call 01904 401754 or 07939 846641
Dave Kavanagh Painting & decorating Dave Kavanagh Painting & Decorating
For all your painting and decorating needs. No job too small. Free estimates.
Tel: 01904 706024 mob: 07905 537236
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 19
HOMES & GARDENS
Beautiful wall & floor tiles Tiles imported from around the world Professional & helpful advice Free delivery in the York area 5 Chessingham Park Common Road Dunnington, York
Shipton Road York A19, Next to the Mitre Pub
01904 489544
01904 632211 www.tilewithstyleyork.co.uk
Tile with Style Suppliers of quality tiles at fantastic value
20 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
HOMES & GARDENS
december 2010 • issue 64
Save £££s on your heating bill Fit a new Worcester high efficiency boiler Boiler specialists • Central Heating Systems
Quote ref: ‘The Handy Mag’ when phoning
Specialist Installer
For a FREE competitive quote call: YORK 01904 499247 or 07866 387 846 54 Middlecroft Drive, Strensall, York
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Call DRS Service for • Boiler Servicing • Servicing Contracts • Landlord Certificates
Service
tel: 01904 490112
DaviD EDgar SoliD FuEl & HaulagE HouSE Coal 3 SizES orDEr Early For SMokElESS FuEl CHriSTMaS SpECialiST STaTiC Caravan HauliEr
our online shop is now open
www.thecoalman.co.uk Gas, Coal & Electric Fires LARGE SHOWROOM
Open Monday-Friday 9.00 - 5:00 Sat 9:00 - 1:00
Tel: 01904 499129 Mob: 07957 982826 enquiries@thecoalman.com
Rear of Worsley Arms Hotel, Hovingham, Yorks Only 5 miles from Castle Howard just off the A64
Tel: 01653 628222
WWW.HOVINGHAMFIREPLACES.CO.UK
Top qualiTy BriTiSH FuEl aT CoMpETiTivE priCES www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 21
HOMES & GARDENS
Home Lighting
L
ighting can make or break your carefully planned and decorated room. Selecting the right set of lights can enhance and accentuate your living space by dramatically improving the appearance and atmosphere of any room. Three important points to consider when choosing lighting are function, mood and harmony. Function means what light you need for a particular activity. A kitchen requires different lighting than a study. Use reading lights, table lamps and free-standing uplighters or downlighters to create an inviting and adaptable ambience. Use several kinds of lamps at different levels to provide interest. Mood is influenced by the lighting you choose. Add dimmer switches to your main lights for flexibility. A bright room is uplifting while a darker room is cosier. The design of fixtures also contributes to this mood, contemporary, traditional, simple or ornate. This also harmonises the décor. If your interior design is modern, an ornate fixture could look incongruous. Try to match the lighting to the style of the rest of your room. Accent lighting is a decorative effect that serves little practical purpose but adds an eye-catching touch to your home. Use it to draw attention to art, plants or other treasures. Utilise lighting to emphasise your interior design; plan it stylishly as well as for function.
CK HOME SOLUTIONS A LOCAL PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE, QUALITY SERVICE
REWIRE SPECIALIST Domestic & Commercial All work guaranteed For free no obligation quotes and advice call Chris Judge on
01904 764845 or 07919 033113 VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICES AND ADVICE
www.judgeelectrical.co.uk
22 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
Joinery • Electrics Kitchens • Bathrooms
• We offer a professional service giving you peace of mind • We work to the highest quality standards • We can offer a complete package of services saving you time and money
• We care about your property and always keep it neat and tidy
We are specialists in Domestic Electrics • Kitchen & Bathroom Refits • Bespoke joinery Projects Call now to arrange an initial consultation: Telephone: 01904 769392
Mobile: Kevin 07708 215 415 or Casey 07525 159893 Haxby, York
www.CKHomes.co.uk
HOMES & GARDENS
december 2010 • issue 64
Made to measure
blinds & shutters
at competitive prices .....from a family business
www.a-ablinds.co.uk
Verticals • Rollers • Venetians • Romans Velux • Pleated • Plantation Shutters
A-A BlindS Make an appointment in your own home for a free no obligation quote
Freephone:
0800 5677455 or Mob: 07917 868133
Serving York & Surrounding Areas
PROVIDING QUALITY uPVC PRODUCTS Try our NEW ‘A’ Rated Windows
Est 20yrs Your local trade suppliers
T: 01653 600388 E:info@windowdist.com www.windowdist.com York Road Businesss Park, Malton
“One of the only local companies in the industry to hold a BSI Kitemark” www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 23
HOMES & GARDENS
Electrical Services Professional Domestic & Commercial Electrician Providing all aspects of electrical work including:
• Rewires • New Installations • • Repairs and Maintenance • • Inspection & Testing Services •
Call now:
Based Haxby
t:01904 t:01904 768704 768704 m:07921 m:07921 480235 480235
Christmas Competition
dy han Mag
A £25 Voucher for N I W Flowers & Hearts Florist This
Christmas Penguin is hiding amongst 5 adverts in the magazine.
Can you find them all?
Simply send a postcard telling us which pages the penguin is on and in which adverts to..... Flowers & Hearts Competition, The Handy Mag, 10 The Rise, Leavening, Malton, YO17 9TA, telling us your: name, address and a contact number
actual size! Entries must be received no later than 20th December 2010 Entries will be drawn from a hat. First correct entry drawn wins. Only 1 entry per household. Winner will be notified by post. Responsibility is not accepted for lost/delayed/damaged entries.
Flowers & Hearts Florist Weddings • Funerals • Gifts 24 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
Tel: 01904 767649 57 The Village, Haxby YO32 2JE
HOMES & GARDENS
december 2010 • issue 64
Blinds
Autumn Offers
to suit all budgets and tastes
e across the rang
w for
Please phone no details
Local, Experienced & Reliable A family business with over 20 years experience we cater for all domestic and commercial window blind requirements.
unts *OAP Disco d lin *Multi-B ls ea D t un Disco s ce ri P ry *Facto the direct from r manufacture
Specialising in providing beautiful shading solutions for your home or business. Our professional service will take you through from design to installation. We can match any genuine quote.
www.inspired-blinds.co.uk E: enquiries@inspired-blinds.co.uk
Call Mark now for your free quotation on
Tel: 01347 848222 0800 0113 125
1 Moor Lane, Newton on Ouse, York YO30 2DE
Plumbing & Heating
New Boiler Installa tion specia lists
Drawn for • Planning Permission • House Extensions • Dormers • Loft Conversions • Conservatories
Free Advice / Consultation
Contact: Nev or Tim 01653 618716 mob: 07824 843999 or 07891 595066 simplyplansyork@tiscali.co.uk • Service, installation and repair to all boilers • Customers receive a 5 years parts & labour warranty on all boiler installations. Our local installers are accredited for Worcester Bosch.
01904 541554 or 07765 668 493 email: info@yorkplumbingandheating.co.uk www.yorkplumbingandheating.co.uk A family run business with families in mind.
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 25
health & lifestyle
M.V.Mobility Scooters from £295
Designer Christening Wear & Childrens Clothing From Premature To Six Years
10%
Including Warranty & After Sales Service
discount
POWER LIFT RECLINE CHAIRS FROM £495
with this advert Until 31 Jan 11
No obligation, free home demonstration. Distance no object Part exchange welcome Also available wheelchairs, adjustable beds, bath lifts & stair lifts. 0% FINANCE AVAILABLE WRITTEN DETAILS UPON REQUEST All major credit cards accepted
MOBILE SHOWROOM (APPS ONLY)
CALL MICHAEL ON
01937 558604
Open Mon - Tue & Fri - Sat 10 - 4pm other times by arrangement Call Lesley on: 01653 668547 or 07920 062111 for an appointment to come and browse at your leisure. Evening appointments also available Beansheaf Farm, Malton Road, Kirby Misperton, Malton YO17 6UE (Behind the Garage)
THE TANNING LOUNGE Sunbeds•Spray Tanning(Fake (Fake Bake)• Bake)• Nail Bar Opening Times Mon - Thurs Friday Saturday Sunday
9.30am-8.30pm 9.30am - 7pm 10am - 6pm 12pm - 3pm
01904 652025
31 Brockfield Park Drive, Huntington, York • www.thetanninglounge.co.uk
Surgical Chiropodist HEATHER KYNMAN MSSCh. MBChA
ADVICE - HOME VISITS By Appointment tel: 01904 728426 or 07748 692450
ENGLISH made easy
EXPERIENCED ENGLISH TUTOR All levels taught One to one or group tutorials available Please ring Nicola on
01904 492343
HPC Reg 26 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
for more information
Cut & Blow £12 Colours/Perms from £22 inc Cut & Blow
25 years salon experience
Wendy Murray
Mobile Hairdressing t: 01904 675507 or m: 07939 802702
community
december 2010 • issue 64
Happy 40th Birthday to
Huntington Preschool
H
untington Preschool was formed as a charity by parents in 1970 and had just 20 children. It has grown through the years to be a thriving and popular preschool with over 80 children attending a variety of session every week - quite an achievement! To celebrate 40 years, the preschool threw a birthday party with a large cake, an entertainer and games. I felt lucky to be invited to this special day and see first hand the happy, excited faces of children, parents and staff alike. Speaking to parents on the day, they were also full of praise for the preschool. “My son absolutely loves it. He always comes home with something.” said one mum. “It’s a wonderful place to send your children. The staff are very caring. Care is second to none.” The 6 members of staff, Ruth Marlein, Gill Grajewski, Mel Hudson, Lynne Britton, Jackie Baker and Andrea Wilman were all mums with children at the preschool. This long term familiarity with the needs of parents, community and education is clearly evident in this preschool making it the safe, secure and stimulating environment it is today. The longest serving is Gill with 15 years. “It’s like a family” she says, “And there is never a dull day.” Huntington Preschool is Ofsted inspected and follow the early years curriculum. Through active and creative learning in many different ways, the children are ideally prepared for the next step of moving to school. The preschool has excellent links with the local primary. The preschool takes children from 2½ to 5 years old and there is also a toddler group twice a week for babies and toddlers until they reach nursery age. The future also looks good with the preschool now involved with a new initiative through York City Council to help improve literacy. The project has provided new story sacks, painting eisels, drama sessions among other exciting activities to help the children gain confidence in their communication. The Handy Mag would like to congratulate Huntington Preschool on their 40th year and wish them all the best for the next 40!
PRESCHOOL: Monday - Friday morning 9.00 -12.00, plus Monday afternoon 12.30 - 3.30 (term time only). Cost is £7.50 per session if your child is not eligible for Council funding. Funding is usually available in the term after your child becomes three, but some funding is available for two year olds, subject to circumstance. A few places are still available for this term and new names are always accepted onto the waiting list.
BABIES AND TODDLER GROUP: Monday and Friday mornings 9.15 - 10.45 during term time. Fun sessions for carers and children, which include playtime, craft activities, story time and singing. All welcome. £3 per session including refreshments for adults and children. Discounts available for half-termly registration or additional children. Feel free to call in.
The Memorial Hall, Strensall Road, Huntington Further details can be obtained from Lynne Britton on 01904 765017 email lynne.britton1@btinternet.com
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 27
york
Geeks Bearing Gifts What can you buy the gadget fiend who’s got everything? Christmas is a headache if someone in your family is a gadget fiend because that person will already have every high-tech toy they could possibly need. Don’t despair, though: it’s still possible to find gifts for the geeks in your life.
O
ne of the best ways to delight a gadget fiend is to get them an accessory for something they’ve already got - although we’d recommend steering clear of cases and other cosmetic accessories, as these are often a matter of taste.
Audio and Visual For camera fans there’s the superb range of Gorillapod go-anywhere tripods (£12 to £35 depending on camera size), and if you’re feeling flush the excellent and innovative Eye-Fi cards (£49.99 for a 4GB SD version) enable any digital camera user to upload their shots instantly via Wi-Fi. If they’re also an iPad owner you might like to buy them Apple’s Camera Connection Kit (£25), which not only copies photos from cameras and memory cards to the iPad, but also (unofficially) enables the use of USB devices such as headsets. If you know an iPod addict, headphones are a good bet - the ones that come with most MP3 players tend to be awful, but better ones can be picked up for as little as £20 while £49.95 gets you a superb set such as Sennheiser’s CX380 Sport II, which are great for bass-heavy music and trips to the gym. There’s also a big range of external speakers for MP3 players: Logitech’s Pure-Fi Express Plus (£39.99) for the iPod looks a bit blocky, but sounds fantastic.
Portable Power A handy accessory for gadgets of all kinds is the FreeLoader, a solar charger that can power almost anything. Prices start at £16.99 for the simple Pico version, rising to £69.99 for the Pro, which is 28 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
designed for heavy-duty batteries such as the ones you’ll find in digital SLR cameras. All FreeLoaders come with a range of adaptors to suit most gadgets. On a related note, the clever iDAPT i4 universal charger promises to banish cable clutter by providing a single dockings station that can charge four gadgets simultaneously. It’s compatible with over 4,000 different devices including iPods, mobile phones and even rechargeable batteries.
Something Different If that sounds too sensible, the bizarre Le Whif inhaler (£4.99 from Firebox.com) promises a caloriefree chocolate hit in a device that’s roughly the same size as a lipstick. The tiny device uses tiny particles to deliver the taste of chocolate (or raspberry, mint or even coffee if you prefer) in breathable form, and you get around ten puffs from a single stick. The sales blurb suggests that it “might even replace choccy bars and espresso as the accessory of choice amongst sweet-toothed fashionistas”; it won’t, but it’ll certainly be talking point on Christmas morning.
For the Pet Owner Another talking point is the Pet’s Eye View Camera (£39.99), which promises to reveal the secret life of your pet. Clip the lightweight camera to your
health & lifestyle
december 2010 • issue 64
CHRI ST M A CR A C S K ER S
tel: 01904 766566
tel: 01904 766566
www.cyclescene.co.uk Unit C, Windmill House Industrial Estate, Sutton Road, Wigginton York
Quality Day Care for your child
dog’s collar, let him or her loose and the camera takes up to 40 timed images that you can download to your PC or Mac. It’s of little practical value, of course, but it should amuse dog owners. Last but not least, there are always vouchers: iTunes gift vouchers - available electronically or as gift cards from supermarkets and record shops can be exchanged for iPod, iPhone or iPad music, movies or apps, while Microsoft Points give Xbox owners extra online purchasing power.
Most online retailers offer vouchers too, so for example Amazon.co.uk offers traditional printed vouchers as well as emailed ones for when you need a present in a hurry.
SMALL 30 PLACE NURSERY Open 8am - 6pm Mon - Fri QUALIFIED FRIENDLY STAFF Large Outdoor Play Area SELF-CONTAINED BABY UNIT OFSTED Inspected
2 miles from Strensall, our nursery is in an idyllic setting and provides a quality environment with a child centred approach, supported by friendly qualified staff.
FLAXTON VILLAGE NURSERY Tel: 01904 468888 Daytime Draft Farm, Flaxton, York YO60 7QP flaxtonnursery.wetpaint.com
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 29
health & lifestyle Here is a Children’s Nursery for York
With unique loving care and a unique approach to learning, we are proud to be awarded ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted for the ‘Organisation’ and for ‘Being Healthy’
Come and visit us in Fulford and Strensall!
We offer a Montessori education, foreign languages and quality activities 01904 642666 & 01904 490339 www.hometohomenursery.co.uk Opening hours 7.30am - 6pm
Fingertip Perfection The state of our nails says a lot about us. You might think that beautiful fingertips are out of the question, due to your lifestyle or work commitments, but it is still possible to have attractive nails. •
Even if your job involves getting your hands dirty, don’t scrub them. It’s better to clean under the nails with an orange stick and remove dirt with an anti-bacterial and hand-sensitive product.
•
Eat a healthy diet, which should, ideally, be rich in calcium, vitamin B and potassium.
•
Make regular use of hand cream and keep some next to every sink you use.
Nail polish makes even the shortest nails look attractive, providing you use a muted tone and not a vivid colour to draw attention to the length. However, even if you don’t have a ‘hands on’ job, you might find your nail polish doesn’t last very long. Below are some tips to make it last longer.
30 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
•
Use a base coat for a smoother surface.
•
Make sure you add polish to the nail tips to reduce the possibility of chipping.
•
A build up of thin coats is better than one or two thick applications.
•
Use a clear topcoat to protect the colour. You can, if you wish, reapply topcoat every second day until you repaint your nails.
•
Allow at least 30-45 minutes drying time after application of the topcoat. Once dry, submerge your nails in cold water for a few minutes. Dry and then apply hand cream.
health & lifestyle
december 2010 • issue 64
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
www.sephoratotalbeautyyork.co.uk
SPECIAL OFFERS
to all our customers from all the girls at Sephora
VIBROGYM:
Book a 9 week course of 3 sessions per week for £75
(Normally £108.00 - saving £33.00!)
DECEMBER RAFFLE: Spend £20 or
more in December to be entered into our raffle to win a pamper pack which includes a taster facial, a file and polish on fingers and a file and polish on toes (to be taken in January)
JANUARY SPECIAL: 10% off
all treatments taken throughout January 2011*
Mon 10 - 4, Tues 10 - 5, Weds 10 - 8, Thurs 10 - 8, Fri 10 - 4, Sat 10 - 2
Tel: 01904 750199 2a Haxby Shopping Centre, Haxby, York
(not to be used in conjunction with any other offer) *Terms and conditons apply
Christmas Gift Ideas at Christmas Gift Packs
Christmas Gift Vouchers Available
hair Special Offers on Cloud Nine Irons
Schwarzkopf professional gift packs
Experienced City Centre Trained Stylists Advanced Cutting • Vibrant Colour • Amazing Prices
tel:
01904 491473
18A BARLEY RISE, STRENSALL (above the shops)
Student discounts available Credit/Debit Cards accepted
Loyalty cards now in operation
Open: Tues - Sat, Late night Thurs
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 31
-Solutions For Quality Of Life-
Making daily r e i s living ea M any people seem to go through life ‘excluded’ from so many experiences and opportunities that others take for granted. Disability takes many forms and affects people in different ways. But life doesn’t have to stop – Able to Enable at Clifton Moor, can offer you solutions for quality of life to carry out normal day-to-day activities.
WHO ARE WE? Able to enable was founded on a strong belief in first class customer service and excellent customer care. Each branch of Able to Enable is equipped with an onsite engineering workshop and a team of fully trained engineers.
WHAT DO WE OFFER? Finding the right mobility scooter, stair lift, adjustable bed, riser/recliner chair, power wheelchair or bathing can sometimes be a time consuming and daunting task. The Clifton Moor showroom is equipped with a fully functional stairlift for you to try along with products for bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, general accessories…. Whatever it takes to make your life easier and more comfortable.
32 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
Offering a ‘hassle free’ approach to what may otherwise seem a daunting experience!
RISER ER RECLIN CHAIRS
85
from p£eri4od only *Limited
advertisement feature
WHY COME TO US? “Our service meets every customer’s individual mobility needs and ensures they get the right mobility equipment, advice and training at the right time,” says Managing Director, Mark Gibson. “We listen to the customer when offering suitable products. We understand that the needs of one customer are not identical to those of another and our aim is to help you maintain a good quality of life.” “We continue to improve our service and seek new products which make life easier, giving you life satisfaction and functional capability. Our highly experienced team will look after you and make your experience here hassle free”.
WHAT ELSE? Able to Enable are able to service, maintain and repair a wide range of community care equipment.
ADAPT MOBILITY PRODUCTS
• Able to Enable are proud to be Motability
accredited for vehicle adaptions. The products are specifically designed to enable people with restricted mobility to use their vehicles and retain a level of independence.
• Car adaptations are not just for wheelchair users. If you have arthritic problems, your vehicle can be adjusted to make it easier where movement in hands or feet is limited.
tel: 01904
690666
FREE assessments, demonstrations and training also available for more specialists products.
SHOWERDECKS
•A
true level access on a true level surface. The shower floor lies flush to your floor level.
• Water is dispersed quickly and effectively leaving you with no puddles and a non-slip surface.
• Available
in a wide range of sizes, providing more options and solutions to adapt to individual bathroom designs and layouts.
www.ableto.co.uk Unit 7, Stirling Park, Clifton Moor, York
• Together
with half height doors, the Showerdeck can be enjoyed by the whole family.
“Let us find a solution to enhance YOUR quality of life” www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 33
health & lifestyle
We wish you a
Creative Christmas
O
n the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me, a partridge in a pear tree. On the second day of Christmas my true love gave to me, two turtle doves and a partridge in a… Let’s face it, choosing Christmas presents can feel a little, well, ‘predictable’ at times. There’s the box of chocolates for the crossing lady at school to say “Thank you very much” for wearing a bright yellow coat and stopping us from getting squished each morning, there’s the box of toffees that you buy every year for Uncle Ken in Cockermouth. With the financial markets being in the state they’re in, this year is the perfect time to think outside the box and to use your imagination to come up with something a little bit ‘different’. One of the best ideas I have come across is that of organising ‘an experience’ for someone, rather than giving a ‘thing’. My sister, for example, knows that her husband loves animals, especially really big animals and so one year she bought him a ‘Feed the Big Cats by Hand’ experience at a wildlife park in Hertfordshire. The photograph of an enormous lion nibbling a hunk of meat from Richard’s clenched fist is still his computer screen saver today. The gift of cinema or theatre tickets can be the catalyst for conversation across the generations as grandchildren call or write to their grandparents to say thank you and to tell them about the film or show they saw. The big day itself is the perfect time to get creative, not necessarily in the area of presents but in the whole experience of the day. Asking people to help in practical ways can help them to feel involved in the process of preparing the Christmas Dinner and, in turn, in sharing the glory. Last year I asked all the children of the house to help with making place cards. Once issued with felt pens, glitter, glue (I know, I know, I’d had a sherry) and squares of cardboard they happily scribbled 34 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
away, only falling out when it got to the part about who was going to sit where. I think I may have pushed this idea a bit too far though, the year I asked my Mum to drive all the way down the M1 clutching a jug of turkey gravy balanced on her knees! Personalised presents always strike the right note and they don’t have to cost the earth. Photo mugs, calendars and books are a great way to feel connected to family and friends throughout the year and, for those people with babies or small children, it’s now possible to make cufflinks or jewellery with discs of silver imprinted with tiny finger prints. One of the most memorable and creative gifts I ever received was a very small hand-decorated envelope from friends who I knew were really struggling financially. Inside the envelope was a packet of flower seeds. I thought of those friends every day that summer as I watched their gift grow and blossom, long after the tinsel and the tree had been taken down. With a bit of thought, creativity and, most importantly, time, Christmas can be what it was always meant to be. A time for loving and giving - without a predictable pair of socks in sight.
health & lifestyle
december 2010 • issue 64
Book now for Christmas Gift Vouchers available TIGI Gift Packs Limited edition GHDs
@Roko
Tel: 01904 479163 situated @ Roko Health Club, Stirling Road, Clifton Moor, York, YO30 4TU
salonabsolute@live.co.uk Mon: 9.00am - 5.00pm Tues - Fri: 9.00am 7.00pm Sat: 8.30am - 4.30pm
NEW TR EATM AVAILA ENTS Botox, BLE Chemic al p opi ea eels, Minx r cand & Th les Body c reading! ontou ring w ith Marce lle nails, H
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 35
motoring
Get your car serviced by a local award winning garage
A
utosafe Clifton has been serving motorists in York for over 30 years and was voted as one of the UK’s top garages by its customers in 2010. Regular maintenance and servicing helps keep your car in tip top condition and help spot potential problems before they stop you in your tracks. From servicing to MOTs and air conditioning to exhausts, Autosafe Clifton can do it all and they are so confident in their work that they offer a nationwide guarantee. Owner Jon Hedison has been in the trade for 26 years and has experience with Rover, Nissan, Peugeot and Ford. Add to that the 20 years of combined expertise of the workshop foreman, technician and apprentices and you can be confident of a job well done with work carried out to the highest standards. Jon bought the business 2 years ago when his then business partner decided to move permanently to live in Spain. He saw an opportunity to offer customers a friendly and high quality service, at a competitive price. Jon feels that by offering honest advice concerning work required, he can provide a high level of service at a cost effective price, and hopes that once customers use Autosafe they will return time and again. Jon says “We pride ourselves on the friendly efficient service from our highly trained staff. We can carry out all electrical and technical repairs and our great deals save you money on main
36 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
dealer prices”. The Golden Garages competition was launched earlier this year by Motor Codes Ltd, which is supported by the Department for Transport (DfT) and the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) and is responsible for overseeing standards in the service and repair sector. The competition invited members of the public to nominate their favourite service and repair garages, before an online voting round. Those that achieved the highest customer approval rating were then assessed by a group of judges. Autosafe Clifton secured one of the highest scores in the Yorkshire area. Jon said: “It’s great to know that customers think we are doing it right. We have invested a lot in the premises, technical training and equipment, but all that means little if the customers don’t feel we are doing a good job and dealing with them fairly.” This focus on customers is the key to the business’s success. Jon recruits most service staff as school leavers and trains them up through apprenticeships so that they develop the necessary technical skills as well as a thorough grounding in the Autosafe Clifton way of doing things. This means communication - every team member must be confident to discuss problems and solutions with customers, so they know their vehicles are in safe hands.
motoring
advertisement feature Autosafe Clifton are a Centre of Excellence for:
keep you informed of the work in progress while your vehicle is with them.
• Autosafe carry out Diagnostics on most makes of vehicle. As part of an ongoing investment programme in computer diagnostics Autosafe have invested in dealer level software so they can carry out all the diagnostics that traditionally has only been able to be done at the main dealerships. All mechanical and electrical repairs on cars and light vans
Autosafe understand that for business customers their work van is key to their business, and will provide the business with a van if the vehicle is off the road. They endeavour to carry out work in a timely manner to ensure the vehicle is back with the owner as soon as possible.
• Fast fit tyres, brakes and exhausts • Air conditioning, repairs and servicing • Competitive pricing structure for servicing, MOTs and computer diagnostics Working with approved parts also enables them to carry out any warranty work. If you live or work locally and find it difficult to drop your vehicle off and pick it up again, Autosafe offer a collect and delivery service for your vehicle from home or work at your convenience, making life easier for you!. They also provide courtesy cars if required and will
SERVICING
We service all makes and models and have loan cars available or a lift to your home or Our mechanics are fully trained in all aspects of car servicing and repairs.
Lubrication Intermediate and 50 point safety check
Major Service
Based at a convenient location on Wigginton Road, just near Clifton Moor makes this family run business an ideal place for regular maintenance and servicing of your vehicle. Visit them today to see how their team of experts can improve your vehicle without the huge expense!
MOTs£35
CENTRE OF AllEXCELLENCE FOR:
MOT testing Servicing for all makes Mechanical repairs Electrical repairs Diagnostics ABS (anti lock brakes) SRS (air bag systems) Air conditioning service Brake service Clutches Exhausts Tyres
atMOTs
MOT testing for cars and vans
25% Discount 1st year retention
Normal price £54
50% Discount 2nd year retention
Winter Inspection
£9.95 01904 691284
for only
rear brakes services and 50 point safety check.
Cliftongate Business Park, Wigginton Road, York, YO32 2RH E: info@autosafeclifton.co.uk
C
www.autosafeclifton.co.uk
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 37
motoring
Abarth 500C
I
f you like your motoring with wind in the hair and lashings of excitement, then the Abarth 500C will be right up your street. The maker – Fiat Group’s performance arm – has just unveiled the drop-top version of its potent little city car and we’ve climbed behind the wheel. Packing a 1.4-litre 16v turbo-charged engine with 140bhp, the 500C may look small but punches well above its weight. That T-Jet unit is capable of propelling the car to 60mph in just 8.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 127mph – and all while you soak up the rays with the top rolled back. Abarth has stiffened the windscreen pillar to cope with the fabric roof, which folds back electrically like a long sunroof. It concertinas away, bunching up above the rear tailgate when not in place. The problem is, with the roof down, noise levels are high and the buffeting at speeds the little Abarth is capable of reaching
can be uncomfortable. The electrical mechanism works quickly and at town speeds can still be operated, but for fast paced roads and motorways you’ll need the lid shut. The 500c really is a true hot hatch though – it feels a lot quicker than the 8.1 second to the 60mph time suggests. On the road, two roarty exhausts sing the car’s intentions and the engine has a pleasing growl to it when stretched. It grips superbly too and on a race track – where professional drivers demonstrated to Autoblog what the Abarth was really capable of – it was clear the car is entertainingly quick. But it’s not all good news. From launch only a semi-auto flappy paddle gearbox will be available and sadly it’s not up to the job. In automatic mode, changes are slow and irritating. Flick the sport button on (a button you should rarely turn off) and use the paddles sees things get a little better – but you need to lift off the power every time you change. And even then it’s still jerky. The good news is a manual gearbox – which is good in the hard-top Abarth 500 – will be available from November. Despite those impressive
38 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
motoring
december 2010 • issue 64
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Unit 1D Birch Park, off Huntington Road, Over 30 years experience York YO31 9BL www.birchparkvtc.co.uk *Terms & conditions apply performance figures, the 500C is still quite frugal – it’ll do 43.4mpg on the combined cycle and emits 151g/km. Specification is high too with xenon headlights, parking sensors and Blue&Me connectivity all standard. Abarth told us that an Essesse performance upgrade will be made available in November. This will boost power to 165bhp and reprogram the gearbox for faster shifts, but we can’t help thinking the standard car needs the upgrade already. It really is hard to see past that annoying gearbox and that’s a real shame as there’s little else wrong with the £17,500 Abarth 500C. It’s fast, comfortable inside and most importantly isn’t a Mini Cooper S – and for buyers looking to stand out from the crowd that could be just the hook Abarth needs to find it homes. By James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk) www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 39
community
Recommended last posting dates for Christmas
boat bound for the Bermuda Triangle. But the stormtossed voyage lands him on a very different kind of island, one populated by a tiny civilization known as Lilliputians. The gargantuan Gulliver becomes an inspiration to his new 6-inch-tall friends, leading the Lilliputians to a victory over their neighbouring island nemesis.
at the cinema The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader Return to the magic and wonder of CS Lewis’ beloved world – via the fantastic Narnian ship, the Dawn Treader. In this new instalment of the blockbuster “The Chronicles of Narnia” motion picture franchise, Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, along with their cousin Eustace and their royal friend King Caspian, find themselves swallowed into a painting and on to the Dawn Treader. As they embark on an incredible adventure of destiny and discovery, they confront obstacles beyond imagination.
Gulliver’s Travels In this contemporary re-imagining of Jonathan Swift’s classic tale, Jack Black stars as Lemuel Gulliver, a struggling writer who works as a mail delivery person at a major newspaper. To impress the travel editor, Gulliver finally ventures into uncharted waters on a 40 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
Little Fockers The test of wills between Jack Byrnes and Greg Focker escalates to new heights of comedy in the third installment of the blockbuster series—Little Fockers. Laura Dern, Jessica Alba and Harvey Keitel join the returning all-star cast for a new chapter of the worldwide hit franchise.
127 Hours The true story of mountain climber Aron Ralston’s remarkable adventure to save himself after a fallen boulder crashes on his arm and traps him in an isolated canyon in Utah. Over the next five days Ralston examines his life and survives the elements to finally discover he has the courage and the wherewithal to extricate himself by any means necessary, scale a 65 foot wall and hike over eight miles before he is finally rescued. Throughout his journey, Ralston recalls friends, lovers, family, and the two hikers he met before his accident. 127 HOURS is the new film from Danny Boyle, the Academy Award winning director of last year’s Best Picture, Slumdog Millionaire.
motoring
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Vicki Butler-Henderson gets into gear with ChipsAway! www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 41
community Local Groups 2ND SUNDAY RAMBLING CLUB
Our walks are usually 10 - 12 miles long and within about an hours journey from York. We have a coach which picks up in Wigginton, Haxby, New Earswick and Clarence Street from 8.30am, with an introductory fare of £5 for your first walk. We look forward to seeing you next month - on the second Sunday, of course! For more information please ring either Helen on York 782891 or Hazel on York 760897.
AGE CONCERN YORK
Age Concern York provides a wide range of personal and practical support to older people in the York area. www.ageconcernyork. org.uk The office is open Monday - Friday 09.00am - 4.00pm. For more information contact: Information Officer, Age Concern York tel: (01904) 627995/621020
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE SOCIETY Information and support for all people with dementia and their carers. www. alzheimers.org.uk/york Monday - Friday 9.30 - 3.30 The Retreat, Heslington Road, Heslington, York YO10 5BN For more information contact: Branch Manager, Alzheimer’s Society, York Branch, Ground Floor Suite, Holgate Villa, 22 Holgate Road, York YO24 4AB tel: 01904 658106 or 01904 799773 email: AL.york@tesco.net
BREATHE EASY YORK
The group meets every first Wednesday of the month 1pm-3pm at Huntington Working Mens Club. This is open for sufferers, helpers and carers. Support, speakers and trips out. For more information call Sue, 01904 410 003 or go to: www.breatheeasyyork.co.uk
BRITISH RED CROSS
Car and minibus drivers required in all areas. The British Red Cross Transport Service is looking for volunteer drivers who can help in their local community to make a difference to those in need. As a transport service volunteer, you will have the rewarding experience of helping people who cannot get about easily. Training and support given and mileage allowance of 40p per mile paid. If you would like to find out more about becoming a volunteer
please ring Linda on 01904 692550 or Helen on 01904 693027
CANCER CARE CENTRE
at York Hospital offers support and information for Cancer Patients, their Families and Carers. Information available includes access to Local Support Groups, Travel Insurance and Forthcoming Events. We offer specialised services on a referral basis such as Psycho-Oncology, Complementary Therapy and Benefits Advice. To find out more come in and see us, the Centre is open Monday to Friday 9.30am 4.30pm or telephone 01904 721166.
CITIZEN ADVICE BUREAU
Free and confidential advice. Mon & Tues - 9.303.30pm. Wed 4.30pm-7pm. Thurs 9.30am-3.30pm. Closed on fridays. 0844 826 9705 www.yorkcab.org.uk
CITY OF YORK PIPE BAND
We consist of bagpipers, base drum, tenor drums and side drummers. We practice weekly at the Huntington Memorial Hall, on Wednesday nights,. We aim to go and play in public, in town and at gigs, also weddings and celebrations. We offer tuition, free for under 18’s and a small yearly fee for adults. We have all the equipment anyone will need to start... so come and join us!! Ring Laura, Pipe Major, on 01904 763243 or John on 01423 879519.
CITY OF YORK AND DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY.
We hold monthly meetings on the 1st Wednesday of the month at The Folk Hall, New Earswick 7pm for 7 30. excluding August. We also have a well equipped Study Centre in York where we can help both inexperienced and the more experienced with their problems and brickwalls. We welcome newcomers to the hobby and are willing to give advice to set them on the way. Please see our web site at www. yorkfamilyhistory.org.uk or call Mike on 01904 767013.
EWENIQUE MACHINE KNITTING CLUB
Meet at the Folk Hall New Earswick on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month 2pm until 4pm. (No meeting July/August).We are a friendly group who meet
42 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
to exchange ideas and techniques. Most meetings we have a demonstration of knitting. For more information call Pat on 01904 763964.
FRIENDS OF ST NICHOLAS FIELDS
York Environment Centre, Rawdon Avenue, York, YO10 3ST. The nature reserve is open all the time and has a children’s playground, mini stonehenge, butterfly walk and wooded area. Mon - Fri 9.00am - 5pm and Sat 10.00am - 2pm. Please pop down during opening hours to find out more. Be a volunteer or a member of St Nicholas - call 01904 411821
FRIENDS OF YORK HOSPITALS
This group organises volunteers who provide patients with extra comfort and support. We also raise funds for medical and surgical equipment which cannot be provided through NHS finances. For more information call Friends Office tel: 01904 726762 email: friendsofyorkhospital@york. nhs.uk
FRIENDS OF YORK THEATRE ROYAL
We are an enthusiastic, theatre-loving group keen to support our local theatre and meet others who share a passion for the arts. Joining us is a good way to make new friends, to take part in events at the Theatre Royal, to visit theatres in other places such as Newcastle, Scarborough and Leeds, and other places of interest such as historical buildings in York and elsewhere. We hold monthly lunches in the theatre foyer, and help with selling programmes. If you would like to join, please write to our Membership Secretary,c/o York Theatre Royal, St Leonards Place, York YO1 7HD or visit our website at friends@ yorktheatreroyal.co.uk
HALVES
Are you a person who has lost their other half? If so, would you like to join us for a friendly chat over refreshments? We meet at 12 noon on the first Saturday of each month in the coffee area of Trinity Methodist Church, Monkgate, York For more information telephone Margaret on 01904 415894
HAXBY & WIGGINTON FLOWER CLUB (Affiliated to NAFAS)
A group for people who are interested in flower arranging, voluntary competitions, visiting speakers, self help activities and opportunities for wider involvement. All visitors are welcome. Next Meeting: 14th December. Demonstration: ‘Designs for Christmas’ by Andrew Grisewood. Cost is £7 for visitors. Further details from 01904 765676
groups and occasional visits to interesting locations. Why not make a trial visit with a view to becoming a member? We meet every third Thursday of the month in St Mary’s Church Hall, Haxby. at 10.00am (refreshments available). Ring Ian Mason 768516
HAXBY & WIGGINTON GARDENING CLUB
We are a voluntary group of people (Creating Cooperative Community) who live in the area, who want to make a local impact on the York in Transition Agenda: to persuade everyone to make small steps towards reducing our reliance on ways of living which are unsustainable and will cause serious dilemmas for our children and grandchildren. We want to start by becoming more cooperative about what we grow and produce locally...contact to join the ‘germinators’ or express any interests: 01904 756651
We meet monthly on the 2nd Sunday of each month at 2.30pm at .St Mary’s Church Hall, Haxby. We have regular speakers, visits and events and welcome new members to this friendly and informal group. For more information please phone Ginny Mason, Secretary 01904 768516
HAXBY & WIGGINTON PROBUS CLUB
We are a club for retired people over 55 years old. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday each month in the Haxby & Wigginton Methodist Church Hall at 10am for 10.30am. We have speakers on many varied subjects. New members welcome. For further information contact Mike Harrison on 01904 769507
HAXBY & WIGGINTON U3A
The University of the Third Age (U3A) is a voluntary body of retired but active people who like to follow their interests and take up new ones. Courses are run free of charge by members themselves, no qualifications are required only enthusiasm and a wish to join with others in the pursuit of new activities. Monthly meetings with a speaker on the 3rd Friday of the month at 2pm at Wigginton Recreation Hall. Current groups include Art, Bird Watching, Bridge, Dancing, History, Investment Planning, IT, Languages, Literature, Scrabble, Table Tennis, Walking etc. Theatre visits, luncheons and excursions are also arranged. New members warmly welcomed, especially those willing to share their interests and perhaps start a new group. For further information call 01904 761920.
HAXBY LOCAL HISTORY GROUP
We are a lively, friendly and informal group who meet to promote local history. We have speakers, research
HAXBY AND WIGGINTON YORK IN TRANSITION
HAXBY SINGERS
Do you like to sing? Basses, Tenors, Altos and Sopranos it’s great fun, come along to the Haxby Singers. Auditions are not required to join our friendly mixed choir group. We meet 7.30pm, once a week In St Mary’s Church Hall. For further information, telephone Lynn on 01904 769838 or Margaret on 01904 761618
HEARING DOGS FOR DEAF PEOPLE
01844 348100 info@hearing-dogs.co.uk www.hearingdogs.co.uk
Huntington Bridge Club
Held every Saturday at Huntington Community Centre, 26 Strensall Road. 7 till 10, al new players welcome! Just come along.
HUNTINGTON MEMORIAL HALL
46 Strensall Road, Huntington. Two rooms available for hire. Other groups who use the hall are Huntington Pre-School, the Guiding Association, Karate, Ebor Rag Ruggers, Diet and Fitness Groups, dance groups and Military Whist groups. Further information and bookings is via the Caretaker on 01904 760044.
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY (YORK BRANCH) Access to information, advice and support, and to offer opportunities and
community
december 2010 • issue 64 choice to anyone affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Opening times: Tuesdays: 2pm-7pm Thursdays: 10am-2pm First Saturday of every month: 10am-2pm. Woodlands MS Resource Centre 120 Thief Lane, Hull Road, York YO10 3HU Tel: 01904 430600
north yorkshire moors railway group
York Area Group Meeting dates for Autumn 2010 New Earswick Sports and Social club 3rd Monday of the month. At 7.30 for 7.45 Sept 20th First meeting. Details of all meetings available at http://www. yorkareagroup.co.uk/ Contact Bryan Blundell 01904 764648 for more details.
OAKEN GROVE SURFERS
The Silver Surfers group has changed its name to Oaken Grove Surfers because we have responded to the government’s request to help all adults of working age to become computer literate. It is part of the ‘Manifesto for a Networked Nation’. We run Online Basics courses (part of My Guide) and we are a registered UK Online Centre. We help beginners become competent at using a keyboard and a mouse, searching the internet, staying safe online, sending emails and much more! Everyone is welcome at our sessions on Monday mornings and Thursday afternoons. Students work on a laptop with one to one support from their own mentor, for as long as it takes for them to become confident. Tel the Centre on 01904 769176 for more information.
OLDER CITIZENS ADVOCACY YORK – OCAY
OCAY is an independent, registered charity offering a free advocacy service for all citizens of York aged 50 and over. If you think that we may be able to help you, or someone you know, then please get in touch by phone (01904 676200), e-mail (ocay@btconnect. com), or by calling in to our office in Townend Street, Monday -Thursday 10am -4pm or Friday 10am - 2pm.
PARKINSONS DISEASE SOCIETY. (PARKINSONS UK)
This group meets monthly on the first Monday of the month at the Community Centre, 26 Strensall Road,
Huntington, York at 7pm. There will be no meeting in August. We resume again on September 6th. All new members, together with their family and friends are welcome to join us. Contact telephone number is 0844 225 36 32 for Jayne Riggall who is an Information and Support Officer.
or an electric or manual wheelchair (you must be able to safely control the vehicle). Low daily hire charge. Located on the second floor of Piccadilly Multistorey Car Park in the city centre. For further information and booking call on 01904 679222
REFLECT
We are a friendly, community choir of approx: 40 voices aged 13 to 70 which rehearses weekly throughout term time in Stamford Bridge School. We are available for Concerts, Church Services and Weddings. To hire us or to join the choir please email: info@ stamfordbridgesingers. co.uk Further details on our website: www. stamfordbridgesingers.btck. co.uk We look forward to hearing from you.
Reflect is a counselling service based in York that is specifically for women and men facing an unplanned or crisis pregnancy. We are one of around 150 centres across the UK www. careconfidential.com and can offer trained advisers to help. The York centre has 13 volunteers and opening times Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm and Fridays between 3-5pm for drops in at the Gateway centre, Acomb, but many other appointments are available, just call to arrange. More information from 01904 676710 or visit www. reflectyork.co.uk.
RIVER FOSS SOCIETY
The Society is dedicated to the conservation and improvement of the River Foss, from its source until it joins the Ouse in York, for the benefit of its wildlife and the enjoyment of local residents. The quarterly newsletter for members includes details of the programme of walks, talks and other activities. Further information can be obtained from the Society’s website at www.riverfosssociety.co.uk or from the Membership Secretary on 01904 768071.
RNLI FOREST OF GALTRES BRANCH
A small group of people who enjoy raising funds for this worthwhile cause. Contact Sue Vaughan (publicity) on 01904 764373 or email suevaughan123@ yahoo.co.uk
SAMARITANS OF YORK & DISTRICT
Confidential emotional support to anyone in distress or despair or at risk and self harm or suicide. www.samaritans.org.uk tel 08457 90 90 90. We are always available for phone calls and visitors 8.00am - 10.00pm. 89 Nunnery Lane, York YO23 1AH tel: 01904 655888
SHOPMOBILITY IN YORK
Anyone with a mobility problem, whether it is temporary or permanent can hire a powered scooter
STAMFORD BRIDGE SINGERS
STRENSALL BRIDGE CLUB
Strensall Village Hall, Thursday at 7:00pm For non-serious bridge, contact John on 01904 769618
STRENSALL DINING GROUP
Who says you’re old and past it when you are 50 or over? Our dining group of friends are full of fun and life. So do not sit or eat alone, come and join us. We meet every 3-4 weeks at various venues in and around the York area. If you enjoy good food and good company then ring 01904 490987 for more details.
STRENSALL READING GROUP
We are a friendly group who meet on the last Wednesday of the month from 2 – 3 pm in Strensall Library. The Library provides us with a book which we read over the month and then get together to discuss it over tea and biscuits. We are looking for new members and if you enjoy books and reading do please come along. It is free! If you would like any more information then please ring Sarah at the Library on 490876 or Pam on 764518.
STRENSALL WOMEN’S INSTITUTE All welcome. Huntington ladies most welcome. For more information, please call 01904 490758.
SUE RYDER CARE
Sue Ryder Care is a national charity which helps seriously ill people to enjoy the best life they can. We have 4 care centre in
Yorkshire. We provide the care that liberates lives but we need to raise at least £15 million a year so if you would like to organise an event or help us with our fundraising please call Jackie Sedgewick on 07769 671786 or email: york@ suerydercare.org We’d be delighted to hear from you!
The Healing Trust
Would you like to feel relaxed and revitalised? Then come and experience Healing. Anyone in need of Healing is welcome. Meets in the Clementhorpe Community Centre, Lower Ebor Street, York, YO23 1AY. No appointment is necessary.. 7.00pm for 7.15pm start each Thursday (ends 9pm). A donation of £5 or more would be appreciated to help keep the Centre running. For further information contact John Phelps 01423359241 or email jphelps@ toucansurf.com
THE SHEPHERD GROUP BRASS BAND
Rehearsal facilities for us at the Portakabin Site in Huntington. The Beginners Band rehearses Monday evenings 6.30-8.00pm. Contact Audrey Brown, tel 01904 425256. The Concert Band rehearses Wednesday evenings 7.30-9.30pm. Contact David Gregg on 07710 106906. The Senior Band rehearses on Tuesday and Friday evenings 8.0010.00pm. Contact Charles Wilson on 07802 190250. www.shepherdbrassband. org
WIGGINTON & HAXBY WOMEN’S INSTITUTE
Registered Charity No. 1023129. We meet every second Thursday in the month at St. Mary’s Church Hall at 7.30 p.m. New and old members, and visitors, always welcome. For more information contact Mrs Graves on 01904 750570. Our next meeting will be held on 9th December 2010 at St Mary’s Church Hall, North Lane, Haxby at 7.30 p.m. Christmas Social & the Dickens Fellowship are visiting. January meeting: 13th January 2011. Talk by Penelope Worsley ‘The Karen Hill Tribes in North West Thailand.’ Competition: An eastern souvenir.
WIGGINTON OVER SIXTIES
We meet on the first Wednesday of every month at 2.00pm at Wigginton Recreation Hall. We have speakers, trips out, activity
groups. Old and new members, also visitors are always welcome. For more information please contact Mrs Tolliday, Secretary on 01904 761853
YORK AMATEUR RADIO CLUB
The club meets every Thursday at 8pm at the Bishophorpe Social Club in Bishopthorpe. We are always interested in meeting others interested in Amateur Radio and run courses for new members to obtain a license and call sign of their own. Interested future members just need to turn up on Thursdays.
YORK BONSAI SOCIETY
Meet monthy at Wigginton Hall on the third Monday of every month at 7.30pm. Friendly & informal group with refreshments. Occasional speakers, library & bonsai suppliers available. Come along or speak to the secretary: Andy Mudd 01757 268145
YORK CORONARY SUPPORT GROUP TRUST
The group was founded in 1988 to provide help and support to cardiac patients and their families following their release from hospital. the group meets every month at the Folk Hall at New Earswick on the first Monday of each month (second if Bank Holiday occurs). Meetings start at 07:30 for a variety of talks with a break for refreshments and a chance to talk to fellow patients. The group also organise exercise classes and swimming sessions. Contact Tony Tolhurst 01904 410091 for further details.
YORK LIBRARIES
Interested in your family history? Would you like to trace your ancestors? City of York Libraries now offer free access to ancestry. com. Now available at Haxby LibraryCall in or telephone 768811 for details
York Light ORCHESTRA
A local amateur orchestra founded in 1947. We play light music, popular classics, selections from musicals and themes from films and television. We are open to anyone of any age who plays an orchestral instrument and we don’t hold auditions, just come along. We rehearse on Thursday evenings 7.30pm - 9.30pm at Acomb
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 43
community Methodist Church, Front Street (September to July). We perform 6 to 8 concerts a year, in and around York for local charities and community groups. If you would like to join or if you would like YLO to do a concert to raise money for your charity please see our website www.ylo.org. uk or call our secretary on (01904) 870759 for more details.
YORK AND DISTRICT PAIN MANAGEMENT SUPPORT GROUP
A voluntary group established to provide a community for people and their supporters suffering with long term pain that are or have been participants in the Pain Management Program or attend the Pain Management Clinic. Contact Gordon 01904 491141 or Jill 01904 708490 for more details. www.ypmsg. co.ukPain Management Clinic. Contact Gordon 01904 491141 or Jill 01904 708490 for more details. www.ypmsg.co.uk
YORK PHILATELIC SOCIETY
The York Philatelic Society meets every second Tuesday in the month apart from August. The meetings take place in the Denham Room in the Priory Street Centre, Priory Street, York and they commence at 7-15 p.m. Refreshments are available during the meetings. During the meetings there is a bourse to enable members to buy, sell or exchange material. A packet circuit is also operated by the York Society. Annual subscriptions are £6-00 annually payable on the 1st January each year. (youth subscription , is13 - 18 years, is £3-00). Contact can be made to the Publicity Secretary, Captain P. Hyde, on 01904-490603 ( e-mail:- yogiyork@ic24. net ) or to Tony Ward, Secretary, on 01904-411378 (e-mail:- aew6@york.ac.uk ) or to Peter Byrne, President, on 01904 792603. Further details can be found on the York Society website on:- http://sites.google. com/site/yorkps/ which contains a great deal of useful information including the Programme for 2010. Visitors and friends are always welcome at our meetings.
YORK RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS SUPPORT GROUP (YORKRA)
(YORKRA) is a relaxed and friendly group, which provides support, information and resources for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers and their families and carers. Meetings take place on the second Saturday of each month, 3pm - 5pm, at the Priory Street Centre, 15 Priory Street (off Micklegate), York YO1 6ET. Membership is currently free. For more information please call 01904 642227
YORK RAMBLERS
York group walks are on Wednesdays and are about 10 miles long. There are also occasional car-free public transport walks of varying lengths. York Ramblers join with Ryedale Ramblers for Sunday walks. For details log on to www. communigate.co.uk/york/ yorkramblers2 or for a comprehensive list of all the walks by groups in our area, including Ryedale, log on to www.eastyorkshireramblers. org.uk. Or phone Marilyn Skelton on 01347-824520. We look forward to welcoming you.
YORK ROTTERS
York Rotters are a group of enthusiastic volunteers who promote home composting. If you have any questions about composting, whether you want to know where to start, or want to know more about specialist methods then contact York Rotters for advice. As well as providing free home composting advice York Rotters are available to carry out talks at meetings and to attend events. York Rotters are always on the look out for new volunteers. No previous experience is required as full training will be provided. York Rotters can be contacted on 01904 412861 or email rotters@ stnicksfields.org.uk
YORVIK GATEWAY CLUB
A social club for adults with disabilities and is held every Monday 7.00-9.00pm at the Oaken Grove Community Centre off Usher Lane in Haxby. The club offers a variety of activities and welcomes new members. For more information, ring Club Leader Debbie, on 0791 9191372 or just come along.
Playgroups BLUEBELLS PRESCHOOL PLAYGROUP STRENSALL
Quality-assured pre-school
44 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
sessions for children aged 2yrs+. We are a small, friendly pre-school based in Strensall Methodist Church Hall. Sessions include: Main session 9am to 12pm (Mon-Fri), Breakfast Club 8-9am (Mon-Fri), Lunch Club 12-1pm (Mon-Fri), Afternoon session 1-3.30pm (Mon & Fri). Sessions are also available on teaching training days and during school holidays. A parent & baby/toddler drop-in sessions runs on Mondays from 10-11.30am, which guarantees a place in the main pre-school. PHONE 01904 492318 AND BOOK A VISIT TODAY! Email: bluebells.manager@ btinternet.com
CHATTERBOX
Sheriff Hutton Methodist Church, Please contact Caroline Hunt on 01347 878242 for more details and to check term time dates!
HAXBY PLAYGROUPS
Haxby Playgroups@Scout HQ Birth to school age (parents stay) Tuesday to Friday 9.30 - 11.30 Term time only. Haxby Playgroups@ Headlands. Headlands Primary School. 9am - 3pm daily term time only. Sessions 9am - 12noon and 12noon - 3pm. Starting age 2. Haxby Playgroups@ RalphButterfield. 9am - 3pm daily term time only or Sessional 9am - 12noon and 12noon to 3pm. For further information please contact further information or bookings please contact 01904 768966 or manager@ haxbyplaygroups.org.uk www.haxbyplaygroups. org.uk
THE WONDER YEARS
Wigginton - Providing Quality Care, Learning & Play in newly refurbished Bungalow, adjoining Wigginton Primary School, for children from Haxby, Wigginton & surrounds: Boddlers – Baby/Toddler group (Birth to 3yrs).Tues, Wed, Thurs 9.30- 11am term time at Wigginton Recreation Hall. Pre-School – 3-5 years - Mon-Fri term time. Morning session 9am – 12 noon, Afternoon session 12.45pm -3.15pm . Plus 1 hr Lunch Club can be added to am or pm session. Early Years Funded places available. Extended School – 3-11 years - Breakfast Club 7.40-9am & After School Club 3-6pm including breakfast/snack. Supports children’s interests in sport,
games & crafts. Holiday Club – Care for 3-11 year olds, with fully engaging activity programme. Full day 8am – 6pm Half Day 8am – 1pm or 1pm – 6pm Tel : 01904 758717 en to everyone so come
HUNTINGTON PRESCHOOL & TODDLERS
Huntington Pre-school Huntington Pre-school Babies and Toddler Group: Monday and Friday mornings 9.15 - 10.45 during term time. The Memorial Hall, Strensall Road, Huntington. Fun sessions for carers and children, which include playtime, craft activities, story time and singing. All welcome. £3 per session including refreshments for adults and children. Discounts available for half-termly registration or additional children. Feel free to call in, or contact Lynne Britton on 01904 765017 or email lynne.britton1@ btinternet.com
HUNTINGTON PRE SCHOOL
Huntington Pre School: The Memorial Hall, Strensall Road, Huntington. For children aged 2.5 - 5 years. Monday - Friday morning 9.00 -12.00, plus monday afternoon 12.30 - 3.30, (term time only). Additional Rising Five’s sessions also held to help prepare children for the transition to school. £7.50 per session if your child is not eligible for Council funding. Funding is usually available in the term after your child becomes three, but some funding is available for two year olds, subject to circumstance. A few places are still available for this term and new names are always accepted onto the waiting list. Further details can be obtained from Lynne Britton on 01904 765017 email lynne.britton1@btinternet. com
ORCHARD PARK PRESCHOOL
Orchard Park Community centre, Off Brockfield park shops, Huntington. Open- Mon to Fri 9.15 to 12.15. Lunch Club 12.15 to 1.15 For children aged 2 to 5 to Learn and play.. Please call Sandra on Tel 07837133009 or 01904 626361 for more info
SHERIFF HUTTON PLAYGROUP
We offer places to children aged 2 years and 6 months
to school age in a warm, stimulating and caring environment with outside playspace. OFSTED registered with qualified staff. Playgroup runs on Mon, Weds and Fri from 9.30 -12 noon with an optional Lunch Club from 12 -1pm.Contact Sarah on 01347878726. Babies and Toddlers session Thurs 9.45 - 11.45. All welcome! Contact Margaret on 01347878314.
SHERIFF HUTTON BABIES AND TODDLERS GROUP
Village Hall, Thu 9.4511.45am Play and other activities for all babies and toddlers with their parents and carers. All welcome.
SINNINGTON PRE SCHOOL
The Pre School is OFSTED registered and inspected. Sessions are; Toddler group- Tuesday 10.00am - 11.30am. Pre -School - Monday 09.10am11.40am. Wednesday 09.10am-11.40am Thursday 09.10am-11.40am Friday 09.10am-11.40am. For more information contact Kerry or Suzanne on 07799727656
STEPPING STONES PRE-SCHOOL
Playgroup. Tel: 01904 442826 Mon - Fri mornings 8.30am - 12 noon. Mon - Fri afternoons 12.30pm - 4pm. In our purpose built private premises we offer a fantastic child-centred/ structured play environment for children aged 2-5 years. Session times are : Monday - Friday mornings 8.30am - 12 noon and Monday - Friday afternoons 12.30pm - 4.00pm. Sessions are £6 for two year olds (some funding is available for two year olds subject to circumstance) with full funding for three year olds - no top up fees!
STOCKTON LANE PLAYGROUP
We are a pre-school for children from 2-5 years. We are ofsted inspected and LEA funded. Monday - Friday 9.00am-12 noon (term time only). Wednesdays - 12.30pm - 3.30pm Christ Church, Stockton Lane, York YO31 1JG tel: 07746 806426 For more information contact: Mrs Fiona Wheeler tel: 07746 806426 During Play group opening times only
STOCKTON ON FOREST TODDLER GROUP
A non profit making organisation run by the
community
december 2010 • issue 64 parents for the parents and their children. All children 0–5 years are welcome and you don’t have to be a mum to bring them, Dads, grandparents, other relatives, childminders or carers are all welcome. You don’t have to book a place in advance or commit to every week, just drop in when you can. And you don’t have to live in Stockton-on-the-Forest, we are here for anyone who is free on a Thursday morning and wants to come and have some fun. Parents and carers can enjoy a cuppa and a chat whilst their children partake in a wide range of parentally supervised activities: crafts, games, dressing up, large and small toys, books, group and individual play, a healthy snack and a good sing song. We also have a designated area and toys for babies.The hall has full disabled access and facilities. Only £2 per session (£3 for family groups, £1 for adults and £1 for babies), first session is free. Thursdays 9.30am - 11.30am (term-time only) Stockton-on-the-Forest Village Hall. For more details contact Karen (01904) 870759
STRENSALL PRESCHOOL PLAYGROUP
We offer a natural transition from pre-school to school as we are situated next door to Robert Wilkinson School. We have various sessions on offer in our newly refurbished setting. MONDAY & TUESDAY: Preschoolers (amalgamated Rising 4s and 5s) 8.45am – 12.45pm, Rising 3s 1 - 3pm. WEDNESDAY: Pram Club/Messy 2s 9 – 10.30am, Pre-schoolers 10.45am – 2.45pm. THURSDAY: Pre-schoolers 8.45am – 12.45pm, Rising 3s 1 – 3pm. FRIDAY: Pre-schoolers 10.45am – 2.45pm, Pram club/Messy 2s 1.15 – 2.45pm. Messy 2 sessions are ‘Pay as you go’. For more information telephone Sarah on 01904 492937 or email sarahsmithpg@ btconnect.com
TINY STEPS TODDLER GROUP
tel: 01904 442826 Friday mornings 9.30am - 11.00am - £1 per session. The mums and tots session will be run by the Stepping Stones staff in Hurst Hall, with lots of crafts and activities to keep the under twos busy. (Please feel free to bring along an older sibling if your toddler has one). Children
attending the toddler group will have priority on the Stepping Stones Pre-School waiting list.
TREASURE CHEST
Haxby, Wigginton & Huntington. Calling all Mums - Treasure Chest is here to help! A group of local mums dedicated to promoting, supporting and encouraging breastfeeding in the Haxby, Wigginton & Huntington areas, have got together to form Treasure Chest. As well as being mums, we are fully trained Peer Supporters. We meet up every Monday between 12.30 and 1.30pm at Oaken Grove Community Centre, Haxby. Run alongside the Haxby Postnatal Group, this is a drop in facililty and we also welcome pregnant mums. More details are available on our website: www.treasurechest.org.uk or email our helpline: support@treasurechest.org
YORK FAMILY INFORMATION SERVICE
If you are a parent and carer of a 0-19 year old then you can get free, professional, helpful, and up-to-date information about... Finding and paying for childcare Free early education places for 3 and 4 year olds Returning to work Working in Early Years Family groups and activities Local parenting support And much more! Call us on 01904 554628 or text ‘info’ to 07624 802244 and we will call you back. Have you got a question but not sure where to start? Then contact York Family Information Service.
Sports Clubs Badmington Club
Sandburn Hall, Flaxton. Fridays 2 - 3.30pm All ages welcome. tel: Stephen Marshall 01904 490440 for more details
STRENSALL SPORTS ASSOCIATION
Tennis Club - There are now 3 newly surfaced tennis courts. If you are interested in joining the tennis club, please call 07005 800737 or email on strensallsa@ tesco.net Muga Pitch - The floodlit muga pitch is now available for hire for both 5 a sidefootball and netball. Please email us.
STRENSALL FOOTBALL
CLUB
All of our coaches are FA coaching level 1 qualified and are CRB checked. Training is on Saturday mornings at Durlston Drive, Strensall.If you are interested in playing then please email strensallsa@ tesco.net or ring Louise on 07801896698.
HAXBY NETBALL CLUB
…affiliated to England Netball. Would you like to join this very successful netball club which currently runs 6 teams in the York & District Netball League, including the league CHAMPIONS? If so call the secretary Rachel ( 01904 641597) or Chair Val ( 01904 761970) for more details. We are a CAPS accredited club and hold a Clubmark status from our governing body. Training is on a Monday evening at the Ethel Ward Playing Field throughout summer, and the League season runs from September until March. Would you like to learn to umpire? We have a qualified tutor in the club. Also if you are a budding Junior player ( school years 7-10) there is a junior section which trains every other Monday, 6:15-7:15. All coaches are CRB checked. Ring for more details
HAXBY TOWN JUNIOR FOOTBALL CLUB Our club needs you!!!!! At the moment we run 6 teams from the ages of 7-16 years. We need boys and girls, ages 5,6,7, & 11 to join our small friendly football club.All of our coaches are FA Coaching Level 1 trained and have been CRB checked. We train every Saturday 10.30 - 11.30am at Ethel Ward Playing Fields, Haxby. We are always looking for people to help out with training, coaching and refereeing. Full training is provided. Please phone Neil Thorbinson on 01904 761908
HUNTINGTON JUNIOR FOOTBALL CLUB If you are interested in getting involved please contact the following for more information: Club Secretary and Under 7s Manager: Steve Calpin 01904 466188 Chairman: Terry Mansell: 01757 282377 or email sue. mansell@tesco.net
PARTNERSHIP GYMNASTICS CLUB GYMNASTICS
Classes for boys and girls from reception to year
10. Classes are held at various venues across York, Monday to Friday– venues include Archbishop Holgate’s School, Manor C of E School, Park Grove Primary school, Canon Lee School, Joseph Rowntree School and Huntington Secondary School. Partnership Gymnastics is affiliated to British Gymnastics, run by fully qualified coaches all with CRB clearance. The club has also achieved club Mark for its high standards and quality coaching. For more information please contact Ruth Walker 07886926420.
STRENSALL SHORT MAT INDOOR BOWLS
Strensall Village Hall, Wednesdays 7.30pm - 9.30pm. Membership is £5 per annum and £1.50 each Wednesday. Tel Jackie Silk on 01904 492993 for more details. *NEW SEASON STARTS 1st SEPT
WIGGINTON BOWLING CLUB
(Supported by The Lottery and Yorventure) Come and play lawn bowls, a sport for all ages. If you are looking for a pleasurable outdoor pursuit at a friendly local club then come down to Wigginton Bowling Club. We welcome beginners and seasoned bowlers alike and we can lend newcomers a pair of flat soled shoes and a set of woods to see if they like the game. Adult membership is £50 flat fee ( free to juniors under 18) and you can play as often as you like. The 2010 season is open from Saturday 17th April to Saturday 25th September for social bowling and league matches. For further details, or to arrange a visit, contact Colin Ellis, Secretary on 01904760877 or email colin.ellis23@ talktalk.net
STRENSALL LAWN BOWLING CLUB
We are a friendly lawn bowls club, happy to invite new members to come and play bowls this coming season. Bowls is a sport for all ages and we are a club where a warm welcome awaits you. Membership fees for the forthcoming season are £25. The club is involved in social bowling, friendly matches and participates in various leagues. Entry to our club is situated between house numbers 5-7 Park Gate, near the bus terminal. For further information please
contact Annette Prosser on 01904 492 807
YORK HOTSHOTS CHEERLEADING CLUB
Cheerleading sessions for boys, girls and adults! Classes are held on a Wednesday evening during term time, at Archbishop Holgate’s School, Hull Road, York.The club is affiliated to British Gymnastics and is run by qualified coaches who have all been CRB checked. We are also a club mark accredited club. For more information or to request a registration form please contact Anna Murray on 07507638804 or e-mail yorkhotshots@hotmail.co.uk
PARTNERSHIP GYMNASTICS CLUB
Gymnastics classes for boys and girls from reception to year 10. Classes are held at various venues across York, Monday to Friday– venues include Archbishop Holgate’s School, Manor C of E School, Park Grove Primary school, Canon Lee School, Joseph Rowntree School and Huntington Secondary School. Partnership Gymnastics is affiliated to British Gymnastics, run by fully qualified coaches all with CRB clearance. The club has also achieved club Mark for its high standards and quality coaching. For more information please contact Ruth Walker 07886926420.
Scouts & Guides 2nd HAXBY & WIGGINTON SCOUT GROUP
Boys & Girls age 6 to 14. Beavers: Mon & Thurs 6.00 - 7.15 pm. Cubs: Weds & Fri 6.30 - 8.00pm
Scouts:
Mon 7.30 - 9.00 pm. Thurs. 7.45 - 9.15 pm. Contact Pauline Briggs 01904 760004
72ND YORK RAINBOWS WIGGINTON Weds 5.30 - 6.30pm ages 5 -7. Term time at The Recreation Hall, The Village. Tel Helen Feetenby for details 01904 762926
74TH YORK BROWNIES WIGGINTON Mon 6.00 - 7.30pm ages 7-10 Phone Anne Newby 01904 701457
74TH YORK GUIDES
Mon 7.30 -9.00pm ages 10-14 Phone Melanie Conboy 01904 797279 or
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 45
community 07808 826682 Both groups meet term time at Headlands Primary School, Haxby
29TH YORK (HUNTINGTON ALL SAINTS) RAINBOWS
Rainbows have fun! They take part in games and activities as part of their programme called the Rainbow Jigsaw. Everything a Rainbow does helps her to develop and to think for herself, in a safe girl-only environment. A girl can join Rainbows at any time after her fifth birthday. Most Rainbows move on shortly after their seventh birthday. Each Rainbow needs to be given the opportunity to grow as an individual and to develop at her own pace. For further details about when the 29th York (Huntington All Saints) Rainbows meet and to see if there is availability for you to join, you can contact Miss Stephanie Easton (known to the Rainbows as Robin) on 07875 541520, who is Guider in charge of the Rainbows.
STOCKTON ON THE FOREST SCOUT GROUP Boys and Girls, age 6 to 14
Beavers:
Mon 6.00 .700pm.
Cubs:
Tues 6.45 - 8.15pm.
Scouts:
Fri 7.00 - 9.00pm. We are also in need of Leaders - any one interested please contact Jane Hurd 01904 413745.
AIR CADETS, EASINGWOLD
A uniformed organisation for children aged 13-18 years. We are based in Easingwold. We parade on a Tuesday evening at Easingwold and Friday evening at RAF Linton On Ouse in the gymnasium between the hours of 1930 – 2200. We do have a minibus that goes from the car park of The Cottage Inn in Haxby via Shipton by Beningbrough at 1900hrs. We cover a range of activities from flying and gliding to target shooting and sport. The cost is £36 per quarter and covers the above activities and uniform. email: 2487@aircadets.org Charity No. 1559/79 Youth Groups
Youth Groups YOUTH CLUBS AT OAKEN GROVE COMMUNITY CENTRE Safe, supervised indoor and outdoor areas. Sessions only cost £1 or 75p with a YoZone card. Come along and try us out!
WEDNESDAY OPEN YOUTH CLUB
An Open Youth club is run at the centre on a Wednesday Night for anyone aged 8-16 years. The club runs from 7 - 9pm and facilities include a Nintendo Wii on projector screen, Widescreen TV, Pool Table, Outside Sports, Table Tennis and Tuck Shop.
IN-2-ACTING
If you are interested in acting, singing and dancing and are between 8-15 years of age, please come and give us a try. With two productions each year, themed nights and theatre trips – its lots of fun! This club runs on Thursday evenings from 6 - 7.30pm. Depending on numbers, priority will be given to residents of Haxby & Wigginton. For more info contact Megan Godden on 07786 121832 or email admin@oakengrove.org.uk
Is your local charity or non-profit making group listed here? It’s FREE! Call us on 01904 310230 or 07811 045642 or email on community@thehandymag. co.uk with your details.
All Home cooked food & local produce used Myasthenia Gravis Charity No 1046443 Chosen Charity of the year by Sainsbury’s Monks Cross York. All profits to fund equipment for York Hospital Neurological and respiratory Departments. For more information
Call Lyn 01904 766822 / Ron 01904 679939 Email: ron.middlemass@o2.co.uk
Charity Christmas Cards
Christmas cards to raise money for National and Local Charities - last year 75p in the pound went to the Charities.
Open at St Martins Church and at St Helens from 10am till 4pm Monday to Saturday. St Helens is also open on a Sunday from 1pm till 4pm We depend solely on our volunteers and if anyone is interested in giving a few hours during the week, please pop into one of the churches and have a chat with the Manager.
Stamford Bridge Singers Advent Carol Service
at Old Malton Priory on Sunday 5th December at 6.30pm
Annual Christmas Concert
(No tickets required)
St Chad’s Church on the Knavesmire, Campleshon Road, York. Saturday 11th December at 7.30pm The concert, entitled ‘Born is the Light of the World’, will be a celebration in music and words of the festival which, in the dark days of winter, lifts and inspires. Tickets, priced £5, are available from 01904 410048 46 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
community
december 2010 • issue 64
Christmas Shopping at the Hovingham Village Market The popular and award winning Hovingham Village Market has some exciting market events planned in the run up to Christmas this year.
I
n addition to the regular monthly market on the 4th December an extra special Christmas market is being held on the 18th December.
Over 40 stalls are booked at each December market selling a wide range of local food, produce, crafts and gifts. From beers to books, soaps to socks and jam to jewellery, the Hovingham Village Market has almost everything you need for a wonderful Christmas and you can be assured that you will be buying local and supporting local businesses.
The Hovingham Village markets are open 10.30am to 3pm on the 4th & 18th December at the Village Hall, Main Street, Hovingham, York, YO62 4LF midway between Malton and Helmsley on the B1257 and accessible by bus 194 from Malton and 195/196 from Helmsley. For further information visit www.hovinghammarket.org.uk or email themarket@hovingham. org.uk.
As well as these fantastic markets, live cookery demonstrations from a top chef will also be available giving you some great ideas for your Christmas table and using produce directly from the markets traders. A grand Christmas raffle will also be held with a fantastic range of prizes to be won and with proceeds going to help the local community. The ever popular community market café will be selling a good range of refreshments, with all the profits going directly to the Village School PTA and Hovingham Village Cricket Club.
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 47
PETS
Winter Neutering
A
s kittens tend to be a thing of the summer months, winter is an ideal time to think about neutering your cat.
Cats Protection not only re-homes cats but also champions neutering as the only way of reducing the number of unwanted cats in the UK. Cats Protection have neutered over 160,000 cats so far this year and York Cats Protection is now running its own scheme to increase that number. From 1st November 2010 to 31st January 2011 it is possible for cat owners in the York area to have their cat(s) neutered for just £5. The cat(s) must be over four months of age and the owners must be on means-tested benefit, low income, pension credits or students. Neutering not only stops cats reproducing and therefore decreasing the number of unwanted kittens, it also benefits their health. Male neutered cats are less likely to stray and are therefore less likely to fight – lowering the risk of contracting serious infectious diseases. When a female cat is neutered the risk of developing mammary cancers decreases as well as the risk of womb infections. Where many cats reside in one house, neutering also decreases inbreeding which can cause serious and life-threatening birth defects. For more information on the neutering scheme including how to obtain a voucher please call Linda on 01904 703086 or Margaret on 01937 834463. Reg Charity 203644 (England & Wales) SC037711 (Scotland)
48 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
STATION TION HOUSE VETS Equine & Small Animal
Expect the best care everytime 01653 618303 24 hour emergency
Just off the A64 in Welburn near Castle Howard
w w w.stationhousevets.com
L U PAELLIL VE DD th ar e H
LI
ue niq u e
at The Jolly Farmers, Leavening From 9pm Saturday 27th November 2010 Free entry!
Unique acoustic musician whose raw and unpretentious delivery, combined with the use of live sampling, guitar percussion and layered vocal harmonies provide a great platform for his wonderful songs to shine. Poster by:
tel: 01751 477747
motoring PETS
december 2010 • issue 64
Is my pet happy? Most of us animal owners gain a lot of enjoyment from having a pet and would tend to immediately answer ‘yes’ but how can you be sure that your pet is happy? What are the signs that tell you that he or she is happy – how can they tell us how they feel ?
W
ell, we can be fairly certain an animal is content when it has everything it needs and a useful framework for assessing this is ‘the five freedoms’. These guidelines are used by animal welfare organisations when looking at the welfare of animals and as a result of new legislation (The Animal Welfare Act) as pet owners we have a duty to ensure our pets are happy and content. ‘The Five Freedoms’
nevertheless important to think about!). But how about ‘freedom to express normal behaviour’? Well, even though most of our pets are domesticated and born into captivity, they still need to perform some of the behaviour that they would have done if they were born in the wild. These behaviours will obviously vary between species, for example: • A pet rabbit needs to be housed in a hutch big enough to hop around in and will benefit from spending time outside grazing
• Freedom from hunger and thirst • Freedom from pain, injury and disease • Freedom from discomfort (for example, temperature, floor surfaces) • Freedom to express normal behaviour • Freedom from fear and distress (for example, being left alone for long periods) The good news is that if the answer to all these questions is ‘yes’ you can be fairly satisfied that your pet has everything it needs and its physical and mental well-being is good. Most of these ‘freedoms’ are fairly self-explanatory (but
• Most dogs enjoy a walk, how far they go and for how long depends on the breed/ size of dog and also age/health • Cats mostly enjoy the company of people and other cats but they will also choose to spend time alone, so will need hiding places where they can take themselves off to If you are not sure about the answers to these questions do ask your vet for advice. For further information go to: www.bva-awf.org.uk , happy 2011 pets ! Lucy Nowell Station House Vets
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 49
FOOD & DRINK
01904 468777
Pea and Ham Crostini A quick to make canape/nibble for your Christmas Party (makes about 24)
Ingredients 2 small baguettes 6 slices Yorkshire ham 20g plus a knob of butter to finish ½ a small onion, peeled and finely chopped 500g frozen peas 100ml vegetable stock A large sprig of fresh mint Olive oil Salt and black pepper
Method 1. Make the pea puree - heat the butter in a pan and cook the onions gently until soft. 2. Add the peas, vegetable stock, and mint leaves and simmer for 10-12 minutes. 3. Puree in a food processor or blender, you may need to add a little water if the peas don’t puree properly. 4. Season to taste and add the knob of butter, leave to one side to cool. 5. Slice the baguettes into rounds about ½ cm thick, place on a baking tray and drizzle with olive oil. Grill to lightly toast on each side.
Cooking Class personal cookery training • Lessons tailored around you
6. To finish - top each crostini with some puree and a curl of ham. Don’t prepare too far in advance otherwise the crostini will lose its crunch and the peas and ham will lose their bright colours.
• Serve fantastic dinner party food • Discover new skills and methods • Practice for that special occasion • Prepare for university • Cookery demonstrations
Sheelagh Massey
.
01904 468777 sheelagh@cooking-class.co.uk www.cooking-class.co.uk
50 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
A new cookery club in Strensall for children age 7 – 11 Saturday’s fortnightly School holiday club
Now booking for 2011
For further information contact Sharon Massey on t: 01904 491284 e: cankidscook@btinternet.com
FOOD & DRINK
december 2010 • issue 64
Spice of Life - Cloves
The Highwayman Sheriff Hutton, York
C
loves are familiar to us all as part of the warming scent of mulled wine and Christmas food. Some associations are not quite so pleasant though; clove oil is used in the dental surgery as an antiseptic and gentle local anaesthetic. Cloves are highly aromatic dried flower buds which are pink when first picked and turn dark brown after being dried. The word clove comes from the Latin word clavus meaning nail, which is precisely what the clove looks like. Culinary uses include studding hams with cloves, adding them to apple pies and lentil soup and flavouring game dishes. The pungent flavour can be overpowering, so use sparingly. Cloves are used in curry powders and are also one of the ingredients in Worcestershire sauce. Cloves are best bought and used whole as the ground spice loses flavour very quickly. They are too hard to grind at home although a coffee grinder will do the trick. During Tudor times pomanders were made by sticking cloves into an orange and carried to ward off illnesses and bad smells. We still make such pomanders today, although we know they don’t actually ward off the plague. Cloves do, however, have many medicinal uses which are too numerous to mention here. Traditional lore claims that sucking cloves prevents the desire to drink alcohol.
e heart h t h c a Re ocal of the l y with nit commundy Mag The Ha
Come and try our NEW Menu from our NEW chef this December • DAILY SPECIALS
Homemade menu with all food sourced from local suppliers
Booking now for Christmas parties
Open Boxing Day Carvery Served 12-4pm
New Years Eve Food Bookings till 8pm Disco starting FOOD SERVED: 10pm Tue to Thu 12pm - 2pm & 6pm - 8.30pm Fri & Sat 12pm - 2pm & 6pm - 9.30pm Sunday carvery 12pm - 4pm
tel: 01347
878328
Menus available at www.thehighwaymanyork.co.uk The Highwayman, The Square, Sheriff Hutton, York YO60 6QZ
WOULD YOU LOVE MORE BUSINESS? rt the hea h c a e R ocal of the l y with nit commundy Mag The Ha
Call Marianne at The Handy Mag on 01904 310230 e: info@thehandymag.co.uk w: www.thehandymag.co.uk Reaching an approximate readership of 40,000 in your area www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 51
york
Berkshire Cowboys
A
s a young lad growing up in a sleepy village in West Berkshire, I used to dream of becoming an internationally-touring rockstar. At the age of thirteen, I formed a fledgling rock band with my best friend George and we promptly set out to become as much like our big-haired musical icons Bon Jovi as was humanly possible. Diligently studying the band’s back catalogue, we discovered that most of their music seemed to be about the Wild West and drew the logical conclusion that any song worth its salt really ought to be written on the subject of cowboys. Whilst this may have been a little incongruous for a couple of boys-next-door from the Home Counties who spent most of their spare time sitting in front of ‘Blue Peter’ drinking hot Ribena and doing geography homework, we weren’t phased in the slightest. We penned a deluge of earnest songs about driving around in Cadillacs and duelling with outlaws and then sat back and waited for the record deals to come flooding in. Although in the early days the major labels weren’t exactly clamouring to sign us, ten years later (after we’d finished university, hired a rhythm section and changed our name to The Lightyears) our extensive experience performing at primary school fêtes and jumble-sale after-parties finally paid off when we managed to land two weeks’ worth of gigs in the French Alps. We were beside ourselves with excitement. Sadly, the reality of being on the road turned out to deviate ever so slightly from our lofty expectations. Not quite being in a position to hire a nightliner, we embarked on the journey in an ageing Vauxhall Omega, a car which we had borrowed from George’s dad that didn’t so much say ‘rock and roll freewheelers’ as ‘Sunday afternoon at Furniture Village’. Whilst attempting to squeeze an unfeasibly enormous amount of equipment into the boot, we managed to smash one of the windows and were forced to take an early detour via Autoglass. In theory, it’s 52 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
actually rather cool for a band to smash up their tourbus - just not when you do it by mistake, your tourbus is a plum-coloured Dadwagon and you have to pay to get it fixed yourself. In Slough. When we eventually made it to France, things didn’t get any easier. For a start we had to endure the shifty machinations of our booking agent, a man who would never look you directly in the eye, probably for a very good reason (it was as if he’d kidnapped your grandmother in her sleep and didn’t want you to find out). Plus the workload was gruelling. Touring the bars of highsociety ski resort Meribel, we would sometimes play for over four hours a day. This soon took its toll on our health when the drummer developed an extremely dicky tummy and inadvertently kept the rest of the band awake for two consecutive nights (let’s just say that the flimsy bathroom walls in our chalet left little to the imagination). As I lay there shivering underneath my threadbare duvet, my fingers in my ears, I couldn’t help but wonder where we had gone wrong. Surely Jon Bon Jovi never had to suffer this. Where was the private jet? The groupies? The guitar-shaped hot-tub...? In retrospect, I suppose I’d have to reflect that in rock ‘n’ roll you just need to exercise a little patience. A true cowboy must pay his dues before hitting the big time. Especially when, as in my case, you would look like a proper twit in a stetson. Chris plays piano in South London power-pop band The Lightyears. The Lightyears, voted the UK’s BEST POP/ROCK ACT at the Indy Awards, have played Wembley Stadium, toured across four continents, worked with Sting’s producer and starred in a T-Mobile advert. Chris is currently working on his first novel, “Mockstars”. Read more of Chris’ blogs and tour diaries at www. TheLightyears.com.
BUSINESS
december 2010 • issue 64
At White Kite we love to help owners of small businesses
make more profit and save tax
Here is a selection of the great feedback we have received from clients... “excellent and your services are always 100%.”
“Very friendly and helpful service and it’s good to know up front what it is likely to cost.” “It’s so great to have an Accountant that’s down to earth who speaks our language.” “Very approachable and ready to answer queries”
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Pension changes ahead by Andrew Walker, White Kite Chartered Accountants
The Government has announced changes that restrict the amount of tax relief that can be claimed on pension contributions. From 6 April 2011 the annual allowance for everyone will be restricted to a nominal £50,000 per tax year, subject to adjustments described below. Full tax relief will be given on all your pension contributions made up to the annual allowance cap. You will be able to carry forward the difference between £50,000 and your actual contribution level into 2011/12 to add to your annual allowance for that year. This carry forward of unused annual allowance will apply on a rolling three-year basis for
future tax years.
Key deadlines for December
The only condition for the carry forward to apply is that you were a member of a registered pension scheme for the earlier tax year concerned. If you were a member and made no pension contributions in that tax year, you can carry forward the full £50,000 of unused annual allowance. Both your own and your employer’s contributions to your pension fund are deducted from the available annual allowance.
19/22 - PAYE/NIC and CIS deductions due for month to 5 December 30 File your 2010 Self Assessment Tax Return by the 30th if you want to pay any underpayment through your tax coding. White Kite Chartered Accountants 8 Forest Farm Business Park Fulford York YO19 4RH 01904 898 599 www.whitekiteaccountants.co.uk
Speak to your accountant or financial advisor if you are concerned about your retirement planning.
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BUSINESS
Working from home Radio 4 by Ted Bruning
I
’ve just heard the most shocking thing. I was sitting here toiling away with Radio 4 chuntering away in the background when I distinctly heard the announcer refer to some unusually heavy rain as a déluge. Not a deluge (dehl-youj), a deluge (day-loojh), as if it were happening in France. And it suddenly brought it home to me that even educated people are forgetting how to speak their own language. I still can’t get used to the apparent fact that bosses no longer consider it adequate simply to head companies but have to head them up, like a footballer heading the pill spectacularly way over the bar. What, in this case, does the word “up” bring to the party? It’s completely redundant and has arrived in our language from German (where people don’t call but “rufen an” and don’t open or close the door but machen it auf or zu) via American. I suppose I’ve no objection to this sort of Germanification of English when Americans (who are, after all, half German) slip into it; but Radio 4? Aren’t they supposed to be the guardians of the language? Well, maybe not. But the Frenchification of a perfectly good English word like “deluge” is a lovely example of someone trying to look clever and ending up looking stupid, like the cookery writer who included “Marmite” in a long list of Latin-derived words that end in “-ite”. Marmite is actually French for a cauldron or cooking-pot, and has nothing to do with Latin-derived neologisms. Or the hilariously regular confusion of “potage” (French for soup) with “pottage” (a porridge of boiled legumes and the staple diet of the medieval peasant; survives into the modern era as mushy peas). If Esau really sold his inheritance to Jacob for a mess of “potage”, he was perhaps less of an unsophisticated brute than the Bible makes him out. None of this really matters, of course: language is a liquid, and attempts to dam its progress are doomed to fail. The Académie Française is a nationalistic folly and I’m glad we don’t have one. It’s the fact that the radio is always on in the background that makes the repeated malapropisms and mispronunciations grate so. I can no longer listen to “This Charming 54 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
Man”, for instance, without actually shouting at Morrissey that he means “why ponder life’s complexities”, not “why pamper life’s complexities, which is a nonsense. Alas, he has clearly not heard me. Oh, and Morrissey: in “Suffer Little Children” I think you mean the squalid stench of death, not the stolid stench of death. If the radio irritates me so, I hear you ask, why do I switch the blessed thing on in the first place? Well, being alone all the time has its advantages, but after a while the silence becomes terribly loud. The background murmur of human voices at least creates the illusion of company and staves off cabin fever; and as I’m thoroughly middle-class it has to be Radio 4. I could go on, but I sense you’re glazing over. Before I get off my high horse, though, there is one thing up with which I will not put. There is no such word as lonjeray. Underwear, in French is spelt “lingerie” (lin- as in “linen”), and is therefore pronounced lanjeree. The abomination entered the language, I believe, from Dallas when Swellen, she of the perpetually trembling lip, opened a lonjeray store in a vain attempt to declare independence from JR. I am prepared to accept the mispronunciation from those who do not have the benefit of the BBC’s resources. But I have heard it so often now, even on Radio 4, that I feel constrained to scream: THERE IS NO SUCH WORD AS LONJERAY!!!
BUSINESS
december 2010 • issue 64
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BUSINESS
SUDOKU
Christmas Carol Lyrics 1 Brightly shone the moon that night 2 Sweet singing of the choir 3 Mary was that mother mild 4 Hosanna in excelsis 5 Sleep in heavenly peace 6 Don we now our gay apparel 7 Christ is born in Bethlehem 8 Snow on snow, snow on snow 9 Tidings of comfort and joy 10 The silent stars go by Choosing from below, can you work out which Christmas carols the lyrics above appear in? Deck The Halls The Holly And The Ivy Ding Dong O Little Town Merrily On High Of Bethlehem God Rest Ye Once In Royal Merry Gentlemen David's City Good King Wenceslas Silent Night Hark! The In The Bleak Herald Angels Sing Midwinter
CROSSWORD 1
2
3
4
6
Across 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 15. 17. 20. 21. 23. 24.
8
7
10
9
11
5
12
13 14
15
16
17
Down
18
19 21
20
23
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24
Vocation (6) Preferably (6) Clarified butter (4) Undomesticated animals (8) Left out (7) Furious (5) Apart (5) Dental practitioner (7) Across the country (8) Simple (4) Abandon (6) Guest houses (6)
22
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 12. 14. 16. 18. 19. 22.
Quick (4) Concrete (6) Full of people (7) Ruff (5) Taken without consent (6) Acts (8) Errors (8) Having a strong constitution (7) Determined (6) Pact (6) Bring together (5) Flat fish (4)
BUSINESS
december 2010 • issue 64
SPOT
DIFFE
THE
RENC
E
Can you spot 10 differences between the two pictures??
CALCODOKU
x12
4
3
Fill each cell with a number from 1-6. No number can be repeated in any row or column. The numbers in the heavily outlined set of squares (cages) must combine in any order to produce the target number in the top corner, using only the mathematical operator specified: +, -, x or /. Numbers can be repeated within a cage, but not in the same row or column.
WORDSEARCH
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community
58 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
community
december 2010 • issue 64 Local Events 25 - 28 November St Nicholas Fayre One of the most popular Christmas markets in the UK, with thousands of visitors coming to York over the four-day event. Everybody with a Christmas shopping list will find something at St Nicholas Fayre. Visit on Thursday or Friday to avoid the crowds. 26 - 29 November Christmas Tree Festival at Huntington Methodist Church. The festival will be open from 10am to 5pm on Friday and Saturday, 2pm to 5pm on Sunday and 10am to 3pm on Monday. There will be 18 trees sponsored and decorated by local businesses and organisations on the theme of Christmas Songs, homemade refreshments will be available all day, and there will be stalls selling gifts, crafts and jewellery. This is an opportunity to see the Church now the refurbishment is complete. Admission is free, and all proceeds are for the Churches’ building and improvements scheme. 27 - 28 November A Fireside Audience with Father Christmas Castle Howard. The Cosy fireside setting of the Grecian Hall is sure to delight children as they join others to meet Father Christmas for fun and stories. Castle Howard’s own Christmas Wizard will also be there to perform magic tricks and join in the fun. Tickets cost £10.00 per child (maximum age 12 years), which includes a personalised invitation, admission to the House and a gift. All children must be accompanied
by a paying adult (normal admission applies - adults please pay on the day). CHILDREN MUST BE PRE-BOOKED AS PLACES ARE LIMITED. Book online here or call 01653 648620. Discount is available for Annual Pass holders - please call for details. 27 November to Sun 19 December Christmas Opening Castle Howard. Open daily from 10am (last admissions into the House 4pm). The House will be decorated once again, we will have live musical performances daily, plus an exhibtion of Mrs Howard’s elegant eveningwear 28 November The Blackheart Duo. Haxby Memorial Hall. Back by popular demand. 7.30pm. Blackheart acoustic duos 2010 UK tour once again comes to York. Blackheart is a collaboration between singer Chrissy Mostyn and guitarist Richard Pilkington. The concert is in aid of the Memorial Hall – (Registered Charity No: 508205). Doors open at 7:30pm with a licensed bar. Tickets available in advance £7, ring Brenda on 01904 764404 or on the night at the door £8. 28 November Artsmix Contemporary Art Market, Castle Howard. 10.00am until 4.00pm. 29 - 30 November Christmas Craft &, Produce Market Castle Howard Open from 10.00am until 4.00pm with free entry. 1 – 19 December International Christmas Fayre. A celebration of global Christmas traditions complete with exotic flavours and
mouth watering smells. Sample foods from around the world as you wander through the market stalls decked in seasonal livery and lights. 2 - 11 December York Early Music Christmas Festival Guest artists will include The Burning Bush directed by Lucie Skeaping, the award-winning instrumental ensemble Florilegium with soprano Emma Kirkby, Stile Antico, I Fagiolini, the Rose Consort of Viols, Joglaresa and the European Union Baroque Orchestra. Highlights will include a performance by the Yorkshire Bach Choir of Handel’s oratorio Saul and the debut in York of the winners of the 2009 York Early Music International Young Artists Competition Ensemble Meridiana - and Grand Desir. For more info www.ncem. co.uk 2 - 12 december Made in Yorkshire Christmas Market The ‘Made in Yorkshire’ Christmas Market at St Sampson’s Square showcases beautiful ceramics, jewellery, woodwork, glass, textiles, paintings and pottery, all made by local artists and craftspeople. 4 -5 December Haxby Memorial Hall presents their Annual Christmas Tree Festival. Saturday 4th December from 10.30am until 4-00pm and Sunday 5th December from 11-00 am until 3-30pm. There will be a raffle, tombola, cake, and gift stalls and much more. There will also be refreshments, turkey sandwiches, mince pies and lots of assorted home made cakes .
For the children there is a work shop. Then Santa will arrive in style at the Hall at 1pm where they can visit him in his magical grotto. The children can write a letter to Santa and get a reply. They will also get an early present from him, but only if they’ve been good! 4 December Hovingham Market Hovingham Village Hall.10.30 - 3pm. Join us for a busy village market with around 35+ businesses selling a wide variety of local produce, gifts and crafts. Onsite popular market cafe selling homemade produce and drinks. Well worth a visit 4 December ECO-ACTIVE DAY - task to be confirmed. St Nicholas Fields 10am - 1pm Meet at the York Environment Centre.Come help us with a task in the nature reserve. You will get a warm feeling and free lunch in return. Eco-Active Day is a great opportunity to be doing something useful outdoors, get lots of fresh air, maybe learn a new skill, get fit, meet like-minded people and drink cups of tea! 4 December York Musical Society Chorus and Orchestra conducted by Robert Sharpe at the Minster will perform Handel’s Messiah. 7.30pm Tickets on 0844 939 0015 4 - 5, 11 - 12, 8 - 19, 21 - 22 December Santa Specials on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. The fare of £12.50 per person includes a present from Santa for each child, and seasonal refreshments including mince pies, served in our marquees at Pickering or Grosmont
stations. Just show your ticket at the marquee. Each excursion can take up to 90 minutes, to allow for each child to meet Santa in his grotto. The train may be stationery for part of the journey. Because our Santa Specials are very popular, please book early by phone or online. You can reserve your seats by phone, on 01751 472508 or alternatively why not go to www.nymr. co.uk to book online. If you experience any difficulties, you can also email our Customer Services team at info@ nymr.co.uk 4 - 5 December A Fireside Audience with Father Christmas Castle Howard. Visit Father Christmas at Castle Howard. The Cosy fireside setting of the Grecian Hall is sure to delight children as they join others to meet Father Christmas for fun and stories. Castle Howard’s own Christmas Wizard will also be there to perform magic tricks and join in the fun. Tickets cost £10.00 per child (maximum age 12 years), which includes a personalised invitation, admission to the House and a gift. All children must be accompanied by a paying adult (normal admission applies - adults please pay on the day). CHILDREN MUST BE PRE-BOOKED AS PLACES ARE LIMITED. Book online here or call 01653 648620. Discount is available for Annual Pass holders - please call for details. “ 5 December Advent Carol Service Stamford Bridge Singers. Old Malton Priory at 6.30pm. This service is for the combined churches of the Southern Ryedale Deanery, but the church
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 59
community is large and the choir would be delighted to see their many friends and supporters there. Advent is the great season of preparation and looking forward to Christmas, so what better way to start your celebrations? We look forward to seeing you there. (No tickets required) 4th & 5th, 11th & 12th, 18th – 21st. Santa Specials Yorkshire Museum of Faming. The big event of the year! Join the Elves as they show you around Santa’s Village. Visit their workshop and take a sneaky peak around Santa’s house. Meet the man himself and find out if you’ve been good this year and after all that excitement let your grown ups settle down with a mince pie and sherry in front of a roaring fire. 5 December Christmas Fayre RSPCA York From 11:30 till 3:30. Admission £1, children free. 5 & 11 - 12 & 13 - 24 December Winter Wonderland The Farm Shop & Cafe, Wigginton Road. Take a trip round York’s very own winter wonderland, meet the reindeer and come face to face with the man himself. 11am4pm. 7 - 8 December and 14 December Christmas Craft & Produce Market Castle Howard. Enjoy over 20 stalls selling a unique range of handcrafted gifts and tasty Yorkshire produce. 8 and 15 December Classical Christmas Evening Dinner at Castle Howard. Enjoy a fabulous evening of traditional Christmas fare in the elegant Long
Gallery with musical accompaniment. The evening starts at 7.30pm with a drinks reception in the Great hall. Tickets cost £55 per person. Pre-booking is essential – for details visit www.castlehoward. co.uk or call 01653 648632. 9 December A Medieval Christmas Barley Hall. Enjoy a festive atmosphere with Lord and Lady Snawsell and their family, with tales and music to entertain you into the night. Pre-booking essential. Info line: 01904 615 505 9 - 12 December Christmas Market. Craft and gift stalls at Monks Cross shopping centre. 11 December Christmas concert Stamford Bridge Singers. Our annual Christmas Concert is at St Chad’s Church on the Knavesmire, Campleshon Road, York at 7.30pm. The concert, entitled ‘Born is the Light of the World’, will be a celebration in music and words of the festival which, in the dark days of winter, lifts and inspires. There will be carols for all, plus favourites from the choir, including ‘Tomorrow shall be my dancing day’, Rutter’s ‘Candlelight Carol’, ‘The Holly and the Ivy’ and ‘Ding Dong Merrily on High’. Tickets, priced £5, are available from 01904 410048 11 - 12 December Festival of Angels York City Centre. A magical weekend of ice sculptures and outdoor entertainment with a sprinkling of snow guaranteed! For more information please email: info@ festivalofangels.com
60 • info@thehandymag.co.uk
11 - 12 Decmber A Fireside Audience with Father Christmas Castle Howard. Visit Father Christmas at Castle Howard. Tickets cost £10.00 per child (maximum age 12 years), which includes a personalised invitation, admission to the House and a gift. All children must be accompanied by a paying adult (normal admission applies - adults please pay on the day). CHILDREN MUST BE PRE-BOOKED AS PLACES ARE LIMITED. Book online here or call 01653 648620. Discount is available for Annual Pass holders - please call for details. 15 December ECO-ACTIVE DAY - task to be confirmed St Nicholas Fields 10am - 4pm Meet at the York Environment Centre.Come help us with a task in the nature reserve. You will get a warm feeling and free lunch in return. Eco-Active Day is a great opportunity to be doing something useful outdoors, get lots of fresh air, maybe learn a new skill, get fit, meet like-minded people and drink cups of tea! 16 - 17 December What The Dickens? York Mansion House 7.30pm, York Mansion House, £12. Includes a mince pie and a mulled wine.Gather in the glorious setting of the state room to hear about the life of the great novelist, together with songs from musicals based on his stories, all presented by York Musical Theatre Company. This intimate evening revives a long tradition of Christmas entertainment in the Mansion House by this company, which was founded in 1902. Just the thing to get you in the festive spirit!
Pre-booking essential: 01904 615505 Or book online at www. jorvikbookings.com 18 December Carol Concert. York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir. ‘The Friend’s’ carol concert at Bar Convent, Blossom Street, York at 7.30pm. Tel: 01904 643238 18 - 19 December A Fireside Audience with Father Christmas Castle Howard Tickets cost £10.00 per child (maximum age 12 years), which includes a personalised invitation, admission to the House and a gift. All children must be accompanied by a paying adult (normal admission applies - adults please pay on the day). Book online here or call 01653 648620. Discount is available for Annual Pass holders - please call for details. 18 December Hovingham Market Hovingham Village Hall.10.30 - 3pm. Join us for a busy village market with around 35+ businesses selling a wide variety of local produce, gifts and crafts. Onsite popular market cafe selling homemade produce and drinks. Well worth a visit
GRAND OPERA HOUSE 2 December Ross Noble - Non Sensory Overload Ross follows the success of last year’s 160 date THINGS tour – which not only ran for six weeks at London’s Apollo Theatre - but also filled arenas down under, becoming the biggest live standup comedy gig in Australian history.
3 December The Chuckle Brothers in The Twelve Days of Christmas. Come and meet all your favourite characters as Santa Claus and Paul and Barry Elf do battle to stop Jack Frost from ruining Christmas. 4 December Mostly Autumn Mostly Autumn may not be a household name but it has built a loyal and cult following since its first album twelve years ago. 10 December - 2 January Cinderella at the Grand Opera House York. New Pantomime Productions return to the Grand Opera House York this Christmas with their spectacular family pantomime Cinderella! Tickets are on sale so book now to secure the best seats! Starring Stuart Wade (Emmerdale and last year’s panto Snow White) as Buttons, Lisa Riley (Emmerdale, Fat Friends) as the Wicked Stepmother, Syd Little as Cinderella’s father Baron Hardup plus Jen Pringle (Milkshake) as the Fairy Godmother. 15 January Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Replicating perfectly the power and subtlety of Fleetwood Mac at their brilliant best, let timeless classics such as Black Magic Woman, Albatross, Go Your Own Way and many more, take you on a nostalgic evening of breathtakingly outstanding musicianship; and all performed in the context where the songs work best a live stage. 16 January The Richard Thompson Band. One of this country’s
community
december 2010 • issue 64 greatest songwriters and most distinctive of guitar virtuosos, capable of breathtaking drama and sublime delicacy, prompting Rolling Stone to hail him as “a perennial darkhorse contender for the title of greatest living rock guitarist.” 20 - 21 January The Chinese State Circus - Mulan. From the land of legends and warrior Shaolin monks comes the incredible new Chinese State Circus production – the live acrobatic spectacular - Mulan. 22 & 29 January Huge - The Ultimate Party Band. Big Ian and the boys return with their brand of musical mayhem playing music from Amy Winehouse to Queen and from Abba to Take That. 25 January John Bishop Following the enormous success of his smash
hit, total sell out ‘Elvis Has Left The Building’ tour and Edinburgh Comedy Award Nomination, stand-up comedian, John Bishop will be back on the road with a brand new show, The Sunshine Tour. 26 January Jethro. Originally a ‘timber man’ from Lavant Tin Mine, Jethro will be performing armed with nothing more than a microphone, a stand and a small table with his favorite drink to hand. 28 January Punt & Dennis.
York Theatre Royal
9 December 29 January Jack and the Beanstalk One of the most popular stories ever told is about to get the full panto blockbuster
treatment as only York Theatre Royal know how. Expect spectacular sets and costumes. Expect laughs galore and slapstick in abundance. Expect mad-cap mayhem and lunacy. Above all, expect the unexpected as Kaler wreaks his zany anarchy on yet another pantomime classic.
Joseph Rowntree Theatre
4 - 11 December Mother Goose Will Baron Tightwad ever get his rent from Gertie? Will Houston ever pluck up enough courage to ask Tilly out? Why is Lord Moldevart so interested in Priscilla and will Fairy Floella be able to keep him under control? The answer to all these questions and more can be found at this years Rowntree Players pantomime Mother Goose with another brand new script, jokes old and new, laughs in
abundance, hilarious slapstick rousing songs and dazzling dancing, it really promises to be another rollocking romp of a panto. 14 December Hamlet - The Comedy! Oddsocks - Following a triumphant West End run and a high profile TV appearance on Country House Rescue Oddsocks is touring a riotous production of Hamlet – the Comedy from November 2010 to February 2011 with a special celebrity guest video performance and music by Rob Harris, lead guitarist with Jamiroquai!
BLOOD DONOR SESSIONS 13 December Merchant Taylors Hall 2 - 4pm and 5 - 7.15pm 17 December Wigginton Recreation Centre 2 - 4pm and 5 - 7.15pm 22 December New Earswick Folk Hall 2 - 4pm and 5 - 7.15pm 5 January Merchant Taylors Hall 2 - 4pm and 5 - 7.15pm
16 - 17 December Gala Christmas Concert Shepherd Group Brass Band
24 January Wigginton Recreation Centre 2 - 4pm and 5 - 7.15pm
18 December Christmas Music Night
Copy deadline for the next edition is Tuesday 4th January
19 December Christmas Concert Generation Groove
WIGGINTON & HAXBY WOMEN’S INSTITUTE We meet every second Thursday in the month at St. Mary’s Church Hall at 7.30 p.m. New and old members, and visitors, always welcome. For more information contact Mrs Graves on 01904 750570. Our next meeting will be held on 9th December 2010 at St Mary’s Church Hall, North Lane, Haxby at 7.30 p.m. Christmas Social & the Dickens Fellowship are visiting. January meeting: 13th January 2011. Talk by Penelope Worsley ‘The Karen Hill Tribes in North West Thailand.’ Competition: An eastern souvenir. Registered Charity No. 1023129.
Copy Deadline for the next edition is Tuesday 4th January www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 61
index Accountants White Kite Accountants...................53 Aerial & Audio Visual Services ADI Communications......................19 Future Innovations (uk) ltd.................6 Aerial Services..............................24 Architectural Services AP Design Services..........................6 Prospect Design............................15 Simply Plans.................................25 Bathrooms Bluewater Bathrooms.......................5 Maddisons Bathrooms & Tiles.........64 Beauty Escape Hair..................................31 Salon Absolute..............................35 Sephora.......................................31 Tanning Lounge, The......................26 Wendy Murray Mobile Hairdressing..26 Blinds AA Blinds.....................................23 Carolina Blinds and Curtains............12 Inspired Blinds...............................25 Select Blinds.................................14 Builders ALH Builders.................................15 Cars & Servicing Auto Safe Clifton............................36 Birch Park Vehicle Testing Centre.....39 Chips Away...................................41 Childrens Clothing Country Cradle, The.......................26 Cleaners
House Fairies................................19 Kevin Atkinson Carpet Cleaning........12 Maid2Clean....................................4 Computers & Web Design Computer Troubleshooters..............55 JRA Services Ltd...........................55 NYCOM Limited............................55
Health Chiropodist...................................26 Slimming World (New Earswick).......35 York Counsellors............................26 Joinery Neil Jackson Joiner.......................12
Cycles Cycle Scene.................................29
Kitchens & Bedrooms Dream Doors Ltd.............................3 Instyle Kitchens Ltd.................. 7 &13
Dentists Haxby Family Dental Practice.............9
Locksmiths Sherlocks.....................................12
Electricians C&S Electrical York........................12 D Carrington Electrical Services Ltd....6 Judge Electrical.............................22 Mark Smith Electrical......................24 Plowman Electrical.........................14 Wilson Electrical Services................14
Markets Hovingham Village Market...............47
Food & Drink Cooking Class...............................50 Can Kids Cook..............................50 Highwayman, The..........................51
Mobility Able to Enable Ltd.........................32 MV Mobility...................................26 Nurseries Flaxton Village Nursery....................29 Home to Home Nursery..................30
Fuel David Edgar Solid Fuels and Haulage.... ..................................................21
Painting & Decorating Dave Kavanagh Painting & Decorating.. ..................................................19 R Barker Painting & Decorating........19
Fireplaces Hovingham Fireplaces....................21
Pets Station House Vets.........................48
Gardens Astek Landscapes.........................17 Bartlett Tree Experts.......................19 Future Landscapes........................17 Rock and Stone York Ltd................17 Swales Paving...............................15 York Landscapes & Maintenance.....17 Yorkshire Tree Surgeons Ltd............17
Plastering ABM Plastering & Tiling..................14 Ian’s Plastering Service...................19 KB Plastering..................................6 Plumbing & Heating DRS Installations Ltd......................21 GFP Home Heating Care Ltd.............1
GW Plumbing..................................5 York Plumbing & Heating................25 Plumbing - General Jupiter Plumbing...........................18 Leefe Plumbing...............................4 MB Plumbing & Drainage.................3 Plumbcall Services.........................23 Plumbing by Taylor...........................6 Property Maintenance CK Home Solutions........................22 HC Engineering.............................13 SM Maintenance...........................18 Yorkshire Home & Property Services 14 Promotional Wear Blah Blah Blah Active Wear & Logos..... ..................................................54 Roofing BMB Fibreglass Flat Roofs Ltd.........19 Steve O’Neill Roofing & uPVC Fitters 17 Security Systems TPS Security Installations................25 Soft Furnishings Rodgers of York..............................2 Tiles Tile With Style...............................20 Travel Conexo Travel...............................11 Tutors English Tutor.................................26 Windows Instyle Windows.............................15 Window Distribution Ltd..................23
Puzzle Solutions Crossword Across: 7 Career, 8 Rather, 9 Ghee, 10 Wildlife, 11 Omitted, 13 Angry, 15 Aside,
17 Dentist, 20 National, 21 Easy, 23 Desert, 24 Hotels. Down:1 Dash, 2 Cement, 3 Crowded, 4 Frill, 5 Stolen, 6 Performs, 12 Mistakes, 14 Healthy, 16 Driven, 18 Treaty, 19 Unite, 22 Sole.
sudoku
calcodoku
Spot the Difference 1. Toy train colour 2. Hanging star 3. Toy leg 4. Hammer head 5. Elf’s eye 6. Stripy sleeve 7. Badge on hat 8. Bobble 9. Ear 10. Buttons
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Rock Group pictogram 1. Gross injustics 2. One step forward, two steps back 3. Talk it over
wordsearch A turkey never voted for an early Christmas
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local useful numbers
december 2010 • issue 64
nspcc.org.uk/letter-from-santa
POST OFFICES Strensall PO............. 01904 490301 Haxby PO................. 01904 763395 Huntington PO.......... 01904 769180 New Earswick PO.... 01904 768105
MEDICAL Social Care Emergencies ............................... 01904 762314 Macmillan Cancer Support ............................... 01904 651700 York Hospital .... 01904 631313 Ambulance Service.. 01904 666000 Samaritans .... 08457 909090
pharmacies Strensall Chemist..... 01904 492497 Haxby Chemists....... 01904 766512 or 01904 768911 Free presciption delivery from Haxby Chemists....... 01904 766512 ............................... 01904 768911 Huntington Pharmacy 01904 762566 Tesco Pharmacy - Clifton Moor ............................... 01904 880449 Boots UK, Monks Cross ............................... 01904 656360
COUNCILS HAXBY TOWN PARISH COUNCIL Town Clerk ............. 01904 750378 email:office@haxbytowncouncil. gov.uk WIGGINTON PARISH COUNCIL
Parish Clerk ............ 01904 764356 email:icuthbertson@cix.co.uk STRENSALL & TOWTHORPE PARISH COUNCIL Parish Clerk ............ 01904 491569 email@clerk.strensallpc@talktalk. net NEW EARSWICK PARISH COUNCIL Parish Clerk ............ 01904 758028 email@pcnewearswick@aol.com HUNTINGTON PARISH COUNCIL Parish Clerk ............ 01904 758366
WASTE SITES Hazel Court, James Street Open Mon - Sat 8.30 - 7.00pm, Sun 8.30 - 4.00pm Towthorpe/Strensall Open Mon - Sun 8.30 - 7.00pm Beckfield Lane Open Mon - Fri 5.00 pm - 7.00pm, Sat & Sun 10.00 - 2.00pm
SCHOOLS Haxby Road Primary 01904 653218 Headlands Primary 01904 762356 Ralph Butterfield Primary ............................... 01904 768325 Robert Wilksinson Primary ............................... 01904 490306 New Earswick Primary 01904 768228 Huntington............... 01904 752100 Joseph Rowntree..... 01904 768107
Easingwold ............. 01347 821451 Sheriff Hutton Primary School ............................. 01347 878441 Stockton on the Forest Primary ............................... 01904 400366 Wigginton Primary .. 01904 761647
LIBRARIES Huntington Library... 01904 768991 Strensall Library...... 01904 490876 Haxby Library.......... 01904 768811 Explore: New Earswick Library Learning Centre ...... 01904 552629
FINANCIAL MATTERS National Debtline..... 0808 808 4000 Inland Revenue........ 0845 010 9000 Tax Credits............... 0845 300 3900
CHILDREN & FAMILIES Childcare Link.......... 08000 960296 Childline.................. 0800 1111 NSPCC . .................. 0808 800 5000
TRANSPORT AA Breakdown ........ 0800 887 766 AA Roadwatch......... 09003 401100 Rail Enquiries........... 08457 484950 Dial & Ride............... 01904 551441 First Bus York........... 01904 883000 Yorkshire Coastliner 01653 692556
BT Faultline............. 0800 800 151 Floodline.................. 0845 988 1188 Transco Emergency Service - Gas ............................... 0800 111 999 Yorkshire Water........ 0845 124 2424 Environment Agency 0870 850 6506 Domestic Violence Helpline ............................... 0808 2000 247 City of York Council.. 01904 613161 Crimestoppers......... 0800 555111 North Yorkshire Police (non emergency) 0845 6060247 Safer York Partnership ............................... 01904 669069 Shop Mobility........... 01904 679222
ANIMALS RSPCA York.............. 01904 654949 RSPCA National Helpline ............................... 0300 1234 999
MPs Julian Sturdy........... 01904 788355 York Outer Hugh Bayley............ 01904 623713 York Central
GENERAL SERVICES Electricity emergencies ............................... 0800 668877
www.thehandymag.co.uk • 01904 310230 or 01653 658776 • 63