Your Local Link Magazine February 2012

delivered monthly in all 88,167 homes and businesses in york and the villages n Issue 101 February 2012

MORE PROPERTY INSIDE

Over 600 local businesses inside...

Plus: News & views.. we’re York born & read!

A Grrreat month!

It’s back, bigger and better than ever!

Fun for all the family at the Viking Festival! (P92-95)

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welcome...

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Best of York Your Motors Health & Beauty Weddings Your Family Your Pet Your Home Your Environment Your Garden York on a Fork Your Events Trades & Services Your Jobs

As Valentine’s Day draws ever closer, the Local Link office descends into chaos. There are the pretenders who act like they don’t care whether or not they get any cards or a token gift from their other half, then the openly proValentine’s contingent who have already planned the works – flowers, chocolates, a slap up meal – before Christmas. Whether you’re a Slushy Simon or a Cynical Cyril, Valentine’s Day is a minefield of options / pesky smug couples (delete as appropriate).

The team have spilled the beans on their ultimate Valentine’s Day wishlist. See opposite and for Pete’s sake (or Dave’s, or Sandra’s), don’t use the horror gifts at the bottom as a shopping list. If you’d rather wrap yourself in a chocolate-bar-wrapper-duvet and pretend that 14th

February doesn’t exist, see our guide for singletons on page 44.

However, as lovely or annoying as you find Valentine’s Day, there are still a whole host of other things to keep you entertained during the other 28 days in February.

This month the city will be hosting the annual Jorvik Viking Festival, so we sent Joe to meet the team at the Jorvik Viking Centre and dress up like a Norse warrior. We think he enjoyed it a little too much, since he’s now refusing to remove his helmet. See the pics, and learn some rather interesting facts that will help you to look well-informed at the pub (as well as some vital info about fossilised poo), on page 22. If Vikings aren’t your thing, then get yourself carried away by a good tale at the York Festival of

Advertising: Gini, Tracy, Sarah, Mim, Kelly, Richard, Avril, Vicky, Carl, Gary & Sue Accounts: Helen & Claire Distribution: Dean, Jon, Ronnie Design: Rachel, Lisa & Jerry Editorial: Donna, Joe & Nicolette Publishers: Tracy Outram and Gini Guttery

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Mothers’ Day might seem like aeons away, but if you’d like to see a message for your lovely mum in these pages next month, then get an email / postcard / carrier pigeon sent to us with your message. Remember to include contact details in case we need to get in touch, and both your name and mum’s name. Alternatively, if you have any other local stories, do let us know – we love to hear from you!

See you at the festivals!

the best of york

Storytelling (children and grown-ups allowed) at the beginning of Feb.

Valentine’s Wish list

We took a little poll to find out what some of Local Link’s staff would like on February 14th…

Nikki: Cake Lisa: Perfume Sue: Kitten Joe: Two kittens Avril: Trip to Rome

Sarah: To be treated like a princess Tracy: Helicopter flying lessons Kelly: A new chicken (called Valerie) Hopefully this should be better than some the unfortunate things we’ve received before! For example: a glass fish, a strimmer (and she doesn’t even do gardening!), inflatable furniture and a heart made from painted pasta. Oo er!

Call: 01904 767881

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

Space booking, copy, cancellation and editorial deadline for the March edition is 10th February 2012 and 17th February 2012 for recruitment.

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your competitions... WIN... WIN... WIN...

WIN a day out!

If you’re anything like us, you’ve always dreamed of being a wizard – which is good news, especially when it comes to living in York. The magic returns to the National Railway Museum this February half term, with a bumper programme of trickery and treats during Wizard Week (11 – 19 February).

See the steam star from the Harry Potter movies, plus – new for 2012 – All action wizard duels, live magic tricks and Derek the friendly dragon.

Enter our exciting competition to win a fantastic family prize package for five people during Wizard Week. Your prize includes lunch in the restaurant, steam rides, a ride on the Simulator, Miniature Railway and Road Train as well as a free guide book and a hamper full of wizard goodies. You’re garunteed to have a charmed experience!

For your chance to win, answer this question: What is the name of the event being held at the National Railway Museum for February half term?

Send your answer on a postcard to the address on page 7. Mark your entry ‘Spellbinding Day Out Competition’ and don’t forget to include your name and daytime contact number! Competition closes 6th Febuary, so don’t delay! T&C’s apply.

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IN W VALENTINE’S RELAXATION! Where better to be on Valentine’s Day than Kuki Spa!? Set in a romantic 1922 listed historical building in Huntington on the outskirts of York, they can truly make your day extra special.

Offering two romantic packages, you can choose from a back, neck and shoulder massage (for couples), or a full body massage – or save yourself the trouble and pick both! Gift vouchers are specially designed for Valentine’s and presented in a little bag so you have something to remember from the special day. All gift vouchers last six months so no need to rush.

Using a fine blend of de-stress oils, heated beds, low lighting and candles in a room for two, they are sure to put you in a romantic mood. You’ll even be given a glass of bubbly to chill down with afterwards, in Kuki’s own relaxation area!

But…! Kuki Spa is offering ONE lucky winner a chance to win a full body massage package for couples. All you have to do is answer the following question: Where is Kuki Spa situated?

Send your answer on a postcard to the address on page 7. Mark your entry ‘Kuki Comepetition’ and don’t forget to include your name and daytime contact number.

For more amazing treatments and offers visit www.kukispa.com

your competitions

Win a box of cupcakes!

Have you visited Sooty’s Cupcakery on Castlegate yet? Newly opened by Sotiria ‘Sooty’ Vargamezi, it’s a fab new bakery selling a wide range of gorgeous cupcakes, fresh brownies, three layer cakes, cookies, scones and whoopie pies (don’t know what they are? Go in and find out!) that look as good as they taste! Sooty only uses fresh ingredients such as real vanilla pods, fresh milk, dairy butter and seasonal produce. Her cakes are available to take away, or why not relax and enjoy some home baking on the premises?

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And because we’re so keen for you to try Sooty’s baking, we’re offering a free box of delicious cupcakes. To be in with a chance of winning, just answer this easy question: On which street will you find Sooty’s Cupcakery?

Send your answers on a postcard marked ‘Sooty’s Competition’ to the address on page 7, to reach us by Friday 10th February.

Don’t forget to include your name and a daytime contact number so we can reach you! Sooty’s Cupcakery, 7 Castlegate YO1 9RN. Call 289603 or visit www.sootyscupcakery.co.uk

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Shaw Thing

A Cuppa for the Community At Your Local Link, we know how important a strong community is to foster a positive environment where people can live and work.

After all, it doesn’t matter how nice a place looks – it’s the people which make it a home! With this in mind, Heidi Folland decided to create something unique: Fulford’s first community café, residing in St. Oswald’s Church Hall three mornings a week. Run by volunteers, the café features an ensemble of friendly bakers who take pride in creating homemade cakes, scones and biscuits for the café’s guests to enjoy. A

great selection of warm drinks is also available (including specialty coffees, and our personal favourite on cold winter days: hot chocolate with cream!), making the café an ideal meeting spot for friends and families. A children’s play corner is also available, and a range of magazines are on-hand for anybody looking to relax and de-stress. n The Village Café is situated in St. Oswald’s Church Hall, Main Street, Fulford, York. It’s open from TuesdayThursday, 9am- 12noon.

When was the last time you got away? Flew the coop?

Saw somewhere amazing - and took somebody with you for the trip? Well, if you’re anything like us, it was far (far!) too long ago. The truth isn’t just that we all need a holiday; the truth is that we all need adventure, too! So maybe it’s time to quit staring out the window and do something about it? That’s where Shaw Coaches come in, and they’ve just announced their new holidays for 2012. In June, take a trip to the filming location of ITV’s Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle in Hampshire – or maybe splash out a bit and enjoy a Scandinavian Cities Cruise in September? If you’re of a flowery disposition, the Hampton Court Flower Show in July might be your ticket; or, if you’re more interested in something chilly, the Scottish House Party in October is probably the place for you. Whatever the case, we’re sure you’ll agree: nothing beats the feeling when you first step on board, knowing that your adventure is only seconds away from beginning! n For more information, call Shaw’s Coaches on 01977 661214 or visit www.shawsofwhitley. co.uk .

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the best of york

What’s cooking?

It was public pressure that encouraged Sotiria ‘Sooty’ Vargemezi to open her new business. When she opened a market stall selling cupcakes two years ago, she had so many comments from customers asking why she didn’t open a shop that she finally decided to take them at their word.

And so Sooty’s Cupcakery was born. York’s first cupcake bakery, on Castlegate, has already attracted a lot of interest from customers tempted by the delicious display of home baked cakes on offer in the 1950s diner style shop. These range from cupcakes in a variety of flavours including cinnamon, banana and custard frosting, carrot cake with cream cheese and milk chocolate chip with real vanilla pod frosting, to chocolate bombes, brownies, whoopie pies and frosted layer cakes. Sotiria only uses fresh ingredients and seasonal produce, and the bakery has an open plan preparation area where you can see the cakes being baked and decorated.

The cakes are available to take away or you can relax and enjoy them on the premises. You can also order cakes for special occasions. We’ve been lucky enough to have had a delivery of Sooty’s Cupcakes here at Local Link HQ, and judging by the speed at which they disappeared and the cries of “who ate all the cakes” we can vouch for their delicious-ness!! n You’ll find Sooty’s Cupcakery at 7 Castlegate YO1 9RN. Call 289603 or visit www.sootyscupcakery.co.uk

It,s all about you. . .

Been injured in an accident that wasn't your fault?

Yes! Are you moving house?

Yes! Thinking about separating from your partner?

Yes! Need some honest legal advice?

Yes! We're here T: 01904 679 990 to help!

E: info@coles-law.co.uk www.coles-law.co.uk 96 Micklegate, York YO1 6JX 11

Here’s an Idea!

Have you ever been struck with a thought which was full of potential? Has a business prospect ever popped into your brain? If so, you’d do well to investigate Enterprise Day (1st Feb), hosted by the University of York St John. The free event is organised to help you focus your thoughts and boost your business sense, featuring inspirational talks from people who have succeeded first-hand in launching their own company. You’ll also have an opportunity to talk with other people setting up their own businesses, providing you with invaluable networking contacts as you venture forth into your new undertaking. Or if you’re a recent graduate (or soon to be one!), you might be interested to find out a little more about the modern labour market; if so, the event ‘What Next? The Future of Graduate Employment’ (29th Feb) is a fantastic way to start.

By The Numbers

Family run for 93 years!

Do you know how to call your local police force? Well, fortunately now it’s easier than ever; all you need to do is call 101, and you’ll automatically be connected to the North Yorkshire Police non-emergency line. When you call 101, you’ll be able to speak to the force control room via the automated switchboard – and this won’t make your call receive a lower priority than if you had called 999 about a nonemergency issue. Simple and convenient: two things we like at Local Link!

They’ve seen similar shops come and go but when value for money is important there is no better time to try the local Army and Navy Store for camping and outdoor equipment. Established in 1919, the family-run business is the longest-running store of its type in the city and continues to offer old-fashioned customer service alongside a comprehensive range of modern, hardwearing products. The choice is not restricted to Army and Navy goods, varying from combat clothing and workwear to outdoor catering accessories.

n For information call 01904 876868 or visit www.yorksj.ac.uk.

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n For further information, pop in to the shop on Fossgate, call 01904 622855 or visit www.yorkarmyandnavy.co.uk.

Bricks of a Community Have you heard about Clements Hall? Have you seen its dynamic schedule of activities - including community cinema to Yoga lessons? And did you know that the hall itself was once the remains of a thriving and historic church? After a full renovation, the location has become a modern and beautifully furnished building for the whole city to enjoy. The hall welcomes groups and individuals to take advantage of its facilities and hold events within its premises, asking only for a small upkeep fee. The events include private parties, educational workshops, wedding receptions and much more. As a non-profit organisation, the hall relies on contributions (through its St Clements Hall Preservation Trust charity) to continue operations; this allows it to keep offering York’s citizens a fantastic venue at a greatly reduced price.

incorporating Hileys of Thirsk and Easingwold

Fresh thinking

n For details call 01904 466086 or visit www.clementshall.org.uk

Halls of History Sometimes it’s easy to forget that history is literally all around us in York; not only in our city walls and ancient buildings, but also in places we might not realise. One example of this is the Poppleton Road Memorial Hall, built in November of 1946, shortly after the Second World War. To build it a former barrack hut was purchased from RAF Everingham, a village bomber base west of York, which was then dismantled on site and transported flat pack style to Poppleton Road. And the hall’s footings were created from the bricks of an old air raid shelter which used to be on the same road!

These days the hall is a registered charity, and welcomes people to enjoy its historic presence and fantastic modern facilities. It offers room hire for regular and one-off bookings, and it features a sizeable auditorium with WIFI and projection facilities (plus a hearing loop). The first floor meeting room also has four hard-wired LAN terminals, making it an ideal resource for computer networking. n For more information visit www.poppletonroadhall.org.uk.

For the... key stages in your life Much of our work involves helping people deal with key stages or events in their lives. This month we highlight some of the issues you need to think about in the context of partners and children “Relationships and families are becoming ever more complex. Whether you are planning positively for the future or are facing difficulties in a relationship, an experienced legal adviser can help explain the option on how best to protect your interests and those of your children.” John Reynard, Partner Many people think solicitors’ advice can focus rather narrowly on issues like making your Will or representation if a relationship fails. In reality, there are a whole range of things we can do to help - whether it is making agreements between unmarried couples concerning joint assets, appointing guardians to look after children, financial planning to protect your family or, if things don’t work out, helping you manage the process of separation in a way that is right for you.

Visit www.harrowells.co.uk to view our innovative guides to different stages or events in life and to find out more about how we can help you deal with the choices they can present.

T: 01904 558600 E: advice@harrowells.co.uk www.harrowells.co.uk Business advice I Personal advice I Disputes & claims I Property Harrowells LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (No 471957) and by the Financial Services Authority (FSA register number 470834).

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Can you help... local people, local causes Do you have time or money to spare to help one of these worthwhile causes?

Make a Splash If you’re interested in getting some fresh air and helping a great cause, what could be nicer than helping to improve a natural (and beautiful) fishing pond? Friends of Chapman’s Pond are working to create a new path, new signage and a seating area.

In addition, the group plans to make the pond accessible for lesser-abled people.

Tread the

n For more information contact Elizabeth Atkinson on 01904 707708.

Board!

Lost painting We’ve had an unusual appeal for help from one of our readers, which hopefully you can help with. In January 2010 Rachel Coleman’s Grandma died and her mother took some of her possessions to the Salvation Army charity shop on Gillygate in York .

One of the items was a small hand painting Rachel’s grandma had done of a purple flower with the initials 'KMC' in the bottom right hand corner. After taking it to the charity shop her mother realised she wanted it back and rushed to shop to find it had been sold. Did you buy it? If so, Rachel would very much like it back as a keepsake from her grandma. n If you can help, contact the Your Local Link office.

Interested in getting more involved with the Joseph Rowntree Theatre? Have three or four evenings to spare each month? An exciting opportunity has arisen for two people to join the theatre’s Board of Directors and act as Trustees of the Charity. The Theatre is a successful community based enterprise run entirely by volunteers, and it’s looking to find people eager to continue its great work. As part of the management team you will be instrumental in shaping and supporting community theatre in

York, helping to ensure that the venue remains a powerful local resource for the public to enjoy.

The two Trustees would help to organise the Stage Crew Volunteers and Front of House Sales.

Although the appointments are unpaid, we’re sure they’ll offer a great deal of job satisfaction!

These opportunities will be soon snapped up, so don’t hesitate to express an interest! n For further information visit www.jrtheatre. co.uk/vacancies or call Dan on 07511123659 (after 6pm on weekdays).

If you need help with volunteers or fund raising, write to the address on page five, or email info@yourlocallink.co.uk.

Mark your message ‘Can You Help?’

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Fancy a Knighthood?

If you like the idea of supporting one of York’s most exciting sports institutions, you should definitely lend a thought to the York City Knights rugby team.

They’re looking for sponsors to help fulfil their fundraising ambitions - and they have plenty of incentives to offer in return! Interested companies can opt to have their business featured on official clothing, programmes and signs. n To find out more, call 01904 767404 or visit www.yorkcityknights.co.uk

A Rail Big Idea Local man George McManus is keen to explore local, sustainable transport ideas and this led to a sudden spark of inspiration: what if the railway line between York and Beverley could be reopened? And even better, what if this could incorporate stations at Stamford Bridge, Pocklington, Market Weighton and even Haxby?

Determined to make his dream a reality, he started the Minsters Rail Campaign, and so far it has received a great response from the local public. The campaign’s principle is to create safe and sustainable transport for all of the area’s residents – and this has great prospects for improving tourism and business throughout the county. The campaign’s current priority is to arrange for an engineering study to be undertaken, helping to establish estimated costs for the line’s reopening, and to communicate with Network Rail to help influence future planning decisions. The campaign is keen to hear from people who would like to support the cause and get involved. n Call George McManus on 07720 847819 or email GeorMcMan@aol.com for more information.

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THE WAY I SEE IT...

The ups and downs of life as seen by our very own (very) Grumpy, (almost) Old Woman

Technofear

I ran screaming out of a major electrical retailers the other day.

I was buying a new computer at the time. This is an event I look forward to with about as much joy as intensive root canal work at the dentist. But my faithful old computer had finally gone to that Great iCloud in the Sky, and I needed something to write on, so it was off to the computer store we went.

Basically, I’m happiest with a pen and paper. You write with your pen, it runs out, you get another one. It doesn't give you a constant running commentary on whether it’s running out of ink. It doesn’t suddenly stop writing for two hours while it updates itself to a new type of nib. It doesn’t hold you up while it tries to strike up a conversation with other pens. And if your pen happens to break, it doesn’t ask if you want it to send an error message to the manufacturer.

Happy to help?

As you can imagine, I’m not the ideal person to try to buy a computer. Just the dazzling array on offer sent me into a paralysis of panic. I just wanted a computer I could type on and maybe do a bit of online shopping. I really didn’t need a touchscreen, an HD monitor the size of a football pitch or a

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full-on surround sound system that ‘gives you a full gaming experience’. Just the word ‘dongle’ brings me out in a rash.

they’d start chatting to another customer, dive for the nearest computer and start tapping numbers in with great concentration, or just vanish completely.

So there we were, my husband and I, with him trying to stop me leaving. We finally found a computer that seemed to meet my basic needs – ie, I could switch it on without needing a degree in IT. So we decided to buy it.

My husband was trying to stop me doing the same when the manager came over. When I pointed out the lack of assistants, he replied that it was their “busiest time of the year”. I looked at the solitary girl chewing her nails on the checkout with tumbleweed blowing around her and wondered what it might be like when it was less busy.

Just the word ‘dongle’ brings me out in a rash And that’s when the real problems started.

If you go into any major electrical retailer, you’ll find a huge number of young men in cheap shirts and ties, usually with name badges saying ‘Happy to Help’ . Presumably because their badge isn’t big enough to say ‘Happy to hover behind you while you’re browsing, but as soon as you want any actual help we’ll disappear faster than you can say “Random Access Memory”’.

Busy doing nothing Finding someone to help us was like trying to find a nun in Reflex. As soon as we caught their eye,

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RICHARDSON GILDENER SOLICITORS 1 Peckitt Street, Opposite Clifford’s Tower, York YO1 9SF. Tel 01904 642727 Email mail@richardsonlaw.co.uk Website www.richardsongildener.co.uk

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I offered to take some of the obvious pressure off them by taking my custom elsewhere, which was why I left. But my husband is made of sterner stuff, and he was determined we should not leave the store without a computer.

Now I’m not a difficult person (much), but if you’re spending a decent amount of money you kind of expect more than thirty seconds of some oik’s attention. Next time I’ll be taking my custom to a smaller, independent store where someone can actually be bothered to talk to me.

Either that, or get out the pen and paper...

May I make a plea to Blue Badge cars not to park in or near Kings Square in the old city centre before 11am. There are so many shops, restaurants and cafes in this area which have to take deliveries before pedestrianisation begins at 11am. The delivery vans have no choice whereas Blue Badgers may park anytime during the day.

Thank you so much.

M.B. St Andrewgate My concern is the widespread overheating of shops, offices, restaurants, etc.

Not only does this waste fossil fuels and cost the company (and therefore its customers) money, it makes life uncomfortable for the customers.

This is especially so in shops, where customers have no option but to wear outdoor clothes, while shop staff wear lightweight clothes. And I try to avoid all those shops where they

Now it’s your turn!

leave the doors open, with a heater above the door delivering blisteringly hot air onto the tops of customers heads !

AP, Bishopthorpe Can someone spare a thought for us singletons on Valentine’s Day? It’s my birthday on 14th February but I can’t go out and celebrate because all the restaurants are full of loved up couples – and they’ve all bumped their prices up, too. It’s not fair!

KJ, Osbaldwick Never fear, KJ – check out page 44 for our singles’ guide to surviving Valentine’s Day. And look in our Food & Drink section for some great eating out ideas that won’t break the bank!

Is there something you’d like to rant or rave about?

Whether it’s buses or banks, or life in general, we want to hear about it.

Just write to the address on p5, or email

Donna@yourlocallink.co.uk

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Horoscopes February

Starsign of the month...

Aquarius

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

L to R: Jennifer Aniston, Peter Crouch, Justin Timberlake, Oprah Winfrey

Aquarians are one of the more thoughtful and refined signs of the Zodiac, who tend not to wear their hearts on their sleeve and who will not always let their left hand know what their right hand is doing. They can sometimes be perceived as being devious and secretive, and while part of this is true, insofar as they are very reticent about bringing their inner feelings out into the open, the rest is not true at all! They can be very shy people who need to know someone really well before they can open their hearts. Many Aquarians have highly honed artistic instincts and they make wonderful teachers and philosophers; they enjoy an exceptional degree of New Age Awareness, and although they can make wonderful homemakers, they hate the feeling of being trapped and tied down. On a negative note, they make marvellous martyrs! 2012 is an important year for Aquarians.

They will see the revival of an old friendship which will lead to interesting business aspects in the future. People, especially gentlemen, working in IT should find some interesting short cuts to greater wealth and security, and Aquarian parents will enjoy an extraordinary degree of pride in the achievements of their children. Travel aspects in the mid to late summer may be very expensive, but in a way this is reassuring. Aquarians stick to their budgets and don’t spend what they haven’t got!

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

(21st March - 19th April)

(20th April - 20th May)

(21st May - 20th June)

(21st June - 22nd July)

Potentially a good month for finances and for new business plans: new jobs for some, new work routines for others. Parents can expect children and babies to be very demanding at this time. Awkward but important decisions need to be made during the 3rd week of the month; avoid sentiment and follow your head rather than your heart.

A harmonious time within relationships but in all others areas there are moods of restlessness and frustration which can only be alleviated by you actually doing something rather than just thinking about it. This would be so much easier if you knew what to do, but right now you’re floundering, looking for some divine inspiration.

If you’re looking for any kind of change then be warned that nothing can be achieved by half hearted gestures and weak compromises. You need to be tough, ruthless and totally focused.

All things considered, and you being you, it might just be a whole lot easier to accept what you’ve got and maintain a low profile.

In the face of opposition to your plans, some tact and diplomacy, plus an all-out charm offensive should see you win the day, especially if you’re a competitive female functioning in a man’s world. Being grumpy and impatient won’t achieve very much at all – and I guess that’s true for everyone!

(20th January - 18th February)

here’s a few famous faces you share your sign with

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RICHARDSON GILDENER SOLICITORS 1 Peckitt Street, Opposite Clifford’s Tower, York YO1 9SF. Tel 01904 642727 Email mail@richardsonlaw.co.uk Website www.richardsongildener.co.uk

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Money generates more money and you need to spend to accumulate.

Trust your instincts an intuition and don’t be afraid to take chances.

In all things actions speak louder than words, and this is particularly true in affairs of the heart! If you seriously want someone, be direct in letting them know how you feel.

VIRGO (24th August - 22nd September) Some heartachingly awkward decisions to be made in February.

Take advice from an older female or mother figure, don’t rush into anything without considering all of the consequences, especially the long term consequences. Think long and hard before committing yourself, then, when you have made a decision, stick to it like glue.

LIBRA (23rd September - 22nd October) Expect the unexpected and don’t be surprised if some of the key players in your life start acting a wee bit out of character.

Be flexible in your plans and timetables, especially where travel is concerned. Pay attention to anything connected with insurance and keep cash in reserve for emergencies or fabulous bargains!

SCORPIO (23rd October - 21st November) A bright time for ambitious business people, especially younger females, but not the best

of months for misogynistic males with big egoes! Exciting times ahead in affairs of the heart, but here again, younger men could come a cropper if they take their partners too much for granted.

Sensitive males can score

the best of york

LEO (23th July - 23rd August)

Sagittarius (22nd November - 21st December) A month of fresh starts and new beginnings – but only for those who actually want them and indeed, only for those who can create the space. Parents need to adapt to new circumstances involving their children, and those with business ambitions need to put in the work for the extra money.

CAPRICORN (22nd December - 19th January This could be a real fun month for you, but only if you lighten up and don’t take things quite so seriously. Reunions around the 14th and travel aspects between the 21st and 28th make life interesting.

Domestic relationships are stable, if predictable.

PISCES (19th February - 20th March) This month could be a bit of a struggle because no matter what you do to please other people, someone will always find fault! In the circumstances you’ll feel quite justified in doing more to please yourself… But then, after having done that for a while you’ll end up feeling guilty, so it’s back to square one!

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Join

the

club

Inspire with choir

es like York’s Grand Opera Fancy singing your way into venu y ican, Rowntree Theatre and man Barb House, the Theatre Royal, the All m! albu se a platinum-selling more? No, you don’t need to relea usiasm for music and volunteer enth your lise voca is do you need to rs munity choirs in York. New teno to join one of two successful com ed for the need are es bass new and ir, Cho are needed for the Millegro s necessary, and the choirs cover Prima Vocal Ensemble. No audition popular music from all genres.

64 or e information on 07809 4011 n Call Ewa and Greg for mor .uk. e.co mbl .primavocalense visit www.millegro.com or www

Craving Cricket?

If you fancy a spot of exercise, some fresh air and a chance to make some new friends, join the New Earswick Cricket Club this Februar y.

Playing in the York & District Senior League, the club warmly invites both juniors and seniors to come along and get involved. Matches take place at the Sports Field on White Rose Avenue, and the club has a strong after-match social side! n For more information call Paul on 07533 655470 or email paul.stimpson3@btinternet.com

Women about town!

with our wonderful city?

Interested in getting more involved ’s a fantastic opportunity for York The Townswomen’s Guild offers Guild The ess. proc the in ds frien new ladies to socialise and make offers a selection of speakers, meets one afternoon a month and good causes. There are currently trips, quizzes and help for local tral York, Dringhouses and four guilds in York (in Acomb, Cen one already! near be Fulford), so you’re likely to Jo on 01904 798694 or email n For more information call js5645@yahoo.co.uk

Barkin’ Brilliant!

has simply ts in York or the place Whether you’ve got roo n’t be the place it uld ng is for certain: it wo grown on you, one thi If you’re fond of es. tre of utiful collection is today without its bea nitely get involved woods, you should defi forests or wild about 8000-strong rden Group. Part of an with the York Tree Wa (sorry!) do some rdens, the York branch network of UK tree wa conser vation ir the g work, co-ordinatin fantastic and valuable munity com al loc and cer cil’s tree offi efforts with the Coun ent em . They have d tree care and manag groups to promote goo in support of this all ining days and trips – regular work days, tra e group meets Th . rce nal natural resou precious and inspiratio the Guildhall. every other month at y.lowson@york. tion, contact harve n For more informa rvey.

Ha for 551316 and ask gov.uk or call 01904

Does your club or group need new members?

Or maybe you have some news you’d like to share. If so, get in touch with us. Write to us at the address on page five, or email us at info@yourlocallink.co.uk. Mark your message ‘Club News’.

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Jump online!

Fancy using the internet now and then, but not sure where to start? Take advantage of St Clem ent’s Church’s new computer club, offering experienced user s and first-time beginners alike the opportunity to socialise and mas ter the online world. The club is free, and hot drinks and snacks are avai lable at the drop-in café. The club takes place ever y Wednesday from 12 noon-5pm. n For more information call Lance Andrews on 01904 6241 32 or email mar y.lance.andrews @googlemail.com.

It’s Dynamite!

Clinical Negligence and Catastrophic Injury Solicitors

t? TNT Social Club in York offers Want to make your social life a blas with a typical month including ngs, a varied range of events and outi as well as drinks evenings and meals out, cinema and theatre trips Over the course of 2012, TNT is a number of other special events. l and Northumberland as well planning trips to London, Liverpoo tre and cinema trips, bike rides, thea as music events, museum visits,

parties and days out.

4 to join, call Heather on 0190 n For further information and .uk. il.co tma 783921 or email TNTYork@ho

Par of the Course!

The York Golf League is looking for new members to join its grou p or take part in one-off events. Ladi es, juniors, gents and seniors are all welcome to take part regardless of ability. Most events take place at Skelton Park Golf Course, a shor t course which offers a pleasant , easy walk, and so is a great option if you’re a beginner or are just start ing out on a fitness regime. Four leag ues are planned for 2012, with several one-off day events also set to take place, so you can take your pick! Minimal green fees are requ ired to play on the course. n For further information, ema il martin@yorkgolfleague. co.uk or visit www.yorkgolflea gue.co.uk. rd count: 118

Support and advice for victims of serious injury or illness SPECIALISTS IN COMPENSATION CLAIMS FOR:

• MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE • BRAIN & SPINAL INJURY • FATAL ACCIDENT • ASSAULT & ABUSE • ASBESTOS DISEASE • SERIOUS INJURY

0845 601 4499 www.cnci.co.uk

CNCI is a specialist service provided by Harrowells LLP

T: 01904 558600 www.harrowells.co.uk Harrowells LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (No 471957) and by the Financial Services Authority (FSA register number 470834).

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Ahead of the Viking Festival, we sent intrepid reporter Joe Burnham to the Jorvik Centre to become a Viking for a day…

“It’s an established fact that Your Local Link loves chainmail.”

“Being a Viking takes more than just practicing your Garrr!”

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I

’ve never been good with knots.

Granny knot? No. Thumb knot?

Oh no. A simple tie? Now this is getting embarrassing. I actually owe my little sister a great debt; she’d faithfully fasten my school necktie every morning, and until this day no

one was ever the wiser. So it came as something of a shock when I was thrown into the world of Vikings and told that braiding was a regular part of life - and, more worryingly, a part of life which I needed to learn.

You see, for one chilly January day,

I had volunteered for that most adventurous of historical expeditions: to become a Viking (rugged beard not included!). Perhaps I should explain?

patient, at which point the others would attentively smell their stomach to see if it was leaking! Eugh! Talk about a rubbish last meal…

It’s an established fact that Your Local Link loves chainmail. In fact, it’s standard-issue uniform for our sales team (they’re pretty good at slaying dragons and rescuing hapless princes around Haxby). So when the Jorvik Viking Festival rolled around, it came as no surprise that we wanted to get stuck-in good and proper. Fulfilling a boyhood dream, I was to be decked out in authentic threads, brandished with a sword and shield, and – as a finishing touch – donned with a beautifully fearsome metal helmet.

As I’m sure you’ll agree, the very thought of me in this attire would (quite rightly) strike terror in all but the bravest of hearts. But it didn’t take long before I discovered that being a Viking takes more than just looking fashionable and practicing your “Garrr!” In fact, quite a lot of it is a nasty business indeed!

I also had the pleasure of standing above a Viking loo, and examining a certain fossilised artefact which… well, I don’t want to give everything about the museum away, but let’s just say it was probably found inside the aforementioned toilet! Charming!

As I was shown around the museum, I began to learn plenty of facts which worried me about my new occupation – for example: when Vikings suffered wounds to the stomach, a simple test would be performed to see if their injuries were fatal (and therefore not worth treating). An odorous onion soup would be swallowed down by the

But I was also shown quite how rich and varied Viking life could be. I saw first-hand the intricate designs which Viking people would create on their leatherwork, and I appreciated the make-do-and-mend attitude which prevailed in households at the time; on one occasion there was a frying pan which had been patched up several times with new patches of iron. I also got to examine what Viking currency was like, and I was even invited to try braiding – something which, as I noted in the beginning of this tale, I had absolutely no proficiency in! Fortunately, thanks to my teacher’s infinite patience, I eventually got better at it; in fact, I even found it fun once I knew what I was doing! Before long it was time to go, but not before I had a chance to draw my sword and show myself off to the York public! I’m sure you’ll see me around the festival in February (though I might be avoiding the Viking bathrooms!).

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Calling all

Send your story to: Louise McKenzie at Chocolate – York’s Sweet Story, St Edmund’s House, Margaret Street, York, YO10 4UX.

workers

York’s newest attraction, Chocolate – York’s Sweet Story, needs your help! They’re in the final stages of putting together the attraction, due to open in King’s Square in the spring, which tells the story of the city’s long association with confectionery.

As well as taking visitors through the whole process of making chocolate and sweets, the attraction will tell the story of the workers who helped make the industry such a success.

Which is where you come in. The windows of Chocolate – York’s Sweet Story are being turned into a giant poster site displaying photographs of former factory workers, in the hope that the people of York will be able to help identify the forgotten faces of the men and women employed by the city’s confectionery dynasties during

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the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. And they want Your Local Link readers to help put names to the faces.

“We’re asking the people of York to look at the photographs and see if they recognise anyone – and, if they do, to tell us their stories and who they are so we can include them in Chocolate – York Sweet’s Story,” said Ann Gurnell, general manager of the Continuum Group, the York company opening the attraction. “So whether people spot their Aunty Vera who worked in cream fillings, their

grandfather who made Polos or Uncle Mick in Gums and Smartie packing we would love to hear all about them.”

stories wanted And if you’re still part of York’s confectionery industry, they would love to hear from you too.

There is still a huge amount of chocolate and sweets being created and produced in the city today, from successful independent chocolatiers like Phil Tate who runs Giftag Chocolate Box on Fossgate, to the people on the production line at Nestle. And the team behind the new attraction would love to hear from anyone who can add to the present day story.

“We’ve been amazed by the wonderful stories that we’ve received, from so many people who have all played a part in York’s sweet story,” says Ann Gurnell. “And with the confectionery industry in York thriving, not only in the large companies like Nestle and Tangerine but also in small chocolate and sweetie businesses throughout the city, we would love to hear from anyone working in any of these organisations who can give us a modern take on the story.”

When the doors open to Chocolate – York’s Sweet Story this spring, visitors will be immersed in the story of sweets and chocolate.

The tales from York’s confectionery past and present will be brought to life using innovative interactive displays,

film and historic artefacts. Visitors’ senses will be challenged throughout the experience when they see, hear, smell and taste different confectionery styles and explore the inside story of the many much-loved brands that started their lives in the city.

If you can help name the chocolate workers at Chocolate – York’s Sweet Story or have any stories to share about working at Rowntree’s, Nestle, Terrys or Cravens, please visit www. yorkssweetstory.com

get the first taste!

You can get a taste of York’s delicious new attraction during the Residents Festival. The team behind Chocolate – York’s Sweet Story will be handing out free chocolate lollipops at 12 noon on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th January. The first 100 residents to show a valid York Card outside the attraction in King’s Square will get a lollipop and each day one lucky resident will win a golden ticket to a sneak preview visit of Chocolate – York’s Sweet Story with a friend when it opens this spring. The Chocolate – York ’s Sweet Story team will also be collecting video memories from residents connected to York ’s confectionery industry in King’s Square between 11am and 3pm on Saturday and Sunday.

ASK THE EXPERT

with sUZIE BOGLE MA, FCIPD, FCMI

New year, new job...

The first three months of the year is a very busy time for recruitment, everything goes on hold just before around Christmas for the holidays and searches start in January. Over the next two months we will look at some useful bits of information for those applying for jobs and those creating jobs. Firstly, for those in a hiring mode….

Know what you want If you are going to hire someone, it’s really important that you know exactly what that person is going to be there to do, how much you can afford to pay them and how much time it’s going to take to do the job. It’s easy to do this, so long as you have the right tools - a job description and a person specification. The job description is what it says, it describes the job in detail the day-to-day tasks and responsibilities you need that person to fill. The person specification describes the type of person you need to be able to complete the job description - it details the skills, experience and qualifications of the potential candidates. Once you have these two items in place you can then approach advertising.

Interviewing for interviewers Once you have a shortlist of potential people to interview, you need to further prepare your interview. It is no good having a chat with each candidate in an unstructured way - you won’t be able to compare each candidate against another. You need to be asking the same questions to each candidate, specific to the tasks and requirements of the job. So that you can test whether that’s candidate has the skills to carry out those tasks. Be aware of time, if you have half an hour for each interview, you will probably only be able to ask seven questions depending on the complexity of the job. Don’t forget you can carry out skills tests, if they are required to use spreadsheets, asked them to create one and mark it according to what you need. Also, remember to tell the candidates about the job, make sure that you tell them the hours of pay and any benefits, it is also important to sell your company so that the right candidate wants to come and work for you.

Working with Recruitment Agencies For employers, it is important to realise that the recruiters are sales people, usually highly targeted on getting a candidate through your doors. Get the best rate you can, haggle, most agencies will offer a lower percentage when negotiating. Give them as much information as possible (the job description and person specification) to make sure they really know what you are looking for. When they send you CV’s or candidates and you reject them – give them specific reasons why so they can find you better candidates. Don’t get locked into exclusivity deals unless you know they can deliver and quickly. Good Luck!

Suzie Bogle MA, FCIPD, FCMI Managing Consultant of Breathing Space providing practical and effective HR support and consultancy for small and medium sized businesses in Yorkshire.

If your business needs help with staffing or HR, we are here to help.

Call 0113 386 9270 Email suzie.bogle@breathingspacehr.co.uk These answers are general in nature and are not intended to substitute for specific expert advice.

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Playing a Part in

Something Special

We caught up with Liam Evans-Ford, the community producer behind this year’s York Mystery Plays. job like this is the people you get to work with.

“We’ve been recruiting since April last year. And people have been filling in forms and sending them in to express their interest in being on stage. It’s not like an audition in the traditional sense, where you’re either in or you’re out. You’re all in – but where do we place you? Do you play Noah, or do you play one of the Angels? So it’s a nice process; everyone has an opportunity.”

Take a thousand enthusiastic Yorkies, 600 budding actors, throw in a centuries-old assortment of medieval plays and plans to create a 1400 covered seat theatre in museum gardens, and what do you get? An unprecedented logistical challenge that makes the planning of the space station look like a summer holiday! So how on earth did Liam Evans-Ford get wrapped up in all this?!

“I just applied for the job!” says Liam while laughing. “I’ve worked in the area on-and-off for a few years, and

26

I’ve produced things for the Theatre Royal before. So when the job came up they asked me to interview for it – and it all went from there really!”

The job must have been manic from the start; we asked him how long he’d been planning the plays, and the response was quite shocking.

“By the time it’s performed, we would’ve been planning for a year and 10 months! It’s a massive, massive project. We’re doing an open-air event on a huge scale, and we’re doing it all so we can include the

community. So instead of having 30 costumes, we’ve got 300!”

Suddenly a year and 10 months sounds like a remarkably short amount of time but now it’s finally time for the auditions. Does this mean Liam will be doing his best Simon Cowell impression? “You can spend all your time planning and discussing, but when you finally get down to meeting the people who are going to be involved, it gets truly exciting. It’s the people which make it into a really exciting project. The whole enjoyment of a

“We also really wanted to make sure that young people were included; about 20% of the people who want to be involved are under 16, which is fantastic!” Summing up his experience so far, Liam concluded “The plays really are the backbone of our theatrical history – it’s so exciting to be part of that legacy, especially as we begin to celebrate 800 years since York’s independence.” We at Local Link can’t wait to find out more, and rest assured we’ll keep our readers updated every step of the way!

Who’s Auditioning?

We met some of the hopefuls waiting in the wings

Ask the Expert...

Name: Felix

Name: Harriet

investments advice

About: I’m eight years old, and I’m interested in sports.

About: “I do quite a lot of sport; I do karate!”

Trust

Why auditioning: I did the ‘Play in a Week’ and they liked me so they sent me a letter about the York Mystery Plays.

Why auditioning: “I want to go into an acting career, starting at college when I apply next year. I’m a member of the York Youth Theatre, so I already have a general involvement.”

Perfect Part: I don’t know all the parts!

Name: Sean About: I’m a volunteer steward at the Minster. It’s the first time I’ve attempted something like this. I’m slightly nervous!

Why auditioning: It’s something I’ve always been interested in. It’s worldfamous, and I have a local-historical interest for it personally.

Perfect Part: To be honest, I don’t really know! I’ve just come down to find out what it’s all about!

Perfect Part: “I’m auditioning for an ensemble part, because I’ve got a lot of other theatre productions happening at the same time! I couldn’t really go for a main part!”

Name: Helen About: I have my own hairdressing business and I’ve just started adult acting classes.

Why auditioning: It’s just something to experience and have fun!”

Perfect Part: “A small speaking part!”

Network North Group: Meets every Wednesday from 7.30-9am at Beechwood Hotel on Shipton Road. n For information email anne@ acusmartpa.co.uk for information.

NABO Networking York: Meets every Tuesday from 7.30am9.30am at Riverside Farm, Shipton Road in Skelton. n Call John on 01904 890582 WIRE (WOMEN IN RURAL ENTERPRISE) YORK: Meets on the first Tuesday of every month at The Cottage Inn, Haxby. n Visit www.wireuk.org for details

One of the major issues reported by consumers when seeking financial advice is uncertainty over whether they can trust their financial advisers. And, with the vast amount of investment schemes and financial planners for customers to choose from, they are often confused about where to turn for advice on planning for retirement or how best to invest their savings.

Trust is the most fundamental basis of a relationship between clients and advisers which can take time to develop. One of the ways that financial planners can differentiate themselves in the marketplace is to benchmark themselves above the statutory and regulatory requirements. The most common amongst these higher benchmarks are Chartered status and ISO 22222 accreditation.

Chartered status is the industry’s gold standard for firms of financial planners. It confirms that the firm has satisfied rigorous qualification criteria by retaining highly-qualified staff who subscribe to the membership conditions of the CII.

The benchmark ISO 22222 accreditation is the internationally recognised benchmark for the delivery of personal finance services and denotes commitment to continual improvement and compliance through independent third party accreditation. Pen-Life Associates Ltd are the only practice in York – and we believe in the whole of Yorkshire – to hold both Chartered status and ISO 22222 accreditation, which means clients can be confident that they are dealing with individuals with the highest standard of professional integrity and ethics.

Planning

businessdiary FEDERATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES (YORK BRANCH) Meets on the third Monday of the month at the Riverside Farm pub in Skelton, York YO30 1XJ. n Call Christine on 01904 629777 for more information.

with julie wilson

Venturefest: 8th Feb. All Day at the York Racecourse. n www.venturefestyorkshire.net Ladies Networking evening and Chocolate tasting 29th Feb, York Cocoa House, Blake Street hosted by Denison Till. 6.00pm to 8.30pm.

Book early! Tel: 611411 NETWORK YORK INTERCHANGE: 16 February from 7.45am until 9am-9.30am.

Meeting is held at the Holiday Inn (Tadcaster Road in York). n For more information call Anne Ma’aye on 07803616878 or visit www.network-york.co.uk.

Enterprise Day: 1st Feb at 9.30am - 4pm. Dianne Willcocks Lecture Theatre, De Grey Court, York St John University. n Email business.school@yorksj. ac.uk for more information.

Financial Planning is a process of setting realistic goals and then achieving them through investment, insurance and tax planning.

There are some things in life that you can have a stab at doing yourself where the consequences of doing it wrong don’t much matter – like DIY or decorating. However, there are some things which are best left to the experts – like operating on your dog or financial planning, where one slip up could be disastrous! This is particularly so in later life when the impact of paying for nursing care or Inheritance Tax – the so called “death tax” payable where your assets (house, savings etc) are over £325,000 - can decimate savings accumulated over a whole lifetime.

You know it makes sense Most people know that it makes sense to address these issues rather than bury their head in the sand. But guess what most people do?

Yup – you guessed it – they bury their head in the sand! If you don’t want to be one of life’s ostriches, contact us now for an informal chat.

I’m sure we can help you – as we have hundreds of others - to achieve peace of mind. Then you can get on with the important business of living your life without worrying about money.

n Pen-Life Chartered Financial Planners, Equinox House, Clifton Park, York YO30 5PA Tel: 01904 661140; Fax: 01904 466206; Email: Julie@pen-life.co.uk; www.pen-life.co.uk Julie Wilson is a Chartered Financial Planner and Director of Pen-Life Associates Ltd, Chartered Financial Planners, who help individuals and small businesses make the most from their money including advice on residential and commercial mortgages and equity release, individual and business protection, pensions and retirement planning, savings, investments, tax planning, Inheritance Tax and long term care.

27

Didn’t they do well Want to shout about a recent success? Won an award, or raised funds for charity?

Let us know about it, and we’ll tell the rest of York!

Venture Onwards!

Star attractions

Three attractions run by York Museums Trust have won the most prestigious education award for museums.

than they realise they are learning – the ultimate goal for all museum educators.”

York Art Gallery, the Yorkshire Museum and York Castle Museum were all handed the Sandford Award for Heritage Education after a visit by judges.

“The team work really hard to produce educational activities which capture the imagination of the children,” says Gaby Lees, learning manager for the Gallery and Yorkshire Museum, said. “To get recognition for this is brilliant and we hope it will attract more schools to come and see what we can offer at our three sites.”

The Gallery was said to be a “great space for learning”, the Yorkshire Museum had “the wow factor” and that pupils who visit York Castle Museum will “learn far more

We all know Yorkshire is beautiful, packed with history and a great place to explore; but did you ever realise that beneath the surface, we’re also surrounded by inventers, innovators and entrepreneurs? It’s true, and Venturefest is proof: a one-day celebration of the area’s revolutionary ideas and groundbreaking technological achievements.

Taking place on 8th February at York Racecourse, the event features seminars, debates, exhibitions and contests – all of which are designed to highlight the inspirational work which is often concealed from public view. In addition, networking sessions and a showcase of young people’s projects will also be highlights of the event, cementing it as a fixture on the calendar of anybody interested in glimpsing into the future of business. n For more information call 01904 540924 or visit www.venturefestyorkshire.net

Now it’s your turn... Just write to us at the address on page seven, or email us at info@yourlocallink.co.uk, marking your message ‘Didn’t they do well’ and we’ll do the rest. And if you’ve got a photo for us, even better! Go on, big yourself up. You know you want to...

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It’s your business While news reports are always trying to make us feel pessimistic about the economy, it’s important to remember that businesses across the county are leveraging their resources to achieve brilliant results – in fact, some have even expanded! Just take a look at Richardson & Co Solicitors: they’ve recently merged with Harrogate Solicitors Spencer Ewin Mulvihill, giving the firm a major presence in the centres of Leeds, York and now Harrogate. The company has even made exciting new appointments to its successful team, taking on several new individuals to help felicitate its growing client base. The firm provides a full range of legal services from all three offices - and even offers a free 30 minute advice session on all legal matters. n For more information call 01904 642727 or visit www.richardsonlaw.co.uk

An Ancient Secret Looking for a great conference location in York? It can be tricky: you need to be near the main amenities, but you don’t want to fork out a fortune. Furthermore, plenty of conference locations can seem bland and uninspiring; hardly the image to suit your business! So why not embrace York’s history and choose a meeting-place which echoes the city’s ancient atmosphere and elegance?

Originally part of the College of the Vicars Choral, Bedern Hall (built in the 14th century) has been equipped to provide modern facilities for meetings, conferences and one-off events. Set right in the centre of York, visitors will get to enjoy a fantastic location within a remarkable setting. Prices are unbeatable too, with conferences costing just £13.99 per person. n For more information call 01904 653698 or visit www.bedernhall. co.uk

ASK THE EXPERT with simon crack

Employment Law This month we take a look at a couple of potential pitfalls for employers.

When my employees are off sick they are entitled to two weeks’ company sick pay through their employment contract and after that statutory sick pay (SSP).

However, I don’t like to see my employees going short so I generally pay them company sick pay for longer than a fortnight. Can this cause me any problems?

Yes it could. The extra payments you are making are collectively known as ‘discretionary sick pay’. If you make them on a regular basis it is possible that employees will legally be able to argue that this ‘discretionary’ sick pay has become a ’custom and practice’ and is now an implied term in their contract of employment.

This could cost you more than you bargained for if you have an employee absent long term who is expecting company sick pay for the entirety of their sickness absence.

If you want to go back to paying SSP only after the employee has been off for, say, four weeks the employee could argue there has been a breach of contract.

The employee may raise a grievance, try to claim for monies owed or resign and try and claim for constructive unfair dismissal (if they have over a year’s service).

I run a business and am worried about employees trying to steal my clients when they leave. Can anything be done about this? Or do I just have to accept that once their employment is terminated they are free to do whatever they like?

There are steps you can take to protect your business. If you are concerned about an employee’s actions once they have left, you should consider having post-termination restrictions placed within their contract of employment.

On the face of it post-termination restrictions are seen as a restraint of trade and unenforceable.

However provided they go no wider than to protect a company’s legitimate business interests and/or trade secrets and are reasonable in terms of their duration and geographic location they can be enforceable.

Careful consideration should be given to the type of restriction needed, exactly what business information needs protecting, the drafting of the restriction, its duration and the seniority of the employee.

Because of the difficulty of enforcing these restrictions it is always advisable to ask a solicitor to look over the precise wording before including them in the contract.

Costumes, wigs, aCCessories hire or buy!

25 Main Street, Fulford, York 01904 621328

Simon Crack is a partner at Hethertons LLP solicitors and Head of the Business Support Unit. Based at York Business Park, Hethertons provide the full range of legal services to businesses and individuals.

Tel: 528200 email: bsu@hethertons.co.uk, www.hethertons.co.uk Tudor Court, Opus Avenue, York Business Park, York, Yo26 6Rs. 29

Local

Sport report On the box

city slicker

So often TV advertisements the bane of everyone’s life, whether its Morethan-Freeman selling pet insurance, Cheryl Cole promoting volume boosting shampoo whilst wearing hair extensions or Mr Go Compare trying to prove that in comparison he is more annoying than the meerkats.

For me though, Sky currently shows the best advert on TV. It’s where a hot blooded male is seen ringing up and asking out a girl who gives every excuse in book why she can’t, whilst it’s revealed the real reason is Sky Sports are showing the exhilarating fixture of Newcastle Vs QPR. Perhaps they are trying to dispel any sexism since the Keys and Gray chaos but in reality I think there is more chance of Antony Worrell Thompson releasing a cheese fondue recipe book than my wife excitedly tuning in for a ‘Super Sunday’ billing of the likes of Norwich Vs Swansea.

On the local front it’s amazing that in the whole of Gary Mills reign at York City Football Club the supporters have been spoilt by the amount of goals scored, free flowing football yet some still like to moan and groan. While the likes of Kettering and Darlington teeter on the brink of extinction, and might even have sunk by the time this is printed, York remain with apparent financial stability, rumoured to be close to getting a new ground and near the top of the table. During the new year’s fixture against Mansfield someone stirred it up claiming Moses Ashikodi had stormed out of the ground after learning he wasn’t in the match day squad. Then once 2-0 down someone shouted “Mills Out!” to which one fan said what most of us were thinking “Who said that?” I thought it was an inevitable response to suggest “Moses Ashikodi?”

Needless to say York City got the game back to 2-2 and the anti-Mills

30

with DAN TAIT

The transfer merry go round was in full swing at time of writing with many higher leagues interested in Fleetwood’s Jamie Vardy while York City’s unofficial twitter feed reported that York City were interested in his Dad….Reg; apparently he has a good engine for midfield. You can see York’s attempts to build another run towards promotion during February with home games against Gateshead on the 4th and Stockport County on the 18th, though there may be other opportunities to see City in action at Bootham Crescent depending on their involvement in the FA Trophy.

charging knight band of one person was nowhere to be seen or heard.

transfer rumours For me February is where the season really starts to take shape. Gone is the hype of the transfer window; this is your lot until the end of the season.

As one promotion charge gets into the later stages, another one begins with York City Knights in February.

After some high profile January preseason games, the Knights take part in the Northern Rail Cup, playing twice at Huntington Stadium against Swinton Lions on Sunday 12th before taking on Gateshead Thunder on

the 26th. New boss Chris Thorman has raised a few eyebrows with the signing of perceived bad boy Jordan Tansey but Thorman will be hoping it only acts to inspire the Knights to establish themselves as a championship side.

Local sport news Fancy a new sporting challenge in 2012? York Triathlon Club is hosting a 2012 season kickoff event at the David Lloyd, Hull Road, York from 7pm on Friday 10th February.

Whether you are a seasoned pro or aim to give this growing sport a go they have all the details on hand to help you through your season. The evening will involve a presentation from the committee members covering Swim, Bike and Run sessions, sponsors, Club championship series, Club Time Trials and discounted events for 2012. There will be discounts off membership and renewals on the night, the chance to order your club kit for the summer, trade stands, great prize raffle, the bar will be open and the chance to meet York’s Professional Triathlete Phil Graves.

Further details about the club can be found at the official website, www.

yorktriathlon.com

Get fired up!

You might not be trained like an Olympic athlete, but that doesn’t mean you can’t help make the 2012 London Olympic Games the most spirited they can be. The Olympic Torch will be coming through York on the 19th of June, and an open call has been put out by City of York Council to find performers to add a touch of Yorkshire talent to the proceedings. They’ll be joining the 1st Huntington Scout band in celebrating the torchbearers trek, and with an estimated four billion people tuning in to watch the Olympics all over the world, it’s quite likely you’ll never have another chance to show your stuff in front of so many people at once! So whether you’re inspiring with an instrument, dazzling with dance moves or super at singing, this is your chance to make the York shine! n To express your interest in taking part, please get in touch with the council at York800@york.gov.uk and mark the email OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY.

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the

guide

The world of gadgets is a bewildering place (trust us, we’ve just been there). Whilst some gadgets are seemingly pointless, others win you over in disbelief that you’ve ever lived your life without it. We’ve scoured cyber space to bring you the best gizmos on the market, from the ingenious to the downright bizarre. The mind boggles…

RUBIK’S SPEAKER Why own a rubix cube and an iPod speaker when you can own a rubik’s cube iPod speaker? This chic retro gadget has been designed...well... just for the hell of it really. We predict this would be a perfect gift for anyone who enjoys their music. And you’ll get extra brownie points for actually selecting something rather cool. Gadget Rating 7/10

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TRACE ME LUGGAGE TAG If you’re anything like us, as soon as you set foot inside an airport, the paranoia kicks in that you are doomed to lose your suitcase en route. Last year, 37 million pieces of luggage were lost worldwide, so we reckon this clever tracking device is ingenious.

The Trace Me Luggage Tracker is a durable tag that securely fastens to your suitcase and sports a unique serial number and barcode holding your details. This ensures that wherever your bag ends up, airport staff will be able to identify your bag and it will be winging its way back to you in no time. Magic.

Gadget Rating 8/10

iPHONE APPS 1. Twonky (published by ex-Local Linker Beth Sissons!) The Twonky Beam Browser lets you beam content from your tablet or smartphone straight to your TV seamlessly without cables.

Word Lens This amazing app translates languages for you, and doesn’t require you to type anything.

Simply point your iPhone’s built-in camera at menus, signs or posters… and click!

RunKeeper Use your iPhone’s GPS capabilities to track your jogging and cycling routes, and examine mapping and details of your pace and calories burned.

Dragon Dictation Have your spoken words understood and written down, saving your fingers time!

RedLaser Just scan a barcode with your phone’s camera and this app will immediately tell you where to find the same item at the cheapest price!

HENRY HOOVER DESK VACUUM Your favourite personified vacuum character has been shrunk into miniature to bring you this nifty little office gadget. Give him a home in your top drawer and he will destroy the evidence of your five digestive biscuit tea break. Once you’re done, empty your crumbs by unscrewing his lid and tipping the contents into the bin. It would be rude not to really!

Gadget Rating 6/10 SPIDER CATCHER It’s finally here, what the world has been waiting for since the beginning of time. Arachnophobics all over the world can rejoice over never having another spider fear filled night again.

The Spider Catcher allows you to trap those eight legged demons at arm’s length with a long pole holding spiny bristles at the end.

Pull the trigger and the bristles open and release, allowing you to capture your worst nightmare and expel them outside without killing them (so it’s ethical too!)

Gadget Rating 9/10

BIKE SPOKELIT As well as being an extremely sensible safety contraption, the SpokeLit enables you to soar home in the dark like Sonic, leaving a trail of coloured blue spiral in your tracks. Any regular cyclist would tell you how important this is, if they’ve ever been squished by two buses in rush hour traffic.

Simply clip the SpokeLit to your bike spokes (where else?) and you’re good to go! SpokeLit is a bit like the bike equivalent of the UV lights some people install underneath their cars, but much more respectable and environmentally friendly of course.

Gadget Rating 5/10 CHOC SHOTS If you’re partial to liquor and you’re partial to chocolate, why not have both at the same time? Those unappetising fake-tasting liquor chocs are pretty average, which is clearly why some crazy, and also ingenious, person came up with shot glasses made from chocolate.

Simply pour in your liquor of choice, shot or sip, then devour the chocolate! The ultimate finish (or start) to any evening!

Gadget Rating 6/10

n All products featured are available at www.iwoot.com

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Drive on home...

Sponsored by: turnbulls of york. Tel: 01904 658809 www.turnbullsyork.co.uk

TIME FOR TURNBULLS

Here at Local Link, we love companies that go the extra mile. Whenever we hear about a local business which has been offering the same level of quality year after year, we know we’re talking about a winner; companies like this build up steadfast respect from the community, and simply couldn’t survive unless they offered top-notch service in everything they do. Take Turnbull’s Mazda in Layerthorpe, York: they’ve been in the game for over 50 years, and that entire time the business has continued to be a family one.

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As a testament to Turnbulls’ experience and quality, the company enjoys a huge range of loyal customers – some have been buying from the company for over 25 years! And this is no accident, either: once you experience their dedicated service and friendly atmosphere, you’ll want them to be your number one choice in the future.

Did you know they sell the full range of new Mazda, as well as a wide selection of used Mazda?

At their showroom they also have a fantastic selection of approved used cars for sale from a

wide range of manufacturers. All their used cars in York are manufacturer approved.

After the Mazda6 was launched, it broke new ground for the company and it has moved onwards and upwards with a fleet of models that are now as stylish as anything in their class. The baby of the Mazda range does look good, carrying the brand’s ‘family face’ with a larger five-point grille and larger company badge, the same as its bigger siblings, but retaining an individual look. The upgraded Mazda2 line-up, introduced last year, features a nine-strong

The company also offers a comprehensive aftersales service where they undertake all makes and Mazda servicing as well as MOTs and repairs to ensure that your car is in first class condition. They use only genuine parts to ensure that when they maintain your car it is carried out to the high standards the motoring brands expect.

Pay no VAT! And there’s never been a better time to buy a brand new Mazda. Turnbulls of York has introduced a special ‘Pay no VAT’ and many other strong offers on most of their models in the Mazda line-up, from the Mazda2 to the Mazda6, meaning the Japanese manufacturer’s sporty, dynamic range now starts from just £8,995 (on-theroad). The ‘Pay no VAT’ campaign is made even more appealing to customers in York by the offer of 0% APR finance over four years with only a 30% deposit required (terms and conditions apply). The ‘Pay no VAT’ campaign was launched for diesel Mazda6 models in November, and has now been extended to include the Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda5 and

Mazda MX-5 models registered from now until 29th February 2012. All Mazda6 petrol and diesel models will also be available with no VAT, 0% APR until 31st March 2012.

your motors

model range with three-door and five-door hatchback body styles and a choice of three petrol and one diesel engine, plus four equipment levels of TS Air Con, TS2, Tamura and Sport.

Driving the Community What makes a business great? Is it expert advice, the service it offers or what it gives back to the local community? York car dealership Turnbulls Mazda knows you shouldn’t have to choose, and by renewing their sponsorship of Rawcliffe’s Junior Football Club Under-19 team, they’re demonstrating that you really can run a fantastic company while giving something back to the people which support it. The family-run dealership is providing free football kits to all the players on the team, enabling them to continue their winning streak as they play their way through the York FA Cup. The company looks forward to a great year of sport, and is also eager to continue giving customers reliable advice about which Mazda vehicles and parts are best for their particular needs. n To find out more about the Mazda models available with no VAT, 0% APR, or to book a test drive, contact Turnbulls of York on 01904 658809 or visit the showroom on Layerthorpe York.

£15

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Our very own ‘Stig’ looks at hot topics in the land of petrol heads CELEBRITY SAT NAVS

Blings of the road Looking like the hybrid of a Transformers’ super robot and Las Vegas by night, these New Japanese light trucks are taking ‘Pimp My Ride’ to a whole new level. Whole families in Japan spend months decking out these light trucks, costing them around £100,000 to complete. Each truck is

decorated with more sparkle than the average high street at Christmas, and can only stay lit for 20 minutes before they overheat. We’re not really sure what the point is, because they’re so blindingly bright they’re not even road legal. Bonkers!

Birch Park Vehicle Test Centre

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Owners of TomTom sat-navs can now choose between 99 annoying downloadable celebrity voices for their direction device. In a recent poll, QI presenter Stephen Fry was voted the latest ‘most wanted’ celebrity voiceover, and is now the latest voice added to TomTom’s collection. With plenty of Fry-isms such as ‘this is going awfully well, isn’t it’, Fry’s voice is sure to drive you round the bend (quite literally). You can download Stevie boy and the rest of the 99 celebrity voices for £7.95 via TomTom’s website.

CONTROVERSIAL FINE Parking officials have sparked controversy for refusing to cancel a fine issued to a pregnant woman who had to receive emergency treatment to save her unborn baby. Sian Vaughan, from Dorchester, returned to her car an hour late after receiving the emergency treatment for pre-eclampsia, which could have been life-threatening to her baby. Once explaining her situation to her local council, they rejected her appeal and Mrs. Vaughan had to cough up. What is the world coming to!?

your motors

A MAJOR SLIP UP One lorry driver took a very, very wrong turn after trusting his sat nav to set him on the right route. The 30-ton lorry was inaccurately directed down a Shambles-esqe narrow Tudor lane in Colchester before getting wedged between two Grade 1 listed buildings. His lorry jack-knifed on a tight corner before getting stuck, causing £35,000 worth of damage to the lorry and a 17th century house and spilling over £80,000 worth of olive oil in transit. Now that’s one slippery mistake.

COP CAR OF THE FUTURE Once this baby gets on the road, being a bad guy will be more difficult than ever. With tonnes of mind boggling, crime stopping gadgets, you may think twice before breaking the law. Set up by U.S telecoms provider Motorola Solutions, the car features eight cameras, voice command software, licence capture technology and video goggles which stream live crime coverage back to police headquarters. Be afraid, be very afraid.

PUSS PASS It’s hard work being a cat. With so many naps and saucers of milk, surely our feline friends need to find another way to entertain themselves? 15 year old ginger tom cat Dodger from Dorset rides his local bus for free, making a frequent 10-mile journey on passengers laps (seriously, we’re not kidding). Dodger patiently waits by the bus stop near behind his home and even knows when to hop off again. Sounds like a fur dodger if you ask us!

FREE

Courtesy Car Subject to T&C’s

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Beauty What’s hot and what’s not in the world of beauty and fashion? We’ve got the inside scoop. cares? They’re fun, funky and are great for getting you into an upbeat winter mood.

Powerspin

Hot…

Bobbles

Winter Wellies

Scarves, hats, mittens and more: a good bobble is never out of place. Nobody knows why these balls of fancy fluff have such a power to stir our spirits, but who really

While practicality and style doesn’t usually mix, thrifty fashionistas are facing the frost without fear this winter – all thanks to their trusty wellies.

Floral, striped, animal print – the crazier the better. You can even get heeled ones!

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Here at Your Local Link, the most exercise our arms get is lifting a cuppa. So we were all excited when the Powerspin arrived. It claims to ban bingo wings forever, as well as toning up other wobbly bits. All you have to do is spin the steel ball around inside the lightweight tube. But be warned – it’s harder than it looks! Priced at £19.99, it’s available from Argos, online at Amazon or from Woolly knits are super cool: powerspin.com. go for nudes and greys and you’ll be bang on trend!

Lip Transfers It might sound crazy, but these stylish temporary lip tattoos are quickly turning into a full-fledged craze.

Inspired by the likes of Lady Gaga and Jessie J, there are loads of patterns and designs to choose from. Perfect for parties!

Lavender & Celery bags This local treasure trove of stylish gifts is just the ticket in our book

Flapper Finesse ‘Flapper’, a fashion movement with its roots in 1920’s jazz culture, couldn’t

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

be hotter right now. Think bobs, Cloche hats and art deco jewellery (especially brooches and rings).

Not… Branding overload The days when high-street designers could get away with pasting their shop’s name in HUGE BLOCK LETTERS over your bag, coat or hoody should have vanished with the last decade. Aim for something more unique and interesting - otherwise it looks like you’re just showing off!

Sequined Assault Don’t get us wrong: sequined outfits and bags are (quite rightly) not going anywhere soon. But when it comes to these shiny sparkles, don’t let your accessories turn into excessories – a single sequined item or outfit is enough to turn heads, but too much of this brilliant bling will make you resemble a walking disco-ball.

Loose on Loose Big woolly jumpers are great, and jogging bottoms are fun.

But never the two shall meet!

We know it’s warm and easy, but trust us: you’ll look less shabby-chic and more ill-fittingfashion-disaster. To avoid this potential pitfall: just pick one or the other!

Perfume Pollution We’re at a tricky time of year. With Christmas gone and Valentine’s in the air, plenty of fabulous fragrance is floating around our homes. But if you want to smell like an angel this season, you need to embrace the philosophy that less is more; a single spray on your wrists and neck should be enough. Too much can easily be overwhelming!

MAtching Couples No matter how tempting it might be and no matter how adorable you’re sure it would look, we can only beg you: don’t dress to match your partner when you go out! People will smile awkwardly, but in their minds they’ll be looking for the nearest escape point. Embrace your individuality!

Ditch the slogans: you look like a walking advert.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

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Energise Goes for Gold Are you a dedicated fitness fanatic?

Have you made a new year’s resolution to buff-up and slim down? Either way, Energise in York should be your first port of call.

Did you know that Energise was the first leisure centre in the UK to be awarded the Inclusive Fitness Industry Mark? That means every piece of its equipment is set up to be used by both able-bodied and disabled members, giving a huge breadth of choice to disabled people within the centre.

But things are set to get even better this year! To coincide with the London Olympic Games, Energise in York is excited to announce that it’ll be experiencing its own Olympicstyle transformation - it’s doubling in size! The new facility is expected to

open in October, and will feature 80 machines for its members to enjoy.

With this news, you really have no excuse not to get into shape this year! n For more information, call Energise on 01904 552424 or visit www.energiseyork.com

Over 50 and fancy finding a new sport or exercise?

Head along to the Eng-AGE 50+ activity day, and sample Zumba Gold, Swimming, Nordic Walking - and much more. It takes place 13 February from 9.30am - 4pm. n For more information, call 01904 553377 or visit www.york.gov.uk/Eng-AGE

The World on Your Shoulders After spending several years in New Zealand, the Caribbean, Asia and Africa, Ben Taylor realised there was no place quite like home – and opened up shop in York where he was born. Invigorated by his global travels, he brought the philosophy of ‘whole person wellness’ back with him to the UK and developed his own methods to complement the concept perfectly. Palm Treatments offers a range of holistic therapies at The Healing Clinic on Museum Street, and Ben specialises in the use of storytelling as a healing device. He looks forward to helping the area’s stressed citizens unwind and find a little peace in 2012. n For more information call 07584550448

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Extreme Measures

Call all adrenaline junkies! Rat Race Adventure Sports has launched a new showroom in York, based on Clifton Moor.

Alongside the clothing and sporting accessories from premium brands, a new bike range is on display at the store with both mountain and road bicycles on offer. The nationallyrenowned team at Rat Race are more than happy to offer advice on the comprehensive range of equipment, which will well equip mountaineers, triathletes, runners and cyclists, with a host of other sports and activities also provided for. In addition, you needn’t worry about starving to death if you get veer off course during your adventure, as navigation equipment and food packs are covered!

As part of Rat Race’s Notorious Night Runs series of events which take place throughout the country, off-road running enthusiasts can take part in the aptly-titled mudfest ‘Yorkshire Terrier’. The event will see participants endure either a five kilometre daytime dash or a 10 kilometre night-time sprint at Newburgh Priory on 10th March.

Fancy dress is a must and an after party will refuel runners with food, beer and live music from local bands and a spot on the campsite. n For details call 01904 409401 or visit www.ratrace.com.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

Heavenly treatments Nothing makes you feel more polished and glam than a professional manicure.

But let’s face it, the effect doesn’t last long, does it? A few days of washing up or tapping on a computer and your lovely nails don’t look so gorgeous.

But help is at hand – literally. Shellac is a revolutionary new polish that promises to last up to 14 days with no chipping, fading or smudging. It’s easy to apply, simple to remove, and comes in a wide range of beautiful shades.

Marcelle from Heavenly Nails & Beauty is a Marcelle is currently beauty therapist and master nail technician with offering Shellac many years of experience. She offers Shellac as well as a wide range of other manicures nails and toes for and pedicures, including hand painted nail art the bargain price of and Minx nails. She also offers a range of other beauty treatments, from waxing and spray tans to facials and massage. It’s the last word in luxury – convenient, hassle-free, and no more struggling to get home without smudging your manicure or spray tan! Offers available this month include a luxury facial for £25 – just the thing for pepping up tired, stressed skin. Or a full body massage for £20 – just the thing for tired, stressed bodies too!

£25.00

n For details on the treatments Marcelle offers, call 07710 669945.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

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Whether it’s about false lashes or foundation we can help!

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007 It’s Valentines – I have some answers to your questions that may help you out boys and girls! We all know that you guys hate Valentines Day, so why not make it easy for yourself and treat your loved one to a gift voucher so they can pamper themselves - who wouldn’t want that!?

Q. I really want to go to town this year and treat my partner to a full makeover, what do you suggest?

Well, at Kuki Spa there is everything under one roof so you would not have to visit various salons.

Carrying out a Prescriptive Skin Treatment, Teeth Whitening, Hair Restyle, Shellac Nails and a Detox Mud Wrap is a wonderful overall of everything to come out feeling one million dollars.

If you have a beauty question, write to us at the address on page five, or email info@yourlocallink.co.uk.

Don’t forget to mark your question ‘Q & A’.

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Q. What would you recommend I purchase for my girlfriend? She has a high stressed job and is always complaining about her skin. Would I insult her if I got her something like a facial?

Absolutely not, why not let the specialists help your girlfriend to get the answers and results that she needs? A treatment such as a Dermalogica Skin treatment includes relaxing shoulder, feet and scalp massage during the treatment so I think this would be a fantastic present for your girlfriend.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

Q. I’ve not been with my current girlfriend long, is it appropriate to treat her to a massage?

Most definitely! It’s showing to her that you are caring for her and thinking of her wellbeing and allowing time for herself. I would much prefer a beauty treatment rather than a box of chocolates!

Q. My boyfriend will not have a relaxation treatment, he thinks it is too girly!

Nowadays it is getting more and more popular for men to have treatments.

There is absolutely no way we would carry out treatments tailored for women on men.

All treatments are specifically designed to suit the male or female clientele for example, your partner could have a deep tissue or sports massage focusing on problematic areas whilst you have an aromatherapy massage.

Q.What is a good amount to spend at Valentines?

It doesn’t matter, that is entirely dependent on the person. Nowadays you can purchase beautiful gifts or gift vouchers starting from five pounds. The gesture alone is enough! If you feel you want to spend more, set a budget and we will work out a tailored package for your partner. n For personal and professional advice contact our friendly team at KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA 01904 659007. Or visit our website www. kukispa.com or email mail@kukispa.com or follow us on Twitter or Facebook.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

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Acupuncture Awareness Have you ever been curious about acupuncture? Have you wondered what problems it can treat and how effective it could be? 27th February marks the beginning of National Acupuncture Awareness Week, run by the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC), and it’s the perfect opportunity for you to find out more about this Chinese-originating practice. The Northern College of Acupuncture is celebrating this week in a fantastic way: by launching its 2012 research projects in IBS, stress and anxiety, and joint and muscle pain. The college has a strong commitment to researching the effectiveness of acupuncture, and every year it runs clinical studies exploring how it can be effective to treat a wide range of common conditions. To support its research, the college is offering reduced rates for clients experiencing conditions within its field of current research, and encourages anybody who’s interested to contact them. The treatment programme will include an initial free consultation. n For more information, call 01904 343305 or visit www. chinese-medicine.co.uk.

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Going solo...

If you’ve happily avoided cupids arrow this year, Valentine’s Day might be the last thing on your mind. Whether you’re happily single or lonely and lovelorn, we’ve got some vital Valentine’s Day survival tips.

Put your heart into art. On 11th February, Space 109 in Walmgate is hosting ‘Action Art Now 4’, a collection of over 25 visionary performance artists all in one building. Consider it a funky and avant-garde distraction from the chocolate and roses – plus it’ll make you feel like you’ve spent your time in better pursuits than watching romcoms on TV. Call 07932 275602 Appreciate your first love. (No, we don’t mean your high school prom-date!) Your furry friends can always be relied on to brighten up your day, and Valentine’s should be no exception. Take the opportunity to walk your pup somewhere new and exciting or give your cat some well-deserved TLC; theirs is a friendship worth investing in!

Have a bake-off. If you’re planning on staying indoors and eating cake during Valentine’s Day anyway, it should at least be delicious homemade cake. The recipe should be long and complicated enough to distract you, but sweet and indulgent enough to make the whole thing worthwhile. Our suggestion? Cheesecake! Plus, smashing up digestive biscuits can have a therapeutic effect if you’ve been recently jilted.

Buff up. Has the distinct lack of Valentines knocked your confidence? Rather than feeling flirtatiously frustrated, get down to the gym and start toning up! Run by York City Council, Energise (on Cornlands Road) offers over 50 classes each week (including body combat and street funk), guaranteeing that you’ll always find something to enjoy. Call 01904 552424.

Volunteer. If you think you’re going to have a dull Valentine’s, why not spend it helping people instead?

There are hundreds of volunteering positions available around the area, and helping disadvantaged people can be a great way to focus your energy onto something positive.

Visit www.yorkcvs.org.uk for more information.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

Capturing Confidence Andrea Denniss knows first-hand what impact a picture can have (she’s an experienced photographer after all!). After going through a difficult time, Andrea thought she’d treat herself to something different: a Boudoir photography shoot.

Shortly after arriving for her shoot, Andrea began to feel her spirits lift – the attentive service and fun makeover, left her with a feeling of excitement and enthusiasm. Inspired by the experience, Andrea took the decision to master the art of creating Boudoir pictures herself, and now offers the service as part of her extensive Pink Lilly Photography studio. When it comes to Boudoir, all the rules are changed: photo-shoots take place in the model’s own home (or hotel!), the setting is tailored around the subject’s tastes and preferences. On the day of the shoot, you’ll have the option of having your hair fully styled by Andrea’s assistant, Hailey, ensuring that you look your best. So if you’re thinking of a fun way to be a little naughty, drop Andrea a line (and fellas: it makes a fab Valentine’s gift!). n Call Pink Lily Photography on 07722 819698 or visit www.boudoir. pinklilyphotography.co.uk

Time for a Change?

If you’re experiencing stress or emotional discomfort, the winter months can be especially difficult. The short days and long nights can have a negative effect on our outlook. If you’re tired of experiencing worry, upset or depression, it might be time to take a step back and take positive steps to improve your wellbeing.

One great solution is to utilise a life coach or counsellor; Sally Chubb offers personalised one-to-one coaching and counselling sessions to people in York.

She’s passionate about helping people overcome challenges in their professional and emotional lives. n Call Sally on 01904 628008 or email sally@routemapforlife.co.uk

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

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The Big

Beat the Habit!

Everyday life can take its toll on your body.

Lifting, carrying or spending hours hunched over a computer can cause muscles to become cramped and tense, leading to all kinds of ailments from headaches to back pain.

Now there’s a revolutionary system that can help. Stretch Therapy uses specific stretching techniques that offer immediate benefits in increased flexibility, range of movement and release of muscular tension. There are only two qualified practitioners in the country, and we’re lucky that one of them lives here in York.

Janos Bene was trained in Stretch Therapy by its innovator, Kit Laughlin.

“Stretch Therapy is a unique way of releasing tension in your muscles, giving you freedom of

movement you didn’t know you could achieve, leaving you feeling relaxed, energised and free.

And the great thing is, anyone can do it,” he says. We tried it, and we can testify it really works. It certainly ironed out all our aches and pains after a hard day at work! n Janos is running classes at Hamlyn Health, Fulford and 2a Haxby Shopping Centre .

For more details call him on 07946 296 731 visit www.thebigstretch.co.uk.

Pregnancy Pros & Pals Pregnancy is a natural process – and one which can be hugely enriching to experience. You’ll be undergoing a radical change in your body, discovering new sensations and perhaps thinking of new things to worry about every day!

If you’d like some extra support, you should definitely consider the Millers Yard Pregnancy Support Network; it’s a trusted collection of professionals who provide information, advice, support and techniques which can ease the pressure on your body, mind and spirit. They can give you the confidence and education to be better informed and more prepared to enjoy your journey to parenthood. At the MY Pregnancy event you’ll also be able to meet other soon-to-be-parents and try free taster sessions. n For information visit www.millersyard.co.uk or www.MYPregnancyEvent.co.uk.

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Have your New Year’s resolutions, which were made in such good faith, gone by the wayside already? Don’t give up! Qualified hypnotherapist Jane Tai offers a way to unlock your willpower and achieve your goals, whether you need to quit smoking, lose weight or get a new job. Jane provides a free 15 minute consultation to show you how you might start working towards your aims, and during her therapy she harnesses the influence of the subconscious mind to empower you to overcome any obstacles.

Jane’s techniques allow people who have struggled with the same resolutions year in, year out to leap over the hurdles that have stopped them in their tracks – so they need never make a resolution again! n For further information and for a free 15 minute consultation, visit www.janetai.co.uk.

Blood donor

sessions

1st February

Merchant Taylors Hall (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm)

3rd February

National Centre for Early Music (2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm)

6th & 24th Feb Recreation Hall, Wiggington

(2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) 17th & 21st Feb Rawcliffe Pavillion, Rawcliffe

(2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) 28th February Parish Church Hall, Acomb

(2pm-4pm, 5pm-7pm) n For more details, call 0300 123 2323.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

MAXINE FLYNN & A SSOCIATES

A New Career is Nearly Here!

You want to find the best job for you right? This is especially true if you took a career break and you’re now interested in returning to work. To help provide guidance, Michaela Oldfield and Rachel Martin have established a series of affordable career coaching workshops designed especially for women. The two have personal experience of combining motherhood and careers, and have developed successful strategies for helping women take control of their professional momentum.

The workshops run over four weeks and offer the perfect opportunity for women to come together, be listened to objectively and share their experiences whilst drawing on the expertise of the two coaches.

The sessions will also develop the necessary skills that are important when finding work, such as writing CVs, interview skills and job searching; there will also be special guest appearances from renowned inspirational women to help encourage others and demonstrate everyone’s potential. n For more information contact Michaela on 07847 300914 or Rachel on 07717436674.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

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A Calendar of Kindness When it comes to supporting two brilliant organisations – St Leonards Hospice and the Friends of York Hospitals – York’s citizens always show a dedicated commitment and a can-do attitude. Never has this been truer than with two enthusiastic individuals (Angela Ellis Skelton, the owner of Garden of Eden Florist, and her friend Stef Bricklebank) who are literally embodying the charitable spirit by creating a Calendar Girls style almanac for 2013! Angela was inspired by Stef and her sister Mel, who are cycling 400km in 5 days across Kenya to raise funds for women’s cancer charities; this is after Mel was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer in 2007.

The pair are eager for local businesses to sponsor the individual months, and have already lined up companies like Sooty’s Cakes and Simply Foliage to give their support. They’re also interested in talking to businesses that would be happy to sell the calendar, along with any printing companies that would be interested in helping produce it. We’re looking forward to grabbing our own copy towards the end of the year!

n If you’d like to offer support, please email Angie at info@gardenofedenflorist.co.uk

A Star is Born We all know York is bursting with brilliant potential, but it’s always great to see it recognised on a national scale. There’s no better example of this than the National Aesthetic Awards, which recently awarded Lindsey McEnroe (a nurse at Future Beauty) the Silver award for the Rising Star category. This award goes to the aesthetic professional that has made the biggest impact in the field of aesthetics in a short space of time. Lindsey was up against stiff competition from hundreds of national entrants, but she came out swinging; her skill and dedication was easily recognised, and her nomination (by customers and colleagues) proved to be a great success. As well as treating her own patients, Lindsey is also a Regional Trainer in Botox and Dermal Fillers.

Hair to dye for

@ kuki spa!

Over the years, Kuki Spa has gone from strength to strength, expanding their wonderful premises and recruiting extra staff to offer more treatments. This year they are emphasising their amazing hair team. They offer the widest range of treatments from the latest trend cuts, hair extensions and cut throat shaving.

If you are looking to freshen up your skin this spring, Samantha, the resident Cosmetic Nurse, is offering Chemical Peels at an amazing £30 - normally £60! The procedure reduces the appearance of wrinkles caused by sun damage as well as skin blemishes leaving you looking fabulous.

And there’s more... Kuki also offer amazing packages for all you brides to be, from skin programme courses to amazing hair designs for the whole wedding party. They’ll also travel out to your chosen venue on ANY day.

Look out for some fantastic open nights throughout the year - with all proceeds going to York Against Cancer, their chosen charity of the year. n Visit their new website on www. kukispa.com to see what a beautiful salon Kuki is! For more information, call 01904 659007, or find them on Facebook and Twitter (@kukispa).

n To book a consultation with Lindsey call Future Beauty on 07525 627358.

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH KUKI HAIR & BEAUTY SPA. 367 HUNTINGTON ROAD, YORK TEL: 01904 659007

Courting Romance

When it comes to planning your wedding, inspiration is important; you should be lavished by the location, curious about the cake and dreamy about the dress.

But we all know this can’t happen overnight – even if we sometimes wish it could – so it’s vital that you get planning as soon as possible. The best way to start is a wedding fair, and the best wedding fairs embody all the charm which you’re planning for your special day; for this, there’s no better example than The Cedar Court Grand’s March Wedding Fair. Not only will you have a chance to meet a wide selection of wedding specialists, but you’ll have an opportunity to view their graceful Civil Ceremony and Wedding Breakfast Suites as well.

You’re encouraged to bring along your finance, your bridesmaid, or your mum (…or all of them!) to meet the team who will guide you through all the fantastic options. A date not to be missed - it promises to be Grand affair! n The event takes place from 11am-4pm on the 4th March.

For more information call 01904 380033.

Bridal Power Forget bake sales and car washing! When time came for the volunteers at Haxby Memorial Hall to decide how to raise some funds, they decided to eschew traditional methods and opt for something a little more exciting: a wedding fair! So if you’re in the middle of matrimonial mayhem, a trip to Haxby this February will put you in good stead. The fair takes place on 19 February from 9am-3pm – for more information, contact Joyce on 07912532856.

Ainsty Dental Practice

Ainsty Dental Practice

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Family Fun in February Brrr! It’s chilly outside! But that needn’t stop you having fun with your family. Here are our expert suggestions for indoor entertainment…

Plan your next holiday. Organising a family holiday can be a mammoth challenge, so turn it into a family activity to lighten the burden and spark interest in your upcoming adventure. Assign one day of the holiday to each family member and get them to research activities and sightseeing for that day.

Have a family photography week.

Each week a different member of the family takes turns being the ‘official photographer’; this means they have to document everything interesting which happens within the household for seven days. Once everyone’s had a go, have each person choose their best three photographs – then vote to see which ones get framed!

Play Come Dine With Me. If dinner in your house is normally cooked by one of the parents, why not unleash a culinary revolution by letting the kids have a go? Assign each family member a day of the week to do the cooking, and hold a vote at the end to see whose efforts were the best. You’ll get some surprising results!

Get to know your relatives. Spending time with family shouldn’t be limited to your immediate flesh and blood: invite all your uncles, aunts, cousins and grandparents round for a proper get together.

Have a weekly Family Games Night.

Nights can range from simple charades to a no holds barred poker tournament (using Smarties as betting chips). And if you fancy something a little more active, consider a Wii sports championship.

n If you’ve got some fun ideas of your own, we’d love to hear them! Just drop us an email and they could get printed in our next issue.

Thought About

Fostering?

We all know that children need love and support to grow up happy, healthy and full of confidence. While there are already a huge number of successful fostering families around the UK (45,000 of them according to government statistics!), more of these caring households are desperately needed in 2012. Often people worry that they’re not experienced enough to be a foster family, or that they’re too old to be dedicate themselves to a child’s life.

In reality, people from all backgrounds and walks of life can make successful foster parents. All it requires is the motivation and commitment to maintain a welcoming home.

And it might surprise you to learn that the average age of a foster parent isn’t 30 or 40, but 53! With this in mind, perhaps it’s worth taking a fresh look at what you could offer a child looking for a loving home around York? n For more information about fostering in York, call the City of York Council Family Placement Team on 01904 551550 or email adoptionandfostering@ york.gov.uk

do you want to host an international student for bright world guardianships?

‘This is a great job and has provided our family with a valuable extra income as well as being lots of fun and a cultural experience for us all.’

Bright World Guardianships Ltd takes care of international children studying at UK boarding schools in the York area. We are looking for families to host our students for some weekends and half terms.

For more information please contact: Lindsay Tribe, Host Family Recruitment Manager lindsay@brightworld.co.uk or call 01273 835745 50

Carole Torode works a stone’s throw away from where she was born. She’s local through and through, having returned to her hometown after her teaching career took her to London and Dagenham. She has been in her headship at Derwent Infant and Junior School since 1991 and has seen the infant and junior schools become amalgamated. During her time in the position, Carole says that Derwent has transformed from a difficult school into an outstanding educational establishment. The school achieved its highest ever Year Six SATs results recently, putting the school ahead of local and national averages. To top it off, Ofsted declared the school “good” in its November monitoring visit.

“It’s not my success,” maintains Carole. “It’s a shared achievement by teachers, teaching assistants, pupils and parents. Derwent has always had wonderful, traditional school buildings and grounds. By careful planning and encouragement, we’ve raised the standard of teaching, attainment and behaviour to new heights.

We’ve raised expectations all round.”

Carole is delighted that Derwent Schools have reached the stage of a virtuous circle, and the head teacher looks forward to each day. “There are ups and downs, but we’re now on the up. The children are a credit to their parents. The staff have worked so hard to improve the chances of all our children and I am very proud to have such a dedicated and committed team here.”

Knowledge at the College Are you in year 11? Have you thought about what you’ll be doing next year? No, don’t panic!

You have plenty of options available to you, and a great way to explore them is to attend York College’s next Open Evening, taking place on the 8th of February from 6-8.30pm. You don’t need to book a place, just turn up with an open mind and see what the college can offer you! Friends and parents are welcome, and hot drinks will be available. n For more information call 01904 770200, for visit www.yorkcollege.ac.uk.

your family

Top of the Class

Ask the ExpertS...

Family Law

w i t h n i C KI MITC HELL & M a r k H e pw o r t h

Children’s interests or Parent’s rights A couple of weeks ago my colleague, Nicki Mitchell, marched into my office one morning fulminating about a Radio 4 news item on the subject of the treatment of children following divorce proceedings. The programme sought to assert that the present law paid scant regard to the rights of fathers who were denied the chance to establish meaningful relationships with their children following the breakdown of their marriage. From what she said, it seemed that the media had presented a story that was a long way from the legal and practical reality. Then, earlier this month, the Daily Telegraph ran a banner headline “Legal Right for Divorced Parents to see Children” and referred to plans being drawn up by the Children’s Minister, Tim Loughton, that “Courts will be put under a legal duty to ensure that both fathers and mothers are given access to children in divorce settlements”.

I have no doubt that Mr Loughton has been well briefed by his advisers, both in the implementation of the law relating to children and in the social principles that are its guiding force. Equally, I have at least a passing knowledge of the present law and there is no doubt but that the right of parents to see their children is already protected in the Children Act 1989, subject to the fundamental and necessary proviso that the exercise of this right must be in the children’s best interests.

The Children Act is based on three fundamental principles, namely that when a Court determines any question relating to a child: • The children’s welfare shall be the Court’s paramount consideration • A mother shall have parental responsibility for her child • A father shall have parental responsibility for his child if he was married to the child’s mother at the time of the birth or he is registered as the child’s father or the Court makes a Parental Responsibility Order in his favour.

Parental Responsibility means all the rights and responsibilities which a parent has in relation to a child – and, without doubt, this includes the right/responsibility of a parent to see his/her child.

If, as seems possible from the Daily Telegraph headline, the Government is intending to amend the Children Act by making contact with children a specific “right” rather than a “responsibility”, this may indicate a departure from the fundamental principle upon which Judges have based all their decisions relating to children since 1989. If contact is a right for parents, it must follow that the principle that the child’s welfare is paramount must take second place to the rights of parents – and that, in my view, cannot be right.

In addition, those who are charged with establishing Government policy relating to the rights of children and their parents must be aware that each case must be viewed according to its own specific circumstances. There is a real danger that, if rights are granted that apply to every case, the parenting skills of the parents will be treated as “a given” and that, sadly, in today’s world is far from the truth.

n For legal advice on this or any aspect of family law, contact Mark Hepworth or Nicki Mitchell at Denison Till solicitors on 01904 611411 mgbh@denisontill.com or ncm@denisontill.com

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finding the right tutor

Time for a Tutor?

Want your child to fulfil their potential?

Getting a private tutor can help. Here’s how...

While the GCSE and A-Level ‘mock’ tests can sometimes give kids a boost of confidence, it can also leave students feeling worried and anxious, especially if they got a result lower than expected. If things haven’t gone as planned, one answer is to hire a tutor. There are many reasons why this is a good idea...

Schedule around your own life.

One of the main advantages of hiring a tutor is the flexibility it can offer the student. They can choose the most appropriate time to study.

Relaxed environment. Being in their own space at home, students may feel more confident about discussing with their tutor about what they do and don’t understand.

Less social pressure. When students are in the classroom they may be under a wide variety of pressures.

They may feel a need to make jokes, respond to their friends’ conversation and avoid looking like they’re trying too hard.

One-to-one tutoring can go a long way towards eliminating these social pressures.

Easier to correct problems. A major disadvantage of a large classroom is that a student may go months (or even years!) without having a strong understanding of the subject.

A tutor can help to pinpoint exactly where a student went “off track”, and can help set them back on course.

Matching personalities. Sometimes a student can suffer in a particular subject because their personality clashes with the teacher. Being taught by a new person can allow the student to connect with the information better.

Find interest. Children aren’t going to learn if they find a subject boring or dull. A good tutor will often make the subject more accessible, which can go a long way towards improving exam performance down the line.

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• Find someone with the right style. While some teenagers respond to a softly softly approach, others need a bit more discipline. A good tutor should be able to tailor their lessons accordingly.

• Ask around. People are usually very happy to recommend good tutors.

You could also ask at your child’s school.

• Ask your potential tutor for examples of past success. If in doubt, ask for references from past clients.

• Having a good rapport between tutor and student is almost as important as exam success.

Your child is not going to do well if they’re not happy in their company.

your family

Giving Life to Language Let’s be honest: when taught in school, punctuation can seem mundane and dull.

Lessons about commas can put students into comas – and that’s only if they don’t dash away first! But still, far too many young people are leaving school with poor skills in literacy, and this can have negative effects when they come to apply for employment. To slash the time it takes young people to learn good grammar, North East based company Podcastrevision.co.uk has created the Punctuation Show; a hyphenpacked festival of appropriate apostrophes, sophisticated semicolons and clever commas. The all singing and dancing show is based on the premise that learning should be fun – it helps people to pay attention, and it ensures that the material will be well-remembered long after the show is over. The message is delivered in three ways: it gives an explanation, a catchy song and a humourous sketch about the main elements of punctuation; a DVD is also included, which can be used as a refresher long after the show is over. n For more information, call Barrie McDermid on 07738 223413 or visit www.podcastrevision.co.uk.

Well Served!

Sports are a fantastic way of helping children to socialise and develop vital fitness and coordination skills – and, you know, they’re a lot of fun too! If you’ve got a toddler who’d enjoy learning a sport in an enjoyable way, you can’t go wrong with Tennis Tykes. Currently celebrating its first birthday in York, the programme is now offering a free taster lesson at Mothercare in Clifton Moor on the 5th of February. n For more information on class times and venues please contact Caroline on 07843342662, email caroline.buncall@tennistykes.co.uk or log onto www.tennistykes.co.uk.

EXPERT TUITION

The Mount School, York Sundays (4pm-6pm) (4pm-6pm) Sundays

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your family

Good Vibrations Is your home constantly filled with the sounds of guitar riffs and drum solos?

Do you reckon your teen is destined for a career in the music industry, and are they wondering how to take the next step after they’ve left school?

Access to Music, a national network of colleges that offer training in various aspects of the music business, are offering an open day on 4th February from 2-4pm where young people between the ages of 16 and 18 can see what courses the college has to offer. Meanwhile, a hands-on taster day will take place from 10am-3pm on 15th February.

University-level courses at the York branch allow students to be trained in artist development or music education, and music apprenticeships are also available where students train whilst working. Access to Music offers expertise from both academics and professionals from the industry, and the curriculum is consistently developed to ensure that the fledgling musicians at the college develop transferable key skills, meaning that students can benefit from a well-rounded education. n The open day and taster day will take place at the Jam Factory on Eldon Street. For further information, call 0800 281842, email info@accessomusic.co.uk or visit www.accesstomusic.co.uk.

Prestige Nursing Care

www.prestige-nursing.co.uk

registered by the CQC

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Learning to Help...

Did you know that 20-26 February is National Student Volunteering Week? Great voluntary work is done by students around the city, so we thought we’d highlight a few of them... and say well done!! lessons. She’s also passionate about helping people with dyslexia, and offers support and advice to York’s dyslexic community which is informed by her own academic research about the condition.

Rosa PHD student from the University of York Rosa’s motto is that you should always try to do good deeds every day – you don’t need to fly to Africa to do volunteer work! Instead, she tries to emulate her philosophy by helping people informally in her local community and university surroundings. On top of being a college tutor, Rosa runs free yoga classes to help other students relax, and regularly teaches the piano to children who couldn’t otherwise afford

March Open Morning Saturday 10th March – 10.30am

Rachel Undergraduate student from the University of York

Jake Undergraduate student from York St John University Jake is the ‘Raise and Give’ Officer at York St John Students' Union, and spends loads of his time organising events raising money for selected charities. With the help of other

May Open Morning Monday 7th May – 10.30am

For more information about joining Queen Margaret’s School in 2012, or to nd out about our Academic, Art, Choral, Dance, Drama, Music and Sport Scholarships, please contact Jackie Hallewell on 01904 720072 or email admissions@queenmargarets.com

www.queenmargarets.com

An independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18 56

volunteers, he’s been able to raise a whopping £1100 for good causes so far! Jake’s also the Marketing, PR and Community Engagement Officer for York and District LGBT (Lesbian/Gay/ Bisexual/Trans) Forum; this allows him to represent LGBT people on a range of local issues, ensuring that ties are strengthened between the community and the local council and police. Jake’s also about to become a befriender at York Mind, giving people with vulnerable mental health somebody to talk to and socialise with.

Rachel is the project co-ordinator for the YUSU (York University Students’ Union) project KEEN (Kids Enjoy Exercise Now). She works with children that have disabilities and gets them together on a weekly basis to play games to get the blood flowing! She spends a lot of her time contacting new volunteers, speaking with parents and running the weekly

sessions. On top of this, Rachel helps to put together fundraising events and is currently receiving training from the council so she can deliver more tailored sessions to the children including games from the Olympics! n If you feel inspired to lend your energy to a great cause, think about contacting the York Council for Voluntary Service at www.yorkcvs.org. uk – or, if you’re a university student, contact your student union for additional volunteering opportunities.

your family

Keeping kids safe online The internet is everywhere we look – on our computers, our phones and even on our television screens. And children spend longer online than they do playing with their friends.

So how do you keep them safe?

7th February is Safer Internet Day, an annual event which encourages families to think about staying safe on the World Wide Web. To find out more, visit www.saferinternet.org

Remind them that the internet is a public place. This is especially true if you’re using social networking websites. Always avoid writing your address or phone number on somebody else’s page, as this information could be seen by strangers.

Never assume that people are who they say they are online. This includes the possibility that somebody may attempt to impersonate one of your friends or family. Never give out personal information if you’re not positive about who the person you’re speaking to is. Make it clear they should never meet somebody offline who they first met on the Internet. Always report bullying or abusive messages if you begin to receive them. In certain situations, individuals who take part in this negative behaviour may be breaking the law.

FREE Creche Available

For further informatio n please call us!

If you’re a parent, research software which can filter out inappropriate material when your children are using the internet. However, remember that no program is perfect and children should still be supervised while they’re online.

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Red for

Heart 2012 National Heart Month’s flagship event (on 24 February) is known as Red for Heart. To get involved, individuals and businesses alike are encouraged to wear red and organise red-themed events to help create awareness and raise funds for the foundation’s ongoing work. There’s plenty of scope for creativity, and attendees are invited to use their imagination to make the day a memorable one.

This year, even the Millennium Bridge will be turning red – it looks set to be an amazing sight! But it’s not just a national focus; there’s plenty going on in York as well, and plans are already in motion to celebrate the event in true Yorkshire style.

Whether or not you’re a fan of Valentine’s Day, it’s likely that you’ve been inundated with images of happy couples and colourful chocolate boxes throughout the past few weeks. While love may be on your mind, you should also spare a thought for your heart this month – and not just in an emotional sense! Organised by the British Heart Foundation, February is National Heart Month, and they suggest plenty of ways for you think about your fitness and promote positive circulatory health.

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To help with the cause, Great City Attractions Global is supporting the Red for Heart campaign by donating a VIP Pod for York’s big wheel in the Royal York Hotel gardens. The prize will be awarded to the British Heart Foundation supporter in North & East Yorkshire whose Red for Heart fundraising activity raises the most funds.

Sounds like fun to us! And other local people have pulled together to support the event; a company in Market Weighton (Britcom International) is participating in a dress down day, with some members of staff baking red themed buns and cakes to sell for fundraising! n If you’re inspired to host your own event you’ll be making a great difference, and it’s plenty of fun too!

For more information call 0300 330 0645 or visit www.bhf.org.uk

Whether you live in York or you’re visiting it for the first time, getting around easily if you have mobility issues can be challenging. This is especially true if you’ve got things to carry with you. Fortunately you shouldn’t ever encounter that problem here, thanks to Shop Mobility: a council-assisted charity which provides affordable short-term mobility solutions to individuals navigating within the city walls. Located on Level two of Piccadilly Car Park (above Marks & Spencer), the organisation offers a wide range of mobility assistance devices to residents and visitors alike – these are available on either daily or weekly rates. Electronic and manual solutions are available, and full training is provided. n Call 01904 679222

your family

Keep your ticker ticking along nicely with the new Healthy Hearts Programme from The Sport and Active Leisure Team at City of York Council. The course, funded by the British Heart Foundation, provides education on leading a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of heart disease and is aimed at people who are overweight and have high blood pressure, which makes them at risk of developing coronary illnesses. Lasting six weeks, the two hour long classes will offer circuit-based exercises for the first half followed by tips on leading a healthy lifestyle, as well as information on how to spot signs of a heart attack early. No need to panic though – the exercises are designed so that everyone can join in at their own pace.

Local Link would like to give a special mention to the staff and children at Heworth House Day Nursery, who will be raising money for the British Heart Foundation with a variety of Valentine’sthemed activities. Dressing up, art and craft activities and face painting will take on a red hue, with cakes and treats baked especially for the occasion by the children at the nursery. In addition, parents of nursery pupils are invited to take part in quizzes and competitions.

n Sessions start from 30th January and are available for those over the age of 16. The classes will be run across the city, with locations including Copmanthorpe, Elvington, Huntington and Rawcliffe. Further information is available from GP surgeries, or call Katie Ellis on 01904 553377 or email katie. ellis@york.gov.uk.

Y rk Cars

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your pet

PET TALK in association with MINSTER VETS

Got a problem with your pet?

Tracey Pulleyn of Minster Vets has the answer! a high-speed dental burr. This can be performed consciously if the vet thinks the rabbit will tolerate it.

In some cases the incisors are removed, particularly if they do not align together and they are being trimmed frequently. This is preformed under a general anaesthetic and the rabbit may be kept in overnight to allow for a full recovery.

Q. My dog has been scratching a lot, I have Q. My rabbit has really overgrown teeth, is this normal?

Firstly I would advise that you make an appointment with your vet to have the teeth examined and trimmed if necessary.

Rabbit’s teeth grow continuously at a rate of about 2mm per week. A good balanced abrasive diet such as grass supplemented with hay will keep the teeth worn to an acceptable length.

Commercial food mixes do not always provide the required wear.

The incisors of a rabbit should be touching each other to allow even wear. Uneven wear can be caused by any one of the following: Incorrect diet leading to lack of wear and tear, congenital deformity or trauma to the teeth or jaw. Overgrown teeth can be trimmed by using

treated him for fleas but he is getting red/ sore patches now. He is not losing his hair although this skin does feel dry. Can you help?

Flea treatments come in many forms and work in many ways. Some work on the flea having contact with the dog’s coat and others require the flea to bite the dog to ingest the product.

It often requires several applications to fully eradicate them.

Monthly treatment for fleas is recommended to keep infestations to a minimum. In some cases there may be a severe infestation for which a household spray may be required.

Some animals are allergic to flea saliva, which then causes irritation, which can make pets itch and nibble at the skin. Over time this can lead to infections under the skin.

I would advise that you seek veterinary attention for your dog because they will be able to administer medication to relieve the itching.

They also will be able to advise you on an appropriate flea treatment if your dog is allergic to bites. If this is not the underlying problem they will be able to give you advice about what could be causing it.

Q. What breed of cat would be good for my mother-in-law? She is older and would like some company and something to take care of.

I would recommend a domestic shorthaired cat for your mother in law. Pedigree cats in their breeding do have different traits that in some breeds can be very demanding. They also can be very expensive to buy.

I would recommend that you visit a re homing centre and take a look at some of the cats that they have. Kittens can be very high maintenance and although great entertainment they can cause some destruction too, so a young adult cat may be preferable. I would recommend shorthaired cats as they are easier to care for as you don’t have to brush their coat daily and they don’t tend to get matted fur.

Need help? Write to us at the address on page 5, or email info@yourlocallink.co.uk. Mark your question ‘Pet talk’.

Give us a home...

Eddison came to the centre in a terrible state, he was so thin and could hardly walk due to injuries to his legs, he is now fit and healthy and looking for a loving new home. Eddison has a heart of gold and the most beautiful gentle eyes which completely reflects his character. He really is a sweet natured dog who is constantly passed by, he has the best manners, walks well on a lead and really would make an excellent addition to your family.

Tara, what a gorgeous sweet girl Tara is, she came to us via one of our inspectors and is now looking for a loving new home. We think she would prefer the quiet life with no young children. She loves her cuddles and even though she is quite a big dog she loves nothing more to try and sit on your knee and be cuddled which we love. Please find it in your heart to offer this gentle girl the home she is so desperate for.

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If you could give any of these dogs a home Call: 01904 654 949 or visit RSPCA, Landing Lane, York

your pet

Give us a

home...

All over the city there are animals looking for homes.

Could you be the one to offer them the love they need?

Buddy Rescued from a multi-cat household in which he had not been able to receive the high standard of care he should have been enjoying, Buddy has bounced back to fighting fitness and is looking sharp. Now keeping his eyes tightly peeled for his fresh start in life, our young lad will perhaps be better suited to a quieter home environment, with a new family able to offer patience, commitment and TLC a-plenty!

Terry With too many cats in residence at home, Terry found himself en route to our adoption centre.

After a wary start, the young lad has at last identified the perks to be had with a heated bed - and much more crucially, has discovered the love of adoring CCAs! A gentle young chap, with quiet affection for all, Terry is most certainly not to be missed. n If you’re interested in finding out more about Buddy and Terry, or any of the cats at York Cats Protection, call 01904 760356.

It’s a Cat’s Life Cat owners across the land already know that their cuddly companions have surprisingly unique personalities – but even they might be surprised by the antics of Phoebe, the hero of local author Julie Howerska’s affectionately written new book Asbo Cat. The book, released exclusively to raise money for the Cats Protection League Charity, chronicles the feline’s adventures in the form of a diary as she cleverly plots and schemes her way through day-today life. With a limited stock of only 100 copies (and all of the proceeds going to the charity), anybody interested should pop down to the Cat’s Protection shop on Walmgate and pick up a copy of this endearing tale.

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PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

£200,000

Huntington has it all, really. Excellent location, within easy reach of the city centre and the outer ring road, a good range of local shops and one of the best schools in the city. What more could you want? And now Opus Estate Agents are offering a fabulous three bedroom semi detached bungalow for sale that will put you right in the middle of the action. The property comprises a practical lounge diner with living flame gas fire and laminate flooring (perfect for parties!), a stylish modern kitchen and bathroom (complete with walk-in shower), and three good sized bedrooms. Outside there’s off street parking and garden front and back. It’s well maintained, so you can move in and start enjoying life in Huntington straight away. The bungalow is very reasonably priced at £200,000. n For more details or to arrange a viewing contact OPUS on 790070 www.opusmove.co.uk.

Hawthorne Mews, Strensall

£425,000

Hawthorne Mews is a delightful development of just four executive homes designed in the style of a barn conversion yet with all the convenience of a modern home. The properties are tucked away along a private driveway in the heart of Strensall village, on the edge of countryside overlooking paddocks and the river Foss to the rear. Internally the property is arranged over three floors to a contemporary open plan design including a fabulous 28ft through kitchen/dining room and spacious lounge with French doors onto the rear garden. The entrance hallway has a stylish limestone tiled floor which extends into the kitchen and there is also a cloakroom/WC and a utility room. There are five double bedrooms, an ensuite shower room/WC and a large family bathroom/WC. The upper floors feature superb galleried landings and vaulted ceilings. The block paved courtyard at the front gives access to the double garage and off road parking. There is also a sunken patio area outside the French doors from the kitchen to sit and enjoy the morning sun. To the rear is a lovely lawned garden with decked and patio areas and open views.

For more details or to arrange a viewing call

01904 621532 62

Priced to sell

Preston Baker are pleased to welcome this three bedroomed mid town house which will appeal to a wide range of buyers. The accommodation briefly comprises of entrance hall, lounge, kitchen and w.c to the ground floor. To the first floor there are three bedrooms and the family bathroom. There is a garden to the rear and off street parking to the front of the property. Priced to sell, contact Preston Baker for a viewing to avoid disappointment.

For details call Preston Baker on: 01904 622355 or visit www.prestonbaker.co.uk

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Sometimes a conservatory can be: • Too Hot in summer • Too cold in winter • A waste of valuable living space • Too bright to relax and watch TV

We have the solution for existing or new conservatories • No building regulations • Opening Roof Windows • Choice of colours & finishes • Reducing fuel costs • Thermally efficent solid roof with u value of 0.16

BEFORE

The Guardian Conservatory Roof The Guardian Conservatory Roof allows you to have an extension to your living space that you can use comfortably all year round. Externally the Guardian Conservatory Roof is aesthetically superior to its conventional rival, insofar as its tiles and cappings are streamlined and unobtrusive. Not relying on bulky portal frames, concrete or brick columns, its lightweight facet provides for more options in relation to window and door selection.

Did you know that you can now replace a conservatory roof with a solid roof without having to apply for building regulations?

Internal Finishes The Guardian Conservatory Roof offers contemporary or traditional finishes internally. Choose from a plaster finish or timber/PVCu cladding. You can also add some fantastic finishing touches with concealed lighting. The options are endless and provides the scope you require to produce your own beautiful and unique look for your home.

“We can now use our every day” www.youtube.com/user/TWSTV1 conservatory Mr Hebdige - Barnsley

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Worktop man

A pleasant, quality,

professional

service offering...

• Work top and counter fi tting • Kitchen installations and upgrades • Plumbing, Gas, Electrics & Tiling • Craftsman attention to detail assured • Supply and fi t or fi t only • City & Guilds quality craftsmanship • 30yrs experience/20yrs of references

LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS SINCE 1990

no silly shoWroom PriCes let me solve your kitchen headache with the best and most economical solution for you! Dave

The Choice is Clear When it comes to your home, you should feel safe and secure. Not just because the walls keep out the cold, but because you know every element of your abode has been expertly assembled to the highest technical standards.

That’s why you should always look for experienced businesses with a steadfast reputation for quality service. York Trade Windows (based in Fulford) are the longest established manufacturer of windows, doors and conservatories in York; with over 50 years of joint window industry experience in the areas of Product Design and manufacturing, they are able to offer unrivalled technical guidance and support in terms of building regulations and other specification advice.

They’re registered with the Energy Efficiency Council, meaning their entire product range is guaranteed to be energy efficient – both today and tomorrow.

York Trade Windows is the only company currently manufacturing in the centre of York and offers their services at a quality level that customers expect - but with a genuine lead time of only 10 working days. To top things off, they offer free delivery in York – wow!

Call: 07891 858873 01904 468288

n For more information call 01904 541919 or visit www. yorktradewindows.co.uk.

Design quality at warehouse prices

SALE Traffic Lights

B1363

Domestic Appliance Warehouse

Bumper Castle

Auster Road

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ax R oad

Tesco A1237

Kettlestring Lane

Clifton Moorgate

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your home

Dave the

What’s hot &what’s not We’ve got the lowdown on what the well dressed home is wearing HOT Mellow yellow Or mustard, to be precise. It’s a hot shade for spring, not quite as in your face as citrus yellow, and it goes well with a surprisingly wide range of other shades. Team it with grey for a chic look, spice it up with burnt orange and brown, or go completely OTT with shades of green.

Geometrics Suddenly it’s hip to be square. Or triangular. Or one of those other angle type shapes we should remember from Maths lessons but can’t. From sharp angle prints on upholstery and wallpaper to hexagonal shelving, it’s definitely the shape of things to come. Get some inspiration from our very own Quilt

Hexagonal dip dishes from John Lewis

Museum – they know a thing or two about making shapes fit!

Tongue and groove panelling It’s a great way of introducing a touch of vintage styling to a kitchen, bathroom or any other room in the

house or liven up a dull wall – not to mention covering up dodgy uneven plastering! You can even use panelling as a splashback in your kitchen – give it a coat of water-resistant paint to protect it from splashes and fix a shelf above for extra storage.

Monochrome No grey areas here – you either love a black and white scheme or you hate it. And we love it. It’s stylish,

bespoke design

timeless, and a no-fail option for the design-challenged (no problems with guessing what goes with what). You can go for drama with black wallpaper (look out for Next’s Allium Floral), or lighten up by opting for a delicate black design on white. Team it with sharp, contemporary lines, or soften it with lots of textures – the choice is yours.

manufacture

fitting

KITCHEN WORKT WORKTOPS K OPS KT We design, manufacture and fit domestic and commercial worktops in Granite, Marble, Quartz Stone and Corian®

Over 100 Corian® colours available.

Granite & Quartz in polished, honed & textured finishes

Samples & free estimates available to public and trade Telephone: 01845 522523 Fax: 01845 527198 info@dalesofthirsk.co.uk

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LT D

your home

NOT Mirrored furniture The designers reckon this trend is set to run and run, but as far as we’re concerned it’s had its day. Mirrored tables, sideboards, cupboards – we just can't keep up with all that dusting (not to mention catching sight of ourselves in our bedside tables first thing in the morning...)

Satin duvets and pillows A satin throw can look very chic. But go for the full duvet and pillows and you risk looking a bit cheap and nasty.

Not to mention giving yourself an electric shock every time you turn over in bed.

Secondhand bargains Where does everyone else pick up these classic vintage pieces for a knockdown price? They manage to spot an Ercol sofa for under a fiver, but when we visit salvage yards and secondhand furniture shops, all we come away with is a nasty itch.

What’s the secret?

Wallpaper Don’t get us wrong, we’re still big fans of the feature wall. But now designers are telling us to extend the pattern around all four walls. Which may be fine if you have big rooms and lofty ceilings, but not such a good idea for the rest of us.

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YOUR PROPERTY with PAULA MATTHEWS

On the move...

Paula Matthews at Opus Estate Agents has been chatting to buyers and sellers all over York answering their concerns and queries Q. I have had my property on the market

Q. I need to sell asap. What do I do?

for a number of months with very little interest and am desperate to sell as I have now completed on another house. The agents are advising me to drop the price but I cannot afford to do so. Do you think it is worth renting the house out for a few months while the market picks up?

A. It is still all about price and most buyers’ expectations are that a property is worth 10-20% less than the asking price. If you cannot afford to drop the price it may be worth considering the rental market as it is very strong at the moment. The market is not going to change overnight though, so another alternative is to try selling alongside renting the property. This will give you some income but you may still be able to achieve a sale and you could tie it in with a rental on the property.

A. In the past I have always advised sellers to trust their agents as there have been between 10 and 20 buyers for every property. There are definitely fewer buyers looking to purchase in present market conditions, but as a seller be assured that your agent will be working really hard to find you a buyer. After all, they do not get paid unless they find you a buyer! The boot is now on the other foot; it is a buyer’s market but all properties will sell if they are marketed correctly and are good value for money.

Q. Will prices ever go up?

A. There is still demand for property but getting a mortgage can be difficult dependent on your position. I am convinced that there will be a rush of people wanting to buy when prices totally bottom out so this should be sometime soon judging by the last few months’ activity.

When banking problems are over prices will go up again but if you don’t need to sell, sit tight as British properly still remains a solid investment.

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Q. Are falling prices the main problem when trying to sell a property at the moment?

A. Sales have definitely dropped and fewer people are buying and selling houses at the moment. The fact people move is part of our economy, while some people may benefit from falling house prices no one benefits from falling transactions. There will always be people who have to move for one reason or another and these people mean that we will get through a challenging period in buying and selling of property. York and surrounding areas still remains an excellent choice.

n Opus Estate Agents Tel: 01904 790070 www.opusmove.co.uk

your home

She bakes, she makes, she decorates – frankly there’s nothing our very own domestic goddess Rachel doesn’t know. Every month she’ll be passing on some of her favourite money and time saving tips...

• For a cheap way to brighten up copper, smear ketchup over it then polish off. It removes tarnish as well as shop-bought cleaners, and for a fraction of the price!

• Give your flowers a boost and keep them fresh for longer by adding a couple of asprin tablets to the water.

• To banish persistent tea and coffee stains from mugs, simply add some white vinegar and swish it around to lift the marks clean off.

• Make the most of your lemons and limes by microwaving them for a couple of seconds before squeezing. This gets more juice out of them.

• Are those hard to reach windows starting to look dirty? Use a spongy floor mop to give them a clean without having to brave the ladders!

• When decorating, stripping wallpaper can be a nightmare. Make the job easier by adding a tablespoon of baking soda to each bucketful of water.

It could be black mould and may be damaging the health of you and your family For a FREE survey and a guaranteed lifetime cure call Envirovent today on 01423 876345

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Keep up to date on the latest design trends and property news Pricey property Think your mortgage repayments are a bit steep? Spare a thought for the residents of Campden Hill Square in Holland Park, West London. It’s just been named Britain’s most desirable road. However house prices are anything but desirable, with homes in the area coming with an average price tag of £4.9m. Luckily for the Square’s well-heeled residents, which have included Prince Edward and the Duchess of Kent, playwright Harold Pinter and fashion designer Paul Smith, money is not a problem. Just think: for the price of one of those houses, you could buy around nine houses on The Mount.

Worth a second look?

Looking to buy a new home in 2012?

It pays to be open-minded, according to professional homefinder Tracy Kellett. “Look for properties that are compromised a little, but can be improved once you’re in,” she advises. “For example, a Seventies

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house is now out of fashion and tends to be cheap because it’s considered ugly. However, you can transform it by using an architect to add capital value even in this market. There are also ex-local authority flats and houses, usually with large rooms and tall ceilings.” If you don’t need a

mortgage, consider buying a property that is hard to get a mortgage on, such as an apartment above commercial premises. >>DINING OUT: Dining rooms are soon to become a thing of the past

Country life

The traditional dining room could become a thing of the past by 2020.

According to a recent survey by Halifax Home Insurance, more than half a million homeowners are planning to knock through to an adjacent room in the next 12 months.

It’s all down to the changing pattern of family life which has made the dining room redundant. "Britons have clearly fallen for open-plan living and are looking at ways in which they can make better use of the space inside their homes,” says David Rochester, head of underwriting at Halifax Home Insurance. "In many ways, it is sad to see the decline of the dining room, but it appears that they may have become superfluous to modern living where people are perhaps less likely to eat formally.”

We’re all after a place in the country, according to a poll by PrimeLocation.

According to the survey, the nation's most desired home is a detached rural property with a large garden near to walking countryside and overlooking a beautiful landscape.

While 90% of the UK population live in cities, more than half of those surveyed said their dream house would be detached, 33% said it would be in the countryside, 64% would prefer it to have good views and 44% would like it to be near nice places to walk.

Bright ideas It’s time to say bye bye to beige, according to the interior design experts. They predict that white and grey will be the new magnolia for 2012. “Grey has become the new neutral,” says colour expert Adrienne Chinn. “People are also using a lot of white in rooms, getting away from magnolia, with bright pops of colour on cushions and rugs. Turquoise is a big colour next year."

your home

Dining out

Selling style If you’re selling your house this year, you might be tempted to tart it up a bit. But beware of overdoing it, says property expert Elizabeth Weintraub.

She advises homeowners not to splash out on major renovations for the sake of a sale. “Before renovating, take a look at other homes in the neighbourhood and make their property comparable to the other homes on the market,” she says.

Free

Measuring & fi tting service

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Going soft makes sense!

Dodge the Damp Nobody wants to tackle outside jobs during the winter (and we can hardly blame you, we all tend to hibernate during the colder months). But with spring on the way (it won’t be long!) you might feel encouraged to check your roof for broken slates, repair your guttering or fix a few fences; but lend thought to one other important point – damp. Have you noticed the wallpaper peeling in some of your rooms? Can you see traces of mould? Are the skirting boards looking a bit dodgy? Is there an odd, musty smell in your clothes and towels that you can’t get rid of? If so, you’re probably experiencing an invasion of damp – and it can cause untold problems if it isn’t properly taken care of. Unfortunately, dealing with damp is difficult and often expensive; it can involve chemicals, create mess, and even force you to redecorate to accommodate your property’s alterations! Luckily, Holland Damp Proofing’s innovative method works on most types of wall at ground level, so it doesn’t matter whether you live in a mansion or a maisonette, a bungalow or a bijou apartment. It involves fitting dampregulating bricks into specially-prepared niches in external walls to evaporate moisture and dry out walls, allowing the property to breathe and subsequently dry out. n For more information call 0808 155 2571 or visit www.dampproofing.com

Here’s a question: do you know whether York’s water is hard or soft? We’ll give you a minute to think about it… time’s up! All of our water is hard (not soft or mixed!), and this has important consequences for how your household manages its high mineral content.

Limescale can fur up your heating system, causing it to break down, making it much more expensive to heat your home as a consequence. Hard water means you have to regularly clean your showerheads, shower screens and stainless steel sinks. To top it all off, the water can even aggravate skin problems like eczema and psoriasis! Fortunately hard water can be dealt with quickly and efficiently: and all you need is a water softener, and North East Water Softeners is one of the top providers in the area. The TwinTec, offered

by North East Water Softeners, is small, requires no electricity and uses block salt – like two house bricks – instead of heavy bags. n For more information, call North East Water Softeners on 07553 369495, or visit www.northeastwatersofteners.co.uk.

Help for the homeless If you’re facing the possibility of losing your home, you’ll know how worrying it can be. But the good news is, there’s a new service in York that can help before the worst happens.

The Homelessness Prevention Service provides practical help to people who face losing their home through financial or housing related difficulties. It will be available to people in private rented housing,

social housing and leaseholders as well as people with a mortgage. York Housing Association staff will visit people in their own homes to identify what support they need to prevent them becoming homeless and plan how the service can help them.

There will also be drop-in surgeries across the city, where people who are signed up to receive the service can call in if they need extra help. n For more information, call 01904 636061

B I S H O P G AT E a n t i q u e s

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your home

Up Close and Personal With…

Jeff from Tell us a bit about your business?

I launched No Dust R Us in November 2010. We offer flexible, high quality cleaning options that allow busy people to free up their time, with services including regular and one-off cleaning and carpet cleaning. For the first eight months the business was quiet, but when I started advertising in Your Local Link work suddenly started flooding in.

Now, thanks to Your Local Link, I have a number of cleaning contracts and most of my business comes from Your Local Link or from recommendations.

What inspired you to start the business?

I have extensive experience in managing roles within the cleaning industry as well as qualifications in business, which prompted me to set up on my own. I’m lucky to be very passionate about what I do.

What’s the strangest job you’ve ever had to do?

When I was 17 I worked in a butcher’s and had to make black pudding. It put me off the job for life, but it was an experience!

Who is your hero and why?

My hero is my father. He has given me excellent advice and inspired me to be who I am today.

Testimonial for No Dust R Us: “I have used several cleaning agencies in the York area, all with less than satisfactory results. I can’t recommend No Dust R Us enough. They are adaptable and responsive, and good value for money, with great attention to detail and genuine enthusiasm for their work. All in all, a great organisation to use.” D.W. Wheldrake.

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Cash Generator

The recent changes to the Feed-in Tariff have left many customers unsure about the next step where solar photovoltaic panels are concerned, but with up to 10% returns on your investment, Solar Electricity is still a realistic venture.

Solar photovoltaic panels can provide up to 50% of your electricity and earn you a tax-free, indexlinked income for 25 years through the Feed-in Tariff.

So how does the Feed-in Tariff work?

Anyone who chooses to install solar photovoltaic panels will be eligible for the cash back scheme.

You will be paid in three ways for the electricity you produce: • Generation: a set rate paid by your energy supplier for each unit (or kWh) of electricity you generate for 25 years; the current set rate is 21p per kWh. • Export: you will receive a further 3p from your energy supplier for each unit you export back to the electricity grid.

• Electricity bill savings: using the energy you generate yourself to power your home can reduce your fuel bills by up to 50%.

Installations for a 3.6kwh set of 16 photovoltaic panels start from around £8450, and a system of that size can earn you around £925 every year for 25 years! This provides a much better rate of return than any bank or building society can offer.

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Solarwall have been established over 34 years and offer market leading guarantees on all their products. The team feel it is their responsibility as a company to ensure that a customer can make an informed decision about what they are purchasing and what product is right for their individual circumstances. To help customers with this decision, Solarwall offer expert advice in the

form of bespoke seminars at The Energy Centre, a free venue where you can see working renewable technologies and have your questions answered. n For more information check out the energy saving trust or contact Solarwall Ltd on 0500 127 005. Alternatively, visit the showroom at Green Lane Trading Estate, Clifton, York, YO30 5PY.

your environment

Up On the Roof Theft of lead has been on the rise over the past few years, with roofs often left unrepaired due to the high likelihood of the material being pilfered again.

However, the trend may be about to be bucked with the introduction of new fibreglass technology from Future Roof in York. Flexi-Flo is guaranteed not to split, bubble or crack, and is now available for roofs of varying shapes.

The material is maintenance-free and can be finished in a range of colours with either a smooth or non-slip finish.

Best of all, installing it can put a stop to the cycle of lead theft and it’s energy efficient to boot, making it good both for the environment and our pockets! n For further information, call 01904 777094 or visit www. futureroof.co.uk.

Drawing on Success It’s always inspirational to discover that local companies feel a breadth of social responsibility; it proves that they’re concerned about the world at large, and have much more on their minds than just the ‘bottom line’! We could probably all learn a lot from graphic design agency United By Design, who are setting the trend for responsible businesses all around the area. They’ve pledged (in partnership with the 1% For the Planet Initiative) to donate 1% of their sales to environmental organisations all over the world. This comes shortly after they were appointed to help local estate agency Preston Baker design their new visual identity, a project which resulted in a distinct and modern look for the agency’s new branding. We’re looking forward to seeing what else United By Design takes on board – some great projects ahead, no doubt! n For more information on United By Design visit www.ubdstudio. co.uk, or for more information on Preston Baker visit www. prestonbaker.co.uk.

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your garden

Ask Amanda...

Got a gardening problem?

Amanda from skelton garden centre can help

Q.

trees near a pond. Some trees are poisonous such as laburnum, lime, bay, laurel and yew. Other trees are very thirsty and deep rooted and can alter the water table. The main problem with trees near ponds is their leaves. The annual leaf fall in autumn can add a copious amount of organic matter, which in return can affect the eco - system and fuel algae problems in the spring.

Having eaten lots of strawberries this summer, I fancy growing my own. What variety do you recommend?

You can extend the season by choosing early, mid season and late fruiting varieties. For a super strawberry variety, famed for its superior quality and disease resistance choose Strawberry Christine (early season). This strawberry has an excellent flavour and high levels of natural sweetness and is ready for picking early June. Follow this with Strawberry Cambridge Favourite (mid season) producing superb flavoured fruits at the beginning of July are delicious eaten fresh and for jam making. Lastly a late season- Strawberry Malwina is one of the best late cropping varieties available with large, bright red fruits cropping from mid July to mid August.

Fitting a pond net is the only way to avoid routinely raking the leaves out.

Q.

I want to plant a small tree alongside my pond to add interest and also to give my goldfish some shade. Any ideas?

Trees certainly have their benefits and high on the list is the shade they offer. A pond exposed to sun

all day will heat up alarmingly which is no good for anything living in it, be it fish, frog or plantlife.

The abundant light will promote the growth of algae, namely blanket weed and green water.

There are problems with planting

Fortunately there are a number of suitable trees - consider Mountain Ash ( Sorbus ) which has great foliage, berries and stays compact.

Other small trees are Silver Birch (Betula), Crab Apple (Malus) May or Hawthorne (Crataegus) and Japanese maple (Acer)

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

ESTABLISHED 1977 IN HAXBY. A Local Family Business Built on Customer Recommendations:

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your garden

Q.

I want to plant a hedge that’s attractive and which will deter unwanted visitors - both human and animal. What do you suggest?

One of the most effective stockproof (which includes people and animals) hedges is Quickthorn, or Hawthorne (Crataegus monogyna). This forms a dense prickly hedge and is a cheap way of forming a barrier. Hawthorne is pretty – it flowers, fruits, has attractive foliage in summer and attractive autumn tints. You could add some Rosa Rugosa, Holly (Ilex) and firethorn (Pyracantha) which are evergreen and very prickly. The key thing to remember is, whichever hedge you choose, it must be dense right down to the ground to prevent animals pushing their way through.

You will not be able to stop rabbits getting through unless you first put up a galvanised wire fence and grow a hedge around it.

Q.

Can you tell me why my honeysuckle does not flower?

It is on a south facing wall in very well drained sandy soil. It has plenty of foliage and is two years old.

This can be a common problem.

Honeysuckles can take 4 to 5 years to flower. Pruning should be done immediately after flowering as honeysuckles flower on the previous seasons growth, so don’t prune in the spring. They like to be in full sun and in a well drained spot - water only when completely necessary. Keep fertiliser to a minimum as over feeding encourages too much foliage at the expense of flowers.

You have given your honeysuckle all the right conditions; therefore, it may just be a waiting game.

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

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your garden

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

Dean’s Garden centre

Spring sowing & planting such as Buddleia. Deadheading winter bedding and removing old leaves is also beneficial and makes the garden look tidier.

Dependant on the weather, much can be achieved in the garden this month and, if mild spells persist now is a good time to prepare for spring sowing and planting. However, if the weather turns and we find ourselves in the grip of an Arctic winter, some jobs may be restricted.

If the soil is still workable now is a good time to dig borders and prepare seed beds for the spring, by turning over the soil to improve aeration and drainage. Covering the soil with clear polythene or cloches is an ideal way to warm the soil before sowing, and if soil conditions are poor try adding some gravel or grit to improve the drainage, giving your plants the best benefits for growth.

February is also the best time to buy in your plug plants and summer flowering bulbs for a great show of colour later in the season. Bulbs and tubers such as Gladioli and Dahlias can be started off in pots, as long as they are in a frost-free place such as a greenhouse or cold frame. Sweet Peas can be sown and placed in a cold frame, those sown late autumn can be potted on.

If you are planning on growing anything in the greenhouse for the new season, make sure your

If the weather conditions remain favourable, continue to plant shrubs, trees, deciduous hedging and roses. If the ground is not frozen and workable, you can also move any shrubs that you may have in your garden that are either in the wrong place or have grown too big for the area they are in.

Don’t forget to prepare the new site by adding some compost and bonemeal to help aid root development and water in well, firming in the soil around the shrub. greenhouse is free from any signs of pest and disease such as white fly or red spider mite which may be on plants that have been over-wintered; if this is the case then throw them out and start afresh. Sterilising your greenhouse is an ideal way to start, by cleaning the glazing and framework along with any old pots or seed trays which can be re-used later in the spring.

Towards the back end of the month the main job for the garden is pruning. Cut back any perennials and ornamental grasses, to encourage new growth later on, along with summer flowering deciduous shrubs

Don’t forget to feed the birds and make sure they have a constant supply of fresh water when the weather is cold. If you do find yourself confined indoors and unable to work in the garden why not check your gardening equipment and give them a good clean and maintenance? Oil and sharpen secateurs, clean spades and forks and tidy away any debris littering your sheds. It may also be a good time to service the lawnmower. So with all this in mind get out into the garden and make a difference and look forward to the season ahead.

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

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your garden

Rot and Roll Every gardener knows compost is as good as gold, and it’s something which is always useful to have around. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly way to fuel your flowers and vitalise your vegetables, you’d do well to start making the stuff yourself – but how? To help, York Rotters have organised a fantastic day at the York Environment Centre on 25th February, aiming to equip you with all the knowledge you need to get going. And while you’re there, you can learn how to make your everyday food go further – as part of the ‘Love Food Hate Waste’ event - saving you time and money throughout the year. n For more information contact Catherine on 01904 412861 or email rotters@stnicksfields.org.uk

Need for Seed Interested in sharing some of your excess plant seeds and finding a few new ones in return? Head along to the next sharing evening on 3rd March, hosted by the Creating Cooperative Community. It’s a great chance to meet some interesting people, swap advice and grow your collection of potential plantings. Don’t worry if you haven’t got any seeds to share – there’s always plenty to go round! The event at Haxby & Wigginton Methodist Church from 11am to 12 noon. For more information call Tim on 01904 760659.

landscapes

DIVINE DESIGN Patios & Paving Driveways & Brickwork Decking, Pergolas & Fencing Turfing & Planting / Design Ponds & Water Features Garden Maintenance tel: 01904 211021

mob: 07737 825621 www.weareedenlandscapes.co.uk

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your garden

gardening Keep up to date with all the green fingered gossip!

Watch the birdie You could just be in time for the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch, which happens on 28th and 29th January. It’s an important way for the charity to find out more about which bird numbers are declining and increasing. “The RSPB keeps an eye out for emerging trends from the results,” says Big Garden Birdwatch Project Manager Sarah Houghton. n To take part, call 0300 456 8330 or visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch to request a Big Garden Birdwatch pack.

Trees hit by new disease Britain’s conifers are under threat after a new outbreak of disease was spotted in North Yorkshire. Lawsons cypress trees in Blubberhouses are suffering from Phytophthora lateralis, a fungis like organism which causes dieback and premature death. The disease has already killed off cypress trees in California and Oregon. It was identified in Scotland for the first time in 2010 with new outbreaks reported in Northern Ireland and Devon last year. “We are asking people working around trees, particularly tree surgeons and those who manage parks and gardens, to be vigilant for signs of disease,” says Dr John Morgan, head of the Forestry Commission’s Plant Health Service. n For more information, visit www.forestry.gov.uk/plateralis.

TELEPHONE 01904 899196 82

Bye bye Butterfly?

Butterflies could become a rare sight in British gardens. According to a new survey by Butterfly Conservation and the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, 72% of UK species have ‘declined in abundance’. The biggest losers include the High Brown Fritillary and Duke of Burgundy butterflies.

Conservationists now fear there is a real threat of

the species becoming extinct in the UK. You can do your bit to encourage butterflies in your garden by planting butterfly-friendly shrubs. These include Verbena bonariensis, Lavandula, and of course Buddleia davidii (also known as the Butterfly Bush).

And don’t dig up those nettles, either – butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves.

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your garden

Grow your own Fancy growing your own veg but not sure where to start? Or perhaps you’ve just become the proud owner of an allotment and you’re looking for inspiration? Head along to Askham Bryan Gardening Club, where nurseryman and broadcaster Joe Maiden is giving a practical demonstration on all things vegetable on 21st February. The event starts at 7.30pm at the Conference Hall, Askham Bryan College. It’s free to club members, £5 to visitors. n For more information visit www.abcgardeningclub.org.uk

Only in Europe...

Do you have any green and yellow sulphur in your shed? You could be breaking a new EU directive. Or maybe not. As of 31st December, gardeners have been banned from using yellow sulphur as a fungicide.

However, you can still use it as soil acidifier or soil nutrient. Says David Senior of product firm Vitax, “While

the fungicide use of yellow sulphur has been withdrawn, we are continuing to supply the same material as a garden sundry. The material is still of value as a soil acidifier and a secondary nutrient for sulphur deficient soils.”

Which begs the question, how will they find out? Will there be EU spies at the bottom of your garden?

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your garden

GROW YOUR OWN with Debbie Pendle from Brunswick Organic Nursery Growing your own fruit and veg is rewarding, good for the planet – and your pocket. Here’s how…

Potatoes

Baby new potatoes freshly dug just twelve weeks after planting has to be one of the gardening highlights and now is the time to be buying your seed potatoes. Potatoes are perhaps one of the easiest and most rewarding crops to grow and are a great crop for a new plot as they help to clean the soil and make it more friable. Potatoes are grown from small ‘seed’ tubers produced by specialist growers to ensure they are free from disease. Organic seed tubers are grown from certified organic stock, using organic methods.

Potato varieties fall into three categories.

Earlies: the first new potato of the season. They mature fast, have thin skins but cannot be stored, so are eaten soon after harvesting.

Second Earlies: ready from mid to late July, grow bigger than earlies and have some storage ability.

Maincrop: harvested in autumn and produce bigger yields and larger potatoes; they have thick skins, so store well and can be eaten through winter months.

The flavour and quality depends on location, so some varieties will perform better than others in the north.

Organic gardeners should select varieties that offer some pest and disease resistance. If space is limited, stick to earlies and second earlies that command high prices in the shops.

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Prior to planting seed tubers should be ‘chitted’ to ensure good yields and buying in now will give enough time for this process to happen before planting out. Arrange the tubers side by side in an egg tray making sure each one is pointing rose end (where you see the small eyes) upwards and leave in a light, frost free place where they will develop some strong green chits.

Traditionally, Good Friday was considered to be potato planting day and the Easter bank holiday weekend provides the opportunity for many of us to get out in the garden. Potatoes are frost tender so be guided by the weather and protect from frost if necessary. Potatoes like a deep, rich fertile soil so prepare the soil well and make sure you incorporate plenty of well rotted manure or compost.

To plant your potatoes Set up your garden line and dig a hole 15cm (6in) deep, 30cm (1ft) wide and drop the potato into the hole. Allow about 60cm (2ft) between rows and a little more for main crops. When the new shoots appear, draw the soil over the young foliage, this encourages longer stems on which the potatoes are produced, so increases the yield. The Brunswick shop sells a range of organic seed potatoes by the kilo. This provides a great opportunity to experiment and grow different varieties for a range of uses in the kitche.

JOBS FOR FEBRuary 3 Plant Jerusalem Artichokes 3 Sow early variety peas in containers

or outdoors with cloche protection 3 Sow winter varieties of lettuce

Local Suppliers: Brunswick of York CIC, Appleton Road, Bishopthorpe, York YO23 2RF

n Brunswick Organic Nursery is a growing charity that provides opportunities for adults with learning difficulties in horticulture. www.brunswickyork.org.uk

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your garden

Top Tip Finish pruning fruit trees before the sap rises and buds begin to burst. This is also a good time to tackle any last minute hedge cutting before the birds start to nest.

A lot of Fruit and Veg! Finding it difficult to fulfil your green dream of growing vegetables in the city?

Wish you knew somewhere you could settle down with some seeds and slowly watch them grow into delicious treats? Well you won’t have to wait much longer: the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust is setting up three new communityled food growing spaces in Hull Road Park, Brailsford Crescent and Cornlands Road. Everyone is encouraged to get involved, and every supporting event is completely free! The project aims to create sustainable food growing spaces, enabling the community to work together in order to produce their own fruit and vegetables! To get things rolling, there are two Go Green events happening on the 11th of February: from 10am-12noon at Hull Road Park and 1-2.30pm at Brailsford Crescent Park. As well as events, they will be setting up gardening clubs at each of the sites, so it’s a good idea to get involved from the very beginning! n For more information call 01904 659570 or email info@ywt.org.uk

Selby Road, Crockey Hill, York, YO19 4SJ Telephone 01904 622901 www.wooden-garden-furniture.com Pizza Choice | Delivery Service | Fantastic offers available | Tel: 622022 or 631818

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Local Link sent Martyn from Turnbulls and his wife Victoria to check out the fare on offer at Lady Anne Middleton’s Hotel.

We chose to dine at the Lady Anne Middleton’s Hotel on a midweek evening, and the restaurant soon filled with customers after our arrival. The staff offered us a warm, friendly welcome, and we were offered a drink in the bar as we waited to be seated. Victoria sipped on an orange juice topped with lemonade while I chose a pint of bitter, as we perused the menu and took in the traditionallydecorated and cosy surroundings.

We were delighted to be offered the chance to sample the menu, which offers new options for 2012. We found it small and perfectly formed, with delicious, tasty choices such as sweet onion and Coverdale cheese tart, Scottish smoked salmon, roast partridge with parsnip puree and lemon sole with brown shrimp butter. In addition, there were plenty of specials to select from, so we were spoilt for choice.

In the end, I opted for the North Sea fishcakes to start, which were cooked to perfection and full of

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flavour. Victoria decided upon the soup of the day, which was Mediterranean vegetable, tomato and basil, and was, she assured me, scrumptious. For the main course, I chose the slow cooked pork belly with apple and pork scratching risotto and pear and vanilla sauce. This was excellent, with a wonderful fusion of flavours. Victoria chose the fillet of sea bass which was served with a wild mushroom risotto. I couldn’t resist a taste, and it was beautifully cooked, boasting a delicate texture married with powerfully fresh flavours.

To accompany our meal we were advised to try a house red: the Santiano Merlot, a medium-bodied, well-balanced wine with notes of fresh cherries and cranberries. This was delicious, and complemented the meal perfectly.

feel as if our dining experience was of the utmost importance, and the staff members were eager to do all they could to make our meal as comfortable, pleasant and enjoyable as possible. In addition, the setting was tranquil despite its close proximity to the city centre, and the free onsite parking was a definite plus! We’d definitely recommend the restaurant to others. It wasn’t somewhere that we would have thought to go to, but we’ll be making another reservation soon.

Aside from the wonderful food, which was served promptly, beautifully presented and piping hot, the service at Lady Anne Middleton’s was first class, professional and very friendly. We were made to

n Lady Anne Middleton’s Bed and Breakfast Hotel uses the best fresh local produce and offers a 10% discount on pre-booked tables.

Call 01904 611570.

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An Opportunity Not to be Wasted If you’re looking for a way to save money which is practical and environmentallybeneficial, you’d do well to focus on a single item: your plate! Did you know that the average household wastes £480 worth of food a year? And for families with children, that number jumps to £680! Alarming, isn’t it?!

Don’t worry, there’s a solution; York Rotters are offering a free training session called ‘Love Food Hate Waste’. The session offers York residents practical advice on how you can make the most of the food you buy, ensuring that you push it to its full potential. The event is being held at the York Environment Centre, on Rawdon Avenue in York. There will also be an opportunity to learn about composting while you’re there, guaranteeing that you’ll leave the event being more environmentally-helpful than ever! n To find out more contact Catherine on 01904 412861 or email rotters@ stnicksfields.org.uk. You can also visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com.

A New Pecking Order?

When you think of fried chicken, what comes to mind? Is it fresh local produce?

Dedicated independent management? Quick collection? Unfortunately, this probably isn’t the case! Fueled by a desire to bring strong standards to delicious food preparation, Tony Samson – owner and operator of the popular Three Cranes pub – decided to take on a new venture: Southern Fried Chicken.

With a prime location (situated on St. Sampsons Square in the heart of York), Sampsons Fried Chicken looks set to take on the ‘big boys’ of the fried chicken trade, offering quality local ingredients with an independent spirit. Unique to the business, it will also offer a ring-to-collect service - enabling customers to cut down on queuing (which isn’t much fun on an empty stomach!). We’re looking forward to seeing where the business goes, especially when its independent spirit is looking to shake things up.

H O T E L

•

Y O R K

Proud to be British

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Ingredients ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

175g butter 175g caster sugar 175g self raising flour 3 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pink/red food colouring

You will also need...

Small heart shaped cutter Muffin cases Cake tin

For the buttercream

Market days 27th January and 24th February

The Parliament Street Farmers’ Market sells a range of cheeses, meats, chutneys, baked goods, fruits and vegetables direct from the producer.

The event takes place on the last Friday of every month apart from in February, when its date has been changed due to the Viking Festival.

18th February

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

150g butter, softened 280g icing sugar 1-2 tbsp milk A few drops of food colouring

Just in time for valentines day!

These look tricky but follow our domestic goddess Rachel’s easy recipe and get set to impress!

• Preheat your oven to 180 degrees. Beat the sugar and the eggs together in a bowl. Add the flour, eggs and vanilla and mix well.

The York Auction Centre Farmers’ Market offers award-winning produce including Yorkshire beef, lamb and pork, handmade bread and pastries, soups and preserves as well as non-food items for the home and garden, all under one roof.

• Take a third of your mixture and put it into a separate bowl and colour it pink/red.

n For more details about the city centre events go to www.york.gov.uk/markets

• Turn it out onto a cooling rack, once cooled use a heart shaped cutter to cut hearts out of your sponge. (Make sure the cutter height is

• Line an 8 inch cake tin and bake for approx 25 mins or until the cake springs back up when touched.

smaller then the depth of your muffin cases).

About a 3cm tall heart should be ok if you are using standard muffin cases!

• Fill your cupcake cases with the remaining cake mix and put the heart in the middle (remember the batter will rise over the cake).

Make sure all your hearts are the facing the same way so when you take them out of the oven you know which way to cut your cupcakes for full effect.

• Pop in the oven and bake for about 25 mins or until golden brown.

• Once baked allow to cool and decorate with a buttercream swirl! And voila... now put your feet up with a cuppa and enjoy!

BayTree Cottages “A real Yorkshire holiday”

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Great local food If you live around Rawcliffe or Clifton Green, did you know there’s a great eatierie right on your doorstep? We’re talking about the Beechwood Close Hotel on Shipton Road. Since Clare McLeod and her husband Wayne took the hotel over back in September, they’ve updated the bedrooms and introduced a great new menu for the restaurant. All your traditional pub grub favourites are there, including steaks, gammon, home cooked steak and ale pie and lasagne, as well as Sunday lunches. There’s also a lovely garden, a real hidden gem where you can relax with family or friends. So now there’s no need to faff about with buses and taxis into town next time you want a great meal – just nip to the Beechwood and you can walk home! The restaurant is open for lunch 12 noon – 2pm, and from 5 – 9pm evenings. The Beechwood Close Hotel is at 19 Shipton Road. n Call 658378 for more information.

A Heavenly Affair Heard the news? The Garden of Eden has returned, and it’s been found in The Cedar Court Grand Hotel! No we’ve not been on the cooking sherry again; it’s actually the name of a local florist who are lending its expertise to a new event set within one of the hotel’s private dining rooms.

The Ladies Luncheon takes place on the 8th March and it promises to be an afternoon not to be missed! There will be a two course lunch with a floral demonstration and talk by Angela Ellis (from Garden of Eden); you’ll be able to learn about the history and art of floristry. And there’s more - there will even be a charity raffle to take home the day’s bouquet once the lunch concludes.

Local link valentines ad_Layout 1 18/01/2012 12:19 Page 1 n P1400 For more information call 01904 380038.

Make a

‘Grand’ gesture this Valentine’s

Romance your partner with a beautiful five course candlelit diner in The Grill Room, including champagne and canapés on arrival.

Valentine’s Dinner £65 per person Valentine’s Dinner & overnight accommodation £270 per couple

If relaxing is your number one priority this February The Grand’s Spa Day is for you: Spa Day includes: • 30 minute back massage each • 30 minute facial, manicure or pedicure each • Afternoon tea for two • Full use of spa facilities • Receive a £10 spa voucher

£160 per couple Spa Day & accommodation

£300 per couple

(only available Sunday – Thursday)

Station Rise,York, North Yorkshire,YO1 6GD Call 0845 409 3811 or visit www.cedarcourtgrand.co.uk Visit other Cedar Court properties across Yorkshire: www.cedarcourthotels.co.uk

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yorkonafork

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yorkonafork

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Welcome to the 27th annual

JORVIK Viking Festival!

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events

EVENTS KEY: n WALKS & TOURS n LOCAL & COMMUNITY EVENTS

n DAYS OUT & ATTRACTIONS n CONCERTS n FAIRS & markets

There’s so much to see and do across the city this month that there’s no way anyone in York could profess to be bored. From the Viking Festival to gearing up for celebrations for York 800, the whole city will come alive in February. Thoroughly refined classical concerts, a touch of culture with exquisite exhibitions and great ways to let your hair down with comedy nights, race nights, girls’ nights... there’s so much to see and do. Go on, see for yourself! n Newgate Market. 9am – 4pm (4.30pm Sat and Sun). York boasts the brightest and possibly best daily open market in the North.

Newgate market has 110 stalls offering something for everyone every day including a wide variety of goods, fruit and vegetables, as well as a good selection of fresh fish and meat. n York Dungeons. 2000 years of York’s darkest and most gory history, 11 shows with seven actor-led shows makes the York Dungeon attraction an educationally chilling experience and a great day out for all the family. Call 632599.

Every night n York Horror Tour, outside the Golden Fleece, 6.45pm. Witness the darkness behind the street corners that seem so safe by the light of day on this blood curdling 85 minute tour that takes in some of the city’s most gruesome sites. Call 622622.

n Ghost trail of York, West Doors of York Minster. 7.30pm. Dare you cross the centuries and discover York’s spine-chilling history? From tragic plague victims to the plumber who spotted an entire Roman legion marching through a basement.

Find out how York earned its reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the world. Call 633276.

Box Office Tel: 0844 871 3024 www.atgtickets.com/york Or visit our friendly Box Office on Clifford Street in person

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Every Saturday and Sunday n Conservation Tour, Nostell Priory & Parkland, every Saturday and Sunday at 1.30pm.

Find out what we do at Nostell during this winter.

Join members of the house staff for a closer look at putting the house to bed and making sure Nostell is ready for the new season. Call 01924 866831.

n Exhibitions: ‘Decline and Revival’ and ‘Layers’, Quilt Museum and Gallery. ‘Decline and Revival’ takes the viewer through the difficult years for quiltmaking, looking at the types of quilts being produced through different phases of the 20th century. ‘Layers’ gives scope for wide interpretation of design, offering the Group’s members the opportunity to showcase their variety of styles and methods of working. Call 613242 or visit www.quiltmuseum.org.uk.

n Make Your Own Charter , Dean’s Park, Old Palace, 10am. Part of York 800: Make your very own charter to take home. You will decide on your charter’s rules, design a seal and decorate with illuminated letters. Call 0844 9390015.

28-29 january n Exploring York, St Helen’s Square, 11am and 2pm. Discover how York’s Royal Charter changed the city forever on this walking tour through York’s cobbled streets and Georgian avenues. Call 07981 242764.

the opportunity to experience some of the city’s world-class attractions for free, providing you have a valid York Card (available from York Explore).

The event is organised by Visit York as a thank you for the warm welcome we give to York’s seven million annual visitors every year. Dozens and dozens of attractions are taking part, and many local businesses are offering special prices to residents as well. For full details, see last month’s January edition of Your Local Link.

30 january n Can’t Sing, Can’t Dance, Don’t Care, Dusk, 9pm. York’s favourite comedy group

from 16 january

29 january

n The Institution of Locomotive Engineers: A centenary celebration, National Railway Museum, 16th January onwards. Explore a fascinating exhibition of archive papers and small objects, celebrating the contribution this 100 yearold institution has made to locomotive engineering.

Visit www.nrm.org.uk/engineers

n A History of Civic York: 1212 to the Present Day, York Explore Centre, 1-3pm. Dr Sarah Rees Jones, Hugh Murray, and Dr Kathrine Webb each present a 30 minute lecture on Medieval York; the lives of York’s Victorian Lord Mayors buried in the York Cemetery; and the modern governance of York. Call 552828.

returns to Dusk for another sensational night of new material. Free event. Call 07727 268601.

n Wedding Fayre, The Grange Hotel, 124pm. Fashion show by Mila Brides and exhibition of local wedding service providers. Call 644744.

1 february

28 january n Comedy Night, York Racecourse, 7pm.

Eat, drink and be merry at York Racecourse’s everpopular comedy night, with a fun-filled bill featuring Brendan Dempsey, Larry Dean, Yianni Agisilaou and Iszi Laurence. Call 638971.

28 january n Soft Fruit Pruning, Acomb (call for location), 9.30am-1pm. York Get Growing Project presents a mainly practical course on pruning blackcurrants, gooseberries, raspberries, blueberries and other soft fruit. Free and open to anyone. Call 644300.

n Open Day, Merchant Taylors Hall, Aldwark, 11am-4pm. Visit the company of Merchant Taylors at their magnificent medieval hall. Meet with current members to hear about the company’s history and see the hall’s splendid features. Call 01347 878628.

29 Jan – 4th Feb

31 january n Lunchtime Limber , York Explore Library, 12-1pm. Circle Dance for fun and fitness. No need to bring a partner. Call 552806.

n In Their Own Name, The Folk Hall, New Earswick, 7pm. Talk by Martin Bashford for the City of York & District Family History Society.

Email yorkfamilyhistory@btopenworld.com

2 february n Askham Bryan Open Evening, Askham Bryan College, 7pm. No need to register.

Drop in to find out about the range of courses on offer at the college. Call 772211.

n York Residents Festival. We know York’s worth its weight in gold – but it’s still nice to see it without paying! The festival gives you

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events

Until 28 April

events

3-4 february n York Festival of Storytelling, Friends Meeting House (in Friargate). Call Helen Sant on 07734 155200 or email helenmsant@yahoo. co.uk for more information.

• Enter the Dragon! Tales of Magic and Mystery from the Orient, Penn Room, 1-2pm (and 3-4pm).

• Tellin’ t’ Tale, Penn Room, 2-3pm (and again on the 4th Feb in the Fox Room from 1-2pm).

One of the leading “Shaggy Dog Storytellers” of Hebdon Bridge.

• Wee Folk, Penn Room, 4-5pm. Favourite folk songs are given a twist in this fun musical session aimed at families with children aged between one and five.

• Fairies in the Gutter, Penn Room, 7:309pm. A unique compilation drawing on Ursula Holden Gill’s childhood, half-truths, downright lies and favourite fables.

• The Songs of Odin and his Quest for Power (Viking Tales), Fox Room, 11am12 noon. Journey with Odin the giant, on his magical, mythical, quests to become a god.

• On Mountains and Moons (Puppetry and story show), Meeting Room, 11.30am12.30pm. Featuring three folk tales.

• Ask The Oldest Animals, Fox Room, 12 noon – 1pm.

• Indian Tales: A Mystical Experience with Manasamitra, Meeting Room, 12.30-1.30pm (and again at 4.30-5.30pm in the Meeting Room).

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• The Ghost Bear: a Puppetry and Story show with Shona Cowie, Meeting Room, 1.302.30pm.

• Stardust and Sandwiches, Fox Room, 2-3pm. Lively original tales about dreams and reality - and how to keep hold of both.

• The Wild Woman Tales, Meeting room, 2.30-3.30pm. Helen M Sant, an innovative, theatrical storyteller, is on a mission to convince adults that storytelling is for them too!

• Magic, Monsters and Minstrels, Meeting Room, 3.30-4.30pm. Absolutely, totally true stories from Medieval York and the strange things that happened within its walls.

• An Invitation to Attend the Court of The Kingdom of Never Sleep, Meeting Room, 7.30-8.15pm. The royal family is very

large; it is you the audience, and you are invited to come along in pyjamas to meet the king.

• Curiosities, History, Folklore and Ghosts - A Story Walk Around York and its Alehouses, outside the Three Tuns pub, 8.3011.30pm.

4 february n Annual Wheldrake Playground Giant Jumble Sale, Wheldrake Pre-School Playgroup is holding a Giant Jumble Sale and invite you to come along and have a rummage! They have hundreds of items on sale at rock bottom prices. Everything from clothes, hats, shoes, books - as well as lots of interesting and fab bric-a-brac items! Who knows what you might find? Wheldrake Village Hall, 2pm until 3.30pm Admission 50p.

n Prima Vocal Ensemble Rehearsals, Park Grove Primary School, Park Grove. Male basses wanted! Prima Vocal Ensemble, the sister to Millegro Choir, runs rehearsals each Tuesday from 7.45-9.45pm, and extra rehearsals for sopranos and altos each Wednesday at St. Olave’s Church Hall in Marygate from 11.15am1.15pm. The group covers jazz, Broadway and soul music. Call 07809 401164.

n Simon Palmour: Black and White Photography Space 109, Walmgate, York, 10am – 4pm. Covering the principles of black and white photography, the programme covers tips and guidelines, portraits, landscapes, abstract, candid shots and more. Call 01904 612790 or visit www.space109.org.

4 -5 february n Young Enterprise Trading Day, York Designer Outlet (North Entrance), 10am5pm. Several groups of young people (aged 15-19) have formed their own company - taking on the various Company Director responsibilities - and now have their product ready to market.

Competition element for group with best sales results. Visit www.young-enterprise.org.uk

4 February –4 March. n Snowdrop Spectacular, Burton Agnes Hall, Driffiel, 11am - 4pm. Take a stroll through a snowdrop-covered woodland walk then enjoy a warming meal in the cafe. Call 01262 490324.

5 February n Vapnartak ’12, York Racecourse, 10am

n 100 Years of Nature Conservation, Tempest Anderson Hall – 5pm. Over 50 leading traders will exhibit at the annual York Wargames Society exhibition, which is still going strong in its 35th year. New for 2012 is the tabletop sale deal – a chance to rent your own table for half an hour for a small fee and sell your unwanted items. In addition, the event will see the Warmachine and Warhammer competitions. Come along and meet the friendly wargaming world. Call Nathan on 693660 or visit www.yorkwargames.org n York Walkies monthly greyhound walk, Fulford Arms, 10am for 10.30 start. Give your dog a chance to socialise with other hounds while you chat to other owners.

Call Tina Abbott on 07974 757927.

6 February n Millegro Choir rehearsals, Park Grove Primary School, Park Grove. Male tenors wanted! Millegro Choir rehearsals take place every Monday from 7.15-9.15pm. The group performs a varied range of music including popular, folk and jazz standards. Call 07809 401164.

(Yorkshire Museum, Museum Gardens), 7.30pm.

The Michael Clegg Memorial Lecture by Michael Allen, Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts. Call the Yorkshire Philosophical Society on 656713.

10 February n Race Night, Cross Keys (Goodramgate, York), 8pm. Fundraising event for The Childrens Trust (Reg Charity No: 288018) with charity horse betting. There will also be a raffle on the night and a small buffet. Call Dave or Sarah on 706335. n Heart to Heart Valentine Charity Ball, Royal York Hotel, 7pm. Black tie event to raise money for the Children’s Heart Surgery Fund. Features performances from Rock Choir, Phil Seymour (MC) and a disco. Call 07951 187701 or email heartball@hotmail.co.uk.

11 & 18 february n Choccy and Sweetie Tour: Yorkwalk, 10.30am and 3pm on both days. A walk around York’s sweet streets; learn the history of Terrys and Rowntrees while visiting

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events

7 February

n York Guildhall Orchestra\ York Barbican, 7.30pm. Conductor Simon Wright leads the York Guildhall Orchestra through a lively concert featuring works by Mozart, Grieg and Brahms as well as the world premiere of Kuhayla

by British composer Joanna Marsh. The musical ensemble are set to kick of their 2012 season in style. Call 0844 8542757 or visit www.yorkbarbican.co.uk to book.

events

local chocolate shops and enjoying free samples.

All Yorkwalks are guaranteed departures, so you needn’t worry about the weather and bookings are not necessary for groups of under 10. One for chocoholics! Call 622303 or visit www.yorkwalk. co.uk for more information.

11-19 february n Jorvik Viking Festival. With music, talks, living history and a Viking wedding, the 27th annual Viking Festival promises to be bigger and better. See P92-95 for details. n Wizard Week, National Railway Museum.

The magic returns to the Museum once again with a week of spells, tricks and mischief. See the steam star from the Harry Potter films. Plus wizard duels, broomstick flying trick photography, ‘Science of magic’ shows, a best-dressed wizard competition and stunning owls on display. Visit www.nrm.org. uk/wizardweek for more information.

11 Feb – 13 May n Fear and Fascination: Art from the dawn of the railways, National Railway Museum.

An intriguing exhibition of some of early prints, cartoons, drawings and paintings. Historic images of Britain’s railways capture the mood of a nation conflicted about the new technology. Visit www. nrm.org.uk/artgallery for more information.

11 February n Valentine’s Dinner, Burn Hall Hotel, Tollerton Road, Huby. Give your loved one a pre-Valentine’s Day treat with a three-course meal, a complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival and entertainment from singer/songwriter Adam

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Dawson. Special offers on the accommodation at the hotel are also available for the evening. Call 01347 825400. n You Are The Light, St Bede’s Pastoral Centre, 21 Blossom Street, 10am - 4.40pm. An experiential day exploring Gnostic Christianity, which includes the Gospels of Mary, Thomas and Philip. Practical non-dual teachings which emphasise essential divine nature. Call 691201 or visit www.awakeningfoundation.com. n Valentines Celebration, Gimcrack Rooms, York Racecourse. Treat your loved one to a night of romance, with a hot buffet and live music from the wonderful Steve Cassidy Band. Set in the stunning, Edwardian Gimcrack Rooms, this evening is sure to gain you some brownie points this Valentine’s Day! Call Frank on 796452 or Sylvia on 01904 783175. n Single and Mingle Dinner, St. Paul’s Church, Holgate, 7.30-10.30pm. An evening of food, friendship and fun for all single people.

Tickets £10 including buffet dinner, dessert and soft drink. Contact Anne Wooldridge on 07854 156726 or email annewooldridge@googlemail.com.

12 February n The Garden Room, York Central Library, Museum Street, 12noon. A community session intending for participants to connect to the divine through a series of HU chants, thought of as love songs to God. Call 01423 780002.

14 - 16 february n Be a Viking, Yorkshire Museum of Farming, 11am and 2pm. Dress up as a Viking and visit the

Viking village, learning what life was like 1,100 year ago in authentic surroundings. Enjoy hands-on activities including pot-making and spear drill. Call 489966 or email events@murrtonpark.co.uk.

14-17 february n Have-a-go Sword Combat. The Merchant Adventurer’s Hall, hourly from 10.30am3.30pm. Two Viking warriors teach children swordfighting skills in this fun workshop. Call 654818.

14 february n Myths of the Vikings Puppet Show, The Merchant Adventurer’s Hall, showings at 11.30am and 2.30pm. Leading theatre company Clydebuilt Puppets present their

n Valentine’s Afternoon Tea, The Bar Convent, 2pm - 4pm. Treat your loved one, best friend, daughter or mother to a traditional afternoon tea with a Valentine’s theme. The afternoon tea will include delectable treats such as dainty sandwiches, scones with strawberry preserve & fresh cream, mini éclairs, fruit tartlets and strawberry shortcakes. £9.95 per person.

Please book in advance by calling 643238. n Children’s Chocolate Lollipop Making Workshop, The York Cocoa House, Blake Street, 10.30am-6pm. Workshop for children and their families with all proceeds going to Juliet’s Brave Heart Appeal (for brain tumour treatment at Yorkshire’s Regional Children’s Hospital at Leeds General Infirmary). There will also be an art competition for children to design and draw a ‘brave heart’ or an original chocolate lollipop, with prizes donated by local York businesses and attractions. Call 704151

15 february n Gild of Freemen Slide Show and Talk . Bedern Hall, 7.30pm. The organisation will offer an informative talk on the restoration of Holgate Windmill. Call Hazel on 423878 or email hazel.hogue@btinternet.com.

16-18 february n Naloxone Theatre Ensemble presents ‘Abigail’s Party’, Friends meeting house, Quaker rooms, 8pm (with 3pm

Saturday matinée). Classic play by Mike Leigh.

Tickets available by calling 07917 583485 or emailing gingerorourke@hotmail.com.

16 february n Taster Evening, Lady Anne Middleton’s Hotel (Skeldergate), 7pm. A free informal taster evening including canapes from their new dinner and Sunday menu. Call 01904 611570. n Valuation Day, Bar Convent, Blossom Street, 11am-3pm. Free valuation day with advice from the experts at Tennants Auctioneers, offering accurate values for heirlooms such as antiques and jewellery as well as other collectable items. Call 01423 531661. n Bird Box Making, Nostell Priory & Parkland (Wakefield), 11am-12 noon and 1-2pm.

Make a home for our feathered friends and invite a bird family to live in your garden. Come along and make a bird box. Accompanied children 5+ welcome. Booking required. Call 01924 866831.

17-19 february n Tenth Century Traders, The Merchant Adventurer’s Hall. 10am-4pm. Vikings from across the globe will gather to trade a range of goods including weapons, jewellery, pottery, bowls and tankards. Call 654818.

17 february n David Newey & Shona Kipling, Space 109, Walmgate. 7.30-10.30pm. David Newey is one of the UK’s premier Acoustic Guitarists, Singers and Songwriters; Shona has had being nominated for a BBC Folk Award in 2007.

Call 612790 or visit www.space109.org.

n British Music Society of York, Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall at the University of York, 8pm. Maestro! The British Music Society of York will present their Doric String Quartet for a thoroughly refined evening, with works by Schubert and Chausson. Call 322439. n Below stairs: Victorian Servants, Wigginton Recreation Hall, 2pm.

Following on from the success of the television series Downton Abbey, this talk profiles what being a Victorian servant was actually like.

18-19 february n Yorkshire Craft Fair, St Williams College. This prestigious event offers free entry and an array of excellent quality arts and crafts products, as well as demonstrations from craft experts. Call 01274 835588 or 07956 860380.

18 february n Emily Harvey: Relief Printmaking, Space 109, Walmgate, York, 10am - 3.30pm. Design and make unique printing blocks with everyday materials from your local DIY store. The day will give you a chance to experiment with texture, pattern and colour. Call 612790 or visit www.space109.org.

19 february n Wedding Fayre, The Parsonage Country House Hotel (Escrick), 11am-3pm. Opportunity to speak to a local wedding specialist and an experienced events team. Advice and information regarding any aspect of your upcoming wedding.

Includes exhibitors in photography, floristry and cakes. Call 728111 www.parsonagehotel.co.uk.

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production that tells the tale of the mythic origins of the Norsemen’s world, when only ice and fire existed with a great expanse of emptiness, Ginnungagap, in between the two... Call 654818.

events

n The Vintage Wedding Fair, St. George Hotel (Harrogate), 11.30 am-4.30pm.

Large range of exhibitors and entertainers with an emphasis on vintage style. Call 0788 0910361.

and Greenpeace’s Chief Scientist Doug Parr, with Journalist Liz Barclay chairing the event. Call 322897.

n Dance on Yorkshire, York Barbican, 6.30pm. Dance Schools from across the Yorkshire region will be showcasing their talents in front of the Lord Mayor and the civic party plus celebrity judges. To book: call 0844 854 2757 or visit www. danceonyorkshire.co.uk.

Performance and Dinner, Treasurer’s House (York), 5.30pm. A two course dinner served in the historic tearooms of Treasurer’s House followed by the dramatic and heart-breaking story of Anne Frank. Performed at the York Theatre Royal. Call 624247 or email treasurershouse@ nationaltrust.org.uk.

n Diary of Anne Frank

n Pregnancy Information Day, Millers Yard, Gillygate, York, 11am-4pm. Come along and meet the Millers Yard Pregnancy Support Network and explore therapists in pregnancy massage, acupuncture, hypnobirthing, dancing for birth, doula support, reflexology and many more, plus York Hospital ‘Lots of Cots’ appeal fundraiser.

For details visit www.MYPregnancyEvent.co.uk n Wedding Fayre, Haxby Memorial Hall, 11am-3pm. Wedding Fair to raise money for the upkeep of the hall. Call Joyce on 07912532856.

21 february n The Path Of Awakening, St. Bede’s Pastoral Centre, 21 Blossom Street, 7-9pm. Philosophy - Spirituality - Meditation.

Practical spiritual teachings which encourage direct knowledge of essential divine nature. First meeting in York. For more information call 691201 or email martin.nathanael@btinternet.com, or visit www. awakeningfoundation.com n Pancake Race Day, Parliament Street.

Event organised by City Centre Churches.

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24 february n Acoustic Night, Space 109, Walmgate, York, 7.30 – 10.30pm. 3 highly talented artists sing their own songs in a beautiful candlelit gallery setting. Bring your own drinks and sit at cafe tables or lounge on the big comfy sofas. Delicious vegetarian food is served in the short break. For details call 612790 or visit www.space109.org.

22 february n Askham Bryan Taster Day, Askham Bryan College, 1.30-4.30pm. Opportunity to try some of the activities in Agriculture, Animal Care, Countryside and the Environment, Engineering, Motor Sport Engineering, Equine Studies, Horticulture and Sport. Call 772236 or email mary. hair@askham-bryan.ac.uk.

23 february n Can Technology Save the Planet?, National Science Learning Centre, University of York, 5.30-7.30pm. The Stockholm Environment Institute present their annual seminar, with speakers including Journalist Mark Lynas

25-26 february n The Great Antiques Fair, Wetherby Racecourse (LS22 5EJ), 8am-5pm on Saturday and 9am-5pm on Sunday. Antiques fair with excellent on site catering and free parking. Visit www. jaguarfairs.com.

25 february n Phil Reynolds: Abstract Expressionism, Space 109, Walmgate, York, 10am - 3.30pm. Exploring where abstraction originated and how and where Abstract Expressionism emerged. Involves planning a piece of work in the morning and producing a more finished piece after lunch.

9 march n Re-Take That evening, Burn Hall Hotel, Tollerton Road, Huby. Re-Take That will perform their authentic tribute act.

Call 01347 825400.

14-17 march n Dance Express. Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road. Evelyn Witcombe School of Dance presents Dance Express, a spectacular display of a range of dance genres. Call 623568.

16 march n AIDA, The Guildhall, St Helen’s Square, 7.30pm. The De Costa Academy of Singing will present their production of AIDA, a concert performance of the grand opera by Verdi. The chorus is provided by The Priory Park Singers Hull.

Call 610341.

2 march n An Evening of Mediumship, New Earswick & District Indoor Bowls Club, Huntington Road, 7pm. Discover your future with an evening of psychic entertainment from Sue Warren. Call 750230.

3-4 march n Beadwork Fair, Pavilions of Harrogate, Great Yorkshire Show Grounds, North Yorkshire, 10am-4pm. The Beadwork Fair will display wares from a vast array of craft suppliers. Call 01737 841080.

4 march n Discover Vintage: York, York Barbican, 11am-4pm. Over 60 exhibitors of Vintage, Entertainment and Workshops. Call 0113 3458699. n Wedding Fayre, Burn Hall Hotel, Tollerton Road, Huby. Call 01347 825400. n Wedding Fair, Cedar Court Grand Hotel, 11am-4pm. Call 380033.

6 - 17 march n The Sound of Music, York Theatre Royal, 7.30pm with 2.30pm matinee on Saturday.

York Light Opera presents the classic Rodgers & Hammerstein play. Box office: 623568.

7 - 17 march

n Concert: British Music Society of York, Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall at the University of York, 8pm. Call: 322439

17 march n ‘Bruch: Violin Concerto No.1’ and ‘Brahms: A German Requiem’, York Minster, 7.30pm. Tickets: 0844 939 0015 or www.boxoffice.yorkminster.org. n Rat Pack tribute evening, Burn Hall Hotel, Tollerton Road, Huby. A tribute to the greats, including a three course carvery meal, late bar and disco. Call 01347 825400.

23 march n Comedy evening, York Racecourse, Knavesmire Road, 7pm. Eddy Brimson is supported

by Laura Lexx, Bryan Lacey and Mickey Sharma.

Call 638971.

n Miss Yesterday. York Theatre Royal

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studio. York Settlement Players’ production of the Alan Ayckbourn play. Call 623568.

events

Theatre York Theatre Royal The Diary of Anne Frank (17th February – 3rd March) Anne Frank’s world-famous diary charts two years of her life from 1942 to 1944. Whilst hidden from the German Nazis (with her Jewish family in a secret annex in Amsterdam), Anne documented her hopes, frustrations and day-to-day experiences in confinement. Anne’s wry observations of herself and her companions have been dramatised in this stunning play, evoking all the original sentiments of a young girl’s dramatic and heart-breaking diary.

Box office: 23568 The Fantasist’s Waltz (17th & 18th February) Set in a world of misguided passions, momentary lifetimes and crumbs of desire, The Fantasist’s Waltz is a haunting modern fairy tale of an isolated man who disappears into his imagination for solace.

another intimate and atmospheric show, complete with s pecially composed music and a very large bed. Bring your pyjamas and join in the fun! Box office: 623568

Bed (22nd February – 3rd March) In Jim Cartwright’s extraordinary play about sleep, insomnia and growing old, eight elderly characters relive their lives and evoke their dreams. Old Bomb, the theatre company behind recent productions of Pinteresque, Cigarettes and Chocolate and Waiting for Godot, bring you

The Sound of Music (6-17 March) York Light Opera presents the classic Rodgers & Hammerstein play. Widowed Captain Von Trapp employs a young nun Maria as a governess to his seven rowdy children, who have already seen off a host of other nannies. Through her love and the power of music she bonds with the children, while

Vue: 08712 240 240 www.myvue.co.uk City Screen: 0871 902 5726 www.picturehouses.co.uk/york Reel Cinema: 0870 801 0870 www.reelcinemas.co.uk

Coriolanus Adaptation of the Shakespeare play. Coriolanus, having failed to become Consul, is expelled from Rome. The banished hero then allies himself with his sworn enemy Tullus Aufidius to take his revenge on the city.

A Monster in Paris A shy movie projectionist and an inventor find themselves on the hunt for a monster terrorising the area. They join forces with Lucille, an eccentric scientist, but not everything is as it seems. Suddenly, they find themselves helping the “monster” instead.

Carnage Adaptation of the Tony Award-winning play about four New York parents who gather for a civilised discussion after their children get into a fight at a local park. As the evening wears on, what was once a polite atmosphere descends into anything but child’s play.

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Miss Yesterday (7– 17 March) Life in your teens, as Tammy discovers, can be unfair and even cruel. School is a disaster and at home she can do nothing right. Then something really terrible happens. When she gets the chance to undo the tragedy, she grabs the opportunity.

But is it possible to change the world around you without changing yourself? Box office: 623568.

Haywire High-octane spy thriller. Mallory Kane is an operative who works for a government security contractor. After being double-crossed and left for dead, she sets an ingenious trap for her assassins; but when things start to go haywire, Mallory has to think fast to keep fortunes on her side.

Man on a Ledge An ex-cop turned con threatens to jump to his death from a Manhattan hotel rooftop. The police dispatches a female psychologist personally requested to talk him down from the ledge. However, things aren’t as straightforward and clear-cut as they appear to be.

The Muppets To save the Muppets’ theatre from destruction, the old gang are reunited to help stage The Greatest Muppet Telethon Ever and raise $10 million. However, all the Muppets

have all gone very separate ways since the old days, complicating their ‘Number One’ fan’s plan.

The Grey Liam Neeson leads an unruly group of oil-rig roughnecks when their plane crashes into the remote Alaskan wilderness. Battling injuries and weather, the survivors have only a few days to escape the icy elements and a vicious pack of rogue wolves on the hunt - before their time runs out.

The Lady True story of Aung San Suu Kyi, the pro-democracy activist who was put under house arrest for almost 15 years. During this time she only saw her husband a handful of times. The film tells the story of her politics, but also touches deeply on her romantic turmoil.

Underworld: Awakening Kate Beckinsale returns as the vampire warrioress Selene, who escapes imprisonment to find herself in a world where humans have discovered the existence of both Vampire and Lycan clans, and are conducting an all-out war to eradicate both immortal species.

*Listings correct at time of press.

Film guide

also falling in love with their father. Box office: 623568.

Grand Opera House Richard Herring (4th February) Having sorted out religion (Christ on a Bike), politics (Hitler Moustache) and penises (Talking Cock), the star of the award winning podcast As It Occurs To Me and Radio 4’s Richard Herring’s Objective seeks to define and destroy love. Box Office: 0844 871 7627 Straight No Chaser (9th February) Don’t miss the captivating sound of ten unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music (with a sense of humour). Box Office: 0844 871 7627 The Chuckle Brothers (19th February) Paul and Barry are magically transported back in time in to a world of pirates and sunken treasures.

Don’t miss this spectacular pirate adventure! Box Office: 0844 871 7627 Spamalot (20th-25th February) Audiences all around the world have been roaring with laughter since Monty Python’s Spamalot,

by Eric Idle and John Du Prez, won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 2005. Spamalot tells the legendary tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table and features a bevy (or possibly a brace) of beautiful show girls, witch burnings (cancelled - too expensive) not to mention cows, killer rabbits and French people. The show features the hilarious songs He Is Not Dead Yet, Knights Of The Round Table, Find Your Grail and of course the Nation’s Favourite Comedy Song (Reader’s Digest Poll 2009) Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life.

Box Office: 0844 871 7627

Joseph Rowntree Theatre The Vikings’ Song - A Quest For Freedom (11th & 12th February) Adapted from children’s author Peter Ward’s Viking Trilogy (with an eclectic mix of music composed

by Early Music specialist Michael Fields), this Viking musical promises to be an exciting addition to the 27th Annual Jorvik Viking Festival.

David Copperfield ( 21st-25th February) Charles Dickens said of all his heroes: “I have in my heart of hearts a favourite and his name is David Copperfield”. York Stage Musicals presents this new version of a classic favourite, featuring many of Dickens’ most beloved characters - Mr Micawber, Peggotty, Uriah Heep, Betsy Trotwood, Mr Dick and Steerforth. To book: 01904 623568 Little Voice (7th-10th March) The Rise and Fall of Little Voice tells the story of

Barbican 12th Van Morrison

12th Hyena Lounge Comedy Club

Andrew O’Neill

3rd Rebel Truce

(The Clash Tribute)

3rd Alvin Purple

19th Hyena Lounge Comedy Club

Mike Gunn & Seann Collins

4th

17th Grouplove

Big Boy Bloater + The Savoy Ballroom

10th Colin Blunstone (The

Zombies) & Band 11th The Smiths Ltd

23rd Port Isaac’s

Fisherman’s Friends

18th Nearly Dan in concert -

The Spirit & Sound of Steely

Dan.

3rd Simon Callow 10th Midge Ure 19th Benjamin Francis Leftwich

Abigail’s Party (16-18th February) New performance of the classic comedy of manners, originally written by Mike Leigh. Beverly has invited her new neighbours, Angela and Tony, over for drinks. She has also asked her divorced neighbour, Sue, because Sue’s fifteen year-old daughter, Abigail, was holding a party in their house. The gathering starts off in a stiff insensitive British middle-class way, until Beverly and husband Lawrence start sniping at each other. To book: 07917583485.

Fibbers 2nd The Mantra above The

Spotless Melt Moon

15th Katherine Jenkins

Pocklington Arts Centre

Friends meeting house,

The Duchess 2nd Martha Reeves &

The Vandellas

17th Spector

26th Joan Baez

a shy, reclusive girl and her larger than life out of control mother Mari. Little Voice just wants a normal life and to be loved - but not everyone is going to get what they want. An evening full of laughs and tears, by Jim Cartwright. To book: 07927 026071

23rd Jacqui McShee’s Pentangle 24th Whole Lotta Led 25th An Audience with Mr. Nice:

Howard Mark

13th Rich Robinson (Black Crowes) 18th TYR 23rd Dead To Me 24th Seth Lakeman 25th Haight Ashbury 28th The Birthday Suit Basement 4th Coquette 5th

Hyena Lounge Comedy Club Simon Munnery

9th

The Neat + supports

10th Henry Raby 11th Club Smith + Io + Phonetics

14th Valentines Cabaret Show

Stereo 9th Babybird 25th Stefan Cush & The Feral

Family Black Swan Folk Club 2nd Ian Bailey + Dan Wilde 9th

Singers & Musicians Night (open house)

16th Gloria Jeffries 23rd Patsy Matheson & Becky Mills Venue Contacts: Pocklington Arts Centre 01759 301547, The Duchess 641143, Fibbers 651250, Stereo 612237.

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The Parvin 788295 The Red Lion 793957 Treacles 499316 Tritons Fish & Chips 700189 York Cocoa House 675787 Fostering cyc fostering 55533 Funeral Services Co-operative Funeral Service 643936 J Rymer Funeral Service 624320 JG Fielder & Sons 654460 Garage Doors First Garage Doors 360146 Haxby Garage Doors 07889 152242 Hobman Garage Doors 608951 Premier Garage Doors 07887 940084 SJL Garage Doors 416284 York Garage Door Centre 788822 gardening Acaster Forge 701513 AJ lawn Care 07584 199001 Andrew Kent 738646 Apex Shed & Fencing 415735 Arborwise 07841 719672 Ascot Fencing 337225 Aztek Landscapes 07803 257347 Brunswick of York 701869 C&C Contracting 448239 Country Gardens 07900 193657 Deans Garden Centre 400141 Eden Landscapes 07737 825 621 eden treescapes 07737 825621 Future Landscapes 07969 354674 Gardens Cared For 400753 Gooch Gardens 07547 766885 Gorgeous Gardens 01423 359368 Grumbleweed 750157 Lawnmower Services 01347 822456 Lewis Tree Surgery 0783 1692275 M & M Landscapes 07967 656142 Mike Walmsley Landscapes 07904 002025 Mole Catching Service 700921 Nigel Scaife Garden 612439 R & S Landscaping & Paving 691123 R H Smith 782600 Resindrives.co.uk 0800 0075733 Rock n Stone York Ltd 608300 Rock Salt 767406 Rowan Tree Garden Design 411487 Sandalwood Gates 608542 Signature Landscaping 07771 543493 Skelton Garden Centre 470072 SRB Fencing 07841 187928 Top Soil 4 Sale 07702 126380 Waterdale Landscapes 07960 603025 York Rotters 412861 York Sawmill 705198 York Timber Products 01757 248927 Yorskapes 07795 097563 gates/railings PVC UK 0800 0371947 SR Fabrications 01405 763625 Guttering Guttering Of York 07711 222307 rawcliffe guttering solutions 07725 857621 Handypeople Able Handyman Services 07811 169368 DIY Guy 07946 296731 Green Handyman services 07540 981429 Handy Al 07958 571219 Handyman Services 410356 Home Maintenance 761479 Marks Decorating 07966 790819 My Handyman (Ian Parkyn) 07774 2672000 Odd Job :The Handyman 01347 810997 The Handyman 0800 8589888 Health & Beauty 3D Hair & Beauty 623166 5 Senses Spa 623745 Acorn Dental 789876 Ainsty Dental Practice 786196 Amy Kendall Hypnotherapy 659007 Angie Doig-Thorne 489142 Bannatynes Health Club 606100 Beauty Bar One 632546 Beautycare 769954 Belleza Spa 620050 Bonito Hair Design 641082 Caren Vollans Hair & Nail 750002

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Claire Henson 0113 21082408 55 Clock House Dental 422918 62 Counselling – Michael N 07776 252440 53 e-smoke Reviews 870617 7 Energise 552438 55 Highthorn Physiotherapy 431818 63 Hire Fitness Yorkshire 0845 6435105 59 Jane Tai 08000 831 681 57 Kuki Skin, Hair & Beauty 659007 50 Life Hair Design 07988 890345 59 Lisa Clifford 07795 634671 55 Ludwicks 656506 61 Magical Nails 340213 9 Maureen Payne 797531 59 Mediterranean Barbers 626945 53 Nudge 890297 57 Nuffield Health York Hospital 715000 58 Paulines Hair & Beauty 798522 51 Personal Trainer 780355 59 Physio Function 0800 8600138 61 Pink Lily Photography 07722 819698 63 Ramsay Health Care 464550 52 Refine and Rewind 07872 579224 51 Renes Revellers 470292 51 Rosemary Conley Diet 790922 56 School of Philosophy 646355 20 Time Beauty 07583 735638 55 Yippy Ltd 07825 410673 61 York Community Acupuncture 07951 777136 53 York HIV Research 721893 63 York Natural Health 788411 61 Zoobin Kama Dance 07737134821 51 Ironing Creases Away Ironing 758482 140 joinery Armstrong Joinery 07791 147734 143 Cass Joinery 07521 292926 144 Duncan Littlechild Joinery 07830 289107 144 Gary Craig Joinery 07734 113059 144 Grant Wade joinery 07751 374750 144 Houseman Joinery 07515 100016 143 J Myers Joinery 07877 756584 143 lewis carpentry 07565 890702 143 MSB Joinery 07925 323536 144 P Sturdy Joinery 07769 962915 143 Paul Meillam Joinery 07766 165116 144 Redberry Joinery 07501 144383 144 RGS Joinery 07721 785 800 144 S M Maintenance 752969 138 Stairway Joinery 07754 804988 144 Wood `n All 07947 001520 144 York Door Services 07973 889232 144 locks/Security/Alarms Access All Locks 410069 144 Afford a Lock 625635 144 all double glazing repairs 481148 151 BCF 07754 209600 148 Keep Safe Window and Door 01845 578062 144 Lockfix Security 623108 144 loft conversions Yorkshire loft conversions 423511 106 logs/fuel Dry Logs 652742 113 Dry seasoned logs 07885 594303 109 Watson Wood fuel 01377 267555 108 Mobility/hearing/care Forward Mobility 769300 88 Minster Mobility 788592 89 MV Mobility 01937 558604 89 oaklands Care Home 01423 330600 88 Prestige Nursing 466666 159 St Johns House 01423 330480 89 Surecare 520192 75 Surecare 520192 85 Surecare 520192 87 Surecare 520192 89 motor parts/services A G Motor Engineers 625890 45 Atlas Auto Services 848008 45 Auto Services 780093 43 Automotive Solutions 792652 43 Barkers Garage 760020 47 C & M Auto Services Ltd 796718 45 Car Buyer Today . com 07931 573307 47 Central Body Repairs 791176 47 Chapmans of Norton 01653 691199 45

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Chips Away 07810 243 444 Copmanthorpe MOT`s 700755 D & J Woodcock 430130 E Tyres 01759 319399 Heworth Mini Buses 235576 HP Maintenance 792899 JB Auto Cosmetics 693101 Just Car Clinic 690099 Lawtons Of Tadcaster 01937 833997 Leeman Road Auto Services 673500 Mark C Richardson 07719 528294 North Yorkshire Motors 691078 Osbaldwick Motors 412417 Pigotts Auto Parts 490978 Pristine Cars 01937 589099 Project Parts 789090 R Walker Cars 797720 Richard Hollings Auto Svs 793386 Tony Way To Travel 613890 Technical Car Services

Turnbulls (York) Mitsubishi 08000 470181 U Pull It 0844 8751914 Wigginton Car Repairs 750272 Wigginton car resprays 765948 Wills & Ellis 792651 York Suzuki Centre 625404 York Vehicle Test Centre 541888 Oven Cleaning Back 2 New Oven Cleaning 01947 604459 Cooker Cleaners Ltd 07831 700113 Cookerburra 672859 Kitchen Rescue Ltd 0800 6127252 oven U 471517 The Oven Man 07811 000055 Ultra Clean 01759 371741 Pest Control Commercial Services 625751 Huntcatchkill 492535 Pet Care 4 Positive Paws 706882 A Cut Above Dog Grooming 422629 Alisons Dog Grooming 422905 Dirty Dogs 07891 671950 Foss Feeds 706376 Fulford pet supplies 289363 Kute k9s & Kats 07851 240108 Marmadukes Mobile Pet 07786 025698 Minster Vets 643997 Perfect Paws Dog grooming 07877 962791 Pets Pantry 620527 SOS Dog Training 708761 Sweeney Dog Ltd 890666 The Dog House 701079 The Dog Walker 411113 Top Dog Grooming 07846 794257 Treat me Nice Dog Walking 620429 photographers Visage Photography 07500 084888 picture framing Steve Garnett 07950 443096 Plastering A Crosier Bathroom Fitter 07855 970895 Atkinsons Plastering 07816 268264 Colin Hardgrave 07881 733344 Ernie Jeffrey & Reese Plastering 639619 M Simpson Plastering 332568 Paul Bell Plastering 622316 paul sellars plastering 07789 677251 SM Bradley Plastering Services 07826 270335 Plumbing/heating 1A Rapid Response 295344 AD Gas Safe Heating 07852 885288 All Cisterns Go 07946 346928 BCF 07754 209600 BPH Services 07973 542283 C Hudson Plumbing & Heating 07966 344950 Carl Potter Plumbing 07734 871932 Chris Murray Plumbing 07912 575963 Clarkes Plumbing 07739 165681 Colin Bell Plumbing 07885 514332 DJC Plumbing 07770 754215 DRS Installations 07866 387846 Foss Controls 07941 114 788 Gas Servicing 07793 355168 Gastech 07793 814172 Geoff Sloane Plumbing 07966 438722 George C Stone & Son 659476 Glen Plumbing & Electrics 424169 Glen Plumbing & Electrics 424169 GPE Services 07501 465392 GW Plumbing 07525 858008 Haxby Plumbing and Heating 270308

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Hurrells Plumbing & Heating 07712 107208 147 Liam Gray Plumbing 07837 271350 146 Luke Mitchell Plumbing 07974 025903 145 ME Electrical Plumbing Heating 07774 800806 146 Melbourne Heating York 07984 742264 148 Mermaid Plumbing 07970 200 035 148 Nunthorpe Services 07906 592872 147 Peter Holmes Plumbing 701129 147 Pipe solutions Plumbing Svs 707484 147 Poppleton Plumbing & Heating 07903 979712 148 Radtek Heating 750302 3 S Williams Plumbing & Heating 07716 788680 148 Scorfield Plumbing 07950 929889 148 Scurr Heating 07976 394117 148 Skelton Plumbing Services 07766 625584 148 Sleepsafe Gas Services 07799 474565 148 T P Plumbing 761919 148 T Whitelam Plumbing 07729 980253 148 The Direct Boiler Co 295033 146 TJM Plumbing Services 07841 192272 148 Tom Plumb 07971 437359 148 Websters` Plumbing Services 07704 858 144 148 Yorkshire Central Plumbing 780780 147 pointing Grove Property Repairs 780910 136 printing Vital Signs 07583 182081 34 Removals/Storage 1 Van 1 Man 785022 148 2 Anywhere 07952 843398 148 A2B 07772 568526 148 Andy Vans 422268 148 DAW Logistics Ltd 07836 684718 34 forward removals 07563 613 514 148 Mr Shifter 07710 450672 107 Ridings Removals 07854 747129 148 Riverside Removals 07979 523076 148 YDL 01653 618171 35 renewable energy Green Energy Projects Ltd 01347 833329 108 Solar Panels 4 U 01423 322915 109 York Solar Energy 07412 009670 109 Roofing Able Roofing (York) 07908 558954 137 Able Roofing (York) 07908 558954 148 advanced roofing 07867 774747 148 Almsford Building and Roofing 795121 148 Crafts Homes 01757 629141 149 Direct Roof Care 07502 148876 149 Ebor Roofing and Plastics 07581 332457 150 Elite Roofing 750166 150 Flat Roof Company 0800 212548 101 Flat Roof Company 0800 212548 150 Future Roofs 07773 388141 149 Haxby Roofline Company 0771 8521107 149 Ian Young Roofing 07906 590626 150 J & P Construction 676697 150 J Foster & Son Building 07768 401277 150 L and R Roofing 07854 309212 150 Mark Winters Lead Work 07976 845678 149 N. Malarkey Roofing 07932 067701 150 Roofs Above 0800 0855 688 150 SD Roofing 07889 652091 150 Top Roofing 07979 676333 150 Shops/stores Barnitts 625601 4 Bishopgate Antiques 623893 107 Bishops Furniture

41 Blue Moon trading 624141 39 Bring Buy and Sell co.uk 620648 38 Corkys 625075 69 Fantasy World 621328 26 GA White 624643 12 Hambleton Furniture 622707 33 Harlequinn 610106 37 Herbert Brown 689938 16 Herbert Todd 628676 100 Kettleys 0113 2503716 31 Macdonalds 653497 32 Monkbar Model Shop 659423 23 Paul Dawson (York) Ltd 07801 537 412 5 Rydenor 476216 25 Supersave 625735 8 The Corner Stitch 620034 5 Time out 626949 22 Vintage Emporium 619899 5 Wall of Sound 704107 18 Whitby Oliver Furniture Ltd 652424 13 York Community Furniture 426444 18 Skips/Waste Removal A - Z Waste 07802 434349 108 Acomb Waste Disposal 07724 441630 111

D Boswell 488632 109 Ebor Skip Hire 400997 112 Wrights of Crockey Hill 620626 109 Solicitors Ardent Law Ltd 782958 72 Coles Solicitors 679990 27 Denison Till Solicitors 0800 2797500 69 Harland & Co Solicitors 655555 16 Harrowells 558600 11 Harrowells 558600 19 Hethertons Solicitors 528200 33 Minster Law 663927 30 Richardson Gildener Solicitors 642727 70 Richardson Gildener Solicitors 642727 40 Richardson Gildener Solicitors 642727 36 Sports/Clubs/Activities Alan Sparks Taekwondo School 796332 37 Skelton Park Golf Course 470549 37 York Martial Arts 783459 75 Tilers CM Tiling 07976 675527 106 Doug Taylor 07881 826331 106 Mr Multitrade 07946 378665 143 travel/holidays Acomb Travel 782401 86 Leo Travel 07790 886 806 5 Quartz Travel 411188 29 York Cars 765765 20 Upholstery A Kamara Upholsterer 781613 97 Venue Hire Clements Hall 466086 114 Haxby memorial Hall 764358 24 weddings A wedding for all Seasons 0843 289 8504 64 Ambience Hire 01757 229625 65 Angela’s Angel Cakes 410003 66 Bedern Hall 653698 67 Burythorpe House 01653 658200 66 Celebration Cakes 01937 831173 67 Classic Celebrations 07712 478965 66 Coach House Hotel 652780 65 Dean Court Hotel 625082 65 Elizabeth of York 658600 67 Event Prop Hire 0845 0940816 66 Fairfield Manor (Ramada Jarvis) 0844 8159038 129 Fletchers Fabrics 692984 65 Garden of Eden 622344 67 Holiday Inn 777515 67 Kate’s Flower’s Woodthorpe 07544 861017 65 Little Impressions 349352 65 Love Dub campers 737864 67 Make up Base 633844 65 Mariott Hotel 701 000 64 Mariott Hotel 701 000 67 Merchant Adventurers 654818 65 Mia Sposa 625552 66 Ox Pasture Hall 01723 365295 67 Rose & Crown 01347 811333 64 Sandburn Hall 469914 67 St Williams College 557233 65 Sutton Park 01347 810249 64 Swirly Sweet 077838 02270 66 Wedding Affair 0843 2898504 67 York Racecourse 638971 66 York Register Office 654477 65 will Writing JMD Associates UK 799282 21 Window Cleaning Claires Window Cleaning 07717 756431 139 Window/Door Repairs Access All UPVC Repairs 410069 150 Arrow Homecare 07581 006900 151 DR Glazing 654274 151 The Sliding Sash Window Co 07947 001520 150 Afford a Lock 625635 150 D.G.M.S Windows 479944 15 Eliments 08000 436005 10 Express Trade Windows York 310222 9 JG Trade Windows 421646 9 PVC Window Doctor 07732 822525 151 Secondary Glazing by D.G.M.S 479944 24 Square Deals Ltd 0800 7315435 3 TWS 0800 0280675 28 Window Solutions 07842 532133 151 York Millenium Window 691122 22 York Trade Windows 541919 29 worktops Dales of Thirsk Ltd 01845 522523 98 Work Top Man 07891 858873 103

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Installations & repairs, home cinema, HD, Freesat & Sky

Building & Property Maintenance 110 Roofing, Loft Conversions, Tiling, Extensions, Pointing

Garage Doors Handypeople Joinery

Loft Conversions, Sash Windows, Replacement Doors

116 116 117

Locks / Security 117 Plastering 118 Plumbing & Heating 118

Cleaning

112

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114

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115

Removals & Storage 121 Roofing 121

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116

Windows & Doors

Ironing, Oven Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, Chimney Sweep, Window Cleaning Interior & Exterior

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All Aspects of Building WorkInterior & Exterior Undertaken

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building & property maintenan0 / cleaning

Cleaning Services

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cleaning

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113

cleaning / decorators

Gary Roe

Painting & Decorating all aspects of decorating Interior & Exterior No job too small Free quotes & advice given All insurance work undertaken

call today on

01904 612419 or 07717 116489

114

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decorators / electricians

Electrical

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115

fascias, soffits & guttering / handypeople / garage doors

FASCIAS • SOFFITS • GUTTERING

POLYPLAS FASCIAS • SOFFITS • GUTTERING

We Are 100% Roofline!

York’s Longest Established Fascia & Soffit Replacement Company

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

Tel: 01904 782300

No VAT

116

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joiners / locksmiths

loCk FiX seCurity

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

DL J

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117

plastering / plumbing & heating

COMPLETE BATHROOM FITTING SERVICE (including tiling)

For a FREE competitive quote call: T:01904 499247 M:07866 387846

serviCe

LANDLORDS CERTIFICATES

YORK 01904 295033

118

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plumbing & heating

PLUMBING

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6043

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Word Search N T V I

In association with:

I A O O D H O R S D O E U V R E S O R N P

S E T D R E R M R F C W J E W E L L E R Y S O O O D O C H O C O L A T E G N E G S O E D H E I E W I E E P R O M A N C E N G N C F I V T E S N M U R C W L R J L U F I T U A E B I U T E U Q U O B F A D S C O U R T S H I P O S S T H P B L O R H N T U R D D P L O D E M M E P Y R E S T I R O C R H N C E I E O I H A R A O A R O E M R V R D A V Y D D E T A S S E R N H D R O A U W V C P D A R L I N G T T H E A T H C L I F F C H O S O D S E F T R N H U E L R L A I

I S S I K O H L M E L P U O C P E G R L

F T R D T N I A S U Q E F S A G I A N S I O A O O E B L M C G Y T I

I M S E E S L U A G I L H D P I

CUPID

RED

PRESENT

CHOCOLATE

CRUSH

I LOVE YOU

HONEY

COURTSHIP

WOO

KISS

How would you like to win some fabulous flowers, courtesy of Dutch Nurseries in Haxby?

Every month they’ll be giving a gorgeous hand-tied bouquet to the winner of our wordsearch. This month’s puzzle has a Valentines theme! Send your completed puzzle to ‘February Puzzle Competition’ at the address on page seven, to reach us no later than Friday 17th February. The first correct entry picked out of the hat will win the flowers! n Dutch Nurseries, 5 Wyre Court, Haxby.

Tel. 01904 768439.

CHAMPAGNE

LOVING

ROMEO

CATHY

LOVEBIRDS

LAMOUR

HORS DOEUVRES

DESTINY

JULIET

SAINT

TEDDY

CARD

DATE

I DO

DANCING

SONNET

UNION

ITEM

PARIS

LETTER

SMOOCH

COUPLE

FLOWERS

BEAUTIFUL

JEWELLERY

ROMANCE

PROPOSAL

POEM

DESERT

BOUQUET

ROSE

DARLING

SWEETHEART

HEATHCLIFF

DRESS

125

DOMESTIC CLEANERS REQUIRED • York Private Households • Part-time Hours to Suit • ~ £7 to £9 per hour

Call Ann: 01904 820905 126

127

WOrk from home

homepreneur

Freephone: 0800 87 86 085 www.homepreneur.biz

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