Your Local Link Magazine: February 2023

A REFRESH TO IMPRESS

FOREST FEBRUARY

in-home

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L O C A L B L INDS

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OUR

I provide expert advice on the best window solutions

• Flexible appointment times

• Blinds & curtains tailor-made here in the UK

• Blinds & curtains tailor-made here in the UK

• Ask me about multi-blind discounts

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• I won’t be beaten on price*

• I won’t be beaten on price*

Think beards, burning boats and big battles. Yes, the JORVIK Viking Festival returns to York this month. With plenty of fun and educational activities for all of the family to enjoy, take a step back in time this February!

Yeah, that’s right. In a blink of an eye, we’re straight into the February issue of our Link mag. This month, we’re taking it back in time. From the super exciting Ice Trail (p.19), the Jorvik Viking Festival, and those blast-from-the-past retro gadgets we all miss so very much (p.20), you can find it all in this February issue.

Whilst it’s still pretty cold, the warmth of the spirit here in York certainly makes up for any remaining winter frostiness. Whether you’re

looking for a sociable, Warm Space in the city (p.30) or thinking of joining a welcoming running community (p.33), there’s nowt quite like a great Yorkshire welcome. If getting a dose of fresh air is on your list of things to do this month, our Walking Wanderer has a lovely recommendation for you on p.14, and we also have some fantastic forests for you to explore over on p.28.

Whatever you’re looking to do this February, we have you covered. Have a good one!

In association with:

5 Wyre Court, Haxby. Tel. 01904 768439.

Fancy winning a beautiful bouquet of flowers, courtesy of Dutch Nurseries in Haxby?

Simply find all 10 words in our Love Song themed word search!

Send your completed puzzle, marked ‘February Puzzle Competition’ along with your address and telephone number to Unit 3a Kettlestring Lane, Clifton Moor, York, YO30 4XF, to reach us no later than 28th February 2023. The first entry picked out of the hat will win the prize. Good luck!

Q. Why are artichokes the most loving vegetable?

WIN!

A pair of tickets for ‘lost in music’ at the grand opera house.

DISCO FEVER

Get ready to get 'Lost in Music' as the brand-new stage show comes to the Grand Opera House, on Thursday the 16th of March! Recreating the magical, musical era of the 70s, relive some of the greatest songs of all time- 32 to be precise! From number one disco hits such as, Never Can Say Goodbye, On the Radio, Hot Stuff,

WIN!

A three-course meal for two with a bottle of fizz.

WINE AND DINE

We are rating this month’s tasty comp courtesy of the recently refurbished eatery, Ate O’Clock! Filled with fairy lights, plush seating, and oh-so-sophisticated decor, this fab restaurant is the perfect place to grab some locally-sourced scran with your loved ones. And, if you

Car Wash, and Boogie Wonderland, this show boasts a sensational live band, incredibly talented cast, and stunning vocals and is sure to have you disco dancing in the aisles!

For a chance to win a pair of tickets to the show on the 16th of March, simply answer this question:

Lost in Music features 32 numberone disco hits including:

A. Never Can Say Goodbye

B. Never Say Never

C. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road

Send your answer (along with your name, address, and daytime contact number) on a postcard marked ‘Lost in Music Competition’ to the address on page six or competitions@yourlocallink.co.uk. The closing date is Monday 13th February 2023. Terms and conditions apply.

fancy a tipple or two, their adjoining Social8 bar is a great spot for a cocktail, too!

For a chance to win a three-course meal for two with a bottle of fizz, simply answer this question:

Ate O'Clock has an adjoining bar called:

1. Society8

2. Sunset8

3. Social8

Send your answer (along with your name, address, and daytime contact number) on a postcard marked ‘Ate O'Clock Competition’ to the address on page six or competitions@yourlocallink.co.uk. The closing date is Monday 13th February 2023. Terms and conditions apply.

HOROSCOPES

STARSIGN OF THE MONTH

AQUARIUS

STARSIGN OF THE MONTH

AQUARIUS

20TH JAN - 18TH FEB

An easy-going month, with not much high excitement, and indeed, a few moments of boredom. Old habits are always hard to break, but nevertheless, you will be trying to break a few as the month progresses – but I suspect with only limited success. Parents may have problems with sons (regardless of age) and the only way to resolve these problems is to get tough. Really tough!

PISCES 19TH FEB - 20TH MAR

February looks like a month wherein there are some subtle changes in both your outlook on life and also your emotional priorities. There is a nice feeling of

“I’m in charge” and if not that, at least “I’m in control”, which puts you in a very strong position when it comes to dealing with other people. Obviously, you being you, you’re not going to be deliberately rude to anyone – but you’re not going to take any rubbish from them either.

ARIES

21ST MAR - 19TH APRIL

A relatively calm and predictable February, but with two recurring (and irritating) problems. The first is a partner’s unwillingness to make a compromise on the smallest of matters – it’s got to be their way or not at all. You could give in (easiest option) but your feathers are going to be ruffled, so you probably won’t. The second problem is associated with motor cars and transport, and if travelling any distance, expect delays.

TAURUS

20TH APR - 20TH MAY

In some respects, February could be seen as a month of anti-climax after a busy December and

2OTH JAN - 18TH FEB

January, but there are a number of high points. Some very good news in connection with all things medical, some very good news in connection with business and finances, and some even better news in connection with reunions with old friends you haven’t seen in many many years. Overall a month of optimism and healing energies.

GEMINI 21ST MAY - 20TH JUNE

I need to be writing two profiles here, one for the under-forties and one for the over-fifties (and sorry about those in between!) Lots of social activity and moments of drama and excitement for the under-forties, but a slow and rather staid and static month for the over-fifties – who look on at the antics of younger people around them and envy their energy and opportunities. Hey, make the best of it and make the most of it!

CANCER 21ST JUN - 22ND JULY

A very satisfying few weeks wherein a number of plans and

James Christie

schemes start falling into place. This increases your self-confidence, and also your financial selfconfidence. Anticipated problems fail to materialise and you realise that you’ve been worrying about nothing… against that, there is a challenge from a member of the opposite sex towards month’s end. Do you want what they’re offering or not? If you do, it doesn’t come for free.

LEO 23RD JUL - 22ND AUG

Younger members of the sign will be rebelling against all forms of authority, be it parental, collegiate, or legal. This may sound ominous, but you are simply asserting your right to be you, and to live your life by your own rules – and no one should condemn you for that! Some nice romantic energies creeping in around the 20th which will change your perspective on some key issues in your life.

VIRGO 23RD AUG - 22ND SEPT

A pretty busy month on the work

scene, but also a profitable one, with some key gains made around the 7th and the 19th. It’s a ‘get rid of the old for new’ month, but we are talking here about material goods, rather than emotional situations. Relationships are steady, but old cars, wobbly tellies, and temperamental fridges are not. Don’t allow common sense to be clouded by sentiment… if it’s got to go, let it go!

LIBRA 23RD SEPT - 22ND OCT

Rather a lovely month, I would have thought, for the vast majority of Librans. Quite a busy time on the social scene, with some exciting new love interests for available singles. Even more mature Librans will feel a new sense of liberation and many old rules may now get a dusting off, and maybe even a throwing out. High days are the 5th, 11th, and 21st but expect a few minor setbacks on the 15th and the 26th.

SCORPIO 23RD OCT - 21ST NOV

Other people’s attitudes and assumptions are really going to wind you up and you’ll find yourself making some sort of stand against this behaviour, probably around the 10th/11th. While this may cause a degree of friction in a few key relationships, you really do have

to make some sort of a stand at this time – and if that causes someone else a problem, then it’s their problem, not yours! You are not demanding the moon and the stars, only a little more respect.

SAGITTARIUS 22ND NOV - 21ST DEC

A somewhat low-key tranquil month, wherein not a lot seems to be happening. Having said that, a flutter of romantic excitement (and an opportunity?) around the 14th, and perhaps a couple of awkward emotional decisions around the 21st which will resonate around divided loyalties. Travel aspects are okay, but I would have thought within UK boundaries rather than overseas.

CAPRICORN 22ND DEC - 19TH JAN

A very busy month on the work scene in which you will find yourself having to take on some extra responsibilities which will mean working extra hours and under a degree of pressure. This brings a degree of financial reward and professional recognition from colleagues and bosses, but it also generates tiredness and an ongoing feeling of tension. Those close to you will offer support and advice… you’ll appreciate the support but will ignore the advice.

WALKING WITH THE WANDERER

Kirby Underdale and Thixendale

A classic Wolds walk, this route connects two remote villages via hillsides with far-reaching views and deep enclosed valleys.

Is this walk for me?

This is a fairly challenging walk. There are two big climbs, steady and long rather than steep plus a number of lesser ups and downs. Overall surfaces are good but there are some muddy areas. With a few exceptions, the route is well waymarked. Cattle may be grazing in some of the valleys. There are four stretches of road walking, all but one with virtually no traffic.

Getting there

The recommended starting point is Kirby Underdale church. There is limited roadside parking here plus other opportunities on the village street. Kirby Underdale is 15 miles from York via the A166 through Stamford Bridge. It’s also possible to start from Thixendale where roadside parking is available. There are no public transport options to either village.

Refreshments

None are available as the pub at Thixendale is currently closed.

What to see

Kirby Underdale is one of the most attractive East Riding villages nestling at the bottom of the Wolds. The church has much of interest including a Roman carving set in the wall. While architecturally less appealing, Thixendale sits in a deep hollow at the intersection of several valleys. The walk traverses several typical Wolds dry valleys. The hillsides above Kirby Underdale provide far-reaching views. The area is rich in wildlife, the gallery of renowned naturalist and artist Robert Fuller is just off route. Four hares and numerous kites were spotted when the walk was checked.

Kirby Underdale and Thixendale

Time: 3 3/4 hours Distance: 8 miles

1. At the church entrance, take the signed footpath over grass walking near the stream. Cross the bridge and go up a bank to a gate. Through this, go half left as signed towards a tree then follow the fence/hedge down into a dip. Cross another bridge guarded by gates, then go slightly left across the field heading towards prominent trees left of the buildings to a gate.

2. Turn left on the road downhill, but in 200 metres, turn off right on a track signed ‘Woodley Farmhouse’. Remain on this as it curves downhill and then rises after a stream. Where the track goes sharp right, keep ahead going through a gate into a grass field. Head straight across to another gate.

3. Immediately after this gate, turn sharp right walking uphill adjacent to the hedge. Keep climbing, passing trees/ houses to the right to reach the right corner of the large hillside field. Turn left, but in 150 metres by a prominent tree, leave the field through a gate on the right to head uphill alongside a wood on the left. Go through a further gate continuing in the same direction with trees on the right. After another gate, do not go ahead, but turn left along the hedge to the left corner of the field. Here, turn right uphill with the hedge left, continuing to a road.

4. Turn left on the road for 600 metres until a track on the right (‘Thixendale Grange’). Follow the track downhill passing houses on the left. Where the track turns left into the farm, go right through a gate on a grassy track. In 40 metres, where this divides, go left into the valley bottom. Now continue in the valley passing through several gates to eventually arrive at a lone signpost. Here, go right to reach a road near a house. Continue ahead (right) into Thixendale.

5. Walk through the village ignoring all roads/paths off. After a no-through road on the left, continue to a Tjunction at the edge of the village. Turn right keeping on the valley bottom road (Wolds Way) ignoring two roads leading left.

6. After 700 metres, at a prominent sign, turn left off the road over the valley bottom field on a track. Go through the gate keeping on the track with a grassy slope left. Where the track fades keep going in the valley bottom through a gate. Follow the valley as it curves right walking alongside a row of trees. Through a further gate, curve left then right to reach a four-way signpost.

7. Here, veer half right toward the side valley soon going through a gate/stile. Continue up the grassy, gradually steepening valley. At a sign, go left as indicated up the slope. Reaching two gates, go through the one to the right turning immediately left alongside the hedge with the field to the right. At the field corner, go half left for 50 metres to a track. Follow this as it curves right then heads across open fields to eventually pass a farm and reach a road.

8. Turn left, but in 250 metres go right (signed Kirby Underdale). Continue on this quiet road downhill for about 1000 metres until it bends right by buildings. Here, go ahead (no through road sign). Go through a gate, but in 30 metres take a grassy enclosed track right of the house. As the track turns left go through a gate on the right to follow a faint path across a field to a gate. At the road turn left to return to Kirby Underdale church.

Disclaimer

Walks are undertaken at your own risk. Due care must be taken in following the walk, particularly after poor weather. Whilst every care is taken in compiling the description changes may have occurred since publication. Neither the walk author nor Your Local Link can accept any responsibility for errors or omissions

With more than 80 years of history as a hotel, The York Marriott Hotel is making a few very exciting changes, with a multimillion-pound investment and rebrand.

The hotels under the Marriott group are renowned for offering visitors a seamless travel experience in more than 90 locations across North America, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Still part of Marriott International, Marriott York has recently been rebranded to Delta Hotels by Marriott York. This change means that the hotel will be undergoing an exciting refresh through the coming months, including guest rooms, the hotel restaurant - Cast Iron Bar & Grill, meeting rooms, and public spaces.

Tom Rose, Hotel Sales Leader at the Delta Hotels by Marriott York said: “This is very exciting for the hotel, the rebrand brings new investment that will enhance our guest’s experience. We are still part of Marriott Bonvoy, the world’s best loyalty programme and the team members are very excited for what the new chapter brings for this iconic hotel.”

Work began on the 1876 manor house on the 21st of November to be completed by the summer of 2023. The project will be run over six phases allowing the hotel to operate with minimal disruption to guests’ experience.

Watch this space!

For more information on Delta Hotels by Marriott York, please visit www. marriott.co.uk/ hotels/travel/ lbayd-deltahotels-york/.

TIME TO SHINE TIME TO SHINE

Have you got a Good News story you want to tell us about? Maybe you’ve raised money for charity, perhaps you know of a local business that is thriving and deserves a shout, or maybe your pet kitten has just won Cat of the Year…you get the idea.

Whatever positivity you’ve got for us, it’s your time to shine!

Email info@yourlocallink.co.uk with the subject ‘Good News’ for your chance to be featured in our monthly mag!

C R A F T Y COMMUNITY A

Tadcrafters is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to encouraging volunteers to collaborate in creative projects and donate their final products to worthy, local causes.

Initially set up after the impactful floods of 2015 and 2016, this Tadcaster-based group has since been supporting a wide range of charities, helping people to learn new skills whilst developing a social network of dedicated volunteers across the area.

The organisation also pride themselves on their eco-friendly ethos, which they hope to reinforce throughout 2023.

Speaking about the new year ahead, a spokesperson from the

organisation said: “We would like to lead the way to help our community make the most from local resources, produce less waste and raise awareness about how we can all help the environment.”

Items made are mainly created from recycled donations of various fabrics and wood which are provided by locals. In the past, the Tadcrafters have sourced items such as bags for St. Leonard’s Hospice, patchwork quilts for the special Care Baby Unit in York Hospital and blankets for Age UK, to name a few.

So, if you fancy getting crafty, you want to give a helping hand or you’re seeking more information, please visit tadcrafters.org.uk.

new displays”

IN TIME FROZEN IN TIME

Take a trip through the ages this February with the York Ice Trail! Yes, following the huge success of 2022, Make It York’s much-anticipated family-friendly event is back in business.

Last year saw over 25,000 participators hunt for over 40 fantastic ice sculptures, all dotted across the city. This year’s theme will centre around ‘A Journey Through Time’ and will provide a number of prehistoric to presentday themed sculptures, all designed and created by awardwinning ice experts, Icebox. Each sculpture will also be sponsored by a local business.

Speaking of this year’s event, Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of

the City of York Council, said:“Our city is well known and loved for its vibrant businesses, so many of whom have joined the festivities this year, with an impressive 36 sculptures set to bring some extra magic to the city. With so many sculptures and ways to get involved, this year’s festival promises to be another unmissable event.”

A fantastic initiative for the city, the Ice Trail is not only the perfect event for keen visitors and locals alike but also great for encouraging more city goers to enjoy the array of restaurants, attractions, and shops we have here in York. For more information, please visit visityork.org/york-ice-trail.

York Museums Trust to secure further funding

They may specialise in all things from the past, but York Museums Trust is headed for a very promising future with their latest, exciting announcement. With an agreement to support the Trust for the next three years as a National Portfolio Organisation, the Arts Council is offering a whopping £3.7 million worth of funding from April of this year,

through to March 2026. Despite these testing times of economic uncertainty, the agreed financial support is excellent news and means that millions of tourists and locals alike, can continue to enjoy the Trust’s venues and gardens for more years to come. For the latest information, please visit www.yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk.

The annual National Apprenticeship Week is back for its 15th year. Between the 6th and 12th of February, several events will be held throughout Yorkshire and the rest of England to promote the benefits of apprenticeships for employees and employers alike. Whether you’re leaving school this year, changing careers, or are a current student planning your next move, there are hundreds of apprenticeships to choose from. Providing you with hands-on training and in some cases, qualifications to help further your future career, apprenticeships are free and funded by your employer and the government. The theme of

this year’s National Apprenticeship Week will be ‘Skills for Life'.

During the week, there will be hundreds of virtual and in-person events including helpful resources available for students, including the new ‘Apprenticeship Arcade for 2023’, which features fun, informative, and engaging games. For more information, or to browse apprenticeship opportunities close to your area, visit www.apprenticeships.gov.uk.

SOLUTIONS

Business & Home Support

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PAPERBACK

Maybe you consider yourself as passionate for trains as legendary trainspotter, Francis Bourgeois or maybe you’re on the lookout to find the perfect read for the new year…either way, we have a recommendation for you. Tracing the history of one of the most popular heritage railway

SoRetro

Our world of technology is everevolving and faster than we can blink are new gadgets being manufactured. Whilst the latest and greatest technology is all fun and games, there’s nothing quite like a good old look back at the gadget has-beens. So, out of a pure nostalgic yearning to be back in our pre-teenage bedrooms all plastered in Take That posters, we thought we’d take a trip back in time.

sites in Britain, author, Michael Vanns appeals to locomotive lovers across the world in his cultural work, The North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Transporting hundreds of thousands of sightseers in traditional steam and diesel hauled trains, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway itself has been a well-loved attraction for decades, and Vann’s book sheds light on its popularity, developments and changes alongside a collection

of fascinating photographs from across the years.

Now marking the 5th year since its initial release as a hardback, publishing company, Pen and Sword have issued a brand new paperback version of Vanns’ historical guide. So, next time you’re taking the train, why not grab a brew, sit back and immerse yourself in your very own locomotive travel through time? For more information, please visit www.pen-and-sword.co.uk.

GAMEBOY ADVANCE

FURBIE

How many do you remember?

TAMAGOTCHI

Throwing it back to 1997, with the introduction of the egg-shaped, pixelated Tamagotchi. When the best thing since sliced bread was seeing your little ‘gotchi grow and then, of course, the devastating moment you came back from school to a blank screen with nothing but a pair of angel wings…

Ahh yes. The GBA. Many a bedtime was spent hiding under your sheets sweating out Sonic the Hedgehog when your lights should have been out. This chunky, handheld game console was every game-lovers best friend for a time. Until the cool, Gameboy Advance SP took over that is.

WALKMAN

Who can forget the days of chunky cassette tapes and listening to story books on long car journeys? The times when fast forwarding to a song took a certain ounce of mathematical. guesswork and rewinding the tape to the beginning took longer than boiling a kettle.

In hindsight, these furry creatures were terrifying and we’re currently sat here wondering how these ever came to be. Still, they’re part of our history, a 1990s rite of passage. This earwiggling, blinking, and ‘Furbish’ talking creature just had to make our list.

POLAROID CAMERA

There’s a reason OutKast wanted us to shake it like a polaroid picture, and that’s because this gadget was just so chuffing cool. Cooler than cool in fact. The colour polaroid has been going since the 1960s and let's face it, it's not going anywhere. No matter how many models they bring out, these cool cameras will never go out of style.

NDY’S AUTOS

An array on display

It’s been a very busy start to the year here at Herbert Todd’s HQ at Monks Cross and with the dust now settling on some great new displays we would love to invite you all in for a look at what we’ve been up to!

First off, we have put together some fabulous new kitchen areas to showcase one of our British manufacturers. The two new kitchen designs have been put together with an emphasis on value for money, they hopefully prove that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a fantastic new kitchen. These two new displays, plus a lovely boot room idea, bring the total number of kitchens to ten, so there’s hopefully something for everyone!

The other major area of interest has been an overhaul of our dedicated SMEG area that has brought the display right up to date with beautiful ovens, retro fridges, range cookers, and a colourful range of kettles, toasters, mixers, and blenders. A huge thank you to SMEG for recognising Herbert Todd as one of their exclusive Premio Partners and for refitting the store for us! Please pop-in for a look at this “brand with a difference”, and get the best prices on this iconic kit. We have heard your feedback about our television displays and we agree that we eventually need to increase again the number of products, so we’re making space for another nine large TVs showcasing the latest OLED and QLED tech. These will be complemented by sound bars, surround sound systems,

and recorders, plus products that will give you a great alternative to SKY if you’re bored of paying their prices!

Remember that whatever you need electrically, we’re only a phone call away. Please, if you haven’t already, give us a try, or give us a call on 01904 62876 for more information.

Bills, Bills, Bills

With rising costs, it might be that you find yourself struggling to pay your energy bills. If that sounds all too familiar, don’t be afraid to get in touch with your supplier. According to regulation, they must help when required and there are various ways they may do so, for example, they may provide you with a full payment plan review, payment breaks in some cases, reduction, more time to pay or they may even offer hardship funds. The outcome of the support you receive will be reviewed according to personal circumstances.

Usually, any additional support credit and special repayment plans will be given to those in vulnerable situations, for example, those with a disability or individuals at state pension age. However, even if this is not you, your supplier could still offer support credit.

If you’re low on funds and if you have a prepayment meter, all suppliers should offer small amounts of emergency credit. How you access it depends on the type of meter, and your supplier will be able to tell you how it operates. Any emergency credit you receive must be paid back the next time that you top up your meter. Just remember, if you are seeking additional support, it can take a few good weeks to process your claim, so it's worth getting in touch as soon as you are able.

DID YOU KNOW?

If you’re struggling to heat your home, there are also local Warm Spaces you can go to within the city. Turn to p.30 to learn more.

Domestic.

Enhance your home with our beautiful made-to-measure shading solutions. We offer an unrivalled range of blinds and curtains suitable for all domestic purposes. Choose from a huge range of styles, finishes and accessories.

Commercial.

At Inspired Blinds we specialise in manufacturing and installing commercial blinds for offices, shops, hotels, schools, public sector buildings, factories and much more! No job is too big or small.

Flooring for less

YORKSHIRE LTD

WE HEAR FROM LOCAL EXPERT, MATT TODD

MICK LAMBERT GROUNDWORKS & LANDSCAPING

UNDERCOVER SPINACH

Tony Chalcraft

Have

tried to grow spinach and have you been disappointed?

You’d think a leafy crop like spinach would be relatively easy to grow. The reality, however, is different. Getting a worthwhile harvest of spinach leaves can be quite difficult. The main reason for this is that through a lot of the year spinach tends to run rapidly to seed or in gardening parlance ‘bolts’, that is, it sends up a towering seed shoot instead of producing goodsized harvestable leaves.

Before looking at the reasons for this bad habit, let’s be clear about which type of spinach we're talking about. It’s not perpetual spinach or spinach ‘beet’. This is often called ‘spinach’ but is an entirely different plant related to beetroot, chard,

and sugar beet. It has the advantage of far greater resistance to bolting, hence the ‘perpetual’ prefix, but is otherwise, at least in my opinion, inferior - the leaves having a stringier midrib, paler colour, and poorer flavour. Real spinach on the other hand (Spinacia oleracea) has leaves with a soft and edible midrib, a darker green colour and, most importantly, a better, less ‘earthy’ taste.

The key to growing spinach successfully is to understand its sensitivity to temperature and day length. Once the former exceeds around 14 hours or the latter tops about 23 Celsius the propensity to bolting is increased. Essentially it’s a short day, cool season crop. Grown when the days are long and

the temperature high there’s unlikely to be many leaves to pick as the sprouting of a seed shoot will soon be triggered. Because of this, I only grow spinach for harvesting from October through to May. With the exception of an occasional outdoor planting in late summer for autumn picking, this is done undercover in a greenhouse or polytunnel.

Spinach likes it cool, not very cold. Although it may sit and sulk in the cold and dark of December and January it’ll soon bounce back. Once the days lengthen and the temperature ticks up in late February strong growth will resume.This means that the next couple of months are the peak of the spinach harvest for me. Plants started in the autumn should be in full production in the greenhouse and polytunnels. These were started from seed sown into multicell modules (compartmentalised trays) from September onwards.

Three to five seeds were sown per cell. The resulting clusters of plants were then transplanted into the greenhouse and polytunnel beds as summer crops finished at 1520cm spacing. The varieties used were my favourites Amazon and Palco, both readily obtainable from seed companies.

This method of growing spinach in the cooler months works for me and is well worth a try where some undercover space is available. If a greenhouse has no soil beds, pots filled with compost or grow bags used for tomatoes in the summer can still give reasonable results.

There are a few other hazards to watch out for. Slugs, or mice if they can get access, may nibble the leaves of the plants when they’re small. It’s also important to take care of the watering. Dousing the plants overhead with water is an invitation to fungal problems. Yet with a little care growing spinach undercover during the cooler months is far easier than struggling with it outdoors in summer.

KNAVESMIRE WOOD

Protected by the Woodland Trust, this local, Victorian wood in the heart of the Knavesmire is full of fauna and shrubbery, including ivy, bramble, and fern. The spotted woodpecker and tawny owl, among other woodland birds, can also be found here.

HAGG WOOD

With a long history, the leafy Hagg Wood was once a significant woodland pasture that offered animals shelter and forage, feed, and timber for construction during the conquest of the Normans. Today, it stands as a beautiful site where visitors can enjoy hearing the different birdsongs of cuckoos, wood pigeons, and woodpeckers. And, if lucky enough, you might also sneak a peek at a fox or deer!

Springtime is also a lovely time to visit as the bluebells, primrose,

and violets begin to bloom.

MOORLANDS WOODLAND NATURE RESERVE

A sea of colour in the spring, this lovely little woodland nature reserve can be located on the outskirts of Wigginton. From primroses and maples to snowdrops and rhododendrons, there is plenty to admire in this peaceful little, wooded haven.

AND IF YOU’RE HEADED A LITTLE FURTHER AFIELD…

ALLERTHORPE WOOD

A flat area in the Vale of York that's perfect for an easy stroll and an escape from city life, Allerthorpe Wood is brimming with wildlife, and even adders can be found in the woodland during the autumn months!

DALBY FOREST

Whether you’re exploring on foot or taking your pushbike for a spin, there are 8,500 acres of stunning scenery to explore at Dalby Forest. In the centre of North York Moors National Park, why not spend a day emerging yourself with beautiful views and a hearty dose of fresh air? If you’re looking for a full day out with a family, there’s also an activity centre with plenty of fun activities to take part in.

In the spirit of Valentine’s Day and all that, we thought we’d shine a spotlight on one of our favourite, homely plants: the String of Hearts, otherwise known as Ceropegia Woodii.

If you’re looking to care for one of these beauties, they’re going to need a bright environment to thrive in. That being said, make sure you position it away from direct sunlight as you don’t want the leaves to

KNOCK ON WOOD

If you go down to the woods today, you’re sure of a great surprise, indeed!

If you’re a nature lover, February is a great month for birdwatching. Specifically, it's a great time to look out for the great spotted woodpecker. Great spotted woodpeckers drum loudly on dead wood found amid trees and occasionally even on house boardings or other metalwork, so it's likely that you'll hear them before you see them.

With drumming skills of up to 40 strikes per second (the impact of which is like ramming into a wall at 20 miles an hour, face-first… insane!) This woodpecker has a hinge between the front of its skull and

singe! Your String of Hearts will also need to be watered once or twice a week in the spring and summer months, and every fortnight during the winter. And, if the leaves start to turn a yellowish colour, that probably means you’re giving it a little too much love. If this happens, just gently remove the dead leaves and allow your plant to dry out before continuing its feeding regime.

beak, and a shock-absorbing muscle, which ultimately protects his brain from vibration and concussion, allowing him to do his thing.

Whilst the male woodpecker does most of the drumming, as his way of marking his territory and letting the lady ‘peckers know that he’s available, the female will eventually reply by drumming back when mating season approaches and spring begins to bloom.

The fascinating wonders of nature, ey? For more information, visit www. gwct.org.uk.

Give us a home...

Have a home? These cutie pies need one.

A recent National project, A Warm Place is offering up venues free of charge to provide comfortable refuge for anyone who is struggling to heat their home this winter.

As part of this initiative, Explore York is offering welcoming spaces within 15 libraries across the city of York. From board games to book groups, each library offers fun and free activities for all ages. Extra facilities include the use of computers and printers, tech support, free wifi, and low-cost hot meals at the Explore Reading

Cafés. Additional to the library spaces with Explore York, Live

Well York also offers a directory of Warm Places in York, venues which offer seating and facilities with no requirement to buy anything.

Please visit www.livewellyork. co.uk for more information.

HOST WITH THE MOST

Is there a spare room going in your gaff?

Have you ever considered hosting an international student? Helping to make them feel at home in a new country, host families provide safe and

comfortable accommodation for students. From spending mealtimes together, participating in fun activities, supporting their health and wellbeing as well as engaging in conversation, the student will become part of your family for the duration of their stay. And, as well as being part of their immersive experience in discovering a brand new culture, you’ll get a bit of extra cash for the job too!

Curious? Visit www.york.ac.uk/ global/summer-schools-andshort-courses/hosting for more information.

Portly Hirsute, Male, 10 years

This mammoth chap is portly by name and most definitely portly by nature. After his previous owner sadly passed away, this puss is not only in desperate need of a loving new home, but also will need an owner who can help him get back on track with a strict diet and a rigorous fitness regime!

Mistletoe, Female, 1½ years

This delightful young lady has certainly had a lasting effect on us! It probably has something to do with those lovely purrs she rumbles out and the adoration with which she looks up at you while you are holding her plate of dinner! Mistletoe is not just for Christmas, nope our Mistletoe is for life and when this little feline comes home with you you’ll wonder how you ever lived without her!

KEEPING ‘EM COSY

If you’re decluttering your home and getting rid of any old bedding or blankets, why not donate them to your local animal shelter? There are plenty of loving pups that need warm beds this February and many local shelters across Yorkshire rely on donations to keep

their gorgeous animals cosy and comfortable. If you can help, please contact your local shelter for further information or to check what items they might need, as there are some items, such as pillows and feather duvets, they might not accept.

Better

Whether you’re taking your first steps on your fitness journey or you’re looking to stay in shape, you and your family will find everything you need at your local Better Leisure centre in York. Across their four leisure centres: Energise Leisure Centre, York Leisure Centre, Yearsley Pool, and Burnholme Sports Centre, there is a great range of activities guaranteed to help achieve your goals, whether it’s being more physically active, help towards your mental well-being or to learn a new skill such as climbing or swimming. They offer a wide range of non-contract

memberships from city-wide access, centre only, off-peak, senior, and concessionary options, and because they’re a Charitable Social Enterprise every penny they make is re-invested back into improving facilities and services for everyone to enjoy. To find out more please email us at York.Leisure@GLL.ORG or visit our website https://www.better. org.uk/york

RUN, YORKIES, RUN!

Fancy jazzing up your exercise regime? Bringing the local community together (as well as visitors from all over the world), parkrun is a global, weekly, free and sociable 5k event that takes place every Saturday morning. If you’re now experiencing flashbacks of the days of school and stitch-inducing cross country, rest assured, it's nothing like that. The beauty of parkrun is that no matter how fast or slow you want to take it, you can participate

at your own leisure…there is no time frame or bossy PE teacher for that matter! And, when you’re done, many of the parkrun events have hot refreshment facilities, so you can enjoy a well-deserved brew and brekkie afterwards. Sound like something you’d like to get on board with? There are a couple of parkrun spots close by to get you started, including York, New Earswick, Heslington, and Selby. So, whether you’re a novice runner, a competitive racer, a walker, hopper, or skipper, register at www.parkrun. org.uk now! On your marks Yorkshire…

Events

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4TH-5TH FEBRUARY

YORK ICE TRAIL, York City Centre. Time travel through the prehistoric age, walk through history and step into the future on ‘A Journey through Time’ at York Ice Trail 2023. 36 handcrafted sculptures from different times and dimensions are waiting to be discovered across the city of York. For more information, visit https://www.visityork.org/yorkice-trail.

// 4-5TH

FEBRUARY

YORK ICE TRAIL ARTISAN MARKET, Spurriergate Centre, YO1 9QR. A friendly and welcoming market with plenty of beautiful, handmade art and crafts. This event is free to attend.

//

11TH FEBRUARY

YORK GUILDHALL ORCHESTRA, York Barbican, 7.30pm. York Guildhall Orchestra welcome Leeds Festival Chorus in an all-Beethoven concert, including the incredible Symphony No.9 “The Choral”. For more information, please visit www.yorkbarbican.co.uk.

//

23RD FEBRURARY

YORK CAREERS FAIR, Hilton York, 10am-2pm. Meet local and

national employers face-to-face, and apply directly for hundreds of vacancies. The York Careers Fair is open to anyone and everyonethere is always such a wide variety of employers exhibiting,meaning that there are opportunities for individuals of all ages and all levels of experience. This event is free to attend.

// 11TH-19TH

FEBRUARY

JORVIK VIKING FESTIVAL, Parliament Street, York. Enjoy nine days of living history, hands-on fun, craft workshops and many other favourite family friendly activities from a spectacular Jobalot Feast to a Battle Spectacular and much more. Scan the QR code to find out more.

COMING SOON…

// 5TH MARCH CIRQUE: THE GREATEST SHOW, York Barbican.With an all-star cast, spectacular circus performers, and some of the greatest hits

from smash musicals, such as The Greatest Showman, Hairspray and Moulin Rouge, get ready to experience this fascinating world of Cirque.

Grand Opera House

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

// 2ND FEBRUARY

THE MAGIC OF THE BEE GEES, Celebrating the music of The Bee Gees, Entertainers group bring you all your favourite songs, including Night Fever, Stayin’ Alive, More Than A Woman and How Deep is Your Love.

// 7TH-11TH FEBRUARY

AN INSPECTOR CALLS, When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the home of the wealthy Birling family, news of the death of a young woman shakes the very foundations of their lives. A play of morals and the questioning of consciences, J.B Priestley’s An Inspector Calls, comes knocking at the Grand Opera House this February.

York Theatre Royal

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

// 14TH- 18TH FEBRUARY

CHARLIE & STAN, A hilarious and moving story, this show tells the tale of one of the most famous comedy double acts of the 1900s: Charlie Chaplin and Stan Laurel.

// 22ND FEBRUARY- 4TH MARCH SWEENEY TODD, York Light Opera Company bring Sondheim’s spectacular Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street to the stage. A tasty, thrilling, tale of a Georgian-era barber who returns home to London after fifteen years of exile to take revenge on the corrupt judge who ruined his life.

Joseph Rowntree Theatre

To book, call 01904 501935 or visit josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk.

// 8TH- 11TH FEBRUARY

HELLO DOLLY, An American musical, set in 1885 that tells the tale of widow New-Yorker, Dolly Levi in her pursuit of wealthy, Horace Vandergelder. A joyful production not to be missed!

Railblazers

As many start thinking about their 2023 travel plans, travel by train may be challenging in the UK at the moment, but it is certainly proving very popular within Europe and beyond.

With regular Eurostar services from London to Paris, Amsterdam and Brussels it means reaching the likes of Cologne, Reims, or Milan with just one change of train required in a seamless, relaxed day of travel.

Did you know you can enjoy breakfast in London, lunch in Paris, and a late evening meal in Barcelona? All with one change of train from the Eurostar to TGV in Paris. Once on board, you can relax and get comfortable in your reserved seating while enjoying the

scenery as you travel. With our tailor-made service, we can create your bespoke trip to suit your requirements. You may choose to combine the city of Paris with a visit to the Swiss Alps before continuing your journey into Northern Italy. Alternatively, you may decide to fly further afield, combining various locations without the hassle of internal flights or sometimes costly car hire. Head for the Canadian city of Halifax, the capital of the coastal Province of Nova Scotia, before taking the overnight sleeper VIA Rail service known as the Ocean to Montreal in Quebec Province. Our tailor-made service also allows us to tailor iconic rail journeys, including South Africa’s Rovos

Rail, Australia’s The Ghan, the Venice Simplon Orient Express, or Spain’s Al Andalus alongside the remainder of your travel requirements, including hotels, tours, and flights ensuring your full trip is financially protected. Travel by train is becoming easier with a new sleeper service coming in 2023 from Brussels to Berlin. More exciting new routes are also being planned for 2024 and beyond, so now really is the time to consider a rail holiday. If you wish to discuss possible travel options visit us at 88 Main Street, Fulford, or call 01904 623444. We look forward to speaking to you.

Kerry Lakey

ADVERTISERS AT A GLANCE

SR Fabrications 29

ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

D Inglis Accountancy 5

CJ Ramsay 19

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Aerius 38

Dale Comm Aerials Ltd 37

ABC Aerials 37

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APPLIANCE REPAIRS

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MAINTENANCE

Justin Higginson 38

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COMPUTERS/WEB DESIGN

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DECORATORS

Alan Fawcett Painter 39

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C.K.W. Decorators 39

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Comprehensive Decorative Svs 39 Gary Roe Painter 39

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PVC UK 25

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Rawcliffe Guttering 40

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Lavelle Joinery 13

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LOCKS/SECURITY/ALARMS

Afford a Lock 41

Dr Locks Ltd 41

GC Electronics 23

Keep Safe 41

Laurel Bank Locksmiths 41

Lockline Locksmiths 41

LOFT LADDERS

Yorkshire Loft Ladders 17

MOTOR PARTS/SERVICES

Andy’s Autos 20

Barkers Garage 21

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OVEN CLEANING

Oven Clean 9

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Huntcatchkill 28

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JM Plastering 41

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1A Rapid Response 41

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LLoyd Removals 42

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Advanced Roofing 43

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Want to get in touch? Call 01904 767881. All calls to and from the office are recorded.

Safeway Roofing 44

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York Stadium 1

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JG Windows York Ltd 15 Kevin Lea UPVC 45

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WORKTOPS/KITCHENS

Dales of Thirsk Ltd 8

Kitchen Makeovers 23

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