THE VOICE OF HILLAM VILLAGE
HILLAM NEWS
AUGUST 2016 VOLUME 29 ISSUE 3
Village of Hope and Glory Well, it may not have been a spectacular summer in terms of the weather but it certainly has when it comes to sporting, historical, entertainment and social activity.
We also have a thriving pub once more with Mel and Jayne organising loads of events on a regular basis…….
How lucky we are to live in a village with such a spectacular communal and social agenda. But it’s not luck really; it’s the endeavours of so many individuals that make these things happen, in many cases people who give up weeks or months of their year to toil away unnoticed. It is the collective effort of so many individuals that make this wonderful community that we live in.
Saturday July 16 brought us Proms at the Pavilion, a spectacular night that saw hundreds of villagers and friends waving flags and merry-making to a night of choral and brass band music, culminating in a terrific firework display to the tune of Jerusalem, Pomp and Circumstance and ….and Hillam News is back ! So, this issue’s front page is to celebrate our Land of Hope and Glory. community’s activities. As the empty bottles were being cleared The waiting is over and from the cricket ground, it was the turn of the village has spoken…. Family Fun Day to set up for another day of …..the new Ring Tree will village celebration.
be a…………..
The Tour de Yorkshire seems but a distant memory, as does The Archbishop of York’s visit, the Finding Fryston archaeological dig at Monk Fryston Hall, which was succeeded by the recent Village Dig, a further source of many more artefacts to help interpret the history of the village. The Burger-in-the-barn night Barrow was also a huge success.
at
Bert’s There’s barely time to draw breath, though, with Bert’s Barrow Producers’ Day coming up shortly and, of course, the Beer Festival. Add to this all the smaller events such as Maspin House Open Garden and the list of Olympic champions that visited us, plus Jacob Rees-Mogg—and we have our very own B.E.M in the village, awarded to Tony Hudson. Its been a pretty special year for Hillam and Monk Fryston so far; and with a lot more to come.
OK….maybe not……see the result on Page 5
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The Seasons They Do Change Once the days lengthen and the clocks go forward, spring is well and truly in the air. That air may be a little on the chilly side but seedlings and buds burst into life and give us the first real colour, especially after such a gloomy winter.
First the blue and yellow pansies appeared to herald the arrival of the Tour de Yorkshire, with the grass verges, cow parsley and dandelions, buttercups and errant oil-seed hawthorn in hot pursuit. rape and the tresses of laburnum.
for early summer in mid-July. From then on, it just gets better as the bees appear on the cornflowers, the heady, sweet scent of honeysuckle hangs on a still evening
Unfortunately, limited amounts of sunshine and free time to spend with the camera meant most of the photos were shot on grey days but, nonetheless, provided welcome swathes of colour. Not having walked down The straggly stems and coils of clematis seem to find their way into every, nook, cranny and fissure on the old shed but springtime always brings its reward as a great fluffy sea of blooms smothers the roof like a plump duvet. With a bit of good fortune, it will also provide a good display in autumn.
...and finally...the rose.
Stocking Lane for a long time, it was a pleasant surprise to find the new path through the trees by the cricket ground. A splash of red seems to set off any photo and the poppies never disappoint as they let The hawthorn was especially profuse this us know that spring is finally turning into year and was soon joined by the yellows of early summer. This year, we’re still waiting
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Editorial Comment by Robert Kingsbury In This Issue 2 The seasons they do change 4 The birding column 5 Hillam rocks - a faulty village 6 Road safety 7 School report 8 Our local stores 9 News bites 10 Thoughts from the rectory 11 Monk Fryston and Hillam Beer Festival 12 My summer in Hillam 13 The new centrefold 17 Proms at the Pavilion 18 Hillam Parish Council 19 William’s Blue Tit diary 20 Readers write 21 Rock-climbing pensioners wanted 22 Classified advertisements 26 From Main Street to Fleet Street 27 Family Fun Day 28 Stop press
Editorial Contacts Hillam News email hillamnews@gmail.com Secretary Shona McWhirter shonamcwhirter@icloud.com Editor Robert Kingsbury compost51@aol.com Deputy Editor Pat Atkinson patatkinson@gmail.com Treasurer David Edwards exsite@exsite.plus.com Distribution Betty Wright Bettywright333@gmail.com Local Services Clubs and Groups Julie Staker attajulie@gmail.com Proof Readers Mick Merry mick.merry@hotmail.co.uk Hilary Curd c1urd@hotmail.com Graham Baker gdbaker15@btinternet.com
I recall making a rather ironic joke a few them anyway as the ladies definitely had years ago about a paragraph on the front enough interests to keep them talking page of Hillam News. It was about the without interruption from 11am to 9pm. group “Women with Interests”. It was just a short paragraph which included the “saysit-all” line, “No meeting for the last four months !” How that has changed in recent years. They now meet regularly and get up to all sorts of activities and often including a Ladies Lunch. It was at one of these lunches that I was approached to see if I would fill the role of Master of Ceremonies at their Ladies Alternative Ascot Day. I hasten to add that the reason I was at this particular Ladies Lunch was because I was cooking it, not attending it. How could I refuse ? Rather naively, I thought we were going to the races at York. I’ve never been to a meeting at York, so it was with a little disappointment that I found out that it was an all-day lunch at a deserted racecourse, with races televised from Ascot. Having thought that I would be chaperoning a dozen or so of the ladies from Monk Fryston and Hillam around a crowded race meeting and making sure they were in the right place at the right time, especially on the bus home, I was rather surprised when the “minibus” arrived for us all waiting at the Crown, This 50-seater already had thirty or so chattering ladies dressed in their finery and fascinators. As I boarded the bus last of all, one or two voices said “Oh, Robert’s here, we’ll be alright.” It’s funny how people you know from other places turn up most unexpectedly. I think their confidence was greater than mine. At this stage, I still wasn’t exactly sure what my role was, but I soon realised that, whatever it was, I had to do it for 160 ladies (most of whom I didn’t know) rather than a dozen that I did know. It turned out that I was basically an announcer of events throughout the day and a chivvier of the ladies to spend money on all sorts for the good cause of Action Medical Research for children with unique difficulties. I had brushed up on one or two jokes, which could be regarded as mildly sexist but not offensively so, especially to ladies that I already knew. I soon decided not to risk those and, indeed, there was little opportunity to tell
I must admit that, when there was a lull in my announcements, I did enjoy going to the bar and chatting to the barmen about football, especially as England were playing Wales in Euro 2016 The final irony of the day was when I announced the winner of the Best Outfit, it turned out to be someone else who I have met once or twice before. When I asked her in an email a week later if she was still glorying in her victory, she answered “Yes, but how did you know ?” It’s great to be recognised ! Anyway, following on from the theme of this issue of Hillam News, it was yet another fantastic example of how social life in the village is booming. Not content with a day of merriment, the ladies then dragged me off to the Cross Keys and proceeded to out-drink me. Long may “Women with Interests “prosper. *** Sadly, we have lost more villagers in the last couple of months. It is very difficult in a small publication such as this to include a proper obituary, primarily because the last thing we wish to do is to harass their loved ones for “a story”. Likewise, we don’t wish to publish too much of an obituary written by someone else without the approval of the family. Nevertheless, the loss of any villager in a community such as ours is always felt strongly, especially as, once again, we have lost someone so young. *** I have sent another email, and digital issue of Hillam News, to our Selby District Councillor, John Mackman. In this instance, it was about the hedgerows that were ripped out in readiness for the Redrow development being replaced. I know I must appear to be always criticising our District Council in Hillam News but if they never even acknowledge correspondence, let alone reply to them, then what can they expect?
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The Birding Column by Graham Todd This issue covers sightings from 1st May, Whitethroat. and it was on the 5th of the month that I received an email from Imelda Smolinski I flushed a pair of Grey Partridge, another telling me that she had seen a Little Egret nationally scarce bird, which flew low and in fields bordering Betteras Hill Road, which must have been quite a surprise when it flew up in front of her. Sightings of these birds are dropping now that we are in the breeding season, as they have presumably returned to where they breed, which is somewhere in Lincolnshire I believe. Imelda also spotted a Hobby flying over the brick ponds on 14th May; a very good record Yellowhammer indeed.
Northern Wheatear I had a call from Stuart Wroe about three Northern Wheatears, together with a party of vividly coloured Yellow Wagtails that was frequenting bare ground on the outskirts of Burton Salmon in early May. The only Cuckoo I have heard of this year
Yellow Wagtail in these parts, was one that Jenny heard calling to the south of us on 8th May. They are still recorded each year at Fairburn, so why have they decreased around here so dramatically? Maybe it’s like housing, some villages are now fashionable, others not so much. It was 26th May, on a typical warm, yet damp evening, that I decided to wander off down Betteras Hill Road to check my Barn Owl box. This was when our hedgerows were at their best, with hawthorn and buckthorn in full bloom, buttercups in abundance in the meadows, hedgerows full of nesting birds; some of them in national decline, which is why the value of our p r e c i o us h e d g e r o w s c a n n o t b e underestimated. Yellowhammers seemed to be singing from every bush, interspersed with the occasional rattle of a Lesser
weeks’ holiday, like I did last year, with the knowledge that the hedges would be safe in the hands of the Parish Council.
The next I heard on my return from holiday in mid June, was that on 6th June, contractors had come in and massacred the hedgerows bordering the public footpath, the hedgerows that just over a week earlier had been full of nesting birds, and that the police were now involved. Now whether the contractor took the decision to cut the hedges back to such an extent on his own initiative is something for others to decide, but surely, having been given such clear fast across the field, seeking cover. I spent a and unambiguous advice beforehand, the couple of hours just wandering about, Parish Council as a whole, must bear the listening to the cacophony of bird song, bulk of responsibility for this callous act of enjoying the peace and solitude. destruction. Ok, so there is a responsibility to maintain, but why do it at the start of A Barn Owl glided silently out of the deep green recesses of the oak tree next to my nest box, unperturbed by my presence, before alighting in the shaded fork of a young cherry tree. I mimicked the hissing of young Barn Owl under my box, to see if any other owls could be tempted onto the ledge of my box but, to my surprise, it was a young Little Owl that fluttered out of the adjacent oak tree, pursued by angry Blackbirds. Another Little Owl began to call from a stunted oak, its plaintive cry competing with the distant, pleasant Lesser Whitethroat sounds of dance music coming from houses on the outskirts of the village, reminding me once again how lucky we are, in what is now a relatively large village, June, when nesting is at its peak? to have such abundant wildlife all about us. Hedgerow massacre With this lovely memory still fresh in my mind, it was just a couple of days later that someone emailed me to say that there was a possibility that the hedges bordering the public footpath could be cut back, someone having noticed mention of that in the minutes of the April meeting of the Parish Council.
Response from Hillam Parish Council The police have been in touch with Hillam Parish Council about severe hedge cutting along a footpath off Betteras Hill Road.
Apologising is to little effect now; the severity of the cut was not the intention Surely not, I thought, after all the hedgerow of the Parish Council and a trim to the destruction last year carried out on the sides of the hedges was what was expected to keep the footpath clear. The instructions of Redrow? Not more aggro? hedges were, however, bending in and Anyway, to be on the safe side, I wrote to making the path impassable. the Parish Council immediately, setting out chapter and verse regarding The We applaud and welcome the input of Hedgerows Act 1997 and also the the residents who are vigilant and care Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, about the upkeep of the rural habitat of which clearly states that hedgerows must the village. We are now reviewing our not be cut before 1st August, so as to avoid processes, all of the footpaths will be disturbing nesting birds. Having done this, I registered and we will work with NYCC thought that I could safely go on my two and the landowners to prevent this situation recurring.
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Hillam Rocks - a Faulty Village by Stuart Hoare The village sleeps, but a restlessness invades my mind and I am alert for any sound. A sudden creaking throughout the room heralds what I have learnt is the imminent arrival of a vehicle into the village square. How do I know this? The answer, for once, really does lie in the soil, and if you are old enough to recall that punchline you are probably as fossilised as am I!
island of limestone originally formed in the sea and now surrounded by a “lake” of gypsum-bearing rocks formed as the real lake dried up. Witness the brick ponds, which were the source of gypsum for the plaster works there and the five specimens of Hillam gypsum in the Natural History Museum.
A slab of the limestone is visible at the surface on Main Street and is in the picture; Long have I enjoyed knowing on what I am otherwise see the rock in Hillam’s old walls standing and the topography at which I and houses. gaze. No professional geologist I, just an interested amateur, and Hillam’s But what of the mussels, I hear you cry? underpinnings repay a bit of study. For When coal was a valuable resource there example, when could one eat mussels from was prospecting under Hillam and a down Betteras Hill Road, or on which side of a fault do you live? The culprit for the creaking is the Lumby Fault, which crosses the village from northwest to south-east. The weight and vibration of an approaching vehicle causes sound to be transmitted along the fault, and since we had the house extended nearer the fault we hear the creeping creak. This fault is a divide between the Magnesian limestone and the gypsum-type rocks. Forget Brexit and Remain: more important is to know which you are, a limestone-side or borehole sunk near Hillam Gates. a gypsum-side resident. Fortunately for us the coal, found at various depths but mainly at about 140m in a seam The Lumby Fault is not easy to detect at the of 90cm, was inferior stuff. As the climate surface but runs under the Old Vicarage, changed lifeforms came and went, and with continues between the brick pond and Mill a few million years between them at 137m, Close, through the fields which lie behind 161m and 272m when Hillam was on the the brick ponds, into the square, through edge of a sub-tropical sea, we find the corner of the garden of 1 Rose Lea abundant mussels and tiny crustaceans Close, under no 3 and across Hillam Hall called ostracods. Lane, where immediately on the south side of which it forms a T-junction with Fairy Hill Studying borehole results certainly puts our Fault, which runs towards Burton Salmon. climate change witterings into perspective. Another local fault, the Bowers House Fault, Mother Nature is always on the move. In a runs roughly parallel with the Lumby Fault summer such as this, who is to say that she but further east, crossing Hillam Common is not planning for another Ice Age or a Lane. Noah’s flood! Put simply, most of Hillam is perched on an
Stuart Hoare
RING TREE DECISION We had a great response to the voting for the new Ring Tree. The most votes went to the Whitebeam. Thanks to all who voted. The root of the old tree is to be drilled out at the beginning of August and new soil added, then we can establish what size of tree is be bought. The tree will be planted in October; this is the best time to plant trees as it is wetter.
The area itself will have some uplighting installed to illuminate the tree in the evenings; the grass will be levelled and returfed and the bench cleaned up and resited. So by the end of October the area should be once more looking like an attractive feature.
Julie Sadler Hillam Parish Council
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Road Safety Dear Hillam News
pass through, so again, 'into the road' they have to go!
As the owner of dogs, I find myself pounding the streets of Hillam and Monk Fryston on a daily basis. It is therefore depressing to report the amount of car owners who seem to believe that pavements are the new place to park their vehicles. The owner has clearly parked on the pavement, so that their fellow car drivers can still pass by with little disruption. Sadly, however, the same consideration is not given to pedestrians! I have witnessed situations where pedestrians have had no alternative but to walk in the road only to then receive a 'beep' from a frustrated driver for the fact that they are walking in the road!
I am sure the owners who park in this way will respond with, 'This is a village, we have to park like this for cars to pass, the roads are narrow!' My response is “no, you don't!”
ME I5 BAD
Regards
Steve Law Hillam resident.
The spaces left on the pavement often don't leave enough space for a pushchair either to
Dear Hillam News
Dear Hillam News When Andy and I moved to the village almost 8 years ago we were led to believe there had been an accident resulting in the Give Way sign at the end of Austfield Lane having been removed. I am aware of how easy it could be to not stop at the end of Austfield Lane during dark, dismal nights when the only sign that you are nearing the end of the lane (if unfamiliar to the road layout) you are relying on headlights picking out the Priory Roses sign leaning against their hedge. I am pretty confident that, should this notice be removed, there would have been numerous cars end up in their ditch – or worse, as this can often be the only indication that a driver has reached the end of the lane. Over recent years I have highlighted this to both Selby Council and to Julie Sadler (parish councillor). Julie has been very supportive and has also attempted to get support from local residents to monitor speeding traffic down Chapel Street (another topic). I spoke to Glen Donaldson at Selby Council in January, who was of little help at the time. Assuring me there had never been a Give Way sign at that end of Austfield Lane, deeming records not showing any significant incidents to warrant erecting one, and that at the more concerning end - leading into Selby Road - there was one. I also raised my concerns of speeding traffic into Chapel Street to which he responded
Would it hurt to use your driveway or perhaps leave your car on a roadside (in a safe position) and walk for a minute? It's really quite simple, if you have to park on a pavement to then allow cars to pass safely...you're not parked in the right place!
that this would most likely be my perception Hillam Lane, the road leading from Hillam to of speed. I would beg to differ as I frequently Burton Salmon, had some unwelcome pubdrive along at 30 mph and see cars ahead licity in the last issue of Hillam News. disappearing into the distance. Since the dreadful event, which affected us Feeling let down, and having been spoken to all, I and most others have driven this route in a very condescending manner, I let the with even more care; but not everybody. I matter go. However, following this drove it recently travelling in the direction conversation, I have spoken to one or two of Burton Salmon and was aware of a car residents, who assured me they remembered behind me and in a hurry. a sign being in place but it was never replaced following an accident, when it was It overtook just after West Park Farm. removed. I gave way and so did an approaching car Following the recent accident with Arthur which was out of sight initially. An accident Warren at the other end of the village, and a was only avoided because I braked heavily car being driven into a ditch on Austfield and the approaching car did the same. Lane, I decided to contact Selby DC again. In the call I explained how Glen Donaldson had previously spoken to me and the lady on the phone was not impressed. The following day I received a call from Glen Donaldson. He assured me that he had checked on Google Maps and driven past the end of the junction and that there had never been a Give Way sign in the past 6 years. This time he listened to my concerns and confirmed that there is a 30 day order in place for signs alerting motorists that there are cyclists and pedestrians on the road on Austfield Lane to be erected, and that, whilst these signs are being erected, he has agreed to put up a Give Way sign.
Pam Brown, Springwood, Chapel Street.
The offending driver may recognize this description. In which case I hope in future he adjusts his speed to accord with road conditions. Otherwise he might be delayed for longer than he intends.
David Atkinson What are your thoughts on road safety in Hillam ? Let us know your suggestions on how to make the village’s roads safer Speed bumps ? Chicanes ? Speed cameras ? Signs re. parking on pavements More footpaths ? at hillamnews@gmail.com
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School Report Monk Fryston CE Primary School The summer term in schools has become increasingly busy over recent years. At one time it was an opportunity to take a slightly more relaxed approach to school life, but not any longer; it is the time that we assess our children to see how much progress they are making in their learning, report this to parents, and do lots of additional activities including visits and sporting events. There’s always something happening. It’s a funny time of the year emotionally. We have to say a sad goodbye to some of our pupils and staff who are moving onto other things, but it’s also a time to be excited about the next academic year with new children and new challenges. In July, we will have to say farewell to all our Year 6 pupils, and a handful of pupils in other years who are moving to new schools. We really wish them well in all they do – they are a credit to our school and we are
very proud of all of them. We also have to say farewell to some of our staff: Mrs Edwards, who is retiring; Mr Blackwood, who will become the new headteacher of Burton Salmon School; Mr Riley, who is moving to a school in Leeds; and Mrs Maddock, who is pursuing a new career in the NHS. We wish them all well in whatever they do, and will miss them greatly. Next year, we have several new staff joining our school. We are delighted that Mrs Law will become one of our new Assistant Headteachers, and we have appointed Miss Dales as the other Assistant Head and teacher of Year 5. We also welcome Mrs Starr (Year 2) and Mrs Walsh (Year 1) to our teaching team. All have strong backgrounds in successful schools in the local area. We are really looking forward to working with them and are very excited about how we can utilise their experience and skills to support our continued pursuit of improvement and excellence.
Rick Weights - Headteacher
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Village Stores Meet the Producer Day Bert’s Barrow by Faye and Kevin Prize Winners! Our July free prize draw winners are: 1st prize 2nd prize
Barbara Hurrion. Peter and Susan Noone.
Our August free prize draw winners are: 1st prize 2nd prize
Liz Blaza. Brenda & Malcolm Leach .
SUNDAY 14 AUGUST 12- 4 pm Come along to Bert’s Barrow on Sunday 14th August and meet the producers. Over 85% of our produce is from Yorkshire and we also hold the Deliciously Yorkshire/Yorkshire Post Award for the Best Fresh Produce Box for our £15 Fruit, Vegetable and Salad Box.
1st prize is a bottle of champagne, 2nd prize a deli box. Congrats to you all!. If you would like to enter , please use the form on our website www.monkfrystonvillagestores.co.uk
Building Work As most people have now christened it ‘The Barn’, our B and B has been named simply that. Thanks to those of you who have asked re. progress. The quick update is that renovation work will probably now be completed sometime between the end of September and mid October. The website is being compiled and will also be accessible via the shop website - as above. Many thanks to Mike Bissett and his lads – Peter and Billy for all their hard work and for Mike’s advice on the renovations and plans which have had to change, (sometimes on a daily basis), due to the age and complexity of the project. Huge thanks also to our wearing his other hat, for input in terms of lessons, general counselling when sets in! Thanks Robert.
Editor, Robert, his continued expertise and regular panic
PS. Peter’s discovery, reported in the last issue, of the medieval witch’s pot is now awaiting collection from the Yorkshire Museum, so we will have more info on its age and origins soon.
Faye and Kevin
The people who grow this superb produce Anna's Happy Trotters from Howden will be will be here to tell you all about their providing a Hog Roast produce and to listen to your ideas and In addition, there will be lots of tasty treats opinions. and time to have a chat with your lovely local Here, at Bert’s Barrow, we’re not only suppliers. passionate about fresh produce but about trading locally. Research has revealed that every £10 you spend in a supermarket only generates about £14 for the local economy, but every £10 spent with local suppliers and growers generates £25 to £30 for the local economy...more local trade, more local jobs, more money in the local pocket. At this year’s Annual Meet The Producer Day, we will be joined by the likes of : Justin Staal from the Smokehouse in Beverley Poskitt’s of Kellington, one of the largest carrot growers in the UK
In addition to the local producers there will be craft stalls. If anyone is interested in having a stall please get in touch ( details in the ad above)
Charlotte and Jason
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News Bites Parish Walks Date Venue Leader[s]
Saturday 27th August 2016. Church Fenton. Christine and Pauline.
This month we welcome you to the 7 mile "Paradise Wood" walk, also including track and field paths. . Meet and park on roads near St Mary's Church, at 10.15am for a 10.30am start. On both walks, please bring food and a drink, and wear suitable clothing for the day Thanks and regards,
Stuart stuart.twidale987@btinternet.com
Arthur Warren We understand that Arthur Warren has had a fall and broken his hip. No further information is available at the moment. Once again, we send our very best wishes to Arthur for his recovery.
Redrow development It would appear that the Redrow development is well and truly scuppered for geological reasons, although those of us who wrote to the Council have still not received a response. The article on page 5 by Stuart Hoare includes the area of land that Redrow proposed to develop but proved to be unstable. New plans ? There are noises being made that alternative building plans for the same area are now in the making. Presumably, any new development will be on the side of the fault that is comprised of bedrock; the “uphill” side. Consultation with residents ? I wonder if, this time, the prospective developers will consult with residents and those with specialist knowledge, such as biodiversity, before they start drawing up their proposals.
Editor
Sad News FANCY GOING TO XSCAPE?
Julie Taylor
The Parish Council has assisted Selby Town Council in providing a bus service again this year over the Summer holiday period.
Julie Taylor, of Bedfords Fold, has died after several months’ illness.
It will operate on a Friday starting on 29 July 2016 then the 5, 12, 19 and 26 August 2016. The bus times are as follows: Selby Bus Station 1200 1400 1600 1800 Brayton Green 1208 1408 1608 1808 Thorpe, Fox Lane 1212 1412 1612 1812 Hambleton, Gateforth Lane 1215 1415 1615 1815 Monk Fryston, Water Lane 1220 1420 1620 1820 Xscape 1240 1440 1640 1840 Return to Selby: Xscape 1250 1450 1650 1850 Monk Fryston Square 1315 1515 1715 1915 Hambleton Gateforth Lane 1320 1520 1720 1920 Thorpe Willoughby Fox Lane 1323 1523 1723 1923 Brayton Green 1327 1527 1727 1927 Selby Bus Station 1335 1535 1735 1935 The day ticket costs £5.50 full fare or £2.70 child fare. Please use the service, once a week, during the summer – it is a fabulous facility for all the family. For further information ring 01757 708449
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Strawberry signs While I’m on a roll bashing the Council, I might as well get it all off my chest. Charlotte and Jason, at Bert’s Barrow, have put so much effort into building their business. They have also invested a lot of time, money and effort in planting up a strawberry field for people to “pick their own.” This provides jobs and money for the local economy and helps to bring children closer to the reality of food instead of plastic boxes in a supermarket. Now, you can only sell strawberries if customers know they are there so Jason put up a couple of temporary signs on the A63 to do just that; free-standing signs that would only be there for about three weeks. They disappeared. Yes, you’ve guessed it, the Council took them away. No further words needed.
Editor
As Betty Wright remembers…. “Julie was involved with Hillam Historians in the early stages, nominally as our treasurer. As we had no funds, this was initially not an onerous task. We’d only formalised the structure of our informal interest group so we could apply for lottery funding. This required us to fill in a complex form and present a mission statement. So one evening in her lounge, Julie and I opened a bottle of wine to help ease the task. We were totally out-faced by the task and just didn’t know where to start, so we put it to one side . We had a glass or two and just chatted about our life experiences, hopes and dreams. The bottle was soon as empty as the form, but suddenly, fortified, we didn’t find it onerous anymore. We chose the five most “in” words of the moment and set ourselves the task, midst many giggles, of using each of them 3 times in the application. To this day I have no idea of what we wrote, it was done from start to finish in 20 minutes .” We got the funding.
Denis Collinson We are also sad to report the passing of Denis Collinson, husband of Jean, who has given so many years service to the Parish Council.
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Thoughts from the Rectory I was talking to a guy from Wetherby recently, and he was telling me about his father. It was clear that his dad meant a great deal too him, even though he’d died several months earlier. The chap had wept many times over the questions he’d never been able to ask his dad, the things he’d never had chance to say, and the grandchildren he’d never met. “He left us so quickly” the chap said, “He left without saying goodbye.” The man went on to say that he envied those whose parents were still alive. I felt awkward, as I was in a similar position; my father died some years ago, but it wasn’t sudden, he’d suffered from cancer for over a year. I do, however, consider myself fortunate in that I had the chance to say all the things that I wanted to say to him, and I did. My numerous children – well there are four of them all together – all live away from home, and I often feel the need to phone them and just say, “I love you and I’m proud of you.” It’s true that the ultimate absentee parent is the one who has died. There are no more arguments to be had and no more issues that can be resolved. But you can still fill that emptiness in your life – if you do it while there’s still time. If your parents are gone, reach out to your children; overcome every obstacle, and most of all love them and tell them that you do. There’s a story in the Good Book (the Bible) about a lad who went off and lived the good life, totally rejecting his father’s advice, love, care, and hospitality. When this ‘Prodigal Son’ finally came home, he wasn’t treated with scorn, and his father never said “I told you so” – and believe me, we all have our prodigals. This lad may have been a failure to everyone else – but not to his dad. When he came home his father’s arms reached out to hold him, because he knew that when he touched his son – he was touching himself. Most of us, as parents, have our prodigal children, but we also need to remember that to God, our heavenly father, we are all prodigals. And it’s in returning to him that we find the greatest acceptance and forgiveness of all, and ultimately the promise and joy of truly returning home.
Services at St Wilfrid’s 1ST SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH 8am Holy Communion at St Wilfrid’s, Monk Fryston 11am Family Service at St Wilfrid’s, Monk Fryston 2ND SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH 11am Parish Communion at St Wilfrid’s, Monk Fryston 3RD SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH 8am Holy Communion at St Wilfrid’s, Monk Fryston 11am Morning Prayer at St Wilfrid’s, Monk Fryston 4TH SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH 11am Parish Communion at St Wilfrid’s, Monk Fryston 5TH SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH (WHEN ONE OCCURS) 10.30am Benefice Service at either St Wilfrid’s in Monk Fryston or St Mary’s in South Milford Bookings now being taken for Weddings and Baptisms in 2016/17 Enquiries to John (The Rector ) Tel. 01977 680788 Email. hetherington556@btinternet.com Checkout what’s happening at St Wilfrid’s www.stwilfridandstmary.org.uk www.facebook.com/wilfridandmary For sale CHILD’S CAR SEAT Mothercare Advance 9 months – 11 years As new (used occasionally for grandchild)
Blessings John
£50 Tel 683332
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Monk Fryston and Hillam Beer Festival 2016 ….and the summer just goes on and will be used in the following ways. on….. Parent Teacher Association - replacing Once the little darlings are back at school, it obsolete and non maintainable classroom will be time for some serious beer sampling IT equipment. over the weekend of…… Community Association - to help pay off the outstanding Community Centre redevelopment loan and to continue to enhance the facilities. So, get yourself organised; its only a few weeks away now and tickets are now on sale at Bert’s Barrow and Monk Fryston Stores.
The Beer Festival starts on Friday 16 September at 6pm until 11pm and continues on Saturday 17 September from 1.30pm until 9.30pm. The format will be similar to previous years but with a few refinements and improvements. Apart from all the traditional favourite foods that will be on offer, there will also be some more innovative foods for those with more discerning palates. (Ray is being very secretive about this at the moment, so it must surely be seared scallop and lime blinis at the very least). In addition to the 24 hand-pulled beers on offer, there will be 3 hand-pulled lagers (brewed in the UK) and a wide range of other drinks - after 24 pints it would be good to move on to a single malt. Entertainment will be a mixture of new and old - previously performing artists will be joined by some new names. The Saturday start has been put back to 1.30 and it will finish a bit later at 9.30pm to allow families to have a free morning to do essential family stuff before joining the Beer Fest, and for latecomers to enjoy a good long evening session (or simply to recover from Friday evening). The layout will be more customer-friendly and should enable everyone to get to the bars more easily. The Beer Festival is a joint promotion by the Parent Teacher Association and the Community Association. The funds raised
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My Summer in Hillam I shall never forget my first cricket match in Hillam, and the unique experience of wearing three sweaters and an under layer, and still feeling like my limbs were going to drop off with frostbite.
I'm also really grateful for the opportunity Mel and Jayne gave me by taking me on and training me up as well as all the other friendly staff and customers who made it a fantastic place to spend my time there, whether it was to go to work or just to spend my time off there. It was great to As a young man from Perth, Western see it grow and get busier after hearing Australia, it was a great way for me to visit what it was like before the change of England by immediately being immersed hands. in a cricket team, filled with a fantastic bunch of lads, and having the privilege to The memory that I will cherish longest was play with them every week on a Saturday the full English/Yorkshire experience of a afternoon. To top it off, being a part of a fantastic season with them, in being champions, and to achieve the goal of the club of getting back to the 1st division. I have been following their results this season and obviously it's a big step up but I know they've got it in them to be there and challenge the big boys. I would like to thank the cricket club for giving me the opportunity to come over and spend the summer playing for the village. Also I would like to thank Steve and Julie Sadler and their family for taking me into their home and accommodating me for the duration of the summer. When I returned to Perth I got myself a job The day at Headingley dressed labouring in a factory where we produce as Yorkshire boys with blokes pavers to send around the country. I am from the cricket club still working there now, which has benefitted me as I have been able spend a day at the Headingley Test Match with all lot of time improving my cricket. I the cricket guys. managed to make my premier cricket debut for my club late in the season after a Jeremy McFarlane number of solid performances in the second grade.
The Wonders of Facebook It was late, eyes were gritty from too many hours staring into the screen, finalising the latest issue of Hillam News, burning midnight oil to meet the print deadline, when, suddenly, the village was besieged by police in cars, police on foot, and police in helicopters. In addition, villagers were having their ID checked on Main Street by police. It all seemed rather “over-the-top”, so maybe it wasn’t wise to venture outside at midnight to see what was happening nor, indeed, was there time to do so with the print deadline so close. Facebook tells all A quick click on Facebook and there they were - plenty of comments and questions about what had kicked off in Hillam. Within minutes, the story was unfolding, of an attempted break -in on Mill Close and four youths fleeing in the direction of Austfield Lane by legging it down Duncemire Lane…...and so minds were put at rest, as the safety of various villagers was confirmed. I remember when the IRA terrorist murderers raced through the village early one Sunday morning before the shooting at Burton Salmon. There was no internet then so we had to wait for the evening news on TV to find out what had happened. Twenty four hours later, Betty Wright, who just happens to bump into everyone on a regular basis, reported her conversation with PC Ward. Suspicious behaviour Apparently, two men were reported as behaving suspiciously in Mill Close and when police arrived they took off across the fields towards Austfield Lane No-one apprehended Despite extensive police presence and searches and helicopter involvement, they were not apprehended. However, a balaclava and some tools were found the next day down near Austfield Lane and they are being forensically examined. It would appear that no offence had been reported. Police see it as a successful preemptive intervention.
Photo of me getting presented my baggy cap on debut by former Australian and Western Australian cricketer Luke Pombersbach.
More than a burglary ? Having spoken to a few villagers about this, the general consensus of opinion seems to be that a simple potential burglary would not warrant calling out so many police and, especially, the helicopter. Is there something a bit more sinister going on in Hillam and Monk Fryston ? Maybe the police could use their Ringmaster Community Messaging Scheme to put our minds at rest.
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We don’t if we just carry on as we are. The current Hillam News format can tick along quite nicely but we would like to include much more colour and to double our printed circulation to include all households in Monk Fryston and Burton Salmon and that, of course, costs money. In previous editions, we have outlined a few plans to offer further advertising opportunities. These include the existing black and white format, colour format and 4 – page centre fold sponsorship. The rates for advertisements in future will be : £30 per annum for a standard (approx. one tenth of a page) black and white advertisement in 6 issues £60 per annum for a standard (approx. one tenth of a page) colour advertisement in 6 issues £250 for a four page full colour centrefold for 1 issue OR £80 for a full page in full colour for 1 issue OR £40 for a half page in full colour for 1 issue hillamnews@gmail.com
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Monk Fryston Art Club Annual Art Exhibition You work hard for your money, but is your money working hard for you? Maybe you know you should be doing something about your finances but don’t know who to turn to for advice you can trust. Yet the sooner you take action, the more likely you are to secure your financial future. Practical, affordable advice that can improve your financial future Lighthouse Financial Advice is pleased to offer you a no obligation complimentary consultation. One of our professional advisers will talk to you to find out whether you could benefit from advice on issues such as:
✔ building up a nest-egg tax-efficiently, for yourself or for your children or grandchildren* ✔ boosting your pension provision, so you will be able to enjoy a comfortable retirement ✔ protecting your family’s income, so they have enough money if the worst happens ✔ taking your pension and getting the best possible income ✔ passing your wealth to your loved ones in a tax-efficient way* ✔ other aspects of financial planning. To book your complimentary consultation call Richard Wright on 01977 678066 or email richard.wright@lighthousefa.co.uk
with Creative Crafts at Monk Fryston Hall Sunday 18 September 10-4.30
Demonstrations of Art & Crafts
Plus a raffle of works of professional artists to support local charities
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Your advert could be here Half page advert ÂŁ40 Full page advert ÂŁ80 Full 4-page colour centrefold ÂŁ250 Sponsor Hillam News and we will be able to deliver to every household in Hillam, Monk Fryston and Burton Salmon Make an impact...contact us at hillamnews@gmail.com
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Proms at the Pavilion Proms at the Pavilion seemed to come and go very quickly. After months of hype about the Tour de Yorkshire, Proms at the Pavilion just appeared in the ensuing void left by men and ladies on two wheels. There was obviously plenty of planning going on in darkened rooms by three organisations - the charity Chernobyl Aid UK, Hillam and Monk Fryston Cricket Club and Monk Fryston and Hillam Community Association.
lot more volunteer help next time as there individuals as a response to that earlier was much more input needed than we international disaster, albeit not intentional, expected.” in which so many people were indiscriminately affected.” “There were some great sights - some of the dresses and costumes, the decorations of the “It was a fabulous event staged by a few gazebo’s, the stage set and lighting, the people, with a vision of self-help, raising artists and their performances, the food and funds through fun with like-minded people. drink baskets arriving, the fireworks and Thanks to everyone who supported the grand finale with flags waving and vocal event in any way.” chords straining. Everybody was wellbehaved, there were no health and safety Master of Ceremonies, Chris Cole, had two
Proms at the Pavilion was a bold effort, primarily as a fund raiser. It was approached as a trial event which, if successful, could become an annual social event and part of the village calendar. As Ray Newton states, “We were naively confident that we could stage it successfully because we were building on established experience and competences, such as staging large events, bars, barbecues, fireworks, site set-up etc., but we didn't understand the complexities of staging, the technicalities of sound and light and managing artists !” “We benefitted from the goodwill of supporters of the three organisations and other locals who bought into the vision which underpinned the event financially. In other words, they bought tickets! We thought we would pitch the price attractively to get everyone along to this introductory event”
Gazebo alley
incidents and everyone got away safely afterwards.” “One particularly ironic and poignant aspect was the playing of the Marseillaise and holding a minutes silence as a mark of condolence, respect and solidarity with our nearest European neighbours following the tragic and indiscriminate act of terrorism in Nice. The irony is that the charity, Chernobyl Aid UK, was formed by a group of altruistic
Land of Hope and Glory
“It was a memorable event and one that we would like to repeat but will need to enlist a
The morning after-now for Family Fun Day
highlights in his evening. Firstly, he was enjoying a glass of something other than lemonade in his Hawaiian island gazebo when he suddenly realised he should be on stage 100 metres away. His sprint to the microphone is best described as memorable and earth-moving. Secondly, he bravely tried to instigate a Mexican Wave or two. His first attempt to get the wave going in a clockwise direction was relatively successful. The follow up in an anti-clockwise direction was apparently a bit more akin to traffic in Selby town centre when the traffic lights failed. Not that he needed to prove it but just a few days later, Mike Allison was off to Belarus with another couple of truck loads of aid to help those struggling in the vicinity and aftermath of Chernobyl. It has since come to light that this was his way of celebrating his wife Linda’s 60th birthday!
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Hillam Parish Council Hillam Parish Council www.hillamparishcouncil.co.uk
Monk Fryston Parish Council www.monkfryston-village.co.uk
Burton Salmon Parish Council: www.burtonsalmonparishcouncil.co.uk
South Milford Parish Council: www.southmilford.org
Full Parish Council minutes are available on the website. MINUTES of HILLAM PARISH COUNCIL held Wednesday 1st June 2016 Councillor Sadler, on behalf of the council, Councillor Mackman to be informed of the would like to offer condolences to above also. Councillor Collinson on the sad loss of her husband, Denis. Yorkshire flags are still on display in the square. Cllr Little to find out who they It was resolved that the 2016-18 National belong to with a view to asking for their Salary Award for local council employees removal to ensure the impact next time should apply to the parish council clerk. they are called for.
Concerns regarding the biased views being put across by Hillam News, residents of the village need to be clear that Hillam News is not a Parish Council publication anymore. Advice given was that people should write as individuals and not as parish council members to express their concerns to the Hillam News team.
It was resolved that Councillors Mitchell and Sadler, along with clerk, will work on finalising the internal audit procedure. Cllr Mitchell to carry out a review of the requested documents for December once the documents are returned from the internal auditor.
Clerk to follow up on Redrow’s plans for development. MINUTES of HILLAM PARISH COUNCIL EXTRA ORDINARY MEETING held Visibility issue on the junction of Austfield Wednesday 15th June 2016 Lane and Hillam Common Lane – a tree has lower branches growing that block drivers’ Ring Tree Matters visibility – clerk to report to Highways. This is reported on page 5.
It was resolved that, now CEF funding had been approved for the debifrillator, Cllr Sadler and Cllr Little will follow up the process to report back to the council the next steps to be taken.
Suggested that a letter of thanks or certificates/acknowledgements to be given out to residents who spend a lot of time and effort on the presentation of the village – clerk to look into options for next meeting.
Matters to report The council is made aware that it has been reported to the police for contravening The Hedgerows Regulations 1997.
Our contractor has severely cut back hedges that were overgrowing across Follow up footpath repairs reported – Rose public right of way. Lea Close and Main Street. It was resolved that the Clerk would find Follow up road signs promised by Glen out if NYCC Public Rights of Way Donaldson in Highways. department can be informed regarding pathway issues in the future rather than the Village maintenance – matters to report Investigate the possibility of planting trees parish council intervening. to the clerk on verges as requested by a resident. A caravan has been sited at Pig Hill Nook Clarification to be sought on hedges’ Road field, clerk to report to planning Suggestion to change the type of stiles owners, NYCC path cutting schedule and enforcement. currently in place down Tom Lane to parish council cutting schedule for future something more user friendly. planning and avoidance of similar issues Building materials have been delivered to Ten Acres, clerk to report to planning Councillors to assess the usability of the enforcement. public footpaths within the village. It was resolved, with regard to proposed subsidised bus routes for 2017 that, as there are a number of residents who use this service and are happy with it, the council feels the current timetable is adequate and should remain.”
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William’s Blue Tit Diary I thought you might be interested in my nest box (I’m confused, do they think Blue Tit diary I have been keeping this year. they’re baby wood peckers?). The blue tits were building their nest when I discovered them, they were the first ever birds to live in my handmade bird-box that I made a few years ago at Fountains Abbey. I watched them for a bit then called mum, they were flying backwards and forwards with beaks full of nesting material, taking it in turns to get some on the 13th March.
Articles wanted Hillam News
Needs
When I got back from Orkney on the 6th April I felt sad because I thought they
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15 May I heard the first tiny tweets from baby birds when I was in the garden. 27th May After breakfast we saw a couple of scruffy baby blue tits dashing around the garden, cheeping then they all flew back into the nest box for their parents to feed them. 30th May The Blue Tits have gone, my cat is probably glad because he doesn’t have to stay in anymore. I hope they will come back next year. had gone but then I spotted one! 5th May They got busier than usual and one of them kept tapping on the inside of the
Hillam News NEEDS your contributions - from a sentence to a short story. We need thoughts, ideas, news items and anything of interest to villagers. If you’re apprehensive about writing, just contact us with the ideas or basic information and we can do the rest for you. In particular, we would like to profile local businesses, local residents, past residents, children who have flown the nest and to remember those no longer with us. Its very simple, just let us know at hillamnews@gmail.com and we’ll be in touch with you.
William Lonsdale (8)
A Cure for Insomnia Readers will be delighted to hear that the extra-ordinary general meetings etc, current editorial team are in the throes of financial management etc. drawing up an exciting constitution for Eager readers should apply early to Hillam News. hillamnews@gmail.com for a copy when it This will include terms of office and is first issued, for comment. staggered election of officers, and various other policies relating to equality and Alternatively, have a malt whisky before liability. bedtime and wait to see the draft It will also include all the conditions for constitution in the next issue of Hillam News. achieving a quorum, processes for calling
CROSS KEYS INN The Square, Hillam, LS25 5HE Open Every Day 12-11pm Serving Real Ales & Quality Wines Tasty Home-cooked Food 12-8.30pm Every Day
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Readers write The article on the EU referendum seemed Hillam News, may I congratulate you and May I end on a more positive note, and to stir up a bit of interest as the following your team for producing two excellent issues congratulate you and the team on the new letters illustrate : of the Hillam News. and informative articles about residents past and present. I look forward to enjoying the Dear Editor, However, I am very concerned about one or excellently presented future issues of the I, like many other villagers, am thrilled with two articles which you have included in the Hillam News. the new format; fresh, colourful presentation last issue of the paper. The original News of the resurrected Hillam News. Well done was introduced to inform residents about Mary E Little the new team; keep up the good work. what was happening within our community, ——————————————————in particular information regarding Hillam However, I do take issue with, what, upon Parish Council decisions. I appreciate that Dear Editor reading, is self-evidently an editorial being Hillam News has moved on from this original Just a note to register my disappointment at presented as a debate. concept and that residents are now kept up you using Hillam News as your own to date by the Hillam Parish Council website. propaganda sheet, I have no objection to Let’s accept that in an editorial the editor has doing an article on the EU debate, as it's full reign to present a diatribe which is My personal worry is that one or two items obviously topical. My objection was to the unbalanced and biased. On the other hand, in the last issue have been political and quite bias, and no fair rebuttal; even the for and if it is presented as a debate, it should be contentious. I feel that we have been given against at the bottom of the page were both presented in a truly balanced way. enough information about staying in or out against. However the Hillam News, apart of the EU for residents to make up their own from that, is a pleasure to read. To not do so ensures that it loses all minds how they wish to vote as this is a credibility by sinking to the level of national rather than a local matter. We live in a democracy and the whole EU unsubstantiated propaganda. Debate in my book has been a debacle on As editor, you have a responsibility to your both sides, but that's another story, Thank Betty Wright readers, to keep them informed about local you once again for your efforts with the ——————————————————matters and to give a balanced view about news, but I wanted to register my concern, To the Editor events of local interest, and leave politics to As the instigator and first editor of the the politicians and the voters. Marianne Vaks
Editor’s response The two key complaints appear to be: - it was not a local matter and should not be included in the Hillam News. - it was biased.
and pointed out reasons for staying in. I Dear Hillam News also stated that I didn’t think I could do the Remain side justice as I was vey much in Well, this takes clearing up after your dog to a favour of the Leave side. new level. Some kind person has allowed their dog to poo down our drive and not bothered I have actually received many positive to clear it up. comments about the article. I have driven over it and now it is spread all Because I wrote the whole article myself, over our yard. As you can tell, I’m quite upset. you will see that I wrote it in my own name Could you put something in Hillam News ? and not as editor. I, too, am a villager and have my opinions. Thankyou
In my opinion, it was a matter that affected everyone in the village and one that warranted inclusion. For years, the Hillam News has included articles on national and world sport and matters relating to general health and fitness, to name but two non- If I had written it without inviting villagers A responsible dog owner. from both sides to contribute, then I would local areas of interest. have been wrong to do so. The fact that the Calling all children and teenagers In the previous issue of Hillam News, I Remain side wasn’t properly represented is announced the debate and asked for because none of them seized the well- We really want to include all ages in Hillam News so we would be delighted to opinions from both sides so that all relevant publicised opportunity to have their say. receive articles, simple paragraphs or just points would be there for villagers to your thoughts. It can be about anything: I have absolutely no intention of turning consider. I received no contributions. Hillam News into a political publication but what you like about the village Twice, I placed requests for contributions this was a once-in-a-generation event what you have seen in the village on the Hillam News Facebook page. I which affected us all and crossed all parties. what you would like to have in the village received no response. sports stories I fully agree with Mary Little that the Hillam adventure stories Every week in the Cross Keys, I asked locals News has a responsibility to inform villagers all about your holiday for contributions and received none for the of what is happening locally and I trust we what you think of the Rio Olympics are doing that. your hobbies Remain side. tips on gaming, smartphones, computers Consequently (as I explained in the article) I Robert Kingsbury So come on parents, teachers, group tried to present both sides of the debate Editor leaders………...spread the word
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Rock-climbing Pensioners Wanted ! Sherburn & Villages U3A News An early start saw nine intrepid U3A members set off towards Buckden, beyond which was Hubberholme and Strans Gill. It was a beautiful day and very warm as we walked towards the start of the gill. We donned our hard hats and harnesses as we readied ourselves for the start.
A welcome cup of tea or coffee and cake in Pateley Bridge completed a great day out. This adventure was planned and carried out by the Extreme Experiences for the More Mature Group, which is just one of more than 50 different interest groups available.
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Keeping calm Firstly, there was a clamber over some boulders up to the first rock face. Our leader instilled great calm in us as he explained about looking after each other on the climbs including “spotting� - this was making sure we were close behind the person in front and being prepared to catch them either by holding up their backs or their thighs! We learnt how to look for handholds and footholds and how to swing our bodies up and over various precipitous rocks.
So why not come and join us at Sherburn and Villages U3A and join in the fun? If you are retired or semi-retired and live within easy reach of Sherburn or the surrounding villages then you are eligible to join. You can visit our web-site at www.sherburnu3a.co.uk to find out more, or you could come along to one of our monthly meetings. They take place on the third Thursday from 1.45 for coffee or tea followed by the meeting and speaker or activity.
For two parts of the ascent we needed to Eversley Park Centre, Sherburn in Elmet, be roped together for safety, so we were LS24 6BA. attached by a carabiner to our harnesses The University of the Third Age and our leader sat at the top and belayed (U3A) movement is a unique and the rope below him. It was very reassuring exciting organisation which provides, on these particularly difficult parts to have through its U3As, life-enhancing and life-changing opportunities. Retired that rope attached. and semi-retired people come together and learn together, not for The sun shone, but we were in welcome qualifications but for its own reward: shadow much of the time as we ascended the sheer joy of discovery! 700 feet to the summit. Our legs got a Members share their skills and life good workout as did our arms and experiences: the learners teach and everyone did very well in completing this the teachers learn, and there is no extreme sport. distinction between them. The U3A movement is supported by A great sense of achievement fell over us its national organisation, the Third all as we descended the path for a couple Age Trust. of miles back to the car park.
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Classified
Everything for Christmas Enjoy a coffee and cake while you shop
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Classified
Now open Sundays
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Classified
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Classified David (Dai) Jones
Dip Arch RIBA
Architect
Fletton House The Square HILLAM North Yorkshire LS25 5HE
Phone 01977 685534 Consultation Welcome – Initial Discussion Free
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From Main Street to Fleet Street...and beyond A few years ago, there were two Victoria's, living, just a few houses away from each other, on Main Street. While one was just leaving primary school, the other was off to university. They didn’t know each other but they did have one thing in common, apart from their Christian names. Sooner or later,
they both wanted a career in journalism and but these two have done it on opposite the world of publishing sides of the world; one in the world of Fleet Street dailies and the other along the Hopefully, this page will give a little insight corridors of glossy contemporary magazines. into the career opportunities that are available for those who want to spread their And finally, it seems dad is following in his wings. It’s not easy and it takes dedication, daughter’s footsteps…………….
Victoria Finan I was asked by Robert to provide Hillam News readers with an update of what I’m up to now that I’ve officially moved to the Big City.
of a national newspaper… I live in hope! Hillam is never far from my thoughts, nor all the people I love there. I come back to the village regularly to see my Mum and Dad, friends, grandma and of course Alfie, my dog. Forget the bright lights and night-life of London, nothing can beat an evening at the Cross Keys with old friends. Recently, I returned to the village for my greatest test of all… and, at the grand old age of nearly 25, I’m pleased to report I can FINALLY drive. Thanks for all the lifts, Mum and Dad!
I originally edited my student news website at university in Norwich which spurred me on to do an MA in Journalism in Sheffield which was sponsored by the Guardian. These days I work for the website of the Daily Mail, which is based in Kensington. My days as a reporter are normally hectic and varied – one day I might be reporting on the latest Brexit shenanigans (I hope by the time this issue goes to print things have calmed down a bit…) and the next I might be describing Taylor Swift’s relationship dramas.
I took my first footsteps into journalism at university by editing the student paper, and I would be very happy to chat or offer advice to any Hillam or Monk Fryston student reason I went into journalism is because I interested in a journalism career – the easiest News is constantly surprising – you think love to meet people and to learn their way to catch me is on Facebook or Twitter, you’ve heard it all then someone will tell you stories, and my ultimate dream is to find a @victoriafinan. something that blows your socks off. The tale that will make it to the very front page
Victoria Kingsbury It was as a young pupil at Monk Fryston Primary School that I first became interested in the processes of magazine production. Then headteacher, Mr Smit, set us all an exciting project to create Primary Press, a magazine featuring articles, illustrations and photography by his students. My job was to interview actress Liza Goddard about her role in a kids' show called Woof!, and once I saw my very first piece of work in print I was hooked.
A year later, I became sub-editor at teen mag Bliss, where I met a lot of experienced journalists in both the UK and overseas. Many of them had spent part of their career in Australia - sunshine, beaches, easy-going lifestyle - they had my attention, and who wouldn't want to do the job they love in a country with nine months of summer?
editor, deputy editor and features writer on titles such as Cosmopolitan, Cosmopolitan Bride and many of Australia's leading magazines. My career has given me the opportunity to experience dream holiday destinations, food cooked by Michelin-star chefs, and the chance to interview and work alongside many talented and interesting people - not to mention all the freebies!
The industry has changed since I first began and digital devices and social media has transformed the way we consume media. It's a rough time for journalists at the moment and we're constantly adapting, but you can either embrace it and see the changes for the opportunities they bring, or you can stick to your old ways and get left behind. It's as simple as that. You have to keep up and be ready to write a story at a moment's notice At the age of 29, I upped sticks and started a social media won't wait. Unfortunately, this freelance career in Sydney. I found work does affect quality, and as a sub-editor this is literally the day after I landed. I had the skills, often hard to swallow. and British journalists were sought after at It's a long time since I have lived in Hillam, the time, and I have been caught up in this and I couldn't be further away, but I'll never exciting, beautiful new city since day one. forget my roots and the passion for print
My first steps into the media world started at Loughborough University where I studied a publishing degree. This led to my first job at a children's book publishing company as a junior editor and writer. It was fun and rewarding, but the fast-paced thrill and perceived glamour of glossy mags was still calling. I landed my first magazine job as a features writer at Your Home magazine where I soon discovered an aptitude for subediting (correcting mistakes, checking facts, rewriting copy, making everything fit and writing captions and headlines, among many other things) and then a promotion to become sub-editor on real-life magazine Full House. Fast forward to today and my career has now that I discovered at Monk Fryston Primary School. spanned 16 years working as a chief sub-
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Family Fun Day The Family Fun Day on July 17 was the inaugural event for the recently formed Hillam and Monk Fryston Community Sports Association (HMFCSA). The purpose of HMFCSA, which is a Community Interest Company (a not-forprofit organisation) is to raise funding and provide support for local sports and wellbeing initiatives in the villages.
The morning after the night before The Cricket Club and team of groundsman were not only kind enough to provide the venue but also helped greatly in getting everything ready. This was no small undertaking as the debris from the fantastic Proms at the Pavilion the night before had to be cleared with bleary eyes and some rather fragile heads. Both Monk Fryston and South Milford Community Associations provided equipment for us such as tables, chairs, marquees, etc. Yet another example of the village community pulling together for another outstanding village event.
Thanks all around On behalf of HMFCSA, organizers Steve Sadler, Sheila and Liam Fox would like to thank everyone who attended and supported the event and gave generously to the cause. We hope you had a fantastic time. The day could not have happened without so many people who worked so hard to achieve it. It is a big operation to set up, dismantle and operate stalls with all the toing, fro-ing, transporting and cursing when three attempts had to be made to erect the stalls properly.
LaserZone, Xplore, Phil & Tracy Pickles (Forever Living), Riso Gallo, Bert’s Barrow and Bridie Robinson. Propping up the bar Needless to say, there were many willing volunteers from Monk Fryston Junior Football Club and the Cricket Club who worked tirelessly to organise the BBQ, Ale and Pimms bar, and tea rooms, while others helped with activities such as face-painting, hook a duck, beat the keeper, fair ground rides, bouncy castle, wine or water and the sweet stall. First Aid cover was provided by volunteers, Liz and Mohammed. Business support Many local businesses took stalls and helped with the event, including Bert’s Barrow and those lovely strawberries and ice cream, Bounce & Wobble and all the market stall holders. Many others provided raffle prizes – Gravity, The Cross Keys, The Crown,
In addition to the fun, 150 trophies were presented to children aged 5 up to 15…..and finally, a special award went to Abbey Lister from Monk Fryston School who won the HMFCSA logo competition. Thanks must also go to all the children who entered the logo competition.
Abbey Lister receiving her award for the logo competition
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Stop Press LITTLE MONKEYS PLAYGROUP at the Community Centre in Monk Fryston has had a bit of a fall off in numbers of both Mums and children in recent times and it could do with a few more attending to make it wholly viable. Hillam News is pleased to report that there is some very good news regarding funding for Little Monkeys. Watch out for a full article in the October issue of Hillam News. The group has been running for over 25 years and, understandably, will have peaks and troughs as the population balance changes. Now is the time to join so the playgroup can go from strength to strength. When the playgroup re-opens on September 6th, there will be plenty to announce. In the meantime, if you would like your little monkey(s) to join next term or for any further information, please contact Elizabeth Fryers at elizabethfryers@hotmail.com
Tickets are available at Bert's Barrow, Austfield Farm, Austfield Lane, Hillam or call Charlotte 07818415320
Monk Fryston Art Club Annual Summer picnic and paint or Sketch In the garden of Sue & Neil Woodhall at 6, Priory park Grove, Monk Fryston Monday 08 August Coffee @ 11.30am
Friday 16 September 6pm to 11pm Saturday 17 September 1.30pm to 9.30pm