NOVEMBER 2025 : simplebooklet.com

Welcome to Leyburn Life - the only local magazine with an ensured delivery Leyburn Life magazine was first printed in 1973 on a duplicator and thanks to the advertisers and a dedicated team of volunteers, has been an important means of communication for residents and businesses in Leyburn and beyond for over 50 years! In March 2018 the magazine was updated to this quality full colour magazine, now printed using responsibly sourced paper and materials from certified carbon balanced printers, who are proud to support the fantastic work World Land Trust are doing to protect threatened habitats and wildlife. The complete magazine is included on the website leyburnlife.co.uk and can be downloaded. Hundreds of people read the magazine online not only from the UK, but worldwide and often contact the Editor, trying to trace ancestors who lived locally and for information about Leyburn as a holiday destination.The deadline for all iTems is noon on 15Th of The monTh prior To The monTh of publicaTion. arTicles arriVe earlY in The monTh. don’T leaVe Yours To The lasT daY! To avoid any errors, information over 20 words in length must be e-mailed. Shorter items can be put into an envelope, marked on the outside with date, details of content and left with Hewsons newsagents, Market Place, Leyburn. GOOD FAITH: All articles and adverts are received in good faith, the Editor cannot be held legally responsible for any omissions in articles, listings or adverts, or for any inconvenience caused thereby. COPYRIGHT: Photographs and features are subject to copyright. Contact the Editor regarding permission if you wish to reproduce anything at all. Cover photo: Leyburn November sunrise.

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CONTENTSADVERTISERS Auctioneers Tennants 16 Books Sonia Lawson RA 16 Fred Lawson Letters from the Dales 4 Carpets & Flooring nh ﬂooring 8Design & Printing Tradewinds 16 Events & Cinema LACC 20 Tennants 16 Electrical Repairs & Sales Scotts & JCTV 14 Bartlett Electricals 8 Florists & Gifts Lamberts 4 Funeral Directors Sanderson & Co. 10 Foot Health Meg Squires 2 Garages T & J.Lambert 6 Garden Services PM-Trees Care 6 Health Healing Collective 2 Psychotherapeutic Counselling 4 Painting & Decorating Lamberts 4 J.T. & A.J. Plumpton 2 Sanderson & Co. 10 Plumbing & Heating Lee Davison 2 P.H.Machin 4 Phil Spensley 6 Restaurant & Take-Away Saffron OBC Solicitors McGarry & Co. 14 Timber Buildings Castle Buildings 10 Travel Agent Robert Sturdy 2 Veterinary Services Wensleydale Vets 2 Wensleydale Railway 22 Printing of this magazine is dependant on revenue from advertising. Please support the advertisers.EDITORIAL Clubs, Groups and Societies 24,25 From the Editor 3 Environmental Corner 21 Leyburn Band report 19 Leyburn Primary School report 11 Leyburn Town Council report 12,13 Library information IBC Forthcoming Meetings 5 North Yorks. Police report 9 Religious Services 23 Ruminator - Books & More 17 Wensleydale School report 15 1

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From the EditorEmail: editor@leyburnlife.co.uk Website: leyburnlife.co.uk3The 'Breast Cancer Now' Coffee Morning held in the Methodist Hall, Leyburn on Friday, 10th October was a great success. A huge Thank You to all those who attended, baked, donated, helped or contributed in some way. The total raised so far is £786.18 with further pledges still to be added. Thank you all for your amazing support, it is much appreciated. Christine Spencer. Saving Used Stamps to help the RNIB I would like to thank you all again for the stamps you save as every stamp helps. Stamps can be left at Hewsons Newsagents in Leyburn and Reeth Post Office. Thank you both for your support. The last ones I sent made just under £50. Remember to leave the stamp on the envelope and cut leaving at least 1cm around the stamp or just tear with a generous amount around the edge of the stamp and I will trim them. If the perforations around the edge are damaged they have no value. I collect stamps all year round. Please save all your stamps at Christmas as they do boost the collection. Sue Thompson 01969 624962. Bonfire Night Wednesday 5th November Fireworks can produce a sound between 120-175 decibels (dB). For humans, sounds over 85 dB can damage hearing, while sounds over 140 dB can cause immediate damage and pain. As dogs, cats and other animals’ ears are more sensitive than ours they can hear sounds much further away this level of sound can be much more damaging. Animals such as dogs and horses can suffer from tinnitus, hearing loss and long-term hearing damage caused by fireworks, and all animals can experience stress and fear which may lead to injury and even death Similarly, livestock and other outdoor animals often try to escape the bangs out of fear, sometimes injuring themselves in the process. Surely it’s time to quieten the noise and move it well away from fields of sheep and horses in a residential area where there are also cats and dogs. Maybe the Rugby Club, where there is lots of parking could be an option for next year? Dog Fouling The last thing anybody wishes to do is tread in a pile of dog poo, but it is likely to happen if the person who walks their “big” dog down or up through Thornborough Hall woods continues to leave those huge rolls of brown dog poo on the path next to the dog bin and on the lawn outside the Library. People of all ages are seen in these areas, mobile phones have camera’s and it would be a shame if the person walking the dog received the maximum penalty for this offence, which is a fine of £1,000, when Biodegradeable dog poo bags can cost as little as 2p each. Items for next Leyburn Life The December and January magazine is always a combined issue. Secretaries please keep your forthcoming events details to a minimum to allow all to be included. If you haven’t already booked and paid for a full page event advert, do not send posters as they cannot be included. Thank you. Deadline Noon on 15th November.

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PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS SERVING LEYBURN & THE DALES All aspects of plumbing and heating including Boiler & central heating installations Full bathroom & wet rooms Specialists in disabled wet room adaptations Power ﬂushing of central heating systems Unvented hot water cylinders Underﬂoor heating systems Ofﬁce: 01748 833316 E-mail: audrey.machin@btinternet.comLambert’s DECORATORS & PAINT SUPPLIES8 Commercial Square, Leyburn, North Yorkshire DL8 5BP Tel: 01969 623371 Lambertsflorist@yahoo.co.uk www.lamberts-leyburn.com Tel: 01969 623371 Mob: 07855 310480 lambertsdecorators@gmail.com Lambert’s FLORISTS & GIFTS4Fred Lawson's Letter From The Dales Available on Amazon in paperback £3.22 or instantly available on kindle 99p each.Viewing Fred Lawson's 'Letters from the Dales' and accompanying drawings one is invited to see the world through the eyes of this great hearted and generous painter, philosopher: everyman, during the 1950s.

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5NOVEMBER BELLERBY STUDY GROUP Wed. 5th Pat Burguss, from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission will describe the history of the Commission and its work today. Dr Tony Nicholson will reveal The Secrets of the Attic 2 on 19 November. On 26 November find out how Harrogate avoided a disaster when Graham Seel recounts The Story of Edward Wilson Dixon. MADE IN BELLERBY Christmas Art and Craft Fair Bellerby Memorial Hall. Sat. 8th & Sun. 9th: 10am to 4pm with refreshments served on Satur-day in St Johns Church. Lots of wonderful locally made art and crafts as well as cakes, bakes, Jams and chutneys. A great way to buy something unique and beautiful, whilst also supporting the village Memorial Hall. SWALE SINGERS' WINTER CONCERT Sponsored by Tennants Sat. 15th at 4:00pm St Oswald's Church, Askrigg ENTRY FREE - Donations for 'Swale Singers Bursary'Supporting local 16-19 yr olds to sing with our choir from 2026 Conductor: Peter Stallworthy Music Programme - Elgar: Great is the Lord & Banner of St.George Finzi: In Terra Pax Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on Christmas Carols WENSLEYDALE LADIES Tues. 18th AGM at 2.00pm Methodist Hall, Leyburn MIDDLEHAM AND THE DALES LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Wed. 19th at 2.00pm, Harmby Village Hall Wensleydale – an industrial landscape? By Tony Keates. Members, new members and visitors are always welcome, annual membership is £12 for 9 meetings and visitors can attend for £3 per meeting. PENHILL LADIES Wed. 19th. Carperby Institute at 7.30pm. We invite you to spend an evening ‘Celebrating the Seasons’, with a flower arranging demonstration by Amy from Rosemary and Twine in Leyburn. Amy will show us how to make the best of what’s in our gardens and hedgerows to add to our Autumnal and Winter arrangements and decorations. You just might be a lucky winner of one of Amy’s arrangements. Light refreshments will be served to complete the evening. Visitors are very welcome to join us for this open evening, you could even bring along a friend! £5.00 cost for non-members. LEYBURN LADIES' LUNCHEON CLUB Thurs. 20th at the Garden Rooms, Tennants. Pat Burgess from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission will speak about the history of the CWGC, how the Commission began, its work during the First and Second World Wars and its work today. WENSLEYDALE LADIES 21st. 2.00pm, Methodist Hall, Leyburn. Samuel Butler and the Evolution of Theatre with Gregan Davies. LEYBURN & DISTRICT u3a “Wooden Boats And Iron Men”. How Tragedy, Bravery and Generosity have shaped the RNLI to what it is today! 10.00 for 10.30 at Leyburn Arts and Community Centre. Fri. 21st. David Hastings will give us an inspirational history of lifesaving at sea and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). From 1790 to the present day volunteers have braved all weathers and shown immense courage to save over 146,000 lives. DECEMBER LEYBURN LADIES CHOIR Christmas concert Tues. December 16th. 7.00pm In Leyburn Chapel All are very welcome. Refreshments to follow In support of Yorkshire Cancer Research Forthcoming Events - Contact details on pages 24 & 25

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9NORTH YORKSHIRE POLICE REPORT PHONE: 101(NON EMERGENCY) 999 (EMERGENCY ONLY)Monthly Police Report 6th Sep – 9th Oct 2025. We do not report crimes whereby victims could be identified, for example Domestic Violence or Harassment although they are included in the totals below. Leyburn Police Station covers the areas of Arkengarthdale. Swaledale, from Hudswell up to the county border. Wensleydale from the Hambleton to Cumbria borders, Coverdale and Bishopdale. Incidents of note; Reported 8th Sep Premises under renovation in Healaugh had been broken into and a quantity of contractors tools had been stolen. Reported 12th Sep a Yamaha Kodiak Quad bike had been stolen from Hudswell. Overnight 19th Sep an Ifor Williams small plant trailer had been stolen Airedale Mill carpark Askrigg. Reported 20th Sep Theft of Power tools and cash stolen from West Shaw Cote Farm. 27 – Suspicious Circumstances (Door to door sellers/Vehicles parked etc). 17 – Abandoned calls (misdials/pocket dial). 16 – Highway disruption (Floods/Trees/Animals). 2 – Burglary. 4 – Missing Person. 14 - Road Traffic Collision (Minor). 1 – RTC (Serious). 3 – Theft. 14 – Concern for Safety. 10 – Road Related Offences (manner of driving/vehicles without tax/possible OPL). 12 – Violence. 1 - Fraud/Forgery (online/phone). 2 – Lost/Found. 1 – Antisocial Behaviour (Nuisance). 1 – ASB (Personal). 3 – Civil Dispute. 2 - Wildlife. 4 – Criminal Damage. 4 – Stalking/Harassment. In total 180 calls were received reporting either the above or making general enquiries. North Yorkshire Community Messaging is a free email messaging service from North Yorkshire Police and the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, providing news and updates on policing matters relevant to you and you community. You can sign up to the messaging service by visiting the NYP site or if you wish contact me, Donald,watson@northyorkshire.police.uk providing your First Name, Last Name, House number/Name, Postcode, Mobile number and email address and I will sign you up. The Neighbourhood Team will continue to attend Town/Parish meetings and Community drop ins/events duties permitting. PCSO 5232 Don Watson. PC 355 Heather Campbell. PCSO Tracie Taylor-Page.

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10 SANDERSON & CO. “Decorating Supplies” DULUX COLOUR ADVICE CENTRE Scanner Colour Matching & Paint Mixing Stockist of Leading Brands including, Dulux, Crown, Leyland, Ronseal, Cuprinol Extensive Wallpaper Pattern Library Trade & Quantity Discounts Available High Street, Leyburn DL8 5AQ 01969 623143 Email: sandersonandcoleyburn@gmail.com Also CALOR & Camping Gaz stockist Mobile heaters and accessories Free local delivery SANDERSON & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS A complete and caring funeral service provided by an independent family business established in 1879. For personal and digniﬁed attention in time of need please contact Richard Sanderson Leyburn Business Park DL8 5QA Tel: 01969 623143 (24hrs) Mobile: 07710 652348 Email: sandersonandcoleyburn@gmail.com We offer Golden Charter Pre-payment Funeral Plans Please ask for further (written) details.

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11What’s been happening at Leyburn Primary School this month? Our school hosted a successful Macmillan Coffee Morning to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. Staff, parents, and pupils came together to enjoy a wonderful selection of homemade cakes, biscuits, and hot drinks. The event was filled with laughter, community spirit, and generosity. It was a lovely reminder of what we can achieve when our school community comes together for a good cause. We were warmly welcomed at the church to celebrate our Harvest Festival together. It was a wonderful occasion for pupils and staff to come together in gratitude and reflection. The children songs about the importance of giving thanks and remembering those less fortunate. We are very grateful to the church community for hosting us and helping make this celebration so meaningful and special. We were overwhelmed by the generous donations received for our Harvest Festival this year. Families, pupils, and staff brought in an incredible variety of food items, all of which have been shared with the local food bank at St Matthew’s to support those in need. The display of tins, packets, and fresh produce in school was a wonderful sight and a true reflection of our caring school community. Across the school, we welcomed parents and carers who spoke to us about the world of work - engineering, architecture, the civil service and fire fighting. It was inspiring to hear about our parents’ careers, including how they continue to learn and pursue their own interests. We were delighted to welcome Imran Kowtal, who came to talk to the children about his Muslim faith and beliefs. He shared the daily life of a Muslim, the importance of kindness, prayer, and community, and answered many thoughtful questions from the pupils. They really enjoyed learning more about Islam. Our school was bright and cheerful for Hello Yellow Day, as pupils and staff dressed in yellow to support young people’s mental health. The day was filled with positivity, smiles, and important conversations about wellbeing and kindness. Thank you to everyone who joined in and helped raise awareness — together, we’re showing that it’s okay to not be okay and that no one is ever alone.

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report from leyburn Town council meetings held in the Oak Room, Thornborough Hall from 7.00pm on Monday 20th Oct., 2025. Full MinuTes can be seen On THe lTc websiTe Once appROved aT THe nexT MeeTing.12PRESENT: Cllr Carlisle, Cllr Holder, Cllr Howe, Cllr Littlewood-Laws, Cllr Sanderson, Asst. Clerk C.Hirst, NY Cllr Sedgwick, PCSO Taylor-Page. 8 Members of the public. PUBLIC REPRESENTATIONS: Yorkshire Road Rally 2026 Presentation & Public Comment. Two representatives from the Yorkshire Road Rally 2026 attended the meeting to give a presentation on how the event will be run. The rally is scheduled to take place on 29th March 2026 and is expected to bring around 1,000 people connected to the event into the area (not including spectators). This will be the first event of its kind in North Yorkshire. Key locations include: • Scrutineering at Metcalfe’s Farm • Vehicle parking at Tennants and the Auction Mart • Start and finish in Commercial Square A member of the public raised a concern about the Railway St Disabled Toilets, which have reportedly been out of order for over a month. The Assistant Clerk confirmed that this issue has already been reported to North Yorkshire Council and will follow up with them again. REPORTS: Reports from meetings attended by Councillor’s Cllr Holder attended both the Richmondshire Branch YLCA meeting, a Community Partnerships meeting and attended A YLCA Training day held at Thirsk Racecourse. Cllr Carlisle completed an online course focused on lottery funding opportunities. Cllr Littlewood Laws attended a meeting to discuss the a “Take a Seat” initiative, which encourages local businesses to offer a seat inside their premises for anyone who may need a short rest. Cllr Sanderson attended the Wensleydale Business Group meeting. It was noted that the group is currently stepping back from activities due to a lack of participation from local businesses. Leyburn Town Plan Groups- ABL Community Update • New bins have arrived and have been placed near the Fish Shop in the Market Place. • The Market Shelter is now complete, and we have received positive feedback about the refurbishment. • The bench from the bottom of Moor Road has been repainted and will be relocated to the Bus Stop. • Two of the metal benches that were recently repaired will be returned to the contractor, as the quality of the work was not acceptable. • It has been noted that some businesses with tables on LTC Land are not keeping the areas clean and tidy. Action: Clerk to send a reminder letter to businesses.

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PLANNING INFORMATION: ZD25/00274/FULL High Street Leyburn North Yorkshire DL8 5AQ. Full planning permission for internal and external alterations to the ground floor to subdivide the existing single commercial unit - to be split into 2 Commercial Units and 1 Holiday Flat with a C1 Class Use (PROPOSAL UPDATED AND REVISED GROUND FLOOR PLAN UPLOADED ON 18/08/2025). Status Granted. ZD25/00522/OTHER | Consultation with Local Planning Authority in respect of a temporary holiday site - maximum number of units per night 50 including tents and caravans from 31/7/26 to 9/8/26 (9 nights only) (ref number THS2131/2026 | Craken House Farm Rally Field Mill Lane DL8 5HF. No objections. ZD25/00552/TCA | Notice of intention to fell two cherry trees to ground level and remove all arisings- driveway to Lowood House and proposed works: to Leyland cypress Selective reduction/removal of overhanging boughs only, to provide clearance and protect the greenhouse | Lowood House Market Place Leyburn DL8 5BJ .No Objections. ACCESSIBLE LEYBURN & VISITOR HUB PROJECT: Leyburn/Visitor Hub project- Leyburn Town Council have been awarded £117,523 by David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, and York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. Leyburn is one of 19 successful projects in Phase 2 of the Vibrant & Sustainable High Streets funding programme. The project, titled “Accessible Leyburn - a ‘Distinctly Dales’ Market Town for Everyone’’ will deliver 8 exciting initiatives. These include repurposing Kelberdale toilets into a Visitor & Heritage Hub, with a disabled toilet, and launching a brand-new Visit L eyburn website. More details will be shared soon, including opportunities for residents to get involved as volunteers. 20-Mile-High Street Grant Funding – The Council agreed to support the development of a funding application, in partnership with the Upper Dales Community Partnership, for the 20-Mile-High Street project. The aim of the project is to promote and enhance Wensleydale’s retail, hospitality, and visitor attractions. CHRISTMAS: Christmas Lights Switch-On- The Christmas lights will be switched on Saturday 29th November. On the same day, Leyburn Primary School will be holding their Christmas Fair at the Methodist Hall. We’re also excited to share that Santa will be joining us to switch on the lights! The Council resolved to appoint C H Fawcett for the provision of Christmas trees. LAND & TOWN SQUARES: Markings – The Council resolved to appoint Outco to repaint the keep clear markings and double yellow lines in Grove Square & the central Market Place. Action: Clerk to circulate a copy of the work maps to Cllrs. Donation Boxes – The Council resolved to appoint HSF Steel to fabricate two donation boxes for Grove Square & Commercial Square. Electricity Supply Upgrade –The Council approved the temporary use of two parking bays in Commercial Square to support works related to this. Action: Assistant Clerk to notify the ambulance service about this arrangement. DATE OF NEXT MEETING: The next meeting will be held on Monday 17th October 2025 at 7.00 p.m. in the Oak Room, Thornborough Hall. 13

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15Wensleydale School marks a new chapter with rebrand and Sixth/Form closure From September, The Wensleydale School & Sixth Form in Leyburn has oﬃcially rebranded as Wensleydale School, following the permanent closure of its Sixth Form provision. The Sixth Form was suspended in 2023 and, aer a two-year consultaon process with the local community and stakeholders, the decision has now been made to close it permanently. Headteacher, Julia Polley, and governors explained that naonal policy changes, reduced funding, and the limited course oﬀer available at a small school made it increasingly diﬃcult to sustain a high-quality post-16 experience. Students were missing out on the wider opportunies, debates, and experiences that larger sixth form colleges can provide. Instead, the school has focused on building strong partnerships with local providers, including Queen Elizabeth, Richmond, Darlington and York Colleges, Askham Bryan, and a growing number of apprenceship routes. Wensleydale students have beneﬁed from taster days, career guidance, and support with transport to ensure they can make the best possible transion aer Year 11. The rebrand to Wensleydale School reﬂects its oﬃcial redesignaon as an 11–16 school. The refreshed logo and uniform – which will be phased in gradually – symbolise a simpliﬁed, modern identy that reinforces the school’s inclusive and welcoming ethos. Importantly, the rebrand does not aﬀect the school’s values, policies, or behaviour standards. Julia Polley said, “This is about looking forward. By concentrang all our resources on Years 7–11, we have seen a sustained rise in GCSE outcomes over the past four years. Our Year 11 students now take on senior leadership roles within the school, developing conﬁdence and skills that will serve them well beyond their exams. We aim to connue to raise aspiraons, secure high outcomes and teach a generaon of young people to be kind.” For more informaon about Wensleydale School, visit www.wensleydaleschool.net/ Julia Polley Headteacher

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design & printing Tradewinds providing services to leyburn and way beyond since 1980. Tel: 01969 623670 or e-mail tradewinds.leyburn@gmail.comContact us for all your professional design and printing requirements. Sonia Lawson was born into a creative and bohemian Wensleydale family; her mother, Muriel Metcalfe, and father, Fred Lawson, both being well-respected painters. She drew from an early age, securing a coveted place at the Royal College of Art in the mid-50s, from where she graduated with first class honours, went on to exhibit widely and was honoured to be elected as a Royal Academician in 1982 and is the only Academician ever to come from the Yorkshire Dales. This lavisly Illustrated 144 page colour Monograph. Author: Nicholas Usherwood is available on Amazon, at Tennant’s, Leyburn and all good bookstores. To learn more about Sonia and her work see www.sonialawson.co.uk Passions and Alarms16

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Autobiographies can fascinate as we read about real lives and personal events but ‘The Friday Aernoon Club’ by Griﬃn Dunne stands at a crossroads between the personal and public. This is because Dunne comes from a family who were central to the star factory of Hollywood in the 1970s and 80s therefore the amount of name dropping reads like a ‘Best Of’ list from nsel town royales. Carrie Fisher is Dunne's buddy growing up, and her feisty personality leaps oﬀ the page. Harrison Ford is a carpenter and aspiring actor, Marylin Monroe pares at the house next door (but Dunne’s family aren’t invited as they have a love‐hate relaonship with the Kennedy’s). Dunne starred in several ﬁlms such as ‘An American Werewolf in London’. In a strange parallel, at the same me, his sister Dominique was acng in the 1982 ﬁlm ‘Poltergeist’, although Dunne informs us that neither were fond of supernatural horror stories. The core of his autobiography is the story of a family tragedy. Dunne’s sister Domenique is murdered and the ensuing paparazzi frenzy during the trial threatens to tear the family apart. Reading about the cruelty of the law and its inability to honour the vicm is a humbling and painful journey, but the dark heart of Tinseltown is exposed alongside its mirage of joys, resulng in a gripping hearelt read. Another autobiography that spares no truths is ‘Priestdaddy’ by Patricia Lockwood. Her father is a married Pastor in America with 5 children, but his conversion to Catholicism meant he could be given papal dispensaon to be a married priest with a wife and children. Lockwood's humour is surreal, her descripons laser‐like in both cung detail and accuracy and her humour is boundless, shockingly funny and wonderfully naughty. Think ‘Father Ted’ with added psychedelics. She garnered a following on the internet in the early 2000s on Twier, thanks to her unique style which some may ﬁnd disturbing , but no subject is out of bounds, therefore without boundaries there is a vast expanse of possibilies. Some may ﬁnd her crude, but she is a poet who can use language so beaufully that beauty is the beast. She is also very funny… if you like her sense of humour. Her eccentric family leaves the reader wide eyed in wonder and suspicion: can such a family truly exist? But in all honesty, I don’t think you could make it up! A father who is a priest but at home prefers to wander around in shorts, disassemble guns (pung together the world's most deadly jigsaw in front of Patricia’s new boyfriend) and play electric guitar very badly, plus a mother who believes the internet is the repository of all bad (they want to do ‘cyber’), and when proved right ‘wears an I‐told‐you‐so face so triumphant it was never able to return to normal’. The mother is meek in her role as housekeeper yet can herd her unruly children and bring order where there is chaos, her meekness replaced by road rage when required. Lockwood is a natural wordsmith, she has found her vocaon, just as her father was ‘called’ to the priesthood, she too has her calling and having been raised in such an unusual seng her imagery is both sacred and profane. She writes: ..”the anger radiates out of me in great bronze spikes, like holiness in the old painngs, and a sermon rises up in me as if it had been waing for breath.” Truth is power and both these autobiographies pack a visceral punch. 17Stranger than fiction Review by Ruminator

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GREEN ENERGY PRODUCTION IN WENSLEYDALE WANTED- an Administrator for River Bain Hydro Ltd Are you interested in using your administrative skills in a worthwhile way by contributing to the production of Green Energy in the Dales? As a Community Company, River Bain Hydro Ltd runs a micro generation scheme of hydro-electricity from the water in the River Bain at Bainbridge and there is now the opportunity to join the Management Group as an Administrator to help with the running of the company. Tasks to include the day-to-day ﬁnances with the supply of ﬁles to the accountants for preparation of the annual accounts; the maintenance of the Statutory Books of shareholders’ details; the preparation and distribution of the paperwork for the AGM; plus the minutes of the AGM and the Management Group meetings. Knowledge of IT systems is desirable but training can be given. The position is currently held by a volunteer but it may be possible to pay a small remuneration depending on the amount of electricity generated throughout the year which determines the income of the Company. If you are looking for something to do which your spare time and would like to learn more about the position, please contact Pauline Beckett at riverbainhydro@gmail.com Marie Curie Wensleydale Fundraising Group Over £4,500 has been raised in Wensleydale since April this year. So many generous people have given time to raise this. Some have volunteered to stand in Leyburn & Hawes holding collection tins, washing up in village halls, baking, and organising events in Wensley & East Witton. Leyburn Auction Mart let the fundraising group hold a car boot sale on a grey damp Saturday in this glorious summer; there’s been a Victorian fashion show, a quiz night, tombola, bric-a-brac stalls, tins on various counters, and coins & notes have clattered in. Thanks to all who have contributed to 21 nights of care. Our next fundraising effort will be a Christmas themed stall in Leyburn Methodist Hall, 29 November, from 10.30-4, at the Christmas Fair organised by Leyburn Primary PTFA. The following weekend, 6 December, there’s a Christmas concert in Harmby Village Hall. The singers are Musicality, the ladies choir based in Richmond, that is well known in the area and has raised money for numerous charities and local good causes. The concert begins at 2 o’clock, light seasonal refreshments will be served in the interval.Tickets are £7.50, and available from Mary Sadler - 07516 544744, Barbara Martin - 07901 197207, or Mary Buglass - 07703 437739 The money raised from these events will help those who are living with any terminal illness. The Marie Curie Nursing Service will give Hospice Care at Home to those in need where possible. If you are interested in helping Wensleydale Fundraising Group to raise more money for Marie Curie, please contact Mary Sadler – (number above), or email: wensleydale.mariecurie@gmail.com Helping at, or organizing, events, holding a tin at a street collection, putting up a poster, etc., if you’re able to give an hour or two here & there, you’ll be very welcome. Kirkwood Hall Tuesday Birthday Club Members were entertained by Dr Tony Nicholson a retired History Lecturer from the University of Teesside. He purchased an old Victorian house in 2002.which required woodworm treatment in the attic. Whilst clearing the attic the contractors found a secret door behind which was a large birds nest and lots of rubbish. Later Tony found over 120 photos and letters amongst the rubbish.Being an Historian he believes it was fate that he should find them and decide to try and identify the people they related to. What followed was" The Story of the Attic". Extensive research revealed an exchange of mail between a lady and her husband who was initially in the Merchant Navy, later becoming unfaithful land based. This love story comes in three episodes with members eagerly awaiting the second one having become completely immersed in the story. 18

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20 November's cinema and events mean a full month for our volunteers as the 100 Years of Community Cinema celebrations continue. We also have our usual Autumn French Film Festival with a range of well recommended films, with subtitles. It is also a busy month for events with two cinema live productions - Radiohead and Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror and John Cleese Packs It In. The folk rock band Gaelforce make a welcome return. Not forgetting a National Theatre Live production of The Fifth Step. Details of all our activities can be found on our website, www.leyburnartscentre.com. Coming in December are two Christmas themed workshops, so have a look at those as we expect them to be popular. November is often cold, dull and grey - look us up for ideas on how to cheer yourself up! It is not the best time of the year for getting out and about, much easier to stay in and enjoy our own homes, however if you do want company and would like a wider social life we are always recruiting for volunteers! The Centre is busy and you may also discover a group or activity you would like to join. Some online tasks can also be done from home and do not entail a lot of time, just a regular hour or so at a time to suit yourself. Just get in touch if you would like more information, no obligation to take it further if you change your mind! If you want to pop in and meet our reception volunteers - take time to have a look in our Little Shop. There is an excellent range of books and jigsaws, cards for all occasions and often home-made Jams and Marmalades. The Tuesday Club has vacancies at the moment, an afternoon's social event from 1 - 4pm, with food and a talk or activity and the Community Shed is open on Friday & Saturday mornings for visitors who wish to see what is going on. Carers Plus meet on the 1st Thursday morning of the month and specialist advisors are available on the 2nd Friday, 10am - 12. Enquiries can be made on 01969 624510 or see our Facebook page.

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21 ENVIRONMENTAL CORNER by Helen Robson November is a good month for planng trees and the need for more trees grows greater every year. If there is room in your garden for a tree, either large or small, please think of planng one. The Woodland Trust is connually urging us all to either plant a tree or pay for the Trust to plant one in one of its new woodlands. Similarly, the Yorkshire Dales Millenium Trust has a scheme for dedicang a tree. This month, people from all over the world will be meeng on the edge of the Amazon Rainforest for the annual UN Climate Talks. High on the agenda will be the protecon of the world’s forests and our government has pledged to support this. Climate Sciensts all agree that the world needs more trees to help absorb carbon dioxide to help reduce global warming. The Rowan sapling, which I planted last November, is doing extremely well aer surviving the icy condions at the beginning of the year. Anyone thinking of planng one, or more, trees would be recommended to choose a nave sapling. Although there are many foreign trees and plants all over the UK, all naturalists express the importance of choosing nave ones. This country is already suﬀering from a drasc reducon in wildlife and nave plants, so we all need to do what we can to reverse the situaon. As I write this, the autumn colours are at their best, but by November the ground will be carpeted by leaves and the long summer evenings and early morning sunlight will seem like a distant memory. Since the clocks altered the very early sunset can be a problem for drivers heading west, so please do take care. The River Ure was very low in August, but now aer some substanal rainfall it is back to normal. Sadly, anglers are not having any success because of a high level of polluon, as proved by tests near Aysgarth and Ulshaw Bridge. As well as beer control of sewerage waste our farmers need to make sure that agricultural waste doesn’t leak into the waterways. As Christmas draws closer, it is good to see that the Holly berries are doing well and the Christmas trees, grown near Middleham Bridge are looking very healthy in spite of our hot, dry summer. A ﬁnal note. The days may be geng shorter, but next month brings the shortest day and then they stretch out again.

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22The Polar Express Train Ride is returning to Wensleydale Railway this Christmas! PNP Events LTD and Wensleydale Railway are once again hosting The Polar Express™ Train Ride at Wensleydale Railway this Christmas. This immersive Christmas experience, based on Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved classic book and adapted into the popular 2004 Warner Bros film starring Tom Hanks, will be running from Leeming Bar Station between Friday 14 Nov.to Tues. 23 December 2025. If you’ve never experienced the magic of the Polar Express, this just might be your crucial year. The Polar Express™ Train Ride is steaming back to the Yorkshire Dales ready to amaze, delight and create memories you’ll cherish in years to come. Get your pyjamas and dressing gowns on and your tickets in hand and get ready to take part in the train ride of your life! A fully immersive theatrical experience lies in wait for you beyond the station of Leeming Bar at Wensleydale Railway - if you just believe. Nick Keegan, Marketing and Fundraising Manager at Wensleydale Railway said: “This is the 6th year that Wensleydale Railway have hosted The Polar Express™ Train Ride. Over 50,000 guests joined us in 2024, making this one of the largest Christmas experiences in the UK.” He added: “Families are booking fast, and many dates have already sold out. Don’t miss your chance - create your family’s most magical Christmas memories aboard the Polar Express™ Train Ride at Wensleydale Railway!” THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Wensleydale Railway is the longest established, officially licenced Polar Express Christmas event in Yorkshire. It has operated at Wensleydale Railway since 2019 and has delighted over 250,000 visitors in that time. For more details and to book tickets, visit www.yorkshiredalesthepolarexpressride.com/

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Leyburn & Bellerby Churches 9.00am HC St John's Bellerby 10.45am HC St Matthew's Leyburn 3.00pm Messy Church St Matthew's Leyburn (Last Sunday of the month) 5.00pm Evening Prayer 1st Sunday - St John's Bellerby. 2nd Sunday - St Matthew's Leyburn 3rd Sunday - St Matthew's Leyburn 4th Sunday - St John's Bellerby Wednesdays: 10.00am HC St Matthew's Leyburn Leyburn Methodist Church Services at 10.30am will be conducted by: 2nd - Mrs Vani Vasiwini 9th - Remembrance Service at 11.30am - Rev. Jo Brown 16th - Rev. Jo Brown 23rd - Rev. Kathleen Wood 30th - West Burton members R.C.Churches Leyburn and Richmond SUNDAY MASS Ss Peter & Paul, Leyburn - 9.00am Ss Joseph & Francis Xavier, Richmond Sunday 10.30am - Saturday 6.30pm Wensleydale Evangelical Church High Street, Leyburn Meets every Sunday at 11.00am & 6.00pm Pastor Noel Ramsey. All are welcome. The LEGO® Club meets every Monday during term time @ 6 pm. Exploring the Bible through play. All children welcome. FACT Youth Group – Meets on Friday 7th & 21st November from 7 – 9 pm. All children, year 7 and above are welcome . We will be serving takeaway tea, coffee, and biscuits from our church steps on the 28th November from 10 am - It’s all free. Trust in the Lord for ever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock. (The Bible) Leyburn Quaker Meeting Friends Meeting House, 7 Grove Square, Leyburn, DL8 5AE Meetings for Worship 1st, 3rd and 5th Sundays 10.30am - 11.15 am 2nd and 4th Wednesdays noon - 12.30pm Rooms available for rental in Leyburn Meeting House at reasonable rates. Please enquire on 01677 450429. For meetings at Bainbridge & Countersett and all Covid19 arrangements please see website under 'News' https://dalesquakers.org.uk RELIGIOUS SERVICES IN LEYBURN Sunday unless stated otherwise 23

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24LEYBURN AMATEUR DRAMATIC SOCIETY Contact: Dawn Clarkson 07805 294336 LEYBURN BADMINTON CLUB Contact: Colin Thorpe (622471) LEYBURN BOWLING CLUB Contact: Alison Farrar 07980 756629 LEYBURN BAND Contact: Jules Higham (622941) LEYBURN CYCLING Contact: Andy Downs 07940 212291 LEYBURN LADIES LUNCHEON CLUB Contact: Caroline Fisher ladies@leyburnlunchclub.co.uk LEYBURN LADIES PROBUS Contact: Christine Byers 01677 424314 LEYBURN & DISTRICT PROBUS Contact: David Lawrenson davidlawrenson22@gmail.com LEYBURN TENNIS CLUB Contact: David Butterworth 07818 048755 LEYBURN & DISTRICT U3A Contact: Membership Sec. via leyburn.u3asite.uk BEDALE & DALES CROQUET CLUB Contact: Rob Brown (625306) email wardlebrown@gmail.com BELLERBY INDOOR BOWLERS CLUB Thurs: 7.00pm-9.00pm. Memorial Hall, Bellerby. BELLERBY BABY & TODDLER GROUP Contact: bellerbytots@gmail.com BELLERBY STUDY GROUP Contact: Judy Asher 07968 596676 BELLERBY YOGA GROUP Contact: Kathy Chilton (623707) CIRCLE DANCING Contact: Sue Mellish 07517 380136 COVERDALE WOMENS INSTITUTE Contact Sara Badwin-Cole (640550) CRAFTY LADIES OF LEYBURN Contact: Hazel Derby 07930 639377 or Sue Medley 07803 650988 DALES LACEMAKERS Contact: Judy Knight 01677 450548 EAST WITTON MALE VOICE CHOIR Contact: Diana Hartley (650245) EAST WITTON & MIDDLEHAM BELLRINGERS Contact: Jonathan Couchman 07770 302653 RICHMOND & LEYBURN CREATIVE STITCHERS Contact: Carolyn Waterhouse 07454 536072 HARMBY & SPENNITHORNE CARPET BOWLS Contact: Kevin 07946 781650 JULIAN GROUP Contact: Wendy Bannon (623798) LEYBURN COMMUNITY SHED Contact: leyburncommunityshed@gmail.com LEYBURN GOOD NEIGHBOURS Contact: 07717 670209 or 07444 804639 LINE DANCING Contact: alandoubleaa@msn.com MACULAR DEGENERATION GROUP Richmond Methodist Church 1.30pm-3.00pm, 1st Monday of the month. MIDDLEHAM & DALES LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Contact : Tony Keates (640436) dotandtonyk@btinternet.com MIDDLEHAM TOWN TWINNERS ASSOC. Contact : Catherine Monaghan (623962) PENHILL LADIES Contact: Shelagh (663958) or Rosie (662691) RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS Contact: Ann 01677 450429 ROYAL BRITISH LEGION (Leyburn & District Branch) Contact: David Halliday (625436) SPENNITHORNE & HARMBY WI Contact: Carol Young 07802 409486. THE KNIFTY KNITTERS Contact: Lyn (640206) THORNBOROUGH LODGE Contact: Terry Alsop (622576) CLUBS, GROUPS & SOCIETIES

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25WENSLEYDALE BRIDGE CLUB Contact: Ian Mayﬁeld (663580) WENSLEYDALE CAMERA CLUB Contact: Digby Angus (623130) WENSLEYDALE FLOWER CLUB Contact: Anne Harrison (623381) WENSLEYDALE GIRL GUIDING Contact: Jackie Helmsley (622746) WENSLEYDALE LADIES Contact: Pam Rhodes (625434) WENSLEYDALE ORCHESTRA Contact Fiona Johnston 07870 746992 WENSLEYDALE ROTARY CLUB Contact: David Spashett (622583) WENSLEYDALE ROUND TABLE Contact: David Morton 07748 637435 WENSLEYDALE RUGBY CLUB Contact: Jim and Leith McRobert (624118) WENSLEYDALE SCOUTS AND BEAVERS Contact: Helen (624806) for Beavers. Contact: Jeremy 07970 987361 for Scouts WEST BURTON ART GROUP p_guillou@hotmail.com YOREDALE ART CLUB Contact Julia Metcalfe (623229) YOREDALE NATURAL HISTORY SOC. Contact: Liz Barron (622536) CLUBS, GROUPS & SOCIETIES SERVICESThornborouGh hall Moor Road, leyburn dl8 5ab leYburn ToWn council clerk: Mrs c.smith asst. clerk: Mrs c.Hirst Tel. 01969 622561 email: clerk@leyburntowncouncil.gov.uk Mon to Fri : 9.15am to 12.15pm leYburn librarY: Tel 01609 535971 Monday & Friday 10.00am - 4.00pm Tuesday 10.00am - 6.00pm saturday 10.00am - noon public computers available. norTh Yorkshire council leYburn communiTY office Monday and Tuesday 9am - 5pm (closed for lunch 12pm - 1pm) nYc household WasTe recYclinG cenTre (moor road) april to september - 8.30am to 5.00pm (open every day except wednesdays) October to March - 8.30am to 4.00pm leYburn medical pracTice brentwood, leyburn, dl8 5ep Tel: 01969 622391 daY leWis pharmacY, 7 Market place, leyburn, dl8 5bg Tel: 01969 622160 leYburn denTal pracTice wensley Road, leyburn, dl8 5bn Tel: 01969 622132 friarY communiTY hospiTal 9 Queens Road, Richmond, dl10 4aJ Tel: 01642 944459 friaraGe hospiTal bullamoor Road, northallerton, dl6 1Jg (01642) 850850 Tel: 01609 779911 James cook uniVersiTY hospiTal Marton Rd, Middlesbrough Ts4 3bw Tel: 01642 850850 memorial hospiTal darlinGTon Hollyhurst Road, darlington, dl3 6Hx. Tel: 01325 380100

NOVEMBER 2025

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