This story is sponsored by Myrings Estate Agents .

When Colin Bonham was promoted recently to Senior Associate Director at Harrogate estate agent Myrings, it was the latest step in a rapid rise up the career ladder to the top of the district’s property industry. 

The promotion has given him a seat on the board at family firm Myrings, which is run by brother and sister Simon and Gemma Myring, but Colin’s first brush with estate agency was when he was still a pupil at Ashville College. He told The Stray Ferret: 

“I was already interested in property, so I asked to do my work experience placement with an estate agent. I spent the week at Myring & Heward, as it was then, and really enjoyed it.  

“Later, during my gap year, I bumped into Gemma and she offered me a job. I was 18 then and I’ve never looked back.” 

That was in 2010, and since then Colin reckons he’s sold well over 1,000 properties. But he has also seen a seismic change in customer behaviour as the industry has increasingly gone online. He said: 

“One of the biggest changes is how much things have gone digital. We used to have a huge rush on Thursdays after the local paper came out and people scoured the property pages, but these days more people search for properties online, so every day’s a rush now.” 

Now 32 and a father-of-two, Colin is currently working towards becoming an Associate Member (AssocRICS) of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and is ambitious for his future. But that’s not to say he intends to move onwards and upwards – he’s happy where he is. He said: 

“I’ve always been very well looked after here. Because it’s a family business, its ethos is independent – it’s not like a big corporate, with 28 layers of management. I’ve always worked very closely with Simon and Gemma, which has made it very easy to learn. 

“I’m still relatively young, and one day I fully intend to run the business – but only when Simon and Gemma are ready to hand over the keys!” 

Until then, he intends to help Myrings grow its footprint – it currently has the second-highest stock level in Harrogate – and its rental portfolio, while protecting the firm’s good name. He said: 

“At the latest Estate Agent of the Year Awards (the ESTAS) we were named the best estate agent in Yorkshire, as well as winning gold awards for both sales and rentals and being named the best for sales in North Yorkshire. It was a phenomenal achievement for a family firm with just one office, but it didn’t surprise me at all. 

“Reputation is everything to us – what people think of us is of utmost importance to us. The name above the door isn’t the name of some historic founder – it’s who is here every day. And people like the fact that it’s a family firm, because they’re often buying or selling a family home, and it’s very personal to them. That’s why word has spread about how good we are, and why I’m proud to work here.” 

Find out more: 

If you’re a Harrogate homeowner or involved in the local property market in any way, call Myrings on 01423 566400 for a free no-obligation chat about its residential sales and lettings services, or visit the website: myringsestateagents.com.

This story is sponsored by the Inter Ceramica Group.

The Harrogate-based family-run company, Revo Kitchens, is revolutionising the kitchen market, by launching its Revo Rapid range of stocked German Kitchens with 60% discount off the RRP.

Revo Kitchens, which is part of the family-run Inter Ceramica Group, has expanded its warehouse facilities on Hornbeam Park and now holds huge quantities of German Kitchens in stock, meaning products are available to take away the same day.

Customers can email through or bring along dimensions and a Revo Rapid Design Adviser uses those dimensions to design their dream kitchen for a fraction of the high street price.

Group Manager Adam Challis says Revo Rapid’s offer is unique to the marketplace:

“Revo has been working on this concept for two years, culminating in a revolutionary supply agreement with one of Germany’s largest kitchen manufacturers. The benefits for the customer are huge!”

“By shipping huge volumes directly, we can offer a permanent 60% discount off all kitchen furniture, including our worktops.

“To compliment this amazing offering we have specially selected a range of Bosch and Beko appliances, sinks, taps & boiling taps all from stock and all at internet-beating prices. It’s a truly unique and complete offering, at incredible prices

“Our initial range consists of seven different door colours, five worktops styles and 10 door handle styles. Worktops are manufactured by Duropal, another premium German manufacturer, all being laser edged to give an ultra-high-end quality and contemporary look.”

If a customer wants something outside of the stock range, they can order it, and it will still come with the 60% discount. 

Revo Rapid offers interest-free finance under a 12-month buy-now-pay-later arrangement. Customers can spread the cost even more with a low interest rate 10 year package – meaning a £5,000 kitchen can cost as little as £29 per month.

Mr Challis added on Revo Rapid’s customer support:

“Our team of professionals are always on hand to help with design and offer advice, making sure that our customers get the very best service and support.

“Whether you are a domestic customer looking for a new kitchen or a trade fitter, builder or developer, Revo Rapid will change the way you look at kitchens. Our showrooms are open to all.”

Find out more: 

You can check out Revo Kitchens’ range of fabulous German kitchens from Nolte on their Revo Rapid website. Alternatively, you can drop into Revo Kitchens’ showroom at Hornbeam Park in Harrogate. 

This story is sponsored by First 4 IT.

The organisers of the Great Yorkshire Show have a lot to think about – visitors, exhibitors, parking, and even the weather – but one thing they needn’t worry about is technology. 

That’s because the Yorkshire Agricultural Society (YAS), which puts on the show each July, entrusts all its IT systems to Harrogate company First 4 IT – and has done for the last 18 years. 

Andrew Velvin, managing director of First 4 IT which is based at Hornbeam Park, said: 

“IT support is crucial for businesses, organisations, and events to ensure that technology systems are running smoothly and efficiently. In the case of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society and Great Yorkshire Show, IT support is essential to provide reliable connectivity and technical assistance for exhibitors, vendors, visitors and indeed the organisation itself. Rapid response and quick resolution are also a critical part of our service delivery.” 

For a recent overhaul of the Great Yorkshire Show’s systems, First 4 IT undertook an in-depth assessment.

First 4 IT looked at the number of exhibitors, vendors, and visitors. The company considered the type of devices they use, and their connectivity requirements. Andrew said:

“Based on this, we designed a customised IT plan that addresses the specific needs of the event. We worked with the organisers to ensure that our plan is aligned with their vision and objectives for the event.”

A significant investment in IT

So ahead of this year’s Show, the Yorkshire Agricultural Society has made a significant investment in its IT systems.

First 4 IT’s support for the Show included setting up high-speed internet points throughout the showground. The team ensured that all areas have access to an encrypted network that can cope with streaming and card payments. 

Confidence in the Show’s online integrity is vital. So the company ensures that all data collected during the event – such as exhibitor registrations and visitor surveys – is secure. 

The team at First 4 IT will also be providing technical help and a troubleshooting service throughout the Show to exhibitors, vendors and visitors. 

And when the Great Yorkshire Show – one of the premiere agricultural shows in England – is all over, First 4 IT provides the YAS with post-event support. This includes analysing data collected during the event, providing a detailed report of the IT support provided during the event, including any feedback received, and providing recommendations for future improvements.  

High praise for First 4 IT

Allister Nixon, chief executive of the YAS, said:

“First 4 IT is not only located nearby but also demonstrates a high level of proactivity and quick responsiveness in addressing any issues that may arise.” 

Put simply, First 4 IT is one of YAS’s trusted partners and has been relied upon to put on many a successful show.

Andrew said: 

“We provide customised IT support that meets the specific needs of the event, ensuring that exhibitors, vendors, and visitors have a seamless experience. With our experienced team of IT professionals and state-of-the-art technology solutions, we ensure that the event runs smoothly and efficiently.”

The 164th Great Yorkshire Show will be held at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate from Tuesday 11 to Friday 14 July, 2023.

Find out more: 

Whether you’re putting on a great show or have more modest, but no less essential, requirements, call First 4 IT on 01423 859 370 to see how we can help, or check out our website at www.first4it.co.uk. 

A Harrogate craft beer bar has been named Pub of the Year not for its real ale — but for its real cider. 

Major Tom’s Social in The Ginnel was awarded the title by the local branch of CAMRA (the Campaign for Real Ale) due to the quality of the cider it serves. 

CAMRA said in a press release that although cider, made from apples, and perry, made from pears, are usually associated with south-west England there are a number of excellent Yorkshire producers, for example in Masham, Thornborough, and Husthwaite.

Lauren Wray, assistant general manager at Major Tom’s Social, said:

“We’re really pleased to receive this award. It’s quite an honour, and it’s a nice asset to the bar.

“We’ve only started focusing more on cider over the last year or two, but it sells really well. We’re obviously best known for our beer, so it was quite a surprise to get an award for our cider.”

According to CAMRA’s definition, real cider is fermented from the whole juice of fresh pressed apples – or pears in the case of perry.

It precludes the common practice of using concentrate or diluted juices to boost strength through the addition of sugar to an unnatural level for storage, before then diluting it with water to the desired alcohol content for sale. 

Alan Gould, chairman of the Harrogate and Ripon branch of CAMRA, said: 

“CAMRA campaigns for a high quality of materials and production methods, whether that’s in beer, cider or perry.

“Major Tom’s sell real cider, and that’s really not very common. They keep it in the right condition and get it from the right sources – small scale, artisanal producers who make craft cider well.”

Read more:

• Harrogate pub wins CAMRA award after one year of opening
• ‘Intimate gem’ Knaresborough pub wins rare award for beer quality
• Beer festival season starts with three-day Henshaws event

This story is sponsored by the Bettys and Taylors Group.

A number of highly sought-after career opportunities have become available at Harrogate’s most famous employer. 

Bettys is looking to fill a number of vacancies in the kitchen at Bettys Harrogate as well as having both front of house and back of house roles available within the four other branches located in York, Ilkley, Harlow Carr and Northallerton

New recruits can expect a competitive salary, pension, a fantastic working environment and excellent training. 

One person who has already taken advantage of that offer is Cameron Latimer, who is a catering assistant at Bettys’ flagship branch in Harrogate. The 21-year-old left King James’s School in Knaresborough to join another company in the industry, before moving to Bettys in 2021. He said: 

“The training is very thorough. Over the last 18 months I’ve really progressed, both in my job and as a person. I’m more outgoing and feel I can take control in the kitchen and lead others. I’ve been trained on every section and now specialise in preparing the hot food. In September I was promoted to shift leader, and later I aim to become a team leader.” 

Colleague Roisin Roddam, 24, has already progressed even further. She started at Bettys straight from school and has worked her way up to become deputy catering manager at the RHS Harlow Carr branch. She said: 

“Bettys really look after their staff and there’s loads of opportunities for career progression. There are loads of benefits, and the training is really good too. It’s very practical and hands-on, and you even get one-to-one training, so you’ve always got someone there helping you.” 

Roisin Roddam, deputy catering manager at Bettys’ RHS Harlow Carr branch.

Cameron said: 

“I’d definitely recommend working at Bettys. The conditions are second to none and the managers are very supportive. The staff are all friendly too – we’re all one team, front and back of house – and if something needs doing, we’ll all pitch in and sort it out.” 

Asked what advice she would give to prospective applicants, Roisin said: 

“Just apply. It’s an amazing company to work for, and there are lots of opportunities to move upwards or sideways, for example into the bakery or the Taylors factory.

“Everyone gets on really well. I really like all my team, and we do a lot of socialising outside work, so we get to know everyone very well. It’s absolutely brilliant.”

New apprenticeship opportunity in Bettys Café Tearooms

An iconic Harrogate brand

Bettys was founded in 1919 by Swiss confectioner Frederick Belmont and is now the most famous name in Yorkshire’s hospitality industry. More than a century later, it is still an independent family firm and continues to win numerous awards, including Food & Travel Magazine’s Specialist Retailer of the Year earlier this year. 

Along with Taylors of Harrogate, the company behind the iconic Yorkshire Tea brand, it is part of Bettys & Taylors Group, which employs more than 1,500 people, most of them in Harrogate. This month, Bettys & Taylors won one of the first ever King’s Awards for Enterprise for International Trade.

Find out more: 

If you’re interested in applying for a job at any of Bettys’ branches, check the vacancies page on the company website. 

A Masham woman is £2,000 the richer thanks to a special delivery from a cow called Storm Pooper. 

Kathryn Driver won Masham Community Office’s Cow Pat Competition, which was the surprise hit of the town’s coronation bank holiday celebrations. 

The competition, which was resurrected after a 25-year absence, saw four cows, named for the occasion Storm Pooper, Harry Plopper, Poo Patrol and Daisy Dung, let out at 2pm on Monday to roam around a fenced-off piece of land.

The land had been divided into squares, and tickets sold in advance at £1 per square. The winner would be whoever held the ticket corresponding to the square the first cowpat landed on.

The winner was the holder of the ticket corresponding to the square of land the first cowpat landed on.

Hundreds of hopefuls waited to see if they’d win the big prize, and after nearly an hour’s wait, it was Storm Pooper who produced the goods on Kathryn Driver’s square. She said: 

“I can’t believe it! It’s amazing. My mum got the ticket for me, so I’m going to use the money to pay for a holiday and take my mum away.”

The event raised £5,000, which will go towards the purchase of Masham Community Office’s building, The Old Police Station, retaining it as a community hub. The community office aims to reach a target of £215,000, and after months of hard work has so far raised £190,000.

Masham Community Office volunteers Gaynor Pearson, Tessa Klemz and Amanda Horsell celebrate the ‘culmination’ of the cowpat competition.

Hayley Jackson, community office manager, said: 

“Going through the process of fundraising for the community office building in the last few months has brought people together in such an amazing way, it’s been lovely to see.  

“We have seen just how much pride people have in the community office building and what a central role it has in the community. We knew it was important, but we’ve been able to see just how much it’s at the heart of the community and how much people care.

“The people of Masham see it as their building, and it’s really important to them that we retain it for the future. Who would have thought cowpats would bring the community together like this?”

Masham Community Office is a charity providing support and services to the local community, and is home to Masham Community Library, Acorns Preschool, Masham Parish Council clerk, tourist information and local art and craft shop Masham Flock.

Donations to the community office fund can be made online here.

Read more:

• Masham businesses fear impact if troubled Black Sheep Brewery closes
• Council-backed Masham project to show how rural towns can keep young people
• The snooker club in Masham with a remarkable historic claim

Staff and pupils at a primary school judged ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted 18 months ago are celebrating after it was given a glowing report following its latest inspection. 

Ofsted inspectors visited Ripley Endowed Church of England School in March and their report, published today, rates the village school ‘good’ in all areas. 

The new assessment marks a sea-change in the school’s fortunes and is the result of radical measures to bring it up to the required standard. 

Victoria Kirkman, who was appointed interim co-executive headteacher last year, said she was “proud” of the new rating. She added:

“Since my commencement at the federation, the sole focus has been rapid school transformation. The implementation of robust systems, processes and a curriculum that meets the needs of all children whilst focusing on high levels of pastoral care has ensured success.

“Children have only one chance at an education, and I am delighted that now, the children of Ripley Endowed Church of England School will succeed and have far greater life chances.”

Having been consistently rated ‘good’, the school received three consecutive ‘requires improvement’ assessments in 2015, 2017 and 2019. 

At its last full inspection in November 2021, it was rated ‘inadequate’ – the lowest of all ratings – in a report that was highly critical of its quality of education, leadership and early years provision. 

The rating meant the school, which has space for 90 pupils but currently only has 33, was placed in special measures.

As a result, North Yorkshire County Council drafted in an interim executive board (IEB) and new staff were hired, including Miss Kirkman, who is also executive headteacher at Admiral Long CE Primary School in Burnt Yates and Birstwith CE Primary School, which were both inspected and rated ‘good’ by Ofsted last year, and at Beckwithshaw Primary School which was rated ‘inadequate’ last spring.

Ripley Primary School’s progress was noted at a monitoring inspection in November 2022, but today’s report is seen as concrete acknowledgement that the school has been turned around. The report rates the school ‘good’ across the board, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. It states: 

“Leaders are relentless in their drive to support pupils to achieve their best and have designed a curriculum which broadens pupils’ horizons.

“Pupils enjoy their lessons. They pay close attention to adults. There is little or no disruption, which means pupils are able to concentrate well.”

It also quotes a parent, who said the new leadership’s “unbelievable enthusiasm has spread amongst teachers, pupils and parents”. 

Ofsted inspectors were impressed with the changes that staff and governors had brought about over the last 12 months.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for education, learning and skills, Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, said:

“I am thrilled that Ripley Primary School is now an educational establishment where children can flourish. We, as the local authority, are committed to continue developing the best possible provision for the pupils and will work tirelessly to build on these successes.”

Robert Ling, who was drafted in as the chair of the IEB, said:

“Since the IEB came into force in February 2022, it’s been a real team effort and I would like to thank members of the IEB for their commitment in turning things around.

“We are immensely grateful and proud of everything we have achieved in such a short period of time and I hope the school’s journey of improvement continues. Ripley Endowed Church of England School is part of a federation of three schools – Kettlesing Felliscliffe Community Primary and Beckwithshaw Community Primary School.

“However, I would also like to express my gratitude to Killinghall Primary School, Admiral Long School and Birstwith C of E Primary School, for their continued support in the remarkable journey that this federation has taken.

“Finally, a huge thank you to the parents and carers for your continued support of the school, especially during the past 18 months, which have been challenging for everyone.”

Rebecca Foy, the school’s interim co-executive headteacher and special educational needs co-ordinator, was also delighted by Ripley’s transformation. She said:

“We are absolutely thrilled with our result. It reflects the hard work, high expectations and dedication of the staff team to our children and families.

“We would like to thank parents and carers whose unwavering support to school life at Ripley, along with the wider community, has been a key factor in making us a positive and ambitious school and, of course, our wonderful children who we are immensely proud of.”

Maxie Schiffmann and Ellie Allen, co-chairs of the school’s Parent Teacher Association (PTA), told The Stray Ferret:

“We are absolutely delighted with this report. All staff, governors, parents and pupils have worked incredibly hard to improve this fantastic village school and we have created a very tight community during this journey. We look forward to welcoming many more pupils to this wonderful school.”

Read more:

• Ripley school praised for ‘swift and effective action’ to address inadequate rating
• Ripley primary school seeks to join academy after ‘inadequate’ rating
• Ofsted rates Ripley primary school as ‘inadequate’

A Harrogate publican told to remove the chairs and tables outside his pub to make way for a cycle path says he feels he is “being punished” by the council’s “unreasonable” demands. 

Charlie Tinker, who owns Charlie’s Place on Otley Road, was sent a letter in March from North Yorkshire County Council saying that the pavement in front of his pub “is now a shared footway/cycleway and as such the full width of the footway is required”. It goes on to demand that he “remove all furniture, heaters and A-boards” from the space outside the pub’s front door. 

Mr Tinker, who has owned Charlie’s Place for 19 years, has complied with the letter but said: 

“It’s not easy for publicans – we’re still trying to recover from the covid lockdowns. The last thing we need is the council making things even more difficult for us.

“With the warmer weather coming, this is going to cost me income. I feel like I’m being punished. 

“What the council is demanding is unreasonable. Just down the road, there’s a council bench and a council bin, both closer to the kerb than anything I’ve put out. It’s one rule for them and another rule for the rest of us.” 

Mr Tinker said he accepted there needs to be a cycle path, but does not believe it should require the whole pavement. He said: 

“The section of dedicated cycle path that they’ve purpose-built just up the road is 5ft 2in (159cm) across, but the council wants the full 11ft 9in (358cm) outside my pub.

“Even if you take into account extra space for, say, a double buggy alongside the cycle path, I should still have enough space for a couple of small tables and some chairs. There should be give and take.” 

Charlie Tinker has owned Charlie’s Place for 19 years.

According to the Department of Transport’s guidance published in 2020, the desirable width of a one-way cycle route with a peak flow of fewer than 200 cyclists per hour, as is the case on Otley Road, is 1.5 metres (4ft 11in) – considerably less than half the width of the pavement outside Charlie’s Place.

North Yorkshire Council, which took over the responsibilities of North Yorkshire County Council on April 1, told the Stray Ferret there was no formal street café licence or pavement licence in place, and said there was not enough width to accommodate pedestrians, tables and chairs, adding “this was the case before the Otley Road cycleway was introduced”.

Melisa Burnham, North Yorkshire Council’s highways area manager, said:

“Independent businesses are at the heart of our communities, and we do everything we can to support them. We recognise the importance of outdoor space for the hospitality sector, particularly in recent years when Covid-19 restricted indoor dining.

“In Harrogate and Knaresborough alone, we have around 16 approved street café licences and have worked with 65 businesses since the pandemic to support and introduce pavement licences alongside the former borough council.

“In all cases, the safety of those using the pavements and roads should take priority. Unfortunately, there are pavements which aren’t wide enough to facilitate outdoor seating, and we will always work with these businesses to find possible solutions.”

However, Mr Tinker insisted a small amount of space could, and should, be reserved in front of his premises for customers – just as it has been, albeit unofficially, for the the last two decades. He said without it, there was a serious danger that one of his customers could be injured by a speeding cyclist. He said: 

“Cyclists coming down this hill can really pick up speed, and having the cycle lane so close to our front door is dangerous. There’s no buffer for the customer – they’re walking straight into it. Someone could easily come out of our pub straight into the path of a speeding cyclist – it’s only a matter of time before someone gets hurt.”

Read more:

• Otley Road cycle path could be re-routed with new traffic restrictions
• New start date for next phase of Otley Road cycle path works to be revealed
• ‘Nightmare’ and ‘flawed’: Harrogate’s Otley Road cycle path under further fire

This story is sponsored by Gail’s Stitch In Time.

A Harrogate grandmother who swapped her office desk for a sewing machine says changing her career has fulfilled a long-held dream. 

Gail Byrne was head of HR for a local car dealership, but had been sewing as a hobby for decades. During the Covid lockdowns she started taking on small jobs, and then last year she finally launched her own business, Gail’s Stitch in Time. 

Working from home, she does “anything a sewing machine can do”, making dresses, cushions, curtains, and even Roman blinds, doing alterations, and using all kinds of material, from lace to leather. 

She said: 

“I just wanted a change – I didn’t want to be firing people anymore! My mum died when she was 60, and I’m now 55; I thought if I carried on in my old job I might just never to do what I really want to do. 

“I’ve been sewing as a hobby for 30 years, but I never thought I was good enough to do it as a job. But I started Stitch in Time last November and have never looked back. I’ve never been happier, both mentally and physically.” 

Gail has converted her dining room into a workroom, complete with changing room for fittings.

Gail has completely dedicated her dining room to the business, and has even turned a walk-in cupboard into a very “glitzy and bridal” changing room for clients when they come round for fittings. Recent jobs have included a hanging rail for a Campervan and a fabulous prom dress for her granddaughter. But she says she doesn’t have a favourite kind of job. She said: 

“The best bit is getting an email from a client saying that what I’ve made fits perfectly, or that it’s exactly what they wanted. There’s no feeling like it.” 

Since striking out on her own, Glasgow-born Gail has been busy backing up her experience with a sewing course which she passed with a distinction last year. Since then, she has been doing jobs for clients of all kinds, who are attracted by the quality of her work, competitive rates, and her friendly, local service. But she says she’s not in it for the money. 

She said: 

“Once I’m working, I forget what time it is. My husband even has to phone me from work to remind me to eat something for lunch! 

“There’s less stress and pressure, and I love to make people happy. Just seeing the smile on their face when they see what I’ve made makes it all worthwhile.” 

Find out more: 

If you have clothes that need altering, or would like something made to fit you perfectly, check out Gail’s website at www.gailstitch.com, email her at info@gailstitch.com, or call her to discuss your requirements on 07742 429281. 

A Harrogate shop is to close down after two-and-a-half years in business, citing tough trading conditions. 

Foxy Vintage & Interiors, which is on the corner of Commercial Street and Cheltenham Mount, opened in 2020 selling vintage furniture and retro collectables. It quickly made a mark for itself, winning the Harrogate At Christmas shop window competition in 2021. 

But covid and the soaring cost of living have combined to starve the town centre of much of the trade it used to enjoy. 

The shop is offering up to 50% off everything until stock is sold.

Owner Alex Clarke told The Stray Ferret: 

“It’s mainly down to the economy. We just haven’t been seeing the footfall – even since before Christmas. It’s really sad to go. We’ve got a lot of lovely customers who love coming in. It’s a real shame for them, because there aren’t that many small independent shops doing what we do. 

“We haven’t gone bust – we could have gone on trading. But you just don’t know what next year’s going to bring.” 

The shop will remain open while the stock is sold, with discounts of 50% on all vintage items and up to 50% on the rest. Ms Clarke said she hoped to be able to sell everything by the end of the month. 

She added: 

“One thing that’s really important to stress is that people need to support their local indies as much as they can. They don’t have to spend much – every little bit helps.” 

Read more:

• Fruit and veg shop to move to Harlow Hill after 50 years in Harrogate
• Shop will close tomorrow after 25 years in Harrogate
• Foxy Antiques wins Harrogate Christmas Shop Window Competition