Experts set to take centre stage at Harlow Carr Flower Show

Thousands of visitors will descend on Harrogate next weekend as the annual RHS Harlow Carr Flower Show takes place.

Running from Thursday, June 23 to Sunday, June 26, it will feature talks and demonstrations by gardening experts as well as stalls, displays and more.

Among those on the line-up is Martin Fish, the renowned horticultural writer, broadcaster and RHS judge, who will share advice from more than 30 years of gardening.

He will be joined by celebrity floral designer Jonathan Moseley, offering visitors inspiration and tips to create stunning cut flower displays.

The show will also feature live music as visitors explore the gardens.

Tickets for the event have sold out, but organisers said some last-minute cancellations may allow more to be released via the website.

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Carers recognised for covid efforts in Harrogate and Ripon at team celebration

A special event has been held to thank a team of carers covering the Harrogate district during the pandemic.

Continued Care, which has headquarters in Harrogate and a base in Ripon, held the Celebration and Thank You Evening to recognise its staff’s achievements in the face of unprecedented challenges over the last two years.

The event was also an opportunity to present long service awards and announce the carer of the year awards for each branch at the home care company. The winners were Sophie Philp in Harrogate and Janet Bettridge in Ripon.

Director Samantha Harrison said:

“Working through Covid has been one of the hardest things we have experienced but through it all our staff have shown great determination and resilience, working together as a team and putting others before themselves.

“Before the pandemic, their jobs were hard enough but our staff have been selfless and focused on doing their best for our clients who are among the most vulnerable in our community.

“Their kindness, compassion and generosity has been inspirational. We wanted to say thank you and tell each of them how amazing they are and how proud we are of them.”

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Long service certificates and badges were presented to nearly half of Continued Care’s staff – 65 people out of 140 – who have been with the company for five years or more.

Making the presentations, area manager Mike Herrington said it was amazing to have such a high proportion of long-serving staff in the company, given the well-known challenges of employee retention in the care sector.

He added:

“This is testament to the quality of our staff and what they do for us, as well as what we do for them,  and how we all work together to make sure people get the best service we can give them.”

Could Harrogate host Eurovision again?

Enthusiasm is mounting for Harrogate to put in a bid to host the Eurovision Song Contest again in 2023.

The European Broadcasting Union, which runs the event, announced yesterday it had concluded this year’s winner, Ukraine, was unable to host the event because of the on going invasion by Russia.

It leaves the door open for the UK, as runner-up, to be next in line to host the event next year.

Speculation has grown rapidly on Twitter about the potential host town or city – and Harrogate’s name has cropped up more than once.

Bring it back to Harrogate. https://t.co/khvYS1Loqy

— Duncan Woods (@the__DAW) June 17, 2022

The prospect has been welcomed by the town’s business leaders. Matthew Chapman, Harrogate BID Manager, said:

“I think it would be absolutely brilliant if Harrogate was to host next year’s Eurovision Song Contest.

“Harrogate is no stranger to staging major international events, and let’s remember 40 years ago Eurovision was held in the newly opened Harrogate Convention Centre.

“Once again, images of the town and wider district would be beamed into homes around the world. It would bring thousands of visitors into the town, give the local economy a massive shot in the arm and benefit many businesses.”

Eurovision 1982Jan Leeming hosted Eurovision live from Harrogate in 1982.

Sue Kramer, Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce president, said:

“Holding Eurovision would give the town and the district an enormous feel good factor, and with little disruption. It will also attract a significant number of visitors and a huge TV audience. Bring it on!”

Chamber chief executive David Simister added:

“I remember the excitement in the town when we staged it 40 years ago.

“Over the subsequent years the popularity of the Eurovision Song Contest has grown significantly, and hosting it would certainly be a fantastic opportunity for Harrogate.”

However, not everyone seems to feel so positive about it.

https://twitter.com/connormoseleyx/status/1537775214536364032

Having just celebrated the 40th anniversary of it being held in Harrogate, is there a possibility the town could be called on again to welcome fans, contestants and international media?

Sadly, it seems unlikely.

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In 1982, Harrogate Convention Centre was chosen because it was a brand new venue – a chance for the UK to show its modern facilities and ways of working.

However, its 2,000 capacity – perfectly adequate at the time – is unlikely to meet the organisers’ needs to accommodate the huge crowds who clamour to attend each year.

This year’s contest in Turin was held at the PalaOlimpico, which has a capacity of up to 15,657 for concerts. Rotterdam Ahoy, which hosted in 2021, can welcome audiences of more than 16,000.

So if not Harrogate, where?

The UK has hosted Eurovision eight times: four in London, and one each in Edinburgh, Brighton and Birmingham, as well as Harrogate.

Near neighbour Leeds is on the list of potential contenders, with the city council quick to confirm it will bid to hold the event at the First Direct arena, with its 13,781 capacity.

In a joint statement, council leader Cllr James Lewis and Cllr Jonathan Pryor, executive member for economy and culture, said:

“It goes without saying that Leeds will be bidding to host Eurovision in 2023. Together with ASM Global, the operators of the First Direct arena in Leeds, we have already been in touch with both the Government and the BBC to discuss our plans.

“Leeds has already proved that it has the capability and capacity to host major international events and ASM Global successfully hosted Eurovision in the Avicii Arena, Stockholm Sweden in 2016. Given that we will be mid-way through the Leeds 2023 year of culture, it could not come at a better time.

“We are extremely disappointed that Ukraine will be unable to host in 2023, but it would be an honour to host on behalf of them, especially given that West Yorkshire is home to a large number of Ukrainians. If we are successful with our bid, we will be looking to get the local Ukrainian community involved with our plans as much as possible.”

Still, Harrogate’s Eurovision enthusiasts can dream that perhaps one day the contest will return – and bring with it some of the profile that came 40 years ago as our European neighbours ask themselves again, “Où est Harrogate?“

Yoga teacher to run free solstice sun salutation in Valley Gardens

A yoga and pilates instructor will hold a free sun salutation event in Harrogate to mark the summer solstice on Tuesday.

Ebru Evrim, who is set to open a new studio on James Street on July 2, will hold the event in the Valley Gardens, near the cafe, from 6pm to 8.30pm.

She will lead participants through 108 sun salutations, a number representing spiritually significant landmarks including the number of sacred sites in India.

She said:

“Summer solstice is a lovely time of year, and it adds something extra special when practicing yoga outside in the evening sunshine – hopefully!

“This free event is a great opportunity for anyone with experience of yoga to enjoy an outdoor session, or for those interested in trying it for the first time.”

While beginners are welcome to participate, Ebru said the session will be physically demanding, though she will offer modifications to suit different abilities. Anyone taking part will be asked to complete a health questionnaire and must alert the instructor to any injuries or difficulties.

To book a place, email info@ebruevrim.com or call 01756 229356.

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Children ‘valued and respected’ at Knaresborough nursery, says Ofsted

A day nursery in Lingerfield near Knaresborough has been rated ‘good’ by Ofsted in its latest inspection.

Nidderdale Children’s Day Nursery, run by Kids at Heart, was praised for the way it helped children to develop new skills, from beginning to write their names to learning early mathematics.

Inspectors also highlighted the way children were taught about healthy lifestyles, including eating nutritious meals and staying safe in the sun. The report said:

“Children behave very well throughout the nursery. Staff are skilful at helping children to learn what is expected of them.

“They help children understand the difference between right and wrong, and consistently explain the consequences of any negative behaviour. They also encourage children to talk about their feelings. This helps children feel valued and respected.”

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The report said the nursery could further improve by engaging more with parents about ways to support their children’s learning at home.

It also recommended encouraging younger children to do more for themselves at mealtimes, to develop their skills and independence.

“Parents speak very highly of the management and staff. They make written comments, such as ‘staff are incredible’.

“Parents share a consensus that communication from the staff throughout the [covid-19] pandemic has been faultless. They say they are delighted to be able to return inside and see their children’s play areas again.”

The report has been welcomed by the nursery. Proprietor Julie Shaw said:

“We are delighted that we received a ‘good’ grading throughout all areas.

“The inspector commented on the good practice she observed, the caring and positive relationships between the staff and families and our clear understanding of children’s development, progress and safety. She also mentioned the very good behaviour of the children, amongst many other things.

“I would like to say how pleased I am with this report and feel it truly reflects the hard work, dedication and commitment of our staff team.

“It also reflects on our wonderful children who are amazing and to our parents, for your supportive comments, not only on the inspection day, but on an on-going basis.”

Business breakfast: Experienced lawyer joins Harrogate firm’s life team

Business Breakfast is sponsored by Harrogate law firm Truth Legal. 

Experienced lawyer joins Harrogate firm’s life team

A new senior lawyer has joined Harrogate law firm Berwins.

Liam O’Neill has been appointed as head of life at the practice, having previously been a partner in another firm of solicitors.

He brings 25 years of experience to the role and is a full member of the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists as well as STEP, the global body for practitioners helping families to plan for their futures.

Mr O’Neill said:

“I’m proud to have joined such as well-respected team in what is a very progressive firm. Expansion across the region and recent investments made in the business means that Berwins is well placed to thrive in the coming years and I’m excited to be part of that.”

Berwins managing director Paul Berwin added:

“The appointment of such an outstanding legal professional is a significant development for us. Technically excellent, Liam’s deep expertise – particularly in matters relating to will disputes – adds a great deal to an already outstanding department.”

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Profits soar at Harrogate equipment rental company

An equipment rental specialist based in Harrogate has posted strong growth in its sales and profits.

Vp, which has its headquarters at Central House on Beckwith Knowle, recorded increased revenues of £350.9m compared to £308m in 2021.

Its pre-tax profits also rose by 67% to £38.9m from £23.3m.

A formal sale of the company was launched earlier this year, but Vp describes operations as “business as usual” until it has an update for its shareholders.

Neil Stothard, chief executive of Vp plc, said:

“The quality of the recovery in our trading performance is extremely pleasing and these results demonstrate a significant increase in profitability and a material recovery in the quality of those profits. These strong results have been largely supported by the core markets which we serve.

“Over the last financial year, I am particularly pleased with our ESG [environmental, social and governance] initiatives where we have continued to invest in apprenticeships and our employees as well as our commitment to the environment.

“Throughout the year we continued to invest in our ambition to be net carbon zero by 2050 with all our businesses continuing to introduce new greener equipment solutions to their customers.”

Body found in search for missing Minskip man

A body has been found in the search for a missing 31-year-old from Minskip, near Boroughbridge.

Luke Earnshaw was reported missing after leaving home on Saturday just before 2.30pm.

He was seen walking down Thorndikes Lane towards Staveley.

North Yorkshire Police said the body found today has not been formally identified but is believed to be that of the missing man. His family have been informed.

Posting on a local Facebook group, a family member thanked everyone who had helped in the search for Mr Earnshaw.

She also praised police officers’ support to the family, adding:

“He’s finally at peace after suffering with mental health for many years.”

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Ex-Lib Dem candidate will not stand in Harrogate and Knaresborough at next election

The former prospective parliamentary candidate for the Liberal Democrats has announced she will not stand for the party again in Harrogate and Knaresborough.

Judith Rogerson, who won 20,287 votes to Conservative Andrew Jones‘s 29,962 in 2019, said she had been asked by “lots of people” whether she would make a second bid to be elected.

However, posting on Twitter this morning, she said:

“Lots of things have changed for me in the past 18 months. Last year I had to step back from politics after I needed major surgery for cancer.

“Happily I am fully recovered and 2022 has been much kinder with a wedding and, in the autumn, a new member of our family.

“As much as I would like to carry on as H&K’s PPC, I’ve had to recognise that it won’t be possible for me to give that important role the time and dedication it needs this time round.”

The local Liberal Democrat party said a selection process has begun to select a new PPC, decided by a vote of its members in the constituency.

The chosen candidate is expected to be announced by the end of the summer.

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Ms Rogerson added:

“I loved my time as H&K’s candidate and am proud of everything we achieved.

“We built up a strong team of campaigners, won some excellent council by-election victories and halved the Tory majority in 2019.

“Most recently the Lib Dems became the biggest council group within the constituency.

“Whoever is the candidate next time will be starting from a strong position and I will be supporting them all the way.”

In response to Ms Rogerson’s announcement, David Goode, constituency chairman for the Harrogate and Knaresborough Lib Dems, said:

“After some tough times, the Harrogate and Knaresborough Lib Dem family are so pleased to see her happy and healthy and we thank her for all the hard work she invested in this constituency.

“Being a PPC takes up a huge amount of time and we fully support Judith’s decision to prioritise her family life. We wish her well for the exciting times ahead!

“We know our new PPC will continue to build on Judith’s achievements, as we continue to build momentum towards the next election…

“The local election results clearly showed that voters in Harrogate and Knaresborough have had enough of this government, with voters putting Boris’s Conservatives on notice.

“The Lib Dems will be campaigning for a win at the next general election, be that in the autumn, 2023 or early 2024.”

The Harrogate and Knaresborough constituency has been represented by Mr Jones since 2010, when he won the seat from retiring Lib Dem MP Phil Willis, who had previously had a majority of more than 10,000.

Then, the Conservative majority was just 1,039 over Claire Kelley of the Lib Dems. In 2015 and 2017, Mr Jones increased this to more than 16,000 and 18,000 respectively.

None of the other parties have confirmed who will represent them in any upcoming election. A date has yet to be set, but it will have to be held by December 2024 in line with the maximum five-year parliamentary term.

Business Breakfast: how to make the most of TikTok

Business Breakfast is sponsored by Harrogate law firm Truth Legal. 

Secrets of TikTok success to be shared at Harrogate networking event

A business owner who uses TikTok for recruitment will be the guest speaker at a networking event next month.

Sally Bendtson, who runs Limelight HR, became a social media sensation with her entertaining videos during the first covid lockdown.

She has used them to raise the profile of her business and, most recently, even as part of her own recruitment.

She will be sharing the secrets of her TikTok success with Business Ladies around Harrogate (BLaH) on Friday, July 1.

The group meets at William and Victoria Restaurant on Cold Bath Road, Harrogate, at 11.50am on the first Friday of each month. The speaker’s presentation is followed by informal networking over a two-course lunch, finishing at 2.30pm.

Tickets are £30 per person. For more information, visit the BLaH website.

Harrogate colleagues climb Snowdon at sunrise for Yorkshire Cancer Research

A group of Harrogate colleagues have climbed Snowdon at sunrise to help raise funds for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

The employees from Belzona hiked up the highest mountain in Wales as part of their year-long fundraising for the charity.

Lily Alexander-Pike from the company said:

“We first suggested the idea to the team after one of our colleagues had done it and said how amazing it was.

“We had so much interest and everyone really got behind it, either taking part or donating. We were amazed to raise over £3,000 for Yorkshire Cancer Research in sponsorship.”

Belzona Snowdon charity walk

The team, which consisted of 28 people from design and manufacturing firm Belzona and two employees from Yorkshire Cancer Research, began their climb at 1am to reach the 1,085-metre peak for sunrise.

Lily added:

“It was surreal walking up in complete darkness, but when the sun rose the views were just incredible. The journey back down was like a completely different walk when you could see everything around you.”

Yorkshire Cancer Research was nominated as one of this year’s charities by Sarah Furber, a member of the finance department, because she has family members who have been affected by cancer.

The team has also organised a chocolate raffle, a cutest pet competition and more to add to its fundraising.

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Teens left in tears by Northern train guard’s ‘heavy-handed’ fine

The parents of three teenagers left “in tears” after being issued with a fine on a train journey have criticised the guard’s “heavy-handed” approach.

Freddie Fulford, 15, and his friends Evie and Oscar Bartle were travelling from Cattal to York on Saturday, June 3.

It was the first time the three had gone into York together and Freddie’s dad, Tony, said they were looking forward to a day out on their own.

“They jumped on the train with no tickets because it was in the station when they arrived.

“There is a ticket machine at the station, but they didn’t know you couldn’t pay on the train.”

Cattal Station

Once the guard realised the teens didn’t have tickets, he issued them with fines of £20 each. The teenagers said they were told in an “intimidating and frightening” way that the maximum penalty was three months in prison.

Upset by the fine and the threat of a criminal record, the teens called their parents from York station in tears.

Mr Fulford, who lives in Harrogate, said:

“They could have paid there and then or the guards could have said ‘buy at ticket on the app and we’ll come back in a minute’. It was just so heavy-handed.

“The obvious answer would have been to let them buy the tickets on the train and explain what they should do for next time.”

He said both families have submitted complaints and appealed against the fines. They had heard from other parents whose children had been fined for similar situations and had successfully appealed.

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Both sets of parents are in a position to pay the fines, he said, but he was concerned about other families who were not. He added:

“The main point is to stop it happening again.”

The Stray Ferret contacted Northern for a response to Mr Fulford’s concerns about their handling of the situation.

In response, Tony Baxter, regional director for Northern, said:

“Customers have a duty to buy a ticket for travel before they board a train.

“They can do so in advance via our app and website or, if they wish to purchase at an un-staffed station, they can do so from one of the more than 600 ticket machines we have installed across the network – one of which is at Cattal station.

“Customers should arrive at the station in time to purchase their ticket before they travel. Anyone issued with a penalty fare has the right to appeal the decision to an independent appeal service.”