Vicky Carr, Author at The Stray Ferret

Boy ‘stable’ and man under police guard in hospital after Beckwithshaw incident

An 11-year-old boy who suffered serious injuries in an incident in Beckwithshaw today is now in a stable condition in hospital following emergency surgery.

A man aged 40, who was also taken injured from the scene, remains in hospital in a serious condition and is under police guard, North Yorkshire Police confirmed this afternoon.

Both are believed to have been injured with what police are describing as “a bladed article” around 8.20am today.

Senior Investigating Officer DI Steve Menzies, of the North Yorkshire Police major investigation team, said:

“Two other children aged 10 and 13, who were also in the house at the time of the incident, are being cared for by relatives and supported by specialist police officers.

“I can reassure the public that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident and an investigation is underway to establish the full circumstances of exactly what happened this morning.

“I also want to thank ambulance staff, paramedic teams and police officers who quickly arrived at the scene and administered emergency aid to the injured males.”

The B6161 through Beckwithshaw was closed for several hours this morning as police entered the home in Church Row, close to Beckwithshaw Primary School, which police said was not linked to the incident.

An air ambulance landed in the field behind Beckwithshaw Village Hall, while numerous police cars and vans, as well as road ambulances, were on the scene.

Ofsted praise for Harrogate school that ‘turns around’ teenagers’ lives

A pupil referral unit in Harrogate which helps students get back into education has won praise from Ofsted inspectors.

Springwell Harrogate – previously known as The Grove Academy – received a ‘good’ rating in its latest report from the schools watchdog.

Inspectors referred to the “strides” taken by students after starting at Springwell, often following a period out of education. They said:

“While at the school, pupils develop their self-esteem, confidence and sense of purpose. Their time at the school has a tremendously positive effect on them.

“For example, many become more engaged in their education. Pupils told inspectors that the school had ‘turned them around’. One parent, echoing the views of others, described the school as a ‘lifeline’ for their youngster.”

The report said the unit, which takes students aged 11 to 16, helped to develop an interest in reading, in other cultures and in their own future careers.

However, it added that the curriculum is most effective for those who are at the school for short periods and less strong for those who are there for more than a year. Inspectors recommended doing more to deepen the curriculum for those staying longer.

They also suggested building on teaching of vocabulary to enable pupils to improve their use and understanding of language.

Inspectors highlighted the “dramatic” improvement in some pupils’ attendance after staff worked “tirelessly” to encourage them.

They added:

“Since the previous inspection, there have been significant changes at the school, including to the staffing structure. Several new methods for working with pupils have been introduced.

“New leaders and staff are ambitious for pupils and are determined that they succeed in their next steps. Most pupils move back to their original school or to appropriate settings, including college.

“Pupils join having missed large amounts of their schooling and lacking in motivation. The curriculum reignites pupils’ interest in learning.

“It enables pupils to fill some of the gaps they have in reading, writing, mathematics and science.

“The ‘experiential learning programme’ develops pupils’ physical fitness as well as broadening their knowledge of the world around them.”

‘Positive difference’

According to Ofsted, all of Springwell’s 29 pupils have special educational needs and/or disabilities and five have education, health and care plans. It takes students from across the Harrogate area.

The school has welcomed the new report, which comes after a difficult two years. Executive principal Scott Jacques said:

“Everybody at Springwell Harrogate is pleased with the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection and that the school has been recognised as good in all areas.

“The school was under threat of closure when it joined the Wellspring Academy Trust in April 2020, and the report notes the considerable change that the academy has been through since then, which has secured its future.

“We are particularly pleased with the fact that inspectors acknowledge the positive difference Springwell Harrogate makes to the lives and educational journey of the young people with whom we work.

“We would like to thank the pupils for their engagement and positive attitudes and also their parents and carers for their continued support in working with us. We also thank all staff involved for their daily dedication and hard work, and the governing body for backing the vision of the academy.”

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.

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.”

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.”

Jan 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.

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.

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.

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.

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‘Positive difference’

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Experienced lawyer joins Harrogate firm’s life team

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Profits soar at Harrogate equipment rental company

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