A 17-year-old boy has been given a life sentence after murdering Harrogate schoolboy Seb Mitchell.

Dylan Cranfield appeared before Leeds Crown Court this afternoon to be sentenced after being found guilty of murder in August this year.

He stabbed Harrogate Grammar School pupil Seb in the chest with a kitchen knife which led to a fatal loss of blood and cardiac arrest.

Guy Kearl KC, the Recorder of Leeds, sentenced Cranfield to a life sentence with a minimum of 11 years.

Cranfield murdered Seb, 17, after a row over a broken mirror at a property on Claro Road in Harrogate on February 19 this year.

Cranfield pleaded not guilty – he accepted he stabbed Seb, but said he did not intend to kill him.

A teenage girl who witnessed the incident told police Cranfield pointed the knife at Seb and said “I’m going to wet you up”, which the court heard was “London slang” for a stabbing.

Seb was taken to Harrogate District Hospital by ambulance, but his condition was so critical he was transferred to Leeds General Infirmary where he underwent emergency surgery and was placed in a medically induced coma.

He died two days after the incident.

Read more:

• Seb Mitchell trial: Murder accused stabbed victim after row
• Court allows media to name Harrogate boy murderer

Cranfield, who was 16 at the time of the incident, was found guilty at a court hearing on August 25.

Judge Kearl lifted reporting restrictions on Cranfield, which had previously prevented the media naming him during proceedings.

Courts have discretionary powers to prevent the media from naming children to protect their welfare. Such orders remain in place until the child reaches 18.

However, Judge Kearl the welfare of children had to be balanced against the open justice principle that says the media should be able to report cases “fully and contemporaneously”.

He said the public interest of highlighting the dangers of knife crime meant it was therefore “in the interests of justice to lift reporting restrictions”.

Bus passengers across the Harrogate district were made late for school and work today, after dozens of cancellations were caused when vehicles were filled up with the wrong type of fuel. 

At least 56 services were scrapped on six routes, leading to one of the worst days for disruption so far this year for The Harrogate Bus Company. 

The company’s website stated there were numerous cancellations of the 36 service between Ripon and Leeds via Harrogate, the 1, 1A, 1B and 1D between Harrogate and Knaresborough, and the 3 from Harrogate to Jennyfield. 

This morning, it also tweeted that the S2 school bus from Bilton to Rossett School was being delayed by up to 30 minutes due to what the Harrogate Bus Company said was “a vehicle-related issue”. 

After receiving reports from readers, the Stray Ferret asked The Harrogate Bus Company about the disruptions. Operations director Vitto Pizzuti said:

“We apologise to our customers for the issues on some of our routes today. Since summer 2023, all our diesel buses have been running on a blend of biodiesel, leading to reduced emissions: the proportion of biodiesel in the fuel blend is normally higher in summer, and lower in winter.

“Unfortunately, it seems our fuel supplier delivered a higher bio blend to our depot last week, which meant that some of our buses were unable to run in the low temperatures over the weekend and this morning. Our supplier, Argent, is currently investigating what happened and has assured us that any necessary lessons will be learned.” 

He said the company’s engineers were working through the affected vehicles and normal levels of service were expected to resume by tomorrow (Tuesday, December 5).  

He added: 

“In the meantime, our advice to customers is to check before travelling on the free Transdev Go app and if your service is cancelled today, please let us know and we will send you a voucher for a free trip next time.” 

Read more:

• Tory mayoral candidate pledges North Yorkshire bus franchising assessment
• Tesco agrees to pay £50,000 for Harrogate bus stop improvements
• Work hub removed from Harrogate rail station

Police have arrested two people after two cars were stolen during a burglary in Harrogate.

The incident happened on Lime Street between 10.30pm on November 28 and 7.15am on November 29.

The offenders entered the house before taking two Skodas from the address.

One was a white Fabia, registration YD14 NVT, and the other was a grey Octavia, registration FT10 0CY.

A man in his 20s and a teenage boy, both from the Harrogate area, have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Both have been released under investigation while police enquiries continue.

A North Yorkshire Police statement added:

“Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward if they have not already done so.

“In particular officers are appealing for information or CCTV around the area, showing any suspicious activity around this time, or anyone who has seen the vehicles since the burglary.

“Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should email phillip.brown@northyorkshire.police.uk

“You can also call North Yorkshire Police on 101 and ask for PC108 Brown.

“If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Please quote the North Yorkshire Police reference number 12230226608.”

Read more:

• Prolific Harrogate burglar jailed for three raids including at restaurant and bar
• Harrogate man jailed for insulting magistrates
• Man seriously injured after Harrogate collision

This year’s Stray Ferret Christmas Appeal is to raise money for a minibus for Dementia Forward in the Harrogate district. 

The appeal is kindly sponsored by Vida Healthcare.

Please give generously to support local people and their families living with dementia. Let’s not forget who needs our help this Christmas.

Today, we talked to member of the young onset dementia group.

Before being diagnosed with young onset dementia, members of Dementia Forward‘s Time Out Together group were just like anyone else. One was the captain of Leeds Rhinos rugby, another a high-flying musician, and one a secretary for the Bank of England.

But everything changed before they reached the age of 65.

“We feel like a family – we are a family.”

This is how one member, Ally, described Time Out Together.

The group supports people living with young onset dementia – a form of the disease which affects people under the age of 65.

They meet every Wednesday and begin their day with coffee, cakes, and a catch-up. They laugh and chat and escape the evil disease they’re living with – even just temporarily.

Ally, who joined the group around nine months ago, said:

“I absolutely love it – it has changed my life.

“Everything we do is different – once we walked with llamas, and mine was named Gary!”

Time Out Together members visit the beach, nature reserves, play golf, visit art galleries, go on walking trips, go to the theatre and much more.

The purpose of the group is to socialise with people who understand them. The disease is robs these people of their former selves every day, but Dementia Forward works tirelessly to combat this.

Kev, the group’s volunteer bus-driver, said:

“It’s about laughing and joking together – we don’t judge here.”

Time Out Together is helping those living with young onset dementia and their carers every week, but the reality is that these people are fighting a downhill battle.

That’s why we need your help to ensure that the vital minibus service continues, and that people carry on receiving the care they need.

Dementia Forward’s current bus is old and urgently needs to be replaced. The charity would seriously struggle to afford a new one, which is why they need your help to keep this vital service going. Without it, many people living with dementia wouldn’t be able to access the help and support they need.

Every donation to our campaign will go directly to Dementia Forward, helping us hit our £30,000 target to buy the charity a new minibus and improving the lives of those living with dementia and the people around them.

Please give generously to those who need our help this Christmas. Click here to donate whatever you can – you never know when you, your family or a friend may be in need of Dementia Forward’s help too.

Thank you.

For those that need urgent help or have a dementia-related enquiry, call 03300578592 to speak to a helpline adviser.

This article is sponsored by Jules B.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and perhaps the most wonderful feeling of all is the joy of gift giving. There’s nothing quite like seeing a smile on your loved one’s face as they remove the wrapping paper to reveal a thoughtful something. But how do you succeed in delivering the perfect present? And in particular, what should you buy for the women in your life?

A cashmere jumper, a pair of fleece-lined slippers or a dreamy new scent… the gifting options are infinite. But the perfect gift for a particular person can vary, and therefore requires some thought. Succeeding in your goal to impress on Christmas morning takes care, effort and time.

At the same time, the run up to Christmas can be as hectic as it is magical, leaving many distressed in the quest to find presents. Fortunately, Jules B has you covered. Whether you’re visiting the Harrogate womenswear store or doing some online shopping, there’s plenty of gifts to love.

To guide you toward gift-giving victory, here are five fabulous gift ideas for fabulous women, handpicked by the Jules B team.

Eddy & Ivy 1985 Crew Neck Jumper 

Give the gift of warmth this Christmas with a signature jumper from Eddy & Ivy, Jules B’s in-house brand. The crew neck jumper has a nostalgic feel to it, and is incredibly soft from its cashmere and merino wool makeup. A versatile wear, Eddy & Ivy’s luxury knits are sure to satisfy the most stylish of recipients.

“The Eddy & Ivy knitwear makes a superior gift,” says Lynne Markham, manager of the Jules B Harrogate store.“It’s the premium quality and the softness of the wool that people fall in love with.”

Elizabeth Scarlett Sun Goddess Everyday Pouch

For the ladies who like to carry essentials on their travels, the Elizabeth Scarlett velvety pouch doubles up as an evening clutch and makeup bag. Scattered with embroidered golden suns, it is perfectly sized to hold cosmetics and any other precious bits and pieces they like to keep close.

And if you’re somebody who loves a gift set, the Elizabeth Scarlett collection also includes mini pouches and lavender-infused eye masks, perfect for putting together a gorgeous little bundle.

Chelsea Peers Christmas Tree & Wreath Long Pyjamas 

Everybody loves a nightwear upgrade, and for the dedicated follower of lounging, luxurious sleepwear is the ultimate gift. The Chelsea Peers Christmas tree & wreath printed pyjamas offer festive fun while bringing a touch of elegance to evening rituals. Most importantly, they make for a soothing night’s sleep.

As Lynne says: “The Chelsea Peers pyjamas are perfect gifts for a great price. The fabric quality feels so lovely next to the skin, and the variety of patterns make them suitable for a range of personalities.”

If you prefer to lean away from Christmas-themed nightwear, there is a whole range of Chelsea Peers sleepwear to shop at Jules B, from plain and simple to giraffe and zebra prints.

Dr. Vranjes Firenze Rosa Tabacco 250ml Fragrance Diffuser

For the woman who takes pride in her home, a Dr. Vranjez Firenze diffuser is something she’s sure to adore. The Rosa Tabacco fragrance is expertly infused with delicate ingredients, combined together in a stunning antique-style glass bottle, complete with bamboo reeds.

After filling the home with a scent bold like tobacco yet gentle like a rose, they’ll be left with a bottle that sits pretty next to any interiors. A real treat for the senses.

Vivienne Westwood Kitty Pearl Bracelet

Nothing says I love you quite like a piece of forever jewellery. The Kitty pearl bracelet by Vivienne Westwood is an elegant design with hand-knotted glass pearls and the brand’s signature safety pin motif and orb silhouette.

Best of all, it looks just as good with partywear as it does everyday clothes. Looking for a set? You can also purchase the matching earrings and necklace. And as Lynne remarks, “the pieces are wonderful for women of all ages.”

Can’t decide? There’s always the fail-safe option of treating family and friends to a Jules B gift card.

With a range of values available up to £500, the lucky recipient is sure to discover something they love in one of the five stores, including here in Harrogate.

Work has started on the construction of a new twin electricity sub-station next to the old council offices in Harrogate‘s Crescent Gardens. 

The existing sub-station is located in the basement of the council building, but this will be removed and replaced with a more modern version at ground level. 

The council building was bought in 2020 by Harrogate-based property developer Impala Estates for £4 million, and the company has planning permission to turn it into offices, a roof garden restaurant and gym, and to create a two-storey extension. 

A spokesperson for Northern Powergrid, which is responsible for electricity supply in the region, told the Stray Ferret: 

“We’re relocating the sub-station for three reasons. The old one in the basement of the old council building was not particularly accessible, but the new one at ground level will be. 

“It will also be more secure from the elements, as its old location underground made it more susceptible to flooding. 

“And more modern equipment will help make this section of the network stronger, improving security of supply for more than 230 properties in the immediate area.” 

The spokesperson estimated the project could take between 12 and 18 months in total and said the work represented a £275,000 investment by the power company. 

They added: 

“The transition from shutting down the old sub-station to energising the new one is usually seamless, but if any interruption to supply is required for safety reasons, we will let local residents and businesses know.”

Read more:

• Plans submitted to convert Harrogate’s Crescent Gardens to private road
• Harrogate’s Crescent Gardens £21,000 makeover underway
• Rose arch erected — but will Harrogate’s Crescent Gardens be renamed?

An office for hire in Harrogate rail station has been removed after just seven months.

Sheffield-based Workfromhub designed the facility to create private working space for an “ever growing remote workforce”.

It opened in Harrogate train station on March 23 and joined hubs in Sheffield and Swinton in Rotherham.

The facilities include space for two people along with internet access, a second screen and desk space.

However, the hub appears to have been removed after just seven months in post.

The space occupied by the hub pictured this week.

The Stray Ferret approached Workfromhub to ask why the facility has been removed and if it will be replaced, but had not received a response by the time of publication.

The company’s website still lists the hub as one of its locations.

When it opened, Neal Byers, founder of Workfromhub, said the firm was working with Northern to make use of vacant space in train stations.

He said:

“We are working closely with Northern Rail to help transform underused spaces within stations. We can see the need for people who are on the move to have somewhere private and connected to work from.

“We feel that there are not enough remote working private spaces around to keep up with the demand of a growing remote workforce.”

Read more:

• New office hire hub to open at Harrogate station today
• Dutch lifestyle brand takes last empty unit on James Street

Excellence deserves to be recognised and celebrated. The 2024 Stray Ferret Business Awards is the event to put your business, people or great initiative in the spotlight!

Make the most of your efforts by reading our top 10 tips for writing your submission for success.

Entries close on January 19, 2024.

Harrogate Town AFC have announced a new sponsorship deal with sports drink brand Cellnutrition Sport.

The Sunderland-based company will be the official hydration partner of the club, providing its HYDRATE 78 and HYDRATE 78 Night products to the entire first-team squad for the 2023/24 season.

Both products, which are included in the company’s Cellular Fitness protocol, are designed to aid fast recovery from exertion, sustain focus, eradicate cramps, help deeper sleep, prolong stamina and enhance brain hydration.

First-team manager Simon Weaver said:

“We are thrilled to partner with Cellnutrition Sport, a company that shares our commitment to excellence. Hydration is essential for athletes of all levels, and the Cellular Fitness protocol provides the best hydration solution on the market.

“We are confident that this partnership will help our players perform at their best and recover quickly after games.”

Town trialled the Cellular Fitness protocol for a period of three months at the end of last season.

Ben Rome, first-team strength and conditioning coach said:

“We had an issue with three of our first-team athletes becoming susceptible to cramping in the latter stages of games.

“The three players started to use HYDRATE 78 before, during and after training and matches, along with taking HYDRATE 78 night on an evening before bed.

“The results we saw was an instant improvement in all player’s hydration testing scores, along with a reported improvement in both sleep quality and muscle soreness.

“The three players were able to complete all remaining fixtures without reporting any problems with muscle cramping; one player even scored a crucial equaliser in the 98th minute of a game.”

Spa declared best in region

Rudding Park in Harrogate is celebrating after being named Best Spa in the North East at the annual Good Spa Guide Awards in London.

Rudding Park was a runner-up in this category last year, and this time beat stiff competition from six other finalists across Yorkshire and the North East.

Sarah Johnson, head of Rudding Park Spa, said:

“We are thrilled to have won this award, particularly against such strong competition. We always strive to offer guests the very best experience and are looking forward to launching some new spa experience in the new year.”

Rudding Park Spa has expanded in recent years with £9.5 million of investment and now has a roof-top spa and garden, hydrotherapy pool, spa bath, oxygen pod, garden cabin sauna and cabana.

In September, the estate announced it would invest between £30 million and £40 million to build a brand-new five-star country club.

Read more:

• Business Breakfast: Century-old nurseries rebrand for growth
• Business Breakfast: Harrogate marketing agency announces two new hires
• Business Breakfast: Harrogate PR agency joins B Corp ethical elite

Firefighters were called to a kitchen fire in a bungalow at Starbeck today.

Crews from Harrogate and Knaresborough were summoned to Forest Way at 9.30am this morning.

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s incident report said:

“The fire originated on a cooker hob when an air fryer was placed on top and the hob was switched on.

“The fire spread to nearby kitchen utensils, and subsequently caused one square metre of fire damage, and 20% smoke damage to the kitchen.

“Two occupants were out of the building on arrival of the fire service.”

Read more:

• Firefighters called to water heater blaze in Ripon
• Harrogate braced for second leisure services shake-up in three years
• Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves visits Knaresborough banking hub

Road safety campaigners say they are shocked after data revealed the Harrogate district has the highest number of fatal accidents in the county.

Data released by North Yorkshire Council, showed 16 of 89 fatal collisions in North Yorkshire happened in the Harrogate district. Only Selby had the same number.

The data is taken from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2022.

Hazel Peacock, Dr Jenny Marks, Dr Vicki Evans and Ruth Lily of the Oatlands and Pannal Ash Road Safety & Active Travel Campaign, told the Stray Ferret:

“It is shocking and sad to hear Harrogate has one of the highest fatal collision rates in North Yorkshire.

“Given the overwhelming evidence between speed limits and road safety we urge North Yorkshire Council (NYC) to take a proactive approach to delivering improvements across the Harrogate town and the wider area.”

The group said the statistics show the need to reduce speed limits from 30mph to 20mph is “really clear”.

Annual fatal accident statistics 

2019: Six fatal collisions happened in the Harrogate and Scarborough districts which is the highest number within the period – equating to around one every two months.

During the same period, Richmondshire did not report any fatal collisions, while Selby reported just one.

A breakdown of collisions (and the severity) in the Harrogate district. Credit: North Yorkshire Council.

However, the statistics show numbers more than halved in the Harrogate district during the pandemic.

2020: Three fatal incidents happened but in Craven and Selby numbers shot up with six fatal crashes in the same year.

2021 and 2022: After lockdown restrictions lifted, the Harrogate district saw a further seven fatal collisions.

Selby reported another nine during the same period, while Craven and Richmondshire saw just two.

Read more:

• Council quashes hopes of west Harrogate bypass
• 20mph speed limit proposed for Harrogate’s Woodfield Road

The number of fatal collisions in the Harrogate district is inconsistent over the four-year period.

Although the Harrogate district has the largest population many people will question why the figure is so much higher than the rest of the county.

Cllr Keane Duncan, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for highways and transportation, said:

“We take our road safety responsibilities very seriously. Every fatal collision that occurs on our roads network is inspected by an investigation team and, where appropriate, we put in place measures to reduce the risk of further incidents.

“Harrogate is the county’s largest, most heavily populated town, with significant local and through traffic.

“This number of collisions is the result of a variety of factors, including population density and distances travelled.”

The Harrogate district also saw 730 road collisions in total during the period — the highest in North Yorkshire – which accounted for almost a quarter of all collisions across the county.

Mr Duncan added:

“We invest heavily in road safety engineering across North Yorkshire and long-term collision numbers in the county are down.

“We have also recently committed to an ambitious new approach to setting speed limits that will see these reviewed on every inch of the county’s 5,750-mile network. We will soon consult on our most extensive 20mph zone in Pannal Ash and Oatlands.

“We will continue to work with our partners, including the emergency services, in an effort to ensure this downward trend in collisions continues.”

2023 – a bad year 

Throughout 2023, the Stray Ferret has already reported on six fatal collisions in the Harrogate district, meaning this year’s figures have increased again.

Five people died in car crashes on the A61, which runs between Ripon and Harrogate, this year.

A 59-year-old motorcyclist was killed on the A61 on August 29. Officers believe that the motorcyclist was travelling with a group of unknown motorcycles immediately before the collision and he was at the rear of the group.

Just a few days later, three members of a Ukrainian family were killed in a three-vehicle crash that involved a double decker bus on Sunday, September 3. One child was left orphaned.

Most recently, a man in his 90s was hit by a car on the road, near Killinghall, after getting off the 36 bus.

Fatal collisions also happened on Brimham Rocks Road, near Pateley Bridge, North Park Road in Harrogate and the B6265 near Boroughbridge.