Storm Arwen’s impact is still being felt with more than 700 homes still without power, some since Friday.

According to a live map organised by Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, more than 700 homes are without power.

The areas most affected are the HG3 and HG4 postcode, particularly Birstwith, Hampsthwaite and Spofforth.

We will keeping this live blog full of updates as we get them.

Have you been affected by the storm? Please send updates on the situation where you live to contact@thestrayferret.co.uk with a description of what has happened, where and any pictures.

1.50pm – Phone signal drops in Summerbridge

Reports of a loss of phone signal are still coming from outlying villages such as Summerbridge.

One Stray Ferret reader got in touch to say she lost phone signal around midday today, her colleagues are also without.

Similar reports came in after Friday night’s bad weather, the situation with signal and power to homes looks to be ongoing.

7.15am – Local resident books in to hotel due to lack of power at home

A Stray Ferret reader has got in touch to say after having no heating or hot water and being unable to cook since Friday evening left her choosing to book into a hotel.

She has called on Northern Powergrid to make updates more specific so she can see the progress on works affecting her.

November 29

7.05am – Northern Powergrid said it is still working to restore power to homes 

Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, tweeted overnight to say its engineers were working through the night to try and restore power to homes still without.

Our teams are working into the night and engineers from across the UK are ready to support our continued response to #StormArwen

Read more – https://t.co/1rrcpUqWAs

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 29, 2021

Yesterday, it told customers they may be “off supply for long periods” due to some areas needing intensive work. It has said all planned work has been postponed so teams can focus on getting customers back on supply.

3.17pm – North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum update

North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum, which coordinates the country’s emergency response to incidents, says “emergency services, councils and utilities services continue to work together across North Yorkshire to deal with the aftermath of Storm Arwen”.

The update adds:

“Whilst the strong winds have dropped, some homes and business are still being affected and there remain issues with snow and ice across much of the county.

“Northern Powergrid continues to work to restore power to homes and businesses in the area.  We know, however, that some homes in parts of North Yorkshire continue to be affected.

“The Northern Powergrid website has details of when affected areas are likely to have power restored – www.northernpowergrid.com – using a live interactive map.”

Speaking on behalf of the forum, Neil Irving said:

“With an issue like this storm and the wintry weather that’s followed, it’s really important that we work together closely to make sure that those who need help are able to get it.

“Our joint response across emergency services, organisations delivering important infrastructure, and local councils providing support to people, mean that we’ve been able to combine and target our help more effectively.”

2.29pm – Weather warning for ice begins at 3pm

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice in the Harrogate district.

The warning comes into force at 3pm today and ends at 10am tomorrow.

Temperatures are forecast to fall to about freezing tonight in Harrogate but in remote areas, such as Greenhow Hill, it will feel like minus eight degrees centigrade.

The Met Office says:

• Probably some icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths, making accidents more likely and journey times longer.
• Icy surfaces likely, increasing the risk of slips and falls.

1.51pm – Northern Powergrid update: 40,000 homes still affected

Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, has issued another update saying this is the largest storm to affect its network for 15 years.

It says power has been restored to 200,000 of 240,000 homes that suffered loss of supply. It is drafting in engineers from Northern Ireland Electricity and UKPN to resolve outstanding problems.

In a statement, it said:

“All resources available are deployed, including contractors, and the network operator, as part of an industry mutual aid agreement, has also secured additional teams from other UK network operators to bolster its response and assist with the complex permanent repairs needed following the impact of the storm.

“With more than 700 (of 1,100) incidents still to address, there is a huge amount of work to be completed. Many of the faults will require intensive work and are localised with smaller numbers of customers associated, which means some customers will remain off supply for long periods as the network operator works through this programme.

“Northern Powergrid’s teams are identifying those at risk of being off supply for more than another 24 hours so customers can make alternative arrangements.”

Rod Gardner, Northern Powergrid’s major incident manager, said:

“The storm was well forecasted and despite being prepared, Storm Arwen resulted in damage of a scale and intensity not seen for 15 years.

“We’re sorry that some customers are still without power despite the huge effort by our colleagues. We understand the impact this has on peoples’ lives particularly at this time of year.

He said the company was unable to keep pace with requests for info, adding:

“We pride ourselves on being able to keep our customers informed and we are doing everything possible to keep people updated using all available channels including social media. We’re sorry for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to address this.”

1.46pm – Power problems persist in Beckwithshaw

Reader Katharine Thompson informs us power has not returned to some homes in Shawfield Head in HG3

“We are only getting pre-recorded messages from Northern Powergrid when we ring their number despite being told we will get text updates.

“The last message said there were 54 houses in this postcode and 2 Leeds postcodes still without power. They estimate supply will be returned by midnight tonight but we are not holding out much hope.”

The Geek Bar on Bower Road in Harrogate has closed for good.

The board game bar and restaurant was opened in March last year by Alan Evans, who wanted to combine his love of geek culture with his background in hospitality.

It offered geek-themed cocktails and food as well as a Dungeons and Dragons table and a wide range of board games to play.

However, the landlord of the building has decided he needs the building for other purposes, so Geek Bar has had to move out.

The site was previously home to LeD2 restaurant for 15 years.

Mr Evans told the Stray Ferret:

“[The landlord] is turning it into office space I believe but I don’t know too much.

 “We are on good terms with him and he has been super reasonable with everything.

 “We are continuing our D&D sessions at my offices on Hornbeam Park. We are currently looking for a new site here in Harrogate and talking to a few people on using their space for potential pop ups in the new year.

 “We are super proud of the community we started and we hope to keep it going in whatever form it takes in the future.”

Read more:

• Harrogate Swedish-inspired cafe to expand into Knaresborough
• Nicaragua ambassador visits Cold Bath Road tobacconist

Storm Arwen’s impact is still being felt with more than 700 homes still without power, some since Friday.

According to a live map organised by Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, more than 700 homes are without power.

The areas most affected are the HG3 and HG4 postcode, particularly Birstwith, Hampsthwaite and Spofforth.

We will keeping this live blog full of updates as we get them.

Have you been affected by the storm? Please send updates on the situation where you live to contact@thestrayferret.co.uk with a description of what has happened, where and any pictures.

1.50pm – Phone signal drops in Summerbridge

Reports of a loss of phone signal are still coming from outlying villages such as Summerbridge.

One Stray Ferret reader got in touch to say her and her colleagues lost phone signal around midday today.

Similar reports came in after Friday night’s bad weather, the situation with signal and power to homes looks to be ongoing.

7.15am – Local resident books in to hotel due to lack of power at home

A Stray Ferret reader has got in touch to say after having no heating or hot water and being unable to cook since Friday evening left her choosing to book into a hotel.

She has called on Northern Powergrid to make updates more specific so she can see the progress on works affecting her.

7.05am – Northern Powergrid said it is still working to restore power to homes 

Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, tweeted overnight to say its engineers were working through the night to try and restore power to homes still without.

Our teams are working into the night and engineers from across the UK are ready to support our continued response to #StormArwen

Read more – https://t.co/1rrcpUqWAs

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 29, 2021

Yesterday, it told customers they may be “off supply for long periods” due to some areas needing intensive work. It has said all planned work has been postponed so teams can focus on getting customers back on supply.

3.17pm – North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum update

North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum, which coordinates the country’s emergency response to incidents, says “emergency services, councils and utilities services continue to work together across North Yorkshire to deal with the aftermath of Storm Arwen”.

The update adds:

“Whilst the strong winds have dropped, some homes and business are still being affected and there remain issues with snow and ice across much of the county.

“Northern Powergrid continues to work to restore power to homes and businesses in the area.  We know, however, that some homes in parts of North Yorkshire continue to be affected.

“The Northern Powergrid website has details of when affected areas are likely to have power restored – www.northernpowergrid.com – using a live interactive map.”

Speaking on behalf of the forum, Neil Irving said:

“With an issue like this storm and the wintry weather that’s followed, it’s really important that we work together closely to make sure that those who need help are able to get it.

“Our joint response across emergency services, organisations delivering important infrastructure, and local councils providing support to people, mean that we’ve been able to combine and target our help more effectively.”

2.29pm – Weather warning for ice begins at 3pm

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice in the Harrogate district.

The warning comes into force at 3pm today and ends at 10am tomorrow.

Temperatures are forecast to fall to about freezing tonight in Harrogate but in remote areas, such as Greenhow Hill, it will feel like minus eight degrees centigrade.

The Met Office says:

• Probably some icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths, making accidents more likely and journey times longer.
• Icy surfaces likely, increasing the risk of slips and falls.

1.51pm – Northern Powergrid update: 40,000 homes still affected

Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, has issued another update saying this is the largest storm to affect its network for 15 years.

It says power has been restored to 200,000 of 240,000 homes that suffered loss of supply. It is drafting in engineers from Northern Ireland Electricity and UKPN to resolve outstanding problems.

In a statement, it said:

“All resources available are deployed, including contractors, and the network operator, as part of an industry mutual aid agreement, has also secured additional teams from other UK network operators to bolster its response and assist with the complex permanent repairs needed following the impact of the storm.

“With more than 700 (of 1,100) incidents still to address, there is a huge amount of work to be completed. Many of the faults will require intensive work and are localised with smaller numbers of customers associated, which means some customers will remain off supply for long periods as the network operator works through this programme.

“Northern Powergrid’s teams are identifying those at risk of being off supply for more than another 24 hours so customers can make alternative arrangements.”

Rod Gardner, Northern Powergrid’s major incident manager, said:

“The storm was well forecasted and despite being prepared, Storm Arwen resulted in damage of a scale and intensity not seen for 15 years.

“We’re sorry that some customers are still without power despite the huge effort by our colleagues. We understand the impact this has on peoples’ lives particularly at this time of year.

He said the company was unable to keep pace with requests for info, adding:

“We pride ourselves on being able to keep our customers informed and we are doing everything possible to keep people updated using all available channels including social media. We’re sorry for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to address this.”

1.46pm – Power problems persist in Beckwithshaw

Reader Katharine Thompson informs us power has not returned to some homes in Shawfield Head in HG3

“We are only getting pre-recorded messages from Northern Powergrid when we ring their number despite being told we will get text updates.

“The last message said there were 54 houses in this postcode and 2 Leeds postcodes still without power. They estimate supply will be returned by midnight tonight but we are not holding out much hope.”

1.24pm – Yorkshire Water update

https://twitter.com/YorkshireWater/status/1464946526707453952

1.13pm – Power returns to Washburn Valley

Victoria Oldham, the Conservative councillor for Washburn Valley, has messaged to say that power has returned to Washburn Valley.

It had seemed like a long, cold, snowy day was in store for residents after Northern Powergrid advised power was likely to be off all day so this news will be most welcome on this bitterly cold November day.

Is anywhere in the Harrogate district still without power? Email us at contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.

11.51am – Northern Powergrid deploys customer support vehicle

Unfortunately the vehicle is in Wooler town centre in Northumberland. Many people are struggling for updates on the situation where they live so as welcome as this is for people further north, it means the waiting continues for local people still without power.

Our Customer Support Vehicle is outside the Black Bull in #Wooler.
Joe and John from Team Powergrid are providing hot drinks, bottled water, flasks with hot water and winter warmer packs for those with out power.

'

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 28, 2021

10.18am – Washburn Valley expected to be without power until midnight

Victoria Oldham, the Conservative councillor for Washburn Valley, has tweeted that her ward is likely to be without power until midnight.

This is bad news for people in Dob Park, Norwood, North Rigton, Low Snowdon, Fewston, Blubberhouses and the villages in between.

Please keep us informed with the situation in your area by emailing contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.

So the latest news from @Northpowergrid is that electricity will be restored by midnight in the Washburn Valley. It has been off since 10p.m. on Friday.
The landline has died, but at least the mobile signal is back. Happy Sunday everyone.

— Victoria Oldham (@VictoriaOldham4) November 28, 2021

9.47am – Power restored to another 8,000 homes

Northern Powergrid has just issued another update. That means about 50,000 homes are still affected.

We've restored power to a further 8,000 customers. Our teams continue to do all we can to safely restore power following significant damage to our network by #StormArwen pic.twitter.com/6d0YkZRO0R

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 28, 2021

9.16am – 58,000 homes still without power

An overnight update by Northern Powergrid revealed it had restored power to around 182,000 of some 240,000 homes and businesses whose supplies were affected by Storm Arwen. It added it hoped to “restore power to the 58,000 customers still affected as soon as we can”.

It is not known how many of those affected are in the Harrogate district, with many people reporting on social media they have been unable to get through to Northern Powergrid for further information.

The company’s update said it was responding to 700 of some 900 instances of damage. It added:

“Today has been one of the most challenging we have seen in over a decade with our teams being unable to safely climb for over 24 hours, due to the storm force winds.  Although this has been frustrating, safety of our people is paramount. We have focused our efforts on work which could be completed to assess the scale of damage and response needed to repair the network.

“The storm has caused varying degrees of damage across the whole of our operating area, with the North East region taking the brunt of the storm. Fallen trees and flying debris have damaged electricity infrastructure in numerous locations and travel conditions remain challenging in some places.

“Our customer support vehicles have been deployed in communities, wherever possible, to support customers and we continue to work with the British Red Cross and multi-agency partners to support those most vulnerable.

“If weather conditions remain as forecasted, from first light we will use our helicopter to spot damage locations and inform its teams on the ground.

“Please remember that anyone who spots any damaged cables or equipment must not approach the area as equipment may still be live and pose a risk of electrocution but should contact us immediately by calling 105.”

8.26pm – Northern Powergrid urges people without power to ‘seek alternative accommodation’

It is still unclear how many people in the Harrogate district are without power but those that are have been told not to expect it to return tonight.

Northern Powergrid has said problems are expected to persist ‘through the night and into tomorrow’. Not the best news with temperatures in the district forecast to fall to minus three degrees centigrade tonight.

If you are still without power, it is very likely that you will be off through the night and into tomorrow.

If you can seek alternative accommodation with family and friends it is recommended to do so – or if you know someone without power, consider if you can offer support. pic.twitter.com/ppQnxCl4ra

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 27, 2021

8.19pm – Sun Inn at Norwood forced to close

The pub said on social media:

“We have currently no electric or phone line . We will be unable to serve food this evening as all the staff have gone home after a very long four hours waiting patiently for it to come back on . Hopefully we will be up and running tomorrow.”

7.16pm – No water or low water pressure in HG4

We have received an email from a reader saying there is no water in North Stainley because of power problems at a pumping station. Yorkshire Water has said in a message to residents:

“You may have no water or low pressure in HG4. We will restore supplies as soon as possible. Water may return cloudy or discoloured for an hour or two but this will pass.”

Let us know what the latest situation is there and elsewhere as the Harrogate district recovers from Storm Arwen.

5.50pm – Another fallen tree, this time at Felliscliffe

Reader Alan Peel took this photo at lunchtime today of a fallen tree on Tang Road, between Whitewall Lane and Birstwith Hall. Are many roads still affected by the storms? Please keep us informed of the situation across the Harrogate district by emailing contact@thestrayferret.co.uk/

3.45pm – Harrogate district residents urged to look after each other

The body responsible for responding to emergencies in North Yorkshire has urged residents to pull together in the aftermath of Storm Arwen.

Emergency services at local councils have been working together during the high winds to clear roads and keep people safe.

However, thousands across the Northern Powergrid region remain without power as the storm moves on and temperatures plummet.

North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum has asked for neighbours to invite those vulnerable without power into their homes or make arrangements for alternative accommodation.

Avoid the seafronts. At least one person has been swept out by the waves and rescued off the North Yorkshire coast today.

Inspector Amy Hunter from North Yorkshire Police, said:

“Due to the high level demand in calls for service there may be a delay when calling the police on 101.

“We ask members of the public not to ring 999 if you can’t get through on 101, please leave the lines free for genuine emergencies.”

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue has attended around 50 incidents. The majority of these incidents included falling trees, power lines and dangerous structures.

Neil Irving, on behalf of the North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum, said:

“County and district councils and emergency services continue to pull out all the stops to keep highways clear and our residents safe and we are calling on all our residents to help us in this endeavour.

“Travel only if you need to and remain vigilant. Above all please look out for neighbours and friends particularly those who are elderly and frail who may be without power for a prolonged period in very cold weather, especially as nightfall approaches.

“We are calling on friends and neighbours and people without power to consider making arrangements together to move people into warm accommodation until power is restored.”

2.45pm – Homes will be without power today and into tomorrow

Homes across the Harrogate district that have been without power since last night may not get the supply back until tomorrow.

While it is difficult to get a hold of the impact on the district specifically with Northern Powergrid’s outage map down, we have received a number of complaints about the issue.

More than 108,000 properties are still affected. Here is what a spokesperson for the power company said:

“Storm Arwen, which continues to hit the region, has brough windspeeds of up to 100 mph and is the largest storm to impact our network since 2005.

“More than 219,000 homes and businesses have been affected and we have restored power to some 111,000 customers.

“With 108,000 still affected, and as a result of the ongoing situation, many customers will be off supply for the majority of the day and into tomorrow or when it is safe to carry out repairs.”

2pm – Storm Arwen starts to relent

Storm Arwen is beginning to relent after battering the Harrogate district over the last 24 hours.

The Met Office has said that the strongest of the winds have now passed but there are still severe weather warnings in place across the UK.

A yellow warning for wind is still vald until 6pm. However, the storm is now moving southwards.

The worst of the winds may have passed but there is a cold night ahead with a yellow warning for ice in place between 5pm and 11am tomorrow.

Chief meteorologist Steve Ramsdale, said:

“Storm Arwen has delivered some dangerously strong winds overnight, with gusts in excess of 90mph recorded and sustained windspeeds of over 60mph.

“The strong winds will move south across the UK through the day, gradually weakening.

“Warnings are in still in force through the day and there has been widespread disruption so check and follow advice from local authorities before you head out.

“There is a chance of snow in some locations, particularly the higher ground in Scotland and Northern England where we have already seen some accumulations.

“Any snow falling at lower levels is likely to be short lived.”

12.55pm – Tree down on Jenny Field Drive

Thanks to reader Jacci Stephenson who sent us this photo of a tree down on Jenny Field Drive in Harrogate today.

We also received this tweet about trees down in Bilton.

Two trees down on Bilton cycle path, one just north of Bilton lane easily avoided , the other just beyond the railway line bridge much harder to get round.

— terribletim (@terribletim6) November 27, 2021

We also understand many homes are still affected by the severe weather. Have things improved in Fewston since we received this tweet?

We have no electricity in Fewston and no mobile phone signal. We’ve phoned National Power Grid from the town centre to determine what is happening and they’re not taking calls and their website is down. We’re truly in the dark!

— steven (@Mincemoosemeat) November 27, 2021

Let us know the latest situation where you are by emailing contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.

12.45pm – North Powergrid struggling to restore power

Northern Powergrid says Storm Arwen is the largest storm to impact network since 2005.

Parts of Yorkshire and the north east of England have significant damage to power network and although it has managed to restore power to many homes a significant number remain without power.

Rod Gardner, Northern Powergrid’s Major Incident Manager, said:

“Our contact centre is very busy and our website is experiencing issues due to the volume of customers using it.  Our teams are doing everything possible to resolve this and we are continuing to provide updates on our social media channels which we encourage customers to share”

Continued storm force winds mean it is currently unsafe for teams to climb and repair any damage caused to overhead power lines by fallen trees and flying debris.

Northern Powergrid warned that customers maybe off supply for the majority of the day and into tomorrow, or when it is safe to carry out restoration and repairs.

11.45am – Cancelled Christmas events across Harrogate district

(Closed) RHS Harlow Carr: Due to weather warnings & high winds, RHS Garden Harlow Carr is closing today (Sat 27 Nov) & this evening’s Glow event is cancelled. If you have booked for the garden or Glow you’ll automatically be refunded within the next 14 days. We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused.

(Closed) Harrogate Theatre: Harrogate Theatre has now confirmed that it has been forced to cancel the whole weekend of scheduled panto performances. Storm Arwen has left the building with a leak.

(Closed) Brimham Rocks: National Trust has closed Brimham Rocks today due to high winds. The site said it is not safe for visitors or staff.

(Closed) Fountains Abbey: National Trust has closed Fountains Abbey near Ripon today due to high winds. The site said it is not safe for visitors or staff.

(Closed) Stockeld Park: The Christmas Tree Shop will be opening from 1pm today when winds are forecast to reduce to safe levels. The Adventure Park remains closed today as the storm through the night has caused some damage and the team are spending the day clearing up the debris and ensuring the site is safe.

Rides in Harrogate: Due to the anticipated high winds, the attractions in #Harrogate (Ferris wheel, carousel and helter-skelter) may not be running this weekend. The situation will be monitored throughout.

11.30am – Train disruption on Harrogate lines

Train commuters have faced lots of disruption this morning due to the strong winds caused by Storm Arwen.

Northern Rail has said that services will either be cancelled, delayed by up to 60 minutes or revised.

On the Harrogate board, the 11.45am to Leeds and 1.05pm to York are cancelled.

11am – Tree falls on moving car in Sharow

A clean up operation has just begun after a tree fell on a moving car with a driver inside in Sharow.

The incident occured this morning on Dishforth Road. We understand that the person inside suffered minor injuries.

We asked both North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue for more information but received no reply.

10.30am – Weekend of pantos cancelled at Harrogate Theatre

Harrogate Theatre has now confirmed that it has been forced to cancel the whole weekend of scheduled panto performances.

The theatre is currently undergoing a roof replacement. However, Storm Arwen has left the building with a leak.

It means that the 12pm and 5pm performances both today and tomorrow will not go ahead.

10.15am – Harrogate Theatre cancels panto over leak

Harrogate Theatre has been forced to cancel its performance of Cinderella at 12pm today due to a leak caused by Storm Arwen.

It is unclear at this stage whether the 5pm will be able to go ahead.

https://twitter.com/HGtheatre/status/1464536490273394698

9.50am – Power out in areas across the Harrogate district

Storm Arwen has left some people in the Harrogate district without power this morning.

A Stray Ferret reader in Fewston called Steven has told us they are currently without power and mobile phone signal this morning.

Northern Powergrid has said 112,000 of its customers are currently without power with more than 550 instances of damage on the network.

#StormArwen is continuing to batter our region and causing ongoing damage to our network.

We have restored power to 88,000 homes and businesses. We currently have 112,000 customers without power and we have more than 550 instances of damage on our network. pic.twitter.com/QvPLADIDAg

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) November 27, 2021

9.15am – An update for the roads across the Harrogate district

Some trees have been cleared from main roads but there is still plenty of disruption across the Harrogate district.

• A tree has fallen onto a car on Dishforth Road in Sharow
• Tang Lane in Swincliffe blocked due to a large fallen tree, pictured above
• Reports of a fallen tree on High Moor Road near North Rigton
• Reports of a fallen tree on Follifoot Road near Pannal Golf Club

Pennypot Lane and Jennyfield Drive are now clear after fallen trees have been cleared

8.30am – Parkrun cancelled due to weather conditions

Organisers of the Parkrun in Harrogate have cancelled the event this morning due to Storm Arwen.

Harrogate Parkrun tweeted a picture of a downed tree and said it was just not safe to go out.

Nobody wants a tree on their head so we are cancelled today.

Sorry folks it’s just not safe for our runners or volunteers to go ahead this morning.

Stay safe, have a wonderful weekend and we’ll see you soon. pic.twitter.com/cR19KzhX4G

— Harrogate parkrun (@Hgateparkrun) November 27, 2021

8.15am – Buses are still running across the district

The Harrogate Bus Company is running its services across the Harrogate district this morning with a couple of exceptions:

• Harrogate Electrics 2A is unable to serve Rawson Street, Elm Road, Alder Road Dene Park stops
• The 24 is also disrupted between Darley and Birstwith

Transdev CEO Alex Hornby tweeted:

“This morning has been challenging. Our teams are doing a tremendous job to get buses moving in the storms and snow (and around many fallen trees!). We are doing our best to update you on our social channels.

“Thanks to everyone for doing their bit – and for your patience today.”

8am – Fallen trees causing issues on the roads

We have seen several reports overnight and this morning of fallen trees causing issues on the roads across the Harrogate district.

• Reports of tree in road on Jennyfield near the junction with Lindrick Way
• Reports of tree down on Penny Pot Lane in Harrogate
• Police incident on Dishforth Road in Sharow, reports of tree down and crash
• Reports of tree in road on Ripon Road south of Wormald Green

Have we missed anything? Get in touch so we can add it to our live blog and let others know.

A single mum with four children from Harrogate has opened up about her experience of struggling to pay the bills to try and break the stigma around poverty.

Kayleigh Cooper lost her job manning the phones in the evenings at a taxi company early in the coronavirus pandemic.

So overnight, after never worrying about money, she started to wonder how she could afford her rising living costs while also feeding her children.

She gets Universal Credit and food vouchers but they have not been able to cover her costs.

Read more:

• Community grocery for people in need opens in Harrogate
• Unemployment in Harrogate district falls despite end of furlough

Ms Cooper felt ashamed about her situation at first. But after reaching out for support, she now wants to let others know that they do not need to “suffer in silence” like she did. She said:

“I was really struggling to feed my children on a daily basis. A lot of people pretend they are doing alright, I have done it myself. But we need to talk about the issue otherwise it gets swept under the rug.

“For me I never had to worry about money before this. Since losing my job I have had to make those choices between paying the utility bills and buying food.

“It’s not just those without a job though, there are plenty of people with jobs who do not have enough money to live off too. Sometimes they struggle even more.

“My anxiety has been a lot worse. It really has had an impact on my mental health. However since reaching out for support I feel like I have had a weight taken off my shoulders.”

Reaching out for support at the new community grocery

A neighbour told Ms Cooper about the community grocery run by the Resurrected Bites team, which opened last month at New Park Primary Academy Community Hub.

She was hesitant at first but broke down in tears when she finally decided to go and ask for help.

People pay £5 a year to sign up as members and are then entitled to pay £3, £6 or £9 depending on the size of their family. The value of the items for the £3 shop would usually cost around £30.

She posted this picture online of a shop that cost her £9 to try and break the stigma.

It has a wide range of tinned, fresh food and frozen food. The shop also stocks toiletries, sanitary products and nappies in various sizes.

The shop, which can be found in one of the school’s separate buildings on West Street, just off Skipton Road, is open daily every Tuesday and Thursday between 9.30am and 3.30pm. Ms Cooper added:

“It has lightened me because I know even if I have £10 or £15 that week that I can go down to the community grocery and get meals for my children.

“I have used food banks in the past but I have had to pass things on because I won’t use it.

“So the beauty of it is that you get to choose what you take. They have everything you could need and the people there were so lovely.

“I wanted to post pictures so other people could see what they could get. I didn’t expect it but my post got a really positive response.”

The Ambassador of Nicaragua, Guisell Morales-Echaverry, was in Harrogate on Friday night to congratulate a tobacconist for its sales of Nicaraguan cigars.

James Barber Tobacconist on Cold Bath Road sells over 100 different types of cigars from Nicaragua, which is a major cigar exporter with an industry worth $255m a year.

The unusual visit came about because this year Nicaragua is marking 200 years since Central America gained independence from the Spanish empire, so the country rewarded one of its top UK importers with a visit from its ambassador.

James Barber, the shop owner, said he felt “very honoured” to welcome her.

“Nicaragua makes very good cigars that compete with Cuba. Their construction of the cigars is fantastic.”

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Mr Barber said there was a booming trade in Harrogate for expensive cigars, with a Nicaraguan effort costing around £20.

Many people say cigars are an unhealthy and bad habit, but Mr Barber said they are “different from cigarettes”.

“You always get that, but you don’t inhale cigars and people tend to only smoke them on special occasions.”

Ms Morales-Echaverry attended a charity cigar-smoking event at Three’s A Crowd, with all money raised going to a charity of her choosing.

The Harrogate district has reported a further 111 covid cases, according to today’s government figures.

The district’s covid rate now stands at 516 infections per 100,000 people.

Across the county, the average stands at 511 and the England rate is 437.

No further deaths from patients who tested positive for covid have been reported at Harrogate District Hospital, according to NHS England.

As of Tuesday, 14 covid patients were being treated at Harrogate District Hospital which is a significant drop from last week.

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A 20-year-old Harrogate athlete is set to compete at the World Para Powerlifting this weekend when she has the chance to earn a place at the Commonwealth Games.

Charlotte McGuinness is lifting in the women up to 50kg category at the event in the Georgian capital of Tbilisi today and tomorrow.

While she is still unable to bring anyone with her due to coronavirus restrictions, her supporters are able to watch the competition on the Paralympic Games YouTube channel.

She studies Sport and Exercise Science at Leeds Trinity University but Charlotte is from and lives in Harrogate and is proud to represent her home town.

Her passion for the sport began while studying at St Aidan’s Church of England High School in Harrogate.

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Earlier this year we reported on how she won a bronze medal for Team GB at the Para Powerlifting World Cup in March.

That success in Manchester combined with a good result this weekend in Georgia would give Charlotte a good chance at qualifying for the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham next year.

She told the Stray Ferret ahead of the big day:

“It would be amazing because it’s a home Commonwealth Games, so that is my main aim.

“To be able to be one of the paralympic representatives of the town is cool. I am proud to fly the flag for Harrogate.

“I have had a couple of international experiences so I know what to expect now. With the event over two days recovery will be important. But I feel well prepared.”

It’s probably fair to say more parents dream of their children going to Oxford or Cambridge universities than Harrogate College.

But although an Oxford classics degree sounds impressive, a level 2 qualification in hairdressing or carpentry, or a motor vehicle diploma at the more humble Harrogate College could lead to a rewarding and better paid career.

The college, which has over 1,000 students, provides courses for 16 to 18-year-olds and adults in the Harrogate district as well as apprenticeships.

It specialises in vocational and technical training which, like the college itself, is enjoying a bit of a moment.

Many employers regard vocational training as the way to plug skills gaps in careers that are often well paid. As for the college, it has fresh impetus since it was acquired by Luminate Education Group two years ago.

Danny Wild, who became principal on the day Luminate took charge on August 1, 2019, says its £110 million turnover has injected vigour into the college. He adds:

“This was a college that had been unloved for a number of years in terms of its investment in people and resources.

“The most telling thing was the college had lost its connection with the community. There was a lack of understanding about what the college did and its purpose.”

Business links

The facilities on Hornbeam Park today are impressive. They include a professional kitchen, hair salon and beauty room and workshops for brick work, motor vehicles and welding.

The college caters for the Harrogate district and many local employers are desperate for staff in these areas.

Harrogate College

Twenty-six employers attended last month’s inaugural meeting of the college’s new employers’ network, which gives local firms the chance to discuss their training needs. Their feedback will enable the college to adapt its curriculum accordingly.

The district has many small, niche companies and Mr Wild says the college can provide the flexibility to meet their training needs. He talks about putting on courses for 10 to 12 people in areas where skills gaps exist. Companies could just send a single member of staff.

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He cites digital health care as an example. He says it is one of the fastest growing employment areas in the district but staff sometimes lack the softer skills to match their IT ability so the college could adapt its digital IT courses to include customer training.

Mr Wild says the two sectors that employ most people in the district are hospitality and the visitor economy and care. North Yorkshire, he says, is second only to Cornwall in visitor numbers and “we are so used to care we underestimate its value”.

This close understanding of the local labour market, and its trends, will enable the college and businesses to work fruitfully together, he adds.

Apprenticeships

The college provides courses for 16 to 18-year-olds and adults as well as apprenticeships.

Mr Wild also describes apprenticeships as a “real growth area in the Harrogate district”. He adds:

“The government has definitely raised the profile of vocational and technical education and is continuing to talk about its importance.

“But if we are going to have a world-leading, highly skilled workforce that requires investment and we continue to lag behind the investment that gets put into school children.”

The college will also start offering new T-levels in health, education and childcare and digital and IT from September next year.

T Levels, which are equivalent to 3 A-levels, are two-year courses introduced last year to meet the needs of industry.

Mr Wild, who lives in Boroughbridge and has a degree in sport and geography, says T-Levels “will become an important part of what the college offers”.

Green ambitions

The college also aspires to become a green centre of excellence. It hosted the opening event of this year’s Harrogate District Climate Action Festival and wants to make its site a green centre of excellence.

The college attended the COP26 UN climate change conference in Glasgow and was highly commended at the national Green Gown Awards for its work on sustainability. It is also delivering its first retro fit courses for homes in January.

The college also expects to hear from the Department for Education in the new year whether its application for funding to demolish its main block, which was built in the 1950s as offices, and build a new one on the site of the car park is successful.

Mr Wild, who previously worked at Leeds City College, another Luminate organisation. says the current building is not fit for purpose and the new one would be far more energy-efficient.

Away from work, he enjoys “all things food” and describes himself as an “outdoorsy person” who is often found walking his dogs on the North Yorkshire moors. His background is as a rugby coach.

But his focus now is on championing the college and the kind of education it provides.

“For people who are clear about what career they want to go into or have a strong interest in a particular sector you can follow that passion and study on a vocational or technical course.

“The most important thing for Harrogate College is that the reputation of the college continues to grow so people recognise it as the provider of vocational and technical education in the Harrogate district.”

There are travel warnings and cancelled events as the district braces itself for Storm Arwen.

The Met Office has issued a rare red warning for wind in the North East, where there is danger to life as a result of flying debris expected from 3pm until 2am tomorrow.

Here in the Harrogate district the area is covered by a yellow warning for both wind and snow from 5pm today until tomorrow around 10am.

3.30pm – Brimham Rocks closed tomorrow

The National Trust has announced Brimham Rocks will be closed to visitors tomorrow due to the storm.

2.53pm – Rail passengers encouraged to postpone journeys

2.35pm – Only travel if necessary, says county council

North Yorkshire County Council has urged drivers only to travel if necessary as Storm Arwen approaches.

The storm is expected to bring strong winds and the possibility of sleet turning into snow on higher ground.

Cllr Don Mackenzie, executive member for access at the county council, said:

“All our NY Highways teams are in place and will be able to respond to any conditions that arise over the weekend. In addition, the 100 farming contractors that support our winter highways operation are primed to help if required, particularly if the strong winds exacerbate any impact of snow through drifting.

“We would ask anyone planning to travel to consider whether their journey is absolutely necessary. If they do need to travel, they should be alert to the conditions, drive accordingly and leave extra time for their journey.

“High winds can affect vehicle handling, so drivers need to adjust their driving by slowing down and being careful when passing high-sided vehicles on exposed roads. They should also give extra space to cyclists and motorcyclists when overtaking. Drivers should make sure their vehicles are prepared for winter.”

1.50pm – Harrogate Christmas rides may not be running

The Christmas attractions in Harrogate may not be running this weekend due to forecasted heavy winds.

Harrogate Borough Council said today that the ferris wheel, carousel and helter-skelter could be put on hold while Storm Arwen moves through the area.

A spokesperson added that the situation will be monitored over the next couple of days.

The Helter Skelter next to the war memorial in Harrogate town centre.

1.30pm – Emergency services issue safety advice

North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue have issued safety advice for residents in light of Storm Arwen.

Both have warned people to be careful if residents are out and about and to secure anything in the garden.

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue said:

• Don’t lose your trampoline down the street! We often get calls in relation to unsecured trampolines ending up in neighbour’s gardens or on nearby streets so please keep yours fastened down.
• Put garden furniture in storage or ensure it is secured so it doesn’t blow away or get damaged.
• Take care if you’re driving or walking anywhere as high winds could mean falling trees and debris.
• If you’re by the coast don’t be tempted to get close to sea walls and remember if you see someone in trouble in the water call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if you’re at the coast or the fire service if you’re inland.

North Yorkshire Police added:

• When you’re driving or walking, please be vigilant for falling debris.
• Check before you travel for any road closures or updates.
• If you’re by the coast, don’t be tempted to get close to sea walls.
• If you see someone in trouble in the water call 999 and ask for the Coastguard or the fire service if you are inland.
• If you see a fallen tree or any other debris which is causing a road obstruction, here’s what to do:
  • If the obstruction poses an immediate danger on a busy road then call us on 999
  • If the obstruction does not pose an immediate danger, call the council and ask for the highways department
  • Please don’t put yourself in danger by trying to remove road debris on a busy road

12.45pm – Yellow warning for Harrogate district

A yellow weather warning for wind remains in place for tomorrow across the Harrogate district.

Storm Arwen is also predicted to bring cold temperatures with the possibility of sleet and snow over some lower ground although it is likely to be short-lived.

The Met Office has issued the following advice as to what to expect with a yellow warning:

• Flying debris is likely and could lead to Injuries or danger to life
• Probably damage to trees, temporary structures and buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
• Longer journey times and cancellations likely, as road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected
• Some roads and bridges likely to close
• There is a good chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage

12.40pm – Mother Shipton’s set to close

Mother Shipton’s Cave in Knaresborough has also decided to close due to the forecasted high winds and snow tomorrow.

The attraction Tweeted today to say it is set in ancient woodland so is unable to open under the expected weather conditions.

A spokesperson said:

“We have had to make the difficult decision to close on Saturday 27th November 2021 due to amber weather warnings for wind.

“The attraction is set in ancient woodland and we cannot safely open during these conditions. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

12pm – Fountains Abbey closes estate to visitors

The National Trust has announced that the Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal estate will be closed to visitors tomorrow.

It means that the music and lights event planned for between 2pm and 5pm, when the abbey would have been aglow in coloured lights with festive music playing, will not go ahead.

The team at Fountains Abbey has said it hopes to be able to reopen again on Sunday when the storm has passed.

A spokesperson for the National Trust said:

“Storm Arwen is making a gale force visit to Fountains tomorrow and to keep everyone safe the estate will be closed on Saturday.

“This includes Studley deer park as well as the abbey, water garden, visitor centre and car parks.

“We’re so sorry to disappoint anyone who was planning a visit and hope you’ll be able to come again another day.

“Fingers crossed we’ll be open as usual on Sunday but please do check our website and social media channels before you set off for the most up-to-date information.”

Deer Shed music and arts festival in Topcliffe has received £119,708 from the government’s cultural recovery fund (CRF)

The government launched the £1.57 billion fund last year to support cultural and heritage sectors from the economic impact of covid.

The festival offers live music, comedy and arts across a weekend in Baldersby Park, which borders the Harrogate district. It has not been able to run a full festival for the last two years. However, it has run a smaller event on the site called Base Camp.

In November 2020, Deer Shed received a grant of £238,000 from the CRF.

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The festival tweeted that the money will help ensure its survival:

“Grateful to have been given support from DCMS in the 3rd round of the CRF. These have been difficult times having been unable to host a full Deer Shed for over two years, this helps ensure our survival alongside the support of our brilliant Deer Shed audience.”

Deer Shed will run next summer from July 29-31 and has announced headliners John Grant, Nadine Shah and Django Django.