Harrogate Starbucks: no agreement on appeal costs

No agreement has been reached over the appeal costs for a new Starbucks drive-thru on Harrogate’s Wetherby Road.

Euro Garages, the developer behind the coffee shop, took Harrogate Borough Council to appeal over its decision to refuse the proposal.

The government’s Planning Inspector approved the development in July and also awarded costs against the council.

Euro Garages said the authority “demonstrated unreasonable behaviour” when refusing the application.

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However, a spokesperson for the council said an agreement had yet to be reached over appeal costs.

In May, council bosses decided not to challenge the appeal over concerns that losing risked legal costs of over £50,000.

Work on the drive-thru has since started and diggers have moved in to demolish the former dental surgery which will make way for the Starbucks.

When complete, there will be a coffee shop with 19 car parking spaces close to the Woodlands junction on the busy road.

Emergency hub closes as gas returns to 3,000 Harrogate homes

Gas is starting to be restored to 3,000 Harrogate homes affected after a pipe was damaged on Friday afternoon.

The leak, which is believed to have occurred on Ripon Road, left many homes, especially in Jennyfields, without heating and cooking facilities.

The Styan Community Centre in Jennyfields has operated as an emergency hub, providing free electric heaters and hot plates as well as food vouchers.

Email your updates to contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.

You can catch up with yesterday’s developments here.

4.55pm – Resident celebrates with three baths

There was striking good humour and community spirit at the emergency hub in Jennyfields today as people queued for electric heaters and food vouchers, and that spirit is continuing.

On my third bath.

— SeanoStar (@SeanoSays) October 17, 2021

Northern Gas Networks have earned praise for its swift emergency response. But question remain about what caused the leak – no reason has been given yet.

4.15pm – Emergency hub closes as gas returns

Northern Gas Networks has closed its emergency hub at the Styan Community Centre in Jennyfields.

In a 4pm update, the company said the restoration of gas supplies was “going well” and that food vouchers would still be valid until 7pm tonight.

It said:

“The restoration of gas supplies in Harrogate is going well and we have now closed our customer support centre in Gateley Drive.

“However, the hot food vans will remain on site there until 7pm to honour any outstanding food vouchers which have not yet been redeemed.

“Northern Gas Networks engineers are still on site supporting people in switching on their gas and will be visiting everyone to make sure they are safely reconnected to the supply.  Please bear with us as we continue this important work. We will get to everyone.

“Everyone in the affected areas should now have received their letter outlining the correct procedure (detailed below) for switching their own gas supply back on safely. If you need help with this, please contact our Customer Care Team on 0800 040 7766 followed by option 3.”

3.45pm – Hydro ‘back to normal’ tomorrow

Gas has been restored to the Hydro but it will take some time to get the pool back to temperature.

We’ll be back open as normal tomorrow morning.

Thanks for bearing with us! https://t.co/pEzhFj1h4V

— Harrogate Borough Council (@Harrogatebc) October 17, 2021

 

2.55pm – Jennyfield residents report gas returning

People in Jennyfield have started saying on social media that their gas is working again – almost 48 hours after the major leak occurred.

It comes shortly after Northern Gas Networks issued an update saying engineers have “restored the gas pressure in the mains network in Harrogate and are ready to start switching people’s gas back on”.

The company added:

“This could take a little time as we need to visit everyone but you can start using gas again straight away by following the step-by-step instructions below. These explain how to safely turn your own gas supply back on yourself.

“Our engineers are on site and will be carrying out door-to-door checks to make sure everyone’s gas supply is back to normal.

“You will also receive a letter containing these instructions. If you need help − contact us on 0800 040 7766 followed by option 3.

Further information is here.

2.50pm – Council ‘hopeful’ Hydro will open tomorrow.

Harrogate Borough Council has just tweeted an update about the Hydro.

The Hydro will remain closed for today but we're hoping it'll be fully open from tomorrow.

We also expect Little Explorers nursery to open as usual tomorrow.

— HBCEmergencyPlanning (@HBCPrepared) October 17, 2021

2.35pm – ‘We’ve just put a few extra jumpers on!’ – Jennyfields residents react calmly to gas loss

Jennyfield residents seemed phlegmatic about the situation when the Stray Ferret visited today.

Emma Nicholson, who lives on Hartwith Drive, said her gas went off at about 3pm on Friday and she hadn’t had any gas or hot water since.

“We’ve been very lucky. The weather has been quite nice and the response at the community centre has been good. We’ve just put a few extra jumpers on!”

Maurice Doe, who lives in Bramham Drive, was similarly relaxed.

He said it had been “slightly chilly” at home but cooking rather than cold was the main problem.

“It’s been a little bit awkward, but these things happen and it’s good that Northern gas Networks have responded as they have. “

About 2,000 electric heaters and hot plates have been handed out this weekend but Mr Doe said he didn’t take one.

“If I get cold I just put my dressing gown on.”

2.10pm – Chip shop says thanks

The Wharfe fish and chip shop on Skipton Road, which took part in the food voucher scheme yesterday, has said thank you on Facebook to staff and customers after last night’s mammoth turnout.
Hundreds of customers flocked to the shop, some of whom waited 90 minutes to be served due to the huge demand.
“We would love to say a massive thank you to its hard working staff today after yesterday’s amazing effort.
“10 hours on their feet flat out all day but still serving with a smile and just wanting to help out in this time of need.
“Also a big thank you to the customers for being patient and understanding of the wait.”
Remember, only Grill Time and the Nippy Chippy next to the Styan Community Centre emergency hub are participating in the free £10 food voucher today.

1.40pm – Gas supplies ‘starting to be restored’

Northern Gas Networks has just tweeted to say it has started restoring gas. Let us know if yours is back yet. Email us at contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.

We are starting to restore gas supplies in #harrogate. Our engineers will visit very house in person but here are some simple safety guidelines for people to switch their own gas on themselves sooner, plus details of how to contact us https://t.co/YEIIvRbohQ @HBCPrepared

— NorthernGasNetworks (@NGNgas) October 17, 2021

 

12.25pm – Hydro to remain closed all day

Gas supplies in #Harrogate have started to return but the Hydro will remain closed for the time being while we restore heat to the pool.

We’ll have a further update shortly.

Thanks for bearing with us. https://t.co/ZTZN0KDC45

— Harrogate Borough Council (@Harrogatebc) October 17, 2021

12.02pm – Emergency hub at Styan Community Centre busy

The Stray Ferret visited the Styan Community Centre about half an hour ago. Fan heaters are still being distributed and food is still available from the Co-Op.

There are also £10 food vouchers for two food vans next to the community centre: Grill Time and the Nippy Chippy.

Northern Gas Networks staff said they hope gas will return later today.  You can watch our interview with Tim Harwood, programme manager director at the company, here.

Styan Centre gas leak

Styan Centre gas leak

10.56am – Northern Gas Networks ‘getting ready to start restoring supplies’

The company that distributes gas has just tweeted…

We have repaired the gas pipe in #harrogate and are getting ready to start restoring supplies. Advice, support and hot food is available from our customer support centre. A reminder of what to do https://t.co/62Y1U4MZ1U @HBCprepared

— NorthernGasNetworks (@NGNgas) October 17, 2021

10.20am – Gas could return this morning — but residents need to act

In its first update today, Northern Gas Networks has said “engineers are preparing the network so they can start work to begin to restore supplies this morning”.

But it adds those affected must complete the safety checks outlined last night.

Details of what you need to do, and the streets affected, are here.

10.15am – Free showers at Rossett Sports Centre

Rossett Sports Centre on Pannal Ash Road is offering free hot showers to anyone affected by the gas leak.

No need to call in advance or book. Just turn up before it closes at 6pm today. The postcode is HG2 9JP. The number 6 bus stops outside.

10am – Food vouchers go down a storm

Last night’s food vouchers appear to have been a big hit, judging by the queues. People waited outside in the cold for 90 minutes at The Wharf fish and chip shop on Skipton Lane and there was also a roaring trade at Freddie’s on Grantley Drive, next to Styan Community Centre, when the Stray Ferret drove by early evening.

Pizza Parada on Station Parade in Harrogate was also accepting vouchers until midnight.

9.15am – Styan Community Centre reopens as emergency hub

The council-owned building on Grantley Drive, Jennyfields provided free electric heaters and hot plates yesterday, as well as food vounchers. It was due to re-open this morning.

Thanks #harrogate and to all the volunteers for your patience and help today. We're working through the night and our customer centre will re-open at 8am. Food vouchers can still be used at Pizza Parada in Station Parade which is open until about midnight https://t.co/DNpKC5Bg6l

— NorthernGasNetworks (@NGNgas) October 16, 2021

There was praise for yesterday’s emergency response by reader Gemma Bradley, who emailed us to say:

“I just wanted to say that the staff at Jennyfields community centre are fantastic. In the midst of frustrated pensioners’ worries about cats and holidaying neighbours, the team are still smiling and helping as many people as quickly as possible.
“The supply of electric heaters and food items has been set up quickly and confirmation of engineers coming to houses to ensure the gas supply is safe, once supplies return is reassuring.”

8.58am – Hydro closed this morning

Harrogate Borough Council has said the Hydro will be closed until at least midday.

The Hydro in #Harrogate will remain closed until midday tomorrow at the earliest due to the on-going gas issue in the local area… ⬇️ https://t.co/OS7RbPjD8I

— Harrogate Borough Council (@Harrogatebc) October 16, 2021

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Stray Views: Swearing at ‘odd’ people sets a disturbing example

Stray Views is a weekly column giving you the chance to have your say on issues affecting the Harrogate district. It is an opinion column and does not reflect the views of the Stray Ferret. Send your views to letters@thestrayferret.co.uk.

Swearing at someone for being odd sets a worrying trend

The local MP for Selby and Ainsty, Nigel Adams, was recently filmed telling a peaceful protester who asked him a question as he was passing by, to “f*** off” because he did not wish to talk to him. This was because, as he put it, he was an “odd bloke with a top hat on chasing me down the street” and because he was “annoying”.

Subsequently, that has been applauded as “straight talking”. So I guess because our local MP (now also promoted to a place in the Cabinet Office as Minister without Portfolio) has just shown the way, that now gives permission for anyone to tell anyone to “F*** off” just because they seem “odd” to them.

For instance, a wheelchair user may seem “odd” to them or a woman may seem “odd” to them; or someone with a different skin colour may seem “odd” to them.

And if just seeming odd is enough to allow someone to swear at them, why stop there?

If this is the level of leadership the people who lead the county and country now feel they can demonstrate, we should be careful what we wish for – and be very afraid.

Friedy Luther, Spofforth

Read more:

New Park roundabout ‘an accident waiting to happen’

Re the proposed new Tesco, it must be stressed that the existing New Park roundabout is an accident waiting to happen with increased traffic flow.

There is a blind spot for traffic approaching from the town centre because of the flats built on the right concealing the approach of traffic from Knaresborough.  Also the outside lane allows traffic to either cross straight ahead towards Ripon in the path of traffic in the inside lane or to turn right up the hill towards Knaresborough.

Gillian Long, Harrogate

Why doesn’t covid hotspot Harrogate have a vaccination site?

In light of Harrogate’s extremely high rate of covid infections, why hasn’t the town got a permanent walk-in testing centre / vaccination centre rather than sending the population out of area to achieve any service at all?

Mike Hodgson, Harrogate

Do you have an opinion on the Harrogate district? Email us at letters@thestrayferret.co.uk. Please include your name and approximate location details. Limit your letters to 350 words. We reserve the right to edit letters.

 

Harrogate Choral Society returns with Brahms and Elgar

Harrogate Choral Society will return to the concert stage after an absence of nearly two years on November 13.

The society will perform Elgar’s Enigma Variations and Brahms’ German Requiem at Harrogate Royal Hall under new conductor David Lawrence.

Mr Lawrence is a familiar face in Harrogate schools through his work as principal conductor of Young Voices choir.

In addition to holding the Guinness World Record for conducting the UK’s largest choir of 6,846 singers, he has adjudicated for international festivals.

He said:

“I’m thrilled to be Harrogate Choral Society’s new conductor and am very much looking forward to November’s concert programme, with its mix of well-loved uplifting and contemplative pieces.”

The concert opens with two choral works by Elgar, Give unto the Lord and Ave Verum, followed by the Enigma Variations, which are given an added twist by being arranged for two pianos played by brothers Thomas and Stephen Moore.

The brothers will again accompany the final work, Brahms Requiem, which also features soloists Laurie Ashworth (soprano) and Adam Green (bass).

More details are available here and tickets are on sale here.

Read more:

 

Northern Gas Networks issues Saturday night gas update

A gas leak is continuing to cause problems in Harrogate.

Engineers from Northern Gas Networks have successfully stopped the leak and are now working to safely restore gas supply to around 3,000 homes.

Follow our live updates below for the latest on the incident.

6.55pm – Northern Gas Networks issues new safety advice

Northern Gas Networks has issued some new safety advice for the 3,000 people affected by the loss of gas.

The update says engineers will work through the night and supplies should start to return tomorrow. It adds:

“To make the process of restoring supplies as quick and safe as possible, engineers are now asking people who have been affected to take some important safety steps.”

Detailed information on what to do, and which homes and streets should do it, is available here.

6.35pm – Huge queue for fish and chips after voucher deal

A queue of close to 100 people has formed outside The Wharfe fish and chip shop on Skipton Road after Northern Gas Networks offered vouchers to those affected by the gas leak.

The queue snaked around the corner onto Knapping Hill as people attempt to end a bad day on a tasty note.

Wharf fish and chips

The start of the queue.

4.30pm – Housebound residents urged to call helpline

Residents who cannot leave their homes due to covid or other reasons have been asked to call Northern Gas Networks customer care team on 0800 040 7766, choosing option 3.

NGN will arrange for somebody to deliver an electric heater and food to their home.

3.50pm – Gas supply not likely to be back on today

The Stray Ferret visited the Styan community centre in Jennyfields again this afternoon. We were told by Northern Gas Networks that the gas supply is not likely to be back on for residents until tomorrow, and it could even be Monday.

Engineers are currently working to safely turn the supply back on for 3,000 homes after they identified the leak this morning.

More electric heaters and hot plates were being delivered to the centre for residents to collect.

Food vouchers are available from the community centre.

3pm – Council deploys volunteers to help effort

North Yorkshire County Council has deployed its Ready for Anything volunteers to help affected residents in Harrogate. The council has a database of volunteers who it contacts in times of emergency.

1.15pm – Food vouchers offered

Northern Gas Networks has posted an update on its website to say that food vouchers can be collected from Styan Community Centre in Jennyfields and redeemed at The Wharf Fish and Chip Shop on Skipton Road, which is open until 8.30pm today.

It says it is working to restore gas supply “as soon as possible”

It has also asked residents to minimise their use of electrical appliances to prevent the electricity network from becoming overloaded:

“Minimise the use of appliances and switch off or unplug any electrical equipment that you do not need and heat only essential rooms, stagger the use of high-demand electrical appliances such as cookers, heaters, kettles, immersion heaters, electric showers, dishwashers, tumble driers and washing machines.”

11.40am – Hydro closed all day

Harrogate Borough Council has tweeted that the Hydro swimming pool will remain closed all day due to the gas leak.

Due to the ongoing situation with the gas supply in #Harrogate, the Hydro will remain closed today. We'll have a further update in due course. https://t.co/HjSBBvZxnz

— Harrogate Borough Council (@Harrogatebc) October 16, 2021

11.30am – Jennyfield Styan Community Centre set up as emergency hub

Will Brewster, site manager for Northern Gas Networks, gave an update to the Stray Ferret at the Jennyfield Styan Community Centre this morning. The centre has been set up as an emergency hub for residents to collect electric heaters until the gas supply is back on.

Mr Brewster said:

11.30am – Northern Gas Networks stops leak

Northern Gas Networks has issued a statement on its website to say engineers have stopped the gas leak and are working to get the gas supply back on safely.

The company has asked residents to not try to use central heating, and avoiding taking showers if you have a combi boiler, until further notice.

Incident manager Andy Rodda said:

“We are very sorry for the disruption and inconvenience this is causing and are doing all we can. It is a complex operation because this is a large pipe which needs some specialist deep excavations to enable the repair work. Repairs will probably take most of today, after which we will need to steadily re-introduce gas into the local supply system in a controlled manner before people’s supplies can be fully restored. Safety is absolutely paramount and there are no short cuts, I’m afraid.”

10.50am – Gas leak having big impact on people’s day

Thanks to all the readers who have contacted the Stray Ferret to tell us about how the gas leak is affecting them. You can continue to do that by emailing contact@thestrayferret.co.uk

Amy Barker in Jennyfields said:

“Daughter is in covid isolation so we can’t go anywhere else for heat either.”

Margaret Gorman on Exeter Crescent said:

“No heating or hot water. My husband has Alzheimers keeping him in bed to keep warm.”

Sally Jenkins said:

“I’m right up the back of Jennyfields in Primrose Close. We have no gas so no hob or heating, but fortunately we have an immersion heater for the water and our own electric radiator. I see it as a good excuse for a takeaway tonight!”

10.10am – No official update in 12 hours

The Stray Ferret spoke to Northern Gas Networks on the phone but they were unable to give an estimated time the problem will be fixed and when the gas supply will return to homes. They said engineers have been working throughout the night where the leak occurred on Ripon Road.

9.30am – No gas around Ripon Road and Jennyfields

The Stray Ferret spoke to Mark Hunter who lives near the Co-op on Ripon Road.

He said:

“This morning when I got up at 6am the boiler was on blink and nothing was working. It’s my birthday today. My parents are down this weekend and we had all these big plans. It depends if the restaurants are open. I’m supposed to take my boys swimming, but that’s not opening.”

Sarah Gentle is babysitting on Heather Way in Jennyfields. She says there is no gas for heating or hot water.

“Apart from being a little chilly (kids not complaining) we are OK. Obviously, if it doesn’t get resolved soon could be more of a pain”.

Rian Campbell Lewis works for Knaresborough-based MJ Ryder Limited, which installs boilers. She said their phoneline has been going “crazy” all morning.

8.40am – Reports of boilers not working in Ripon Road area

The Stray Ferret understands some people’s boolers are not working this morning and they don’t have any hot water. Problems seem to be worst in the Ripon Road / Jennyfields area, near where the leak occurred.

Let us know how the gas leak is affecting you by emailing contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.

10.40 pm – Avoid showers and central heating, says Northern Gas Networks

People living in the HG1, HG2, HG3 and HG4 areas of Harrogate are being urged to temporarily minimise their gas use.

Northern Gas Networks issued another update at 10.30pm tonight as the stench of gas continues to permeate across large parts of Harrogate.

The update said:

Northern Gas Networks says the incident in Ripon Road is affecting the normal gas pressure in some parts of the town and, by avoiding all non-essential use, people can help ensure there is enough gas in the system to go around everyone.

That means trying not to use central heating, and avoiding taking showers if you have a combi boiler, until further notice. The situation is likely to last into tomorrow.

Operations manager for Northern Gas Networks Stuart Armin apologised for the inconvenience and said engineers would be working 24/7 until the situation was safely resolved.

“Our top priority is to keep people safe and restore normal service as quickly as we can. There is still a smell of gas in the air. I’d like to reassure people that we are safely managing the issue but if they have any concerns at all they can call us. The National Gas Emergency Number 0800 111 999 is open 24-hours for advice and assistance if necessary.”

As a precaution, businesses along Ripon Road past the junction of Jennyfield Drive remain evacuated, including the Co-Op petrol station, Shell garage and the Hydro leisure centre.

A temporary road closure is also in place in Ripon Road and motorists are advised to find alternative routes.

8.45pm – Major gas leak now affecting supplies across Harrogate district

The leak on Ripon Road is now affecting gas supplies in homes across the Harrogate district. This is the latest update from Northern Gas Networks:

Engineers from Northern Gas Networks remain on site at Ripon Road in Harrogate this evening as they deal with a large gas escape.

The incident is temporarily affecting gas supplies to properties in the HG1, HG2, HG3 and HG4 postcodes. There is also a strong smell of gas in the air, although this is expected to dissipate shortly as preparations get under way to start repair work.

As a precaution, businesses along Ripon Road past the junction of Jennyfield Drive have been evacuated, including the Co-Op petrol station, Shell garage and the Hydro leisure centre.

A temporary road closure is also in place to allow the repairs to be carried out as quickly and safely as possible. Motorists using Ripon Road are advised to find alternative routes as this is likely to impact journey times.

Operations manager for Northern Gas Networks Stuart Armin said the situation was being kept safely under control but apologised for the temporary interruption some people were experiencing with their gas supplies, and for the strong smell.

“We realise how inconvenient this must be for people. I’d like to reassure them that the situation is being monitored and we are doing everything we can to restore normal service as soon as we possibly can.

“Hopefully the smell of gas in the outside air will begin to ease shortly but if anyone remains concerned for their safety, please give us a call on the 24/7 National Gas Emergency Number 0800 111 999 for advice and assistance if necessary. That’s what we are there for.

“Until the repairs are complete and everyone’s gas is back to normal, we’ll be working round the clock. We have also instigated our emergency procedures to provide support locally.”

5.50pm – Northern Gas Networks issues update

This is the latest on the incident from Northern Gas Networks:

Engineers from Northern Gas Networks are carrying out emergency repairs to a medium pressure gas main on Ripon Road in Harrogate this evening.

As a precaution, businesses along Ripon Road past the junction of Jennyfield Drive have been evacuated, including the Co-Op petrol station, Shell garage and the Hydro leisure centre.

There currently no effect on gas supply to local homes and businesses however there is a strong smell of gas in the area.

To protect teams and members of the public, a temporary road closure has been introduced to allow the repairs to be carried out.

Motorists using Ripon Road are advised to find alternative routes as this is likely to impact journey times today.

5.30pm – Gas leak unlikely to be fixed tonight

The Stray Ferret understands that the gas leak, which is from a gas main, is unlikely to be fixed tonight.

Engineers are in the area and will be working to fix the issue for as long as necessary.

During a Facebook live we recorded from the scene earlier you will be able to hear a loud hum in the background, which is the sound of the gas pouring out the pipe.

4.55pm – Harrogate Hydro to remain closed

Harrogate Borough Council has confirmed that the Hydro swimming pool will remain closed this evening due to the gas leak.

The pool was evacuated earlier today. It is unclear at this stage if it will be able to reopen tomorrow.

4.50pm – Photo gallery from the road closure

It is unclear when it will be fixed.

Drivers are being diverted away from the area.

Gas engineers are in the area.

The road is closed near the Co-Op petrol station.

4.35pm – Reader’s picture

A reader has shared a picture of Hydro being evacuated this afternoon.

4.30pm – Engineers repairing “medium pressure gas main”

Northern Gas Networks has confirmed that engineers are repairing a “medium pressure gas main”.

The company said in a statement:

“There is no effect on gas supply to local homes and businesses.

“To protect teams and members of the public, a temporary road closure has been introduced to allow the work to be carried out.

“Motorists using Ripon Road are advised to find alternative routes as this is likely to impact journey times today.”

4.10pm – Traffic being diverted away

The road is closed from The Claro Beagle pub and traffic is being diverted down Coppice Avenue away from the works.

4.00pm – Hydro closure

Harrogate Borough Council’s emergency planning department confirms that the Hydro and Little Explorers Nursery have been closed while the work is carried out.

⚠️Road Closure at Ripon Road, Harrogate:

Due to a gas escape, Ripon Road has been closed near The Hydro.

For safety, The Hydro and Little Explorers Nursery have been closed until work is complete. https://t.co/vL0hexzYiv

— HBCEmergencyPlanning (@HBCPrepared) October 15, 2021

3.40pm Section of Ripon Road closed

Engineers from Northern Gas Networks are on site near the Co-op petrol station trying to fix the problem but it is unclear how long this will take.

Drivers are being warned to avoid the area if possible.

Northern Gas Networks has been working on that section of road for the last month. The works had been delayed but were due to finish on October 22.

 

Breaking barriers at ‘hidden gem’ Harrogate home art gallery

With an expert eye for beautiful pieces, a portfolio of exciting artists and a lovely Harrogate home to pull it all together, this hidden gem of a gallery is breaking down barriers in the art world.

Sarah Collier set up Silson Contemporary in October 2016. Five years later, on a dull, grey day, a beaming Sarah opens the door and her bright, colourful space has immediate impact.

At first it took a big advertising effort to get artists and potential buyers through the door. But these days things are different: people are queuing up to get a glimpse at Sarah’s latest finds.

A home and an art gallery in one.

What started off in the dining room has spread to the living room and reception area. Some pieces are even making their way up the stairs at Silson Contemporary, which can be found on Harlow Oval.

Read more:

While Sarah enjoys working from home, it does mean that she has to always keep the space spotless. It also means that she has to love the pieces she exhibits because she lives with them.

It’s not just paintings at Silson Contemporary.

“It was just a little seed in my head. I wanted to set up a gallery and we had this beautiful room with big bay windows, high ceilings, hanging rails. It just went from there.

“People love coming in and seeing art in the home because that is where they are going to put it. This really gives people ideas about how they can display their art.

“The gallery does seem to be a bit more recognised now. I love how the business has grown. We are hidden so word of mouth has been really important.”

The entrance hall is covered from ceiling to floor in art.

There’s a common perception that art is just for people who have a lot of money. That is something that Sarah has been trying to push back against since she started.

“I think that’s a myth that has been perpetuated by the art world because it suits them. But it’s absolute rubbish.

“When I have been to galleries sometimes the staff look you up and down and if they don’t think you are rich they are not interested.

“Art is for everybody, absolutely everybody. I have work here that is expensive and I have work is that is inexpensive.”

Sarah studied art but when she was young she decided not to follow that interest.

However, when she was a radiographer at Harrogate District Hospital she decided to take up an MA in art history. That was the push she needed to get into the art industry and open her own gallery.

She says it was the “best decision she has ever made”. So as someone who loves art, would she ever sell her own pieces?

The artists are from all over the UK.

“No I am rubbish. I love the academic side and I love art but I overthink. All the artists I speak to encourage me but I can’t.

“Though I think that makes me appreciate what these artists do more. How can they know when to stop? How can they know that one extra line makes something special? It’s inspiring.”

Silson Contemporary has just opened an autumn and winter show, which runs until December 23. The gallery is open by appointment only on Fridays and Saturdays.

This is part of the Stray Ferret’s ‘hidden gem’ series. We are trying to highlight small independent businesses. They need to be tucked away but growing in popularity with an eye-catching and unique product or approach. Send us an email with your nominations.

Jaeger to return to Harrogate inside Marks and Spencer

Women’s fashion brand Jaeger is set to return to Harrogate with a section inside Marks & Spencer on Cambridge Street.

Jaeger went into administration last year and was then taken over by M&S in January.

Harrogate’s Jaeger store, which was on Cambridge Crescent by the war memorial, closed shortly after the takeover.

But M&S is set to bring the brand back to 12 of its UK stores, including Harrogate, from October 30.

A total of 300 Jaeger product lines will be available to view in M&S, which can then be ordered and delivered either to the store or the customer’s home.

Two full-time and two part-time jobs will be be created.

Read more:

 

Harrogate women call for action after recent drink spiking cases

Two Harrogate women have called for police officers and bar staff to take more action after recent drink spiking cases in the town centre.

Both wanted to speak out about the issue after hearing from friends and staff at Harrogate District Hospital that many others had been through similar experiences.

One of the women experienced the drink spiking first hand while out for a drink at a bar during the day on Sunday afternoon.

She wanted to remain anonymous but told the Stray Ferret:

“I did not quite understand what was happening at first. I really did not feel right so I went to the bathroom to sort myself out.

“It didn’t quite make sense. I thought there was something seriously wrong with me, I was slurring my words and I was all over the place so my son took me to hospital.

“The nurse told me to report it to the police because she had seen a lot of drink spiking cases recently. Luckily I came round after four hours on a drip.”

Read more:

The hospital took a blood test which found tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in her system. It is a component of cannabis which paralyses people and causes hallucinations.

Just a week before, a mother said her daughter had a similar experience at a different bar in Harrogate. She also wanted to remain anonymous but added:

“It does seem to be rife in Harrogate at the moment unfortunately. Both my children and their friends have had all similar experiences in the past couple of months.

“Luckily they had other people to help them but drink spiking is completely vile. My daughter walks around with her keys in her hand, a rape whistle and a wristband to test her drinks.

“She should not have to do any of that, it’s really scary. I just want to get the message out there, this is not normal.”

The Stray Ferret has raised the concerns of the two women with North Yorkshire Police. The force has not yet commented.

Ferris wheel, carousel and road train part of huge Harrogate Christmas offering

A Ferris wheel, Victorian carousel, helter skelter and road train will be among the highlights of Harrogate’s festive offering.

Harrogate Borough Council announced a raft of new initiatives today to bring festive cheer this year.

The festivities will last from November 15 to the first week of January.

A road train will operate around the town centre from December 3 until December 12, which coincides with the dates of the new Harrogate Christmas Fayre.

It’s all part of the council’s drive to get people into the town centre to support the new fayre and the artisan market in the Valley Garden, which will also stimulate high street businesses.

The Stray Ferret asked where the attractions will be placed and what the cost will be but a council spokesperson said those details were yet to be confirmed.

To encourage footfall to town centres across the Harrogate district, a magical window trail will also be unveiled.

Funded by the government’s Welcome Back Fund, the window trail will feature 12 festive depictions that have been designed by local people.

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Gemma Rio, head of destination management at Harrogate Borough Council, said Harrogate would be “an absolutely unmissable destination for a festive day trip or weekend away” this Christmas.

She added:

“We have been working hard to ensure festivities return this year in order to drive visitors to our district’s shops, restaurants, visitor attractions, hotels and B&Bs.

“This latest announcement confirms that Christmas is well and truly set to return to Harrogate town centre and I’m really excited about what we’re due to bring.

“We are also about to launch the biggest Christmas marketing campaign in Visit Harrogate history to ensure all towns enjoy the benefits the additional footfall brings.”

Free parking

Matthew Chapman, Harrogate Business Improvement District manager, said it promised to be “one of the most impressive festive offerings Harrogate has seen in many years”.

He added:

“In addition to supporting the Harrogate Christmas Fayre and co-funding the Ferris wheel, Victorian carousel, and helter skelter, in just a few weeks our Christmas lights will be illuminating more streets than in previous years.

“We are again partnering with the Rotary Club of Harrogate for the annual Christmas Shop Window competition and Harrogate International Festivals for their North Pole post office. And on Monday (18 October), we will officially take the Christmas wrapping off our Father Christmas experience.

“We have also been working with Harrogate Borough Council to offer shopper’s free parking in Victoria multi-storey car park at set times during the month of December. Retailers are expecting us to pull out all the stops this Christmas, and I don’t think they will be disappointed.”

Christmas markets

Christmas market operator Market Place Europe have also announced this week that Harrogate Christmas Fayre will be open between 10am and 7pm Monday to Wednesday, 10am and 9pm Thursday to Saturday, and 10am and 4.30pm on Sunday.

The market will take place on Cambridge Street, Market Place, Station Square and Cambridge Crescent and will be a great place to pick up some last minute and unique gifts along with mouth-watering treats for people to enjoy as they wander around taking in the sights and sounds.

Around 50 traders from Yorkshire will take part in the fayre.

In addition, Little Bird Made is set to hold a festive artisan market in Harrogate’s Valley Gardens on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 December, with times to be confirmed.

The artisan market will feature approximately 60 local and regional traders and producers who will sell a variety of festive arts and crafts, clothing, homeware, jewellery, as well as food and drink.

Councillor Richard Cooper, leader of Harrogate Borough Council, said:

“More than 100 traders, as well as our high street businesses, will bring a first-class offering to Harrogate town centre this December that will truly get people in the festive mood.

“With the absence of a number of Christmas markets across the region this year, I have no doubt visitors will arrive by the coach load to see what Harrogate has to offer.

“Whether that’s our district’s shops, restaurants, visitor attractions or hotels and B&Bs, I hope everyone will see the benefit this town centre offering will bring.”

Harrogate’s Victoria Road scheme delayed due to bin wagon concerns

A scheme to stop vehicles in Harrogate turning from Victoria Road onto Otley Road has been delayed because bin wagons will find it difficult to turn.

North Yorkshire County Council was due to introduce the initiative before the end of September as an 18-month trial to improve safety for cyclists using the forthcoming Otley Road cycle route.

A barrier would have been placed at the junction, and one-way only and no entry signs installed.

However, the scheme has been delayed while the council draws up a new design that accommodates turning bin wagons. The council does not know when the project will now be introduced.

Melisa Burnham, highways area manager at the council, said:

“The original design needs to be amended to accommodate the safe turning and manoeuvring of bin wagons and making sure the proposed one-way filter lane doesn’t have any other impacts on waste services.

“We anticipated this design stage to be concluded by the end of September.

“We are currently working with Harrogate Borough Council to agree a revised design before the introduction of the 18-month trial of a one-way filter lane on Victoria Road.

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The council wants the Victoria Road scheme to join up with other active travel schemes in the town, including the nearby Beech Grove low traffic neighbourhood, the scheduled new cycle path on Victoria Avenue, and the Harrogate Station Gateway project.

Construction on the much-delayed Otley Road cycle route began last month.

There are still uncertainties over when the project will be completed due to negotiations with the government and the Duchy of Lancaster – the landowners of the Stray – over the use of grass verges protected by law.