Plough Sunday would usually see farm machinery blessed by the Bishop at Ripon Cathedral. This year, things may be different, but our links to agriculture are no less important.

Bishop of Ripon: ‘Farmers give us hope on Plough Sunday’
On Plough Sunday, the Bishop of Ripon, the Right Rev Dr Helen-Ann Hartley, reflects on how the traditions of the day can be maintained, despite not being able to gather at the Cathedral. When despair for the world grows in me and I wake in the night at the least sound...

Strayside Sunday: Return to lockdown shines a light on those leading us
As lockdown begins again, Paul reflects on the performance of our politicians in recent days. However they fared, he says, things could be worse – just look across the Atlantic.

StrayArt with Johnny Messum: Painting Outdoors
In his first monthly column of 2021, art gallery director Johnny Messum looks at the joys of ‘En Plein Air’ painting.

Stray Foodie Lockdown Recipe: Beef with Winter Vegetables
Michelin Starred chef Frances Atkins is back with another Stray Foodie lockdown recipe, for sauteed beef with anchovies and winter vegetables.

Stray Pets Rescue Club: could Troy, Twiglet, or a trio of degus be your new pet?
The Stray Pets Rescue Club is our monthly profile of animals in need of a new home. Could Troy, Twiglet, or a trio of degus be your new pet?

Stray Jewels: Inspired by Animals
Antiques expert Susan Rumfitt outlines the appeal of animal-themed jewellery, including three exquisite animal pieces for sale in the Harrogate area.

Strayside Sunday: Good riddance 2020 – but what awaits us this year?
Columnist Paul Baverstock reflects on the way the world changed in 2020 – and looks ahead to what may await us this year, whether we like it or not.

Laura’s Law: Pandemic or not, deciding to divorce is always scary
2020 was challenging year for most people, with the unprecedented stress of dealing with a global pandemic. Many have not only been fearful of what the future holds outside of their home but also, the future inside their home.

Stray Kitchen with Stephanie Moon: How a chef tries to get thin
Food writer Stephanie Moon shares her experiences of balancing staying fit and healthy with being a food-loving chef.

My Year: Tough time for young footballers in and after lockdown
Richard Foster is a youth team manager and coach at Harrogate Railway FC and also acts as the club’s child welfare officer. He writes about the psychological effects of the two lockdowns on the club’s youngsters.

My year: Zero Carbon Harrogate on hope for the environment
One of the few positives taken from the coronavirus lockdowns has been a focus on the environment and a recognition of how our actions impact on climate change, writes Jemima Parker, chair of Zero-Carbon Harrogate.

My Year: Harrogate pub landlord on a ‘horrible’ year
Coronavirus restrictions have been brutal on Harrogate’s hospitality sector. Marik Scatchard, the landlord of Christies Bar on Kings Road, explains what it has been like running one of the town’s most popular pubs.