Editor’s Pick of the Week: ‘Tis the season to be jolly sick with norovirus in Harrogate

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We may be exiting the season to be jolly, but our best-read stories over the last week suggest readers don’t like their festive news to be too sugar-coated.

The temporary closure of Nidd Hall, near Harrogate, due to a suspected outbreak of the norovirus diarrhoea and sickness bug was the number one choice of holiday reading. The next four best-read articles were all about crime, including this look back at some of the most shocking cases from 2025.

One topic sure to attract interest any time of year is litter bins, particularly when they are overflowing with rubbish and, even worse, dog poo.

That was the sight that greeted visitors to the Pinewoods in Harrogate over the new year. One irate reader got in touch to question whether council taxpayers are getting value for money for public services.

One thing North Yorkshire Council has decided to spend money on recently is removing flags. This week we published the findings of a freedom of information request we submitted to find out how much it has spent taking down St George’s and Union flags, and whereabouts it did so in the Harrogate district. A worthwhile use of funds?

This current Baltic snap is enough to make even the most ardent flag waver think twice about going up lampposts and hunkering down at home instead. 

January is the most depressing month of the year, and local bars will be at their quietest. Beer and wine isn’t cheap, but this article by Jay Smith, who owns Montey’s in Harrogate, gave a fascinating insight into how difficult it is to survive in hospitality. It’s enough to put you off Dry January.

Finally, some good news. 2026 is the year when the A59 road realignment at Kex Gill should open. ‘Early June’ was the last completion date given by the council, albeit some months ago. The drive to Skipton could soon be smoother than ever.