Charities stall set for Harrogate Christmas Fayre return

Harrogate Christmas Fayre returns from December 2 and so does the stall dedicated to local charities.

Harrogate Borough Council and operators Market Place Europe have collaborated to offer local charities the chance to promote themselves and generate funds.

The number of charities which are set to be featured on the stall has increased from 10 to 11 this year.

Artizan International, Carers Resource, Dementia Forward, Girlguiding North Yorkshire West, Harlow Hill Men’s Shed, Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust Community Charity, Harrogate Easier Living Project, Harrogate Skills 4 Living Centre, Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation, Samaritans of Harrogate and District, and Ripon Walled Garden are all set to use the stall to raise money and awareness.

Carol Chapman from Samaritans of Harrogate and District said:

“We are always delighted with the heartfelt support of our local community and especially at times when we are able to connect with them during events such as this.

“Christmas can be a particularly difficult time of year for people, for lots of different reasons which may trigger feelings of isolation, loneliness and depression to name a few.

“Samaritans volunteers want to raise awareness that they are here for emotional support on a 24/7 basis, 365 days a year.”

Read more:

The charities involved were identified via the Local Lotto initiative. This is a council-run initiative to raise additional funds for voluntary or community groups across the Harrogate district.

HBC leader Cllr Richard Cooper said:

“Building on the success of last year, Destination Harrogate is due to be even bigger and better. And with thousands of people expected to visit the town, I’m sure these charities will be able to raise their profile and generate some funds for their worthy cause, at a time when it is needed the most.”

Harrogate Christmas Fayre begins on Friday, December 2 and ends on Sunday, December 11. It will take place on Cambridge Street and Market Place in the heart of Harrogate town centre.

There are several attractions debuting at the fayre this year, including a new ice skating rink, an après ski bar and York’s 32m ferris wheel.

Horticap unveils plans for new homes with a difference in Harrogate woods

A new housing development with a difference is set to be created in the grounds of Harrogate charity Horticap.

Seven houses, a shop, a church and a bandstand will be installed for the fairies of Bluecoat Wood, home to the horticultural charity.

It represents a collaboration between Horticap and nearby group Harlow Hill Men’s Shed, which was set up to support people’s mental health through practical tasks.

Despite the 700 homes planned to be built on fields surrounding the site, Horticap’s operations manager Phil Airey said the new houses in the wood were much-needed:

“We are pleased that the local fairies have decided to live on our land. The local children have often wondered where they live.

“So, with the help of Harlow Hill Men’s Shed, we will have a new village fit for any local fairy.”

Members of the men’s shed have spent time crafting the miniature buildings and will install them next week. Spokesman John Hart said:

“We are working on adding a pub, fire station and more houses in due course. The development will be ready for viewing from August 31 at Horticap and it will be fairy nice to meet you all.”

Read more: