Pet store with ‘a bit of everything’ opens in Harrogate today

National pet retailer Jollyes opened its doors in Harrogate today.

The store, which is located on Hookstone Park, near Morrisons, is one of 95 Jollyes sites in the UK.

It sells pet foods, toys, bedding and vitamins and also offers a pet grooming service called The Jolly Groomer.

Jollyes caters for a wide range of pets ranging from dogs and cats to chipmunks and aquatic turtles.

Ten staff are employed at the Harrogate site. Branch manager Dawn Jenkins told the Stray Ferret:

“The store has a bit of everything for every owner.

“It’s been a lot of hard work, so to see people in the store and hearing the positive feedback makes it all worth it.”

Jollyes, which has over 1,000 employees across the UK, plans to open 10 more stores by the middle of 2024.

The company held a competition with the Stray Ferret to give one person and their dog the chance to officially open the new Harrogate store, as well as take part in a trolley dash.

The lucky winners, Dawn McLean and her Dachshund Alan, helped to cut the red ribbon and grabbed a new bed and some treats during their dash.

“What a store – it’s amazing”, Ms McLean added.

Pic: Ms McLean and Alan.

James Wye, regional support manager at Jollyes, also said:

“The store was about a three-month turnaround.

“That includes looking at the initial plans and imagining how the store will be set out, to ordering stock.

“I’m really happy with the opening – I think it’s gone very well.”

Jollyes Harrogate is open seven days per week.

Read more:

Metal fences put up around Harrogate’s Crescent Gardens pavilion

Metal fences have been put up to prevent people entering the pavilion in Harrogate’s Crescent Gardens.

The fences, which appeared this morning, were erected following a two-week occupation of the pavilion by a group of rough sleepers this month.

The group set up camp in the pavilion and have returned at least twice since they were dispersed last Friday in an operation carried out by North Yorkshire Council and North Yorkshire Police

The encampment led nearby residents to express concerns about anti-social behaviour and a lack of action from the council and police.

The pavilion encampment

How it looks this morning.

Read more:

The group returned to the pavilion on Sunday evening and again on Tuesday morning — but were removed again both times.

The Stray Ferret asked North Yorkshire Council earlier this week what legal powers it used to disperse the people in the pavilion and what action it planned to take to prevent repeat occupations but has not yet received a response.

Harrogate boxer jailed after biting man’s ear in bar

A professional boxer from Harrogate has been jailed for more than seven years for wounding a man by biting his ear in a bar.

Guy Kitching, 21, an unbeaten middleweight, was found guilty of wounding with intent this week following a trial at York Crown Court.

The incident occurred during an assault at The Foundry Project in The Ginnel on December 27, 2021. 

A doorman who worked at the bar told the court it was a busy night during the Christmas period and that the scene was “quite chaotic”.

He said he intervened following a disturbance and a man told him he had been bitten.

Under cross-examination from prosecutor Helen Towers, Kitching, of Hillbank View, Harrogate, admitted that he and the named victim had come across each other at the top of the stairs inside the bar and that an argument broke out, but denied biting him.

Ms Towers told the jury that the victim ended up with a very serious wound to his ear. There was said to be some “background” to the incident.

Read more:

Earlier this year, Kitching notched up his first professional boxing victory in a performance described by his trainer as “perhaps the best debut performance I have ever seen”.

His professional record currently stands at two wins from two contests.

The former Rossett School pupil, who trained at ABC boxing club in Leeds, enjoyed a distinguished amateur career before gaining his professional licence and signing for VIP Promotions.

A part-time roofer by trade, Kitching finished many of his 23 amateur bouts by stoppage, winning several Yorkshire belts and qualifying for national finals.

Judge Simon Hickey jailed Kitching for seven years and six months. 

Harrogate and Ripon to provide more homes to Afghan refugees

More Afghan refugees are to be housed in Harrogate and Ripon following an urgent request from the Home Office.

North Yorkshire Council has approved the use of eight Ministry of Defence properties in the county — but also flagged up concerns about the pressure on its housing stock.

Six of the new homes are in Catterick and one each is in Harrogate and Ripon.

A council report cited humanitarian concerns as the reason for agreeing to the request and said eight properties “would be manageable in relation to school places, integration support and English language classes”.

But it added:

“Caution is necessary in relation to accommodating more than eight additional households.

“Existing housing pressures in the county need to be considered alongside the fact that North Yorkshire Council is responsible for finding move-on housing for the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy households in the service family accommodation properties should they wish to stay in North Yorkshire.”

Read more:

The Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy, which was implemented in April 2021, entitles Afghan citizens who worked for or with the UK in Afghanistan and their partners and children to relocate to the UK.

The report said North Yorkshire had resettled 175 people from 45 Afghanistan households under the scheme since February 2021 and had also received over 1,300 Homes for Ukraine arrivals since spring 2022 , “some of whom are requiring move-on housing in the county following the end of their sponsorship period”.

Rachel Joyce, the council’s assistant chief executive local engagement, said:

“There are specific timelines for this process, however, the Ministry of Defence have identified eight properties in total in Harrogate, Ripon and Catterick Garrison which would provide safe and suitable accommodation for eligible Afghan refugee families.

“Families will be matched to the properties giving them the independence, space and privacy they require. It’s also a chance for them to integrate with the local community and play a part in community life.

“We are unable to reveal the exact addresses of the properties at this stage.”

 

Business Breakfast: Harrogate’s Ashville College appoints director of sport

Harrogate’s Ashville College has appointed a new director of sport.

Paul Stansfield, who previously played for Harrogate Town FC and coached the club’s under 18s, will take up the role at the college.

Mr Stansfield spent six years at St Aidan’s Church of England High School, where he was head of year and head of department, and seven years at the town’s St John Fisher Catholic High School, where he was latterly deputy head.

He said:

“I look forward to working with my team to build on Ashville’s strong sporting reputation and excellent facilities.

“Ultimately, my aim is for every pupil in the school to love sport. I was attracted by the variety of sports available at Ashville, from basketball to hockey, cricket to tennis, rugby to swimming; pupils need to first experience many different sports and skills to find their own way, their own passion.”

Harrogate funeral director wins green award

A Harrogate funeral directors has been named green funeral director of the year in a national industry awards.

Full Circle Funerals, which is based on Skipton Road, was recognised for its approach to green funerals, its commitment to being a sustainable business and its wider efforts to improve knowledge about how to achieve net zero funeral care.

Sarah Jones, founder of Full Circle Funerals.

Sarah Jones, founder of Full Circle Funerals.

It was recognised at the AGFD Good Funeral Awards, which was held in Solihull.

Sarah Jones, founder of Full Circle Funerals, said: 

“We are delighted to have been named Green Funeral Director of the Year and are always pleased to support people who want to consider the environment in the choices that they make.

“We also work hard to try to think about how Full Circle impacts the environment and to support other organisations in our local communities who are doing the same.”

Read more:

 

Inaugural Stray Ferret Digital Marketing Conference proves huge success

Businesses at the Pavilions of Harrogate educated themselves on all things digital at the inaugural Stray Ferret Digital Marketing Conference today.

The event, which was sponsored by Ison Harrison Solicitors and York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub, saw industry-wide speakers discuss the importance of a digital presence and the need to invest in digital marketing to optimise businesses.

From SEO strategies and emojis to driving digital growth and social media planning, no stone was left unturned.

Digital agencies Next Chapter and Impression Studio both discussed the importance of standing out in a crowded marketplace, embracing modern technology, and developing a clear digital marketing plan for the best results. Ben Foster of the SEO Works talked delegates through the art of getting to the top of an internet search.

Social media manager Rachel Moore, The Glam Hut’s Mia Williamson and Best Kept Secret Clothing’s Fiona Martin all emphasised the importance of social media. Rachel spoke about aiming to master one platform, while Mia and Fiona said small businesses don’t need to spend huge amounts of money on equipment to make good content.

“Personality shining through and consistency are both key”, they added.

Georgie Pogge-von Strandmann, solicitor and branch manager at Ison Harrison Solicitors, said:

“We’re really pleased to be part of the Stray Ferret Digital Marketing Conference and supporting other businesses in the digital marketing world.”

The Stray Ferret’s Commercial Manager Emma Harris added that in a world consumed by technology, we now more than ever must “embrace digital marketing and all its benefits”.

Lucy Playford, affectionately known as Harrogate Mama, and Chelsea Talbot from Positive Influence Agency gave an in-depth guide into influencer marketing. The pair discussed the positive effects an influencer can have on brands that choose to market through them.

Lauren Cooper and Georgie Harmer from Intandem Communications led a talk on the power of engaging content, while Chloe Byrne from Audience brought the day to a close with an insight into this year’s consumer trends.

Jack Colding from York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub.

Karen Booth, business relationship manager at York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub, added:

“We’re so happy to support other businesses here today and to be part of the first Stray Ferret Digital Marketing Conference.”

Read more:

 

Harrogate hospital ‘crumbly concrete’ to cost £20m to eradicate

Health officials have estimated it will cost £20 million to eradicate “crumbly concrete” from Harrogate District Hospital.

RAAC, which stands for reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete, is a lightweight material that is less durable than traditional concrete and has a life expectancy of just 30 years before it runs the risk of collapse.

The first section of Harrogate District Hospital was built in 1975 during a period when RAAC was used in the construction of public buildings.

A report about the material at the Lancaster Park Road hospital was discussed at a meeting of Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust’s board yesterday at the Crown Plaza hotel.

The report said a full survey of the estate by engineers WSP found 2,500 RAAC panels. It added that remedial works have been completed on 12 “high-risk” panels with some theatres and corridors in the hospital made safe with props.

The report said there will be an annual survey of all RAAC panels and a roof with the concrete will be replaced.  

It said there may also be further propping of panels that are in danger of collapsing.

Read more:

To eradicate RAAC from the site, the trust has bid for £20m of funding to NHS England, which includes relocating demolishing and rebuilding a therapy services building.

Whilst there is RAAC present at Harrogate hospital, it is not as prevalent as in other hospitals in Yorkshire such as Airedale in the Bradford district. In May, the government announced it will be completely rebuilt due to RAAC.

Jonathan Coulter, chief executive at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust’s, addressed RAAC in a statement.

He said: 

“There has been a flurry of activity in respect of the management of estate where there is RAAC present. This followed the concerns raised at the end of last month across the education system.

“To be fair, the NHS has been very aware of this issue and risks are being managed, but there is now greater concern and the threshold for risk is being challenged.

“As the board will be aware, we do have some RAAC across the HDH site that we survey regularly, manage, and have a plan for gradual replacement. As part of our capital plans, including our new theatre build, we are reviewing and assessing the potential to tackle this issue more quickly.”

Two arrested after police pursuit near Harrogate

Two people have been arrested after a police pursuit near Harrogate.

Officers said they received a call at 2.15am this morning to reports of a quad bike which was travelling at close proximity with a car. The quad had two people on, who were riding without helmets.

North Yorkshire Police deployed a stinger unit to Harewood bridge, which deflated the tyres of the quad and vehicle.

The car was stopped in Harewood and the two occupants, a 20-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, were arrested on suspicion of burglary offences.

The quad continued traveling along the A61 towards Leeds and a West Yorkshire Police unit was also successful at stinging the quad’s tyres. A short time later the quad, which is suspected stolen, was found abandoned by officers and recovered.

Read more:

The two people who were arrested remain in custody. Police said enquires are continuing to identify the outstanding suspects and the owner of the quad.

Chief Inspector Alex Langley from North Yorkshire Police said:

“I would like to thank the eagle-eyed member of the public for reporting this information to us.

“If something looks not quite right, then it probably isn’t, especially in the early hours of the morning.

“We take all reports of rural crime extremely seriously and will endeavour to deploy police recourses to the area immediately.”

Section of A59 Kex Gill to be closed for resurfacing in October

A section of the A59 at Kex Gill is set to be closed for five weeks in October as a £500,000 resurfacing scheme is carried out.

North Yorkshire Council will carry out the work on the road to the west of Harrogate between Church Hill and Pace Gate.

The road will be closed from Monday, October 9, for the resurfacing to be carried out. Advance warning signs and a signed diversion will be in place.

Work will take place on a section of the A59 which is next to the council’s £68.8 million Kex Gill re-route project.

Council officers will also be carrying out essential stabilising works to the slope of the existing road as well as drainage repairs, gully-clearing, refreshing lining, replacing cat’s eyes and maintenance of the ground monitoring equipment.

Cllr Keane Duncan, executive councillor for highways and transport at the council, said:

“Keeping our roads in the best condition for the money that we have available is one of the biggest challenges that we face, so the additional government investment is making a huge difference to this year’s highways budget.

“It is allowing us to complete even more works than expected, including this key section of the A59.

“Kex Gill has a history of landslips, and the route has had to be closed a total of 12 times in the past 22 years. We must stabilise the slope near the existing road to avoid any lengthy closures over the next two years whilst the new road is constructed.

“Although there is never a good time to carry out such works, they need to be completed before the inclement winter weather hits.

“We have also timed the other essential works during the five-week period to avoid further closures and have been liaising with neighbouring authorities to ensure an appropriate diversion route has been set up and agreed.”

Read more:

The move comes as the council is constructing a new road off the A59 at Kex Gill after a series of landslips.

The Department for Transport is providing grant funding of £56.1 million for the £68.8 million Kex Gill re-alignment project, with the remaining £12.7 million allocated from North Yorkshire Council’s capital reserves.

A new four-kilometre stretch of road will be created, replacing an existing part of the A59 which has been affected by the landslips. 

The re-aligned route will leave the A59 at North Moor Road and re-join the existing road at Blubberhouses. It is due to be completed by autumn 2025.

Hiring: Harrogate’s most luxurious salon wants you!

This story is sponsored by Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing.

The opening of Harrogate’s most luxurious and innovative hair salon is just around the corner, and it’s hiring three hair stylists to join the adventure.

Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing is bringing the town centre the ultimate salon experience and places customer satisfaction at the top of its priority list. From complimentary hand massages and handbag holders to barista-style coffees and iced lemon water, it’s the finishing touches that will make this salon stand-out from the crowd.

The salon will offer all traditional hair services, including cuts and colours, hair-up services, and fashion hair too. Whether it’s a Tik Tok-trending money piece, a butterfly cut or a glamorous bridal up-do, Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing guarantees a sprinkle of luxury with every appointment.

However, it’s bouncy blow-dries that will put founder Charlie Woolley on the map. If you’re dressing to impress for date night, want to look one-million-dollars for a birthday dinner, or just fancy some self-care, Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing will leave you with Hollywood hair and a smile on your face.

If this is the type of salon you’d like to work for, it’s your lucky day! Charlie is recruiting three hair stylists to join her team and takeover the Harrogate hairdressing scene.

To be considered, applicants must have at least two-years salon experience and be at least Level 2 or Level 3-qualified. An established client base is also preferred.

Charlie Woolley told the Stray Ferret:

“I’m so excited about this new business venture – it’s been a long-time coming!

“I think there’s a gap in the market for luxury hairdressing here in Harrogate and Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing is going to be the most luxurious salon in the town.

“Now, I’m just looking for the right team to share this journey with.”

Renovations are well underway at the salon!

Charlie not only wants to deliver the highest-quality service to her clients, but also the best working environment for her staff.

She added:

“I want both my clients and my employees to feel exceptionally special.”

With 20 years of hairdressing experience under her belt, Charlie is looking for driven, bubbly, and creative individuals that are willing to learn and share her strive for success.

Employees will also have plenty of opportunities to further develop their careers and will be given the chance to attend industry courses. These will include specialised Wella courses, as well as advanced cutting and colour courses.

The three lucky applicants will be employed as full-time staff. Staff will, however, be given the chance to work flexible hours around the core days of Tuesday – Saturday.

Charlie is determined to make the salon a “fun and fair” place to work. She added:

“At the end of the day, I’ve got a business to run.

“However, I always treat people how I want to be treated. I’m a very fair person and I want my staff to feel happy in their jobs.”

Staff nights out and networking events will also be a regular occurrence for successful applicants.

Charlie is offering a competitive base salary of £25,000 – £35,000 per annum plus commission.

Those interested can apply for the role on The Stray Ferret jobs page.

The salon will open early November and interviews will be held after application.

Good luck!

To find out more about Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing, visit charlottewoolleyhairdressing.co.uk or follow the salon on Instagram and Facebook.