Your Local Link: April 2026

APRIL, ALREADY?

Dear Reader,

The joys of spring are well and truly upon us!

In what’s shaping up to be an excellent April for York residents, there’s simply all sorts occurring in our city this month, from exciting Easter celebrations and unmissable theatre shows to interesting walks, illuminating talks, and all manner of fun-filled, familyfriendly days out.

Within these pages, you’ll find all of the ‘in the know’ local info you need to help you celebrate springtime in style - we’ll also be providing details of the diverse range of fairs and

Meet our team!

festivals landing in town over the coming weeks, such as The Great Yorkshire Record Fair, the York Health Healing & Wellbeing Festival, the 2026 York Chocolate Festival, and, for the literature lovers, the 2026 York International Shakespeare Festival.

We’ll also be digging into Yorkshire’s rebellious past, taking a deep dive into the history of Saint Margaret Clitherow and The Bar Convent, and, always, providing you with top content from our regular contributors and columnists

Until next month,

The YLL Team.

On The Cover This Month

Priscilla Queen of the Desert - The Musical

Running at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre from 28 April to 2 May, NETheatre’s dazzling new production of Priscilla Queen of the Desert brings the beloved Australian comedy road movie to the stage in spectacular style. Based on the hit 1994 film, this vibrant, camp musical is packed with humour, heart, and a soundtrack of iconic pop anthems. Audiences can expect outrageous costumes, highenergy performances, and plenty of glitter as the story unfolds. The production follows two drag queens and a trans woman who set off on an unforgettable road trip across the vast Australian Outback - along the way, they encounter colourful characters, unexpected challenges, and moments of friendship and self-discovery in this bold, uplifting, and fabulously entertaining stage production!

Design/Editorial & Social Media: Scott, Sophie, Correy, Vincent, Ted & Molly. Accounts: Louise & Nicola. Advertising: Mim, Craig, Mackenzie, Jack & Lozz. Distribution: Simon & Matt. Managing Director: Gini. Call: 01904 767881 Email: info@yourlocallink.co.uk Write to us: Unit 3a Kettlestring Lane, Clifton Moor, York YO30 4XF.

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

FOXWOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE

9am and 10:30am

Vicki - 07340037638

HOLGATE, RI SPORTS CLUB

5:30pm and 7pm

Vicki - 07340037638

MELODIE PARK, CLIFTON

5:30pm and 7pm

Corinne - 07496265251

TUESDAY

HAXBY SPORTS BAR

3:30pm, 5pm and 6:30pm Corinne - 07496265251

ST CHAD’S CHURCH, SOUTH BANK

5:30pm

Sue - 07816537210

FOXWOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE

5:30 and 7pm

Pete - 07855494880

HOLGATE, RI SPORTS CLUB

New Ln, Acomb, York YO24 4LE 3pm, 4:30pm and 6pm Jacqui - 07779123167

HAXBY SPORTS BAR

9am and 10:30am Corinne - 07496265251

HOLGATE, RI SPORTS CLUB

3pm, 4:30pm and 6pm Corinne - 07496265251

POPPLETON ALL SAINTS CHURCH HALL

6pm and 7:30pm

Vicki - 07340037638

NEW GROUP TANG HALL, ST ALFRED’S CHURCH, 7:30am and 9am. Pete - 07855494880

STRENSALL VILLAGE HALL 5pm Sharon - 07397682674

THURSDAY

NEW GROUP ST OSWALD’S HALL, FULFORD, 5:30pm and 7pm. Sue - 07816537210

BISHOPTHORPE VILLAGE HALL

5:30pm and 7pm Pete - 07855494880

NEW EARSWICK BOWLING CLUB

5:30pm and 7pm Michaela - 07856151037

EASINGWOLD SCOUT HUT 9am, 4pm 5:30pm and 7pm Sharon - 07397682674

FRIDAY CLIFTON COMMUNITY CENTRE

8am and 9:30am Sharon - 07397682674

PARK GROVE SCHOOL

6:30pm Corinne - 07496265251

SATURDAY

LIDGETT METHODIST CHURCH

8am and 9:30am Corinne - 07496265251

PARK GROVE SCHOOL

York, YO31 8LG 7:30am, 9 am and 10:30am Alysha - 07557171136

Inside this month

8 - WALKING WANDERER

Join the Wanderer for a delightful 6-mile walk around Ripon and Studley Park.

16 - HOROSCOPES

What do the stars have in store for you this month? Join our in-house astrologer, Heather, to find out…

60-71 - HOME AND GARDEN

Find out how to give your garden a spring ‘glow up’, and how you can help the Friends of West Bank Park to maintain one of our city’s bestloved green spaces. Tony Chalcraft will also be dropping a line about the humble runner bean!

14- WIN, WIN, WIN

This month, our readers are in with a chance of winning TWO FREE TICKETS for ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert’ at Joseph Rowntree Theatre, as well as a ROLA Mini Companion Robot, perfect for checking in on your pets when you’re away from home!

INTERVIEWS

40 - THE EASTER BUNNY

Egg-cited for Easter? We caught up with none other than the Easter Bunny, to find out how he’s been getting on with this year’s egg deliveries!

34 - MATTHEW JAMES HINCHLIFFE

To celebrate the arrival of The Secret Garden - The Musical at York Theatre Royal, we grabbed ensemble player Matthew James Hinchliffe for a chat about this enduring children’s story, and what Yorkies can expect from the show.

FEATURES

48-49 - DON’T MOVE, IMPROVE!

Find out how Your Local Link’s Trusted Traders can help you to spruce up your property, instead of selling up and moving!

19 - AN EASTER MESSAGE FROM THE ARCHBISHOP OF YORK

Read a special Easter message from the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, focusing on how the Easter story can help us to gain a sense of hope and renewal.

10 - TIME TRAVEL

Step back in time with our resident Time Traveller to learn more about the history of The Bar Convent, along with one of York’s most famous saints, Margaret Clitherow.

55 - ASK A VET

Bishopton Vets are back with some top tips for keeping furry friends and pets protected from springtime hazards.

40 - WE TRIED

Find out what our team made of this year’s Jorvik Viking Festival, where we went berserk with some weaponry and had a chinwag with a very important Viking…

50 - FASHION FOCUS

Get to grips with the cow print craze, with a simply ‘moo-tiful’ selection of fashion picks.

60

- GET THE LOOK

Light up your life this spring, with our carefully chosen pick of bright ideas for statement lighting!

36-41

- YORK CULTURE

Check out Ben’s latest book reviews, peruse some super local poetry, dig into Robin’s short story, and find out about all of the cultural happenings worth knowing about in York this month…

REVIEWS

42- BILL’S RESTAURANT

Our discerning food reviewer settled down for some scran at the much-loved Coney Street eatery, Bill’s Restaurant & Bar - find out what she made of the meal!

55

- GIVE US A HOME

Get the inside scoop on some local pets in need of a new home - could you be the one to give them the love and shelter they need?

18-33

- EVENTS

There are all sorts of events going on in York this March - see our jampacked Events pages to find every local listing worth knowing about!

78-92

- CLASSIFIED

A comprehensive list of the local tradespeople you’ve been looking for. Find our most trusted tradies (who’ve been with us for yonks) in the Trusted Traders section.

JOIN A CLUB

Thinking of joining a club? Whether you’re stuck for things to do in York, or are simply hoping to give your social life a boost, there are all sorts of groups and clubs available in and around the city. Check out our pick of some of the best clubs currently accepting new members!

JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE

If you’re a theatre lover wishing to give something back to the local arts community, membership at this iconic York theatre could be just the ticket! First opened in 1935, Joseph Rowntree Theatre is currently on the lookout for new members, who will be eligible for exclusive benefits such as discounted tickets, special invitations and more, in exchange for their support. Membership options currently on offer include SUPPORTER, CHAMPION, or PATRON. Visit www. josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk/ support-us/membership/ to find out more or sign up as a Member.

YORK RAILWAY INSTITUTE BAND

First founded back in 1883, the York Railway Institute Band is the oldest brass band in the city. Holding two rehearsals each week (on Mondays and Thursdays from 8.00pm-10.00pm), this muchloved local band is currently on the lookout for new musicians, with vacancies for a Principal Eb Bass player and a Percussionist (primarily in kit). As the band is currently competing in the first section of the North of England Brass Band Championships, this is an exciting time to get on board! To apply or find out more, please email secretary@yrib.org.uk today.

PÉTANQUE CLUB

Meeting every Thursday afternoon from 2.30pm at Huntington Sports and Social Club (YO32 9RU), this small and friendly group offers both first-timers and more experienced players the chance to enjoy a spot of competitive Pétanque, also known as French Boules, an exciting boules game that was first codified between 1907 and 1910. All new prospective members are welcome to roll up and play, and no special clothing or equipment is required! Pop along for a relaxed afternoon, meet new people and enjoy some friendly competition. Call Sheila on 01904 768849 for more info.

RANT & RAMBLE

Rant & Ramble is a heart-led fitness and wellness community established by two North Yorkshire women, Leesa and Victoria. Providing a jampacked programme of regular events and activities including Wellbeing Retreats, Community Wellbeing sessions, Holistic & Alternative Wellbeing Support practices, and Stress Relief & Self-Care Workshops, Rant & Ramble is designed to help local people to combat overwhelming feelings with the calming power of physical exercise, friendly conversation, and supportive community. New faces are always welcome! Visit www.rantand ramble.co.uk to find out more or get in touch.

GOOGLE REVIEWS Luxury at an affordable price. We’ve over 21 bathroom displays in our Dunnington showroom, open 6 days a week.

Are your pensions still protected from Inheritance Tax?

Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a hot topic in the news right now, although it’s not widely understood. And this is concerning, as it affects thousands and thousands of families each year.

In the Autumn 2024 Budget, the Government proposed that from April 2027, pensions which were previously exempt from IHT may now be included in estate calculations. This shift could result in up to 40% tax on pension savings left to loved ones, drastically altering the financial legacy you thought you’d leave behind.

And you’ve worked hard to build your pension pot, knowing it’s a key part of your future security, and possibly your family’s too. Dealing with the loss of a loved one is hard enough, and you don’t want it to be more stressful than it already has to be.

What is Inheritance Tax?

Essentially, it is a tax on the estate of someone who has died, including all property, possessions, and money. The standard Inheritance Tax rate is 40%. It’s only charged on the part of your estate that’s above the tax-free threshold which is currently £325,000.

There’s also an additional residence nil-rate band of up to £175,000 for homeowners who pass their house onto direct decedents, such as children and grandchildren. There are certain conditions that you must meet to qualify for residence nil-rate band, but you don’t necessarily have to own a home at the point you pass away.

Even though these changes are still under consideration, the time to review your financial plan is now. Taking steps sooner rather than later could make a meaningful difference in how much of your wealth goes to your family, not the taxman.

How PenLife is Here to Help

At PenLife, we know just how unsettling this kind of uncertainty can feel. That’s why we’ve created a free, easy-to-follow quiz which will provide:

• Quick Assessment: Understand how prepared you are for the upcoming changes

• Personalised Insights: Receive a personalised score and insightful resources

• Expert Guidance: Learn how PenLife Associates could help you and your family

If you have any questions or would like support along the way, call us on 01904 661140 or email enquiries@pen-life.co.uk.

How to start the Pensions & IHT quiz

You can begin the quiz by choosing one of

• scan the QR code opposite

• or head to https://pensionsandiht.scoreapp.com

Walking with THE WANDERER

Ripon & Studley Park

GETTING THERE

Time: 3 hours | Distance: 6 miles

IS THIS WALK FOR ME?

Medium distance, this is a generally easy walk. There are ups and downs, but none are steep. Paths are mainly easy to follow, except the last section through the park, which isn’t signed or clear on the ground. There are no stiles. Mud can be expected in winter, especially on the uphill section at Direction Point 4.

Directions

If driving, the recommended starting point is the west end of Mallorie Park Drive in Ripon, near its junction with Heugh Croft (HG4 2QA), where roadside parking is available. Ripon is 26 miles from York via the A59, A168 and B6265, then following Pateley Bridge signs in Ripon. Buses 82 and 84 run roughly hourly from York (Picadilly and rail station) to Ripon bus station (no Sunday service).

1/ Starting from the roadside parking on Mallorie Park Drive near Heugh Cleugh, take this side street and follow it for a short distance. Where it turns sharp left, take the tarmac footpath right, with a wall to the left. Keep left at a path junction to cross the river footbridge, turning right on the other side. At a noticeboard, keep right beside the river, soon ascending steps. Now keep above the river, following the nature trail marker posts.

2/ At a ‘Y’ junction, go left (at the nature trail post), and cross another path (at a further trail post). At the next trail post, keep ahead into the trees, rather than turning left with the trail. Continue through the trees, ignoring all ways left until you reach a parking area at the end of a lane.

From the bus station to the start is a 15-minute walk via the Market Place, High Skellgate and Skellbank to the far end of Mallorie Park Drive.

REFRESHMENTS

There are numerous options in Ripon. On route, the only place is the Studley Tea Room beside the lake, open 10-4 daily.

WHAT TO SEE

Fountains Abbey can be visited (for a fee) from Direction Point

This varied walk from the edge of Ripon largely avoids the crowds that throng Studley Park and Fountains Abbey. Omitting the Abbey (entry charges apply), although it is easily possible to extend the walk to include it, the route traverses nature reserves, woodland and a deer park.

6. Approach from this direction through the water gardens to avoid the busier visitor centre route. But, even if Fountains is omitted, there’s much to see: Studley Park with its ancient trees, fallow deer and parkland landscape, including the grand avenue aligned with distant Ripon Cathedral. Then, there’s Hell Wath and Whitcliffe nature reserves, the rivers Skell and Laver, and the varied countryside.

3/ Go left on the lane, but almost immediately, take the unsigned path on the right (far side of Hell Wath Cottage) with a hedge to your right. Continue with a wood to the right, looking for a gate flanked by short walls. Go through this into Whitcliffe Wood, taking the path ahead (right). Continue through the wood, soon with a fence to the right and quarry/bike park to the left. Reaching another wall-flanked gate, exit the wood and turn right on the tarmac lane. Remain on this, passing Whitcliffe Hall farm. About 100 metres beyond the farm, go through a gate to the right (bridleway sign).

4/ Follow the wide grassy path, initially between fences, uphill. Where the fence on the left ends, keep ahead to find a wooden gate on the edge of the woodland. Go through this and follow the

track downhill in the trees. At a track crossroads, go straight across (upslope) with a fence to your right, remaining on the track as it bends left. Now, continue with a wall to the right and trees to the left, until you reach an ornamental arched gateway on the right.

5/ Go through the gate and walk ahead over grass (occasional short marker posts), passing a pond. Reaching a rutted track, follow it as it curves downhill, passing another pond with deer fencing to the right. Go through the tall wooden gate and follow the track, keeping left to reach a bridge at the cascade.

6/ Cross the bridge and walk beside the lake for 25 metres, but then take the faint grass path right leading diagonally up the slope (for refreshments and to enter Fountains Abbey, continue by the lakeside to the obvious building on its far side). Pass a bench, maintaining direction to reach the unfenced road crossing the park. Cross and follow it to the right. About 300 metres from the exit gate ahead, look for a large fallen tree trunk on the left, to the right of a large chestnut tree. Here, head diagonally left up a slope, after which a path over the grass becomes clearer, with a gate soon visible in the wall ahead. (If you miss this turning, continue on the road to the park exit, turning left before it to follow the wall for 200 metres, until you reach the gate). Go through the gate and follow the fenced path, which emerges in Studley Roger village.

7/ Continue straight over the road and take the track between walls, soon reaching a house entrance with a footpath gate to the left. Now walk on the enclosed path, mainly between hedges. Reaching a path crossroads, remain ahead (signed Ripon). Keep going until a gate gives access to a main road. Cross and turn right to join the pavement. Continue over the river bridge. Immediately after this, turn right at the mini roundabout into Mallorie Park Drive to return to the start point.

Time Travel

Exploring York’s past, one place at a time

THIS MONTH: A Story of

Hidden Faith

The Bar Convent may look like just another historic building on Blossom Street, but its story - and its connection to Margaret Clitherow - reveals a chapter of York’s past shaped by faith, danger and remarkable bravery.

Many of us will have walked by The Bar Convent along Blossom Street countless times, without realising its remarkable history.

Founded in 1686, the Bar Convent is the oldest surviving convent in the UK. It was built at a time when the Catholic religion was still illegal in England. Between 1536 and 1541, the monasteries and nunneries across England and Wales were dissolved. Henry VIII needed money for wars and aimed to solidify his role as Head of the Church of England. Henry believed that monks were no longer behaving as they should, which was leading very simple lives and helping the poor and those in need. The Bar Convent was built more than 100 years later, although Catholicism remained illegal until the 19th century.

At the Bar Convent, ‘The Congregation of Jesus’ were the order of sisters who discreetly resided there, founded by Mary Ward.

Ward was considered the first sister of feminism, since her focus was to make education for women possible, as well as enabling women to become missionaries for their faith. Unfortunately, Ward died before this was realised, but her followers carried on her work and

opened one of the first schools for girls at the convent.

It was officially intended to be a boarding school for Catholic girls; it also became a free day school. There are now over 200 schools worldwide named in Mary Ward’s honour. The convent preserves the work these women did and reflects how they risked their lives to make it possible for girls to be educated.

With the Bar Convent being outwardly presented as only a school, a secret chapel was built in 1766, making it clear that it was used for religious purposes. It was still illegal to hold Catholic services at this time, so the chapel was designed to look like a normal house and be hidden from view. It is built behind the main building and is even invisible from the garden. The way it is hidden also explains why the windows have such a plain design, so as not to attract attention from the outside. The chapel has eight exits, which made it easier to escape if the need arose. Beneath the floorboards, there is also a secret priest hole, rediscovered in the early 20th Century.

Known as ‘The Pearl of York’, Margaret Clitherow was executed for harbouring a catholic Priest in her home.

Born in 1556, Margaret was the daughter of the Sheriff of York and was raised as a Protestant. In the early 1570s, as a married woman, she converted to Catholicism – a decision which would shape the rest of her life.

Margaret married John Clitherow, a butcher who owned a shop on the Shambles, although a butcher wasn’t John’s only job - ironically, he was also responsible for reporting Catholics to the authorities…

Margaret’s open commitment to Catholicism must have created tension within their house, especially since Margaret began refusing to attend services, leading to repeated fines. Margaret was imprisoned several times at York Castle, the last time for around two years, where she learnt Latin, so that she could read and speak the Latin Mass. Margaret was greatly distressed by the persecution of Catholics in York. It is believed that she would sneak out at night to the Tyburn to see the executions of the Priests.

During this time of persecution, noble families who favoured the Catholic faith would secretly shelter priests in their homes. These households were often in more isolated areas where it was less suspicious, and they could pass the priests off as teachers or schoolmasters for their children.

Inspired by this quiet way of resistance, Margaret created a concealed room at her home in the Shambles, alongside a hidden cupboard. Unlike the country houses, her house was in a very crowded area of York, and her efforts were betrayed in 1586.

A young boy accidentally discovered the Catholic she was hiding and informed the authorities. Her home was raided, and Margaret was arrested. She was quickly taken to the Guildhall, where she then refused trial, saying:

“I know of no offence whereof I should confess myself guilty. Having made no offence, I need no trial.”

Margaret was sentenced to death and taken to the tollbooth on Ouse Bridge in York. There, on 25 March 1586, she was executed by pressing, a brutal punishment in which heavy weights were placed upon her until she died. It was a method intended to force a plea.

She left behind her husband, John, and their three children. Despite the trauma of her death, her faith remained within her family. Her son Henry travelled abroad to train as a Catholic priest before returning to England as a missionary, continuing the religious commitment for which his mother had given her life. The hidden chapel, the priest hole beneath the floorboards, and the relic kept there aren’t just historic features – they’re reminders of the bravery that kept the Catholic faith alive in York. Margaret’s sacrifice, and the risks taken by Mary Ward and the sisters who later founded the convent, are all part of the same story. From the outside, the Bar Convent might look like just another building on Blossom Street, but behind its walls is a history of people who chose to stand by their beliefs and make sure their faith and education could continue, even when it was dangerous to do so.

BY SOPHIE LANCASTER

Dear Daphne

DEAR DAPHNE,

Me and my boyfriend purchased our first house last year, and since we signed for it I feel like our relationship has gone downhill. After 10 months we still don’t actually live in our home as it is a shell of a house and the toll it is taking on us - doing it up is killing our relationship. We are totally skint, we argue, we disagree and worst of all, we are starting to hate each others company. Is this normal or is this the start of the end? Em.

DEAR EM,

Renovating a house will test a relationship quicker than assembling IKEA furniture without instructions and one missing screw. You’re exhausted, broke, covered in plaster dust and arguing about light switches. Of course you’re snappy. Living in a building site while haemorrhaging money is not exactly romantic. No one feels loving when they’re arguing over grout colours and checking their bank balance with one eye closed. What you’re describing sounds less like “the end” and more like two stressed humans running on fumes.

However, stress doesn’t create cracks, it exposes them. The real question isn’t “are we arguing?” but “how are we arguing?” Are you still on the same team, or are you keeping score and trying to win?

group lately. Whenever plans are made I’m the last to know, or it feels like I’ve been added in as an after thought. I don’t know if I’m overthinking it but it’s making me feel rubbish and a bit unwanted. Do I say something to them or should I just leave it? Chloe.

DEAR CHLOE,

Nobody enjoys feeling like the extra chair that gets unfolded only if there’s space. It stings, and once you notice it, you start collecting evidence like a detective in your own friendship.

Before you torch the group chat and dramatically exit with a “fine then”, ask yourself something calmly: Are they actively excluding you, or have you quietly stepped back and are now waiting to be chased? Sometimes when we feel unsure, we withdraw slightly, and then the gap grows.

If it genuinely feels one-sided, say something simple. “I’ve been feeling slightly left out recently.” No accusations, no tears, just be honest. If they value you, they’ll adjust. If they don’t, that’s useful information too…

Friendship shouldn’t feel like an audition. If you constantly feel like you’re trying out for a role in your own group, it may be time to widen the circle and mixup who you decide to spend your time with.

DEAR LIZZIE,

In your mum’s eyes you will always be five years old with jam on your face. That job description does not expire.

But here’s the uncomfortable truth: you’re still responding like you’re fifteen. If she asks what time you’ll be home and you answer like you’re reporting in, you’re reinforcing the script.

Try this instead: Calm voice. “Not sure yet, I’ve got plans.” No detailed itinerary. When she comments on your outfit, smile and say, “I like it.” Then change the subject. No defence speech required.

Boundaries aren’t built with dramatic declarations. They’re built through steady repetition. You stop over-explaining. You stop justifying. You behave like the adult you are.

She may still fuss. Mothers rarely retire from that role. But fussing only works if you play along. You don’t need a family summit. Just quiet consistency. That’s adulthood.

LOVE DAPHNE X

DEAR LIAM,

Wanting space does not make you a villain. It makes you human. Even the healthiest couples need oxygen.

If someone expects to be your entire social life, resentment creeps in quietly, and then stays. You don’t need to apologise for wanting a night with your mates or an evening alone. That’s not rejection, it’s balance.

The key is tone. Don’t present it like you’re escaping Alcatraz. Say, “I love being with you, but I also need time to recharge.” If she hears that as abandonment, that’s insecurity speaking.

Closeness without space becomes suffocating. If you can’t ask for one evening to yourself without fearing fallout, that’s the bigger red flag.

Love someone, absolutely. Lose yourself, never.

LOVE DAPHNE X

Got a problem? Of course you do! Lucky for you, our sharp-tongued yet warm-hearted agony aunt Daphne is here to slice through the chaos and help tackle all your burning life dilemmas with wit, wisdom, and just the right amount of tough love! Have you got a question

Take one night off from sanding walls. Go somewhere that doesn’t smell of paint. Talk about something other than budgets and boilers. If there’s still warmth there, you’ll feel it. If there isn’t, then it isn’t just the house that needs rebuilding.

LOVE DAPHNE X

DEAR DAPHNE,

I feel like I’m the spare friend in my

LOVE DAPHNE X

DEAR DAPHNE,

My mum still treats me like I’m 15 even though I’m 27. She questions who I’m going out with, what time I’ll be home, and even comments on what I’m wearing. I don’t even live at home anymore. How do I get her to realise I’m actually an adult now without causing a massive family drama? Lizzie.

DEAR DAPHNE,

I don’t really know how to word this but I’ll try. Me and my girlfriend have been together just over a year and I do love her but lately, I’ve started feeling like I want more time on my own. Not seeing other people or anything like that, just space. She wants to spend every evening together and gets funny if I say I’m going out with mates or want a night to myself. I don’t want to hurt her or make it sound like I’m pulling away, but I’m starting to feel a bit trapped if I’m honest. Is that bad? Liam.

Send it to info@ yourlocallink.co.uk with the subject "FOR DAPHNE" and check back here next month to see if your question is featured!

PUZZLES & COMPETITIONS

TWO FREE TICKETS FOR ‘PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT’ AT JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE

Running at Joseph Rowntree Theatre from 28 April - 2 May, NETheatre’s unmissable new production of ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert’ offers a glam, camp, and hilarious take on the much-loved Australian comedy road movie, which was first released in cinemas in 1994. Featuring an iconic pop soundtrack and absolutely fabulous costumes, this fun-filled show follows the story of three friends who embark on a road trip across the Australian outback…

To be in with a chance of winning two free tickets for ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert’, simply answer the following question:

In which year was the movie ‘The Adventures for Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’ first released?

A. 1994 B. 2004 C. 2024

Send your answer (along with your name, address and daytime contact number) on a postcard marked ‘Priscilla Competition’ to Unit 3A Kettlestring Lane, York, YO30 4XF, or by email to competitions@yourlocallink.co.uk. The closing date is Tuesday, 21 April. Terms and conditions apply.

WIN: A ‘ROLA MINI COMPANION ROBOT’, WORTH £149!

Want to keep an eye on your pets while you’re away from home? Keen on monitoring and communicating with your furry friends, wherever you are? The moveable, remotely controlled ROLA Mini Companion Robot enables you to care for your pets from afar, with two-way audio, remote pet entertainment options (controllable via mobile app), expandable fun accessories, and a long-lasting, built-in 5000mAh battery, allowing up to 25 days of battery life (with normal use).

To be in with a chance of winning the ROLA Mini Companion Robot, simply answer the following question:

How long does the ROLA Mini Companion Robot’s builtin battery typically last?

A. Up to 25 minutes

B. Up to 25 hours

C. Up to 25 days

Send your answer (along with your name, address and daytime contact number) on a postcard marked ‘Robot Competition’ to Unit 3A Kettlestring Lane, York, YO30 4XF, or by email to competitions@yourlocallink.co.uk. The closing date is Tuesday, 27 April. Terms and conditions apply.

Send your completed puzzle, marked ‘APRIL Puzzle Competition’ along with your address and telephone number to Unit 3a Kettlestring Lane, Clifton Moor, York, YO30 4XF, to reach us no later than 30th April. The first entry picked out of the hat will win the prize. Good luck!

2 6 8

1 6 9 5 3 8 4 9 7 5 2

Horoscopes

Aries

STAR SIGN OF THE MONTH

March 21 – April 19

With Mars entering your sign early in April (9th), and a New Moon entering Aries mid-month (17th), you could find that you benefit from an injection of newfound energy, vitality, and purpose in the coming weeks. If you’ve been thinking of undertaking an ambitious new project or pursuing a leadership role in the workplace, you could find that your efforts are galvanised by this energy burst, although it’s important to schedule some downtime to avoid burning out. Bold goals may be more achievable this month, but it’s important that you take stock of what you really want before going for gold…

Taurus

(April 20 – May 20)

With the Sun entering Taurus on 20th April, those of this sign may find the latter part of the month to be the perfect time to kick back, relax, and enjoy the finer things in life; make the most of this downtime by creating focused routines, which will work to foster physical and mental wellbeing later down the line. Please note that an exciting new romance may flourish after the 26th, when Venus’ conjunction with Uranus is likely to bring unexpected changes to your love life…

Gemini

(May 21 – June 20)

Geminis, take note: April is a month in which new ideas and breakthroughs are likely to occur in the workplace, potentially shifting or propelling career direction. Capitalise on these potentially momentous changes by networking, engaging in collaborative conversations with your peers, and learning new skills, wherever and whenever you can! When Venus enters Gemini on the 24th, you could also find that you’re inundated with flirtatious energy, inviting playful connection with those around you.

Cancer

(June 21 – July 22)

Those of this sign can be an emotional bunch, and this is a month in which natural emotional intuition is likely to come in handy. Your caring, loyal qualities are likely to come to the fore in the coming weeks, helping you to further the progress of negotiations and collaboration in the workplace, and beyond! The

emergence of an early Full Moon (2nd) will provide newfound energy and clarity, which could help you to better assess your goals and ambitions going forward.

Leo

(July 23 – August 22)

While often tipped as natural leaders, Leos will get even more chance than usual to strut their stuff this month. In the workplace, you could get the chance to take the reins with a new leadership role, or gain extra reward and visibility for your existing efforts. Hobbies based around performance, drama, and the arts are sure to provide satisfaction and time in the limelight away from work. The movement of Venus in Gemini at the end of the month could bring about a burst of romantic energy…

Virgo

(August 23 – September 22)

For those of this sign, the coming month could be an ideal time to streamline your systems and processes, prioritise the ever-increasing list of tasks on your agenda, and put your affairs in order, once and for all! You may also find that your family members need a little extra assistance this month - by helping loved ones in need, you’ll gain a better understanding of the powerful, intrinsic value of family, which is sure to put you in good standing for the weeks ahead.

Libra

(September 23 – October 22)

With a Full Moon in Libra (2nd) starting April off with a bang, those of this sign may find a newfound

sense of balance and diplomacy at the start of the month, which could come in handy when it comes to resolving any impending conflicts on the horizon. This sense of balance can also be applied to your diet and exercise regime, with potentially life-changing effects! Try to make use of social pursuits (especially those centred around art and beauty) as an outlet for pentup energy, as April unwinds…

Scorpio

(October 23 – November 21)

Scorpios are known for their tactical prowess, and this April is a month in which strategic planning could pay off in the long run! To better ensure meaningful progress in the future, now’s the time to do your homework, research thoroughly, and take stock of your ambitions. Take the time to reflect on what you want, and take proactive steps towards achieving your goals…

Sagittarius

(November 22 – December 21)

Singleton Sagittarians, take note: you could be in for a magnetic month when it comes to romance! The coming weeks may see you attract a potential new partner, so make the most of any new opportunities if you’re looking for love. Those of you already in a committed relationship may find that it’s significantly ‘spiced up’ by spontaneous action. Mid-month, you may find that a lingering financial problem is finally resolved…

Capricorn

(December 22 – January 19)

Due to the movement of Saturn,

Capricorns could benefit greatly from serious, focused discussion this month - rather than beating around the bush, targeted, precise communication may work to your advantage, so don’t be shy! When it comes to realising long-held goals, your discipline and persistence are finally likely to pay off, so stay consistent in your efforts. To boost mental and physical wellbeing, maintain routines related to sleep, work, and exercise.

Aquarius

(January 20 – February 18)

Aquarians, beware: the middle of April could throw an unexpected spanner in the works in terms of personal finances, so try to be smart with those pennies - if you’re met with a financial hiccup, remember that responsible (and proactive) budgeting could work in your favour. Due to the movement of Pluto, you could also gain a renewed sense of personal identity this month, and find yourself less willing to compromise on matters of character. Stay true to yourself!

Pisces

(February 19 – March 20)

Due to the direct movement of Neptune, those of this sign may find themselves feeling even more intuitive than usual this month - while a little extra empathy is always useful, try to stay guarded, and avoid emotional burnout by partaking in hobbies and activities that activate your creative, spiritual side. In the third week of the month, an important conversation about compensation or fairness may arise - be prepared to get what’s yours!

BOOK YOUR PARTY TODAY!

THE UK’S #1 KITCHEN MAKEOVER EXPERTS

› Up to 50% less than a new fully fitted kitchen

› From simple door replacements to complete fitted kitchens

› Fully installed by local professionals in just a few days

› Choose from a large selection of doors, worktops and appliances dreamdoors.co.uk

QUALITY BEDROOM

MAKEOVERS BY LOCAL PROFESSIONALS

› Bespoke sliding wardrobes

› Styles to suit every home

› Wide range of colours and finishes to choose from dreamdoorsbedrooms.co.uk

The

This month, check out the cream of the crop of events and attractions taking place across York. From family-friendly fun to must-see shows and seasonal highlights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

4 APRIL

THE GREAT YORKSHIRE RECORD FAIR, York Railway Institute, YO24 1AD. 10.00am-4.00pm. Browse over 200 tables of records to suit every taste at the biggest Great Yorkshire Record Fair to date! Admission is just £1, with proceeds going towards the Music Venue Trust. Visit www.facebook.com/ events/1551805716124333 to find out more.

4-6 APRIL

YORK MODEL RAILWAY SHOW, Knavesmire Stand, York Racecourse, YO23 1EX. Various times. This three-day railway modelling extravaganza will showcase models across around 120 stands, featuring renowned exhibitors and 40 working layouts. Visit yorkshow.org.uk to book or find out more.

18-19 APRIL

YORK HEALTH HEALING & WELLBEING FESTIVAL, York Racecourse, YO23 1EX. 10.00am5.00pm. Enjoy two days of talks, workshops, demonstrations, live music, therapies and readings at Yorkshire’s leading health, healing and wellbeing festival. Browse a fantastic parade of exhibition stands and secure free entry into prize draws! Visit www. healthhealingfestivals.co.uk or call 01423 873259 to find out more.

24-26 APRIL

PORTAL TO THE PAST: A VINTAGE DEPARTMENT STORE, Knavesmire Stand, York Racecourse, YO23 1EX. Various times. Arriving at York Racecourse this month, this unique pop-up department store offers a veritable treasure trove of vintage clothes, accessories, and homeware pieces to suit every style. Buy and

browse goodies from your favourite decade, from the 1920s onwards! Visit linktr.ee/Portal2Past? Or email portal2past@outlook.com for further details.

COMING AFTER EASTER

BIRD AND WILDLIFE CLASSES, Various times and locations. These wondrous weekly birdwatching walks offer visitors the chance to identify 100 bird species, as well as a diverse range of mammals, butterflies, dragonflies, fungi, and wild flowers! Visit www. eybirdwatching.blogspot.com, email mflowers81@live.co.uk or call 07946 625

4 MAY

DUNCOMBE PARK COUNTRY FAIR, Duncombe Park, YO62 5EB. 9.00am5.00pm.

Enjoy a full day of pony show jumping, horse and pony show classes, indoor and outdoor stalls, vintage & classic vehicle displays and more at North Yorkshire’s original country fair, running since 1982. Visit www.dpcountryfair.co.uk to book.

9 MAY

UNIVERSITY CHOIR & SYMPHONY

ORCHESTRA, York Minster, YO1 7HH. 7.30pm. Join the University of York’s choir and symphony orchestra for an evening of classical music at York Minster, including works by Schubert, Brahms, and Ireland, as conducted by Robert Hollingworth. Visit www.boxoffice@ york.ac.uk or call 01904 322439 to book.

23-27 & 29-31 MAY

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS - LET’S ROCK, LET’S ROLL TOUR, North Yorkshire Moors Railway, YO18 7AJ. Various times. Enjoy a full day of family-friendly fun with Thomas & Friends at NYMR, where activities will include riding behind a “really useful” Thomas steam engine, saying hello to Sir Topham Hatt, playing Thomas & Friends garden games, listening to storytelling sessions, and much more! Visit www.nymr.co.uk/thomas to find

out more or book your tickets. EVERY DAY

REPTILE ROADSHOW

This unique, hands-on experience brings cold-blooded creepy crawlies from the jungle to the comfort of your home! The Reptile Roadshow throws private children’s reptile parties to remember, perfect for birthdays, celebrations, and young nature lovers! Visit www. reptileroadshow.co.uk to book a Reptile Roadshow party or find out more.

OPEN EVERY DAY

VAN GOGH: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE, St. Mary’s Church, YO1 9RN. 10am-6pm. This unique and immersive experience offers a window into the works of Van Gogh, as you’ve never seen them before! Combining the artist’s classic paintings with an all-encompassing light and sound show, this exhibition enables visitors to step into the mind of the great ‘little painter fellow’. Visit www.vangoghexpo.co.uk/ york to book your tickets today.

EVERY SUNDAY

WIGGINGTON CAR BOOT, Home Farm, Wiggington, York, YO32 2RD. 6.30am-1pm. This giant car boot is held every week, with general admission at just £1 per car. Get yourself down early to scoop up some bargains! Call 01904 768463 or 07964 027362 for further details.

EVERY FRIDAY

GOODNESS GROWING, Goodness Farm, YO32 5TP. 10.00am-1.00pm. Get your fill of freshly grown organic fruit and veg, explore the ‘farm to fork’ connection, and bring the kids down to meet friendly alpacas at the Alpaca Coffee Trailer & Farm! Visit www.goodnessgrowing.co.uk to find out more.

OPEN THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

SPRING INTO GOLF @ YORK GOLF RANGE, York Golf Range, YO32 9ST. Various times. Celebrate spring with a range of fun-filled golf

activities at Strensall’s York Golf Range, including FootGolf, Crazy Golf, a Driving Range, and a highquality 9-hole course! Visit www. yorkgolfrange.co.uk or call 01904 499275 to find out more.

OPEN THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

DREAMERY GARDENS & MUSEUM, Stamford Bridge, YO41 1AP. Various times. Home to one of England’s best-loved lost Fairy Gardens and an intriguing Fairy Museum, this magical nature sanctuary features a range of beautiful fairy houses set against wonderful woodland. A must-visit attraction just a stone’s throw from York! Book your visit now! Visit www. dreamerygardens.co.uk for details and bookings.

OPEN THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

DARK TALES OF YORK, Meeting at Roman Bath, YO1 8RN. Various times. Discover the darker side of York, known as one of the most haunted cities in the UK! 90-minute private guided tours are available to book now. To find out more, visit www. darktalesofyork.com today.

21 JUNE

R U TAKING THE P…?, Rowntree Park, YO23 1JQ. 9.00am. Head down to the beautiful Rowntree Park this Father’s Day for a 5k or 10k run, in aid of crucial local charity, York Against Cancer. Visit www. register.enthuse.com/ps/event/ RUTakingtheP2026 to register.

BOOK AHEAD!

12 JULY

YORK COMEDY FESTIVAL 2026, Museum Gardens, YO1 7FR. From 2.30pm. This year’s annual comedy festival features a top-tier lineup of the UK’s finest comedians, including Russell Howard, Ross Noble, Russell Kane, Suzi Ruffell, Joanna McNally, and more! Visit www.futuresound. seetickets.com/event/york-comedyfestival-2026/york-museumgardens/3561349 for details.

• Weekly birdwatching walks

• Visit 30 wildlife venues a year

• 3 terms a year: After Easter, Autumn & in the New Year

• Expect to identify 100 bird species per term

• We will also identify: mammals, butterflies dragonflies, fungi & wild flowers

• Learn in a friendly, jargon-free environment 07946 625688

mflowers81@live.co.uk www.eybirdwatching.blogspot.com

THE OUTSIDE IN LIVING BETTER WITH PLANTS

A welcoming independent plant shop dedicated to helping your houseplants flourish.

Offering friendly advice and carefully chosen plants for every home.

The studio also hosts creative workshops where you can craft your own terrarium and learn practical plant-care skills.

To get in touch, contact Alice: 07771695933 | theoutsideinyork@gmail.com 10 Holgate Road, York YO24 4AB

An Easter Message from the Archbishop of York

By Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York.

In the Bible, we meet all sorts of people who encounter Jesus: men, women and children; believers and sceptics; rich and poor; insiders and outsiders. Each person is changed in some way by that encounter. In our own lives, we are shaped too - by what we experience, the people we meet, the choices we make, and the habits we form day by day.

Here in York, with our history and strong sense of community, we know how much place shapes us as well. Today, that sense of local pride and connection shows itself in everyday life - whether in the laughter shared over a family meal, the kindness of neighbours, or the excitement when The Scrap Box in Dunnington and Millers in Haxby were recently voted the best fish and chip takeaways in the area. These little moments of joy and celebration remind us that life is full of simple, tangible gifts.

Easter is often described as a season of new life and new beginnings. At its heart is the promise that things can change - that even after loss, failure or disappointment, a fresh start is possible. It invites us to reflect on how we might live differently, and what small, life-giving habits could help us build a kinder, more hopeful pattern for our lives.

One question from the Easter story always stands out for me. On that first morning, Mary Magdalene goes to the tomb where Jesus’ body was laid two days before, but finds the tomb empty. Jesus

then comes alongside her and asks, “Who are you looking for?” It is a gentle but searching question. What are we really seeking? What kind of community do we want to build? Which values will guide our decisions, in our homes, our schools, our workplaces and across our city?

A seventh-century monk named Bede believed that faith should be expressed in a way everyone could understand. He encouraged leaders to teach the Lord’s Prayer in everyday language, so that it could truly shape how people lived. His wisdom still resonates today. We all need values to ground us, practices that sustain us, and a clear sense of direction.

The Lord’s Prayer, though short, speaks of deep things: longing for a more just and peaceful world; asking for what we need (but not more than we need); learning to forgive; and choosing to live with integrity and compassion.

The Easter story ultimately points us towards hope - not a fragile optimism, but a steady conviction that darkness and difficulty do not get the final word. It reminds us that renewal is possible: in our own hearts, in our relationships, and in the life of our city.

May this Easter be a time to pause, to breathe, and to look again at what truly matters - and may we each find ways to share hope, kindness and courage in York and beyond. For reflections for every day, check out the Church of England’s Everyday Faith App.

Events WHAT’S

There are so many events in this month’s magazine, you might need to take the whole month off to experience them all! From theatre and live music to festivals, talks and workshops, we’ve expanded our events guide to bring you even more brilliant things happening across York and beyond this April.

on…

28 MARCH - 12 APRIL

ORCHID FESTIVAL, Burton Agnes Hall, YO25 4NB. Times TBA. Explore this beautifully transformed house full of stunning orchids, alongside talks from Ray Creek about the diversity of these picturesque plants. Visit www.burtonagnes. com/DB/Events to find out more.

1 APRIL

MYSTERIOUS NEUTRINOS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM, Online. 6.30pm-7.30pm. If you’re interested in the mysterious topic of neutrinos, and the fact that there are trillions of them passing through your body every second without you even noticing, then this informative talk is for you! Visit www.york.ac.uk/ news-and-events to book your place.

1 APRIL

DAFFODIL WALK & TALK, Thorp Perrow Arboretum, DL8 2PS. 10.30am-12.00pm. Enjoy an informative and relaxing walk, focusing on the beauty and diversity of daffodils in bloom. This 1.5-hour walk is a great way to get away, relax and spark your inner explorer - if you love looking at the spring daffodils bloom, this is for you!

1-5 APRIL

YORK CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL, Parliament Street, YO1 8RU. Chocaholics, unite! Enjoy a cocoathemed programme of events and activities perfect for chocolate lovers, organised by the team behind the York Food & Drink Festival. Visit www.yorkfoodfestival. com to find out more.

2 APRIL

CURATOR TOUR @ FAIRFAX HOUSE, Fairfax House, YO1 9RN. 2.00pm-3.30pm. Join Fairfax House’s curator, Dr Sarah Burnage, for a special tour of the House and museum, where you’ll be able to take a closer look at its extensive collections and expressions of Georgian architecture. Visit www. fairfaxhouse.co.uk/event/curatortour/ to book.

2, 8 & 28 APRIL

HISTORIC PUB WALKING TOUR, Meeting outside the National Trust Gift Shop, YO1 7LG. 7.00pm-9.00pm. Embark on a unique, tipple-themed walking tour centred around the most historic and iconic pubs in York, a city famed for having (at least) one pub for every day of the year! Visit www.yorkpubwalks. wordpress.com.

3 APRIL

CREATIVE DRINKS, Patch York, YO1 6FA. 6.00pm-9.30pm. Meet up with like-minded local creatives, expand your network, and gain inspiration

for your work over a casual tipple at Patch. This monthly social now runs every first Friday!

4 APRIL

HISTORIC TOUR WITH AFTERNOON TEA, Carlton Towers Estate, DN14 9LZ. 11.00am/2.00pm. Familiarise yourself with one of North Yorkshire’s best-loved stately homes, with a guided tour of key locations including the Armoury, the Venetian State Room, and the Priest’s Hiding Hole bedroom, followed by a sumptuous afternoon tea! Visit www.carltontowers.co.uk.

Celebrating Easter in York

Celebrating Easter this year? Whether you’re after an egg-citing day out with the kids, a family-friendly fair, or a Lent & Easter church service, Your Local Link has got you covered! See our pick of Easter happenings occurring around York & North Yorkshire in the coming weeks…

6 MARCH - 12 APRIL

EASTER EGG & SPRING BUNNY

CHOCOLATE BAR MAKING, York Cocoa Works, YO1 9RN. Visit www. yorkcocoahouse.co.uk to book.

27, 31 MARCH & 3 APRIL

EASTER AT WACKY, Wacky Warehouse, YO30 4XY. Various times. Visit www.wackywarehouse. co.uk to get in touch.

28 MARCH

EASTER FAIR, Huntington Methodist Church, YO32 9SH. 10.00am-1.00pm. Visit their Facebook to get in touch.

28 MARCH - 12 APRIL

EASTER EGG HUNT AT NUNNINGTON HALL, YO62 5UY. 10.30am-5.00pm. Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/ nunnington-hall for details.

28 MARCH - 12 APRIL

EASTER EGG HUNT AT BENINGBROUGH, Beningbrough Hall, YO30 1DD. 10.00am-5.00pm. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ yorkshire/beningbrough for details.

28 MARCH - 12 APRIL

EASTER AT BURTON AGNES HALL, YO25 4NB. Various times. Visit www. burtonagnes.com to book.

28 MARCH - 12 APRIL

EASTER EGG HUNT AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL, HG4 3DY. 10.00am-4.00pm.Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/ fountains-abbey.

28 MARCH-19 APRIL

EASTER WONDERLAND, Mother Shipton’s Cave, HG5 8DD. Visit www.mothershipton.co.uk.

Lent & Easter Worship

29 MARCH

PALM SUNDAY COMMUNION, St Stephen’s, YO61 1UB. 10.30am-11.30am.

2 APRIL

MAUNDY THURSDAY COMMUNION & STRIPPING OF THE ALTAR, St Giles Church, YO30 1XT. 6.00pm-7.00pm.

2-5 APRIL

EASTER TRIDUUM RETREAT, Ampleforth Abbey, YO62 4EN. Registration from 3.00pm on Holy Thursday.

3 APRIL

LAST HOUR OF THE CROSS, St Michael’s, YO61 1QX. 2pm-3pm.

3 APRIL

GOOD FRIDAY: YORK’S ECUMENICAL WALK OF WITNESS, St Paul’s, YO24 4BF. 1.00pm. Followed by Good Friday service at Holgate Methodist Church, YO24 4AE (arrangements TBA).

5 APRIL

EASTER SUNDAY SUNRISE SERVICE, St Michael’s, YO61 1QX. 6.15am-7.15am.

5 APRIL

EASTER SUNDAY SUNRISE SERVICE, St Barnabas’ Church, YO26 4YZ. 6.45am.

5 APRIL

EASTER SUNDAY SERVICE, York

28 MARCH - 19 APRIL

DRAGON EASTER EGG HUNT, The Hole in Wand, YO1 9NT. Various times. Visit www.theholeinwand. com to book or find out more.

28 MARCH-19 APRIL

EASTER AT STOCKELD PARK, Stockeld Park, LS22 4AN. 9.30am5.30pm. Visit www.stockeldpark. co.uk for more details.

28 MARCH - 19 APRIL

EASTER QUEST AT WHITBY ABBEY, YO22 4JT. 10.00am-4.00pm. Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/whats-on/whitby-easterquest-2026/ to book.

28 MARCH - 19 APRIL

EASTER QUEST AT SCARBOROUGH CASTLE, YO11 1HY. 10.00am4.00pm. Visit www.english-heritage. org.uk/visit/whats-on/scarborougheaster-quest-2026/ to book.

28 MARCH

DISCOVER: EGGSPLORE SCULPTURE TRAIL YORK, York Explore Library, YO1 7DS. 11.00am3.00pm. Free, no booking required.

30 MARCH-12 APRIL

EASTER HOLIDAY ADVENTURE, Eden Camp Modern History Museum, YO17 6RT. Various times. Visit www.edencamp.co.uk.

1 APRIL

THE LEGENDARY EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA TRAIL, Rowntree Park, YO21 1JQ. Visit www. rowntreepark.org.uk/events/.

3 APRIL

DISCOVER: EGGSPLORE HAXBY FAMILY FUN DAY, Haxby Memorial Hall, YO32 2HT. 11.00am-3.00pm. Visit www.facebook.com/events /864335549745309/.

3 & 6 APRIL

EASTER BUNNY BREAKFAST, Dobbies Garden Centre, YO26 6QE. Visit events.dobbies.com.

4-5 APRIL

EASTER LIVING HISTORY

WEEKEND, Eden Camp Modern History Museum, YO17 6RT. 10.00am-5.00pm. Visit www. edencamp.co.uk to find out more.

5 APRIL

RSPCA YORK, HARROGATE & DISTRICT BRANCH EASTER FAIR, York Animal Home, YO26 4RH. Visit www.facebook.com/harrogate. rspca for further information.

6 APRIL

SPRINGTIME ON THE FARM, Burnby Hall Gardens, YO42 2QF. 11.00am-3.30pm. Visit www. burnbyhallgardens.com to book.

Worship at York Minster

Vineyard Church, YO10 4AH. 9.30 & 11.15am.

5 APRIL

EASTER SUNDAY SERVICE, Clifton Moor Church, YO30 4WD. 10.00am.

5 APRIL

EASTER SUNDAY

HOLY COMMUNION, Holgate Methodist Church, YO24 4AE. 10.30am.

5 APRIL

EASTER SUNDAY

CELEBRATION, St Paul’s, YO24 4BF. 10.30am.

5 APRIL

GLOBAL CHURCH

LIVE, The Hive at Manor School, YO26 6PA. 10.30am.

Visit yorkminster.org/whats-on/ for details.

29 MARCH

PALM SUNDAY, Procession and Eucharist (10.30am), Choral Evensong (4.00pm), Stainer’s Crucifixion (7.30pm).

30 MARCH - 1 APRIL COMPLINE IN HOLY WEEK, 7.30pm.

2 APRIL

MAUNDY THURSDAY,

Sung Eucharist with Washing of Feet (7.00pm), The Watch (8.30pm).

3 APRIL

GOOD FRIDAY, Family Service (10.00am), The Liturgy of Good Friday (1.30pm).

4 APRIL

HOLY SATURDAY: THE VIGIL AND FIRST

EUCHARIST OF EASTER, 8.00pm.

5 APRIL

EASTER DAY, Holy Communion from the Book of Common Prayer (8.00am), Choral Matins (10.00am), Festal Eucharist (11.00am), Festal Evensong (4.00pm).

FABRIC SCULPTING WORKSHOP, Thorp Perrow Arboretum, DL8 2PS. 10.00am-1.00pm. Follow a step-by-step guide on how to transform fabrics and hardeners into beautifully textured, threedimensional creations. This is a great opportunity to spark imagination and create your own fabric sculpture, perfect for showing off in the garden or indoors!

4 APRIL

LAUGH OUT LOUD COMEDY

CLUB, The Basement at City Screen Picturehouse, YO1 9QL. 8.00pm-10.30pm. Treat yourself to a laugh from acclaimed local comedians, including those seen on Taskmaster, 8 Out of 10 Cats, Mock The Week, and more!

4-5 APRIL

JORFOR’S HALL VIKINGS, Murton Park, YO19 5UF. Various times. Marvel at action-packed Viking combat displays, learn about weaponry and armour, gain an insight into life in early Medieval England, and immerse yourself in the life of a hunting family with the famous Jorfor’s Hall Vikings. Visit www.murtonpark.co.uk/events/ jorfors-hall-vikings for further details.

4-6 APRIL

THE TRAILBLAZERS, Murton Park, YO19 5UF. Various times. On this rootin’ tootin’ tour of a Wild Western town, you might even witness a gunfight or two along the way! If you’re interested in the old-fashioned world of Western Cowboys, this gunslingin’ tour is not to be missed. Draw! Visit www. murtonpark.co.uk/events/thetrailblazers for further details.

7 APRIL

PUBLIC CLOCKS IN YORK, Between De Grey Rooms & York Theatre Royal. 10.00am & 1.00pm. Visit three of our city’s most iconic, historic clocks (associated with the Newey family) in this unique walking tour, led by the York Clock Group. Visit www.shop.beyonk. com/126iwmpj/experiences/ zdogb6bb to book.

7 APRIL

GUIDED SENSORY TOUR, Treasurer’s House, York, YO1 7JL. 3.00pm-4.30pm. Developed in partnership with MySight York,

this enhanced sensory tour focuses on Mr Green’s legacy, and other historic elements of the fantastic Treasurer’s House. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ yorkshire/treasurers-house-york/ events/fbcef81f-b849-4cc0-bc99d82ce2210521 to book.

7-12 APRIL

YORKSHIRE CRAFT FESTIVAL, Parliament Street, YO1 8RU. 10.00am-5.00pm. Enjoy a diverse programme of workshops, demonstrations, and showcases celebrating the best regional designer makers and craft groups that Yorkshire has to offer. Visit madeinyorkshire.org.uk for bookings and details.

10 APRIL

CHARITY RACE NIGHT!, Staynor Hall Community Centre, YO8 8GE. Enjoy virtual horse racing games, live music, a raffle and more, all in aid of Motor Neurone Disease Association York. Please call 07525475252 for tickets and further information.

10 APRIL

BYO - NEW STYLE!, Bluebird Bakery, YO24 4HD. 7.00pm-11.00pm. Join in on the fun and bring your own vinyl down to The Bluebird Bakery, for the resident DJ to spin - create your own wax playlist for the dancefloor! Visit www. bluebirdbakery.co.uk/rise#listings to find out more.

10 APRIL

CULINARY SHOWCASE, Chocolate Works Care Home, YO23 1DE. Celebrate the Chocolate Works care home’s new food showcase and experience, which is hosted by Alex, the talented Head Chef. Please call 01904 282 117 or email david. donnell@careuk.com if you’d like to attend.

10-12 APRIL

BRITISH ORIGAMI SOCIETY

SPRING CONVENTION, Bootham School, YO31 7EH. 5.00pm. If you are into all things origami, this unique convention could be just the ticket. Featuring special guests including Robert J. Lang, who’s recognised as one of the world’s leading masters of the art. Visit www.cfcorigami. com/node/3188 to register or find out more.

11 APRIL

ROARING TWENTIES NIGHT

AT CARLTON TOWERS, Carlton Towers Estate, DN14 9LZ. 7.00pm11.30pm. Enjoy a glamorous, nostalgic 1920s night with a themed three-course meal, sparkling wine, and a dance, with music provided by a DJ until midnight. ‘Best Dressed’ gets a

prize, and there’ll also be a range of props available to be used in a fantastic photobooth. Visit www.carltontowers.co.uk/ events-2/roaring-twenties-night-atcarlton-towers to book.

11 APRIL

BONGO’S BINGO 90S VS 00S, York Barbican, YO10 4AH. 7.30pm. Experience this award-winning night out and mesmeric live show - get ready for a night full of bizarre and hilarious moments that you won’t forget in a hurry! Visit www. yorkbarbican.co.uk/whats-on/ bongo-s-bingo-apr-26/ to book.

11 APRIL

QUEENS OF ALBION, Bluebird Bakery, YO24 4HD. 8.30pm-9.30pm. Are you sitting comfortably? This popular storytelling show focuses on the days before Britain had been named, and those who were the first to set foot on the island.

11-12 APRIL

BOWLS OPEN WEEKEND, Strensall Bowling Club, YO32 5YL. 2.00pm-4.00pm. Try your hand at lawn bowling at this Strensall Bowling Club open weekend. All ages are welcome. Equipment, tea, coffee and cake are provided, and entry is free! Please wear flat-soled shoes. Email strensallbowlsclub@ gmail.com to find out more or get in touch.

11-12 APRIL

SPRING HAUNTS 2026: GOTHIC & HORROR WRITING WEEKEND, York Explore Library, YO1 7DS. Enjoy a full weekend of workshops, interviews and book sales focused on the Gothic and Horror genres, with guest authors including Naomi Booth, Sarah Brooks, Laura Elliott, and Icy Sedgwick. Visit www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/spring-haunts2026-tickets-1978726508252 to book.

UNTIL 12 APRIL

EXHIBITION: WHISPERS OF THE WILDERNESS, Beningbrough Hall, YO30 1DD. Various times. There’s still time to explore the latest exhibition at this iconic

Baroque mansion, featuring willow sculptures and historic collections. There’s also a hands-on studio space to discover! Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/beningbrough for further details.

12 APRIL

OPEN COCKPIT DAY, Yorkshire Air Museum, Elvington, York, YO41 4AU. 10am-5pm. Open Cockpit Day offers a great opportunity for kids of all ages to clamber into the cockpits of their favourite aircraft, including a range of classic planes. Height restrictions apply! Visit www. yorkshireairmuseum.org for further details.

12 APRIL

FAMILY TERRARIUM WORKSHOP, Carlton Towers Estate, DN14 9LZ. 10.30am-12.00pm. This familyfriendly activity workshop allows you to create your own terrarium, appreciate nature, and get creative by crafting your very own miniature ecosystem. Visit www. carltontowers.co.uk/events-2/ family-terrarium-workshop to book.

14 APRIL

YORK CENTRAL (ENGINEERING LECTURE), Tempest Anderson Hall, YO1 7FR. 7.00pm. This lecture explores one of the largest and most exciting city centre regeneration schemes in the UK. A free, informative lecture that’s perfect for those interested in city planning and engineering. Visit www.ypsyork.org/events.

15 APRIL

FELICITY CLOAKE’S ADVENTURES IN FOOD, The Crescent, YO24 1AW. Felicity Cloake shares stories of her culinary adventures, including cycling around France in search of the perfect croissant, and touring the UK comparing breakfasts. Visit www.thecrescentyork.com/events/ felicity-cloakes-adventures-infood/ to book.

15 APRIL

SPY VALLEY WINE DINNER, Star Inn The City, YO1 7DR. 7.00pm. Enjoy a sumptuous 5-course meal at Star

Are you an event

Did you know You can list your event FOR FREE in York’s BIGGEST Events Diary?

Just head to our website yourlocallink.co.uk and click the add event button.

Inn The City, expertly paired with outstanding wines from the Spy Valley Winery, situated in the heart of New Zealand’s Marlborough region. Call 01904 619208 to make a reservation.

15 APRIL

HOW TO BE CHEERFUL ABOUT SHADE IN THE GARDEN, Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens, YO19 6HP. 10.00am-12.00pm. Join garden owner Vanessa Cook for a practical course focusing on how to select and grow plants in shady places. Perfect for Yorkshire gardeners looking to make the most of God’s Own County’s dreary weather! Visit www.stillingfleetlodgenurseries. co.uk to book.

16 APRIL

A MEDIEVALIST AT THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, Location TBC. 1.00pm. Join expert guest speaker Dr Isabel Davis of London’s Natural History Museum for an in-depth Medieval Literatures Seminar. Visit www.york.ac.uk/english/about/ events for further details.

17 APRIL

RISO ZINE MAKING!, York Centre for Print, Y01 7PW. 6.00pm-8.00pm. An evening of Risograph printing and zine making using pens, collage materials and folding techniques. Create your own zine over tea and coffee, with no experience necessary! Visit www.thinicepress. org/events/zine-club-17-april to book.

17-18 APRIL

BREW YORK’S 10TH BIRTHDAY, Handley Tap, YO19 5UP. Various times. Celebrate the acclaimed local brewery’s 10th birthday with a beer-filled bash at Handley Tapexpect to try out some incredible tipples from guest craft beer breweries! Visit www.brewyork. co.uk/brewery-bash/.

17-26 APRIL

YORK COCKTAIL WEEK 2026, Various times and citywide locations. Calling all cocktail lovers! This 10-day extravaganza offers Yorkies the best tipples the city has to offer, across a wide range of the hottest cocktail bars in town. Visit www.fatsoma.com/e/en2f6ek2/la/ xwdu to book or find out more.

17 APRIL

SAY OWT SLAM FEATURING MAUREEN ONWUNALI, The Crescent, YO24 1AW. Join an evening

of spoken word fun, where various poets (led by Maureen Onwunali) are allocated three minutes to ‘WOW’ the audience with humour, comedy and charisma. Visit www. thecrescentyork.com/events/sayowt-slam-feat-maureen-onwunali/ to book.

18 APRIL

RECORD STORE DAY 2026 @ VINYL EDDIE, Vinyl Eddie, YO24 1LR. 8.00am-6.00pm. Get your fill of special vinyl releases to celebrate Record Store Day 2026 at Vinyl Eddie, which will be open all day on Sunday! Visit www.facebook.com/ events/2170356427041259/ to find out more.

18 APRIL

FISHERGATE POSTERN TOWER OPEN DAY, Fishergate Postern Tower, YO1 9AF. 10.00am-4.00pm. Gain a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic Grade I-listed building and York landmark, an early Tudor tower built around 1504-09. Tours are hosted by Friends of York Walls. Visit www.yorkwalls.org.uk/?p=8842 to find out more.

19 APRIL

THE BIG YORK FLEA, York Railway Institute, YO24 1AD. 11.00am4.00pm. Browse an incredible selection of vintage fashion, jewellery, furniture, homeware, art & prints, and artisan products. Get down early to bag yourself a bargain! Visit instagram.com/ thebigfleamarket to find out more or book your ticket.

20 APRIL

SARA TEASDALE AND THE ‘AUTHORSHIP’ OF SUICIDE, D/L/006, Derwent College, YO10 5DD. This free-to-attend talk by York-based academic Dr JT Welsch will focus on the emergence of the study of suicidology, drawing on the life and works of Sara Teasdale and Welsch’s new book, ‘The Poetry of Suicide: Lessons in Grief from the Lives and Deaths of Poets’. Visit www.york.ac.uk to find out more.

21 APRIL

FOLK & WORD, The Artful Dodger, YO1 6LJ. 7.30pm (sign up from 7.00pm). A low-key, welcoming open mic night where writers and acoustic folk musicians can present new and original work. Each month, one writer and one musician co-host the evening and bring a guest, then the floor is open

to the audience! Free entry with a purchase from the bar. Follow Navigators Art & Performance on Facebook for further details.

21 APRIL - 3 MAY

YORK INTERNATIONAL SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL, Various times, citywide locations. The eighth edition of the annual York International Shakespeare Festival features a jam-packed programme of events celebrating The Bard’s enduring literary legacy. Visit www. yorkshakes.co.uk for further details and to see the full programme.

22 APRIL

UNEXPECTED ENGLISH CHEESE

@ THE BLACK SWAN, The Black Swan, YO1 7DE. 7.00pm-10.00pm. Think you know English cheese? Think again! Get stuck into eight weird and wonderful English cheeses, and walk away with a newfound respect for the humble English cheesemaker.

22 APRIL-26 MAY

THE BAR WALLS & YORK MINSTER PHOTO WALK, Meeting at York Minster West Entrance, YO1 7HH. Open Mondays to Saturdays. Ignite your imagination with photowalks along the Bar Walls and York Minster. Improve your photography skills and spark your creativity while exploring York’s rich history. Visit www.yorkphotowalks. uk/bar-walls-york-minster to find out more.

23 APRIL

TOAST YORK EXCHANGE, TOAST York, YO1 8AW. 5.30pm-7.00pm. This interactive clothes-swapping event enables guests to swap clothes, browse pre-worn rails, and share their stories of pre-loved garments. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/toast-york-exchangetickets-1979966934400 to find out more.

23 APRIL

HISTORY WARDROBE PRESENTS - MARY QUANT, FASHION ICON, Middlethorpe Hall, YO23 2GB. 11.00am. Explore the fashion trends of the 1960s and get inspired by the work of one of the most influential designers of her time. A must visit event for those interested in fashion history! Visit www.middlethorpe.com/whats-onevents-at-middlethorpe/historywardrobe-presents-mary-quantfashion-icon/ to book.

23 APRIL

“ALPINES” WITH MARK PADGET OF SKERNE ALPINE

NURSERY, Askham Bryan College Conference Centre, YO23 3FR. 7.30pm. Learn more about growing veggies in allotments, studying interesting plants, and creating your very own garden paradise. For more information, call David on 01904 707208 or visit www. abcgardeningclub.org.uk

23 APRIL-27 MAY

MUSEUM GARDENS PHOTO WALK, Museum Gardens, YO1 7FR. Various times. Explore the beautiful and intriguing Museum Gardens with a special photo walk. Spark your imagination and catch a snap or two! Visit www.yorkphotowalks. uk/museum-gardens/ to find out more.

24 APRIL

FALLS PREVENTION, Chocolate Works Care Home, YO23 1DE. Get advice on how to reduce the risk of falls and fall-proof your home from professionals. Please call 01904 282 117 or email david. donnell@careuk.com if you’d like to attend.

24 APRIL

VICTORIAN EXPANSIONS: CROSS-CULTURAL MIGRATIONS, D/L/028, Derwent College, YO10 5DD. This illuminating Victorian Studies conference will explore the mass movement of people and ideas in the Victorian era, offering a historical counternarrative to current anti-immigration sentiment. Visit www.york.ac.uk/english/about/ events/2026/victorian-studiesconference-2026/ to book.

24 APRIL

STUDENT SHOWCASE, Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall, YO10 5DB. 7.30pm-9.30pm. Showcasing talent from across the university, this is a great opportunity to be inspired by a range of genres including pop, folk and musical theatre. Visit www.yorkconcerts.co.uk/whatson/2025-26/student-showcase/ to book.

Gigs and

2 APRIL

Bad Saloon

DC

April York Cinemas WHAT’S ON AT Gigs & Concerts

9 APRIL

Ceejay + Gavin the Goliath Fulford Arms

Two Ways Home FortyFive Vinyl Cafe Nic Cage Against The Machine

Regan Stewart

ZZ Toppd

Groovetone

4 APRIL

Hoersfest 8 Fulford Arms

Ted-Fest 10

Huntington Working Men’s Club

Kitty Coen FortyFive Vinyl Cafe

One Night in Nashville

The Crescent The Tigermen Black Horse

200 Miles to Edinburgh Edinburgh Arms

5 APRIL

The Mechanics

Edinburgh Arms

Chris Marsden Huntington Sports Club

Diamonds & Whiskey FortyFive Vinyl Café

Harrison Rimmer Fulford Arms

Chris Helme

Rise@Bluebird Bakery

Crescent The Soul Man Lionel Edinburgh Arms

APRIL The Undercover Hippy Fulford Arms Red Kites Black Horse No Mans Land Edinburgh Arms 12 APRIL

Tri-Starrs Severus Social Club

Paralimini Charity Music Event

Edinburgh Arms Driven Serious Fulford Arms 13 APRIL Lande Hekt Fulford Arms

Dom Glynn & His Sunday Best

Garageland UK Edinburgh Arms

Salvation + The INSect + The Scarlett Hour

Fulford Arms

Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman

National Centre for Early Music

18 APRIL

The Sisters of Murphy Fulford Arms

The Intentions

Black Horse

Killer No Filla

Edinburgh Arms

York Blues Festival

The Crescent

19 APRIL

The Living Young Severus Social Club

21 APRIL

Froglord + Space Pistol Fulford Arms

22 APRIL

Marketplace Fulford Arms

23 APRIL

Taynee Lord FortyFive Vinyl Cafe

La Yegros Electric Trio The Crescent

24 APRIL

Todd Day Wait

Rise@Bluebird Bakery

10 MAY

Weber, Bruch, Verdi, Britten & Ravel

York Barbican Centre

From 1st April: THE SUPER MARIO GALAXY MOVIE

With a cast that includes the voice talents of Chris Pratt and Jack Black, the Super Mario Galaxy Movie brings the wonder of the cosmos to the local cinema. Following the massive success of 2023’s animated hit, this vibrant new adventure expands the Mario universe into the stars for an unforgettable adventure for the

From 3 April:

THE DRAMA

A new feature from acclaimed director Kristoffer Borgli. Starring Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, and Alana Haim, this intense film follows a happily engaged couple whose future is suddenly thrown into jeopardy. Just days before their wedding ceremony, a shocking revelation surfaces, forcing them to question everything they thought they knew about each other…

From 10 April: YOU & ME & TUSCANY

Desperate for a fresh start after losing her job and home, Anna (Halle Bailey) impulsively flees to a stunning Tuscan villa. A panicked lie about being the owner’s fiancee’s quickly spirals out of control, creating a hilarious and heartfelt mess when she begins falling for her "fiancé's" charming cousin, Michael.

From 10 April:

FATHER MOTHER SISTER BROTHER

Winner of the Golden Lion Best Film prize at the 2025 Venice Film Festival, Jim Jarmusch’s stylistic triptych weaves together three distinct stories, exploring the intricate, often humorous threads of family life.

From 17 April: LEE CRONIN'S THE MUMMY

After a journalist’s young daughter vanishes in the desert, her family’s eight-year search ends in a shocking discovery. But as the girl is finally returned home, the joyful reunion they imagined transforms into a waking, suburban nightmare. A re-imagining of the classic horror, written and directed by Lee Cronin.

From 17 April: GLENROTHAN

In the powerful directorial debut of actor Brian Cox, two estranged brothers finally reunite in their rugged Highland birthplace, decades after a violent family confrontation on the day of their mother’s funeral. This moving story of reconciliation and heritage explores forty years of distance and the enduring, complex bonds that tie us to home.

From 17 April: THE THREE URNS

A lyrical journey co-directed by John-Paul Davidson and Stephen Warbeck. Following his wife's passing, Mr O’Connor travels from France to his ancestral Irish home, encountering a vibrant tapestry of characters along the way, from a Choctaw native commemorating the Great Famine to mystic women at an ancient stone circle.

From 24 April: THE WIZARD OF THE KREMLIN

Both a gripping political drama and an exploration of power and influence in post-Soviet Russia, this dark comedy stars Jude Law and Paul Dano, and follows a young filmmaker who unexpectedly becomes a key adviser to Vladimir Putin during his formidable rise.

24 APRIL

“THIS STRANGE DREAM UPON THE WATER”: CHARLES DICKENS

DROWNING IN VENICE, P/L/002, Campus West, University of York, YO10 5DD. Led by Professor Ankhi Mukherjee of the University of Oxford, this in-person talk explores 19th-century fiction and poetry, via Dickens’ ‘An Italian Dream’. Visit www.york.ac.uk/news-and-events/ events/public-lectures/sem2-2526/strange-dream/ to book.

25 APRIL

SPARKLING STATEROOM

DINNER, Carlton Towers Estate, DN14 9LZ. 7.00pm-11.00pm. Indulge yourself with a refined dining experience, perfect for a romantic night out or a get-together with friends. Visit www.carltontowers. co.uk/events-2/sparklingstateroom-dinner-ckxmd-j6zprfegyc to book.

25 APRIL

YO UNDERGROUND #7, The Basement, YO1 9QL. 7.30pm. Eclectic left-field music from Joe Douglas, Weather Balloons and Sound.Light.Colour. Visit bit.ly/ nav-events for further details and bookings.

25 APRIL

CALLING ALL DOG LOVERS, Poppleton Tithe Barn,YO26 6LF. 1.45pm-4.00pm. A fundraising and volunteer recruitment event in aid of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, featuring a charity dog walk, refreshments, plant stall, raffle, tombola, hearing dog demos, and much more!

28 APRIL

PAINT & PAUSE, Blossom Tree Social, YO30 7BL. 6.00pm-7.00pm. This paint-by-numbers wellness workshop offers the chance to enjoy some mindful creativity and get away from it all! All are welcome, regardless of artistic ability. Follow www.facebook.com/ blossomtreesocial to find out more.

28 APRIL

WHITTOCK’S VIEW OF YORK, Penn Room, Friends Meeting House, YO1 9RL. 6.30pm-8.00pm. Join former Fairfax House curator and York Civic Trust Director, Peter Brown, for an illuminating talk about Nathaniel Whittock, who created hand-drawn illustrations of York from above! Visit www.

shop.beyonk.com/126iwmpj/ experiences/0bs9b9g2?to book.

28 APRIL-3 MAY

YORK FASHION WEEK, Various times, citywide locations. This celebration of our city’s creative fashion scene offers a busy programme of runways, workshops, showcases, installations and more, supporting young fashion brands and designers. Visit www. yorkfashionweek.com for further details and to browse the full programme.

Regular Events

OPEN MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS

NEW TREASURES GALLERY, The Bar Convent, YO24 1AQ. 10am-4pm. Following the discovery of a rare scroll in the Bar Convent’s archive, the museum is sharing more of its hidden history. Go along to see their treasures with your own eyes, including an illuminated medieval scroll known as the Arma Christi, of which there are only ten other copies to be found anywhere in the world! Visit www.barconvent. co.uk to book your tickets today.

OPEN EVERY DAY

YORK WITCHES & HISTORY

WALKING TOUR, Meeting at Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate street sign, YO1 7LZ. 3.30pm & 5.30pm. Are you interested in Yorks’ bewitching history? Attend a 70-minute tour around York explaining its wicked links with witchcraft! Visit www. witches-tour.com/york-witcheswalking-tour/ to book.

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY

ARTFUL AT THE DODGER, The Artful Dodger, YO1 6LJ. 12.30pm4.00pm. This monthly informal art workshop session is free to attend, and materials are provided (donations are welcome). Drop in and out as you wish, whatever your experience level. Follow Navigators Art & Performance on Facebook for further details or to get in touch.

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY

NEW EARSWICK VILLAGE MARKET, New Earswick Bowls Club, YO32 9PX. 10.00am-2.00pm. Browse locally made artisan crafts across more than 30 stalls, with free parking on site and refreshments available. Search ‘New Earswick Village Market’ on

Facebook for details.

EVERY FOURTH SUNDAY

CONNECT SERVICE, Holy Redeemer Acomb, YO26 6AB. 3.00pm-4.15pm. This inclusive group is aimed at supporting children with additional needs. All families are welcome to mingle in this relaxed and friendly environment, learn about God, and enjoy a range of activities including crafts, songs, toys, and stories.

EVERY FIRST MONDAY

MENFULNESS KNIGHTS TALK GROUP, York Knights Shop/Office, YO32 9AF. This is a great way to vent your problems, no matter what you're going through, in a pressurefree environment. Pizza and light refreshments provided. Visit www. meetup.com/menfulness/ events/313155205/ for further details.

EVERY FIRST MONDAY

BINGO NIGHT, Strensall Village Hall, YO32 5XW. Doors open at 7.00pm, eyes down at 7.30pm. Enjoy a competitive game of BINGO, with a top cash prize of £100 (which will increase to £150 if 100 players attend), with refreshments and raffle during the interval.

EVERY SECOND MONDAY

MENFULNESS

BOWLING, Hollywood Bowl, YO32 9AF. 7.00pm-9.00pm. Have fun and meet like-minded folk in a pressure-free environment, over a spot of bowling! Visit www. meetup.com/menfulness/events/ qqcdwtyjcgbrb/ to find out more.

MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS

COME AND PLAY PÉTANQUE, Stockton Fox Pétanque Club, at the rear of Stockton-on-the-Forest Village Hall, YO32 9UR. 7.00pm. Get to grips with Pétanque (French Boules) at this friendly club, with all equipment provided.

EVERY FIRST TUESDAY

COFFEE MORNING, Mossdale Residence Care Home, YO31 0AF. 10.00am-12.00pm. Open for all visitors to join, this friendly monthly coffee morning offers a welcoming space to meet, mingle, and have a chinwag over a cup of Joe. Call 01904 293061 or email pauline. hagan@hc-one.co.uk for further details.

EVERY TUESDAY

BOXING FITNESS - WITH LEGIONS GYM, Legions Gym, YO19 5RZ. 8.00pm-9.00pm. Attend beginner-friendly boxing fitness sessions, no pressure, no experience needed. Just come down and have fun! Visit www.

meetup.com/menfulness/events/ chfnvtyjcfbpc/ to find out more.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

QUINGO - QUIZ MEETS BINGO!, SPARK York, YO1 9PB. 7.00pm. Get ready to jump into the world of interesting, fun quizzes and problem solving. Bring your friends with teams of up to 6 people. Visit www.sparkyork.org/events/ quingo/ for further details.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

YORK HACKSPACE OPEN EVENINGS, York Hackspace, YO31 7UU. 7.00pm-9.00pm. This weekly makerspace allows hackers to get together, share ideas, work on projects, chat and make things together! Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.Visit www.york.hackspace. org.uk/wiki/York_Hackspace to find out more.

MOST WEDNESDAYS & EVERY THURSDAY

MEDIUMSHIP & TAROT

SESSIONS, The York Group of Spiritualists, YO32 2PU. 7.00pm8.30pm. These regular sessions include soundbaths, shamanic drumming, and healing. Email Vince at sensingspirit@ymail.com to find out more.

WEDNESDAYS TO THURSDAYS

COUNTESS OF YORK, National Railway Museum, YO26 4XJ. Various times. Enjoy a delicious, traditional afternoon tea aboard the Countess of York, an iconic dining carriage set within the museum’s Station Hall. Visit www.opentable.co.uk/ countess-of-york-national-railwaymuseum to make a booking.

WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS

YORK DATABANK, SPARK York, YO1 9PB. 9.00am-10.30pm. Online access is one of the most important factors in navigating the modern world. If you need help getting online, this bi-weekly event is here to help. Visit www.sparkyork. org/events/york-databank/ to find out more.

Are you an event organiser?

Did you know You can list your event FOR FREE in York’s BIGGEST Events Diary?

Just head to our website yourlocallink.co.uk and click the add event button.

EVERY THIRD WEDNESDAY

YORK FLOWER CLUB, St Chad’s Church Hall, YO23 1PE. 1.00pm. Running every third Wednesday except in August, York Flower Club offers a variety of events for local flower lovers, from demonstrations and talks to quizzes and socials. Email Rita.nat.judge.speaker.judge@ gmail.com to find out more.

EVERY THURSDAY

ACTING CLASSES, SPARK York, YO1 9PB. 6.30pm-8.30pm. Thursdays. Matt Zina Acting classes provide you with the skills, technique, confidence and knowledge for camera-ready performance. These weekly classes are perfect for film and TV performers in the making who want real experience in acting. Visit www.sparkyork.org/events/ mza-acting-classes.

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

ART OF MOTION - CLOCKWORK TOYS AND OTHER WONDERS, York Castle Museum, YO1 9RY. Various times. A fascinating display inspired by the history of automata, clockwork devices resembling lifelike forms, which peaked in popularity in the 18th century. Visit www.yorkcastlemuseum. org.uk/exhibition/art-of-motionclockwork-toys-and-other-wonders for details and bookings.

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

COOKERY SCHOOL @ THE GRAND, The Grand, York, YO1 6GD. Various times. Join The Grand York’s distinguished team for a diverse range of cooking classes, where you can learn tricks of the trade for making Goan curry, Spanish paella, pastry and desserts, Thai red curry, artisan bread, and more! Visit www. thegrandyork.co.uk/the-cookeryschool/book/ to browse the full programme of classes and reserve your place.

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

CHOCOLATE MANUFACTORY

TASTING JOURNEY, York Cocoa Works, YO31 8AE. Various times. Explore the chocolate-making process and sample the finest treats produced in the heart

of Chocolate City! Visit www. yorkcocoahouse.co.uk/pages/ workshop-calendar to see the full list of upcoming workshops.

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

EXHIBITION: THE SIXTIES, York Castle Museum, YO1 9RY. Various times. See fascinating objects that typify the social history, art, fashion, music, sport, and counterculture of the Swinging Sixties! Visit www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk/ exhibition/the-sixties.

UNTIL

MAY 2026

WONDERLAB: THE BRAMALL GALLERY, National Railway Museum York, YO26 4XJ. 10.00am4.30pm. Dive into the science behind railways and engineering, exploring aerodynamics, fuels and forces through a range of interactive exhibits. Step into a human wind tunnel, launch a rocket, design structures to survive an earthquake, or plan routes to guide balls through the impressive Great Machine! Visit www. railwaymuseum.org.uk/whats-on/ wonderlab-bramall-gallery to book.

UNTIL 26 JUNE

NORTH YORKSHIRE PULLMAN

DINING - SPRING SERVICES, Starting at Grosmont Station, YO22 5QE. 12.35pm (Lunch Service) / 6.20pm (Evening Service). Travel through the beautiful North York Moors National Park in style, aboard the North Yorkshire Pullman train. Eat your way through a new seasonal menu to top off your journey! Visit www.nymr.co.uk/ spring-north-yorkshire-pullman to make a booking or find out more.

UNTIL 26 JUNE

FRIDAY GUIDED TOURS, Fairfax House, YO1 9RN. Various times. Join an expert volunteer guide for an in-depth tour of the iconic Fairfax House. See highlights from its exceptional collection and learn more about its rich history and stories! Visit www.fairfaxhouse. co.uk/event/friday-guided-tours for details and bookings.

UNTIL 28 JUNE

HAROLD GOSNEY: MATERIALS AND MAKING, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. Various times. Celebrating the life and works of the renowned Yorkshire sculptor and artist, this exhibition features works including Jazzman and Four Horseman of the Apocalypse. Visit www.

yorkartgallery.org.uk/exhibition/ harold-gosney-materials-andmaking for details and bookings.

UNTIL JULY

FUTURE LANDSCAPE SEMINARS, Courtyard Cafe, Castle Howard, YO60 7DA. 7.00pm-8.00pm. Running every third Tuesday of the month, these relaxed and informal talks focus on nature and landscapes, with speakers including Tom Hook (Forest of Flowers), Jeff Davitt (Yorkshire Rewilding Network), and Lauren Barnes (University of York). Visit www. castlehoward.co.uk/DB/whatson-natural-environment/futurelandscapes-seminars to see the full programme and book your tickets.

UNTIL 22 JULY

NOT A POT, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. 10.00am-5.00pm. This must-see exhibition from York Art Gallery’s renowned Centre of Ceramic Art showcases the wide range of sculptural pottery in its collection, displayed to mark the death of influential British potter Gordon Baldwin (1932-2025). Visit www.yorkartgallery.org.uk/ exhibition/not-a-pot to book or find out more.

UNTIL 30 AUGUST

MAKING WAVES: THE ART OF JAPANESE WOODBLOCK PRINT, York Art Gallery, YO1 7EW. Various times. Covering over 300 years of Japanese woodblock printing history from the 17th to 21st centuries, this must-see exhibition features more than 100 iconic works by the likes of Hokusai, Hiroshge, Utamato, and more. Visit www.yorkartgallery.org.uk/ exhibition/making-waves-the-artof-japanese-woodblock-print for further details.

UNTIL SEPTEMBER

SUGAR, SKILL AND SHIFTWORK: YORK’S CONFECTIONERY WORKERS, York Castle Museum, YO1 9RY. Various times. This new community exhibition focuses on the history of confectionery in our city, sharing the voices

and experiences of workers in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the death of Joseph Rowntree. Visit www.yorkcastlemuseum.org. uk/your-visit/tickets to book.

UNTIL DECEMBER

SNICKELWAYS & SILLY STREET

NAMES TRAIL, Various times and locations.

A fun, self-guided, family-friendly walking adventure across the city. Download the map, get your boots on, and immerse yourself in York’s maze of magical snickelways and unique streets. Visit www.littlevikings.co.uk/events/snickelwaystrail-york/ to download the map and find out more.

UNTIL 31 DECEMBER

YORK DISTILLERY - GIN TASTING, York Distillery, YO1 6DS. Various times. Sample all manner of weird and wonderful, locally produced gins. You’ll receive a G&T on arrival, generous tasters of core gin offerings, nibbles, plus an insight into gin history! Visit www.fareharbor.com/embeds/ book/yorkgin/items/680701/ calendar/2026 to book.

UNTIL JULY 2027

VIKING NORTH, Yorkshire Museum, YO1 7FR. Various times. Showcasing the finest catalogue of Viking finds to be displayed outside of London, this landmark exhibition takes visitors back in time to Viking Age Northern England, with wondrous objects from 866 to 1066. Visit www.yorkshiremuseum. org.uk/exhibition/viking-north to book or find out more.

Saturday

7.30pm

Programme

Schubert

Theatre

&Shows

Information is correct at the time of printing but subject to change. Check with venues ahead of your visit.

GRAND OPERA HOUSE

To book, call 0333 009 6690 or visit atgtickets.com

30 MARCH - 4 APRIL

2:22 A GHOST STORY

Arriving in York off the back of five record-breaking West End seasons, this supernatural thriller stars James Bye (EastEnders) and Natalie Casey (2 Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps).

10-18 APRIL

COME FROM AWAY

This York Stage production of the London and Broadway smash follows the real-life story of 7,000 air passengers unexpectedly grounded in the wake of 9/11.

21-25 APRIL

LEGALLY BLONDE

Based on the hit 2001 movie, this feel-good romantic comedy stars Amber Davies (Pretty Woman, Strictly Come Dancing) as the unlikely aspiring Doctor of Law, Elle.

26 APRIL

THE DRIFTERS

Legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees The Drifters are back, performing favourite hits including ‘Under the Boardwalk’ and ‘Saturday Night at the Movies’.

28 APRIL

MURDER, SHE DIDN’T WRITE

Inspired by the works of Agatha Christie, this hilarious improvised murder mystery show invites the audience to get involved and crack the case!

30 APRIL

SEVEN DRUNKEN NIGHTS - THE STORY OF THE DUBLINERS

This unique show follows the story of iconic band The Dubliners and features toe-tappers including ‘The

Irish Rover’, ‘Whiskey in the Jar’ and ‘Rocky Road to Dublin’. A must-see for fans of Irish traditional music!

Book Ahead!

23-28 NOVEMBER

PICK ME UP THEATRE PRESENTS: WE WILL ROCK YOU

This Pick Me Up Theatre production of Queen and Ben Elton’s smashhit musical features over 20 iconic hits from Freddie and the boys, including ‘We Are The Champions’, ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’, and ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’.

YORK THEATRE ROYAL

To book, call 01904 623568 or visit yorktheatreroyal.co.uk

17 MARCH - 4 APRIL

THE SECRET GARDEN - THE MUSICAL

This unmissable revival of the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical (based on the classic novel) is directed by John Doyle, who’ll be available for a post-show discussion on the 18th.

31 MARCH - 2 APRIL

MEET FRED

Following a two-foot-tall puppet with a difference, this internationally popular production will land in York this month, as part of its 10th anniversary tour.

9-11 APRIL

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SHOW

Based on Eric Carle’s beloved children’s book series, this critically

acclaimed production revisits 4 beloved Carle stories, performed with the assistance of 75 puppets!

14-18 APRIL

HAMLET

Catch the Royal Shakespeare Company’s new, must-see production of one of The Bard’s best-loved tragedies, directed by Rupert Goold (Dear England, King Charles III).

29 APRIL - 23 MAY

THE PSYCHIC

Brought to you by the team behind Ghost Stories, this production follows psychic Sheila Gold, who is asked to conduct a séance to make contact with a wealthy couple’s late child…

YORK BARBICAN Head to yorkbarbican.co.uk or call 01904 676332 to book.

4 APRIL

JAMES B PARTRIDGE - PRIMARY SCHOOL BANGERS

Join Britain’s favourite teacher for a night of nostalgic songs and irresistible laughter, with this viral hit show, Primary School Bangers!

6-7 APRIL

HORRIBLE HISTORIES: THE CONCERT, LIVE AND DEAD ON STAGE!

Catch your favourite songs and actors from the award-winning CBBC TV show on stage, and get acquainted with historical figures including Henry VIII and Queen Victoria!

8 APRIL

JASON FOX - EMBRACE THE CHAOS

Former SBS Elite Operative Jason Fox shares action-packed stories of his encounters with terrorist bomb makers, enemy gunmen and cartel leaders…

10 APRIL

OUT WITH THE BUCKLEYS

James and Clair Buckley are vlogging an unfiltered and unedited live tour, sharing comedic, previously unheard stories. Expect guaranteed laughs!

events e-shot!

16 APRIL

AN EVENING WITH AGGERS & TUFFERS

Cricket legends Aggers & Tuffers are back, and they are here to entertain you with comedic stories and outrageous tales. Tuffers, a record breaking spin bowler and crowd favourite, and iconic cricket star Aggers will hit you for six!

18 APRIL

ALJAZ AND JANETTE: LET’S FACE THE MUSIC AND DANCE

Much-loved Strictly Come Dancing couple Aljaz and Janette will be hitting the Barbican floor to dance their way through music history, with a celebration of the hit makers of yesterday and today.

19 APRIL

JUSTIN LIVE - JUST IN TIME TO ROCK

Justin Fletcher is back with a brand new live show! Get ready to sing, dance and laugh harder than ever with a brand-new live theatre show bursting with music, dancing, and plenty of laughs!

20-21 APRIL

DIVERSITY - SOUL 2026

The UK’s best-known dance group is set to take to the road on a major new tour, based on the interesting topic of AI technological advancement, and what the future may hold…

22 APRIL

JALEN NGONDA + GUESTS

Jalen Ngonda’s truly life-enriching soul music captures the audience in a nostalgic trance, with a homage to the golden age of soul music.

25 APRIL

BLUE - 25TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR + 911

The Blue boys are back! Simon Webbe, Duncan James, Antony Costa and Lee Ryan get together to perform their award-winning hits, with support from beloved boyband 911.

26 APRIL

THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW - 50TH ANNIVERSARY SPECTACULAR TOUR 2026

Join the original Brad Majors for a once-in-a-lifetime screening event for The Rocky Horror Picture Show’s 50th anniversary, featuring an interactive pre-show Q&A with three iconic stars.

27 APRIL

JIM HENSON’S LABYRINTH: IN CONCERT

Experience an unforgettable evening at the movies, when Jim Henson’s breathtaking musical fantasy masterpiece Labyrinth will be presented on a large cinema screen with live accompaniment.

28 APRIL

ALFIE BOE

Catch one of the UK’s most beloved tenors, Alfie Boe, for a celebration of his most iconic hits and fanfavourite classics, in addition to powerful new material.

29 APRIL

THE EXTRA MILE - AN EVENING WITH KEVIN SINFIELD

Legendary sportsman Kevin Sinfield arrives in York to share stories of how he became a superhuman rugby player, who cemented his place in rugby league history!

JOSEPH ROWNTREE THEATRE

To book, email boxoffice@ jrtheatre.co.uk or 01904 501935

1-4 APRIL PARADE

This must-see Black Sheep Theatre production of the hit musical Parade follows the tragic true story of an innocent man, wrongly accused of murder.

12 APRIL

SWING WHILE YOU SING

Get ready for an unforgettable night of music and energy, led by Alan Owens and his spectacular, 16-piece big band!

17-18 APRIL

SHOW DANCE

The Patricia Veale Dance showcase brings its most talented dancers to the stage for an exciting and powerful celebration of dance.

19 APRIL

KEEP CALM AND SING ON

Join legendary York musician Don Pears and local choir Singphonia for a celebration of the rich and diverse legacy of British music, that you won’t forget in a hurry!

24-25 APRIL

AROUND THE WORLD

Get ready to journey across the globe and enjoy unique performances spanning ballet, jazz, acro, stagecraft, storytelling and

10 APRIL

ADA ISN’T ALIVE

Ada wakes up in a room, with no way out. This unique new play from York writers Harry Murdoch and G.G. offers a radical, untested theatrical experiment.

11 APRIL

THE MOST SENSATIONAL COMEDY OF DICK SHWICK

This sensational celebration of rulebreaking, rebellion and ridiculous comedy is based on the true story of a young woman who disguises herself as a teenage boy.

14-18 APRIL

TILL THE STARS COME DOWN

30 APRIL

GET UP STAND UP!

Frairgate Theatre’s own comedy club is back! This month’s comedians include Steffen Peddie and Rob Deering (Banter, Comedy Rocks, Celebrity Mastermind).

SCARBOROUGH SPA

To Book your tickets visit www.scarboroughspa.co.uk

9 APRIL

K-POP ALL STARS TRIBUTE

K-Pop All Stars features all of your favourite K-Pop hits, including those from Blackpink, NewJeans, Katseye, BTS, Itzy, Stray Kids, Twice, Jung Kook, and more.

28 APRIL - 2 MAY

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT

This outrageously awesome NETheatre production follows two drag queens and a transgender woman travelling across the Australian Outback, based on the hit 1994 movie.

THEATRE@41 Monkgate

To Book your tickets visit tickets.41monkgate.co.uk

25 MARCH - 4 APRIL

NEXT TO NORMAL

The Pick Me Up Theatre company takes their hand to Next to Normal, an award-winning play that offers a touching exploration of family, loss and grief.

8 APRIL

TOM HOUGHTON: DEEP

Tom Houghton leaves the Western world behind and finds himself in Indonesia, where he is submerged below the waves to the deepest possible depths…

Brought to you by the York Actors Collective, this touching family drama follows a wedding in a former mining town, and explores the dynamics of a working-class family.

22-25 APRIL

LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST

Shakespeare’s comedy of wit and wordplay meets the chaotic world of nightlife, when four former DJs swear to renounce pleasure; when the Princess of France and her companions arrive, their vows soon unravel…

Friargate Theatre

To book your tickets visit, www.ridinglights.org/whatson

2 APRIL

RIGHT HERE RIGHT NOW!

Taking its cue from audience suggestions, this hilarious improvisational comedy night offers belly laughs for the whole family!

4 APRIL

BUBBLES IN WONDERLAND

Experience bubbles as not just a simple byproduct of soap, but as a mesmerising visual experience, with an internationally acclaimed ‘Bubbleologist’ leading the way.

9 APRIL

JORVIK COMEDY AWARD

36 of the UK’s most talented new comics will battle it out at the Fairgate Theatre, in search of York’s funniest comedian. Hosted by the quick-witted veteran, Tony Vino.

16 APRIL

AN EVENING WITH TOYAH: SONGS AND STORIES

Enjoy a fun-filled evening with renowned singer, actor, TV host, author, and BRIT Award winner, Toyah.

17 APRIL

GARTH MARENGHI’S THIS BURSTED EARTH

Join the Perrier Award-winning fictional horror author Garth Marenghi (as played by Matthew Holness) for a hilarious show promoting his latest book, This Bursted Earth.

20 APRIL

RIANNE DOWNEY

Experience an unforgettable evening with renowned Scottish songstress Riane Downey, who has performed multiple sold-out shows and graced the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury.

23 APRIL

RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC

This leading Fleetwood Mac tribute show has been performed to 2.5 million fans and streamed to over 145 million on YouTube so far, receiving five-star ratings on Facebook and Ticketmaster.

23 APRIL

HOWARD BEAUMONT’S COFFEE DANCE

“The King of The Keyboards”, Howard Beaumont, returns to host his popular weekly Coffee Dance, perfect for those who want to dance till they drop or simply sit back and relax at their table.

25 APRIL

AULD PALS - AN EVENING WITH THE STARS OF STILL GAME

Join Jane McCarry, Paul Riley, Mark Cox, Sanjeev Kohli, and Gavin Mitchell from the hit sitcom Still Game for an illuminating evening of laughter, tales, and memories.

Markets, Fairs & CAR BOOT SALES

2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 APRIL

STORE & BREEDING STOCK MARKET

York Auction Centre, YO19 5GF. 11.00am.

3-4 APRIL

KNARESBOROUGH

CASTLE ARTISAN MARKET

Castle Yard, HG5 8AS. 10.00am-3.00pm.

4 APRIL

SLEDMERE FARMERS MARKET

Sledmere House, YO25 3XG. 9.00am-2.30pm.

4 APRIL

YORK EASTER WEEKEND - ARTISAN GIFT AND CRAFT FAIR MARKET

The Belfrey Hall, YO1 8AS. 9.00am.

4 APRIL

THE ARTISAN STREET FAYRE

Lakeside Village, DN4 5PH. 10.00am-5.00pm.

5 APRIL

SKIPTON ARTISAN MARKET

Coach Street, BD23 1LH. 10.00am-4.00pm.

5 APRIL

REAL MARKETS - ILKLEY

Ilkley, LS29 9EE. 10.00am3.00pm.

5-6 APRIL

HARROGATE VALLEY GARDENS ARTISAN MARKET

Valley Gardens, HG1 2SZ. 10.00am-3.00pm.

9 APRIL

HARROGATE FARMERS MARKET - REAL MARKETS

Cambridge Street, HG1 1RW. 10.00am-4.00pm.

11 APRIL

EASINGWOLD ARTISAN MARKET

Easingwold Market Square, YO61 3AN. 9.00am-2.00pm.

11 APRIL

ACOMB FLOURISH & FEAST MARKET

Front Street, YO24 3BZ. 10.00am-4.00pm.

11 APRIL

THE ARTISAN STREET FAYRE @ JUNCTION 32 OUTLET

Castleford, WF10 4FR. 10.00am-5.00pm.

12 APRIL

WETHERBY ARTISAN MARKET

Market Place, LS22 6NE. 10.00am-3.00pm.

18 APRIL

ACOMB ARTISAN MARKET

Front Street, YO24 3BZ. 10.00am-3.00pm.

19 APRIL

HARROGATE MAKERS MARKET

Cambridge Street, HG1 1RW. 10.00am4.00pm.

19 APRIL

THIRSK ARTISAN MARKET

Market Place, YO7 1HQ. 10.00am-3.00pm.

25 APRIL

MALTON MONTHLY ARTISAN MARKET

Market Place, YO17 7LX. 10.00am-3.00pm.

26 APRIL

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY THE DERWENT ARMS CAR BOOT

Osbaldwick Village, YO10 3NP. 9.00am-12.00pm.

EVERY SUNDAY

RUFFORTH CAR BOOT

Wetherby Road, YO23 3QH. 8.00am-1.00pm.

EVERY MONDAY

PICKERING MARKET

RIPON ARTISAN MARKET

Market Place, HG4 1BP. 10.00am-3.00pm.

Regular Markets & Car Boot Sales:

MONDAYS TO SUNDAYS

YORK SHAMBLES MARKET

Silver Street, YO1 8RY. 9.00am-5.00pm.

MONDAYS TO SATURDAYS

SCARBOROUGH MARKET HALL & VAULTS

St Helen’s Square, YO11 1EU. 8.00am-5.00pm.

Race Meetings

Hold Your Horses… We’ve rounded up a selection of local

EVERY WEDNESDAY KNARESBOROUGH MARKET

Market Place, HG5 8AG. 7.30am-3.00pm.

EVERY THIRD WEDNESDAY EASINGWOLD FARMERS MARKET

Market Place, YO61 3AA.

Market Place, YO18 7AA. 10.00am-4.00pm.

EVERY MONDAY

SELBY MARKET

Market Place, YO8 4NX. 9.00am-3.00pm.

MONDAYS & SATURDAYS

THIRSK MARKET

Market Place, YO7 1EY. 8.30am-3.30pm.

EVERY TUESDAY POCKLINGTON MARKET

Market Place, YO42 2AL. 9.00am-4.00pm.

EVERY WEDNESDAY KIRKBYMOORSIDE MARKET

The Shambles, YO62 6AY. 8.00am-1.00pm.

WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS NORTHALLERTON MARKET

High Street, DL7 8LW. 8.30am.

WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS

MASHAM MARKET

Market Place, HG4 4DZ. 10.00am-2.00pm.

THURSDAYS AND SATURDAYS

RIPON MARKET 8.00am-3.00pm / 8.3012.00pm.

EVERY SATURDAY YORK RACECOURSE CAR BOOT SALE York Racecourse, YO23 1EX. 7.00am-1.00pm.

Did you know You can list your event FOR FREE in York’s BIGGEST Events Diary? Are you an event organiser? Add Event

Just head to our website yourlocallink.co.uk and click the add event button.

At the KNAVESMIRE STAND, YORK RACECOURSE

Sat & Sun 10am-5pm, Monday 10am-4:30pm

Easter Saturday, Sunday, Monday 4th, 5th, 6th April 2026

Signposted from A64 York Outer Ring Road

120* Stands including

Demonstrations by expert modellersthey’ll show you how.

Fantastic Parade of Exhibition Stands

With Uplifting Live Music from the Rock Choir (Sunday Only)

Free talks, workshops & demonstrations (Talks are ticketed) & Free entry into Prize Draws for every visitor

Refreshments • Disabled Access • Free Parking

Entrance Fee:

Adults £7.00 Concessions £6.00 (2-day pass Adults £13.00 Concessions £11.00) Accompanied under 15s free

COME EARLY TO BOOK TALKS, THERAPIES & READINGS

www.healthhealingfestivals.co.uk pat@healthhealingfestivals.co.uk

Tel: 01423 873259

Matthew James Hinchliffe BEN’S

In anticipation of John Doyle’s new production of The Secret Garden - The Musical at York Theatre Royal, we grabbed ensemble player and Yorkshireman, Matthew James Hinchcliffe, for a chat about the enduring appeal of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s novel, and what to expect from the show…

Hi, Matthew! The Secret Garden was first published in 1911. Why do you think the novel continues to appeal to modern-day audiences?

The Secret Garden was a classic novel in my house growing up, and I remember reading the book with my grandma. It’s one of those stories that seems to get passed down from generation to generation. It allows the imagination to run wild with its relatable characters and strong connection to nature, and I think that with having children as central characters, you get to see the story through a child’s eyes…

What do you hope that Yorkies will take away from this production of The Secret Garden - The Musical?

I’m hoping that both Yorkies and visitors will have a great night at the theatre and, as the musical is set in Yorkshire, hopefully they can enjoy some local references!

Our director, John Doyle, is creating a strippedback version of the musical, and really focusing on the delightful story and characters. The musical arrangements (from our musical supervisor, Catherine Jayes) are incredible; the fact that all the music is played live on stage is really integral to the storytelling, and I’m finding it really moving. The talent in the cast is astounding - everyone is an expert in their craft, and fully committed to the production. I can’t tell you the excitement everyone has to be working in York!

different for me, but I love doing both equally for different reasons. With TV, the fast-paced way of working and the pressure to get the take right is really thrilling. Theatre is where you can really learn and improve your craft - you get more time to explore the characters and the world in which the play is set. It’s a much more collaborative process, where you get to bounce ideas off the director and build friendships with your cast and crew. There’s nothing quite like it when it all comes together - all the hard work really pays off!

“Everything is made out of magic”

You’ve also played Gordon Shakespeare, the main antagonist of Nativity! The Musical. Did you enjoy playing this juicy, villainous role? This was one of the best roles I have ever played. The character is gloriously horrible, and working with those talented children each night was delightful. There’s something about the writing in that show that allows the actor to be particularly mean. I’d like to think it is far from my own character, and that’s why it was so joyous. Isn’t it nice to be a ‘baddie’ sometimes?

Looking for inspiration for your next great read? Each month, Ben dives into a selection of page-turners, hidden gems and noteworthy new releases, sharing honest reviews and thoughtful recommendations along the way. From gripping thrillers and moving memoirs to uplifting fiction and fascinating non-fiction, his column is all about discovering books that entertain, inspire and stay with you long after the final page. Whether you’re an occasional reader or a lifelong book lover, there’s always something new here to add to your reading list...

Mortal Monarchs: 1000 Years of Royal

Deaths – by

Suzie Edge

‘Mortal Monarchs’ was one of the easiest and most interesting reads of the last year for me. From the earliest Kings and Queens to the most recent monarchs, this book details the gruesome, intriguing, and even mysterious deaths of those who have ruled the country. Each chapter is concise and the perfect length to keep the book moving, and you’re sure to learn something new in this comprehensive tale of our country.

In Defence of Witches – by

Mona Chollet

‘In Defence of Witches’ delves into the past, looking at the trials of witches in the 1500s, before bringing it right back to the present day. Have things really changed all that much, or are women still being put on trial? Chollet will take you on a winding road with this book, but it’s one that certainly feels important. If you want something to sink your teeth into and really get stuck into the depths of a topic, then this is the book for you!

You’ve previously played a Court Journalist (Toxic Town) and Prosecution Barrister (Coronation Street) on TV. Does The Secret Garden - The Musical offer a welcome escape from the courtroom?

It’s so nice to be back in the rehearsal room for a musical. Television and theatre are just so

Catch Matthew James Hincliffe appearing in The Secret GardenThe Musical at York Theatre Royal from 17 March - 4 April. Visit www. yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/thesecret-garden-the-musical/ to book your tickets.

BY BEN ROBINSON

A Rebel and a Traitor – by

Rory Carroll

This book uses diaries, letters, historical artefacts, archives, and even government files to paint the story of the groundbreaking manhunt for Sir Roger Casement. Casement was a British official who went rogue, becoming an Irish Nationalist at the turn of the 20th century, at a time when uprisings were becoming increasingly prevalent on Irish soil. Offering a genre-bending mix of thriller, crime, and reality all rolled into one, this book is one you will want to get your hands on!

WANT MORE INSPIRATION ON BOOKS TO READ?

Find more of Ben’s Book Reviews on our website at: www.yourlocallink.co.uk

Following the recent disruption across the Middle East this month, I wanted to highlight some of the reasons why you should consider booking your next trip via a trusted local travel agent.

Since early March, we have been working tirelessly to look after our clients who, for the most part, were not in the Middle East, but were due to transit major hubs including Dubai, Doha & Abu Dhabi. This has not only meant keeping in touch to offer re-assurance and guidance but also searching for alternative flights, sometimes repeatedly when amended flights have been further changed, and liaising with local suppliers to extend accommodation and change transfer times. We have also reached out to assist clients with local consulates to arrange for visa extensions, if due to expire before we could secure alternative travel arrangements.

Here are the top five reasons you should consider using a trusted agent, such as ourselves, for your next trip:

Firstly: We are there for you, at the end of the phone 24/7. You are our priority.

Secondly: Financial protection. Not only is your holiday ATOL protected, but we also act in line with the Package Travel Regulations. This means in the event of a flight cancellation, your whole package is protected, giving you peace of mind if plans change unexpectedly.

Third: Our relationships across the industry, including with hoteliers, local ground agents and airline

partners. Not only does this mean we regularly receive updates, but we are also regularly receiving training on new products to offer our clients.

Fourth: Competitive pricing. We often have access to deals you won’t always find online. We also work with the big names including Jet2holidays, TUI, Kuoni, Inghams and P&O Cruises to name but a few, and you will pay no more booking with Savannah Travel than you would when making your booking directly. We also have access to some real hidden gems, through suppliers that only work through the trade. In the event of travel issues, we only focus on our clients, meaning we can get updates to you quickly.

Finally: Personalised service. Expert advice tailored to your needs. To us, you are not a customer reference or booking number. We like to get to know our customers. This helps us make suggestions of what may enhance your trip, or suggestions for future plans.

Even when unexpected events happen, having a trusted travel professional on your side means guidance, reassurance, and solutions, when they matter most.

Booking with an expert isn’t just convenient - it’s peace of mind for every step of your journey.

If you would like to discuss your plans in more detail, get in touch by calling 01904 623444 or visiting 88 Main Street, Fulford.

This month we’re proud to share original work from talented poets in and around our communityreflections on memory, nature, loss and longing.

The Green Sprout of Pain

This pain is young. It is green. It is wet.

It has just dripped from the tips of my fingers.

I have twisted my hands around the largest tree of this soil.

The tree understands my pain. It hangs the rings of time around my neck.

And becomes the balm for the wound of my throat.

Remember?

Our last goodbye and all the timeless summers die and lie in dust, pictures buried in a drawer whose summer eyes no more look on, are seen no more. darkened days, recalling winters, here remembered too, held sad behind the shaded light from eyes that sought out summer blue.

we are time’s children in all the many seasons that we see, born to die in sun or fading light as time decides its own decree.

But here smiling scenes survive. safe, unchanged, to wait; eager for embracing eyesas witness to why their memory never dies.

Ted Raine

The wound of swallowed words.

The lullaby of the wind curls through the green leaves and mothers me.

I see the dream of migrating birds. Their wings smell of my father’s old clothes.

My breath stops, but my tears do not.

I am tired of sleeping.

Wake me up.

Behnaz Vahdati

The Bird in the Box

Mr Watkins, our physics teacher, asks if I take a bird and cage it in an empty box and the bird flies around without touching any side of the box

will the box with the flying bird weigh the same as the box with no bird inside?

I’m wondering how the bird (what kind?) will manage in its flap and flurry not to hit any part of the box

I’m hearing the bird’s squawks and I’d like to be able to give it a crumb of comfort

but lesson over says the bell and our class takes wing leaving Mr Watkins his question and the bird, forever up in the air

Sue Norton First published in the online poetry magazine London Grip

A Trip To The Lake

I will wait here for as long as I have to. The sun is slowly disappearing, but that is ok. The full moon will be out tonight, and she will come back to see me. She always comes back on a full moon, and I have never fully worked out why.

She is utterly beautiful, and she arrives carefully. Sometimes I do not even know that she is there, but I cannot miss her once I have seen her, so I keep my eyes open and watch.

The light of the moon runs a long, silvery line towards me. I see a little ripple, and I smile as I know she is here.

She moves towards me and I let her come closer, knowing that she will pretend to be frightened of me and run away if I move too quickly, too aggressively.

“It’s going to be like that, is it?” I say. I pull up my shirt, and realise that it is as cold as I thought it would be. I take off my shoes and see her smiling. “Here goes nothing,” I say to myself, and step towards her, trying not to shiver.

I step towards her, my efforts not to shiver not working, then I see her moving closer to me. Before I know it, she has wrapped herself around me, and I am warm again.

The light of the moon runs a long, silvery line towards me. I see a little ripple, and I smile as I know she is here.

“Mm,” I say, and I can feel how she has warmed the water for me. She doesn’t need it; she can cope with much colder temperatures than this, but she knows that I need to be kept a little warmer.

“Hello,” I murmur, and raise my hand gently towards her. She edges closer and then pretends to move away, but I know she is just toying with me. I sit on the ground and watch her, and she meets my gaze.

“Are you going to come and see me, or am I going to come and see you?” I ask, and she smiles, rippling the water.

I chuckle.

BY ROBIN LEWIS-LIGHT

“It’s great to see you again,” I say. I feel her body wrapped around mine, and she asks me the question I have been waiting for her to ask for so long now.

“Of course,” I say, and she and I move further away from the shore, in to the loch, and away for the rest of our lives together.

The Kelpie is a shape-shifting water spirit that lures travellers with beauty before dragging them beneath the waves. Whether these travellers go willingly or not, it is never clear.

Robin Lewis-Light lives in York and loves to write.

Open Wide, Art Lovers!

York Open Studios 2026: What’s on, and where?

Running this month, York Open Studios 2026 will see 150 local artists and makers opening their studios to the public, displaying diverse works across 107 venues in and around the city. To celebrate its 24th year, this much-loved annual community arts event will once again offer local art lovers the chance to connect with talented makers and creators in person, and browse an array of exceptional output from those working with a range of materials in varying disciplines, including painting, printmaking, drawing, photography, mixed media, illustration, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery, lighting, textiles, glass, wood, paper, and beyond…

OUR PICK OF YORK OPEN STUDIOS 2026 ARTISTS & MAKERS:

Local illustrator Marc Godfrey Murphy, former CBeebies animator, and designer & creator of the 2024/25 York Christmas Nutcracker Trails. Marco Looks Studio, Tadcaster, LS24 9AT.

- British-Albanian figurative sculptor Andrian Melka, whose work “explores the illusion of physical perfection”. 3 Glebe Close, York, YO23 7HB.

- Contemporary visual artist Pennie Lordan, who uses oil paint on varied substrates to craft emotive works inspired by film and music. Greenwood Barn Studio, York, YO23 3TN.

- Self-taught local artist Joanna Coupland, who creates freehand wire armatures adorned with paper and mixed media, using a distinctive drawing-with-wire

technique. 16 Moor Lane, York, YO24 2QU.

- Stained glass specialist and former York Art School attendee, Ann Sotheran, who makes freehanging panels and stained glass works to commission. 345 Burton Stone Lane, York, YO30 6EY.

- Nunthorpe Grammar School alumnus Mark Kesteven, who creates oil, acrylic, and watercolour paintings of York and Istanbul. 27 York Road, York, YO24 4LW.

- Nigel Joesbury, who creates works inspired by music, pop culture, and the natural world, predominantly using soft pastels and acrylic paints. 21 Muncastergate, York, YO31 9JX.

- York-based, Taiwanese sculptural and figurative ceramics artist Chiu-i Wu, who creates hand-built stoneware (slab, coil, or pinched). 12 Manor Park Road, York, YO30 5UD.

- Architectural woodcarver

Iain Broadbent, whose work is displayed at historic buildings, country houses, cathedrals, and churches. 5 Emerald Street, York, YO31 8LQ.

- Experimental artist Freya Horsley, who creates distinctive land and seascape paintings using fluid veils and textured layers of paint. Bootham School Arts Centre, YO30 7BU.

York Open Studios 2026 will be open to visitors on 18-19 & 25-26 April. Visit www.yorkopenstudios. co.uk/artists-makers/ to find the full list of venues and participating artists & makers.

TWO NEW BOOKS RELEASED BY YORK MINSTER ON YORK’S PATRON SAINT.

Last month, York Minster saw the release of two books to mark 800 years since the canonisation of St William of York. The books recount the stories of healings and miracles that have been passed down over the years.

800 years ago, on the 18th of March 1226, the patron saint of York, St. William fitzHerbert, was canonised by Pope Honorius III. William was twice the Archbishop of York, and after his death, pilgrims from around the world came to get help from his tomb, from which William was rumoured to perform miracles of healing, reassurance and comfort from beyond the grave. His shrine was buried beneath the streets of York to protect it during the Reformation, as we mentioned in the last issue of Your Local Link.

The first book, Breaking, not Broken: Ableism and the Church,

was written by Reverend Canon Timothy Goode, who has been disabled for over 30 years - it explains how ideas of bodily perfection have shaped Christianity.

The second book, which was co-authored by the former director of York Glaziers Trust, Professor Christopher Norton, and Professor Sarah Brown of the University of York, is named The St. William Window at York Minster, Rediscovering a Miraculous Narrative. It explores the life of St. William, detailing the miracles he performed in both life and death.

Visit www.shop.yorkminster.org to purchase the books, or www. yorkminster.org/whats-on/event/ st-william-of-york-life-and-legacy/ to find out more about the St William of York: Life and Legacy exhibition.

The Great Wave Crashes Into York

One of the world’s best-known artworks arrives in York.

York art enthusiasts will be happy to learn that one of the most famous art pieces in the world is now being exhibited in the heart of the city!

The Great Wave is a famous Japanese woodblock print created in 1831 by Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849). It is possibly one of the most reproduced artworks in history, with thousands of different variations created, but it’s suspected there are only around 100 original editions left.

This masterpiece is the most iconic piece from Hokusai’s series, Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji. It shows three boats navigating a turbulent sea as a towering, dragon-claw-like wave threatens to envelop them. In the distance, Mount Fuji appears small and less significant, emphasising

its contrasting scale to the giant wave.

These prints are extremely light sensitive, and are rarely displayed for long periods. Don't miss this unique chance to stand before a piece of global heritage, right here in York!

As part of the Making Waves: The Art of Japanese Woodblock Paint exhibition, The Great Wave is being displayed alongside a Japanese dry landscape garden (karesansui) and Samurai armour from the Royal Armouries.

The exhibition runs at York Art Gallery from February 27 to August 30. Visit www. yorkartgallery.org.uk/exhibition/ making-waves-the-art-ofjapanese-woodblock-print/ to find out more or book your tickets.

CALLING LOCAL ARTISTS

AND CRAFTERS!

Your Local Link columnist launches Liz Knox Art Prize

A groundbreaking new initiative celebrating contemporary arts and crafts, the Liz Knox Art Prize, has been launched by the arts organisation Creative Coverage, with none other than Your Local Link web columnist, Tim Saunders, at the helm!

Established in 2012 by Tim and his wife, Caroline, Creative Coverage is now inviting local artists to submit what they consider to be their strongest single piece of work (either two-dimensional or threedimensional), with winning works to be displayed and purchased via an exclusive online exhibition space. Created with sponsorship from Artme and Scarva Pottery Supplies Ltd., the prize honours the late artist Liz Knox (19452024), former Creative Coverage member and recipient of the 2003 Aspect Prize.

Tim Saunders, who regularly writes both online car reviews and travel columns for the Your Local Link website, said: “This is a fabulous opportunity for ALL artists and craftspeople to submit their single best 2D and 3D work, to be displayed in the virtual gallery. At the end of every year, a winner for each category will be selected, and a prize will be awarded.”

Once signed up, Creative Coverage members will be able to submit one piece of artwork for free, while non-members can enter their work for a fee of £25 per submission. If you’re a York-based artist or maker who’s keen to have their work seen and potentially purchased by a wider online audience, the Liz Knox Art Prize could be the canvas you’ve been looking for!

For more information, or to get in touch or submit your work, visit www.creativecoverage.co.uk.

ORIGAMI GUINNESS WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT IN YORK

Do you feel like you're about to fold from the ever increasing stresses of life? Well, maybe you need to fold some paper instead, with Origami in York…

The British Origami Society (BOS) affiliated local group hosts many conventions and meetings for both experienced crafters and beginners who want to see if they have an edge for the art!

Alongside local events, York will be hosting the British Origami Society Spring Convention (10-12 April 2026), which is sure to have you in creases. With special guests like Robert J. Lang and Wayne Brown, the event plans to bring over 100 origami folders and designers from across the UK and overseas to the table - though we hope they won’t fold under the pressure. The event will include

Our Ben Pens First Book!

Your Local Link columnist to release debut novel

Our readers will already be familiar with local book lover Ben Robinson, our longstanding book reviewer and columnist (turn to p34 to read his picks for the month). We’re very proud to announce that our Ben has now turned his hand to writing his very own novel, a fictionalised historical biography, Finding Charlotte.

personal novel offers a compelling journey of love, loss, and resilience.

workshops, talks, and an exhibition offering to give participants and visitors a look into the cultural, artistic and mathematical sides of origami, which is a great way to increase your knowledge of the art.

With this already amazing opportunity for origami lovers to come and enjoy their art, the benefits are two-fold, as there will be a Guinness World Record attempt at the convention. We’re flat-out excited to find out which record will be attempted, with our favourite form of papertherapy!

If you need time to unfold, get creative, relax, or find out what’s a-creasing in your favourite art form, the British Origami Society Spring Convention could be just the ticket!

Set in York and Scarborough, Finding Charlotte focuses on the lived experiences of working-class women in wartime Yorkshire, and has been painstakingly crafted using more than 100 letters and photographs from his own family archive. This unique fictionalised memoir tells the story of Ben’s great-grandmother, Charlotte Smith, and examines her family history through the turbulent and volatile periods of World Wars I and II. Transporting the reader from wartime Yorkshire to New Zealand, Singapore, and the battlefields of Europe, this sweeping, deeply

In anticipation of the novel’s release, Ben said: "Finding Charlotte is inspired by real family history documents and research, including letters and photographs that bring an emotional depth you can’t get from fiction alone. It's really important to me to tell this story carefully and with compassion; it looks at the experiences of Northern working-class people, as well as the often unspoken female perspective of war - not just the battles, or the men fighting.”

Finding Charlotte will be published on 12th June 2026, and will be available through Waterstones and Amazon. For more information and updates on pre-sales, visit https:// findingcharlotte.carrd.co/.

The Great Yorkshire Record Fair arrives in York

Calling all crate diggers! Whether you’re a casual collector, a Saturday spinner, an avid archivist, or a deep-diving DJ, The Great Yorkshire Record Fair is simply the best place to find a diverse selection of wax in town this month.

Taking place on Saturday, 4th April at the York Railway Institute, The Great Yorkshire Record Fair is set to be one of the biggest vinyl fairs in the region for 2026, marking the arrival of much-loved independent record store Record Plant, which recently set up shop on Gillygate after establishing itself in Leeds. Co-owner of Record Plant York, John-Paul Craven, said: “Three months in and our York shop has really hit the ground running! With our record fair at the Corn Exchange in Leeds being fully booked month in and month out, we thought it would be a great idea

to look at putting a sister event on in our second home, York.”

The Great Yorkshire Record Fair will house over 200 tables of specialist stallholders from around the country, who’ll be selling thousands of records from every era and genre. Entry is priced at just £1, with all proceeds going towards the Music Venues Trust, in recognition of the crucial part small venues play in the UK’s music pipeline. The fair will be a great place to get your fill of wax ahead of Record Store Day on 18th April.

The Great Yorkshire Record Fair will take place on 4th April from 10.00am-4.00pm at the Old Carriageworks Hall, York Railway Institute, YO24 1AD. If you’re interested in taking part as a trader, email recordfairs@ recordplant.co.uk.

Easter Bunny

We cornered the carrotcrunching celebrity himself for an egg-straordinary Easter catch-up.

Hello, Mr Bunny! In your opinion, is Easter all it’s cracked up to be?

Of course! It’s one of the most important festivals in the Christian calendar, although sometimes I feel that the original meaning may have been lost. Easter is a time to indulge after giving up luxuries for Lent, and to mark the resurrection of Jesus. Spending time with family to celebrate is also a great way of getting people out of their shells… You’re quite the eggs-pert, Mr Bunny. If you don’t mind me asking, how long have you been delivering eggs, and how old are you (in bunny years)?

While I’d rather not divulge my age (a gentleman never tells), I will tell you that I was first mentioned in writing way back in 1572, in Germany, where I was born. You do the maths! Wow, you don’t look a day over 400! Now, this must be an eggstremely busy time of the year for you. Is it hard to strike a worklife balance amidst all the egg deliveries?

Oh, certainly - it’s all go! It can be tricky to strike a balance for sure. I have to hop my way around most of the world delivering eggs, which means that Mrs Bunny is not always best pleased. Luckily, I get the rest of the year off, so I can’t complain… You must be eggs-hausted after all that eggs-ercise!

Well, yes. It can be a bit much, to be honest - my head is scrambled by the time I’ve got all the eggs out!

Fortunately, there are other animals who help me out in other countries; In Italy, doves do most of the work (although they don’t actually deliver any eggs), and there’s an Easter Cuckoo who delivers in Switzerland; in Australia, the Easter Bilby is the chief egg-deliverer, and in France, the eggs are delivered by flying Easter Church Bells, believe it or not!

Flying bells? You must be yolking! Mr Bunny, you must be sick of the sight of Easter eggs by now - do you ever get the chance to enjoy a chocolatey treat of your own, once all the hard work is done?

Ironically, chocolate doesn’t go down too well for me - my stomach just can’t handle it. I’m more partial to grass and carrots myself, or the odd portion of leafy greens, if I’m pushing the boat out!

How healthy. You’re a good egg, Mr Bunny!

I do try, Your Local Link. My body is a temple, and all that…

Well, we’re glad you’re getting your five a day. Thanks for chatting with us - do you have a final message for our readers this Easter?

My pleasure. Well, I’d say that it’s always important to be kind to others, to make the most of family time, and most importantly, to never put all of your eggs in one basket…

Turn to p21 to see our guide to Easter in York, or p19 to read the Archbishop of York’s 2026 Easter message. Happy Easter, Yorkies!

JORVIK Viking Festival

History with a Battle CryThe Vikings Return to York.

Since 1984, the JORVIK Viking Festival has wowed countless visitors with a hearty mix of immersive combat reenactments, wonderful workshops and exciting events designed to open up our city’s rich Viking history. Your Local Link unearthed our armour and took to our trusty longboat for the opening day of the 2026 festival… As we pillaged our way around the Parliament Street encampment (where visitors can wonder at wares produced by craftspeople using historically accurate materials and techniques, and see a fearsome band of Viking warriors preparing for battle), we couldn’t help but notice a formidable figure guarding a tent, with an enormous axe in hand. Approaching the man with caution, we learned that this was Bjarni Thorvaldrson, (aka The Science Viking), a former science teacher and longtime festival participant, who explained: “For nearly 200 years, Jorvik was the capital city of a Viking kingdom, so it has a massive Viking heritage. Because of the soil conditions here, a lot of the archaeology has been really well-preserved, so we know a hell of a lot about Viking York.”

As the resident Viking weapons expert in the encampment, Bjarni was keen to give us the lowdown on his ferocious axe: “This is a Viking Dane axe. It is, without a doubt, the most devastating weapon of the Viking Age. These became a favourite weapon of the Anglo-Saxons, after being introduced to England in the 10th century. The Bayeux Tapestry shows an Anglo-Saxon warrior swinging his axe at a fully armoured Norman knight on horseback - the axe kills the horse, passes through the saddle, and kills the rider, with

one swing! I call it ‘Death Singer’ because, as it strikes, it ‘sings’…” With a quick flick of the blade, Bjarni demonstrates the axe’s unique striking sound - an eerie, metallic, ringing chime. He also kindly introduced us to the large, stuffed boar resting next to his tent: “This is Sæhrímnir, the boar in Valhalla, who is slaughtered every night for the warrior’s feast, Einherjar; I’ve been told by a shaman that this is a very chilled out boar, because he’s got a whole week off from being slaughtered!” After our chat with The Science Viking (in which we managed to maintain a safe distance from the Death Singer), we plundered our way through the encampment until we reached the Midgard Marquee, a Viking canopy. Here, we decided to try out the Berserker Bootcamp, an action-packed, family-friendly attraction that’s perfect for children aged 5-12. After a spot of weapons training, in which we were taught how to wield a Viking Longsword and slice through opponents on the battlefield with maximum efficiency (it’s harder than it looks!), it was time to take on the Berserker Bootcamp obstacle course, and put our newfound combat skills to the test by taking on suspended sandbags, which (luckily) did not fight back! We also got the chance to pick up some real Viking weaponry, try on a Viking helmet or two, and also take our hand to rowing a makeshift Viking longship. Despite being (just a little!) over the intended age range, we found this immersive experience great fun, and an excellent way to let off some steam.

As The Science Viking said, “We’re here to educate and entertain!”

HIDDEN YORK

Walking York’s Snickelways: Part Five

The term ‘snickelway’ was popularised by local author Mark W. Jones in his 1983 book, A Walk Around the Snickelways of York, combining the words ‘snicket’, ‘ginnel’, and ‘alleyway’. Broadly classified as “a narrow place to walk along, leading from somewhere to somewhere else”, snickelways are a charmingly unique feature of our city.

CARR’S LANE

This beautiful, historic cut-through connects Skeldergate with Bishophill Senior, and is composed of a unique, well-preserved mix of stone paving and cobbles.

Described as “the most magical of York alleys” by author George Pace in his book exploring the Bishophill area, Carr’s Lane is most notable today for its picturesque (although slightly obscured) views of local landmarks, including The Golden Ball pub and Bishophill Friends Burial Ground, the first Quaker burial ground in the city, which is accessible via nearby Cromwell Road. While it was closed in 1854, the Friends Burial Ground is now the site of a lovely urban park, complete with lime trees, flower beds, and historic walls.

BLACK HORSE PASSAGE

Linking present-day Stonebow to the Hungate district, Black Horse Passage is an ancient alleyway that was once used by travellers walking to a nearby soup kitchen, established in 1846 by Joseph Rowntree Senior. By the second half of the 19th century,

Hungate had become a slum associated with crime, poverty, and prostitution, which was home to the city’s red light district. Today, little of the original alleyway remains, aside from some traces of the original brickwork. While its historic good looks have been blighted by litter and graffiti, Black Horse Passage remains a welltravelled cut-through that’s still used today.

STRAKERS PASSAGE

Another notable passage that was once frequented by Victorian Yorkies on their way to the infamous Hungate red light district is Strakers Passage, a winding alleyway connecting Fossgate and Garden Place. Just like nearby Black Horse Passage, Strakers Passage is now adorned with graffiti, but one of its most endearing features is the presence of picturesque Hart’s Tongue ferns and other hardy plants, which grow naturally from its stone walls, providing a much-needed injection of greenery.

LE

KYRK LANE

Directly translating to ‘the Church Lane’, Le Kyrk Lane once led to St Peter the Little Church, along with Peter Lane and Pope’s Head Alley. Situated between Market Street and High Ousegate, the charming Le Kyrk Lane is one of seven snickelways included in the Snickelway Rejuvenation Project, launched by York BID, which aims to transform and rejuvenate historic and unique spaces in York.

IMAGES BY ALICE WILLER

How LinkTeresting!

Ten facts about York’s rebellious history

Yorkies can be a mischievous bunch! The North has had a reputation as ‘a lawless place’ for centuries, and the city of York has been an epicentre of rebellion throughout the ages. To mark the Yorkshire Rebellion of April 1489, Your Local Link has collected some seriously ‘link-teresting’ facts about the rebellious past of York and North Yorkshire…

1. The proud people of York, Beverley, and Scarborough played a key role in the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, a landmark rebellion that inspired William Morris’ 1888 novel, A Dream of John Ball. You feisty peasants!

2. During the Peasants’ Revolt, York was subject to intense violence, which saw the properties of Dominican and Franciscan friars set about by locals in the summer of 1381 - peace would not be restored until the following year…

3. The seeds of the Yorkshire Rebellion were sown in 1487, when a series of excessive taxes were imposed on the region, followed by a poor harvest in 1488. Plots for an armed resistance are thought to have begun on April 20, 1489, so Yorkies could give The Taxman a piece of their minds!

4. On 28 April 1489, a group of around 700 rebels (led by Robert Chamber of Ayton) met with the Earl of Northumberland’s forces at South Kilvington, near Thirsk. The Earl’s guardians were said to be so intimidated by the Yorkshire hoarde that they gave him up without resistance… a scary bunch indeed!

5.

Following the death of the Earl, more rebels were

recruited from North Yorkshire and East Riding. They met at nearby Sheriff Hutton and had marched to Doncaster by 13th May, with arrows provided by resourceful Yorkie, Hugh Bunting.

6. By 15 March 1489, a rebel army around 5,000 strong had reached York, and was warmly welcomed by the locals. In response to the rebel seizure of the city, Henry VII raised his own army to deal with the pesky rabble!

7. From 27 May to 1 June, Henry VII established a Royal Commission of Oyer and Terminer at York Guildhall, where 66 indictments were issued against local rioters. Only five rebels were sentenced to death, including the ringleader, Robert Chamber.

8. In 1536, lawyer Robert Aske led a band of around 9,000 rebels into York, who occupied the city as part of the Pilgrimage of Grace, a revolt against Henry VIII’s break with the Catholic Church. Cheeky!

9. For his part in the Pilgrimage of Grace, Robert Aske would later be arrested, convicted of high treason at the Palace of Westminster, and executed in York on 12 July, 1537. Henry VIII was not to be messed with!

10. Following the Jacobite rising of 1745, 22 Jacobite rebels were executed in York, and two of their heads were displayed at Micklegate Bar as a warning. In 1754, York’s William Arundell ‘headed over’ to Micklgate to steal the decapitated heads, for which he received a two-year sentence for theft…

REVIEW: Bill’s Restaurant

Feel like treating yourself after a busy day at work?

We did, and when walking around York on a Tuesday night, we luckily stumbled upon Bill’s Restaurant. Pat and I were feeling peckish, and after perusing the menu outside (which was packed with tempting options), and seeing the restaurant was bustling, we decided to pop in to this historic yet modern Coney Street eatery.

The restaurant itself has a unique atmosphere, with lovely mood lighting, radiant colours, and a welcoming, boujee décor. The comfortably cosy chairs are great for relaxing, perfect for a laid-back experience. As soon as we stepped foot in the restaurant, our moods were elevated, and we were greeted straight away, being offered chilled water for the table, then provided with a diverse drinks menu. Pat chose the Bill’s beer, and I went for a spicy mango margarita, which had a sweet, fruity flavour, and a piquant, tangy kick from the chilli garnish adorning the rim of the glass.

For our starters, we both decided to go for fish - I had the crispy calamari and Pat chose the king prawn, avocado and tomato

BY MIM

cocktail. The calamari was fresh and had a satisfying crunch, with a zesty citrus undertone from garlic and basil aioli, which also offered a distinctive lemon aroma. It was also seasoned perfectly, with a slightly salty and peppery taste, which reminded me of the seaside. Pat said the king prawns were large, juicy and deeply seasoned, while the avocado chunks were fresh, firm and flavourful. Both impressed us with their fresh and plentiful starters, but could they keep it up?

For our mains, Pat followed the fish-inspired starter and went for fish pie. I chose the ribs and loaded fries, for a change from the fish.

When I first got my main, I could not wait to dig into the deliciouslooking meal! The large ribs were layered in a rich barbecue sauce, which dripped onto the perfectly grilled, golden corn-on-the-cob below. I asked Pat how the fish pie was, but he was so invested that he did not bother to answer, until he’d finished the final bite! The pie was packed with a variety of fish, including cod, smoked haddock, salmon, and prawns, all in a savoury white sauce and topped with smooth, creamy mash. The portions here are ample for big appetites.

Delicious fresh produce grown in

I was pleased to see a crème brûlée-inspired tart on the menu. It was so creamy and tasty, it blew the mains out of the water with its sumptuous texture. Pat liked the look of “Bill’s Flowerpot”, which was exceptionally delicious, and possibly the most fun dessert he has ever had! It’s an all- edible tasty flower pot filled with a decadent, creamy passionfruit cheesecake filling - even the soil was made of chocolate!

Visit www.bills-website.co.uk/ restaurants/york/ to browse the menu or plan your visit.

mix of starters, a range of 7

dishes, rice & naan. Served 3-10pm.

£14.90 Adult • £10.90 Children (under 10s)

off collections and deliveries when ordering directly at theparvin.co.uk

01904 758864 / 764340 • 169 York Road,

Get your fill of fresh organic fruit & veg at Goodness Growing Organic Veg? Alpacas? Yes Please!

Calling all voracious vegetable eaters! If organic fruit and veg is your favourite, and you’re looking for new places to pick up high-quality, freshly grown produce in the York area, Goodness Growing could be the perfect place to get your fill! Located at the picturesque Goodness Farm in Strensall, Goodness Growing is a one-stop shop for all manner of fresh and organic seasonal fruit and vegetables, with high-quality fruit and veg bags, fresh eggs, organic apple juice, and local honey for sale. All of Goodness Growing’s handpicked produce is lovingly grown on site using environmentally and animal-friendly farming methods, such as relying on naturally fertile soil rather than chemical sprays, which is boosted with the power of green manures; this includes the use of manure from the friendly alpacas that reside on the farm, with whom visitors are also

welcome to get acquainted with at the Alpaca Coffee Trailer and Farm, which is open every Friday from 10.00am-1.00pm. All organic crops grown on the farm are regularly rotated to prevent disease, while the planting of flowers amongst vegetable crops encourages biodiversity, with plenty of ladybirds, hoverflies, bees and beetles joining the party, and providing natural pest control.

Goodness Growing’s organic goodies can either be freshly delivered to homes in and around York, or collected directly from Goodness Farm - if you pick up your locally grown goodies from Strensall in person, you could also receive a delicious discount of 10%! To buy fresh fruit and vegetables or plan a visit to meet the alpacas, visit www.goodnessgrowing.co.uk.

UPCOMING

By Steven Charles Popple & Co. York

THINKING OF SELLING YOUR PROPERTY?

Why not renovate instead?

If you’re keen on sprucing up your home instead of navigating the rocky current climate, Your Local Link is at hand with a wide selection of tried and tested Trusted Traders. From roofers, plumbers and electricians to gardeners, gutterers and gas engineers, our Trusted Traders have been with us for yonks, and are reliably rated as some of the best local tradies operating in and around the York area.

Whichever kind of renovation or refurbishment works you feel would be best for your property, our highly rated Trusted Traders are sure to get the job done!

Last year’s controversial Autumn Budget has presented unique new challenges in the housing market, with economic uncertainty now putting off many homeowners who were previously keen to sell their properties. Despite early signs of recovery across England and Wales, many prospective sellers still have cold feet, and are opting to renovate their properties, rather than put them on the market.

In recent years, the most popular options for property renovators (and those which seem to produce the best return for homeowners) include loft conversions, living room extensions, energy efficiency

upgrades, and the incorporation of smart home technology.

Instead of upping and moving, improving your gaff with our Trusted Traders could be the best option for you - but what are the key benefits of renovating your property, rather than selling up off the bat?

Renovating increases Return on Investment (ROI)

Renovating will bump up curb appeal

While spending extra pennies on sprucing up your property may seem like the last thing you need when facing a turbulent market climate, the fact is that renovation (almost always) increases your ROI, giving you more bang for your buck in the long run.

Been thinking of giving your property a facelift? By carrying out

Renovating

In

Renovating

SPRING RESET

Spring is the perfect time to refresh. From glow-boosting skincare and haircare heroes to wellness essentials and feel-good treats, our Health & Beauty Spring Reset is packed with products designed to revitalise your routine. Think lighter textures, brighter finishes and small indulgences that help you step into the new season feeling confident, energised and ready for the sunnier days ahead.

INSECT REPELLENT NECKLACE

£50 from lessmosquito.com

For summer evenings without the swatting, this hand-crafted beaded necklace offers wearable insect protection. The central clasp holds a refillable capsule containing plant-based oils, providing up to 18 days of use per capsule. Suitable for ages three and over.

EYEAM – INFLAMMAGING SKIN SOLUTION

£45 from eyeamworld.com

For calmer skin this spring, this lightweight hydrating fluid is designed to soothe redness and irritation while supporting the skin barrier. Clinically tested and suitable for sensitive, reactive and eczemaprone skin, it can be used alone or layered under moisturiser and SPF for a smooth, dewy finish.

DUSSL DAILY AM ENERGISING SERUM

£26 from hollandandbarrett.com

Start the day with a skin-reviving boost. This lightweight morning serum combines niacinamide, ashwagandha and antioxidant botanicals to help brighten, hydrate and support the skin barrier against everyday environmental stress. Fast-absorbing and fragrance-free, it layers easily under SPF, and is suitable for all skin types.

FOOTSIE GLOW GIRL! DRY LEG OIL SPRAY (125ML)

£8 from boots.com

Get legs ready for spring with this lightweight dry oil spray. Infused with jojoba oil, the formula helps soften and hydrate skin without a greasy feel. Finished with a tropical-inspired coconut, almond and vanilla scent, it leaves legs feeling smooth, silky and lightly glowing.

WILD ROSE BEAUTY BALM VEGAN

£43 from nealsyardremedies.com

This certified organic beauty balm is a true multi-tasker. Formulated with organic wild rosehip seed oil and nourishing plant oils, it cleanses, hydrates and helps to protect the skin. Suitable for all skin types, it includes an organic muslin cloth for a gentle cleanse.

HERMOSA GRASS-FED WHEY PROTEIN POWDER (420G JAR)

£38 from livehermosa.com

Delivering 20g of protein per serving with just 4g of carbs, and sustainably sourced from grass-fed British cows in the Lake District. Supplied in a stylish refillable amber glass jar, designed to keep the powder fresher for longer, it’s available in vanilla or chocolate.

DO YOUR BIT FOR BREAST FRIENDS NEW Healthy Families Service launched in

Local breast cancer support group needs your help!

First established in 2014, Breast Friends is a friendly, peer-led support group aimed at helping local people who’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer. Through a range of activities, sessions and meetups, Breast Friends provides a valuable support mechanism for people at every stage of their cancer journey. This valuable group aims to provide a safe, supportive environment in which people with breast cancer and their families can feel understood, supported, and looked after, creating enduring friendships with likeminded folk along the way. This valuable local community group has now been granted support from the Co-op

community fund, which could significantly boost and improve the delivery of its crucial services. The amount of funding Breast Friends will be allocated depends wholly on the number of Co-op members who select the group as their preferred ‘local cause’. Signing up as a Co-op member costs just £1, and the whole process can be completed in less than five minutes - as a member, you’ll also be entered in a regular prize draw, with the chance to win £500!

Can you do your bit to support Breast Friends? Visit www. coop.co.uk/local-causes to sign up today.

The City of York Council’s Health Trainer service is launching its new Healthy Families Service, which provides a friendly, 100% FREE way for local families to get support and improve their physical and emotional wellbeing. Run by dedicated Health Trainers Katie and Donna, the new Healthy Families programme aims to help families in and around York to make small, practical lifestyle changes that can lead to meaningful, lasting benefits in their everyday lives. Designed to fit around busy, choc-a-bloc schedules, this voluntary service offers families up to six personalised sessions, tailored to meet their specific needs. These will provide advice on everything from how to eat healthily on a budget and create calming bedtime routines, to managing everyday worries, setting achievable family goals, and finding fun ways to stay active and exercise as a family unit. The focus of these flexible sessions will be adapted and shaped to suit the requirements of each household,

Visit: www.clearandhearryedale.co.uk

depending on their strengths, weaknesses, and goals. Every member of the family is more than welcome to attend, from children and grandparents to family pets!

Cllr Lucy Steels-Walshaw, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, said: “This service is about helping every family in York live healthier, happier lives. By offering friendly, personalised support in the places where people feel most at ease, we’re making good health more accessible and giving children the best possible start.”

Visit www.york.gov.uk/HealthyFamilies to get in touch.

Ear wax removal via microsuction, covering York and most of North Yorkshire.

Registered practitioner. Friendly, gentle, fast service in your home.

Both ears £65 Mellony Pinkney BScHons T: 07960 008179 | E: earwaxaway@yahoo.com | W: www.earwaxaway.co.uk

Come along to an evening of advice and support from Mr Sunil Auplish, Consultant Hand & Wrist Surgeon. Mr Auplish regularly supports musicians with issues such as tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar nerve compression, ligament strains, early arthritis, and overuse related pain. He’ll share practical advice on technique, posture, and early warning signs, helping performers understand when rest, self care, or specialist assessment is needed.

To book at place contact a member of the team on 01904 809 677. Our next event: Wednesday 29th April, from 6:00pm - 8:00pm at Clifton Park

Award-winning menopause support service now available to York

York and North Yorkshire residents experiencing the menopause can now access an award-winning support service, enabling them to remain healthy, well, and in work during this often challenging stage of their lives.

Going through the menopause can make working more difficult for many people, and there are over 34 symptoms recognised by the NHS, although some experts have identified more than 60; while experience of the menopause can vary from person to person, common symptoms include hot flushes, mood swings, brain fog, joint pain, skin changes, and problems maintainng a healthy sleep schedule, all of which can play havoc with workplace attendance and productivity.

In partnership with Peppy Health, the NHS Humber North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board will now provide extra support for those navigating the menopause via specially trained nurse prescribers, who can offer useful help and expertise at every stage of the journey. The initiative is being rolled out as part of a York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority trailblazer programme, which aims

Residents

to help people in need to stay employed and maintain their job roles when facing obstacles in their everyday lives. The service will provide access to virtual consultations and a dedicated mobile phone app, including guidance, information, videos, and a welcoming online community to offer support. Individuals can refer themselves, or be referred by their employer or local GP.

Jayne Adamson, executive director for people at NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB, said: “Although research shows that being in work can have a positive benefit for those experiencing the menopause, approximately one in 10 women aged 40-55 have left a job due to their symptoms. Improving support for working women during this significant life stage plays an important role in ensuring equity in the workplace. By talking openly about the menopause and women’s health more broadly, we can challenge the stigma that often still exists.”

Visit www.humberandnorth yorkshire.org.uk/good-workhealthy-people-home or emailing hnyicb-nel.goodwork@nhs.net to find out more.

Get Active This Spring for Reflect

If you’re keen on getting out and about, enjoying the great outdoors, and doing your bit to help a crucial local support service, now’s the time to get involved!

First opened in York in 2007, Reflect is a free support service aimed at those in North Yorkshire facing a Pregnancy Choice, and local people in need of help after experiencing Pregnancy or Neonatal Loss. For nearly two decades now, this dedicated support service has worked tirelessly to help women, men, and couples in our area to navigate the darkness and bewilderment of bereavement after suffering a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy,

stillbirth, or neonatal death. Reflect has also worked to help and support women to make the best choice for them when faced with an unintended pregnancy or possible foetal abnormality. By fostering positive outcomes and improving mental health and wellbeing for its service users, Reflect has already made a meaningful and tangible difference to the lives of local people most in need.

This spring, Reflect is running a new campaign, ‘Get Active This Spring’, which aims to raise a total of £2500 to enable the continuation of its free support service to people in North Yorkshire. Visit www.donate.giveasyoulive. com/campaign/get-activethis-spring-for-reflect to make a donation or learn how to take part in ‘Get Active this Spring for Reflect’. Visit www.reflectyork. co.uk to find out more, or email info@reflectsupport.co.uk to get in touch with the team.

Fix Up, York!

UPCOMING REPAIR CAFES NEAR YOU:

From bikes and clothing to electronics and more, discover the joy of

SECOND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH Repair Cafe Tang York Tang Hall Community Centre, YO31 0UG. 10.00am-12.00pm.

LAST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH The Groves Repair Cafe St Thomas Church Hall, YO31 7ND. 9.30am-12.00pm.

BREAK A LEG, LITTLE YORKIES!

Is your child an aspiring actor, prospective performer, or thespian in the making? Does your little one display dramatic flair, ideal for a future career in stage or screen? Articulate Drama School could be the perfect place for your little star to be born!

Holding regular classes at York College, Articulate Drama School offers dynamic and engaging screen acting and drama classes, aimed at children aged 4 to 19. All the way from Reception to Year 13, Articulate Drama School’s top-tier Screen Acting Training provides talented, up-and-coming performers with the chance to perfect their craft, socialise with other budding actors, and develop key skills from an early stage.

Delivered by industry experts, Articulate’s weekly 1-hour classes enable youngsters to hone their audition skills, sharpen acting techniques for mediums including theatre, film, and television, and even audition for real-life productions, at no extra cost.

Established in 2013, Articulate’s leading casting agency, Articulate Agency, has so far nurtured the talents and careers of a wide range of young stars, including Rory Wilmot (who plays Neville Longbottom in HBO’s Harry Potter TV series) and Bon Cooper (who plays one of the “littleuns” in this year’s BBC adaptation of Lord of the Flies); multiple Articulate Drama School students also appeared on screen in the 2025 Netflix smash-hit, Adolescence. Articulate also runs a supporting artist and extras agency, Articulate Extras, which gives youngsters and adults alike the chance to appear as supporting artists in a range of exciting new productions, across the North of England.

If you’d like to give your children a head start in the acting game, Articulate Drama School could be the perfect springboard.

Visit www.articulatesdc.com/ drama-school/york-classes to sign up or find out more!

York Manor Care Home

York Manor redefines senior living, offering a spacious and thoughtfully designed environment that ensures comfort and elegance. Residents enjoy an exceptional lifestyle experience, supported by our commitment to care and quality. We invite you to discover our home because it’s always the right time to embrace the luxury care you deserve.

Winging It

This month, our intrepid work experience student, Charlie (aged 15), took to the skies!

BY CHARLIE GREENBANK

I’ve always dreamed of navigating the skies, but for now, I’m stuck navigating the Local Link office, on work experience, 9 to 5… When the team heard I enjoy gliding, they asked me to share some of my most turbulent experiences with our readers. I started attending York Gliding Centre at the age of 13, two years ago. I was eager to launch, but back then, I didn't meet the 51kg minimum weight limitI considered stuffing my pockets with runway pebbles (DON’T do this, it’s dangerous!), but ultimately, I had to wait until I grew into the cockpit.

My first close call in the sky occurred when I inadvertently glided alongside an unexpected helicopter, and quickly learnt why instructors always nag you about the ‘scan cycle’ and looking before you turn! This involves checking the sky, your ‘attitude’ relative to the horizon, and your flight instruments. Because I skipped the initial scan, a helicopter suddenly appeared out of the blue, just a wing’s length away! My instructor and I were both stunned at this unanticipated sight, and so was my mother! Since my parents track my flights using an app, they were watching from our house as the helicopter and I converged into the clouds, and vanished….

FREE Easter Fun at Camellia Cottage

AN EGG-CITING EASTER WONDERLAND… IN ACOMB!

rethink those flying lessons!

My second near miss involved another unpredicted vehicle, this time, another glider! I was gliding with my instructor, who was preparing to land after an enjoyable flight. He lined the glider up nicely, but before we could land, we spotted a glider, nonchalantly rolling its way onto the runway. My instructor had to land further up on the runway, to save both our skins - if the helicopter incident taught me to look up, the

York’s much-loved ‘Halloween Queen’, Lynda Starkey, who’s been opening her home to local families for decades, will be throwing a FREE Easter celebration to remember this month.

Family-friendly attractions at this year’s Easter Fun event will include Musical Mats, Swimming Ducklings, Bubble Bowling, a Bunny Garden, a Lollipop Hedge, and Easter Bushes lovingly adorned with colourful toys, sparkly butterflies, and bunny rabbits. Kids will get the chance to Catch a Carrot Fish, meet the family of carrots, pose for photos with Pink Pixie and Belinda the

friendly giant bunny, and collect chocolate from the Chocolate Trees - there will be all sorts of extra surprises to enjoy, including very special Easter giveaways. Have a wonderful Easter, York! Camellia Cottage (61 Kingsway West, YO24 4RD) will be open to visitors from 2-7 April, from 9.00am-5.00pm. Lynda would greatly appreciate contributions of Easter eggs, chocolatey treats and sweets for the event - please feel free to drop any treats at Camellia Cottage, if you’d like to help her out!

My mum admitted the sight gave her nightmares for days. If you are a parent, this might make you

why gliding you've ever wanted to

is the most

other. Gliding is one of the best ways to start your aviation journey. Even Captain "Sully" Sullenberger credits his legendary, life-saving Hudson River landing to his gliding background, which taught him how to handle a "deadstick" (no engine) landing of an airliner into a river.

I have never felt anything better than getting in that seat before takeoff on a sunny day - it really uplifts my mood, every time. Whether you're looking for a unique birthday gift or a career in the cockpit, gliding is the answer!

If you're interested in getting started with gliding at York Gliding Centre, visit www.yorkgliding centre.co.uk/ for more info!

Throw a reptile party to remember! Meet cold-blooded creepy crawlies with Reptile Roadshow.

Whether you’re planning a children’s birthday party for little lizard lovers, putting together a corporate event to wow your clients, or looking for a new and unique way to celebrate achievements or special occasions of any scale, a reptile party with Reptile Roadshow could be the memorable event you’ve been ssssssssearching for!

Reptile Roadshow delivers exciting, educational and interactive reptile & live animal experiences to suit every occasion, providing a handson opportunity to get acquainted with jungle creepy crawlies from the comfort of your home or a pre-booked private venue. At these slithery shindigs, nature-loving party guests will get a once-in-alifetime chance to see a diverse range of fascinating animals up close, appreciate their beauty, and learn more about the wondrous world of exotic, cold-blooded creatures.

The Reptile Roadshow’s offerings

are aimed at children aged 6 and above (these reptile shows aren’t suitable for those under the age of 5), and could be the ideal choice of entertainment for children’s birthday parties, school and holiday clubs, Scouts, Guides, Brownies, and other groups, including those associated with home education and specialist schools. Given the fact that these shows are based around exotic animals, safety is a main priority, and parents and carers can rest assured that strict health and safety procedures are adhered to, while antibacterial hand-washing facilities are provided for worryfree animal handling.

The Reptile Roadshow throws private parties to remember, perfect for young (and young at heart) nature lovers!

Visit www.reptileroadshow. co.uk to find out more about Reptile Roadshow, or www. reptileroadshow.co.uk/bookingenquiry to make a party booking!

ASK A VET

It has been a busy time in the practice clinically and non-clinically, with the continuation of our 80th

Give Us a Home

Cooper 22 months, Male

Spring Hazards for Pets

What Every Pet Owner Should Know

Spring is a beautiful time of year. The days are longer, gardens are bursting into colour, and many of us are spending more time outdoors with our pets. But while the season brings plenty of joy, it also introduces some hidden dangers that pet owners should be aware of.

One of the biggest seasonal risks comes from spring flowers. Many popular blooms are toxic to pets, particularly cats. Lilies are especially dangerous - even tiny amounts of pollen can cause severe kidney failure in cats. Daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, azaleas and irises can all cause vomiting, drooling, and stomach upset if chewed, with bulbs posing the highest risk due to their higher concentration of nutrients, so take care when gardening and protect newly planted bulbs from curious diggers.

As the weather warms up, insects reappear too. Most bee or wasp stings cause mild swelling and discomfort, but pets stung around the face or mouth can develop more serious reactions. If you notice facial swelling, vomiting, lethargy or breathing difficulties after a sting, it’s important to seek veterinary attention quickly.

effective ways to protect your pet through the warmer months. Speak to one of our team about our Lifetime Care Club health plan, which includes bespoke parasite control tailored to your pet.

Gardens themselves can pose unexpected hazards. Slug pellets, fertilisers, weed killers, and even cocoa mulch can be toxic if ingested. Compost bins may harbour mould toxins that are extremely dangerous to dogs. At this time of year, it’s also worth remembering that Easter celebrations often mean more chocolate in the home - and chocolate remains one of the most common causes of accidental poisoning in dogs. If you think your pet has eaten chocolate, contact us immediately.

Another common issue in spring are grass seeds. These small, sharp seeds can become lodged in paws, ears or under the skin, causing irritation, infection and sometimes requiring surgical removal. Sudden limping, persistent licking of a paw, or repeated head shaking should always be checked out.

Cooper is a very loving and playful boy who is shy to begin with, but once settled will make a wonderful addition to a family. He had a tough start and missed out on early learning and socialising, but Cooper is learning to come out of his shell, and loves his walks and zoomies off the lead.

Macey 2 years, Female

Macey is very friendly and loves to be out and about exploring. As much as she enjoys discovering new walks, Macey also wants a family who will sit and snuggle on the sofa with her. She is a lovelynatured girl, and would be happy to live with children or another dog.

Cricket 5 months, Male

After a rough start to life, Cricket has now settled in and is a friendly and cheeky young boy, brimming with character and a fun nature. Cricket will need a family who can help guide him, and be able to stay at home while he is still so young and learning.

know much about her history, so she will need a patient adopter who can help and encourage her to come out of her shell. She has bonded well with staff and is starting to see that people aren’t bad after all. She loves spending time with people and is sociable with other dogs, gaining confidence in their company.

Austin Meowers 9 years, Male

Austin is looking for a new home after a child in his family developed allergies. He’s confident, independent, and knows exactly what he likes. As a keen rodent patroller, he takes his garden duties seriously. Austin would suit a peaceful home without other pets. While he enjoys his independence, he also loves attention, and will happily soak up fuss from his humans.

Long-Tooth Tom 14 years, Male

Fleas, ticks and mites become far more active as temperatures start to rise. Ticks are particularly common in long grass and wooded areas, and can transmit disease. Regular preventative treatments are one of the simplest and most

Spring is a wonderful season to enjoy with your pets, and a little awareness goes a long way. If you are ever unsure whether something your pet has encountered could be harmful, it’s always safest to seek advice promptly.

If you need us, please contact Bishopton Vets Easingwold on 01347 821377.

Domino 5 years, Female

Domino is a shy and nervous girl to begin with. The centre doesn’t

Long-Tooth Tom had been loved by his previous owner, but a house move meant he could no longer stay due to a dog in the household. With no way to keep them safely separated, he came into our care. Despite such change at his age, Tom has handled it with dignity. He is friendly, affectionate, and enjoys companionship, warm laps and peaceful days. Tom is now looking for a kind home where he can feel safe and loved.

To adopt one of the dogs visit www.rspca-yorkhome.org. uk/adopt-an-animal or for the cats, visit www.cats.org.uk/ york#adopt-17600

BY CHARLIE GREENBANK

Have one of your elderly family members ever struggled to communicate in meetings, when dealing with agencies, or when submitting complaints? Have your older friends or relatives had trouble accessing the important benefits or services they’re entitled to? The crucial local charity OCAY (Older Citizens Advocacy York) has been helping the older members of our community to get their voices back for more than two decades.

OCAY offers advocacy for people in our community over the age of 50, but what does that actually mean? Their services help people to deal with complex issues they may struggle with, including applications for Personal Independence Payments, Attendance Allowance and Universal Credit, as well as resolving issues related to pensions or debt; in the 2023/24 period alone, the charity assisted in the creation of 56 Blue Badges for local people in need. Often, OCAY’s clients are overwhelmed with complicated paperwork, emails, calls and meetings, and their

volunteers lift this weight off their shoulders. In testament to how important OCAY’s services are, a client in 2023 said: “Brilliant. All done in one month. Helped to get rid of all my stress.”

Another client had been living on an income of just £73 per week, after their Disability Living Allowance was suddenly stopped and their Personal Independence Payment was rejected - after assessing the situation, a trained OCAY volunteer worked with the client to explain all of their options, and advise them on how they could increase their income. The volunteer advocate did not just give advice, but acted as a bridge from their client to other services, contacting benefit advisors at the Welfare Benefits Unit, the council, and many other agencies to help them access the income they deserved.

OCAY trains their volunteers and equips them with the skills they need to provide a helping hand. OCAY staff not only become their clients’ advocates, but also their friends, creating a lasting impact on the people they help. This is

shown in the determination their volunteers show to support local people and relieve stress. Things like filling out forms or applications, making crucial calls about housing, health, and their own social care are all covered by the advocates. Volunteers offer companionship too, through home visits, office appointments, or phone support to reduce loneliness.

They have helped and supported over 308 older people in York in the last 6 months, supporting more than 400 people a year on average! Visit www.

oldercitizensadvocacyyork.org.uk to find out more about OCAY, or www.oldercitizensadvocacyyork. org.uk/support-us/volunteer to sign up as a volunteer today.

EYES ON THE PRIZE: Are you a local charity? Are you seeking out prizes for raffles, giveaways, or charitable causes? Here at Your Local Link, we have prizes aplenty! Get in touch via info@yourlocallink.co.uk to find out more!

Chocolate Works care home, York

Culinary showcase

Friday 10th April, 3pm - 5pm

To celebrate our new dining experience, come along to our culinary showcase at Chocolate Works care home, hosted by Alex, our talented Head Chef, as he unveils an exciting new range of menus.

Falls prevention

Friday 24th April, 2pm - 3.30pm

Join us to hear advice on how to reduce the risk of falls in older age, from simple balance exercises to tips on how to fall-proof your home.

CALLING ALL DOG LOVERS

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People needs your help!

Have you ever wondered how a hearing dog alerts a deaf person to important life-saving sounds? Are you a dog lover keen to do your bit for local people living with hearing loss? You could make an ideal volunteer for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People!

First founded in 1982, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People is dedicated to transforming the lives of people with hearing loss by providing access to helpful hearing dogs and personalised hearing support services; in 2023-24 alone, the charity established 1,141 hearing dog partnerships, providing meaningful companionship and protection for those in need. If you’re a caring pooch lover who’d like to make a difference in your community, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People is currently on the lookout for new volunteers throughout York and the surrounding area who’d be willing to look after puppies and

dogs in their own homes, while they’re in training. Interested? On the 25th April, the charity will host Calling All Dog Lovers at Poppleton Tithe Barn, where you’ll get the chance to chat with the team, meet deaf people with their hearing dogs, and find out how you can do your bit. Enjoy a 45-minute charity dog walk along Poppleton Ings (the first 50 dogs will receive a doggy bag of treats!), followed by a cuppa, homemade cakes, a tombola, raffle, and plant stall in the barn. To top off the day, a hearing dog demonstration will show how these specially trained dogs alert their deaf partners to sounds in the home, such as smoke alarms, doorbells, alarm clocks, and baby monitors!

Visit www.hearingdogs.org.uk/ how-you-can-help/volunteer to sign up as a volunteer with Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. Visit p26 to find more details about Calling All Dog Lovers.

Spring Cleaning for Safety

Making the Home Easier and

As spring arrives and the days begin to feel lighter and warmer, many of us turn our attention to refreshing our homes. April is often associated with spring cleaning, opening windows, clearing out clutter and making living spaces feel brighter. For elderly people, this seasonal reset can also be a good opportunity to think about safety and comfort around the home. Over time, small changes in mobility, balance or eyesight can make everyday environments more challenging to navigate. Things that once felt routine, such as climbing the stairs, reaching into cupboards, or stepping into the garden, may require a little more care. A spring review of the home can help reduce risks and make daily life easier.

One of the most helpful steps is simply reducing clutter. Clear walkways, tidy floors and wellorganised storage can prevent trips and falls. It’s also worth checking lighting around the home; brighter bulbs in hallways, stairs and entrances can make a big difference, especially in the evenings.

Loose rugs and trailing cables are another common hazard. Securing these or removing them altogether can make moving around the home safer. In bathrooms and kitchens, non-slip mats and sturdy handrails

can provide extra confidence when standing, or moving between rooms.

Outdoor areas can also benefit from attention at this time of year. As gardens begin to grow again, ensuring paths are clear, steps are stable and outdoor lighting is working can help elderly people continue to enjoy fresh air and time outside.

For families, spring is a natural time to check in with loved ones and see how they are managing at home. Small adjustments made early can help someone maintain independence for longer, and avoid more serious problems later. A little time spent creating a safer home environment can bring lasting peace of mind for everyone involved.

About the Author

Ed Gill is Director of York’s only CQC Outstanding home care provider and has worked with dozens of care organisations across the country to develop person-centred care and support services.

BOOK YOUR PARTY TODAY!

Do you have personal experience of Children's Social Care Services, either as a parent or a supportive family member?

Could you draw on your own experience to help others navigate the Child Protection Process?

Could you empower other parents to speak up and be heard when they are at their most vulnerable?

Get in touch with the Volunteer Team today by emailing volunteer@york.gov.uk or call us on 07542 510430

“Absolutely

“Couldn't recommend enough!!! 5 STAR”

“Very professional and personable”

“Explained everything in plain English”

Ideas

Choosing the Right Tumble Dryer for Your Home

BY MATT TODD, FROM HERBERT TODD & SONS

As someone who’s been selling appliances to local families for years, I’m often asked, “Which tumble dryer should I go for?” In the UK, you’ll usually be choosing between heat pump, condenser, and vented dryers; each has its place, depending on your home and how you use your laundry space.

Heat pump dryers are the most energy-efficient of the bunch. They reuse warm air rather than constantly heating new air, which keeps running costs low. If you’re looking to save money long-term or you’re conscious about energy use, this is the one I’d point you towards. Just keep in mind these dry at slightly lower temperatures, so cycles can take a bit longer.

Condenser dryers are a great middle-ground. They don’t need an external vent, just an indoor space

with decent airflow. Moisture collects in a tank or drains away if you connect a hose. They’re ideal if you want flexibility in where the dryer goes, like a garage or utility room, without worrying about drilling holes in walls.

Vented dryers are the old faithfuls. They’re usually the cheapest upfront and dry clothes quickly, but they do need a vent hose leading outside. If you’ve already got a vent in place and want something simple and reliable, they’re still a solid choice.

Whichever you choose, look out for drum size, energy rating, and noise levels, especially if the dryer sits near living spaces.

We can help you match a model to the size of your household and where you plan to put it. Drop in to our store at Monks Cross, call us on 01904 628676, or email enquiry@htodd. co.uk.

Keeping Cool inside during Spring and Summer

After a cold, wet and windy start to the year, homeowners will be happy to turn off the heating and ease themselves into the warmer months. Now that Spring has started in earnest, it’s the perfect time to get ahead of the curve and start planning solutions to keep your homes and business places as cool as a cucumber during the summer!

As temperatures rise, buildings naturally retain heat, therefore, maintaining lower temperatures in your home and workplace becomes essential. Effective cooling has become more affordable, and having the option to choose a more comfortable indoor temperature can support your comfort, productivity and wellbeing. If you’re keen on keeping your indoor spaces consistently cool and energy-efficient throughout the hottest period of the year (whilst keeping bills low in the process), there are a plethora of options at your disposal.

Altherm is a local, family-run business with over 30 years’ experience, specialising in energy-efficient air conditioning installations in and around the

Take a look at Altherms 5-star reviews

York area. Supporting homes and businesses with dependable climate control all year round, Altherm offers both efficient heating in the colder months, and refreshing cooling as we move into summer. Tailored air conditioning solutions include energy-efficient Heat Pump Systems, which work by absorbing and redistributing indoor heat to keep spaces cool and comfortable. This trusted local company also offers a range of wall and floor-mounted air conditioning units, as well as ceiling cassettes, concealed ducted systems, underceiling units, and floor-standing units, to suit your requirements and purposes. These are all available in a range of colours to suit the design and aesthetic of your home or workplace.

Visit www.altherm.co.uk to see how Altherm can help you to keep your home cool this summer and warm in winter. Email info@ altherm.co.uk or call 01904 202888 to get in touch with the team today. Take a look at Altherms 5 star reviews.

Keep on Moving!

Boost your buying potential with Barratt Homes

Are you a prospective property shopper, keen on increasing your home-buying potential? Whether you’re an existing homeowner or a first-time buyer, you could significantly boost your purchasing power with Barratt Homes’ property offers…

Are you a key worker saving up to buy a new property? With Barratt Homes, you could receive a deposit contribution of up to £25,000, with £1000 contributed for every £20,000 spent on the purchase price of a brandnew Barratt home. Eligible key workers include NHS employees, educators, social workers, prison service workers, and local authority employees. Visit www. barratthomes.co.uk/offers/keyworker-deposit-contribution to see if you’re eligible, or to find out more!

DEPOSIT UNLOCK

Whether you’re buying a property for the first time or have already earned homeowner status, Barratt Homes could give you a significant leg-up via its Deposit Unlock scheme, which could enable you to purchase a selected new-build home with a deposit of just 5%! Visit www.barratthomes.co.uk/

offers/deposit-unlock for further details.

BANK OF FAMILY

In the current market climate, more prospective homeowners are dipping into ‘the bank of mum and dad’ to get on the property ladder. If you’re receiving financial support from friends and family, Barratt Homes could match it, up to a maximum value of 5% of the purchase price! Visit www. barratthomes.co.uk/offers/bankof-family to find out more. Visit www.barratthomes.co.uk to find out more about the wide range of schemes and offers available to homebuyers with Barratt Homes.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECT PLANNED

for Castle Mills

City of York Council’s executive has backed plans for the £33.8 million development of 93 affordable flats at a vacant city-centre site at Castle Mills on Piccadilly. The project will provide 56 homes for social rent and 37 for shared ownership, forming part of the wider Castle Gateway Masterplan, which includes green-lit improvements for the Clifford’s Tower area.

The updated Castle Mills proposal replaces a previous 106-apartment scheme, which was abandoned in 2023. New detailed designs and a planning application will now be prepared and submitted to Homes England, under the Social and Affordable Homes Programme (SAHP). The updated design will adapt the scheme for 100% fully affordable housing, which is sure to be welcome news for York residents and key workers seeking out viable low-cost accommodation in the heart of the city.

• Tree thinning

• Shaping and pruning

• Hedge shaping/trimming

Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing at City of York Council, said:

“High-quality, affordable and comfortable homes are essential for residents to thrive. It is our duty to provide suitable homes and communal facilities to eligible residents and to ensure inequalities such as high heating costs and poorer health are removed.”

Scan the QR code to find out more.

Reintroducing Runner Beans

BY GARDENING EXPERT

Tony Chalcraft

Runner beans used to be a mainstay of nearly every vegetable plot. Nowadays, while they’re still grown by many gardeners, their popularity seems to be waning. Perhaps runner beans don’t appeal to many home growers accustomed to supermarket French or green beans; after all, the runner, far less common in supermarkets even in its summer season, has a more robust flavour and texture than its more tender and delicate French cousin. Having said that, lots of supermarket French beans are tasteless and often limp after being airfreighted. But, I digress - there are other reasons runner beans may be a bit out of fashion…

Firstly, runner beans can be a bit of a bother to grow. Aside from some novelty exceptions, most types are climbers that need a structure to cling to. Traditionally, ‘bean poles’ were used, a byproduct of hazel and chestnut coppices. Most gardeners now use bamboo canes, while some repurpose wire fencing or similar. Regardless of

what support is used, it needs to be sturdy, especially when placed in a windy spot. Then, there’s the short cropping season.

Runner beans are frost tender, so can’t be safely up and ‘running’ before the end of May. This means a shortish picking time, mid-July to early October at best. Furthermore, reasons for runners’ fall from favour may include their tendency to dominate in today’s small plots, shading other crops if poorly sited, and the vulnerability of young plants to attack by slugs and wood pigeons.

By far the easiest way to grow runner beans is to plant out, rather than sow seed in the ground. Sowing in the soil is a lottery. It’s usually too cold before mid-May, and even after this, seed may rot if it’s wet. Plants are relatively easily bought in garden centres or online, but quality can be poor. Raising your own in pots is straightforward; a greenhouse is best, although a sunny windowsill will do. If only a

few plants are grown, a wigwamstyle cane framework is simplest. For bigger planting, canes crisscrossed over in a double line make better use of space. Once the beans are in the ground, there’s not much to do until the plants begin to flower.

From then on, keeping the plants well-watered and picked is key. Runner beans under drought stress tend to drop flowers, rather than form a bean. I always dig in plenty of compost or manure before planting to help retain moisture. Other than watering, the other secret of a good crop is frequent and thorough picking. Left unpicked, runners rapidly become tough, stringy and bulbous. This not only makes them unpalatable but also inhibits the formation of new flowers, thereby reducing yield. Kept well-picked, plants should produce

into September. Beyond this, it’s down to the weather. Even if there’s no frost by mid-October, plants will be tired and beginning to wither. There are a good number of runner bean varieties. Scarlet Emperor, from the 1890s, was beloved by my allotmenteering grandfather. Sadly, I think it’s now outclassed by newer types. In recent years, I’ve gone for Enorma, a strong grower that produces long beans. Another I occasionally have is the runner/ French bean cross, Firestorm. All these varieties have red flowers and carry green beans. There are some white-flowered varieties, for example Moonlight, and a few that are bi-coloured.

For more information on how to grow runner beans, the RHS webpage (www.rhs.org.uk/ vegetables/runner-beans/growyour-own) is a good place to start!

MAKE YOUR GARDEN GLOW THIS SPRING glow

Are

The best way to spice up your garden

and

gnomes, but with expressive shine. Want to get your garden ready for a late barby with friends and family, or impress your neighbours with beautiful bulbs?

Whether the colour theme of your garden is an electric blue or a mellow yellow, a touch of garden glow is the best way to show it. If you’re after a garden glow-up this spring, we’ve got your back! Check out our diverse selection of sleek and stylish garden lighting options… Paths, walls and patios are the perfect place to install some illumination. If you like lights that

complement your garden’s ambience, then beige or deep brown hues will brighten up your outdoor space with natural tones.

if you want to encourage birds to build nests, the best colour is a warm, welcoming amber, which won’t disturb wildlife. Pendant lights are best for patios and sheltered areas, keeping things stylish and practical. Outdoor decorators will love RGB colourchanging battery-powered glows, which will scutter around your green space like glowing chameleons!

If you liked the idea of phone app-controlled lights, then you will love the idea of projections, which allow you to project images onto any surface in your garden. With this, the options are endless; you can project a mini lightshow at the BBQ, or ignite conversation with some ambient glow across your patio, spread out across your fence. Whether you’re throwing a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply relaxing outside on a warm, quiet evening, projection lighting offers a fun and flexible way to completely change the look and feel of your garden.

Solar lighting offers a simple way to brighten your garden without the hassle of wires or increasing electricity costs. Powered by sunlight, these lights gather energy

throughout the day and switch on automatically as evening arrives. They can be placed along pathways, tucked beside flowerbeds, or used to softly highlight patios and decking areas. With designs ranging from subtle stake lights to decorative lantern styles, they combine both style and practicality in a way that suits almost any garden.

As spring brings longer days and milder evenings, it’s the ideal time to refresh your garden with some added light. A well-lit garden can completely change how the space feels once the sun goes down, turning it into a calm spot to unwind, or a lively place to gather with friends and family. Whether you enjoy soft lighting that gently guides the way, or something more eye-catching to brighten up your evening barbecue, the right lights can make a big difference. When the sun finally dips below the horizon and the grill is going, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy a garden that looks just as inviting at night as it does during the day!

FRIENDS OF WEST BANK PARK ARE SEEKING VOLUNTEERS!

Are you a keen gardener looking to get your hands dirty in York? Are you interested in doing your bit to maintain the upkeep of one of the best-loved, most-used recreational green spaces in our city?

Situated in the heart of Holgate, West Bank Park is a treasured public open space that was first converted into a park in the 1930s, and has been a jewel in York’s crown ever since. Home to bowling greens, children’s play areas, and mature woodland featuring both dawn redwoods and a giant redwood, the 20-acre West Bank Park is most notable for its beautiful stepped rose garden, and its iconic Grade II-listed statue of Queen Victoria, which was created in 1905 and previously housed at York Guildhall.

West Bank Park is one of four parks in York (and around 2,250 parks in the UK) to have been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award, which recognises the best-managed parks and green spaces across the world - the park has scooped a Green Flag Award every year, since 2006!

If you’d like to help support and maintain this cherished public space in York, you’ll be happy to learn that the Friends of West Bank Park are currently on the lookout for new volunteers to join their ranks! This group is committed to ensuring that the park remains a welcoming, family-friendly space, and has played a direct role in reducing vandalism and crime rates in the area since its establishment in 1993.

Friends of West Bank Park are seeking new members to assist with upkeep of the park, and by helping to organise and run regular events such as Christmas Carols in December, and a range of other happenings including live music performances, ‘Pizza in the Park’ days, and various family events and activities typically held during the school holidays. Volunteers are also currently needed to help run the park’s popular Summer Fair (taking place on 28 June this year), by litter picking, assisting with putting up and taking down signage, and directing traffic, amongst many other crucial roles!

West Bank Park also hosts two Council-led gardening groups, West Bank Wellies (meeting on the second Wednesday of each month from April to November), and a Rockery Maintenance group (meeting on the first Monday of

each month), both of which are open to new members who wish to help maintain West Bank Park and make sure that it continues to provide a welcoming, flourishing green space for generations of Yorkies to come.

If you’d like to do your bit at West Bank Park, get in touch by emailing friendsofwestbankpark@ gmail.com or messaging ‘Friends of West Bank Park’ on Facebook. Visit westbankpark.org/getinvolved/friends-of-westbankpark to find out more. Keep your eyes peeled for further details of upcoming Friends of West Bank Park events, including their Annual General Meeting, which is set to take place on 27 May.

EDEN CAMP MARCHES ON WITH NEW MANAGEMENT

Have you ever visited the popular local attraction York’s Chocolate Story, The Coronation Street Experience, or The Loch Ness Centre in Edinburgh?

What these successful tourist attractions have in common is that they are all maintained and owned by Continuum Attractions, which has now taken over stewardship of beloved local living history museum Eden Camp, hopefully for many generations to come…

Founded in 1985, Eden Camp features a historic POW camp, plus a collection of over 30

historic replicas, including the Submarine Spitfire, Hawker Hurricane, V1 Flying Bomb, Sherman M50, Mark VII Crocodile, and many more. In the words of Andrew Paulson, CEO of Continuum attractions: “We are thrilled to welcome Eden Camp into the Continuum family. Its authenticity, educational value and reputation as a much-loved visitor attraction make it a natural fit for us.”

Eden Camp is recognised as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Yorkshire, bringing in more than 125,000 guests

annually. The Italian and German prisoner of war (POW) camp is well known for its deeply engaging storytelling, providing a great way for visitors to experience the reality of what life was like in the Second World War. The historic POW camp is in good hands as Continuum Attractions invests time, money, and expertise into the venue, while also retaining the original look and feel of this historic site.

Visit www.edencamp.co.uk to see what’s on at Eden Camp and plan your next visit!

The Milner York reports sterling staff retention rate

The hospitality industry has long been associated with high turnover, but one iconic York hotel is bucking the trend… It’s estimated that the UK hospitality sector is currently experiencing a high average turnover rate of around 67%, and is continuing to grapple with challenges related to staff retention and staffing shortages. Despite the enduringly disruptive impact of excessive turnover rates in the industry as a whole, The Milner York is significantly outperforming its peers, with a higher-than-

average staff retention rate of 80% reported in 2025!

Originally completed in 1878, and opened as the Royal Station Hotel, The Milner York is one of the most visible and iconic hotels in the city, with a prime location next to York train station. Its successful track record in retaining staff has been achieved by creating a nurturing environment where employees feel they can stay, grow, and thrive, with a strong focus on training and development invested at every level of the business. Sarah Simpson, Cluster

Fabrication opens a FAB new shop in York

Award-winning social enterprise

Fabrication has expanded its York presence with a new shop at 10-12 Feasegate. Following successful ventures in Leeds and Stonegate, the collective has transformed two vacant units into a thriving artistic hub, creating more opportunities for artists in York to express themselves on canvas.

Fabrication has paved the way for our city’s diverse arts community to connect, sell their work, gain creative inspiration from other local artists and makers, and rent out studio space. The new Feasgate shop showcases a diverse collection

Business Diary

1 APRIL

PURE NETWORKING BREAKFAST AT THE MILNER YORK, The Milner York, YO24 1AA. 8.00-9.30am. Have a chinwag with fellow professionals over a scrumptious Full English at The Milner York’s The Swollen Gambler. Network over brekky! Visit www.york-professionals.co.uk/ pure-networking-breakfast-at-themilner-york7/ to book.

16 APRIL

NETWORKING YORK: FACE TO FACE NETWORKING, The Milner York, YO24 1AA. 9.30am-11.00am. Brought to you by In Business, this relaxed and informal networking event enables local businesspeople to meet and connect with likeminded folk at one of Yorkshire’s finest hotels. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/networking-york-face-toface-networking-at-the-milnerhotel-tickets-1977500670739 to book.

of works, ranging from fine art and sculptural pieces to jewellery, fashion, and ceramics, including exclusive works you won’t find for sale anywhere else. Due to the increase in space, larger works of art have been relocated to the new store, which will also be available for local art lovers to peruse and purchase.

Whether you're hunting for a one-of-a-kind gift or seeking fresh creative inspiration, the new Feasegate shop is a must-visit destination that captures the heart of York's maker culture. As well as nurturing the city’s arts community and providing a viable marketplace in which

Head of Reservations, Groups, Meetings and Events at The Milner York, said: “In the last few years, our efforts to solidify The Milner as an inclusive employer have really come into focus, and set us apart from the rest of the industry. Our people-first approach to leadership, weekly wellbeing walks, and structured training programmes from day one, all add up to create an environment where our people feel valued, supported and proud of where they work.” Visit www.themilneryork.com or call 01904 653681.

local makers can sell their work, the new store will also help to boost the local economy, as an example of a productive independent business located in the heart of town.

The new Fabrication shop is located at YO1 8SQ. Visit www. fabric-ation.co.uk/ to get in touch with the team or find out more and to see what's on offer at Fabrication!

16 APRIL

BUSINESS NETWORKING LUNCH, Revolution York, Coney Street, YO1 9NA. 12.00-2.00pm. Hosted by The Commerce Club, this regular in-person business lunch is a great opportunity to network, build valuable relationships and expand your business. Visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/business-networking-lunchby-bob-york-commerce-clubtickets-1982172899501? to book.

30 APRIL

BOWLING SOCIAL AT HOLLYWOOD BOWL, Hollywood Bowl York, YO32 9AF. 6.00pm-9.00pm. This fun business social offers York professionals the chance to meet and mingle with others over two games of ten-pin bowling, drinks, and supper! Visit www.yorkprofessionals.co.uk/bowling-socialat-hollywood-bowl1/ to book.

30 APRIL

YORK BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENT WITH THE PRESS & YORK ST JOHN UNIVERSITY, York St John University, YO31 7EX. 5.30pm7.30pm. This casual meetup enables local businessowners to network, share their ideas, and introduce themselves to representatives from The Press and York St John University. Visit www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/york-businessnetworking-event-with-the-pressand-york-st-john-universitytickets-1982884351473 to reserve a spot.

GADGETS OF THE MONTH

MARSHALL WILLEN II PORTABLE BLUETOOTH SPEAKER

£99.99 from Argos & Amazon

Big sound, small speaker. The Marshall Willen II delivers over 17 hours of portable playtime in a compact design built for life on the move. With Bluetooth connectivity, IP67 dust and waterproof protection, and a flexible rubber strap for attaching to bags or bikes, it’s music anywhere, anytime.

PLAUD NOTEPRO AI VOICE RECORDER

£169 from uk.plaud.ai

Meetings moving too fast to capture everything? The PLAUD NotePro records conversations with studio-grade audio and uses AI to turn them into structured notes, summaries and action points. Credit-card-sized and weighing just 30g, it records calls or in-person meetings and can capture multiple voices clearly from up to five metres away.

SCANSNAP IX2400 DOCUMENT SCANNER

£385 RRP from scansnapit.com

Paperwork piling up? The ScanSnap iX2400 makes digitising documents refreshingly simple. With one-touch scanning and speeds up to 40 pages per minute, it quickly converts receipts, letters and forms into searchable PDFs or editable files. Compact, USB-powered and easy to use, it’s a practical solution for keeping home or office paperwork organised.

CASO DESIGN JUICEFIT PRO SLOW JUICER

£199.99 from casodesign.co.uk

Fresh juice made simple. The JuiceFit Pro uses gentle 40-RPM slow-juicing technology to help preserve nutrients and flavour while extracting up to 30% more juice than conventional juicers. A large 130mm feed chute fits whole fruit and vegetables, while the quiet 250W motor makes it ideal for everyday healthy drinks at home.

HOMARK HANDHELD MINI MASSAGE GUN WITH 4 HEADS

£29.99 from therange.co.uk

Post-workout aches? This compact mini massage gun helps target tired muscles wherever you are. With four interchangeable heads and multiple vibration speeds, it’s designed to help ease muscle tension and stiffness. Lightweight, rechargeable and easy to use, it’s a handy recovery gadget for the gym bag or home workouts.

MOTORING

1 APRIL

AN EVENING WITH MIKE WILDS, The Motorist, LS25 6JE. 7.00pm. Join Formula One Grand Prix legend and World Sports Car Champion Mike Wilds for an illuminating evening exploring his extraordinary 60-year career. This special, free-entry event is held in association with The National Motor Museum. Visit www. themotorist.com/events/an-eveningwith-mike-wilds.

3-6 APRIL

MONSTER TRUCK MOTORFEST

NORTH YORKSHIRE, Pickering Showground, YO18 8EA. Various times. Experience a weekend of full-throttle family entertainment, where you can wonder at the mighty Slingshot Monster Truck, a daredevil motorbike display from Flyin Ryan, trials bike stunts by World Champion Steve Colley, and much more! Visit www.ramonsterevents.com/event/ monster-truck-motorfest-northyorkshire/ to book or find out more.

12 APRIL

NORTH YORKSHIRE CLASSIC TOUR, Starting at Easingwold Market Place, YO61 3AL. Timings TBA. Join York Motor Club’s Andrew Johnson and his team for a scenic tour, running approximately 100 miles through North Yorkshire. No club membership or competition license is required! Visit www.yorkmotorclub.org.uk.

APRIL MOTORING NEWS Hit the Road

BY CHARLIE

Electric Cars to provide Accessibility Lifeline

Do you or one of your family members rely on electrical devices to aid accessibility or facilitate necessary medical care? Worried about crucial equipment and appliances conking out in the event of a power cut?

The trial of a groundbreaking new EV project from Motability Operations is set to ensure that you

IS YOUR LICENSE PLATE L3G1T?

Are you the owner of a personalised plate?

WATCH OUT - your license plate could be at risk!

Last month, the DVLA rolled out a ban of over 400 2026 (‘26’) license plates, which could be deemed as rude or inappropriate. The ban includes license plates such as ‘GO26 HEL’ and ‘WA26 TED’, while many more have been outlawed for referencing wars (such as ‘GA26 WAR’), including the conflict in Gaza.

Do you think this ban is justified, or are personalised plates simply an extension of free speech?

If you’re thinking of investing in a personalised plate for your motor, check out the links below to avoid

falling foul of the law!

For more info on legal number plates, visit www.rac.co.uk/drive/ advice/legal/illegal-numberplates-all-you-need-to-know/ to find your personalised registration.

can continue to access essential electricity when you need it most. Launched this February, the Power Wheels project promises to keep medical and accessibility appliances (as well as essential household appliances) running by using EVs as temporary back-up generators; this is achieved by rerouting power from the EV into homes.

So far, Motability Operations has helped 12,500 people in the NorthEast with its Mobility Scheme, and plans to roll out the Power Wheels project to 12,500 customers are already underway…

Visit www.motability.co.uk for more information on the Motability Scheme, or to select an accessible EV to suit your requirements.

UNPREDICTABLE PRICES AT THE PUMP

In February, the petrol-paying public was pleased to find that prices had reached their lowest rate since July 2021, surpassing the low mid-pandemic average seen in 2022. In February, a barrel of oil cost on average around £60, and in March, had increased to an average of £100 per barrel. But what does this mean for you? At the time of writing the average price for petrol and diesel is 135p–139p per litre for unleaded petrol and 147p–155p per litre for diesel. In February, the prices were around 132p for unleaded and 142p for diesel. In a 55-litre tank, that is

an added £3.85 for unleaded and up to £5 for diesel!

You might be asking what is the reason for this sudden surge in oil prices? It’s a mix of global instability, unfolding wars and conflicts, and planned tax increases. So, maybe now is the best time to ditch the diesel and jump on the EV/Hybrid bandwagon. To track the price of oil in real time, visit oilprice.com

York’s LOCAL SPORTS

York City Football Club are firmly behind the National League’s growing 3UP campaign, as political pressure mounts for a third promotion place into the English Football League. Dozens of MPs recently gathered in Westminster in a rare show of cross-party unity, urging the EFL to align the National League with the rest of the professional pyramid. The campaign, backed by 93% of supporters has already sparked a national ‘Day of Action’, with 200 clubs kicking off at 3.03pm to highlight the current disparity. The momentum could hardly come at a more pivotal moment for the Minstermen. Sitting top of the National League, York City would stand to benefit directly from an additional automatic promotion place. Co-owner

If you are looking for friendly faces and fresh air, York’s social cycling club offers the perfect balance of miles and smiles. Open to a wide range of abilities, the club prides itself on being welcoming, supportive and above all, social. Every Sunday at 9am, riders roll out from Cycle Heaven on Hospital Fields Road for 30, 40, 50 or 60 mile routes. With different pacing groups available, there is something to suit a variety of speeds. A strict no-drop policy means no one is left behind, with riders tackling hills at their own pace and regrouping at the top. Weekend rides always end with a well-earned coffee and cake at The Cyclist café. The club is British

York City Football Club Foundation is proud to reintroduce its Female Pathway, alongside Business Belles and T1 Rugby, continuing its commitment to empowering women and young girls across the city. More than just football sessions, the Girls Player Pathway supports players aged 4 to 16 and open age with one clear mission: to help every girl become the very best version of herself, both on and off the pitch. While technical development is key, the focus goes far beyond football. The programme is designed to build confidence, resilience and self-belief in a safe and inspiring environment. The structured pathway provides clear progression at every stage, including City Wildcats, City Girls Development Centre, Emerging Talent Centre, Talent Academy and York City Ladies Development and First

Julie-Anne Uggla has voiced strong support, stating the campaign reflects the sentiment of every National League club and countless supporters. While the EFL has confirmed the issue will be formally discussed at next month’s all-club meetings, no vote has yet been scheduled. National League Chair Jack Pearce has welcomed talks and expressed hope that collaboration can finally deliver change. For York City, 3UP is more than a campaign - it could shape the club’s path back to the EFL.

Cycling affiliated, and runs regular skills and techniques sessions with accredited Level One coaches. Winter weeknight sessions take place at York Sport Village Cycle Circuit, while summer brings relaxed 20-mile social rides on quieter, flatter roads, often with a café stop included. No lycra is required, just a bike, helmet and a smile! For details about rides or membership, email yorkrouleurs@ gmail.com.

Team. It is a journey built on purpose, high standards and equal opportunity, ensuring every player has the chance to thrive. Alongside the pathway, Business Belles and T1 Rugby offer further opportunities for women to connect, compete and grow within a supportive community. To find out more about the Girls Pathway, email femalefootball@ yorkcityfcfoundation.co.uk. For Ladies Team trials, contact td.ycfcf@gmail.com. For Business Belles and T1 Rugby enquiries, email businessbelles.yorkcitylfc@ gmail.com.

York RLFC Foundation is inviting new participants to get involved in its growing Walking Rugby League programme. Sessions are open to both men and women and, while traditionally popular with those aged 50 and over, everyone is welcome. Following a successful trial in 2025, the Foundation secured support through Parkinson’s UK Physical Activity Grants Programme to continue sessions throughout 2026. The next session takes place on Friday 3rd April, from 1pm to 2pm at the LNER Community Stadium, with sessions continuing fortnightly

BY CORREY CONROY

thereafter. Sessions cost £4, payable on the day by cash or contactless. For more information contact Dawn Shore at inclusion@yorkrlfc. com or call 01904 670880 and ask for the Foundation team. If attending for the first time, please email in advance.

Workspace Upgrade

Investing in comfort can transform your working day. Here’s this month’s top pick for home office comfort.

BOULIES EP200

ERGONOMIC OFFICE CHAIR

£279.99 from boulies.co.uk

Designed for modern offices and home workspaces, the upgraded EP200 2026 features breathable mesh upholstery, a re-engineered cold-cured foam seat and expanded width for improved support. With adjustable lumbar support, headrest, multi-tilt recline and 3D armrests, it’s built for long working hours. Available in new nature-inspired colours, it blends ergonomic performance with contemporary style.

Butterfly

ARCHBISHOP OF YORK

Follow Stephen Cottrell, the 98th Archbishop of York, for regular updates from across the Church of England’s Northern Province. His social channels share reflections on faith, community and everyday life, alongside messages, events and insights from the Diocese of York and moments from his work and travels as Archbishop.

stephencottrell_aby stephencottrell_aby CottrellStephen

OCAY YORK

Follow Older Citizens Advocacy York to keep up with the work of this long-established local charity supporting older people across the city. Their channels share updates on events, volunteering opportunities and job vacancies, as well as insights into the advocacy work they do helping people understand services, speak up and make their voices heard. Each year, OCAY’s team provides free, independent support to hundreds of York residents.

OCAYork

oldercitizensadvocacyyork ocayyork

GOLD

Going for Cameo Engraving moves to Clifton Moor!

If you’re a member of a local sports team, club, or society, chances are that you’ll already be familiar with Cameo Engraving, which has been proudly serving York’s athletic community for nearly 80 years!

First established in 1948 and specialising in sports engraving services, Cameo Engraving is a long-established one-stop shop for schools, groups, and local sports clubs seeking personalised trophies, medals, and high-quality engraved accolades for their members.

After operating for more than three decades from its well-known site on Holgate Road, Cameo Engraving has now moved its main premises to Clifton Moor’s Kettlestring Lane. To enhance the overall experience for customers and provide a more efficient service, the new premises combines the showroom and workshop, with an expanded display area to showcase EVEN MORE trophies and awards, providing more choice for shoppers.

Cameo Engraving Owner, Alan

WHO TO FOLLOW ON SOCIAL MEDIA

HERBERT TODD & SON

Follow Herbert Todd & Son, a long-established family-run electrical retailer serving York and Harrogate since 1936. They share the latest appliance offers, product advice and kitchen design inspiration, along with updates from their showrooms and new tech releases from leading brands. It’s a great account to follow if you’re planning a kitchen upgrade, replacing appliances or simply looking for expert guidance from a trusted local team.

herberttodds

herbert_todd

WIGGINTON CAR BOOT

Car boot season returns in April, and Wigginton Car Boot is a firm favourite for weekend bargain hunters in York. Follow their Facebook page for updates on upcoming sale dates, start times and weather announcements. If you’re planning a visit, their socials are the best place to check whether the sale is going ahead and to keep up with everything happening at this busy local event.

Wigginton-CarbootSale-100057378404234

YOUR LOCAL LINK MAGAZINE

Do you follow us on social media yet? Our channels are a great way to stay up to date with everything happening across York between issues. We share the latest events, theatre shows, live music, local news, attraction updates and plenty of ideas for things to see and do around the city each week. locallinkyork yourlocallink

WHAT’S ON YORK GUIDE

Want to stay in the know about everything happening across the city? Follow our sister publication, What’s On York Guide, for the latest events, theatre shows, gigs and things to do around York. Their feed is packed with ideas for days out, places to eat, attractions to visit and plenty more - including the occasional tasty food review. whatsonyork

DO YOU HAVE A YORK BASED SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT?

Let us know and we may include it here in future editions. Email info@yourlocallink.co.uk.

Rudgard, said: “customers can buy online from our webshop, TrophiesPlus.co.uk, but we also feel it’s essential to offer our customers the chance to see the trophies and awards, and have a chat about what they’re looking for. Our website is great, but there is no substitute for picking up an award and having a good look at it, and seeing all the different options we can supply. We can also make suggestions for engraving, as well as answer any questions.”

The move to Kettlestring Lane ensures that Cameo Engraving will remain the go-to destination for trophies, medals, silver cups, and crystal awards in York. Cameo also provides engraving services for annual trophies, jewellery, and brass memorial plaques, along with specialised engraving on wood, metal, and glass.

Visit www.cameo-engraving.co.uk to find out more about the services offered by Cameo Engraving or get in touch with the team.

Tel: 01904 612788

www.trophiesplus.co.uk

SPS Plastering

•

•

ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

CJ Ramsay & Associates. 73

AERIALS

Dale Comm Aerials Ltd 78

Aerial Solutions 78

Creative AV Solutions 78

Smart Home Solutions 78

AIR CONDITIONING

Altherm 2

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Appliance Services 7

Aspire Repairs 78

Blackwell & Denton 44

Clyde Electrical 81

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Herbert Todd 45

Howdens 9

Watermark 47, 48

Bathology Ltd 49

Dream Doors 17

Instyle Kitchens & Windows 9

Kitchen Revive 15

York Bathrooms 6, 44

BLINDS

Blind Image 61

Blinds & Curtains By Mark 61

Blinds Valley 94

Inspired Blinds 47

BUILDING PLANS

I W Design & Building 5

PDA 61

BUILDING/PROPERTY

MAINTENANCE

L. Walton Building 79

Paul Bell Building & Joinery 79

RJ Hall Property 2

Justin Higginson 79

Ladderworks Property

Maintenance 79

Mill Build 49

Turners Developments 79

YKD Construction 2

CARE & MOBILITY

Radfield Home Care 59

Care UK - York 57

Minster Mobility 59

Mossdale Residance Care 56

Tanglewood healthcare 53

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY

CLEANING

Able Carpet Cleaning 80

Carpet Diem 79

Clifton Carpet Cleaning 80

CARPETS/FLOORING

Kings Carpets & Flooring 13

Allanson Flooring 61

Craig Pallister Flooring 9

Ebor Carpets 37

Fully Furnished 48, 61

CCTV

Smart Home Solutions 78

Ultra Fire & Security 83

CHARITIES

City of York Council - Youth

Support Service 58

York Against Cancer 11

CHILDRENS ACTIVITIES

First For Childcare 96

Rainbow Playgroup 58

The Reptile Roadshow 17, 58

CLEANING/IRONING

ADream Clean 80

Bubbles Inc 79

Pure Touch Cleaning York 2

CLUBS/GROUPS

Articulate Drama School 19

Slimming World 4

COMPUTERS/WEB DESIGN

Aldwark Computers 73

Atech Computers 73

Blueboot 73

CURTAINS/SOFT FURNISHINGS

Blinds & Curtains By Mark 61

DECORATORS

Alan Fawcett Painter 80

Brushstrokes York 80

C.K.W. Decorators 80

Chapple Painting 80

Comprehensive Decorative 80

Jeff Wright 80

K Walton Painting 80

Paul Masiak Decorators 80

S.P Essex Painter 80

Samantha Storr Painter 80

SDS Decorator 80

York Decorators 80

DRAINS

Drain Busters Yorkshire 61

DSS Drainage Solutions 7

EDUCATION/TUITION

Queen Ethelburgas 96

The York Group of Spiritualists 26

ELECTRICIANS

Barratt Electrical Services 80

D&S Electrical Services 81

MH Electrical 81

STN Electrical 81

Active Electrical Solutions 81

Court Electrical Services 81

GB Electrical 81

HC Engineering 84

J Building Services 81

Jamie Heard 81

Judge Electrical Ltd 81

Keith Brown Electrical 81

Martin Clancy 81

Nfinnerty Electrical Ltd 3, 48

OS Electrical 80

YKD Construction 2

ESTATE & LETTING AGENTS

Ponderosa Caravan Park 13

FASCIAS/SOFFITS

Plasti-Fit 82

Polyplas 82

FENCING

Dove Timber Ltd 63

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Pen-Life Associates Ltd 7

FIREPLACES/MULTI FUEL

STOVES

Focus Fireplaces 45

Stonehouse Fireplaces 15

FOOD & DRINK

Buongiorno Bistro 43

Delta Hotels by Marriott 43

FortyFive Vinyl Café 43

Goodness Growing UK 42

Middle Feast 43

The Indian Lounge 43

The Parvin 43

FUNERAL SERVICES

JG Fielder & Sons 59

FURNITURE RESTORATION

Classic Upholstery 9

GARAGE DOORS

Clic Garage Doors 44

Bardsey Garage Doors 49

First Garage Doors 82

Garolla Garage Doors 7

Hobman Garage Doors 82

GARDENING

Ace Tree Services 65

Country Gardens 70

Greenacres Tree Care 94

Ground Solution 48, 65

J B Groundwork Solutions 70

J Farrow 64

K&S Paving 67

Lewis Tree Surgery 64 LHF 67

Michael Readman 70

Safeway Driveways 71

TPC Landscapes 63

Vertigrow Limited 65

White Rose Gardening 67

Brock Around The Block 64

Buckton Homes 67

C&R Landscapes Ltd 79

Castle Tree & Landscape 64

Circle Gardening Services 65

FR landscaping Yorkshire 67

Future Landscapes 65

Groundwork UK 67

Gus Bishop Tree services 68

HPL Tree Surgeons 65 On the Fence 94

Orchard Nurseries 68

PD Groundworks & Resin 1, 69

Phoenix Garden Buildings 71

PiKture PerFic PaviNg 79

Rooted Garden 70

Royal Paving 68

Scarbattan Trees 49

South Bank Garden 67

The Green Man Of York 67

Tina’s Jet Wash Services 67

Universal Weed Control 71

White Rose Landscapes 71

York Garden Company 67, 94

York Gardens 68

York Greenhouses 67

York Groundwork Solutions 67

Yorkshire Fencing 71

GATES/RAILINGS

PVC UK 66

SR Fabrications 63

York Iron Works 9

GUTTERING

Guttering Of York 82

HANDYPEOPLE

York Flatpack & Handyman 82

Able Handyman Services 82

Can-Be-Asked 82

Housecraft Handyman 79

Milestone Property 82

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Beautycare 50

Clear & Hear 51

Clifton Park Hospital 51

Earwax Away 51

JOINERY

Duncan Littlechild 94

Inspired Joinery 49

Lewis Joinery 82

Matt Hodgson Joinery 82

Paul Meillam Joinery 82

Precision Joinery Services 82

LOCKS/SECURITY/ALARMS

Keep Safe 83

Afford a Lock 83

Dr Locks Ltd 83

GC Electronics 83

Laurel Bank Locksmiths 83

Towergate Locksmiths 83

York Locksmith Company 83

LOFT CONVERSIONS

Yorkshire Loft Ladders 17

MOTOR PARTS/SERVICES

Alderson Motors 74

Andy’s Autos 75

Barkers Garage 75

Birch Park Vehicle 75

Ivinson Autos Ltd 1, 96

JB Motors Malton 74

Auto Services 75

Class A Motor Service 75

Custom Auto Keys 75

Fulford Auto Services 75

OLC Autos 75

R S Auto Bodyshop 75

York Bodywork Repairs 75

OVEN CLEANING

Yorkshire Oven Cleaning 79

PEST CONTROL

Huntcatchkill 63

SLR Pest 70

Southbank Pest Control 64

The Pest Company 64

PLASTERING

JM Plastering 83

S.P.S Plastering 83

PLUMBING/HEATING

Colin Bell Plumbing 84

Hartleys Plumbing 85

J Robinson Plumbing 84

MT Plumbing Services 84

Nunthorpe Services 85

York Property Group 84

A1 Yorkshire Plumbing 84

All Cisterns Go 83

Angelical Heating & Gas 83

Connor Warren 83

DJC Plumbing 83

Fensome Plumbing 84

Gas Man Neil 85

GNT Heating 85

Haxby Plumbing 85

HC Engineering 84

Joe Dallin Gas Fitting 85, 94

John Hayton Plumbing 85

Kenson Gas Ltd 84

Plumbing & Heating by Jamie 85

Scorfield Plumbing 49

York Gas Engineering 84

POINTING

Nick Stannard Property 79

PRESSURE WASHING

Pro- Blast Jet Washing 64

PRINTING/DESIGN

Fulprint 5

PROPERTY SERVICES

Profix Projects 61

RECRUITMENT

Driver Hire York 9

REMOVALS/STORAGE

Ben’s House Clearances 86

DAW Storage Ltd 86

Hooks Removals 86

MWV Removals 86

Removals For You 86

White Rose House Clear 86

ROOFING

Advanced Roofing 88

All Aspects Roofing 87

FJ Roofing 87

Heworth Roofing 89

Roofcraft 86

Roofs Above 87

Safeway Roofing 91

Able Roofing 9, 87

Bastfix Roofing 85

DSR Roofing 91

Future Roofs 95

Highgate Roofing 89

J.A Roofing & Fascias 92

JC York Roofing 89

JDL Roofing Ltd 90

Malarkey

Jorvik Roofing Services 49 Kennedy Roofing 37

•

•

•

•

•

Audax Close, Clifton Moor, York, YO30 4XF www.firstforchildcare.com/first-for-childcare-york TEL: 01904 479261 Email: York@firstforchildcare.com