Category: Columns

Conversations about care are a sensitive topic that requires careful consideration. If you have ageing parents, grandparents, or other relatives, you may have broached it before and certainly won’t be alone if you were faced with reluctance. A common and understandable concern is a loss of independence. However, introducing occasional support early-on can help manage […]

Every so often a particular vegetable gets talked up in gardening and cooking magazines and websites. Black Tuscan kale, or Nero di Toscana in Italian, was all the rage recently. Such was the hype that it’s now found on supermarket shelves and veg plots where the gardener is a bit avant-garde. If you’re not a […]

Hello March… The start of 2024 has flown by, and the summer season is fast approaching. This year one of the questions we have frequently been asked is where to consider for a milder summer break— where the temperature is likely to be closer to the comfortable mid–late 20s and less scorching hot. This month […]

The cost-of-living crisis does not appear to be going away any time soon so what can Todd’s do to help if one of your appliances fails and leaves you in the lurch? New appliances are extremely good value these days but, depending on the age of your old washer, cooker, or fridge freezer, it’s always […]

Strong build quality has always been associated with Honda and the same is certainly true of the new Civic, which I do enjoy driving. Low to the ground, the two-litre injection eHev sports hatchback is nicely responsive. Although naught-to-sixty is achieved in a shade under eight seconds, it feels so much faster thanks to being […]

This semi-urban walk weaves its way from the city centre to Holgate before passing a preserved windmill to reach West Bank Park. It then heads over the lesser-known part of Micklegate Stray, Hob Moor, to reach the stray’s more frequented expanse, the Knavesmire. Skirting the racecourse complex, it reaches the river —which is crossed on […]

STAR SIGN OF THE MONTH: PISCES 19th Feb – 20th Mar. A curious month. Do you try something new or do your play it safe and work hard at preserving the status quo? On an entirely different level, do you undertake a journey (and I mean a physical journey here) or stay put and save […]

Featuring relegation six-pointers and a dispute between the York City Supporters Trust and Cleveland Police, here’s all your latest on the Minstermen. At the time of publication, York City F.C. sit comfortably in 18th place in the National League, two points away from the relegation zone, a gap that could stretch to eight if the […]

Usually, I’d go for a monthly theme, but in the spirit of February and trying new things (indoors) while the weather’s still awful, I thought I’d give you a selection of four books, from four different genres. That way you’re more likely to find the book for you. No pressure… Timecode of a Face by Ruth […]

By Motoring Expert Tim Saunders I’m a great fan of hybrids. So, naturally I like the Nissan Juke SUV. With today’s inflated fuel prices not helped by Saudi Arabia and Russia cutting back on production – it’s just like living in the 1970s I am told – the need for efficient vehicles has never been […]

In December 2023 we headed out to Marrakech for a short break. We wanted to see how the city had recovered from the devastating earthquake that hit some areas in the city as well as the Atlas Mountain villages, just three months earlier. Incredibly we took a flight from Manchester direct to Marrakech (taking just […]

This month we have put together a his and hers fashion collection. Make a statement together and elevate your wardrobe with an elegant, timeless style that also has a touch of comfort. 1. Cher CZ Heart & Rope Chain Gold Plated Necklace, £65 from Oliver Bonas | 2. Michelle Keegan – Mesh Insert Knitted Long […]

Cultivating vegetables in beds is a relatively new trend. You might call it a fashion— perhaps prompted by gardening makeover programmes on TV where any vegetables grown are invariably plonked into newly constructed and expensive-looking beds. But the elaborate edifices I’ve come across over the years have appeared more as architectural and artistic wonders, than […]

With February upon us, we all need a fun gadget to keep us from going stir-crazy during the long wait for the return of warmer weather. We’ve got the full range, from innovative workplace timesavers to relaxing massagers— read on and take your pick! TOZO S3 Smart Watch, £49.99 from amazon.co.uk  This affordably priced smartwatch (with […]

It’s been very busy in the store this January with the bargain hunters, and customers looking to replace broken products, in equal measure. The sales activity may be coming to an end, but you still have until the end of the month to grab a bargain! After that, don’t forget that we are part of […]