Category: Columns

Time:  3 hours  Distance: 6 miles This walk around the southern fringes of the city includes a nationally significant nature reserve, two suburban villages, a stretch of the National Cycle Network, and a length of riverside. Is This Walk For Me? This is an easy and almost entirely flat walk. Most of the route is […]

“I have recently moved into a house with a large oak tree in the garden. Neighbours warn us that acorns are toxic to both my dogs and our handful of rare breed sheep in the paddock – should I be concerned?” Michael, Askham Richard Hello Michael, Yes! Acorns are indeed poisonous to dogs, livestock and […]

 While the festive period is all about friends and family, it’s also a great time to rest, recharge, and treat yourself! If you’re thinking of starting a new health and beauty regime for the new year, or are simply after a Christmas glow-up, check out these festive essentials:   Oriflame ALL OR NOTHING Amplified Parfum, […]

From 7th November: THE RUNNING MAN: This revamp of the cult 1987 Schwarzenegger vehicle (itself an adaptation of a 1982 Stephen King novel) stars Glen Powell as an unwilling contestant in a murderous, dystopian game show, overseen by evil producer Josh Brolin. Written, produced and directed by Edgar Wright (of ‘Shaun of the Dead’, ‘Hot Fuzz’ […]

 First founded in 1988, York Wheels is a much-loved local charity that provides a crucial, caring service to residents in need. Working from 8.00am to 4.00pm on Mondays to Fridays, York Wheels is dedicated to helping the most vulnerable in our community get out and about, with friendly, DBS-checked volunteer drivers providing a cost-effective alternative […]

As we enter the Autumn season, there is simply nothing better than walking into a cosy country pub with a roaring fire and lovely low lights to set the tone. Situated around 10 miles from York in the beautiful village of Stillington, The Bay Tree is a picturesque country pub that ticks all the autumnal […]

From indulgent treats and Christmas tipples to artisan nibbles and gourmet gifts, this year’s Food & Drink Gift Guide has something for every festive table. Whether you’re spoiling a foodie friend or stocking up for the big day, these delicious discoveries guarantee a taste of Christmas magic. Panettone al Limoncello, £29.95 from Carluccios.  Enjoy an […]

From clever desk gadgets and quirky collectables to stress-busting fidgets and fun office must-haves, this month’s ExecuTOY picks prove work can be just as playful as it is productive. Whether you’re shopping for a Secret Santa or brightening your workspace, these smart little finds bring the joy back to your desk. 3Doodler Start+ 3D Printing […]

Dear Daphne,My partner insists on narrating everything he’s doing out loud, from cooking to cleaning to putting his shoes on. It’s like living with a one-man podcast all the time. How do I make him stop before I lose my mind?!Laura, Clifton. Dear Laura,Ah, the domestic commentator. Every home has one, and sadly they don’t […]

You may recognise the household name of Age UK, but did you realise that they’ve had their own independent, local charity in York for over 50 years? Age UK York supports our communities each day by providing a range of services, speaking up on behalf of older people, and running four high street charity shops, […]

Supporting Elderly People with a Military Background November is a time of reflection. Across York and the surrounding villages, communities pause to remember those who have served in the armed forces. For elderly people with a military background, this can be a particularly emotional time — one that brings memories, both proud and painful, to […]

Protecting plants from frost damage As the temperature drops and we edge closer to winter, it’s time for gardeners to start considering how they’ll protect their plants from impending frost. November is the month in which frost usually begins to rear its head, with often disastrous consequences for a wide range of plants, from evergreens […]

Step aside, socks and scented candles! This year’s gadgets bring together style and substance — from smartwatches and studio-quality earbuds to home tech and design-led essentials that make everyday life a little smarter. Edifier ES20 Portable Bluetooth Speaker, £49.99 from amazon.co.uk. Bring the sound wherever you go with this stylish, compact Bluetooth speaker from Edifier. […]

Traditionally, autumn has been a time for gardeners to cut back, tidy, clear, and prepare their green spaces for the upcoming winter chill, however, with a little care and consideration, our gardens can become a veritable haven for wildlife at this time of year.  One of the easiest ways to help wildlife thrive over autumn […]

Aries  (March 21 – April 19) After a fast-paced start to the year, November could be a good time to step back, take a well-deserved rest, and put any pressing matters on pause – if 2025 has been a sprint so far, now’s the time to reduce your speed! To help you get used to […]