Category: Columns

By Ben Robinson This month, I offer you some brilliant books from the horror genre. It is a category of book I don’t often delve into, but I have read some fantastic horror novels as of late, which were too good not to share; these range from classics to new releases. Just a word of warning before you start: you may need […]

Dies Caniculares These may be Dog Days but lately seem like Cat Days or Lack-Of-Cat days, no kitty pawing briefly un-minded dinners, scraping away carpet, mewling to come in, go out, come in, eat….. ….and of course no cat owner, moved cat and caboodle back across the Pond, to languish in front of American TV […]

My Furry Driffield Friend? By Robin Lewis-Light          “We might just be… friends,” I said, and the editor looked at me.          “That’s… that’s…” he said, before pausing. “A completely new approach.” He looked at me again, up and down. “It’s good. I’ll be telling that one in the thermopolium later,” he said. I smiled. […]

By Matt Todd Ah, the British bathroom – once a humble space for a quick scrub, and the occasional existential crisis during a morning shave. But, times have changed, my friends! We’re in the golden age of the fancy bog, where even your toilet roll holder might have a degree in interior design. So, brace yourself […]

By Tony Chalcraft Mid-summer may seem a strange time to talk about turnips, but late July or early August is perfect for sowing this under-appreciated vegetable. Before saying more, let’s be clear about the type of turnip in question: I’m talking about the ‘true’ turnip, not the swede (sometimes also called a turnip in northern […]

Need a new hobby? Feel like re-engaging with a past passion? York is awash with friendly groups and clubs that cater to every activity and interest – check out our selection of the best local clubs to join this August…   CITY OF YORK PIPE BAND Would you like to learn the bagpipes or drums, […]

I’ve read about a cat that nearly died after their owner accidentally used a counterfeit flea treatment. Is this something I should be worried about?  Bryony, Haxby. Hi Bryony, Unfortunately, we can confirm that this story is true, as validated by the Intellectual Property Office and the Veterinary Medicine Directorate (VMD), who are both urging […]

Don’t miss these top picks! They’re all must-haves for a summer in York. MEATER Smart Bluetooth Meat Thermometer, £63 from amazon. Anyone planning to invite people round for a BBQ this summer needs one of these. MEATER connects to a free app that guides you through each step, making it easy for anyone to cook […]

To Liz By Robin Lewis-Light “It’s a very simple game,” said Lisa, my girlfriend. “Here is a map of York, with some instructions.”          I nodded. I was a new arrival to York and she had lived here most of her life. She wanted me to get to know York better, and this was her […]

By Mim Williams Newly-opened and nestled away in a Huntington alley, Elephant’s Feast is one of the first Sri Lankan eateries in the York area.  Providing a wide-ranging menu for both lunch and dinner service, Elephant’s Feast is a great place to sample authentic, tried and tested Ceylon classics like Kottu (a famous local dish of […]

By Tony Chalcraft Homegrown, juicy, sweet fresh berries are one of the highlights of the summer. Many gardeners grow strawberries, raspberries and blueberries. Some may cultivate blackcurrants, gooseberries and redcurrants, berries that are now a bit out of fashion. Fewer may grow tayberries and loganberries, and a handful boysenberries, jostaberries, tummelberries, wineberries and youngberries, to […]

By Mim Williams When it comes to eateries, York residents are truly spoilt for choice. In the past couple of years, we’ve seen more restaurants popping up around town, and the Old Liquor Store is one of the best!   Located just outside the city centre in the restored Grade II listed Terry’s Chocolate Factory, […]

By Dane Di Comun Williams When we were invited to check out the York Witches and History Tour, we knew we’d be in for a wicked treat indeed, and we weren’t disappointed! This spellbinding walking tour offers an all-encompassing 70-minute journey through York’s rich tapestry of witchcraft, folklore, and historical intrigue. We met with our […]

This July, we’re proud to introduce an award-winning local charity that’s taken great strides towards boosting community spirit and wellbeing in the York area and beyond. First established in 2018, Move the Masses is dedicated to helping the most vulnerable people in our community to socialise, stay active, and get out and about. Its renowned […]

By Ed Gill Summer holidays are a time many families look forward to—whether it’s a trip abroad, a UK staycation, or simply enjoying time off work. But for those who care for an elderly loved one, holidays can bring added worry: Who will check in? Will routines be disrupted? How can we make sure our […]