Your letters

Just love the 2008 highlights.
Angie

Could you forward the snow scene photos to me via. e-mail?, I thought they were just wonderful.
Many thanks and congratulations of the wonderful website, Florence tells me I know more about what is happening in Bishop Monkton than she does.
Dorothy Bowes, Australia
Editor's note: I'll be glad to forward the pictures. Actually, we'd prefer a little Australian sunshine just now!

I would just like to thank everyone who helped make the Friends of School Christmas Fair the success it was today. Particuarly to the 'team' who worked so hard to put it together, including our men who did a fantasic job in the kitchen!!!...and of course we were grateful that Santa himself found time to pop in at this very busy time of year. It was great to have such good support from the village. The proceeds will go towards a much needed interactive white board for Class 1.

Regarding the postcard showing the vicars at Bishop Monkton until 1929. The Rev. John Woods came to Bishop Monkton from Bramhope and my Mother accompanied him and his wife to the village, eventually marrying my Father, William Bowes and in 1928 I was born and in 1930 my brother Edwin (Eddie).
Mrs. Woods was my Godmother and Vicar Woods was Edwin's Godfather.
Later Vicar Woods moved to the Parish at Easby.
Perhaps these details may be of interest to the gentleman who sent these photographs.

As many of you may well know I am no longer resident organist at St John’s and I feel it only right to dedicate a few words to you all. I did not anticipate leaving so soon and am sorry not to be with you all at Christmas.
It was Jane Pettitt, to whom I shall forever be grateful , who asked me to audition for the organists job at St John’s. Paul and Ann Wilkinson, with whom I had the most wonderful working and personal relationship, heard my audition and it wasn’t long before I was seated on the organ stool. The organ is one of my favourites in the Deanery and I will sorely miss it as I will everyone at the Church.
It was a sad day when I had to resign, however around that time I was promoted to CBI Regional Director for Yorkshire & the Humber, so pressures of business would have taken over anyway.
I was warmly welcomed into the village in the beginning, particularly by Jane and Stuart Newsome, and Steve and Emma Oates to whose children I later became Godfather - a very special day for me – and Judy Hague (who has been a stalwart friend and adviser) and formed a very good relationship with John and Pauline Chick and was sad when they moved to Harrogate and, of course, the Pettitts.
I later became Chair of the PCC following in the footsteps of Shirley Behrens and John Chick both of whom were a hard to act follow. The PCC is served well and Jen Barker’s unrelenting work around the new extension has been remarkable.
The highlight of my time was the fantastic concert on 22nd September 2007 to say a sad and fond farewell to Ann and Paul, a unique evening enjoyed by everyone with an original play written by Emma Oates and my fanfare composed on their names and incorporating the James Bond theme.
Even though they have gone I am in touch with them on a regular basis and am looking forward to staying with them at their home early in the New Year.
It was such a joy choosing hymns and music which you all enjoyed. I can’t remember when the choir was formed but it has added to the worship and spirituality of the church and I wish it well. It was great fun with the ladies particularly Margaret Beer, Judy, Emma, Jen Barker, Jean Wade, Maggie Wood and the strong team of men led by John Eden.
This leads me to say a very big thank you to the community of Bishop Monkton for your generosity of spirit and kindness you will see me around the place from time to time but sadly not on the organ stool.
Very best regards and a fond farewell,
Andrew Palmer

Many months ago there was information on the Bishop Monkton website regarding the proposed developments on Knaresborough Road (Ref RL117) and Lawnfield Drive (Ref RL134) and that Harrogate Council were looking into the planning applications. I just wondered if anything has happened since?
Caroline
4 Fontein Terrace
Bishop Monkton

Autumn Auction: A very big THANK YOU to everybody who contributed auction items, those who helped on the night,and everybody who attended and dug deep! Also to those who coudn`t attend but made donations to make the Autumn Auction a BIG success.
Sincere thanks to Carol and Trevor for their hospitality.

I would just like to say how much i enjoyed my lunch with my grandchildren, Thomas and Jack Shervington, at the village school on September 1. A good chance to see the meals provided which were very good. Also eaten with great gusto!
The children were very helpful and polite. I thought the idea was very good. Thank you for the invitation.
Pat (Nanna ) Johnson.
York

A very big thank you for the work you do. First, thank you for mentioning my Flower Arranging classes, and second - the photograph you've put on the web site of Val is smashing. It was a lovely evening - just what this village is about.
Best wishes,
Susan Stead

I would like to thank all the people who came to the Village Hall last Friday for the party. I was overwhelmed by the reception when I arrived. It was wonderful to see friends from all the decades of my life in Bishop Monkton and I apologise if I did not get round to speak to you all.
I should also like to say a big thank you to the Entertainments Group for organising it and, in particular, to David and Rory Richold and to John Hague for all the hard work they put in and to everybody who provided the sumptuous spread.
It was wonderful to have so many of my family there to share the experience.
I have been very touched by all the lovely cards, messages and gifts especially the beauiful picture.
As a family, we leave behind three generations of marvellous memories.
Don't forget - if you ever need a bed in London, call me on 07939 089452 or write to 'The Mousehole', 4 East Avenue, Walthamstow, London E17 9NG.
You know me - I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it! Don't wait to be asked.
Thank you so much and best wishes for the future.
Val

I was sorry to hear that Barry Hymas had died. We were good friends when young and some of our simple pleasures were throwing stones into the mill pond or a ball over the cottage roofs or counting cars on the Harrogate road !
We liked riding our bikes to Dishforth to watch bombers taking off and often cycled to Pateley Bridge -just for the ride.
He was a lovely country man with a heart of gold.

A massive THANK YOU to everyone who helped with and attended the Duck Race organised by the Mason's Arms on August Bank Holiday Monday.
An army of parents, children and village friends baked cakes, organised prizes and gave unstintingly of their time and effort to raise £375 for the village's charity pre-school Puddleducks.
Without this sort of generosity the village's youngest children would not be able to benefit from new resources, activities and opportunities each term.
Special thanks must go to Nikki, Matt and Martha of the Mason's Arms who put a great deal of effort into arranging this event.
Many thanks again to you all and your continued help and support.

I am sorry to learn of the death of Barry Hymas. I have known Barry for very many years and he was always a quiet and likeable lad in our youth, who mixed well with the boys and joined in the fun we had in our early days.
Circumstances have been such that I have not been able to see him for some time now, but I shall remember him with pleasure.

I would like to say a big thank you to friends and neighbours for their help and concern during Tony's recent stay in hospital and ongoing recovery at home. We are seeing some improvement every day.

Denise Illingworth
Hazel Cottage,
Hungate
Bishop Monkton

GOOD NEWS AND BAD NEWS:
It's fabulous that the Entertainments Group shall carry on! I have the best memories of sharing a stage with Bishop Monkton's finest talents in 1999.
BAD NEWS: My late brother's nephews, Bob and Mike Bryan, did poorly at Wimbledon this year. Let's hope next year, the bounce is back.

I thought that some villagers may remember Dorothy Thompson (nee'Kench). I have just learned that Dorothy passed away in Christchurch, New Zealand, on June 14, She was 88 years old.
During WW2 she was in the WAAF's and left the Bishop Monkton area to go to NZ in the 1950's, with her husband Stan (now deceased) and her children.

We visited your village on the day of your Bank Holiday fair. We were staying at Mr/s Slater's farm cottage. What a lovely time we had too! The tea and cakes were gorgeous and we did very well and won three of your prizes...two for flat cap throwing and the treasure hunt!
We found out abour the fair from your website before we arrived and decided it should be good fun. It was. Thank you!
Also I must mention the wonderful meal we had at The Masons Arms, definately worth the visit.
Hope to visit again in the future !
Louise, Edward and Katie and Chris and Ralph

I was sorry to read that Mary Curtis had died. Whilst I was growing up she and her sisters lived in Anchor House. Her sister Dolly delivered papers and during the war also the mail, and Alice along with Mary used to travel on the same bus as I did to work in Harrogate.
On the few occasions I have visited Bishop Monkton during past years I always asked my sister-in-law, Florence, to take me down to see Mary and she always made me very welcome. I feel sure that she had a very long and fruitful life and will be missed by many.

It is good to see your Webmaster displaying the deaths of local people, and I join others in expressing sadness at the two recent Monktoners who have passed on, as I knew them both so well.
For my part, the obituaries section is always second only to the front page when I read any paper nowadays.

Re: Masons Arms
Hi
We are hoping to change our premise's licence for the Masons Arms shortly and thought it might be helpful to let people know the sort of things we have in mind.
We would like to add live music, facilities for dancing and entertainment to the licence.
The main aim for this would be so that we could have some live background music for people eating meals or if we hold a theme night – for example a 40s evening with someone who could sing or play music from the era. It would be nice to be able to allow dancing if anyone wanted to hold a birthday party or perhaps a dance display such as Morris dancing during the summer. We have also thought of inviting a local Yorkshire dialect poet to read his work.
Although we would be asking for these additions to be put on the licence we have no intention of using it every night but would save us applying for temporary event notices. We do not intend to play loud music into the early hours which would spoil the atmosphere of the village.
If anyone would like to express their views on our plans or ask further questions please call in any time (ring the doorbell if we aren’t open) or phone us on 676631 – ask for Niki.
We would also like to thank everyone for making us feel so welcome and being patient whilst we have been going through the repairs and getting the food up and running.
Niki, Matt and Martha

May we, my wife, her sister in Rochester, New York, and I, extend to you our sincerest appreciation for all the effort you have expended in research and planning for this commemorative plaque. And also to Keith Whitfield, a very heartfelt "thank you."
I know that over the years we have felt a bond between your village and ourselves because of that crash. We feel that this bond will be even stronger as a result of this most touching gesture.
Kindest regards,
Mac Wilson,
Barrie, ON, Canada

We are very sorry to hear of the death of Miss Mary Curtis. She was our neighbour for 40 years and will be greatly missed. We should always remember the older residents of Bishop Monkton.

Letter to the Parish Council:

Thank you very much for your letter which I much appreciate and it warms the cockles of an old man's heart!
I would like to thank the Council for their very kind words and I am glad that the day (of the unveiling of the memorial to the 1944 crash victims) went so well. I think those who attended, and who were living in the village in 1944, felt a little 'choked up' as indeed I did at times.
To me, it was also good to see many old friends, some of whom I have not seen for over 50 years and still recognised most of them!
Best wishes to all.
Keith Whitfield

Could anyone shed a light on what road works are going to happen on Knaresborough road in the near future? I am just thinking ahead of how we get to work and where the diversions will be.

Editor's note: You're not the only one perplexed. See
item in our news columns.

I'm sorry to read of the cancellation of the Produce Show as it used to be a very popular event, especially with the allotment holders.
I would however like to correct one point mentioned in the article about the 1942 show. Mrs E E Nutter, my grandmother, was not president of the WI until after the war; she followed Katie Dransfield, Rodney Wilson's grandmother!
Unless my memory is fading, the president of the WI for the war-time years was Mrs Morton of Southlands Farm, and later Orchard House, opposite the Mason's Arms. She was ably aided by Polly Bellerby as treasurer, and Ann Chisem as secretary.
I like to keep history correct!

Concerning commemorative plaque re Halifax bomber crash, would either Mr. Houseman or Mr.Whitfield please e-mail me. My wife's uncle, Hugh Wallace, was navigator on the bomber. We can give some background on the crew, training and our visit to the crash site in '79.And we wish most certainly to express our thanks for such a kind gesture of remembrance.

Gillian Peacock's letter is most welcome and it is a great pity that her father-in-law could not have been with us on Wednesday. It was a brave man to work in such close proximity to a burning aircraft laden with fuel and ammunition. The late John Willie Slater, Peter's father, also helped to dampen down the haystack fire the following morning. Good men all.

I was interested to hear the piece on BBC Radio York about your service today at Bishop Monkton as we did the same thing in Stillingfleet on Valentine's Day. We, too, lost a Halifax bomber with all seven crew, just on the edge of our village in 1943.
Our local history group decided that there should be a plaque to commemorate this tragedy as nobody knew the names of the young men who died. I enclose a copy of our service sheet and a copy of a newspaper cutting.
I hope your service went well and was as moving and memorable as ours.
Yvonne Clarke Stillingfleet Chroniclers Stillingfleet York

My father-in-law, Mr. Harold Peacock, a resident in Roecliffe, was a volunteer firefighter who attended the fire with the second crew when the Halifax bomber crashed near Bishop Monkton in April, 1944.
The aircraft was loaded and there were many bullets going off. A haystack was alight at the side of the plane. He used a hay spade to chop the fire up. No one else knew how to use a hay spade, but because he was an agricultural farm worker he was used to hard work and got the job done.
He was sorry to miss Wednesday's ceremony, but at least is able to give you a little more detail by way of this e-mail.

We are coming to the end of the remodelling of the driveway at our house and we would like to thank the residents of Elm Tree Rise and other neighbours for their patience, help and forebearance during the eight weeks of building work.
Its not easy in a narrow cul-de-sac when there are builders vans and delivery trucks causing traffic problems in addition to the noise and dirt, but all of our neighbours have been brilliant throughout.
Thank you.

Once again you have excelled yourself with your April Fool spoof.
When will the Irish invasion take place ? Irish dancing in the village would be very exciting, and how about a Blarney Stone probably under a beck bridge ?
Edna Steele.

HELLO EVERYONE!!!!!
It's Liam here. I was just looking around the site and things to see what's happning in Bishop Monkton. Congrats to all the cast of the Wizard of Oz. I'm sad I wasn't there to see it. I was also just in a recent production of the Wizard of Oz at a place called KVPAC which is where I do theatre. Im now in 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' and I play Charlie. Well thanks for reading what I've written (if you did).
Right now I have a craving for some fish and chips.
Bye everyone,
Love, Liam

The issue of dog mess needs to be raised again sadly. I last made comment on this a year ago where regularly dog mess was evident on Main Street, particularly at the Mason's Arms end.
However such irresponsible dog owners are now taking their dogs up Ings Lane to do their business presumably in the hope that they are not seen. May I suggest that a DSCCTV system should be installed (I think you can work what the "DS" means). Dog owners PLEASE be more responsible in future.

Just like to say a massive THANK YOU to all those in the village who have helped and supported me over the last few weeks of illness; taking my son to and from school, shopping and generally making housebound life more bearable for a usually active person! I won't embarrass you in public - you know who you are. Its these times that remind us what a supportive and caring village community we have. Thank you again.

I have just received a flyer from a clothing collection company and am worried about the impact these collections will have on our blue bags to school collection.
Blue Bags for School is based locally in Northallerton the collection benefits third world countries but more importantly earns Friends of Bishop Monkton School £350 per year.
People do like to put clothing in the Charity bags we understand and would not want to discourage that. but I wonder if we could perhaps put something on the site to discourage people from giving to clothing collection companies. If people are struggling to store clothing we can help.
Angie Archbold

With respect to the proposed housing development on the playing field site, as I understand it Harrogate Council propose that thirteen affordable houses are developed here. In my opinion this is wrong for several reasons: Affordable houses are required in this village but not in the numbers proposed. They should be integrated within the existing built up areas for the benefit of the whole village community so as not to create an "affordable housing stigmatised" area on the edge of the village which has no obvious physical or community relationship with the rest of the village. The playing field site is high profile in its location on the entrance to the village. By the nature of affordable housing and the regulated manner in which they are sold to housing associations, there is no way that a housing developer can create an attractive development of affordable homes that befits this important area. They will be bland and architecturally uninspiring and ruin this currently attractive access to the village. When we moved to the village nearly 10 years ago, we were aware and accepted that the site would be built upon. I feel let down that the owners, Kebbell Homes have mis-managed the site and let their original planning application lapse which could now eventually lead to inappropriate development for the whole village. What is needed in this village are homes of a reasonable size and price that attract young families to the village. AFFORDABLE HOMES WILL NOT ACHIEVE THIS. (the village school has only benefited to the tune of 2 pupils from affordable homes during the past 10 years).What is also needed is for the playing field site to be treated sympathetically and for Harrogate Council to see sense and stop applying blanket policies to a site that has a previous planning history. Many years ago when the playing field site was proposed the village community responded to a poll accepting that housing on the front of the site would be acceptable in order to facilitate the development of the playing field and village hall. The village community should stand up again, now, and lobby Harrogate Council for what they want. I for one am very prepared to fight this absurd policy.

The message came from the International Lotto Commission, based in Madrid, Spain, ( but post-marked Malaga!! ) according to a very poor, quality type letter received in today`s post. The "AWARD CLAIM FINAL NOTFICATION " ( spot the spelling mistake) advises that need to pay 10% to the claims agent and fill in a form with my bank details! River and banana boat spring to mind. Anyway, I have faxed them to ask them to send the money and I will send their 10%. If this works - I will throw a party for the whole village. Dream on! AND BEWARE!

Thank you Anon for your posting. I hope others will follow your lead and give their views. May I add that nobody mentioned a blanket-ban on houses, or suggested excuses instead of looking to the future – what I said was that 26 houses of ANY type in one small area was a poor idea for the reasons already given. The sites on Melrose, Meadowcroft and Lawnfield that you mention have been added to the village to create more housing but are much less densely developed and have their own adequate parking and services. The proposed site adjacent to the playing field gives each house one and a half car parking spaces for example (planned figures, not my own calculation).

With reference to the two letters already posted, have they any suggestion where the next generation are going to live?
I have been a resident of Bishop Monkton all my life and I think it is essential that we look to the future for the sake of all the younger generation growing up in the village today.
We need to be able to provide some housing whether it is affordable or partly subsidised for young people and younger growing families who wish to stay in the village. It is wrong of people to try and put a blanket ban on the building of new homes in the village; a controlled expansion of both affordable and private developments would only help the economy of the local businesses and maintain the pupil levels at the school.
With regard to the infrastructure, it is the responsibility of the utility companies to support and maintain the network and let's face it we all pay our rates so would expect this to be updated as required in order to cope with any additional housing. There are solutions for new developments such as soak away drains which don’t put any additional pressure on the infrastructure; in certain circumstances septic tanks can be used. In this way the usage on the network would be unaffected, hence not adding to the flood risk. For those in the village that can remember when the mill pond had slush gates on the flooding then was worse than it actually is now.
We need to find a housing solution and look to the future instead of making up excuses. Yes our predecessors have looked after how the village looks today but they have also provide a large number of houses built on green field sites in the 70’s which are peoples homes today, the main ones being Melrose, Meadowcroft and Lawnfeild plus other pockets of green land which have had smaller developments built on them. Collectively we are going to have to accept more development within the village and in doing so provide the homes needed for the next generation.

MASON'S ARMS: We would like to thank the village for all their support through the winter months. We made many friends and thank them for their custom. We wish the new tenants all the luck in the world.

Just a note to say a HUGE congratulations on The Wizard of Oz - yet another brilliant production. We have been to various local theatre productions and this one as usual outshines them all. The costumes were fabulous! Our favourites (although very difficult to choose) were the brilliant Cowardly Lion and the Tin Man. Thanks!

Hello to all. Judy & I are new to Bishop Monkton and are in Lawnfield Drive. We wondered if there is a tv aerial person around? Also somebody to install an electric cooker? I am a wheelchair user (have MS) so am not able to do much at all.
Anyway it is lovely just to be here.

Editor's note: If anyone can help, please e-mail Simon on simon44jackson@yahoo.co.uk

Masons Arms
Just wanted to say hello from myself, my partner Matthew and my daughter Martha. We will be moving into the Masons Arms on February 25. Unfortunately the pub will need to be closed for a short time whilst some repairs and refurbishment are completed. We are very excited about moving to the pub as we have family connections with the village. We hope to meet many of you soon.

Congratulations to all involved in running the Quiz last weekend - a huge success. I was lucky enough to win the raffle and many thanks to all who contributed to the prize - there were over 30 different items in the hamper, most not too good for my head or my waistline!

I would like to say a huge thankyou and congratulations to everyone - and especially Isobel Wilson - involved in the organisation and presentation of last Saturday's Quiz Night. It was a most enjoyable, fun evening and we look forward to next years!

Congratulations and many, many thanks to all those involved in working to ensure the success of last night's quiz and supper. The evening was an excellent social occasion and we look forward to the next one.

I have just had the most marvellous Christmas in North Yorkshire. The highlights were our visits to Bishop Monkton. The village looked dreamy and all was so friendly and peaceful every time we came. Your website is fantastic and it is a great way for me to keep in touch.

Very many thanks,
Muriel

Having survived bonfire night with a dog who is terrified of fireworks, we, along with other residents in the village, had to put up with some inconsiderate person[s] letting off fireworks at 2am on Saturday morning.

I am sure there are other people in the village with children, cats, dogs, horses and farm animals who also had a disturbed night.

Many thanks to Mrs Mullins and this website for reuniting me with my much loved black and white cat Polly!!

Our first introduction to the Life Savers scheme was enlightening. How much we learnt only on the first day! Neil is inspring, a great teacher - but also a listener. We never felt daunted but were taken through things we needed to get right again, before we went on. I have no doubt that if we ask further questions, Neil will not hesitate in answering them.

Found in Knaresbourough Road, Bishop Monkton, a black and white cat, four white feet with black smudge on left foot. Really friendly. Please phone 677990.

After two attempts I have finally contact Carol Ferguson in Canada. I find it rather moving to be able to bridge a gap like this of over 60 years, and pen words to the daughter of a young man I had as a friend in those heady days of WW2.

To Keith Whitfield - I tried to reach you via e-mail, but could not get through. Could you please try to reach me from your end? I am Albert Stuckey's daughter and would very much like to contact you.
Editor's note: Caroline, I am contacting Keith to ask him to e-mail you.

Congratulations and many thanks to all who organised the bonfire night event. A lot of thought and hard work had obviously gone on to make this a safe and enjoyable evening.

The Governing Body of our Village School is looking for a new Clerk. The role of the Clerk is to assist the Chairman (me!) and Headteacher in the smooth running of the Governing Body, taking minutes at our six meetings a year, and carries a modest remuneration.
Its an important role and is currently vacant.
If anyone should be interested, please contact me on craddocks@btinternet.com or by telephone on 677643 or 07718 679579.

SUPER WEB!!!
and congratulation to Basil Birchall for the great photos and his trophies in Bowling.
Take care all
P&V

Installing flashing signs has to be worthwhile if it can lead to 15%-20% less people speeding through the village. That's for sure.
But my view is that such signs will only ever slow down the few people who were 'accidently' speeding - the sort of people who glided just a few mph over the limit.
Unfortunately for the rest, these signs just won't make a difference.
The only way to actually slow people down is to MAKE them. I'm not referring to the insane ravings of the mad man/women who dreamed up that naming and shaming system through number plate recognition. That would just be silly and time consuming, the number plate display would surely be taken by some as a top score system.-
As far as I'm aware the only way to 'make' people go slow is by using speed cameras, or speed bumps. Since speed cameras are horrible and ugly, speed bumps would seem the most rurally appropriate method of speed control.
As someone else mentioned no body goes speeding through the approach to Ripon, (through Bondgate) In fact if those bumps were'nt there I would perhaps go faster just to be less of a target for some of the stone throwing, horn blowing element . (My car has been hit twice and my mum's once on the journey of peril into Ripon.)
But why not just go the whole hog and install, 'automatic speed-seeking-missile-launching signs'?' That might overnight wipe-out plumbers, builders and young males? No, perhaps the stereotypical 'boy racers' and 'white van men' are not the only offenders! Crikey, what a ridiculous suggestion. Or is it?
Thanks for providing this forum.

I think a HUGE thank you is in order to everyone involved in the preparation and organisation of today's Parish Plan Open Meeting at the village hall and especially to David Bray who pulled it all together.
It can only be good for the future of the village that we have all had this opportunity to put forward our comments, views, likes and dislikes about the place in which we live. Obviously there is still a long way to go and much more hard work and time to be put in by the PP committee and I sincerely hope that the support of the village as a whole continues to be forthcoming.

While the safety of children and other road users is a priority I feel flashing speed signs inappropriate in a village.
Speed bumps are more in keeping with a rural environment.
Approaches to Ripon are proof of their effectiveness.

To correct my father (he was having a senior moment!) the Thomas Hewick I am trying to find out more about was born circa 1763 in Westwick and I believe he was married to a lady called Jane, had a son called Thomas, born 1805 in Ripon who moved to Hull, and started a cab business, but I'm certain that he would have had other children and that's what I'm interested in finding out, as well as any other Hewicks that are linked to Bishop Monkton which was Thomas's (1763) final resting place after he died at the grand old age of 82 in 1845.
My father is correct about the link with the Anchor Inn and Thomas's other occupation was coal merchant (Bondgate Green Bridge). A Joseph Demain was present at the death and this isn't a name I've come across before and I don't know the relationship between this man and Thomas.
We're looking forward to coming to your village, as i've always felt that 'homely' feeling when I'm around the Ripon area.

Gemma Michelle Hewick

Hi, i`m trying to trace my ancestry (my daughter`s done the most though). We are stuck at the moment with one particular chap. He was called Thomas Hewick of circa 1822 and ran one of the pubs (The Anchor ?) in Bishop Monkton and was also a coal dealer and may have had links with Westwick. He later moved to Hull and ran a hansom cab company.
I wondered if you had a local history group / society which could shed any light on the subject. We hope to come and visit / camp in the near future so we can spend a bit more time in the village and surrounding area, in particular the local graveyards etc.
We are almost certain our surname has a direct connection with nearby Copt Hewick / Hewick Bridge and the Ripon area as a whole and would appreciate any information which would help in our quest.
Davi Hewick
Editor's note: This mention of The Anchor Inn, one of seven pubs in Bishop Monkton at the time (there are now two) appears in the book, Monkton Matters:
'Anchor Inn', now Anchor House, a private house on the way out of the village, on the left hand side of the Roecliffe Road, was much frequented by farm workers, including those from Westwick, workers in the Corn Mill (formerly the flax mill), estate workers from Newby Hall living nearby as well as workers in the gravel quarry and bargees bringing coal up 'the cut'.
I hope other villagers may be able to add further details for Davi.

The 'anti-speeding fanatic' missed out the flogging to be administered for speeds up to 10 mph over the limit and execution above that. An electronic sign reminding drivers of the speed limit is quite enough for now thank you. The rest is just nonsense.

I just went to the recycling bins located in front of the Village Hall and was dismayed to find rubbish left on the ground. There were two large white plastic bags filled with assorted recycling material and an empty cardboard box. Is anyone in charge of this area and what can be done to prevent this eyesore?

Will you please pass my e-mail address on to Lynn Grierson and ask her if she will kindly mail me. I have tried to mail her with no success, and I would like have have more from her on Bert's family.
Editor's note to Lynn: We are not managing to reach you via the e-mail address you supplied. Please could you contact Keith direct via the e-mail address above (click to activitate).

Regarding the photograph of Bert Stuckey, he was my great uncle - my grandmother's brother. He was from Alberta. He had two sisters and three brothers. His brother, Delbert, also fought as a gunner in Lancaster bombers. He has two daughters and one son, and two granddaughers. He actually passed away some 20 or so years ago - not three, as previously written. We have notified one of his daughters, who could give you more information. Please e-mail me if you would like any further information.

Thanks for the article on removing the silt and debris from under skew bridge - another step along the road we go. This will make a further significant improvement in both capacity of the beck and flow.
North Yorkshire Council are also to be thanked for their continued commitment .

Electronic speed signs will only encourage the 'boy racers' to go faster to activate the signs.
The only proper solution is speed bumps to MAKE THEM SLOW DOWN (or, of course, cameras!).

How about signs which not only light up when cars are speeding but which also show the registration number of each offending vehicle? The list of speeders could then be printed out and sent on a weekly basis to the police for whatever action they wish to take. Also, a couple of speed bumps, strategically placed, would give the 'boy racers' and white van drivers a nasty jolt and hopefully involve them in expensive repair bills.

I think the installation of electronic speed signs on Knaresborough Road will be a very worthy investment. I often drive through the village of Great Ouseburn (Nr Linton-On-Ouse) and they have one electronic speed sign which can be see from quite a long distance away and on seeing this I find you immediately you check/adjust your speed, proving that this type of sign makes much more of an impact than traditional road signs which Bishop Monkton have to rely on at the moment and they clearly do not work!

We have just logged on to your website for first time and must say have been very impressed by it. You seem to have a wonderfully active community in Bishop Monkton with so many activities going on and so many dedicated people involved.
Marie and Dave Gibson
Athlone
Eire

You posted a picture of Canadian Bert Stuckey. I think I have made contact with his family. Not sure absolutely if we have the right man but all the information fits.
It appears he died three years ago. I am waiting for more information.
Leslie Green

The attached picture (reproduced on the news pages) shows the funeral of the crew of Halifax EB203 at the Stonefall Cemetery, Harrogate. The funeral took place on the 20 April 1944.
One of those killed, Lloyd Cull, was one of two brothers who were killed in aircraft accidents. George Cull was killed on 18 Dec18 1943 and is buried in Sudbury, Ontario..
An extract from the Canadian Book "They shall Grow not old" reads as follows-

'Halifax EB203 was returning from a night cross country training exercise and arrived over the base just as a heavy rain shower started. The pilot was given permission to break through the cloud and join the circuit. Nothing further was heard. The aircraft crashed and totally disintegrated two milies south of Ripon, Yorkshire, on the road to Bishop Monkton.

Just a few years ago I had a strange incident, while visiting the graves of the crew of Halifax EB205 at the Stonefall Cemetery,. My book containing the records of all RCAF servicemen killed during the war,slipped from my hands, and fell open at the page for one of the BIshop Monkton crew. To my astonishment I was stood close to that man's grave. The book contained 891 pages.

I wonder if the villagers of Bishop Monkton would be interested in erecting some sort of permanent memorial to one or both of the crews who died that night. Rather than just a faded memory in a book somewhere, these young men would be remembered for the sacrifices they made.It would also be an historical record for subsequent generations of the Village .

Leslie Green
Weston Super Mare

I fully researched the Halifax crash of 1944 some years ago and at the time I did suggest to the Parish Council that some form of memorial should be erected. I still think that it would be appropriate, and not expensive, to have plaque on say the new Village Hall. The aircraft came down only a few hundred yards from there!
I gave a lot of information to the late Eddie Bowes for his scrapbook
Here are some of the main facts:

CREW LIST OF EB203
Halifax Mk.V of 1664 HCU based at Dishforth crashed at Bishop Monkton on the night of Saturday 15 April 1944. All crew were killed. The five RCAF crew are buried at Harrogate (Stonefall) and the RAF Flight Engineer at Tyldesley Cemetery in Lancashire. I still seek the American pilot's resting place and as a telephone call to the American Cemetery at Cambridge confirms that he is not buried there, the likelihood is that he was taken back to the USA'. Further inquiry of the National Archives of Canada advise that the entry in the Operational Record Book, RCAF Dishforth that makes mention of the accident is dated 15 April 1944 and reads as follows:

"Flying weather for the past week has been only fair with the result training has been held back considerably. To add to this, six of our aircraft returning from a short cross- country arrived here during rain and thunderstorms. Two aircraft managed to land here and two more at Linton, but the other two crashed, killing 12 of the two crews, as well as two civilians. Halifax EB203 crashed into a haystack near Ripon at approx. 23.25 hours and burned. The crew as listed were all killed?."
Captain 10601597 Top/Sgt. P Watkins USAAF
Nav. F/O H. A. Wallace J/23362 RCAF age 32
A/B Sgt. H.L. Muisiner R/160427 RCAF age 23 (American from Pennsylvania)
WO/AG W/O Class 1 J Huddleston R/106580 RCAF age 20 (American from Oregon)
F/E Sgt. K.D.Holden 2209731 RAF age 20
A/GM Sgt. L.J.Cull R/200097 RCAF age 18
A/GR Sgt. C.E. Lovett R/208139 RCAF age 18

The second Halifax EB205 overshot Dishforth runway, lost power and crashed near Thirsk. Thed report reads:
" (the plane) crashed one mile southwest of the town after overshooting Dishforth runway, and because of engine failure lost height until hitting a house near the railway bridge on the B1448 road. One engine fouled the railway line and one pair of houses was flattened. Five crew were killed, two injured." (Two civilians were killed, as mentioned in the Canadian Archives).

Keith E Whitfield
Thunderbridge HD8 0PX

Re. Leslie Green's letter about the Halifax bomber crash in 1944: I was 15 at the time and remember seeing the fire and hearing ammunition exploding from my window in Glenroyd Cottages.
I understand that Mr Shorrock who lived in Ripon Road was sure that he saw the plane circle the village several times looking for a place to land to avoid any buildings. He also tried to get to the site but the intense heat prevented him. I did go to the area a few days afterwards and saw a burnt hay stack but little else. It was a sad time for whole village.
Edmund Wilkinson

Reply to Malcolm Cawthra - I can't think where Kimberley Villas are or were but I do remember that he and his sister Jean with his mother and grandad used to stay at the Mason's Arms when he came in the late 1950's. Does he remember me and my brother Colin?

Hello,
My name is Leslie Green from Weston super Mare. I am keen to hear from anyone who remembers the wartime Halifax bomber EB203 that crashed on the outskirts of Bishop Monkton on 15 April 1944.
I have researched and spoken to the survivor of Halifax EB205 that crashed near Topcliffe on the very same evening. My mother's cousin was the navigator on that aircraft and one of two who survived.
I have recently made contact with four of the families of the crew who died at Bishop Monkton and hold pictures of them . Any information would be appreciated.
Please email me or tel 01934-633305. Thank you.
Leslie Green

I am trying to locate Kimberley Villas which I think were in Main Street, possibly in Victoria Terrace. My great grandfather, George Henry Davy, lived there and was a market gardener, according to the Census.
I used to visit Bishop Monkton as a boy, in the early Fifties, and remember seeing Mr Chaloner selling tomatoes from a stall opposite the old WI Hall. I also remember Gordon Davy and the Miss Penningtons (who lived at Green Garth).
I still often return to Bishop Monkton - I regard it almost like a second home - and I'd be most interested to hear if anyone can tell me where Kimberley Villas used to be.
Malcolm Cawthra
Bradford

Editor's note: If anyone can provide any information, please send in a letter.
I will forward any information to Malcolm.

As team manager it was a real pleasure to bring our Bramham side over to play you. You may not have the best record in the league, but it was a pleasure to play against a bunch of lads, who try hard and play the game fairly, which is what its all about. Super ground and facilties, we envy you!! Thank you for such a warm and sporting welcome.

My name is Sean Coleman. I lived in Bishop Monkton as a kid as 9 St John's Crescent and moved away when I was 11. I wonder if some of the people I knew as a kid remember me and would get in touch. I knew Jamie and Newton Hassle - I wonder what they're doing these days. I knew the Steeles the Pawsons. My mum used to work at the Lamb and Flag. I had a great childhood in your village. Some day I hope return for a visit.

Refrence Keith Whitfield's letter (dated September 9): I don't remember Miss Goss, but remember Miss Garner very well. She used to walk from Burton Leonard every day - she was a chronic asthmatic.

Dr Brodie certainly has the village street correct and also Ings Lane.
In the spring and summer of 1940 there was a large influx of evacuees, some of whom were from a school in Sussex The small local church school of the day could not possibly cope with the numbers that arrived so the old W.I.Hall was therefore used for a period as a schoolroom and it may well be this that Dr Brodie keeps at the back of his mind.
There were also a number of children who came to Bishop Monkton to live with relations for the duration of the war: My mother and I came in May 1940 to live with my grandparents. Edna Steele and her brother, Edmund came from Goole ( I think) to live with their relations. I for one, remember attending classes in the WI Hall before finally being accepted at the village school. Miss Goss was headmistress, assisted by Miss Garner.

A quick thanks to Martin for the "Dads & Lads" cricket afternoon today, and persevering with re-organising it repeatedly due to bad weather!

At the start of the 1939-45 war, with my father in the RAF, my mother and I (then aged about 4/5) moved from London to Bishop Monkton where, for a limited period, I attended the local primary school.

Thanks to Google maps, my memory suggests that the school I attended was on the opposite side of the road from the present Primary School.

We lived in a house on Main Street, near Ings Lane. My other memory is of a stream outside the front garden, beside the main road, running down to the village. Is that correct?

I am trying to get my war-time schooling sorted out in my mind (I attended nine different schools between 1939 and 1944, throughout the UK) and wondered if anyone had the archived records and could confirm the dates of my attendance at Bishop Monkton school. Any information you may have would be most welcome.

I have known for many years of tracing my family history that my great grandfather gave his abode on the baptism records for three of his children as Bishop Monkton. I have copies of the baptisms; two of the ceremonies were performed by Robert Poole.
I see from your web page regarding Church of St John Baptist that 'the fine quality stained glass east window and two of the windows on the south side are memorials to the Rev Robert Poole, Rural Dean and vicar of the parish for many years'. I am not sure if the ceremonies were actually performed at St John's or at Ripon Cathedral.
I would like to make contact with any historians who live in the village to see if they know of any records that still exist regarding where my grandparents might have lived from 1818 to 1824. My grandparents' names were John and Rachel Braithwaite. John's occupation was 'flax dresser'.
Keith Braithwaite, Leeds.
email : pblood8a@hotmail.co.uk

For all of you who knew my Border Collie, Mic, it is with great sadness that I tell you that Mic died on 19 August at 10 pm our time. I took him to the nearby emergency veterinary center where they examined him. It is thought that Mic died of a heart attack.

Mic was born on a farm near Meltham, Huddersfield on 11 January 1995. Those of you who had ever been around Mic knew him to be a gentle, intelligent animal. He was, quite simply, the finest dog I have ever had as a friend. When Indiana Jones, his son, continued to act in an agitated manner I got up thinking he needed to go outside. Mic was lying there in his usual place for the night, having just come up from the basement. I had heard a whine earlier but thought it was Indi wanting to go out. As I looked at Mic I realized he was not breathing. I took Mic to the emergency clinic and once they determined he was dead. I sat with him in a room they provided for a very long time. Needless to say there were many tears.

Someone once wrote: "We give our dogs the time we can spare and the space we can spare, and in return they give us everything." I am so grateful that I have his son, Indi, and the memory of the 12 years and seven months I spent with one of the most wonderful Border Collies that ever came out of Yorkshire . Mic's memory will be with me the rest of my life.

Love to all of you.
Cheers, Jim

Recent Accident; Jonathan has been overwhelmed by the many good wishes and calls he has received from friends and neighbours following his recent accident. He is now at home making a very good recovery. Whilst it will be many weeks yet before he is fully fit again, do not be surprised to see him on his crutches around the village in the not too distant future. A big thank you from Jonathan .

I was interested to read the note from Jan Lovesey. This is the Hutchinson family I enquired about some time ago. Elizabeth was my great grandfather's sister.I have been in touch with Jan in the past since we are both researching our family tree. Any further information would be greatly appreciated.
In May, I brought my touring caravan to the village for a few days and have to say that we were very impressed. The village is so well kept. I lost count of the number of residents who acknowledged me on the way to collect a morning paper. Very rare these days. We hope to visit again soon.
Peter Hutchinson

I'm moving again! Now that I have nicely moved in to my home here in Illinois, I was informed last week that I must report to my new duty station at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. We are in a "reorganization period" that is suppose to save the American tax payer money but I doubt seriously that it really will.
My reporting date is 30 September so now I must sell this house, pack up, and move myself and the two dogs the 1,350 miles from Moline, Illinois to San Antonio. I should be able to make it in three days. But if I have to tow the old Land Rover it may take me much longer.
Once I'm settled there I will contact some of you with my new address and phone and, of course, make a general annoucement through this website. Perhaps being in San Antonio, home of Davey Crockett, the Alamo, Jim Bowie, and more Mexican restaurants than they even have in Mexico, will motivate some of you to come visit me. For now, it's start to pack my 2,800 painted miniature figures, get rid of more "stuff", and get ready for the packers to come once again to break my nice things and move me. I sure wish I was being moved back to Bishop Monkton, North Yorkshire, Great Britain. But alas, partners, I will get myself a pair of cowboy boots, a stetson, some snake chaps, and a plug of chewing tobacco. Before long, you'll think that I'm Wild Bill Hiccock gone wrong! Down San Anton way, people have Copper Head snakes in the garden just like you folks have bunnies. The people I stayed with two weeks ago while I was down looking for housing have killed three nasty big Copper Heads in their backyard just this summer so far. Snake meat anyone?
As always, love to you all and all best wishes from America.
Jim, Mic, and Indiana Jones.
Moline, Illinois, USA

I'd just like to say what a lovely site this is. My mom, Eileen Hymas was born and brought up in the village and the whole family always return every summer for a week's holiday.
I wondered whether you might be interested to read the following excerpt that appeared in a local Ripon newspaper in April 1903. It details the wedding of my great grandparents ~ Thomas Watson Hymas and Elizabeth Hutchinson at St John's Church.

'...There was a large congregation at St John's Church on the occasion of the marriage of Mr Tom Watson Hymas, builder, to Miss Lily Hutchinson, youngest daughter of Mr W Hutchinson. The service was fully choral and appropriate music was played by Mr Jowett the organist.
The bride entered the church leaning on the arm of her brother, Mr G Hutchinson, who gave her away. She was prettily attired in a dress of cream crepe de chine with hat to match and carried a shower bouquet of white flowers, the gift of the bridegroom.
The bridesmaids were Miss Amy Hutchinson, sister of the bride, and Miss Minnie Hymas, sister of the bridegroom. They wore pale blue crepe de chine dresses with hats to match and carried shower bouquets of daffodils and jonquils. They also wore swallow brooches, the gifts of the bridegroom. Also the misses Ennie and Gwinnie Greenbank, little nieces of the bride, who wore empire frocks and Dutch bonnets of white silk and carried baskets of pink tulips. Mr Arthur Hutchinson acted as best man. The Ven. Archdeacon Danks officiated. At the close of the ceremony, a reception was held at Claremont Villa.
The newly-married pair left Ripon by the 4 p.m. train for the North, where the honeymoon will be spent. The bride's going-away dress was of brown zebeline with a large black hat trimmed with cream lace and cornflowers...

A list of presents followed the above article:
'Bride to Bridegroom, dressing-case. Bridegroom to Bride, dressing-case. Father of Bridegroom, cheque. Mother of Bridegroom, cutlery. Miss Hymas, bedroom service. Miss M Hymas, photo frame. Miss Ward, silver cruet. Mrs A Knowles, jam dish and spoon. Miss Hutchinson, sheets and pillow cases. Miss A Hutchinson, blankets. Mrs F Greenbank, Chenille table cover. Mrs CA Hutchinson, counterpane. Mrs Parkin, silver toast rack. Mrs Topham, table cloth. Miss Bickerdyke, tumblers. Miss M Shaw, table cloth (drawn thread). Mrs Barker, inkstand. Mrs J Hymas, ornaments. Miss L Barker, writing case. Mr G Hutchinson, pictures. Miss E Stead, table centre. Miss Child, doylies. Mr G Knowles, fruit knives. Mr WE Dixon, brass kettle, Mr Hebden, table cloth. Mr & Mrs Morland, silver sugar sifter. Mrs Elison, silk cushion. Mr Bellerby, mahogany table. Miss Elison, velvet slippers. Mr J H Calverley, Damask table cloth.

Editor's note: What a lovely report. Do any of the names mentioned ring any bells?

Hello there,
My ancestor Thomas Watson and his family lived at Low Yarland, Bishop Monkton in 1851 - does anyone know this place?
Thanks,
Bev

Re - Watson Family... Bev, I have a long line of Watsons from Bishop Monkton and Burton Leonard in my family so I might be able to help... There are a couple of pages on my site about the Hymas & Watson families - http://www.lovesey.org.uk
Have a browse and contact me if you think I can help.
Regards Jan

Sorry for the delay but I have just been discharged from York Hospital, having been whipped off there on July 3 with internal bleeding problems. I thought of you all at St John's at 2pm on Thursday July 5 whilst gazing at the ceiling of ward 29! I had a quick look at the website last night and read some of the tributes to Ted.

I've only been home 12 hours, when I sadly lost my Labrador today, my best friend for the past 10 years who went practically everywhere with me. She had a tumour, so it has been a very tearful day for me. One gets too attached.

Keith

I am the son of Edwin?s cousin, the late Eileen Laycock (nee Midgley). My mother always spoke very fondly of Edwin and although I cannot remember meeting him I was always told what a lovely man he was. I have been in touch with Dorothy but would like to pass on my sincere condolences to all his family.
Ervin Margis

Just a word about the junior cricket. I want to firstly thank Martin Minett and Phil Evans for organising the game and umpiring in the horrible conditions.
We went in to bat chasing the game as the weather worsened. Most of the soaked spectators realised at this point we were chasing a lost cause but all of us showed great spirit and kept plugging away and not one of us gave up hope!
But towards the end everyone was tired, cold and very wet. I think that the attittude and team spirit was a credit to the club. The other club did some fantastic fielding with some great catches and bowling. We were maybe beaten by perhaps a better side but the weather beat us all and as a team we should all be proud of ourselves for playing in such appalling conditions.
Thank you for the support we got (sorry about the washing mum!).
Christian

So sorry to hear of Eddie's passing away. Sixty years ago we played snooker in the Micky. We were always good friends. I met him again on the bowling green last year. He surprised me by calling me Wendal (not many know me as that). He always had a joke.

We have only known Eddie and Florence some three years since joining the Bowling Club but it has been three wonderful years. Both were always welcoming and Eddie always had some tale to tell and was a mine of information. It is an honour and a privilege to have known Eddie and to play on the wonderful green he created and maintained so well. I know I am joined by our close mutual friend, Norman Mitchell, when I say thank you for everything Eddie you will be greatly missed.

We are close friends of Dorothy Bowes in Sydney, Australia. We were so sorry to hear of the death of Eddie Bowes. We have visited Florence and Eddie in Bishop Monkton on two occasions and have been overwhelmed by their loving, generous hospitality. In turn, Florence and Eddie have visited us when they have been in Sydney visiting Dorothy. Eddie was one of those people we Aussies call a lovable larrikin. Full of fun, but sincere in his willingness to help others. We will miss him and I know he will be deeply missed in the village. We are giving Doroothy our loving support here as she is so far from her own family. Please give our love to the village, we will visit again some day. We just love those ducks!!
Ruth and Julie Apps,
Australia

I would like to thank all those kind people who have written to the Bishop Monkton website with tributes to my brother, Edwin Bowes (Eddie).
Edwin and I had a very happy childhood growing up in the village, attending school and playing with our friends from school and church. After I came to live in Australia we kept in touch on a regular basis. I have made several trips back to the village and stayed with Edwin and Florence, also they have visited me in Australia so we have enjoyed a personal contact over many years.
I would have loved to have been able to attend Edwin's thanksgiving service but it is difficult to travel such a long distance at the present time.
Edwin was a wonderful brother and I shall miss him very much but I am thankful that he and his family have such wonderful friends in Bishop Monkton.
Dorothy,
Australia

During our stay in Bishop Monkton, Eddie and Florence were among the sweetest people we met. I am sad to lear of his passing and will hold the whole family in my prayers.
Since leaving in 2002, I have tried to add postcards of the village to my collection. They are few and far between. There was an especially choice card offered on eBay, and I got into a heated bidding war for the chance to own it. The price got higher and higher, and I was determined to win. I finally emailed the opposing bidder to see if the postcard had some special meaning to him, and after a few notes back and forth, I discovered that he was Eddie Bowes' son Michael, and the card contained a photo of the house where Eddie was born! Naturally, I stopped bidding at once, and Michael was able to give Eddie the card as a gift. This story is even closer to my heart because 'Poor' Bob and I were back in Colorado, and all of this took place long distance on the internet.
I send my best to you all. We miss you, and think of you fondly.
Jann and 'Poor' Bob Snyder,
Colorado, USA

Thank you for your full and helpful report of the meeting to discuss possible changes to the Bishop Monkton Conservation Area.
While I agree with the idea of extending the area eastwards to take in such buildings as the old Corn Mill and the interesting historic buildings nearby, I cannot agree with the idea of including Meadowcroft and Melrose areas.
This is not because I have anything against these houses - they are in fact extremely attractive and beautifully maintained - but I think they are not sufficiently different or special to merit inclusion.
Also, including them would mean the whole village would become virtually one blanket convervation area, making the whole concept vaguely ridiculous and pointless.
Conservationist

We would like to add our tribute to Eddie Bowes. He was an unassuming, kind and generous person and a wonderful family man.
When I started the website, Eddie was quick to lend his support, loaning me his treasured photo albums (and not everyone would do that!) and advising me on village history and folklore.
Since then he had often cycled round to drop off a photo or produce a titbit of news or information, and these were always very helpful.
Also, of course, Eddie made news himself by all he did for the village, particularly the part he played in the building of the Village Hall and bowling green, although here he was typically shy and retiring when I wanted to write about him or include his photo.
Bishop Monkton will be a poorer place without him.
Richard and Pat

John and I have been friends with Eddie for over 50 years.
He was a hard worker in whatever job he was doing. At one time John and Eddie worked for A. Hymas and one of their jobs was to collect coal from Upton Colliery, then the next day to deliver it to customers in the villages.
More recently we have watched Eddie tend the bowling green and what an excellent job he did there.
Our abiding memories will be how helpful and cheerful Eddie was even in his illness.
John and Edna Steele

We would all like to thank the good people of Bishop Monkton for all the support and good wishes that have been sent. It is a wonderful feeling to know that you all care so much, and that you are rallying around Mum. Thank you.
David, Angela, Liz and Michael

I am absolutely gutted at the death of Eddie. I have known Eddie for over 25 years ever since I first started dating Liz. In 1987 when Liz and I got married, he wore the top hat you see on the website.
Ironically really, he didn't particularly want to get all dressed up, yet he was the only one who didn't look a prat wearing it.
He was the perfect father-in-law to me and I will miss him greatly.
Rest in peace, Eddie.
Dave.

I just have to say how sorry we both were to hear of Eddie's very sudden death earlier this week. Eddie and Florence were the first people to become our friends when we came to the village in 1989, and we have appreciated and enjoyed their friendship ever since. Eddie was a lovely man, quiet, always ready to help, and a fund of information about the village. He will be very greatly missed. Our thoughts are with Florence and Eddie's sons an daughters at this time.
Val

I am very saddened to learn of the death of Eddie Bowes and my first thoughts and sympathy go to Florence and his family at such a distressing and difficult time.
Edwin, Eddie, Ted Bowes (he had many names) and I go back a long way together in Bishop Monkton - over seventy years!
I think that it would be late 1936 when we first met and played together in the house and buildings my grandmother first bought, next door to where John Simpson now lives. We went on to the village school together, sang in the church choir, swam in the river, ranged over all the fields, and did all the good and bad things that boys got up to in those days. I seem to remember that Eddie was then partial to Guards Ale, a somewhat rather potent small bottled beer. It did not seem to affect him!
Employment and marriage interrupted our regular meetings, as we both went our own ways, but still kept in touch from time to time, mainly if some snippet in connection with Monkton cropped up. Especially so as I knew that he kept a very good scrapbook on the village.
We have all lost a good friend.
Keith.

I would just like to say a big thank you to the numerous other 'heroes' and 'heroines' who helped out during the floods on Monday.
The residents and neighbours who live in the area directly affected by the flood all pulled together to help get themselves through the stresses of the day. They supported each other, fixed mini flood gates, helped and guided other residents through the floods and even the local fireman pulled a few strings to get the fire brigade here quickly. This is what village life is all about - being there for each other.
Grateful Villager

Great updates! So very sorry to hear about the flood, again!
I was there in 2000-2001, can't remember when, when the village flooded
badly, as did much of the Buroughbridge Road outside the village going
towards Boroughbridge.
Very nasty stuff, flooding! I thought that the Council was going to fix the drainage network in order for the village not to flood. Oh well, England will be England and you British are at your best when things are at their worst!). I do hope that no one
suffered major property damage!
I was hoping to see a picture of my old house, Albion House. I've
communicated with the new owners and it seems that they have fixed it up
nicely. I'm pleased to see that Mervyn is still heading the Parish Council. Merv was the finest landlord I've ever had in all my years of living around the world with the government. I miss that gentle giant very much!
Thanks again for sending the site. I'm anxious to return for a visit and take a crack at bowls! I practise here with my "carpet bowls" I brought with me from England. Bowling on grass will take some getting used to but since I'm too bloody old for rugby, I'll give it an honest effort:)

My warmest regards to all.
Cheers, Jim

JAMES D. L. WOLFE
Director of Education
IMCOM West, Northwest Office
Department of Defense
DSN 793-8335
USA

You may be interested to know that the site and our story about trekking in the Himalayas has been much admired by friends as far away as the north island of New Zealand, the Pacific coast of the US, and Poitiers in central France. The wonders of science!
So thanks very much for making it all look so good.
Chris

PS I've sent details to our porters' e-mail address which they look at once in a blue moon so I am sure they will like what they see.

Hope all are well there in Bishop Monkton.
Spring has come to the Mid West and the temperatures are now running in the 80s
with the humidity also running high. It's that time of year when you
sweat just walking the dogs. This will go on now through August with an
occasional break when we have those infamous thunder and lightning
storms which usually cool things off for a short period. Then the sun
comes out and you can see the steam rising from the ground.
We all hightail it back into the house and turn up the air conditioning! You know
it's humid outside when you see mosquitoes flying with air conditioning
units strapped to the back of their wings!)
Mic is well, and his pup Indiana, now two. They fight a lot since Indi
wants to be the Alpha Dog and Mic wants none of it. Mic is 12 now and
will soon turn over the pack leadership to Indi, but not without a
fight, and "fight" is what they do often.
No word yet as to when I'm being transferred to San Antonio. It could
be from now until August of 2008. While that part of Texas gets little
cold weather, the summers are very, very hot and since it is near the
Gulf the humidity is even higher than it is here. You Brits have no
idea what a temperate, wonderful climate you live in. Never too cold,
never too hot, and virtually no humidity.
It's about time I wrote another entry for the website, "Letters from
America", so I'll get something posted soon. Give my love and warm regards to all. Cheers,
Jim

I am the first to welcome our equestrian friends to the village, and last weekend saw a substantial number of riders obviously involved in an organised event.
I, like many road users, are considerate to riders, giving them room and my reducing speed when driving my car.
However, it is unfortunate that such horsey types have had to use yellow spray paint on our beautiful village roads to indicate their route. This extends for two miles on the Roecliffe Road too. Would it not have been better to use chalk? I trust that the organisers will come back and clean off this road grafitti.

Hurray!!! I always hoped it was a spoof about BMEG disbanding but there was always a possibility that it might be true. Thank goodness it's not. What a very sad loss to the village it would have been.
The BMEG have mine and Simon's support in attending as many performances as we can but they also have my admiration for the huge amount of time and effort they all give to put those performances on. They absolutely deserve all the support we as a village can give them and I too will make every effort to be at next years AGM.
Well done and thank you Emma for giving us all a much needed wake-up call.
Pandora Heap

I refer to your picture of the duck nesting in Roger Baker's hanging basket with the headline: 'ANYONE GOT A PARACHUTE?'
Yes, but I have one but I think it would be a little big for the intended users! It's been a while since I used it so any takers over there let me know and I'll send it back with mum and dad after they come here in summer!
Mark Pawson
USA

'The Committee of BMEG wishes to thank both people who came to the AGM for their attendance. However, due to lack of support, BMEG has decided to disband after 31 years of providing diverse and energetic entertainment to the village.
The bank balance currently stands at around £4,000 which we have worked hard to achieve. A vote was carried to ask the village which charity or charities this should be donated to, so if you have any preferences, then please reply via this website. If no agreement is reached as to which charity should benefit from the demise of BMEG, then it was agreed that the money should be placed on Actor's Pride, running in the 2.50 at Cheltenham next Saturday and that any winnings should be dispersed between the current committee. BMEG wishes to thank its two attendees at the AGM for their show of support'.
Dismayed

'I'm glad to admit that of course there is no imminent end to BMEG! I can now categorically state that the recent report on the website was indeed a SPOOF which I asked to have published - but one with a serious purpose. Members of the committee were mortified when only two people turned up at the AGM last week. This meeting is a chance for fresh ideas and input into the group, which is necessary and always welcomed. Also it is a chance for any grumblings to be aired and changes made as is felt appropriate. So, yes, we were disappointed that more people had not attended, especially in view of the many fine productions we have staged and our amazing success with Shortcut last year.

Yes, of course, we are carrying on - we never thought otherwise! Our next event is May 12, when the Library Theatre Touring Group will perform the musical, Wind in the Willows. Tickets are £5 available from Stuart or me. So far we have sold around 50 - there are 140 available.

This may also be a good time to ask whether anyone out there would like to organise a show or production for the autumn as currently we have not got one planned. Additionally, we will be looking for a director for a one act play to be entered into the Nidderdale Drama Festival 2008, so if anyone wants to have a go, then please speak to me. Looking forward to another 'entertaining' year'.
Emma

I am so pleased to have found the recent BMEG news was a spoof. I can sleep again at last!
What a very good idea to shake people up and hopefully make them realise what a treasure and talent we have in the village. Well done Emma and your committee. I will definitely get next year's AGM in my diary early.
Keep up the good work.
Not So Devastated Now.

Nidderdale and District Drama Festival
The committee of BMEG would like to express sincere congratulations to Harrogate Dramatic Society who brilliantly succeeded in beating Richmond in the second round of the Nidderdale and District Drama Festival in Hampsthwaite on Saturday night.
The next round is on May 12 and we will be thinking of you and wish you every success! Roll on the English finals - we will be there with you!
Another great example of the high standard of Amateur Dramatics in the Nidderdale area. Well done Harrogate.
Emma.

Very sad to hear that the Entertainments Group is to be folded because of lack of support at the AGM. I'm surprised that this should cause such a draconian decision to be taken.
After all, doesn't the village support the group by attending all its productions (it's usually a sell out). That is surely the obvious sign of support and appreciation - not whether or not people attend an AGM which is, after all, largely an internal affair
Having said that, let's hope that the Group will reconsider, and will remain an important and admired organisation in the village.
Realist

Have I got the date wrong - is it April lst again?
I can't really believe the report that the Entertainments Group is to fold because of
'lack of support'.
Everyone knows and admires the Group, and most of us have attended and enjoyed at least one of its productions in the past year. And weren't we all proud when 'Shortcut' did so well?
Let's hope someone at the Entertainments Group has got his or her dates mixed up - and this is all a (belated) April Fool spoof! Do please put us out of our misery.
Bothered and Bewildered of Boroughbridge Road

After all the success of the past many years of BMEG what a disappointment that the group who have provided so much enjoyment for both audiences and performers alike have decided to disband. I for one, earnestly hope that the troopers will have second thoughts.
Mystified

AGM stands for Annual General Meeting, meaning a public and open meeting. The abbreviation would be AIM if it were an Annual Internal Meeting!
I agree that the group is supported by audiences but fresh ideas are always welcome and I can understand the disappointment of the committee of this high profile, high standard group by having so few attendees at its AGM. As a village we enjoy the shows and it is an expectation that they will be put on but without PEOPLE they can not be done!
Anon

It is with great shock and utter sadness that the Entertainments Group is to fold! Who will organise all the fantastic shows and productions in the future? Where will the children go when it's panto season? And we will miss out on the touring groups who have recently started joining us for shows.
I can not believe it and truly wish that I had made the effort to attend your AGM. I did think about it but never actually did anything about it. Please, please reconsider, BMEG - we love you!
Devastated

I wanted to tell you how much I enjoy the website and how much better it gets as far as information and photos are concerned. Since I'm always so homesick for the village and my friends, your site is a good way for me to feel I'm there.
Anyway, I'm arriving 13 June, so I'll be there for the garden day that weekend, and I'm looking forward to seeing you then.
Take care.
Cathy
Paradise Valley
Nevada USA

Well done indeed for getting the Palm Sunday pictures on the website so quickly! I was delighted to see the pics of the massed choirs of BM and BL walking down the hill. Also enjoyed the report of the Skelldale singers concert.
John Eden (member of BM church choir and of the Skelldale singers)

I can report midget Afghan solidiers with daffodils marching up Hungate to the Village Hall!

Each April Fool's Day I wonder how Richard can follow the previous year's story!
What a vivid imagination he has -he should have been a politician.
By the way, is the daffodil drug any good for arthritis? If so we will include it in the cakes for Bowling Club teas!
Basil

It's 1 April and the first day of spring here. The last time I wrote you it was well below zero with ice over everything. Today, I'm happy to report, the flowers show signs of coming out and the temperature is now in the high 50sF. We have high winds, rain, and the odd toronado around the area.
Everything here in the "colonies" is pretty much the same as usual: controlled panic! The Presidential candidates for the 2008 election here in the States are now on television daily and drive us quite mad. I've gone back to watching my VHS tapes of "The Last of the Summer Wine." It's far more entertaining. I also watch "BBC America" but if I watch one more program of "Cash in the Attic" I think I'll go back to watching Hillary Clinton running for Presdent!
I recently had to travel to Fort Lewis which is in the state of Washington. I had the opportunity to take a day and go up to Seattle. What a wonderful city. I finally saw the famous Seattle Needle which was built for the World's Fair so many years ago. The city is very clean and easy to get around in. The sea food restaurants are marvellous and certainly beat the Long John Silvers we have here in the Mid West. On 3 April I'm off to our intelligence site in Sera Vista Arizona. I'll have my first opportunity to hop across to Mexico where I will visit the city of Nogales. I'll be there with Rosa, who speaks Spanish, so my chances of survival are better than average.
Well done to the Bishop Monkton Entertainments Group for their standing in the recent competition. I very much miss the productions put on in the village. You don't get much local theatre here, though I can go to almost any street corner each night and be treated to young people demonstrating their "slam dancing" techniques. And then there is the local country bar where on any night I can watch the regulars perform "line dancing", complete with Western attire, to catchy little tunes like "I Caught My Wife With A Man Named Red, But It's Ok Cause Now He's Dead." Ah, the joys of living in the Mid West. What did I miss all those twenty nine years I live and worked in Europe?
Excited to see that Bowls is about to begin. I have my "carpet bowls" I got before leaving Britain and often play them in the living room and make believe I'm back in Bishop Monkton. Congratulation to Pauline Beecroft for winning the Ladies Singles competition! That was my landlady, -she's the best!
I send my warmest regards and love to all of you. Thanks to Derrick and Laura Day for e-mailing me, and do keep in touch with me. It's good for my sanity.
Cheers, Jim, Mic, and Indiana Jones
USA

A big big thank you to the whole team involved with 'The Fat Lady Sings' which was put on at the Nidderdale Festival of Drama on March 15. We came home with three cups - one for Stuart Newsome for best actor, one for the four actors for their acting teamwork and the runners-up cup for best play ( we missed being winners by only two points). Everyone involved put their heart and soul into the production and can feel justly proud of their acheivement.
I would also like to thank K.W. for the critique in the local newspaper. It's wonderful to think that BMEG has progressed to a standard where we can accept an independent critic and hopefully learn from their comments. Well done to the entire team.
As many of you will know, I shall soon be leaving the village . Having spent many enjoyable years in the Entertainments Group, I wish them every success with their future productions and look forward to returning to the village to support them.
Best wishes
Pauline Chick

My Uncle Bill and Aunty Eunice live in Bishop Monkton and I have lost their home address. Can you help?
My grandfather was George Gordon of New Park Harrogate
I vistited my Uncle and Aunty in 1998 with my son, Oliver when we were over from Australia. Bill's sister, Kitty is my mother, Jean, and Anne and Peter, are my other relos on the Gordon side.
My address is Graham Gordon Thomas, PO BOX 548, Broken Hill, NSW, Australia. Yes I live in the desert , and after 40 years I still miss Yorkshire and hope to get back there again, with a little bit more money the next time so that I may enjoy the occasion with a little more ease. Bishop Monkton is a lovely little village.
For reasons I cannot quite explain I am deeply attached to Ripon Cathedral. I went there on a few occasions when I was young with my grandfather.
Graham Gordon Thomas
Broken Hill
New South Wales
Australia

As always, we are looking for volunteers to spare an hour a week to cut the grass in the graveyard. The benefits to individuals are - it gets you out of the house, it keeps you fit, it is a community project and its quiet.
Through your excellent communication medium could you post this, and ask if anybody is interested to contact me, either through e-mail or by phone on 677693/677700.
Richard Houseman

I have completed the questionnaire and will return it to EP Emery this weekend. I hope that they get a very strong response. Does anyone know if Harrogate Council will be represented on March 20 and is there a time scheduled for the meeting? I'm assuming it will be a full house.
Peter Smith

My wife and I live towards the top of Hungate. Last week whilst walking the dogs my wife saw an item on one of the village notice boards asking for information on a missing bird of prey.
Over the weekend we found a large area of feathers in our garden, but at the time we thought it may have been due to cat. This morning my wife witnessed a large bird swoop down onto our patio, kill and fly off with a pigeon. I went to get the contact number from the notice board, but there was no longer a notice on any of them.
We are concerned as we have a small cat and also there are other numerous small animals in the village including the ducks.
Do you know who put the notice on the board ? If so, would you ask them to either e-mail me or 'phone me on 01765-676569 (this is my business line)
Thank you
Richard Blundell
Hungate Lane
Bishop Monkton
***********************************************************************
Editor's note: I have retrieved an e-mail advising me of the missing falcon which I reproduce below. I hope this may lead to the recovery of the bird, and removal of anxiety for the writer.

Name: Gus Vigurs
E-mail Address: gus.vigurs@ntlworld.com
Comment: I live in Harrogate and lost my Male Saker Falon a month ago. I
believe it was sighted on the the track to Ashbrook Farm on Sat 10 Feb 07
at about 0900. He has bell on his left foot and is wearing 10 cm leather
jeeses from each ankle. If sighted please call the Independent Bird
Register (IBR) 08706 088 500, will contact me. Many thanks.
Gus Vigurs.

Just had a peek at the website (to see item about my visit to Bishop Monkton Ladies Group on March 21) Oh, how I blushed! Looking forward to the evening. Ladies beware - anything could and probably will happen. BE AFRAID. BE VERY VERY AFRAID.
Kindest Regards
Dougie Weake
BBC Radio York

I felt I had to contact you and tell you of my disgust at the write up we received for the Panto in the Ripon Gazette.
'KW' is more than entitled to his/her opinion but to allow this to be published in the local paper was just terrible. I feel it has dampened what was a wonderful experience for all involved.
I would have loved to have cut out a lovely review of the panto for my children to put in their scrapbook. How brave the young people were playing leading roles. They deserved encouragement and support.
How hard the back stage crew worked. What a tremendous amount work Sheila Parsons did putting the whole thing together.
I feel so sad that it had all ended with such a sour note. We all loved being in the Panto and the fantastic comments I have received from not only supportive Monktoners but also from people in Harrogate and Ripon, make me wonder why someone with such negative comments was allowed to write a piece.
The review on this website was wonderful , thank you.
Anyway what is done is done. I do hope none of the children are too downhearted about the article. I can tell you they were all fantastic. Well done.
And well done to everyone who either helped or took part. It was a joy to work with you all.
Angie Archbold

Hi all, fancy some entertainment with a twist? I am a fully qualified linedancing instructor and am offering one off workshops for absolute beginners to linedancing. Perhaps your WI would consider it? or any other groups that utilise your facilities. Get a group together, pick a venue and I will provide the tuition and entertainment!! For further details, please contact me on Ripon 606988 or 07891 862428. Ciao for now. Cath.

Trevor and Carol sent me an e-mail telling me about the panto, an alien activity here in the Mid West.
I trust that you and all in the village are well. We have recently had temperatures here going down to minus 30 degrees below zero. And that is, to quote you Brits, "bloody cold."
Mic, his pup Indiana Jones, and I are all well and looking forward to Spring. I'll get into the website shortly and write a short note to the village.
All the best.
Jim
Mid West
USA

I was very proud to see the great review of our Panto.
There is never enough room to put all names of all those people who make these productions possible on the programme, especially as some come forward after it is printed. I would like to thank again all those people who helped with sewing costumes, providing props, and helping to do make-up and look after the children, help Jane Newsome in the Front of House and generally give help in any way possible.

A special thank you to the two Steves who helped Nick shift scenery throughout the production, to Emma Oates who ran back and fore in the mud and rain from the children's changing room at the back of the hall, to all the mothers who helped, especially to Haley at the Masons Arms for providing the food for the childrens' party, and to Carole and Trevor at the Lamb and Flag for all their help and support, and to the School for lending me their bell.

Sheila Parsons

The residents of Lawnfield bungalows are disgusted by the way dogs are being allowed to foul the grass verges near here. The main road always has a beautiful display of daffodils in the spring, and this makes a lovely approach to the village, but now dog messes are spoiling it for everyone.
There used to be a notice here stating that owners who allowed dogs to foul the area would face fines, but this has now disappeared. Something ought to be done.
Clare Royds

I live in Harrogate and lost my Male Saker Falcon a month ago. I believe it was sighted on the the track to Ashbrook Farm on Sat 10 Feb 07 at about 0900. He has bell on his left foot and is wearing 10 cm leather jeeses from each ankle. If sighted please call the Independent Bird Register (IBR) 08706 088 500, who will contact me. Many thanks.
Gus Vigurs.

Dear annoyed.
'Twas I that misjudged the absorbency of the ground on the lane to Ashbrook Farm in an attempt to turn around and churned up the turf.
I consider myself suitably berated - it will not happen again!!
I am not 'annoyed', I am, yours sincerely.
Jenny Meyers

I read Jenny's explanation of what happened to her on the track to Ashbrook Farm, and now feel much better about it. I had suspected that someone had just been 'dirt tracking' and churning up the field just for devilment.
Now I know the explanation, I can only sympathise with Jenny's predicament!
It was good of her to clarify things.

I was appalled to read Lee's account of Dorothy's cowardice in the face of a helicopter. That bird is without doubt Chicken.
Tony

Just logged on to the website this morning and saw the "shoe" competition. I did at first think they were being worn by that notorious style icon - our "Dame" in our village panto (I know she's an undercover Jimmy Choo Model).
But on second thoughts, I nominate Zillah Horner as our Bishop Monkton Shoe Model, sporting those lovely multi coloured boots............just Zillah!!
Do pop along to the panto and see if Dame Glenda can match her style. Tickets on sale this Saturday '.
Jane.

The low flying helicopter last week caused one of my chickens (Dorothy) to escape from our garden in fright (despite the 6ft high fence round it!). I don't suppose you could put something on the web site about a lost chicken - she is a Columbine chicken and a lovely red-brown colour. She very well could have been got by the fox but it is worth one last try! Her fellow chicken, Teresa, is missing her terribly. If no one has seen her, does anyone have a spare chicken that would like to come and keep Teresa company?
Lee Higham

LATE NEWS: Dorothy has now returned!

I'm sure everyone likes their grown-up kids to drop in and see them for a surprise visit, especially if they've been away on perilous missions. I can see that it must be very exciting for John and Judy Hague, and indeed for other villagers too, to see Stuart hovering at such close range in his Chinook.
It certainly makes good news for the website. However, I am concerned about his 'visits'. I wasn't at home for his fly-by on Wednesday to see the effect, but on one of his previous visits my child was riding, fortunately in the field and not on the road. Our normally laid-back pony was terrified, and it was good fortune that I was close enough to hold him or there would almost certainly been an accident. The horses in the fields around us were galloping round in fright. Much as everyone appreciates the novelty of these visits, I think there is a real danger that one time it may result in a serious accident, and I think Stuart would find himself held responsible.
Most villagers seem keen to make the village and its roads safer for all users, so maybe it's time to say 'It's been fun, Stuart, but maybe next time pop down in the car for Sunday lunch.'

Who is it who has been driving up the lane to Ashbrook Farm and goes onto the grass, churning it and leaving an awful mess? It is such a shame that this pretty walk is being spoiled by people who are so thoughtless.

Lovely as it is to have a village Christmas Tree, I personally feel it is getting too tall and unwieldy especially in the blustery high winds that we have been experiencing of late. Could advice be sought as to whether it could be down sized and pruned back? I would be interested to hear others views on this matter.
Zillah Horner

Brian and I have just worked through your website. What an active village! Brian was entranced by your opening aerial view of the village and wanted to examine it so I pulled it down and he sat here for ages identifying buildings and places-- where the bus stop was, Tanfield House, where Auntie Renie and Uncle Fred lived, the blacksmith shop and candy store, etc. and had a wonderful time.
Then he asked if I could print it up for him. Do you have a somewhat larger file with greater resolution you could send me to print for him? I'd appreciate it greatly.
Dorothy Armitage
Wilmington. Delaware, USA

Editor's note: This aerial photograph came from Dave Gardner. I'll ask him if he can provide a better resolution copy or a print for you.

I look at the web site every week and the aerial photo of BM is great. I wondered if I could get a copy of it and my Mum, Sheila Robinson, who lives in the village could pay for it and send it to me in Vancouver.
I have tried to print photos from the web site but they don't really work too well so a photo would be better if possible.
You do such a good job with the web site and I have so much fun looking at it every week. Keep up the good work!
Jill Ellis
Vancouver
Canada

Editor's note: This picture was provided by Dave Gardner so I will contact him and see if he can pass a print to your mother. Glad you enjoyed seeing it.

We wish everyone in Bishop Monkton a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy, peaceful and prosperous New Year. May 2007 bring this website another 15,000 plus hits. We continue to enjoy your village news all the way over here in Canada, and hope to get back your way some day. Thanks to Richard for producing an informative and interesting venue for sharing information.
Cheers,
Jo-Anne and Neil Vickers,
Victoria, B. C. Canada.

Seasons greetings to everyone in Bishop Monkton from good old Sussex by the sea. Have never had the pleasure of visiting your splendid village, but have had excellent reports from Richard Field a former work colleague and friend. Nice to see he continues to put his professional talents to good use, by editing this superb website. Enjoy a wonderful Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year.
John

I certainly did recognize all the people on the photographs my brother found in his treasured album. I had no idea he possessed these photographs and they certainly brought back many memories for me.
I feel sure that I have a photograph of Eddie and Freddie Wilkinson in their choir robes, both looking like 'Angels' and that 'butter would not melt in their mouths'.
Doothy
Australia

I'd like to send everyone in Bishop Monkton a very Happy Christmas and all good health and fortune in the New Year.
Things continue to potter along here with Uncle Sam as normal: controlled panic! Mic is just fine and his 19 month old pup, Indiana Jones, is coming along nicely with his training. Since I can't bring Indi to work with me or in the pubs or shops here, his socialization process is behind that of Mic's. However, he is a strong and happy dog.
Cheers,
Jim
USA

Being a Yorkshire lass but living in Brighton, I love to go home especially to visit my sister who lives in your very pretty village.
I was last in your village in August and I would like to congratulate whoever is responsible for the green keeping on the wonderful bowling green. It is indeed one of the nicest greens I have seen. I shall bring my woods next year and see if it bowls as well as it looks.That's if you let me!
I shall be up for the New Year and look forward to seeing Trevor and Carol at the Lamb and Flag - there is a landmark not to be missed.
So I wish all in your beautiful village a very happy New Year.
Hazel

Calling all knitters!
I am thinking of starting a knitting group to meet in an evening to knit, have a natter and a glass of wine. You could knit own stuff or could knit for a good cause such as Harrogate hospital specail care baby unit who always need bootees and hats for the tiny babies.
We hope start in the new year. Please get in touch if you are interested.
I live at Crispin Cottage,St John's Road ,Bishop Monkton. Tel. 01765 676924.
e-mail: omahonyjulie@yahoo.co.uk
Hope to hear from you! Julie

I would like to take this opportunity to thank EVERYONE who donated to and
helped decorate the Church so beautifully for this Christmas. Both the
inside and outside church were decorated with imagination and flair.
It was my aim to "branch out" from Church and bring together all the
groups/clubs/organisations in the village to decorate Church and represent a
"village together". If you have seen the display , you will see this was well and truly
achieved. If you have not seen this go along to Church before January 6
and see for yourself a stunning celebration of the talent we share together
in Bishop Monkton.
Wishing you all a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
Jane

Hi Donald and Orville !!!!
What a great night!! Sure everyone enjoyed themselves and no-one got
puddle ducked!
Wine, cheese and mince pies went down very well although "duck a l'orange"
might have been more appropriate! Both your presentations went down
extremely well, very audience friendly and received rapturous quacking!
Seriously, thanks for a great successful night, hours of hard preparation
and lauching "Life Savers " so well, we were truly proud to be a part of it.
See you both soon, but just off to roast a duck for tea.
Love, Jemima and Daffie

I have just received my copy of the new-look Bishop Monkton School Times, and felt I must write to congratulate you. It told me about all sort of things which had been going on at the school - what a go-ahead place! It is a newsletter of which we can be justly proud.
Friend of The School

Many congratulations to all those who helped in the organisation of last night's 'celebration of 2006'. It was a diverse and enjoyable evening which raised a great deal of money towards our village defribrillator- I believe now we are over half way there - fantastic. And how lovely that Bishop Monkton Life Savers is dedicated to the memory of our dear friend, Alan. Once again a thoroughly enjoyable and well prepared evening - thank you.
Emma

Many thanks for all your hard work during the year. I spend many enjoyable hours reading the BMtoday website. I hope that you are well and that you have a wonderful, blessed Christmas and that the New Year brings all you may wish for.
Dorothy
Australia

I would like to thank everyone who sponsored me to run the New York Marathon on November 5th this year which enabled me to raise over £1000 for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. I found the support tremendous both locally and on the day when 2 million people turned out to watch. I have to admit the sight of the finishing line was very sweet as was the following long soak in a hot bath!
John Smith

I am delighted to hear of the village initiative to provide a defibrillator for Bishop Monkton. Please put me down as a volunteer to be trained to use it. Also if there is a need for fundraising support give me a call.
On a personal note, you are probably not aware that I suffered a heart attack nine years ago and thanks to medical science and the advancement of heart treatment I have benefited from nine years of good health following surgery in Leeds Heart Centre. I still recall vividly the York emergency services which saved my life at the time.
I have some experience of fund raising in this area. You may recall the " Heartsave Appeal" in Ripon in 2000-2001 which provided four defibrillators for the surgeries of Ripon and the St John Ambulance Brigade. This was a major fund raising project during my year as President of The Rotary Club of Ripon Rowels.
Jonathan Beer

I've just been on a journey around the website and very enjoyable it was too.
What an amazing amount of stories for such a small place and the way you've put it all together is an example Boughton and a lot of other villages should follow.
Ironically I suppose this is just another of the reasons why local evenings and weeklies are losing sales.
I'll bet you enjoy doing this as much as anything you've done in the wider media world.
When I finally get my book off and running I think I'll take a look into this area.
Tony Boullemier
Northampton

I would like to express thanks to everyone who contributed towards the village bonfire which was held on\ Saturday night. If was very well attended by Bishop Monktoners and there were people there too from Burton Leonard and serveral people from Ripon, who had telephoned in the day to see if they were allowed to attend. A great time was had by everyone and the fantastic firework display lasted for over an hour and a half, whilst people enjoyed tucking in to a hot supper. Well done to everyone who made this fabulous community event so enjoyable!
Emma Oates