Lesley Tate

North Yorkshire Council is considering moving Skipton Library from the former Mechanics Institute on the High Street to an empty building attached to Skipton Town Hall, previously occupied by Wildwood. The proposed relocation would bring the library together with the museum, gallery, tourist information centre and event space, potentially improving access, sharing services and reducing costs. The plan remains at an early stage. Skipton Mayor Winston Feather is separately urging the council to repair the town hall roof so the town council chambers and first-floor offices, closed for more than two years, can reopen.

The Skipton Hotel is partnering with Cancer Support Yorkshire and will launch the relationship with “Catwalk for CSY,” a charity fashion show and dinner. Craven College students will model autumn and winter clothing, including items from CSY’s pre-loved shop, with ticket sales, a raffle and auction raising funds for the charity’s Skipton support hub. The event will take place at the hotel on October 8, with tickets priced at £29.50.

Farnhill Pinnacle, a landmark built by Farnhill and Kildwick villagers in 1887 for Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, has been restored after years of vandalism and weather damage. California resident Shirley Foster-McIntosh arranged the work to commemorate what would have been her father Dennis Foster’s 100th birthday in 2026; her grandfather and great-grandfather helped build the monument. With assistance from Farnhill Parish Council, local officials, the land agent and Enoch Harrison and Son, the damaged render was removed and replaced in late July. Foster hopes the restored pinnacle will remain a valued community landmark and avoid further vandalism.

A planned outdoor music stage at Skipton Canal Basin has been cancelled because fairground rides approved by North Yorkshire Council occupy more space than expected. Skipton Town Council said the remaining area could not safely accommodate the stage and associated activities, so the performance was moved to Sandylands Sports Centre. North Yorkshire Council said the rides had been licensed through August 31 and that attempts were made to create space, including moving two children's rides, but the town council ultimately decided not to proceed. Skipton Live will continue with 42 acts at Craven Arts House, town busking and other activities across Skipton.

A family-friendly fundraiser will be held at Broughton Road Bowling Club in Skipton on September 26 to support Hope for Tomorrow, which operates 14 mobile cancer treatment units with NHS trusts, including Airedale NHS Trust. The event will feature entertainment, games, food, music and a raffle. Patients using the units reportedly save substantial treatment and waiting time as well as transport and parking costs.

Gisburne Park, a 400-year-old estate near Gisburn in the Ribble Valley, is set for a proposed £30 million redevelopment into a luxury country hotel, members’ club and wellness retreat. Plans by Alison Brooks Architects and landscape architect Todd Longstaffe-Gowan include restoring the Grade I listed Georgian mansion, adding spa pavilions, guest accommodation and social spaces, redeveloping the gardens and restoring a former lake for wild swimming. Owners Guy and Amber Hindley aim to create a locally connected wellness destination while preserving the estate’s historic character. Planning applications are expected in November, with completion anticipated in 2028.

York and North Yorkshire has become the first rural mayoral area in England to receive Established Mayoral Strategic Authority status. The new designation is expected to provide the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority with greater devolved powers, more flexible funding and increased capacity to support economic growth, affordable housing, transport, jobs, skills and climate initiatives. Mayor David Skaith and council leaders Carl Les and Claire Douglas welcomed the decision, saying it would help address regional inequalities, improve living standards and enable more local decision-making.

More than 900 people attended a two-day open event at Twistleton Barn near Ingleton Waterfalls Trail to learn about farming in the Yorkshire Dales. Farmers John, William and Judith Dawson, supported by neighbour John Metcalfe and the Farmer Network, demonstrated sheep shearing, weaving and other aspects of rural life. The event aimed to improve public understanding of food production, landscape management and the challenges facing farmers, including the declining value of wool. Funded by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and the Farming in Protected Landscapes Fund, the family event also included interactive activities, a nature trail and opportunities to buy local produce.

Gleowit Productions’ one-woman play Anne Boleyn’s Mother, performed by Heather Leech, will be staged at Skipton Little Theatre on September 4. The production explores the grief, anger and regret experienced by Anne Boleyn’s mother as she witnesses her daughter’s rise, downfall and execution, as well as the loss of another child amid Henry VIII’s court intrigues. The play received four stars at its Hastings premiere and drew strong praise for Leech’s performance.

Art in the Pen will mark its 20th event at Skipton Auction Mart on August 15 and 16, bringing together more than 200 artists and makers from across the UK. The fair will feature painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, jewellery, demonstrations, live music and opportunities to buy directly from exhibitors. A Twenty x £20 raffle will offer 20 visitors £20 vouchers. The event began in 2005 as a small exhibition in cattle pens and has grown into a major, informal arts and crafts gathering. Featured exhibitors include Yorkshire Dales Crafts, Designs by LD, Thrift Design and artists inspired by Yorkshire landscapes, wildlife and sustainable materials. Adult tickets cost £7.50, while under-16s enter free.

Police officers searching for a man wanted for failing to attend court in connection with various offences found him hiding inside a wardrobe in Skipton. The man was arrested and is due to appear before magistrates, while North Yorkshire Police thanked the public for helping locate wanted individuals.

Skipton MP Sir Julian Smith visited Bizzie Lizzie's fish and chip shop to hear owner Allan Davison's concerns about rising costs and VAT pressures affecting hospitality businesses. The visit followed correspondence from managing director Katie Davison, and Smith said he would raise the issues with Treasury ministers and advocate for policies supporting local businesses.

Children under 16 can travel free on most local buses in England throughout August under the Government’s Great British Summer Savings scheme, including DalesBus routes and the Cravenlink service in the Craven and York and North Yorkshire areas. Teenagers under 19 can continue to use £1 single fares within York and North Yorkshire through an initiative led by Mayor David Skaith.

Double yellow lines on the B6479 in Stainforth, near Settle, have been repainted after North Yorkshire Council said they had faded and no longer clearly communicated the parking restriction. Motorists had reportedly been parking there to access Stainforth Force, despite a paid car park being available in the village.

Broughton Sanctuary near Skipton is launching Sanctuary of She, a four-night women's wellbeing retreat in October for up to 70 participants. Curated by Paris Tempest, the programme will combine workshops, ceremonies, movement, music, storytelling, nature-based activities and healing practices around the themes of Wild, Womb and Wisdom. Prices start at £1,300 per person, including accommodation, meals and wellbeing sessions.

Settle Victoria Hall will host a three-day beer festival in August, with proceeds shared between the venue and The Principle Trust Children's Charity. The programme also includes a David Hockney film, performances by Le Vent Du Nord and The Wedding Present, an outdoor production of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, a Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac tribute, and a family circus skills day.

Grassington residents are invited to a range of upcoming activities, including a Prostate Cancer coffee morning, the Friday Hub Wellbeing Café, a community cinema screening of Midwinter Break, and regular singing, knitting and chess groups. The article also announces future screenings of The Devil Wears Prada 2 and My Mother's Wedding.

The Dales Pony Society marked its 110th anniversary with a President’s Ride at the Craven Country Ride in Coniston Cold. Twenty-six ponies and riders, alongside walkers, completed a route planned by Malham-based Great All Rounders, with rosettes awarded by society president Jeff Daley. The event showcased the breed’s versatility, sure-footedness and suitability for riders of different ages and abilities, while sponsors and local organizations supported refreshments and lunch. Dales ponies were originally developed for the lead-mining industry and later adapted for agriculture, riding and driving.

Repairs to the grade II-listed Coniston Cold Bridge on the A65 have been delayed until August 7 because unusually hot weather impaired the use of traditional hot lime mortar. North Yorkshire Council is also rebuilding a 15-metre section of the bridge parapet, extending work that began on June 29 and causing lengthy traffic tailbacks between Hellifield and Gargrave. The 260-year-old bridge, designed by John Carr, must be repaired using traditional materials because of its listed status.

More than 400 people attended the annual Silsden Proms on the Farm concert at Jackson’s Field, raising £6,000 for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice and Silsden Methodist Church. The event featured performances by Tewit Silver Band with soloist Sarah Halstead, Hot Aire Concert Band and The Puretones, alongside raffles, a tombola and a best-dressed gazebo competition. Organiser William Jowitt thanked performers, volunteers, sponsors and attendees, with planning already underway for the following year’s event.

Smashboks, a rounders team based at Steeton Cricket Club in South Craven, won the National Rounders Finals in Wellingborough after progressing from regional qualifiers in Leominster. The team topped its group, won the quarter-final and semi-final, and defeated a Burnley side in a closely contested final. Captain Hannah and vice-captain Vikki received particular praise for their leadership and dedication.

A charity football tournament hosted by Skipton-based medical recruitment agency Holt Doctors raised £1,101.35 for Andy’s Man Club, which supports men's mental health. Teams from local businesses and community groups took part at Skipton Community Sports Hub. More than £3,000 in bar proceeds was also donated to the sports hub, while local businesses contributed refreshments and other support. Robinson Roofing won the tournament.

Plans to introduce North Yorkshire’s first fixed and average speed cameras are progressing, with authorities now assessing technology, costs and suitable locations. A £2 million allocation from a four-year York and North Yorkshire transport settlement will fund the programme, although North Yorkshire Council has challenged the wider settlement and questioned the camera installation. A new Safety Camera Board is due to begin coordinating delivery, while campaigners continue pressing for action over dangerous speeding in Craven and say their supporting council network has grown to 100 members.

North Yorkshire Police is inviting applications for special constables, who volunteer at least 16 hours per month, receive comprehensive training and hold most of the same powers and responsibilities as regular officers. The force describes the role as a way to support community safety, give back to local communities and potentially pursue a career in policing.

A government planning inspector has quashed North Yorkshire Council’s enforcement notice and allowed a family home at Ghyll Syke Barn near Bell Busk to remain. The council had argued that the former cattle shed was demolished and rebuilt in breach of permission, while Robert and Helen Sterling maintained that parts of the original structure and recycled materials had been used. Although the inspector found the development conflicted with the council’s policy directing housing away from open countryside, the authority’s significant housing-land shortfall, the site’s limited sensitivity and the contribution of a single home to local housing supply were considered sufficient benefits to support the appeal.

Skipton Town Hall is hosting a free backstage workshop on stage lighting and audio for people aged over 15, alongside three weekend performances of The Ultimate Bubble Show. International Bubbleologist and Guinness World Record holder Ray Bubbles will create bubble sculptures and effects, including a volcano bubble, carousel, ghost and tornado, drawing on his work with SEND schools, neurodivergent groups and science centres.

A family-run ice creamery in Yorkshire has introduced the Sundae Roast, a summer dessert featuring ice cream served in Aunt Bessie’s Yorkshire Puddings. The combination has drawn local interest, with customers responding positively and the business encouraging others to try the trend at home. Inspired by a previous Aunt Bessie’s and Anya Hindmarch collaboration, the dish reflects a broader movement to use Yorkshire Puddings in new ways. Recipes and preparation tips accompany the launch, with the product available at multiple local outlets.

Councillors in South Craven expressed frustration after feeling compelled to approve a housing proposal for eight new homes in Cowling, adjacent to another development for up to nine homes. Because each site falls below the ten‑home threshold and is separately owned, no Section 106 contributions will be required. With the local housing land supply at 2.2 years, the Craven Local Plan is considered out of date, creating a presumption in favour of development. Several councillors criticised national housebuilding targets as unrealistic for rural North Yorkshire and warned that villages such as Cowling risk being overwhelmed by new housing. Despite shared concerns raised by objectors and members, the committee concluded it had no option but to approve the scheme.

A housing development in Skipton, Bellway’s Clifford Gardens, has sold 75 percent of its 188 planned homes, reflecting strong demand driven by the town’s reputation and amenities. The development offers a range of property sizes at varying price points and has been built to Bellway’s five‑star HBF standard. Bellway reports that most homes are already occupied, describing the site as a growing and attractive community.

Police reported that thieves broke into a property on Fold Lane in Cowling, stole two sets of keys, and drove away with a white Seat Cupra around 2:30 a.m. on July 18. Authorities are appealing for information, including sightings or CCTV, and have provided contact details and a reference number for the investigation.

Local historian Sarah Lister will give a talk at Settle Library on the Settle-Carlisle Railway, focusing on the labourers who built it. The library is also offering a range of children’s summer workshops, with some still accepting bookings, supported in part by a grant from Skipton Building Society.

Police in West Craven seized an illicit vape containing the synthetic drug spice during an investigation into illegally obtained vaping products used by local youths. Authorities warned of the drug’s severe physical and mental health risks and urged parents to discuss the dangers of illicit vapes with their children. One arrest has been made, and police are requesting further information from the public through designated contact channels.

Skipton Building Society is promoting the creation of new emojis that better represent British currency and everyday financial situations, arguing they would help people feel more comfortable discussing money. The organisation submitted several designs to the Unicode Consortium, including a pound coin, piggy bank, and money‑themed icons. Research cited in the piece highlights widespread discomfort among both younger and older adults when talking about financial matters, with many believing that more relevant emojis could make digital conversations about money easier and more relatable. Skipton aims to normalise financial discussions and encourage confidence by improving communication tools and offering financial guidance.

Yarndale returns to Skipton with a wide range of yarn and fibre arts workshops for all skill levels, featuring expert tutors offering hands‑on sessions in crochet, knitting, spinning, embroidery, and related crafts. Organisers highlight the value of in‑person learning and small class sizes, with bookings available online.

Firefighters from Ilkley, Otley and Shipley joined participants in the annual Wharfedale 3 Peaks Challenge, completing the longest route in full gear to support the Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association. The event offered multiple route options and drew strong community involvement, with organisers praising the turnout and atmosphere as participants enjoyed the Yorkshire Dales while raising funds for the rescue organisation.

Police are seeking information to locate a pair of gold cufflinks engraved with the initials PK stolen from a home in Overdale Park, Skipton, between July 7 and July 10. North Yorkshire Police request that anyone with relevant information or who has been offered the items contact them online, by email, through live chat, or by calling 101 and quoting reference 12260130657.

A family‑friendly music festival called Glistenbury will return for its fifth year at Cross Hills Football Club, celebrating its growth from a small fundraiser into a major community event that has raised over £60,000 for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice. Organised by South Craven Together and founded by Alister Witherington, the festival features a diverse music lineup, family activities, and support from local businesses and organisations. Organisers credit volunteers, sponsors and the wider community for the event’s success and aim to reach new fundraising milestones this year.

Authorities and landowners in Wharfedale warn visitors of severe parking limitations following the permanent closure of Burnsall Park’s riverside parking area. North Yorkshire Council, the Bolton Abbey Estate and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority urge travellers to plan ahead, pre‑book parking, avoid irresponsible parking and protect moorland areas during warm weather. Safety cautions include avoiding barbecues, fires and swimming in cold river water. Enforcement officers and police will patrol the area to maintain access and address parking issues as high visitor numbers are expected.

Caroline Dale has been appointed Group Chief Internal Auditor of Skipton Group, pending regulatory approval, joining from Leeds Building Society. She will start in January 2027 and oversee the internal audit function, succeeding interim auditor David Meechie, who will stay on until February 2027 to support the transition. Skipton Group leadership highlighted her extensive audit experience and anticipated contribution to strengthening governance and supporting long-term growth.

Tarmac has applied to extend operations at Arcow Quarry in the Yorkshire Dales until 2043, with restoration work running through 2045 and aftercare to 2075. The plan seeks approval to extract additional gritstone, rework existing quarry faces, continue mineral processing and transport products by rail and road. The company emphasizes the quarry’s strategic importance as one of few UK sites producing high skid‑resistance stone. Restoration proposals include new habitats such as fen areas, grasslands and wooded zones. Documents state that further extraction would sustain supply of a nationally important mineral, with rail transport remaining central due to limited alternative sources.

Police are investigating malicious damage to three vehicles parked on Low Bentham Road in High Bentham around 4 a.m. and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage. Information can be provided directly to PC Ben Robinson-Brockhill or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

Police in Glusburn conducted an Op Reveal spot-check operation focused on vehicle registration offences, stopping 20 vehicles and identifying 10 violations involving number plates, insecure loads, and window tinting. Drivers were reminded that incorrect or tampered plates can incur fines and may be revoked, with more checks planned in the coming weeks.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority advises visitors to avoid Burnsall and parts of Wharfedale following the closure of the Burnsall Park riverside parking area, warning of very limited parking and increased pressure on nearby villages. Officials urge pre‑booking for Bolton Abbey, adherence to legal parking, and responsible behaviour due to heightened wildfire and water‑safety risks during hot, dry weather. Increased patrols by police and rangers aim to maintain road access and protect local communities while encouraging visitors to choose alternative destinations.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority has adopted a new local plan to guide development in the area through 2040, introducing a requirement that new homes be used as principal residences to support local communities. The plan targets around 50 new homes per year with a strong emphasis on affordable housing and small-scale development across about 100 villages, including major allocations in Threshfield and Grassington. It also backs rural economic initiatives, sustainable tourism, low‑carbon energy and improvements to walking and cycling routes, while safeguarding landscapes and wildlife. Authority chair Derek Twine described the plan as balancing community needs with environmental protection.

Settle Parish Church hosted the premiere of A Shepherd's Year, a musical work created over two years by Langcliffe Singers with Settle Orchestra. Composer Vahan Salorian and librettist Dominic Kimberlin collaborated with local farmers and pupils from Settle Primary School, whose lyrics were included. A documentary about the project will be archived at The Folly. The piece was commissioned to mark Langcliffe Singers' 40th anniversary.

A new three‑day Three Peaks Golf Festival successfully debuted across courses in Bentham, Kirkby Lonsdale and Skipton, drawing 172 competitors and generating over £30,000 for the participating clubs and local area. Organisers reported strong interest and community benefits, with plans for a mixed pairs event in September and an expanded programme for 2027 to further promote Yorkshire Dales golf and tourism.

A Skipton stonemason, Hadley Pighills, completed an 84‑mile barefoot walk along Hadrian’s Wall to raise funds for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice in memory of his mother, Benita. He walked 12 to 13 hours daily over four days, enduring hot weather and rough terrain while relying on dry, hard ground to protect his feet. Inspired by a previous fundraising trek in Ibiza, he has raised about £4,000 so far, with donations still open online.

Eight-year-old Olive Rippon from Skipton has been accepted into the Royal Ballet’s Junior Associate Programme, enabling her to train on weekends with the Royal Ballet while continuing classes at the Northern Dance Centre. The dance school praised her dedication and talent, calling the appointment a significant milestone in her development. The Northern Dance Centre, approaching its 80th anniversary, highlighted other recent student successes as it prepares for its summer programme.

Upper Wharfedale School celebrated the renewal of its School of Sanctuary status, recognising its commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for refugees and asylum seekers. Skipton MP Sir Julian Smith attended the ceremony, toured the school and praised its community spirit. The event followed the recent death of assistant headteacher Helen Mukherjee, whose work was key to the school’s initial recognition, and tributes highlighted her long-lasting impact on the school community.

Craven College is recognised as the top-performing college in northern England in a highly positive Ofsted report praising its inclusive culture, strong leadership and consistent, high‑quality teaching across campuses. Inspectors highlighted students’ sense of value and safety, employer-engaged curriculum design, and strong outcomes for apprentices, high‑needs learners and adult students. College leaders and staff welcomed the findings, emphasising continued commitment to student success and future improvement.

Hellifield’s post office has closed after the shutdown of Ahernes of Hellifield, the shop that housed it for 130 years. The Post Office says it has advertised the vacancy and received two inquiries, but neither met requirements, and it is still seeking local retailers to host a new branch. Alternative post office services are available in Long Preston and Airton. The Ahernes building, listed for sale at £250,000, is currently under offer.

Local councillors, MPs and residents warn that the proposed Calderdale Energy Park windfarm could lead to significant quarry traffic along the A65, with projections of up to 148 HGV movements per day during a 16‑month construction period. Concerns focus on damage to peatland, loss of habitat, risks to listed bridges and disruption to villages along the transport route. Parish councils and MPs Robbie Moore and Julian Smith have raised objections, while the National Trust also opposes the scheme on environmental grounds. Calderdale Energy Park disputes campaigners’ claims, stating that transport routes and material sources have not been finalised.

Tarn House and High Stables at Malham Tarn are being leased by the National Trust to South Craven Scouts, who plan to transform the buildings into a long‑term outdoor hub for youth groups. High Stables is expected to reopen by next Easter for residential stays, while Tarn House will require more work. The estate, previously operated by the Field Studies Council, will once again host thousands of young people over the next 20 years. National Trust leaders and local scout volunteers emphasized the importance of expanding access to nature and outdoor experiences. Planning and development are underway in collaboration with local authorities and community groups.

Craven Stationery in Skipton has been sold by the Mashiter family to sisters Annie Clay and Viki Smith-McShee after more than 30 years of family ownership. The new owners plan to preserve the business’s trusted service while refreshing its product range, upgrading the premises and launching a new website. Former owner Richard Mashiter expressed confidence in their vision following a period of transition prompted by the death of his wife and business partner, highlighting the shop’s longstanding role in the local community.

Emergency services conducted a coordinated training exercise at the Land Rover Experience site near Skipton, simulating a mass‑casualty road collision. Police, fire and ambulance teams practiced joint response procedures using JESIP principles, with volunteers acting as casualties to enhance realism. Authorities emphasized the importance of such exercises in improving communication, coordination and overall readiness for serious incidents.

Briggs and Duxbury Funeral Directors has moved from The Butts in Barnoldswick to a modern facility at Victory Business Park while maintaining its long‑standing commitment to compassion and professionalism. The business highlights improvements in its new, purpose‑designed environment and continues to offer 24‑hour support to local families, retaining its accreditation from SAIF and its community‑focused values.

A community fun day is being held to celebrate 30 years of the Beamsley Project Charitable Trust, which provides accessible holiday accommodation for families and groups with additional needs. The free event will feature activities, food vendors, live music, and local craft stalls, supported by a grant from the ASAMAA Charitable Trust. The celebration aims to thank the community and raise awareness of the charity’s work and the benefits of accessible holidays.

Gregg Stevenson, a Paralympic gold medallist and former Royal Engineer Commando from Foulridge, has taken on a new role as Lancashire County Council’s Armed Forces Covenant project manager. He will lead efforts to improve support for veterans and their families, strengthen partnerships, and re-establish the Armed Forces Covenant Network. Stevenson aims to highlight overlooked parts of the veteran community and address issues including mental health, housing, employment and wellbeing. His background includes work with the NHS veterans’ mental health service and supporting amputees, as well as winning gold in mixed double sculls at the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

Councillors in West Craven will consider plans to enhance the area around the Salterforth War Memorial, including granite paving, new bollards and chains, and the possible addition of a flagpole dependent on finding a volunteer group to manage it. The committee will also review future maintenance arrangements and potential usage costs for refurbished public toilets in Earby Memorial Park. The meeting is scheduled for July 7 at the Rainhall Centre in Barnoldswick.

A proposal to build eight homes at Laycock Fields in Cowling is recommended for approval by North Yorkshire Council planners despite six local objections concerning issues such as flooding, overlooking and highways. The scheme includes two terraces of stone-built homes with parking, amenity space and access from Laycock Fields and Old Lane. With the council’s housing land supply at 2.2 years, officers state that the benefits of the development outweigh any adverse impacts. The Skipton and Ripon Area Planning Committee will consider the application on July 7.

Yorkshire Ambulance Service marks its 20th anniversary, highlighting growth in staffing, rising emergency call volumes and expanded services since its creation in 2006. YAS Charity launches a year-long fundraising campaign to support CPR training, defibrillator installation and staff wellbeing initiatives. Leaders express gratitude for public support and encourage community participation through donations and fundraising activities.

More than 20 handcrafted sheep will form a new Woolly Sheep Trail in Skipton, running from July 3 to September 27 as part of the lead‑up to the Yarndale festival. Created by volunteers and coordinated by the local textile business Spinning Jenny, the trail places knitted, crocheted and woven sheep models across town centre businesses, with maps and stamp collections available for families. The project is supported by Skipton BID, with wool donated by King Cole, and will conclude with an auction of the sheep to raise funds for the charity Spirit of Endeavour, which provides accessible canal trips.

A tea party organised by the Clapham and Austwick Brownies and Guides raised £430 for Yorkshire Cancer Care. Thirteen girls baked a selection of cakes served to more than 70 guests at Clapham and Newby Village Hall, which was provided free of charge. Visitors praised the event and the girls’ helpfulness. The occasion also helped the participants develop skills in baking, teamwork and hosting. A spokesperson thanked all contributors for supporting the successful fundraiser.

Police officers in Skipton forcibly entered a parked car during a heatwave to rescue a dog left inside for about half an hour in dangerous temperatures of around 30°C. The dog was taken to a vet and found to be unharmed, while the owner received strong advice from officers. Police thanked the vigilant member of the public who raised the alarm and reiterated warnings about the risks of leaving pets in cars during warm weather.