your local link magazine january 2012

n Issue 100 January 2012

The BIg One!

Free InsIDe:Adult

Education Pull Out

ahead...youryear

Highlights include: Residents Festival. Viking Festival. Open Studios. Yorks Sweet Story. Science Grand Tour. Rail Fest.Charter Day. Mystery Plays. Food & Drink Festival. Illuminating York. St Nicholas Fayre. Panto Time

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the best of york

For more information about Adult Education Courses visit www.yortime.org.uk/learning or call 01904 5528062

the b

est of yo

rk


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IN FUTURE ISSUES.

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6 BestofYork42 YourMotors50 Health&Beauty64 Weddings68 YourFamily90 YourPet92 YourHome108 YourEnvironment110 YourGarden116 YorkonaFork121 YourEvents135 Trades&Services156 YourJobs

Bythetimeyoureadthis,ChristmashasyettohappenintheYourLocalLinkoffice.Thetreeisup(sortof),anddecorated(courtesyofMimssonJosh,whocameintorefereetheBattleoftheBaublesandaverygoodjobhemadeofit,too).Troubleis,thetreenowoccupiesthedoorwaybetweenDesignandtherestoftheworld.RachelandLisathinkweretryingtotellthemsomething!

WevealsohadtheofficeChristmasparty.Probablytheleastsaidaboutthisthebetter,butsufficeittosaytherewasabitofahoo-hainvolvingafewtablecloths,andoneoftheguestssomehowendeduponTadcasterRoadwithahalfafullydecoratedChristmastree.Justanothernormalweekendintown,inotherwords...

WeareallgettingexcitedaboutourSecretSanta.Someofushaveputalotofthoughtintothis,planningourgiftscarefullyandwrappingthemlovingly.Othersarepreparing

tomakeamadlastminutedashtotheCo-op.Weveactuallyjustnoticedsomebitsandpieceshavemysteriouslygonemissingfromtheloo,soifanyoneunwrapsamirrorand/orapacketoftoiletrolls,wellknowwhostoblame!

Youmighthavenoticed,thismonthwecelebrateour100thissue.Tomarktheoccasion,wethoughtwedintroduceyoutothededicatedteamofpeoplewhoworktirelesslytoputthismagazinetogether.Buttheywerebusy,sowevebroughtyouthislotinstead.Youcanmeetthemallonpageseven.Sonexttimeyoupickupthephoneanddropusanemail,youllknowwhoyouretalkingto!

Andwedowanttohearfromyou.Greatthoughourteamare,YourLocalLinkisnothingwithoutitsreadersandadvertisers.Sokeepintouchin2012!

You can meet the rest of the team on page 7!

Advertising: Gini,Tracy,Sarah,Mim,Kelly,Richard,Avril,Vicky,Carl,Gary&SueAccounts:Helen&ClaireDistribution: Dean,Jon,RonnieDesign: Rachel,Lisa&Jerry Editorial: Donna&JoePublishers:TracyOutramandGiniGuttery

Adduson facebook YourlocallinkYorktwitter @locallinkyork

the best of york Happy New Year...


Welcometoourveryfirstmagazineof2012!

6

Asyoumayknowwearenowonourfantastic100theditionofYourLocalLink.HowTracyandGinistillfunctionnormally(debatable)isbeyondme.Ibelievealltheteamwillbewithmehereonhowproudweareforthesetwowonderfulladiesandtheirachievementsovertheselast100issues.StartingfromTracyswardrobewithafewbabiesroamingaroundtowherewearenowImsurethishasbeenthebiggestjourneyforthem,withlotsoflaughter,crying,hystericsalongthewaytoo.ImsuretherearemanymoreeditionstohityourletterboxesbutfromalltheteamaverybigthankyoutoTracyandGiniforyoursupport,friendshipandcarethatyouoffer

usallatYourLocalLink.

the b

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Call: 01904 767881Email: [email protected]: 01904764843Write: YourLocalLink,OakTreeFarm,TheMoor,HaxbyYO322LH

Spacebooking,copy,cancellationandeditorialdeadlinefortheFebruaryeditionis13thJanuary2012and20thJanuary2012forrecruitment.


Lots of love

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TracYisoneoftheco-foundersofYourLocalLinkMediaGroup,andsheloves

nothingmorethanspeakingtoasmanyofheradvertisersonadailybasisasshecan.Outofworkshelikestorideherhorsesreallyfastovershowjumpsandchaseherkids.New years resolutionTotrynottogetanystickersputonmycarfromstrangerscomplainingaboutmyinconsiderateparking.

Gini istheotherownerwithTracy.Shecanusuallybefoundinthecornerwondering

howherwishforanicelittlepart-timejobnineyearsagoendeduplikethis!Shelovescomingtowork.Itstheninehoursbeforeshegoeshomethatshehasaproblemwith...New years resolutionTomakeYourLocalLinkbiggerandbetterthanever.Andtobuyasetofearplugs.

Sarahisoursalesmanager.Sheisthesensibleonewhohastomanagesillygames

intheofficeandtriestokeepasense

oforder.ShesaysdealingwithhertwoteenagechildreniseasierthanmanagingtheYourLocalLinkSalesTeam,butitkeepsherentertained!New years resolutionTosharethepositiveandvibrantthingsthatarehappeninginYorkwithallofpeoplewholiveinourwonderfulcitythroughYourLocalLink.Ortolosefivestone,becomeagymbunnyandwearadressthatdoesnotconsistofmuchmaterialtoournextChristmasparty.

MiMisalwaysgoodforalaugh(aslongasyoudon'tleaveyourwashingupinthe

sink!).Shehastenyearsexperienceinsales,andlovesdealingwithcustomers.Shehasaspecialtalent,whichwecanttellyou,butjustbegladyoudon'tshareanofficewithher...New years resolutionTokeepintouchwithmyfriendsmoreandkeepmykidshappy

avrilhas17yearsexperienceworkinginsales(showingyouragethere,Av!).Sheloves

dealingwithallhercustomersand

givingthemallgreatcareandservice.ShealsolovesbeingananatoherthreeyearoldgrandsonTyler.New years resolutionToloseweight(IwillhavetodoitnowIvetoldyou!)andtogetfit.

GarYiseasy-going,funnyand100%single(hearthat,ladies?).Hewasbornandbrought

upinClifton,andwastheCornerHousesbesteverfootballplayer(hesays).HesalsoabitofaTVstar.HesappearedonLoveMeDo,BritainsBestPsychicandInsideOut.New years resolutionTodropadresssizeortwo

Sueistheworkingmumofateenagedaughter,Hannah.Shethinksshesacool

mum,butHannahdoesn'talwaysagree!Shelovescooking,entertainingandspendingtimewithfriendsandfamily.HerspecialpersonisherGrandmastillwonderfulage98New years resolutionTostopeatingchocolateandbiscuitswhilstatmydesk!

carl hasbeeninthehomeimprovementsbusinessfor20yearsandknowslotsof

peopleindifferenttrades,soheknowswhatmakesanadvertisementworkforthem!Hesafamilymanwithdaughters,sohesusedtobeingbossedaboutbywomen!New years resolutionStopsmoking

vickY isourresidentstylequeen!Sheloveshavingfun,andcolourco-ordinatingher

wardrobeifyouveseenheroutfitsyoullknowwhatshemeans!Shealsoenjoysaspotofglampingposhcampingtoyouandme!New years resolutionTostopmyshoppinghabit!

kellY isanimalmad.Sheownsahorse,dogs,rabbits,andchickens.Shewasa

contestantonthechildrensTVshowTerrorTowers(whenshewasakid,obviously),andalsofeaturedinthecreditsofVetsintheCountry.New years resolutionTolearnhowtoputairinmycartyres!

Knowing me, knowing you....

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helen andclaire areourAccountsteam.Theyaregenerallytobefoundwhereverthereischocolateintheoffice.ClairesfascinatingfactisthatshecantalklikeDonald

Duck(butonlyonspecialoccasions).HelensisthatsheactuallydoeshavethemoveslikeJagger.New years resolutionToeatmorechocolate(Helen).TorememberchocolateforHelen(Claire)

rachel,liSa & JerrYareourDesignteam,responsibleformakingthemagazinelookpretty.RacheloncesharedafewbeerswithStoneRoseslegendJohnSquire.Lisahas

areputationforbeingunflappable(seriously,wevetriedtoflapheranditjustdoesntwork).JerryisourInternational

manofmysterywhocomesinondeadline.Thesalesteamknowtopanicwhentheyseehim!New years resolutionTogotothegymmore.Ortoactuallygettothegym(Lisa).TomarryJamesMartin.HeseatenoneofmycupcakessoImhalfwaythere(Rachel)

Donna andJoe areourEditorialteam,responsibleforallthebitsofthemagazinethatarentads.JoewasbroughtupinAmericaandoncehadadrinkwithDavid

Mitchell(itwasepic).DonnasclaimtofameisthatSteveMcDonaldfromCorrieoncefellasleepwhileshewasinterviewinghim.New years resolutionTofinishwritingmyfirstbook(Joe).NottodieofexhaustionbeforemynewnovelispublishedinAugust,thanksforasking(Donna)

Dean, JonandronnieareourDistributionguys,makingsureYourLocalLinkandallourotherpublicationsreachyourdoorstepontimeeverymonth.Deanalsomakessureweallgetpaidontime,sohesdefinitelytheonetokeephappy.

New years resolutionAreyouserious?Theyresoforwardthinking,theyrealreadyworkingon2013...

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WhatbetterwaytoshakethoseJanuaryblues(andextrafestivepounds)thantobagyourselfaNewSlimYouDetoxPackage.LetKukiSpatreatyoutotheirwonderfulDetoxprogrammeworthawhopping98!Incaseyoudidntknow,ourfriendsatKukirunthebiggestsaloninYorkandareproudtobesupportinglocalcharity

YorkAgainstCancerforalltheirfabfundraisingeventsthisyear.

TheluckywinnerwillstarttheirDetoxwithaninvigoratingbodyscrubandaneffectiveanti-cellulitefullbodymassage,usingablendofdetoxifyinganduplifting

oils.Theyllthenbesoothedbyhotseaweedmudandbecocoonedinahotwrap,whilstrelaxingwithafootandscalpmassage.Afterwards,youwillunwindinKukistranquilrelaxationroomwithasoothingdrink.Wefeelmorerelaxedjustthinkingaboutit!

TobeinwithachanceofwinningthisabsolutelyfantasticNewYeartreat,simplyanswerthiseasypeasyquestion;

What local charity is kuki supporting in 2012?

Sendyouransweronapostcardtotheaddressonpage5.MarkyourentryKukiCompetitionanddontforget

toincludeyournameanddaytimecontactnumber.Competitioncloses22nd

January.GoodLuck!


your competitions... WIN...WIN...WIN...

@Kuki!

crystAL cLeAr FAciALIfyoufeelthestressofthefestiveseasonandtheharshweatherhasleftyouwithafewmorewrinklesthisNewYear,thiscompetitionwillberightupyourstreet.YorkswellknownBeautyBarOnesalonisofferingoneluckyreaderaCrystalClearFacialworth78!

CrystalClearisamicrodermabrasionsystemwhichcantakeyearsoffyoubygentlyexfoliatingtheouterlayersofskin.Thetreatmentprovidesimmediatevisibleresultsforageingskin,lines,wrinkles,openpores,pigmentationandmoreandisafirmfavouritewithA-ListcelebritiessuchasMadonnaandJ.Lo.Thewinningfacialwillprovideyouwithanhourandahalfofpurepamperingandskinrejuvenation(justwhatthedoctororderedonadarkJanuaryevening!).Forachancetowinthisratherrelaxingprize,simplyanswerthisquestion;

What is the name of the gentle exfoliating system that crystal clear facials involve?

Sendyouransweronapostcardtotheaddressonpage5.MarkyourentryCrystalClearFacialCompetitionanddontforgettoincludeyournameanddaytimecontact

number.Competitioncloses22ndJanuary.BestofLuck!

WINA

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YOuRCOMPETITIONS

Windinnerandacruisefortwo!Iftheresanythingbetterthanwinningagreatprizeinoneofourcompetitions,itswinningtwo.Andthatswhatsonofferforoneluckyreaderthismonth.OurwinnerwillnotonlybetreatedtodinnerfortwoattheDeanCourtHotelsaward-winningrestaurant,theywillalsowinafamilyticketforYorkBoat.

FewsettingscanrivalD.C.H,theDeanCourtHotelselegantrestaurant,withMinsterviewsfromseveraltables.ItsrenownedthroughoutYorkshireforitssuperbfood,accompaniedbythefinest,personallyselectedwines.IthasreceivedanAARosettefor2011.

OurwinnerwillalsowinaYorkboatfamilyticket,validoneithertheYorkCityCruise,EarlyEveningCruiseandFloodlitEveningCruisefor2012.YorkBoatisoneofthelargestfleetofmodernsightseeing,restaurantandpartyboatsinthecountry.Ithasgatheredanumberofaccoladesovertheyears,includingBestCityTourandOutstandingCustomerServiceawards.Withitsheatedlounges,largewindows,sundecksandgreatfacilities,theresnobetterwaytoseethecity!

Sowhatdoyouhavetodotowinthisprize?Takeagoodlookatourspecialcelebratecover,andyoullseeanumberofthecitysbestvisitorattractionsandplaces(plusoneofYorksoutstandingcharacters).Buthowmanycanyourecognise?Justlistthemonapostcardandsendthemtousattheaddressonpagefive,toreachusbyMonday16thJanuary.DontforgettomarkyourentryCelebratecompetition,andincludeadaytimephonenumber.

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in the know... NEWFOR2012

Theresalwayssomethingnewgoingoninourfabulouscity,and2012istheyearofsomeprettyexcitingdevelopments.Frommuseumstostadiumsandrestaurantstowheels,wevegottheallthe

gossaboutthenewventuresthatwillbepoppingupalloverYorkthisyear.Wecantwait!

WaGaMaMaThefamouschainofAsianinspirednoodlerestaurantsisopeningtheirnewbranchinGoodramgate(hooray!).Infact,therestaurantactuallyopenedonthe12thDecember2011andhascreatedanextra40jobsinthetowncentre,butifyouhadntheard,wethoughtwedgiveyoutheheadsup.GetdownnowandsampletheirdeliciousAsianmenu.WearebigfanshereatYourLocalLink,especiallyoftheKatsuCurry,yum!

DiG in ProJecT ThiscommunityledprojectissettobeginthisJanuaryandwillrununtil2015.Centredaround10newcommunityfoodgrowingspacesinthecity,theprojectwillpromotepositiveoutdoorlearning.Families,childrenandyoungpeopleareinvitedtojoininthefreeandaccessibleexperience.Theproject,fundedbytheBigLotteryFund,willspend2012settingupfoodgrowinggardensinAcomb,CliftonandHullRoadandthenslowlyexpandtomoreplotsaroundthecity.Thiscommunityprojectwillencourageactiveandhealthylivingandimproveparticipantsknowledgeaboutorganicfoodgrowing.Theprojecthasgeneratedvariousexcitingevents,clubsandworkshopsandissettotakeYorkintoagreenerfuture.

The YorkShire WheelSomeofyoumayhavealreadyseenit,(itshardtomiss),butTheYorkshireWheelhasreturnedtoYorkinthegroundsoftheRoyal

Yorksmostdeliciousnewattractionwillbeopeningitsdoorstolocals,touristsandchocoholicsalikeinSpring2012.CreatedbyleadingvisitorattractionsgroupContinuum,YorksSweetHistorycelebratesYorksuniquechocolateandconfectionaryhistoryintheheartofKingsSquare.TheimmersiveexperiencewilltellthefascinatingstoryofYorksconfectionerytradingandmanufacturingpast,bringingthehistoryuptodateandmakingsurethatourvisitorsgetlotsofopportunitiestogethandsonwithchocolate!saidJulianaDelaney,CEOofContinuum.


YorkHotel.The175ftwheelwillbestickingaroundtilJanuary2013(sothatsyourout-of-townguestentertainmentsortedfortheyear!).ThewheelwaspreviouslyinDublinandwasshippedoverin24lorries,abitlikeaclassyfunfairrideifyouwill?

YorkS coMMuniTY STaDiuMYorks6000seatcommunitystadiumatMonksCrosswillbecomethenewofficialhomeforprofessionalteamsYorkCityFootballClubandYorkCityKnightsRugbyLeagueClub.Notonlythat,butthestadiumwillbenefitlocalcommunityprojectsaroundYorktoo.Thefacilitiesaresettobeginconstructionduring2012,andwillformpartoftheCitysOlympic

legacy.Butmostimportantly,werehopingthismeanswespotplentyofdishysportsmenonourMonksCrossshoppingsprees.

John leWiSAspartoftheYorkCommunityStadiumcomplexatMonksCross,a100,000sqftJohnLewisissettobebuilt,aswellasasuperdupernewM&S.JohnLewisaresaidtobelievetheirnewYorkstorewillplugthegapforlocalshopperswhowouldnolongerhavetotrektoSheffieldorNewcastleforaJohnLewisfix.


WHITBY OLIVER FURNITURE Est 1897

13

cAn you heLp? LOCALPEOPLE...LOCALCAuSES...

Join the herD!TheLionsClubisaworldwideorganisationofkindvolunteerswhocometogethertofundraise,careforandprovidefortheircommunity.YorkisluckyenoughtobehometothreeLionsclubs(YorkLions,MinsterLionsofYorkandDerwentLions).TheclubsprovidesterlingserviceworktothepeopleofYorkandareknownasordinarypeopledoingamazingthings.

YorkLionsClubiscurrentlyfundraisingforYorkshireAirAmbulance(averyworthycauseweresureyoullallagree).BackinDecembertheyheldtheirannualPensionersLuncheonatStOlavesSchool,attendedbynoneotherthantheLordMayor.AndrememberthebigSantassleighinStSampsonsSquare?ThatwasMinsterLionsclubofYorkfundraisingtoo!

Allthreegroupsneednewmemberstohelpwiththeirexcitingandworthwhileprojects.Ifyoucansparesometime,whynotgivesomethingbacktothecommunityandbecomeamemberofaLionsClub?

n For more information please email [email protected] or visit www.yorklions.co.uk.

Love, Literally!Ifyourehookedonbooksandfanaticalaboutfiction,youmighthavealreadyheardabouttheannualYorkLiteratureFestival.Itsfifthincarnationtakesplacebetween29thMarch-1stApril,andwithplentyofworkshopsandtalksfromauthors(IanMcMillanandourveryownDonnaHay!)itssettobeagreatevent.However,asthefestivalreceivesnogovernmentfunding,itreliesentirelyuponthesupportofthelocalcommunitytocontinue.Currentlytheyrehoping

toraise1000beforetheir2012festival;ifyoudliketohelpthemturnthepage,weresureacontributionwouldbeanovelidea!

n To arrange a donation, call Miles on 01904 412892

The Star AppealTheYorkTeachingHospitalCharityhaslaunchedTheSTARAppealtoraise300,000torefurbishYorkHospitalsStrokeRehabilitationunit.TheunitislocatedonWard39andisindesperateneedofrefurbishmenttomeettheneedsofitsrecoveringstrokepatients.

TheSTARappealwillensureYorkHospitalcanvastlyimprovetheunit,inwhichrecoveringpatientscanliveindependentlywhilstreceivingthesupportfromexpertstaff.Theunitpreparesthemforthereturnhomeandensurestheyfeelconfidentenoughtotackleanychallengestheymayfaceontheirreturnhome.

SueBeckett,DeputyDirectorateManagerforElderlyMedicinesaid,TheSTARAppealwillgreatlyimprovetheenvironmentforstrokepatientsduringtheirinpatientstay.Manythankstoeverybodywhochoosestosupportthisvitalappeal.

n To donate visit www.justgiving.com/TheStarappeal


heLp the scoutsAreyouinterestedinworkingwithyoungpeople?Haveyouafewhourstospareeachweek?MaybeyouvebeeninvolvedwithScoutinginthepastandwouldliketomakeacomeback?IfyouveansweredyestothesequestionsthenElvingtonScoutGroupneedyou!InrecentmonthstheyvelosttheirGroupScoutLeaderandScoutTroopleadersandaredesperatelyseekingnewleaderstojointheteam.Youdontneedtohavescoutingexperience,butyouwillberesponsibleforsmoothdaytodayrunningandoverallmanagementofthegroup.WhynotgivethisrewardingroleagoandreallymakeadifferencetoyoungstersaroundYork?Fulltrainingwillbeatgiven.Ifthissoundsrightupyourstreet,[email protected].

A Bright FutureTheJackRainCommunityFoundationhasbeengoingfromstrengthtostrengthinthepastyear,andtheirworkwithunder-privilegedandabusedchildrenhasyieldedtremendousresults.Asatestamenttoitsvalue,thisyearthefoundationhashada100%successrateinhelpingvulnerableyoungpeoplefindandenrolinrewardingeducationalprogrammes.Aspartofitsgrowinginfluence,thefoundationismovingtoanewpremiseinWalmgateandhasputacalloutfordonations-theyhopetoraise30kwithinthenextfewmonthstomaketheirJanuarymovethemostbeneficialitcanbe.

n if youre interested in contributing, or youd like to volunteer some time towards the foundation, email [email protected]

For more information about Adult Education Courses visit www.yortime.org.uk/learning or call 01904 552806 15

Soitsalloverforanotheryear(unlessyourereadingthisonChristmasEve,inwhichcaseHappyChristmas!).Nowthefestiveseasonisover,theannualtusslewiththeturkeyhasbeenwonandtherearenothingbutTwirlsleftinthebottomoftheHeroestin,itstimetobringonthepostChristmasslump.

IntheweeksleadinguptoChristmas,werusharoundinafestivefrenzyofbuying,partyinganddecorating.Itsonlywhenthelastcrackerhasbeenpulledthatwesitbackandrealitysinksin.(WhydidIspendafortuneonalight-upSantathatmimesalongtoMariahCareysAllIWantForChristmas?)WhydidIeverimaginemybrotherinlawwouldbedelightedbyamultipackofreindeersocks?WhydidIwrestleafellowshoppertothegroundforthelastboxof

chocolateBrazilswhenIknownooneevenlikesthem?

AndasifthatpostChristmasguiltfestwasntbadenough,theresalsothedepressingthoughtthatyoufinallyhavetopullyourselfoutofyourChristmaschocolate-inducedcomaandexercisesomeselfcontrol.You

knowitstimewhenDavinaMcCallisallovertheTV,toutingyetanothernewworkoutDVD(IthinkwemustbeonVolumeFivebynowwhatbitshasshegotlefttoexercise?).

DavinaistheequivalentofthesummerholidaycommercialsthatcomeonthetellyeveryDecember.

JustasyoudontwanttothinkaboutplanningasummerholidayonChristmasDay,thelastthingyouneedonBoxingDayareDavinasabsalloverthetelly.EspeciallywhenyouronlyexercisehasbeenrollingoffthesofatofetchanotherBaileys.

NewYearalsomeansresolutions,vowingtobeaslimmer,fitter,betterorganisedandallroundmorewonderfulhumanbeingin2012.Personally,Ireckonallresolutionsshouldbeputoffuntilthespring.Really,whowantstostartjoggingwhenitsdarkandfreezingoutside?Andhowcanyoueventhinkaboutdietingwhenthekidsselectionboxesarestilllyingaroundthehouse?

IthinkweshouldalldoourselvesafavourandgointohibernationuntilMarch.Itstheonlywaytosurvivetheslump.

THEuPSANDDOWNSOFLIFEASSEENBYOuRVERYOWN(VERY)GRuMPY,(ALMOST)OLDWOMAN

Itsabadmonthfor...

The way I see it...

Post Christmas blues...


I hate it when you do all your Christmas

shopping and then find its all been reduced three days before Christmas. I work full time so I cant leave my shopping till the last minute, which means I pay twice as much as everyone else. Cant the January sales start in January?

SW, Copmanthorpe

I wish I knew when shops and services

were open between Christmas and New Year. Some places are open from Boxing Day onwards, and others are closed down until 2nd January. I wish everyone would just admit that the days between Christmas and New Year are a dead loss and let us all have the time off!

FY, Huntington

Why dont big companies give out

their telephone numbers? Ive just spent nearly an hour trying to track down a phone number to report a problem with my computer, but when I rang they told me to report it online instead. How can I go online when my computers faulty?

MT, Foxwood

I wish dog owners would realise not

everyone are fans of their four legged friends. My family and I went for a bracing winter walk, which was ruined when a pair of German Shepherds set on us. My daughter was terrified, but the owner didnt bat an eyelid. Theyre just being friendly, she said. Spare a thought for non dog lovers, and keep them on a lead!

TW, Haxby

Now its your

turn!

Is there something youd like to rant or rave about? Whether its buses or banks, or life in general, we want to hear about it.

Just write to the address on p5, or email

[email protected]


heresafewfamousfacesyoushareyoursignwith

Capricorn(22nd December - 19th January)

ARIES (21st march - 19th April)A new year and a new sense of determination to make some major changes in both your life style and life direction. Lots of co-operation from loved ones, but you must still take the lead. You may need to take a risk where jobs and careers are concerned and be prepared to move quickly. Overall 2012 is a very rewarding year, especially for those of you who can do something different with your life.

TAURUS (20th April - 20th may)A tired start to the year and you need to work at building your energy levels. Financial restraints should be seen as a challenge rather than as a problem. Rather than living in the past or looking into the future, concentrate a bit more effort on the here and the now. If opportunities do not seem to come your way naturally, there will be plenty of chances in 2012 for you to create your own good luck.

GEMINI (21st may - 20th June)New Years resolutions wont last very long, but at least you can have some fun breaking them. A quiet month financially, but one or two romantic high points should be more than adequate compensation. You wont always get the approval of other people, but that should be seen as their problem, not yours! 2012 is a year for stretching your wings and learning how to fly.

CANCER (21st June - 22nd July)Youll be enthusiastic about a couple of new business/money ideas but it would be foolish to try and achieve everything all at once. Partners make emotional demands that make you wish you were somewhere else. There are some big choices in 2012 Do you accept and learn to live with that which you have, or do you go out on a limb to find something a lot better?

bY JaMeS CHrISTIe

January and the year aheadhoroscopes

n For details of private readings phone 07884 107100 or 01423 339770 Email: [email protected]

LtoR:KateMiddleton,RodStewart,andourTracyandSarah!!

Capricorns are contradictions! On the one hand they are methodical and meticulous people with a powerful work ethic and a strong moral code but on the other hand, despite their need for security, they can sometimes take the most jaw-droppingly daring risks that leave the rest of us gasping! They can be artistic and creative but tend to do their best work when left to their own devices without having bosses and busybodies looking over their shoulders. Sometimes (and it is only sometimes) they worry too much about money and as such the early part of 2012 will present them with some obstacles because financial restrictions will cause some emotional tensions and their January challenge is to rise above this frustrating trend. Even if it gets off to a sticky start, 2012 should still be a very good year for careful Capricorns, although they might have to wait until April and May to appreciate the strength of my words. There is a very important travel window towards the end of May that should have far reaching (and highly advantageous) financial implications and will prove the old adage that it isnt always what you can do that counts, but who you know! Although 2012 will see you saying a few goodbyes, it is a good year for making important new friends and for building on established relationships.

Starsign of the month...


the b

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rkLEO (23th July - 23rd August)A frustrating month if youre in a hurry. On the other hand, a most enjoyable few weeks if you can relax, maybe allowing someone else to take the lead while you follow on behind. You can influence the outcome of a number of important emotional issues. Follow your heart rather than your head.

VIRGO (24th August - 22nd september) Quite a romantic month with some degree of tension caused by an old flame. Dont try turning back the clock, but battle on forwards. If there are a few delays to schedule, just take them in your stride and dont try pushing snowballs uphill. If there is one big challenge in 2012 it is to learn the art of delegation.

LIBRA(23rd september - 22nd october)An exciting start to the year for those dedicated to their careers. For those who are looking for the perfect relationship, compromises may be required to make a relationship as good as it can be. In this year ahead you do not have to settle for second best, but you have to learn how to appreciate what you have got rather than pining for something which does not exist.

SCORPIO(23rd october - 21st november)A bright positive attitude launches you into 2012 which should bring some much deserved reward, both in the boardroom and the bedroom.

Dont lower your standards or expectations. There will be times in 2012 when you are not always Mr or Mrs Popularity but by the end of the year you should be on the receiving end of a lot more respect.

Sagittarius(22nd november - 21sy December)Some feelings of anti-climax now that Christmas and New Year are over so its time to pick yourself up, and start looking for some new adventures. Anything to do with adult education should serve you well, and new skills acquired now will help you in the future. 2012 will be a very important year for careers.

AQUARIUS (20th January - 18th February) A busy start to the month, but youll soon find the pressure easing off to be replaced with some boredom! Fortunately, some travel plans nip that in the bud very quickly. January could be an excellent money month for you, providing you can diversify your business interests. 2012 will bring opportunities for extra income.

PISCES (19th February - 20th march) Great emotional gains can be made at this time by being supportive towards a special friend or partner. This significant other holds the key to your future happiness and there could be a few hidden financial considerations here as well! Maybe, in 2012, you need to let go of some bad habits.


WANT TO SELLthrough

but

19

DOES YOUR CLUB OR GROUP NEED NEW MEMBERS? or maybe you have some news youd like to share. if so, get in touch with us. write to us at the address of page five, or email us at [email protected]. mark your message club news.

clubtheJoin

brave the boards!Obviously you were born to be a star;

but maybe you havent got

round to showing it yet? If you decide its time to accept your

Broadway birth right, you cant do much better than the New

Earswick Musical Society. Putting on two musical productions a year

at the Rowntree Theatre, the society is a fantastic opportunity for all

those interested in performing either front- or backstage. Their first

rehearsal (for Carousel) takes place at The Folk Hall, New Earswick

on 9 January at 7:30pm. All are invited to show up and jump in!

n Contact Mavis on 01904769371 for more information.

Get bowled over!Ever fancied getting some fresh air and meeting new people? The Wigginton Bowling Club is looking for members of all ages to sample the sport and test their ability in preparation for its 2012 season. Drop by for their Come & Try day to get a taste and see how you fare at this enduringly played game. Itll take place on Sunday, 22nd of April from 2pm-5pm at the Playing Fields on Mill Lane, Wigginton.n For more information please contact Colin on 760877 or email [email protected]

a Club that can be beat!Looking for a new activity but feel like youve tried it all before? Take a look at Kaminari, Yorks only Japanese-style taiko drumming group.Participants will take part in a style of drumming which combines elements of music, martial arts and dance to create a winning combination, performing to festivals and schools all over. Dont worry if youre a complete beginner all you need is enthusiasm!

n For further information email [email protected] or call 01904 470507

Quite the Choir...Formed last January, Sicut Soul is an exciting new choir specialising in contemporary and early cappella music. Theyre currently looking for new female voices to join them for their 2012 season. If youre interested in attending their upcoming recruitment workshop, dont hesitate to express your interest!n Call Caroline: 07875145460

U13 football players wanted

Hamilton Panthers FC is

recruiting new players for

their U13s squad. Any lads

in year 8 (2011/12) interested

in playing footie for their

team are invited to attend

one of their training sessions

at Energise between 5.30-

6.30pm on Wednesdays.

Everyone is welcome, even if

you havent played before!

n Call Glenn: 07988 955506

Tune in every week!

Interested in amateur radio? Come along to the York Radio

Club and learn everything you need to know. Plenty of equipment

is supplied with the event, so if youre a newbie you can rely on

other experienced members to guide you. Best of all: its completely

free! If youre receptive to the idea, you can join in every Thursday

at 8pm, at the Social Club in Bishopthorpe.

n For more information call Tony 330502 (evenings only)


Y rk Cars

20

Computer classes

for beginners

Computer classes are

being held at Oaken Grove

Community Centre in Haxby

on Monday mornings and

Thursday afternoons. They

help adult beginners to

become confident using

a keyboard, a mouse and

other computer equipment.

Beginners will learn how to

shop online, surf the web

and use the internet safely.

The friendly group is looking

for new members who will

receive one-to-one support

from their patient mentors.

n Call the centre on 769176

for more information.

Flowery words!If you love wilfully wandering throug

h words of wisdom and

whimsy, the York Poetry Society is for you. They meet on the first

Friday of every month, in Jacobs Well, Trinity Lane (off Micklegate

in York). Dont know your Plath from your Pope? Dont worry, the

group is based on appreciating poetry and extensive knowledge of

the subject isnt necessary at all. Their first meeting of 2012 (on 6th

January at 7:30-9:30pm) is titled The Glory of the Garden; bring

along your favourite flowery passages and expect an enjoyable

evening in the process!

Find your mindStress can be debilitating to your wellbeing and emotional happiness; it can interfere with your sleep, place strain on your relationships and cause you to struggle with a range of daily challenges. Whether youre familiar with meditation or youre completely new to it, Serenity Now can guide you towards a more peaceful and contented state of mind. Workshops take place every Monday at 7:30pm, within the Quaker House on Friargate, York YO 3RL.

n For more information please contact anna 01904 449501


stacked up monthly is

2.8 x taller than Big Ben

21

Justincaseyoudidntalreadyknow,Yorkcelebratesthe800thanniversaryofitscharterstatusthisyear.Thereareawholehostofeventsplannedthroughouttheyear,culminatinginamajorCharterWeekendcelebrationinJuly.Butwhatdoesitreallymean,andhowcanyoucangetinvolved?Wevebeenmeetingsomeofthepeople

behindthebigeventsplannedforthisyeartofindout.

whats in store?

Didyouknowthatsomewheredeepwithinthecityartgalleryliesthreekilometresofthecityshistory?YorkscityarchiveshavebeendescribedasthebestsetofarchivesoutsideLondon.Andyetveryfewofusevenknowtheyexist,letaloneeverseethem.

Butallthatissettochange.AspartoftheYork800celebrations,therearemovesafoottogivethearchivesapermanentnewhomewithintheCentralLibrary.

Atthemomentthearchivesareopentothepublictwodaysaweek,byappointment,saysRichardTaylor,ArchivesDevelopmentManagerforCityofYorkCouncil.WearehopingthatoneofthepermanentlegaciesofYork800willbeanewhomeforthearchiveswhereeveryonecangoandseethemsevendaysaweek.

Theyarecertainlyworthseeing.ThearchivestellthestoryofYork,datingrightbacktothe12thcentury.Aswellasdetailedcouncilrecords,therearefamilyhistories,mapsandplans,andrecordsofalltheclubs,societiesandpoliticalorganisationsthathaveexistedinthecityforgenerations.

Frommedievalguildstomoderndaytradesunions,workhouserecordstothelocalLambrettaClub,thewholestoryofYorkisthere,saysRichard.Therearesomeamazingstoriesburiedwithinitsrecords,too,includingrecordsofRailwayKingGeorgeHudsonsfirstcouncilmeeting.YoucanalsoseethefamilyBibleofRichardChicken,theYorkeccentriconwhomCharlesDickensbasedthecharacterofMrMcCawberinDavidCopperfield.

Blast from the past...

Free eSTiMaTe on WaTch & clock

rePairS WiTh ThiS aDverTiSeMenT

22

Who gets the holiday?i am the team leader for a team of five administrators, most of us have families however our youngest team member is single and without any ties. Some of the team think those who have family commitments should be able to get first pick of holidays and others think if you get in first with your request you should get the holiday. What exactly should i do?

First,IwouldrecommendthatyoualwayslookatwhatyourcompanyemploymentHandbooktellsyoutodoincircumstanceswhenyouhaveholidayrequests.Ifitdoesntcoverthisparticularpart,hereissomefurtheradviceonhowitmightbehandled.

Anyholidayrequestfromanemployeeisattheemployersdiscretion.Therulessurroundingthisarethatanemployeeshouldgiveatleasttwicethelengthoftheholidayinnoticefortheholidaye.g.ifanemployeewantedtotaketwoweeksannualleavetheywouldhavetomaketherequesttotheiremployeratleastfourweeksbeforethedateoftheholidayorforaholidayoftwodaystheymustgiveatleastfourdaysnotice.Theemployerthenmustgivetheirauthorisationatleastthelengthoftheholidaybeforetheholidaycommencese.g.fortwoweeksannualleaverequested,theemployermustinformwhethertheemployeecantakethatholidayornotatleasttwoweeksbeforetheholidaywasduetocommence.Thesearethebasicrules,butyourcompanymighthaveadifferentsetofrequirements,soitisbettertocheckinthehandbook

Shes always off sick but its actually her childi have one particular employee, who takes up a lot of sickness absence, but we know the reason is actually because she needs to care for her daughter, who is off school with whatever illness is going round. it is becoming a problem as we have to cover her work and other employees are starting to grumble.

Thereareactuallytwoissueshere.Firstly,youremployeeshouldnotactuallytakingsicknessabsenceassheisnotactuallytheonewhoissick.ThereisafacilityinuKemploymentlaw,calledemergencytimeofffordependents.undertheserules,shecantakeunpaidtimeofftomakearrangementstocoverthecareofhersickchild.Thiswillnotaffectherabsenceratesandisentirelywithinherrightstotake.Butthisistimeofftoarrangealternativecareforherchild.Notforhertocareforherchildherself.Shouldyouwishtocareforherdaughterthenshemusttakeholidaytodoso.

Secondly,Iwouldlookatthepatternsofsicknessabsencefortheemployeeandunderstandwhetherthisisoutsidethenorm,youwillneedtositdownwiththeemployeetoaddresstheissueofhertakingsicknessabsenceinsteadofunpaidleave.Itisbesttomakesureyouhavegoodrecordsofallemployeesabsenceandusetriggerpoints.Forexample,morethanfivedaysoffinathree-monthperiod.Thiswouldtriggerameetingwiththeemployeetounderstandifthereareanyissuesandtomakethemawarethatsicknessabsencedoescauseoperationalissuesevenwhengenuineillnessisinvolved.

ASK THE EXPERTWiTh SuZie BoGle Ma, FciPD, FcMi

Suzie Bogle Ma, FciPD, FcMi

Managing Consultant of Breathing Space providing practical and effective HR support and consultancy for small and medium sized businesses in Yorkshire. If your business needs help with staffing or HR, we are here to help.

call 0113 386 9270email [email protected] Theseanswersaregeneralinnatureandarenotintendedtosubstituteforspecificexpertadvice.

sweet success NoonecouldeveraccuseSophieJewettofslacking.Inthepastfewmonthsshesorganisedherwedding,expandedherbusiness,openedupanewcitycentrecafeandshesnowmastermindingYorksveryfirstChocolateFestival,tobeheldatEaster.Therecouldntbeabetterpersontobeinvolved,sinceSophieisYorksnewQueenofChocolate.Shelaunchedherhandmadechocolatebusiness,LittlePrettyThings,threeyearsago.Morerecently,sheopenedtheYorkCocoaHouseinBlakeStreet,anemporiumofallthingschocolate.Customerscanrelaxandenjoydelicioushomemadetreats,meetthechocolatiers,watchchocolatesbeingmadeandevenbrowseSophiesextensivechocolatethemedlibrary.Therearealsoworkshopsandtastingeventsheldregularly.

Butthefestivalissomethingverydeartoherheart.Yorkhasanamazingchocolateheritage.Itsawonderfulstory,theimpactthechocolateindustryhashadonthecitytoday.Wehavesomefantasticchocolatiersworkinginthecitytoday,andthefestivalisallaboutcelebratingthat,shesays.

Therearealreadyanumberofeventsplannedforaroundthecity,includingaChocolateMarketinthecitycentre,plusworkshopsandtastingsessions.ButSophieiskeentoseemorepeopleinvolved.Idliketoseelocalbusinesses,shopsandrestaurantsholdingchocolatethemedevents,whetheritsachocolatemenuoranEasterEggHunt.Andifpeoplestillwanttogetinvolvedbutarestuckforinspiration,wehaveloadsofideas!

n The festival runs for 6th 9th april. if you want to find out more, contact Sophie on 01904 675787, or visit https://sites.google.com/site/yorkchocolatefestival/. The York cocoa house is at 3 Blake Street.

23


NotmanycitiescansaytheyarehometosomethingasspecialandculturallyuniqueastheYorkMysteryPlays.HereinYork,weareproudofourtheatricaltraditionwhichhasbecomedeeplyembeddedintheheritageofourtopcity.TheMysteryPlayswillbedazzlingYorkonceagaininsummer2012,butwhoisbehindtheplays?

ManymembersofthepublicaregettinginvolvedaswellandYorkCollegeperformingartsstudentsarelookingforwardtoplayingtheirpart.

OneofthemanybiginvolvedisCommunityProducerLiamEvans-Ford.TheformerRSCactorrunshisownHarrogatebasedproductioncompany,SpriteProductions.ButtheMysteryPlaysishisbiggestprojecttodate,involvingupto2000Yorkresidents.Weneedpeopleforallkindsofroles,fromacting,singinganddancing,tocostumeandpropmaking

andstagemanagers.TherearegoingtobetwobignameprofessionalactorsbutIcantrevealwhotheyare

justyet.

AlsoinvolvedarestudentsfromYorkCollegeperformingartsdepartment.

Thestudentsmanytalentswillbenefittheproductionenormouslyandhavingtheopportunitytoinvolvethewholecommunityinfreetaster-sessionsduringYorkResidentsFestivalweekendwillprovideamassiveboosttotheprojectsaysLiam.

n We cant wait to find out, bring on the summer! To find out more visit www.yorkmysteryplays-2012.com.

who is BehinD yorks mysteries?

We need people for all kinds of roles,

from acting, singing and dancing, to

costume and prop making and stage

managers.

24


Make your voice heard!Imagine30choirs,allsingingwithonevoice.ThatsthedreamofStephenBurke,ArtisticDirectorofEborVox,thejewelinthecrownofthisyearsYork800Festival.StephenisworkingwiththeCityofYorkCouncilsArts&Eventsteamtobringtogetheracollectionofthecityschoirstoperformanoriginalpieceofmusic,composedbyBenjaminTill,themanbehindlastyearsSymphonyforYorkshire.

TheinspirationforEborVoxcamefouryearsago,whenStephenwasworkingasCreativeDirectorforthefirstYorkYouthMysteryPlays.Itinvolvedbringingtogetheradisparatenumberoforganisationsfromaroundthecity.Ibegantothink,ifitwaspossibletobringtogethersomanydifferentpeople,whatothergroupscoulditbedonewith?

AtthetimeIwasalsolookingatanumberofdifferentlocationsaroundthecity,whichmademethinkabouthowgooditwouldbetohavechoirsperformingonthewalls.

Thetwoideasdidntcometogetheruntillastyear,whenCityofYorkCouncilstartedlookingforideastocelebrateYork800.Stephenputforwardaplantobringtogetheralargenumberofthecityschoirsforahugechoralproject.

AndsoEborVoxwasborn.On7thJuly,achoirwillleadaflotillaof800vesselsdowntheRiverOuse.Then,on9th,choirswillprocessthroughthecity,culminatinginahugechoralperformanceontheEyeofYork.TheaudiencewillgetasenseofhundredsofvoicesallaroundthebottomofCliffordsTower,saysStephen.ItsanambitiousprojectandStephenadmitsitshardworktopulloffsuchaspectacle.ButIcanseethedayitselfsovividlyinmymindseye,itswhatkeepsmegoingthroughthedarkdaysofwinter!Hesstilllookingforchoirstoperform.IfyoureachoirandImnotawareofyouyet,thenpleasegetintouch,hesays.Hesalsolookingforpeopletojoinachoirhesputtingtogetherfortheoccasion.Whateverlevelyouare,wewantyou,andwecanuseyou.

n if youd like to make your voice heard, email [email protected]

25

pizzA choice |DELIVERYSERVICE|FANTASTICOFFERSAVAILABLE|teL: 622022 or 631818

RemembertheGrandTourof2008,whenworksofartsuddenlyappearedonthecitysstreets?YorkwillbecomeatemporaryartgalleryagainfromMayonwards,onlythistimetheartworksondisplayarenotoldmasters,butstrikingmodernimagesinspiredbyscienceandinnovation.

ItsalltheideaofProfessorTonyRobards,themanbehindScienceCityYork.Heiskeentomakeresidentsandvisitorsawarethattheresmoretothecitythanitsbeautifulbuildings.Everyoneisawareofthecitysheritage,butnotsomanypeoplerealiseYorkisalsoaninternationalcentreforscienceandinnovation,hesays.Someoftheworldsleadingresearchisgoingonhere,rightonourdoorstep.Wewantedtomakepeopleawareofthecitysfutureaswellasitspast.

Aswellasbeingstunningpiecesofartintheirownright,theimageswillrepresentsomeofthegroundbreakingworkpastandpresentthathashappenedinthecity,fromastronomytobiomechanics.Wehavethreecriteriawhenitcomestochoosinganimage,saysProfRobards.First,isitstrikingwouldyoucrosstheroadtolookatit?Second,isittodowithYork?Third,doesittellastory?Itsnousejusthavingprettypicturestheyneedtotellpeoplesomething.

Andincasepeoplewanttoknowevenmore,eachimagewillcomewithaQRCode,asmartphoneappwhichwilllinktothecompanyswebsite,orfurtherinformation.

ProfRobardsisworkingwithNickTownendoftheIdeasGroupbasedinScienceCitytobringtheimagestothestreetsofYork.Theyalreadyhavecontributionsfromsomeofthecitysleadingbusinessesandorganisations,includingNestleandtheuniversityofYork,aswellassomeofthesmallerinnovationandsciencebasedbusinessesthathavemadethecitytheirhome.

Wecurrentlyhavearound50imagestodisplay,butwearelookingformoresponsorstogetinvolved,hesays.

n For more information, email [email protected]

State of the art

proFessor tony roBArDs

26

pizzA choice |DELIVERYSERVICE|FANTASTICOFFERSAVAILABLE|teL: 622022 or 631818

teLL your story!York800isntjustaboutcelebrating800yearsofthecityshistoryitsaboutcelebratingitspresentandthepeoplewhomakeYorksospecial,too.Whichiswhytheorganiserswantyoutogetinvolved.

Theyrecreatinganarchiveofaudioandvideostoriesaboutthecity-'YorkStories'andtheyrelookingforresidentstorecordwhyYorkhasplayedsuchanimportantroleintheirlife.

"YorkStoriesisnotaboutfamilyhistories.Instead,wearelookingforpeoplewhohaveaspecialstorytotellaboutthisfantasticcity,saysCllrSonjaCrisp,CityofYorkCouncil'sCabinetMemberforleisure,cultureandsocialinclusion.Itmaybesomethingaboutyourworkinthecity,howyoumetandmarriedsomeonespecialinthecityoranexperienceyou'vehadthatmeansYorkholdsaspecialplaceinyourheart.

TheYorkStoriesteamwillbeworkingwithNorthYorkshireartistKateCunninghamtochoosesomeofthe800beststorieswhichwillbecomeTimeCapsulesandbelodgedinthecitywallsprovidingavery'localhistory'walkingtouraroundthewalls.

JohnOxley,thecouncil'sarchaeologist,said:"Thiswillcreatealivingarchiveinouruniquecitywalls.Thewallswillbetransformedintoasocialsculpture."

n if youd like to get involved in telling your own York story, please email [email protected] as soon as possible.

We are looking for people who

have a special story to tell about this fantastic city

Been injured in an accident that wasn't your fault?

Yes!Are you moving house?

T: 01904 679 990E: [email protected]

www.coles-law.co.uk

Yes!Thinking about separating from your partner?

Yes!Need some honest legal advice?

Yes!We're here to help!

It,s all about you. . .

96 Micklegate, York YO1 6JX

Been injured in an accident that wasn't your fault?

Yes!Are you moving house?

T: 01904 679 990E: [email protected]

www.coles-law.co.uk

Yes!Thinking about separating from your partner?

Yes!Need some honest legal advice?

Yes!We're here to help!

It,s all about you. . .

96 Micklegate, York YO1 6JX

Its not just in the name!BRILL SERVICES

We are a familyrun local cleaningbusiness, and with

reliable and friendlycleaners,

we guarantee highstandards of work!

27


trAininG centre For hireRiccallCarersHQisexpandingitsofficeswithalargenewtrainingcentreonEscrickBusinessPark.Thenewtrainingcentrewillnotonlyallowmorespacefortheirownbusinessdevelopment,butalsoallowsthemtohireouttheirnewtrainingcentretootherbusinesses.Thetrainingcentreincludesatrainingroomwithacapacityfor15peopleandameetingroomwithacapacityfor12people.Thecentrealsocomeswithfacilitiesforhotdrinks,refreshmentsandinternetaccess.Reasonableratesstartat40forhalfadayand75forafullday.

n if you are interested in hiring the training centre for your business, please contact hayley from riccall carers on 720700.

calling all women!HowwouldyoulikethehelpmakethisyearsYorkInternationalWomensWeekthebestever?TheorganisersarealreadyputtingtogethertheprogrammeforthisMarch,andtheydlikeyoutobeincluded.Theyrelooking

forwomentogetinvolvedwithawidediversityoftalks,workshops,performancesofdrama,music,songordance,displays,artsandcrafts,therapies,sportsorwhateverelseyoucanthinkof!Theyalreadyhaveapackedprogrammeofactivitiesplanned,fromhistory,theatricalandliteraryevents,towalks,dancing,healingtherapiesandmuchmore,butallnewideasandoffersarewelcome.Youcan

findtheeventformonthewebsitewww.yorkwomen.org.ukorcallSueLister,YIWWCoordinator,on01904488870todiscusspossibilities.Buthurryyouneedtogetyourideasinby20thJanuary!

Established for over 10 yearsCatering for all types and sizes of businessCall us to arrange a free consultation, a no obligation quote, or a visit to our premises to discuss your requirements

Custom website designContent management & ecommerce solutionsCustom software developmentSearch Engine OptimisationLogo design and corporate brandingSite hosting and domain registration

Call our professional, creative and friendly team to discuss:

A11, Riccall Business Park, Riccall, York. YO19 6QRwww.cybermill.co.uk

01904 749017

Website Design

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Custom website designContent management & ecommerce solutionsCustom software developmentSearch Engine OptimisationLogo design and corporate brandingSite hosting and domain registration

Call our professional, creative and friendly team to discuss:

A11, Riccall Business Park, Riccall, York. YO19 6QRwww.cybermill.co.uk

01904 749017

Website Design

29


A Winning DestinationGoodservicecanmakeorbreakatravelcompany.Thinkairportstrikes,thinkvolcanicash,thinkofahundredthingswhichcan(andveryoftenwill!)gowrongwitheverysinglejourney.PaulSmith,fromQuartztravelinYorkknowstheseissueswell;havingrecentlywontheYorkSmallBusinessoftheYearaward,hesbuiltupanunshakablereputationforclientcareandsupport.SettingQuartzapartfromothercompanies,Paulbelievesthatatravelagentshouldntsimplysellplaneandhotelreservationsinstead,theyshouldbealifelinetotheirclientswhenthingsdontgoasplannedandanexpertresourcewhenpeoplearelookingtomakethemostoftheiradventure.ThisphilosophyhasservedQuartzwell,andweresureyoullexperienceitfirst-handifyoumakethemyourtravelprovider!

n For more information call 01904 411188 or visitwww.quartz-travel.co.uk

Visit us fromMonday to Saturday between 9am and 5.30pm.35 - 39 Ivegate, Yeadon, LS19 7RE | Telephone: 0113 250 3716www.kettleysfurniture.co.uk

SALESTARTS27thDECEMBER

Est1993


4.82 x taller than

York Minster

31

1.BuY MaTerialS FroM local SuPPlierS Notonlywillthispresentyourcompanyasasupporterofthesurroundingcommunity,butitwillofteninspireneighbouringbusinessestoreturnthefavourandmakepurchasesfromyourownorganisationwheneverpossible.

2.BecoMe eco FrienDlY Setyearlytargetstoreduceyourcompanyscarbonfootprint,and

besuretoletthepublicknowhowyoureachievingresults.Customersareincreasinglyattractedtoearth-friendlycompanies,soappealingtotheirsensibilitiesisarewardingbusinessdecision.

3.Train STaFF anD Train TheM aGain Resourcefulemployeesareproductiveemployees:organiseseminarsfortopicslikepublicspeaking,conflictresolutionandcustomerservicetodevelopyour

companysabilitytohandlearangeofdifferentsituationswithknowledgeandtact.

4.SPonSor an evenTor local chariTY Byassociatingyourbusinesswithaworthwhilecause,youcansimultaneouslyadvertiseyourserviceswhilefosteringacompassionatepublicimage.Thisdoesntneedtobeafinancialcontributioninsteadyoucanvolunteerthelabourofyouandyour

employeesforaday.

5.DonT Fear The PreSS releaSe Regularlysendingpressreleasesaboutyourcompanysdevelopmentscandowondersforcreatingcustomerinterest.Ifyourbusinesshasrecentlymadeanewproductorserviceavailable,writeapressreleasewhichhighlightsthemostuniqueorinterestingpartofit.

Withalittlemanagerialflare,yourbusinessdoesntneedtofearArmageddonin2012-therearedozensofcost-effectivewaystopromoteyourcompanyandnurturealoyalcustomerbasewithouttakingdrasticaction.Withalittlepersistence,somesmallchangescanproduceplentyofrewardingdividendsforyourorganisation

Make Your Business Better in 201212 wAys to


6.orDer cuSToMiSeD STaTionerY Featuringyourlogoonallcorrespondencesendsamessageofprofessionalismandcanhelppreviousclientstorecogniseandrememberyourbusinesswhenplanningfuturepurchases.

7.learn To love The WeB BusinessesarediscoveringthebenefitsofusingFacebookandTwittertoattractnewclients.Thismakesyourbusinessappearmodernandrelevant,whichisvaluableforencouragingcustomerconfidence.

8.DeMonSTraTe Your exPerTiSe For FreeByholdingfreeworkshopsandQ/Asessions,yourbusinesscanpositionitselfasanauthoritywithinyourindustryandencouragepotentialclientstouseyourbusinessinthefuture.Thiscanalsobeaccomplishedbymaintainingacompanyblogorwritinghelpfularticlesforlocalpublications(coughcough!).

9.liSTen To eMPloYee SuGGeSTionS Althoughitsoftennecessarytomakeunpopulardecisionswhenrunningabusiness,itcanbesurprisinglyusefultohearyouremployeesvoicetheirownideasinaconstructiveway.Thiscanprovideaboostofmotivation

toyourworkforce,especiallyiftheirinputisputintopractice.

10.Join a SPorTS TeaM (evenifitsonlythelocaldartsclub!).Notonlywillthisgetthebloodflowing,butitcandowondersforbreakingtheiceandcreatingtrustbetweennewandseasonedworkersalike.Forabitoffun,challengerivalcompaniestogood-naturedexhibitionmatches!

11.The iMPorTance oF aDverTiSinG TheHarvardBusinessReviewcalledadvertisinganantirecessiontool,andtheresultsofastrongmarketingcampaignwillspeakforitself.Afterall,howcanclientsfindyouiftheydontknowyouexist?!

12.Make liFe eaSier For cuSToMerS Smallgesturescanmakeabigdifferencewhenitcomestoensuringrepeatbusiness,andtherearealwaysmoreopportunitiestoimproveyourclientsexperience.Forexample:sendyourcustomersatextwhentheirproductsareavailableforcollection,ormakeyourwebsitesuitableforviewingoninternetphones.

n if youve got a great tip or youd like to share your own industry expertise email us and it could get printed in our next issue!


Sixmonthsago,YorklocalPeterMcFarlaneandtwofriendshadathought:whatifeveryshopinYorkcouldhaveitsinformationloggedelectronically,accessibletoanyonewithasmartphone?Thequestioncouldonlybeansweredwithagreatdealofwork,althoughitwasntlong

beforetheyhadsomethingtoshowfortheirmonthsoftechnicallabour.Despiteneverhavingmadeanappbefore,thehome-grownoperationquicklygrewintoafull-fledgedbusinessandtheaspiringentrepreneursarebrilliantlypleasedwiththeresults.BigCityGuidehasmadequiteasplashsinceitsreleaseearlierthis

year;theapplicationisalreadyavailableinover55uKlocations,andfeaturesplentyoflocalattractions.Theappallowsyoutoaccessusefulbusinessinformation(likephonenumbersanddirections),anditalsoprovidesthewebsiteandTwitteraddress.Peterwouldliketheapplicationtoexpandfurther,andplansarecurrentlyintheworkstolaunchBigCityGuideinwiderEurope,CanadaandAustralia(alongsideits560locationswithintheuSA).Theappisfreetodownload,andanybodywhosinterestedshouldvisitwww.bigcityguide.co.uk

ThepropertymarketinYorkhasremainedrelativelybuoyantthroughout2011andasIwritethisjustacoupleofweeksbeforeChristmaswearestillagreeingsalesandthereseemsnoletupindemand.Yorkremainspopularevenwhentimesarehardduetoitsuniquepositionintheheartofthecountryasamajortouristattractionwithsuperbtransportlinks,atoprankinguniversitycityandagreatplacetoliveandwork.PropertyinYorkthereforecontinuestobeasolidinvestmentforthelongtermwithpricesgenerallyholdingupbetterthanothermoreoutlyingareaslocallyandincomparisonwiththeuKaswhole.Asaresult,demandforBuy-To-Letpropertieshascontinuedtobestrongwithlowinterestrateshelpingtodeliveragoodreturnonanon-goingbasiscoupledwiththeprospectofstronglongtermcapitalgrowth.Therearenumerousreasons

whydemandforrentalpropertyshowsnosignoflettingupinYork.Forexample,firsttimebuyersareremaininginrentedlongerthantheywouldlikeastheysavethelargedepositsrequiredtogetafavorablemortgagerateandwiththecontinuedexpansionoftheuniversitythereismoregoodqualitystudentaccommodationrequired.InwardinvestmentfromcompanieslocatinginandaroundYorkisfuellingdemandandthereisalsoathrivingholidaylettingmarketcateringforthemanyforeignvisitorswhopreferaself-cateringpropertyrightintheheartofthecity.AtYOuRMOVEANSCOMBSinKingsSquarewealwayshaveagreatselectionofpropertiesthataresuitableforBuy-To-Letandwillappealtothoselookingtomakepropertypartoftheirlongterminvestmentin2012.

Buy to let is the smart move for 2012


A Very yorkie APPeArAnce

34

According to a poll carried out by YouGov in association with National Savings & Investments, almost three quarters of Britons feel that financial planning is relevant to everyone and not just wealthy individuals. Theyre absolutely right, of course. From starting out with your first job and mortgage to enjoying a comfortable retirement, everyone would benefit from professional advice. Many of us involved in financial services, myself included, have been calling for more widespread teaching of personal finance in schools. According to the Financial Services Authority, this is so that individuals have the knowledge, aptitude and skills base to become questioning and informed consumers of financial services and manage their finances effectively. But as youd expect of a Yorkshire lass, I put it another way Wise up!!

So just what do you need to look for when seeking advice? Ive put together some relevant questions to ask an adviser:

What qualifications to you have? All financial advisers will have to be qualified to a higher level than at present by the end of 2012. However, many advisers are ahead of the game, holding a higher level designation such as Certified or Chartered status which signifies much higher standards of knowledge and professionalism than the minimum standard which everyone must have by the end of the year.

What experience do you have? Qualifications can measure levels of knowledge, but experience is, of course, equally relevant. Advisers often specialise in certain aspects of financial planning, and someone regularly advising in a field is more likely to give sound advice than a dabbler.

How will I be looked after? Many professional financial advisers have qualified support teams so that clients can always get to speak to someone who knows their circumstances. Paraplanners highly qualified technical specialists are becoming more common in professional practices and have as high a qualification if not higher than the advisers themselves.

What services do you offer? There are many different types of financial advisers, from those simply advising on mortgages or portection, for example, to those offering full holistic financial planning services. Similarly, some advisers have the capability to manage their investments in house, others outsource to a third party.

How do you charge for your services? Historically, advisers have tended to receive a commission from the recommended product provider when a financial solution is arranged for a client. Again, from the end of 2012, things are changing, and fees will need to be agreed between the client and the adviser.

Its a good idea to contact a number of advisers before choosing one to help you. This way, youll get a feel for the people youll be dealing with, which is vitally important when youre trusting someone with your finances.

ASk THE ExPERT...

INVESTMENTS ADVICEWiTh Julie WilSon

n Pen-Life Chartered Financial Planners, equinox House, Clifton Park, York YO30 5Pa

Tel: 01904 661140; Fax: 01904 466206; email: [email protected]; www.pen-life.co.ukJulie Wilson is a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society and Director of Pen-Life Associates Ltd, Chartered Financial Planners, who help individuals and small businesses make the most from their money including advice on residential and commercial mortgages and equity release, individual and business protection, pensions and retirement planning, savings, investments, tax planning, Inheritance Tax and long term care.

Financial Planning

BuSINESSDiarYYork anD norTh YorkShire chaMBer oF coMMerceHoldsnetworkingeventsandtrainingcoursesandofferssupportforbusinessesinYork.Call 567 838 or visit www.yourchamber.org.uk

FeDeraTion oF SMall BuSineSSeS (York Branch)Protects,promotesandfurtherstheinterestsoftheselfemployedandsmallbusinesssector.MeetsonthethirdMondayofthemonth.Call Christine on 629777

York ProFeSSionalSYorkProfessionalsisadynamicmembersorganisation,withregularmeetings,businessandnetworkingevents.www.york-professionals.co.uk

WoMen in rural enTerPriSeOfferssupportandnetworkingforbusinesswomeninruralareas.MeetsonthefirstTuesdayeveningofeverymonth.Visit www.wireuk.org

York WoMen in BuSineSSAfriendly,welcomingandsupportivemember-lednetworkingorganisationstrivingtorepresentandpromotewomeninalltypesofcommerceintheYorkarea.Visit www.yorkwomeninbusiness.co.uk

inSTiTuTe oF DirecTorSRepresentingdirectorandequivalentstatusmembersfromawiderangeofbusinesses,largelyfromtheSMEsector.Avariedprogrammeofactivitiesthroughouttheyear.Call 0113 243 0152 or visit www.iod.com for information

BuSineSS SuPPorT York & norTh YorkShireOffersimpartialadviceandmentoringfornewstart-upsandestablishedbusinesses.Call 699590 or visit www.bsyny.co

2012 DAtes For your DiAryventurefest Yorkshire 2012 8th February, York racecourseAone-day,freeentryeventshowcasingYorkshiresmostinspiringscience,technologyandinnovativeentrepreneurs.Visit www.venturefestyorkshire.net

York Business Week november (date tbc). AvariedprogrammeofeventsandspeakerspromotionYorkasagreatplacetodobusiness.Visit www.yorkbusinessweek.co.uk

n If you have a business networking event coming up, email details to [email protected].


SPORT REPORT with DaN TaITLocal

ON THE MONEYOfcourseinlocaltermsYorkCitywillnodoubtbehopingthat2012issignificantintheirhistoryandfinallyregaintheirfootballleaguestatus.2011hasbeenoneofprogressionunderthestewardshipofGaryMillsandthefanshavebeenspoiltwithabrandofattractivefootball.WhetherthatisenoughtoseethemovertakethelikesofearlypacesettersWrexhamandFleetwoodremainstobeseen.Certainlyafewwinslikethe7-0overfinanciallyruinedKetteringwillhelptheircausethoughyouhavetoadmirethehumilityshownbyKetteringwhointheirnextgameagainstDarlingtonbuoyedthecrowdup,andindirectlymadedigsattheirchairmanbyplayingsongssuchasMoneystootighttomention,Money,Money,MoneyandLivinonaprayeronthetannoyduringthewarmup.YorkssupportersalsoshowedgreathumourwhenafanproposedonthepitchtohisgirlfriendathalftimeduringtheKetteringgame

tochantsofyoudontknowwhatyouredoingwhensheaccepted.

OLYMPIC DREAMAssportingyearsgo,2012shouldbeasignificantonefortheBritishpublic.HoldingtheOlympicGamesinLondonismassiveforthewholecountryanditisalsoEuropeanChampionshipYearwithperennialunderachieversEnglandhopingtofinallywinsomethinginPolandandukraine.Englandwereeventually

drawnwithbogeysideSweden,cohostsukraineandFranceafterseeminglytwohoursofimportantlookingmeninsuitstriedtofathomtheirowncomplicatedsystemofwhoisplayingwho.Surelytherewouldbemoreexcitementandanticipationiftheyjustgotarandomeroffthestreettojustpicknumberslikeyoudoatschool,orevenactuallydrawitoutofsomeoneshatinsteadofdraggingitoutlongerthanthelatestXFactorseries.

RUMOUR MILLYorkCityfacehomeclasheswithMansfieldonNewYearsdayfollowedbyEbbsfleeton21stJanuarythoughtherealbattlemightcomeintheJanuarytransferwindowwhereattheveryleastrumourswillcirculatearoundtheclubstopplayers,somemorefabricatedthanothers.IpersonallywillpaynomoreattentiontothereportedsightingofLionelMessicyclingdownConeyStreetthanJasonWalkerjoiningSheffieldWednesdayfor400,000.

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVEShortlyafteroneofmanyhomewinsduringthewinterperiodIwasaskedbyamantotakeaphotoofhimwithBoothamCrescentinthebackdrop.PickinguponhisEuropeanaccentIgotchattingtohimandwasintriguedastowhyhewantedtotastethemagicofconferencefootball(saidinsimpler,lesssarcastictermsto


1 Peckitt Street, Opposite Cliffords Tower, York YO1 9SF. Tel 01904 642727 Email [email protected] Website www.richardsongildener.co.uk

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Find us on facebook - search for YourLocallink York and send us a friend request!

him).HeinformedmethathewasamassivefootballfanholidayingfromRussia,aCSKAMoscowsupportertobeprecise,andthathehadalreadytakeninManchesterunitedvNewcastle,LiverpoolversusManCity.HeseemedquiteconfusedwheninmyratherYorkshireaccentIrepliedthathemusthavebeenproudtocompletethetrilogyafterwatchingYorkversusthemightyLincolnCity.

MAkING HAYEAfterjustafewweeksofenjoyinghisretirement,DavidHayehasbeenstronglylinkedwithareturntotheringforashowdownwithVitaliKlitschko,theolder,harderbrotherofhispreviousnemesisVladamir.Hayewhoadamantlypromised

thathewouldneverfightpasthis31stbirthday,clearlyfeelshehasunfinishedbusinessafteradodgytoeweirdlystoppedhisfistsinhislastfight.HayesayshewouldturnhisbackonhisHollywoodcareerforanothercrackatbecomingtheundisputedheavyweightchampionoftheworld.NotsurewhathisHollywoodcareeractuallyconsistsofunlesswecounthimplayingtheinvisibleman.Locally,CliftonsLeeStewartwillnodoubtbeinwithhigherlevelopponentsafterstretchingtothreestraightwinsin2011.

SNOOkEREDFinally,oneofthebiggestlocalsportingstoriestohitthenewsatthetimeofwritingwasthemuchdebatedswearinginsnookerafterpottymouthMarkAllensexplicitrantgothiminhotwaterwhilsttakingpartintheuKChampionshipsatYorkBarbicanCentre.Notreallyasportyouimaginetobeontheedge,muchlikeacontroversyinchess,orbloodyriotatthebeachvolleyball.



27 x longer than aDouble Decker Bus!

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ThismonthslocalfeatureisonPhilBewers,pictured,whoheadsupthesportsteamatYorkHospitalRadio,astationrunbyvolunteersandwhosehistorygoesrightbackasfarasthe1920sandevenbroadcastingYorkCitygamesasearlyas1959.InitscurrentformPhilpresentsGoalline,aprogrammeupdatingpatientsfortheirsportingfixincludinglivecommentaryfromYorkCity.Philbeganhisbroadcastingcareerinthemid70sandhasseenthechangesfromcompilingscoresonblackboardstothemoderndayradioshowusingtheinternetandindependentradionewstokeeppatientsuptodatewhilstonair.

AhighlightforPhilwastakingtheshowtoWembleyin2009fortheFATrophyFinalwherePhilandco-presenterDennisMcMahonaspartofamassiveteameffortrecordedliveforYorkCitysmatchwithStevenage,rubbingshoulderswiththenationalmedia.PhilproudlysaysTheopportunitiesHospitalRadiohasgivenmehavebeennumerousfrommeeting&interviewingsomeofthenamesinthegameoffootball,players,managersandpersonalitiesbeyondtoreportingonsomememorablegamesbutthemostimportantoneformeistocreateadedicatedsportsserviceforpatientsinYorkHospital.

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39

theguide

iPhone aPPS

Theworldofgadgetsisabewilderingplace(trustus,wevejustbeenthere).Whilstsomegadgetsareseeminglypointless,otherswinyouoverindisbeliefthatyouveeverlivedyourlifewithoutit.Wevescouredcyberspacetobringyouthebestgizmosonthemarket,fromtheingenioustothedownrightbizarre.Themindboggles

SaMSunG GalaxY 7.7 TaBleTLikeaniPad,butnotaniPad.Samsungarealsojumpingonthetabletbandwagonbycreatingthisdevicethatmeasuresonly7.89mmthickandweighs335grams.Thereleasedatestillremainsamystery,butwithasuperAMOLEDdisplay(whateverthatmeans)youcanenjoyahighcontrastandaccurateviewingexperiencethatlastsupto10hours.Oh,anditalsocomesinavarietyofcolours(wellhavepink,please!)Gadget rating 7/10

The iPhone 5Forecasttobereleasedmidtolate2012inacompletelynewdesign,theiPhone5issettoonceagainoutdoitsoldersiblings.Applekeepthephonesspecificationstopsecret,butithasbeenrumoredthatthenewgadgetwillcomeinateardropshape,haveanaluminumcaseandancomewithafullyinstalled8+megapixelcamera.TheiPhonesagacontinues!Gadget rating 9/10

ToGeThervilleOksonottechnicallyagadget,butthisnewsafesocialnetworkforkidsispredictedtotaketheworldofsocialnetworkingbystormin2012,sowethoughtwedgiveyouaheadsup.Togethervilleisasocialonlinecommunityforfamilieswhereparentscreatesafeonlineneighbourhoodsfortheirkidsunder10toplaygamesandconnectwiththereal-lifefriendsandfamilytheyalreadyknowandtrust.Bestofall,it'sfunandfree!Gadget rating 6/10

1. Qr reaDer Scannerappthatscansbarcodesalloverthemedia,takingyoustraighttorelevantweblinks.

2. inSYDe STorY AsocialnetworkingapptocombinethelikesofFacebook,Twitter,flickrandspotifyallinone.Astalkersdream.

3. STanZa Givingthekindlearunforitsmoney,thisappmakeselectronicbookreadinganddownloadingaccessibleoniPhonesandiPads.

4. WaYZ Beatthetrafficwiththisclevertwitter-likenetworkforcars;outsmartingtraffictogether

5. Tone PaD Createyourownringtonesandcatchyjingleswiththisdigitalmusicapp.Yourtunescanbeuploadedtosharewithothers.


1 Peckitt Street, Opposite Cliffords Tower, York YO1 9SF. Tel 01904 642727 Email [email protected] Website www.richardsongildener.co.uk

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SaMSunG GalaxY Skin Thephonewithatwistliterally!ThankstoitsbendableAMOLEDdisplay,userswillbeabletorolltheirnewtransformerphoneintoawristwatch,mouseandaclock.ThismythicalAMOLEDdisplayisapparentlylowenergyandalmostunbreakableaccordingtoreports.SamsunghasnotconfirmedtheexactreleasedatebutwithfeaturestorivaltheiPhone,Appleshouldbeafraid,veryafraid!Gadget rating 8/10

ToShiBa no GlaSSeS 3D TvGonewillbethedaysyouhavetowearslightlydorky/slightlyquirkyredandblueglassestoenjoya3Dfilm.Toshibaaresoontolaunchtheirfirstrangeof3DTVs,creatingtheillusionofdepthbysendingimagesofdifferenceperspectivestotherighteyeandotherstotherighteye.Howonearththatworkswehavenoideabutwereexcitedtobringthe3Dexperiencetooursofas!Gadget rating 9/10

lG SMarTScan MouSeThismouse,withabuiltinscanner,willopenaneweraforscannersaccordingtoLG.Savvyuserscanswipethemouseovermaterialtobescannedandthescannedimage

canthenbesavedinavarietyoffiletypes(justthinkofallthemischiefyoucouldcausewithonefoulswipe!)TheSmartscanmouseisalreadyonthemarketbutsettoboomin2012.Sowhetheryouwanttouseitforgoodorevil,getyoursnow! Gadget rating 7/10


27 x longer than a Double Decker Bus!


A Family run business since 1890

41

Whenitcomestomotors,TurnbullsofYorkisanameyoucantrust.Thefamilyfirmhasbeeninthebusinessfor50years,eversinceRobertTurnbullstartedhisvehiclerepairsventureatHolgateBridgeinthelate1950s.HissonPeter,now

retired,movedittoMonkBridge,nearHeworthGreen.ThebusinessmovedtoLayerthorpein1968,andnowRobertsgrandsonMartynisthemanbehindthewheel,havingjoinedthefirmin1984.

Wehavesomecustomerswhohavebeenwithusfor25yearsandhave

bought15or16carsfromus,hesays.Thatloyaltyiswhatkeepsusstrong.

Itshardlysurprisingtheircustomersareloyal,withTurnbullswealthofexperience.TheyknowtheneedsofMazdadriversandhavetheexpertiseandknowledgetohelpinevery

possibleway.

TheysellthefullrangeofnewMazda,aswellasawideselectionofusedMazda.Attheirshowroomtheyalsohaveafantasticselectionofapprovedusedcarsforsalefromawiderangeofmanufacturers.AlltheirusedcarsinYorkaremanufacturerapproved.

turnBuLLsTrust

Drive on home...sponsoreD By: TurnBullS oF York. Tel: 01904 658809 www.turnbullsyork.co.uk


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TheyalsoofferacomprehensiveaftersalesservicewheretheyundertakeallmakesandMazdaservicingaswellasMOTsandrepairstoensurethatyourcarisinfirstclasscondition.Theyuseonlygenuinepartstoensurethatwhentheymaintainyourcaritiscarriedouttothehighstandardsthemotoringbrandsexpect.

AndtheresneverbeenabettertimetobuyabrandnewMazda.TurnbullsofYorkhasintroducedaspecialPaynoVATandmanyotherstrongoffersonmostoftheirmodelsintheMazdaline-up,fromtheMazda2totheMazda6,meaningtheJapanesemanufacturerssporty,dynamicrangenowstartsfromjust8,995(on-the-road).ThePaynoVATcampaignismadeevenmoreappealingtocustomersinYorkbytheofferof0%APRfinanceoverfouryearswithonlya30%depositrequired(termsandconditionsapply).

ThePaynoVATcampaignwaslaunchedfordieselMazda6modelsinNovember,andhasnowbeenextendedtoincludetheMazda2,Mazda3,Mazda5andMazdaMX-5modelsregisteredfromnowuntil29thFebruary2012.AllMazda6petrolanddieselmodelswillalsobeavailablewithnoVAT,0%APRuntil31stMarch2012.

ThePaynoVATcampaignmakesareallycompellingoffertoconsumers,savingthemupto4,000,says

MartynTurnbull.TherehasneverbeenabettertimetobuyabrandnewMazdaandextendingtheofferacrossmuchoftherangemeanseveryonecanbenefitfromthePaynoVATcampaign,whethermotoristsarepurchasingthesuper-practicalMazda5orthesportytwo-seaterMazdaMX-5roadster.

WeareconfidentthatnoVATtogetherwithour0%APRfinancewillattractlargenumbersofnewcomerstotheMazdabrand.ItwillalsorewardexistingMazdaownersinYork,asmanyofthemwillbeabletobenefitfromzerocosttochangewhentradingintheircurrentcarsforabrandnewMazda.CustomersshouldvisitTurnbullsMazdaonLayerthorpesoontocheckwhichmodelswillbeavailableunderthisprogrammeandbookatestdrive.

AllvehiclesintheMazdamodelline-updeliveradynamicandengagingdrive,withstronglyperformingengines,competitiveCO2emissionsandanownershipexperiencewhichisunderpinnedbyreducedcostsandMazdasoutstandingbuildqualityandreliability.

n To find out more about the contact Turnbulls of York on 01904 658809 or visit the showroom on layerthorpe York.


siLVer serViceKeepingyourcarhealthyandrunningsmoothcansometimesseemlikeamammothjob;notonlycanitbedifficulttokeeptrackofwhatneedstobecheckedandserviced,butitcanalsohityourfinanceshardwhenoverlookedpartsbegintodeteriorate.Fortunately,WillsandEllis(inPoppletonGarage)havemadethewholeprocessastrouble-freeaspossiblebyintroducingtheirServiceBudgetPlan.Bydepositingasmall,monthlycreditintoyourServiceaccount,youcanhelpavoidunexpectedservicecostsfromcatchingyouunprepared(andweatherthestormbetterwhenthingsstarttogowrong!).Awell-servicedvehicleisntonlybetterfortheenvironment,butwillalsobebetterforyourwalletifyoudecidetosellitabadlymaintainedcariseasytospotwithaknowledgeableeye,soinvestinyoursafetyandfuturetoday.

n For more information, call Wills and ellis on 01904 792651 or visit www.willsandellis.com

A BiG improVementWhilethereslotsofchoiceinYorkwhenitcomestofindinganMOT,serviceorrepairforyourcar,thingsgetconsiderablymoredifficultifyouredrivingamotorhomeorminibus.Thesevehiclesareoftenfartoolargeformostmechanicstohandleappropriately,andbecauseofthisproblemsmaygooverlookeduntiltheyfinallyreachabreakingpoint!FortunatelyAGMotorsinYorkpridesitselfonitsexperienceofplus-sizemotors,andtheyrehappyworkonahugerangeofthecitysmassivemachines.Theseservicesincludebreaks,batteries,suspension,diagnosticsandmuchmore.

n For more information call aG Motors on 01904 625890 or visit www.agmotorsyork.co.uk

Stay Safe in the SnowWiththermostatsshiveringallaroundthecountry,itsvitaltodriveacarwhichwontbreakdownatthefirstthreatoffrost;notonlycanthisbeahugeinconvenience,butitcanalsoputyouintosomedangerousroadsidesituations.Whilethereareplentyofwaystobecleverinthecold,yourfirstportofcallshouldalwaysbeacomprehensivewintervehiclecheckthiswillensurethatyourcarissafeandproperlyequippedtohandlewhatevertheweatherthrowsatit.Tomakethingseasier,LawtonsofTadcaster(forFords)nowhaveaspecialofferonWinterChecks(usingallthelatestdiagnostictechnology)attheirYorkRoadlocation.Foragreatpriceyoucansetallyourworriesasideanddriveconfidentlyinthecomingmonths-youcanevenpick-upyourownWinterCarCareKit.Butremember:nomatterwhereyougothiswinter,alwaysbringwarmclothesandemergencysuppliesoffoodandwater!

n For more information, give lawtons of Tadcaster a call on 01937 833997 or visit http://www.lawtonsoftadcaster.co.uk


The car care experts that do more Collision repair Dents & scuffs repair Tyre sales Servicing MOTs

car care you can trust

Justcarclinics.co.uk Call 01904 690 099

Kettlestring Lane, Clifton Moorgate, York YO30 4XF

Tyres Servicing Valet Windscreens Air conditioning Wheel alignment

44

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Father FiguresWithicyroads,strainedmotorsandpoorvisibility,drivingdownYorkswindingwintertimestreetscanbemakeeventhemostexperiencedgearheadalittleanxious.Weallknowitsimportanttotakeprecautionsduringthecoldermonths,buthowmanyofusactuallyknowwhatwillmakeussafe?Arecentsurvey,carriedoutbyJustCarClinicscustomers,revealedthatastartling75%ofthosequestioneddidntknowthelegalrequirementsforminimumtyretreadand65%didntknowhowtocheckiftheirowntyreswereworn!Ifthatwasntbadenough,40%ofthesecustomersreportedthattheirdadswerestillthego-topersonwhentheyneededtyreadvice.Whiletheresnormallynothingwrongaboutlisteningtoourdadsadvice(theydotendtoknowafairbitafterall),whenitcomestotyresafetyyousimplycantreplaceprofessionalexpertise.Forexample:didyouknowthatforeverytyreyourefoundusingwhichisunsafe,youcanreceive3penaltypointsandahefty2,500fine?Suddenlythatprofessionalknow-howsoundsalotmoreuseful,doesntit?!

FortunatelyJustCarClinicsYorkhaslaunchedaFreeWinterHealthCheckformotoristslookingtostaysafethiswinter.Inadditiontotyres,itsFreeWinterHealthCheckcoversotheressentialvehiclecomponents-includingantifreeze,screenwash,coolanthoses,fanbelt,lights,bodyworkcheckandevenyourbattery.Butdontworryyoucanstillaskyourdadforadviceaboutotherthings(likewintersweatersanddiscodancing!).

n For more information, give Just car clinics York a ring on 01904 690099, or drop by their site at kettlestring lane, clifton Moorgate, York Yo30 4xF.

45

OurveryownStiglooksathottopicsinthelandofpetrolheadsthe icArIfBatmandrovearoundinthis,theJokerwouldthinkhewashavingalaugh,butthePivo3designbyNissancanreturntoitsdriverwhensummonedthroughasmartphoneappjustlikeBatmanslegendaryride.OtherimpressivefeaturesincludeAVP(AutomatedValetParking),meaningthecarcanlocateafreeparkingspacewithoutthedrivercirclingacarparkforhours!Butdontgettooexcited,thiscarisntexpectedontothemarketuntil2016attheearliest.Well,timetostartsaving!

BArGAin BuGAttiTheworldsmostexpensivemultimillionpoundsupercarsgatheredinMacauforthefirstAsianeditionoftheTopMarquesmotorshow.NormallyheldinMonaco,theshowenticed20,000millionairesfromaroundAsia.MindblowingmodelssuchastheBugattiVeyronwastestdrivenwithatopspeedof250mphandsoldfor3.9million.Very

impressive,butwethinkwellsticktoourfaithfuloldbangers!

FLintstones Foot BreAkAperfectcaseofonlyinAmerica;a24yearoldmaninMichiganwascaughtbycopsdrivingatruckthathadnoworkingbreaks.Knowingfullwellhisbreakswerenonexistent,hespedthroughrushhourtrafficat40mph,weavinginandoutofmovingcars.Inanattempttobrake,heactuallytriedtostopthecarwithhisfeet,Flintstonesstyle.Thetruckcrashedintofourcarsbeforeitfinallystoppedandthewholethingwascaughtoncamera.ThatsjustYaba-daba-doolalyifyouaskus!

Hereintheofficewewillallagreethatwomenmakejustasgooddriversasmen,butaccordingtonewstats,overhalfofwomendrivershaveadmittedthathavingtheirpartnerinthecarmakesthemfeelnervousandstressed(probablybecausetheirmanismoaningatthem!).Ontheotherhand,oneintenmensaytheyactuallydrivemorecarefullywiththeirpartnerinthecar(probablybecausetheirwomanismoaningatthem!)

Womenbehindthe wheel


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DriVinG curFewImaginethejoyofpassingyourdrivingtest,onlytodiscoveryouarestillnotpermittedtodriveatnight!Well,thatnightmaremaybecomearealityforsomeyoungstersiftheABI(AssociationofBritishInsurers)gettheirway.Theyreproposinganewlawwhichwouldmeanunder25sthathavebeendrivingforlessthantwoyearscannotdrivebetweenthehoursof11pmand4am.Notonlythat,butyoungdriversmaynotbeallowedtodrinkanyalcoholatalliftheywanttogetbehindthewheel.Sensibleorsilly?Youdecide!

ExTREME meAsuresOnegrumpyvillagerhasgonetoextremelengthstogetmotoriststoslowdownastheypassthroughhisvillageofBowinDevon.Hewassosickofspeedydriverswhizzingpasthishouse,hearmedhimselfwithapaintbrush,ladderandpaintanddecidedtoplasterahuge30mphsignonthesideofhishouse(anditsastallasadoubledeckerbus).Thatllteachem!

15


Thoughtaboutgettinganewcarin2012?Trythinkingoutsidethebox

IfyouvenevertakenmuchinterestinGunsNRoses(orwearingleatherforthatmatter),rollingproudlydownthestreetonashinyHarley-Davidsonmightbethelastthingonyourmind.Still,youshouldntgivemotorbikingsbad-boyorbad-girlreputationtoomuchworry(unlessyouratherlikeit,ofcourse!).Therealityisthatthereareactuallyahugerangeofbenefitstochoosingamotorbikeinsteadofacarforyourtransportneeds-andlookingsubstantiallycoolerisobviouslyoneofthem.Consideritsabilitytonegotiatetrickycitycongestion,park

inspacescarscouldonlydreamof,andsupplyyouwithfreshairthroughoutyourwholejourney.However,themainadvantageformostpeopleistheprice;notonlyaremotorcycles(orscootersifyouprefer)cheaperonpurchase,buttheirbetterfuelefficiencyandlowerinsurancepremiums(oftenover60%cheaper)canleaveyourwallethappilyoutofthered.Soifyoufancyreignitingyourloveoftheopenroadandsavingplentyofpenniesinreturn,haveathinkaboutwhethermotorbikingcouldberightforyou.

revvvoluTion!join the

Make Do anD MenDTheoldsloganistruernowthanever,especiallywhenyouconsiderthemoneyyoucansavebypreservingyouroldmotorratherthansplashingoutonanewerone.Ifyouvealreadygotsomemechanicalknow-how,yourfirstportofcallshouldbeu-Pull-ItinStamfordBridgeorPigottsAutopartsinStrensall;forasmallfee,youcanquicklysearchthroughtheirhugedatabaseofcarstopinpointtheexactpartyouneed.Onceyouvefoundit,itsquickandeasytoscheduleatimetoremovewhateveryoulikefromthevehicle.Atu-Pull-Ityoullbeprovidedwithasafetyvestandhardhatthroughoutyourwork,andyoureallowedtobringalargerangeofhand-andbattery-operatedtoolstoassistyou.PigottsAutopartsmakeslifeeasytoo,astheyofferaspecialfittingservicetoensurethatyougetyourmachinerunningjustthewayyouwant.Ifyoudecidethatyouroldcarisntworthfixingafterall,bothcompanieswillbehappytobuyitoffyouthesamedayyoubringitin!

n Call U-Pull-It on 08448751914 or Pigotts Autoparts on 01904490978 to make an appointment.


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GeT uSeD To a GreaT DealThinkingofgettinganewmotorbutturned-offbyskyrocketingprices?Itmakessensetoconsiderusedcars,especiallywhenyoutakeintoaccounthowmuchvalueanewvehicleloseswithinitsfirstyear(often35%atleast).Iftheyvehadacarefulowner,used-carscanbeafantasticdeal-andyoullfindagreatervarietyofchoicethanyouwouldifyouonlyconsidernew-releasemodels.Interested?PristineCarsmakesaperfectstartingpoint,andtheyhaveanInternetdealerinHarrogatewhoshappytoadviseyou.Soifyoureconsideringanewcar,haveathinkaboutthiseco-friendlyoptionandletyourbankaccountbreatheeasy.

n Call Pristine Cars on 01937589099 for information, or visit www.pcars.co.uk

like a SPraY ToDaY?Asallourfinereaderswillsurelyknow,theresnothingmoreembarrassingthanturninguptothelatestVIPfilmpremiereorroyalweddingonlytodiscoverthatyour(oncebeautiful)vehiclenowresemblesadishevelledmuseumartefact.However,evenifyouspendyourdaysinslightlylessstylishpursuits,itsalwaysashametofeelconsciousofthoselittlescratchesandrustedpatcheswhichfindtheirwayontoyourcar.Tosprucethingsupandturnafewheads,popovertoyourlocalbodyshopandgetthosepeskytroublespotsre-sprayed;whileyoureatit,youcangetallthosefrustratingbumpsandchipstakencareoftoo.Notonlywillthisgiveyourridethatnewcarlook,butitlldowondersforaddingvalueifyoudecidetosellit(andwhoknows,withitsnewlyglamorousappearancemaybeyoullfallbackinlovewithyourmotoranddecidetokeepitafterall!).


Nothingbeatsregularexerciseandahealthyroutinecanbringoutthebestinallofus.However,weoftenavoidfitnessclassesbecausewereworriedtheyllbetoodifficul

your local link magazine january 2012

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