The Ryedale Festival Spring Event 27th – 29th March, 2020 has regrettably been cancelled because of the coronavirus and today’s government announcements.

The government updated its advice today regarding the Coronavirus and are advising specific groups to minimise their social interaction. People in at-risk groups will be asked within days to stay home for 12 weeks.

The UK government’s chief medical adviser, Prof Chris Whitty said the group of people who should take “particular care to minimise their social contact” were:

• People over the age of 70
• Other adults who would normally be advised to have the flu vaccine (such as those with chronic diseases)
• Pregnant women

“Those are the groups we want to take particular care to minimise their social contact which of course will have very significant risks for them.”

Some of you may have seen a recent BBC news story regarding a postcard helping people to look after their neighbours if they are self-isolating. Those who can offer help fill out their contact details and leave the cards with their neighbours

A PDF version of that postcard can be downloaded and printed out HERE

Please note that the Parish Council meeting will go ahead this evening as planned. Copies of the agenda will be available at the meeting.

Soupa lunch on Wednesday, March 18^th.   We have reluctantly decided that due to the coronavirus threat we should cancel soupa lunch for this month.

Sorry to disappoint you all but we will keep you informed about Soupa lunch in April & May depending on how the disease develops.

Stephen Prest

We have recently received reports of thieves going around the local villages, including one of the Castle Howard properties, siphoning oil out of tanks.

Please ensure your tanks are locked, remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to 101.

Find out more about a summer programme of events and details of 2020/21 Friends lectures in the Spring Newsletter.