Footpath closed after fears for public safety MEMBERS of the public are being urged to avoid using a footpath over safety fears. North Yorkshire County Council say the public are being urged to avoid the footpath connecting St James Green with Marage Road in Thirsk as it is in danger of collapsing into the river. The council has closed the public right of way after reports of cracks and movement of the pavement. Inspections have revealed that erosion has raised concerns about the retaining wall of the riverbank adjacent to Cod Beck and the safety of the footbridge. Repairs were carried out in 2015 to ensure the well-used footpath could remain open, but this latest development means it is currently unsafe to use.
THE region’s largest employer has vowed to do its utmost to reap the benefits of new ways of working brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, after it emerged millions of pounds of taxpayers money had been saved alongside a huge environmental boost. North Yorkshire County Council, which has a workforce of more than 15,000 people in roles ranging from lawyers and teachers to social workers and engineers, has revealed how the pandemic enabled it to accelerate new efficient ways of working over the last financial year. It says the greater use of technology and video-conferencing to deliver services has resulted in 5.5 million less business miles less than the previous year – the equivalent of driving around Earth 220 times.
Leading Conservative Linda Folwell, who has died aged 71 WESTMINSTER and North Yorkshire politicians have paid tribute to leading Conservative Party figure and racehorse owner Linda Folwell, who has died just days before her 72nd birthday. Friends of Ms Folwell said she had continued working in her role as chairman of Conservative Thirsk and Malton Constituency Association up until a few weeks ago, having been diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. Among those taken aback by her death has been classic-winning trainer Mick Easterby, who had Ms Folwell’s horses at his Sheriff Hutton yard. Mr Easterby said would remember his friend as someone who took delight in treating her horses.