Letter: Fundraising - Cash will support two charities

Singers entertained over the lunchtime period outside Greggs in Harrogate and in the market square in Ripon. Everyone enjoyed the experience and even Santa Claus and his helpers joined in.

Thanks must also go to Appleton’s butchers shop in Ripon. A lovely member of staff came over to the gathered singers with a plate full of pieces of their pork pies. We were all very grateful for their kindness.

All monies raised will go towards funding for activities that the Acorn Centre (Harrogate Mind) near Waitrose and Ripon Mind provide for their members.

I must also mention the absolutely fabulous Jools Holland and his Big Band concert at the Convention Centre in Harrogate. What a lovely venue. The acoustics are superb and really highlighted the talented musicians performing that night. Jools Holland himself always seems genuinely pleased to be back in Harrogate. The audience look forward to dancing and singing along with the encouragement of members of his big band.

Anyone who hasn’t seen one of his shows must put a date in their diary as it is a show and a half. He is more often than not accompanied by the talented Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall.

Being so close to Christmas this year (December 21) it was all the more special. Harrogate people were treated to our very own Hootananny!

Thank you for the special memories of Christmas 2017 and here’s to a happy, healthy new year.

Lynne Camacho

Harrogate