Our Connecting Ripon Network brings local community organisations together to grow volunteering and share ideas to make life better for local residents.
Many members will be out and about for ‘Sights and Sounds’ on Saturday 9th March from 11am to 2pm, taking the opportunity to be part of this fantastic local partnership event. Sights and Sounds celebrates how much Ripon has to offer and illustrates what can be achieved when a community has strong local connections.
‘Sights and Sounds’ gives residents a chance to connect with a wide range of local charities, groups and services and to enjoy a fun, free, family-friendly day for all ages.
Volunteers work hard to put on an exciting programme, with 44 voluntary and community groups taking part who are keen to show residents that they are not alone and that there are activities and support right on their doorstep.
The library is always a great place to find out community information, but on the day there is also an opportunity to meet representatives from local organisations who will be happy to explain what they do and answer your questions. There will also be a children’s story-time for under 5s; a Lego club for 6- to 12-year-olds; knitting, crochet, and Dancing for Wellbeing taster sessions.
If you have a HG4 postcode, you will be able to visit the Workhouse, Prison & Police and Court House Museums for free on the day, upon production of proof of your address.
There is always a great atmosphere in the cathedral at this annual event. This year, over 30 local community organisations will be showcasing what they do. Well-known local charities including Dementia Forward, Carers’ Resource and Jennyruth Workshops will be there, and you will be able to meet Citizens Advice and North Yorkshire Police. Ripon Rotary, Ripon YMCA, Ripon Men’s Shed, Ripon Disability Forum, Ripon Theatre Festival and many more look forward to meeting you. There is really something to interest everyone!
Entertainment will be provided by the Ripon City Morris Dancers and Betty Lupton’s Ladle Laikers, as well as by local choirs and bell ringers. Families can also enjoy crafts and games. Ripon Poetry Festival will be reading poems inspired by Ripon and Yorkshire at all three venues during the day.
As a visitor to the event said: “I think what makes it a special day is the buzz around the place, everyone is enjoying themselves and learning about all the great charities we have here in Ripon. It all shows what a great city Ripon is.”
I hope you enjoy discovering something new about Ripon and please do visit our HADCA and Power of 10 Volunteering stand in the cathedral, next to the wonderful Ripon Walled Garden Pop Up Cafe! We’re looking to inspire and support more local young people to help out in their community and to enjoy the benefits this brings.
Find out more about Sights and Sounds, including timings here
