The Thirsk Yarnbombers have signalled the start up to Christmas, with nativity scenes on post boxes, and the shepherds on their way to the stable.

The bollards are festive, with wonderful knitting from our Yarnbombers who come in the night and festoon the Market Square.

And of course, Santa is not forgotten though he may be stuck in the chimney, or is it just that he gave us a moment of his time before slipping down and dispensing toys into stockings hung on the end of beds?

And carol singers, which reminds me, there will be carols with the glorious Royal British Legion Band in the courtyard of The Golden Fleece on the evening of 18th December.

And we must not forget Christ, Mary and Joseph, ooops, and the donkey who carried Mary with her ‘precious load’.

Here, in Thirsk we are thrilled when these wonderful knitters, busying themselves all year, come quietly to festoon the square for the meaningful ‘occasions’ concerning our community. ‘Yes,’ we say, ‘The tree is up, the lights are on, and the Yarnbmbers have been, so Christmas is on the way, all is well with the world.‘ Just as quietly, all these little miracles will be gone. We won’t know, when, but are safe in the knowledge that they will come again, for the next occasion worthy of note.

These are just a few of the many that have lifted our hearts.

Is it any wonder that people come from miles to enjoy these gems, and perhaps slip across the road to The Golden Fleece for a coffee and, this year, 3 white Maltesers as a nod to a possible white Christmas. Or let’s not forget the myriad other cafes pubs and restaurants. Do come, and share in the sights.

Milly Adams is the author of The Waterway Girls, Love on the Waterways and Hope on the Waterways. (Kindle editions) You can shop all three @ £5.97, or one at a time. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FRN1JWMF/