People across North Yorkshire urged to make use of warm banks

It's as we head into a bitterly cold snap

Author: Kathy GreenPublished 18th Jan 2024

As temperatures plummet - warm banks in North Yorkshire are encouraging people not to sit shivering at home.

Communities spaces are available for those worried about the cost of heating.

"Don't sit shivering at home"

That includes Thirsk library - where Sally Burton is a trustee: "The building is a very building, so we registered as a warm space and advertised ourselves as a warm space. People can come in at any time, they can sit all day if they want so that they can get hot drinks and spend the morning, save them having the heating on at home so we really do welcome anyone to come in."

She also says as well as keeping people warm they have a whole range of support: "We have on our a Friday something called Friday friends when again people can come in, we also have our IT buddies available, we also have some sessions for children during the week, no judgement, no questions asked, just come and sit and spend as long as you want."

"You don't have to be referred, you don't have to be sent there by a social worker of the DWP, it is just there for everybody."

Meanwhile the RAC has put out a warning for those going out on the roads:

Spokesman Rod Dennis has this advice: " "A car that's sluggish to start is often a sign that its battery is starting to fail, a problem that's exacerbated during the current freezing temperatures.

"We strongly recommend drivers book a reliable mobile mechanic or local garage to get the problem diagnosed properly and, if needed, a new battery fitted to reduce the chances of an unwelcome non-start.

"It's also vital drivers travel prepared over the next few days, especially with the prospect of snow affecting some regions.

"It's important that motorists pack a blanket, warm waterproof coat and gloves, sturdy boots and a mobile power bank should their car fail them and they need to wait for assistance."

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