November was a month of significant community engagement for Skipton and Ripon MP, Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE, with activities covering healthcare, community recognition, rural advocacy, and transport improvements.
Julian announced the winner of his annual Christmas Card Competition, celebrating the artistic talents of primary school pupils across the Skipton and Ripon constituency. This year’s winning design, a festive bauble created by Alfie, aged 9, from Settle Church of England Primary School, will feature on Julian’s official Christmas card. Designs by runners-up Annabelle, Isabelle, Reuben, and Emily will also appear inside the card. Julian thanked all the participants, saying their creativity had made selecting a winner a difficult task.
Julian met with local farmers in Westminster at the National Farmers Union (NFU) Mass Lobby. Discussions centred on critical challenges facing the farming industry, including proposed changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR). Julian reaffirmed his commitment to representing farmers in Parliament, acknowledging the vital role they play in supporting rural communities and protecting the environment.
In recognition of extraordinary local efforts, Julian presented James Badger from Kettlesing with the Points of Light Award for his tireless fundraising for Blood Cancer UK. Following the loss of his wife, Philippa, James has undertaken incredible cycling challenges, raising funds for leukaemia research. Julian described James as an inspiration whose determination exemplifies the best of community spirit.
November also marked the 70th anniversary of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, a milestone Julian celebrated by paying tribute to the communities, conservationists, and volunteers who have preserved the park’s beauty and biodiversity. Julian stressed the importance of continued collaboration to protect the park’s legacy for future generations.
In Kirkby Malzeard, Julian assessed progress on essential sewer repairs following a collapse earlier this year that caused significant disruption to residents and local businesses. He met with Yorkshire Water and businesses to discuss the impact of the road closure and ensure support measures are in place. Julian has written to Yorkshire Water’s Chief Executive to urge the timely completion of the works.
On the transport front, Julian welcomed the launch of new bus services funded by the Government’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP). The services will improve connections in Skipton and surrounding communities, including Carleton-in-Craven and Embsay. Julian highlighted the positive impact these services will have for residents, businesses, and visitors, particularly during the busy festive season.
Julian also attended a reception at the House of Commons to celebrate the vital role of pubs and family breweries in UK communities. The event, organised by the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group, provided a platform to discuss challenges facing the brewing industry. Julian expressed his continued support for pubs and breweries, emphasising their importance as community hubs and economic drivers.
One of the month’s highlights was Julian’s visit to The Orchards Unit in Ripon, where he met with Brent Kilmurray, CEO of the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV). The visit provided an opportunity to learn more about the challenges and successes in providing mental health services across North Yorkshire. Earlier this year, Julian encouraged local residents to take part in the TEWV Care Planning Policy consultation, ensuring that community voices are reflected in future service improvements. Speaking after the visit, Julian praised the team for their dedication to supporting people facing mental health challenges.
As we head towards the end of the year Julian remains available to constituents and encourages residents to get in touch by emailing him at [email protected].
