The passing of Colin Benson

On 21st March, Baldersby lost a well-known and much-loved villager, Colin Benson.

Colin, or “Big Col” as he was affectionately known, lived in Baldersby for over 40 years. During his time here, he touched the lives of many, a caring, friendly, larger than life character, as honest as the day was long, with an endearing smile and a cheery, booming “Now then”, he was always available & willing to help his friends and neighbours. Be it delivering their daily newspapers in all weathers for some twenty years, cutting grass, caring for their dogs & chickens when they were away. Colin could be counted on to take care of things and be a guardian over their homes.

He helped out on the village farm in busy times, cut the grass around the village and at Baldersby St James Church. He offered a helping hand to many a villager in their gardens and supplied wood for their fires. Baldersby will sorely miss this much-liked & respected gentleman, whose unique character, in many ways, made the village of Baldersby.

A wonderful farewell service and wake organised by his family filled Maple Park beyond capacity on 13th April, where family, friends and fellow truckers said goodbye. Baldersby will never be quite the same without our Big Col. 

 

Community litter pick

The Spring community litter pick took place on Saturday, March 21st.

Parishioners came out to help tidy up their community, collecting 27 bags of litter! Councillors would like to thank everyone who attended.

The next litter pick will be held in the autumn, with the date to be confirmed.

 

Community grants

The Movement, Activity and Sport Investment Programme is offering grants to support local projects that help people stay active in rural areas - especially where access to facilities or organised groups is limited. Funding is available for events, equipment, facilities, and training, with grants starting from £3,000.

If you would like to apply for a grant, please visit https://yorknorthyorks-ca.gov.uk/project/mas-fund/ for more information. 

 

Expression of Interest to Great British Energy. The £1 billion fund enables communities to develop and own local clean energy projects such as solar panels, wind turbines and other renewable energy schemes.

To find out more and express your interest in the fund, please visit: https://www.gbe.gov.uk/local-power-plan.

 

2026 Constituency surgeries

If you would like to attend one of the constituency surgeries, please contact: julian.smith.mp@parliament.uk, or call: 01756795898.

 

Hergill balancing pond

The parish council wishes to remind residents that the National Highways land surrounding Hergill Pond constitutes private property, with no public access or right of way. This area is dangerous, remote, features open water, and is subject to ecological management.

 

Vacancies

The parish council is seeking to fill a vacancy for a Clerk who will also act as the responsible financial officer. The position opens on June 9th, 2026, but an earlier start, possibly two weeks prior, is available. Candidates must be computer-literate, capable of handling email, using Microsoft Word and Excel, and possess a basic understanding of numbers. Although the role is primarily remote, attendance at the bi-monthly parish meetings is required to organise proceedings and take minutes. Interested applicants should email clerk@baldersby-pc.gov.uk.