What’s on in York: Grey Hen Press 10th Anniversary Celebration

York Explore Library

Sat 29 Apr

2.00pm – 4.00pm

Free

Apr _29 Greyhen Logo (2)Carole Bromley, Helen Burke, Joy Howard, Pauline Kirk and Josie Walsh will read selected poems from Grey Hen anthologies.

Grey Hen Press was set up to showcase the work of older women poets by publishing themed anthologies. Over 140 poets have appeared in the ten publications to date.

Refreshments including tea, coffee, soft drinks and wine will be available, and the event is free.The event will take place in The Marriott Room

‘Nothing mimsy about these poems by older women. Fierce, funny, disturbing and fairly vicious. Lovely.’ Michele Hanson

‘Seriously good poetry…the fruit of long-life experience – brave writing, full of love and subversive wit and lyricism.’ R V Bailey

‘An A–Z of women poets whose formidable eye and instinct for pithy observation make this required reading for all ages’ Penelope Shuttle.

For more information about this event please pop in to York Explore Library, call us on (01904 552828) or email york@exploreyork.org.uk.

Acomb gets two new sporting events

Two new sporting events are taking place this summer in Acomb, with the aim of encouraging people to try something new and healthy while having some fun as a family.

The first event will be taking place on Sunday 23 July with the Acomb Fun Run, which will see 4-14 year olds invited to take part in a 2km run where each participant will receive a medal. Other friends and family members will also be able to participate in a 1km run on the day. The event is free to attend and as there is only capacity for 100 places for the 4-14 year olds event people are advised to book in advance at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/acomb-fun-run-tickets-32843001301.

A week later, on Saturday 29 July, Energise will then host the inaugural Acomb Family Triathlon. This event will see families challenged to a 400m swim (16 lengths), a 1.2km bike ride and a 1km run. Entry is just £10 per family and every participant will receive a medal and be able to enjoy an activity area for all the family to enjoy. Tickets can be bought at Energise or online, for more information visit www.energiseyork.com/home/events/familytriathlon.

The events are being held in partnership with Energise and Carr Infants and Carr Junior School and are supported by City of York Council.

Councillor Nigel Ayre, executive member for leisure, culture and tourism said: “It is great to see two new events taking place in Acomb this summer, encouraging people to get active. These events are all about offering the chance for people of all ages to try something new in a fun and family friendly environment. Events such as these are all part of our efforts to help our residents get active and have fun while doing so.

“Places for the fun run are limited so we would encourage people to book in advance and hope they enjoy the events.”

What’s on in York: Learn to Nordic walk

City of York Council is offering residents the chance to learn to Nordic walk in Rowntree Park this April.

The council’s latest Nordic walking course starts on Wednesday 26 April and sessions will take place every Wednesday for four weeks from 10am until 11am, meeting at the Rowntree Park Reading Café.

At the end of the course participants will receive a Nordic Walking UK Freedom Card, which will enable them to attend Nordic Walking groups anywhere in the UK, including several in the York area. The cost of the course is £25, and booking is essential as places are limited.

Nordic walking – walking with the aid of long poles – is currently one of the fastest-growing exercise activities in the UK. Originally developed from cross-country skiing, it is a gentle exercise, but burns 40 per cent more calories than ordinary walking and works 90 per cent of the body’s muscles. It is a safe and effective method of exercise for people of all fitness levels, and is perfect for those wanting to lose weight.

Councillor Nigel Ayre, City of York Council’s executive member for leisure, culture and tourism said: “Over the past few years Nordic walking has grown in popularity as a fun way to keep fit. Nordic walking is a great activity, which people of all ages can enjoy and can be a great way for people to take in the spectacular views of York. Hopefully people take the chance to take part in this course.”

All equipment will be provided although participants should wear comfortable clothes and sturdy footwear.

For further information or to book a place please call City of York Council’s public health team on 01904 553377 or email yorwellbeing@york.gov.uk.