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Ripley shop embraces Sara Cox road closure with festive fundraiser

Tuesday, 11 November 2025 12:07

Helen Barnes, owner of Just Makers in Ripley.

A Ripley business owner says she's determined to make the most of a surprise road closure this week.

On Thursday (13th November) evening, TV presenter Sara Cox will pass through the village during her Children in Need challenge.

Helen Barnes, who runs Just Makers in the Ripley Castle Courtyard, had planned a Christmas Preview Evening for the same night from 5pm to 7.30pm, raising funds for The Harrogate Chocolate Factory.

The local social enterprise provides work opportunities and skills training for young people with learning difficulties and autism.

Helen said she was surprised to learn that the main road through Ripley will be closed between 5.30pm and 8pm to allow the BBC team to film Sara Cox’s run.

However, rather than cancelling the event, she’s decided to embrace the occasion and even invited the broadcaster and her team to drop in for a festive drink and mince pie on their way through.

Helen said:

“It’s obviously an exciting event for the village, even though the timing wasn’t ideal for us at first.

“We’re now looking forward to celebrating both occasions and hopefully welcoming lots of people in to enjoy the evening.”

Visitors to Just Makers’ Christmas Preview will be able to enjoy Bucks Fizz, mince pies and relaxed festive shopping featuring Yorkshire artists and makers, with several of the creators planning to attend to meet customers.

The event takes place at Just Makers, Ripley Castle Courtyard, from 5pm to 7.30pm on Thursday 13th November, with proceeds supporting The Harrogate Chocolate Factory.

Find out about Just Makers online here.

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