The Great North Air Ambulance Service was given a funding boost by the Cross Keys pub in Bellerby, near Leyburn. 

The pub hosted a Christmas craft and cookery event held on December 16, organised by Richard Clarke, third from right in the picture, inviting locals to submit any home-made item.

Submissions included everything from preserves, baking, knitting, and home-brewing to a jar of prickly pear jam. The items were judged by local vicar Stephen Hanscombe and then auctioned off with the able assistance of John Metcalfe, amid much merriment, raising a total of £750.

Darlington and Stockton Times: GNAAS representative Nick Gilboy receiving the cheque from Cross Keys regulars

GNAAS representative Nick Gilboy was invited to collect the money, and he thanked the fund raisers for their efforts. He told them that it costs £500 just for a single anaesthetic and £5,000 each time the air ambulance is called out. As the GNAAS gets no money from the government, every penny received is vital.

Villagers are already planning their entries for the next event in December 2024.