Congratulations to the Durham Ox, in Crayke, for winning The Responsible Business Champions award for the work they do to help tackle loneliness. I presented Michael Ibbotson, the pub owner, with the Thirsk and Malton constituency award at a reception today in the House of Commons. The Responsible Business Champions scheme is designed to encourage companies to go above and beyond to make a positive impact within their local communities. The Durham Ox regularly hold ‘Friendship Lunches’ which are designed to bring all members of the community together to enjoy good company and good food.
In a constituency, as big and rural as Thirsk and Malton, a scheme like this offers monthly get-togethers for those in the community who feel lonely or may not get out of the house very often. This can make all the difference to people living alone in rural locations as this isolation can lead to poor health, loss of independence and a lower quality of life.
If you, or anyone you know, would like to attend the next Friendship Lunch, they are organising a Christmas Special on Monday 11th December at 12:00pm. There will be a Christmas lunch, carols sung by Children from Crayke School and a talk from Sister Agatha Leach from Monk Bar Convent.