19/10/2026
I've been to a meeting with the 'invisible people'. It was so positive, I keep thinking about it, and how similar people are doing similarly wonderful things across the country. The 'invisible people' are a bit like secret elves, the people you might not always see or know the names of, but they quietly make a difference in their communities, helping to develop places that visitors love and where residents love to live.
They run amazingly popular events like Masham Sheep Fair, arrange the catering at fund-raising events, they crochet the poppies for the commemorative display, welcome visitors, pick up litter, tidy the grave-yard, run community events and organisations, catering for every local need.
Many are retired, others are juggling full-time jobs with caring responsibilities and other commitments but they still find time to contribute to their community in some way - and really enjoy doing so.
There's a lot of bad things happening in the world but there are plenty of positives too. At today's meeting we heard about:
- the incredible fund-raising success of the Masham Steam Engine and Fair Organ Rally, which contributes towards the upkeep and development of Masham Town Hall, which has in turn put on an incredible range of events this year including sold out concerts and other fundraising
- the way the Church and Methodist Chapel are both welcoming so many people every week from knitters to carers, creating community-focused venues where toddlers play while their parents eat and talk, young people can gather, lunches raise money for overseas' disasters, flower festivals and Yorkshire Day celebrations happen.
- the successes of the Golf Club, and the developments at the Sports Association, with opportunities for people to enjoy a great range of sports including the newer Petanques court.
- the full (and excellent) team of staff we have at our local GPs and the great service they provide, along with the lovely small walk-in centre at Ripon Hospital that so many actually rave about visiting!
- the amazing Ofsted inspection at nearby Bedale High School and continued developments there, benefitting so many children
- the success of the recently launched transport scheme with a horde of volunteer drivers taking patients to hospitals and other appointments
- the incredible amount of donations received through the parking honest boxes every year (thank you visitors!)
These are just a few of the positives mentioned today. It made me feel very lucky to live here. Many volunteers contribute in so many different ways to their local communities, whether it's running a mountain rescue service, making endless cups of tea at events, or leading walks for visitors to enjoy.
Thanks to everyone who does anything to make life better for others.
When people move into rural communities they often ask how easy it is to make friends. There's a very simple and quick way - ask which organisations need more volunteers... You'll be immediately given a list. Join in, and you'll soon meet other people and feel part of the community.
