Flash Company Arts

Author: rebeccadenniff

  • Lemon Bun Day in Whitby’s Artisan Quarter

    Lemon Bun Day is here, and we’re celebrating Whitby’s independent businesses with a day of exploration, local discoveries and, of course, lemon buns. Today, Saturday 24 October, marks the launch of the Artisan Quarter, bringing together the shops, cafés, makers and creative businesses that give this part of town its character.

    The celebration is part of Flowergate & Beyond, our Flash Company Arts project supporting connections between local businesses, residents and visitors. There is so much happening in the streets around Flowergate and Skinner Street, including Golden Lion Bank and the top of Brunswick Street, and we want to encourage people to spend time exploring, finding somewhere new and getting to know the people behind the shop windows.

    We’ll be at The Common Room, at The Archway on Skinner Street, from 11am to 1pm for the launch, which also introduces our sound walks, offering another way to explore and listen to Whitby.

    Follow the Lemon Bunny Trail

    Our Lemon Bunny Trail starts at Botham’s on Skinner Street and takes you around 15 shops in the Artisan Quarter. Look out for the bunnies along the way and use the online entry form to record your answers as you go.

    There are prizes to be won, including products from Artisan Quarter shops, so it’s a lovely opportunity to discover what our local businesses have to offer while enjoying a half-term wander. You have until midnight on Sunday 1 November to submit your entry, and winners will be informed on Thursday 5 November.

    Getting to know the Quarter

    Behind the celebrations is an ongoing piece of work with the people who live and work here. Through Flowergate & Beyond, businesses have been sharing ideas, developing collaborations and helping shape plans for the area. The Artisan Quarter name is already finding its way into everyday conversations, giving us a shared way to talk about this creative corner of Whitby.

    The project is supported by York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, led by Mayor David Skaith, whose funding is helping us bring these activities together.

    Come and find us at The Common Room, pick up the trail and take a look around. You might know these streets well, but there may still be a shop, a maker or a lemon bunny waiting to be discovered.

  • AQ Bulletin



    Hello everyone,
    We have chatted to lots of you about what we can do together this winter, and ideas are coming together, but if you have a moment we would love it if you could fill in the short survey by following the link below!

    Artisan Quarter Winter Experience Business Survey – Fill in form
     

    Also coming this September is something we’re very excited about: our first Lemon Bun Day and Lemon Bun Trail.
    The idea is to celebrate one of the flagship heritage businesses of our side of town, Botham’s of Whitby, and the story of its founder, Elizabeth Botham.
    Elizabeth founded her bakery in Whitby in 1865, beginning a remarkable female-founded local business story that continues in the town more than 160 years later. Her birthday was 16 September, so we’ve chosen the nearest Saturday to celebrate her legacy, the business she created and, of course, one of Whitby’s great delicacies.
    The inaugural Lemon Bun Day will take place on Saturday 19 September.
    But we don’t just want people to eat Lemon Buns. We want the whole Artisan Quarter to have some fun with them.
    What do you do that goes with a Lemon Bun?
    This is where we need you…..
    What do you already have in your business that goes brilliantly with a Lemon Bun?
    What’s the perfect drink to accompany one?
    What should you wear while eating one?
    Which shoes complete the Lemon Bun look?
    What jewellery should you accessorise your bun with?
    What’s the perfect plate to serve it on?
    Which book should you read?
    What music should be playing?
    What flowers belong on the table?
    Where should you walk afterwards?
    Perhaps you make, sell or do something that we haven’t even thought of.
    Tell us what you’ve got and we’ll share it.
    We’ll be bringing all of your contributions together into a Lemon Bun Trail, giving people a reason to explore Whitby’s Artisan Quarter while showcasing all the brilliant things available in our businesses.
    You don’t have to create something new. The idea is to show people the fantastic things that are already here. But if Lemon Bun Day inspires you to make something new, strange or wonderful, we certainly won’t stop you!
    More Lemon Bun news is coming very soon
    We’ll be officially launching Lemon Bun Day to the public on 1 September, when we’ll share more about the day, the Lemon Bun Trail and how people can get involved. You’re getting a little advance notice here so that you have time to think about what your business, studio or creative practice might like to contribute and what you’d like us to help share.
    And there’s more. September will also see the start of our Lemon Bunny Trail, which will continue right through to October half term, giving families another reason to explore the Artisan Quarter, visit our businesses and discover what’s here.
    Remember, you don’t have to wait for a meeting to talk to us. Jo, our Community Connector, is here to connect with businesses across the Artisan Quarter, so if you’d like her to call in for a chat, just drop her a line at jo.flashcompanyarts@gmail.com.
    Thank you again to everyone who has taken part so far, hosted an artist, opened your doors, shared an idea, filled in a survey, joined an event, performed, exhibited, volunteered or helped us spread the word.
    There’s lots more to come.
    Here’s to an exciting autumn and winter in Whitby’s Artisan Quarter!
    Flowergate & Beyond is led by Flash Company Arts, working with businesses, artists, makers, community organisations and cultural partners across Whitby.
     

  • Friday night at Flowergate Hall – festive folklore!

    Come along to see what’s hiding at the Back of the North Wind! Free!

  • Community Fridge opening times.

    The People’s Fridge is open during the following hours:

    Monday, Tuesday,Wednesday and Friday – 11.00am to 1.00pm
    (Please note: the fridge is only open when we have food available)

    The fridge is located in the entrance foyer at Flowergate Hall, and is clearly signposted and easy to access.

    We will open Christmas Eve 2025 at 6pm at Flowergate Hall Community Arts Centre.

  • Results of our F.A.B. November snap survey!

    Results of our F.A.B. November snap survey!

    Flowergate and Beyond: Artisan Quarter Community & Business Insights November!

    What People Love About the ‘Artisan Quarter‘

    Independent Shops and Local Businesses
    🛍 Visitors and locals enjoy the variety of independent shops, cafes, and creative spaces.

    Community Feeling
    🤝 There is a strong sense of community among business owners and residents.

    Character and Charm
    🎨 The area is known for its quirky character, alternative culture, and unique charm.

    Takeaway: The Artisan Quarter’s independent businesses, community spirit, and unique character make it a place people love to visit, work, and spend time in.

    What Could Be Better in the Artisan Quarter

    Signage and Wayfinding
    🗺 Clear maps and signs would make it easier to navigate the area and discover hidden corners.

    Community Activities and Leisure
    🎭 People want more inclusive workshops, pop-up exhibitions, and evening or non-pub activities.

    Social Inclusion and Tensions
    ⚖ Promoting respect, inclusion, and a welcoming atmosphere is important for everyone.

    Practical Infrastructure
    🚗 Easier parking and improved accessibility would help both visitors and local workers.

    Takeaway: Improvements in navigation, accessibility, inclusive activities, and community-building initiatives could strengthen the area.

    Hidden and Special Spots

    Quirky Spaces
    🌿 There are lots of hidden yards and corners waiting to be discovered.

    Community Spaces
    ☕ Public halls, gardens, and social spaces offer quiet spots for gathering and creativity.

    Takeaway: Highlighting these unique areas can increase engagement, footfall, and community enjoyment.

    Events and Activities People Want

    Creative and Cultural
    🎶 Music performances, theatre, street art, and creative maker events are popular ideas.

    Community and Inclusivity
    🤲 People value inclusive activities and opportunities for networking and collaboration.

    Family-Friendly
    👨‍👩‍👧 Activities that can be enjoyed by families are also desired.

    Takeaway: There is strong interest in arts, culture, inclusivity, and family-friendly programming.

    Barriers to Participation

    Cost and Affordability
    💰 Expenses and high rent can make it difficult for people and small initiatives to get involved.

    Limited Space and Opportunities

    Timing and Accessibility
    ⏰ Limited opening hours and scheduling conflicts restrict participation.

    Footfall and Environment
    🧹 Low visitor numbers and litter affect the experience and business opportunities.

    Takeaway: Addressing affordability, accessibility, and environmental concerns will help more people engage with the area.

    Business Highlights

    What Businesses Appreciate

    • Independent, creative, and diverse character of the area.
    • Footfall from visitors and events that support local enterprise.

    What Could Be Better

    • Improved signage, communication, accessibility, parking, and general environment.

    Events or Initiatives That Could Help

    • Pop-up spaces, community events, artisan discovery initiatives, collaboration opportunities, and skills development.

    Takeaway: Businesses value visibility, community support, and practical assistance to thrive in the area.

    Overall Insights

    • Strengths: Independent shops, quirky character, creativity, and events.
    • Opportunities: Improve signage, accessibility, inclusive activities, and promote hidden spots.
    • Challenges: Cost, limited space, low footfall, litter, and social tensions.
    • Business Priorities: Collaboration, pop-up events, promotional initiatives, and practical support such as parking and skills development.

  • Whitby Works! – Community Trailblazer Sessions

    Creative sessions to build confidence, learn new skills, and move forward — your way.

    Whitby Works! brings Better Connect’s Community Trailblazer programme to Whitby, offering friendly, hands-on sessions for people who want to grow skills, explore new ideas, and build confidence at a pace that feels right for them.

    This is not a classroom. It’s relaxed, practical, and designed around you. Whether you want to get growing, get cooking, get creative, or try something completely new — Whitby Works! gives you space to explore, feel supported, and take the next step.

    🌟 What you can get out of Whitby Works!

    Our sessions are designed to help you build confidence, learn new skills and take positive steps forward.

    You’ll have the chance to:

    • Try creative, practical activities in a relaxed and supportive space
    • Build confidence through doing, experimenting, and getting stuck in
    • Learn skills in growing, cooking, creative making — plus music and event management
    • Mix and match activities to suit your interests
    • Get support with CVs, job search, and interview preparation
    • Receive optional Food Hygiene Certification to strengthen employability
    • Meet people, socialise, and feel part of a welcoming community
    • Gain a reference for volunteering or employment
    • Be signposted to other support or opportunities if helpful
    • Access ongoing pastoral support if you move into work

    Whether you’re ready for a fresh challenge or just need help taking the first small step — we’re here to walk it with you.

    🖌 What will the sessions be like?

    Sessions are practical and hands-on — you won’t just be sitting and listening.

    You might be:

    🌱 planting seeds
    🍳 cooking a meal
    🎨 making something creative
    🎶 playing or exploring music
    📅 helping plan or run a small event

    You choose what interests you. Take part in one strand or try a mix — there’s no pressure, no wrong way to take part, and plenty of encouragement along the way.

    Who is Whitby Works! for?

    Whitby Works! is open to adults in Whitby and surrounding areas who’d benefit from a confidence boost, a new skill, a fresh start — or simply a supportive place to be.

    If you feel a bit stuck, unsure of your next move, or want to build skills in a friendly environment, this could be for you.

    We welcome people who are:

    ✔ looking for work
    ✔ thinking about volunteering or training
    ✔ building confidence after time out
    ✔ wanting to try something new
    ✔ exploring work for the first time
    ✔ rebuilding skills and motivation

    If you’re unsure — get in touch. We can chat it through with you.

    Ready to join us?

    Get in touch right now!

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  • Circular Whitby

    A community wealth building initiative for local skills, making, mending and growing

    Circular Whitby is a small but powerful project exploring how we can keep value in Whitby. By developing new skills, supporting small scale production, fixing what we already have, and sharing knowledge across our community, we are building a steady culture of resilience and local opportunity.

    This pilot is supported with a small grant from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority Community Wealth Building Fund, enabling us to test ideas and lay the foundations for long-term, locally owned growth.

    What Circular Whitby is doing

    Circular Whitby offers practical, hands-on activities to build skills, confidence, and connection:

    🍓 Whitby Jam

    Using locally grown or donated fruit, participants make jam, chutney, and preserves. This teaches production, labelling, costing, and micro-enterprise skills while creating a tangible product they can take pride in.

    🛠 Repair and Reuse

    Community-based repair sessions help people learn to mend clothing, furniture, and household items. These activities reduce waste, recover value, and keep useful items in circulation.

    🌱 Cooking, Growing and Creative Making

    Participants take part in small-scale growing, seed saving, and food-based learning to gain confidence and knowledge. Shared cooking sessions teach practical food skills while fostering social connection. Creative activities, including craft, music, and event-making, show that community wealth is social and cultural as well as financial.

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    Why Circular Whitby matters and how to get involved

    Circular Whitby exists because too much value leaves the town, too many skills remain unseen or unused, and too many resources are thrown away instead of repaired or reused. We believe that small acts like mending a chair, making jam, or growing herbs can lead to bigger change. This is not charity. This is capacity building.

    If you would like to take part, share skills, volunteer, donate materials, or simply follow our progress, we would love to hear from you.

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  • Let’s prove that Whitby Works!

    Join our new employability sessions !

  • Flowergate FEAST is back!

    Flowergate FEAST is back!

    7 days over Christmas- including a party day on the 20th to give you chance to shop and prepare for the holiday season, and gifts and a festive lunch on Christmas Eve!

    Use the link to book or get in touch!

    https://tinyurl.com/zy857bnr

  • Kings Award for Voluntary Service!

    Kings Award for Voluntary Service!

    We are honoured to be recipients of this prestigious award – and next week we celebrate our amazing volunteers and the projects that they help to make happen in our community spaces.

    What a wonderful community we have here in Whitby – we are so proud to be part of our wonderful Whitby Story!