LATEST ARTICLES

Free paint store opens in Tattershall

April Lara
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Free paint store opens in Tattershall

Lincolnshire’s push for sustainable living just got brighter with the launch of a new free paint store at the Tattershall Household Waste Recycling Centre. Open since 23 June 2025, it’s the third of its kind in the county under the Community RePaint initiative and sits beside the site’s Reuse Shop.

The scheme collects leftover paint that would otherwise be discarded and makes it freely available to residents. From revamping bedrooms to fuelling creative projects, locals can browse a rotating mix of colours and finishes depending on what’s been donated.

It’s a simple setup: just speak to a staff member to drop off unused paint or pick some up. The Reuse Shop next door also offers furniture, garden tools, and other household items looking for a second life.

Tattershall joins similar stores in Louth and Grantham, with more than 4,000 litres of paint already redistributed countywide. One of the first groups to benefit from the new location was Curo-lincs, a therapy farm that supports vulnerable people through nature and animal care.

The store is open Fridays to Tuesdays from 9am to 4pm. Community RePaint is a national network supported by Dulux, with over 80 schemes across the UK.

Image credit: Lincolnshire County Council

Celebration of marine life and conservation comes to Sandilands

Tess Egginton
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Celebration of marine life and conservation comes to Sandilands
 
A Whale of a Day will return for another free family day out on Friday 25 July, bringing fun, education, and environmental awareness for children and young people. After a successful event last year in Sutton on Sea, Circo Rum Baba’s 50-foot inflatable sperm whale is coming National Trust Sandilands. The experience will invite attendees to step inside the creature for an immersive and interactive theatre experience that will transport them to the depths of the ocean. The event is free to attend, although capacity within the whale is limited per timeslot, which can be booked at https://awhaleofaday.eventbrite.co.uk The performance will shed light on the challenges faced by sea creatures and their ongoing struggle for survival amidst ocean pollution. Beyond the whale, the event will offer activities for all ages, a food stall, plus interactive stalls from local and national organisations dedicated to nature and the environment. Rachel Marriott, property operations manager at National Trust Sandilands, said: “The land works at Sandilands have only just been completed, so the site isn’t quite at its best just yet, but that’s all part of the story. We’re right at the beginning of an exciting transformation. “Over the next five years, nature will slowly take hold, the wetlands will come to life, and wildlife will return in abundance. It’s going to be a wonderful place. So, we’d love for you to join us for A Whale of a Day and be part of this journey from the very beginning.” Councillor Graham Marsh, East Lindsey District Council’s representative on the Story Tellers Culture Board, said: “This event provides the perfect opportunity for families to connect with nature, deepen their understanding of fragile marine ecosystems, and importantly, be inspired to become active champions for the protection of our beautiful East Lindsey coastline, beaches and sea. “I am delighted we have been able to make this event possible through Story Tellers and the support of Arts Council England, and to further an initiative that so effectively combines entertainment with vital learning, igniting a passion for our planet in the next generation.”
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Brian Jackson

Flags to be raised at Lincolnshire hospitals to honour organ donors

Tess Egginton
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Flags to be raised at Lincolnshire hospitals to honour organ donors
Flags will be raised at Lincolnshire’s hospitals to honour those who have helped save the lives of others through organ donation. The pink organ donation flag will fly at Lincoln County Hospital and Pilgrim Hospital, Boston, each time a person becomes a donor in Lincolnshire.   Dr Gary Wilbourn, consultant in intensive care and anaesthesia and clinical lead for organ donation at United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (ULTH), said: “By raising a flag in Boston and Lincoln with their loved ones consent, we will honour the decision made to give the gift of life through organ donation each time it happens in our hospitals.  “We hope it will signify an opportunity to reflect on the life-changing impact being an organ donor has on all involved, including the donor, those recipients who may have been waiting a long time to receive an organ, their families and friends, and our NHS colleagues involved in their care.   “It is also a welcome tribute alongside the existing organ donation memorial trees, which can be found in the main entrances of our hospitals in Boston and Lincoln.”  The flags have been purchased thanks to the support of the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity. The charity provides additional items not funded through NHS budgets.  During 2024/25, Lincolnshire’s hospital teams supported seven families to donate the organs of their loved ones. This resulted in 21 other people being able to receive a potentially life-saving organ transplant.   There are currently more than 8,000 people waiting for a transplant in the UK.    Image credit: United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust

Cash boost to help North Lincolnshire residents celebrate heritage and culture

Tess Egginton
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Cash boost to help North Lincolnshire residents celebrate heritage and culture
North Lincolnshire residents are set to benefit from a new fund helping launch dozens of community-led projects celebrating their heritage and culture, whether bringing to life a hidden piece of local history, a creative idea bringing neighbours together, or a project which helps people share their stories, memories or skills. Heritage, art and community groups, civic societies, independent museums, social enterprises, charities and town and parish councils can all apply for the cash. Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for community wellbeing (urban), said: “This isn’t about having experience or knowing the arts world – it’s about passion, community, and great ideas. “Across the coming year, the programme will support dozens of community-led projects which will bring friends, neighbours and new faces together through creative activity and shared experiences. “We want applications from people who want to celebrate the places they live in new and interesting ways – it’s open to everyone in Scunthorpe, Ashby, Barton, Brigg, across the Isle of Axholme and everywhere in between.” Groups will be able to apply for funding to run local activities such as workshops, exhibitions, performances, festivals or storytelling events. Projects can involve people of all ages and backgrounds to bring communities together, build pride, or maybe uncover something new about where they live. The first round of the fund closes on 18 July at 5pm, with more opportunities to follow. Over the next year, funding of up to £10,000 per project will be available in four rounds. Information on the full criteria and how to apply for funding can be found on the Cultural Futures webpage or by emailing culturalfutures@northlincs.gov.uk   Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Stockfotos-MG

Crowds flock to Skegness beach but leave litter behind

April Lara
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Crowds flock to Skegness beach but leave litter behind

A wave of sunshine brought over 5,000 people to Skegness beach on the hottest and longest day of the year, leaving behind piles of rubbish that sparked concern from lifeguards and locals.

The RNLI reported unusually high visitor numbers more typical of peak August holidays, with lifeguards working flat out to ensure public safety. But alongside the crowds came a sharp rise in littering, including bottles, wrappers and even used disposable barbecues scattered across the sand and dunes.

Lifeguards warned that the discarded waste not only threatens wildlife and the environment but can also pose real dangers to people, ranging from cuts to burns. Overflowing bins and a lack of waste disposal options by the evening only added to the mess.

Council workers were quick to act, raking the beach clean the next morning. But the weekend scenes have reignited conversations about sustainable tourism and the need for shared responsibility among beachgoers.

With warmer weather and school holidays on the horizon, authorities are urging visitors to enjoy the coast, but leave only footprints behind.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Steven F Granville

Night shelter may reopen in Grantham as tent encampments grow

April Lara
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Night shelter may reopen in Grantham as tent encampments grow

With tents now a common sight in Grantham’s parks and public spaces, South Kesteven District Council is considering reopening a temporary night shelter to support those sleeping rough.

Last winter, the Grantham Ark provided shelter between December and February. As the number of visible encampments grows, estimated at around 10 to 12, the council is now in talks with the same charity to reopen the facility.

Officials say everyone currently rough sleeping is known to services, but many have complex needs and limited housing options. Some have previously declined to use shelters or been excluded due to behavioural issues, raising questions about how effective a reopening might be.

A short trial of the shelter is being explored to gauge demand, with the council aiming to create a safe and fair response for all parties involved.

Concerns from local councillors include reports of anti-social behaviour linked to some encampments, including drug use, threats, and fire risks. A wider meeting with housing officers and community partners is scheduled for 23 June to discuss next steps.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Seadog81

Record-breaking Lincolnshire Show sees soaring visitor numbers

Tess Egginton
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0
Record-breaking Lincolnshire Show sees soaring visitor numbers
The Lincolnshire Show returned last week on Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 June with record-breaking success, welcoming over 61,000 visitors to the Lincolnshire Showground – the highest attendance in 15 years – for two spectacular days of farming, food, family fun, and community celebration. The event is hosted by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, a registered charity dedicated to promoting food, farming, and the countryside. Basking under glorious sunshine and soaring temperatures, this year’s Show saw the highest number of cars in the car parks, a clear indication of its growing popularity and importance as a flagship event in the county calendar. This year’s Show was packed with memorable moments, including a special visit from HRH The Princess Royal, who spent time meeting with local breeders, Chief Stewards, exhibitors, LAS Trustees and members of the farming community, highlighting the vital role agriculture plays in the life of the county. Crowds were also delighted by the return of Matt Baker MBE, who appeared in the Countryside Ring and spent time chatting with families and fans, sharing his passion for rural life and the countryside. The Show also welcomed Harriet Cowan from Clarkson’s Farm and current Miss Lincolnshire, Mary Anna Jennings. The Main Ring delivered a fresh dose of adrenaline with the Knights of Middle England, whose thrilling jousting displays and horseback stunts made their debut appearance and left audiences cheering for more. Agriculture remained firmly at the heart of the event. Despite current disease concerns, the cattle lines were full with over 220 cattle, 500+ sheep entries, and an ever-growing pig competition. The Lincolnshire Fleece Competition grew by more than 40%, while nearly 1,400 horses competed in a range of classes from Horse of the Year Show qualifiers to the crowd-favourite Shetland Pony Grand National, showcasing the exceptional quality and care of local breeders and farmers. New and returning features across the Showground added to the buzz:
  • A beach installation offered a relaxing, sandy escape for families – a popular hit in the sunshine.
  • The much-loved Farriers Area returned, bringing the traditional craft of horseshoeing to life with live competitions spanning over the two days.
  • The brand new Rural Voices stage gave a platform to inspiring stories from the countryside, with talks from rural changemakers, farmers, and young people shaping the future of agriculture.
  • An action packed Countryside Ring, with a full timetable throughout the days including Trickstars and the Hawkeye Falconry and so much more.
This year’s winner of the Hugh Bourn Trophy for Best Overall Trade Stand was the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC), recognised for their outstanding display, customer engagement and innovation. The NFYFC are proudly celebrating their 50th year. The Witham Cup, awarded to the runner-up, went to Peacock and Binnington, longstanding supporters of the Lincolnshire Show, who also celebrated their 140th anniversary in 2024. Nearly 70 schools took part in this year’s Schools’ Challenge, competing across ten different categories. Winners included St Peter at Gowts Church of England Primary School and Queen Elizabeth High School in the Secondary section. The Show also hosted the 2025 Marshal Papworth scholars on Wednesday, welcoming a delegation of students from across Africa who are currently studying agriculture in the UK. The visit formed part of their ongoing programme to explore sustainable farming practices and global agricultural innovation. During their time at the Show, the scholars had the opportunity to engage with UK farmers, industry experts, and exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge agricultural technologies. From advanced machinery to innovations in livestock management, the experience provided valuable insight into the systems driving efficiency and productivity on British farms. Charlotte Powell, CEO of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, said: “This year’s Show has been a phenomenal success. From the glorious weather and incredible visitor numbers to the warm welcome we received from HRH The Princess Royal and Matt Baker MBE – it’s been a true celebration of everything Lincolnshire has to offer. The feedback from visitors and exhibitors has been fantastic, and we’re so proud of our team and volunteers for delivering such a joyful, inspiring event.” The 140th Lincolnshire Show also marked a significant moment for Andrew Read, who is retiring as Show Director after years of dedicated service. Andrew said: “It’s been an honour to serve as Show Director, and I couldn’t have wished for a better way to sign off. Celebrating the 140th Show in beautiful sunshine, surrounded by smiling faces and a record-breaking crowd, was a real privilege. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved and I’m excited to watch the Show continue to flourish in years to come.” Planning is already underway for the 2026 Lincolnshire Show, promising even more celebration, innovation and fun for all the family.   Photo by Steve McSmailes Photography www.stevesmailes.co.uk

Classic Ibiza reveals its largest ever set for sold-out Burghley House show

Tess Egginton
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0
Classic Ibiza reveals its largest ever set for sold-out Burghley House show
With Classic Ibiza’s sold-out return to Burghley House on Saturday 26 July just over a month away, the concert organisers have revealed the incredible tracks being performed by Stephen Hussey’s Urban Soul Orchestra at the show. Known for collaborating with the likes of Groove Armada and Robert Miles, USO will be performing over 50 house classics, in a set packed full of firm Classic Ibiza favourites. They’ll also be joined by some very special guests to celebrate the concert’s 10th birthday. Gates open at 5.30pm, followed by a DJ set by former Pacha Ibiza resident, DJ Jose Luis. Towards the end of his set, London Community Gospel Choir make their first appearance as Classic Ibiza special guests. Together, they’ll be performing a live mash-up of uplifting house, giving concertgoers a tantalising glimpse of what’s to come. At 8pm, the party gets into full swing as USO and DJ Goldierocks take centre stage for the Ghost Ship Sundowner Set. Joined by LCGC, they’ll create a soulful wall of sound on eight classic house tracks. The full track list in the first half is: Right Here, Right Now (Fatboy Slim), Easy (Groove Armada), Show Me Love (Robin S), Gypsy Woman (She’s Homeless) (Crystal Waters), You Got The Love (The Source & Candon Staton), (I Wanna Give You) Devotion (Nomad), Lola’s Theme (The Shapeshifters), Pjanoo (Eric Prydz), King Of My Castle (Wamdue Project), Push The Feeling On (Nightcrawlers), What Is Love (Haddaway), One More Time (Daft Punk), Hey Boy, Hey Girl (The Chemical Brothers), Touch Me (Rui Da Silva), The Rhythm Of The Night (Corona), Dreamer (Livin’ Joy), Another Chance (Roger Sanchez), You Don’t Know Me (Armand Van Helden), For An Angel (Paul van Dyk), Children (Robert Miles), 9PM (Till I Come) (ATB), Sunchyme (Dario G), Sun Is Shining (Funkstar De Luxe), Saltwater (Chicane), Blackwater (Octave One). USO take a short break at 9pm, leaving the Burghley House audience in the capable hands of DJ Goldierocks, who’ll be mixing up a storm of Ibiza house anthems. Then onto the evening’s main event at 9.30pm, as USO return to the stage for the Dance Set, accompanied by an awesome laser and light show. Here are the tracks they’ll be performing: One (Your Name) (Swedish House Mafia), Galvanise (The Chemical Brothers), Blind Faith (Chase & Status), Superstylin’ (Groove Armada), Out Of Space (The Prodigy), On A Ragga Tip (SL2), Silence (Delerium, Tiësto), Firestarter (The Prodigy), ResuRection (PPK), Seven Days And One Week (BBE), Café Del Mar (Energy 52), Encore Une Fois (Sash!), Let Me Be Your Fantasy (Baby D), Castles In The Sky (Ian van Dahl), Better Off Alone (Alice Deejay), Toca’s Miracle (Fragma), Waiting All Night (Rudimental), Zombie Nation (Bass Drifter), Adagio For Strings (Tiësto), Born Slippy (Underworld), We Come 1 (Faithless), Levels (Avicii), Don’t You Worry Child (Swedish House Mafia), Titanium (David Guetta ft. Sia), Set You Free (N-Trance), Freed From Desire (Gala). The concert reaches a rapturous crescendo at 11pm, following an encore of two of Classic Ibiza’s most popular tracks. USO’s Stephen Hussey, conductor, arranger and musical producer for Classic Ibiza, said: “Musically, this year is all about high-energy, killer drops, infectious hooks, uplifting vocals and of course symphonic melodies. For those of you coming to hear Insomnia and Sandstorm, all I can say is that maybe you’ll want to get to the front for the encore! “If you can’t wait until the show, we’re releasing a new EP this week, Classic Ibiza Remixes Trilogy, featuring fresh interpretations of these very tracks. Alongside our three other albums, it’s the perfect appetiser to our summer tour.” Classic Ibiza, sponsored by Adnams Ghost Ship, is proud to support local charity, Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice. Classic Ibiza Remixes Trilogy is available to stream on all major music platforms. Visit classicibiza.co.uk for more information.   Picture shows: Classic Ibiza laser and light show (Dance Set). Image credit: David Evans Photography

Five Lincolnshire schools to open dedicated hubs for SEND support

April Lara
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0
Five Lincolnshire schools to open dedicated hubs for SEND support

Five primary schools across Lincolnshire have been approved to host new hubs aimed at supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), in a move designed to make inclusive education more accessible and community-based.

The new centres will cater to pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), offering specialised support while keeping children within the mainstream school setting. This approach allows students to benefit from both tailored learning and the social advantages of remaining integrated with their peers.

The schools selected for the programme are Gonerby Hill Foot Church of England Primary School in Grantham, The Meadows Primary School in Lincoln, St George’s Church of England Primary School in Gainsborough, Caistor Church of England and Methodist Primary School, and Church Lane Primary School in Sleaford.

The total investment in the hubs exceeds £7 million and is being funded by the Department for Education. The project comes in response to a sharp increase in demand for SEND provision in the county, where the percentage of pupils with EHCPs (4.9%) is notably higher than the national average (4.2%).

Local officials say the initiative is intended to relieve pressure on oversubscribed special schools and reduce the need for families to travel long distances for appropriate support.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/highwaystarz

£13.5m partnerships deal to deliver 68 homes in Witham St Hughs

Tess Egginton
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0
£13.5m partnerships deal to deliver 68 homes in Witham St Hughs
Housebuilder Honey is partnering with Platform Housing Group to deliver 68 homes for the housing association at its Nova development in Witham St Hughs. The £13.5m deal is the first between the two businesses and will comprise 40 partnerships plots and 28 section 106 properties. These will include two-, three- and four-bedroom semi-detached, end terrace and terraced homes. Work on the properties commenced in May, and the first residents are expected to move in this December. Honey is using timber frame construction on the homes and all properties will benefit from air source heat pumps as part of the housebuilder’s sustainability strategy. Commenting on the partnerships deal, Honey chief executive, Mark Mitchell, said: “Partnering with Platform Housing Group will see us deliver homes in Witham St Hughs with sustainability designed into them for those who need them most. “We believe it is our social purpose to help make more affordable homes available by addressing the lack of housing supply, and this first partnership with Platform meets that objective. “We now look forward to exploring future opportunities with Platform as we expand our partnerships division throughout the Midlands and Yorkshire.” Platform Housing Group head of new business, David Boyes-Watson, said: “We are delighted to have secured land and agreed contracts to get started on site in Witham St Hughs. “The homes we deliver will be gas-free and give crucial opportunities for people to have a place they can call home in the area. “Our thanks go to the team at Honey who are a fantastic regional builder and a great example of the potential for partnerships with various sized contractors across the places we operate.”
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