Biogas facility plan sparks local resistance near Sleaford

0

Plans for a new anaerobic digestion facility in Anwick, Lincolnshire, have drawn sharp opposition from residents concerned about its proximity to homes and the potential impact on the village’s character and property values.

Stream Bioenergy has submitted a proposal to build a biogas plant on Horncastle Road, adjacent to the existing Moy Park poultry factory. The facility is designed to process up to 120,000 tonnes of chicken waste annually, converting it into biomethane for injection into the national gas grid. The site would include eight 25-metre-tall digestion tanks and associated processing infrastructure.

Although the developer states the project includes odour mitigation, noise control, and upgraded road infrastructure, many locals argue that its scale and location, just 200 metres from residential properties, would cause environmental and logistical issues. The proposal outlines a maximum of three HGV movements per hour, with a dedicated connection to Moy Park to limit traffic.

More than 600 residents have signed a petition opposing the development, citing concerns over air quality, industrialisation of the area, and non-compliance with local planning guidelines. The application is currently under public consultation and will be reviewed by Lincolnshire County Council.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Igor Link

Grantham challenges ‘boring town’ label as regeneration efforts continue

0

Grantham, a market town in Lincolnshire, has drawn national attention after being named one of the UK’s most “boring” towns in a recent list published by The Telegraph. The article cited a lack of standout attractions as the basis for its inclusion, claiming that while the town has basic amenities, it offers little in terms of tourism appeal beyond a statue of Margaret Thatcher and a small museum.

Despite the unfavourable media spotlight, Grantham’s business and civic communities are positioning the town in a different light. The town centre continues to benefit from regeneration efforts, including upgrades to the market square and surrounding retail infrastructure. A growing number of independent shops and cafés have emerged in recent years, contributing to a more diverse local economy.

Grantham also benefits from proximity to regional heritage sites such as Belton House and Belvoir Castle, and boasts accessible transport links to Peterborough and Stamford. Local parks like Wyndham and Dysart remain key green assets for residents and visitors alike, with ongoing efforts to maintain and promote them as part of the town’s broader liveability strategy.

While public opinion on the town’s appeal may be divided, Grantham remains a commercial and residential hub for South Kesteven and its surrounding villages.

  Picture credit: Stock.adobe.com/Seadog81

East Lindsey Community Grants Scheme opens

0
East Lindsey District Council has made more money available to support local community groups and projects. For 2025/26, each councillor has £4,000 available to grant to local not-for-profit organisations in their wards. This has increased from £2,000 as seen in 2024/25. Councillors may decide to award this funding to one project or may choose to split it between several good causes. The scheme intends to financially support smaller projects that are easily deliverable and to be supportive of local organisations. Those wishing to apply for a grant must be a formally governed not-for-profit organisation based within the East Lindsey district. Applicants should also demonstrate that they are supporting at least one of the following: growth and prosperity, safe and resilient communities, healthy lives, the environment. The Scheme can fund capital costs for building improvements, playground equipment, IT or sports equipment, disabled facilities, energy efficiency measures and more. Additionally, Councillor Community Grants can cover revenue costs, such as salaries, rent, events costs, training fees, or general maintenance. Councillor Craig Leyland, leader of East Lindsey District Council, said: “I am delighted that the Community Grants Scheme is returning this year, with an increased allocation for all Councillors. “In the 2024/25 financial year, we supported many amazing local initiatives through grants funding, and I am certain we will be able to reach even more projects this year. We know that organisations are hard-working and are important to the local community, and with the current economic climate, it is essential that they are supported as much as possible. “I strongly encourage any eligible organisations interested in grants funding to contact their ward Councillor for more information.” The deadline for Councillors’ Community Grants Applications to be received is Saturday 28 February 2026. A project may only be funded once in a financial year (1 April to 31 March). It is also a requirement that the project is completed within 12 months of receiving the grant. For enquiries, contact community.grants@e-lindsey.gov.uk
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Stockfotos-MG

Festival of the Sea to dock in Grimsby this June

Festival of the Sea will return to Grimsby on Saturday 21st June. Now in its fifth year, the festival has welcomed thousands of visitors to enjoy live cooking demos and water activities, celebrating the town’s rich maritime history and exploring the future. By focusing on its central theme, the Festival of the Sea aims to raise awareness and educate the public about one of our planet’s most vital yet often overlooked climate allies – the ocean, which plays a crucial role in absorbing heat and carbon on a global scale. The festival’s educational programming will explore topics such as seafood, as well as the history and future of healthy, responsible eating. The programme of activities, performances, guided walks, installations, and workshops include:
  • Seafood Crafts & Ocean Mural with TARGET NEL: Get hands-on with seafood-themed crafts while learning about different types of seafood and their nutritional benefits. Then, join in to create a big Ocean Mural filled with healthy messages.
  • “Save the Sea” with the British Divers Marine Life Rescue: marine-themed crafts and a fun competition to win cuddly sea creatures.
  • “The Sushi Stakeout” by Grubby Knees: A fast-paced, 20-minute heartfelt show packed with laughs, local flavour, and squabbling seagulls fighting over chips.
  • “Exploring the water connection” with Grimsby Tours: Join Emma Lingard for a guided walk through Grimsby’s deep-rooted connection to the sea and waterfront, past and present.
In 2025 the focus leads on making the festival more accessible and sustainable, to ensure all people of Grimsby and beyond can enjoy the day. This includes new sensory workshops: creating calm, engaging spaces for individuals who benefit from tactile and sensory-based experiences. The organisers are also working with Vehicles for Change to bring their RevoLOOtion accessible toilets to the festival. Through this collaboration it is aimed to remove barriers that often prevent disabled individuals from attending public events. The festival is supported by North East Lincolnshire Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Cllr Hayden Dawkins, portfolio holder for culture, heritage and the visitor economy, said: “I am absolutely delighted that this Festival will once again provide a showcase not only for our area, but also for our local creative talent. “It will be packed with family entertainment, and is a perfect way to show how our past, great heritage can be brought into the modern day using the creativity and talent that now exists.”
  Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council

Wolds walkers stride out for hospital charity

0
Over 40 Lincolnshire ramblers put their best foot forward to complete the annual sponsored Wolds Walk 2025 and raised over £2,700 in support of Lincolnshire’s hospitals. In perfect walking conditions, the group set off from Ludford, near Market Rasen on Saturday 17 May, to complete a ten-mile circular route that weaved its way through picture postcard villages, ancient woodlands and rolling landscapes. Kelly, from Wragby, took on the Wolds Walk in memory of her father, who was admitted to Lincoln County Hospital in October 2024 suffering from sepsis. Kelly summed up what completing the walk meant to her: “My dad was in hospital for 12 days and he fought a hard and painful battle, and the medical teams did all they could to keep him alive, but sadly he caught pneumonia and he lost the fight. Doing the Wolds Walk was my way of saying thank you to our amazing medical teams and everyone who gives care to us every day of our lives within Lincolnshire’s hospitals.” For nearly 30 years United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity has been supporting staff to deliver outstanding care to patients, their families and carers, by providing those extras that cannot be provided by the NHS. In the last year it has invested nearly £1million in additional equipment, services and amenities at hospitals at Lincoln, Boston, Grantham and Louth. Staff nurse, Gill, who works on the Chemotherapy Suite at Pilgrim Hospital, Boston explained why she was eager to take part. She said: “The walk is a fantastic way to get together and meet other people, whilst also raising vital funds to improve the lives of patients at Lincolnshire hospitals. It is a lovely feeling knowing that I have helped provide funds for things that some of my patients may require, as some are here all day for treatment.” The Wolds Walk, which is now in its second year is the brainchild of Charity Manager, Ben Petts. He said: “We really cannot thank all the walkers enough for supporting the charity and raising such a fantastic amount. The walk is growing in popularity and each year more sign up to enjoy the fellowship it brings as well as the stunning landscapes that we travel through. Together with Richard Fish Adventures, we create a different route that will be achievable by as many people as possible. Even dogs are invited! “We are already planning for next year with great excitement. We will celebrate our 30th birthday in 2026 and are hoping that next year’s walk will be bigger and better than ever and raise even more funds for our vital work supporting Lincolnshire hospitals.”

New council leadership takes shape in Lincolnshire

0

Lincolnshire County Council has appointed a new leadership team following the 23 May meeting, ushering in a significant change in direction after Reform UK secured a majority with 44 of the 70 council seats in the recent local elections.

Cllr Sean Matthews, representing Tattershall Castle, has been named council leader. He is joined by Cllr Rob Gibson of Spalding East as deputy leader. Matthews brings a background in security, having worked in royalty protection, while Gibson works in housing and homelessness support within the South Holland district.

The new executive team draws on a mix of private and public sector experience. Cllr Natalie Oliver, councillor for Woodhall Spa and Wragby, will head children’s services. She has a background in public engagement with the NHS. Cllr Steve Clegg, who represents the Sleaford division, will oversee adult care and health, building on his work as a healthcare therapist and his prior service on North Kesteven District Council.

Cllr Alex McGonigle of Louth Wolds, a former firefighter will now lead community safety. Growth falls under the remit of Cllr Liam Kelly from Swallow Beck and Witham, a former Army officer who has worked in global security roles over the past decade.

Cllr Michael Cheyne, a chartered engineer representing Boston West, has been appointed to lead highways and transport. Cllr Tom Catton, from Louth South, takes charge of the resources portfolio, bringing extensive experience in finance, HR, and IT across both UK and international companies.

The environment brief goes to Cllr Danny Brookes, a business owner from Skegness who has served on both district and town councils since 2012.

Each executive councillor will be supported by a colleague in their portfolio, reflecting a dual-leadership approach. The appointments mark a decisive shift in leadership tone, with an emphasis on real-world experience and practical service delivery expected to shape the council’s direction going forward.

  Image source: Lincolnshire County Council

Council explores pop-up solution amid prolonged Grimsby library closure

0

Grimsby Central Library remains closed after a March 28 water leak led to the disturbance of asbestos, with no reopening date confirmed. North East Lincolnshire Council is awaiting detailed assessments on the necessary remediation work, including asbestos removal.

While the site remains off-limits, the council is evaluating multiple town centre locations for a temporary pop-up library to maintain public access to core services. The safe removal of books and archives from the existing building is ongoing.

Meanwhile, a broader public consultation into the future of the borough’s library and archive services continues until 9 July. Proposals under review include merging Cleethorpes Library with Cleethorpes Leisure Centre, converting Waltham Library into a volunteer-led operation, and permanently relocating Grimsby Central Library.

Concerns have been raised during public meetings regarding trust in the consultation process and the future of community assets. However, the council maintains that the consultation is in line with national governance standards and clarifies that the temporary closure of Grimsby Library is unrelated to the current consultation.

Final decisions will depend on the outcome of the consultation and will be subject to business case evaluations and the council’s decision-making protocols.

  Image credit: Google maps

Lincoln College Group gives Moroccan visitors a taste of UK aeronautical training

0
The Air & Space Institute (ASI) in Newark recently hosted some distinguished international guests as a team of aeronautic experts from training institution, IMA visited the facility as part of a reciprocal set of visits. Director of international relations at Lincoln College, Rick Long, said: “We were delighted to reciprocate hosting our Moroccan colleagues from IMA and the British Council to showcase the approaches that the Lincoln College Group adopt to offer a world class education experience. “The visit offered insight to the regional aerospace capability, and how a wide range of stakeholders engage, share knowledge and collaborate to build much needed skills and competency. “LC will benefit from sharing of commercial courseware and composite material training by IMA staff.” Lincoln College Group’s visit to Morocco meant engagement with a host of facilities, including the Moroccan aerospace industry membership body – Groupement des Industries Marocaines Aéronautiques et Spatiales (GIMAS), the Aerospace Moroccan Cluster (AMC), the Mohammed VI International Academy of Civil Aviation (AIAC), as well as site tours of industry leaders in Morocco, Groupe Le Piston Français (LPF) and Spirit Aerosystems. GM of IMA, Raphael Samson, said: “Our visit to Lincoln College and its partners highlighted powerful synergies between the UK and Moroccan aerospace ecosystems. “We were particularly inspired by their inclusive approach to female engagement in the sector, and by innovative educational practices such as immersive learning and evidence-based pedagogy. These insights open concrete opportunities to modernise our own training programs and foster high-impact international partnerships.” To show the equivalent associations that the ASI has, the Moroccan cohort were taken to visit partners Ascent Flying Services, Affinity Flying Training Services Limited, Eagle Eye Innovations Ltd as well as meeting with Midlands Aerospace Alliance (MAA). The Moroccan cohort had extensive tours of ASI, as well as visiting Newark College to speak with current and former students and staff and enjoyed some characteristically British hospitality, sampling a meal at the College-run Sessions Restaurant and seeing the College-run fine dining restaurant, The Old Bakery. Rick added: “The project, funded by the British Council aims to help underscore different approaches adopted to encourage the recruitment of potential employees into the aviation sector. This is with a particular focus in increasing the balance of female representation. “It also seeks to evaluate methods and resources that are used to train new recruits and how to upskill existing employees to provide an attractive, highly skilled and sustainable career pathway. This in turn, helps support the flow and retention of appropriately skilled talent into the aviation sector. “Lincoln College will also benefit from sharing of commercial courseware and composite material training by IMA staff.” Programme manager for Morocco at the British Council, Ali Mouzouni, said: “This visit was a valuable opportunity to deepen collaboration between UK and Moroccan institutions in the field of aeronautics training. “From strong female engagement to innovative teaching methods and shared challenges in workforce development, the exchange helped surface synergies between our two ecosystems. “It also reinforced the importance of partnerships in building future-ready technical and vocational education pathways.” Commercial director at ASI, Stuart Naylor, said: “The purpose of this visit and the partners we shared with the visiting cohort was for them to understand the UK aerospace ecosystem and how different organisations engage, share knowledge and support each other and collaborate joining things up. “There was a focus from both Ascent and Affinity on sharing their approaches to skills development, and promoting from within their own workforces, as well as sharing some strategies and initiatives that they have deployed to encourage females into the aviation workplace. “MAA shared their role as a regional convener to share best practise and commercial/research opportunities to the aerospace community – they also outlined their work with other regional and international aerospace clusters. “Our Moroccan guests were very complimentary on the attitude and behaviour of the students at the ASI who showed them around the ALSIM-AL250 flight simulator and the A320.” Following a productive visit, the two organisations have agreed on several strategic priorities to strengthen their collaboration. These include the development of revised training programmes informed by the now common shared expertise and joint efforts to promote careers in the sector. There is now to be a focus on initiatives aimed at increasing female participation as well as specific skills shortages that will meet the industry’s particular needs. The partnership will also foster professional development and enrichment for staff and learners across both countries, reinforcing the long-term cross-border engagement that these visits have created.

Motorcycle display team to perform at Revesby Country Fair

Revesby Country Fair will return this summer with a packed schedule of entertainment, activities and events. Taking place at Revesby Park on Sunday 3rd August, the country show will offer jaw-dropping stunt displays and plenty of hands-on activities for all the family, as well as traditional favourites including classic cars, vintage tractors and equine competitions. Headlining this year is the Imps Motorcycle Display Team, which returns by popular demand after last appearing at Revesby Country Fair in 2019. Consisting of children and young people, the Imps is the world’s premier military-style display team – whose youngest performer is just five years old. The team will be putting on an unmissable display of discipline and skill in the Main Ring. With more than 200 traders and exhibitors expected, the event also promises its annual cooking, growing and flower competitions, as well as live music, ‘Revesby style’ terrier racing and some of the best food and drink Lincolnshire has to offer. John Roe, chairman of Revesby Country Fair, said: “We’re thrilled to be returning for another fantastic day out this year, with an exciting line-up of returning favourites that the whole family will know and love. “Visitors can expect an astonishing Main Ring display from the Imps, with multiple motorcycle cross-over routines and billowing fire jumps – it’s not to be missed! “There will also be plenty of ‘have-a-go’ hobbies like clay pigeon shooting and archery, and you can even get your four legged friends involved with dog agility, the gun dog scurry competition and the fun dog show. “Tickets are available now and if you purchase online in advance you’ll be able to skip the queue on the day, so it pays to be organised. We look forward to seeing everyone there, as we celebrate the very best of Lincolnshire produce, craft and entertainment!” Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online in advance, priced at £17 for adults, £6 for children (aged 5-16) and £40 for a family of five (two adults and up to three children). Under 5s and carers go free.

Boost for Lincolnshire’s agrifood sector as devolution grants help build skilled workers

Six educational bodies are to benefit from £2.5m thanks to Greater Lincolnshire’s devolution deal to help them build new skills training infrastructure for the agrifood sector.

The money is part of the devolution deal agreed with the government last year for Greater Lincolnshire to get a new combined authority headed up by an elected mayor. Riseholme College, DN Colleges Group, Boston College, Lincoln College, the Lincoln Institute of Agrifood Technology and the National Centre for Food Manufacturing (both University of Lincoln) will share the pot of money to improve training infrastructure, buildings and equipment. Dame Andrea Jenkyns, mayor of Greater Lincolnshire, said: “I know from talking to farmers and food producers that they often struggle to find the skilled workforce they need – food and farming is more technical than many people realise! I made a commitment to them that I would address this as Mayor. “New laboratories and equipment to provide training such as hydroponics, soil science, food research and digital skills will really help our businesses. This is a key industry in Lincolnshire for jobs, investment and growth, but also for our national food security. The additional funding is a good start, but I’m determined to see even more investment in this area, so our food industries thrive and flourish.”
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/winexa

Lincolnshire care home sold

The Bassingham Care Centre in Lincolnshire has been sold. Featuring a former rectory, a 31-bedroom building, and specialist care bungalows with a further 28 bedrooms, the ‘Good’ rated care facility sits on large grounds located between Newark and Lincoln, accessed off the A46 in the village of Bassingham. It has been owned by My Care since 2013 and was brought to market as part of a strategic disposal. Following a confidential sales process with Rosie Turner at Christie & Co, it has been sold to first-time buyers, Jijo Benedict and Anil Varghese John of Confident Care Homes Ltd. Rosie Turner, senior business agent – care at Christie & Co, said: “Having worked with our client for a number of years, we are delighted to complete on this sale for them. “After a competitive marketing process, which achieved a high proportion of interest from first-time operators due to the home’s established reputation, profits, and strong management team, Confident Care Homes Ltd has become the proud new owner. “The sale of Bassingham Care Centre demonstrates that there is strong demand for quality care homes, and we were pleased with the level of interest expressed in this home during the marketing process.” The Bassingham Care Centre was sold for an undisclosed price.

Rural phone boxes face decommissioning as digital shift continues

0

BT is moving to decommission underused public phone boxes in rural North Lincolnshire, citing minimal usage and growing mobile penetration. Planning documents reveal that phone boxes in Kirton in Lindsey and Barrow registered just 15 calls combined over a year.

This forms part of a national downsizing effort, as public call volumes have plummeted by 90% over the past decade. The UK’s phone box network has shrunk by 30% in two years, now standing at 14,000 units.

BT plans to entirely remove the unit on George Street, Kirton, while the red box on Cross Street, Barrow, will be locked and stripped of phone equipment. While mobile coverage continues to improve, some communities remain concerned about connectivity gaps and digital exclusion—particularly in rural areas without consistent signal.

Under the company’s kiosk adoption scheme, organisations and councils can purchase decommissioned units for £1. Many are repurposed as defibrillator stations, book exchanges, or micro-hubs for local services.

A public consultation on the Kirton and Barrow proposals is open until 10 July, with final decisions expected to follow shortly after. For businesses reliant on foot traffic or physical cash access, the removal of multi-use kiosks may require operational adjustments.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Brian Jackson

New cancer treatment upgrade for Lincolnshire hospital

0

Lincoln County Hospital is set to receive a new linear accelerator (Linac) as part of a national £70 million NHS radiotherapy equipment investment programme. The technology upgrade aims to enhance the precision and efficiency of cancer treatment delivery across the UK.

The Linac machine enables more targeted radiotherapy, capable of reaching cancers located in complex regions such as the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. Its use can also reduce the number of treatment sessions required for some patients, supporting improved recovery outcomes and operational throughput.

The investment, announced by the Department of Health and Social Care, will see 28 hospitals across England, selected based on their current use of ageing Linac models over a decade old, benefit from new equipment installations. The rollout is expected to enable up to 27,000 additional radiotherapy treatments annually by 2027.

This move aligns with wider NHS goals to accelerate cancer diagnosis and treatment times, improve patient experience, and modernise service delivery across oncology departments. For healthcare suppliers, equipment manufacturers, and hospital infrastructure partners, the programme represents a significant pipeline of procurement and upgrade opportunities.

  Picture credit: Stock.adobe.com/smolaw11

Folk rock legends Lindisfarne play Scunthorpe in June

Geordie folk rock legends Lindisfarne play Scunthorpe’s Plowright Theatre this June. The ever-popular band fronted by co-founder Rod Clements are back touring an extensive repertoire of world-renowned songs delivered in the cheerfully engaging way that has trademarked its stage act since formation in Newcastle in 1970. Lindisfarne’s pioneering sound, combining acoustic instruments like mandolin and fiddle with their electric blues roots, proved the perfect medium for catchy, memorable songs, many written by band co-founder, Alan Hull. Hits such as “Meet Me On The Corner”, “Lady Eleanor”, “Run For Home” and “Fog On The Tyne” continue to resonate down the years, and in the process slipped into the very fabric of British culture. The Clements-penned hit “Meet Me On The Corner paved the way for their classic ‘Fog On The Tyne’ release to become the UK’s top-selling album of 1972. Further acclaimed albums were to follow, buoyed up by powerful live performances. An accessible, unpretentious style bestowed them with an enviable reputation as festival favourites, while the Lindisfarne annual Christmas concerts held in their native Newcastle became the stuff of legend. Says Rod: “People keep coming back to Lindisfarne live and while that carries on, we carry on. We’re thrilled to be playing Scunthorpe – and we’re hoping everybody will all join in!” Lindisfarne will be at Scunthorpe’s Plowright Theatre on ​13th June.

A behind the scenes glimpse ahead of Classic Ibiza’s return to Burghley House

As Classic Ibiza’s 10th birthday celebrations at Burghley House on Saturday 26 July draw ever closer, Stephen Hussey’s 32-piece Urban Soul Orchestra and London Community Gospel Choir, the show’s special guests, gathered in a London music studio last week to perfect this summer’s show. Bringing together an orchestra that’s worked with many dance music greats, such as Groove Armada and Robert Miles, with a choir that’s recorded with the likes of Madonna and Blur, promises to be a performance not to be missed. The combination of USO’s powerful instrumentals and LCGC’s soulful vocals, will create a euphoric wall of sound on eight anthemic house tracks, voted for by Classic Ibiza’s audience, in the first half of the show. You can get a tantalising glimpse from the rehearsal of one of those tracks, “You Got the Love,” captured by Pjamz Productions below.
Stephen Hussey, USO’s founder and Classic Ibiza conductor, said: “Getting Urban Soul Orchestra together ahead of the Classic Ibiza summer tour always gets the blood pumping, but this year we’re talking a whole new level. Hearing London Community Gospel Choir perform live with us for the first time literally blew me away. Get ready to throw your hands up in the air, Burghley. We’re gonna be taking you to church!” In total, USO will perform over 50 house anthems, in two sets packed full of crowd favourites from the concert’s 10-year repertoire. Tracks from the likes of The Chemical Brothers, The Prodigy and Faithless will be given the full orchestral treatment. Stephen Hussey adds: “Because we’re playing more tracks than ever before, I’ve created a set that concentrates on those killer hooks, beats and of course drops. From beginning to end, you’re gonna be taken on a high-octane rollercoaster ride of the very best in house music. I can’t wait to share what we’ve got in store.” Elsewhere in the show, LCGC will be joining former Pacha Ibiza resident, DJ Jose Luis for a live mash-up of uplifting house. And of course, Classic Ibiza’s DJ Goldierocks will be joining USO on the decks and performing her very own set of deep house classics. Tickets to Classic Ibiza at Burghley have sold-out. Concertgoers are urged to use the show’s official ticket resale site, Twickets, if they have missed out. The show is proud to be supporting Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice. Visit classicibiza.co.uk for more information.   Image credit: Pjamz Productions

Norwegian students say goodbye after year in Lincoln

It’s time for a fond farewell as 16 A Level students from Sørumsand in Norway return home. Personal Tutor and International Academic Co-Ordinator, Corinne Hills, said: “It’s time to say goodbye to our Norwegian A Level learners. “Since joining us in September, the 16-strong cohort have had to overcome many firsts, including moving away from home, getting to know a new city and culture, and studying for three A Levels in their second/third language. “The A Level team have taken great pleasure in supporting and watching these young people thrive and become very much part of the whole A Level cohort. “We wish them all well, on their return to Norway, and the very best for the future!” The students also recently climbed Lincoln Cathedral as part of their programme here. The group took the Cathedral’s roof tour, which takes guests up to the east and west rooves of the historic building. Corrine added: “The students really enjoyed the tour and it gave them a real taste of the city’s history as well as some amazing views. “The students are about to sit their AS Level exams after studying hard, all year, so this was a great break for them.” The students learned about the history of the iconic building from its fortress-style early years to its short time as the tallest building in the world.

Wish granted with 007-themed day at Tallington Lodge Care Home

Residents at Tallington Lodge Care Home, situated in the village of Tallington, near Stamford, Lincolnshire, enjoyed celebrations for the Oscars, which included a special surprise as part of their popular ‘Make a Wish’ initiative. The surprise was organised by the home’s dedicated Wellbeing Team, bringing the residents and staff together. To begin the afternoon, they hosted their very own Awards Ceremony, which was followed by a glamorous James Bond Casino-themed after party – specially created for one of their wonderful residents, Judith, whose biggest wish is to meet Daniel Craig. Of course, he was too busy to make an appearance, so the next best thing was to transform the lounge into a Casino Royale afternoon complete with blackjack tables, Bond music, James Bond posters, and Daniel Craig pop-ups. Judith was also presented with a signed photograph of Daniel Craig to frame and a large poster for her room, so she can remember her special day. Judith was your typical, bubbly teenager who loved music and television. She would immerse herself in her favourite shows and had a vast knowledge of all her favourite musicians and actors. Growing up, she adored covering her walls with posters of stars like Liam Neeson, Donny Osmond, Doctor Who and the cast of Dad’s Army. Her mum even made her a pillow with Donny Osmond on it! Judith says it’s more about the characters than the celebrities themselves – a fascination that deepened later in life when she would binge-watch movies with a friend. As her mobility declined, television became a comforting constant. It was during a broadcast of Casino Royale that her love for Daniel Craig – and James Bond – truly blossomed. She began collecting memorabilia and DVDs, and it’s rare that a day goes by without her mentioning Daniel Craig with a smile. It was her love for 007 that inspired the Wellbeing Team to ask her: If you could have any wish come true, what would it be? Her answer was immediate – to meet Daniel Craig. “As part of our ‘Make a Wish’ initiative, no wish is too big or too small,” said Home Manager Natalie White. “We want every resident to feel valued and heard, and when we heard how much Judith loved Bond films and Daniel Craig, we just had to do something special. Seeing the joy on her face reminded us all why we do what we do. These moments really are priceless.” At Country Court, the team always go the extra mile to make memories that matter – and this Bond-themed celebration was certainly a mission accomplished. For more information about Tallington Lodge Care Home, please contact Natalie White, Home Manager, on 01780 740 314 or email careenquiries@countrycourtcare.com.

Creative sector brings £5.35m boost to North East Lincolnshire

0

Creative and heritage industries in North East Lincolnshire have grown significantly over the past year, generating over £5.3 million in external investment and delivering hundreds of employment opportunities through the Create North East Lincolnshire (Create NEL) initiative.

Launched in September 2023 with support from Arts Council England, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, North East Lincolnshire Council, and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Create NEL supported the region’s creative economy through targeted investment, cross-sector collaboration, and talent development.

In 2024/25, 45 funded projects attracted £5.35 million in heritage and cultural investment into the area. Over 3,700 hours of paid work for local creatives were recorded, and 451 volunteers were engaged in community projects. The programme distributed more than £136,000 in direct grants to 23 practitioners and 23 larger-scale and small-scale projects, with 54% of funds going to first-time recipients.

The initiative supported a broad range of activities, from public art and performance to music and visual arts, with over 61% of the funded work falling under these categories. Major events such as Edible Grimsby, Our Future Starts Here, and the Festival of the Sea collectively attracted over 11,000 attendees. Meanwhile, Paint the Town Proud completed its 14th mural and extended its community outreach through merchandise and workshops.

In addition to project funding, the programme ran 347 workshops and mentoring sessions, 115 public engagement events, and a creative careers conference to strengthen the local talent pipeline and support long-term sector sustainability.

With continuing public investment and growing participation across disciplines, Create NEL is positioning North East Lincolnshire as an emerging hub for creative sector development with economic and social impact for the wider region.

  Image source: North East Lincolnshire Council

Inclusive upgrades at Lincolnshire sports facility near completion

Grantham Squash & Fitness is finalising significant accessibility improvements following a £35,000 investment from South Kesteven District Council’s allocation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The funding supported the installation of a lift at the Harlaxton Road facility, addressing previous accessibility issues that limited participation from individuals with mobility challenges. The upgrade is part of the club’s broader effort to increase usage across a wider demographic and expand its function as a multi-purpose community hub.

This latest phase complements earlier works last summer, which included electric entrance doors and improved internal access to core amenities such as the gym, squash courts, sauna, and toilets.

Once the lift is operational, the venue’s upper-level function rooms and squash court viewing areas will become more accessible, making it easier for the club to host a broader range of events and increase community engagement. The lift installation is expected to be completed this week.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Seadog81

Make a splash at the 2025 Lincoln Dragon Boat Race!

Get ready for one of Lincoln’s most exhilarating annual events – the 2025 Lincoln Dragon Boat Race is back and bigger than ever! Mark your calendars for Saturday, 12th July, as the Brayford Waterfront transforms into a vibrant hub of competition, community, and celebration. Teams from across the region will battle it out in a day packed with thrilling races, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lincoln’s waterfront. Whether you’re in the boat or cheering from the sidelines, it’s guaranteed to be a day full of high energy and heart-pounding excitement. More Than Just Racing – A Full Day of Family Fun The Dragon Boat Race isn’t just for competitors – it’s a fantastic day out for the whole family! Enjoy: 🎶 Live performances from the Lincoln Rock Choir 🎨 Free face painting by Lollipops Facepainting 🎪 Circus skills workshops and interactive dragon displays 🐉 Plus loads more entertainment and activities for all ages Join the Fun – Everyone’s Invited! Not racing? No problem! Bring your friends and family, cheer on the teams, explore the festivities, and enjoy an unforgettable summer day by the water. 📍 Date: Saturday, 12th July 📍 Location: Brayford Waterfront, Lincoln 📍 Time: Races begin at 11 AM To find out more click here.