New green space opens at Baltic Mill in Gainsborough

A new green space has opened in Gainsborough, along the riverside overlooking the River Trent. The former Baltic Mill site has been turned into a welcoming, accessible space for the community to enjoy, in time for the summer. People can enjoy the grassed area, benches and plants as well as exploring the new pergola which features a map of the town. Cllr Trevor Young, leader of West Lindsey District Council, said: “This is one of my favourite projects from the Levelling Up Fund. This wonderful transformation of the Baltic Mill site delivers much-needed green space for Gainsborough. “It’s a place for people to rest, relax and connect with nature—right in the heart of the community. I encourage everyone to come down and enjoy it.” The area located just off Caskgate in the town was visited by councillors, residents and the developers for an official opening. Cllr Matthew Boles, chairman of West Lindsey District Council, said: “This project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when we invest in our public spaces with a long-term vision. Creating accessible green areas like this not only benefits our health and wellbeing but also brings people together and strengthens our sense of community.” Andy Jones, director of AWJ Business Services, added: “Not only did this contract successfully deliver the regeneration of a key site in Gainsborough Town Centre, but the works were testimony to how collaborative working can overcome the significant obstacles associated with the transformation of a site that had been derelict for some time. “It was a pleasure to deal with West Lindsey District Council and the Project Centre, and we look forward to future opportunities to do so again!”
  Image credit: West Lindsey District Council

Dog exercise area to support biodiversity in Lincolnshire park

0

A new dog exercise area is opening in Wyndham Park, Grantham. It is being designed to serve a dual purpose: as a dog paddock and a wildflower meadow to support pollinators and boost local biodiversity.

The site, which spans 4,000 square metres, is part of South Kesteven District Council’s initiative to enhance green spaces through nature-friendly land management. The project’s funding comes from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

In addition to its recreational use, the area has been planted with native wildflowers and trees to provide a habitat for bees and other pollinating species. The move aligns with broader environmental goals, including carbon reduction and improved ecosystem health.

A local consultation found strong community support, with 71% of respondents backing the plan. The council expects the multifunctional site to contribute positively to public wellbeing and environmental outcomes.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Vasyl

Lincolnshire trio receive national awards

Lincolnshire residents Barry Bedford, Chris Sargeant and Jean Logan have recently received national recognition for their commitment and contributions to the running of their local not-for-profit friendship group. The trio, all members of the Market Deeping-based Nene and Welland Oddfellows, have been selected as winners of ‘Making a Difference Awards’. Their trophies were handed out at a special ceremony at the Society’s annual national conference in Scarborough on Tuesday 20 May. Barry, from Baston, has been a member of the Branch for almost 60 years. He won in the ‘Giving a Helping Hand’ category for his willingness and enthusiasm for being there for others. As a Welfare Officer, Barry has been known to give members lifts to and from events and the shops, he frequently checks in on people both over the phone and in person, and has assisted in all manner of DIY projects, including helping to clear driveways, repairing doors, gardening jobs and decorating rooms. Barry said: “I do get a buzz out of helping people. If I come home and I say to my wife, ‘I’ve done so-and-so with them and I’ve painted a room and they’re happy with it’, I think I’ve done something useful. “It’s the way I live my life and always have done and if that transforms into helping other people then I’m thankful. “It’s wonderful winning a national award. I’m not only recognised around here but within the whole Society. I’m very proud of it.” Chris, from Pinchbeck in Spalding, took home the ‘Working in the Spirit of Mutuality’ trophy, which recognises her commitment to Nene and Welland Oddfellows and the wider Society. Throughout her near-50 years of membership, Chris has held almost every formal volunteer position at her Branch and represented Nene and Welland Oddfellows on regional and national committees. She said: “The Oddfellows gives to me as much as I give to it. I’m 75 now. I’ve been retired 12 years, but I don’t know how I’d cope if I hadn’t got Oddfellowship to keep me going and all my friends in the Society. “You get to know people. I’ve friends all over the country through Oddfellowship. I love it, absolutely love it.” On winning the award, she added: “I was shocked because I didn’t know. It’s amazing. How proud was I that someone had thought I was worthy of it?” Jean was chosen as the winner in the ‘Enriching Lives Socially’ category, celebrating her role in providing a varied and exciting social offering for Nene and Welland Oddfellows members. Through her role on the Branch’s Social Committee, the Bourne resident is key to coming up with new ideas for, organising, and hosting events and – importantly – making sure everyone has a good time. She said: “I’m an organiser. I always organise things. I’m always in the catering. I’m always in the kitchen. “They always say to me, ‘we wish we had your energy’, and I say, ‘well I’m not giving it to anybody, sorry it’s mine!’” Jean said it was a nice surprise to discover she had won the award, adding: “It was the fact that I was the overall winner. You’ve got so many Oddfellows branches all over the country and I end up as the overall winner.” Nene and Welland Oddfellows is made up of 400 mostly older and retired local members and anyone is welcome to join. It is one of 96 branches that make up the Oddfellows’ nationwide network, which is one of the oldest and largest of its kind in the UK. Branch Secretary at Nene and Welland Oddfellows, Karen Earth, said: “We were delighted to learn that not one, but three of our members had been chosen as winners of the Making a Difference Awards. They are a wonderful representation of the kind, caring and brilliant people we have here. “A huge congratulations to Barry, Chris and Jean. We don’t know where we’d be without you.” The Society aims to improve its members’ lives through friendship and support. It hosts a range of affordable and accessible events locally, and Oddfellows members can access a variety of benefits including care and welfare support and a travel club. There are also opportunities to volunteer and take part in fundraising initiatives.   Image shows: Nene and Welland Oddfellows’ Making a Difference Awards winners Chris Sargeant, Barry Bedford and Jean Logan

HMS Taku model presented to Ayscoughfee Hall Museum

0
A model of HMS Taku, a British T Class Submarine, has been presented to Ayscoughfee Hall by the Spalding Branch of the Royal Naval Association. The model was previously on loan to South Holland District Council and was on display in the Priory Road offices. On Wednesday 21 May, the model was moved from the council offices to Ayscoughfee Hall, which will become its permanent home. The submarine was launched on May 20, 1939, a few months prior to the start of the Second World War. HMS Taku saw action during the war, in British waters and the Mediterranean, until it was heavily damaged in 1944 when it was struck by a mine. She returned to active service a few months later and was retired in June 1945. While in the Mediterranean Sea, the submarine damaged and sunk several Italian and German vessels. In 1941, it was involved in a wartime campaign where towns and villages were invited to adopt a warship, Spitfire, tank or other vessels to support the war effort. In one week, the people of Spalding raised over £350,000, the equivalent today of raising around £15 million. This amount funded the building of a new submarine, and as a result Spalding officially ‘adopted’ HMS Taku. In June 1942, some of the crew visited Spalding and stayed with local families. There were many local events to celebrate the link, and today that continues through Taku Footbridge – the bridge over the River Welland next to High Bridge in Spalding’s Town Centre. Councillor Elizabeth Sneath, portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, conservation and heritage, said: “It has been an honour to have the model of HMS Taku at our offices in Spalding. “The submarine is an important part of Spalding’s history and that of the nation, having played a role in the Allied victory during the Second World War. HMS Taku continues to have local significance, having lent its name to one of the many footbridges over the River Welland. “I am certain that the model will be received very positively by the people of Spalding, and those from further afield, at its new location within Ayscoughfee Hall Museum.”

Chapel refurbishment at Grimsby Crematorium boosts capacity and comfort

0

Grimsby Crematorium has reopened its chapel following a five-week refurbishment to improve capacity and visitor experience. The project involved a complete interior overhaul, including removing pews in favour of modern seating to increase occupancy. Additional upgrades include new flooring, carpeting, ceiling, thermal glazing, and automated window controls to enhance climate regulation.

The renovation was carried out with minimal service disruption and completed on schedule by contractor Unibuild. The updated facility now hosts over 2,000 annual services in a brighter, more functional space, catering to over 200,000 visitors annually. The improvements are part of ongoing efforts to modernise bereavement services and better serve local families and funeral operators.

Image source: North East Lincolnshire Council

Outdoor arts festival builds creative economy along Lincolnshire coast

Lincolnshire’s SO Festival has returned with an expanded week-long programme, blending international outdoor arts with skills development and placemaking efforts along the East Lindsey coast.

Running across Skegness and Mablethorpe, the 2025 edition now spans seven days, featuring artists from seven countries, including acrobatics, puppetry, hip hop-infused circus, and interactive installations. A newly added three-day conference brings together industry leaders and cultural practitioners to explore how the arts can drive social change in coastal regions, a theme that will continue into next year with SEAScape at SO Festival 2025, a dedicated international forum on art and placemaking.

The festival goes beyond performance. Through a series of free workshops—from AI basics and special effects makeup to aerial access training and street art—it aims to boost creative engagement, digital literacy, and community-led innovation. Activities are shaped by local consultation and designed to make cultural participation more accessible.

Image source: SO Festival

Leisure centres in Lincoln to reopen under new operator

Two leisure centres in Lincoln that abruptly shut down in April are set to reopen by mid-July under new management. The City of Lincoln Council has appointed Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) as the interim operator of Yarborough and Birchwood leisure centres following the collapse of the previous operator, Active Nation.

GLL, a not-for-profit social enterprise with over 250 leisure facilities across the UK, will manage both centres on a two-year contract. The council owns the buildings and moved quickly to secure a new operator after Active Nation ceased trading due to financial pressures, citing the energy crisis as a key factor. The council had offered a £500,000 support package, but the charity did not accept the terms.

Since the closure, the Lincoln City Foundation has maintained outdoor operations at both locations. GLL plans to upgrade facilities, replace gym equipment, and recruit staff across various roles. More details on programmes, memberships, and courses are expected to be released this summer.

The transition aims to minimise disruption to residents and maintain local access to fitness and wellbeing services, while providing stability for the council’s broader leisure strategy.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/U-JINN Photography

Ayscoughfee Gardens refurbishes play area following South Holland District Council investment

0
Spalding’s Ayscoughfee Hall Gardens has reopened its popular play area, following a period of refurbishment and repairs through a £24,000 investment by South Holland District Council. Work was required at the family favourite park after an act of vandalism last year, which resulted in the destruction of the cage swing as well as significant damage to the surrounding flooring. However, now that work is completed, the swing and its safety surface have been completely replaced with new, high-quality installations. As part of the work the team has also carried out repair and renovations to the jeep equipment, ensuring its continued enjoyment for young adventurers for many years to come. Councillor Henry Bingham, portfolio holder for assets and strategic planning, said: “It’s great that the team have been able to not only fix the vandalism but also get the area improved so that it can be enjoyed again. “Mindless vandalism like this robs residents of the ability to enjoy these areas and it is good that this could be turned around so quickly ready for the summer months, and we remain committed to doing all we can to maintain and improve our community assets.”

King Charles III England Coast Path expanded in Lincolnshire, to provide unique wildlife walks

Three more sections have been opened at a unique wildlife walk in Lincolnshire, making it one of the most accessible countryside areas of the UK. Lincolnshire’s section of the national King Charles III England Coast Path is a 124-mile-long walking route that runs from Sutton Bridge to Barton-upon-Humber, opening up the majority of the iconic Wash coastline to walkers. The route gives legal access to an incredible section of British coastline, and the wildlife around it, for the first time. Walkers can now enjoy more than 90% of our county’s coastal path with the latest sections added ranging from Mablethorpe to Tetney in addition to the new North East Lincolnshire and North Lincolnshire sections to the Humber Bridge. This opening creates an almost continuous coastal route, with just two small gaps where a bridge is required near Gibraltar Point as well as a section around Immingham Dock. Chris Miller, head of environment at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “With these latest additions to the King Charles III England Coast Path coming to fruition we can now provide one of the most spectacular walks anywhere in the country. “This is the outcome of several agencies working together to give legal access to a unique part of the country for people to enjoy. There is a vast array of wildlife and topography that you only get on our coast and now anyone who wants to see it, can do so for free. “Natural England, the Environment Agency, North and North East Lincolnshire Councils and the coastal district councils have all worked with us to bring their essential knowledge of the area to this project. I hope that many will take the opportunity to walk the route and enjoy what Lincolnshire has to offer.” Because sizeable sections of the path are remote and can stretch for several miles, they operate without any public facilities or connecting walkways, so it’s suggested that walkers ensure they are self-sufficient for their trip.   Image credit: Lincolnshire County Council

New bin lorries to carry vital messages

0
Five colourful new refuse collection lorries carrying health and wellbeing messages are taking to the roads of South Kesteven. The district council’s fleet already includes a pink lorry promoting breast cancer awareness and a blue lorry for prostate cancer. Joining them will be freighters supporting five more major charities: Royal British Legion, Samaritans, Bowel Cancer UK, Kidney Research UK, and Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. Each is painted in the distinctive brand colours of the organisation whose messages they carry. Council lorry supplier Dennis Eagle has supported the initiative with the bespoke paint finish on the freighters, which were already on order as part of the depot’s normal turnover. Cllr Ashley Baxter, leader of South Kesteven District Council, said: “The charities we are supporting do life-saving work, each in their own way. It’s a privilege to be able to help get their messages out to residents via these new refuse vehicles. “Our lorries are highly visible and visit every corner of our district. Our crews tell us that the public are really interested and engaged when they see them out and about. The arrival of the new wagons will provoke further conversations and hopefully make people more aware of the work of the various partner charities.”   Image credit: South Kesteven District Council

Gainsborough festival attracts public funding boost to support local arts

The Go Festival will return to Gainsborough on 14 June, with expanded programming and additional public funding aimed at boosting community engagement and creative output in the area. West Lindsey District Council secured funding from Arts Council England, enabling professional artists to collaborate with local groups through pre-festival workshops.

Supported by both Arts Council England and Gainsborough Town Council, the festival is expected to draw visitors with a full-day schedule of cultural programming in the town centre. Performances include interactive theatre, contemporary dance, community showcases, and family-friendly attractions such as storytelling installations and market stalls.

Local organisations like the Rotary Club and Trinity Arts Centre contribute to the line-up, while the extended programme underlines the region’s push to develop a more vibrant cultural economy. The festival will run from 11am to 7pm and aims to stimulate foot traffic, support creative businesses, and reinforce Gainsborough’s cultural infrastructure.

Organisers expect the event to build on the momentum from previous years while offering new opportunities for artist collaboration and community-led content. The initiative reflects growing recognition of the arts as a catalyst for local economic activity and civic engagement.

Image source: West Lindsey District Council

Skydive campaign gains business boost to support Ukrainian children

A Lincolnshire-based charity initiative is scaling up efforts to support children in war-torn Ukraine. Twenty volunteers have signed up to take part in a tandem skydive fundraiser this May. The Boston Skyjive group, now in its third year, has seen participation quadruple since last year’s event.

Backing the initiative this year is Greencore, a food manufacturing company headquartered in Spalding, which is sponsoring 10 of its employees to join the skydive. Each participant will raise a minimum of £200 for Voices of Children, a Ukrainian charity providing psychological and physical support to children impacted by the ongoing war.

Greencore’s involvement includes a direct financial contribution and internal staff mobilisation for the skydive. Volunteers will cover their own skydive costs in addition to fundraising targets.

To date, the group has raised £12,800 for the charity through previous events. With expanded participation and corporate support, organisers aim to boost donations significantly this year.

The skydives will take place on 28 and 29 May at Hibaldstow Airfield near Brigg. Funds will aid the charity’s work across Ukraine, including frontline psychological services, rehabilitation programmes, and summer camps backed by the Ukrainian First Lady.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Joggie Botma

Ashfield Park welcomes visitors to relaxed coffee morning

Ashfield Park, a charming community for the over 45s, is welcoming visitors on Thursday 29th May for a relaxed coffee morning. Tingdene Parks will be putting the kettle on, having a few chats, and opening the doors so you can take a look around and see if park home living feels right for you. Nestled on the outskirts of Scunthorpe with views over the Lincolnshire countryside, explore the move-in-ready homes at Ashfield Park and meet friendly residents. Whether you’re just curious or thinking ahead, come and say hello. For details and to register your interest visit: tingdene-parks.net/open-days-at-ashfield-park

South Holland District Council secures Age-friendly Community status

0
South Holland District Council has been named an Age-friendly Community, after a successful application to the UK Network of Age-friendly Communities. An Age-friendly Community is a place that enables people to age well and live a fulfilling later life. It is a community where individuals can continue living in their homes, participate in valued activities, and contribute to their communities for as long as possible. To celebrate South Holland’s Age-friendly status, the council is hosting three launch events on June 11 in collaboration with partner organisations. The launch events will take place at the following locations and times:
  • Spalding – Tonic Health Wellbeing Hub: 10am – 2pm
  • Holbeach – Tonic Health Wellbeing Hub: 1pm – 5pm
  • Pinchbeck Community Hub: 11am – 3pm
Spalding will be focusing on digital inclusion and the best ways to access information. The event will include a range of organisations who will be sharing information about their services. Lincs Digital will also be providing a drop-in support session. Holbeach will be focusing on the value of social participation. There will be a range of organisations who will provide information on their activities. Pinchbeck will be focusing on the importance of respect and the inclusion of older people in our communities. With opportunities to share your views over a cuppa and a slice of cake. Cllr Elizabeth Sneath, portfolio holder for health and wellbeing at South Holland District Council, said: “Becoming an Age-friendly Community is a proud milestone for South Holland. “It reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring that residents can lead healthy, active and fulfilling lives as they age. “By joining the UK Network of Age-friendly Communities, we are now part of a global movement working to shape places that truly support people to live well for longer. “This approach, grounded in the voices of older people, empowers us to work together with communities, businesses and partners to create a district where everyone regardless of age feels valued, connected and able to thrive. “The voice of older people is essential in building an Age-friendly Community. I invite everyone to join us and share their views to help us shape a community that truly supports and values its older residents.”

Sunflowers offer low-effort, high-impact value for summer landscaping

UK businesses in the landscaping, gardening supply, and outdoor retail sectors may want to capitalise on the seasonal push to sow sunflowers—an easy-to-grow flower with high visual appeal and ecological value. With the sowing window open through late May, now is a commercially strategic time to promote sunflower seeds and related products.

Sunflowers are a fast-growing, low-maintenance option that thrives when planted directly into garden beds. They flourish in sheltered locations with adequate support, often reaching heights of five to twelve feet. Their large, colourful blooms are visually striking and serve practical purposes: they attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, and their seed heads later provide food for birds.

For businesses serving amateur gardeners, sunflowers are a proven favourite due to their ease of cultivation and strong visual payoff during the summer months. Multi-headed and branching varieties offer extended blooming periods and more garden impact per plant, making them an efficient choice for customers seeking high returns with minimal effort.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/gpointstudio

Lincolnshire invests in sand clearance upgrades for coastal walkways

0

East Lindsey District Council is allocating additional capital and operational funds to address ongoing sand accumulation on pedestrian walkways in coastal towns like Sutton on Sea and Mablethorpe.

The investment includes purchasing specialist machinery and recruiting two new staff members to manage sand removal more efficiently. These measures aim to maintain access and safety for both residents and visitors, particularly after stormy weather increases the amount of sand displaced onto promenades.

The council confirmed the funding is being finalised and is part of a broader effort to implement long-term maintenance strategies rather than short-term fixes. The ongoing sand build-up has presented operational challenges for businesses operating near affected beaches, underlining the commercial importance of a sustainable solution.

  Image: Sutton-on-Sea – credit: Stock.adobe.com/mparratt

Three East Lindsey beaches to fly Blue Flags again this summer

0
Three East Lindsey beaches have been recognised as amongst Britain’s best, as they are announced as winners of the prestigious Blue Flag and Seaside Awards for summer 2025. Entering its 38th year, the award is given by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognising beaches and sites that have met the high standard required to be presented with a Blue Flag Award, which in East Lindsey are Mablethorpe, Skegness, and Sutton on Sea. Blue Flag is an environmental education programme managed by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education. It is only presented to beaches with water which has achieved the highest classification as set by the EU Bathing Water Directive and has an environmental education programme. To qualify, each applicant must meet and maintain a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria. Cllr Martin Foster, portfolio holder for operational services at East Lindsey District Council said: “We are absolutely delighted that Mablethorpe, Skegness, and Sutton on Sea have once again been recognised with Blue Flag Awards. “It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our local teams, volunteers, and communities who take such pride in our coastline and shows how much effort goes into keeping our beaches clean, safe, and welcoming. “These awards not only highlight the exceptional quality and cleanliness of our beaches but also reinforce East Lindsey as a top destination for residents and visitors.” Keep Britain Tidy’s chief executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: “In England we are lucky enough to have some of the best beaches in the world. It’s wonderful to see the flags flying proudly over 3 beaches in East Lindsey, demonstrating their quality to residents and visitors alike. “The awards are a credit to the collective efforts of beach and site managers, volunteers, residents and businesses who should take pride today in their tireless efforts to maintain, protect and improve some of our best-loved and most popular blue spaces. “Visitors to a beach flying a Blue Flag can be assured the beach will be clean, safe and meet the highest environmental standards.”
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Brian Jackson

The Princess Royal to attend 140th Lincolnshire Show

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal is to attend this year’s Lincolnshire Show, which is back for the 140th time on 18th and 19th June 2025. Television presenter Matt Baker MBE, best known for his work on BBC’s Blue Peter, Countryfile and The One Show, will also be attending the event, which has announced an inspiring programme of events and performances. Brand-new Main Ring act, the Knights of Middle England, a professional team of stunt riders, performers, actors and combatants, will be bringing an action-packed performance, and all things countryside will be showcased at the Show’s new Rural Voices Stage. The Lincolnshire Show beach, using sand sourced from the Lincolnshire coast, and the Garden Show, which were both introduced for last year’s event, are set to return – bigger and better than before – as well as long-standing favourites including the Shetland Pony Grand National, LAS Schools’ Challenge, Floral Arts Competition and visits from canine friends with Jerry Green Dog Rescue. The Lincolnshire Show is a celebration of all things Lincolnshire and rural life, with around 60,000 people expected to attend the two-day event. Charlotte Powell, chief executive of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, said: “The Lincolnshire Show is always a significant event for the county, but it feels extra special this time as we celebrate our 140th Show. “From the very first Show in 1869, the event has been a source of pride and celebration for everyone involved with the county of Lincolnshire, and we can’t wait for everyone to see all the hard work that has gone into this year’s event. “It will be an absolute pleasure and honour to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal and Matt Baker MBE as guests for this year’s Show, as we once again celebrate all things Lincolnshire with tens of thousands of visitors. “There will be familiar favourites, new attractions, exhibitors offering tasty local food and drink, and activities for all the family to enjoy. Whether it’s the vast range of farm animals and competitions that pique your interest, or the jaw-dropping displays and demonstrations, the 2025 Lincolnshire Show has something for everyone! “We look forward to welcoming you all to what is sure to be another unforgettable Lincolnshire Show.” The Princess Royal, who previously served as president of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society and now holds a Lifetime Membership, will attend the Show on Wednesday 18th June, while Matt Baker will be attending on Thursday 19th June. The new Rural Voices Stage, which spotlights all things countryside, will offer engaging panel discussions and expert-led networking, allowing people working in agriculture and related industries to deepen their knowledge of British farming, land management and sustainability. Foodies will also be able to watch a series of masterclasses and demonstrations at the popular Lincolnshire Kitchen, as well as enjoying some of Lincolnshire’s finest food and drink with F.A.B and Good Grub Co. at Stockman’s bar. Organised by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society (LAS), a charity dedicated to championing the importance of food, farming and the countryside, the iconic Lincolnshire Show is a family-friendly day out that draws 60,000 visitors every year – including 6,000 school children and over 500 exhibitors. There are also around 2,500 animals at the Show each year. It is located just four miles from Lincoln city centre and spread out over 270 acres at the Lincolnshire Showground. With Lincolnshire home to more than 4,500 farms, the Show remains true to its roots with a strong focus on farming and agriculture. All funds raised through ticket sales are invested in the LAS’ charity work, including the LAS Education Programme, and are reinvested in producing the Show each year.

APSS Group raises £650 for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance at annual charity golf day

The APSS Group, incorporating both APSS and TPS Office Furniture, has raised £650 for the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance during its annual Mini Ryder Cup Golf Day, held at Lincoln Golf Club in Torksey. Now in its fourth year, the much-anticipated event brought together APSS staff, suppliers, and customers for a fantastic day of golf, networking and fundraising. The day was not only a celebration of friendly competition, but also a meaningful way to give back to a local lifesaving service. The fundraising came through a charity raffle, with prizes kindly donated by Elite Office Furniture, Galaxy Insulation and Dry Lining Limited, Troax Group, Howdens, Shaw Contract, Nash Glass Ltd, 360 Recruitment Limited, and Lincoln Golf Club. Among the standout prizes were a supercar driving experience, a five-hob induction burner, and a helicopter ride – a fitting tribute to the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance. Richard Mycroft, Managing Director at APSS, said: “It was a brilliant day all round – great company, great golf, and all for a fantastic cause. “The Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance is a charity that means a lot to us. You never know when you or someone you love might need them. They provide critical care in the most urgent of situations, and we’re proud to support the incredible work they do.” The APSS Group extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part and contributed to the day’s success. The event continues to grow each year, uniting the APSS community while supporting a cause that truly makes a difference.

Paddling pool reopens in Cleethorpes with upgraded facilities

0

A free paddling pool in Cleethorpes has reopened for its sixth consecutive summer season, now featuring an upgraded central fountain. Operated by Your Community Hub, a community interest company managed by the team behind Cleethorpes Taphouse and Kitchen, the pool is open daily from 10am to 4pm.

The enhancements to the pool’s fountain, now higher and more prominent, are part of ongoing efforts to boost local footfall and offer accessible family attractions. The facility, previously run by the local council, has been operated by Your Community Hub since 2019 at no cost to taxpayers. The adjacent sandpit, also under their management, reopened in May 2023.

The site’s continued operation reflects sustained public engagement with free, locally run leisure assets. Businesses operating in tourism, leisure, and hospitality sectors may see opportunities tied to the increased foot traffic in the area during the summer months.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/simon