The funds were raised through the recycling of metals recovered following cremation, as part of a nationwide initiative managed by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM).
So far, since the crematorium opened in January 2020, £84,600 has been donated to charities through the scheme.
The ICCM’s metal recycling scheme enables crematoria across the country to recycle metals from medical implants, such as titanium joints and plates, as well as other materials that remain after the cremation process.
The proceeds from the recycling are then distributed to various charitable causes.
Chairman of West Lindsey District Council, which runs Lea Fields Crematorium, Cllr Stephen Bunney said: “We are incredibly proud to be part of a scheme that not only contributes to environmental sustainability through recycling but also provides essential financial support to local charities like the Lincolnshire Air Ambulance.”
The donation will help support the vital, life-saving work of the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance, which operates across the county, providing emergency medical care and rapid transport to critically injured and ill patients.
Joe Harper, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance, said: “We are deeply grateful to Lea Field’s Crematorium’s metal recycling initiative for this incredible donation.
“At an average cost of £4,000 per mission, this donation will enable us to potentially save three lives. Your generosity helps keep our helicopters in the air and our critical care cars on the road providing pre-hospital critical care where it’s needed. On behalf of everyone at Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance, thank you for your continued support.”
Deborah Balsdon, Manager of Lea Fields Crematorium, said: “The team at Lea Fields Crematorium are honoured to contribute to this life-saving service, which plays a crucial role in our community. We hope this donation will help the Air Ambulance continue their remarkable work in responding to emergencies across the region.
“We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported the recycling initiative and helping to contribute to good causes.”
Bringing music and joy to Ruckland Court Care Home with SoundLINCS
Residents at Ruckland Court Care Home, in the heart of North Lincoln, have been having an absolutely wonderful time enjoying music sessions led by the fantastic team at SoundLINCS. These sessions have been a brilliant way for everyone to come together, explore their musical side, and have a bit of fun in the process.
The sessions are skillfully led by Christina, who has brought so much energy and joy into the home. She sings, plays musical instruments, and breaks down songs so that everyone can get involved. It’s all about making sure the residents feel included and get the chance to sing along, tap to the beat, and enjoy every moment.
For anyone who doesn’t know, SoundLINCS is a wonderful not-for-profit organisation that believes music has the power to change lives. They run all kinds of workshops for people from different backgrounds, creating exciting and tailored music-making opportunities that are perfect for each group they work with.
At Ruckland Court, Christina has worked her magic, and the sessions have quickly become a highlight for residents. From the first session, she’s taken the time to understand what the residents enjoy.
April, the Wellbeing Coordinator, helped kick things off by suggesting some tracks, and since then, Christina has tailored every session to suit the group. She’s even brought along fun props like handbells and maracas, so residents can really get stuck in and enjoy a proper musical experience.
April shared how much these sessions have meant to everyone: “It’s been such a joy to welcome Christina from SoundLINCS into our home. The residents have absolutely loved every session—seeing their faces light up as they sing and move along to the music has been so rewarding. It’s not just fun; it’s also a great way to keep active and lift everyone’s spirits.”
Adam Atkin, the Home Manager, added: “We’re so grateful to Christina and SoundLINCS for everything they’ve done. It’s been amazing to see how much the residents have embraced these sessions, with some even getting up to dance. A big thank you to April as well for organising these wonderful experiences. These moments are so important for keeping our residents happy and engaged.”
At Ruckland Court, it’s all about making sure the residents have opportunities to enjoy life to the fullest—and these music sessions have certainly struck the right note.
For more information about Ruckland Court Care Home, please contact Adam Atkin, Home Manager on 01522 530 217 or email careenquiries@countrycourtcare.com
Conservation project takes Mermaid Cafe back to its railway roots
The 150-year-old Mermaid Café building on Cleethorpes is to be reborn in its original guise – as a waiting room for the recently opened Manchester, Sheffield and Lincolnshire Railway.
Now part of the listed buildings on Cleethorpes Railway Station, its restoration project will involve conserving the Victorian cast iron framework of the building, full restoration and conservation of the timber elements of the building, and a new roof.
The building will be repainted in the original livery colours of the Manchester, Sheffield and Lincolnshire Railway company.
Leaseholders Charles Crawford and Craig Brown said: “This is something that we’ve been wanting to do for a long time, having gained planning and Listed Building consent back in 2021. Due to the complexities of the restoration, we knew that financial support would be required, and we’re really pleased to get the backing of The National Lottery Heritage Fund for some of the work. We can’t wait to see what the building will look like when it’s restored.”
The Railway Trust will provide match funding for this project. The Trust’s Tim Hedley–Jones aid: “We’re really happy to be working collaboratively with both the leaseholders and the council, and provide this additional funding to help restore this former railway building.”
Cllr Philip Jackson, Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “I’m really pleased to see this particular building come forward as part of the Townscape Heritage Project. It’s one of the key buildings that people see as they arrive in Cleethorpes on the train, and to have it restored to its former glory will be wonderful!”
The work will be carried out by CAG, who have completed heritage works in other areas of the resort as part of the National Lottery funded Townscape Heritage grant programme.
Planning permission is already in place for the work to the building, and initial internal work has begun, with hoardings already up around the building and the iron work set to be removed before Christmas. The main work will start in the new year, with a view to being completed before the main summer season.
The Grove Care Home brews community spirit through charity coffee mornings
The Grove Care Home in Waltham has turned its monthly coffee mornings into a platform for charitable giving, bringing residents, families, and staff together to raise funds for vital causes. From delicious treats to meaningful conversations, these events have become a cornerstone of the care home’s community engagement.
Macmillan Coffee Morning: Brewing Support for Cancer Care
The Grove’s first charity coffee morning fundraiser was in support of Macmillan Cancer Support, a cause chosen by residents for its life-changing work. Guests gathered to enjoy coffee, tea, and a stunning array of homemade cakes, creating a welcoming and heartfelt atmosphere.
“Special thanks to Becky, our Client Services Manager; Rachael from Front of House; and Michelle, our Wellbeing Coordinator, for their incredible efforts in making this event a success. A huge shout-out to our kitchen team for the delicious cakes that delighted everyone,” shared Customer Relations Manager Ros Wells.
Together, the event raised an impressive £220 for Macmillan Cancer Support, with residents emphasizing how much the charity’s mission resonated with them.
“This wasn’t just about fundraising—it was about connection,” said Home Manager Cheryl Shorter. “Our coffee morning brought people together to share stories, build friendships, and show support for a cause close to their hearts.”
Breast Cancer Awareness Coffee Morning: Painting The Grove Pink
Following the success of the Macmillan event, The Grove hosted a Breast Cancer Awareness coffee morning under the theme “Together We Painted The Grove Pink.” Guests embraced the pink theme, donning colourful outfits and indulging in beautifully decorated pink fondant cakes.
“Our kitchen team outdid themselves again, and we were also grateful for contributions from attendees who brought homemade treats,” commented Ros Wells. “Thanks to their generosity, we raised an outstanding £247.70 for Breast Cancer Awareness.”
The event wasn’t just about funds—it also sparked meaningful discussions about breast health and awareness, making the morning both impactful and uplifting. Guests remarked, “Fabulous cakes and service,” and “Great morning—thank you for hosting!”
Looking Ahead: Supporting Local Causes
The Grove Care Home remains committed to championing important causes through its coffee mornings. The next event, “Tea and Tombola,” will take place on Wednesday, 8th January, from 2-4 pm, with funds going to The Refuge – Grimsby Women’s Aid, a local charity supporting women and children fleeing domestic abuse.
“Our coffee mornings highlight the incredible generosity of our community,” said Ros Wells. “We’re grateful to everyone who has attended and contributed to making a difference. These events are about more than fundraising—they’re about fostering a spirit of unity and care.”
For more information about upcoming community events at The Grove Care Home, contact Customer Relations Manager Ros Wells at 01472 821127 or via email at ros.wells@countrycourtcare.com
Council commits to Grimsby town centre rejuvenation
North East Lincolnshire Council has committed to continuing with one of the largest property schemes it has ever undertaken – the Freshney Place leisure scheme and associated new food hall and complementary market.
Council leader Philip Jackson said the council’s decision to bring forward and support the project would transform the centre of Grimsby.
The leisure scheme will occupy the western end of Freshney Place, the area that is currently the Top Town Market Hall, and some units on the Bullring, which will provide a new offering for the people and businesses in Grimsby town centre.
A pre-let agreement is in place with Parkway Cinema to bring a five-screen cinema to complement its offering at Cleethorpes.
Richard Parkes, owner of Parkway Cinema, said: “We’ve long discussed options for bringing a cinema to Grimsby, and reinventing Freshney Place is precisely the right approach. Town centres are not just about shopping – that doesn’t work any more. We need to provide more reasons to visit and offer more things to do at more times during the day, and that’s just what we’ve signed up for – to bring that to Grimsby.
“We’ll be a living, breathing presence right in the heart of the town, with a new cinema open to and accessible to everyone alongside a new market hall and food outlets. It’s just part of something that will improve the whole town centre for a new generation, alongside the youth zone and other areas of the town like St James Square and the Riverhead. There’s a lot going on, and we can’t wait to be part of it.”
The development also includes plans for a new, vibrant food hall together with an attached complementary market on the area of the former BHS building.
Four additional new leisure, food and beverage, or retail opportunities, including a larger unit to-let are also in the scheme footprint, alongside four refurbished units within Freshney Place, with the return of Starbucks already agreed, and discussions under way with a leading food outlet.
Work is expected to start on site early in the new year.
Yours for the asking: Household waste site offers free paint scheme
A ‘Community RePaint’ scheme at Grantham Household Waste Recycling Centre is helping prevent unused paint from going to waste by setting it to one side and giving it to anyone who wants it.
When usable paint is dropped off at the site it is added to the Community RePaint store from where anyone is encouraged to take it away for nothing.
Daniel McNally, executive councillor for waste at Lincolnshire County Council said that every year about 50 million litres of paint were thrown away across the UK. “We get a fair amount of nearly-new and sometimes unopened paint dropped off at our recycling centres in Lincolnshire. Through this scheme, we’re stopping a lot of this paint going to waste by allowing people to come along and take what they might need.
“If you’ve got a smaller job that needs doing, or something you just want to give a new lease of life to, this could save you some money on buying new. This paint would otherwise be sent to our energy from waste plant for disposal, so it’s keeping usable items in circulation too.
“Alongside our successful Reuse Shop at Tattershall, this is another way we’re thinking differently about our waste, trying to reduce the amount we throw away and reuse items as many times as possible.”
Community RePaint is a UK wide paint reuse network, sponsored by Dulux, with over 80 schemes operating nationally. The Grantham Community Repaint scheme is the first of its kind in Lincolnshire, with more planned to open at other household waste recycling centres in the county in 2025.
Crematorium donates £11,600 to Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance
Lea Fields Crematorium has donated £11,600 to Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance, thanks to its participation in a metal recycling scheme.
Image credit: West Lindsey District Council Freemasons’ donation supports St Barnabas ‘hospice at home’ service
St Barnabas Hospice has been given £1,500 by Freemasons of Lincoln’s Witham Lodge – enough to provide a nurse for almost nine days of ‘hospice at home’ care, looking after people in the security of their own surroundings.
Lodge Master John McGowan said members chose the hospice to receive the money, raised at a social event, because a number had experienced first hand the care provided by the Hospice. He said: “Witham Lodge members think very highly of the work and services that St. Barnabas provides.”
Lodge members generated the funds at a social event through a raffle, auction, and other games.
Deborah Yarwood, Fundraising Officer for St. Barnabas, accepted the donation from John. She said the Hospice needed all the support it could muster. It costs the Hospice about £10m a year to run its services, but that just 22% came from central government. She said: “The care we provide is possible thanks only to the generosity of the local community.” Examples of the costs of running the hospice include a nurse on a Hospice ward for a full day at £237, a day of hospice at home care for £170, or a home visit for a new patient at a cost of £94.
Lincoln College spreads festive cheer in support of Cash for Kids charity
Lincoln College, in partnership with Bauer Media Group, is running the Mission Christmas project in support of the Cash for Kids charity, spreading festive cheer to children across Lincolnshire.
The project is not only about collecting gifts for children aged 0-18, but it is also deeply rooted in social responsibility, creating a positive impact on the local community. As winter sets in and the cost of living continues to stretch the finances of families, many face the harsh reality of making difficult decisions.
For them, Christmas is no longer a time of excitement and joy but a time of stark choices between heating their homes, buying food, or providing presents for their children. Mission Christmas aims to restore some of the magic of the season by ensuring that every child in the county receives a gift that will make their Christmas special.
Mark Locking, Principal and CEO at the Lincoln College Group, said: “At Lincoln College, we are committed to using our skills and resources to support those who need it most, particularly during the festive period. This project has provided our students with the opportunity to not only contribute to their local community but also to apply what they have learned in a real-world setting.
“Whether through designing and constructing donation boxes or creating festive branding, our students are at the heart of this mission, and they are incredibly proud to be making a difference. It’s an invaluable learning experience and a chance for them to be actively involved in a project that benefits others.”
Hannah Clark, Cluster Charity Manager East Yorkshire & Lincolnshire, said: “We are thrilled that we have been supported by Lincoln College – not only have they raised money and donated gifts – they have also donated their time to volunteer in the warehouse and make Christmas magical for 1000’s of local children.”
Throughout the campaign, students have been involved in various ways. In addition to the physical collection of gifts, Lincoln College’s Carpentry & Joinery students put their skills to the test by designing a custom drop-off box for donations, while Painting & Decorating students added a touch of Christmas magic by decorating the box with festive branding.
Through these hands-on experiences, students are not only contributing to a worthwhile cause, but they are also gaining invaluable work experience that aligns with their studies and future careers.
The Mission Christmas double-decker bus visited the campus on 5th December, and students took on the role of Santa’s helpers, collecting the gifts and loading them onto the bus for its tour of the county.
On 9th December, a dedicated group of students headed to the Mission Christmas HQ to assist in sorting the gifts by age and gender and packing them to ensure they fulfill the various requests from families in need.
Level 3 Business student, Mollie-Mae Carlisle, said: “I found the experience great – we got to get work experience hours in while also helping other people, so it was a win-win for both sides. I enjoyed specifically picking out the gifts that children would be receiving, it was personal. It shocked me how many presents people donated.”
Level 3 Business student, Ella-Louise Cross, said: “The amount of presents needed for boys ages 12-18 was shocking. Overall, it was a fun experience, finding presents and helping kids that are less fortunate.”
Throughout the campaign, students have been involved in various ways. In addition to the physical collection of gifts, Lincoln College’s Carpentry & Joinery students put their skills to the test by designing a custom drop-off box for donations, while Painting & Decorating students added a touch of Christmas magic by decorating the box with festive branding.
Through these hands-on experiences, students are not only contributing to a worthwhile cause, but they are also gaining invaluable work experience that aligns with their studies and future careers.
The Mission Christmas double-decker bus visited the campus on 5th December, and students took on the role of Santa’s helpers, collecting the gifts and loading them onto the bus for its tour of the county.
On 9th December, a dedicated group of students headed to the Mission Christmas HQ to assist in sorting the gifts by age and gender and packing them to ensure they fulfill the various requests from families in need.
Level 3 Business student, Mollie-Mae Carlisle, said: “I found the experience great – we got to get work experience hours in while also helping other people, so it was a win-win for both sides. I enjoyed specifically picking out the gifts that children would be receiving, it was personal. It shocked me how many presents people donated.”
Level 3 Business student, Ella-Louise Cross, said: “The amount of presents needed for boys ages 12-18 was shocking. Overall, it was a fun experience, finding presents and helping kids that are less fortunate.” 6,200 lost lives of WWII finally recognised thanks to Bomber Command Centre
Following the diligent work of volunteers at the International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC), 6,200 airmen lost in the Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and North African theatre of operations in World War II will now be recognised on one of the world’s largest archival databases.
The IBCC Losses Database has so far taken a team of volunteers more than 12 years to build and provides the world’s largest free-to-access digital archive of the airmen and women lost in the service of Bomber Command throughout its existence.
It includes the lives and deaths of more than 58,000 Bomber Command and 2,400 Second Tactical Air Force (2TAF) members supported by an ever-increasing amount of biographical information, photographs, references to other memorials, and other resources.
A cornerstone of the IBCC in Lincoln, the Losses Database is overseen by volunteer and losses archivist Dave Gilbert, who has spent 13,000 voluntary hours on the database so far.
Dave said: “Although the Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and North African losses were not under the control of Bomber Command, many of its squadrons spent time in that theatre and we receive enquiries from family members on almost a daily basis asking whether they can be included, so it makes complete sense to do so.
“For those in these additional theatres, it was a very different conflict to what Bomber Command personnel experienced. There were the added perils of diseases such as malaria and dysentery and the North African theatre was particularly hostile, with some airmen having survived a crash in the desert, then perished due to dehydration.”
The latest additions to the database, researched by the volunteers, will take the total losses documented to 67,300.
“Together we’ve built an archive that includes almost seven million individual pieces of data and growing,” said Dave. “It’s an amazing achievement of collaboration and a collective passion project for us all.
“Expanding the archive to include the additional names was a natural progression. The work is never complete as there’s always something more you can write about every one of them, so I’m quite sure I’ll be doing this for the rest of my life. It’s vitally important that we continue this work.”
Nicky van der Drift, chief executive of the IBCC, said: “No one is getting paid or being made to do this, all the volunteers are supporting this work because they think it’s important that these lives and losses are remembered and reconciled.
“It’s our mission to honour those associated with Bomber Command at the IBCC and the incredible sacrifices they made, and the Losses Database is a huge part of that.”
Once added to the database, the aim is to place the additional names around the IBCC’s Memorial Spire on new ‘walls of names’, once the funds have been raised to do so.
Carpentry and joinery businesses urged to engage with college at Employer Forum Event
Joinery, carpentry and associated trade businesses are being urged to share their needs and wants from employees at the latest Wood Trade Employer Forum Event being held at Newark College.
Open to any business or sole trader interested in apprenticeships, work experience, T-Levels or just working with the College and its learners, the forum event is a chance for both the College and employers to meet and discuss needs and desires for the future.
Carpentry Lecturer, Paul Bailes, said: “This is an excellent chance for employers in the trade to come along and look into what we offer. We have so many different routes to apprentices here at Newark College and events like these are a great way to showcase the good work we’ve done in the past, as well as what we can do to work with employers to get the best for both our learners and those that employ them.
“We want to find out what can we do together to streamline the process so that more businesses can take on an apprentice, offer work experience or take on T Level student placements.
“So why not come along and listen as we bust some myths about what is available?”
The event will also have information available regarding the advantages of a study programme, learners being able to take work experience placements.
It will also be a great way for employers to find out about the opportunities available such as T-Levels, another alternative route for employers to work with young people.
The event runs on Wednesday 18th December from 9am to 10.30am at the Newark Campus.
The event will open with a meet and greet and a chance to network with other businesses as well as staff from the College before a carousel presentation of opportunities and the College’s programme of events through the year before a chance to find out more from a team of experts.
Newark College offers a host of opportunities for businesses, find out more about how it can benefit your business here.
To find out more, call Carpentry and Joinery Lecturer Paul Bailes on 01636 680680 ext 7235 or email on pbailes@lincolncollege.ac.uk
Image credit: Electric Egg
Brother and sister join ranks of county’s on-call firefighters
Brother and sister duo Euan and Isla Sullivan have joined fire stations as new on-call firefighters with Lincolmshire fore and Rescue.
Euan always wanted to become a firefighter and made it a reality this year – providing cover at both Lincoln North and Waddington fire stations. Isla works in administration from home during the day and provides overnight cover at Waddington fire station.
She said: “The role is exciting, challenging and fun, and a great way to give back to the community.”
Now that Euan and Isla have settled into their roles, they say their favourite aspect of the job is the people – both their colleagues and the community members they meet.
Euan said: “It’s great to build close bonds with people at my station that I wouldn’t have met otherwise.”
The pair recommend the job to others, saying that it’s really rewarding and completely different from their usual office jobs.
Training to become an on-call firefighter consists of 32 days of training where you learn the skills required to be an operational firefighter. Euan and Isla both really enjoyed their training, finding it a supportive and positive experience.
The pair believe the ‘firefighter’ seeds were sown by older brother Ross, who was the first member of the family to become a firefighter. While he no longer works within the service, his involvement was enough to inspire his siblings.
“The fact that he was an on-call firefighter has obviously left its mark with both of us,” said Isla. The training is really good and prepares you so you can do the job in a professional way.
“But as everyone knows, there are aspects to the job that the training doesn’t really prepare you for – the really difficult incidents. But, for those, your colleagues are around you and they have been there and done that, so they know exactly how you’re feeling and they help enormously.”
With both Euan and Isla both still living at the family home, they often attend ‘shouts’ – jargon for call outs – together and it can be a race to get to the car first.
“If we receive the call in the middle of the night, it can often be a race in the dark from different parts of the house,” joked Euan. “But it is usually me who is out of the door first.”
£20m commitment to fund business growth projects in Lincolnshire
An investment of £20m over four years will be made by the county council to fund business growth projects in Lincolnshire.
The council’s executive have agreed to use the council’s own money for economic development to encourage and support businesses to start up, grow and re-locate to the county.
The money will be used to expand business parks, create new office spaces and to build a new facility supporting manufacturing companies to get the skills and expertise they need to thrive.
Cllr Colin Davie, executive councillor for economy at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “We know that in many parts of the county there is a limited amount of suitable serviced land for businesses to grow or re-locate to. This investment means we can keep businesses in the county and provide around 3,000 new high quality jobs.
“It also means that, with the devolution investment in Sleaford Moor Business Park, there will be significant investment in business infrastructure in every district of the county in the coming years.”
Picture shows Cllr Colin Davie. Image credit: Lincolnshire County Council Free festive activities set for Wyndham Park Visitor Centre
A range of free and festive activities are on offer throughout December at the Wyndham Park Visitor Centre in Grantham.
Visitors will be able to take part in creative craft sessions and young families will have the chance to post their letters to Santa as part of ‘Santa’s Post Office’.
Cllr Paul Stokes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, South Kesteven District Council, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming new and familiar visitors into our fantastic park and Visitor Centre this festive season.
“Despite the chilly weather, it is well worth venturing out to enjoy the variety of activities on offer to suit all ages and interests, set against the backdrop of our fantastic park.”
Window Chalk Art sessions invite budding artists to experiment with decorating for Christmas. All you need to do is bring along a liquid white chalk pen suitable for drawing on windows.
The sessions will take place as follows:
- Tuesday 10th December – 11am until 12pm and 1.30pm until 2.30pm
- Tuesday 17th December – 11am until 12pm
- Thursday 12th December – 11am until 12pm and 1.30pm until 2.30pm
- Tuesday 17th December – 1.30pm until 2.30pm
Sleaford to welcome weekend of free activities to celebrate Christmas
Visit Sleaford’s Market Place across Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 December for WinterLight – a weekend of free activities to celebrate Christmas.
A community lantern procession will illuminate the town centre on Saturday, with local community groups and crafters having been invited to create a variety of lanterns in the weeks leading up the event.
Participants will gather from 3:30pm at the Hub and walk along Southgate to the Market Place. Upon arrival at the Hub, participants will be greeted by carolling from the Sleaford Concert Band. As the procession makes its way to the Market Place, there will be another session of carolling and entertainment into the evening.
There’s also opportunity to decorate a jar lantern, which will be placed in front of St Denys’ over the weekend, adding a further glow to the area.
Fun for all ages awaits on the synthetic ‘ice’ rink, open from 2pm-7pm Saturday and 11am-4pm Sunday. Free 30-minute slots will be available across both days and no booking will be required. With most activities taking place on the Saturday, the skating sessions on Sunday should offer a quieter experience for individuals with additional needs.
St Denys’ will feature a festive projection, in place for a limited time over the weekend, alongside community-made lanterns. Additional highlights for the Saturday include free face painting, a dance performance and Santa’s Sleigh photobooth, brought courtesy of the Rotary Club.
Cllr Richard Wright, leader of North Kesteven District Council, said: “Sleaford really comes alive during the festive period, and we’re pleased this year, to welcome everyone to experience it with a weekend of free activities for all ages in this new space.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Christmas and support local businesses and see the potential for the Market Place to host events of this kind more easily and safely.”
On this day and every Saturday in December there will free parking in Sleaford, in any North Kesteven District Council-run car park this festive period, to further encourage shoppers and visitors into Sleaford to enjoy the free activities. Free parking continues every evening and Sunday, as usual.
Local businesses will have festive specials available throughout the weekend, and many will be opening into the evening on Saturday 21 December.
Meanwhile, some of the businesses in Bristol Arcade will be open on Sundays from 10am throughout December, offering an additional day for people to do their Christmas shopping and enjoy more of Sleaford all weekend. This includes Beautifully Handmade Gift Shop, Treasured Trove, Empra UK, and TJ Crafts.
WinterLight is funded by the Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, being delivered by North Kesteven District Council in partnership with local businesses and creatives including the Hub, Lumo Workshop and Popcorn Media.
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/luckybusiness
Students embark on racing car build project for European competition
Students from the University of Lincoln are building a single-seat racing car to enter Formula Student, Europe’s premier educational engineering competition.
Backed by notable industry figures like Ross Brawn, the competition gives students hands-on experience in automotive engineering, business management, and teamwork.
The team from the University is called Lincoln Racing, and is made up of 34 students from engineering, maths, business, media, and sports journalism, a vital skillset in a competition that tests not only engineering abilities but also business acumen, financial management, and teamwork. They’ll be the first team from the University to enter the competition.
The team is headed up by Dylan Beanlands, a fourth-year Mechanical Engineering Master’s student, serving as Team Principal. Dylan is supported on the Lincoln Racing Management Team by fellow students from the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences: Dave Frost (Technical Director), Tasha Jaques (Engineering Director) and Tom Waddilove (Director of Digital Services). The team are also able to call on specialist support from academics Professor Jun Peng, Professor of Sustainable Energy Engineering, and Dr. Jarek Grebenik, Senior Lecturer in Engineering.
Together, this leadership team is responsible for overseeing the project’s technical and operational aspects, ensuring the team remains on track as they prepare for their debut at Silverstone in July 2025.
As newcomers, the team’s primary goal is to establish strong foundations for future entries with the team already working to create the vital connections within the industry and with local businesses to provide advice and guidance, as well as parts and resources.
Dylan said: “So far, the team has really impressed me in terms of their commitment and drive to make a successful car this year. Together, we have a wide range of experience and expertise that will help us reach our targets.
“The competition will act as a great way for students to gain hands-on and real-world experience and knowledge which can be used in their degrees as well as in future jobs. Overall, I am confident in the team and I am certain we will set successful foundations for future entries.”
Grimsby Auditorium welcomes new, hiss-terical, swashbuckling, purr-fect pantomime
Grimsby Auditorium’s pantomime Dick Whittington meets the Pirates from the Caribbean opens this Saturday (7 December) and runs until Sunday 29 December!
Back by popular demand, this year’s panto cast includes MARTIN DANIELS as Idle Jack, Emmerdale and Coronation Street Star GEMMA OATEN as Fairy Bow Bells, Star of ‘Allo ‘Allo SUE HODGE as Sherrie Trifle the Cook, ROSANNE PRIEST as Queen Rat, CHARLOTTE MACLACHLAN as Alice, CHRIS CLARKSON as Lady Fitzwarren, and SAMUEL KNIGHT as Dick Whittington.
Our hero, Dick Whittington, arrives in London seeking fame and fortune when disaster strikes. The streets aren’t paved with gold!
Broke and alone, he teams up with a lost streetwise cat. Together they embark on an epic adventure that takes them deep into the smelly sewers of London, a fight with the evil Queen Rat and her Racketeers, and finally a search for gold and glory that ends with plundering pirates and cutlasses clashing as he meets with The Pirates from the Caribbean.
Come and see Dick Whittington, Idle Jack, The Lady Fitzwarren, Queen Rat and ships cook Sherrie-Triffle with a fabulous eighteen strong cast as they all end up on board the Pirate ship ‘Blackbeard’s Buccaneer’.
To book tickets visit Grimsby Auditorium, go to grimsbyauditorium.org.uk, or call 0300 300 0035.
Funding of almost £1m is set to change Grimsby’s East Marsh
Grimsby’s East Marsh Community Research Network has secured close to £1m in funding to tackle pressing social, economic, environmental, and health challenges in the East Marsh, one of Grimsby’s most disadvantaged neighbourhoods.
Bringing together a diverse partnership of local organisations, including the University of Lincoln, Foresight North East Lincs, East Marsh United, North East Lincolnshire Council, NSPCC, Learning4Life-Gy, Our Future, and NEL Health and Care Partnership, the East Marsh CRN will use the funding to empower the local community to identify and address critical issues through Participatory Action Research.
The funding has been awarded through phase two of the Community Research Networks programme, funded by UK Research and Innovation and delivered by The Young Foundation, a non-profit organisation that specialises in community research and social innovation.
This milestone follows a successful first phase, during which the network received £25,000 to develop a robust partnership of local organisations, undertake extensive community consultation to ensure the community were receptive to the project and its aims of combatting local challenges, and develop a pilot research project.
Now, with this significant new funding, the East Marsh CRN will focus on training and upskilling residents to take leadership roles in shaping the future of East Marsh. By placing local voices at the centre of research and decision-making, the project seeks to influence policymakers and service providers to deliver solutions that reflect the community’s needs and aspirations.
Jay Emery, Lecturer in Human Geography at the University of Lincoln, who is supporting the East Marsh CRN’s research activities, said: “Communities are experts in their own lives and, for many crucial reasons, are best placed to research the challenges that the East Marsh is facing. This funding will enable the community to develop their own ways of doing research that will generate insights and action. However, others must also listen to, and act on, the understandings that East Marsh CRN bring if they genuinely seek meaningful change.”
The East Marsh Community Research Network is one of nine community research projects across the UK to receive funding in this second phase, as part of a wider effort to empower local communities in addressing regional challenges. Collectively, the Community Research Networks programme has awarded £8.9m in phase two, with £9.5m invested across both phases, reflecting a national commitment to community-led research and innovation.
Lindum draws up plans for green space development on fringes of Lincoln
Proposals are being drawn up for new homes, a convenience store, community centre and enhanced open green space on the edge of Lincoln.
Temple Garth, part of a Lindum Group joint venture company, is working on plans for a mixed-use development on land off Long Leys Road, opposite the St George’s estate.
Representatives from the organisation attended a drop-in event organised by the residents association for members of the community to find out more about the proposals.
Around 70 people attended, and development manager Jess Thomas said there was broad support for the scheme.
“We’ve been liaising with residents and community groups to align our proposals to the emerging Neighbourhood Plan and have responded to aspirations identified in the most recent Residents Survey.
“Many of those we spoke to at the consultation said they would be happy to see the site come forward for development, next steps will be to engage with consultants to undertake some technical work on the site in the new year”.
Lincoln business celebrates 10 years of gourmet gifting with £3m turnover, expansion and ambitious growth plans
From kitchen table to £3 million turnover, Lincoln-based The British Hamper Company is celebrating 10 years of business success as it gears up for its busiest Christmas and unveils plans to double its turnover by 2026.
The family-run business, which was founded in 2014 from a gazebo at the family home, was born from a shared enthusiasm for great food, British individuality and a love of gift giving.
After a decade of business growth, it has marked its landmark year with a number of major milestones including a branding overhaul, the launch of its products into wholesale, expansion of its Lincolnshire premises and growth of its senior team.
The business is now preparing to fulfil more than 2,000 orders a day over the Christmas period, with the creation of 30 additional seasonal jobs.
This year The British Hamper Company has rolled out an ambitious growth strategy as it forecasts a £6 million turnover by 2026.
Central to this growth is the launch of a wholesale product range, which will see its artisan food and drink products, including Cornish Fudge, All Butter Cheddar Biscuits, Lemon Butter Shortbread, Raspberry Zing Jam, fine teas, and handcrafted sweets, sold in gourmet food stores across the UK and rest of world for the first time.
To meet growing demand from consumers, corporate gifting clients and its growth into the wholesale market, this year the business has significantly expanded its Lincoln-based warehouse facilities. The investment into its premises has increased its storage capacity by 36%, bringing the total operational area to approximately 15,000 square feet.
With 35% of its orders being sent to recipients overseas, The British Hamper Company has also opened a European distribution hub in the Netherlands to streamline its distribution to global markets and to help support its global growth ambitions.
The business has been further bolstered with the appointment of three new senior positions including an Export Sales Manager, National Wholesale Account Manager and Marketing Manager, taking the total number of permanent employees to 20.
With a commitment to supporting the local community, 2024 saw the business form a partnership with Lincoln City Football Club.
“Celebrating 10 years of The British Hamper Company is an incredible milestone for us as a family and as a business,” says Alice Tod, Sales Director of the Lincoln-based business.
“This year has been particularly transformative, from unveiling a refreshed brand identity to launching our wholesale range – we’re immensely proud of how far we’ve come. It all started from humble beginnings in a gazebo at our family home, we are now proud to be a multimillion pound business at the heart of the luxury gifting market.
“Throughout this journey, our Lincolnshire roots have been a constant source of inspiration and pride.”
James Tod, Managing Director, continued: “Lincolnshire has provided us with a strong foundation to grow, from the talented local workforce to the support of the community that has championed us every step of the way.
“This year, we’ve expanded our premises to meet rising demand, creating more jobs and investing in our future, all while staying true to our local heritage. Our new partnership with Lincoln City Football Club is a further example of how we’re staying connected to the region that means so much to us.
“As we reach the end of our anniversary year and prepare for our busiest Christmas yet, we remain committed to delivering exceptional gifts that showcase the very best of British craftsmanship and quality. We’re excited about what the future holds and look forward to sharing this next chapter with our loyal customers and partners.”
Image: Left to right from the British Hamper Company are Mike Tod, co-founder and chairman; James Tod, Managing Director; Alice Tod, Sales Director and Dmitry Timofeev, Operations Director
Air & Space Institute hosts Red Arrows pilot
Air displays, flybys and international travel were just some of the topics covered as the Air & Space Institute in Newark hosted Flight Lieutenant Ollie Suckling, otherwise known as Red 9 from the Red Arrows this week.
Talking to around 200 students, Ollie gave an overview of the recent activity that the RAF display team have been involved with, including a recent visit to Canada to perform with the Canadian Air Force team, the Snowbirds.
Ollie also gave students an insight into how he was selected for the Red Arrows. He said: “As well as always wanting to be a Red Arrow from growing up, I knew I had to get experience. I was a member of the Air Cadets at school but at university I found the University Air Squadron really made me come out of my shell.”
Joining the RAF in 2007, Ollie completed basic fast jet training on the Tucano before moving to RAF Valley to complete advanced flying training on the Hawk T1.
Ollie was then selected to fly the Tornado GR4 and on completion of the Operational Conversion Unit was posted to 31 Squadron at RAF Marham.
During his time on the Tornado, Ollie completed multiple tours, including in Afghanistan, and deployed in support of Coalition operations as well as multinational exercises worldwide. In 2017 he was posted to XXV(F) Squadron at RAF Valley as a qualified flying instructor, teaching future fast-jet pilots the skills required to progress to the frontline.
In 2021, Ollie moved back to RAF Marham to undertake a ground role in the F35 Integrated Training Centre. Ollie joined the Red Arrows for the 2023 season.
As well as running through this history, Ollie gave students an idea of how Red Arrows are selected, including the rigourous tests and interview processes every member of the team has to complete.
Ollie also added: “One of the reasons we come and speak to learners is to really emphasise the importance of STEM subjects. Knowledge of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths really does serve you well in a career in the air force and the variety of opportunities available really is unmatched.”
Head of Newark Campuses, Penny Taylor MBE, said: “We have had several of the Red Arrows come to speak to our learners in the past but it always impresses on students just what is possible when it comes to a career in the industry.
“It also shows the level of dedication needed from the start so I’m sure many present today will take this as inspirational. Ollie fielded many intelligent questions from the audience today and I was impressed with how engaged they were, it clearly shows the value of our enrichment programme here at the ASI in Newark.”
Ollie followed his talk with a tour of the ASI’s facilities, including the workshops, converted A320 Neo training aircraft and flying simulators.
