Double your donation to Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance in The Big Give Christmas Challenge 2024
Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) is taking part in The Big Give Christmas Challenge to raise £90,000 in just one week!
The charity needs to raise £45,000 in online donations to secure a match pot that will double the amount raised to make £90,000. All donations will support LNAA’s life-saving work, 24-hours-a-day, every day of the year.
From 3-10 December all donations will be doubled.
Money raised could go towards helping people like Malc who ended up lying in a ditch fighting for his life.
The Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance crew were soon by his side, giving life-saving treatments where he lay. He had suffered multiple traumatic injuries, and his survival was uncertain.
Malc had numerous broken bones including his pelvis, spine and ribs. He had open fractures to his right leg, a shoulder injury, soft tissue damage and had internal bleeding.
When the crew had lifted him onto level ground, they stabilised his pelvis and placed traction splints on both legs to reduce blood loss and provide protection. LNAA Dr Jake performed life-saving surgery at the roadside and Malc received three blood transfusions as Jake and paramedic Danielle fought to save his life.
Once stable Malc was airlifted to the Major Trauma Unit at Nottingham’s Queen’s Medical Centre, where a surgical team were waiting to operate on him.
Malc said: “Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance is a team of wonderful people who go out and save lives at the roadside. I’ve needed that service; I’ve used that service and what a service it is.”
Malc is still recovering from his injuries and life is very different for him, his wife, Kirsty and his nine-year-old son, Teddy. It is a slow healing process, but his legs are gradually getting stronger.
Head of Community, Corporate and Events Fundraising, Rachel Wilson said: “It’s patients like Malc who need the care only our crew can provide – and quickly. He was potentially one of four patients that day, our daily mission average, to which the crew took the equivalent of an Emergency Department.
“Whether at the beachside, on the roadside or in the countryside, our crews respond to emergencies of the most serious kind, providing medical interventions that can mean the difference between life and death.
“Patients like Malc get the best care possible only because of the support we receive from people across Lincs & Notts and beyond.
“Donations to our Christmas Challenge will be generously matched by our campaign pledgers including the Pilgrim Trust and our Community Champion The Reed Foundation, meaning your donation will have twice the impact!
“But in order to access the £45,000 we have in the matching pot, we need to raise £45,000 in online donations. We hope everyone will give generously this year to help us reach our target and enable us to help keep our iconic helicopter flying and our critical care cars operational 24/7 as we move into the busy winter months.”
How can you get involved?
Visit https://www.ambucopter.org.uk/BigGive and make a donation from 12pm (midday) on #GivingTuesday (Tuesday, 3rd December). The campaign will close at 12pm on Tuesday, 10th December.
Staff feel more secure as Lincolnshire Coop invests £200,000 in body cameras
Lincolnshire Coop is investing £200k in body cameras to help protect staff at all of its 99 food stores and 44 pharmacies.
The cameras are being supplied after a successful trial at four locations, including Birchwood Pharmacy in Lincoln’s Jasmin Road. Pharmacy Service Assistant Minnie Grainger said the body cameras increased the team’s sense of security.
“You can see customers taking notice of the body cameras and any that were thinking about getting abusive thought twice about it after seeing them. It helps both colleagues and our other customers enjoy the safety that we all deserve,” she said.
“We have so many regulars that come in and bring a smile to our faces, and it really is a minority who act in an abusive way but it’s good to have the cameras to give us extra security.”
At Sincil Street Food Store in the centre of Lincoln Manager Sarah Hutt said the cameras were a welcome addition to the other security measures they have in store. “It makes us feel more confident as we know the body cameras may help defuse incidents,” she said. “We enjoy working in retail and providing the best service we can to our customers but the impact of those who act in an unacceptable way can make the job difficult for myself and the team. We’re grateful to our regulars and all the other customers who use our store and treat us with respect and kindness.”
The company’s Security Manager Mark Foulds said: “We have had positive feedback from four trial sites with colleagues telling us the body cameras helped them to feel more confident and secure.
“The cameras are front-facing so show the customer what the colleague sees, which we believe may help with de-escalating incidents or make people think twice about what they are doing and how they are treating our colleagues.
“They also record both video and audio which we can share with relevant authorities when we believe a crime has taken place.”
Mr Foulds said that incidents vary and can include abusive and foul language, threats against colleagues or their families and in some cases, physical attacks.
“The vast majority of our customers are polite and respectful, but there are a minority whose actions are unacceptable,” he said. “This not only impacts on our colleagues – who are simply trying to provide the best service they can to our communities – but it can also impact on our other customers, who can find these incidents distressing and who don’t want to see our colleagues treated in that way.”
Mr Foulds said that age-related sales refusals and shoplifting are two particular flashpoints.
“Our teams have a responsibility to enforce the legal requirements around age-related sales for products like cigarettes, vapes and alcohol but regularly face abuse and threats from customers when asked for ID, or when a sale is refused,” he said. “We have also seen a 37% rise in shoplifting in the past year, which is another trigger.”
The society, which operates in Lincolnshire, North Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, and surrounding counties, has seen a 245% increase in incidents of threats and abuse to colleagues in the past five years. In the last year, there has been 127 incidents reported in food stores and 23 in pharmacies. There are a range of other security measures in place in Lincolnshire Co-op outlets. These include security guards in some locations, CCTV monitored by central service desk, and personal attack alarms.
Nettleham residents box clever to create micro visitor centre
Volunteers in Nettleham have converted a telephone box into a tiny information hub after it had stood unused and forlorn for ten years.
Parish councillor and Nettleham resident Andrew Simpson, a member of the Nettleham Conservation Area Working Group, said: “With the phone box being out of use and derelict, we wanted to do something with it to refurbish it and bring it back into use somehow.
“It was suggested we turn it into a book exchange, but with some in the village already I did a bit of research and came across a village in Norfolk that had turned their phone box into a visitor centre, so that’s where the idea came from.”
Supported by West Lindsey District Council and Nettleham Parish Council, the phone box contains the original telephone, with an information board on the history of the iconic kiosk. There are also free information leaflets, including a guide for a walk around the village, written by 97-year-old Pearl Wheatley, a member of the volunteer group and local resident.
Pearl said: “I was approached to be part of the project because I have some local knowledge. I’ve enjoyed working on the walk and I think the phone box looks really good and hopefully will get used and be of interest to more and more people.”
Faye Pudney, Visitor Economy Officer at West Lindsey District Council, said: “We’re delighted to support Nettleham’s charming micro visitor centre by providing a variety of leaflets showcasing what is available throughout the district.
“We aim to highlight the hidden gems beyond Lincoln, encouraging both visitors and locals to discover the rich offerings of Lincolnshire. By exploring more, staying longer, and enjoying all that the area has to offer, we hope to boost our local economy and create memorable experiences.”
The phone box has been painted the original iconic ‘currant red’, thanks to Andrew scouring the country for the right paint, and is now looking as new as it was when it was first installed in the village.
He said: “The original plan was to just do something to restore the phone box, so having seen it transformed into an information centre is a great outcome and we hope it will be used for many years to come.”
Work starts to bring 393 new homes to Sleaford
Bellway East Midlands has started construction work on two new developments at Handley Chase in Sleaford.
Detailed plans for 393 homes within the new neighbourhood taking shape on the southern edge of the town were approved by North Kesteven District Council earlier this year.
Bellway is building 204 homes at Quarrington Edge at Handley Chase, while Ashberry Homes – part of the Bellway Group – is building 189 homes at neighbouring Daedalus Park at Handley Chase. 31 of the homes will be provided as affordable homes for local people, available through low-cost rent or shared ownership.
Steve Smith, Sales Director for Bellway East Midlands, said: “With work now underway on these two developments, which will bring nearly 400 much-needed new homes to Sleaford, we are looking forward to releasing the first homes for sale in March.
“The mix of two, three and four-bedroom homes across the two developments has been carefully designed to provide the types of properties needed within the local area, while the affordable housing will give local people the opportunity to secure a high-quality place to live within the local community.
“The new homes will be energy-efficient and feature solar PV panels and electric vehicle charging points. The properties will also benefit from Google Nest technology, with a smart thermostat to help people reduce their energy bills.”
The two developments are part of the wider Handley Chase neighbourhood. Outline plans for 1,450 homes, a primary school, care home, local centre, public open space, sports pitches and allotments were approved in 2015, with work already underway on other land parcels within the scheme.
Steve said: “We are proud to be part of the wider Handley Chase project which will not only deliver new homes to Sleaford but will also bring with it a host of new community facilities which will benefit the town as whole.
“Our two developments – which lie to the east of Stumps Cross Hill and comprise the southernmost parcels of the Handley Chase scheme – will also feature green landscaping designed to ensure they will blend in with the surrounding natural environment.
“We will retain existing trees and hedgerows wherever possible and carry out a new planting programme, creating ponds within the public open space and new habitats for local wildlife.”
Image credit: Bellway
No night is silent for LIVES: raising awareness of cardiac arrests and CPR this Christmas
When a cardiac arrest strikes, it can happen anytime, anywhere, and to anyone. In those critical moments, swift action can mean the difference between life and death.
Tragically, fewer than 1 in 10 people survive a cardiac arrest that happens outside of a hospital. This is why raising awareness of CPR and community response is so vital—and why Lincolnshire-based charity LIVES is on a mission to make its communities safer.
Last December alone, LIVES volunteers responded to over 200 medical emergencies across Lincolnshire, with 16 of these calls involving children. On Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day, LIVES responders attended 16 patients, providing critical care in situations ranging from cardiac arrests to breathing difficulties.
CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is a life-saving skill that anyone can learn. It buys precious time, keeping blood and oxygen flowing to vital organs until professional help arrives. When paired with the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), it can significantly improve the chances of survival for cardiac arrest victims.
In rural areas like Lincolnshire, where ambulance response times can be longer due to distance, organisations like LIVES play a crucial role in bridging the gap. LIVES volunteers are trained Community First Responders who attend 999 calls, often arriving within minutes to begin life-saving care.
LIVES recently released a short film, “No Night Is Silent,” to illustrate the vital role of community first responders. The film tells the story of a young girl who suffers a sudden cardiac arrest on Christmas Day. A LIVES responder answers the 999 call and performs CPR and defibrillation, giving her a chance at survival.
Watch and Vote in The Smiley Charity Film Awards here – https://www.lives.org.uk/no-night-is-silent/
“This Christmas, we want to remind everyone how important it is to be prepared,” says Max Imbornone, Senior Communications and Engagement Officer at LIVES. “The ability to perform CPR and use a defibrillator can save lives. Our volunteers work tirelessly year-round to make Lincolnshire a safer place, and their dedication is especially evident over the festive season. Emergencies don’t stop for Christmas.”
This festive season, LIVES encourages everyone to take a moment to learn or refresh their CPR skills. If you’ve ever wondered how to help in a life-threatening emergency, now is the time to act. Knowing what to do could save a loved one’s life.
To support LIVES or learn more about their life-saving work, visit their website. Together, we can create safer communities and give every patient the chance they deserve—because no night should be silent when someone’s life is at stake.
Freemasons’ donation supports riding lessons for disabled children
The Fenland Group of the Riding for the Disabled Association has been supported in its mission to give riding lessons to disabled children thanks to a donation of £500 from Freemasons of the Alexandra Lodge at Long Sutton.
More than 40 years of commitment by volunteers and donors have meant the charity has taught more than 1,000 children to ride, says the Group’s Chair Paul Brett. “The group is not a riding school. We do not own our own ponies or facilities, and everything we do is enabled by the generosity of our volunteers and supporters. Over the past 40 years the group has taught well in excess of 1,000 children to ride, and this donation will help the group to continue to provide the children with their riding sessions. We are extremely grateful to member of the Alexandra Lodge for their generosity.”
The Fenland Group of the RDA was created in 1981 by Elizabeth Dixon-Spain and Jane Carter, who wanted to give disabled children the opportunity to share in the joy of riding. The group gives children from The Tulip Academy in Spalding free riding lessons each week during the spring, summer and autumn terms.
From those early days Liz and many others are still very actively involved with the group more than 40 years later. The group is a registered charity, and relies solely on its volunteers and donations to keep running. Currently there are about 30 volunteers who regularly give up their Wednesday mornings to help, and some of them also bring their ponies for the children to ride.
In the picture Alexandra Lodge Master Richard Diggle and his predecessor Chris Woodrow presented the cheque to Paul Brett watched by founder Liz Dixon-Spain and volunteers Andrea Brett, Sara Woodrow, Ginny Gray, Fiona Ralling, and Jane Goodger – together with ponies Cashew and Molly.
The Freemasons’ Provincial Charity Steward Paul Ellis said: “There are 76 Freemasons’ Lodges in Lincolnshire, each of which gives £500 to the good cause of its choice from a central ‘pot’ called the New Provincial Benevolent Fund, meaning £38,000 is given every year to enhance the quality of life in our communities.”
Hands off Grimsby’s Post Office, council urges Government
Plans to close Grimsby’s Post Office as part of the list of 115 directly owned branches being considered for potential closure, the Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Councillor Philip Jackson, has written directly to the Government’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade to ask for his support to keep it open.
“This is something that we feel really strongly about, and wanted to get to the highest authorities as soon as possible,” said Cllr Jackson.
“Along with significant funding from the Government and other agencies, along with work being done by our partners, we are in the midst of delivering a once in a generation town centre regeneration programme.
“The Post Office is at heart of Grimsby town centre, and our plans, and those of our partners, particularly for Freshney Place and the Community Diagnostics Centre within it and the housing development at Garth Lane, will bring significant additional footfall to the town centre in the coming years.
“To consider closure of the Post Office at this point would be a damaging and backwards step, particularly when our residents are starting to see visible signs of positive and impactful change on the high street.
“We will continue to petition Government to keep the Post Office open in the town centre, to try to make sure that we keep the best facilities here for our residents and businesses.”
One week to go: Lincolnshire Food & Gift is almost here!
The countdown is on! With just one week until the Lincolnshire Food & Gift Fair returns to the Lincolnshire Showground, excitement is building as exhibitors, and organisers of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society make their final preparations for one of the region’s most beloved annual events.
Taking place on Saturday 30th November and Sunday 1st December, the fair promises to be a festive extravaganza filled with delicious local food, unique gifts, and holiday cheer.
Hundreds of exhibitors from across Lincolnshire and beyond will come together to showcase the very best of handmade crafts, gourmet treats, and seasonal delights, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
“Lincolnshire Food & Gift is one of our favourite events of the year,” says Verity Newcombe, Head of Communications at the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the talent and creativity of local businesses while giving visitors the chance to get into the festive spirit and find something truly special.”
Among the exhibitors gearing up for next weekend is Cheesy Pig, a Lincolnshire-based business known for its indulgent handmade cheesy treats. They’ve been part of the fair for several years and are thrilled to return in 2024.
“We love Lincolnshire Food & Gift – it’s such a fun, festive event,” says the team at Cheesy Pig. “Our favourite part is seeing customers enjoy our products and hearing their feedback. The Showground is always buzzing with festive cheer, and we can’t wait to be part of it again this year!
“We’ve been busy preparing and can’t wait to meet new and returning customers and introduce our Christmas special ‘The Crimbo’ to this year’s menu.”
This year’s fair will also feature:
- Live demonstrations from local chefs and craft experts.
- Children’s Christmas Workshops for little ones to create their own festive masterpieces.
- Plenty of festive food and drink, with hot chocolate, mulled wine, and seasonal dishes to enjoy.
- Storytime With Father Christmas – Children can visit Santa’s magical lounge, where he’ll read one of his favourite festive stories. Each child will receive a small gift and enjoy a glass of milk and a cookie while listening to Santa read. There will also be a chance to have a photo taken with Santa to capture this magical moment.
St Mary’s Street in Stamford named number one UK high street for independent shops
St Mary’s Street in Stamford has been named the number one UK high street for independent shops.
The AmEx study, with retail experts GlobalData, showcases small businesses and the valuable role they play in their community.
Bustling St Mary’s Street scored highly across all the factors and delivering a unique experience for shoppers.
Britain’s top high street hotspots for independent shops:
- St Mary’s Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire
- Devonshire Street / Division Street, Sheffield, Yorkshire
- Gloucester Road, Bristol
- Market Street / Bridge Gate, Hebden Bridge, Yorkshire
- Stoke Newington Church Street, Hackney, London
- High Street, Narberth, Pembrokeshire
- Oldham Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester
- Bailgate, Lincoln, Lincolnshire
- Byres Road, Glasgow
- The Lanes, Norwich, Norfolk
Lincoln’s Bomber Command Centre in for two Tourism Excellence Awards
Lincoln’s International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC) has been shortlisted for two Tourism Excellence Awards.
The centre has been nominated for its accessible and inclusive tourism approach, and in the ethical, responsible, and sustainable tourism category in the regional awards run by Destination Lincolnshire and Discover Rutland.
The IBCC has welcomed more than 550,000 visitors from more than 54 countries since opening in 2018, despite COVID closures, contributing an economic impact locally of over £30 million.
Visitors to its iconic memorial Spire and surrounding ‘Walls of Names’ can learn more about the hidden history of Bomber Command. The walls are etched with the names of the nearly 58,000 men and women who tragically died while serving or supporting Bomber Command during WWII.
The centre’s dedicated team offers guided tours and visitors can explore the exhibitions and gardens as well as stopping off at its locally sourced café.
Nicky van der Drift, chief executive of the IBCC, said: “It’s an honour to be shortlisted for these awards and placed in such great company. It’s a testament to the hard work of the team of staff and volunteers bringing such enthusiasm to each day, determined to make everyone’s experience as enjoyable as possible during their time at the IBCC.
“History is for everyone, and so we pride ourselves on being as accessible as possible for everyone who wants to learn about the fascinating and sometimes controversial legacy of Bomber Command.
“Whether this is through our education offerings for families and children, or making sure our team is equipped to look after visitors with accessibility needs, our commitment to ensuring an interesting and rewarding time is what makes a trip here so special.
“We’ve got lots in store for 2025 already as we continue expanding and improving our offering. Winning these awards would be such an important accolade.”
The IBCC has an impressive collection of awards, including VisitEngland’s Gold International Tourism Award and Gold Accolade Award and TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice awards every year for four years, among many others for tourism, heritage, interpretation and education.
Additionally, in 2023 the centre won the VisitEngland Large Visitor Attraction Bronze Award, making it the third best in the country behind only Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, and Blenheim Palace.
Charlotte Goy, chief executive of Destination Lincolnshire, said: “Created to shine a light on businesses across the county, The Tourism Excellence Awards celebrate every aspect of the visitor economy – I’m thrilled to see so many fantastic businesses from across Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland shortlisted in this year’s celebration of tourism.
“Seeing applications come in from all areas of our LVEP region, and in numbers which have exceeded our previous years, I know the judging panel had their work cut out for them when it came to marking each submission. A heartfelt congratulations to everyone who made it onto the shortlist.
“I truly hope to see more of our incredible Lincolnshire businesses represented on the national stage at 2025’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.”
The award ceremony will take place at the Lincolnshire Showground on Friday, February 28th 2025, the winners of which will feed directly into the national Visit England Awards for Excellence.
New code system lets anyone report full or damaged bins
About three quarters of litter and dog bins in West Lindsey have now been fitted with QR codes to make it easier for people to report when they’re full or damaged.
The QR codes are on stickers and when fitted can be scanned directly from any mobile phone, allowing people to report directly back to the council.
Work started on fitting the QR codes to bins in July, and now 1,200 of the 1,950 have the stickers ready for scanning.
Councillor Ian Fleetwood, who originally raised the QR code idea at Full Council last year, said the scheme had proved popular among residents: “People have been very positive, and not just residents in my ward, but across the district. The responses have shown the QR codes are really making a difference.
“We are the authority responsible for waste and recycling across West Lindsey and any scheme like this only serves to make what the council does even more efficient.
“What’s so good about the scheme is that a resident can report a problem with a bin 24 hours a day, which helps make the whole process very efficient.”
Plans submitted for new mixed-use development in Boston
Boston Borough Council has submitted a planning application for the redevelopment of the Crown House site on the Rosegarth Square regeneration scheme.
Within these proposals the Council has also taken the opportunity to provide new public toilet facilities and to relocate the existing Changing Places facility. In addition, the council has also submitted demolition notices for both Crown House and the former B&M buildings, marking an important milestone in transforming this area of the town centre.
These plans follow in the footsteps of the recently approved planning consent for the proposed public realm works, which features new artwork, external social spaces, and a new entrance/drop-off area for the Len Medlock Centre. It will also include a sensory garden designed for quiet contemplation and reflection, as well as an amphitheatre-style seating area.
The Crown House proposal, subject to planning consent, would see a new mixed-use building featuring retail units on the ground floor and apartments on the remaining two storeys above. The scheme will also be enhanced with landscaping, parking and cycle storage to complement the overall Rosegarth Square masterplan.
The scheme aims to transform Rosegarth Square as a thriving community space. It will provide the opportunity for the retail units to offer outside dining as well as the wider area being used by family and friends to meet up and enjoy this part of the town.
The changes to the area will also enable quick and easy access to both the bus and train stations and become the gateway to the heart of Boston.
Councillor Anne Dorrian, Leader of Boston Borough Council, said: “The submission of the planning application is another major milestone in transforming this run-down part of town into an exciting new space for everyone.
“By integrating with the wider Rosegarth Square redevelopment, the proposal is expected to bring lasting benefits to Boston, improving the area’s visual appearance, accessibility, and community potential.
“It’s been a long-held aim of mine to be able to respond to resident’s concerns regarding the provision of public toilets so I am delighted that we are able to offer these improved facilities much nearer to the town centre.
“The plans reflect our commitment to bring a brighter future for our town and a place where Boston people, businesses and visitors can all be proud of.”
Investment in Australia and America sees international growth for Grimsby kids swimwear brand
Children’s swimwear brand Splash About has seen international growth in both Australia and the USA. The company, which is headquartered in Grimsby, has acquired its distribution partner Little Toggs in New South Wales, rebranding the business Splash About Australia Pty Limited, and for the first time the business has hired a team in the USA.
The move into both continents will accelerate relationships with infant swim schools, retailers and facilitate distribution as demand for product increases.
Commenting on the Australian acquisition, Lesley Beach, Joint Managing Director of Splash About International Ltd, said: “The potential for growth in Australia is huge with over 1.8 million children currently learning to swim. We had a strong presence in the market working closely with Little Toggs, but the infant swimwear and accessories market has grown exponentially.”
Lesley continued: “Demand for our Happy Nappy swim nappy has soared due to its technical design which prevents faecal leaks. Unwelcome leaks are bad for business; pools need to close for cleaning and lessons must be cancelled, which results in unnecessary and avoidable expense.
“Insisting on a reusable Happy Nappy to prevent these accidents is a simple, proven cost-effective option, saving operational costs and in turn increasing revenues.”
To facilitate demand, Splash About has invested in state-of-the-art warehouse facilities to quickly fulfil orders and maintain a high level of customer service. In Australia the business is based in New South Wales and will be spearheaded by Little Toggs founder Kylie Hadid and in America, Damien McDonnell is heading up business development in Texas.
In addition to swimwear and swim accessories, Splash About has devised a range of flexible Partnership Programmes to work with swim schools globally regardless of their size, which are aimed at helping them drive revenue, operate efficiently, and decrease costs without increasing prices.
New extension to special school brings additional places for Lincoln pupils
Pupils, staff and partners are celebrating the official opening of a new extension to St Christopher’s Special School in Lincoln.
The new block provides additional teaching spaces including eight classrooms, a food technology and social skills room, a hall and kitchen, small group rooms and calming spaces. There’s also a medical inspection room, hygiene facilities, and staff and meeting rooms.
In addition, the existing school has undergone remodelling work to provide two further classrooms and therapy spaces, such as sensory and physiotherapy. Outside, the school now has improved playing areas, a horticulture area and sensory garden.
Cllr Mrs Patricia Bradwell OBE, executive member for children’s services, said: “Combined with the new site for St Christopher’s primary-aged pupils, which opened last year, this project has created over 100 extra special school places for the city and surrounding area.
“Moving forward, the Hykeham Road site will now cater to St Christopher’s secondary-aged pupils. Staff and pupils have been in the new-and-improved school since the start of term, and the feedback has been very positive so far.
“This is the latest success resulting from our special school improvement project, which has seen over £100m invested to improve facilities and create over 500 additional places across the county. We’re now planning a second phase of improvements to build on that good work.”
Niall McCordick, head of school, added: “With an ever-growing demand for special need places, St Christopher’s are very excited about the opportunities the new build offers our students and the wider community.
“It is essential for both our families and young people to create opportunities which enable them to access high-quality, special education close to home.
“The excellent work being carried out across Lincolnshire special schools will enhance the future prospects of our children and young people, and we are very proud to be a part of this journey.
“LCC have been so supportive, and we have worked collaboratively with outside contractors to develop this very special resource which will serve the local community for years to come. We look forward to a brighter future!”
The new extension was a design and build contract carried out by Wates, using architecture services from Kier Design.
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Rawpixel.com Scout Group awarded £30,000 to renovate outdoor activity area
Andy Oliver from Goxhill and Barrow Scout Group, said: “Here at 1st Goxhill and Barrow Scout Group we give young people aged between 6 and 18 years, from all over the Ferry Ward of North Lincolnshire, the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities that engages and supports young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to their communities and society.
“The funding grant from North Lincolnshire Council will allow us to improve our outdoor activity area, which is an important building block in the redevelopment of our HQ facilities, helping to provide a safe and welcoming environment for all to enjoy.”
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Stockfotos-MG
The BIG Lincolnshire County Wedding Show returns to the Lincolnshire Showground this Sunday
The BIG Lincolnshire County Wedding Show is back at the Lincolnshire Showground THIS SUNDAY 24th November 11.00am-3.00pm with all the wedding inspiration you have ever dreamed of!
Bring your bride squad for the ultimate day of wedding planning; see premier wedding gown boutiques, award winning photographers, luxury wedding venues, formal wear to wow, mother of the bride and guest attire, wedding cakes that are works of art, and much much more!
Meet over 65 of the region’s greatest wedding suppliers and enjoy Fashion Shows at 12.00pm & 1.45pm, lots of goodies for couples, and free parking. And don’t forget to pick up a copy of Lincolnshire Today’s Wedding Guide! The event is the perfect day out for anyone in the midst of wedding planning.
Whether you have just started your wedding planning or only have a few things left to organise you can rest assured you are in the hands of experts as you will only see trusted wedding suppliers dedicated to doing what they do best. Your dream wedding can become reality!
Limited FREE tickets are available online at www.cupidsweddingshows.com – or £4 on the day with no pre booked ticket.
Wrestling raises over £2,000 for Lincolnshire hospitals charity
The Fight Factory Wrestling UK visited the Oncology Department at Lincoln County Hospital to present a cheque for £2,185, raised through their Bodyslams to Cancer event.
The live professional wrestling event took place in October in North Hykeham and marked the 11th consecutive year that the Fight Factory UK team has fundraised for Lincolnshire causes. This year, they raised over £4,000, which was split between Sophie’s Journey and United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity.
Bodyslams to Cancer has a long-standing tradition of supporting cancer charities that aid the people of Lincolnshire. The event is always held in October to align with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This year’s show featured several title bouts and a 30-person rumble at the end of the show.
The annual charity show began as a heartfelt memorial to Dee Mansell, who sadly passed away after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Dee was the mother of Hayden Loeve, one of the dedicated wrestlers involved in Bodyslams. Unfortunately, she never got to see her son wrestle. Dee was due to attend an event while undergoing chemotherapy, but the disease took her away before the wrestling event took place.
Over the years, Bodyslams to Cancer has grown in both size and impact, consistently raising funds and awareness for cancer-related causes.
Hayden and his wife Rebecca, owners of The Fight Factory Wrestling UK, met the oncology team and United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity team at Lincoln County Hospital to present the cheque. Rebecca said: “It really means a lot to us that the memory of Hayden’s mum continues and every year it helps us to raise vital funding for Lincolnshire charities supporting people living with cancer and their families.
“Many of the wrestlers taking part in Bodyslams have their own personal reasons for competing, honouring their loved ones who are affected by cancer or who sadly passed away. Because all wrestlers and crew kindly donate their wages to the cause, it helps us to raise as much money as possible for our chosen charities each year.”
Gary Burr, Charity Fundraiser, United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity, said: “We are immensely grateful to Rebecca and Hayden for choosing to donate half of the proceeds from this year’s event to the Lincoln Oncology Department. It’s thanks to their dedication that Bodyslams to Cancer has been such a success, and the money our charity receives will make a real difference to patients undergoing treatment for cancer and their carers.”
Image credit: United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust
West Lindsey firms encouraged to apply for training grants
Businesses throughout the West Lindsey area of Lincolnshire are being encouraged to apply for Workforce Development Grants to help upskill employees.
In a scheme due to end on 31st December, eligible organisations can apply for up to 100% towards full cost technical and vocational training courses which improve skills and help boost productivity.
Cllr Trevor Young, Leader of West Lindsey District Council, has urged employers not to miss out on the funding.
He said: “Small and medium sized businesses are the life blood of the district and provide a lot of local employment. Upskilling will help organisations strengthen their existing workforce, fill new positions, and enable them to remain competitive.”
Plum Products Ltd, a family-owned, Queen’s Award-winning business, are among those to have benefitted from the Workforce Development Grant.
Based at Ingham near Lincoln, they are a supplier of quality active play equipment that is sold in 60 different countries.
MD Paul Schaffer said: “Our success is a combination of building a strong product brand and investing in the skills of our workforce. The grant has helped us develop staff that are critical to the growth plans for our business.”
Amanda Bouttell, who administers the scheme for the Council, said help and support is available for organisations that wish to apply. “In the first instance, organisations need to check if they’re eligible. There is then a simple application process and the team are on hand, ready to help with advice and guidance on how to complete this. We have several organisations that have successfully received this funding.”
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Stockfotos-MG
Fire crews to hold festive fundraising events
Fire crews across Lincolnshire will be holding a whole host of Christmas events in their communities.
Raising money for the Fire Fighters Charity and other good causes, the events are often a highlight of the festive season for many towns and villages.
Many crews will be taking Santa on the road with a sleigh tour around the local area, while other fire stations will be opening the doors to locals with a warm festive welcome.
Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, executive councillor for Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, said: “Our fire crews are an important part of their local community and Christmas events offer a great way to engage with people and spread the Christmas cheer.
“Last year was a record-breaking fundraising year for Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue with more than £88,000 raised for the Fire Fighters Charity- smashing the £80,000 target. This wouldn’t have been possible without the amazing generosity of Lincolnshire residents and our crews going over and above their day jobs.”
Some of the events being held in Lincolnshire are:
Image credit: Lincolnshire County Council - 3, 10 and 17 December – Skegness fire station sleigh parade from 4pm
- 5 December – Christmas carol service at Waddington fire station with the LFR Band from 7.30pm
- 7 December – Brew with the Crew at Bourne fire station from 11am until 4pm
- 7 and 14 December – Christmas Grotto at Skegness fire station 4pm until 8pm
- 14 and 15 December – Saxilby Christmas street collection from 4.30pm
- 14 December – Billinghay Santa Sleigh visits Martin, Timberland and Walcott from 4.30pm
- 15 December – Billinghay Santa Sleigh visits Billinghay Co-Op at 5pm
- 16 December – Billinghay Santa Sleigh visits Tattershall Bridge, South Kyme and North Kyme from 5pm
- 18 December – Santa’s Grotto at Market Deeping fire station
New farming forum elects chair
The county’s new agriculture and horticulture forum has now elected a chair – Crowland-based farmer and farm consultant, Matt Riddington.
The group’s first meeting since its formation decided on the group’s priorities for the first year, and discussed national and local emerging issues in the sector.
Matt Riddington, said: “The forum will be crucial in providing a collective regional voice from local farming and rural stakeholders, feeding into the national Rural and Farming Network. We will be identifying issues, concerns, and good practice we want to promote to government.
“Farming is facing multiple challenges but is also adapting and innovating to address these. The forum is a place to look at what is being done, and what needs to be done, in Greater Lincolnshire. We need to have a sustainable and profitable industry that inspires young people to want to be part of, into the future.”
The Greater Lincolnshire Forum For Agriculture and Horticulture (GLFFAH) is comprised of a diverse range of members with representatives from farms of all sizes, sector bodies, training organisations and support services.
Cllr Colin Davie, executive councillor for economy, environment and planning at the county council, said: “This forum provides a vital mouthpiece for our agriculture and horticulture industries in raising county issues at a national level and in supporting the sector with recommendations and action.
“The county council is committed to supporting those in the farming sector, who are facing ongoing battles as well as new pressures.”
The priorities for the forum in the short term are to look at issues around:
Image: Stock.adobe.com/Springfield Gallery - skills, workforce and training
- planning and land use – conflicts and demands
- succession in farming businesses
- soils and water management
- environment and carbon credits uncertainty
- regulations and tax
