Surplus defibrillators to help save lives in Ukraine

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Surplus defibrillators to help save lives in Ukraine
Five defibrillators, surplus to requirements at South Kesteven District Council buildings, are on their way to help save lives in Ukraine. They are fully functional and needed in Ukraine, where a long-running conflict with Russia means that many goods and services are hard to get hold of. The exact destination is not yet known as it may change due to developments in the military campaign. Bernard Wood, from Generate – a Stamford-based humanitarian aid project for Ukraine – said: “Winter will be very hard for many in Ukraine so it’s an ideal time to take them out there with other donations this autumn. “Generate is a humanitarian aid project created to raise funds and donations of hardware for the benefit of those caught in the Ukraine conflict. I must thank the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain (AUGB) for endorsing the project; it felt like a milestone – and a responsibility too. “The current initiative is to contact individuals, businesses and organisations that may have surplus tools and equipment, in the hope that these could be donated to our project. Generate also purchases aid inside Ukraine, with donated funds. “We have raised around £1,500 through direct donations and via GoFundMe. We’ve also accepted and shipped hardware donations worth another £3,500 when new, with another £3,500 worth waiting to be transported. The most important criteria is that donations be in good, safe, fully usable condition, although we’ve also accepted generators with minor mechanical faults; engineers in Ukraine will be able to service them.” SKDC hosts 20 defibrillators across the district; some in place at sheltered accommodation, as well as at its arts centres, offices, parks and other locations. Cabinet Member for Property Councillor Richard Cleaver said: “The donated defibs are fully operational and rescue-ready, and although in this country the advice is to replace them when they reach a certain age, we didn’t want to throw them away. This option puts them to very good use.”   Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/haidamac

Boston prepares for Christmas Festival

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Boston prepares for Christmas Festival
On Friday 29th November, Bargate Green Car Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland, featuring attractions for the whole family to enjoy. The highlight will be an ice-skating experience with a synthetic ice rink – new for 2024 -alongside several traditional fairground rides, framed by the newly illuminated Christmas lights introduced in 2023. The ice rink will be open for skating throughout the weekend, with its official launch on Friday 29th November to kick off the Boston Christmas Festival of 2024 running through to 6pm on Sunday 1st December 2024. The Christmas Festival again will bring Traditional Christmas market food and drinks, including mulled wine and Bratwurst sausages, as well as the traditional hog roast, cakes and pastries, and many other items. The Market will also feature a “fabulous selection” of stalls selling Christmas gingerbread, handmade wooden items, jewellery and Christmas ornaments and decorations, as well as pet items from The Little Blue Pupcakery. Meanwhile, a number of community acts, local bands, talent shows, and much more will bring the entertainment for the 3-day festival. Councillor Dale Broughton, Portfolio Holder for Town Centre inc events, who helped bring the market idea to life, said: “So many people we have talked to have expressed their support from the return of Boston Christmas in 2023. “So for 2024 we needed to come back with something different and what better than an ice skating experience! Bringing 3-days of entertainment to our residents and visitors to start the festivities off for 2024 is a priority for us.”   Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/luckybusiness

Multimillion pound investment to transform local places in East Lindsey

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Multimillion pound investment to transform local places in East Lindsey

East Lindsey District Council has announced a £10m fund for investment in the local area. Aimed to be transformative, the fund will prioritise investment in four distinct target areas: community development, promoting the visitor economy, business support and to boost the attractiveness of the area.

A key part of the East Lindsey Investment Fund is about making the district’s places more welcoming through initiatives that help improve cleanliness, safety, promote tidy and attractive shop fronts, and enhance parks, gardens and public spaces. This would help to attract more people to visit the Lincolnshire Wolds and coastal areas and spend money in local shops, pubs and restaurants, supporting local businesses. To do this, the council is looking to support more events and festivals that will attract thousands more people to East Lindsey. It is anticipated that a co-ordinated programme of promotion will help raise awareness about the district’s amazing towns, villages and parishes to people from across the country, attracting them to visit and invest in the area. There is also investment prioritised for businesses, which could support the creation or expansion of employment sites, help them get the skilled support they need or encourage progress on green or environmental projects. The council wants to engage with the business community more closely to enable growth of the district’s existing economy and also attract new organisations to the area, with a view to growing the number of jobs available to residents. Community development is another fundamental aspect of the programme, which is committed to ensuring that local voluntary and community groups are supported through funding to address themes and initiatives that are close to the hearts of residents. Councillor Craig Leyland, leader of East Lindsey District Council, said: “This is an incredible opportunity to create the East Lindsey Investment Fund, and I am looking forward to hearing the community’s project ideas. We are in a fortunate position, that very few councils are, to support these bold investment opportunities and bring about the change that people want to see. “We want to be ambitious for all our communities and businesses, and we know that there are some phenomenal ideas and a desire to make things happen coming from across our district. I hope that this new fund will build on our recent national funding successes and allow an even greater number of these community devised and led projects to become a reality, continuing to help make East Lindsey a great place to live, work or visit.” Following its approval the final details of the fund are currently being put in place.
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Stockfotos-MG

Open House at Kirkstead Bridge Park showcases the perfect place to enjoy your retirement years

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Open House at Kirkstead Bridge Park showcases the perfect place to enjoy your retirement years
Are you looking for the perfect retirement living community in Lincolnshire? Look no further thank Kirkstead Bridge Park, where a fabulous, fully furnished, 1-bedroom home is available for viewing and immediate occupation for £145,000. Ideal for anyone looking to downsize and enjoy the benefits of living in a low maintenance, single storey home, this is the last home on the park and the last chance to join the warm and welcoming community. Situated just outside the Edwardian town of Woodhall Spa, Kirkstead Bridge Park offers the ideal location for those over 45 looking to enjoy a new lifestyle. With the town’s amenities and attractions only a short drive away residents can enjoy the convenience of town life while being able to retreat to the peaceful and close-knit community on the park. Kirkstead Bridge really is the perfect place to settle down and enjoy your retirement years. Tingdene Parks would like to invite you to take a tour of the home and experience the benefits of park home living at Kirkstead Bridge Park, on Wednesday 9th October between 10am – 3pm. Their friendly team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and give you a tour of the park. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to fall in love with park home living this autumn. To find out more please call 01933 427815 or simply just turn up on the day. Full address: Kirkstead Bridge Park, Churchill Drive, Martin Dales, Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, LN10 6XX. Website: https://tingdene-parks.net/parks/12-months-residential-homes-plots-for-sale/in-lincolnshire/kirkstead-bridge/

Humber Forest plants a quarter million trees

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Humber Forest plants a quarter million trees
Humber Forest has planted a record number of trees in the last twelve months, with 238,000 trees planted across Hull, East Yorkshire, and Northern Lincolnshire. Since the project began, three years ago, 400,000 trees have been planted across the region. Humber Forest, supported by Defra, is the community forest for Hull, East Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire, one of 15 community forests across England and part of the larger Northern Forest that stretches from Liverpool to the Yorkshire Coast. East Riding of Yorkshire Council is the accountable body for the Humber Forest. The project provides grants to cover up to 100 per cent funding for planting as well as at least five years maintenance for farmers, landowners, businesses, and communities to plant hedgerows or trees on their land. These trees can play a vital role in reducing soil erosion and flooding, improving air quality, creating habitats for wildlife, and improving community spaces. In Winterton, Humber Forest supported the Winterton 2022 with 80 fruit trees for a community orchard and 450 woodland trees and a hedgerow to create an area that will benefit the local community and wildlife. Most trees are planted by Humber Forest delivery partners with the support of volunteers, including local residents. In Winterton, The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) assisted by volunteers from the local community and pupils from The Winterton Federation School and Winterton Academy helped to plant the trees. Kerri Prowting, Winterton 2022 co-ordinator, said: “Working with Humber Forest, North Lincolnshire Council and The Conservation Volunteers has allowed us to really kickstart the community orchard, which would have taken us a much longer time.” An Alkborough farmer approached Humber Forest to see if hedgerows could be planted to help wildlife recovery and improve the local environment. Planting took place over eight days across four sites. A total length of 2,006m of hedgerow was planted, consisting of 10,030 saplings and 122 standard trees. Beyond the benefits they bring to wildlife, the hedgerows will play an important role on the farmland, ensuring soils remain healthy, reducing the impact of drought and flooding. Councillor David Rose, cabinet member for Environment, said: “I fully support this initiative and am pleased North Lincolnshire Council is playing a full part in the establishment of the Humber Forest. “None of this would have been possible without the many farmers and landowners who have backed the Humber Forest and put their land forward for habitat creation and diversification, and we owe them a debt of thanks for that. “We all want to see more trees and hedgerows, it doesn’t just benefit wildlife but our whole community, while reaffirming our commitment to making North Lincolnshire a greener, more sustainable environment for future generations.” The Humber Forest team can fund large and small projects and are eager to hear from any landowners who are interested in planting trees or hedgerow on their land. They can be contacted at humber.forest@eastriding.gov.uk or visit www.humberforest.org Tree and hedgerow planting in the Humber Forest is supported with funding from the Trees for Climate and Northern Forest Grow Back Greener funds, which are part of the Defra Nature for Climate Fund and provide landowners with grants to cover up to 100 per cent of all woodland creation project costs.
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/gpointstudio

Planning application submitted in Boston for new Public Realm Area

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Planning application submitted in Boston for new Public Realm Area

The regeneration of a public realm area in Boston is a step closer with the submission of a planning application. This marks the first phase of the Rosegarth Square regeneration project, which was awarded £14.8 million in government funding.

The secured funding has allowed Boston Borough Council to look at revitalising, re-purposing and providing a new multi-functional public realm space with the aim of bettering lives and giving people pride in their communities. The area will be regenerated to become a gateway to the heart of Boston. The planning submission follows a public consultation earlier this year. A total of 345 residents participated in the consultation, alongside over 50 local businesses and stakeholders who attended in-person sessions. On social media, the consultation reached 30,808 followers, generating 2,730 engagements and 3,585 website clicks for more information. The feedback gathered during the consultation has played a key role in shaping the final designs, with the majority of feedback being that people want to see something that isn’t already present elsewhere in the town, things that can be used by all ages and abilities, vandal proof materials, interactive games, anything that encourages wellbeing of mind, other outdoor equipment, good signage and facilities that encourage healthy outdoor activities, walking etc, and natural exercise ideas. The planning application will now be assessed by planning officers and if approved the area will soon begin to be redeveloped for everyone to enjoy. This will include the relocation of the town’s iconic buoys to maintain the Heritage Trail’s prominence, a new sensory garden which can also be used as a quiet space for contemplation and reflection and new amphitheatre-style seating area. Councillor Anne Dorrian, Leader of Boston Borough Council, said: “The submission of the planning application is a major milestone in transforming this run-down part of town into an exciting new space for everyone. “The aim of this first phase of the project is to enhance connectivity within the town centre. We aim to create a new high quality public realm which will improve the experience for residents, businesses and visitors to this part of Boston, and encourage further inward investment opportunities.”  
Image Boston, Lincolnshire – credit: Stock.adobe.com/Tony

VE Day celebrations revealed at the International Bomber Command Centre

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VE Day celebrations revealed at the International Bomber Command Centre
On Thursday 8 May 2025 the nation will come together to remember the millions that paid the ultimate sacrifice fighting and securing the freedom we all enjoy today. From early morning when the sun rises to evening as night descends, church bells will ring out, special flags will be flown, town criers will proclaim the victory, the haunting sound of bagpipes will fill the air and, in a final gesture of homage, beacons and Lamp Lights of Peace will be lit to signify the light that emerged from the darkness of war. The International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC), near Lincoln, will be joining thousands of others wanting to remember and pay tribute to the brave men and women who took part in WWII, not only from our country, but other countries that fought side by side with us during the dreadful dark days of war. Nicky van der Drift OBE, chief executive of the IBCC, says to be able to play even a small part in paying tribute is humbling and a great honour. She says: “Since 2015, the IBCC has marked important national anniversaries with a beacon lighting, and the VE Day 80th is no exception. It gives us the opportunity not only to mark this key date in our history but also to focus on the sacrifice of the 57,861 men and women who lost their lives serving and supporting Bomber Command in World War 2. “We have a debt of gratitude to all those who served in our armed forces fighting to protect our freedoms.” Bruno Peek CVO OBE OPR Pageantmaster of VE DAY 80 said: “In order to celebrate the eighty years of peace and freedom given to us by the bravery and ultimate sacrifice of so many during WWII as a whole, hundreds of town criers will undertake the VE Day Proclamation at 8am. “Flags will be raised, Church Bells will be rung, and over one thousand Beacons and several hundred Lamp Lights of Peace will be lit at 9.30pm across the United Kingdom, Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and UK Overseas Territories on May 8, 2025, with the flames from the Beacons and Lamps representing the ‘light of peace’ that emerged from the darkness of war, and once lit for this occasion, the lamps can be re-lit again at 11am on Remembrance Sunday for many years to come in tribute to the many millions that sacrificed their lives during WWII.”

Gaining a global focus on Rutland Hall Hotel and the county of Rutland

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Gaining a global focus on Rutland Hall Hotel and the county of Rutland
Rutland Hall Hotel has announced its enhanced partnership, to full membership status, with Classic British Hotels, a curated collection of independent hotels. This collaboration will assist Rutland Hall in showcasing its unique resort and the county itself to an audience of discerning travellers worldwide. Jo White, Revenue Manager, Rutland Hall, said: “Becoming a full member of Classic British Hotels is a testament to our dedication to providing an unparalleled guest experience. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with Classic British Hotels to introduce Rutland Hall to a wider spectrum of travellers seeking luxury and refinement.” As a member of Classic British Hotels, Rutland Hall stands to benefit from the collective’s global market reach and expertise in strategic group initiatives. Guests can anticipate a range of exclusive offers, bespoke packages, and enticing promotions aimed at elevating their stay and crafting unforgettable memories. “The integration of Rutland Hall into our collection of hotels is a momentous occasion,” remarked Phillip Allsopp, Managing Director of Classic British Hotels. “Rutland Hall’s exquisite location, refined accommodations, and unwavering commitment to excellence seamlessly align with our mission to showcase the finest British hospitality to the world.” Rutland Hall Hotel sits on the edge of Rutland Water between the village of Whitwell and Oakham town. The lakeside retreat boasts 70 acres of parkland grounds and offers a variety of accommodation options. Choose from luxurious rooms in the 19th-century country house hotel or stylish apartments with private balconies overlooking Rutland Water. Guests can enjoy delicious dining at Blossoms restaurant and bar. In addition, the resort is about to launch a unique wellbeing experience called Four Roots. Guests will be able to indulge in a four-hour, curated journey including bathing, treatments, relaxation and dining at Four Roots Wellbeing. For outdoor enthusiasts, Rutland Hall is great for activities like crazy golf, pitch and putt, and exploring the nearby Rutland Water attractions, museums, and wildlife reserves. In addition to its exceptional facilities, Rutland Hall is an ideal venue for conferences and corporate events. With flexible meeting spaces accommodating groups from 6 to 450 delegates, the hotel offers a peaceful and productive environment for business gatherings.

Multi-million redevelopment works progressing well for Sutton on Sea Colonnade

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Multi-million redevelopment works progressing well for Sutton on Sea Colonnade
Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, is on schedule with works for construction of a new multifunctional building and grounds at Sutton on Sea’s former Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens site. Working alongside their design team CPMG and Alan Wood Associates, in close collaboration with East Lindsey District Council, through the Pagabo Medium Works framework – the enhancements will provide local residents and visitors with a new state-of-the-art building, with lettable space for retail, sea view café and restaurant, along with transformative facilities including toilets and new exhibition space. Additional seating areas and recreational space will also be created in the former Pleasure Gardens alongside a large sea view deck, new beach huts and dedicated artisan studio spaces for pop up events and markets. Improved promenade access will connect the promenade via a link bridge to the new building and there will be planting and community gardens together with the creation of additional walkways. Popular nearby existing features will be retained, which include the paddling pool, tennis court and the anchor water feature. Works are progressing well on site with the steelwork and main drainage complete, alongside the ground and first floors installed. The blockwork has been completed and the installation of the structural steel frame is now underway. The scheme is part of the Mablethorpe Connected Coast Town Deal which has been approved by the Government to receive £4.2m of Town Deal funding, with the remaining costs match funded directly by East Lindsey District Council. The revitalisation of the area will provide new inward investment to the town, and residents alongside the Lincolnshire coast. Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are proud to be involved in the significant redevelopment of this landmark cultural tourist attraction for Sutton-on-Sea, encouraging further investment into the Eastern coastline. “Our team have worked closely with all sub-contractor partners to carefully manage the enhancement of the existing structure with transformative elements that will deliver tangible benefits to the local residents and visitors to the town. We are moving forward at good pace and we are in a good position to deliver on schedule.” Councillor Martin Foster, the Council’s champion for the project, said: “We are delighted with the continued positive progress on the colonnade site, and seeing G F Tomlinson leading the construction process that will ensure the new facilities will be delivered to the highest quality of workmanship and suitable for its unique, scenic coastal surroundings. “When completed it will bring new tourism and income for the town, create new jobs and opportunities, and provide residents and visitors with a place to enjoy our stunning Eastern coastline from.”

Work starts on site to build two new Lincolnshire primary schools

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Work starts on site to build two new Lincolnshire primary schools
Yorkshire construction firm, Hobson & Porter, has started on sites in Waltham and Scartho, to build two new primary schools that will open in September 2025. The primary schools, which are being funded by North East Lincolnshire Council, the Department for Education and through Section 106 contributions, will be run by Lincolnshire Gateway Academies Trust (LGAT). The projects, based on Matthew Telford Park in Scartho, and on land off Sunningdale in Waltham, received planning approval at the start of the year. Hobson & Porter is on-site this week preparing the ground for the initial phase of the works. Joe Booth from Hobson & Porter said: “We have a long and successful track record in the education sector, across both Lincolnshire and Yorkshire, but it’s still always an exciting moment to start work on new-build school projects, which will inevitably become valuable assets within their respective communities.” Speaking shortly after Hobson & Porter were announced as the winning contractors, Council Leader, Councillor Philip Jackson, said: “It’s great to see this project now progressing, with a building contractor appointed and getting on site. Over the coming months we’ll start to see things happening on site and that’s fantastic. “These two schools will provide some much-needed additional education provision for children in our area.” The Trust has held events in both villages to showcase its plans for Waltham Gateway Academy and Scartho Gateway Academy. These events were aimed at parents of children who may wish to attend the schools once they open in September 2025. Chief Executive Officer Martin Brown said: “We’re pleased to see contractors on site and the project progressing. We’re excited about opening the two academies and look forward to meeting prospective parents and carers at the meetings in Scartho and Waltham. “They’ll be able to choose either school when the local authority opens its admissions process later this Autumn.” Stephanie Ledgerwood, from Equans, whose Architectural Team designed both schools and will act as contract administrator throughout the construction, added: “Work starting on site is an exciting step forward for the project and we are looking forward to seeing the designs come to life as works unfold. “The benefits these schools will have on our community are endless and we are so glad to be a part of it.” Both schools will have 210-pupil places, including specialist provision for 12 students with special educational needs and disabilities. The project is being delivered by Equans, working in partnership with North East Lincolnshire Council. Residents in the surrounding area have been sent a leaflet informing them about the works. The two academies will open in September 2025, with admission details for parents being released this Autumn.   Image shows Scartho school site. Photo credit: Jon Corken

Ruckland Court Care Home raises over £400 at Summer Fair with local community support

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Ruckland Court Care Home raises over £400 at Summer Fair with local community support
Ruckland Court Care Home in Lincoln recently hosted a successful Summer Fair raising over £400 for the residents’ comfort fund. The event, which took place in the home’s beautifully refurbished garden and Coffee Club Café, brought together residents, families, friends, and the wider local community. Local businesses generously contributed to the event, with stalls showcasing a variety of products, and prizes for the raffle and tombola donated by local businesses and the wider community. The funds raised will go toward supporting future trips and activities for the residents, helping to enrich their daily lives. Adam Atkin, Home Manager at Ruckland Court, said: “I want to extend a massive thank you to everyone who helped make the day a success. From our dedicated staff and enthusiastic residents to their supportive families, and of course, all those who kindly donated prizes. “It’s truly heartwarming to see the local community come together like this, and we’re so grateful for the ongoing support.” The families who attended shared their positive experiences: “Well done to everyone involved – we thoroughly enjoyed the day!” said one family member, while another added “Thank you for all your hard work, it was fantastic.” Ruckland Court Care Home extends an open invitation to the community to join their weekly Community Coffee Mornings, held every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm in their newly revamped Coffee Club Café to enjoy a cup of tea, a slice of cake, and a friendly chat. For more information about Ruckland Court Care Home or to make an appointment to view the home please contact, Adam Atkin Home Manager on 01522 530 217 or email adam.atkin@countrycourtcare.com.

Grand reveal of luxury refurbishment at The Grove Care Home’s open day

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Grand reveal of luxury refurbishment at The Grove Care Home’s open day
The Grove Care Home in Waltham recently opened its doors to the community to celebrate the unveiling of its newly refurbished and expanded facilities. Specialising in residential, dementia, and respite care, The Grove welcomed over 40 guests to the event, where they were invited to tour the updated facilities, meet the warm and welcoming staff, enjoy live entertainment, and a delightful afternoon tea. Special guests included Deputy Mayor Cllr Janet Goodwin and Deputy Consort Mr Barry Goodwin, who participated in the ceremonial ribbon-cutting alongside Country Court Chairman Abdul Kachra and resident Josephine Austin. Together, they officially opened the new spaces and expressed their best wishes for the home’s future. They also looked forward to attending future events at the care home, such as the summer and Christmas fairs. “The Grove Care Home has proudly cared for up to 52 residents, and with our recent expansion, we can now accommodate up to 71,” said Operations Manager Lianne Webb. “Our refurbishment has introduced new and improved day spaces, such as our Elegance Hair Salon, The Coffee Club Café, 19 additional en-suite bedrooms, and refreshed lounge and dining areas. These enhancements have been a great benefit to both our residents and their families.” Client Services Manager Rebecca Dayton commented on the event, saying: “Our talented Chef Manager, Hayley Barber, and the kitchen staff created a fantastic spread of food, including fish and chip-themed cupcakes that beautifully reflected the local culture.” Customer Relations Manager Ros Wells added: “We are committed to providing person-centred care and creating a family-first approach. I want to personally thank our incredible staff, whose dedication and hard work continue to make a difference every day.” Operations Manager Lianne Webb concluded by saying: “I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended our Open Day and made this event so special for all of us at The Grove. Your kind words throughout the day have been deeply appreciated by our entire team.” To arrange a tour of The Grove Care Home, please get in touch on 01472 821127 or email ros.wells@countrycourtcare.com

Contractors sought for next phase of historic Scunthorpe Church’s transformation

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Contractors sought for next phase of historic Scunthorpe Church’s transformation
Bids are being sought for civil and landscaping engineering contractors to carry out the next phase in the restoration of St John’s Church in Scunthorpe. A tender will be launched for works which will improve visitor access, while creating an inviting outdoor space for hands on exhibitions – connecting the building to Queen Elizabeth Gardens. The works will enable the hoardings surrounding 20-21 to come down and bring the building back into full use, revealing the full extent of the restoration work to the Grade II* listed former church. Discover@20-21, the new town centre attraction packed full of free family-friendly activities, is expected to open in Spring 2025. Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “It’s great to see work progressing at pace on Discover@20-21, our new and completely free regional attraction for families, which will inspire and entertain our young people with hands on experiences. “This next phase of the project is where residents will really start to see the difference to the outside of this important building, and creating new outside space will bring a new dimension to exhibitions.” Works to restore St John’s Church are nearing completion, with specialist contractors UK Restoration Services concluding their programme of extensive repairs, which included the rebuilding of the roofs and tower pinnacles, cleaning, repairing and repointing the original stonework, plus installing a new building management system. Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for community wellbeing (urban – Ashby, Bottesford and Scunthorpe), said: “We’ve stepped in to ensure one of Scunthorpe’s most visible and historic buildings – a place many residents have fond memories of – is protected for years to come. “We are going further by bringing new experiences to the town. Plans for Discover@20-21 look absolutely brilliant and seeing them has made me even more excited to see the activities in this free family attraction take shape.”   Image credit: Google maps

Town centre transport transformation on the way for Grimsby

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Town centre transport transformation on the way for Grimsby
Two transport-based projects that will change the way we move around Grimsby Town Centre have been given the green light at a Cabinet meeting. The schemes will redesign car parking at the Council’s Abbey Walk and Burgess Street car parks and kickstart a project to provide a town centre transport hub for public transport. The Abbey Walk car park was built in 1969 by Holst & Company of Scunthorpe at a cost of approximately £200,000. Whilst a key asset for the town centre, the car park was closed in May this year, after structural defects were found. This was water ingress into key structural supports, making the car park potentially unsafe to use. It has now been approved to proceed with plans to demolish the car park, and replace it with a 120-space surface car park, but with the capability in the foundations of being built on in future years if needed. Burgess Street Car Park will also be improved to provide additional car parking capacity within a few minutes’ walk of the town centre. The next stage will be to work up detailed design and costings before submitting any traffic regulation orders or planning permissions that may be required for the two schemes. Funding will initially be sought from the Council’s capital programme, with other funding sources being explored to reduce the impact on the council resources. Also approved was the outline plan to create a Transport Hub on a 1.6acre site off Osborne Street in the town centre. The hub would sit behind current vacant units on Osborne Street which the council owns. This stretch of buildings is due to be demolished in the coming months. The Hub would also include the use of the car park at Garden Street. Now the plans have been approved in outline, the next stage is to consult with people and businesses and carry out preliminary site surveys before finalising the design, and submitting a planning application for the site. Cllr Stewart Swinburn, Cabinet member for Transport, said: “These are two much-needed schemes for our town centre. We have wanted to improve the transport offer for Grimsby Town centre for some time. “These schemes will help us connect people with the town centre, drive use of the town centre and is a good fit alongside the money being spent on improving the town centre too. “The residents of North East Lincolnshire deserve a fit for purpose transportation hub that allows quick easy access to public transport services in a central location near to rail, retail and town centre amenities, and that’s what we want to give them.”   Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council

Bottle Tops for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance

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Bottle Tops for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance
A mother and daughter team are appealing for communities in the south Lincolnshire area to get saving bottle tops to raise vital funds for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA). Liz and Rachel Cooper are the brains behind The Bottle Tops For Charity Community Group and are now busy reaching out to the communities of South Kesteven and South Holland to start collecting. Liz Cooper from Moulton, south Lincs, said: “We need to spread the word to as many people as possible as we need to get to one tonne of plastic lids before the recycling centre will then transfer the funds directly to Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance and our other five chosen charities.” Steph Bradshaw, Community Fundraising Manager at LNAA, said: “We are delighted that Rachel, and her team of supporters are fundraising for LNAA. As a charity we receive no direct Government funding, and we are not part of the NHS. “Yet we must raise £13 million this year to keep our helicopter in the sky and our critical care cars on the roads 24/7, every day of the year, treating some of the most seriously ill and injured patients in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. And we can only do this with the fundraising efforts of people like Rachel and her team.” It is easy to get involved. All you need to do is collect your plastic lids from drinks, cleaning products, etc. and then wash them thoroughly to ensure they’re clean and ready for recycling. Finally drop your clean lids off at the designated collection points. A full list of drop-off points can be found on the Bottle Tops for Charity Community Group Facebook page.

Spalding Pumpkin Festival ready to make its return

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Spalding Pumpkin Festival ready to make its return
The Spalding Pumpkin Festival is set to make its return to town on Saturday 12 October. The annual event celebrates South Holland’s long-standing harvest and horticulture traditions with a selection of activities for local people to enjoy, including: live entertainment, food and gift stalls, games, arts and crafts. Running from 11am until 3pm in Spalding town centre, the event will run alongside Spalding’s regular Saturday market, with ever-popular regular traders joined by specialist artisan stallholders selling a range of seasonal-themed food, drinks and gifts. Residents can enjoy a stroll down ‘Pumpkin Street’ to see the pumpkin-inspired sculptures on display from local artist Jonathan Nichols, before heading over to the main stage for live entertainment, which will include ‘Anna’ from Frozen and the cast of this year’s pantomime: Snow White. The festivities will continue with a vintage carousel ride, an autumn shadow booth, facepainting and balloon modelling coupled with a host of street entertainment including a golden harvest fairy stilt walker and a harvest-themed fancy dress competition, which will be held on stage at 12:30pm. The Council’s Communities team have also organised a Scarecrow Trail, planned to run over October half term, from Saturday 12 October until Sunday 27 October. Explore Spalding town centre and locate all seven friendly scarecrows who have been resting in various shop windows after their long summer working in the fields. A seasonal word will be revealed, which can be emailed to community@sholland.gov.uk for the chance of winning a prize. Ayscoughfee Hall Museum will be holding their own Autumn Trail, held throughout the whole of October. Scour the Hall in search of ‘small autumn scenes’, free for all but watch out for wildcards! Broad Street Methodist Church will also join the town’s horticultural festivities, running another free arts and crafts session alongside a relaxing coffee morning between 10am and 2pm. Meanwhile, Spalding Library will be combining the Pumpkin Festival with National Libraries Week’s (Monday 7 October till Sunday 13 October) ‘Go Green’ theme. From 10am till 12pm residents are invited to cress pumpkin heads and take part in a pumpkin picture hunt. Councillor Gary Taylor, Portfolio Holder for Community Development, said: “The Pumpkin Festival is always a very popular event and I have no doubt this year will the same, not only does the event offer a great day out for local families, it helps to preserve and celebrate our proud history of horticulture and harvest. “The team have done a fantastic job behind the scenes getting everything ready, there is definitely something for everyone to come and enjoy, so mark it on your calendars and I look forward to seeing as many people in Spalding as possible on Saturday 12 October!” There will be a road closure in place for Spalding’s Market Place, Hall Place, Sheep Market and Gore Lane on Saturday 12 October from 7am until 5pm for the event to take place. The Sheep Market car park will be closed from 5pm on Friday 11 October until 5pm Saturday 12 October.
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Sergio

Burghley welcomes new festive event: Christmas Silent Discos

Tess Egginton
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Burghley welcomes new festive event: Christmas Silent Discos
A brand-new event is coming to Burghley House this festive season. Get ready to dance the night away with friends, family and colleagues at a Christmas Silent Disco taking place on Thursday 5 and Friday 6 December 2024. Set in the historical grounds of Burghley House, a huge Christmas marquee bedecked in sparkling lights and decorations will house the dancefloor for a feel-good night of party tunes and seasonal cheer. With state-of-the-art headsets, party-goers can tune in to one of three DJs battling it out for the largest following with the very best music from the 80s, 90s and 00s as well as much-loved Christmas songs. With guaranteed snow flurries and plenty of festive fun in store, this is one Christmas party not to miss. An array of festive food will be on offer to fuel the partying including loaded fries, hotdogs and sweet and savoury crêpes. There will also be a fully stocked bar featuring festive favourites such as mulled wine, fizz and Baileys hot chocolate. A choice of great value food and drink packages are available to pre-order. A Burghley Christmas Silent Disco is a great option for those looking for something different for this year’s office party or Christmas get-together with friends. A special package price is available for groups of 10 or more. Christmas Silent Discos at Burghley are from 7-10pm on Thursday 5 and 6 December 2024. Early bird tickets are available until 31 October 2024 and cost £27 person (over 18s only), full price tickets from 1 November 2024 are £29 per person. A group package price is available for parties of 10 or more at £50 per person and includes entry ticket plus one hot food voucher and three drinks vouchers. Parking is free of charge. For more details and to book tickets visit www.burghley.co.uk

Prostate cancer memorial to visit Lincoln on nationwide tour

Stuart Pearcey
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Prostate cancer memorial to visit Lincoln on nationwide tour
The Prostate Cancer Memorial travelling across the UK, will soon make its way to Lincoln, finding a temporary home at The Waterside, marking a significant moment for the community, as the memorial is said to serve both as a powerful symbol of remembrance and a call to action in the fight against prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, with more than 1,000 men diagnosed with it every week. Mary-Jane Booth, Centre Manager at The Waterside, said: “We are honoured to host the Prostate Cancer Memorial here in Lincoln. This memorial is a powerful reminder of the impact prostate cancer has on families across the UK. We hope that by bringing it to The Waterside, we can contribute to raising awareness and supporting the incredible work done by Prostate Cancer UK. “The Prostate Cancer Memorial has been created by Prostate Cancer UK as a striking tribute to the thousands of lives touched by this disease. The memorial has already garnered attention and support in London, and its arrival in Lincoln will provide the local community with an opportunity to engage with the cause, learn more about the disease, and contribute to ongoing research and support efforts. “Hosting the memorial at The Waterside highlights the Centre’s commitment to supporting important causes that affect its visitors and the broader community. The Centre expects that the memorial will draw visitors from across the region, enhancing awareness and encouraging discussions about prostate cancer. The timing of the memorial’s arrival is especially significant as it coincides with various awareness initiatives in the healthcare community, offering a local platform for education and support.”  

Lincolnshire Day celebrations showcase the county’s rich history

Tess Egginton
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Lincolnshire Day celebrations showcase the county’s rich history
South Kesteven District Council will celebrate Lincolnshire Day on 1st October with historic talks at St Wulfram’s Church in Grantham. ‘The Magnificent Seven’ will shine a spotlight on seven individuals whose legacies have been carved into impressive memorials within the church. A market will also be held in the refurbished Market Place selling local Lincolnshire produce including Teaspoon Tea Company’s signature loose tea, baked goods from Bloomsbury Bakery and honey products from Fen Apiaries. Cllr Ashley Baxter, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Finance and Economic Development, said: “Lincolnshire Day is a great opportunity to celebrate our county’s rich history and heritage. “The talks at St Wulfram’s Church will be a fascinating insight into those Lincolnshire figures who lived impressive lives and who are now memorialised in the church forever. “I am delighted that we will also be coming together for the first time in the recently refurbished Market Place to recognise all that is great about Lincolnshire while supporting our fantastic local businesses.” The two talks will take place on 1st October at 10am and at 2.30pm and will be led by local historian, author and Chair of the Grantham Civic Society, Dr John Manterfield. Dr Manterfield will focus on seven individuals with a local connection to Lincolnshire:
  • Sir Thomas Bury; Chief Baron of the Exchequer who died in 1972. Sir Bury amassed a fortune and is commemorated by a marble monument in the church.
  • Captain William Cust; the younger brother of Sir John Cust of Belton, Speaker of the House of Commons. William was a naval hero who was accidentally killed by a cannonball in 1748.
  • Rev Richard Stevens; a man whose career in the church was largely aided by the support of the Duke of Rutland and his son, the celebrated Marquis of Granby. Rev Stevens died in 1771.
  • Sir Dudley Ryder; achieved greatness as a lawyer becoming Lord Chief Justice of the Court of the King’s Bench based in London but had a country seat at Harrowby. He died in 1758.
  • Edmund Turnor; member of the Turnor family of Stoke Rochford Hall. His monument is unusual in incorporating a variety of marbles, designed by a Peterborough sculptor. He died in 1789.
  • Charles Clarke; was the last member of a family of apothecaries and surgeons that had lived in Grantham High Street for over two centuries. One of his ancestors provided the lodgings when Isaac Newton was in Grantham. He died 1796.
  • Lieutenant Rupert Hardy Parker; killed at Passchendaele in 1917. His monument is a unique design made from alabaster and the epitaph reflects the loss felt by his family.
Dr Manterfield said: “Lincolnshire’s history and heritage is long and fascinating and what better place to explore it than in the magnificent St Wulfram’s Church, home to a rich collection of funerary monuments commemorating the children of leading Lincolnshire families. “This talk will look in more detail at the lives of just seven individuals. Six span the eighteenth Century Georgian period and one was killed in the First World War. “It will also look at the symbolism within those monuments, the materials used in their construction as well as the history of those individuals and their families.” The 1-hour talk is free but tickets must be booked in advance and are limited to 20 attendees per session. Book via https://bit.ly/lincolnshireday. Refreshments will be available following the talk. A market will also be held in Grantham’s Market Place between 9am and 2pm where visitors can find a range of traditional Lincolnshire produce.
  Image – St Wulfram’s Church. Credit: Google maps

Business chosen to build Sea Road building in Cleethorpes

Tess Egginton
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Business chosen to build Sea Road building in Cleethorpes
JemBuild Ltd, based in Humberston, have won the contract to build the iconic Sea Road building in Cleethorpes. Committed to using local companies where possible, JemBuild have already been working with North East Lincolnshire Council on the retaining wall works behind the old beach safety offices. Once this has been completed, work will start on the main building. A new three-storey building will be constructed on the brownfield site on Sea Road, comprising retail or hospitality space, as well as new public amenities and a changing places facility. Work is ongoing to secure the pre-let agreement for the hospitality provider, which will be announced in due course. Paul Barker, Managing Director of JemBuild, said: “I am delighted to have secured this fabulous contract with North East Lincolnshire Council and look forward to working with NELC along with our construction partners, Hodson Architects and C2C Structural along with our local suppliers on this exciting project that will undoubtedly cement its place on the local landscape to become as iconic as its sister building, the prominent Pier.” Cllr Philip Jackson, Leader of the council, said: “This is great news for the area and it’s good to see things moving forwards. The Cleethorpes Masterplan, carried out by renowned consultants, Hemingway Design, has helped us create a vision for the future of the resort, based on what people who took the time to respond to the Masterplan want to see. And hundreds of people have been having their say about the future designs for Pier Gardens and Market Place in the last few weeks too.” Interrupted by COVID, the three-storey Sea Road building was granted planning permission in 2020, and promises to offer new high quality outside space, with public viewing areas as well as balconies. The first floor of the building will be accessible from Pier Gardens, giving a gracious nod back to how the pier was accessed when it was first constructed. Other elements of the building hark back to the Art Deco seaside style and the buildings constructed around the resort at that time, such as the small retail kiosks on Central Prom, and the former Electricity Board showroom on Isaac’s Hill. Work to deliver the three key schemes in Cleethorpes, the Sea Road building, Pier Gardens and Market Place, along with a small amount for signage, is being funded by HM Government.   Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council
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