Charity shops appeal for pre-Christmas toy donations

Stuart Pearcey
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Charity shops appeal for pre-Christmas toy donations
Lincolnshire’s charity shops are appealing for donations of toys before Christmas in an attempt to bring festive joy to cash-strapped families.
In a plea echoed on social media by Police and Crime Commissioner Jon Evison, shop operators say they get lots of toys after Christmas – but that’s too late.
Said one charity shop manager: “I wish people would clear out their children’s old toys in the lead up to Christmas rather than after, because we always see a number of parents in the days before Christmas looking for toys for their little ones.
“There’s very rarely anything in just before, but we are inundated with toys in the days afterwards.
“If you know your child is going to get lots of presents from Father Christmas this year, by clearing out your cupboards a few days early you could make another child’s Christmas a lot more special too. “

Pressure mounts to create new GP surgery in Gainsborough

Stuart Pearcey
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Pressure mounts to create new GP surgery in Gainsborough
West Lindsey District Councillors have come together in support of plans for another GP dusrgery in Gainsborough. They are to contact the Integrated Care Board to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to accurately determine GP service needs in the district. Council member Trevor Young had highlighted that the population of the district was rising  rising, leading to higher demand for healthcare services, which was putting existing GP services are under ‘significant pressure’. The result was longer waiting times for appointments and limited availability of medical professionals. He said: “Residents have expressed concerns about the accessibility and quality of the current GP services and inconsistency around across the district. The impact on the community is that the inadequate GP services can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatments which negatively impact on the health and well-being of residents. “Overburden of healthcare professionals who may experience burnout, further corroborating the problem. Insufficient medical services can deter new residents and businesses from moving into the area affecting local development.”

Community centre reopens to public following £100,000 funding

Tess Egginton
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Community centre reopens to public following £100,000 funding
A busy community centre has reopened to the public following £100,000 of funding from South Kesteven District Council. Known locally as The Earlesfield Community Centre, the Trent Road venue serves communities in and around West Grantham. District and Grantham Town Councillors Steve Cunnington and Lee Steptoe led the push to complete the refurbishment following investment from SKDC, which released £100,000 from its reserves. Improvements include new windows and fire doors; security fencing to deter vandalism; a full boiler service; re-laying uneven paths; a deep clean; and removal of graffiti. A new kitchen, installed by United Living, is being fitted to enable lettings to community groups. And Mick Townhill and the team at Grantham Fabrications donated a sturdy bench and table unit for the garden. The venue trustees are Cllr Steptoe as Chair, joined by Cllr Cunnington, with Cllrs Tim Harrison and Paul Stokes, who is the Deputy Leader of SKDC. Cllr Steptoe said: “I campaigned for funding for the centre from the end of Covid restrictions and was delighted when the new administration committed to it last year. “It shows a new political will in an area that has been neglected for far too long. It also demonstrates the strength of cross-party collaboration and will allow it to become the local hub, with The Bread and Butter Thing food bank and Building Brighter Futures, already signed up as users. “I am looking forward to working with the new Board of Trustees to develop this local asset to its full potential.” Cllr Cunnington added: “Years of neglect are now at an end. The residents of Earlesfield now have a community centre fit for the community. We have more plans and events coming up and leading into next year, all of which are designed to benefit and brings the community together.” More recent work by the Trustees includes securing a £3,500 commercial dishwasher courtesy of Miele and Rob Dixon, plus tech and furniture items free of charge. Cllr Harrison said: “This shows how the Grantham Together community is pulling together in response to the SKDC investment and we’re looking forward to a bright future with such strong local support.” The first public event was at August Bank Holiday, when a barbecue and fun day party was organised to celebrate its re-opening. Regular events also include Line Dancing, Grantham Capoeira Club, Rabbit Club and Building Brighter Futures (with Grantham College, which provide information, guidance and one to one support for people to improve wellbeing and confidence). Bookings are being taken for individual parties and other group meeting space. The Community Centre is a registered charity created to provide services to the people of the Earlesfield Estate. Supporters who donated time, goods or services to the Bank Holiday event include Hope Community Cafe, Grantham Capoeira, Cleaver Meats Ltd, Morrisons, The Castle King, Watkins Grantham, Paul O’Reilly, South Kesteven District Council and Grantham Town Council. Food hub charity The Bread and Butter Thing already uses the centre as its base for weekly events where members can collect three bags of fruit and vegetables, chilled food and cupboard staples at discounted prices.   Image credit: South Kesteven District Council

Green Growth Zone proposal to create conditions for thousands of jobs

Tess Egginton
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Green Growth Zone proposal to create conditions for thousands of jobs
North Lincolnshire Council is spearheading an ambitious proposal to establish a Green Growth Zone and create thousands of green engineering jobs. The proposal focuses on further enhancing the renewable energy sector, fast-tracking advanced manufacturing and driving innovation to create more high-skilled jobs and secure the long-term prosperity of the region. The Green Growth Zone will further position North Lincolnshire at the heart of the UK’s renewable energy revolution, driving development across Greater Lincolnshire and the Humber region by building upon the region’s strategic assets, including major renewable resources such as offshore wind, an established industrial base, and strong links to international markets via major ports. Cllr Rob Waltham, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, emphasised the importance of the proposal for the future of the region. He said: “This is about more than just infrastructure; it’s about creating a better future for communities. The Green Growth Zone is an ambitious plan to deliver high-quality jobs, drive innovation, and secure new opportunities for residents. “While we are still at the proposal stage, the ambition is clear – North Lincolnshire will be a place where green energy and advanced manufacturing lead the way, offering sustainable futures for generations to come. “We have a unique opportunity to capitalise on the region’s existing strengths in energy and industry, while investing in new technologies and sustainable practices.” The Green Growth Zone is underpinned by key themes, including:
  • Innovation and research in hydrogen-injected blast furnace steel production
  • Investments in the South Humber Bank Quay and broader Strategic Employment Site Allocation
  • Development of advanced manufacturing to support game-changing sectors in energy
  • Creating a circular economy to sustain green energy and manufacturing industries
Cllr Waltham added: “This proposal will not only generate jobs but also support the long-term economic growth of North Lincolnshire, ensuring our residents have the skills and opportunities they need for the future. “We have a great deal of support from previous governments to invest in the infrastructure to create the foundations for this growth – now we are in a position to deliver, but we need ongoing Government support.”
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Boykowit

Major investment made for new Christmas lights in Spalding

Tess Egginton
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Major investment made for new Christmas lights in Spalding
Spalding town centre will be merry and bright this Christmas, as South Holland District Council and Spalding Town Board announce a £70,000 investment in a variety of new festive lights. The investment comes from the initial funds from Long Term Plan for Towns, a new Government programme providing £20million over ten years to support chosen towns to improve their high streets. The new displays are designed to last for 10 years and will stretch across the town centre and Market Place, down Francis Street and Hole in the Wall and extending into The Crescent, a key area that businesses and residents have requested to see lit up in recent years. Investment in the look and attractiveness of the high street, especially tying in with events that bring more footfall, was a popular point raised as part of Spalding Town Board’s recent consultation, where over 500 local residents shared their priorities for the Long Term Plan for Towns funding. Among the new decorations will be almost 40 column displays that will stretch across the street, new string lights and a star topper for the town’s Christmas tree, column and maypole decorations and around 320 metres of icicle lights. The official switch-on of the new displays and tree will take place as part of the town’s usual Christmas Celebration, taking place this year on Friday 29 November. More information on the different free events and activities that will be part of the day will be shared in the coming weeks. Councillor Gary Taylor, South Holland District Council portfolio holder for community development, said: “It’s fantastic that we can make this major investment into getting Spalding looking festive and inviting this Christmas, and for many Christmases to come, and will be able to see the first real, noticeable impact from this significant piece of government funding. “We know there is a lot of work to take place over the coming months and years to get Spalding to the place we aspire for it to be, and that this covers a much wider variety of topics and issues than new Christmas lights alone. “However, we also recognise the importance of making the town somewhere appealing and attractive, where residents and visitors can come together to celebrate and enjoy events and support our local traders and businesses. By acting on this feedback to introduce new, beautiful and wider-reaching lights, we are confident that we can help contribute towards this ambition.” Robin Hancox, Chair of Spalding Town Board, said: “The Spalding Town Board is committed to working with the community to make a difference for the town. “Our consultation in the summer showed us that whilst there is pride in many aspects of Spalding, there is also a clear desire for a better town centre experience with people wanting to see improvements. “Funding the Christmas lights is just one small but significant way in which we can add to the town centre’s appeal, and ensure that everyone coming into Spalding during this festive season, and for many more years to come, has an even better experience. We are delighted to be able to support this first investment from the government funding into Spalding.”   Image shows Spalding. Credit: Stock.adobe.com/Steven F Granville

Planning consent granted to regenerate two Alford attractions

Tess Egginton
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Planning consent granted to regenerate two Alford attractions

Two heritage and culturally significant attractions are set to expand their offer and attract even more visitors to the Lincolnshire Wolds following the approval of planning consent.

On 3rd October, on determining two separate applications with unanimous decisions, East Lindsey District Council’s planning committee granted planning permission and listed building consent for Alford Manor House and the grounds of Alford Windmill. The consent marks a huge milestone for both projects which, once complete, will see new uses for each attraction, generating greater footfall into the town all year round, supporting the local economy, and safeguarding these heritage assets for future generations. Both sites, along with Spilsby Sessions House, are part of the Lincolnshire Wolds: Culture and Heritage Programme. The ambitious regeneration scheme is benefitting from £8 million funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to regenerate the assets to secure their future.
The permission for Alford Manor House will realise a new permanent, flexible event space which will see the temporary marquee removed that has been in place since 2006. The new function room will allow the Manor House to provide event space for up to 100 people. The consent also includes minor works to the car park and construction of a canopy to store large pieces of machinery for the Rural Life Museum and workshop. The consent for the Alford Windmill site includes a new visitor centre incorporating a café and shop, refurbishment of the Miller’s Cottage into a two-bed holiday accommodation, refurbishment of the Sail Store as an educational space, the pigsty to be converted into a children’s play area, refurbishment of the former shop to display Millwright tools, and landscaping throughout the site.
The approvals follow a period of public consultation, including local residents, Alford Town Council, Historic England, Natural England and Heritage Lincolnshire. The Council will continue to work alongside Lincolnshire County Council at Alford Windmill as the project develops. Cllr Graham Marsh, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture at East Lindsey District Council,  said: “I am delighted the Council’s planning committee has supported these ambitious plans which will help secure the future for these attractions. “The Council is working collaboratively with Alford Manor House and Alford Windmill Trust as well as other partners to bring new uses and extend the visitor offer which is important for the local economy and to grow tourism opportunities in the Lincolnshire Wolds. “These attractions hold so much historic value for local people as well as wider East Lindsey. A lot of work has gone on behind the scenes to get to the milestone of planning approval today and I look forward to seeing these projects being delivered further over the coming months.” Cllr Adam Grist, Portfolio Holder for Market Towns at East Lindsey District Council, said: “Both Alford Manor House and Alford windmill are part of the fabric that makes Alford the historic market town that it is. I am therefore, delighted that these schemes have been given the go ahead to bring these plans to life. “The plans offer great potential to really impact the tourism economy of the Lincolnshire Wolds and bring visitors and holidaymakers to Alford and the surrounding Wolds. “These plans are hugely exciting and the benefits they bring will be far reaching for businesses and organisations in Alford and surrounding areas.”
William Silby from STEM Architects said: “We are pleased to see the planning officers and local councillors support the projects with a unanimous decision to approve both applications. “It has been a pleasure working with the rest of the design team, ELDC and the trustees at both Alford Manor House and Windmill. We are looking forward to continuing with the next stages of both projects. In particular, it is fantastic that these schemes will support the ongoing viability of the Windmill and Manor House and protect these beautiful heritage assets for generations to come.” A range of pre-construction work will now continue on both sites ready for work to start next year. A planning application for Spilsby Sessions House is due to be submitted later this year.
  Image credit: East Lindsey District Council

Enjoy free weekend parking in District Council-owned car parks in Newark this Christmas

Tess Egginton
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0
Enjoy free weekend parking in District Council-owned car parks in Newark this Christmas
Newark and Sherwood District Council is once again offering free weekend and Bank Holiday parking at all its managed pay and display car parks to support businesses and attract visitors during this festive season.
Before the weekend free parking was introduced last year, it was only Sundays where visitors could park for free. Now, free parking will be provided on Saturdays as well as Sundays starting from Sunday 24 November, coinciding with the Christmas Lights Switch On, running through to Sunday 29 December. It will also include free parking for Bank Holidays for Wednesday 25 December and Thursday 26 December. The aim is that the free parking will motivate residents to do their Christmas shopping locally this year, in an effort to support Newark’s amazing independent retailers and town centre. Those using the car park on one of the free days will still need to pick up a ticket when they park. Simply go to the parking machine to print your ticket for how long you plan to stay, and you won’t be charged if you park on the weekend during the offer period. Councillor Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “We want to continue this offer for residents and to take the extra step and further support residents and businesses this Christmas. “I urge all residents and visitors to Newark to seize this wonderful opportunity, explore our remarkable independent shops, and participate in the exciting events happening this year.” Councillor Claire Penny, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Economic Development at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “It’s great we can launch this initiative yet again and it’s one that we hope will be a huge benefit for many living and working in the town. “Newark is a fantastic spot for shopping, grabbing a bite to eat, or family outings, so it’s wonderful that we can attract more visitors with this great offer.” Darren Bourke, of Masdings Designer Clothes shop on Middle Gate in Newark, said: “This is fantastic news for shoppers and local businesses alike. It will help to support town centre and High Street businesses to attract more customers in the lead up to Christmas which is a vital time of year for traders. “The convenience of parking and visiting the town centre on weekends along with free parking tickets will help bring more visitors and shoppers into our amazing town to experience all that is on offer at this time of year.” A number of festive events are set to take place in Newark this year, including A Likely Story – Historical Escapes on Friday 1 November, Newark’s Christmas Lights Switch On taking place on Sunday 24 November, this year’s Palace Theatre pantomime Aladdin between Friday 6 December and Tuesday 31 December and the Christmas Market and Traditions coinciding with the Steampunk Christmas Market on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December. These are just some of the engaging events hosted in the vibrant town of Newark, which hosts activities all year-round and boasts a wide array of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy exploring the town centre and the amazing events on offer under a magical Christmas canopy of lights, making this an excellent destination for a family outing which offers lots of great options to extend your visit, support local shops and enjoy a bite to eat or hot drink. The District Council managed car parks offering free parking include those located on Appleton Gate, London Road, The Wharf, Riverside, Riverside Arena and Castle House. The offer does not apply to resident and contract car parks.

Council harvests crop of Britain in Bloom Awards from the RHS

Stuart Pearcey
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Council harvests crop of Britain in Bloom Awards from the RHS
North Lincolnshire has picked up a clutch of prestigious Britain in Bloom East Midlands awards from the Royal Horticultural Society. The newly-developed Somervell Community/Inclusive Allotments in Scunthorpe scooped a major award – the RHS Judges Award for Community Focus. Elsham Parish Nature Reserve, which used to be an old quarry, also received a Judge’s Award. The site is owned by Elsham Parish Council. The judges said the site had been transformed into a wonderful wildflower and wildlife facility which, as it develops, would be fully enjoyed by villagers and visitors alike. Central Park in Scunthorpe won an award for Excellence in Horticulture and Standards. Recent work installing planters on local streets, including Britannia Corner, won a Bronze award. Cllr David Rose, Cabinet member for Environment said: “This is a marvellous achievement, and a welcome reward for the workforce who have put so much effort in over the past 12 months. North Lincolnshire’s green spaces are going from strength to strength. “It is particularly noteworthy that unused and neglected areas have been taken and transformed them into spaces from which the whole community can benefit.”

Huge West End show visits Newark this month

Tess Egginton
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Huge West End show visits Newark this month
The Palace Theatre Newark is getting ready to welcome a huge West End production to its stage this month. Bill Kenwright Ltd.’s national tour of Blood Brothers will be visiting their stage from Tuesday 22 to Saturday 26 October and there are just a handful of tickets left for each performance. Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. This production will see Vivienne Carlyle returning to the iconic role of Mrs. Johnstone, having received nightly standing ovations for her powerful and poignant performance in the West End production. Sean Jones and Joe Sleight return to the production as twins Mickey and Eddie, with Gemma Brodrick reprising the role of Linda. The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True, one of many reasons it is affectionately known as “the standing ovation musical.” To ensure that as many local people can enjoy this fantastic show as possible, a British Sign Language interpreter will be in attendance on Wednesday 23 October, enabling people who are D/deaf or hard of hearing to experience this amazing story to the fullest. Councillor Rowan Cozens, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “It’s a wonderful step forward for Newark that such a well-renowned national tour has chosen to stop here. “The fact that tickets have been selling so well is brilliant too and really proves that there is an appetite for shows like this in the local area. I know that the Palace team are already in talks with a number of other similar productions so keep an eye out and make sure you don’t miss this chance to such an acclaimed West End show in your local theatre.” The remaining tickets can be booked online at www.palacenewark.com, or by calling 01636 655755 or visiting the Theatre from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm.

Yarn bomb challenge was topping for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance

Tess Egginton
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Yarn bomb challenge was topping for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance
As part of the 30th Anniversary celebrations, Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) challenged nifty knitters to create the largest yarn bomb ever seen to spread the word about its vital life-saving work. And what a sight it was! Since May 2024, over 350 of helicopters have been spotted flying and landing in shops, parks, churches, offices, pubs and many other locations in communities across Lincs & Notts. They have been spotted as far away as The Wirral in Cheshire, on the ferry from Southampton to Isle of Wight and even in the cockpit of the Red Arrows! LNAA’s Volunteer Manager, Kate Kerrigan said: “We have been blown away by the support, not only from the many of people who created these masterpieces but also from the hundreds of supporters who contacted us telling where they had been spotted. “It has been truly fantastic to witness so many helicopters landing in so many different locations and every helicopter has played a part in raising awareness of the life-saving work that our pilots, doctors and paramedics do every day of the year. “As a charity, LNAA receives no direct government funding for its operations and relies on the support of every community in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire to raise the £13million needed to operate 24 hours of the day, every day of the year.” The helicopters will now disappear from their locations to be stored in their hangars and receive some tender loving care before they take to the skies once again during the charity’s Hello Yellow Week birthday celebrations in May 2025.
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