Freemasons buy £25,000 vehicles for volunteer blood bikers

Stuart Pearcey
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Freemasons buy £25,000 vehicles for volunteer blood bikers
Freemasons have given two new vehicles to Lincolnshire Emergency Blood Bikes Service to help sustain their voluntary work in ferrying urgent supplies and documents between hospitals. A BMW motorbike christened Canon Portal and a Skoda estate car christened Prince Michael of Kent, together worth £25,000, have been bought using funds from  a benevolent fund operated by Mark Masons, part of the wider community of Freemasons. The donation was part of UK-wide funding of £750,000 from the Mark Benevolent Fund. The vehicles were formally handed over by Lincolnshire’s senior Mark Mason Steve Hallberg, his deputy Steve Roberts, and Charity Steward Mick Stocker. Accepting the donation were Neville Wright, the group’s Chairman, fundraiser Gordon Scott, and a number of the LEBBS committee, Steve Hallberg said: “It was also great to see the bike which we donated in 2018, a Yamaha FJR1300 called Mark Mason, looking in pristine condition in spite of the mileage it has accumulated in the five years it has been in service.” The group covers Lincolnshire and Humberside undertaking their life saving work, being currently manned by 156 volunteer members who carry out their essential duties on a rota basis. Neville said the donation was superb and generous. “It has given the Group a big boost, and allows us much-needed flexibility as our workload increases,” he said.

Golfers to help improve cancer patients’ lives with charity fundraiser

Michael Fisher
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Golfers to help improve cancer patients’ lives with charity fundraiser

Charity fundraising from Louth golfers will help improve the lives of cancer patients whilst being cared for in hospital.

The Oncology team at Lincoln County Hospital is set to receive a funding boost as Louth Golf Club starts a year of fundraising to support breast cancer treatments.

Chris Barber, Senior Captain of Louth Golf Club for 2025, has chosen United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity as his Charity of the Year. This is his way to say thank you for the care his wife, Judith received whilst a patient at Lincoln County Hospital after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021. She regularly attended the hospital for treatments which were successful in eliminating her cancer.

Chris believes it is an absolute necessity to highlight the good work that takes place every day in the county’s hospitals. He said: “I want to give something back to the department that looked after my wife, so I decided during my year as Senior Captain that we would raise funds for the Oncology Department so they can invest in equipment and materials for the future which they otherwise may not be able to obtain.”

The year of fundraising will include multiple activities at all home matches at the popular golf club including a Captains’ Charity Day later in the year.

United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity Manager, Ben Petts said: “It is wonderful that Louth Golf Club is supporting us in this way, this fundraising will make a real difference to the lives of patients and their families using our county’s hospitals.”

In 2024, the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity received over £1million in donations and funded projects worth over £108,000 to support cancer patients. This included resources for parents to help support and aid discussion with children about their cancer diagnosis, scalp cooling caps which help reduce hair loss during chemotherapy treatments and a new makeover to the Oncology garden which has created a peaceful and welcoming space for patients attending the hospital for treatments.

More information on how people can support the charity’s work and help provide those extras that improve patients’ lives can be found on its website: https://www.ulhcharity.org.uk/

Council to reopen Yarborough and Birchwood Leisure Centres’ outdoor facilities this weekend

Michael Fisher
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Council to reopen Yarborough and Birchwood Leisure Centres’ outdoor facilities this weekend
City of Lincoln Council is very pleased to announce that outdoor facilities at both Yarborough and Birchwood Leisure Centres are to reopen on a phased basis from this weekend, Saturday 12 April 2025. Following the unexpected closure of the centres, the council has acted quickly and successfully worked with one of its key partners to ensure the outdoor facilities can reopen. Over the next three months, Lincoln City Foundation – the charitable arm of Lincoln City FC – will manage the outdoor leisure facilities at both centres on behalf of the council. Working with the Foundation, the reopening of outdoor facilities will take place on a phased basis, prioritising community-based clubs. The council has now contacted these clubs directly, and we ask that if your club hasn’t been contacted then please bear with the council until it is in a position to do a further phase. The Foundation will coordinate all bookings, keyholding, facilities management and maintenance on behalf of the council. In addition, members of City of Lincoln Council’s Executive will next week be asked to approve the start of the procurement process to find an interim operator for the indoor and outdoor leisure facilities at both sites for the next two years. In the meantime, the council has now repossessed its buildings at Yarborough Leisure Centre and Birchwood Leisure Centre. This means that essential maintenance can be carried out, and the pool’s water quality can be maintained. Some refurbishment work will also be necessary before a new interim operator is brought in. Simon Walters, Strategic Director of Communities and Environment at City of Lincoln Council, said: “We’re incredibly pleased that we have been able to work with our partners at the Lincoln City Foundation to ensure that some of the outdoor facilities at Yarborough and Birchwood Leisure Centres can reopen as soon as possible. “We understand how important these leisure facilities are to our local communities and share everyone’s concern regarding the sudden closures. “Securing the Foundation for this first phase is a positive first step towards a full re-opening of the centres, and we’re committed to finding an interim operator to allow for the reopening of both the indoor facilities, as well as the full suite of outdoor facilities, in the coming months. “We’d like to thank our residents and local clubs for their patience and understanding, and the Foundation for stepping up at such a difficult time.” Martin Hickerton, chief executive of the Foundation, said: “Everyone across Lincoln City Football Club is pleased to be playing a key role in reopening these vital grassroots spaces for the people in our local community. “We feel a real sense of pride in our city and know what an important role physical activity plays in the lives of many of its residents – across the club and the Foundation we’re passionate about using our unique role in the city to maintain and increase access where we can. “We’re pleased to work with the City of Lincoln Council on this step in the right direction, and we can’t wait to see people coming back and filling these spaces with activities once again as people get back into routines which mean so much to them. Christopher Roe, Chairman of North Lindum Hawks football clubs, said: “This is fantastic news. Getting the pitches back open again is a real credit to the city council and Lincoln City Foundation. “Our kids can’t wait to get back on the 3G pitches this weekend. It’s essential that young people have access to these types of facilities for their health and well-being. “Grass roots football plays an incredibly important role in the lives of many young people, and I’d like to thank all those who have helped to deliver this outcome so swiftly.” The council is still awaiting confirmation of an appointed administrator or liquidator for Active Nation. Once this is confirmed, further guidance will be provided for customers with pre-paid memberships to explore the possibility of reclaiming their payment.

Journey through time with the University of Lincoln for the Festival of History 2025

Michael Fisher
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Journey through time with the University of Lincoln for the Festival of History 2025
In celebration of the Lincoln Festival of History from 3 – 5 May 2025, the University of Lincoln, UK, is offering members of the public the opportunity to journey back in time with a series of free public talks on the city’s history. Festivalgoers will see Lincoln from a new perspective and the University’s lectures will delve into the often-unknown past of some of the region’s most significant historic happenings, ranging from the renowned authors and poets who helped shape Lincoln’s literary landscape, to medieval discoveries, and learning about the history behind the city’s leprosarium. The University events are all free and booking is essential – find out more below. Literary Lincoln: The Early Modern to the 19th Century, Wednesday 30 April – Lincoln Guildhall Join us at the Guildhall to explore the literary references of Lincolnshire with this trio lecture from Dr Christopher Marlow, Dr Laura Gill and Dr Owen Clayton. Take a tour of the University of Lincoln’s Conservation Labs, Saturday 3 May – Brayford Pool Campus Come and tour the University’s Conservation labs to see live conservation projects in action. Tennyson and the Pre-Raphaelites, Monday 5 May – Brayford Pool Campus Hear from Jim Cheshire, Associate Professor, as he shares insight into the fascinating world of Tennyson and the Pre-Raphaelites in this public lecture. Leprosy in Lincoln: The Hospital of the Holy Innocents, Thursday 29 May – Lincoln Guildhall Join Dr Samantha Tipper for a public lecture that will take you on a journey back in time to around 1098 to hear about Lincoln’s Hospital of the Holy Innocents, a leprosarium, built on the city’s South Common. Medieval Discoveries: A Learning and Career Journey, Friday 30 May, Lincoln Guildhall Attend an evening of debates and thought-provoking conversations led by the University’s current and previous MA Medieval Studies students, who will share their ‘medieval discoveries’ and reflect upon the skills they have acquired and enhanced throughout their learning journey. Speaking about the Conversation lab tours, Henning Schulze, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader in Conservation, explained: “During the Festival of History you are invited to experience conservation work at the labs of the University with a short talk, a tour of the facilities and some hands-on activities – and as a special highlight you can witness conservation in action.” The Festival of History is organised by the city’s Events in Lincoln team and the celebration will offer a variety of activities, performances and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. It is a living history event that will take place from Saturday 3 to Monday 5 May and is open to all members of the public.

Central Library temporary closure: books and archives to be removed as essential work planned

Michael Fisher
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Central Library temporary closure: books and archives to be removed as essential work planned
Grimsby Library appointments to support people with online forms and other digital assistance is continuing in Cleethorpes, or over the phone, as the town centre building remains closed.
Lincs Inspire and North East Lincolnshire Council have confirmed that one-to-one appointments are going ahead at Cleethorpes Library – to book contact 01472 323650.  There is also an option for people to be helped over the phone. Scanning facilities are available at Cleethorpes as well as at the libraries in Waltham and Immingham. See below for opening hours. An alternative site for the Credit Union is also being looked for. In the meantime, for appointments please contact 01482 778753. Meanwhile, unreturned library books can go to the libraries in Cleethorpes, Waltham or Immingham – or to the reception at the Municipal offices, which is open Monday to Friday 8.45am until 4pm (excluding bank holidays). Grimsby Central Library building had to close at short notice after a water leak created a risk of asbestos disturbance. As was common at the time of its construction and opening 58 years ago, the building and materials within it contain asbestos. Further work is now needed with assessments and necessary asbestos removal and the building will remain closed for some time as this is carried out. The safe removal of the local history archives and books will take place to protect them during the work. A temporary location for the service in the town centre is being sought, with considerations such as space, location and the IT infrastructure that is needed. Further details will be released as soon as possible. North East Lincolnshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and the Visitor Economy, Cllr Hayden Dawkins, said: “Like almost all buildings of this age, asbestos is an issue and until this is dealt with properly, we cannot move forward with any plans for this building. “The recent water leak and subsequent damage has accelerated essential asbestos removal works that would have always been needed.  We will ensure we move as swiftly as we possibly can, and in the meantime, we do apologise for the inconvenience for library users,” he added. Opening times:
  • Cleethorpes Library on Alexandra Road, open 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 1pm Saturday;
  • Immingham Library at the Civic Centre on Pelham Road, open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 1pm Saturday;
  • Waltham Library on the High Street, open 8.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5.30pm Tuesday to Friday, and 9am to 1pm Saturday.

Skegness station upgrade delayed after contractor exits project

Tess Egginton
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Skegness station upgrade delayed after contractor exits project

A £3.3 million redevelopment of Skegness railway station has stalled after the appointed contractor, Taziker Ltd, withdrew from the project. East Midlands Railway (EMR), which is overseeing the scheme, is now in the process of sourcing a new delivery partner.

The revamp is part of a broader investment funded through the government’s Town Deal programme and aims to improve passenger flow by reconfiguring the station’s internal layout.

Originally scheduled for completion by 25 May, the timeline is now uncertain. EMR has reaffirmed its commitment to the project and is working to minimise disruption while securing a new contractor.

For businesses involved in infrastructure, transport, or town centre regeneration, the delay highlights the potential risks of contractor dependency in publicly funded development schemes.

 
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/den-belitsky

Planning approved for 66-bed care home in Bourne

Tess Egginton
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Planning approved for 66-bed care home in Bourne

LNT Care Developments has secured planning approval from South Kesteven District Council for the construction of a 66-bed residential care home in Bourne. The development will replace an existing house on Tarragon Way, with a two-storey H-shaped building designed to include parking for 30 vehicles.

The project is expected to create between 50 and 60 local jobs and represent a significant investment in the area. Beyond construction, it will generate ongoing opportunities for local contractors, suppliers, and community engagement, including potential partnerships with schools and community groups.

While most local residents supported the location, concerns were raised over the site’s accessibility and parking capacity. Ward councillor Helen Crawford noted issues with the proposed entrance on Coriander Drive, potential congestion from HGV traffic, and insufficient parking for visitors and staff.

The planning committee approved the project with the condition that a travel plan and construction plan be submitted. No timeline for the project’s completion has been provided.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/shintartanya

Aled Jones set to share the stage with the Baths Hall Vocal Collective

Tess Egginton
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Aled Jones set to share the stage with the Baths Hall Vocal Collective
Aled Jones will share the stage with a local choir on the latest leg of his one-man Full Circle tour. Aled will be joined by the Baths Hall Vocal Collective on the stage of Bath Halls, Scunthorpe, at his show there on May 10, 2025. It is one of several times local choirs will share the stage with Aled on this tour, which returns to theatres on March 25. The choirs will all join the Welsh star for a duet of How Great Art Thou in the second half of the show, in which Aled shares the stories and songs of his 40-year career. Choirs have also been given the opportunity to perform their own music in the venue foyers ahead of the start of the show. Aled said: “I have enjoyed a long and successful career, and it is a real privilege for me to be joined on the stage with a talented local choir. It will be a really special evening.” The choir’s leader added: “We are so grateful and excited to perform with Aled on his tour. Opportunities to support such great artists like Aled is a real privilege for any group, especially for our lovely local vocal collective. It is wonderful how he is supporting and encouraging community choirs and we can’t wait to perform in the show.” Aled needs little introduction; he was the boy treble who captivated the world with his angelic voice. Selling more than seven million albums, Aled was the original, classical crossover star. His recording of Walking in the Air, from the animated film The Snowman, firmly established him as a household name and he has become an integral part of the nation’s festivities. Equally at home on the classical stage, or starring in musical theatre productions in London’s West End, his credits include lead roles in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. He is an award-winning television broadcaster and radio presenter who’s interviewed hundreds of A-List stars over the years. He heads up BBC’s Songs of Praise and his own Saturday and Sunday morning shows on Classic FM.

Lincolnshire gin business ceases production

Tess Egginton
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Lincolnshire gin business ceases production
After almost six years selling gin across Lincolnshire and beyond, The Gentlemen Distillers has ceased production and is in the process of selling off the last of its stock of award-winning gins and liqueurs. While things are still selling well, the business has decided that “the time has come to call it a day and move to pastures new.” Having attended events across the county including brass band weekends at Butlins, The Lincolnshire, Revesby and Heckington Shows, Lincoln Christmas Market, and a number of events further afield, The Gentlemen Distillers said: “We would like to thank everyone who has supported us over the years whether it be by being regular customers, stocking us in their shops, or simply buying a single bottle once and enjoying it. “It’s been fun, but we are looking forward now to getting back to drinking gin instead of making it!”

Grantham celebrations to mark WWII Victory in Europe

Tess Egginton
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Grantham celebrations to mark WWII Victory in Europe
Victory in Europe’s 80th anniversary will be marked in Grantham with a celebration at Grantham House, a flag raising, a tea dance and a beacon lighting in Wyndham Park. Organiser South Kesteven District Council is also inviting communities to stage their own events as part of the national commemoration. The Grantham House celebration on 4th May will also illustrate the council’s Soldiers from the Sky project, made possible by National Lottery players, telling how locally-based Allied paratroopers contributed to the end of the war. The free event, from 10am to 4pm, will include memorabilia displays from historic airfields and two local wartime air crashes, WWII jeeps and military re-enactors, teas on the lawn, Chapel House pizza, music and bookable military heritage talks in the morning and afternoon. On Thursday 8th May, VE Day itself, events start with a flag raising on St Peter’s Green at 9am. In the afternoon the Guildhall Ballroom will host a tea dance to the sound of Glenn Miller and Frank Sinatra with quicksteps, foxtrots, waltzes and Latin numbers. In the evening, Wyndham Park will host military exhibits in the Visitor Centre, with the park café open, plus music and dancing from Grantham School of Dance and tours of the Heroes Commemorative Orchard in the build up to the beacon lighting at 9.30pm. Cllr Phil Dilks, South Kesteven District Council Cabinet member for Armed Forces, said: “We are delighted to celebrate such a milestone in our country’s history as part of the national commemoration and extremely grateful to the National Trust for hosting this event at Grantham House. “It’s vital that we never forget the sacrifices of so many who fought for our freedoms.” Dr Henry Cutten, Local Partnerships Co-ordinator at Grantham House, said: “The National Trust is honoured to support this meaningful event. Grantham House will soon be opening with free entry, and our hope is that the property will become a special place for the community, somewhere they feel pride in and a sense of ownership for. “Being part of events like this is a great step towards that ambition and we’d love to hear from any community groups hoping to host events in the future.”
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Robert L Parker
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