Help select the soundtrack to Classic Ibiza’s birthday celebrations

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Help select the soundtrack to Classic Ibiza’s birthday celebrations
With the outdoor concert season drawing ever closer, the organisers of Classic Ibiza at Burghley House on Saturday 26 July have announced details of an extra-special track poll to mark its 10th birthday celebrations. This year they are asking for your help to select the tunes being performed by Urban Soul Orchestra, conducted by Stephen Hussey, and the show’s special guests, London Community Gospel Choir. This summer’s Classic Ibiza will see Urban Soul Orchestra perform more tracks than ever before in a set that is packed full of firm audience favourites. Insomnia by Faithless, Born Slippy by Underworld and Adagio For Strings by Tiësto are among the anthemic tunes sure to be given the full orchestral treatment. London Community Gospel Choir will bring a fresh dynamic to the first half of the show, creating a euphoric wall of sound with Urban Soul Orchestra in a performance not to be missed. The organisers have compiled a shortlist of 12 tracks in their repertoire for you to choose from that lend themselves perfectly to the addition of a gospel choir. The shortlisted tracks are: Blackwater (Octave One); Gypsy Woman (She’s Homeless) (Crystal Waters); (I Wanna Give You) Devotion (Nomad); Lola’s Theme (The Shapeshifters); Praise You (Fatboy Slim); Saltwater (Chicane); Sun Is Shining (Bob Marley vs. Funkstar De Luxe); Sunchyme (Dario G); Unfinished Sympathy (Massive Attack); Where Love Lives (Alison Limerick, Frankie Knuckles, David Morales); Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad? (Moby); and You Got the Love (The Source ft. Candi Staton). Classic Ibiza’s Lisa Ward says: “Classic Ibiza has always been about reimaging iconic house tunes to create a unique musical experience that is truly memorable. This year we’ll be taking the show to a whole new level, with London Community Gospel Choir joining Stephen Hussey’s incredible Urban Soul Orchestra as our special guests. “Our annual track poll is a massive hit with our social media followers, so we want to do something extra-special to mark our 10th birthday celebrations. It gives our concertgoers the chance to feel part of the creative process – a true case of playing to your audience!” You can join Classic Ibiza’s 58,000 social media followers by placing your vote here. Voting is open until 21 April. The eight most popular tracks being added to the set will be announced shortly afterwards. Last year’s poll received over 5,000 votes. Tickets to Classic Ibiza at Burghley House are selling fast, with the venue already at 70% capacity. The show is proud to be supporting local charity, Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice. Visit classicibiza.co.uk for tickets and more information.   Image credit: David Evans Photography

18th-century pleasure gardens revival to take visitors back in time

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18th-century pleasure gardens revival to take visitors back in time

Spalding’s Ayscoughfee Hall and Gardens will be transformed into a unique recreation of an 18th-century pleasure garden later this month, for Ayscoughfee Enlightenment.

Taking place on the evenings of Friday 21 and Saturday 22 March, the event will invite thousands of residents and visitors to experience the Hall’s history brought to life through immersive theatrical performances, lantern-lit pathways, period music and artistic displays, offering the opportunity to experience the elegance of the Georgian era first-hand. There will be activities and attractions for the whole family, with performances from opera singers and a quartet, as well as a dance troupe giving the chance to try out Georgian court dances. Across the Gardens there will also be fire displays, art installations from local artists Nicki Jarvis and Liz Kelleher working with the local community and illuminated nightscapes including glowing pathways and even a mysterious grotto with a local folk tale to tell. Families will be able to take part in a storytelling trail and character-based scavenger hunt based around Spalding’s Georgian history, and Ayscoughfee Café will be open serving period-inspired refreshments. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the Georgian spirit by dressing in period-inspired outfits, with a special prize to be awarded to the best-dressed guest. Organised and ran by South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership’s Story Tellers programme, in collaboration with specialist historical production organisation Heroine City, Ayscoughfee Enlightenment is inspired by famous pleasure gardens like Vauxhall and Ranelagh, capturing their spirit through these live entertainment, cultural displays, and interactive activities.
  Photo shows Ayscoughfee Hall. Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Dave Porter Photos

Lincolnshire gets second free community paint store

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Lincolnshire gets second free community paint store

A new scheme at Louth Household Waste Recycling Centre will save residents money and give unused paint a new lease of life.

Lincolnshire’s second ‘Community RePaint’ scheme will enable people to donate their leftover paint to the store. Other residents and community groups can then take any paint they might need for their next DIY project for free. The new store follows the successful launch of the Grantham Community RePaint. Since its opening in December 2024, 1,000 litres of paint have already been stopped from going to waste. Cllr Daniel McNally, executive councillor for waste at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “Each year 55 million litres of perfectly good paint is wasted across the UK. We see lots of it at our recycling centres – some of which has barely been used. “That’s why we wanted to step in and make a positive difference. By using our RePaint shops not only can you help to cut the amount of unnecessary paint wastage, you can also save money. “Alongside our successful Reuse Shop at Tattershall, this is another way we’re thinking differently about our waste, trying to reduce the amount we throw away and reuse items as many times as possible. “If you’ve got some leftover tins of paint, drop them off at either of our sites and give them a second life – it could save fellow residents or even local charities some cash.”
Residents looking to take advantage of the Community RePaint scheme – either by dropping paints off or taking any from the store – simply need to speak to a member of staff on site. Community RePaint is a UK-wide paint reuse network, sponsored by Dulux, with over 80 schemes operating nationally.
  Picture shows Cllr Daniel McNally, executive councillor for waste at Lincolnshire County Council, and Cllr Alex Hall, county councillor for Louth North, officially open the free community paint store at Louth Household Waste Recycling Centre. Image credit: Lincolnshire County Council

New Lincolnshire authority meets for first time

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New Lincolnshire authority meets for first time

Local powers and investment to support business, up-skill people, and improve highways and housing are key priorities of the new Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority (GLCCA).

Leaders of the three lead local authorities – Lincolnshire County Council and North and North East Lincolnshire unitary authorities – spoke of their ambitions for the future as they marked the first meeting of the GLCCA. Cllrs Martin Hill, Rob Waltham and Philip Jackson – all members of the GLCCA board – were addressing an audience of business leaders and representatives from local communities, MPs and colleagues following the inaugural meeting, which was held at Lincoln Cathedral on Thursday (March 6). They talked of the real possibilities that now exist across the whole of the Greater Lincolnshire footprint with a Mayor, to be elected on May 1, chairing an authority that can work to effect positive change. Giving an overview of the positive work that will begin in earnest by the GLCCA, Lincolnshire County Council Leader, Cllr Martin Hill said: “We’re now starting a new era in Greater Lincolnshire – erasing boundaries as we continue to strive to get the best for our residents and businesses. “Connecting companies, organisations and decision makers is key to making the most of these new powers and funding we have from the government. Our area contributes significantly to the nation and this deserves to be recognised – whether it’s our contribution to defence, food security or logistics. Being able to boost these areas not only benefits Greater Lincolnshire, but the whole country.” Cllr Philip Jackson spoke of the ‘economic powerhouse’ sectors of decarbonisation, offshore wind turbines, food processing, and ports and logistics and how the GLCCA can work with all business to enable and support continued growth. He said: “Over the last decade we have once again seen the great benefits of our position along the south bank of the Humber estuary, with regional, national and world-leading organisations creating opportunity and growth. As one of the GLCCA’s key priorities states, now is the time we can work to further turbo charge that growth for the benefit of all within Greater Lincolnshire.”
  Image credit: Lincolnshire County Council

Lincolnshire fire crews set up car washes to raise money for charity

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Lincolnshire fire crews set up car washes to raise money for charity

Lincolnshire fire crews are holding charity car washes and other events this spring, to raise money for the Fire Fighters Charity.

A number of car washes are already planned in March with more being scheduled in the coming weeks. Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, executive councillor for fire and rescue at the county council, said: “A big thank you to our fire crews who take the time to run events in their communities and raise money for a great cause. Consistently Lincolnshire events raise the most money of any county – and that’s also down to the generosity of our residents who support these efforts.” Station Manager, Lee Marsh, said: “The Fire Fighters Charity does incredible work to support current and ex-firefighters and their families. They support so many people in what can be a very challenging role. “Please do continue to support the events our community stations, and get your car cleaned this spring! The car washes are being sponsored by Autoglym nationally, but this year we have LGM Products that are very kindly sponsoring us here in Lincolnshire.” Events will take place at fire stations across Lincolnshire: 8 March – Binbrook, Bourne, Gainsborough, Grantham, Louth 9 March – Alford, Billingborough, Leverton, North Somercotes, Spalding 15 March – Kirton, Market Rasen 22 March – Corby Glen, Wragby Market Place On 6 April, firefighters from Wragby, Binbrook and North Hykeham will be taking on the Lincoln 10k in full fire kit. Charity donations can be made on Ben and Jake’s fundraiser for The Fire Fighters Charity JustGiving page.
  Image credit: Lincolnshire County Council

Bra banks launched in Lincolnshire libraries to support breast cancer research

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Bra banks launched in Lincolnshire libraries to support breast cancer research

Bra banks have arrived at Lincolnshire’s libraries to encourage members of the public to donate bras that they no longer need to raise vital funds for breast cancer research.

The bra banks have been installed in partnership with breast cancer charity, Against Breast Cancer. You can find bra banks at:
  • Boston Library
  • Gainsborough Library
  • Grantham Library
  • Horncastle Library
  • Keelby Library
  • Lincoln Central Library
  • Long Sutton Library
  • Mablethorpe Library
  • Skegness Library
  • Sleaford Library
  • Spalding Library
  • Stamford Library
Donated bras are sent for textile recovery, giving them a new lease of life and raising money for Against Breast Cancer, which they use to fund research. Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, executive member for culture at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “Now, thanks to this scheme, when your old bra is done supporting you, it can go on to support vital research. “It’s nice to know that not only will your old bra be recycled, it’s making a difference for people living with breast cancer. And by having them in our libraries it gives people the opportunity to donate their bras to the scheme really easily.” Nicola Rogers, Lincolnshire Libraries partnership manager at GLL, said: “We’re really proud to be able to introduce this initiative in our county’s libraries and support this good cause. “As a charitable social enterprise, one of our core values is to respect the planet. To be able to recycle fabric, along with raising funds for and awareness of Against Breast Cancer is a ‘win, win’. “This is an initiative we are delighted to be supporting, and we hope to see lots of our residents use these bra banks while visiting us.”
  Picture shows Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, executive member for culture at Lincolnshire County Council, at Lincoln Central Library’s bra bank. Credit: Lincolnshire County Council

Daughter takes on marathon to thank rehabilitation ward

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Daughter takes on marathon to thank rehabilitation ward
A daughter of a committed runner will be lacing up her own running trainers to fundraise for a ward which helped with her dad’s recovery after life-changing surgery. Stewart Bibby, from Market Rasen, was admitted to Ashby Ward at Lincoln County Hospital after receiving major surgery to stop a bleed on the brain. When Stewart (58) arrived on the ward, he couldn’t walk or communicate, other than through facial expressions. The team supported Stewart with his recovery through physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy. Stewart said: “The team have been such a crucial part of my recovery and I cannot thank the team enough for the care and support they have given me. Not only have they helped me become myself again, they have also become my friends. “I must admit when I first arrived on the ward, I wasn’t the most well-behaved patient! I was placed under observation because I kept climbing out of bed and constantly falling over. For me, this was my turning point as I knew that something needed to change. I knuckled down, listened to the advice and focused on getting better. “Thanks to the team, I was discharged at the start of January and I am now back home with my family.” Ashby Ward provides rehabilitation to people with long-term neurological conditions, as well as those who have traumatic/acquired brain injuries and need complex rehabilitation. Patients, their families and carers are critical to the rehabilitation process and are heavily involved in contributing to the programme. To thank the ward for the support given to her dad, Stewart’s daughter, Nancy Bibby, will be running the Manchester Marathon on Sunday 27 April 2025 to raise money for the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity. The charity provides patients and staff with the extra items not funded through the NHS but which often make a massive difference. Nancy said: “My dad has always been into his running which is why I’ve chosen to raise money for the ward. The whole team have been incredible in helping my dad with this recovery. We’re so thankful that he has fully recovered and is back home with his family.” Ben Petts, United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity Manager, said: “We are so pleased that Stewart has recovered and returned home with his family. Thank you to Nancy for choosing to raise money for our charity which makes such a difference for our patients, visitors and hardworking colleagues in the NHS.” Ben added: “We’d like to wish Nancy all the best for the marathon!” To contribute to Nancy’s fundraiser, please visit the fundraising page.   Image credit: Google maps

North East Lincolnshire Council awarded £400,000 to get active

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North East Lincolnshire Council awarded £400,000 to get active
North East Lincolnshire Council have been awarded over £400,000 to help North East Lincolnshire get more active. Sport England announced the £401,159 grant for North East Lincolnshire as part of their £250 million round of funding for 53 areas across England. This investment will build upon the foundations across the borough that are essential in ensuring everyone can be physically active. It will support the delivery of the Council’s Sport and Physical Activity Strategy, supporting residents to lead more physically active lives. The strategy was developed to align with Sport England’s wider national strategy “Uniting the Movement” that recognises the need to focus investment and resources on the communities that need it most. Specifically, this is about building the movement from the ground up by working with organisations and communities to understand the issues and barriers facing people to get active, and working together to develop local solutions. This will include:
  • Supporting work around sport and physical activity in North East Lincolnshire
  • Providing capacity to develop a larger funding application to Sport England in 2026/27
  • Funding for a range of collaborative and partnership work within the local sector
Sport and physical activity is also essential for a healthy lifestyle in children and young people. This investment aims to support, increase opportunities and reduce barriers for children and young people locally to be active in North East Lincolnshire. Additionally, this grant enables the Council to explore local initiatives to encourage more sustainable ways of travel that benefit people’s physical health as well as the wider environment. Councillor Hayden Dawkins, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage, and the Visitor Economy, said: “This is great news for our residents and the borough in general. “We’re dedicated to providing a borough that has both the means and the drive to help people be more physically active. “We’re looking forward to working with various community groups to see how the funding can be best used and watching the area develop as we progress.”
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Yuri Hoyda

Opportunities abound at Lincoln College’s Your Future Careers Expo

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Opportunities abound at Lincoln College’s Your Future Careers Expo
Lincoln College hosted a day of networking, opportunities and provided a link between employers and students today. Your Future Careers Expo is now an annual event that brings more than 50 employers together so that the current cohort of Lincoln College, Newark College and Air & Space Institute (Newark) students can strike up conversations, showcase their CVs or even interview for work experience, placements or apprenticeships. Mark Locking, Principal and CEO, said: “It has been really inspiring to see, once more, how engaged our students were with employers who had very kindly given their time to come and discuss and present the opportunities available. I’m certain several of the discussions had today will lead to a future career for many of our students.” Former Lincoln College student, Jack Fairweather, currently working at the Environment Agency as a Project Management Apprentice, attended today’s event to speak with current students about progression opportunities. Jack began his journey studying at the School of Food & Hospitality at Lincoln College for two years, before progressing onto the Level 3 Business course. While studying business, he undertook a 9-month industry placement, which helped him advance to the specialist Level 4 Apprenticeship. Jack says: “During my time at Lincoln College, my studies significantly boosted my confidence, especially when paired with my placement. The financial aspect of the course content in business was particularly beneficial and helped build the skillset I now have for my current role. “In my apprenticeship role, I support the delivery of our flood and coastal risk management programme, which includes tasks such as repairing flood walls, sluice gates, and locks. This includes anything related to main rivers. I have also had experience handling some of the financial reporting and organising team events.” Grantham-based BGB Innovation were on the lookout for 3 Mechanical Engineering apprentices – a fantastic opportunity for students, who were prompt and ready with their CVs. Elsewhere, construction experts Galliford Try were on hand to speak to anyone interested in the wide and varied roles that the company offers. Communities and Social Impact Manager, Joanne Scialo, said: “We are here seeking those enthusiastic about construction and are offering opportunities for work experience, placement opportunities and the chance to start an apprenticeship with us. “We have specialities both on the professional side as well as the more site-based positions. This ranges from civil engineering to marketing and everything in between. We’re here to break down stereotypes that people might have that are related to construction, it’s a wide-ranging industry.” Josh Cooke, a Mechanical Design Engineer from HGL Dynamics, a data management system specialist, said: “We’re here today not only to get our name out there, but to really show that careers within specialist engineering are available. We supply components to the aerospace industry, so hearing from students currently studying relevant subjects is really valuable for us.” Social Impact Business Partner at Graham, a civil engineering firm, Lynsey Harris, said: “We are a Northern Ireland-based civil engineering firm, but we are currently overseeing the transformation of the road and bridge at Tritton Road in Lincoln. “We’re here to highlight the opportunities that we have at Graham and to talk about the Graham Academy, where we manage our work experience, work placement and apprenticeships. We also provide a graduate programme, so we’re always keen to speak to people, no matter what level they are at. “Those interested today could have long-term careers with companies like us. Some of our Academy candidates have gone on to spend almost a decade with us now, so the opportunities are there!”

Sleaford’s cinema development fund swells to £5m

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Sleaford’s cinema development fund swells to £5m
An additional £2.2m has been put aside by North Kesteven District Council to fulfil its aspirations to deliver a cinema in Sleaford. By dedicating this new allocation within its £310m 10-year capital programme for targeted investments in projects District-wide, and adding to the £2.8m already earmarked, the Council has built a total fund of £5m. This ensures that it can move forward as swiftly as possible when ongoing discussions with a potential operator are concluded. Council Leader Cllr Richard Wright said: “We remain fully committed to our intention to deliver a new cinema for the area. Currently there are complex legal discussions underway with a potential operator to bring forward a fresh proposal that sits within a broader vision of regeneration. “I am optimistic that we are not too far away now from concluding what are called Heads of Terms and so it is essential to have the funds committed and put aside for as soon as they are needed.” In the five years since the Council outlined its previous proposals – put to an end by the Covid pandemic – the economic position of such a project has changed enormously, said Cllr Wright, but the Council’s position in seeing it as a significant benefit to the cultural and economic profile of the town has not. “The realisation of a cinema remains a key objective within both the Sleaford Masterplan and the Council’s investment aspirations. Given the enthusiasm that is continually expressed for a cinema to be included within our regeneration vision, I am reassured that we continue to be doing the right thing by exploring opportunities to bring one to fruition,” he said.
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Mr. Music
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