The Lincoln College Group returned once again to The Drill for its annual Further Education Awards Ceremony, celebrating the remarkable achievements of 25 students across its three campuses – Lincoln College, Newark College, and the Air & Space Institute (ASI). Students, their guests, staff, and sponsors were welcomed into a vibrant, floral-themed venue, where a summer high tea set the tone for the evening. The event opened with a dazzling performance of Tea for Two by Level 3 Dance students, choreographed by one of the evening’s award winners, Demi Xystouri, who proudly watched from the audience. Mark Locking, principal and CEO of Lincoln College Group, said: “Year after year, we welcome incredible students through our doors. “Tonight, we celebrate just a handful of our extraordinary learners, many of whom have overcome barriers that even adults would struggle with – all while juggling their studies and building their future careers. “They are a credit to us all. We can’t wait to see what they’ll achieve beyond their time with us. Congratulations to all our student and apprentice winners.” One of the evening’s most inspirational moments came with the recognition of Kymani Campbell, winner of both the Engineering & Technology Award and the Extraordinary Student of the Year Award (16–18). Kymani was honoured for his perseverance and positivity during a time of profound personal upheaval. After tragically losing his mother and his leg in a devastating accident, Kymani made the courageous move from the Caribbean to Lincoln in August 2024, leaving behind friends and family to start a new chapter. Joining Lincoln College that September, he enrolled on the Level 2 Computer Studies course, embracing both academic and personal challenges with extraordinary determination. Balancing studies, accessibility struggles, and life in a new country, Kymani has shown an unshakeable commitment to his goals. Now walking with a prosthetic leg and nearing the end of his first year, he has his sights set on a computing apprenticeship. Kymani Campbell, Level 2 Computing Student, said: “I feel great about achieving this award. I came to Lincoln College having a few troubles, but I have overstepped these troubles and worries. The obstacles I had to go through was the passing of my mum and the accident losing my leg, so that’s been a bit much for me and a lot I had to go through. “I was resilient and fearless – I came in and did what I had to do and now I have achieved an award for doing all of that. It hasn’t affected my education; it’s just put me on a higher level to push myself harder than I used to before.” The evening also featured outstanding vocal performances by Level 3 and 4 Performing Arts students, including renditions of Don’t Rain on My Parade, Funny Girl, All That Matters, and Maybe This Time, whilst Catering & Hospitality students contributed to the evening celebrations delivering a delicious three course meal. Guests were also inspired by a keynote speech from a former Lincoln College student, now vice president of gas services UK & Ireland at Siemens, who shared his journey from college to corporate leadership. Full list of winners

• A Level Student Award sponsored by the University of Lincoln: Martyna Wierzbicka
• College of Art & Design Award sponsored by SOOPA DOOPA: Ellie Kennedy
• Performance Arts Award sponsored by The Drill: Demi Xystouri
• Business & Education Student Award sponsored by Nova Talent: Ewa Darmoroz
• Policing & Protective Services Award sponsored by The Order of the St. John Care Trust: Zoe Maxwell
• Construction Award sponsored by GRS Electrical Services: Tabitha Morris
• Engineering & Technology Award sponsored by Siemens Energy: Kymani Campbell
• Hair & Beauty Award sponsored by Red Hair: Grace Rhodes
• Maths & English Award sponsored by Viridis: Luke Holland
• Sport & Animal Care Award sponsored by the JHT Group: Ignas Bukovskis
• Apprentice Academic Achievement Award sponsored by Newark & Sherwood District Council: Breanna Newberry
• Apprentice Best Employee Award sponsored by HubGem: Hollie Belshaw from DC Baxter
• Service Sector Award sponsored by Doddington Hall & Gardens: Noah Quint
• Apprentice Outstanding Skills Award sponsored by Core Architects: Charlie Sullivan
• College Community Spirit Award sponsored by Rockbox Advertising: Sam Hunt
• Air & Space Institute Award sponsored by DEA Aviation Ltd: Malakai Atakora
• Care Services Award sponsored by Lincolnshire Care Association (Linca): Noah Forbes Turner
• Community & International Students Award sponsored by Biffa: Manuel Hanif Dias
• Philip Dawson Supported Education Award Supported by Castle Education: Robert Kunkiel
• T Level Award sponsored by Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce: Jack Bevan
• Apprentice Rising Star Award sponsored by the Royal Air Force: Finley Cox
• Best Progression Award sponsored by Currys: Imogen Parlett
• Richard Arbon Award for Overcoming Adversity sponsored by Creed: Mia Grant
• Kev Gibbon Most Improved Student of the Year Award sponsored by Oakmoor: Freeman Edwards
• Extraordinary Student of the Year Award Exceptional Achievement 16-18 sponsored by Quiet Tiger Aviation: Kymani Campbell
• Extraordinary Student of the Year Award Exceptional Achievement 19+ sponsored by Game Saints: Manuel Hanif Dias
• Apprentice of the Year Award sponsored by Destec Engineering Ltd: Tabitha Morris

Patients with suspected prostate cancer can now access treatments closer to home, thanks to a generous charitable donation. A newly opened Urology Diagnostic Room at Grantham and District Hospital is providing faster and more convenient access to prostate cancer treatments for many residents in the south of Lincolnshire. This vital improvement has been made possible by the generosity of former mayor of Lincoln, Rosanne Kirk. When Rosanne’s father died of prostate cancer aged 78, she vowed to help improve earlier detection of the disease so patients could access treatments quicker, helping to improve their chance of survival. Rosanne said: “It was a difficult time for my father and all the family. He was a very private person and found it hard to talk about his illness. By the time clinicians confirmed he had prostate cancer, it was too late for him to respond to treatments. “He lost a lot of weight and became a shell of himself before he died in 2021. It was horrible to see how fast he deteriorated, and I kept thinking, had the cancer been detected earlier, he may still be here today.” When Rosanne became mayor of Lincoln in 2022, she decided to fundraise for United Lincolnshire’s Hospitals Trust’s urology units and over the year she raised an impressive £5,000 which she gifted to United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity for the purchase of a biopsy trolley for Grantham’s new Urology Suite. Since opening in January 2024, the unit has treated over 700 patients. Sara Anscombe, general manager for the hospital’s Urology Department said: “One in eight men will have prostate cancer during their life, but the earlier you find it, the easier it is to treat. “Rosanne has made a massive difference – giving the funds for the biopsy trolley spurred us to create the Urology Diagnostic facility at the hospital. Now patients living in and around Grantham can come here for a biopsy instead of travelling to Lincoln or Boston. They can be seen quicker, which enables us to detect the cancer quicker.” Patients are referred to the clinic when anomalies have been detected in their prostate following an MRI scan. The biopsy takes a tiny piece of the identified cells for analysis. Sue Willson is one of two advanced clinical practitioners working at the unit. She said: “A biopsy takes about 20 minutes to complete. It is paramount in detecting cancer in male patients. “Biopsy results are discussed in our Multi-disciplinary Team meeting to identify the best treatment options which are then discussed with the patient. This can include removal of the prostate gland by robotic assisted surgery at Lincoln County Hospital.” Rosanne was overwhelmed to realise the extent to what her fundraising efforts have achieved. She said: “It is very emotional to find out that because of my contribution, a whole clinic has been set up, it is a bit overwhelming. I know my dad would be proud of what has been achieved, and his legacy will be to help other men.” Charity manager, Ben Petts said: “United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity funds those additional items and services that the NHS simply cannot provide. We were honoured to work with Rosanne to fund this new piece of equipment that has helped to improve the lives of so many prostate cancer sufferers.” For more information on the work of United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity visit: ulhcharity.org.uk Rosanne continues to work to raise awareness of prostate cancer and recently attended the Houses of Parliament with members of Prostate Cancer UK to raise awareness of its deadly effects.

Neale Court Care Home in North Hykeham has officially celebrated the reopening of its newly enhanced facilities, following a series of upgrades to key areas of the home. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Thursday, 5th June and was led by the Deputy Mayor of North Hykeham, Councillor Catherine Nnamdi, who was joined by chairman Mr Kachra and home manager Kayleigh Moss. To mark the occasion, residents, families, friends, and members of the local community were invited to come together and explore the home’s improved spaces—including an additional lounge and dining area, more bedrooms, a welcoming new reception area, and the stylish Coffee Club café. Guests were treated to a delicious buffet, live music and tours of the home, giving everyone the chance to see how the updates will enhance everyday life for residents and visitors alike. The atmosphere was full of warmth and celebration, with the new Coffee Club café proving a big hit for those looking to relax with tea, coffee and cake. Speaking at the event, Deputy Mayor Councillor Catherine Nnamdi said: “I think I can speak for all staff and what it means to have this refurbishment, what it means to work in this area and being the Deputy Mayor for North Hykeham, and for serving as a Councillor in the area for a couple of years. “I know that for our older people, who have many needs, you are going to be part of the beating heart of North Hykeham, thank you for being here and thank you for the refurbishment and the great works that have been done.” Co-CEO of the award-winning Country Court group Aly Khan Kachra added: “Huge thanks to Kayleigh and all the staff in the home, I know it’s always difficult living around building work, but it’s all been worthwhile, because what an amazing home you can now offer to your current residents and future residents of North Hykeham. “Well done and I hope you continue the philosophy of what we are trying to achieve here, long into the future, so thank you Kayleigh.” Kayleigh Moss, home manager of Neale Court, said: “This is a celebration of the hard work, dedication, and commitment that have gone into making this transformation possible. Thank you to MV Construction for their hard work throughout the refurbishment process, ensuring minimal disruption and helping the home continue to run smoothly. “A heartfelt thank you also goes to our wonderful residents and their families for their patience and understanding during the renovation works, and of course, to our incredible team here at Neale Court. “Throughout the changes, they have continued to deliver exceptional care to our residents with dedication, compassion, and professionalism. And I would like to thank our Deputy Mayor, Councillor Catherine Nnamdi for taking time out of your busy schedule to come and officially open Neale Court.” The afternoon wrapped up with a community raffle, with residents helping to draw the winning tickets. Local business Priestley and Cockett, Dignity Funeral Directors in Lincoln, kindly donated the top prize and joined in the day’s celebrations. With its new spaces now open and a strong sense of community at its heart, Neale Court Care Home is excited to welcome more local families to experience the friendly, person-centred care that Country Court is known for. For more information about life at Neale Court Care Home, please contact Kayleigh Moss, home manager, on 01522 682 201 or email careenquiries@countrycourtcare.com.

Three landmark venues in North Lincolnshire, Waters’ Edge Visitor Centre, Scunthorpe Central Library, and The Baths Hall, are set to undergo major energy efficiency upgrades, after the council secured funding through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.

The investment will target ageing heating systems and help cut carbon emissions from council buildings, which generated over 3,000 tonnes of CO₂ in 2023/24, mainly due to outdated gas, biomass, and oil-based heating.

Chosen for their high energy use and need for modernisation, the three sites will receive low-carbon system upgrades aimed at reducing operational costs and improving year-round comfort for users.

The upgrades align with North Lincolnshire Council’s broader Green Future strategy and reflect a push to make public buildings more sustainable and community-friendly.

Leisure centres were excluded from the funding due to national scheme criteria.

Image credit: North Lincolnshire Council

Lincolnshire’s growing influence in the agri-tech space has earned a spot in the UK Government’s new Industrial Strategy, highlighting the region as a key player in the Advanced Manufacturing Sector. The strategy identifies high-growth sectors and clusters driving economic potential across the country.

At the centre of this recognition is the University of Lincoln, noted for its international work in agri-robotics, controlled environment farming, and commercialising agricultural research. Its Lincoln Institute for Agri-food Technology (LIAT) continues to play a leading role in shaping the future of farming through technology.

Earlier this year, the university’s Lincoln Agri-Robotics team won Best Research Project at the UKRI Trustworthy Autonomous Systems Hub 2025 AI and Robotics Research Awards. In addition, LIAT’s groundbreaking work was presented in Parliament, reinforcing the university’s role in national conversations on food security and innovation.

The university also collaborates with Cambridge and East Anglia universities through the LINCAM partnership, aiming to improve food systems and expand AI and robotics research across the region.

With the agri-food sector contributing £147 million to the UK economy and supporting over 30,000 jobs, Lincoln’s continued leadership in this field is both an academic and economic force, rooted in real-world impact.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/winexa

Flags will be raised at Lincolnshire’s hospitals to honour those who have helped save the lives of others through organ donation. The pink organ donation flag will fly at Lincoln County Hospital and Pilgrim Hospital, Boston, each time a person becomes a donor in Lincolnshire.   Dr Gary Wilbourn, consultant in intensive care and anaesthesia and clinical lead for organ donation at United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (ULTH), said: “By raising a flag in Boston and Lincoln with their loved ones consent, we will honour the decision made to give the gift of life through organ donation each time it happens in our hospitals.  “We hope it will signify an opportunity to reflect on the life-changing impact being an organ donor has on all involved, including the donor, those recipients who may have been waiting a long time to receive an organ, their families and friends, and our NHS colleagues involved in their care.   “It is also a welcome tribute alongside the existing organ donation memorial trees, which can be found in the main entrances of our hospitals in Boston and Lincoln.”  The flags have been purchased thanks to the support of the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity. The charity provides additional items not funded through NHS budgets.  During 2024/25, Lincolnshire’s hospital teams supported seven families to donate the organs of their loved ones. This resulted in 21 other people being able to receive a potentially life-saving organ transplant.   There are currently more than 8,000 people waiting for a transplant in the UK.    Image credit: United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust