Lincolnshire invests in sand clearance upgrades for coastal walkways

April Lara
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Lincolnshire invests in sand clearance upgrades for coastal walkways

East Lindsey District Council is allocating additional capital and operational funds to address ongoing sand accumulation on pedestrian walkways in coastal towns like Sutton on Sea and Mablethorpe.

The investment includes purchasing specialist machinery and recruiting two new staff members to manage sand removal more efficiently. These measures aim to maintain access and safety for both residents and visitors, particularly after stormy weather increases the amount of sand displaced onto promenades.

The council confirmed the funding is being finalised and is part of a broader effort to implement long-term maintenance strategies rather than short-term fixes. The ongoing sand build-up has presented operational challenges for businesses operating near affected beaches, underlining the commercial importance of a sustainable solution.

  Image: Sutton-on-Sea – credit: Stock.adobe.com/mparratt

Three East Lindsey beaches to fly Blue Flags again this summer

Tess Egginton
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Three East Lindsey beaches to fly Blue Flags again this summer
Three East Lindsey beaches have been recognised as amongst Britain’s best, as they are announced as winners of the prestigious Blue Flag and Seaside Awards for summer 2025. Entering its 38th year, the award is given by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognising beaches and sites that have met the high standard required to be presented with a Blue Flag Award, which in East Lindsey are Mablethorpe, Skegness, and Sutton on Sea. Blue Flag is an environmental education programme managed by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education. It is only presented to beaches with water which has achieved the highest classification as set by the EU Bathing Water Directive and has an environmental education programme. To qualify, each applicant must meet and maintain a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria. Cllr Martin Foster, portfolio holder for operational services at East Lindsey District Council said: “We are absolutely delighted that Mablethorpe, Skegness, and Sutton on Sea have once again been recognised with Blue Flag Awards. “It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our local teams, volunteers, and communities who take such pride in our coastline and shows how much effort goes into keeping our beaches clean, safe, and welcoming. “These awards not only highlight the exceptional quality and cleanliness of our beaches but also reinforce East Lindsey as a top destination for residents and visitors.” Keep Britain Tidy’s chief executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: “In England we are lucky enough to have some of the best beaches in the world. It’s wonderful to see the flags flying proudly over 3 beaches in East Lindsey, demonstrating their quality to residents and visitors alike. “The awards are a credit to the collective efforts of beach and site managers, volunteers, residents and businesses who should take pride today in their tireless efforts to maintain, protect and improve some of our best-loved and most popular blue spaces. “Visitors to a beach flying a Blue Flag can be assured the beach will be clean, safe and meet the highest environmental standards.”
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Brian Jackson

The Princess Royal to attend 140th Lincolnshire Show

Tess Egginton
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The Princess Royal to attend 140th Lincolnshire Show
Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal is to attend this year’s Lincolnshire Show, which is back for the 140th time on 18th and 19th June 2025. Television presenter Matt Baker MBE, best known for his work on BBC’s Blue Peter, Countryfile and The One Show, will also be attending the event, which has announced an inspiring programme of events and performances. Brand-new Main Ring act, the Knights of Middle England, a professional team of stunt riders, performers, actors and combatants, will be bringing an action-packed performance, and all things countryside will be showcased at the Show’s new Rural Voices Stage. The Lincolnshire Show beach, using sand sourced from the Lincolnshire coast, and the Garden Show, which were both introduced for last year’s event, are set to return – bigger and better than before – as well as long-standing favourites including the Shetland Pony Grand National, LAS Schools’ Challenge, Floral Arts Competition and visits from canine friends with Jerry Green Dog Rescue. The Lincolnshire Show is a celebration of all things Lincolnshire and rural life, with around 60,000 people expected to attend the two-day event. Charlotte Powell, chief executive of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, said: “The Lincolnshire Show is always a significant event for the county, but it feels extra special this time as we celebrate our 140th Show. “From the very first Show in 1869, the event has been a source of pride and celebration for everyone involved with the county of Lincolnshire, and we can’t wait for everyone to see all the hard work that has gone into this year’s event. “It will be an absolute pleasure and honour to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal and Matt Baker MBE as guests for this year’s Show, as we once again celebrate all things Lincolnshire with tens of thousands of visitors. “There will be familiar favourites, new attractions, exhibitors offering tasty local food and drink, and activities for all the family to enjoy. Whether it’s the vast range of farm animals and competitions that pique your interest, or the jaw-dropping displays and demonstrations, the 2025 Lincolnshire Show has something for everyone! “We look forward to welcoming you all to what is sure to be another unforgettable Lincolnshire Show.” The Princess Royal, who previously served as president of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society and now holds a Lifetime Membership, will attend the Show on Wednesday 18th June, while Matt Baker will be attending on Thursday 19th June. The new Rural Voices Stage, which spotlights all things countryside, will offer engaging panel discussions and expert-led networking, allowing people working in agriculture and related industries to deepen their knowledge of British farming, land management and sustainability. Foodies will also be able to watch a series of masterclasses and demonstrations at the popular Lincolnshire Kitchen, as well as enjoying some of Lincolnshire’s finest food and drink with F.A.B and Good Grub Co. at Stockman’s bar. Organised by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society (LAS), a charity dedicated to championing the importance of food, farming and the countryside, the iconic Lincolnshire Show is a family-friendly day out that draws 60,000 visitors every year – including 6,000 school children and over 500 exhibitors. There are also around 2,500 animals at the Show each year. It is located just four miles from Lincoln city centre and spread out over 270 acres at the Lincolnshire Showground. With Lincolnshire home to more than 4,500 farms, the Show remains true to its roots with a strong focus on farming and agriculture. All funds raised through ticket sales are invested in the LAS’ charity work, including the LAS Education Programme, and are reinvested in producing the Show each year.

APSS Group raises £650 for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance at annual charity golf day

Tess Egginton
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APSS Group raises £650 for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance at annual charity golf day
The APSS Group, incorporating both APSS and TPS Office Furniture, has raised £650 for the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance during its annual Mini Ryder Cup Golf Day, held at Lincoln Golf Club in Torksey. Now in its fourth year, the much-anticipated event brought together APSS staff, suppliers, and customers for a fantastic day of golf, networking and fundraising. The day was not only a celebration of friendly competition, but also a meaningful way to give back to a local lifesaving service. The fundraising came through a charity raffle, with prizes kindly donated by Elite Office Furniture, Galaxy Insulation and Dry Lining Limited, Troax Group, Howdens, Shaw Contract, Nash Glass Ltd, 360 Recruitment Limited, and Lincoln Golf Club. Among the standout prizes were a supercar driving experience, a five-hob induction burner, and a helicopter ride – a fitting tribute to the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance. Richard Mycroft, Managing Director at APSS, said: “It was a brilliant day all round – great company, great golf, and all for a fantastic cause. “The Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance is a charity that means a lot to us. You never know when you or someone you love might need them. They provide critical care in the most urgent of situations, and we’re proud to support the incredible work they do.” The APSS Group extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part and contributed to the day’s success. The event continues to grow each year, uniting the APSS community while supporting a cause that truly makes a difference.

Paddling pool reopens in Cleethorpes with upgraded facilities

April Lara
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Paddling pool reopens in Cleethorpes with upgraded facilities

A free paddling pool in Cleethorpes has reopened for its sixth consecutive summer season, now featuring an upgraded central fountain. Operated by Your Community Hub, a community interest company managed by the team behind Cleethorpes Taphouse and Kitchen, the pool is open daily from 10am to 4pm.

The enhancements to the pool’s fountain, now higher and more prominent, are part of ongoing efforts to boost local footfall and offer accessible family attractions. The facility, previously run by the local council, has been operated by Your Community Hub since 2019 at no cost to taxpayers. The adjacent sandpit, also under their management, reopened in May 2023.

The site’s continued operation reflects sustained public engagement with free, locally run leisure assets. Businesses operating in tourism, leisure, and hospitality sectors may see opportunities tied to the increased foot traffic in the area during the summer months.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/simon

D-Day commemoration walks offer historical insight at former US airbase

April Lara
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D-Day commemoration walks offer historical insight at former US airbase

Twyford Wood in Lincolnshire, formerly RAF North Witham, will host a series of guided walks in June to mark the anniversary of the D-Day landings. On the night of 5 June 1944, the site served as a launch point for US Army paratroopers of the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions.

Participants will tour the preserved runways and learn about the covert operations that preceded the Normandy invasion. These included low-altitude flights across the English Channel to establish radio beacons and visual signals for the main Allied forces.

The initiative is part of South Kesteven District Council’s Soldiers from the Sky project, focused on preserving and presenting the region’s wartime legacy. The location, now managed by Forestry England, provides a rare opportunity to engage with WWII military logistics on site.

The free, pre-booked walks take place on 5, 12, and 19 June, starting at 17:30 BST and lasting approximately two and a half hours.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Gajus

A new look and feel for The Old Bakery

Tess Egginton
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A new look and feel for The Old Bakery
There’s change afoot at one of Lincoln’s dining gems as The Old Bakery undergoes a complete refurbishment. Director of business development & partnerships at Lincoln College, Mark Taylor, says: “We are really excited to be unveiling a new look for The Old Bakery following this refurbishment. The restaurant is a cornerstone of our employer-led operations here at Lincoln College.” The transformation will see the currently unused entrance space turned into a bar and lounge area, serving up bar snacks, small plates, craft beers and cocktails for more casual dining. The remodeling will also open up the chef’s room, creating an atmospheric, intimate space. Mark continues: “A finishing school for our advanced catering and front-of-house students, the restaurant gives them the industry experience they need to launch their careers. We are also proud that it remains the only not-for-profit venue of its kind in the region. “We hope that our refreshed look and much-needed restoration gives both our loyal customers and new visitors a compelling reason to come along and enjoy our warm surroundings and delicious Lincolnshire-inspired seasonal menu.” The improvements are funded by a £100,000 portion of the Towns Fund, a government scheme that aims to regenerate towns and deliver long-term economic and productivity growth. In the meantime, diners wanting to try The Old Bakery’s menu can enjoy a pop-up experience at the Lincoln College campus’ own Sessions Restaurant, with service running from Friday 16th May to Tuesday 10th June. Mark adds: “We’re so pleased to be able to continue serving our customers down at Sessions. It gives diners the chance not only to continue sampling our bespoke menu, but also a chance to visit our sister restaurant, which is also student-led and is housed in the historic Sessions House, a former city gaol and police station which has bags of character and will be a fitting home for The Old Bakery until we reopen on 21st June.” Diners who eat at the weekend can currently enjoy 15% off with 25% off for members.

Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival drives tourism and local engagement

April Lara
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Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival drives tourism and local engagement

The Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival returns on Saturday, 17 May, and will run through Sunday, 1 June 2025, offering more than 100 events across the region. While aimed at leisure and tourism, the festival’s scale presents valuable commercial opportunities for businesses in hospitality, retail, tourism services, and rural enterprises.

The launch event takes place at the National Trust’s Gunby Hall, drawing in families with free activities, animal encounters, and local exhibitors, creating direct footfall for vendors and suppliers. The programme includes horse riding lessons, glider experiences, countryside walks, wellness events, and interactive outdoor activities.

The festival culminates at Stourton Woods with an open day featuring a mini farmers market, trail run, bushcraft activities, and a local wedding fair, designed to showcase regional producers, experience providers, and wedding industry suppliers.

Organised by Love Lincolnshire Wolds in partnership with several councils and rural networks, the event is strategically positioned to boost the visibility of rural businesses and increase visitor spend across the Wolds region. Local stakeholders include East Lindsey and West Lindsey district councils, Lincolnshire County Council, and other countryside and tourism development organisations.

  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Gill

Stamford appoints new Poet Laureate to support local arts programming

April Lara
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Stamford appoints new Poet Laureate to support local arts programming

Ross Ayres, a therapist and spoken word artist based near Peterborough, has been named Poet Laureate for Stamford following a competitive selection process. South Kesteven District Council awards the honorary title annually as part of its efforts to engage the local creative sector.

Ayres has consistently contributed to the council’s Pint of Poetry events at Stamford Arts Centre. His new role will see him commissioned to write and perform poetry at civic events and other cultural programming across the town for the next year.

The appointment reflects a broader trend of integrating the arts into community engagement and public programming, providing opportunities for creative practitioners to partner with councils and local businesses.

Stamford’s next public poetry event is scheduled for 28 May at the Arts Centre, featuring a guest performance by playwright and lecturer James McDermott.

  Image credit: South Kesteven District Council

The Royal British Legion gets ready to celebrate Armed Forces Day in Lincoln

Tess Egginton
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The Royal British Legion gets ready to celebrate Armed Forces Day in Lincoln
The Royal British Legion (RBL) Lincoln, supported by Lincoln College and a host of other sponsors, is to celebrate Armed Forces Day in Lincoln on Saturday 28th June. Armed Forces Day is a national event held on the last Saturday of June to recognise and thank the men and women of the British Armed Forces, including current and past service members, reservists, veterans, and cadets. Chair of the City of Lincoln Branch Royal British Legion and Director of Estates at Lincoln College, Nick Pettit GM QGM, says: “This is going to be a really great day for the city. As well as a parade and band event in Lincoln Market Square, just off the Cornhill, we’ll also be running a day of fun over at The Drill, where there will be live music and food available for all. “We wanted to ensure the future of the celebrations for Armed Forces Day and we’re really excited to be working with a range of very generous sponsors in order to make it happen. Armed Forces Day is really important to the people of Lincolnshire and so to be able to use The Drill and to make a day of it is really special and we can’t wait to welcome everyone.”
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