Repairs to Lincoln Castle’s east gate move to second phase

Stuart Pearcey
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Repairs to Lincoln Castle’s east gate move to second phase
The first phase of repairs work to the east gate of Lincoln Castle is now complete, and specialists are now preparing for the second phase. Already undertaken are extensive surveying of the gate and  removal of loose stone,  which is why scaffolding has been in place for some time. Phase two of the works – currently being planned – calls for a different scaffolding setup so repairs to the stonework can take place. Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, executive councillor for culture at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “At first glance it may seem odd to take down scaffolding, just to put it back up again at a later date. But this would always be needed, as the initial set-up allowed for one type of work to take place, and the second set-up will allow for specialist repairs. “Thankfully, this second set of scaffolding will be in place for a much shorter period. But, if you’re a local photographer looking to capture a glimpse of the beautiful Eastgate entrance once again, make sure you come along with your camera over the next few months. “Lincoln Castle is one of the jewels in Lincolnshire’s crown, and we’re proud to be its current custodians and invest in protecting it for future generations. At almost 1,000 years old, some areas of the walls are starting to feel their age, so we’re giving it the care and attention it deserves to keep it looking splendid.”

Dementia Day Centre launches at Tallington Lodge Care Home

Tess Egginton
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Dementia Day Centre launches at Tallington Lodge Care Home
Award-winning Devika Care Company is launching a new Dementia Day Centre at Tallington Lodge Care Home in Tallington, near Stamford. The first session will be on Monday 17th February 2025 from 10am until 3pm. It will then be held weekly on every Monday thereafter. The Devika Dementia Day Centre, named after founder Caroline Ignatius’s mum, Devika, who has lived with dementia for several years, specialises in providing meaningful activities and opportunities for friendship and companionship for those living with dementia. Caroline, passionate about dementia care, is dedicated to supporting others who may also be caring for loved ones at home. These sessions, now held regularly across several Country Court group homes, have gone from strength to strength. The Day Centre offers weekly activity sessions for people living with mid to late-stage dementia, providing not only a way to form new friendships and enjoy a renewed sense of purpose but also much-needed respite for their carers. Violeta Latviene, the Home Manager, commented on the launch: “The Devika Care Company provide a much-needed service for those living with dementia in Tallington and the surrounding area. The Day Centre promotes inclusion and community engagement that is not only meaningful but important, to support wellbeing and dementia awareness in our local area. Tallington Lodge is delighted to host Caroline and her team.” Morgan Hicks, Senior Customer Relations Manager who helped to arrange the sessions, said: “We are really pleased to welcome Caroline and The Devika Day Centre to Tallington Lodge. It is a wonderful opportunity to support the local community and showcase our beautiful home and wonderful staff.” Caroline Ignatius commented on the new day centre at Tallington Lodge: “The sessions will be hosted on the first floor in the Railway Inn pub, where people have access to all the facilities they require with a light lunch and refreshments provided. Attendees can take part in crafts and activities or sit and chat and have their nails polished if they wish. “Our dementia day centre is here to provide support and care for those living in the community with mid-late stages of Dementia, who may have additional personal care and behavioural needs. We are so grateful to Tallington Lodge for allowing us to hold these sessions in a friendly and safe environment.” If you are interested in attending one of the sessions or would like more information about booking a place, please get in touch with Caroline Ignatius on carolineignatius@devikacarecompany.co.uk For more information about Tallington Lodge Care Home, please contact Morgan Hicks, Senior Customer Relations Manager on 01780 740 314 or email careenquiries@countrycourtcare.com

Burghley Gardens and Hide & Secrets Adventure Play open for February Half Term

Tess Egginton
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Burghley Gardens and Hide & Secrets Adventure Play open for February Half Term
For the first time ever, Burghley Gardens and Hide & Secrets Adventure Play will open to visitors during February Half Term from Saturday 15 to Sunday 23 February. With something for all the family to enjoy, it’s the perfect opportunity to wrap up warm and enjoy days full of adventures at Burghley. Family fun at Hide & Secrets Adventure Play Exciting adventures await at Hide & Secrets Adventure Play as it reopens after the winter. Offering hours of outdoor family fun with giant mole hills to scramble over, sky-high bug towers to discover, a colourful sensory wall for interactive play plus a den-building zone. And that’s all before reaching the Hidden Towers with its two enormous slides, climbing walls, wobbly walkways and crawl tunnels. A free Spymaster’s Guide activity booklet sets adventurers on special spy missions with Cecil the Mole, scurrying through tunnels, cracking secret codes, finding hidden moles and following sneaky trails through the play area. Snowdrop season in the Gardens The early season opening offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Burghley’s Gardens as they awaken after the winter. The stunning snowdrop displays, showcasing a diverse array of varieties, are not to be missed. Visitors can also enjoy vibrant bursts of colour from emerging spring flowers and take in the wintry lakeside views. Seasonal activities taking place in the Gardens include Family Snowdrop Planting and Daily Garden Tours. Half Term Snowdrop Planting Visitors can take part in Snowdrop Planting during their visit with an opportunity to plant their very own snowdrop bulb in the Sculpture Garden. It’s a hands-on way to contribute to next year’s beautiful display and fun activity suitable for all ages. The drop-in Snowdrop Planting sessions run from 10.30am to 11.30am between 15 and 21 February and are included with Admission Tickets or Annual Passes. Daily Garden Tours Guided Garden Tours led by Burghley’s expert Gardens Team are available daily at 11.30am, between 15 and 21 February. These relaxed walks, focusing on seasonal highlights such as Burghley’s abundant snowdrop displays, offer the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the Gardens, while learning from those who care for them. Garden Tours are included with Admission Tickets or Annual Passes and last 30 minutes. Eat and Shop Burghley’s restaurants and cafes will be open daily offering warming hot drinks, lunches and light snacks. Whilst The Courtyard Shop and Garden Shop offer the opportunity to browse a wide range of gifts, souvenirs and homewares.   The Gardens and Adventure Play are open daily from 10am to 5pm (last admission 4.30pm) between Saturday 15 and Sunday 23 February 2025. Tickets booked online in advance cost £10 adult, £8 child (3-15 years) and £32 family (2 Adults, 3 Children) with under 3s free. Annual Passes offering unlimited visits through the open season are also available and cost from £26 for a Child Pass. The Gardens and Adventure Play will also open at the weekend on 1-2 and 8-9 March before returning to daily opening from Saturday 15 March. The House, which is currently closed for essential upkeep, maintenance and conservation work, opens for the season on Saturday 15 March. Additional details, including full opening times and ticket information can be found at www.burghley.co.uk

Dexter & Sharpe raise the roof with donation to Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance

Tess Egginton
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Dexter & Sharpe raise the roof with donation to Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance
In 2024, Dexter & Sharpe Chartered Accountants chose Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) as their Charity of the Year, with an aim to raise £4,000, the cost of one of their life-saving missions. Twelve months later and they smashed their target and raised an impressive £8,523 through a variety of engaging fundraising activities. LNAA Corporate Partnerships Officer, Vik Varney said: “It is wonderful to see this team fundraise with such passion for our work. It is fantastic achievement. Their efforts will help our critical care teams deliver the best pre-hospital treatments to some of the most seriously ill and injured people living in Lincs & Notts. From everyone at LNAA, we want to say a huge thank you.” Since the start of the year, staff from branches across Lincolnshire participated in the Lincoln Inflatable 5k, hosted a pancake breakfast and held Match the Pet Days. In July 2024, they also took on the gruelling 12-hour Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge showcasing remarkable endurance and teamwork. David Johnson, partner at Dexter & Sharpe, said: “This collaboration embodies our commitment to supporting crucial services in our community, ensuring swift and vital assistance in times of need. With Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance, we aim to contribute significantly to their life-saving missions and make a meaningful impact together.” Vik added: “Dexter & Sharpe have gone above and beyond to fundraise this remarkable amount for our work. And they also generously sponsored our Volunteer Recognition Event, where our incredible family of volunteers were treated to a delightful afternoon tea.” LNAA is one of the UK’s leading Helicopter Emergency Service charities, bringing the equivalent of a hospital emergency department to patients at the scene, giving those with the most severe injuries and medical conditions the very best chance of survival when minutes matter. It receives no direct government funding and relies on the generosity of its supporters to fund the £13 million needed annually to keep its helicopter in the sky and fleet of critical care cars on the road, 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week. They would love to talk with any business or organisation that would like to partner with them for 2025. Simply email partnership@ambucopter.org.uk

Major new development approved in Epworth

Tess Egginton
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Major new development approved in Epworth
Plans have been approved for a major new development in Epworth including a new GP surgery, a new Holmes and Garden Centre and foodstore. The proposed development, on Belton Road in the town by Millea Land, will take place on predominantly brownfield land. The proposals will offer an economic boost and create around 100 new jobs for local people. During previous consultation on the plans, the community had been very positive about new medical facilities and potential for more shopping choice and new jobs. During the planning process, the plans have been amended through positive discussions with Epworth Town Council and Council’s Highway Officers. These changes have included a new controlled crossing on Belton road and improvements to the public right of way linking the site with the town centre, including a safe pedestrian route. Jonathan Millea of Millea Land said: “Gaining approval for this major development in Epworth is the culmination of over four years of hard work and listening to the community. “We are very excited to deliver the development, and we will look to get onsite as soon as possible. These plans will bring many huge benefits to the town and area, including new jobs, better medical facilities and better shopping choice.”

Government’s solar farm announcement branded a ‘slap in the face’ for Lincolnshire

Stuart Pearcey
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Government’s solar farm announcement branded a ‘slap in the face’ for Lincolnshire

Government announcements that applications for solar farms at Heckington Fen and the West Burton have been granted consent are another slap in the face for the county, according to a leading county councillor.

Colin Davie, executive councillor for environment, economy and planning at Lincolnshire County Council says adding two more giant solar farms to Lincolnshire’s countryside in the face of strong local opposition shows that the government has not listened to residents. He said: “These two developments add more than 1,000 hectares of solar parks to the county, bringing the total land now allocated for five approved developments to around 3,500 hectares. A further 6,400 hectares are also being proposed in Lincolnshire. “Trashing the countryside and putting ginormous industrial developments on agricultural land has understandably caused much local outrage. On top of this, I have no confidence that these schemes help in any way to delivering the affordable energy that we need. “Quite frankly these decisions are another slap in the face for Lincolnshire, and the government must start considering the cumulative impacts of all these proposals in our county. In our recent survey, residents have told us that they are very concerned about the impacts that so many Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects will have on Lincolnshire, and the effects on our nature, landscape and communities. They also told us that they – like us – consider rooftops and brownfield sites being the most appropriate places to install solar panels. We must stop the industrialisation of the Lincolnshire countryside.” In December 2023 Lincolnshire County Council’s executive approved an energy infrastructure position statement outlining how the council will respond robustly to National Significant Infrastructure Projects like this, to protect agricultural land and prevent developments blighting the landscape.

Skegness to get housing pods to address housing needs

Stuart Pearcey
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Skegness to get housing pods to address housing needs
East Lindsey District Council is to acquire four new accommodation pods in Skegness in a move to address housing needs. The plan involves installing the pods to provide temporary housing solutions as part of the council’s broader strategy to tackle homelessness and support vulnerable residents. Councillor William Gray, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Ageing Better, said: “This approval is a testament to our commitment to improving housing options for our community. These pods will offer safe and secure accommodation for individuals who are facing housing challenges.” Councillor Sarah Devereux, Portfolio Holder for Partnerships, said: “The introduction of these accommodation pods is a vital step in our mission to support our homeless community. These pods provide immediate shelter, warmth, and safety, while we work with individuals to find more permanent solutions. We are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to safe and dignified living conditions.” Each sleeping pod provides a bed, chemical toilet, and charging facilities. They are designed to help people who have been sleeping on the streets and have complex needs, making hostel-style accommodation unsuitable. The project is expected to commence shortly, with the council working closely with local contractors to ensure timely delivery and installation. This initiative is seen as a pilot project, with potential for expansion based on its success and community feedback.

United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity Ball to return in 2025

Tess Egginton
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United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity Ball to return in 2025
The United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity Ball will return in 2025. The charity, which funds the extras not covered by NHS budgets, is inviting guests back to its Ball at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel in Lincoln. Charity Manager Ben Petts said: “We had such an amazing time at our NHS75 Ball that we wanted to do it all over again. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and those attending we had an amazing evening and also raised more than £4,500. “This has enabled our charity to provide the additional extras to elevate the work of the United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust that cannot be provided by the NHS.” Over the last 12 months this has included:
  • The creation of gardens to provide sanctuary for patients, staff and visitors
  • The installation of virtual sky panels to enhance patient and staff experience in maternity areas, as well as the new Community Diagnostic Centres in Skegness and Lincoln
  • The purchase of mobile phone charge banks to ensure patients and their loved ones can stay connected during visits to Emergency Departments
  • The funding of scalp cooling systems to reduce hair loss in those patients receiving chemotherapy
  • The funding of sensory friendly resource bags to support hospital patients with sensory needs who are in need of emergency care
  • The funding of social events and trips for young patients with Type-1 diabetes so that they can build friendships where they can talk honestly and openly about their condition.
Upon arrival to the ball on Saturday 26 April, guests will be given a welcome drink before awaiting their parties or mingling in the viewing gallery. They will be able to take in the views over the city while being able to browse the silent auction lots. A three course meal will be served with a raffle taking place between the main course and dessert. After dinner there will be the final chance to place a bid within the silent auction. Following dinner the live band, Pelham Road, will play into the evening followed by a DJ to fill the dancefloor. Tickets are £60 per person and sponsorship opportunities are also available, including everything from individual table sponsors to a headline sponsor. Ben added: “We are inviting everyone to step into spring with style and dance the night away, with the knowledge that you are also supporting great projects that will really make a difference for our patients, visitors and hardworking colleagues in the NHS.”   Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/JTana

Top Town Market to move to temporary new home during Freshney Place development works

Tess Egginton
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Top Town Market to move to temporary new home during Freshney Place development works
Work to create the Freshney Place leisure scheme, along with the new food hall and complementary market, will get underway in earnest in early February when contractors will arrive on the site. The first part of this will be the decommissioning of the existing Top Town Market, ahead of the start of works to demolish the building. A temporary market will be created within Freshney Place in the unit currently occupied by One Beyond, which is due to be vacated by April. Once the unit is available, some work will be required before the temporary market can open to the public. North East Lincolnshire Council has been talking with traders in Top Town Market since it started the plans for the scheme, and more recently on a one-to-one basis to understand traders’ business aspirations, talk through the various options available to them, and offer them a full support package to help them to transition going forward. The next step is to work with those traders who have committed to relocation to ensure a smooth transition into the temporary space. Meanwhile, North East Lincolnshire Council has confirmed that some traders have chosen not to move to the temporary market, and the cafes have not been able to be included within the temporary market space as they need special facilities, such as extraction, or seating areas. The council is talking separately with the cafes about other suitable spaces in the town centre. Cllr Philip Jackson, leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “I’m really pleased that lots of traders have chosen to come across to the temporary market, and I’m sure it will be welcomed by shoppers to have this available as soon as practically possible. “This unit has been used for a pop up market previously, and is in a great location for traders. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those involved in our Top Town Market in its present location and look forward to seeing the temporary market open to the public in the Spring.”
  Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council

Home energy efficiency upgrades: how to get started

Tess Egginton
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Home energy efficiency upgrades: how to get started

With energy prices remaining a concern for many households, finding ways to reduce energy consumption and costs has never been more critical. In Lincolnshire, where green energy initiatives are growing, there is an increasing push to make homes more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Whether you’re looking for simple DIY improvements or considering major home upgrades, taking the proper steps can help you reduce energy bills while contributing to sustainability.

1. Assess your home’s energy efficiency

Before making any changes, it’s essential to understand where and how your home is losing energy. Conducting an energy audit—either through a professional service or a DIY inspection—can help identify inefficiencies such as poor insulation, air leaks, or outdated heating systems. Key areas to check include loft insulation, gaps around windows and doors, and the efficiency of your central heating system.

Many Lincolnshire homeowners may also qualify for financial assistance to make energy-saving improvements. Resources like the Grant Advice Helpline can provide information on grants and funding options for insulation, heating upgrades, or renewable energy installations. Checking with local councils and green energy providers may also reveal additional incentives to support home energy efficiency improvements.

2. Improve insulation and seal air leaks

Poor insulation is one of the biggest culprits of energy loss in UK homes. Heat can escape through walls, lofts, and floors, forcing your heating system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills. Ensuring your home is properly insulated is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce heat loss.

  • Loft insulation – Adding or upgrading insulation in your loft can significantly reduce heat loss, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
  • Wall insulation – Depending on your home’s construction, cavity wall insulation or solid wall insulation can significantly improve energy efficiency.
  • Floor insulation – Sealing gaps in floorboards and insulating under floors (especially in older homes) helps retain warmth.
  • Sealing air leaks – Draught-proofing windows, doors, and other openings with weatherstripping, caulk, or expanding foam can prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering.

Investing in insulation improvements can pay off quickly through reduced heating and energy costs, particularly in Lincolnshire’s colder months.

3. Upgrade windows and doors

Older homes with single-glazed windows or poorly insulated doors can lose significant heat. Replacing these with double or triple-glazed windows and insulated doors can make a noticeable difference. For those on a budget, options like thermal curtains or draft excluders can also provide effective, low-cost solutions.

4. Optimize your heating system

Heating accounts for a significant portion of energy bills in UK homes, so optimizing your system can lead to big savings. In Lincolnshire, where winters can be frigid, ensuring your heating system runs efficiently is crucial.

  • Boiler upgrades – If your boiler is over 10 years old, upgrading to a modern, energy efficient condensing boiler can significantly reduce energy consumption. Look for models with high energy ratings to maximize efficiency.
  • Smart thermostats – These devices allow you to control heating remotely and optimize temperature settings based on your daily schedule, preventing unnecessary heating when no one is home.
  • Underfloor heating – While more expensive to install, underfloor heating can be a highly efficient way to heat your home, especially when paired with renewable energy sources.

5. Switch to energy-efficient lighting and appliances

Replacing traditional light bulbs with LEDs is one of the simplest ways to reduce energy usage. Similarly, look for models with high energy efficiency ratings recognized in the UK when upgrading appliances. Investing in energy-efficient fridges, washing machines, or dishwashers can lead to long-term savings on your energy bills.

6. Explore renewable energy options

Lincolnshire is becoming a leader in renewable energy, with large-scale wind farms and solar energy projects gaining momentum. Homeowners can use this growing sector by integrating renewable energy solutions into their homes.

  • Solar panels – Installing solar photovoltaic (PV) panels can generate electricity for your home and reduce reliance on the national grid.
  • Heat pumps – Air source and ground source heat pumps offer energy-efficient alternatives to traditional heating systems by extracting heat from the air or ground.
  • Wind turbines – While less common for residential properties, small-scale wind turbines can be effective for homes in rural Lincolnshire with ample wind exposure.

Renewable energy solutions require an initial investment but can offer long-term savings and environmental benefits.

7. Embrace smart home technology

Smart home devices can help optimize energy usage, providing both convenience and cost savings.

  • Smart thermostats – Devices like Nest or Hive can learn your heating preferences and adjust settings automatically to reduce waste.
  • Smart lighting – Motion-sensing or scheduled lighting ensures that lights are only on when needed.
  • Energy monitoring systems – These devices track electricity usage in real-time, helping you identify which appliances consume the most energy.

Using smart home technology can help you make minor but effective adjustments that add up to significant savings over time.

8. Leverage local incentives and grants

Lincolnshire residents may qualify for energy-saving grants or incentives to help with home upgrades. Programs such as the Green Homes Grant or local council schemes are designed to assist homeowners in improving insulation, installing renewable energy systems, and reducing overall energy use. Always explore these options before undertaking costly projects.

Conclusion

Making your home more energy-efficient doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By starting with these key steps, you can begin to see real savings on your energy bills and make a positive impact on the environment. Remember, even small changes can make a big difference. So, take that first step today and enjoy a more comfortable and sustainable home.

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