< Previous70 CARING © stock.adobe.com/bobex73 Ruckland Court Care Home Our home has been newly refurbished with a charming bistro, welcoming pub, new lounge dining rooms and more. All designed with our residents’ comfort and independence in mind. Call us today Contact Home Manager Adam Atkin on 01522 530217 www.countrycourtcare.com Ruckland Avenue, Lincoln, LN1 3TP or email rucklandcourt@countrycourtcare.com attention to detail. Smart clothing choices for protection against rain and shine play an often under-considered role as some days get deceptively mild, while sunblock becomes increasingly vital as the sun gains strength with the arrival of spring. The same as in winter, plenty of layers are key, including lightweight, long- sleeved clothing made from breathable fabrics that provide the two major needs of coverage and comfort. Wide-brimmed hats are perfect for providing shade for the face, neck, and ears, while sunglasses with UV protection shield the eyes from harmful UV rays. Of course, you most likely won’t need this reminder, but it’s worth stressing that applying a broad- spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to exposed skin is absolutely essential. The main thing that gets forgotten is that you must reapply regularly, ideally every two hours, for complete protection for as long as you’re out catching the rays. Seeking shade whenever possible and staying hydrated should never be passed on, as heat exhaustion’s no fun for anyone. Encourage older adults to drink plenty of fluids such as water or electrolyte-rich beverages, as having plenty to drink helps prevent dehydration and maintains proper body temperature regulation, two more things which can be more difficult for older bodies to manage. Bring along a portable umbrella LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 71 CARING Anyone interested in fostering, can contact Affinity Fostering on 01205 632532 or email them at info@affinityfostering.co.uk Could you change a young life in Lincolnshire? Every 20 minutes in the UK, another child enters the care system. In Lincolnshire, there are more children than ever coming into care and fewer people putting themselves forward to offer a nurturing home. When there is a restricted supply of foster carers, children and young people are significantly less likely to be placed in a fostering family that meets their individual needs. If families are not well- matched, relationships can break down and this causes instability and a compounded sense of loss and rejection for children. “Children are individuals, all with their unique needs,” says Lucy Stevens, Head of Recruitment at Affinity Fostering. “It makes sense that we need a diverse pool of carers to ensure we can offer children the well-matched families they deserve. Children should be able to live with the right Foster Carers in the right location based on their individual needs. We can’t always offer them this without more Foster Carers in the local area.” Children come into foster care for a variety of reasons and may need a short period of care or much longer-term fostering. Foster Carers must have a spare room, be over the age of 21 and have a secure tenancy in order to apply. Foster Carers should be warm, nurturing and open with a deep motivation to make a positive difference to the lives of children. “We have a brilliant community of Foster Carers in Lincolnshire who are making such an important difference in the lives of children and young people in the local area,” adds Lucy. “If you’d like to be part of something meaningful in your community, please get in touch.” Winter Storage Only £75 include a Service for only £25 extra Scooters kept securely and charged weekly Service & Repairs We have an up to date fully equipped Service Centre to help with any breakdowns or repairs 207 Roman Bank, Skegness, Lincolnshire Tel: 01754 768006 Hire Wheelchair Wheelchair £5.00 per day £25.00 per week £25 refundable Deposit Scooter Scooter £15.00 per day £75.00 per week £50 refundable Deposit if you have one, or if you’re stopping for food, setting up or finding a canopy gives a reprieve from the sun’s intensity, allowing the whole family to enjoy the great outdoors safely. Time in nature is recognised therapy for lingering blues or frayed nerves as the seasons change and the world bursts into life. Encouraging outdoor activities significantly contributes to mental health, provided the elderly are adequately prepared for any weather. Once you’re prepared and out there, activities that allow you to connect with nature offer vital exposure to sunlight, which brings with it that essential dose of Vitamin D. With a wealth of help and advice available, whether online or through the medical help that comes with the spectrum of care and assisted living, there’s no need for overwhelm this spring and summer. By incorporating sun protection measures into caregiving routines alongside residential staff, you can help elderly loved ones enjoy the beauty of spring and minimise the risks of sun exposure. With careful planning and the right support to hand, any family can ensure a safe and enjoyable time in the sun with elderly relatives, brightening everyone’s days with worry-free quality time. 72 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY COUNTY MOTORING New takes on old favourites This month we look at some new models and updates coming out for some cars a lot of readers will be familiar with. LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 73 COUNTY MOTORING Skoda’s SUV campaign began with the Kodiaq, and it has significantly transformed their portfolio: Today, almost one in two Skoda models delivered worldwide is an SUV. The Czech car manufacturer’s SUV flagship has seen its dimensions increased once again and now features the first elements of the Modern Solid design language. The all-new Kodiaq comes with state-of-the- art infotainment systems including a 13-inch screen and an optional head-up display. Innovative Skoda Smart Dials with haptic controls and a 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit come as standard. The voice control system will from mid-2024 onwards become even more advanced with the integration of the AI-based chatbot ChatGPT. Skoda’s large SUV also adopts a new interior concept based on Design Selections. The five powertrains offer outputs from 150 PS (110 kW) to 204 PS (150 kW) and are always mated to a DSG automatic transmission. The powertrain line-up now also includes a plug-in hybrid version with an electric range of more than 62 miles (100 kilometres) and an entry-level mild- hybrid powertrain. The two top engines are combined with all-wheel drive as standard. Also making their debuts are the latest generations of the LED Matrix beam headlights with a significantly higher light output and the Dynamic Chassis Control system (DCC Plus). Skoda Kodiaq 74 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY COUNTY MOTORING This latest chapter in the story of the Golf features Volkswagen’s newest infotainment system - complete with ChatGPT integration and an intuitive operating concept - plus a sharper design that incorporates, for the first time on the Golf, an illuminated Volkswagen logo at the front. There are also efficient drive systems, including plug-in hybrids with an increased all-electric range of about 100 kilometres. The first Golf R-Line models will be available to order from 25 April with a wealth of sporty styling and additional features, including 17-inch Coventry alloy wheels, LED headlights, leather-wrapped and heated multi-function sports steering wheel, 12.9-inch infotainment display, a rear-view camera, adaptive cruise control and Lane Assist. Engine and transmission choices comprise the 1.5 TSI 150 PS manual or the 1.5 eTSI 150 PS with DSG. Prices (RRP OTR) start from £30,285 for the Hatch and £31,650 for the Estate. Volkswagen Golf R-Line The muscular appearance of the new Swift is further established by blacked-out pillars creating the appearance of a floating roof that adds a sense of lightness, while a high-tech look comes in the form of a piano-black front grille and L-shaped signature lamps that conform to the car’s flowing body lines. The LED headlamps have been revised to an inner lens + light rod type that give them a wider appearance when illuminated. Inside, a new high quality dual-tone design is featured with centre controls angled towards the driver and a prominent nine-inch infotainment display fitted as standard equipment. The standard equipment heated front seats are of new design with reshaped cushioning between the shoulder and side bolsters creating a more sculpted look. This design is accentuated by the use of a geometric pattern on the upholstery surface and a dual tone ‘Melange Grey’ and black cloth is used for both Motion and Ultra grades. Suzuki Swift Hybrid76 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY COUNTY MOTORING For All Your Motoring Needs 197 Alexandra Road, Grimsby, North East Lincs, DN31 1SE T: 01472 240 800 Em: johnsmithautos@live.co.uk www.jsmithautorepairs.co.uk • Servicing • Repairs • MOTs • Diesels • Catalysts • Specialist Engine Tuning Family run business for over 20 years Since its debut in 2004, the Hyundai Tucson has captured the hearts of European drivers, establishing itself as a bestseller and a fan favourite across the continent. Building on its legacy, Hyundai is presenting an update of its top seller, which boasts an array of enhancements, including an updated design, innovative technology, a powertrain line-up that better reflects customer needs, and an improved overall package. Featuring a sleek and modern look, Tucson boasts redesigned bumpers at the front and rear with new skid plates. In the front, the recognisable ‘angel wing’ design was reimagined with larger daytime running lights, and the retention of the half mirror effect nestled within the grill, which was refined with laser-cut precision and the surface light treatment to create a feeling of complete illumination. Inside, the new Tucson takes comfort and convenience to new heights, introducing a range of updates to enhance the in-car experience for the driver and passengers. Apart from the seats and the centre door trim, the interior was completely redesigned, including the dashboard, centre fascia, steering wheel, and centre armrest. From the redesigned steering wheel to the dual curved 12.3-inch displays for the cluster and infotainment, every detail is crafted with all occupants in mind. Hyundai Tucson N-LineLINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 77 STAMFORD Stamford welcomes visitors old and new with its timeless charm and rich heritage, all wrapped around events and festivals perfect for celebrating this spring season. T racing its roots back over a thousand years, to a time when Romans traversed its ancient streets and the wool trade brought prosperity to its renowned markets, Stamford has evolved from a medieval centre of trade to a haven of Georgian elegance, earning it a place among the most picturesque towns in England. The seeds of its intrigue lie in this historical trail of conquests, commerce, and cultural exchanges that have left an indelible mark on its landscape. From its humble beginnings as a Roman settlement, known as Ratae Corieltauvorum, Stamford grew into a thriving market town, its fortunes tied to the wool trade that flourished along the Great North Road. The town’s strategic location made it a vital stop for travellers and traders journeying between London and York, ensuring its good fortune throughout the Middle Ages. But even today, Stamford continues to Something for everyone © stock.adobe.com/Nicola 78 Á78 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY STAMFORD Image courtesy of David Evans Photography At Classic Ibiza the BPM goes up as the sun goes down… The evening starts with a vibe straight from one of Ibiza’s iconic beachside bars, before building to a magical alfresco nightclub by the time the concert reaches a rapturous crescendo. Headlining the event is Urban Soul Orchestra, known for working alongside dance music greats like Groove Armada and Robert Miles. They’ll be delving into house music’s rich catalogue with DJ Goldierocks, reinventing the most iconic tracks from the last 30 years. Along the way, highlights include a DJ set by former Pacha Ibiza resident Jose Luis, an awe- inspiring laser/light show and the family-friendly vibe. Information: Car-parking is free, and you can bring your own picnic. Tickets: classicibiza.co.uk Classic Ibiza returns to Burghley House on 27 July feed back into its living past, its streets lined with a mesmerising array of architectural treasures. From the soaring spires of medieval churches to sheer Georgian elegance, its built heritage reflects the diverse influences that have shaped its identity over the centuries. Notable landmarks include the majestic Burghley House, one of England’s finest Elizabethan mansions, and the iconic Browne’s Hospital, a medieval almshouse distinguished by its timber-framed architecture. It’s not just the grandeur of its buildings that makes Stamford special, but the way the stories they tell interweave with lives lived then and now. From the nobility who once walked its hallowed halls, to the artisans and tradesmen who plied their craft in its workshops, you can follow the footsteps LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 79 STAMFORD of past generations from the narrow alleyways and hidden courtyards that crisscross the town. The self-guided Stamford Town Trail takes you through these quaint passageways and cobblestone streets, where you’ll begin to recognise the town’s characteristic blend of architectural styles. From the medieval splendour of St. Mary’s Church to the magnificent facades of Georgian townhouses that line the streets, each step unveils Stamford’s history, with informative plaques and markers informing along the way. One of the highlights of the spring calendar is the Stamford Festival, a celebration of community spirit and culture. Held annually, this year taking place from 16th-18th May, the festival features live music performances, street parades, and an array of food stalls offering culinary delights from around the world. Families can participate in fun favourites like face painting and carnival games, while the crafty among us can peruse the works of local creatives at pop-up galleries dotted throughout the town. With its lively ambiance and festive charm, this is an unmissable event for experiencing the best of what the town has to offer. If you miss Stamford’s main event of the season, art lovers can find plenty to indulge in during any season, with a series of fairs showcasing local artistry. These gatherings can be found in various venues year-round, offering a treasure trove of handmade goods, from ceramics and textiles to jewellery and paintings. Browse the stalls, meet the makers, and purchase unique souvenirs and keepsakes that capture the essence of Stamford’s artistic spirit, taking a wonderful opportunity to support the local community. For those with a green thumb, Stamford’s Garden and Food Fair is a must-visit, showcasing the talents of local gardeners, landscapers, and floral designers. Feasts for all the senses abound in beautiful blooms, informative workshops covering topics such as plant care and garden design, and delicious bites to eat. Whether seeking inspiration for your own garden or simply admiring the natural beauty on display, you’re sure to find delight here. Stamford’s diverse array of activities and happenings is well worth checking what’s on. Whether taking in live music, a play, a Pint of Poetry at the Arts Centre, 80 Á © stock.adobe.com/DaveNext >