< Previous20 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY damp for as long as possible. Move pots and containers to a shady place so that they do not dry out as quickly. You can also make your own basic self-watering system. You will need a bucket full of water that is raised up, maybe on some bricks, and then place the pots and containers around it. The water level in the bucket needs to be higher than the top of the pots. You then need to give each pot a ‘wick’ and for this, an old dishcloth would be ideal. You need to put one end of the ‘wick’ into the plant pot under the soil and the other into the bucket. You may need to use a stone to weigh down the end that is in the bucket. Just before you go give the plants a good soaking and top the bucket up to the rim. If you are not planning on going away, then you may be needing your garden as a space to entertain the kids. There are several ways you can keep your mini beasts amused for hours. For example, With summer holidays on the horizon, Ed Fuller from Fullers Landscaping shares how to make sure your garden is looked after while you are away. A t this time of year our garden is ideal for enjoying the summer days and evenings. However, it is also the time of year when we are more likely to go away. It is a great nuisance when you have spent time tending to your garden, or the majority of your veg patch is on the cusp of ripening, and you are going away and leaving it to die, overgrow or wither. With a little bit of planning, you can make sure that your garden is looked after while you are away. Watering your garden and veg patch is essential, and if you do not have a helpful neighbour or family member to help there are some things you can do. A day or so before you leave, weed your beds. Weeds compete for water and so removing them will ensure your plants get all the water. Just before you leave water your veggies deeply, and then spread the soil with compost or mulch. This will ensure the soil beneath remains Maintaining a this summerthis summer Maintaining a* Prune Wisteria * Deadhead flowering plants regularly * Keep watering containers and new plants * Feed containers, and even tired border perennials, with a liquid tomato food each week to encourage them to bloom into the early autumn * Collect seeds from favourite plants * Inspect chrysanthemums for the first signs of white rust and take immediate action * Harvest sweetcorn and other vegetables as they become ready * Continue cutting old fruited canes on raspberries * Lift and pot up rooted strawberry runners * Most perennial weeds are best dealt with when in active growth. Apply a weed killer containing glyphosate * Keep ponds and water features topped up * Feed your soil with green manures LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 21 FULLERS Call 01522 868717 or 07867 510544 landscapinglincolnshire@gmail.com www.landscapinglincolnshire.com GARDEN ADVICE you could create a treasure hunt. Maybe it could have a theme, like numbers. They have to find leaves with 1, 2, 3, or 4 points or flowers with different numbers of petals. Colours are another theme, where they must find an example of all the colours of the rainbow or match all the colours on their clothing. If you don’t have a larger garden, or many plants in it, then you could do the hunt in a local park. There is a campaign by the RSPB called “Nature on your doorstep” and you can download information from their website (https://www.rspb.org.uk/get- involved/activities/nature-on-your-doorstep). This gives ideas of things to do that will help nature in your garden while getting your little ones (and big ones!) outside and having fun. Whatever the size of your garden, pots are always a good addition to start off young gardeners, even if you only have a balcony garden. They enable you to grow flowers, herbs, and vegetables. Pots can easily become fairy gardens, or a cactus and succulent garden can be an ideal place for toy cowboys to live in! Whether you are at home or going away this summer your garden is still an important part of your home. If you would like to make changes to your garden, no matter how big or small, then Fullers can help you. Contact us to see how. Specialised Service in Garden Design and Landscaping Backed by a highly-skilled and experienced team, we’ve built our reputation on an ability to provide our clients with professional, tailored garden design and construction services. Around the garden © stock.adobe.com/ grki © stock.adobe.com/ Елена Бурова © stock.adobe.com/ mashiki22 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY GARDENS A s we sit in the thralls of summer, many gardeners will proudly be enjoying the fruits of their labour, with beds, pots, and containers brimming with a bountiful supply of produce. For those who have not yet dived into the trend for ‘growing your own’ it’s never too late to get started and reap the benefits, from saving money in an inflationary environment, to having fun, improving wellbeing and gaining a crop of delicious fruits and veggies to enhance endless recipes with. It is relatively easy and cheap to begin growing your own produce at home, with only a few things required from your local garden centre: all-purpose compost, a container such as pots and troughs (which can even be up-cycled from tins and other items), or a dedicated section of flowerbed, seeds or young plants, plant food for fruits and vegetables, a trowel and fork. You may also wish to invest in garden gloves to keep hands protected, and depending on the size of your vegetable garden, for watering you may simply need a gardening can or a hose and spray nozzle for large plots. To get started you will first need to decide where to place your plants. Anywhere sheltered with good sunlight, preferably offering six hours a day worth, is ideal for most varieties. If you don’t have much garden space, however, you can always utilise a sunny windowsill for smaller produce. Next, choose what you are going to grow. Some plants are easier to take care of than others, including household staples like tomatoes, peppers and carrots, but generally it is a good idea to just select fruit and vegetables that you enjoy eating and plant in accordance with the on pack instructions. When picking what to grow you will also want to consider the time of year. Spring is usually touted as the prime moment to commence work and sets you up for the year, but in August, a period more known for harvesting than planting, there are still numerous fruits and veggies that you can plant right now if you are keen on beginning your journey straight away! Broccoli, lettuce, rocket and carrots will happily thrive when planted in summer months. Meanwhile, looking ahead, though autumn often represents the end of the growing season, a few seeds are still plantable, particularly berries such as blueberries, cherries, raspberries and blackcurrants. Furthermore, winter acts as a great time to plant apples and pears. Each season and month has different recommendations on what to sow, plant and harvest, and fortunately there are myriad lists sharing this online. Prior to planting or sowing it is essential to prepare soil, and the steps involved will depend on where you are growing. If using a patch of soil outside, ensure to remove weeds, stones, break up the surface soil with a fork, and add compost. If using containers, fill them with a potting compost. What you are starting with will also impact your process. Whether to grow from seeds or buy nursery plants that are ready to go is Ready, steady, grow! Lincolnshire Today provides a basic guide to growing your own fruits and vegetables. T: 07702293727 E: marcus@mjpsupplies.co.uk W: www.mjpsupplies.co.uk Suppliers of a range of liquid storage tanks for: • Oil • adblue • Water • Fertiliser Stockists of Portek Bird Scarers Watch your profits grow For the purpose of importing and selling Algifol™ biostimulant products to farmers and growers of specialist crops LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 23 GARDENS KEVIN JOHNSON “For those times when you need a helping hand on farm or on land” 4 Church Road | Wittering | Peterborough | PE8 6AG Tel: 01780 782924 | Mobile: 07860 608825 enquiries@kevinjohnsoncontracting.co.uk www.kevinjohnsoncontracting.co.uk •Fertiliser Spreading 12m to 36m •Lime Spreading •Maize Drilling •Grass Mowing with Triple Mowers a key consideration, and each has its own advantages. Seeds are a cheap option usually with more varieties to choose from, though more steps are required, with starting them off indoors preferred. Nursery plants are less work and easier to grow by being placed straight outside or in a container. Whichever you select, simply follow the instructions on the label to get planting. Once planted one needs to care for your fruits and veggies. Ensuring they receive lots of water is vital, and though a moisture meter can help you evaluate whether you are watering right, there are also visual signs. If there is dry soil around the stems, wilting, dead and brown leaves then you are likely underwatering, and if there is soaked soil around plant stems, mould, moss, and wilting, you are likely overwatering. Feeding is additionally important to get better results, from using tomato feed on tomatoes, peppers, chillies, peas, beans, and more once they begin flowering, to making your own feed. You’ll want to look out for pests and diseases too, with a quick online search an easy way to assess what is infecting your plants and how to help them. If this is your first foray into growing fruits and vegetables, and the idea seems overwhelming, start small with just a couple of plants. Before you know it, you will be harvesting your own produce! © stock.adobe.com/Viktor Iden © stock.adobe.com/perfectlab© stock.adobe.com/cycreation24 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY NEWARK N ewark is a vibrant market town known for its rich history, heritage architecture and charming streets. The spiritual successor of an old settlement on the Fosse Way, a major Roman road that ran from Exeter to Lincoln, its position on the road made it a vital stopover point for travellers, facilitating trade and communication between different parts of Britain. The luck of its location helped the town prosper through the years, until it became the centre of culture both traditional and modern that’s still so popular with visitors today. The other side of Newark’s origin is less import and export, more military supply. The settlement known as Sidnacester was established by the Romans close to the modern-day town’s location, likely around the 1st century AD. Believed to have been either a small town or a large fortification, either way its primary function was as a storage and distribution centre for the Roman legionary fortress at Lincoln, then known as Lindum Colonia. Although the precise location of Sidnacester remains uncertain, archaeological discoveries in and around Newark have provided bountiful evidence of Roman occupation, uncovering Roman coins, pottery and many other artefacts. While historical records for the Roman era in Newark are relatively limited— much of our understanding coming from these fascinating archaeological finds— it’s evident the Roman period played a significant role in shaping the early history of Newark. Sidnacester’s positioning contributed to its strategic importance in later centuries, laying the foundations for the town’s continued success. It was after the English Civil War that Newark truly began to prosper as a market town. The Trent once again Where history and culture collide Sharing a border with Lincolnshire, Newark offers rich heritage, cultural treasures, and excellent shopping and hospitality. We take a closer look. Where history and culture collideLINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 25 NEWARK © stock.adobe.com/Steven Bramall played a vital role in the town’s development, enabling trade and transportation. Newark became an important centre for agriculture, trading goods such as grain, wool and leather, and gained a market charter in 1571. This helped solidify its economic importance and laid another milestone towards its modern-day presence, moved on still further through the connectivity provided by the railways introduced during the mid-19th century. Nowadays all visitors to this well- connected gem can explore notable landmarks of days gone by. Take your pick from the tall spire and intricate stained glass windows of St. Mary Magdalene Church, the excellently preserved, civil war era earthwork fortification The Queen’s Sconce, or Newark Castle. Here you’re welcome to explore the castle’s fascinating history and architecture by taking a guided tour, with knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the castle’s significance, its role in the English Civil War, and the stories of the people associated with it. If you’d rather take in the sights at your own pace, wander through the castle grounds and ruins while taking in the picturesque views of the River Trent and the surrounding countryside. The grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll, so take your time discovering hidden corners and appreciating the castle’s strategic location. Also located within the castle grounds, the National Civil War Centre provides a deeper understanding of Newark’s role within this historical turning point. Interactive exhibits, multimedia displays and artefact displays transport you back to this turbulent period, leading you through the causes and consequences of the conflict in immersive experiences. © stock.adobe.com/T C rowe/Wirestock 26 Á © stock.adobe.com/kilhan26 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY NEWARK The castle even hosts a variety of exhibitions and reenactments, and this August becomes the stage for outdoor performances of Jane Austen’s ‘Sense and Sensibility’ and Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’. Meanwhile, the Newark Air Museum pays homage to the history of aviation, and also features aircraft used in the defence of Britain prominently. The diverse collection of aircraft and cockpit sections covers the history of aviation; the aircraft on display include 13 National Benchmark aircraft; 34 Significant aircraft and 21 Noteworthy aircraft as listed in the National Aviation Heritage Register. In addition to the aircraft the museum displays a diverse display of aviation artefacts and a collection of more than thirty five aero engines. Newark’s still-thriving market tradition is well worth the trip in itself, usually taking place three times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Offering a selection of fresh, locally sourced produce and inviting you to support local farming, this regular gathering of resident merchants often features many artisans and crafters selling jewellery, artworks, ceramics and many more one-of-a-kind treasures to take home. Vintage clothing and accessories complement collectibles to attract the eye, while stalls selling delicious street food, baked goods, cheeses and cured meats compete to tempt the tastebuds. The variety seems endless, with other possible antique items including furniture, books, toys and memorabilia for any collector or enthusiast. It’s this section that Newark Market is best known for, attracting hunters of bargains and rare finds from across the country. The town’s cultural and arts scene spills over in the market too, sometimes featuring live entertainment from musicians, dancers, and other street Bikers take to streets in ‘ride of thanks’ Hundreds of motorcyclists from across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire are planning to take to the streets this September for their charity ride out. The ‘Ride to Save Lives’ annual 62 mile biking event will take place on 3 September and will be raising much needed funds for the Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA), Lincolnshire Emergency Blood Bikes Service (LEBBS) and Nottinghamshire Blood Bikes (NBB). Roland Johns, volunteer and joint organiser of the event, said: “This will be the 6th year of our charity ride-out and we hope to make it the biggest yet. Starting at Newark Showground, the circular route will make its way through some of the most glorious countryside and villages in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, where we will be greeted by supporters from each village we pass through.” It costs just £10 entry per bike and the Lincs & Notts Ride of Thanks is asking for a donation for any pillion riders. To sign up for the event, visit the Lincs & Notts Ride of Thanks Eventbrite page, or contact Roland on 07943 812324, or by email: roland5020@outlook.com New half marathon 2023 The DB Wood Newark Half Marathon will take place on Sunday, August 13th at 9am. The local event is sponsored by DB Wood, a local financial planning company and aims to again focus on local businesses, charities, and runners from the area. Participants will again have the opportunity to raise money for good causes in their quest to complete the race with the volunteer committee offering free places to local charities. Over 600 runners have already signed up and organisers are inviting those who want to participate to sign up on the website. Plenty of recreational runners will also enjoy the family atmosphere including many who will be trying to set a personal best. The 2022 event donated over £4000 back to local community organisations and charities from surplus funds raised and the generosity of local businesses and people. Prizes for age groups and overall winners are also on offer. The course will again offer runners some lovely scenery. After leaving The Sconce Park it visits Hawton, Farndon, East Stoke, Elston, Thorpe, and Hawton with supporters along with way before returning to the Sconce Park and the crowds at the finish line. You can sign up at www.newarkhalfmarathon.co.uk © stock.adobe.com/kroko021LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 27 NEWARK Vulcan marks 60th anniversary On the weekend of 16/17 September 2023 it will be sixty years since Avro Vulcan XM594 entered operational RAF service with the Vulcan Wing at RAF Scampton, just north of Lincoln. Some twenty years later, in February 1983, XM594 was retired from service and joined the Newark Air Museum. To mark the anniversary, the museum is hosting a two-day event, which will allow visitors to get close access to the aircraft, and the chance to talk to former Vulcan air and ground crews who help look after the aircraft at the museum. In addition there will be free to attend talks by former Vulcan personnel, visiting displays and an outdoor Aeroboot aviation sale. The museum will be open from 10:00 to 17:00, with last admissions to the site being at 17:00. Admission costs to the museum site are: Adults £10.00, Over 60s £9.00 and Children £5.50. Competition time – win tickets to Newark Air Museum Newark Air Museum is offering Lincolnshire Today readers an opportunity to win tickets to the museum through an exclusive competition. With three family admission tickets (two adults & three children) and a museum history book up for grabs, to be in with a chance of winning simply send your answer to the question below to the following email address - competitions@blmgroup.co.uk - with the subject heading ‘Newark Air Museum’. Competition question: Which Lincolnshire RAF station did Vulcan XM594 enter RAF squadron service? Photo courtesy of Howard Heeley XM594 at RAF Scampton with aircrew from the Newark Air Museum Archive performers adding a festive atmosphere to your retail therapy. On days it may be quieter on the streets, the Palace Theatre is open for regular live performances, including classical and modern productions, concerts and comedy. Community and festival events attract crowds throughout the year, the flagship Newark Festival home to live music, entertainment and fireworks in celebration of local talent. A whole raft of other events to mark on the calendar include the Newark Carnival and the Beer and Cider Festival, always rounding out the year with the town’s own Christmas Market. In between these major dates and thrice-weekly market days, there’s a reliable range of shopping opportunities, from independent boutiques to well-known high street stores. The town centre is dotted with charming shops, cafes and restaurants, providing a diverse culinary experience. Whether you’re looking for traditional British cuisine or international flavours, there are plenty of options to satisfy. Newark keeps its ancient charm on proud display in picturesque streets, heritage buildings and well-preserved landmarks. Wherever you wind up on your trip, there are chances to get in touch with the whole history of the town. It’s a vibrant one that Newark has made a name in mixing and matching, celebrating the traditional and modern side by side. If that’s something you appreciate and you’re yet to give Newark a visit, there’s no better time than now to enjoy all the spectacles it has to offer. © stock.adobe.com/Harry Green28 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY FASHION A stylish summer Finish up the summer season with a new outfit or two.LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 29 FASHION Cotton Traders Oftentimes it only takes one item of clothing to elevate your ensemble. Here Cotton Traders transforms an all-white outfit with a vibrant kimono.Next >