Lincoln Independent January 2022

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February 2022

Romance the ordinary at Purusha Retreats Intrigued? Read on...

THE benefits of escaping the rat race and communing with nature are seen as essential to people’s mental wellbeing.

Now you can get away from it all right on your doorstep at Purusha Retreats, a luxury eco venue on a family-run farm on

the Lincoln Edge near Wellingore. Here the big skies, green fields and woodlands of Lincolnshire form the perfect backdrop for revitalising getaways such as those run by Helen Bell (left) and Dr Sandra McCutcheon.

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News

Escape to the countryside

From page 1.

Purusha is a yoga term, which loosely translated means ‘one’s true self ’. The site is the brainchild of Tom Hounsfield who had been running Chestnut Tree Farm using sustainable methods - no tilling, rewilding and Agro-forestry - and recognised the need to diversify.

Purusha is now run by Tom’s brother-in-law and sister, Jon and Katie Gordon, who pursue sustainability and aim to work with local people who share their prinicples and beliefs.

The result is eco meets luxury within an evironment designed by man and nature to inspire and revitalise guests.

Seven geodesic domes in their own woodland glades provide the accommodation complete with woodfired, freshwater hot tubs. Interior decor and the finishing touches are locally sourced whenever possible as Jon and Katie are keen to work with local suppliers, practitioners and craftspeople.

The large Kula Dome is suitable for a wide range of activites; there’s also the aptly named Grub Hub and Tea Hut. Winding trails take guests through the outdoor spaces such as the Sunset Dias and Santosha - the latter is perfect for firepits and contemplation.

The whole site is available to hire for weddings, retreats, get togethers for family and friends - anything or anyone following Purusha’s ethos.

“We want to know they are going to respect the site, look after it and share our values,” said Katie.

Purusha engages with like-minded people such as professional chef and nutritionist, Holly Nelstrop, whose ethos is to ’eat only fresh and seasonal products where possible’.

Health and wellbeing experts and retreat hosts, Helen Bell (BSc) and Dr Sandra McCutcheon, offer Holly’s food on all on their Purusha retreats.

“We provide guests with experiences and health promoting know-how that may be incorporated into daily life to help navigate the challenges of modern day living,” said Helen.

Retreat content includes: mindfulness; music and creative classes; breathwork body training; relaxation and massage.

Guests are encouraged to luxuriate in nature while learning new, fun skills such as lighting the fire for their private hot tubs, so they can then enjoy sipping well-earned champagne.

Dr Sands explained: “We call this ‘disconnecting to reconnect’, meaning it is OK to give yourself some time out just for you, away from the ‘on demand’ nature of life.

“In the tranquil haven of Purusha we encourage guests to grant themselves permission to drop the ‘must do’ list so they can re-engage with life in a way that makes one feel resilient, happier and healthier.”

Guests at Helen and Dr Sands’ first retreat enjoy the tranquility of Purusha.

Purusha Retreats - Chestnut Tree Farm, Wellingore. LN5 0DW. contact@purusharetreats.com, www. purusharetreats.com, T. 07814 400085.

For more details on retreats with Helen and Dr Sands see page 17.

For all aspects of Family Law To find out more visit www.ringroselaw.co.uk

Where individuals count

Call us on 01522 561020 January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

3

Editor’s Comments

We’re a ‘glass half full’ publication TREPIDATION seems to be the main attitude to 2022.

While we’re the first to admit parts of 2020 and 2021 were catastrophic for some people and pretty awful for others, we don’t feel the same sense of dread about the future that seems to be gaining a foothold.

We’re included in the group to whom the past 20 or so months have not been kind. However, we’re still here thanks to our own efforts, the support of clients and others.

We’re not blasé about the potential pitfalls in 2022 for Lincoln, but we also think there are real reasons to be optimistic about the city’s and county’s outlook.

Take a look at the our pages to see how our little gem of a city already has some big hitters nationally and also big plans for the future.

What it could do with is a little more postivity from some quarters.

As a newspaper Editor I used to enjoy a good battle of words with councillors or other correspondents.That won’t come as a great surprise to anyone, but I tried to avoid being negative just for the sake of it.

I’m not going to go into detail just yet about who could do with winding their neck in... just make a plea to receive change with a little more of an open mind.

I do, however, have to make a short response to Martin Aske’s long letter about Lincoln Christmas Market (page 10) and his main complaint the whole event is driven by filthy lucre.

I don’t think anyone believes the market isn’t staged to bring money into the city, but it’s not just about that.

Look at Stuart Wilde’s photographs above Dr Aske’s letter. I see smiles and people having a good time - making memories that could well bring them back to Lincoln.

There’s no doubting there are some very generous and supportive people out there. The Business Wife would like to thank everyone who got behind her and Deb Speed as they rowed their way into the record books and raised almost £3,000 for St Barnabas Hospice (see pages 20-21) and Lincoln Rowing Club (page 34).

Redhill Farm Shop in the Bail helped them achieve that total with sponsorship package of £300 including a £100 raffle . Appropriately it was won by club captain Harry Mulligan who is pictured (left) receiving his prize from George Tomlinson.

Rachel was blown away by the very positive response to their 24-hour marathon effort.

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Lincoln Independent | January 2022

News

Planning chiefs vote on £600m urban extension Project milestone will pave the way to 500 new jobs a year and £22m annual boost to the economy PLANS for the 3,200-home Lincoln Urban extension may get the go-ahead this month.

The long-awaited decision on the Western Growth Corridor goes before a full meeting of City of Lincoln Council sitting as its Planning Committee on January 12, at 5.30pm at The Engine Shed.

The application for 240-hectare site (around 600 football fields) to the north of Skellingthorpe Road has been jointly submitted by landowners Lindum Western Growth Community Ltd and the city council.

It is allocated as one of Lincoln’s four Sustainable Urban Extensions (SUEs) to provide housing and employment growth in central Lincolnshire through the Local Plan period ending in 2036.

Councillors will be voting on outline blueprints for the entire scheme and more detailed proposals for road works so work can start on first phase of construction if approved.

The plans include: l Up to 3200 dwellings, with a local centre comprising of retail and commercial units and a new primary school l A commercial employment area of up to 20 hectares. l A regional sport and leisure complex, including a new stadium, health and leisure facilities, a hotel and ancillary food and drink elements Kate Ellis, Director for Major Developments at City of Lincoln Council said: “The Central Lincolnshire Local Plan was adopted on 24 April 2017 and provides planning policies and allocations for the growth and regeneration of Central Lincolnshire for the period to 2036.

“For the Central Lincolnshire authorities of City of Lincoln, North Kesteven and West Lindsey, a total of 36,960 new homes need to be delivered, alongside new employment, commercial and leisure developments, as well as supporting infrastructure such as schools, sports pitches and public open space.

“As the biggest settlement within Central Lincolnshire, the city of Lincoln and its immediate surrounding area is required to deliver approximately two thirds of this development.

“To ensure this development is brought forward in a planned and sustainable manner, the majority of Lincoln’s development is to be delivered through a combination of urban regeneration and the creation of four sustainable urban extensions (SUEs).

“The Western Growth Corridor is one of these four SUEs, and its development is key to meeting the objectives of the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan and ensuring the continued growth and success of the City of Lincoln.”

Mark Foster, Director of Land and Planning for the Lindum Group said proposed development would bring multiple benefits to the city and county.

"The Western Growth Corridor offers the opportunity to create a truly unique place to live, set within established open space but also within walking distance of the city centre.

“We therefore believe this will be a truly aspirational place accessible to everyone through the delivery of a range of housing tenures including 640 affordable houses prioritised for local people.

“There will be significant economic benefits to the wider area with 3,200 new households within easy reach of Lincoln city centre and the wider districts.

“It is estimated for example – using normal household expenditure rates - that the site as a whole would generate up to £22 million per annum spend in the local economy. This will provide a significant boost to the economy of Lincolnshire.

“The construction of the development over at least a 20 year period will also create an average of 500 jobs per annum, with a total construction cost in excess of £600 million.”

To find out how planners voted visit www.lincoln.gov.uk or www.lindumgroup.com.

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News from Ringrose Law

Don’t let stalkers destroy your life

BY AMY FARRELL, PARALEGAL, CHILDREN AND FAMILY TEAM, RINGROSE LAW HAVE you watched a film or TV programme in which someone is followed and spied upon?

You might have even shouted at the screen for the character to turn around to spot their unknown stalker.

The stark reality is stalking does not just happen in crime thrillers often victims know those who have an unhealthy interest in their lives. Sadly, victims are also often too ashamed or feel silly reporting incidents until the problem has got out of hand.

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust’s recent reports for 2021’s National Stalking Awareness Week found that nearly 1.5 million people in England and Wales are victims of stalking every year.

The Crown Prosecution Service now refers to stalking as a

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Lincoln Independent | January 2022

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Stalkers can use your social media activity to keep tabs on you.

recognised form of domestic abuse, and between 2019 and 2020, 2,288 charges were brought against perpetrators of stalking.

In the cases specifically relating to an ex-partner, victims reported being harassed by way of unwanted and sometimes threatening phone calls, as well as being physically followed or watched at their place of work or at home.

Social Media In 17 cases, social media was cited as a significant factor, with numerous accounts being created by perpetrators to keep an eye on the victim – sometimes with the victim not aware as to who was behind these accounts.

There are no figures for the number of cases regarding ‘cyberstalking’, but it is there and all too easily accessible for perpetrators. For example when a relationship breaks down there is very little to stop an ex-partner from following social media with newly formed accounts, watching a victim’s ‘stories’ to discover where they are and what they are doing. Perhaps they have tagged somewhere on social media? Such innocent activities could lead to ex-partners ‘just happening’ to be in the same place at the same time.

Don’t be a victim Police are now urging stalking victims to speak out and not to suffer in silence, as forces found it takes an average of 100 incidents before a victim reports a crime.

And the National Police Chiefs Council discovered an increase in stalking offences through lockdown - perpetrators have had longer periods to obsess over their victims and to plan their routines around them.

It is no surprise that 76% of women murdered by ex-partners were stalked in the lead up to their deaths, so now more than ever, we need to be raising awareness of stalking and the harsh reality that the impact on the victim goes on for years after any behaviours have ceased.

If you feel you have been – or are – a victim of stalking there are organisations that can provide support to take the next steps.

We can assist with obtaining a non-molestation order.

Stalking is not, and never will be, okay. Speak out. Don’t suffer in silence.

Contact Amy and the Ringrose Law team on 01522 561020 or email wecanhelp@ringroselaw.co.uk

News

Students marched to

HUNDREDS of students took to the streets to raise awareness about sexual violence in the city.

Organised by University of Lincoln Students Union the event was part of the national Reclaim the Night movement held to protest against sexually violent crimes such as the murder of Sarah Everard and Sabina Nessa.

Reclaim the Night started in the 1970s as a protest against the crimes of Yorkshire Ripper Peter Sutcliffe, but organisers say the movement is needed now more than ever.Violence against women and girls surged during the COVID-19 pandemic with RESPECT, the national domestic violence charity, reporting a large increase in cases.

In the first three weeks of lockdown, 14 women and 2 children were murdered (three times more than usual). Engagement with the National Stalking Advocacy Service, Report Harmful Content Hotline and Revenge Porn Helpline doubled.

Lincolnshire had one of the worst statistics with more than 1,100 rapes or sexual assaults reported to the police, but a low conviction rate, which is why the SU organised the march and supplied materials for the placards.

“It was such an amazing and moving experience to see so many students marching in solidarity for such an important cause,” said

reclaim the night

Harriet Kennedy,Vice President Wellbeing and Community.

“People of all genders came together to demonstrate that violence, harassment and assault are not accepted in Lincoln, on our streets and at our university.”

450 students attended the march, along with members of staff from the university, including the Vice Chancellor Professor Neal Juster (picture centre in bottom picture).

“The Students’ Union wants to make sure that students know that we are standing alongside them when it comes to their safety,” explained Harriet.

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Ofsted 2019 01522 775990 www.lincolnutc.co.uk admissions@lincolnutc.co.uk Lindum Road, Lincoln, LN2 1PF January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

7

News from Citizens Advice Lincoln and District

Beat the bogus eco firms CITIZENS Advice Lincoln and District is sharing five top tips to stay safe while going green.

The recommednations come after the organisation found 69% of adults in the East Midlands are thinking about making their homes more energy effcient in the next 12 months - 40% said they have already been targeted by a green scam.

Helen Oliver, Chief Officer of Citizens Advice Lincoln and District, said: “It’s important we know how to stay safe when going green, as scammers have no qualms about playing on the need to do our bit for the environment.

“If you’re thinking of making your home more energy efficient, take your time doing research, getting quotes and reading reviews. And as always, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

“We know that being scammed doesn’t just leave us out of pocket, it can leave us

feeling very vulnerable, isolated and really knock our confidence.

“If you’ve been scammed or are worried about how to spot a scam, our advisers are here to listen and help.”

Checklist l Check the company or website you’re using. Read reviews on different websites, ask for references, verify the company’s details using external sources, and read any terms and conditions. l Check certified schemes for traders, like TrustMark - the Government’s endorsed quality scheme. l Try to get quotes from at least three contractors to ensure you’re getting a fair price. Always get a written contract before you give a contractor the go-ahead. If something goes wrong it can help get what you paid for or some of your money back. l Pay with a secure method. Credit cards offer the most protection, followed by

PayPal or debit card. If you’re paying for large improvement works, see if you can pay in stages, and avoid paying for costs upfront where possible. l Be suspicious. Scammers and rogue traders can be very smart. Take your time with your decision - if someone pressures you or contacts you out of the blue, it’s most likely a scam.

If you’ve been scammed, talk to your bank or card company immediately if you’ve handed over any financial and sensitive information or made a payment.

To report a scam or ask for advice contact Citizens Advice consumer service.

Telephone, post and doorstep, scams can be reported via the Citizens Advice consumer service or by calling 0808 223 1133.

Report online scams to the dedicated Scams Action service either online or on 0808 250 5050.

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News

Lincoln Christmas Market - thousands of visitors bring in millions of pounds

PICTURES: STUART WILDE MORE than 276,000 visitors enjoyed Lincoln Christmas Market 2021.

With 150 stalls in Castle Square, the castle grounds, The Lawn, and Westgate, the event also brought festive music, fun and entertainment back to the city following the COVID cancellation in 2020.

Cllr Neil Murray, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth at City of Lincoln Council said: “This market brings millions of

pounds to the local economy and sees many visitors who go to the market at Christmas return again and again to the city to explore what else we have to offer.

“I’d personally like to thank all City of Lincoln Council staff involved in making this such a successful event, and to our partner organisations for all their work.”

The market will return from 1-4 December, 2022.

Not everyone is a fan of city’s festive extravaganza EDITOR - If you decide to publish this letter in your January edition, the Lincoln Christmas Market will have been and gone (pandemic permitting), and the organisers at the city council will no doubt still be congratulating themselves with their habitual complacency on having staged what they are programmed to call an 'amazing event', a meaningless mantra which is wheeled out every year as an unanswerable truth.

I should like to offer a different perspective - that of an ordinary local citizen, with no vested business interest - from that blazoned across your November centre-fold.

Simon Colburn says 'he would like market critics to give it a chance and see how it has evolved in recent years'. Well, it might have evolved, but only in the sense that it has grown out of all proportion into a massively overhyped carnival of bad taste which no amount of artisan craftspeople can redeem. (Happy the punter who has the means to shell out £20,000 on a piece of wood.)

If the market has its critics it is because many local residents know only too well that the event is a waste of their time, and hugely disruptive in all kinds of ways.

The November 'drop-in session' held at the White Hart Hotel was just the usual annual publicity exercise which allows the Council to be seen to 'consult' with residents, and it is singularly mendacious of Mr Colburn to claim that 'we do listen and we will keep on listening'.

The fact is that the Council has already made its decisions and it couldn't care less about residents' views, since we have no choice in the matter anyway; the organisers are quite content for a large number of residents to become effectively second-class citizens for the duration of the event. (Likewise the weasel words of gratitude that the Council issue every year are almost insulting in their hollow insincerity.)

It is also utterly disingenuous of Mr Colburn to say that 'there are some aspects such as road closures we can't do anything about'. He 10

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

and his colleagues might start by ditching their absurd (and frankly out-dated) 'big is best' attitude and radically reducing this monstrous horror show to a scale which is more in keeping with the local environment.

Or else they can shift the whole wretched enterprise to the Showground, where they can set up as many fairground rides, burger vans and woodcarvers as they like, leaving the rest of us to carry on our lives in peace.

I could argue further about the environmental issues surrounding the event (issues which appear to be of no concern at all to the organisers, despite the fact that the Council has officially declared a 'climate emergency' which needs addressing 'urgently').

But I should like to end by drawing attention to your headline: 'Oh come all ye faithful! For the joyful and triumphant return of the Lincoln Christmas Market'. I'm not particularly religious, and I'm the first to appreciate a witty caption, but I feel that the (mis)appropriation of a carol which is celebrating something rather different betrays everything that is rotten about this garish pageant of bogus festive cheer.

Your headline, the predictable endorsements from local business people, Mr Colburn's hope that the market can generate what he fatuously dubs 'that Christmassy feeling' - all testify to the sad fact that the market (which the Council has the temerity to promote as 'traditional') is little more than a tawdry commercial venture, primarily designed to line the coffers of a few well-placed businesses and provide kitschy photo-ops for the Council's publicity machine. In its shameless devotion to filthy lucre, the Lincoln Christmas Market represents the complete opposite of the values enshrined in the building that casts its shadow over the event. What, one wonders, do St Hugh and the Swineherd of Stow make of it all?

Yours etc, Martin Aske (Dr), Occupation Road, Lincoln.

News from the Veterinary Hospital

Where pets learn to love the vets DOES your pet hate a trip to the vet?

One local surgery could be the perfect solution - the Veterinary Hospital’s branch at Skellingthorpe, which celebrates its first anniversary this month.

It runs desensitisation clinics where animals can learn to love nipping in for check-ups or treatments.

“We run nurse clinics free of charge where you can bring your pet along for a positive experience with lots of gravy bones,” said assistant practice manager Ruth Peet.

“Our Skellingthorpe branch really is the perfect location for those who prefer it quieter with big, bright rooms and less folk and pets than our Newport hospital.”

Along with the Doddington Road surgery the Veterinary Hospital has gone from strength to strength adding 7,000 new pets as patients The VH team believe the branch has been a huge asset to the practice with a fully equipped theatre and a special snug room (bottom picture) where owners can repectfully say goodbye to furry, feathered or scaled friends when the time comes.

“Our Skellingthorpe Surgery is an extension of all what the Veterinary Hospital family offers. We have a dedicated team ready to deliver compassionate care to your pets.

Owners have also welcomed the new surgery with just a few comments below: l "As a customer of the Veterinary Hospital for years I thought the Skellingthorpe branch continued to deliver the same high standard" l "The practice was very convenient to get too, with plenty of parking" l "Knowledgeable and friendly staff" l “Outstanding care, lovely staff and we know our pets are in very good hands" VH vet/director Anneli Beese is pictured with Benji (above) and with Nellie (below). Other happy patients are Ginger Rabbit above Tabs and Boo. vhvets.co.uk

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News from Bransby Horses

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Lincoln Independent | January 2022

Ebony a mule in a million BRANSBY Horses’ Ebony mule turns 30 year- old Penelope, who is the charity’s only this month making her the oldest equine at other mule. the charity.

Ebony was also a Sponsorship Star for many The plucky little mare was wandering the years and still has many supporters who like streets of Gainsborough when Bransby to send her treats, such as carrots with their Horses were called to rescue her back in regular donations.

1992.

So what is a mule?

It wasn’t clear if she had escaped from a field l A mule is a cross between a female horse or been dumped but, when no one claimed and a male donkey. her, Bransby Horses were there to make sure l They are unable to reproduce and have she received all the love and care she their own off-spring due to their odd needed. numbers of chromosomes.

Her character and cute looks have earned l Ebony is slightly above the average age for her legendary status at Bransby where she is mules but some have been known to live for a firm favourite with staff and supporters up to 50 years. alike. l Like donkeys, mules can be very stoic and Michelle Craven,Visitor Centre Team hide their pain. If something is wrong it can Leader said: “Everyone loves Ebony. She is be difficult to tell as they can tend not to such a cheeky little lady who doesn’t act her show signs of discomfort. age at all. She has a distinctive voice when l Mules can be ridden like horses; she brays and I can tell it’s her just from the l Mules are generally less stubborn and noise she makes. more intelligent than donkeys.

“Ebony has very specific care needs, which is why she is in a herd with equines with You can visit Ebony at the Visitor Centre similar needs. For example, Ebony only has a Yard at Bransby Horses, LN1 2PH, 10am – few teeth and needs her feed adjusting for 4pm, Wednesday to Sunday. this so that she can continue to eat well. She www.bransbyhorses.co.uk needs more than one rug to keep The Golden Girls her warm and dry because her (from left) Ebony, coat is not as waterproof as a Cinderella and horse’s.”

Penelope During her early years at Bransby Horses, Ebony was trained to pull a small cart to help with weight management and keep her busy.

Michelle added: “She’s a very intelligent mule and when she was younger she liked to be doing things rather than just grazing in a field. She’s retired now and is happy playing and relaxing in her paddock with her little herd.”

On the big day Ebony was presented with an equine friendly cake made from grass nuts, carrots and molasses, which she shared with her companions, 26-year-old Shetland pony Cinderella and 21-

News A branch of

The Veterinary Hospital Branches on Newport, Doddington Road and Skellingthorpe

Inspection leads to fire safety progress CLAIMS the fire safety is at risk due to insufficient funding have been rejected by Lincolnshire fire chiefs.

The Fire Brigades Union has said that the inspection of Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service in April 21 confirmed that the fire and rescue service is not getting the funding it needs from government.

The report was published in Decmber and Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services and found that the county service ‘requires improvement’ in various areas, including in terms of ‘effectively and efficiently keeping people safe and secure from fire and other risks’ and the ‘extent to which the service looks after its people’.

Ben Selby, Fire Brigades Union executive council member for the East Midlands, said: “The concerns raised by this report – that the fire and rescue service may struggle to fulfil its functions – are similar to concerns that our local officials already had prior to this report. We’d already been hearing noises to this end from firefighters and members of the community.

“We do not need to look far for the culprit here. Steep cuts over the last decade have left Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue severely under-resourced. For example, Lincolnshire now has around 1 in 7 less firefighters compared to 2010. That is a huge reduction.

“As a trade union we will continue to work with Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue as they work to try and improve. However, we recognise that there is only so much that they will be able to do without further resources. The government cannot take significant funds from fire and rescue services across the country and expect everything to work as communities want.”

However, a statement from Lincolnshire County Council pointed out that in the last five years the base budget has increased in line with inflation, and in the last 10 years it had increased operational firefighters in the county (both wholetime and On Call) and introduced two new wholetime fire stations. A recent wholetime recruitment process had taken place for 25 firefighters and the council intends to run two more this year to ensure there are no gaps in resources.

Chief Fire Officer for Lincolnshire, Mark Baxter pointed the report also Lincolnshire as good in its response to emergencies and promoting the right values and culture in the service.

“The inspection process is a positive one and it has led to improvements to fire services across the country. In particular it has led to fire services carrying out more targeted prevention work in their highest risk areas.

“HMICFRS have recognised that since their visit, we have trained more fire inspectors, and prioritising our resources, and we are on track to have met all our targets this year in inspecting high risk premises.”

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January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

13

Health and Wellbeing

Beating Breast Cancer

Leading the way in oncoplasty

A ROUTINE mammogram saved the life of Amanda McSorley, Editor of the Lincoln Independent (right) .

The early detection of breast cancer - she received her diagnosis on Valentine’s Day 2020 - followed by surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and the other drug treatments she underwent throughtout the pandemic means she is now cancer free.

AS my first article about breast cancer was published Girls Aloud singer Sarah Harding died of the disease. She was 39.

Her death was especially tragic because it could have been avoided - she felt a lump, but didn’t get it checked out until it was too late because of the pandemic.

I obviously didn’t know Sarah, but I experienced pangs of guilt that I lived in

14

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

(AKA lifesaving boob jobs)

Amanda is sharing her story to encourage anyone who feels a lump to have it checked out and for all women to take up invitations to screening.

The series is also to thank and highlight the work of a huge team of experts at the United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust involved in her care and that of other patients.

Lincolnshire and ULHT went into overdrive when lockdown was first announced to ensure its cancer services operated as fully as possible.

This was especially true of cancer surgery the first national lockdown was introduced on March 23 - I was under the knife on March 25 and home the same day.

I’ve been told by various members of the

multi disciplinary team that cared for me that the mindset is important in the fight against any cancer.

I know I’m pretty resilient, but the confidence I felt in all the stages of my treatment is largely down to the professionals on that team. And when it comes to breast surgery the reassurance factor goes off the scale with Mr G.

Health and Wellbeing

Beating Breast Cancer

The ‘excellent’ Mr G Mr Anzors Gvaramadze, consultant Breast and Reconstructive Surgeon - Mr G - it’s hard not to be put at ease by someone who’s every other word is ‘excellent’ and who radiates a soothing mixture of care, comfort and self-confidence.

Even when he’s scrutinising your 57-year-old boobs with pure professional detachment you know he’s weighing up the best outcome for you.

“Tell me Amanda have you ever thought of a breast reduction?”

I’ve always been over-endowed much to my chagrin and my response was a mumble that I was expecting to have a mastectomy.

The complete removal of my left breast was not necessary to ensure the cancerous area was removed - I’d still have a reasonable (normal) sized breast and symmetry surgery for the right side when my chemo was over.

I was getting a boob job - result!

The technical term is oncoplasty and it’s not just Mr G’s bedside (or chair-side) manner that those facing surgery can be thankful for - he has been quite a trailblazer for Lincolnshire in this speciality ensuring the county’s breast surgery service is on par with even London’s teaching hospitals in the discipline.

Women facing breast surgery in Lincolnshire before 2008 would have the cancerous material removed, recover and then be referred to a plastic surgeon. Oncoplasty surgery was introduced in 2002 and Mr G opted for this new discipline.

In 2007 he had finished his oncoplastic training in London and decided he was not going back to his native Latvia, so started looking around for a job.

He arrived in Lincoln in January 2008 to set up the new service at Lincoln County Hospital dealing with everything from appointing theatre nurses to dealing with implant companies

Me and Mr G - he even takes a better selfie.

“Oncoplasty in Lincolnshire is of very high quality - we have the same state of the art techniques and equipment as the Royal Marsden Hopsital in London, which. is a world-leading centre of excellence.”

The discipline conserves as much of the breast as possible while still ensuring all the cancer is removed. The results are women recover better and quicker.

I was never that bothered about my boobs, but some women are and being able to retain their own breasts makes a huge difference to their self-esteem - their sense of being a woman - and the removal of cancers is as effective as a full mastectomy.

“We have a great team from the surgeons, radiologists, breast care nurses all working to make life better for women – it’s not just about survival now it’s about living.”

I am very grateful for his ebullient expertise.

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January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

15

Health and Wellbeing

Moving on after COVID

BY LAUREN WHITE PSYCHOTHERAPIST DURING the after shocks of COVID we seem to be facing a tsunami of mental health problems, made worse by a communal expectation that we should be raring to go in 2022.

Studies on mass trauma confirm that the number of those who struggle, psychologically, immediately after having the virus is high (59%), because they are having to cope with three sources of trauma.

These are: the horror of knowing they might die; witnessing the death or suffering of others and the bereavement of suddenly losing, or being separated from, friends and family.

Add the distress of having their everyday lives and routines severely disrupted and they no longer feel safe in the world.

Ordinary events become, in their minds, potentially lethal, and these fears leak into their sense of security at work, at home and in their relationships.

As COVID becomes less life threatening, research also suggests that this psychological crisis will abate. A year on from an experience of mass trauma, and the number of those suffering mental health problems, like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance abuse, halves, and this reduction continues as more time elapses.

Feeling that we are not alone is important in this, because talking with one another enables us to process traumatic experience.

Many of us are beginning to adapt our lives to the new normal of living with COVID, but not everyone finds this easy.

A number of studies on survivors of mass trauma have tried to identify why some people recover more slowly than others, or may need professional help to do so. Two factors seem critical. Not all of us have the emotional language to identify and process our feelings, or this becomes difficult because we are isolated.

And, earlier experiences of trauma will make some of us less resilient than others to the stress of a pandemic. Over time, we should all be able to move on.

My grandmother lost her husband and baby in the flu pandemic of 1918, in which 228,000 died in the UK. I can only imagine the devastation she must have felt, yet life went on.

Two years later she met and married my grandfather and my mother was born.

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Lincoln Independent | January 2022

36

Health and Wellbeing PHOTOGRAPHS: BARRY MARKS

Nuture your wellbeing in nature IT is possible to create balance in life - even in exceptionally trying circumstances.

That’s the view of Helen Bell and Dr Sandra McCutcheon who were succesful, respectively, in the corporate world and academia.

They stepped away from these lucrative careers determined to help people manage the stress and pressures they had experienced.

Unaware of the other they set up separate ventures, but a chance meeting in Lincolnshire led to a ‘dream come true’.

Helen was a corporate lawyer and partner at a Lincolnshire Law firm while Dr Sandra is a former Research Group Leader at the University of Edinburgh.

Throughout their extensive careers, they led and delivered complex projects, managed teams and accrued kudos in their respective fields.

“It was only a matter of time before these widely accepted pressures impacted on our personal lives, health and wellbeing,” said Helen.

Dr Sandra (below right) set up wellbeing company, Mindfulness Skills for Life, specialising in mindfulness, meditation and kindness training for individuals and corporate wellness and personal performance for businesses.

Four years ago Helen (below left) established a luxury health and wellness retreat business Romancing the Ordinary Retreats in the south of France.

wellness related topics. It is even possible for small groups to choose their own bespoke programme of activities, but Helen and Dr Sandra promise all their guests they will leave feeling more positive, energised and relaxed. Post retreat, classes and workshops are available in and around Lincoln.

Last summer the pair held their first experiential wellness retreat at Purusha (pictured above).

“The feedback from our guests was simply phenomenal and may be found on our websites. We are so excited about 2022 and are delighted to have created something rather special for our wonderful guests,” said Helen.

Helen and Dr Sandra are accepting bookings for retreats May 6-8 and July 29-31. www.romancingtheordinary.co.uk , hello@romancingthe ordinary.com, T 07922 878391 www.mindfulness-skills4life.co.uk

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They describe their meeting as’ like a light going on’.

“We instantly understood one another’s worlds and experiences.

We wished to share with others how it is possible to achieve balance in life; to make space for and enjoy many different activities that nurture wellbeing even during working, parenting and retirement-filled lives,” said Helen.

They have created a bespoke health and wellness retreat concept that enables guests to take time out the routine pressures of life and work to be enveloped in tranquil surroundings while experiencing wellness-promoting activities.

They discovered the perfect place in Purusha: Eco Retreat Centre - 10 miles south of Lincoln city.

“Purusha offers luxurious geodesic dome accommodation where you are peacefully nestled in your own space in the forest, can soak in your private hot tub and enjoy a glass of fizz under the stars - delightful after a day on retreat,” explained Dr Sandra.

The pair also invite experts on retreat who teach masterclasses and relaxing exepriences to guests on a range of health and

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17

Food and Drink

Happy Culture cafe focuses on benefitting community FOR city residents aiming to make more sustainable choices this year, a community hub in Lincoln may be the ideal place to visit.

Natalie and William Goodacre opened Happy Culture Café in June 2020 after being inspired during their time travelling.

“We went travelling a few years ago in South East Asia and we saw a lot of the devastation caused by the climate crisis.

When we came home, we decided that we couldn’t just sit around - we wanted to do something so, we started looking at what we could do in our own little corner of the world,” explained Natalie.

The plant-based café aims to give back to the community as much as possible, while being environmentally conscious in the process.

“We’re zero waste in that we make a set amount of food each day and once that’s gone, it’s gone, so that we’re not throwing food away at the end of the day. We are plastic free as far as we can be. A lot of food from suppliers is wrapped in plastic, but where we can we source local ingredients that are plastic free and we don’t contribute any plastic ourselves,” said Natalie.

“Part of the idea of our business is that we are modelling how to be an ethical, sustainable business. We are a Community

Interest Company which means we are non-profit, so after we have paid ourselves a wage, any money over that goes back into the company.”

Natalie and her team have also been working on a collaboration with local Lincoln business, Annual Store, to produce sustainable “Happy Culture” t-shirts and tote bags.

These are available to buy now in the café, with all profits going to a different charity each month. Natalie also says that local charities can get in touch if they are interested in being one of their charities of the month.

The community aspect doesn’t stop there, with their ‘Pay It Forward’ scheme to help feed the homeless and their free workshop space which allows teachers to keep their prices low to make their workshops more accessible, such as writing workshops, yoga and meditation and mental health support groups.

“We saw how the pandemic was affecting people’s mental health, so we really wanted to do something in our local community to help with poverty and mental health

issues, which is how the community hub side of it came to be,” said Natalie.

Natalie says that the café is designed to feel like a living room and that they don’t take bookings because they want people to feel welcome to come and sit all day if they want to. The café is decorated using second-hand furniture mixed with some new pieces to create a quirky atmosphere.

To find out more follow @happyculturecafe or visit www.happyculturecafe.com.

Be imp-ressed with Stokes’ new coffee capsules STOKES Tea & Coffee has unveiled new way to experience its best-selling espresso.

Stokes has been sourcing and roasting award-winning coffee since 1902. The company has taken its first step into the Nespresso® compatible coffee capsule market, providing coffee lovers with ‘devilishly’ good espresso to enjoy in the comfort of their own home or office.

The new Impresso coffee capsules were launched in a box which features the beloved Lincoln Imp. Designed with sustainability in mind, each Impresso capsule is packed full of the familiar taste of Stokes intense and smooth espresso blend. The capsules are made from aluminium which not only keeps the coffee fresh and in perfect condition it is also infinitely recyclable too.

Nick Peel, who is the fourth generation

in the family to run the business said: “Customers with Nespressostyle machines have been asking us to create coffee capsules so they can enjoy Stokes coffee at home or in the office. Our new Impresso capsules are a quick and easy way to experience our espresso blend without compromising on the consistency, taste and sustainability which customers expect from a cup of Stokes coffee.”

“The unique imp design on the box was created by a local artist and celebrates the heritage of both Lincoln and Stokes which has been based in the city for over 120 years.”

With 250 million capsules sold in the UK every year, and millennial coffee drinkers leading the Nespresso® movement, Stokes’ entrance into the market means more customers can enjoy the local roasted blend.

Visit www. stokescoffee.com.

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Food and Drink

Take control of your relationship with food FROM overeating to restrictive eating, from bingeing on highly processed foods to complete restriction of food groups; these and many other food-related issues are becoming all too frequent in today’s lifestyles, and all this is a reflection of our core beliefs about ourselves, according to the Food Addiction Coach.

Dr Bunmi Aboaba (pictured) is giving away a Craving Freedom course and supporting crystals worth £350.

The Craving Freedom Course is a four-step course that helps participants overcome their food cravings and their unhealthy relationship with food generally.

Its creator Dr Aboaba is one of the world’s leading breakthrough experts on Food Addiction.

Dr Aboaba has gone through food addiction herself and draws on her own experience to give course participants everything they need to create that shift in their relationship with food and to break free from not being able to do anything about it.

The online course includes practical information and easy to apply techniques to help you understand and tackle your cravings. Plus, there are meditations, visualisations, sound healing and worksheets to support your journey. The package is worth £297.

To win the course answer the question below and email your answers marked Food Addiction Competition to: admin@lincolnindependent.co.uk.

Name three crystals used to help weight loss.

Cheese Choice

ASHCOMBE

Inspired by Morbier, a classic French cheese from the FrancheComté, Ashcombe features a striking line of wood ash running through the centre of the cheese (said to aid digestion).

Ashcombe is made as a large wheel of cheese, carefully washed in a special brine solution to develop a bright red rind.

The rind is meaty and savoury, while the paste has aromas of warm milk and hay.

The flavours are comforting and rich, reminding us of melted butter and fresh hazelnuts. Amazing melted over crispy roast potatoes.

For a fantastic range of cheeses from around the world contact Lucie Nock, The Cheese Society, 1 St Martin’s Lane, Lincoln, LN2 1HY. Tel: 01522 511003, www.thecheesesociety.co.uk Key Facts Age County of Origin Milk Type Organic

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Part of the Craving Freedom technique includes crystal healing, an alternative therapy that uses crystals to help bring balance and emotional well-being. Also being offered as part of the prize, is a set of eight crystals, including sunstone, amethyst and sodalite, to help pave the way to a smoother weight loss journey. The set is worth £50.

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Care continued in Coronavirus crisis thanks to public support PUBLIC support has helped St Barnabas Hospice survive and thrive amid the challenges of the global pandemic.

The achievements of the 20-21 financial year are highlighted in the award-winning charity’s annual report – key successes are featured in the boxes pictured left.

St Barnabas is a local, independent charity which supports more than 10,500 people across Lincolnshire each year.

It delivers free, high-quality, compassionate end-of-life care and support to adults living with a life-limiting or terminal illness, their family and carers.

The Hospice lost an estimated £2,000,000 because of the pandemic, so it launched a Crisis and Urgent Care Appeal.

“Our supporters got us through those challenging months with their generosity and hope for the future. Their support meant our doctors and nurses could be there for the most vulnerable people at a time when it mattered.”

A total of 281 people received specialist inpatient care while 2,586 were looked after in their own homes and 1,700 accessed the charity’s Occupational Therapy or Physiotherapy services.

New patients referrals increased by 13 per cent to 2,948 while 772 people accessed Day Therapy support.

Chief executive Chris Wheway said: “I look forward to celebrating our 40 years of operation within Lincolnshire, which we really couldn’t have done without support from our community, staff and volunteers.”

Here’s to the

BY VERONICA MCBAIN HEAD OF FUNDRAISING AND LOTTERY ST BARNABAS HOSPICE

ST BARNABAS Hospice celebrates 40 years of care 2022.

From very humble beginnings of three nurses, with a vision to improve end of life care in Lincolnshire in 1982 - to what has become one of the region’s bigge charities supporting more than 10,500 people each y The team behind St Barnabas will make this year on to remember with a bursting list of events, appeals an activities to get involved in and celebrate the incredi achievements of the people who have made the last four decades happen.

The return of the Colour Dash, a new in-memory display in the Deans Green at Lincoln Cathedral, the launch of locally produced, commemorative Rum an Gin and the first charity led bespoke community Art installation across Lincolnshire – The Heart Trail mak 2022 St Barnabas’ biggest, most ambitious and specia year yet.

You will hear from the people behind the Hospice; from the nurses offering outstanding care in the community and the volunteers that support us, to th cooks, the cleaners and the office staff that keep the organisation running and caring for more people – y on year.

We will tell the stories of our patients and families w have required the service in times of need, in a proje

Veteran fundraiser Stuart sticks to his Jags for tried and WHEN it comes to cars there’s nothing quite like a Jaguar, according to Stuart Dixon and when it comes to fundraising there’s no-one quite like Stuart.

Stuart has raised almost £200,000 by encouraging organisations to put stickers on his beloved Jaguar cars. This year he will be devoting the model on the right to raise cash for St Barnabas Hospice and Bluewood Children’s Hospice, which covers Lincolnshire. Keep reading your Indie for more news.

Stuart (pictured far left) has been fundraising for more than 30 years, but ramped up his efforts following his retirement.

“I just love raising money for charity. I always used to make about £1,500 every year when I was working and divide it between between several charities, but when I retired I decided 20

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

to colle At first ask the “I raise paid th came u It really £71,00 Bluebe and he both c “I’m luc money

For more information visit www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk

Charity’s HeART trailblazer

e next 40 years

year

called 40 faces of Hospice care.

We will see all 25 shops embrace our birthday and collectively celebrate their own achievements of resilience, against the high street giants. From Lincoln to Boston, and into the Wolds, our shops are representative of our care – they are part of the community and spread far and wide across the county.

Whilst we celebrate the past 40 years, we will share our aspirations with you too.

We will talk through our ambitions to grow the services in the community to fulfil our vision where ‘everyone in Lincolnshire deserves a good death’, we will do this through offering Hospice at Home to hundreds more people each month, collaborating with other healthcare providers and educating others in how to make care for those at the end of their lives as well as further developing our wellbeing therapy services making it more accessible for all who need it.

We want to rejuvenate our work and care spaces to offer the best facilities for everyone. We want to support our staff to feel happy in their roles, offer them career progression and a great work-life balance.

Finally, we will aim to maintain our outstanding CQC rating and educate everyone on the importance and benefits of Hospice care.

In the words of Dame Cicely Saunders – founder of the modern hospice movement:

who ect

“You matter because you are you, and you matter to the end of your life. We will do all we can not only to help you die peacefully, but also to live until you die.”

e in

a

est year. ne nd ble

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THE advent of St Barnabas 40th year in 2022 was celebrated with the launch of its HeART Trail which will run during the summer.

It will be working with previous art trail organisers Lincoln BIG, which have centred on the city, but the hospice has ambitious plans to take over the whole of Lincolnshire with the HeART Trail, making it more accessible for the communities it supports.

Artists are invited to submit their designs to be part of the trail. Sponsors will select either a finished design or an artist with whom they would like to work.

The artists will be commissioned to create their design during April and May. Local businesses are urged to ‘have heart’ and sponsor a sculpture - unlike other trails, once a company sponsors a heart it will be theirs to keep.

“We aim to raise £300,000 and put Lincolnshire on the map as the Place to Visit in 2022. As well as raising money and awareness for the Hospice, there will be a Young at HeART Trail to engage with children across the county. It will be as inclusive as possible, with each school or community group being paired with a local artist and given the tools to produce their very own heart sculpture,” said Veronica McBain, Head of Fundraising and Lottery (pictured, right, at the launch with Mayor of Lincoln Cllr Jackie Kirk).

“The plans for our 40thanniversary are very ambitious, and we want to use the year as a celebration of the incredible growth we have achieved, as well as the supporters who have helped us get here. We are bringing this special trail to the people of Lincolnshire with the aim of it being more inclusive than ever before.

To get involved see at www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/hearttrail. Please send any questions to veronica.mcbain@stbarnabashospice.co.uk.

tested moneyspinner

ect money for Bluebell Wood to help sick kiddies.” he used to let people sit in his Jaguars - he has nine - and em to donate cash. d over £4,000 in my first year - to be honest I’d almost hat out in taking the Jag to different events. Then my son up with the idea of having advertising stickers on the car. y took off and the following year I raised more than 00 and it’s gone on from there. ell Wood has received over £195,000 from Stuart’s efforts e is hoping the second Jag will prove as successful for harities. cky to have the Jags so I want to use them to raise y. Once you have driven one there’s nothing like them.”

January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

21

Community and Environment

News from Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust

For peat’s sake protect our carbon crunching bogs

Sundew by Guy Edwardes.

BY RACHEL SHAW LINCOLNSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST PEATLANDS, bogs and mires.These are words that we associate with uplands that are often bleak, rain-drenched and inhospitable.

Think of Grimpen Mire, Conan Doyle’s fictional bog on Dartmoor in the “The Hound of the Baskervilles” or the Dead Marshes in Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings.”

Even the place itself can seem treacherous.

It is bogs that are home to carnivorous and parasitic plants.Tiny sundews sparkle with dew; a lure to traps their insect prey. Pinkflowered lousewort wraps its roots around the roots of grasses and steals their nutrients.

It seems unlikely in Lincolnshire’s landscape of green fields that there would be bogs. But in the north-west corner of our county, they still exist.The Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust were early leaders in the protection of peatlands.

Two of the Trust’s earliest nature reserves were peatlands in north-west Lincolnshire.

Epworth Turbary and Haxey Turbary became nature reserves in 1958 and Crowle Moor in the early 1970s.These peatland nature reserves, like bogs around the world, are soaking up carbon.They could play a role in the fight against the climate crisis.

People have used peat for centuries. Cutting thick blocks of it, allowing it to dry, then burning it for heating or cooking. But by the 1960s, peat was being dug on an industrial scale in the UK for the horticulture trade.

It was used to grow plants for sale and bagged up to be sold as garden compost. Despite decades of campaigning by The Wildlife Trusts, and others, this use of peat continues today.The majority of the peat in our garden 22

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

centres now comes from Eastern Europe.

One of the primary components of peat is sphagnum moss.There are actually many species of sphagnum moss that look very similar, so are usually grouped together as ‘sphagnum’ for easy description. Sphagnum mosses form the amazingly multi-coloured, living carpets found in peat bogs and are known as the ‘bog builders’.

This special moss holds up to 20 times its weight in water and helps keep bogs wet.

As the sphagnum, and other mosses and grasses grow, they trap layers of slowly decaying plant material beneath them.

Over hundreds or even thousands of years, the waterlogged and partially rotted remains of dead plants accumulate to form peat.The process is incredibly slow.

Peat develops at a rate of just one millimetre per year. Critically, as it forms, it stores huge quantities of carbon.

Our UK peatlands store an amazing 3.2 billion tonnes of carbon and peat is the Epworth Turbary by Lilianna Witkowska-

biggest store of carbon in the UK.When peatlands are considered globally, this is even more impressive, as they cover just 3% of land area but in that pack 30% of all soil carbon.

Just think what they could do if they were protected rather than dug up.

Because when peat is dug or the land drained, carbon is released into the atmosphere accelerating the climate crisis.

Preserving peat will keep the existing carbon locked up in the ground and carefully managed and monitored peatland restoration work will lead to the capture of more carbon.

Instead of being bleak and treacherous, peat bogs are a powerful nature-based solution to counter the climate crisis.

If you’re a gardener, when you open up a bag of shop bought 100% peat-free compost or turn your compost heap of well-rotted garden and kitchen waste, you’ll know you are helping precious bogs accumulate more peat and absorb more carbon.

You can be part of the solution rather than adding to the problem.

Community and Environment

Liquorice Park

Back down to earth time to save our soils Join DAHLIA LEE each month as she takes a ramble around Liquorice Park with camera and sketch pad at the ready to discover the nature on our doorsteps through the seasons.

IF January has bought you crashing back down to earth with a jarring jolt after the overindulgence and dizziness of December, then take heart, as the ground could be the very best place to start your new year.

Traditionally this is a time for reflection, introspection and self-criticism, a time to get back to basics as we consider how we can improve ourselves and our lives, setting ambitious goals to be healthier and happier … which often fizzle out before the month has passed.

We’re going to suggest a resolution which, with almost no effort, will have an impressively positive impact on you, your family and the planet in 2022. And it all starts at your feet – with soil!

That’s right – soil, earth, dirt whatever you call it there’s no escaping the fact that this underappreciated, often misjudged substance is fundamentally the most important thing for terrestrial life on earth.

When it comes down to it we are all dependant on soil.

Here’s a couple facts that might surprise you. Firstly, soil is alive. A teaspoon of healthy earth holds more living organisms than there are humans on the planet, one gram can contain 5000 different species!

Secondly, if soil is alive then tragically it can die – and currently it is disappearing at an alarming rate due to thuggish industrial farming, inconsiderate development and brutal chemical use, with devastating consequences. It takes a year to build up a

hair’s breadth of soil and moments to destroy it.

Two facts just aren’t enough. Did you know soil holds vast amounts of carbon, 10 billion tons in the UK alone? This is released through disturbance which contributes to global warming. Oh, and it even contains microorganisms that increase our Serotonin, so getting your hands mucky can be a natural mood booster!

So what can we do to save the soil? The good news is it’s more about what not to do! If you have a garden, why not take a leaf out of our book and welcome nature in. The park may seem wildly untidy here and there but there’s method to our madness. Wild spaces create perfect habitats supporting a range of life, which enriches the soil and feeds the plants. Leaf-litter is the one litter we welcome here! Chemicals interrupt this natural process so avoid them.

Compost your kitchen and garden organic waste and take inspiration from no-til farmers and experiment with no-dig, its effective and far less work!

And buying local organic food supports regenerative farming and sustainable food systems.

Soil is definitely the new buzzword, and with the UK Government finally supporting farmers to regenerate land, this is definitely a bandwagon worth jumping on. So for a minimum effort maximum impact new year’s resolution look no further than the ground below you. Let’s all be part of the exciting soil revolution and stop treating the earth like dirt.

(We’ve just scratched the surface but if you’d like to dig deeper check out the Soil Association website, soilassociation.org)

than stepping outside and hunting for early signs of Spring.You may spot daffodils emerging, leafbuds swelling and bright hazel catkin tassels. Listen out for the birds, in addition to the usual crowd we welcome many winter visitors - flocks of linnet coming to roost, fieldfare enjoying the last of the berries, vibrant bullfinches and wonderful charms of goldfinches discernible by their incessant tinkling charm bracelet jingle.

Small birds require a lot of energy to survive the colder month and rely on their excellent eyesight and acute hearing to find food. Studies have shown that blackbirds will unearth two earthworms a minute while foraging in January.

Volunteer gardening The park is carefully managed through the winter months, maintaining paths, preparing the flower beds and planning for the year ahead with minimum intervention to minimise impact on hibernating wildlife.

Visit www.Liquoricepark.co.uk, or follow us on Instagram @LiquoricePark.

We love to hear from park users, so please get in touch with your stories and photographs. They may just feature in the next issue.

What to look for in January As the days gradually lengthen, it’s the perfect time to enjoy lazily late sunrises and early sunsets. Although pot-luck weatherwise with frosts, snow and milder days, wrap up and head out to explore - there’s nothing more cheery January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

23

Community and Environment

On the Allotment

Flat Cap Diaries with Liz Lucas

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LAST year seems already a long way away and the small gardening triumphs and despairs, trivial.

Nevertheless, it is useful to reflect on what we did and learned last year; the emphasis most decidedly on the learning.

In my garden at home I tried sowing annuals and interspersing them with the perennial plants for a long summer show and this was a great success.

As the benign weather lasted until very late, we had a long, colourful season. Dwarf sunflowers turned out to be giants, but apart from that gardening faux pas everything else made a great show.

White cosmos illuminated the long evenings and pastel pink nicotiana wafted delicious scents to attract the moths. I discovered I did not like Ammi Majus; its large, rounded heads too dominant in my small space. The airy Ravenswing, a dark stemmed cow parsley, made a much more elegant show.

The meadow in the front garden, (an experiment to try and deal with the dry, sandy conditions) was beautiful briefly, but I am encouraged to extend it and introduce a wider variety of plants. Once the flowers are over the meadow can look tatty, particularly in the rain so we had to learn patience there, however the increase in insect life was incredibly rewarding. This difficult front garden has suddenly become an exciting prospect.

At the allotment we learnt to address the water situation. Bolting was rife. l The harvesting of sweet corn, I discovered, is a delicate matter. l I need tubes for my leeks. l Use fewer pot marigolds in between the veg, as the rich soil turns them into triffids. l Perennial weeds will grow through several layers of cardboard. I am still pondering the no dig method, although I do recommend cardboard. Bob Flowerdew used black polythene, but the jury is still out on that one.

In the poly tunnel I found that putting the tomato plants too close together caused blight and I shall not be growing cucamelon again. l Growing basil in between the tomatoes is quite successful. l I need to use the poly tunnel over the winter.

A good year and many useful lessons learnt.

Web Development, Branding, Social Media, IT Tech Support www.ellmoredigital.com 24

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

News from Lincolnshire Food Partnership

Food for thought

BY LAURA STRATFORD AND TICKY NADAL JOINT CO-ORDINATORS DESPITE the ongoing disruption and ravages of the pandemic the Lincolnshire Food Partnership has much to celebrate from 2021 while recognising there is more to do in 2022.

New Community Grocery in Lincoln Food poverty is poverty. Foodbanks cannot solve that. Alongside the numerous organisations in Lincoln working to combat food poverty, we want to see bigger systemic changes that will end the need for foodbanks.

At the same time, we do all we can to reduce the pressures of hardship and improve dignity for everyone in our communities.

Lincoln’s Community Grocery, which opened on Lincoln High Street in October, has been very well received. It provides supermarket surplus groceries and provisions to members at very low cost, offering greater choice and dignity than a foodbank, including lots of fresh produce.

Membership has already wildly exceeded expectations, and it is having a hugely positive impact in an area of the city where there is a high level of need and access to healthy food is patchy.

The High Sheriff, Claire Birch, went beyond the usual harvest festivities, food issues at last year’s Harvest Supper at Lincoln Cathedral in October, with a particular focus on Boston.

Bread & Roses, a stunning photo essay by observational photographer, Henry Kenyon, documents two good food businesses (Maud Foster Windmill and Greenfield Bakers) and two inspiring organisations (Willoughby Road Allotments Association

and Centrepoint Outreach) and their enlivening influence on Boston’s local food culture.

Growing food and community The pandemic led to an explosion in gardening, and people have described it as a lifesaver at a time when many have experienced extreme mental health challenges arising from isolation, loneliness and anxiety.

There are opportunities to get involved in community food growing all across Lincolnshire: we shared a map of them on our website last year.

Gardeners enjoyed meeting each other in a series of online events for community growers, and we celebrated the opening of two new community gardens in Lincolnshire - Dunston Community Garden and Incredible Edible South Ormsby, and the impressive development of EcoSerenity Project CIC, an urban farm near Scunthorpe.

Looking to the future The food nirvana that we dream of includes a local food culture where nourishing, diverse and delicious food is easily accessible for everyone - without need for foodbanks; where work in farming and food production is desirable and generates decent livelihoods; where people have a sense of connection to food and to the land, and all children know from experience that carrots grow in the ground and apples grow on trees; and for a farming and food system that supports biodiversity, sequesters carbon, and is regenerative for the land and for communities.

Does this sound good to you?

We’ll still enjoy fairly traded foods from the other side of the planet - tea, coffee, chocolate - but a much smaller proportion of our diets will come from far-afield.

We’ll still get certain foods from elsewhere in Europe - satsumas at Christmas, grapes and wine and the good things that are hard to grow well here!

We’ll have stronger regional supply chains for seafood, grains and flour, beans, and other field scale crops.

And crucially, we can expand the periurban food economy: the huge range of fresh foods that grow really well in Lincolnshire, that don’t need large scale processing, that taste better when they haven’t had long journeys, can be grown near to our city, and be enjoyed by the

people living here.

Direct supply avoids long periods of refrigeration and transportation - that are carbon heavy and environmentally damaging. Switching to electric vehicles won’t be enough.

Making it happen in Lincoln How can we surround our city with mixed farms and productive small holdings - that support biodiversity and communities, and in which animals are part of a closed loop system and not part of the global climate problem?

And what infrastructure and relationships do we need to get such fresh, healthy, delicious and varied foods as directly as possible to urban dwellers?

We are interested in answering these questions collaboratively with Lincoln - the people who live and work here, especially in restaurants, cafes, catering and independent food retail, and the farmers and growers in the peri-urban area.

We’re also interested in other UK models for Local Food Ecosystems, software to support local, sustainable producers, and in facilitating conversations among local people, businesses and organisations who are determined to work towards a thriving sustainable food system in Lincolnshire.

We all have a stake in our food system, and can be active in a shared journey towards a fairer, healthier, sustainable food future.

Take action Pop us an email to introduce yourself, so we can work together - be part of the conversation and in on the action: enquiries@lincolnshirefoodpartnership.org. uk. Further info at lincolnshirefoodpartnership.org Twitter @food_lincoln Facebook/Instagram @LincolnshireFoodPartnership January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

25

Community and Environment

Climate Change

Make your New Year’s resolution your own green revolution

BY REBECCA HARDY

MORE people want to do their bit to fight the climate and ecological crisis so Lincoln Independent asked for New Year’s resolutions city residents could make for a sustainable future.

Kate Bell, Climate Change Manager from City of Lincoln Council (pictured), has suggested five simple actions people can make that will collectively make a difference, starting with writing to your local MP. “Ask your MP to support bills that benefit the environment, such as the Climate & Ecology bill,” suggested Kate.

Kate explained that there are helpful templates for your letter or email online, such as from Soil Association and Hope for the Future. Local MPs are: Lincoln karl.mccartney.mp@parliament.uk; Gainsborough (represents villages including, Saxilby, Welton, Nettleham and Bardney) edward.leigh.mp@parliament.uk and Sleaford and North Hykeham caroline.johnson.mp@parliament.uk Kate added reducing meat consumption, travelling less and buying fewer consumer goods are all ways to address your carbon footprint.

“Measure your own impact by using a

‘carbon calculator’ to identify your most significant areas of environmental impact and set yourself a target to reduce your carbon footprint.”

For those looking to improve the efficiency of their home, grants may be available with more information found on the Council’s website.

“Work with your community to create spaces for wildlife by encouraging wildflowers on grass verges, digging ponds, creating community orchards and wildlifefriendly allotment spaces,” said Kate.

Residents can also contact their local Council to reduce the mowing of verges to

create an environmentally-friendly habitat for wildlife.

Another action Kate recommends is to speak to your line manager about embedding sustainability in your workplace.

“See if your company or team can reduce energy and resources used in the office environment, check suppliers used by your employer and see if there are any more environmentally-friendly alternatives and ask how your pension is invested.”

Finally, residents may wish to join local environmental groups that are dedicated to making positive environmental changes.

“There are a number of local grassroots and community groups that support environmental projects. Examples in Lincoln include: Plastic Free Lincoln, the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, Extinction Rebellion, Incredible Edible Lincoln, Transition Lincoln, to name a few.

Alternatively, start your own!”

Lincoln Climate Commission also has a Sustainability Toolkit available online, for anyone looking for other suggestions on ways to reduce their environmental impact.

More information can be found by visiting www.lincolnclimate.org.uk.

Share of £2m up for grabs for eco schemes PROJECTS that tackle climate change can apply for a share of a £2m Clean Growth Accelerator Fund.

The Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership is inviting organisations and businesses to submit projects focused on decarbonisation and clean growth.

"We are delighted to announce our new Clean Growth Accelerator Fund for Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland,” said Chair Pat Doody.

“Not only will this fund help us to achieve our Net Zero ambitions, but it will also ensure that innovation remains at the heart of our economic growth.”

The essential criteria for this fund are: proposals should be capital focused but can include a revenue element not exceeding 10% of the project cost; schemes must be over £1 million in overall value with a minimum grant requested of £500,000.

Projects that are related to clean growth and driven by R&D and innovation will be considered, but they must relate to one of the 26

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

LEP game changers or sectors: UK Food Valley; Humber Freeport; clean energy; defence; visitor economy and health and care.

“The funds must be spent by July 2024, and outcomes must be delivered by 2026/27, so any proposals submitted need to be already well progressed in terms of design, planning and match funding,” said Pat Doody.

Match funding identified must be a minimum of 50% (further grant funding level restrictions may apply to SMEs according to government subsidy regulations).

Schemes must demonstrate direct public/private investment leverage and job creation and/or research and development outputs with clear clean growth-related outcomes.

Applicants from Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland should make submissions made by 5pm on Monday, February 28. See https://www.greaterlincolnshirelep.co.uk/funding-andprojects/other-funding/clean-growth-accelerator-fund/

Art and Culture

Win tickets to see Seth Lakeman AFTER 18 months of not being able to play to a live audience singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Seth Lakeman is back on tour in February and will perform in Lincoln.

Seth is back on the road to celebrate the release of his new studio album, Make Your Mark, which he wrote during lockdown and the 14 songs cover a range of subjects from the environment to love, death and self-belief.

Seth’s 11th studio album was recorded in early 2021 when restrictions eased and was self-produced on his own label, Honour Oak Records. It includes the BBC 2 playlisted single Higher We Aspire.

“The pandemic gave me a real determination to come out musically stronger and I really dug deep into myself for this album,” said Seth.

“Being able to record and play with the band again was really quite spiritual.”

Seth has been making his mark on the music scene since the late 1990s originally with his brothers, Sam and Sean as the

Lakeman Brothers and released his first solo album in 2002. He was nominated for the Mercury Music Prize in 2005 for the album Kitty Jay and with goldselling Freedom Fields following in 2006. To celebrate its 15th anniversary he has released a deluxe edition with bonus album featuring unreleased tracks and rare demos.

Expect to hear songs from both Make Your Mark and Freedom Fields during his February dates.

Supporting Seth will be folk singer and musician Benji Kirkpatrick (Bellowhead, Faustus).

Seth Lakeman, Monday, February 7, 2022, The Platform at the Engine Shed, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 7TS. Tickets £22. https://engineshed.seetickets.com/eve nt/seth-lakeman/the-platform/2156342

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

What’s On Guide Saturday 15 January 7pm

THE BLUE ROOM, THE LAWN, UNTION ROAD, LINCOLN

The Hannah Horton Quartet

Hannah recently released her new album Inside Out and subsequently appeared in two London Jazz Festival shows. She has played alongside Amy Winehouse and John Etheridge Free

Wednesday 19 January 7pm

Tickets £16, Jazzpac members £14, Under 16 £8.

Jazzpac.co.uk, T 01522 529717 or pay on the door.

Saturday 15 January

The Upbeat Beatles

The return of the Upbeat Beatles tribute band.

Sunday 16 January 3pm

LINCOLN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

Tickets are £20.90 www.engineshed.co.uk

Thursday 20 January 8pm

A collection of Scottish inspired orchestral pieces performed by the Ensemble Hesperi, including the works of some prestigious 17th and 18th century composers.

Friday 21 January

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Saturday 22 January

7pm

Gary Meikle – Surreal

Stand-up comedian Gary Meikle returns with his “playfully dark” comedy routine, centred around his own real life experiences.

7pm

7.30pm

7.30pm

From the producers of That’ll Be the Day and Walk Right Back, a live band recreates some of McCartney’s masterpieces spanning over 60 years.

Tickets from £26.50 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Comedy Night at the Royal

Stand-up performances with Ian Stone, Sally-Anne Hayward, and Michael Legge.

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Albany

After their recent release One Mistake Away, local band Albany kicks off 2022 with a home show.

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

The Snow Queen

A retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale ballet, performed by internationally renowned dancers, Ballet Theatre UK. Adult £20, Child £12 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

McCartney – The Songbook

Jonathon Kent’s production of a well-known opera in The Royal Opera repertoire, originally by Giacomo Puccini, starring Elena Stikina, Bryan Hymel and Alexey Markov.

Tickets £6 www.engineshed.co.uk

Tickets £22 www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Monday 17 January

Tosca – ROH Screening

Tickets £15 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Ensemble Hesperi: Caledonia to the Capital

£15 full, £5 students and Under 26s, www.lpac.co.uk. T 01522 837600.

Sunday 16 January

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Tickets from £14 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

7pm

www.sethlakeman.co.uk To win a pair of tickets to see Seth simply answer the question below: What is the name of Seth Lakeman’s new album?

Send your answers marked Seth Lakeman competition to admin@lincolnindependent.co.uk

Tuesday 25 January 7pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

The Stranglers

Continuing their UK Tour, after it was rescheduled late 2020, covering their 45-year career. £35.75 www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

27

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

What’s On Guide Wednesday 26 January

LINCOLN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

7.30pm

Shakespeare’s much loved play is performed by second year drama students with a beach party theme.

Tickets £5 www.lpac.co.uk, T 01522 837600

Friday – Sunday 28 - 30 January

BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY, LN3 5AW

3pm, 7.30pm

Much Ado About Nothing

Pinocchio the Panto

A pantomime retelling of classic children’s tale Pinocchio from the Lindsey Rural Players.

Adult £10, Child £6, Family £30 www.broadbenttheatre.org, T 01673 885500

Friday 28 January 6.45pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Calling Planet Earth

A romantic Symphony on a journey through the electrifying 80s, with hits from Duran Duran, Ultravox, Depeche Mode and more.

Tickets £26.95 www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Friday 28 January 7.30pm

6.30pm

DreamBoys Too Hard to Resist

TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM, LN6 9AX

7.30pm

7.30pm

Northern Soul Live

Performances by an 11-piece band and 4 vocalists, performing over 30 original songs keeping to the authentic feel of Motown soul.

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Sun Records: The Concert

A performance through time with hits by some of rock ‘n’ roll’s biggest names starring a talented cast of singers and musicians.

Tickets from £25 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Thursday 3 February and Saturday 5 February 2pm, 7.30pm

LINCOLN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

Friday - Sunday 4-6 February 11-12 February

BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY, LN3 5AW

3pm, 7.30pm

Friday 4 February 7.30pm

7.30pm

Sunday – Monday 6 - 7 February 1.30pm, 7.30pm

Sunday 6 February 7pm

Monday 7 February 7pm

Thursday 10 February 7.30pm

Friday 11 February 7.30pm

A stunning concert recreating all of her hits of over six decades of pop, the Cher Songbook features classics as well as her new album.

6.30pm

Sunday 6 February 2.30pm

28

TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM, LN6 9AX

Lincoln Dance Company: Decades of Dance

A journey through the music of the decades from the 1920s to the present day, with dancers of all ages performing.

Adult £9.35 Child £7.15 www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Dragons and Mythical Beasts

A creative show of mythical creatures from around the world, told through puppets and pantomime from the creators of Dinosaur World Live.

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Gaz Brookfield – The Idiomatic Tour

After his two-year hiatus, Gaz Brookfield returns to live touring in celebration of his eighth studio album.

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Seth Lakeman

Singer-songwriter Seth Lakeman starts his solo tour following his release of his new album Make Your Mark (see page 27 to win tickets).

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Ahir Shah: Dress

Ahir Shah returns to stand-up with his new show, blending philosophical inquiry, personal introspection and scurvy.

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Vampires Rock

Steve Steinman brings a wide host of classic rock anthems to stage in a laugh out loud celebration of the greats.

Tickets £15 Tickets £31 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Tickets £25 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Saturday 5 February

A concert celebrating the history and career of David Bowie, featuring all of his classic hits.

Tickets £13.20 www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

A pantomime retelling of classic children’s tale Pinocchio from the Lindsey Rural Players.

The Cher Songbook

Bowie Experience

Tickets £22 www.engineshed.co.uk

Pinocchio the Panto

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Tickets £10 www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

An adaptation of Charles Dickens’ famous tale, a young cast perform a retelling of the story of Pip, Estella and Miss Haversham.

Adult £10, Child £6, Family £30 www.broadbenttheatre.org, T 01673 885500

The Festival of the Dead Rock Chamber Orchestra (above) takes a journey through the biggest Rock and Metal tracks of the last 40 years.

Tickets £14.50, Groups 10+ £10 each www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Great Expectations

Adult £12.50, Under 26s £5 www.lpac.co.uk, T 01522 837600

The Rock Orchestra

Tickets £25 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

After missing out in 2020, Elev8 Dance Academy brings back its show, with dancers from 4-18 years old.

Tickets £24.50 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Sunday 30 January

Saturday 5 February

Elev8 Dance Academy: The Show Must Go On!

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Tickets from £30.25 www.engineshed.co.uk ,T 01522 837400

A saucy, 18+ night of dancing and teasing from a group of chiselled and cheeky men in uniform.

Tickets from £6.50 www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk, T 01522 701305

Saturday 29 January

7pm

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Tickets from £25.50 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Saturday 29 January

Saturday 5 February

Friday 11 February 11pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Black Parade – 00s Emo Anthems

The Engine Shed brings back the UK’s biggest emo night, featuring hits from Panic! at the Disco, My Chemical Romance, Paramore and more.

Tickets £5.50 www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

What’s On Guide Saturday and Sunday 12-13 February

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT/ ART, LEARNING AND CULTURE

TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM, LN6 9AX

Rhythm in Movement: Please Don’t Stop The Music!

7pm

An evening of dance from the pupils of the Rhythm in Movement dance company.

Tickets from £6 www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk, T 01522 701305

Saturday 12 February

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

7.30pm

Little Red Riding

An adult pantomime retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, with comedyand raunchy jokes aplenty. 16+ Tickets from £20 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Saturday 12 February 7.30pm

THE BLUE ROOM, THE LAWN, UNTION ROAD, LINCOLN

The Fergus McCreadie Trio

With David Bowden on bass and Stephen Henderson on drums this is one of the most exciting young groups in European jazz. Pianist Fergus individually, picked up Best Instrumentalist in 2018 & 2020. The Steinway Grand piano will be on stage.

Tickets £16, Jazzpac members £14, Under 16 £8.

Jazzpac.co.uk, T 01522 529717 or pay on the door.

Sunday 13 February 7.30pm

7pm

The Moonlight Serenade Orchestra performs the greatest swing hits of the 40s and 50s.

4.30pm, 7.30pm

Tuesday 15 February 7.30pm

Sunday 20 February 7.30pm

A ballet classic telling the story of two lovers worlds apart, adapted from the play of the same name by William Shakespeare.

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

Cinderella on Ice UK Tour

A dazzling interpretation of the classic Cinderella fairytale on ice.

Josh Widdicombe: Bit Much…

Josh grumbles and jokes on advent calendars, pesto and the closing time of his local park.

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

The Ultimate Classic Rock Show

More than two hours of rock anthems from artists including Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and Jimi Hendrix..

Tickets from £25. www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Tuesday 22 February 7.30pm

Wednesday 23 February Thursday 24 February 7pm

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Frankenstein

An adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein with live music and puppetry. Age 11+

Tickets £19.50 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999 THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Ross Noble: Humournoid

The comedic legend brings more humour to the stage in a new stand-up show.

Tickets £28.50 www.engineshed.co.uk

Thursday 24 February 7.30pm

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Sharapak Khorsandi: It was the 90s!

Live comedy by Shadrapak Khorsandi on the ups and downs of living in London in the 90s.

Tickets from £18 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Romeo and Juliet – ROH Screening

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Tickets £22 www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

The Glenn Miller & Big Band Spectacular

Tickets from £17. www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Monday Saturday 14- 20 February

7.15pm

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Tickets from £25.50 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Monday 14 February

Sunday 20 February

Friday 25 February 7.30pm

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Someone Like You

A collection of songs hand-picked by Adele performed by a live group, celebrating some of the star’s musical favourites.

Adult £21.50, Under 16s £15. www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

ART, LEARNING AND CULTURE

Tickets £19.50 www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk, T 01522 522900 NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Positive Futures Dance Show 2022

A yearly celebration by the New Theatre Royal recognising the achievements of talented young people, returning after two difficult years once more.

Tickets £6, Family £18 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com,

Thursday 17 February 7pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Paul Foot: Swan Power

Comedian Paul Foot returns with a new stand-up show, exploring topics such as murdering Santas and interfering ambulance drivers.

Tickets £16.50 www.engineshed.co.uk

Friday 18 February 7.30pm

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Buddy Holly and the Cricketeers

An internationally recognised group of actor-musicians performing hits from rock ‘n’ roll legends such as Elvis, John Lennon and Freddy Mercury.

Tickets from £21 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com,

Saturday 19 February 7.30pm

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Genesis Connected

A tribute show celebrating the works of Genesis, Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins and Mike & the Mechanics.

Tickets £22.50 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com, T 01522 519999

Sunday 20 February 3pm

LINCOLN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

Toby White cello, Marina Staneva piano

A duet of cello and piano playing three iconic pieces by Schumann, Brahms and Piazolla.

Adult £15, Under 26s £5 www.lpac.co.uk, T 01522 837600

Unveiling hidden Tennyson treasures AN exhibition resulting from a four-year project studying the unexplored depths of the Alfred Tennyson archives has opened at The Collection Museum.

Artists Sarah Bennett, Andrew Bracey and Danica Maier have put together the show called ‘Bummock’ – a term used to describe the large part of an iceberg hidden below the water. They hope this project will bring thidden aspects of the Tennyson Research Centre’s archive into public view; for the ‘bummock’ to become the ‘tip’.

They have created new artworks inspired by their research and shown with the objects and stories that inspired them.

Bummock: Tennyson Research Centre, The Collection Museum, Danes Terrace, Lincoln until Sunday, February 20. www.thecollectionmuseum.com January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

29

ART, LEARNING AND CULTURE

What’s On Guide Thursday 13 January 7.30pm

ROBERT HARDY BUILDING, BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY,

Helen Sharman

LONGDALES ROAD, LINCOLN

Wildlife of Derbyshire & the Peak District presented by Paul Hobson

Expect stunning wildlife images from close to home.

RSPB members £4, non members £5, accompanied child free. Free Parking on campus after 6pm. www.lincolnrspb.org.uk , T 01522 753809.

Thursday 13 January – Thursday 7 April

THE COLLECTION MUSEUM, LINCOLN

5.30pm

Booking required £8. www.thecollectionmuseum.com, T 01522 782040

Thursday 13 January – Thursday 7 April

THE COLLECTION MUSEUM, LINCOLN

7.15pm

Booking required £10. www.thecollectionmuseum.com, T 01522 782040

Saturday 15 January

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Life Drawing Classes – Untutored

Untutored life drawing classes for all ages and skill levels, own equipment required.

Life Drawing Classes – Tutored

Tutored life drawing classes for all ages and skill levels, own equipment required.

Guided Tour

11am Saturday 26 February 11am

A backstage guided tour of the New Theatre Royal’s 125 year history, including backstage, under-stage, dressing rooms and more.

Monday 17 January

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

4pm

Tickets £13.50 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com

2.30pm

Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology - The Ruston in the Blue Lagoon

7.30pm

A story of the world’s oldest working excavator told by Andrew Blow via his latest DVD project.

Tickets £4, SHLA members £3. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-ruston-in-theblue-lagoon-presented-by-andy-blow-tickets-2227066 30527

Technical Innovation: Optimising the Future of Farming

A talk by leading agriculture experts on the newest developments and technologies in agriculture, with a Q&A at the end.

Free www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk , T 01522 522900

Sunday 23 January

ONLINE EVENING TALK

Wednesday 16 February

NETTLEHAM OLD SCHOOL ROOMS, MILL HILL, LN2 2RX

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL

Friday 18 February

An Evening with Helen Sharman OBE

The first British person in space will talk of her experiences beneath Luke Jerram’s Museum of the Moon. A pioneer and role model enthuses about Space, STEM and the wonders of science. She describes the meticulous training and preparation, learning Russian, the launch and landing, how weightlessness feels, her science experiments, the team spirit, and adjusting to life back on Earth.

7.30pm

Society of Lincolnshire History and Archaeology - Sunday Special

A series of four talks organised by the local history team, including Portable Antiquities by Adam Daubney.

Tickets £4, SHLA members £3.

Pay on door – open at 2.15pm.

Monday 24 January – Sunday 6 February 10am-4pm

SAM SCORER GALLERY, 5 DRURY LANE, LINCOLN

Tuesday 25 January 2pm

DAVID CHIDDICK BUILDING, UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN

The Nadin Group

An exhibition held by the group - set up by former students of Lincolnshire artist Gill Nadin - of art from 27 individuals in their first showing of the new year.

Free www.samscorergallery.co.uk , T 01522 589899

Holocaust Survivor and writer Dr Agnes Grunwald-Spier talks on the Holocaust Memorial Day theme One Day. NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Suggs – A life in the Realm of Madness

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL

Luke Jerram’s Museum of the Moon

An art installation displaying the moon in fabulous detail from NASA imagery – it’s seven metres in diameter at an approximate scale of 1:500,000, each centimetre of the internally lit sculpture represents 5km of the moon’s surface.

Adult £9, Child £4.80, Family £20.80 www.lincolncathedral.com , T 01522 561600

Thursday 10 February 7.30pm

30

An Evening of Serial Killers

An informal talk with some dark humour on the creation of serial killers, and how to spot a psychopath.

7pm

Tickets £19.80 www.engineshed.co.uk

FAMILIES AND COMMUNITY Saturday 22 January 2pm

ROBERT HARDY BUILDING, BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY.

Sri Lanka & India: Birds & Tigers presented

by Ian Newton Exploring the wildlife, landscapes & culture of these fascinating countries.

RSPB members £4, non members £5, accompanied child free. Free Parking on campus after 6pm. www.lincolnrspb.org.uk , T 01522 753809.

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Big Fish Little Fish – Family Rave

A family rave with music, crafts, a licensed bar and pizza, suitable for all ages.

Adult £9.35, Child £7.15 www.engineshed.co.uk

Madness frontman Suggs tells of all the craziness fame brought him, in a sequel to his talk My Life Story.

Tickets £30.50 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.ticketsolve.com,

Monday -Sunday 7-27 February 10am-4pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Wednesday 23 February

Great Lives: Dr Agnes Grunwald-Spier MBE Free, Booking required, www.lincoln.ac.uk

Tuesday 25 January 7.30pm

Tickets £35 www.lincolncathedral.com

Saturday – Sunday 15 - 16 January 10am

LINCOLN CASTLE

Dog Friendly Days

Dedicated for visitors to take their furry friends on walks around the castle, tickets apply to the wall walk, prison and Magna Carta.

Adult £14.50, Child £8, Family £37 www.lincolncastle.com

Saturday 5 February Saturday 19 February

WATERSIDE SHOPPING CENTRE, LINCOLN

9am

Free www.watersideshopping.com

Thursday 17 February

WATERSIDE SHOPPING CENTRE

12pm

Waterside Artisan Makers Markets

Market held at the Waterside Shopping Centre with artisan crafts and foods.

Waterside Kids club

A create-your-own sunglasses workshop run by Art Ventures and Lincs Kids.

Free www.watersideshopping.com

Heritage

Snapshots from the Past

ARCHIVIST for Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School, Peter Harrod, continues his exploration of its pictorial past.

War wounded treated at school THIS iconic photograph, one of my favourites in the Garton Archive collection, was taken during the Great War. Lincoln Grammar School was moved to a temporary site on Sewell Road and the site was taken over by the 4th Northern General Hospital.

Some 45,000 casualties were treated at the hospital during the war.

The windows on the upper left, normally school form rooms, were used as wards as were the rooms in the boarding house and headmaster’s house to the right behind the trees.

The military vehicles include at least one ambulance, and the road is the Wragby Road which was no more than a leafy lane with fields to the south.

One of the main purposes of the ambulances was to transport wounded soldiers from the two Lincoln railways stations to the hospital.

I turned to the website www.longtrail.co.uk for information about the long and tortuous evacuation journey from The Front.

Casualties were likely to have received the first medical attention at aid posts near the Front lines. The field ambulances, horse-drawn during the early stages of the war, would have provided relays of medical staff and stretcher-bearers to clearing stations where triage and operations were carried out.

Those evacuated as being fit for treatment back in ‘Blighty’

were then transferred by specially-fitted ambulance trains to a base hospital for further treatment and for the lucky ones to await transport home by ship to the Channel ports and then by train to military hospitals such as the one in Lincoln.

Alison Kay, the archivist at the York Railway Museum, has researched those journeys and has found that they could either be a blessed relief or a nightmare.

One patient described the journey as a nightmare. He was unable to raise his knees to relieve cramp as the bunk above was only a few inches away.

A group of Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School pupils, accompanied by Miss Scoular, was fortunate enough to be given a conducted tour of an ambulance train in a siding at the Great Northern Station.

They reported in a school magazine that there were several coaches on the train including four wards with thirty-six ‘cots’ in each one, an isolation coach, a kitchen, a pharmacy, a coach for the stores, and staff coaches including a mess for the officers.

It was to all intents and purposes a hospital on wheels.

The visit clearly had a striking effect on the girls who were impressed by the facilities and the care given to the casualties who were in the expert hands of well-qualified and caring staff.

If you are interested in a longer version of this article please email pharrod@lchs.uk January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

31

Heritage

Survey of Lincoln

Animal Houses in the West End IN the latest article highlighting some of the work of The Survey of Lincoln, SHIRLEY BROOK investigates surviving evidence of lateVictorian and Edwardian accommodation for animals in the West End. THE variety of animal houses to be observed in the West End reveals a past closeness between people and animals which modern residents might find surprising.

Few such buildings are still used for their initial purpose. Some retain their original form but many have been converted to housing, workshops or garages.

A survey of the West End, seeking evidence of buildings erected to house animals, revealed that a substantial number of them have survived in one form or another.

Accommodation for horses was vital when vehicles powered by the internal combustion engine were still a novelty.

Tradespeople in the newly-built West Parade area relied on horses to pull their delivery carts. Stables were frequently two-storey structures with a hay loft over the horse stalls. The building now occupied by Harvey Street Garage (4 Harvey Street bottom photograph) standing end-on to the road, can be identified as former animal housing from the row of apertures on the north wall and the pitching door, at first-floor level, in the gable end.

The need to move goods to and from the wharfs at Brayford Pool meant that there was ready work for carting contractors operating from the West End. William Sharpe, a carting contractor and general dealer, received permission to erect a stable yard containing 15 loose boxes at 26 Wellington Street in 1906.

Other yards containing stables included those behind 6 Allison Place and 17 Charles Street West.

One which retains some of its original appearance, particularly its cobbled entrance and yard, can be observed at 4 Bedford Street. Early 20th Century trade directories record as many as eight carters based in the West End, with several based on Newland Street West, where 32

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

working stables serving the Park Riding School can still be observed.

Arched cart entrances can be found throughout the West End. These allowed entrance for the owners’ carts and provided for the delivery of hay for feed, as well as bedding straw.

Early 20th-Century directories tell us that J. Witterick, a carter and coal dealer, occupied premises at 27 Gresham Street (centre photograph).

The substantial house with its ornate porch, at 3 Tennyson Street (top photograph), built in 1892, suggests a thriving business. The yard behind contained stables, a cut house for preparing feed, a cart shed, pigsties, a manure pit and a hospital box for accommodating a sick animal, or a horse in foal.

Dairy businesses were also to be found in this area such as at 8 Bedford Street, 36 Drake Street, 101 Newland, and four dairy businesses in Carr Street.

There were also cattle sheds located on Roseberry Avenue, adjoining the grazing land on the West Common.

Little more than 100 years ago the air in the residential streets of the West End would have been full of the sweet smell of hay and the pungent odour of warm manure.

The present survey has identified only a small number of these former animal houses. Many more of them await recognition.

An extended version of this article can be found in The Survey of Lincoln’s book Lincoln’s West End: A History, an electronic version of which can be found on the group’s website. A second volume examining the history of the West End is due to be published in November 2022. The Survey’s latest publication, Lincoln’s Engineering Industries: A Concise History, is available now in Lincoln bookshops. For more information, see www.thesurveyoflincoln.co.uk.

Heritage

Rotary Club of Lincoln Centenary

Rotary helps save piece of city history in centenary celebrations ONE of Lincoln’s worst peacetime tragedies has been commemorated thanks to Rotarians celebrating a century in the city.

The Rotary Club of Lincoln rescued the Elkesley Frieze in a joint project with Anglian Water, City of Lincoln Council and Lincoln Civic Trust. It was installed at the Westgate Water Tower, which was built in 1911 after a devastating outbreak of typhoid in 1904-5.

This saw 1,006 people contract the disease and resulted in 131 deaths. It was caused by polluted drinking water, which came from Hartsholme Reservoir and the River Witham, but the latter had been contaminated with animal and human waste as well as Lincoln’s booming industry.

Residents stopped using water from taps and went back to using buckets to collect water from wells and supplies that were shipped into the city by train or horse and cart.

City officials came up with a longer lasting solution with the building of a 22-mile long pipe from Elkesley in

Nottinghamshire. It required an Act of Parliament in 1908 to go head and was completed in 1911 with the official switch-on on October 3 of that year.

“The Mayor of Lincoln and prominent Rotarian, Clement Newsum – who was later knighted – turned on the water supply in The Arboretum and a jet of water spurted 70-feet into the air. The cathedral bells were sounded long and long,” explained current member John Cawdell.

The scheme also included the building of the Water Tower, which had been designed

by Sir Reginald Bloomfield to be in keeping with the nearby castle and cathedral. Bloomfield went on to design the Menin Gate at Ypres.

Elkesley Pumping Station, which has also been built by the old Lincoln Corporation, was demolished after one of the two steam engines that pumped water from local boreholes to Lincoln failed in 1978.

The Rotary Club of Lincoln is celebrating

its centenary in 2021-2 and rescuing a terracotta frieze from the old pumping station is one of its projects to mark the anniversary.

“It was felt appropriate to re-site it at the water tower in Lincoln to remember how Elkesley water was the salvation of Lincoln city,’” said John.

The frieze was unveiled by current Mayor of Lincoln, Cllr Jackie Kirk, pictured top, with representatives of the project’s participants. Pictures: Andy Blow.

Thanks to Paul Fenwick of Images of Lincolnshire for this lovely photo showing people queueing with a variety of containers to collect safe, clean water during the typhoid outbreak.

The photo was posted on April 3, 1905 by Harry Bristow of 242 West Parade, Lincoln to Miss L Carter of Ingham, near Lincoln. He says, "Dear Friend, I am sending you this to let you know what a time we are having."

January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

33

Faces and Places

! "#$%& ' ' (

Rachel (on left rower) and Deb supported by family and friends.

Oar-some rowers beat world record and fundraising target

34

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

THE Independent’s Rachel Bishop and rowing buddy Deborah Speed have completed an oarsome challenge and set a new world record.

Rachel and Deborah completed the longest tandem continual row in the 50-59 heavyweight category at Lincoln Rowing Centre.

The new record has since been confirmed by Concept2.

“The whole club made it the success it was.

Members made cakes (excellent ones) sold hot drinks, organised a raffle, came down and rowed alongside so that we were never once on our own in the whole 24 hours. Amazing team spirit,” said Rachel.

That support from friends, family and fellow rowers also helped the pair raise £2,958 - they had aimed for £2,000 - to be spl;it between Lincoln Rowing Club and St Barnabas Hospice.

Eight years ago, Deborah broke the world record for a solo row aged 50, completing 27 hours of rowing, and had been looking for someone “mad enough” at the club to join her in another challenge.

“Deb inspired me. She is a legend at our club.

She has actually taught me to row from scratch, and I’m not naturally sporty at all so it was quite a challenge.”

“Until recently I’d have said that this challenge was impossible, it’s pretty awesome discovering what you can do. We also wanted to raise money for a charity and for the club. This event has enabled us to buy a boat for the club, and we are really proud of being able to do that.”

BRIC gold medallist Deborah said of her more recent record: “It feels unreal at the moment, but it is sinking in.”

Training started seriously in September for the November row, often starting ridiculously early in the morning or late at night to fit in a fivehour row between work and family life.

“Rach and I met up once a week for a long row, building it up an hour every two weeks until we got to six hours – we did this twice as we should have done the row week after COVID hit the UK. Deborah first started rowing indoors when her daughter was small and had swimming lessons in the nearby pool.

She recalled: “Years later, I was approached by a rower in the gym who set me off on a training regime and soon after I joined Lincoln Rowing Centre and became obsessed with getting faster and stronger.”Deborah said: “Rachel joined Lincoln Rowing Centre about three years ago along with a group of ladies that have breathed fresh air into the club with fun and enthusiasm for what was just another life challenge and has turned into an obsession.”

“The masters scene is amazing,” added Rachel.

“It’s a great group of like-minded fun people and we mix really well with the other elements of club, like the university crews.”

But there is always another challenge to train for.

With the Vesta Vets Head next March on their radar, both are looking forward to training back on the water in the club’s masters eight.

Rachel said: “Jimmy, one of the founders of the club once told me, ‘if it was easy, everyone would be doing it’. This mantra keeps me going and keeps me trying to be better. There is always room for improvement and growth.

“I want to be 80 years old and still paddling up that river.”

Faces and Places

Sills & Betteridge eye expansion with David’s appointment PRIVATE client lawyer David Wood has joined Sills & Betteridge as a partner.

David’s practice includes advising business owners and high net worth individuals in relation to inheritance tax, capital gains tax, wills, trusts, succession and business planning, with particular niche expertise in advising farmers and landed estates.

His appointment supports the Provincial Grand Master Dave Wheeler, left, and Charity Steward Pete Tong at the Nomad Centre with Val Moore.

Masons donate £15,000 to Nomad WHEN Dan lost his roofing job he had no idea that his life was about to spiral into a nosedive that would see him become homeless and sleeping on the streets.

Dan was caught by the safety net of YMCA Lincolnshire’s Nomad Centre, which aims to help people like him to get their lives in order and make a fresh start.

Many people are closer than they realise to being in Dan’s situation with many just a few paydays away from homelessness and becoming part of the shifting and often invisible population of rough sleepers, sofa surfers, and those being helped by organisations like the YMCA and its Lincoln Nomad Centre.

Lincolnshire’s Freemasons donated £15,000 to the facility, opened in November 2019 on St Rumbold Street.

It provides a short-term place to sleep in 22 single rooms not unlike budget hotel chains; somewhere not only to get a shower, wash clothes, and get a hot meal, but also to reach beyond those immediate needs and work with other agencies to set service users on the right path.

Said Freemasons’ Charity Steward Peter Tong: “The money we’ve provided is less of a donation and more of an investment in a longterm lifeline for hundreds if not thousands of people, not just now but for many years into the future. The YMCA helped between 300 and 400 people last year, and there’s no reason to suggest that number is going to get any smaller any time soon.”

Caroline Killeavy, CEO of YMCA Lincolnshire, said problems were getting worse: “We’re seeing more people suffering from mental health issues, and the last 18 months have compounded the problem. There’s a hidden social trauma of lockdown. We are seeing more and more people facing difficulties over things like relationships, finances, and domestic abuse. People feel trapped and unable to cope, and want to turn their back on it all. That’s how they end up on the streets.

“Sometimes people don’t understand the trauma of homelessness.

Imagine being outside; frightened, and alone. This is a safe house.

Imagine the relief people feel when they come here and have some dignity restored.”

firm’s ambition for further growth across the region and was welcomed by fellow partner Richard Bussell as underlining its ethos to provide a first class, cross-discipline service to its commercial and high net worth private and farming clients.

“David joins us with some 27 years’ experience and an outstanding reputation with clients and fellow professionals alike. He is known for reliably achieving his clients’ goals with an enviable blend of indepth specialist knowledge, proven ability to solve complex issues and an extremely personable approach. He makes a very valuable addition to the firm’s existing private and commercial services.”

David added:“I am delighted to have joined Sills & Betteridge, having seen the firm’s successful growth and strategic delivery for many years now.

“There is already an incredibly strong offering here at Sills & Betteridge to agriculture, landed estates, rural enterprises and businesses across the region. I look forward to supporting further growth across the firm with my specialist expertise and very loyal client and professional contact base as well as by transferring my legal and commercial knowledge to some of the hugely talented young lawyers in the firm, who are inspirational to work with.”

David has been consistently recognised for both his tax and private client work and his Landed Estates and Agriculture work in the Legal 500, Chambers and Chambers High Net Worth publications.

He was the Under Sheriff for Lincolnshire for three years from 2016 to 2019.

Sills and Betteridge recently made a 12-place leap to 174th position in the ‘UK200, placing the practice among the UK’s best performing law firms.

Visit www.sillslegal.co.uk

Are you good with money?

At Citizens Advice Lincoln & District we are looking for a Treasurer with a good understanding of 昀nancial systems and processes as well as an awareness of some of the challenges we face and an enthusiasm for the work we do.

This role is crucial to the sound governance and 昀nancial planning of our charity and would suit someone who wants to use their experience to contribute towards a much valued community focused charity.

Interested?

Please email volunteerenquiries@ citizensadvicelincoln.org.uk

January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

35

Business News from the Experts

Will new rules to protect national security impact your business?

JAMES CONDUIT, PARTNER AND HEAD OF CORPORATE LAW, SILLS & BETTERIDGE FROM January 4 this year certain transactions within high-risk sectors which present a national security concern must be notified to the Government.

Those transactions must be cleared by the relevant Government department before they can be completed. This is called a notifiable transaction.

The Government also has retrospective powers to call-in for review on national security grounds any relevant transaction that completes between November 12, 2020 (the date after publication of the Bill) and start of the NSI Regime. Therefore, it is important to get to grips with the regime and how it may apply to you or your business.

Which types of transactions will be covered?

The regime applies to mergers and acquisitions, including minority investments. If you are buying or selling more than 25 percent of the shares or votes in a company which carries out activities in the UK, then you may need to obtain approval.

Various other transactions which are not subject to the mandatory regime but present a national security concern can be notified voluntarily. This could, for example, apply to asset rather than share purchases.

Which sectors are considered high-risk?

Seventeer high-risk sectors will be set out in The Notifiable Acquisition Regulations and will be subject to mandatory notification including Artificial Intelligence, Advanced Robotics,

Quantum Technologies, Computing Hardware and Energy.

Detailed definitions for each sector can be found in the draft Regulations. Failure to seek clearance could lead to civil action, fines based on your company’s turnover and even criminal liability. The transaction could also be automatically void.

The notification is submitted to The Investment Security Unit (ISU) via email. The Secretary of State will decide within an initial 30 working day screening period to either: 1. Clear the notifiable acquisition, so no further action will be taken and the transaction can complete; or 2. Require a detailed review of the acquisition if the Government decides it may be a national security concern. This may take 30 working days, and can be extended by a further 45 working days. Clearance must be obtained before completion.

Therefore, if your transaction involves the sale or purchase of more than 25 percent of a company operating in one of the high-risk sectors, then this will be a notifiable acquisition.

Factoring the notification regime into plan snow is essential to avoid possible delays or challenges further down the line.

For more information email - JConduit@sillslegal.co.uk; 01522 542211 or visit www.sillslegal.co.uk.

Start your 2022 with a bang!

Contact Business Lincolnshire for expert business advice at no cost to you.

Grow your business with up to 12 hours of fully-funded support from an experienced Growth Hub Advisor.

Get in touch:

Never miss an update:

www.businesslincolnshire.com businesslincolnshire@lincolnshire.gov.uk /Businesslincolnshire

36

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

@BusinessLincs

Stay on top of the latest Lincolnshire business news, guidance and support with our newsletter. www.businesslincolnshire.com/register

Business News

City firm banked on success in tough year DESPITE the tough economic climate Banks Long & Co enjoyed a successful 2021.

The Westgate-based multi-discipline property consultants and chartered surveyors performed well across all its departments which have been involved in projects worth more than £120 million potentially creating hundreds of jobs.

Banks Long has played a pivotal role in the £70m redevelopment of Lincoln’s Cornhill Quarter which covers an area almost twice the size of St Paul’s Cathedral – and became a major retail and leisure destination in 2021.

The Commerical Property Agency also transacted over half a million square feet of business space within the last 12 months and let/sold over 50 retail and leisure units.

These include the sale of a prominent HQ office building to Lincoln-based estate planning and will writing specialists, Simpler Law. Nibley house, formerly owned by Allocate Software, was acquired as part of Simpler Law’s ongoing expansion, which included the growth of its team from 15 people to over 60 within the last couple of years.

Working on behalf of the vendor, with joint agent CBRE, the CPA team ensured the acquisition ecould enable the growth from their original 2000 sq ft premises in Pioneer Way in 2016, to the new 8000sq ft premises on Low Moor Road, Lincoln.

Andy Townsend, Simpler Law Managing Director, who set up the business in 2004, said: “It came to a stage where we simply outgrew our surroundings. Banks Long & Co suggested that Nibley House might suit our needs, and on viewing, we could see that it gives us the space to future proof our plans for further growth as we look to recruit an additional 20 colleagues within the next 12 months to meet demand.”

“Last year alone, the business took on an additional 12,000 clients, and we plan to add a further 15,000 again this year. It’s a great success story for a Lincoln organisation, and we’re proud to be able to create local jobs and keep our roots firmly in the county with our new office.”

Will Wall, Director at Banks Long & Co, added: “It’s great to see a growing local business like Simpler Law showing such a commitment to growth. We’re sure that this prominent extensive building will enable them to build on their success to date. We’ve noted an increasing number of similar employers encouraging staff to return to the office, even on a part-time hybrid model. This has resulted in a rise in office enquiries, and we’ve therefore agreed deals for several large Lincoln offices such as Nibley House.”

The Development and Consultancy arm of Banks Long celebrated completing more than £50m worth of investment transactions in 2021 while the Management Professional Services division secured 31 new sites under management, including South Kesteven District Council’s commercial property portfolio which was awarded in October The Building and Cost Consultancy rounded off a successful year working on construction projects worth more than £70m.

The company continued to strengthen its own team throughout the year - its most recent recruit is Associate Director Lewis Potter a senior quantity surveyor and project manager who has 20 years’ experience across the industry.

Lewis (pictured top) has worked on a wide range of education, industrial, public works and commercial projects.

January 2022 | Lincoln Independent

37

Home Front

The only way is up

These Four Walls

Their little downsize

HELEN BRANDON-SNELL, MANAGING DIRECTOR, MORTGAGE MINDERS (LINCOLN) LTD WELL, 2021 certainly was a year to remember. With Covid- 19 and then Omicron making an appearance, 2021 has led us all on personal twists and turns on our daily paths.

As we welcome in 2022, I am filled with hope. Hope that my family and friends stay safe and rebuild in fortitude and heart.

Hope that we all maximise on those simple pleasures that had long since been overlooked for many before the lockdowns and restrictions.

Surely for 2022 ‘The Only Way Is Up’?

The same can be said for the cost of borrowing; with the Bank of England rate increasing by 0.15% in December 2021, this is already on the way up.

It was widely anticipated that rises in the Bank of England rate were most certainly on the cards for 2022. I think it was a shock to many when a rise was announced in December.

I saw an instant reaction to this increase with lenders quickly replacing their fixed rate products with higher alternatives.

It has been very easy to put reviewing your mortgage to the back of your mind.

If your fixed rate deal has expired and you have been transferred automatically onto a what might be perceived as a reasonable lender’s standard variable rates may have made you think that it was too much effort to spend precious time on.

It may have been falling further and further down your busy To Do list. This really isn’t the case now.

If you have a fixed rate mortgage, then brilliant. You will be protected from any rises in the Bank of England rate whilst you are enjoying the security in this deal.

However, you should still check the end date of your deal.

With formal mortgage offers generally lasting for six months I would urge you to start looking at your new mortgage options nine to 10 months prior to the end of your current deal.

This way you could secure fixed rate deals available at the time of application.

With ever changing mortgage deals it would be much easier to hand this work over to a professional. This would ensure that you get the most appropriate deal for your bespoke circumstances.

Get in touch for a free, no obligation, initial consultation. helen@mortgage-minders.co.uk 01522 822282 134 Wragby Road Lincoln LN2 4PH 38

Lincoln Independent | January 2022

TWO days before the country went into national lockdown, Diane and Adie Kime moved into Cliff Cottage in Waddington, choosing to downsize from their large four-bedroom home, writes Rebecca Hardy.

“Being in lockdown for those first six weeks would either prove we had made a good decision or made a terrible one,” said Diane.

“We actually spent time on the garden which is normally the very last thing we tackle but due to the pandemic and the shortage of building materials, we were struggling to complete what we wanted to do in the house.”

Diane and her husband doubled the size of their small garden by knocking down a brick shed, taking out a border and bushes and laying a new patio.

The two up, two down cottage then began its own transformation, with walls being knocked down indoors and rooms being relocated.

“We knocked the wall down between a bedroom and the bathroom and moved the new bathroom into the bedroom so that we still had use of the old toilet and bath. We also added a false wall to create a smaller bedroom and a hallway,” explained Diane.

“We try to work with the building but generally go with a gut feeling as to what will work. Trends are good but are generally only ever that, so I tend to pick out bits that I feel have a little more staying power. I love the rustic look but with a more industrial feel, nothing too frilly or fancy.”

The current project on the home has seen the addition of a two-storey extension built in between the home and the garage, windows and a new door fitted and the completion of one of the bedrooms.

Diane says that the next stage is to finish the work on their cloakroom and start work on what will become their kitchen/dining space.

“We aren’t doing anymore after that until warmer weather makes an appearance, as the floors in my current kitchen and sitting room have to be taken up and a damp membrane laid.”

You can follow Diane’s renovation journey on Instagram @ourlittledownsize.

SPOTLIGHT

P R I C E S F R O M £750,000

METICULOUSLY DESIGNED A stunning collection of 3 executive detached homes with substantial, private plots in a tranquil countryside setting.

Only 2 plots remaining, plot 3 bene昀ts from panoramic countryside views, from both ground and 昀rst 昀oor level, with a Juliet balcony to the master bedroom o昀ering mesmerising views of the Lincolnshire countryside for as far as the eye can see.

PRICES TO BE CONFIRMED

LUXURIOUS TRANQUILITY An upcoming development of 26 water-facing, 2 and 3 bedroomed premium eco bungalows with a range of energy e cient features, set within a luxurious over-55s’ gated development.

SALES ENQUIRIES 01522 440445 | tnha.co.uk | enquiries@tnha.co.uk

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Chiselwood

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