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Happy birthday Riseholme!
RISEHOLME College is celebrating its 75th anniversary of providing specialist landbased education in Lincolnshire this academic year.
The college, based near Lincolnshire Showground, which specialises in agriculture, engineering and equine courses, will be hosting a special event in the spring to celebrate the milestone.
Principal and CEO Danny Metters (pictured) said the anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the college’s proud history, acknowledge its evolution, and look forward to a bright future.
“It’s a hugely significant milestone for us, and one we’re very excited to celebrate with all our students, staff, partners and stakeholders.
“It gives us a chance to look back on what we’ve achieved for our students and our community, focus on who we are as an organisation and look ahead to move Riseholme onto the next chapter.
“Over the years, the college has evolved in a
variety of ways but it has always been a values-driven organisation, putting students at the heart of everything we do, as well as our staff.
“That’s why we’ve now created a pledge of ‘students first, staff always’. Without students we wouldn’t have anyone to serve, and without the best staff the students wouldn’t receive the learning experience they deserve.”
Originally a purely agricultural college, Riseholme has had affiliations with different educational establishments and diversified over the years, introducing different subject areas to its curriculum. It now offers a wide range of further education and higher education courses attracting students regionally, nationally and internationally.
The college also has agriculture, equine and sports facilities, which provide students with real working environments in which to develop and hone the skills they need for successful careers in their chosen subject. Danny added: “The anniversary highlights
the college’s evolution but what’s remained constant is that we meet the needs of the community and industry.
“We’re also steeped in agriculture, and that’s something we’re incredibly proud of. In order to survive and prosper in this sector, we’ve had to diversify – which is what we’ve done with other subject areas – but we’ve always remained true to our roots, and to who we are.
“Our whole curriculum offer reflects and complements our land-based specialisms, and that will always be the case.”
There is now a keen focus on technology to enhance learning, as well as sustainability at the college.
“We need to ensure we’re meeting the needs of future workforces, as well as current ones.
“Technology is going to be key to how we progress, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), for example, will provide new ways of learning.
“However, as a land-based college we pride ourselves on providing real working environments to produce a skilled workforce, and we’ll never lose sight of that.”
Riseholme College, Showground Campus, North Carlton, Lincoln, LN1 2ZR.
T. 01522 304600.
Chartered Certified Accountants
Make the most of your city
I DON’T like to think of myself as a miserable old hack and I love my job, but some perfunctory performance has crept into the mechanics of the role.
However, I’ve just been hugely excited about a career first - being able to put Curly Watts and Johnny Rotten on the same spread (p18-19). Almost warrants an exclamation mark, but there are limits.
This simple task not only brought me great joy, but highlighted once more that we’re well served entertainment-wise in Lincoln - even when it comes to punk nostalgia.
Make sure you check out the What’s On pages to get the most out of all the massive range of activites on offer throughout the city (18-25)
Why not try something new in the New Yearremember to use the QR code below for easy access to the listings.
Thank you to everyone who got in touch to see if we were ok after my rant last month. The situation hasn’t changed, but you have to adapt and move on. I’m still determined to get to the bottom of certain decision-making processes. I’d ask the people I contact to respond to me please and not play the ‘ghosting’ trick as considered by James Pinchbeck on page 33.
I’ve just come back from treatment at Lincoln County Hospital where it was carnage in the car park. Visiting time. I had to ring the ward to let them know I’d be late - two people called to say they just couldn’t park and had to cancel. We’re talking about those having follow up treatments for some pretty serious conditions that you don’t put off lightly.
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I sadly got into a fairly graphic sign language exchange with another driveryou know how annoying it is when you let one car out and the one behind pushes in? So to those in reg no B5 Rub...I meant every gesticulation.
I ended up parking on the verge and got the ticket above, which I will contest. During my treatment it emerged that there have been fights in the car park over spaces and the team on my ward said a trainee nurse had been brought to tears by the verbal abuse she received when returning to her car to pick up her lunch - the intimidating male was angry she was not leaving.
This needs sorting LCH. The chaos caused is impacting treatment on the wards and trips to the hospital are now bad for your mental health.
Your code to What’s On
We are celebrating 25 years of the Lincoln Independent magazine in 2025 Lincoln’s premiere and FREE magazine brings you news, features and lifestyle coverage from the city and beyond.
THE Indie’s fantastic What’s On guide (pages 18-25) can be accessed using this QR code. Send to your friends and family so they can discover how much is really happening in Lincoln.
Music, art, theatre, family, community and so much more.
FEBRUARY ISSUE DEADLINE
Material for our February edition should reach us by January 15. We welcome your news and comments and will do our best to publish submitted items, but this is not always possible and we reserve the right to withhold content.
Next issue out from February 5.
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Council aims to buy Scampton
A £300 million development plan for RAF Scampton is officially back on the table after West Lindsey District Council declared its interest in buying the site.
Members unanimously backed the decision at December’s Corporate Policy and Resources Committee after the Home Office declared the site ‘surplus to its requirements’.
The move comes two years after the council announced£300m redevelopment package for the former airbase in collaboration with Scampton Holdings Ltd.
The regeneration opportunity was halted for two years when the Home Office used emergency powers to use the site for asylum accommodation, but the change of Government saw these plans scrapped in September 2024 as it was not a cost-effective option.
The Home Office declared the site, which is designated as crown land as surplus and listed it on the government’s Electronic Property Information System (ePIMS), which triggered a 40-day expression of interest period, during which any public sector organisations could set out a case for acquisition.
Cllr Trevor Young, Leader of West Lindsey said: “With the site now officially surplus to Home Office requirements, the council sees an opportunity to revisit and advance our development goals in partnership with key stakeholders. Subject to Home Office decision making, this will enable us to continue our journey to secure the significant investment and regeneration of this key, strategic site
“RAF Scampton is a site of immense historical and economic importance, and we remain committed to unlocking its full potential for the benefit of our community. While the past two years have brought challenges, we are determined to pursue our original vision and ensure the site is used in a way that respects its legacy and supports sustainable growth.”
The council’s plans aim to honour RAF Scampton’s heritage and create business, aerospace, space and education opportunities to stimulate the local economy. The opportunity at RAF Scampton is included in the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan, which has been named the Best Plan in the East Midlands by the Royal Town Planning Institute.
Peter Hewitt, Chairman of Scampton Holdings Limited welcomed the news: “This is a chance to reignite our plans that prioritise economic growth, historical preservation, and community needs. We are committed to doing what we can and continue to work hard with the Council to ensure a bright future for RAF Scampton.”
See the FAQs section of the council’s website at www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/growth-regeneration/raf-scampton
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Hidden victims of domestic violence
BY COSTA KYRIACOU PARTNER & HEAD OF CHILDREN LAW
CHILDREN have historically been considered as the ‘hidden victims’ of domestic abuse as many agencies focus upon the needs of adults.
However, evidence has shown that there are significant implications for children in the household where domestic violence occurs - 50% of children are also being directly abused by the same person; 90% are in the same or next room during an incident; 75% are on the ‘at risk’ register.
Mothers who are beaten are more likely to physically abuse their children, although sometimes this is to avoid a more severe punishment from the abuser.
Domestic abuse can be perpetrated by wider family members through forced marriage, female genital mutilation and honour-based violence.
There is a direct correlation between domestic abuse and child abuse.
Professionals should always consider the
possibility of the coexistence of both types of abuse if one is identified.
The government measures the wellbeing of all children in England and Wales using the Every Child Matters framework.
The aim is that services support all children to;
l be healthy
l stay safe
l enjoy and achieve
l make a positive contribution
l achieve economic well-being
Children’s chances of achieving the five outcomes of the framework are adversely affected by domestic abuse.
They face significant losses such as their home, their school, their dad (or fatherfigure), their own room, their friends and their possessions.
Leaving a relationship does not always guarantee children’s safety as research shows that abusers frequently use contact visits to abuse their victims and their children.
One set of findings revealed that 10% were sexually abused; 15% physically abused; 62% emotionally harmed; 36% neglected 26% abducted or involved in an abduction attempt
Domestic Abuse Advice
Whatever your situation we can provide immediate support and advice to you. We have vast experience in dealing with these matters, so please do not hesitate to contact our child social care department for help. Don’t be a victim - contact us now on our 24hr helpline number 07739 748 675. We are proud to be accredited by Resolution as a Specialist in the areas of Private Children Law and Domestic Violence.
HORSE owners are being encouraged to consider keeping their equines on Lincoln’s commons as falling numbers may affect the city’s biodiversity.
“Anybody who lives in the city of Lincoln has got the right to keep and graze a horse on the common of their choosing,” said Barbara Woolfenden, Lincoln Commons Horse Association (LCHA) Chair.
The Association has seen the horse population decreasing on the West Common, with very few left on the South Common and the Cow Paddle being unused for years,
“The council has some concern about that because the less horses, the more overgrowth. Even the wildlife people are worried, especially about the South Common because it encourages more brambles and things like that.”
LCHA was created in 1983 by a group of determined horse owners to protect the city’s common land after plans arose to abolish the 1915 Lincoln Commons Act. Together with the Open Spaces Society, the group fought the plans and helped the formation of the 1985 Lincoln Commons Act which established the current grazing rights, laws, and bylaws.
However, in more recent years, less people have been choosing to graze their horses on the commons partly due to the increased costs of horse ownership after the Covid pandemic.
“I personally think it’s because horses are very expensive, they’re very time-consuming, and like most sporting activities, they’re decreasing,” explained Barbara.
“It’s a lot of hard work looking after a horse and a lot of money, but I must admit that the common is the more affordable way of doing it.You haven’t got to pay livery and at the end of the day, the grazing is free. The council cannot charge you to graze, that is the right of a Lincoln person, to graze a horse.”
Before occupying the common, owners must first have their horse vetted and fully registered with City of Lincoln Council.
“The vetting is something that the Horse Association really strived for because that was to try and keep the herd healthy, although it can’t stop everything, you can see anything that’s obvious in the vetting.”
Additional costs to be considered are vet bills, insurance, worming, dental care and a farrier, who makes and fits shoes for horses.
“After you have your horse vetted, you have to go to a solicitor and you have to say you’re inhabiting a household and it’s your horse and all that, then you have to provide photographic
Horses good for commons’ biodiversity
evidence of yourself and the horse, and the microchip number and passport.
“It’s not sort of just come and put your horse on, there is a protocol.You return the completed forms and required documents to the city council and then you pay a yearly fee, but again, the grazing is actually free.”
For more information about keeping horses on the commons, visit www.lincoln.gov.uk/resident/animals-pests/7
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‘I wish I knew then what I know now’
The decisions facing young people today are as tough as they’ve ever been.
Fortunately there’s a wealth of experience locally from those
Hamish Falconer has spent just over six months as Lincoln’s MP. When elected the former diplomat was immediately appointed Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Middle East, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
A recent diplomatic mission to Bahrain to discuss regional security was followed by a visit to St Hugh’s primary school’s Christmas Market back in Lincoln.
He is immensely proud to represent the UK’s oldest constituency and has been busy listening to residents’ views and concerns. Find Hamish on facebook or c. ontact him at Hamish.falconer.mp@parliament.uk
who have already made those work - life choices.
The Independent is asking business and community leaders what advice they would give their 16 or 18 year-old selves and how they got to where they are today.
Stand up for your beliefs
IN the early hours of Friday, July 5, I was told that I had been elected by the people of Lincoln to be their new Member of Parliament.
I was following in big footsteps - for almost 1,000 years, men and women have stood proud to proclaim themselves as the Member for Lincoln.
At the age of 18, I was just starting University. While there, I joined the Labour Club, and Amnesty International, but I also did lots of non-political things too. So, while I wanted to make a difference in the world, it never occurred to me that I would one day have the honour of representing our beautiful city on a hill, in the mother of all Parliaments.
What would my advice to my younger self be?
Well, I’m sure 18-year-old me wouldn’t necessarily listen, and that might be a good thing. It’s really important to listen to the people around you, but also you need to develop your own voice and remember to stand up for what you believe in.
Secondly, I would remind myself that there are many different ways of making a difference and helping people. I now get to make decisions as an MP, and as a government minister. And it’s a privilege, on behalf of Lincoln.
But I’m constantly aware of the difference everyone around me is also making in the City - doing things they really care about.
From the small business owners on Lincoln’s High Street to key public sector workers; from community activists to people caring for their loved ones to those running their kid’s football team.
Finally, I would tell myself to enjoy being young! Our city and our country offer lots of opportunities for young people to develop and thrive.
So take advantage of the people and places around you, and – only once that magical birthday comes around – enjoy a pint at a great British pub
Martyn Cragg
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Celebrating 25 years of Elixir
TWENTY-five years ago Elixir Bathrooms opened its doors at The Pelham Centre in Lincoln and is still trading from its showroom today.
When husband and wife team, Phil and Sue (pictured), created Elixir Bathrooms, they were not from Lincoln and had never run a business before.
“We were so grateful that we were accepted into the local community. In the beginning we just wanted people to come and see what we were about and hopefully appreciate the inspiration we had to offer.
Now 25 years later we feel we have built an aspirational brand and we now pride ourselves on repeat business and recommendations,” said Phil. Sue believes Elixir’s success is down to the couple’s personal touch: “Instead of hiring lots of staff to run the showroom we have always kept ourselves very hands-on. Phil and I still work full time in the showroom and still love speaking to customers as much now as we did in the beginning.
“This was a godsend through COVID lockdown when we couldn’t open the showroom, which felt very alien after 21 years of trading. We were sent bathroom sizes online and we could create a 3D CAD for customers, which meant we could continue trading from behind locked doors.’
“We feel that if we had hired staff to do our job we would have lost the family, independent feel and its rare to be able to speak to somebody who is knowledgeable about the product and passionate about getting your bathroom exactly right.”
The growth of the business means Phil and Sue now work alongside showroom staff.
“We now have a salesperson and a designer in the showroom. Over the last 25 years we have really embraced the transition to CAD design. When we started designing bathrooms 25 years ago I drew everything by hand,” said Sue.
“Now our head designer is a whizz on our CAD package and we have seen more and more customers expecting this service as they find it increasingly difficult to visualise a bathroom design but the 3D imaging brings the room alive.
“They can even stand in their existing bathroom with a tablet and see how each wall of the new bathroom will look.
The showroom has 26 large displays of unique products and designs, which reflect the latest trends and developments in bathrooms.
Phil explained: “Reconfiguring a showroom display is a big investment for us, but we have always embraced new designs and needs. Over 25 years the displays have been rearranged many, many times but if you let your showroom stand still then you very quickly become behind the times.
“We always strive to show current and ontrend ideas. We have just had a showertoilet installed which can wash and dry you all with the touch of a remote control, the seat lid lifts automatically and lights up in the night to guide you to the toilet.
“Although this is a talking point in the showroom, we sold three in the first month of having it in the showroom, realising that it met the demand for so many peoples personal and mobility needs.”
Elixir Bathrooms will be celebrating its 25year milestone with some very special offers throughout January and look forward to welcoming people to the showroom.
Deadline to have your say on
A SERIES of public hearings about the Tillbridge Solar Project, which will cover land the size of 3,500 football pitches, will be held in the new year.
This is a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) proposed for 1,400 hectares of land eight miles north of Lincoln in the district of West Lindsey.
The solar farm would connect to the National Grid’s Cottam power station via underground cables and would generate more than 50 megawatts (MW) of green energy – enough to power around 700,000 homes.*
“If built, the scheme would help to achieve UK net zero targets and make a vital contribution to the UK’s energy security,” said a spokesman for Tillbridge Solar.
A decision on the proposal from Tillbridge Solar Limited will not go through the usual local planning processes, which means West Lindsey District Council is not the decision-making body. This will rest with the Secretary of State, following a six-month examination by the Government’s Planning Inspectorate, whether to grant a Development Consent Order (DCO).
The project which includes solar PV arrays, electrical substations, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and a cable route corridor is currently one of five NSIP solar developments being proposed for development in the district.
West Lindsey District Council has formally lodged an objection to the project due to serious concerns over the project’s landscape impact, visual effects, and potential implications for local communities.
Chairman of the Prosperous Communities Committee at
West Lindsey District Council, Cllr Lesley Rollings said:
“We are committed to our role as the host authority, working to ensure that our communities are informed and involved. We urge residents to engage in the Open Floor Hearing, where they can express their perspectives and learn more about the potential impact of the Tillbridge Solar Project.
“The Council will continue its efforts to advocate for responsible development in West Lindsey, balancing renewable energy needs with the preservation of local landscape, heritage, and community integrity.”
The hearings will take place in January 2025 at the Lincolnshire Showground, providing an opportunity for registered interested parties and the public to engage with the examination process. Hearing Schedule
Tuesday, January 14, 2025 (afternoon): Issue Specific Hearing 2 Environmental Matters: Water Environment & Flood Risk, Soils and Agriculture; and General and other Planning Matters.
We use the latest in computer technology to give you the ability to ‘walk around’ your new kitchen before it’s built, allowing you to amend any small features along the way including the use of soft close drawers and a choice of storage metalwork – small features that really make your kitchen stand out.
Once we’ve agreed your bespoke kitchen design, it will then be built within our Lincolnshire factory using the highest quality materials and our modern machinery.
huge solar farm north of city
Tuesday, January 14, 2025 (evening): Open Floor Hearing 2. Wednesday, January 15, 2025 (All Day): Issue Specific Hearing 3
Environmental Matters: Health, Safety and Wellbeing; Landscape and Visual, Impact; Noise; Biodiversity and Ecology; and Development Consent Order. Participation and Observation
All hearings are open to the public to attend and observe. They will include in person and a virtual login via Microsoft Teams to those who have preregistered.
In addition all of the hearings will be open to the public to attend and observe, and will also be broadcast live on the project website -https://national-infrastructureconsenting.planninginspectorate. gov.uk/projects/EN010142 for those unable to attend in person.
People wishing to actively participate in a hearing (either in person or online) must register in advance by completing the event participation form on the district council’s website. The deadline for registration is 23:59 on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
The Open Floor Hearing on the evening of January 14 provides a platform for registered interested parties to share their views directly with the examining authority. While priority is given to
registered interested parties, members of the public who wish to speak may also be heard at the discretion of the authority.
Further Information
Regular updates will be provided on the wesbite in the run-up to the registration deadline on January 7.
* Solar farms produce up to 5MW on around 25 acres of land, which is enough to power 5,000 homes.
DISCOVER THE ACUITIS EXPERIENCE!
DON’T MISS THE CHANCE TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR VISION AND HEARING.
Acting up - group
BY R EBECCA P OOLE
NURTURING local talent and giving aspiring actors the opportunity to shine is central to the ethos of a Lincoln theatre company that has more than 200 members.
“The Asylum Players was formed about five years ago with the aim of putting on three or four shows every year of a high quality and helping young or upcoming actors, or established actors in Lincoln, to find a place to improve their skills and bring their art to the stage,” explained Artistic Director Stephen Gillard. “We want to build new people up. If you don’t give people the opportunity, they won’t ever get a chance to build up their skills and get those main roles.”
The Asylum Players is a semi-professional in-house theatre company based at The Blue Room at The Lawn on Union Road.
Following the success of its first production of The Night Watch in 2018, the company has gone on to perform each year since, pausing only for the pandemic.
“I felt that we were beginning to lose theatre in the city with the loss of The Drill Hall which at that time was kind of shutting down in its previous format and has come back as a gig venue rather than a performance venue. The Arts Centre was also going through a big change at that stage so we had four theatrical spaces and no theatre happening, so I wanted this venue to be able to do that.”
Historically, The Blue Room formed part of Lincoln Lunatic Asylum later known as the Lawn Hospital, which pioneered the treatment of patients without physical restraint.
“It was an incredibly ahead-of-its-time venue actually, because there was a period in time where it was the first in Europe to abolish mechanical restraint, and it also understood the benefit of art as a form of therapy,” said Stephen.
“The Blue Room used to be called the Lawrence Hall and had the stage where the patients were encouraged to put on dances and performances and write plays as part of their healing process. Setting up a theatre company here feels like a really nice tribute to what that was aiming to be back then.”
The Asylum Players continues to look towards the future, whilst honouring the past with the company’s choice of name and by preserving the venue as a theatrical space to encourage fresh talent.
“We’re branching out in trying to commission and create new work, so we’ve established this year The Asylum Developmental Project. We had our first scratch night back in October and it was incredibly successful.
“One of the pieces that was put on was a brand-new adaptation of Jekyll and Hyde which we’ve actually commissioned now as our 2026 autumn piece. It was so wellwritten and so well-put-together by Megan Shield, who is one of our company members and has been with us for a while now. So, when she said she had written a piece and then put this on, it was just wonderful and we were able to see this great writing happening straight away.”
nutures talent
Laura Turner, a local playwright whose adaptation of Jane Eyre has been chosen as the company’s 2025 spring production, is supporting Megan in finishing and developing her play for the primary show of 2026.
“We are planning more scratch nights and more developmental pieces,” added Stephen.
“The groups that were involved had a complete range of ages, so it was really nice to see that Lincoln is ready to start creating and putting on new work. They just need places to do it.”
The Asylum Players’ auditions are held for each production to give all members an opportunity to land a leading role.
For more information visit www.lawnlincoln.com or email enquiries@asylumplayers.co.uk
Upcoming Plays for 2025 Spring
Thursday – Saturday
March 20 – 22 & March 27 – 29
Jane Eyre
Adapted by Laura Turner. Tickets now available. May
Blackadder Dining Evening Summer
Two double-bill outdoor shows of Beauty and the Beast and The Tempest
Performed by The Asylum Players and Jo Leah Theatre Arts Autumn
A Streetcar Named Desire
A cooperative way of life
C AROLINE K ENYON, Chair of the Greater Lincolnshire Food Partnership, talks to ALISON HANDS, CEO of Lincolnshire Coop about taking the reins of a much-loved county institution.
Alison Hands bubbles with energy and enthusiasm. It’s 9am and first thing in most people’s working day, but she has been at her desk since 7.30am and though she has a packed schedule, she is keen to chat to me. Responsible for over 220 outlets and almost
300,000 members, Alison, CEO for 18 months, is mindful of the heritage and importance of Lincolnshire Coop. Having lived in the county for over 25 years myself, I know how much it acts as a core part of the county’s structure.
“It’s an operation that has been going for over 160 years, I’m a baton carrier for a period of time,” she says modestly. “I work with the Board - nine elected and three appointedand the primary aim for us is to reset. How do we really drive support for communities? We have a massive role to play.’
She calls herself geographically ‘hybrid’ - from Kent but with Birmingham connections - she lives in Lincolnshire during the week and in Worcestershire at the weekend. With a solidly retailfocused background, including a long stint at Marks & Spencer (where she met her husband), her ambition is considerable.
“My vision is to have an even bigger impact on support and social values, from the cradle to the grave. One of the ways we support our communities is through our property portfolio, which includes housing and GP surgeries. We have a big handprint across Lincolnshire, though we are more dominant in Lincoln and North Kesteven. We are not as omnipresent in other areas as we could be, and we’re looking to widen our impact further.
“We have been really pushing forward, trying to strengthen the foundations of our society, from updating properties, especially our trading ones, so they work better for our communities. We’re investing in IT infrastructures, to drive and enable business.”
For Alison, people are at the heart of it all, both employees and the public. “I want to
engender a better people and organisational culture. The workforce is changing, and I want to create more jobs, through our strategy for growth. But the foundations must be in place first.”
While she seeks to develop the organisation’s role in the county, she confirms food sits at the centre. “The community aspect of our food offering, the promotion of local produce, is our USP, and our food stores are central to what we do. Spending in a Lincolnshire Coop food store means money not only goes back to members but also to the local community. It’s a circular process where everything we do is driving more value back into the community.”
With a list as long as your arm of things she wants to do, from repurposing property for housing need, to creating space for the NHS to rent, to drawing in hard-to-reach people for health support, Alison is a refreshing and inspiring CEO in a world where self-interest often seems to be the driving force. Lincolnshire famously suffers from high levels of economic deprivation and it is good to hear of so much practical activity, as well as an understanding of how special Lincolnshire Coop is.
“Purpose Beyond Profit 2030 is our mission,” she declares with pride, before very nicely drawing our conversation to a close. Forgive the pun, but the Lincolnshire Coop is in safe hands.
Alison Hands
Co-op Breakfast Club
Counting the calories of wine
WHEN it comes to wine, most people assume that sugar is the main source of calories, but the real culprit is something else entirely as detailed below.
Understanding where calories in wine come from is key to making smarter choices and enjoying wine more fully relative to your lifestyle, whether you’re enjoying a rich red, a crisp white, or a glass of sparkling.
l100ml of wine typically has around 70-80 kcal.
l A standard serving (about 150ml) gets you up to 105-120 kcal.
l A bottle of 750ml of wine has approximately 600-700 kcal.
Surprisingly, sugar isn’t the big villain in wine calories—alcohol is. One gram of alcohol packs 7 kcal, while one gram of sugar has 4 kcal. That means the higher the alcohol content, the more calories your wine contains, regardless of how unsweet it tastes.
So a semi-sweet Moscato or an off-dry Riesling contains more sugar but typically has lower alcohol, giving you around 110-
130 calories per glass while a fullbodied Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, with its higher alcohol content and little residual sugar, comes in at around 150-160 calories per glass. So, while the Moscato might seem like the sweeter “indulgence,” the alcohol in that Cab is quietly adding more calories.
Dessert wines or fortified wines like port and sherry may be deliciously sweet and pack up to 250 calories per glass, but the serving size is typically half that of a regular winecloser to 75ml - so while they’re sweet and calorie-dense you’re technically sipping less.
For lovers of Champagne and sparkling wine, calories can vary depending on the style and the amount of sugar, or dosage, added during production, which is added after the second fermentation, to balance acidity and sweetness.
The driest styles, like Brut Nature or Brut, contain very little sugar and typically range from 80-100 kcal per 100ml. Extra dry versions have a touch more sweetness but still remain under 110 calories. On the
Cheese Lincolnshire Cows Milk Halloumi
BLUE Sky Lincolnshire Hal-Moo-Mee is the cow’s milk take on Blue Sky’s popular ewe’s milk halloumi: Hal-Ewe-Mee. It has a golden-yellow pate with a buttery taste and that classic “squeaky cheese” texture.
We recommend grilling for a delicious vegetarian burger, or flaked over a salad with pomegranate seeds.
Blue Sky Cheese was created by Jeremy and Becky in 2017. They built everything from scratch using previous experience –Jeremy having worked at Lincolnshire Poacher for a number of years, and Becky’s family being dairy farmers. Every part of the cheese-making process is done on the farm.
sweeter end of the spectrum, demi-sec styles can reach 120-130 kcal per 100ml, offering a more indulgent sip but with a calorie count to match.
In essence, alcohol calories sneak up on you faster than sugar ever could. So, next time you’re opting for a rich, bold red, remember - it’s the alcohol doing most of the damage, not just the sweetness.
Information from the VinoVoss AI Sommelier
Friday 10 January 8pm
Saturday 11 January 6.45pm
Saturday 11 January 7pm
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Daniel O’Reilly: Out of Character
£30, 16+ only
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE The Games Afoot
£12, students £9
www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN Viva La Rave: Sober January Special
All the magic of a night of dancing without the hangover.
www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 837600
Remembering our te
BY AMANDA MCSORLEY
IS it oxymoronic to talk about punk nostalgia or just moronic?
Looking ahead the gigs and shows coming to Lincoln in 2025 it’s hard to miss that there’s a new wave of sentimentality for New Wave or should that be Old Wave?
I can’t help thinking that the acts featured in punk tribute shows would be spitting and gesticulating in their safety pins and ripped combat trousers to be part of a nostalgia tour.
But does that matter? Let’s face it – it was cool for bands not to give a c**p about what anyone thought of them including their ticket and record buying public.
They could be a self-indulgent lot who I hope are now laughing at themselves and us for buying into the scene once again – Skids’ front man Richard Jobson admitted he was absolutely knackered after the first song with his trademark flailing at the Engine Shed last year.
Us oldies are supposedly the people with money in our pockets so it’s a no-brainer to target our yearning for our musical youth – it’s up to us if we want to relive our teenage kicks.
Another point to remember about some of the original punk bands now making the rounds is that they have now honed their acts and learned to play their instruments so they sound pretty good.
Saturday 11 January 7.30pm
Sunday 12 January 2pm
Sunday 12 January 3pm
Tuesday 14 January 7.30pm
Wednesday 15 January 2pm
Wednesday 15 January 6.45pm
Wednesday 15 January 7.30pm
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN The Fleetwood Mac Legacy
£29.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN
The Nutcracker – The Royal Ballet and Opera Cinema Screening
From £19, conc. from £16
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Lincoln Symphony Orchestra
New Year Concert 2025
£16, over 60s £14, u16s £7
www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk
T 01522 837600
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Romeo & Juliet
£5, Live Pass £3
www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk
T 01522 837600
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Funny Girl – Screening From £9
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN
The Tales of Hoffman – The Royal Ballet and Opera Cinema Screening
£19, Conc. £16
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
A Midsummer Night’s Dream Performed by second year students University of Lincoln’s School of Creative Arts.
£5, Live Pass £3
www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk
Thursday 16 January 7.30pm
Friday 17 January 5-7pm
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Some Guys Have All the Luck
From £30.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Commuter Jazz with Me and Mr Jones Popular group returns with memorable tunes and vocals. £7 on-the-door
www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 837600
Curly Watts turns punk narrator for Pretty Vacant
eenage kicks with punk nostalgia
So what’s on offer?
Pretty Vacant – The Story of Punk and New Wave will be at the New Theatre Royal on January 24 with narrator former Coronation Street star Kevin Kennedy taking audiences from the beginnings of punk in the 1970s, to later movements in the 80s and 90s.
There will be music from The Sex Pistols, The Clash, Blondie, Ramones, Buzzcocks, The Pretenders, Joy Division, The Stranglers and many more.
Another former soap star, Shaun Williamson, the hapless Barry from Eastenders will be bringing his Barrioke sessions to The Drill on January 25. His audience participation karaokes have become a festival favourite and nostalgia is definitely the name of the game. It is perhaps unfair to lump Pistols former front man John Lydon in with a piece on punk nostalgia, especially it is second incarnation Public Image Limited (PiL) that he will be bringing to the Engine Shed on July 4.
However, the first PiL album was released in 1978 and the man himself has addressed the reasoning behing This Is Not The Last Tour. His lifelong friend and manager, John Rambo Stevens passed away suddenly following the last PiL tour, in December 2023, soon after the death of Lydon’s wife, Nora, in April 2023.
Friday 17 January –
Saturday 18 January
7.30pm
Saturday 18 January
Various times
Monday 20 January
7.30pm
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN
The Adult Panto - Jack & his Giant Stalk
£24, Conc. £23, 16+ only
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
THE ENGINE SHED Bongo’s Bingo £17, 18+ only
www.engineshed.co.uk
ST. MARY’S GUILDHALL, 385 HIGH STREET, LINCOLN LN5 7SF
Guild Session #59
Two quality concerts with local and national acoustic performers. £5 on-the-door, cash only
www.facebook.com/TheGuildSessions
T 07944 907051
“I thought that might be it. After losing Nora, and Rambo, I couldn’t see a way through. I’d already committed to the spoken word tour, this spring, and I never let anyone down – I always stick to my word – so I had to do those dates.
“The thing is, people were so overwhelmingly positive, and they asked me to tour PiL again. With so many people asking and with the band meaning so much to them, I couldn’t just stay on my sofa and not tour – tempting though that obviously is.”
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN
Thursday 23 January 7.30pm
Friday
24 January –Saturday 8 February 3pm & 7.30pm
Friday
24 January Various times
Friday 24 January 7pm
Friday 24 January 7pm
Friday 24 January 7.30pm
Ed Byrne – Tragedy Plus Time
From £35.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY, LN3 5AW
The Snow Queen – Lindsey Rural Players
£12, Conc. £11, family £40 www.broadbenttheatre.org
T 0300 400 0101
THE ENGINE SHED Bongo’s Bingo £17, 18+ only www.engineshed.co.uk
THE DRILL, LINCOLN Nine Below Zero & Dr. Feelgood
£30.25, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
BA Dance Showcase 2025 £3
www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk
T 01522 837600
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Pretty Vacant – The Story of Punk & New Wave
See preview above.
From £30.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
Saturday 25 January 8pm
THE BLUE ROOM AT THE LAWN, LINCOLN, LN1 3BU
Lincoln Jazzpac - The Bryan Corbett Quintet
Playing the best from ‘Blue Note’ Tickets £16, members £14, u18s £8 www.jazzpac.co.uk
T 01522 529717
Saturday 25 January 7pm
Saturday 25 January 7pm – 10pm
Saturday 25 January 7.30pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET Burns Night
Traditional bagpiper piping in the Haggis, a complimentary whisky, and music from Salt of the Earth. www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY Barrioke
£22, 14+ only
www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN The Elton John Show
From £25.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
Sunday 26 January 8pm
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Jenny Eclair Jokes, Jokes, Jokes Live!
£28
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
Monday
27 January 7pm
Tuesday 28 January 7.30pm
Wednesday 29 January 7pm – 10pm
Wednesday 29 January 7pm
Thursday 30 January 7.30pm
Thursday 30 January 8pm
Friday
31 January 5-7pm
Friday 31 January 7.30pm
Friday 31 January 7.30pm
Saturday 1 February –Sunday 2 February 12pm, 2pm & 5.30pm
Saturday 1 February 7pm
Saturday 1 February 7.30pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN
Holocaust Memorial Day
Remembering the Kindertransport, 10,000 children saved in 1938, and one Lincoln family’s experience. With music by Simcha, Lincoln's Klezma band.
See website for details www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY
The Bug Club
£16.50, 14+ only
www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN Southside’s Jam Night FREE
www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
THE DRILL, LINCOLN Pet Needs
£14.30, 14+ only
www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY Dom Martin
£23.10, 14+ only
www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Comedy Night at the Royal £17, 18+ only
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Commuter Jazz
Great way to start the weekend. £7 on-the-door
www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN
The Ultimate Classic Rock Show
£31
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
THE DRILL, LINCOLN Wrong Jovi
£22, 14+ only
www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM, LN6 9AX
Katy Baker School of Dance Presents ‘Our Story: A Ten-Year Celebration From £11, child £9 www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY Steve’n’Seagulls Finnish country band playing bluegrass and Americana. £24.75, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Stuart Michael Psychic £28.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
Wednesday 5 February 6.30pm
Saturday 8 February 3pm & 7.30pm
Saturday 8 February 7pm
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY Butterfly Club Accessible club night for adults with additional needs and their carers.
£5, carer FREE www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Adam Kay: Undoctored From £30.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
THE ENGINE SHED, LN6 7TS Livewire The AC/DC Show From £20, 14+ only www.engineshed.co.uk
Saturday 8 February 7.30pm
Sunday 9 February 7.30pm
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY Red Herring Comedy Club With Glenn Wool, Adam Flood, Sean Gorman and MC Adam Beardsmore.
£18.15, 18+ only
www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Defying Gravity: West End Women With favourite songs from major shows.
From £29.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
Tuesday 11 February –Wednesday 12 February 7.30pm
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN An Evening Shared with Jasper Carrott and Alistair McGowan
£35
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
Friday 14 February 5-7pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Commuter Jazz
Great way to start the weekend. £7 on-the-door www.southsidelincs.com T 01522 437942
Friday 14 February 7pm
Friday 14 February 7.30pm
Saturday 15 February 7.30pm
Monday 17 February 7.30pm
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY The Style Councillors
£22, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Showaddywaddy
£30
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY The Ogretones
£16.50, u16s must be accompanied by an adult www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
ST. MARY’S GUILDHALL, 385 HIGH STREET, LINCOLN The Guild Sessions
£5 on-the-door, cash only
www.facebook.com/TheGuildSessions T 07944 907051
Until Sunday 5 January 10am – 5pm (11am – 4pm on Sundays)
Until Sunday 5 January 2025 10am – 4pm
Mondays 7 - 9pm
HARDING HOUSE GALLERY, STEEP HILL, LINCOLN
A Christmas Cracker
Wonderful gift ideas from multiple invited artists. info@hardinghousegallery.co.uk T 01522 523537
USHER GALLERY
Lincolnshire Artists’ Society Exhibition
Majority of works will be for sale. FREE
www.lincolnmuseum.com T 01522 782040
UPSTAIRS AT THE CARDINAL’S HAT Draw & Drink
Two- hour portrait drawing class, led by Ellie Benton. £15
www.facebook.com/ lincolndrawdrink T 07810 835147
Tuesdays every second & last of the month
6.45pm – 9pm
Wednesdays 10am – 12pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Life Drawing
Class guided by local artist Tom Humby. Materials provided. Adult £8, Con£6, Book online www.southsidelincs.com T 01522 437942
MOORLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE, MOORLAND AVENUE, LN6 7JJ Moorland Makers
Work on your own projects, have a go at something new, and make friends. Bring your own craft materials. FREE
chelsey@rootedarts.org.uk
USHER GALLERY
Thursdays –Mondays until March 2025 10am – 4pm
Thursdays 10am –12.30pm
Thursdays 2pm – 3pm
Norton Disney Dodecahedron FREE www.lincolnmuseum.com T 01522 782040
VILLAGE HALL, CARLTON-LEMOORLAND, LN5 9HP
Carlton-le-Moorland and District Art Group
Informal and friendly group meeting. New members of any ability from beginners to experienced are welcome. T 01522 810739
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Craft Club
Relax, socialise and share your story through your craft 16+. FREE www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/ lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Saturday 4 January 7pm – 8pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Messiaen’s La Nativité du Seigneur
Jeffrey Makinson plays Olivier Messiaen’s famous piece. £15
www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
Tuesday 7 January –Sunday 19 January (closed Mondays) 10am – 4pm
Friday 10 January 7.30pm
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN
Art for Less: January Sale Extravaganza Exhibition of discounted artwork from the Indigo Crow resident artists. FREE www.indigocrowgallery.com
THE VENUE CINEMA, BISHOP
GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY Film: The Origin of Evil (France 2022. Cert 15) Darkly comic thriller. Season ticket holders only www.lincolnfilmsociety.com
T 01522 889782 (after 5pm)
Saturday 11 January 10.30am –1.30pm
Thursday 16 January 10am
Thursdays 6pm – 8pm
USHER GALLERY Life Drawing Classes
Relaxed tutored evening sessions suitable for all skill levels, £11, Conc. £9 www.lincolnmuseum.com T 01522 782040
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, LN2 1EZ
Saturdays 4 January & 1 February 12pm – 2pm
Write Note
Open mic session FREE, no booking required www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshi re/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Friday 24 January 7.30pm
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Express Yourself: Rude Pottery Plates £55 www.indigocrowgallery.com
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE Technically Speaking Be inspired by people dedicated to making technical theatre and stage management more inclusive and accessible. FREE, booking essential www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk
T 01522 837600
THE VENUE CINEMA, BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY
Film: All We Imagine as Light (India 2024. Cert 15) Three women hospital workers in Mumbai connect with each other in this quiet, moving Hindi-language story of identity and loneliness in a big city. Season ticket holders only www.lincolnfilmsociety.com
T 01522 889782 (after 5pm)
Friday 31 January 7.30pm
Thursday 30 January –Saturday 1 February 7.15pm
Saturday 1 February 7.30pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Queen by Candlelight
Performed by a live cast of West End singers, accompanied by a live rock band.
From £28.50
www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Indie-Lincs International Film Festival 2025 Prices and programme TBC www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk T 01522 837600
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Country by Candlelight Hits from Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Shania Twain, and more. From £28.50 www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
Tuesday 4 February 7pm
Thursday 8 February 10am –12.30pm
LINCOLN COUNTY ASSEMBLY ROOMS An Evening with Alex Hay – The Queen of Fives Nothing is quite as it seems in Victorian high society, in the twisty and original new novel from the author of The Housekeepers. Tickets from £7 www.ticketsource.co.uk/lindumbooks /t-vvaojya T 01522 262374
VILLAGE HALL, CARLTON-LEMOORLAND, LN5 9HP Carlton-le-Moorland and District Art Group
Workshop with Stephen Coates –Watercolour Skies.
Members £15, Visitors £18 T 01522 811510
Tuesday 11 February –Saturday 15 February
Time slots: 7pm, 7.15pm, 7.30pm, 7.45pm, 8pm, 8.15pm, 8.30pm, 8.45pm, 9pm, 9.15pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Time by Luxmuralis
After stunning audiences with ‘Life’ and ‘Science’, Luxmuralis will make it’s return to Lincoln Cathedral in 2025 with ‘Time’, a new innovative light and sound show created by the acclaimed artistic collaboration.
Adults, £10.78, child £8.66, U5s FREE
www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
Time by Luxmuralis
Mondays 10am – 3pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Futures For You Drop In The National Careers Service offers free, impartial information, advice and guidance to anyone 19+ on preparing for and gaining new employment.
Free
www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshir e/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Mondays & Fridays 2pm – 3pm
Wednesdays 4pm – 4.45pm
Databank Surgery
Collect your data voucher as part of the National Databank initiative to combat digital hardship.
Free
www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire /lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Lego Coding Club Engage in STEM with Lego. FREE, booking essential via email lincoln_library@gll.org T 01522 782010
Second Wednesday every month 7.15pm
BAILGATE METHODIST HALL, NEWPORT, LINCOLN Lincoln Minster Townswomen’s Guild
Speakers on a variety of topics or members’ nights for craftwork, games and conversation.
Free for first two visits T 07794 862314 (Sarah)
Thursdays 11am – 12pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Family History Help
Use the resources available in the library’s archives and online databases.
FREE, booking required www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/ lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Wednesday 8 January 7.30pm
Fridays 2pm – 3pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Learn My Way
Join a basic IT beginner’s course, suitable for 16+.
FREE, booking required www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/ lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Thursday 9 January 7.30pm
Saturday 11 January 2pm
ST HUGH’S HALL, MONKS ROAD, LINCOLN Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology
Town Planning in Lincoln, 192039: A tool for social engineering presented by Rob Wheeler £4, SLHA Members £3 www.slha.org.uk
ROBERT HARDY BUILDING, BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY, LN1 3DY Wildlife of the Yorkshire Coast by Steve Race £4 on-the-door, u16s FREE www.lincolnrspb.org.uk
T 01522 753809
QUEEN’S PARK COMMUNITY HUB, SOUTH PARK, LINCOLN, LN5 8EW Lincolnshire Family History Society: Lincoln Branch An A-Z of Family History presented by Janet Few, delivered live via Teams.
FREE T 07941 245322
BY ZOOM
Monday 13 January 7.30pm
Tuesday 14 January 4pm – 7pm
Society for Lincolnshire History & Archaeology
Medieval Brick Buildings by Dr James Wright FSA of Triskele Heritage.
Admission by donation through www.slha.org.uk
LINCOLN COLLEGE Open Day
Giving prospective students, along with family and friends, a chance to look around and get a better idea of what college life is like.
FREE - register to attend www.lincolncollege.ac.uk
T 01522 876000
Thursday 16 January 7.30pm –9.30pm
Friday 17 January 2pm – 4.30pm
WHISBY NATURE PARK, LN6 9BW Talk: Highlands and Islands of Scotland
Lincoln Area Group is joined by guest speaker, wildlife photographer Geoff Trinder. £2.50, all welcome www.lincstrust.org.uk
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, LN2 1EZ Aspire Adult Learning Team
Discover the range of courses available across the county and tell Aspire what topics you want to learn about. www.better.org.uk/library/lincoln
Find & Embrace Your Future at Lincoln College
14th Jan 4-7pm 8th March 10am-1pm 7th May 4-7pm 21st June 10-1pm
Tuesday 21 January 1.30pm - 3pm
OUR LADY OF LINCOLN CHURCH HALL, LAUGHTON WAY, LN2 2HE Trekking to Everest Basecamp
Wednesday 29 January 10am – 1pm
Wednesday 29 January 7.30pm
Thursday 30 January 2pm
Saturday 18 January 10am – 12pm
UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN Open Campus
An opportunity to tour the campus and modern facilities including award-winning accommodation.
FREE, booking recommended www.lincoln.ac.uk
Sunday 19 January 2.30pm –4.30pm
THE OLD SCHOOL, MILL HILL, NETTLEHAM, LN2 2PE Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology
Sunday special – including New Hall at Lincoln Castle, Chris Casswell and Lincolnshire Watermills with Jon Sass, £4 cash on the door www.slha.org.uk
Thursday 30 January 6.30pm –9.30pm
Tuesday 4 February 12pm
A talk by Anne Green to Lincoln Bailgate u3a. £2 on-the-door www.lincolnbailgate.u3asite.uk
JEWS’ COURT, LINCOLN, LN2 1LS Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology
Craft: Victorian Valentines. Admission includes materials and tea and coffee.
£8.50, SLHA & LRS Members £7.50 www.slha.org.uk
ONLINE BY ZOOM Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology
The Sieges of Crowland during the English Civil War: Myths and Realities, presented by Dr Jon Fitzgibbons.
Admission by donation www.slha.org.uk
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, LN1 1EZ Society For Lincolnshire History & Archaeology Digging Lincoln
Dr Michael J Jones discusses a personal account of the city’s archaeological discovery as reviewed in December’s Independent
Admission by donation www.slha.org.uk
INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE, LN4 2HQ Lecture & Supper Series
My Father’s Story – Flt Lt Alan Green, a navigator in Bomber Command in World War II. £15.25, booking essential www.internationalbcc.co.uk
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND AG Careers 2025 Learn about jobs in agriculture, horticulture and the food sector. FREE, book online www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900 030 030 32435 |
Saturday 8 February 2pm
Thursday 13 February
9.30am – 3pm
THE HUB, NAVIGATION WHARF, CARRE ST, SLEAFORD NG34 7TW Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology
Exploring Lincolnshire's Gilbert Country Prof. Andrew Jackson £4 (SLHA members £3) www.slha.org.uk
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND
Lincolnshire Farming Conference 2025
Discussing how the next generation can be inspired to feed a growing population. £20, student £10, LAS FREE www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900
ROBERT HARDY BUILDING, BISHOP
Thursday 13 February 7.30pm
GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY, LN1 3DY Alberta & British Columbia in spring. By Graham Catley. £4 on-the-door, u16s FREE www.lincolnrspb.org.uk T 01522 753809
Saturday 15 February 10am –1.30pm
Saturday 15 February 1.30pm –3.30pm m
DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS
Winter Tree Identification
Learn how to tell trees apart at this time of year, from buds and bark to twigs and shape.
£30
www.doddingtonhall.com
T 01522 694308
WHISBY NATURE PARK, LN6 9BW Talk: The Meaning of Geese Book talk and signing by author Nick Acheson. £5
www.lincstrust.org.uk
T 01522 696926
OUR LADY OF LINCOLN CHURCH
Until Friday 1 January 2027 9am – 12pm
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays 10am – 12pm
HIGH STREET, LINCOLN Murder Mystery Experience
Explore Lincoln like never before with this cutting-edge mobile app as your trusty guide. Trek through town, crack codes and gather clues to solve the mystery.
From £15 per team, 2-6 players per group www.im-puzzled.co.uk T 077514 02047
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH Coffee Morning Monday – Craft Morning. Wednesday – Bacon Rolls. Friday – Toast bar & board games.
Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 10am – 2.30pm WITHAM PARK, WATERSIDE SOUTH, LINCOLN, LN5 7JN Toy Library & Soft Play 0-5s play area with sensory room, picnic area, toy and soft play hire. toylibrary@childrenslinks.org.uk T 01522 546215
Mondays 10.30am11.30am
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Messy Play
Enjoy the creativity of messy play with your child. Suitable for babies, toddlers and preschool children. FREE
www.better.org.uk/library/ lincolnshire/lincoln-centrallibrary T 01522 782010
Tuesdays 9am – 3pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Advice in the Community
Discuss your concerns and issues relating to benefit support, housing, and debt with an adviser from the Citizens Advice Lincoln and Lindsey team.
FREE T 01522 782010
Wednesdays 10.30am –11.30am
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE
Story & Rhyme Time
Have fun listening to stories and singing rhymes. Suitable for 0 – 4-year-olds and their parents.
FREE
www.better.org.uk/library/ lincolnshire/lincoln-centrallibrary T 01522 782010
Wednesdays
From 8 January 4.30pm – 6pm
ERMINE LIBRARY AND COMMUNITY HUB
Creative Kids Club
Sessions delivered by Hannah Peacock with creative play, storytelling and art. For U11s and their families.
FREE, no booking required www.rootedarts.org.uk
Thursdays 10am – 11am & 11.30am –12.30pm
Thursdays 10.30am –11.30am
Fridays
Term Time
Only 10.30am –11.30am
Saturdays 10am
TESCO EXTRA, WRAGBY ROAD, LINCOLN TinyTalk Baby Signing
Help your child communicate before they can talk with baby signing classes. www.tinytalk.co.uk
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Connect Over a Cuppa Have a catch-up over a cuppa and a biscuit. (provided). FREE, donations welcome
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Sensory Play
Play session for babies and prewalkers.
FREE
www.better.org.uk/library/lincol nshire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
TOBY CARVERY, ST MARKS, LINCOLN Lincoln Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club
For military veterans or those serving to meet for a breakfast and banter. www.afvbc.net
Tuesday 18 February 1.30pm - 3pm
HALL, LAUGHTON WAY, LN2 2HE
Katherine Swynford A talk by Baz Aveyard to Lincoln Bailgate u3a about the mother of a royal dynasty. £2 on-the-door www.lincolnbailgate.u3asite.uk
Saturdays 10am– 3pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Lego Club
A place for children to use their imagination and build their own world using Lego. For 4 years and over, plus parents. Free
www.better.org.uk/library/lincol nshire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Saturdays 10am – 1pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Craft Club
Interactive kids’ craft workshop creating simple art to complex pieces. FREE
Thursday 9 January 7.15pm
THE GRANDSTAND, CARHOLME ROAD
Lincoln WI
Reflexology with Nicola from Your Sole Coach. FREE for members, guests £5 www.thelincolnwi.com
Friday 17 January 4pm
Saturday 18 January 11am – 1pm
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE Community Film Screening
FREE, booking essential www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk
T 01522 837600
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Lincoln Sustainable Fashion Forum – Adults Clothes Swap
Bring up to 5 preloved items of clothing, shoes or accessories to swap for newto-you pieces reducing textile waste.
FREE, more details online www.instagram.com/lincoln sustainablefashion
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND
Sunday 19 January 10am – 2pm
Toy Collectors Fair
200-table event - from Corgi and Hornby to Sci-Fi, Star Wars, film and TV items.
FREE
£3.50, seniors £3, u15s FREE www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk
T 01522 522900
Please note - if contact details are missing these are the same as the first listing.
Mondays 10am ONE NK LEISURE CENTRE, NORTH HYKEHAM Wellbeing Walk Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities. FREE www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks. 01522 444632
Mondays 10.30am WHISBY NATURE PARK Whisby Visually Impaired Walk
Meet Natural World Centre. FREE
Mondays 12.45pm CLIFF HOUSE MEDICAL PRACTICE, BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN. Wellbeing Walk Walk to Castle Square for 1pm. FREE
Mondays 1pm BLACK BULL, WELTON. Wellbeing Walk Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities. FREE
Mondays first & third of the month 1.30pm
THE ARK, NORTH HYKEHAM Music For Memory Singing group for people with memory problems accompanied by their carers. Free parking and refreshments included.
Donation of £1.50 welcome lhoenes@virginmedia.com T 01522 262656 (Linda)
Mondays 6.30pm –7.30pm
Mondays 7pm – 8pm
Sunday 19 January 8.30am – 3pm
Saturday 25 January 10.30am –11.30am (ages 4-12) 11.45am –12.45pm (13+)
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND
The Vintage Flea Market Cool and quirky collectables. £3, cash only www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk
T 01522 522900
MOORLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE, LN6 7NH
Let’s Try… Aerial and Circus Skills
Creative Heights pop-up workshops give the opportunity ro trial aerial apparatus and play with a range of group-based activities like diablo.
FREE, booking essential www.rootedarts.org.uk
Sunday 26 January 12pm – 3pm
DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS, LN6 4RU
Wedding Open Day
The Doddington team, along with handpicked suppliers, will be on hand with advice for your special day.
FREE, booking essential www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308
AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANT
Showcasing seasonal estate-grown produce and the 昀nest locally sourced ingredients
RESERVE YOUR TABLE À LA CARTE • FRI & SAT 6-9PM SUNDAY LUNCH • 12-4PM
Mondays Except Bank Holidays 7pm
LNER STADIUM, COMMUNITY HUB, SINCIL BANK, LINCOLN ANDYSMANCLUB
Talking group for men to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health through conversation. FREE
www.andysmanclub.co.uk
Tuesdays 10.45am
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN
Gentle Yoga with Emily Warrior Yoga
£8, book online www.emilywarrioryoga.com
BURTON ROAD METHODIST CHURCH RockFit
£6
Facebook: RockFit with Loli www.rockfit.org.uk
Tuesdays 7pm – 8pm
Wednesdays (2nd of every month) 10am
Wednesdays 10am –11.30am
FALDINGWORTH MEMORIAL HALL, Authentic Argentine Tango Beginners’ tango class with Lucas Gou.
£8
www.authentictango.com/contact
BOULTHAM PARK HOUSE CARE HOME, ROOKERY LANE , LINCOLN, LN6 7PH
Boultham Sensory Stroll
Meet at the back gate next to the park. FREE
TESCO EXTRA COMMUNITY ROOM, WRAGBY ROAD, LINCOLN Gentle Hatha Yoga with Sam
Easeful 60-minute class including breath practice and relaxation. Equipment provided. £7, subsidised places available, booking essential www.peaceplacepeople.simplybook.it
Wednesdays 10.30am –12pm THE BLUE ROOM, THE LAWN, LINCOLN Authentic Argentine Tango
Embrace the elegance and passion of tango with Lucas Gou. For beginners. £8
www.authentictango.com/contact
YARBOROUGH LEISURE CENTRE, RISEHOLME ROAD, LINCOLN, LN1 3SP Wellbeing Walk - Uphill Lincoln
Meet in foyer for short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities. FREE
Tuesdays 1pm
COMMUNITY HUB, EAST STREET, NETTLEHAM, LN2 2SL Wellbeing Walk Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities. FREE
Wednesdays From 18 September 10.30am –12pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Rock Choir
Join the UK’s leading contemporary choir and improve your general wellbeing in a healthy and active hobby. First session free, then £30 a month www.rockchoir.com
T 01522 437942
Wednesdays 1pm
HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK Wellbeing Walk
Meet outside Rangers’ office for short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities. FREE
Please note - if contact details are missing these are the same as the first listing.
Wednesdays 7pm – 8pm
Thursdays 9am-10am
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN RockFit
Classes combining dance fitness with metal and rock music. Suitable for all .
£6
Facebook: RockFit with Loli www.rockfit.org.uk
THE BLUE ROOM, THE LAWN, LINCOLN
Dance Fit with Nick A fun fitness class for all ability levels.
£5, all proceeds go to SHINE www.lawnlincoln.com T 01522 523548
Thursdays 10am
Thursdays 10am
Thursdays (1st and 3rd of the month) 10am
ROSIE LEA’S CAFÉ, CHERRY WILLINGHAM, LN3 4JL Wellbeing Walk FREE
VILLAGE HALL, MERE ROAD, WADDINGTON, LN5 9NX Wellbeing Walk Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities. FREE
PENNELLS GARDEN CENTRE, SOUTH HYKEHAM, LN6 9NT Wellbeing Walk FREE
Thursdays (1st and 3rd of the month) 10am
Thursdays 11am
Thursday (1st of the month)
Thursdays 12.30pm –2pm
VILLAGE HALL, BRANSTON, LN4 1NS Wellbeing Walk FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
COMMUNITY CENTRE CAR PARK, LINCOLN ROAD, SKELLINGTHORPE, Wellbeing Walk FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
NETTLEHAM VILLAGE HALL, BROOKFIELD AVENUE, LN2 2SS Nettleham Sensory Stroll FREE
AGE UK, 36 PARK STREET, LINCOLN, LN1 1UQ
Bring Me Sunshine
Dementia-friendly singing group, full of fun, friendship, laughter and music! Cuppas and cakes included.
£3.50, must be accompanied by a carer or loved one T 03455 564 144
Thursdays 7.30pm – 9pm
CUSTOM FITNESS GYM, DEAN ROAD, LINCOLN
Gentle Hatha Yoga with Sam
Easeful 60-minute class including breath practice and 30 minutes relaxation with refreshments
Equipment provided.
£7, subsidised places available, booking essential www.peaceplacepeople.simplybook.it
Fridays 10am 12 MINT LANE, LINCOLN, LN1 1UD Mint Lane Gardening Club
Help to renovate the Mint Lane garden, learn and discuss permaculture principles and techniques. FREE mintlanecic@gmail.com
Fridays 2pm – 4.30pm
THE YMCA SHOWROOM, TRITTON ROAD
Gentle Hatha Yoga with Sam Easeful 60-minute class including breath practice and relaxation. Equipment provided. £7, subsidised places available, booking essential www.peaceplacepeople.simplybook.it
Fridays 10.30am
Fridays 1pm
Saturdays 9am
Sundays 3.30pm – 5pm
WHISBY NATURE PARK Wellbeing Walk FREE
ACTIVE NATION LEISURE CENTRE, BIRCHWOOD, LN6 0JE Wellbeing Walk
BAILGATE METHODIST CHURCH HALL
Bailgate Yoga Club £8, Conc. £6.50, must book www.mokshalincoln.com
CUSTOM FITNESS GYM, DEAN ROAD, LINCOLN
Gentle Hatha Yoga with Sam
See previous listing (left) £7, subsidised places available, booking essential www.peaceplacepeople.simplybook.it
Mysterious dodecahedron on display at Usher
THE Roman dodecahedron found at Norton Disney can be seen at Lincoln’s Usher Gallery until March.
Thought to date from the third or fourth century, the copper alloy, hollow, 12-sided object (inset right) was found by the Norton Disney History and Archaeology Group in the summer of 2023 (pcitured above).
It is one of only 33 such dodecahedrons found in Britain, and the first to have been found in the Midlands. It is also one of the largest examples to be found, measuring around 8cm tall and weighing 245g.
Most other examples are usually found damaged, or as fragments, but the Norton Disney dodecahedron is complete and in remarkable condition after 1,700 years of being buried.
Richard Parker, Group secretary said: “Despite all the research that has gone into our dodecahedron, and others like it, we are no closer to finding out exactly what it is and what it might have been used for. The mystery that surrounds it has provoked quite a
reaction. Our find received worldwide press attention earlier this year and many people have left us messages with varied and somewhat contradictory suggestions about its purpose.
“What we do know is the Norton Disney dodecahedron was found on the top of a hill in a former large pit of some kind. It seems it was deliberately placed there. Why would someone bury an object like this? Did it have religious or ritualistic significance? What else might we find nearby?"
In the summer of 2024, the Group re-opened the trench where the docdecahedron was discovered and nvestigated other features on the site. The finds are being processed and will in time provide more information about this area in the Roman period.
Musical youth
PETER HARROD delves into the Garton Archive to explore the pictorial past of Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School and its predecessors.
I AM indebted to Jenny Bean for sending this photograph, which is probably a Lincolnshire Echo photo, of the Lincoln Christ’s Hospital Girls’ High School (LHS) Orchestra taken in 1966. Jenny was a pupil at the school and went on to study music and to train as a teacher at Bishop Grosseteste College, now a university. Conducting the orchestra is Ann Slater, the daughter of Dr Gordon Slater who was the Lincoln Cathedral organist and
choirmaster. Ann was also a local teacher of the violin.
In the picture is Stella Scott playing the viola, who went on to read French at Edinburgh University. Angela Griffiths is one of the violinists and Jenny also recalls that Sheila Hall might have been the pianist.
The mid-1960s were a busy time for music at LHS. In Headmistress Leahy’s 1965 Speech Day address she spoke of the great pleasure brought to the school by the members of the choirs, orchestras and recorder groups, and reported that they must have practised as hard as the girl who, for several months without a break, played the National Anthem on a piano above her office!
She praised both the enthusiasm and perseverance of the girls and the skilled training of Mrs Clarke and Mrs Stewart. The result of their efforts resulted in the junior and senior choirs winning the Woolworth and Hodgson Trophies at the Lincoln Music Festival. She also told her audience how much she had enjoyed the instrumental items and the performance of Purcell’s opera Dido and Aeneas at the end-of-term summer concert. Music was flourishing at LCHS,
VISIT LINCOLN’S HISTORIC GUILDHALL
The Stonebow and Guildhall are situated on the site of the southern gateway to Roman Lincoln. The gateway has stood for over 1800 years; although the present building was not completed until 1520.
The Guildhall sits proudly above the Stonebow and is the Official Home of the Mayor of Lincoln. Tours are available of this interesting historic building, which includes the main Council Chamber, where Lincoln’s Council still meets and, most importantly, the old Debtors’ Prison which now holds an impressive range of Civic Insignia, including the King Richard II Sword and many other Mayoral and City artefacts.
For more information about the open days, or to make a private appointment please contact: Kate Fenn, Civic Manager on 01522 873303 E-mail: kate.fenn@lincoln.gov.uk
By contrast, Miss Leahy mentioned in her 1966 Speech Day report that it had been a quiet year for the choirs and orchestras, and apart from Speech Day and Commemoration Day they had appeared in public only at the Lincoln Music Festival. However, she expressed pleasure that in Mrs Clarke’s last year at LHS they had done so well.
The Junior Choir won the Woolworth Trophy again, and the Senior Choir won the Hodgson Trophy and the Herbert Wander Trophy for the highest award in the adult choral classes.
The orchestra, trained by Mrs Stewart, came first in a class of two and won a trophy presented by the late Mrs Rowland Reefe.
Miss Leahy also thanked Dr Gordon Slater, the Lincoln Cathedral organist and choirmaster, who had for many years been most generous of his time in rehearsing the girls and frequently playing at the Commemoration Service in the cathedral.
Perhaps I am biased, but I have always believed music and the arts to be the heart and soul of any educational institution.
Throughout its life, music has been a central part of the curriculum and extra-curricular activities at LHS, and a glance at Miss Leahy’s report for 1967 also revealed how many opportunities there were for the girls to broaden their horizons outside the boundaries of the school curriculum as it celebrated its 75th birthday.
Music at Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School is continuing that tradition as the recent outstanding production of the musical Oliver! testified.
City’s ‘new’ barracks
In this month’s article from The Survey of Lincoln, ANDREW WALKER explores the history of a complex of military buildings on the northeast side of Burton Road.
BURTON Road is unusual in accommodating two sites which have served as military barracks. The older of the two, built in 1857 and used by the military until 1969, is now the home of the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.
The new barracks were built following a major reform of the army undertaken by the Secretary of State for War, Edward Cardwell.
Under the Localisation Act of 1872, he divided the country along county boundaries and population density and reorganised regiments into these areas, which it was hoped would aid recruitment. The building of new barracks then took place, offering improved conditions for army personnel.
Lincoln builders William Huddleston and Son erected the barracks for just under £50,000. Most of the bricks used in the construction, as the Lincolnshire Chronicle reported in October 1878, were manufactured locally from the Lincoln brickworks of Messrs Swan Brothers. The land secured for this purpose comprised 21 acres, with seven acres used for the buildings and parade ground.
By December 1878, the barracks were occupied by 100 officers and men of the Tenth North Lincolnshire Regiment of Foot. The barracks formed the depot of the regimental district number ten that included the first and second battalions of the Lincolnshire Regiment (Tenth Foot), and of the Royal Northern Lincolnshire Militia, which formed the third battalion.
The barracks complex was similar to many built following Cardwell’s reforms, designed in a Gothic architectural style, with a prominent central ‘keep’, serving as an armoury. The roof and floor of the armoury were made of fireproof concrete. The site also included officers’ quarters, a hospital, a laundry, quarters for married men, and workshops for painters, carpenters, and armourers. A drill shed for use in wet weather was also built, together with a water tower and pumping engine. The barracks were enclosed by a substantial wall, with a bastion at each corner.
Nearly 75 years after its opening, the complex was renamed the Sobraon Barracks in 1953, remembering the Lincolnshire
Regiment’s most famous victory on 10 February 1846 in the first Anglo-Sikh War of 1845-6. Other references to the Regiment’s past military honours in Egypt in the early 19th century are represented in the barracks’ architecture, including the stone sphinx badge on its façade.
One of the most newsworthy incidents which occurred at the barracks in its early years took place in the officers’ accommodation. This involved Maud Hunt, the daughter of a captain and quartermaster. The Dundee Courier headlined the story ‘A plucky lady fells a burglar’. She saved her father by disarming the intruder of a sword bayonet and applying several hard blows to his head with a pair of fire tongs.
On occasion, troops at the barracks were called upon to provide support for the civil authorities at times of unrest, such as during the Lincoln Riots of August 1911, when, on 20 August, 80 men of the Lincolnshire Regiment, khaki-clad and with rifles on their shoulders, marched at 2am from the top of the High Street towards rioters, prompting their rapid dispersal.
Substantial sections of Sobraon Barracks were demolished in the 1970s. Much of the original site is now residential development, and the remainder houses the Lincolnshire Army Cadet Force and the 160 (Lincoln) Squadron Royal Logistic Corps.
The Survey of Lincoln’s new book, ‘Learning in Lincoln: A History of the City’s Education Buildings’, is available at Lindum Books, Bailgate, and Steep Hill Bookshop.
1922 postcard of the barracks from the Maurice Hodson Collection.
Remembering artist Allen Smith
HE wasn’t a flamboyant character like some artists, he wasn’t larger than life or overbearing but what Allen Smith (194224) had was an amazing creative talent, writes ANGELA CAWLEY.
Allen amassed an enormous amount of work and it deserves to be celebrated, so an exhibition full of his work will be held at the Gallery at St. Martins on Hungate, Lincoln, from February 13-23.
Allen was also an author, but first love was
painting with inspiration drawn from the Impressionists, especially Monet, Pissarro and Sisley.
The Lincolnshire landscape was another stimulus. There are sketchbooks full of wonderful drawings. There are pastels and prints and portraits and paintings from his travels. A wonderful collection all for sale.
Allen taught Graphic Design at Lincoln College of Art and Design for 24 years so the exhibition organisers would love to see some of his students at the exhibition. Among his possessions there were some of his teaching notes filed away and there will be some work from that time on display. He had an amazing ability to focus in on whatever interested him, like only Allen could, it might be buying a computer, learning to play tennis or table tennis, cooking a special recipe. He needed to know every detail.
He used this skill to research the life and work of Lincolnshire Artist Herbert Rollett and published his biography which will also be available. Likewise, he wrote
Darker take on Bard’s comedy
A NEW performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream comes to the Lincoln Arts Centre stage on January 15.
Shakespeare’s classic tale of magic and mayhem will be told from a fresh, contemporary perspective of patriarchal control and gender inequality.
Second year students on the BA Drama & Theatre and Drama & English courses at the University of Lincoln’s School of Creative Arts, under the direction of theatre researcher Dr Kelly Jones, have been working together this autumn to consider Shakespeare’s work in the light of present day concerns and issues.
Alongside performing, the cast have taken on many of the production elements including marketing and assistant directing.
Costumes, lighting and set have been
provided by the next wave of technicians undertaking the University’s BA in Technical Theatre & Stage Management.
The Midsummer’s night will be brought to life through props, modern costuming and specially composed immersive sound and lighting.
Dr. Jones said, ‘The students have been working incredibly hard to bring Shakespeare’s fairyland to life. There is much darkness at the heart of A Midsummer Night’s Dream and it has been wonderful to work with our cast and crew to realise this. Expect a very different take on this tale of magic and mayhem!’
Tickets -lincolnartscentre.co.uk/ instagram: uol_amidsummernightsdream Tik tok
uol_amidsummernightsdream
and produced Sir Thomas Bodley: His life and Times and at the time of his death he was writing about his hometown of Cleethorpes which he had nearly completed.
Keenly interested in Lincoln and his environment he joined the Lincoln Society to comment on planning issues and published Winds of Change: A Short History of Modern Lincoln when it ended in 2003.
Allen had kept all the papers from this time and If anyone is interested please come along to the Gallery.
Allen lived alone and worked in Lincoln most of his life. He was a bit of a loner with a close circle of friends. We would love to see you all at the Exhibition to commemorate his life and work, please spread the word and be sure not to miss it.
National award for wildlife enforcer
THE dedication of a Lincolnshire Police officer has seen him named Wildlife Enforcer of the Year.
DC Aaron Flint has been investigating wildlife crime for over 20 years and the award recognises his determination and tenacity in targeting offences within Lincolnshire covering a broad spectrum of wildlife offences.
DC Aaron Flint said: “It’s a real honour to have my work recognised in this way. I’m lucky enough to work with some fantastic colleagues, partners and communities whose focus is the protection of our wildlife and to preserve our countryside.
“Every day as a Wildlife Crime Officer is different, there are challenges to overcome as with any role, but being able to investigate crimes against our wildlife and pursue offenders, many of whom are part of organised crime groups, and who wish to cause harm, is hugely important to me and a great reason to come to work.
“Investigating rural crime is so very important to our communities in Lincolnshire. To be part of that and to be recognised for my work is a real honour.”
Aaron was announced the winner of the award at the National Wildlife Crime Conference which is hosted by the National Wildlife Crime Unit.
He is the Force’s dedicated Wildlife Crime Officer and works within the Rural Crime Action Team (RCAT). He completes detailed investigations into wildlife crime and advises the force on all wildlife related matters.
With a degree in Zoology from the University of Wales DC Flint is trained in all aspects of rural crime, including the more well-known offences of hare coursing, badger crime, fox
hunting and deer poaching, but also in the specialised areas of the illegal trade of wildlife, endangered species of wild fauna, flora and wetlands, protection of world cultural and national heritage and conservation of migratory wild animals.
Passionate about tackling wildlife crime, Aaron has shown determination and tenacity in targeting offenders within Lincolnshire over the past year with investigations leading to the successful prosecution of deer poachers, hare coursers and for fox hunting. Prosecutions for the illegal breeding of falcons and the trapping and poisoning of birds of prey are currently going through the courts.
As part of his role Aaron has recruited a team of part-time Crime Officers in Lincolnshirethese have been trained and now work all over the county.
Chief Constable Paul Gibson said: “I am incredibly proud of DC Flint and pass on both my own personal congratulations and those of his colleagues in the force for winning the Wildlife Enforcer of the Year award.
“Aaron is an incredible officer dedicated to the conservation and preservation of wildlife.
“Wildlife crime takes place across all of our beautiful county; rural crime affects our farming and rural communities.”
Chief Inspector Kevin Lacks-Kelly, Head of the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit, said: “This was a special moment to recognise Aaron as the number one enforcer in the UK. Aaron’s enthusiasm is infections, his commitment and dedication to tackling wildlife crime should rightly receive the national spotlight.
“Policing wildlife crime is specialist and often polarised, Aaron never falters and influences locally, regionally and nationally.”
DC Aaron Flint receiving his award from DCC Nigel Harrison, NPCC National Lead for Wildlife Crime and Rural Affairs (left) and Chief Inspector Kevin Lacks-Kelly, Head of the National Wildlife Crime Unit (right).
Once more unto the breach...
I ALMOST gave up my allotment last year. After a year of disappointments, setbacks and only a tomato harvest to salvage the entire year, I was ready to throw the whole thing over. I decided to turn my home garden over to vegetables and visualised a back garden awash with towers of beans, raised beds of carrots draped artistically in sweet peas and cabbages dripping with overhanging roses.
disappointing.
We went up to the allotment to strip the grass and clean the greenhouse. The plot looked rather sad and unkempt so I set to and cleared the greenhouse. I felt very sorry to lose this and was plagued with a rotten feeling of abject failure.
Then a friend messaged me with the offer of a pile of cardboard, so useful for covering and feeding weedy ground. I said yes, thinking that at least I could leave my allotment to the next person with some clean, covered soil. I duly went and collected the large sheets of cardboard and my friend and I sat chewing the fat over a cup of tea. I told him about my decision to give up the allotment and how much of a failure I felt. He said: But Liz, you can’t do that.
I began making plans to move some perennials from the back to the front garden and duly used last autumn’s sunshine to dig out areas of the front to accommodate the quantity of perennials I have spent the last thirty odd years acquiring. Digging up roses and clematis is delicate and painful and I spent night- time hours worrying about relocation and root shock.
I cleared and cleaned my home greenhouse but the space only allows me to plant three tomato plants and not the six I had last year and this was
It’s gardening.
It’s what you do.” And I suddenly realised he was absolutely right, it’s gardening, it’s what I do.
I promptly went home and ordered an apple tree and a viburnum opulus (above left) and repainted all my wooden labels (right). Here’s to another year of giving it a go!
Wildlife treats at twilight
BY RACHEL SHAW
LINCOLNSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST
AS I write this, the light is already fading from the sky.
Today, there were just seven and a half hours between sunrise and sunset. When the morning alarm goes off, it’s as dark as it is during the night. The sun descends and darkness returns whilst I’m at my desk.
These short winter days can be hard. On days when I’m not working, it’s tempting to stay indoors. Curled up in semihibernation on the sofa but that’s to miss out on a special moment in time.
Dusk in the winter has two special features. Firstly, you don’t need to stay up late to experience it (you can even be home in time for tea). Secondly, it’s a great time to see wildlife.
This week, I was at a meeting at Gibraltar Point (meetings on nature reserves is one of the perks of working for the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust). In the late afternoon, when the meeting finished, we could have travelled straight home but instead went for a short walk. It was bracing out on the beach, oystercatchers were huddled together on the shoreline. But away from the coastal edge, walking in the shelter of trees, it was calm and we experienced one of those magical moments of twilight. A barn owl appeared above the tree tops. It headed in our direction before shifting its wing position and flying silently away. It stopped us in our tracks and made staying longer all the more worthwhile. I don’t often have the opportunity to visit a nature reserve during the working week.
A skein of geese
Usually I’m in the office so I’ve been trying to make a special effort to enjoy that late afternoon outdoors on my days off. It requires wrapping up warm and preparing a flask of hot chocolate. I always take a headtorch too although I don’t often feel the need to use it as my eyes adapt to the falling light levels.
It’s in these twilight hours when birds and other animals are on the move. Wherever you are, crows and rooks will probably be flying overhead. They chatter noisily as they return to the communal roosts.You might hear the “hooo-ooo” hoot of a male tawny owl and the “ke-wick” call of the female in response. But it’s also worth travelling a little further afield (perhaps combining it with a café lunch stop followed by an afternoon walk).
One of the places I’ve been visiting is Alkborough Flats where the River Trent flows into the Humber. I would always expect to see a few marsh harriers above the reedbeds there but at dusk, they gather together in greater numbers.
Last time I was there, I was watching a marsh harrier over the tops of the reeds. Another appeared, then there were three, five, eight, then I was struggling to count. At least 20 birds were seemingly jostling with each other for space in the air. Lifting, wheeling and swapping positions with barely a flap of their wings before dropping down into the reeds leaving the sky empty as if they’d never been there at all.
In the distance, lines of small black dots appeared silhouetted against the sky. As they got closer it became clear, they were in the shape of a V with one bird leading
the others. It was a skein of pink-footed geese. They called to each other as they flew overhead.
Now, instead of bemoaning the shortness of the days and the darkness, I’m seeing it as an opportunity to experience wildlife and the natural rhythm of the day.
HAPPY NEW YEAR
Tawny owl
Barn owl by TJ Ellis
Lowdown on High Street rental auctions
WITH one in seven high street shops sitting empty, the government is stepping in to rejuvenate struggling town centres through the introduction of high street rental auctions.
The new legislation allows local authorities to auction leases for longvacant commercial properties, providing businesses and community groups the right to rent.
Local authorities can auction leases for properties that meet specific criteria, including being located within a designated high street or town centre and vacant for at least 365 days in the past two years.
Additionally, the council must determine that the occupation of the property would benefit the local economy, society or environment.
Advice for landlords - be prepared and proactive
For landlords, this new regime presents significant challenges, particularly regarding the loss of control over how and to whom their properties are rented. Landlords should proactively seek tenants for any vacant properties. Demonstrating genuine efforts to find tenants, such as keeping records of marketing and inquiries, can help avoid intervention.
BY BRIAN NOBLE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY PARTNER SHAKESPEARE MARTINEAU
Should a property become subject to an auction, landlords will need to provide detailed documents, including compliance certificates, proof of title and other necessary information. Failure to comply could lead to fines or criminal charges.
If a landlord wishes to appeal, the grounds are limited, often relating to plans for major construction or procedural errors by the council. However, appeals must be based on specific evidence and submitted within strict deadlines.
During the 12-week auction process, landlords will have little ability to negotiate terms or select tenants. This makes it crucial for landlords to seek legal expertise to manage compliance and reduce potential risks.
Opportunities and considerations for tenants
For tenants, the new legislation offers an exciting opportunity to secure affordable premises in prime locations. However, tenants need to be prepared for additional costs, including legal and surveyor fees. The lease terms will often include
obligations to maintain the property to a certain standard, so tenants should review these terms carefully to avoid unexpected liabilities.
Additionally, the auction process may require quick decision-making and swift conveyancing.
Tenants who are well-prepared can leverage these opportunities to test new markets or ideas with short-term leases.
How we can help
We assist both landlords and tenants in navigating high street rental auctions. For landlords, we offer advice on proactive property management, compliance and auction preparation. For tenants, we help with bid preparation, lease negotiations and legal support throughout the process.
Contact Brian on 07483430669 or email Brian.Noble@shma.co.uk
Navigating divorce as a business owner
BY LUCY REDING, SENIOR ASSOCIATE, FAMILY LAW TEAM, WILKIN CHAPMAN SOLICITORS
DISPUTES between married couples are highly personal, but when they are also business owners, disagreements can easily spill over from the personal to the professional, impacting colleagues and clients as well as loved ones.
Without proper advice and support, divorce is a minefield - but for those managing a business, it can be overwhelming.
Changes in divorce law
Previously, proving adultery, unreasonable behaviour, separation, or desertion was necessary to apportion blame, leading to contentious, financially and emotionally draining proceedings. In 2022, this all changed. Courts now require only a statement of irretrievable breakdown from applicants or joint applicantsoverriding the issue of blame entirely. There is also now no ability to contest
the application for divorce or dissolution of a civil partnership except for very limited reasons; it is not a defence for one party to say they do not agree that there should be a divorce.
The two-step divorce process
The new process includes: l a 20-week “cooling off” period between initiating proceedings and the court granting a conditional divorce or dissolution order l a further six weeks before the conditional order becomes final This period allows for reflection and valuable time to address financial matters including making decisions regarding a business.
Such decisions are especially crucial if one spouse has an interest in the other’s business, such as being an employee, director or shareholder. Failure to address these matters at the
outset could result in implications for the business including potential claims as well as impacting the smooth resolution of financial matterstherefore early consideration of financial implications is advised. Although now less contentious, divorce can still present complex challenges.
For expert guidance navigating your divorce, contact Lucy Reding on 01522 515006 or lucy.reding@wilkinchapman.co.uk
streets.uk
01522 551200
Ghosting in the workplace
GHOSTING is not just a dating phenomenon.
It may have started out as an expression in romantic parlance to describe someone experiencing an end to all contact or interaction with a date or partner when any attempts to gain a response or engage in communication are fruitless
However, it can now also refer to friendships, family, the workplace, and other interactions. It certainly seems that ghosting is increasingly prevalent in the world of business.
Its escalation, perhaps in part, is a legacy of lockdown when we worked remotely and were less connected to people, with face-to-face interaction switched to more faceless and less personal digital interactions. Hybrid and remote working, which has been more widely adopted post pandemic, may also be a contributor. So too may be the wider use and adoption of digital communication and working practices.
Everyone also seems to be busier than ever and juggling workload and work pressure has meant people don’t do or can’t do things the way they might have in the past. It is perhaps a little cynical to think that standards, behaviours and ways of working are just not what they used to be?
How would ghosting in the workplace manifest?
l Interviews - you invite someone to attend for an interview they accept but fail to turn up and don’t tell you they are not attending or make any contact.
l Hiring - you make a job offer and give a start date but the person doesn’t turn up or tell you they are not starting.
l Quitting - someone decides they no longer want to stay in your employment and without going through due process leaves without notice.
l Leavers - an employee is let go or leaves by agreement and prior to their departure they are given the cold shoulder or experience a sense they are not a part of the team or organisation
l Prospects - you have pitched or quoted for some business. The process seems to be going swimmingly then it ends abruptly and you hear nothing and get no response.
l Networking - you meet someone at a conference, networking event, or connect with them on LinkedIn and seem to really hit it off, agree to get in touch but never hear from them again or get a response.
l Meetings - how many of us have sat in meetings and experienced the person more interested or engaged in their mobile phone? When it comes to online meetings there seems to be a host of people that neither have their camera or sound on - are they ‘in the room’?
l Emails, calls and texts - you try to communicate with someone but find you get no response from a work colleague, someone you line manage or external contact.
Ghosting behaviour certainly adversely
impacts the performance and productivity of an organisation, as well as, if widely experienced or prevalent, has a negative effect on culture, morale, recruitment and behaviours.
Perhaps it might be understandable, if not acceptable, in difficult situations. It does seem to be increasingly rife in circumstances where individuals prefer or just don’t want to deal with things. Reasons for an employee purposely ghosting internal and external colleagues could include situations outside their comfort zone; those that make them anxious or more anxious; they avoid or can’t deal with conflict; may fear being kicked back or they are just too busy. It must be acknowledged that it could be because they don’t care or even be learnt behaviour from more senior colleagues or peers.
Managing or considering how your business or organisation might be affected by ghosting surely is a matter which can not be ghosted. Whilst individuals may have experienced some work-related ghosting few have probably considered its more widespread impact.
Biffa awarded £50m city council contract
BIFFA has been awarded City of Lincoln Council’s new waste/recycling and street cleansing contract in a £50m deal
This redesigned, respecified, and repackaged contract reflects the council’s commitment to delivering improved efficiency, enhanced sustainability, and high standards of service for Lincoln’s community.
The contract is valued at approximately £5.5 million per year, running for an initial term of 8.5 years starting on September 1, 2026 and includes the comprehensive collection of residual waste, dry recycling, garden waste, and clinical waste.
The street cleansing service includes street sweeping, litter collection, fly-tipping removal, clearing abandoned vehicles, and graffiti cleaning while the new contract will also feature improved environmental credentials, including the use of electric vans and solar panels at the depot.
The tender process attracted significant interest from leading industry players, ensuring a strong competition. Biffa’s bid was selected based on a combination of factors to assess the value for money that each tenderer provided.
The award has been made in time so specialist vehicles can be bought and to plan for changes required by the new contract format to emphasise sustainability, aligning with the council’s vision for a cleaner, greener Lincoln. Key investment in new vehicles and modern IT, will ensure the city’s services continue to develop positively while reducing the environmental impact.
Cllr Bob Bushell at City of Lincoln Council, said: “This new contract represents a significant step forward in how we manage waste and ensure our city’s cleanliness.
“As a council, we’ve incorporated innovative and environmentally friendly measures to meet the evolving needs of
our community and to address our upcoming Vision 2030’s priority, ‘Let’s address the challenge of climate change’.
“City of Lincoln Council is proud to have secured a contract that balances quality, cost, and environmental responsibility for the benefit of Lincoln residents and visitors alike.”
Debbie Doohan, Regional General Manager at Biffa (pictured with Simon Walters, Director for Communities and Environment) commented: “Biffa is proud and honoured to continue our partnership with the City of Lincoln Council, building on our shared commitment to delivering reliable, sustainable, and innovative waste and street cleansing services.
“We look forward to supporting the council’s Vision 2030 goals by introducing innovative practices and working together to create a cleaner, greener city for residents and visitors alike with the new contract aligning to the Simpler Recycling regulations due to be introduced for household waste collections from April 2026.”
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