One year on - Hamish marks anniversary of becoming city’s MP
THIS month marked one year since I was elected as the Member of Parliament for Lincoln on July 4, 2024.
It has been a huge honour to represent this incredible constituency, from the West End to Waddington, from Bracebridge Heath to Birchwood.
Over the past 12 months, I’ve focused on delivering practical results for Lincoln while making sure I’m a visible and active presence in the community.
From day one, I said I’d fight for Lincolnand I hope I’ve made a good start.
Here are just a few of the things I’ve been working on.
RAF Scampton – I campaigned against the Government’s plans to use the site for asylum seeker accommodation. I’m pleased that those proposals have now been blocked and I aim develop RAF Scampton into a thriving industrial hub.
Roads and Infrastructure – I pushed for more funding for Lincolnshire’s roads, which has led to a government commitment to invest £60million, £16million more than initially promised, in pothole repairs.
Wages and Pensions – I welcomed the rise in the national minimum wage to £12.21 for over-21s and continue to support the triple lock protection for pensions.
NHS Support – I’ve backed pay increases for Lincoln doctors, as well as new state of the art equipment for our hospital and alongside this I have supported the Government’s wider £26 billion uplift in NHS funding. Lincoln County Hospital remains a key focus for me.
Locally, I’ve met flood victims, hosted public meetings across the constituency, and visited dozens of schools and community groups. My office has supported more than 5,000
residents with individual issues, responded to over 8,000 emails on everything from public transport to health care and won back over £12,500 for constituents.
Looking ahead, I’m focused on tangible measures to improve everyday life for people in Lincoln. That means:
Housing – Tackling rising rents and supporting more high-quality, affordable homes.
Health Care – Pushing for better GP access and backing plans to expand medical and dental training in Lincoln.
Transport – Campaigning for the completion of the North Hykeham relief road and for faster rail services.
Jobs and Skills – Working with the University of Lincoln, Siemens, and others to bring skilled jobs to the city.
Lincoln is a beautiful, dynamic city - and I’m proud to serve it. We’ve made some progress, but there’s so much more to do. I’ll keep fighting every day for Lincoln and for the people who call it home.
Hamish Falconer MP
Life is too short to miss opportunities
I HAVE to start with some very sad news and that is the death of Adrian Peill.
Adrian was featured in last month’s issue as he’d written a book about all the dog walks he’d discovered in Lincoln. He’d also drawn the illustrations and got it published himself. It had really caught the public’s imagination selling out at Lindum Books.
Adrian (right) was also scheduled to talk live on air about the book with our friends over at LCR.
Sadly that won’t happen now, but I know he wouldn’t have minded if I concentrate on the positives I took from corresponding with Adrian.
He had been suffering with an illness, which had left him quite low, but instead of wallowing he’d written a book and had a real sense of achievement.
When he saw his piece in the Indie he wrote: “Thank you so much for allowing me to have that article. It has really given me such a boost! I can’t thank you enough.”
Thank you Adrian for reminding us to grab life by the horns.
We also had to say to goodbye to a well-known Lincoln lady who knew how to live life to the full - Maggie Broughton.
Her warmth and humour meant she seemed made for the hospitality trade and many will remember her from The Strugglers and the old Prince of Wales.
In true Maggie fashion she didn’t want a funeral, but a party will be held in her honour. Cheers Mags!
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I bet you all thought I’d be spitting feathers over the increase in the parking charges at Lincoln County Hospital we recently reported on our sister website Hello Lincoln.
I’m not - the BBC quoted increases of 150 per cent, but in reality the charges went down for the pandemic and never went back up again. And the money will be used to improve the parking provision - now if that doesn’t happen I will be on the warpath again.
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Lincoln Office
Landmark House 1 Riseholme Road
Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN1 3SN
Tel: 01522 533588
The Indie’s fantastic What’s On guide (pages 20-33) can be accessed using the QR code.
Send to your family and friends so they can discover how much is really happening in Lincoln.
There’s music, art, theatre, family fun and so much more.
JULY ISSUE DEADLINE
Material for our August edition should reach us by July 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 August 4.
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Have your say on city life
WANT to improve life in Lincoln? Are you 16 years old or older?
LocalMotion Lincoln - the community movement for changewants to hear from you.
Over the past two years people in Lincoln have been sharing their experiences as part of a 10-year study to explore the stories of local communities.
The survey is being run by Social Change, which with LocalMotion, wants to understand the experiences of people in Lincoln, the challenges they face and how local communities can be strengthened.
“This is your opportunity to make your voice heard, tell us about your experiences in Lincoln and how you and your communities could be better supported,” said Charlotte Brooks of LocalMotion Lincoln.
This year, you can be part of the conversation. Complete the short 10-minute survey, and be in with a chance of winning up to three shopping vouchers worth a total of £200.
If you would like to know about options to complete the BIG Conversation offline, please contact: research@socialchange.co.uk
Local Motion has three main aspirations: l to unite organisations and communities to bring together all voices and opinions to tackle some of the biggest challenges in our place
l to co-design action plans and living strategies for our place that focus on, not only basic needs, but the desires and aspirations of those that live and work in Lincoln
l to test new ways of working, connecting and collaborating, turning vision into action with success not measured by onedimensional outcomes, but the impact on the lives of real people locally
Participate online through https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/BIGLincolnConvo2025/ or by using the QR code on this page.
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Why use a solicitor to make a Lasting Power of Attorney?
BY KATE T WIGG PARTNER & SOLICITOR
MAKING plans for the future can feel overwhelming especially when it comes to appointing someone else to make important decisions on your behalf. That’s what a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is designed to do - protect you and your loved ones if you lose the capacity to manage your own affairs.
People can be tempted to use online LPA forms, but without the right guidance, it’s easy to make mistakes that can be costly or invalidate the document entirely. That’s where our experienced team can help.
There are two different types of LPA, and both serve important but very different purposes:
Property and Financial Affairs LPA – This allows your chosen attorney(s) to make decisions about your money and property, such as managing bank accounts, paying bills, collecting benefits or pensions, and even selling your home if necessary. It can be used both while you still have capacity
(with your permission) and if you lose capacity.
Health and Welfare LPA – This enables your attorney(s) to make decisions about your personal health and care, including your daily routine, medical treatment, and even life-sustaining care, but only if you are no longer able to make those decisions yourself.
Ringrose Law can help you decide whether you need one or both LPAs and guide you through appointing the right people to act in your best interests.
Tailored Advice for Your Situation
No two families are the same. Whether you’re concerned about a business, managing finances, or making sure your medical wishes are respected, we work with you to create an LPA that fits your individual circumstances.
We can also advise on including restrictions or instructions to make sure your attorneys act in line with your wishes—giving you even more peace of mind.
Helping Prevent Disputes
It’s not uncommon for family tensions to arise when LPAs are created without legal
support. By working with our team, you gain a neutral, experienced advisor who can help smooth over potential difficulties before they escalate.
Clients often feel relieved after creating their LPA, not just because the paperwork is done, but because they know they’ve taken a meaningful step to protect their future and their family.
Ringrose Law provides:
l Personal, one-to-one advice from a qualified solicitor
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l Full support with the registration process Peace of mind that your wishes will be respected
Speak to Kate on 01522 561020 or visit the Ringrose Law office on Silver Street, Lincoln.
Giving your coffee a whole lotta love
WHEN it comes to the price of a cup of coffee people can get a little hot under the collar.
But what’s the story behind rising green coffee prices and how do coffee drinkers and suppliers make sure they are getting a premium product.
Stokes Tea and Coffee can help according to Sales Director Sarah Brooks: “Stokes isn’t just a name - it’s a team of passionate coffee specialists roasting right here in the heart of Lincoln.
“Our wholesale team work closely with businesses to create customised coffee solutions that work. Our full service includes coffee machine supply and demo, fullservice support and barista training, drinks menu design and innovation, a coffee tasting room and seamless ordering through our direct delivery and online portal.”
The team based at The Lawn on Lincoln’s Union Road is there to help anyone who wants to serve a great cup of coffee – even if they have not bought their machine from Stokes.
“We’re on hand with a team of engineers to help in the city and beyond, which is often not the case in cafes who use alternative suppliers across the UK and face delayed repairs if their machines break down.”
And businesses that want to serve their own brand of coffee can turn to Stokes too: “We understand why businesses may want their brand on their shelf. A retail bag with its logo will enhance brand visibility and loyalty for the business.
“As we are coffee roasters, businesses can choose from our diverse range of coffees. Businesses can join us in our roastery to discuss and enjoy some coffee cupping. From there we will discuss sustainable packaging, white label coffee design and learn about their business aspirations too.”
Sarah added that Stokes was part of every step of the coffee producing process – from the farm to the cup.
“We recently spent some time in Brazil (left) with one of our green coffee partners to discover how they’re tackling sustainability and climate impact.
“ It’s not just about ticking a box or using the phrase ‘ethically sourced.’ For us, it’s personal. We build long-term relationships directly with producers, listen to their challenges, and collaborate on real solutions that create meaningful impact. From climate resilience to community support, we go beyond labels — and that integrity flows throughout our business.”
So what is happening with coffee prices?
“Key Drivers behind the rising of green coffee pricing, such as climate change and extreme weather - droughts, frosts and floods in major coffeeproducing regions like Brazil, Colombia and Vietnam - are reducing crop yields and quality,
and
Other factors include supply chain disruptions, currency fluctuations - coffee is priced in US dollars - rising production costs, and demand for speciality and sustainable coffee certifications. The latter require more resources and time to produce, leading to higher prices.
Sarah added: “In the media, there’s been a lot of talk again about the price of a flat white edging closer to £5, but our process and statefy means an average 3p increase on espresso shots.
“While price points are rising across the industry, so too are customer expectations. If a customer is paying a premium, they want premium. That means flawless coffee, excellent service and a confident barista behind the machine. That’s where we come in. We help your team stay sharp, skilled, and proud of every cup they serve, our training academy has been designed to support baristas of any level.”
To read more about coffee pricing and what Stokes is doing to reduce the impact visit https://stokescoffee.com/blogs/journal/what-are-we-doingabout-coffee-prices
Real coffee - real people - real history
Stokes’ wholesale support for customers
l On-trend drink development and seasonal menus
l Barista training (intro to intermediate, plus latte art)
l Service support from quick response callouts, water testing, annual servicing
l Lincoln showroom with the latest equipment and a tasting room to help businesses choose the perfect coffee profile
l Guest coffees- attracting new customers by offering different taste profiles (similar to guest beers in pubs)
l Café workshops - bring your audience to learn more and get involved in a coffee community
lowering supply
pushing pricing up.”
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New £26.5m endoscopy unit for county hospital
WORK has started on a new state-of-the-art £26.5m Endoscopy Unit at Lincoln County Hospital.
The new unit will offer a modern, accessible facility for patients and also create an improved working environment for staff.
It will provide state-of-the-art procedure rooms, as well as post-procedure rooms that include en-suite facilities which will improve patient experience.
Lincolnshire Community and Hospitals NHS Group Chief Executive, Professor Karen Dunderdale, said: “Our endoscopy diagnostic services can help to detect cancer, so it is vital that we invest in these services to continue to be able to support our patients with fast and comfortable diagnostic services.
“Our new unit will mean that we can increase diagnostic capacity, offer even higher levels of patient privacy and provide a great working environment for our staff.
“The new 1,972 square metre unit will increase the number of procedure rooms we have at Lincoln from three to four, with the potential to add a further two rooms in the future. This will ensure we can meet increasing demand and allow our patients to be seen sooner.”
Dr Glenn Spencer, Consultant Gastroenterologist and Clinical Lead for Endoscopy, said: “This fantastic new state-of-the-art unit will provide patients with a greatly improved environment and patient experience. All patients will be cared for in individual ensuite rooms.
“It will also provide staff with excellent facilities to enhance the
high quality care that they already provide and ensure we meet the growing demands for endoscopic procedures.”
Teri Would, Clinical Services Manager, said: “This is a really exciting time for the whole team and we would like to thank all of the staff and all of the patients who have contributed to this amazing project. It is so exciting to see all of their visions become reality. We will have more staff to care for our patients in this new unit when it opens next year.”
An endoscopy is a test to look inside your body. A long, thin tube with a small camera inside, called an endoscope, is passed into the body through a natural opening such as the mouth.
The new unit is being built on the site of a former staff car park on St Anne’s Road. Additional car parking capacity has already been created to replace the lost spaces.
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It’s one heck of a show!
HECKINGTON Show is almost here giving people a mix of their favourite attractions combined with new ideas and surprises.
This year’s show - held across the weekend of July 26-27 - really will have something for everyone, according to Chairman, Charles Pinchbeck.
“The team of volunteers who deliver Heckington Show to Lincolnshire work hard, adding a warmth that comes from their community roots,” said Charles.
In a nutshell fun, food, fairground rides, farm animals, flowers, fruit ‘n’ veg, fireworks and much more will all be on offer to visitors as the Chairman explained.
“The successful WiFi trial last year should see improved coverage to ensure you can snap up those unique gifts, local foods or antique bargains you will discover as you explore the showground.
“There will also be buggy shuttle services available from the main car park which will help those with less energy to spend it all enjoying the show itself, from the living history in Heckington Show’s Heritage Village or the joyful sounds of summer emanating from the concert marquee. “Those and other crowd pleasers are at the heart of the show along with fantastic foods with many Lincolnshire favourites (including sausages of course), hordes of sheep and cattle, beautiful shire horses, high class showjumping, the flower and produce marquee and the increasingly
popular grand firework concert on Saturday evening.
“These along with some eye-catching and eye-watering main ring entertainment, vintage machinery, national cycling competitions and athletics combine to ensure you can make it a weekend to remember.
“Despite this, Heckington’s strapline as ‘Britain’s largest village show’ still rather undersells the offer -most visitors are from Lincoln, Newark, Grantham, Boston and surroundings some travel much further.
“One family from Norway bring their children each year to keep them in touch with their British roots whilst another Wisbech family have been coming for three generations. “With that kind of universal appeal, Heckington Show is surely a must for your summer diary this year.”
Visit the show’s website (top of page) for tickets.
Long-standing home of local government
FOR RICHARD STOREY his role as Lincoln’s Mayor’s Officer is more than just a job – he has an encyclopaedic interest and knowledge of the city’s history, especially when it comes to his beloved workplace, the Guildhall and Stonebow.
He can give you chapter and verse about the building, its history and the characters that have battled for and against its creation and development. In the second of his series of articles for the Independent he explains why the building is such an important seat of government.
LINCOLN’S councils have met in the Guildhall rooms above the Stonebow for over 788 years.
The site and gateway at that time were granted to the mayor and common council by King Henry III in 1237 after its original site in the south-east of the city was handed over to the order of Greyfriars at the request of the king.
Successive administrative bodies have met above the Stonebow since that date and City of Lincoln Council continues to hold its meetings there to this day.
It’s that longevity and continuity of local government in one building for almost 800 years that sets the Guildhall and Lincoln apart.
In the medieval period it was both meeting place for the merchants’ guild, which looked after the business interests of Lincoln’s citizens and their general assembly or Burwarmote. Over the centuries these bodies have evolved into today’s local government, which owes much to the rights, freedoms and privileges Lincoln was able to wrangle from successive monarchs.
Much like today there was the city of Lincoln and the county of Lincolnshire (with a sheriff as its head) and before 1409 the latter still had much sway over what happened in the city, but after that date Lincoln become a county in its own right.
This privilege was granted to Lincoln by Henry Bolingbroke or Henry IV and meant the city could makes it’s own decision about how it was governed and choose its own representatives including sheriffs.
Other medieval cities eyed Lincoln’s independence with envy and looked to establish similar freedoms.
Readers can take their own tour of the Guildhall - see page 12 for details.
Picture from top clockwise are a view of the Stonebow from the south circa 1784, a more recent view of the city centre building and the Charter granted to Lincoln in 1157, predating Magna Carta by more than 50 years,
Peter Harrod continues continues his historical exploration of Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School.
School trophy restored to former glory
REGULAR readers will know how delighted I am to receive new artefacts for the Garton Archive especially when they are as iconic as this one.
It is also of particular close family interest to me as my dad’s name, J Harrod, appears on the trophy. The provenance of this item was an attic in Lincoln that had been left to its own devices for many years but was being given a clear-out a few years ago. We received a phone call out of the blue from Lincoln Christ’s
Hospital Girls’ High School former pupil Jocelyn Nix (m.Hagan) who wondered if we might be interested in a Lincoln School Fives Cup which she had found in her attic.
She had no idea where it came from but thought it was probably left there by a previous owner of the house. Needless to say, I was interested!
The photograph above shows the original state of the trophy which was a Fives Cup competed for each year by pupils at Lincoln School during the 1920s and ‘30s. However, the trophy had understandably lost some of its gloss over the years and required expert attention.
吀is fascinating building sits above the Stonebow, which itself was built over the southern gate into Roman Lincoln so it has been welcoming people into the ci琀 for 1800 years.
吀e current building was 昀nished in 1520 and is the o昀icial home of the Mayor of Lincoln – a position 昀rst established in 1206.
Knowledgeable tour guides will highlight the building’s national importance as they take visitors into main council chamber, where Ci琀 of Lincoln Council still meets.
Vellum documents predating the Magna Carta, the sword given to the ci琀 by King Richard II; an impressive range of civic insignia and items representing the ci琀’s military, industrial and aviation heritage are just some of the artefacts waiting to be discovered.
As a result, we approached the Conservation of Cultural Heritage Department at the University of Lincoln to see if they could recommend appropriate treatment and the task was given to a final year student, Amy D’Alwis, as one of the projects towards her degree. Amy took on the challenge with considerable enthusiasm, and the result of her work is shown below in one of her photographs.
Fives, which has been the subject of a previous Independent article (June 2023), was a game played at Lincoln School from the opening of the school on the Wragby Road site in 1907 until it closed in 1974. The game was particularly popular with the boarders and was a prime source of both entertainment and exercise until the boarding house closed down in 1969. The game seems to have lost its early popularity not least because the school was evacuated to temporary accommodation during the Great War when the buildings were occupied by the 4th Northern General Hospital.
However, there was a revival of interest in the game in the 1920s, inspired by the Headmaster, Dr Moxon, and in 1927 it was recorded in The Lincolnian that Fives continued to play an important part in the life of the school.
Thus, it was probably Dr Moxon who introduced the Fives Cup at that time to provide an added incentive to the boys to participate in the game. No such incentive was needed for me during the 1950s! I was one of a group vying for the court during lunch times although the Fives Cup was no longer part of the scene.
Having spent most of its life stored in an attic, the trophy will now be displayed in the Garton Archive at Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School and is one of our many treasured possessions recording and commemorating the rich history of the school.
WITH the arrival of railways, opportunities for relatively fast, longdistance travel expanded for increasing numbers of people. However, for those trying to travel along Lincoln’s High Street, the coming of the train caused major inconvenience.
With the opening of two railway stations in the centre of Lincoln in the 1840s, two level crossings were installed on the High Street, despite the efforts of the Lincoln Corporation which urged the railway companies involved to share just one.
The two level crossings, built within 200 metres of each other, were both in operation from 1848 until the closure of the more southerly crossing, serving St Mark’s station, in May 1985.
As early as 22 December 1848 it was reported in the Stamford Mercury that: ‘Justly the public complain of the great inconvenience they have to endure by the frequent and lengthy stoppages of Lincoln High Street at the Great Northern railway crossing.’
In addition to the stoppages, horses were often startled by what was described on 3 March 1848 in the Lincolnshire Chronicle as the ‘fiery monster’ crossing the High Street.
The inconvenience of the level crossings was eased somewhat by the opening in July 1882 of the high level avoiding line, which bridged the High Street further south, and operated until 1983. Nevertheless, in January 1883, an average of 109 trains travelled daily through the city using the High Street level crossings.
The more northerly High Street crossing, which is still used today, was originally operated by the Great Northern Railway; the other crossing, gave access to the Midland Railway station (later known as St Mark’s).
Little remains to highlight the former level crossing apart from a small but distinctive building – an octagonal, brick-built, singlestorey structure, which now houses a fast-food business. This was built in the 1880s to accommodate the level-crossing keeper employed by the Manchester, Sheffield and Lincolnshire Railway (later the Great Central Railway), which operated services to and from Grimsby in and out of the Midland Railway station. The level-crossing building was situated south east of the intersection of the High Street and railway.
Initially, the operation of the level-crossing was largely dependent upon the physical labour of its keeper. From 1926, however, a more mechanised system was introduced, making the accommodation for
On the levelwhen the city had two railways
the employee rather more cramped, but there remained room for a coal-burning fire.
Although an unassuming building, during the period of the level crossing’s operation, the actions of the employee inside the building had a major impact upon traffic flows in the city. With the turn of the wheel, a large part of Lincoln could be brought to a standstill. In August 1911, like other railway-related sites in the city, the building became damaged in unrest indirectly connected to a railway workers’ dispute. Several of its windows were smashed. Following its closure in 1985, the building was threatened with demolition by Lincolnshire County Council. In 1987, partly as a result of lobbying by industrial archaeologists and railway enthusiasts, the County Council agreed to save the building and lease it as a shop. The structure was refurbished in 1990 as part of the courthouse building project and became a newsagent’s. More recently, the building has been occupied by fast-food enterprises, causing people – this time voluntarily – to delay their journeys along the High Street.
The High Street level crossings are explored more fully in Beryl George’s chapter in The Survey of Lincoln’s book, Lincoln’s City Centre South of the River Witham. See www.thesurveyoflincoln.co.uk.
ANDREW WALKER’S article from The Survey of Lincoln examines a distinctive octagonal building on the High Street.
from Ministry of Steampunk Festival Asylum
Spoof blue plaque scheme a way for businesses to thank Steampunks
A SPOOF blue plaque scheme entitling Steampunks to discounts and special offers is a way for businesses to thank those who pay for the annual summer bank holiday festival.
The Ministry of Steampunk organises the Weekend at the Asylum in uphill Lincolnthis year it will run from Friday - Monday, August 22-25.
It attracts thousands of Steampunk enthusiasts to the city, who in turn attract thousands of visitors keen to see them parading in their Victoriana/Sci-fi inspired regalia.
This year’s event is the 15th - dubbed Asylum XV - is expected to be just as popular.
“The historic quarter of Lincoln will once
again be transformed into a fantasy wonderworld when Steampunks from near and far come together to enjoy the biggest Steampunk event that takes place anywhere in the world” said a Ministry statement.
It is inviting local businesses to take part in the spoof blue plaque scheme to offer visiting Steampunks discounts and other incentives for goods and services.
Most outlets that took part in the 2024 scheme offered a 10 per cent discount, explained Guy Sawle for the Ministry.
“The Ministry of Steampunk who run the festival (none of whom live in Lincoln) do not receive any grant income nor any financial contributions from the Lincoln/Lincolnshire councils.
“All of the Steampunk content is paid for by the Steampunks who buy a festival wristband in order to attend the event. Weekend at the Asylum does not belong to Lincoln; it belongs to the Ministry of Steampunk and the Steampunks who attend and pay for the event.
“Because the event depends on the sale of festival wristbands,
we are keen to make sure that the Steampunks who buy wristbands are properly rewarded for doing so.”
To sign up for the scheme email guy@sawle.com.
“We would love for more businesses to become involved with this year’s festival, which is set to be the biggest since the pandemic.”
The Ministry has also introduced a new landing page on its website specifically for Lincoln residents at https://www.ministryofsteampunk.com /axv-local.
“It is designed to provide some background information to locals who know that the event takes place but don’t really know much about what it actually is,” added Guy.
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A new look for The Old Bakery
BY AMANDA MCSORLEY
WE’RE giving a big chef’s kiss to the refurbishment of the Old Bakery in Lincoln.
The £100,000 revamp has created improvements throughout the eatery run by Lincoln College Group, but the most noticeable difference is at the front where an additional, less formal dining space has been created, aptly called The Lounge, which has its own menu.
The improvements were funded by the Towns Fund, a government scheme that aims to regenerate towns and deliver long-term economic and productivity growth. They mean The Old Bakery now has its own bar area, so it’s one to remember for a drink on a summer’s evening when the refurbishment and the menu can be checked out. We had to test the wine and the cocktails.
Director of Business Development & Partnerships at Lincoln College, Mark Taylor, was at the launch: “We are really excited to be unveiling a new look for The Old Bakery following this refurbishment. The restaurant is a cornerstone of our employer-led operations here at Lincoln College.”
For those who don’t know The Old Bakery is a training facility for the college’s catering students, but only those who have progressed through the other hospitality amenities such as its cafeteria and the Sessions Restaurant get to staff the Burton Road venue. The kitchen is run by head chef Phil Cooke (yes, really), who is a
qualified tutor and was trained in Michelin-starred restaurants. Mark added: “A finishing school for our advanced catering and front-of-house students, the restaurant gives them the industry experience they need to launch their careers. We are also proud that it remains the only not-for-profit venue of its kind in the region.
“We hope that our refreshed look and much-needed restoration gives both our loyal customers and new visitors a compelling reason to come along and enjoy our warm surroundings and delicious Lincolnshire-inspired seasonal menu.”
The Independent popped along on launch night to view the changes and get a very literal taste of what’s on offer – it was good, very good.
We’re not the easiest people to feed – I’m vegetarian and the business spouse, Rachel, needs a gluten-free selection. However, the dishes kept coming (below) and were all delicious. The Lounge menu isn’t huge, but we found that comforting as there’s enough choice for all tastes and it’s obviously been honed to a high standard.
The Conservatory area still offers fine dining on a separate menu with a different price point and the air conditioning in the recent summer heat was a welcome sight.
The Old Bakery, 26/28 Burton Rd, Lincoln LN1 3LB, T. 01522 244646
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Students Jasmin and Callum were excellent hosts at the launch.
African dining at Mint Lane Cafe
LAURA STRATFORD, COORDINATOR
GREATER LINCOLNSHIRE FOOD PARTNERSHIP
If you haven’t been to Mint Lane Cafe lately, there are some lovely surprises in store this summer.
Thanks to the work of the Friday community gardening club, the garden behind the cafe is bursting with life and beauty - it’s the perfect shady spot for a summery lunch amid the fragrant herbs.
If you fancy a spicy evening meal of freshly cooked Nigerian food - good news!
African Meal Palace is open at Mint Lane four nights a week, thanks to chef (and lawyer) Kemisola Obafemi - and a warm African welcome awaits.
Kemi, who has lived in Lincoln with her husband and children since 2022, is passionate about good food - ‘colourful, beautiful, nourishing food’.
“It starts from a desire to share,” Kemi tells me, with a big smile!
“It started with inviting my local community to come round for dinner. I don’t know how to make small portions!” she adds with a laugh, “so they said - why don’t you share your big food with the public?”
Kemi (above) cooks various traditional dishes that are unfamiliar to many a British palette - mine included - including catfish soup, porridge (made with jams), ofada rice, pounded yam with egusi soup, bitter leaf soup, fermented locust beans.
These dishes are all spicy, but Kemi deliberately makes some dishes that are less hot, such as jolof rice, for those unaccustomed to African heat.
Kemi is able to buy many of her ingredients here in Lincoln, thanks to AdeLincoln on High Street, and orders other ingredients directly from Africa to ensure the taste is just right.
“The food is nice!” says Kemi. “I want to share it with everybody!”
African Meal Palace is open at Mint Lane Cafe on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 4-8pm - all welcome.
Buttery black cod
BLACK cod, also known as sablefish, is a deep-sea fish prized for its rich, buttery flavor and velvety texture.
Despite its name, it is not a true cod but rather a species with a high oil content, making it ideal for various cooking methods
like pan-frying, grilling, and baking. It is commonly featured in high-end Japanese cuisine, particularly in dishes like miso-marinated black cod.
Gavin Aitkenhead of The Jews House combines seared black cod with spinach, samphire (he’s used sea lettuce), pickled mushrooms and a miso butter sauce. Turbot or cod would work just as well for this recipe.
Serves 4
www.gotbakery.co.uk
4 x 100g black cod, each sliced into three pieces
1 bag baby spinach
1 pkt samphire
200g mixed mushrooms (such as shitake, shimeji or chestnut)
Pickle liquid
350g water
70g white Wine Vinegar
30g Sugar
1 Garlic Clove, cut in half
2 Sprigs of Thyme
2 Bay Leaves
2g Salt
Put all ingredients into a pan and bring to a boil, place mushrooms into pan, simmer for one minute then take off the heat and place into a bowl.
Miso butter sauce
1 tbsp white miso paste
2 shallots diced
50g white wine
50g white wine vinegar
50g double cream
200g cold diced butter
Put the shallots, white wine and vinegar in a saucepan and reduce by half. Add the cream and bring to the boil, then turn down the
heat and whisk in the butter in three stages before whisking in the miso paste - keep warm.
Spinach and samphire
20g Butter
Salt and Pepper
Warm a saucepan on heat and add butter, when melted add spinach and samphire, season and stir with a wooden spoon until slightly wilted, take off heat and empty onto a tray to stop it cooking.
Black cod
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp miso paste
Heat a frying pan, add two tablespoons of rapeseed oil, when hot add the cod flat side down, season with Maldon salt and cook on a medium heat for two minutes Add the miso and butter, then flip sthe cod and take off heat, keep basting the fish with the butter to give a nice glaze then after 20 seconds place onto a tray and pour the butter over the cod.
To plate
Place the spinach and samphire in three piles, then scatter mushrooms around. Place the Cod pieces around the plate, then spoon over the warm miso butter sauce and serve.
Get both colour options
MY cousin Paulo once said: “If you love a red from a winemaker, odds are you’ll love their white too.”
At the time it sounded like the kind of casual wisdom you'd expect over a bottle of something decent, and yet, time and again, he's been right.
Take Château Ste. Michelle, it might not have the glossy profile of a big-name Californian estate, but from its base in Washington’s Columbia Valley, it consistently turns out wines of impressive character and finesse.
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is rich, dark, and delightfully drinkable. Juicy blackcurrant, plum, and soft vanilla spice. It’s well-structured yet refreshingly unpretentious, no need for decanters, just a glass and good company. It's approachable, balanced, and brilliant with a steak or even a midweek spag bol.
And then there’s the 2021 Chardonnay: bright and generous, with notes of ripe peach, melon, tropical fruit and a whisper of caramel. It carries just the right touch of oak, offering creaminess without tipping into heaviness. Fresh and balanced.
Together, this pair is a perfect showcase of what Washington State does so well: beautifully made wines with poise, depth, and clarity. More often than not, I find myself turning to this region, not
Cheese
A FINE Italian cheese named after the caves of Val Taleggio near a small town in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy.
Soft, supple and buttery with a lactic flavour, it’s
Key Facts
Age 2-4 months
Country Italy
Milk Type Cows
Vegetarian No
just for the value, but because the wines consistently deliver serious quality, vintage after vintage.
Both are around the £16 mark from Majestic and offer exceptional quality for the price. And let’s be honest, if you like the white, you’ll probably want the red too.
Francesco Canni - Aspiring Sommelier
Taleggio
the perfect summer cheese. The washed and smear-ripened rind develops a soft pinky grey hue, which contains a meltingly characterful cheese.
The cheese is washed with a seawater sponge to prevent mould growth and to get its distinctive colour. The rind is imprinted with the four-leaf brand to identify its origins.
Traditionally served after a meal with a selection of fruits, we like it with fresh apricots and strawberries.
This cheese was featured on the BBC Food & Drink programme, when Angela Hartnett used it as a pizza topping instead of Mozzarella. Try making individual tarts with butter-cooked, crisp apple wedges in the bottom of a pre-baked pastry case and topped with slices of Taleggio finished either under the grill or in the oven for a lovely lunch or supper dish with some fresh salad leaves.
Process Unpasteurised Region Lombardy
Strength Medium
Style Soft, washed rind Organic No
For a fantastic range of cheeses from around the world contact Lucie Nock, The Cheese Society, 1 St Martin’s Lane, Lincoln, LN2 1HY. T. 01522 511003, www.thecheesesociety.co.uk
Monday 7 July –
Thursday 10 July
Various times
Thursday 10 July
7.30pm
Friday 11 July
4.45pm
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM NYT (Lincoln) Grease School Edition
£11 - £12.50
www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN ELO Again
£31.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN Commuter Jazz Fabulous music, a pizza, and a glass of wine or two.
£8 on-the-door
www.southsidelincs.com
Don’t miss c
LINCOLN Live, the city’s free music festival celebrating the region’s upand-coming talent, will be back on Saturday and Sunday, August 30-31.
For the first time the festival will be held in City Square next to Cornhill Market, which event organisers from City of Lincoln Council describe as offering a more intimate setting, so audiences can immerse themselves in the live performances.
Hosted between 1pm and 8pm by the Events in Lincoln team, the event promises music for all tastes and ages. The Lincoln Live main stage will be curated by BBC Introducing, with the show’s regional host Dean Jackson hand-picking each act.
Cllr Joshua Wells, Portfolio Holder for Inclusive Economic Growth at City of Lincoln Council, said: “Now in its third year, Lincoln Live is one of our key events in the city, it’s a chance for people of all ages to enjoy free music in the city and celebrate the end of the summer holidays.
“City Square is a prime location to host the festival’s main stage. It offers a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere for audiences to truly engage with the music. Plus, with the Cornhill Market just steps away, visitors can easily explore it during the short breaks between performances.
“As a whole, we’re keen to collaborate with local independent businesses in both the city centre and uphill Lincoln to strengthen our connection with the community.”
Friday 11 July 7.30pm
Friday 11 July 7.30pm
Friday 11 July 8pm
Saturday 12 July –Sunday 13 July
2.30pm, 7.30pm
Saturday 12 July 4pm
Saturday 12 July 6pm
Sunday 13 July Various times
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Absolute Britney
£30
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY, LN3
5AW
A Night at the Musicals
£12 - £13
www.broadbenttheatre.org T 0300 400 0101
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM
NYT (Newark) The Aristocats Kids
www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM
NYT (Newark) Legally Blonde
www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055T
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY 70s Day Party Comes to Lincoln
From £15, 25+
www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
THE ENGINE SHED, LN6 7TS Indiepalooza Festival –Kopykat Killers v Scam Fender v Subarctic Monkeys
£30, 14+
www.engineshed.co.uk
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
JLTA: Variety Show Annual showcase from Jo Leah
Theatre Arts
£18, conc. £16
www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk 01522 837600
Sunday 13 July 11.30am
SOUTHREY YOUTH CLUB FIELD, FERRY ROAD, SOUTHREY, LN3 5TA Southrey Music Festival
Live music, stalls and BBQ. £7.50, u12s FREE
www.facebook.com/share/1BvyuVopi 2/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Sunday 13 July 1pm & 5.30pm
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN JLD Studio Presents –Legends & Icons
£16.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
ity’s free music festival
festival-goers can enjoy a full-service bar on City Square featuring locally crafted ales, a special Lincoln Live-themed cocktail, spirits and a range of soft drinks. The festival’s close proximity to the Cornhill Market means there will be easy access to food and other refreshments as well as toilets
Also returning for a second year is Lincoln Live Unplugged, a chilled-out acoustic companion stage at St Paul in the Bail, brought to life by Acoustic Nation, the team behind Southside. Set against the historic backdrop of Lincoln Castle, the unplugged stage will host a diverse lineup of acoustic acts in a relaxed, scenic atmosphere surrounded by all the facilities of uphill Lincoln. Some seating and deck chairs will be provided at both stages, but visitors are welcome to bring their own along with food and non-alcoholic drinks - alcohol must be purchased on-site from the official Lincoln Live bar.
Stay up to date with artist announcements, lineup details, and more by following Events in Lincoln on Facebook and Instagram.
Thursday 17 July
7.30pm
Friday 18 July 6pm
Friday 18 July 7.30pm
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM
JME Dance: Autonomy
£19 - £21
www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY Forever Young Live
£16.50, 18+
www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Living the Life of Riley From £28
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Saturday 19 July
Various times
Saturday 19 July 2pm
Saturday 19 July
2.30pm & 7.30pm
Saturday 19 July 7.30pm – 10pm
Sunday 20 July
Various times
Sunday 20 July 1pm – 2.30pm
Ballet double bill: The White Feather/Rhythm Rhapsody
£24, u12s £18
www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk 01522 837600
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN South of the Tracks Festival
Two stages of live music. From £10
www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Rhythm of the Dance
From £30.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 519999
DECIMAL PLACE, 10 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN, LN1 3LB Weird Garden Sounds & art by Pefkin, and Rebelski. FREE pkrollings@yahoo.co.uk
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
HSDC 10 Year Showcase £15, u16s £10.50
www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk 01522 837600
THE BLUE ROOM AT THE LAWN, LINCOLN Carpe Diem Lunchtime Concert
Fi Pear on harmony, lead vocals and harmonica, and Mark Hickman providing electro/acoustic guitar. £10 - £12
www.lawnlincoln.com
T 01522 523548
Sunday 20 July 6.30pm
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY Albert Lee
£25
www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
Tuesday 22 July 7pm
Wednesday 23 July 7pm
Thursday 24 July 8pm
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM Stardust Summer Concert
£6 - £10.50
www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
THE ENGINE SHED, LN6 7TS The Cribs From £30, 14+ (u18s must be accompanied by an adult) www.engineshed.co.uk
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Comedy Night at the Royal £17
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
Friday
25 July
7.30pm
Friday
25 July
7.30pm
Saturday
26 July
6pm
Saturday
26 July 6pm – 10pm
Saturday
26 July 7pm
Sunday
27 July 6pm
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY
The Black Charade + Fell Out Boy
£18, 14+ (u16s accompanied by an adult)
www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Whole Lotta Shakin’ – The Shakin’ Stevens Story
£28
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM
Curious Academy: The Wizard of Oz
£21
www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
LINCOLN CASTLE Ibiza Anthems with Ellie Sax £35
www.lincolncastle.com T 01522 782019
THE ENGINE SHED, LN6 7TS What’s Love Got to Do With It?
From £15, 14+ (u18s accompanied by an adult) www.engineshed.co.uk
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN Who Is My Brother?
Modern mystery play adapted by Ian Sharp and performed by A Certain Demographic.
£12, conc. £5 www.southsidelincs.com T 01522 437942
Thursday
31 July –
Saturday
2 August
Various times
Friday 1 August 6.30pm
Friday 1 August 7pm – Late
THE BLUE ROOM AT THE LAWN, LINCOLN Calendar Girls by Tim Firth
See page 30. From £25 www.lawnlincoln.com
THE ENGINE SHED, LN6 7TS
Jason Manford: A Manford All Seasons
£40, 14+ (u18s accompanied by an adult). www.engineshed.co.uk
Friday 1 August 7pm
CHARLOTTE HOUSE HOTEL, LINCOLN Live Singer Evening Unwind with live music from Jodie Vale, exclusive cocktails and discounted beers. FREE entry
www.lawnlincoln.com
T 01522 523548
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY Coldplay It Again + Stereoconics
£20, 14+ ( u16s must be accompanied by an adult) www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
Saturday 2 August 12pm – 2pm
Saturday 2 August 4.30pm –8.30pm
Saturday 2 August 7pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Write Note
Open mic session without the microphones. FREE
www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshi re/lincoln-central-library
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND Illyria - The Wind in the Willows
£18, child £10, u3s FREE www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk
T 01522 522900
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY
Jack Broadbent Not Jim’s son, but this blues/rock musician was born in Lincolnshire.
£18, 12+ (u16s must be accompanied by an adult) www.lincolndrill.co.uk
Saturday 2 August 7pm
Saturday 2 August 7.30pm
Sunday 3 August 2.30pm
Wednesday 6 August 5.30pm
Wednesday 6 August 6.30pm
THE ENGINE SHED, LN6 7TS Lucy Spraggan
From £27.50, 14+ (u18s accompanied by an adult) www.engineshed.co.uk
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN
Love Hurts – Power Ballads & Anthems
£35.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN
Dino Tales
£18, child £17 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
THE ENGINE SHED, LN6 7TS Mania U18: Lincoln W/Chad Harrison Club experience for age 14 -17. FFrom £16, 14+ www.engineshed.co.uk
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY Butterfly Club
Accessible club night for adults with additional needs and their carers.
£5, carers FREE, 18+ www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
Saturday 9 August 7pm
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY T.S.O.L.
Californian punk pioneers True Sounds of Liberty are supported by Cain Pit from Norwich. £15, 14+ (u16s must be accompanied by an adult) www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
LINCOLN CASTLE
Thursday 14 August 6pm – 10pm
Friday 15 August 6pm – 10pm
Outdoor Cinema: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
From £17.37, u12s £10.65 www.lincolncastle.com T 01522 782019
LINCOLN CASTLE
Outdoor Cinema: The Greatest Showman Sing-ALong (PG)
From £17.37, u12s £10.65 www.lincolncastle.com T 01522 782019
Friday 8 August 7pm
THE DRILL, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY Duran + Back from the 80s £20, 14+ (u16s must be accompanied by an adult) www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
Mondays 7pm
STAGS HEAD, NEWPORT, LINCOLN Lincoln IMProv Club
For improvisers of all levels and abilities. Drama games, short and long-form improv. FREE
www.facebook.com/LincolnImprov Club
Mondays & Wednesdays 7pm – 9pm
THE CARDINAL’S HAT, LINCOLN Draw & Drink Portrait Classes
Led by Ellie Benton. Bring your own materials. £15
www.instagram.com/drawanddrink. lincoln, T 07810 835147
Second Tuesday of the month 12pm – 2pm
Wednesdays 10am – 12pm
SUDBROOKE DRIVE COMMUNITY CENTRE
Ermine Makers
Work on your own projects, have a go at something new. Bring your own craft materials. FREE
MOORLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE, MOORLAND AVENUE, LN6 7JJ
Moorland Makers
Work on your own projects, have a go at something new. Bring your own craft materials. FREE
chelsey@rootedarts.org.uk
First Wednesday of the month 5pm – 7pm
Thursdays 10am –12.30pm
Thursdays 2pm – 3pm
USHER GALLERY Artist Network
Meet and catch up with other artists and creatives. www.lincolnmuseum.com T 01522 782040
THE VILLAGE HALL, BRIGG LANE, CARLTON-LE-MOORLAND, LN5 9HP Carlton-le-Moorland and District Art Group
New members of any ability 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
Until Sunday 20 July (closed Mondays) 10am – 4pm
Until 27 July
10am – 5pm (11am – 4pm Sundays)
Until Tuesday 5 August 10am12.30pm
Until Sunday 24 August 10am - 5pm
Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays Until 31 August 10am – 4pm
LINCOLN CASTLE
Playback: Art of the Album Sleeve
Exhibition of over 100 iconic album covers displayed in the Castle’s Victorian Prison. Included with Castle Day ticket www.lincolncastle.com
T 01522 782019
THE MUSEUM OF LINCOLNSHIRE LIFE Lincoln: Then & Now
A photographic exhibition showcasing the similarities and differences of Lincoln’s rich past, including original artefacts and a short film from the Lincolnshire Film Archive FREE, apart from event days www.lincolnmuseum.com
T 01522 782040
Monday 7 July –Saturday 12 July 10am - 4pm
Tuesday 8 July 6.45pm
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Spirals of Time
Joint exhibition by Carrie Kendra and Lucy McElroy. FREE www.indigocrowgallery.com
HARDING HOUSE GALLERY, STEEP HILL, LINCOLN Sunrise, Sunset: Colours of Lincolnshire
A solo show by Adele Billinghay. FREE info@hardinghousegallery.co.uk T 01522 523537
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN
Learn Art of Watercolour Six-week watercolour painting course with Sally Kheng. Workshop once a week for 6 weeks. £180, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
Wednesday 9 July 10am - 1pm
Saturday 12 July 10.30am –3.30pm
GALLERY AT ST MARTIN’S, LINCOLN Group Exhibition FREE www.instagram.com/galleryatst martins, T 07720 810468
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN Life Drawing
A different theme every month with music and a stocked bar. £9, conc. £7 www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Ceramic Hand Building Workshop with Raku Firing with Carrie Kendra. £75, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
LINCOLN CASTLE HERITAGE SKILLS CENTRE Make a Hatching Dragon Clay sculpture workshop with Fiona Hodges. £80, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
Sunday 13 July 10am - 4pm
Monday 14 July –Sunday 27 July 10am – 4pm
Wednesday 16 July 2pm
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Learn to Create Portraits in Graphite Workshop with Lucy McElroy. £85, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
GALLERY AT ST MARTIN’S, LINCOLN Exhibition: Lisa Tank Lisa’s paintings reflect the vibrant hues of the British landscape. FREE
www.instagram.com/galleryatst martins T 07720 810468
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Film Screening: 42nd Street (1933) From £9
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
Thursday 17 July –Wednesday 23 July
1.30pm & 7.30pm
Friday 18 July 10am - 4pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat DTC Productions Ltd and Lincoln Academy of Theatre Arts’ 20th anniversary production. From £22 www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Woodland Wander Felted landscape workshop with Eve Marshall. £85, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
Friday 18 July 1pm - 2.30pm
BOULTHAM PARK Willow Seedhead Workshop Aimed at adult beginners, weave a seedhead sculpture. £30, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk
T 01522 873735
Saturday 12 July 7.30pm –9.30pm
ST PETER’S CHURCH, DODDINGTON Summer Concert
£10
www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308
Sunday 20 July –Sunday 19 October 10am – 4pm (open Thursday - Monday)
USHER GALLERY
Art of the Now Exhibition showcasing Lincolnshire artists. FREE
www.lincolnmuseum.com
T 01522 782040
Sunday 20 July 10am - 4pm
Monday 21 July 10am – 1pm
Tuesday 22 July –Sunday 27 July 10am - 4pm
Wednesday 23 July –Thursday 24 July
7pm – 9.15pm
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Learn to Create Portraits in Graphite Workshop with Lucy McElroy. £85, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
USHER GALLERY Stop Motion Animation workshop with Poppy. £5, book online www.lincolnmuseum.com
T 01522 782040
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Elements of Nature
An exhibition of artwork from Kim Bartle, Louise Earnshaw and Nicola Robinson FREE www.indigocrowgallery.com
DODDINGTON HALL Opera on the Lawn
An evening of open-air opera from Wild Arts.
£35, u16s £25 www.doddingtonhall.com
T 01522 694308
Thursday 24 July
1.10pm
Friday 25 July
7.30pm
Saturday
26 July –
Sunday
7 September 10am – 4pm
Saturday 26 July 10am – 3pm
Tuesday 29 July –Sunday 3 August 10am - 4pm
Wednesday 30 July 2pm
Saturday 2 August –Sunday 7 September 10am – 5pm (11am – 4pm Sundays)
Saturday 2 August 10am - 4pm
THE VILLAGE HALL, BRIGG LANE, CARLTON-LE-MOORLAND, LN5 9HP Workshop with Peter Woods Café scene in pastels and water. Carlton-le-Moorland and District Art Group members £15, non members £18. T 01522 811510
Saturday 26 July 10am - 4pm
Saturday 26 July 10am - 2pm
Monday 2 August 7.30pn
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Procreate Possibilities Workshop with Mel Langton £75, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
WHISBY NATURE PARK, LN6 9BW Monthly Workshop: Nature Sketching Sketch the beauty of nature with local wildlife illustrator Louise Earnshaw.
£30, conc. £25, student £20 www.lincstrust.org.uk
Saturday 26 July 7.30pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Lunchtime Recital Performance by The Northern Concordia Singers. Included with cathedral admission www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Coldplay by Candlelight From £28.50 www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
DODDINGTON HALL Sculpture at Doddington
Now an annual event in the walled and wild gardens and Stable Yard gallery - view over 300 works of art by 58 sculptors from across the UK and beyond. Most works are for sale. £9.50, child £4.50, family £22 www.doddingtonhall.com
T 01522 694308
Monday 28 July –Sunday 3 August 10am – 4pm
Monday 28 July 1pm – 4pm
Tuesday 29 July 6.45pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons by Candlelight Leading tribute act and live band.
From £28.50 www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
GALLERY AT ST MARTIN’S, LINCOLN Exhibition: Paul Kemp The painter and printmaker is inspired by the fall of light, shadows, shapes, contrasts and atmopshere.
FREE
www.instagram.com/galleryatst martins T 07720 810468
USHER GALLERY Clay workshop with Victoria
£2, drop-in
www.lincolnmuseum.com
T 01522 782040
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN Life Drawing
£9, conc. £7 www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Folk and Wild
An exhibition of artwork by Marisa Harrison and Lauren Brine.
FREE www.indigocrowgallery.com
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Film Screening: Calamity Jane (1953) From £9
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999
HARDING HOUSE GALLERY, STEEP HILL, LINCOLN Dazzle
Mixed work by invited artists. FREE entry info@hardinghousegallery.co.uk T 01522 523537
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Coral Reef
Felted picture workshop with Eve Marshall. £85, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Vespers: A Concert of Forgotten Music
Performed by Anon, anearly music ensemble specialising in reviving music by forgotten composers.
£16.96, conc £11.55 (includes booking fee)
www..eventbrite.co.uk 01522 561600
See QR code on page 17 advert.
Monday 4 August –Saturday 30 August
During opening hours
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
In the Gallery – Memory in a Bottle
Touring photography and audio exhibition featuring photographs of coastal towns.
FREE
www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire /lincoln-central-library
Monday 4 AugustSunday 17 August 10am - 4pm
Monday 4 August 10am – 4pm
Tuesday 5 August –Sunday 17 August 10am - 4pm
GALLERY AT ST MARTIN’S, LINCOLN Exhibition: Alan Abbey FREE www.instagram.com/galleryatst martins T 07720 810468
USHER GALLERY Lego Dot printing with Rachel. FREE, drop-in www.lincolnmuseum.com T 01522 782040
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Elements
An exhibition of paintings, fused glass and felted artwork by Margaret Bird, Alison Kemp and Robyn Smith. FREE www.indigocrowgallery.com
Wednesday 6 August –Thursday 7 August 7pm
Friday
8 August
10.30am - 12pm or 1pm - 2.30pm
DODDINGTON HALL Twelfth Night Shakespeare’s greatest romantic comedy performed by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men. £20, u16s £14 www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Fused Glass Suncatcher workshop with Ali Kemp £60, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
Mondays 10.30am
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Historic Graffiti Tours
Gain insight into the thousands of etchings found in the cathedral.
£7.50 + cathedral admission fee www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
Wednesdays 4pm – 4.45pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Lego Coding Club
Engage in STEM with Lego. Term time only.
FREE, booking essential via email lincoln_library@gll.org
Second Wednesday every month 7.15pm
Thursdays 11am – 12pm
BAILGATE METHODIST HALL, NEWPORT, LINCOLN Lincoln Minster Townswomen’s Guild Speakers or members’ nights for craftwork, games and conversation. Free for first two visits T 07794 862314 (Sarah)
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
Fridays 2pm – 3pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Learn My Way
Join a basic IT beginner’s course, suitable for 16+. FREE, booking required
Friday 8 August 1pm – 4pm
USHER GALLERY, LINCOLN Cyanotypes Workshop for printing without a darkroom (first invented in the 19th C) will be held in garden by Rachel, but is weather dependent. £2, drop-in www.lincolnmuseum.com T 01522 782040
Sunday 10 August 12pm - 4pm
Sunday 10 August 10am - 12pm
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Acrylic Pouring workshop with Lisa Tank £85, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
USHER GALLERY LINCOLN Summer WorkshopWatercolour Medina Hammad instructs on how to creat these key landscape features. Ages 16+ www.lincolnmuseum.com
Monday 11 August 12pm - 4pm
USHER GALLERY LINCOLN Clay workshop with Victoria.
Mixed work by invited artists. £2, drop-in www.lincolnmuseum.com
T 01522 782040
Tuesday 12 August 6.45pm
Thursday 14 August 10am - 3pm
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN Life Drawing Different theme every month. £9, conc. £7 www.southsidelincs.com T 01522 437942
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Abstracted Landscapes Oil and cold wax workshop with Margaret Bird £85, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
Saturdays 10am
Tuesday 8 July 10am –12.30pm
Wednesday 9 July 11am – 12pm
Thursday 10 July
6.30pm –8.30pm
Saturday 12 July 1pm – 2pm
CASTLE SQUARE
Lincoln Free Walking Tour
Lincoln is a small city with a big history and a great way of experiencing it is on foot. FREE, booking required www.lincolnfreewalkingtour.co.uk
DODDINGTON HALL Dragonfly Tour Fiona McKenna introduces Doddington’s resident dragonflies. £30
www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308
BRANSBY HORSES, LN1 2PH Donkey Tales: Life and Care FREE
www.bransbyhorses.co.uk T 01427 788464
GIANT LINCOLN, DODDINGTON HALL Bike Maintenance Class
Aimed at beginner adults. £15, booking essential www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308
LINCOLN CASTLE Lunchtime Talk: The Greatest Knight
Early English Knighthood and William Marshall, who was known as The Greatest Knight. due to his skill in combat and loyalty to five English monarchs, £5, booking essential www.lincolncastle.com
T 01522 782019
Sunday 13 July 7.30am/8.30am – 5.30pm
Sunday 13 July 11am - 1pm
Tuesday 15 July 1.30pm - 3pm
GIANT LINCOLN, DODDINGTON HALL Tugby Challenge
Long distance cycling challenge. £38, booking essential www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308
HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK
History Walk Learn the history of the park. FREE hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk T 01522 873735
OUR LADY OF LINCOLN CHURCH HALL, LAUGHTON WAY, LN2 2HE Mental Health Challenges in Georgian Lincolnshire A talk by Nigel Horner to Lincoln Bailgate u3a. £2 on-the-door www.lincolnbailgate.u3asite.uk
BRANSBY HORSES, LN1 2PH
Friday 18 July 11am – 12pm
Wednesday 23 July 10.15am –12pm
The Path to Recovery
How the Bransby team transform lives through trust-based training FREE
www.bransbyhorses.co.uk
T 01427 788464
DODDINGTON HALL Butterfly Safari
Guided walk by Dr Ian Paterson, chair of the Lincolnshire branch of Butterfly Conservation. £30
www.doddingtonhall.com
T 01522 694308
Find & Embrace Your Future at Lincoln College
Wednesday 23 July 11am – 12pm BRANSBY HORSES, LN1 2PH Donkey Tales: Life and Care
T 01427 788464
Thursday 31 July 2pm – 3pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Parklife: Lincoln Arboretum, Boultham Park & Temple Gardens
An illustrated talk by Andrew Walker. FREE, booking essential via email lincoln_library@gll.org T 01522 782010
Friday 1 August 11am – 12pm
Saturday 2 August 11.30am & 1.30pm
BRANSBY HORSES, LN1 2PH On the Road to Rehoming Preparing for the perfect partnership scheme and the next steps.
FREE
www.bransbyhorses.co.uk T 01427 788464
USHER GALLERY Roman Posterngate Tours Venture below the streets on Lincoln to discover remains of Roman Lindum Colonia.
£7, u5s FREE, booking essential www.lincolnmuseum.com 01522 782040
Saturday 9 August 2pm
Thursday 14 August 3pm
Wednesday 6 August 11am – 12pm
Saturday 9 August 1pm – 2pm
BRANSBY HORSES, LN1 2PH Donkey Tales: Life and Care
FREE
www.bransbyhorses.co.uk T 01427 788464
LINCOLN CASTLE Lunchtime Talk: The Knights Templar with Les Clayton
The brotherhood of warrior monks formed during the Crusades. The organisation stretched across most of Europe and into England. Their presence in Lincolnshire was particularly strong, especially in Lincoln.
£5, booking essential www.lincolncastle.com
T 01522 782019
Friday 15 August 11am – 12pm
QUEEN’S PARK COMMUNITY HUB, SOUTH PARK, LINCOLN, LN5 8EW
Nicola Hallam: Let’s talk of graves, worms, and epitaphs.
An exploration of records available relating to death and burials in family history research. Also online via Teams.
Donations of £1 welcome lincolnbranch@lincolnshurefhs.org.uk T 079412 45322 Tracey
WATERSTONES LINCOLN HIGH STREET
Meet Katie Kirby
Author of the Lottie Brooks books.
Child £10 includes Kirby's latest book, booking essential www.waterstones.com/events/me et-katie-kirby-at-waterstoneslincoln/lincoln-high-st T 01522 540011
BRANSBY HORSES, LN1 2PH Sanctuary Stories
The final chapter of the Bransby Horses journey. FREE www.bransbyhorses.co.uk T 01427 788464
Tuesday 19 August 1.30pm - 3pm
OUR LADY OF LINCOLN CHURCH HALL, LAUGHTON WAY, LN2 2HE Summer Social - Bailgate u3a
Learn about the group £2 on-the-door www.lincolnbailgate.u3asite.uk
Until Friday 1 January 2027
Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 10am – 2.30pm
Mondays 10.30am11.30am
HIGH STREET, LINCOLN Murder Mystery Experience
Explore Lincoln with a mobile app as your guide. Trek through town, crack codes and clues to solve the mystery. From £15 per team, 2-6 players www.im-puzzled.co.uk T 077514 02047
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
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Messy Play
Suitable for babies, toddlers and preschool children. FREE www.better.org.uk/library/linco lnshire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Mondays 2pm – 4pm
ST GILES JUBILEE HALLS, LINCOLN, LN2 4EH Cake, Cuppa and Crafts
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
www.better.org.uk/library/lincolns hire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Tuesdays
Term time only 3pm – 4.30pm
Wednesdays 10am – 12pm
Wednesdays 10am – 11.30am
Wednesdays 10am – 12pm
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH, ADDISON DRIVE, LINCOLN, LN2 4LQ Bible Study
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH, ADDISON DRIVE, LINCOLN, LN2 4LQ Community Larder Agency referral required.
CO-OP COMMUNITY HUB, LNER STADIUM, LINCOLN Extra Time Hub
Social sessions for anyone who is near retirement to engage with others, catch up over a cuppa and try different activities each week.
£3 per session www.lincolncityfoundation.com/ extratimehub T 07305 095690
Wednesdays 10am – 11.30am
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH, ADDISON DRIVE, LINCOLN, LN2 4LQ Community Larder Agency referral required.
Wednesdays 10am – 12pm
Wednesdays 10.30am –11.30am
Wednesdays 4.30pm – 6pm
ST FAITH’S CHURCH, CHARLES STREET WEST, LN1 1QP Stay Toasty
A warm, safe space for children, young people and families. Toast, toppings, drinks, activities and games available. FREE www.stfaithslincoln.org.uk
Wednesdays 6.30pm –9.30pm
Thursdays 10am – 11am & 11.30am –12.30pm
TESCO EXTRA, WRAGBY ROAD, LINCOLN TinyTalk Baby Signing Help your child communicate before they can talk with baby signing classes.
www.tinytalk.co.uk T 07928 945286 (Emmalee)
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Thursdays 10.30am –11.30am
Thursdays 10am – 1pm
Connect Over a Cuppa Have a catch-up over a cuppa and a biscuit. (provided). FREE, donations welcome www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshir e/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
THE SALTHOUSE, FREE SCHOOL LANE, LN2 1EY
Love Your Neighbour Café
Meet new people, share a cuppa and cake, and join in with fun activities. FREE www.stswithins.org
Fridays Term Time Only 10.30am –11.30am
Fridays 10am –11.30am
Fridays 10am – 12pm
Fridays 6pm – 8pm
Fridays 8pm – 9.30pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Sensory Baby Rhyme Time Play session for babies and pre-walkers. FREE
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH, ADDISON DRIVE, LINCOLN, LN2 4LQ Community Larder Agency referral required.
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH, LINCOLN, LN2 4LQ Coffee Morning & Free4All
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH, LINCOLN, LN2 4LQ Beavers and Cubs
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH, ADDISON DRIVE, LINCOLN, LN2 4LQ Scouts lyndsey.baggaley@lincoln scouts.org.uk T 07852 128508 (Lyndsey Metson)
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH, ADDISON DRIVE, LINCOLN, LN2 4LQ Coffee Morning & Free4All
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/lincolns hire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
ERMINE LIBRARY AND COMMUNITY HUB
Creative Kids Club
Creative play, storytelling and art. For U11s and their families. FREE, no booking required www.rootedarts.org.uk
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH, ADDISON DRIVE, LINCOLN, LN2 4LQ Boys Brigade T 07702 382319 (Darran Coy) Sun 3 August
First Saturday of the Month 9am – 3pm
CASTLE SQUARE, LINCOLN Lincoln Makers’ Market Hosted by local artists and offering artwork, crafts, homeware and jewellery. FREE entry.
Saturdays 10am 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
Saturdays 10am– 3pm
Saturdays 10am – 1pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Lego Club A place for children to use their imagination with Lego. 4 years and over, plus parents. FREE
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Crafty Saturdays
Suitable for children of all ages. FREE www.better.org.uk/library/lincolns hire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Tuesdays 8, 15, 22 & 29
July 11am
Thursday 10 July 2pm – 4pm
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN Coffee & Care Morning + Bingo
A game of bingo, a hot drink and a natter hosted by the St Katherine’s Care team.. FREE, £4 for 3 games of bingo and the raffle www.southsidelincs.com T 01522 437942
BAILGATE METHODIST CHURCH
HALL, BAILGATE, LINCOLN
Lincoln Flower Club
June Borrowdale arranges flowers with the theme ‘Floral Fusion’. All arrangements will be raffled at the end. £10, annual membership £50 pennyjfoster@yahoo.co.uk
Saturday 12 July –
Sunday 13 July 10am – 5pm
Saturday 12 July 10am –10.45am
Saturday 12 July 10am – 4pm
LINCOLN CASTLE Dog Friendly Days
Explore the castle with your four-legged friends. From FREE www.lincolncastle.com T 01522 782019
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Early Talkers Session for 0-5-year-olds led by Early Years Alliance. Supporting children to become confident communicators. FREE
CASTLE SQUARE
Lincoln Antiques Market
Browse antiques, arts and collectables. FREE www.facebook.com/people/Castle -Square-Antiques-Market-Lincoln
Saturday 12 July from 11am
Saturday 12 July
1.30pm –3.30pm
Saturday 12 July 5pm
Sunday 13 July 10 - 12pm
BRAYFORD WATERFRONT, LINCOLN Dragon Boat Race Festival
Thrill of the races in Chinese long boats on the water with stalls, games and activities for the whole family on land. FREE to attend www.ringroselaw.co.uk/about/ lincoln-dragon-boat-race T 07984 570479 (Alex)
WHISBY NATURE PARK, LN6 9BW Dragonfly Day Event Activities and crafts for families. FREE www.lincstrust.org.uk
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN Southside Social
Get together with friends for a beer and a bite to eat. FREE entry www.southsidelincs.com T 01522 437942
HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK Lincoln Repair Café
Bring your broken items back to life. If you have fixing skills to share, get in touch. FREE www.facebook.com/Lincolnrep aircafeUK
Friday 18 July 10am to 11am
Saturday 19 July 9am – 3pm
Saturday 19 July –Sunday 20 July 10am – 5pm
Saturday 19 July 11am – 1pm
HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK Toddler Time
Dress to get messy for seasonal activities for under 5s. Child £4 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk T 01522 873735
CASTLE SQUARE, LINCOLN Lincoln Farmers’ Market Browse fresh, local produce. FREE entry
LINCOLN CASTLE 1940s Festival
Family-friendly vintage activities and performers. FREE grounds access, other admissions apply www.lincolncastle.com T 01522 782019
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, Adults Clothes Swap Lincoln Sustainable Fashion Forum - Bring up to 5 preloved items of clothing, shoes or accessories to swap for newto-you pieces reducing waste. FREE, more details online www.instagram.com/lincoln sustainablefashion
Thursday 24 July 10.30am –11.30am
Thursday 24 July 1pm - 2.30pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Summer Reading Challenge Activity –Nature Week
Help create a nature collage on the Activity Room wall. FREE www.better.org.uk/library/lincol nshire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK Bug Hunt
Get up close and personal with some seriously creepy creatures!
Child £4, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk T 01522 873735
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Friday 25 July
Various times
The Detective Dog Tiny & Tall Productions bring Julia Donaldson and Sara Ogilvie’s story to the stage. FREE, booking required www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk 01522 837600
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Friday 25 July 9am
Family Fun with Rhubarb Theatre
Bringing classic tales to life. FREE www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk 01522 837600
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Friday 25 July 10am
Amma’s Story Shop
Be transported into a world infused with Ghanaian culture. FREE, booking essential www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk 01522 837600
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Friday 25 July 11am
Pup-petry Play Workshop
Tiny & Tall Productions bring Julia Donaldson and Sara Ogilvie’s story to the stage. FREE, booking essential www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk 01522 837600
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Friday 25 July 12pm
Saturday 19 July
12.45pm – 3pm
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND Race for Life Pretty Muddy
5k muddy obstacle course. Minimum £50 target £22.49, child £12 www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900
Sunday 20 July 10am – 2pm
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND Toy Collectors’ Fair
More than 150 table tops for toy enthusiasts young and old. £3.50, senior £3, accompanied u15s FREE www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900
HOPE WOOD, LN6 7SW
Friday 25 July 12pm
Author Reading: Luke Temple FREE www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk 01522 837600
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Mini Maestro’s Workshop Guided by composer Ewan East. Suitable for ages 5+ FREE, booking essential. www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk 01522 837600
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Friday 25 July 1.30pm –2.30pm
Storytelling with Under the Bed Theatre A collection of wayfaring tales. FREE
www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk 01522 837600
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Sunday 13 July 11am – 3pm
MONKS ABBEY PLAY AREA, LN2 5JX East Alive: Monks Abbey Bowls Club
Creative community event with activities and performances. FREE
Thursday 24 July 10am - 11.30am
Butterfly Bonanza
Find out about butterflies and take part in the Big Butterfly Count 2025. Child £4, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk
Friday 25 July 2pm
Draw Your Own Dog
Join Lincoln illustrator Vicky for a fun-filled workshop. Suitable for children aged 5-8. FREE, booking required www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk 01522 837600
July 2025 | Lincoln Independent
Saturday 26 July 10am –10.45am
Tuesday 29 July
10.30am12.30pm & 1.30pm3.30pm
Wednesday 30 July 10am –11.30am
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Early Talkers Session for 0-5-year-olds led by Early Years Alliance. Supporting children to become confident communicators. FREE
www.better.org.uk/library/lincolns hire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK
Den Building
Build a shelter which could protect you from the wind and rain.
Child £4, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk T 01522 873735
HOPE WOOD, LN6 7SW
Bug Hunt
Get up close and personal with some seriously creepy creatures!
Child £4, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk T 01522 873735
HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK
Wednesday 30 July
1pm – 2.30pm
Wednesday 30 July
5.30pm – 9pm
Butterfly Bonanza
Find out about butterflies and take part in the Big Butterfly Count 2025. Child £4, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk T 01522 873735
LINCOLN CASTLE Wind in the Willows: Outdoor Theatre
Immersion Theatre brings Toad and his friends to life. £17.50, conc. £16.50, child £9.50, u3s FREE www.lincolncastle.com T 01522 782019
Thursday 31 July 10.30am –11.30am
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Summer Reading Challenge Activity – Sun Week
Create your own suncatcher. FREE www.better.org.uk/library/lincol nshire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Tuesday 5 August 1pm – 2.30pm
Tuesdays
5 & 12 August 11am
WHISBY NATURE PARK, LN6 9BW
Wild Whisby Summer: Swifts and Sparrows Activities and crafts for families. Child £5, accompanying adults
FREE
www.lincstrust.org.uk
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN
Coffee & Care Morning + Bingo
A game of bingo, a hot drink and a natter hosted by the St Katherine’s Care team.. FREE, £4 for 3 games of bingo and the raffle
www.southsidelincs.com T 01522 437942
Wednesday 6 August 12pm – 4pm
HILLSIDE GARDEN, OFF ROMAN PAVEMENT, LINCOLN Family Fun Day Activities, food and more.
FREE
www.greensynergy.org.uk T 01522 533077
Saturday 9 August 10am – 4pm
Thursday 14 August 10.30am –11.30am
CASTLE SQUARE
Lincoln Antiques Market
Browse antiques, arts and collectables.
FREE
www.facebook.com/people/Castle -Square-Antiques-Market-Lincoln
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Summer Reading Challenge Activity –Garden Week
Make a fairy or pixie plant pot. FREE
www.better.org.uk/library/lincolns hire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Friday 15 August 10am – 12pm
WHISBY NATURE PARK, LN6 9BW Wild Whisby Summer: Butterflies
Activities and crafts for families. Child £5, accompanying adults FREE www.lincstrust.org.uk
Friday 15 August 10.30am –11.30am
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Special Sensory Play Holiday Session Play session for babies and prewalkers.
FREE www.better.org.uk/library/lincolns hire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
16 August 9am – 3pm
Saturday 16 August 11am – 1pm
CASTLE SQUARE, LINCOLN Lincoln Farmers’ Market Browse fresh, local produce. FREE entry
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, Adults Clothes Swap
Lincoln Sustainable Fashion Forum - Bring up to 5 preloved items of clothing, shoes or accessories to swap for new-toyou pieces reducing waste. FREE, more details online www.instagram.com/lincoln sustainablefashion
Thursday 7 August 10.30am –11.30am
Saturday 2 August 10am – 1pm
THE FERRY BOAT INN, WASHINGBOROUGH, LN4 1AZ Farmers’ Market Support businesses while picking up some fresh produce and handmade goods. www.ferryboatwashingborough co.uk
Saturday 2 August –Sunday 3 August 10am – 5pm
Sunday 3 August 10am – 4pm
LINCOLN CASTLE Medieval Joust Witness brave knights compete against each other. Included as part of Castle Day ticket
www.lincolncastle.com T 01522 782019
CASTLE SQUARE Lincoln Antiques Market Browse antiques, arts and collectables. FREE
www.facebook.com/people/Castle -Square-Antiques-Market-Lincoln
Thursday 7 August 7.30pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Summer Reading Challenge Activity –Nature Week Help create a nature collage on the Activity Room wall.
FREE www.better.org.uk/library/lincolns hire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
GRANDSTAND, CARHOLME ROAD, LINCOLN Lincoln WI Social Event Walk from the Grandstand to the Pyewipe for a casual social event.
FREE www.thelincolnwi.co.uk
Wednesday 8 August 9am – 4pm
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND Arthur Swallow Antiques & Home Show
From £5
www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900
Saturday 9 August –Sunday 10 August 10am – 5pm
LINCOLN CASTLE Dog Friendly Days Explore the castle with your dog. From FREE www.lincolncastle.com
We know people from Lincoln and way beyond find our What’s On Guide helps them get the best of what Lincoln has to offer.
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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
Monday –Sunday Flexible times
ADRIAN DIXON FITNESS STUDIO, LINCOLN Reformer Pilates One to One
Improve posture, core strength and flexibility with personalised Reformer Pilates sessions. Adult £50 adriandixonfitness.com T 07940 400549
Mondays 10am –11.30am
BRACEBRIDGE HEATH VILLAGE HALL, LINCOLN Extra Time Hub
Multi-sport session aimed at helping people to stay fit and active in their retirement. £2 per session
www.lincolncityfoundation.com/ extratimehub T 07843 841997
Mondays 10.30am
Mondays 12.45pm
WHISBY NATURE PARK Whisby Visually Impaired Walk
Meet Natural World Centre. FREE
CLIFF HOUSE MEDICAL PRACTICE, BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN. Wellbeing Walk Walk to Castle Square for 1pm. FREE
Mondays 1pm BLACK BULL, WELTON. Wellbeing Walk FREE
Mondays first & third of the month 1.30pm
THE ARK, NORTH HYKEHAM Music For Memory Singing group for people with memory problems with their carers. Free parking and refreshments included. Donation of £1.50 welcome lhoenes@virginmedia.com T 01522 262656 (Linda)
Mondays 4pm – 8pm
Mondays 4.30pm –5.30pm
ST JOHN’S CHURCH, SUDBROOKE DRIVE, ERMINE, LN2 2EF Night Light Café
A safe space and a listening ear for anyone who is finding life difficult. FREE nightlight@actstrust.org.uk T 0300 011 1200
MOORLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE Moorland Youth Dance
Led by Amy O’Sullivan, expect a fun and energetic class suitable for ages 8 and up. FREE, young people must have consent to attend www.rootedarts.org.uk
Mondays 6.30pm –7.30pm
Mondays 7pm – 8pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN
Mind & Body Yoga
Start your week right with Emily for a 60-minute yoga class for the mind & body.. £8, book online www.emilywarrioryoga.com
BURTON ROAD METHODIST
CHURCH
RockFit
Classes combining dance fitness, cardio and toning with metal and rock music. Suitable for all .
£6
Facebook: RockFit with Loli www.rockfit.org.uk
Mondays Except Bank Holidays 7pm
Mondays 8pm – 11pm
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
BRIDGE CENTRAL, PORTLAND STREET Night Light Café
A safe space and a listening ear for anyone finding life difficult.
FREE
nightlight@actstrust.org.uk T 0300 011 1200
Tuesdays 1pm
Second Tuesday of the month 2pm
Tuesdays 4pm – 8pm
Tuesdays 7.30pm8.30pm
Wednesdays (2nd of every month)
Wednesdays 10am –11.30am
COMMUNITY HUB, EAST STREET, NETTLEHAM, LN2 2SL Wellbeing Walk
Suitable for all abilities. FREE
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE, CASTLE SQUARE The Historical Lincoln Wellbeing Walk Will include key information on Lincoln’s ancient past. FREE
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH, ADDISON DRIVE, LN2 4LH Night Light Café FREE nightlight@actstrust.org.uk T 0300 011 1200
DEAN’S LEISURE, LINCOLN COLLEGE Ultimate Frisbee Find out more https://linktr.ee/lincoln.ultimate
BOULTHAM PARK HOUSE CARE HOME, ROOKERY LANE, LINCOLN Boultham Sensory Stroll Meet at the back gate next to the park.
TESCO EXTRA COMMUNITY ROOM, WRAGBY ROAD, LINCOLN Gentle Hatha Yoga with Sam Equipment provided. £7, booking essential, subsidised places available www.peaceplacepeople.simply book.it
Wednesdays 1pm
Wednesdays 4pm – 11pm
First Wednesday of every Month 6.30pm –8pm
HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK Wellbeing Walk Meet outside Rangers’ office. FREE
BAILGATE METHODIST CHURCH Night Light Café FREE nightlight@actstrust.org.uk
T 0300 011 1200
CO-OP COMMUNITY HUB, LNER STADIUM, LINCOLN, LN5 8LD Let’s Talk
Peer-to-peer support group for men and women age 18+ providing a safe place to talk. FREE, no booking required, just turn up www.lincolncityfoundation.com
Wednesdays 7pm SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN RockFit
Classes combining dance fitness with metal and rock music.
Tuesdays 10am – 11.30am
SKELLINGTHORPE SCOUTS HUT, LINCOLN Extra Time Hub
Multi-sport session aimed at helping people to stay fit and active in their retirement. Inclusive to all levels of fitness and skill £2 per session www.lincolncityfoundation.com/ext ra timehub T 07305 095690
£6
Facebook: RockFit with Loli www.rockfit.org.uk
Wednesdays 7pm – 8pm LNER STADIUM, LINCOLN, LN5 8LD Team Talk Football
Opportunity for men to come together and have a kick about after work. No studded boots. £3 www.lincolncityfoundation.com
Mondays 6.15pm –7.15pm
USHER GALLERY Yoga Hatha Flow
With BWY Yoga Guide, Amanda Greenwood. £7, please bring your own mat and blanket www.lincolnmuseum.com
T 01522 782040
Tuesdays 10.45am
YARBOROUGH LEISURE CENTRE, RISEHOLME ROAD, LINCOLN, Wellbeing Walk - Uphill Lincoln Meet in foyer.
FREE www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbein g-walks
Wednesdays 7pm –8.30pm
LNER STADIUM 3G, LINCOLN, LN5 8LD Women’s Walking Football
For everyone who wants to play football for longer, make new friends, and stay active. Sessions are coach-led. £3, 18+ only www.lincolncityfoundation.com
Please note - contact details missing from well-being walks are the same
Wednesdays 8pm
BIRCHWOOD BOILER HOUSE COMMUNITY HALL
Hapkido
Korean martial art of self-defence, fitness, relaxation, selfconfidence, traditional teaching.
£5
www.birchwood-communityhall.co.uk T 01522 730312
Thursdays 9am-10am
THE BLUE ROOM, THE LAWN, LINCOLN Dance Fit with Nick A fun fitness class for all ability levels.
£5, all proceeds go to Ovarian Cancer Action.
www.lawnlincoln.com T 01522 523548
Thursdays 10am ROSIE LEA’S CAFÉ, CHERRY WILLINGHAM, LN3 4JL Wellbeing Walk Suitable for all abilities. FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks. 01522 444632
Thursdays 10am
Thursdays (1st and 3rd of the month) 10am
Thursdays (1st and 3rd of the month) 10am
Thursdays 10am – 11am & 6pm – 7pm
VILLAGE HALL, MERE ROAD, WADDINGTON, LN5 9NX Wellbeing Walk Suitable for all abilities. FREE
PENNELLS GARDEN CENTRE, SOUTH HYKEHAM, LN6 9NT Wellbeing Walk Suitable for all abilities. FREE
VILLAGE HALL, BRANSTON, LN4 1NS Wellbeing Walk Suitable for all abilities. FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
LNER STADIUM 3G, LINCOLN, LN5 8LD Men’s Walking Football For everyone who wants to play football for longer, make new friends, and stay active. Sessions are coach-led.
£3, 18+ only www.lincolncityfoundation.com T 07305 095690
Thursdays 11am COMMUNITY CENTRE CAR PARK, LINCOLN ROAD, SKELLINGTHORPE, Wellbeing Walk Suitable for all abilities. FREE
Thursday (1st of the month) 12pm
Thursdays 12pm – 1pm
Thursdays - fourth of the month 1pm – 3pm
BAILGATE METHODIST CHURCH
Bailgate Buddies Dementia Café
A cuppa and company. Donations appreciated towards refreshments.
T 07825 855209 (Trisha)
Thursdays - fourth of the month 2pm – 4pm
COMMUNITY ROOM, TESCO EXTRA, WRAGBY ROAD, LINCOLN Lincoln Stroke Support Group
Support for stroke survivors, their families and caregivers.
T 07940 500540 (Jan) T 07796 103407 (Kathy) T 07889 968583 (Sue)
Thursdays 4pm – 11pm
Thursdays 7.30pm – 9pm
BREAKTHROUGH CENTRE, BOULTHAM PARK ROAD, LN6 7ST Night Light Café
A safe space and a listening ear. FREE
nightlight@actstrust.org.uk
T 0300 011 1200
CUSTOM FITNESS GYM, DEAN ROAD, LINCOLN Hatha Yoga with Sam Easeful 90-minute class including breath practice and relaxation. Equipment provided. £10, booking essential, subsidised places available www.peaceplacepeople.simplybook.it
Fridays 10.30am
WHISBY NATURE PARK
Wellbeing Walk
Suitable for all abilities. FREE www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
LEISURE CENTRE, BIRCHWOOD
Fridays 1pm
Fridays 4pm – 8pm
Saturdays 9am
Wellbeing Walk Suitable for all abilities. FREE
ENERGIZE YOUTH CENTRE, LARCHWOOD CRES, BIRCHWOOD Night Light Café
A safe space and a listening ear. FREE nightlight@actstrust.org.uk T 0300 011 1200
BAILGATE METHODIST CHURCH HALL
Bailgate Yoga Club
Gentle one-hour flow yoga class led by Elisabeth of Moksha Yoga. All levels welcome, mats available for use.
£8, Conc. £6.50, must book www.mokshalincoln.com T 07493 387328
Saturdays 9am – 10am
LNER STADIUM 3G, LINCOLN, LN5 8LD Women’s Walking Football
For everyone who wants to play football for longer, make new friends, and stay active. Sessions are coach-led.
£3, 18+ only www.lincolncityfoundation.com
T 07736 900343
Saturdays 10am
BIRCHWOOD BOILER HOUSE COMMUNITY HALL
Moving Meditation/ Mindfulness
Combines the benefits of yoga, Tai Chi, and Zen.
£5, www.birchwood-communityhall.co.uk
Saturdays 8pm – 11pm
THE SALTHOUSE, FREE SCHOOL LANE, LINCOLN, LN2 1EY Night Light Café
A safe space and a listening ear. FREE nightlight@actstrust.org.uk
T 0300 011 1200
Sundays 10am – 11am
THE ABORETUM, LINCOLN Ultimate Frisbee
NETTLEHAM VILLAGE HALL, BROOKFIELD AVENUE, LN2 2SS Nettleham Sensory Stroll Suitable for all abilities. FREE
LNER STADIUM, LINCOLN, LN5 8LD Team Talk Football
Opportunity for men to come together and have a kick about after work. No studded boots. £2, booking not required www.lincolncityfoundation.com
Thursdays 12.30pm –2pm
AGE UK, 36 PARK STREET, LINCOLN, Bring Me Sunshine Dementia-friendly singing group,. Cuppas and cakes included. £3.50, must be accompanied by a carer or loved one
T 03455 564 144
Fridays Until 29 August 8am – 9am
DODDINGTON HALL Yoga on the Lawn Outdoor sessions suitable for all skill levels. Wear layers and bring yoga mat and blanket. £8 www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308
Fridays 10am 12 MINT LANE, LINCOLN, LN1 1UD Mint Lane Gardening Club Help to renovate the Mint Lane garden, learn about and discuss permaculture . FREE
mintlanecic@gmail.com www.mintlanecafe.com
Fridays 10am –11.30am
THE YMCA SHOWROOM, Gentle Hatha Yoga Equipment provided. £10, subsidised places available, booking essential www.peaceplacepeople.simplybook.it
Sundays 3.30pm –5pm
Discover and play – new members (beginners and experienced) welcome . Find out more https://linktr.ee/lincoln.ultimate
CUSTOM FITNESS GYM, DEAN ROAD, LINCOLN Hatha Yoga with Sam Easeful 90-minute class including breath practice and relaxation. Equipment provided. £10, subsidised places available, booking essential www.peaceplacepeople simplybook.it
Alternate Sundays 6pm – 9pm
ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST CHURCH, BRACEBRIDGE HEATH, LN4 2LD Night Light Café
A safe space and a listening ear. FREE nightlight@actstrust.org.uk
T 0300 011 1200
Tuesday 8 July 12.30pm
Wednesday 9 July 7pm –8.30pm
Saturday 12 & 26 July 10am
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL
The Mindful Mile Join Vic from Green Synergy to explore how nature can reconnect us to a greater sense of ease. FREE www.lincolncathedral.com
ONLINE VIA ZOOM Lincoln Action for Happiness Group FREE www.actionforhappiness.org/groups/ lincoln-0
HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK WOODLAND, LINCOLN Dance Free in the Woods (Silent Disco) Free-movement dance in nature with uplifting through to calm beats.
FREE to residents of Birchwood, Hartsholme and Doddington Park www.wedancefree.com T 0771 9505844
Wednesday 16 July
Sundays 20 July & 3 August 10am –
Wednesday 23 July 6.30pm
Fridays 25 July & 12 August
Tuesdays 29 July & 8 August 10am – 2pm
DODDINGTON HALL Wilder Safari Guided walk exploring Doddington’s rewilding project. £30
www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308
SOUTH COMMON, LINCOLN Dance Free at Sunset Pay what you can www.wedancefree.com T 0771 9505844
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Imagination Gaming Summer Holiday Health Activities Sessions include games and a healthy lunch.
FREE for all school aged children and young people entitled to free school meals or have special educational needs or disabilities interest@imaginationgaming.co.uk T 07943 682456
Rob charts fans’ imp-act
HAVING been elected on to the board of Lincoln City FC twice Rob Bradley is in the unique position to give readers a behind-the-scenes look at how a football club is run.
As he explains his two experiences were very different but both chart the evolution of the Imps and the involvement of fans in the running of the gameulitmately leading to the Football Governance Bill currently going through Parliament.
Imposter is available from Lindum Books on Bailgate, Waterstones and online through Amazon.
REVIEW BY ROB WHITE
LONG-STANDING IMPS SEASON TICKET HOLDER
“PROJECTED expenditure exceeds forecast income each season”.
The above is a quote from Rob Bradley’s book, Imposter, and it underlines the serious pressure facing many football clubs. It particularly applies to those in the lower echelons of the English Football League, and the author’s (with management colleagues) somewhat arduous and occasionally highly challenging journey toward establishing club success and stability.
Imposter is a comprehensive account of Rob’s experiences over a lifetime as a Lincoln City (The Imps) fan, and particularly the past 25 years as a Fan Elected Director, Board Member, and Chairman of the club.
These experiences have ranged from the depth-plumbing despair of almost going out of business, to the incredible highs of championships, FA Cup runs, and Wembley appearances.
The book’s cleverly chosen title alludes to the conundrum which faced Rob as a true
Wednesday 6 August 7pm
Tuesday 12 August 12.30pm
SKELLINGTHORPE WOOD
Walk: Skellingthorpe Wood Hosted by Gainsborough Area Group and The Woodland Trust. £20
FREE
www.lincstrust.org.uk
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL The Mindful Mile Join Alexandra Foxley Wood as you explore the joys of urban wildlife watching.
FREE
www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
Wednesday 13 August 7pm – 8.30pm
ONLINE VIA ZOOM Lincoln Action for Happiness Group A friendly monthly group for adults to learn about the 10 Keys to Happier Living and connect with others.
FREE
www.actionforhappiness.org/groups/ lincoln-0
Imps fan set against his honest self assessment of his ability to deliver a position which might be viewed as “beyond his comfort zone”. Rob is consistently self-effacing throughout the book in respect of his own perceived status in relation to the lofty Imps management roles he has delivered over a long period, although it soon becomes clear to the reader that he has a wealth of business experience to draw upon to assist.
There are many heart-warming and humorous examples of the “ordinary bloke” in the club chairman role (among others), none more so than the book’s opening passage which sets out Rob’s ‘regular fan reaction’ to a questionable refereeing decision, an aberration which provided a steep learning curve. Imposter is very neatly structured, based on a full Imps’ season (2023-24), which is presented on a month-by-month basis, highlighting memorable moments which are sure to resonate with Imps fans. In-between each month’s account the reader is provided with a short profile of a character which Rob considers has positively impacted the club’s fortunes in
one way or another over the years – several interesting surprises appear in these sections.
And throughout the whole book the reader is occasionally taken on excursions back in time across 25 years of turbulent difficulties while also recounting many examples of what most Imps fans will remember as extremely special moments. This book will carry significant appeal to Imps fans everywhere. Potentially its resonance might be greatest among a certain age group (i.e. those such as myself that have been watching the team for a very long time) but younger readers will also enjoy the book, as will football fans in general and even Lincoln residents without a particular passion for football, but with a general local interest in the city. And, who knows, it might even inspire an interest from potential future communitybased club ‘influencers’.
Me and Monty muddling along
I AM watching Monty Don plant out his annuals.
He’s very popular, isn’t he, particularly with ladies of a certain age? He’s not my cup of tea, but I enjoy his garden. It’s big, of course and when you have a big space you can try different things out; you can have areas dedicated to one style. In my ordinary, one-size-fits-all garden I just have to cram everything in together.
Even though Monty has lots of gardens of differing styles none of them, except the veg patch, look particularly together; they all look like mine, quite ordinary and a bit messy.
There are some people though who seem to be able, (and we see this when there are gardens featured on gardening programmes) to put plants together in a way that can only be described as creative, somehow perfect.
Geoff Hamilton was a gardener who could create something very satisfying. I can’t do this and neither can Monty. I think it’s this that makes me warm to him. He’s just like me.
One of my biggest bugbears with Monty is the fact that he changes something huge every year. This is sometimes because of a disaster, like a flood or a disease, but he seems to drastically alter some area or another year on year. Who can afford to do this? I ring the changes with annuals and there are times when I move things about, but generally things have to stay put.
I do think Monty is actually learning on the job. It’s taken me years to create a garden that looks more or less together but there are many places and plant combinations that just don’t work, like my fabulous peony backed by a huge and lovely grass. Both beautiful plants but they don’t enhance each other the slightest bit. One needs moving and I will probably bung it in somewhere totally unsuitable. It’s very tricky when your creative side is limited. Nevertheless, both Monty and I are doing something right. We both share our gardens with the wildlife and that counts for a lot in my book.
Heroic or villainous stories in 50 words
IT’S goodies against baddies when Lincoln Book Festival’s popular Flash Fiction competition returns for 2025.
The festival’s annual creative writing contest invites budding authors to produce their own ultra short stories of exactly 50 words - no more, no less - on a given theme or genre. This year’s theme is Heroes and Villains drawing inspiration from milestones in British history and literature.
This year people across Great Britain celebrate the heroism of the men and women who fought for our freedom during World War Two, marking 80 years since VE Day. And 2025 also sees the 250th anniversary of the birth of Jane Austen, herself a heroine of women’s writing and author of some of literature’s most memorable protagonists.
Prizes of £30 in book vouchers are up for grabs for the best short story (as selected by a panel of judges) submitted to the Lincoln Book Festival Flash Fiction Competition 2025 by writers in three age categories. Winners and highly commended runners-up will also have their stories published on the festival website with the opportunity to read them aloud to audiences during this year’s festival in October.
School classes in particular are encouraged to take part and resources can be offered for teachers to help set the creative writing challenge for pupils of different ages and abilities. The schools with the winning author in the primary and secondary age categories will receive £50 book tokens, in addition to the winner’s individual prize. Authors are free to interpret the theme as broadly as they wish.
Ian Richards from Lincoln Book Festival said: “Some of the greatest stories ever written derive their depth and drama from the moral choices of their characters; readers remember the most heinous baddies and the virtuous underdogs as much as the narrative itself. The challenge in our flash fiction competition is to tell your own evocative story in just 50 words, so make every word matter!”
Lincoln Book Festival 2025 takes place over four days from Thursday, October 2 to Sunday, October 5 - see future Indies for details.
More information on the Lincoln Book Festival Flash Fiction Competition 2025, including entry forms and Terms and Conditions, can be found in the book festival website at www.lincolnbookfestival.org.
Lord of the skies
AMID the hubbub of the Lincolnshire Show I found a moment of calm sitting in the shade of trees and looking out over the pond.
Beyond the pond was the Countryside Ring, the announcer was speaking to an enthralled crowd, but my attention was elsewhere as above the water an emperor dragonfly was patrolling his territory. I could identify him as a male from the vibrant mix of sky blue and apple green and black marks along the abdomen (females are green with the black marks). When he flew close, I could hear the buzz of his wings.
As the name suggests, emperor dragonflies are impressively large, the largest individuals can be over 8cm long. And they are fast. Their cruising speed might be around 10 miles per hour but in acceleration, they can reach over 20 miles per hour.
Match this with exceptional agility thanks to their ability to operate each of their four wings independently which allows them to dart off in any direction and make rapid alterations to their flight path and they are formidable.
It may have been calm for me watching the dragonfly but for other insects in the vicinity, this was a drama to rival those on the Serengeti that we watch on TV natural history programmes.
Like other dragonflies, emperors actively hunt and chase down their prey - catching other insects in flight with their legs, then eating them without even landing.
And the emperors, they reign supreme. They’ll fly high in pursuit of prey and will even take other dragonflies and butterflies. When they’re not chasing prey, the males are still on the go and rarely settle. They’ll aggressively chase intruders away and may engage in aerial ‘dog fights’ with rival males.
Dragonflies spend significantly more time living underwater as juveniles or nymphs than as the airborne adults that we see. Like their parents these aquatic nymphs are formidable hunters grabbing their prey
with their extendable jaws.
It’s like a scene from the film Alien and it’s not just their feeding techniques that are alien-like. At the end of the aquatic stage of their lives, the dragonfly crawls out of the water and clings to a plant stem. It’s exoskeleton cracks open releasing the adult dragonfly which crawls out and unfolds its new wings. It has transformed from an underwater terror to a super-efficient flying machine. Look on reeds and other tall pond plants, and you might see the discarded skin still clinging to the stem (centre column).
The emperor is one species of 23 species of dragonfly that are resident in the UK. In addition, there are 17 species of damselfly. Damselflies are the smaller cousins of dragonflies. They are also predators of small insects but pick their prey off vegetation rather than chasing them down in flight. With long, slender bodies, they look more delicate than dragonflies.
There are very few places where you don’t stand a chance of seeing a dragonfly or damselfly. Several species travel a long way away from water, to feed in gardens, fields and woodland edges. But one of the best places in Lincolnshire is Whisby Nature Park. It’s so good, it has been designated a Dragonfly Hotspot by the British Dragonfly Society.
After my calming break, I headed back to the busy Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust stand knowing that the emperor dragonfly would continue patrolling his pond, chasing away rivals and feasting on his prey.
Pictures: Ross Hoddinott 2020VISION
Showroom Address
The Stables, 11 Lincoln Road, Welton, LN2 3HZ
sales@ignitestoves.com
www.ignitestoves.com
01673 274005
he Bottom Line.
Beyond the balance sheet
The expanding role of today’s Finance Director
THE role of the Finance Director or finance lead continues to evolve rapidly.
As businesses face a perfect storm of geopolitical disruption, digital transformation, cyber threats and rising costs, finance leaders are stepping far beyond the boundaries of traditional reporting and compliance.
Their remit now spans strategic insight, risk management and operational leadership.
New US trade tariffs: time to reassess your exposure
With Donald Trump now back in the White House and new US trade tariffs already announced, UK businesses, particularly those with US-facing supply chains or export markets, are being forced to re-evaluate their international exposure.
For Finance Directors, this means quickly modelling cost increases, understanding margin pressures and scenarioplanning the wider impact on pricing, procurement and revenue.
Currency volatility and logistics disruption may also follow, requiring strong financial resilience and flexible forecasting.
Cyber threats and ransomware: more than an IT issue
Ransomware attacks and data breaches are becoming more frequent, more sophisticated and more financially damaging. Increasingly, finance teams themselves are being targeted by cybercriminals through invoice fraud, phishing and social engineering.
Cyber risk has become a board-level issue, with Finance Directors playing a critical role in response planning, fraud controls and cyber insurance decisions. As the threat landscape intensifies, financial oversight and resilience planning must keep pace.
AI in finance: driving automation and deeper insight
Finance functions are rapidly adopting AI technologies to streamline processes, detect anomalies and provide richer, realtime insight. AI is being used for everything from invoice matching and expense processing to predictive forecasting and reporting. For finance leads, this shift offers a chance to free up time for value-added work while also introducing new responsibilities around data governance, integration and ethical use. The ability to harness AI effectively will increasingly separate progressive finance functions from reactive ones.
Rising employment costs and tax changes
The increase in Employers’ National Insurance contributions adds further pressure to cost bases already stretched by inflation, wage expectations and economic uncertainty. For finance teams, this means reviewing workforce models, optimising payroll strategies and ensuring compliance with evolving HMRC regulations. There’s a growing need to balance cost control with talent retention and investment in growth areas.
The expanding finance leadership remit
Finance Directors today are expected to lead far beyond the finance department. Studies from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and others show that finance leaders are now increasingly responsible for areas like IT strategy, Environmenal , Social and Governance (ESG) reporting, operational risk and even HR and legal oversight. They are trusted advisers to business owners and boards shaping strategy, influencing transformation and helping drive longterm performance.
Supporting strategic finance leadership
The finance function is no longer just about compliance it’s about enabling better decisions, safeguarding the business, and identifying opportunity amidst complexity. For many organisations without a formal CFO, the Finance Director is stepping into that strategic leadership space.
At Streets, we work with Finance Directors to support them through every stage from audit and tax planning to risk management, digital transformation and growth. Our aim is to help finance leaders confidently meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s challenges.
An estate planning checklist
BY SHANNEECE EYRE, SOLICITOR IN WILLS, ESTATES & TAX PLANNING, WILKIN CHAPMAN ROLLITS
WITH just 44% of UK adults having made a Will, and two-fifths not even discussing their post-death wishes, many families face grief, confusion and disputes without guidance.
At the same time, the UK’s Inheritance Tax (IHT) burden is growing, and overall taxation is at a 70-year high.
- what you need to consider
In this climate estate planning is more important than ever.
A professionally drafted Will is the foundation of any estate plan. It sets out your intentions clearly, helps prevent disputes, and ensures your estate is distributed according to your wishes.
Choose executors carefully
Your executors are the people who will carry out your wishes, so they must be capable and impartial.
This is especially important where family relationships are sensitive. In some cases, appointing a professional executor can reduce stress, save money and avoid conflict during an already difficult time.
Estate planning goes beyond a Will
You should assess how IHT could impact your estate. Rising house prices and savings often push estates over the threshold.
Tools such as lifetime gifts, trusts or exemptions can reduce this burden, but only if used correctly and early.
Don't overlook digital assets
Executors now need access to much more than paper documents. From online banking to digital photo archives, keeping a secure list of key accounts and login details is essential.
Set up LPAs early
Only 14% of Brits have a lasting power of attorney (LPA) in place.
If you lose mental capacity, decisions on your health and finances can be delayed or disputed without one. LPAs must be arranged while you are still of sound mind.
Funeral wishes
Finally, document your funeral wishes and sentimental preferences. While not legally binding, they offer comfort and clarity to your loved ones.
Speak to Wilkin Chapman Rollits’ estate planning experts. Contact me on 01522 515954 or email shanneece.eyre@wcrlaw.co.uk.
Con
Immigration reform
THE UK government’s new immigration reforms mark a pivotal shift – one that every business leader, HR professional and education provider should be taking seriously.
As a business immigration lawyer, I’ve helped employers navigate many policy changes. But the proposals laid out in the government’s ‘Restoring Control Over the Immigration System’ White Paper go further than anything we’ve seen in years. These reforms will reshape how businesses access global talent, and bring increased costs, higher compliance demands and stricter eligibility requirements.
For employers relying on skilled overseas workers the changes are significant. The minimum skill level for visa sponsorship will rise from RQF 3 (A-level equivalent) to RQF 6 (bachelor’s degree and above), shutting out many mid-level roles.
At the same time, salary thresholds are increasing and the immigration skills charge is going up by 32%. If you plan to continue hiring internationally, expect to pay more – and prove more.
There’s also a growing focus on employer accountability.
The government intends to restrict
BY CALUM HANRAHAN, IMMIGRATION LAWYER, SHAKESPEARE MARTINEAU LINCOLN
immigration access to sectors and businesses that aren’t demonstrably investing in domestic training.
A new Labour Market Evidence Group will assess which occupations are eligible for overseas recruitment, with time-limited permissions via a selective temporary shortage occupation list.
In short, relying on migration as a longterm staffing solution is no longer a viable strategy. The government’s message is clear: employers must focus on upskilling local talent and reducing dependency on international hiring. So, what should businesses do now?
• Audit sponsored workers: Know who’s on what visa and when it expires
• Identify opportunities for in-country visa switching or extensions: Act fast –transition windows are limited
• Ensure compliance: Sponsorship duties are under greater scrutiny, with increasing penalties for non-compliance.
• Reassess workforce strategies: Start investing in domestic recruitment and
training to futureproof your business. The same applies to education providers. With tougher student sponsor compliance metrics, shortened graduate visa periods and a proposed levy on international student income, the bar for retaining a sponsor licence is rising. This is not the time for a wait-and-see approach. These reforms signal a new era of workforce planning.
At Shakespeare Martineau, we’re working with employers across sectors to assess risk, maintain compliance and prepare for a more self-reliant future. If your business uses the UK immigration system, the time to act is now.
For more information, visit www.shma.co.uk/forbusiness/employment/businessimmigration-solicitors
