Lincoln Independent June 2024

10,000 copies every month

July 13 - September 15

June 2024

THERE will be a colourful stampede of elephants across Lincoln this summer.

Elmer and his friends have been invited to the city by Lincoln Business Improvement Group to create a Big Art Parade which will be the backdrop for a host of arty and fun activities across the summer.

Created by David McKee for youngsters, the muchloved patchwork Elmer will lead the parade of 12 painted pachyderms representing works by famous artists, such as Monet’s Water Lilies (right hand elephant).

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From page 1.

There will be a trail leaflet available from collection points across the city, with activity pages and competitions.

As well as brightening up the city with installations at 12 locations Elmer and friends will also provide the backdrop to the Summer of Fun – Saturday, July 20, to Saturday, August 31.

This is a programme of activities for children of all ages to meet authors, make Elmer related crafts and much more. Crafty fun will be taking place at Lush, Waterstones, Waterside Centre, Shelf Editions, Lincoln Museum and Central Library.

Sharon Stone, Corporate Manager at Lincoln BIG said: ‘This colourful trail of Elmer and friends will bring fun and laughter to the city and celebrate everything that makes Lincoln so wonderful.

“This is a free outdoor walking trail, which is great for kids and their grown-ups to enjoy across the summer together, with the free activities being run by businesses in the city creating a partnership.”

More events continue to be added, to the schedule so check the Lincoln BIG website (top of page) to download an updated programme from July 15

On Saturday, July 27, Elmer will be visiting the city to take part in the parade and children are invited to take part dressed in their favourite character costume and make an Elmer mask at one of the hubs before parading from the Waterside Centre to Central Library.

There will be prizes for the best costumes and masks in different age groups.

Mary Jane Booth centre manager at the Waterside said Elmer’s arty events were a perfect fit for its offering to youngsters.

“We usually run Kids’ Clubs every Thursday during the school holidays so families are used to coming to the Waterside Centre for activities.

“We also get preschool groups coming in for our free activites, so we’re looking forward to being part of the Summer of Fun. Our events are held between 11am and 3pm and there’s no need to bookjust turn up on the day.”

Lincoln Museum is staging a Summer of Fun Trail from July 23August 31 at £3 per entry, while at Lincoln Central Library there will be a chance to meet children’s author Bethany Walker, creator of Do Lions Hate Haircuts?, Olly Brown, God of Hamsters and Chocolate Milk, X-Ray Specs and Me. Bethany will be running fun craft activities inspired by her books, which will be suitable for all ages. Other author events are in the pipeline so keep an eye on the website, www.lincolnbig.co.uk

See the timetable for the Summer of Fun in the What’s On Section on page 27.

Chartered Certified Accountants

There she blows...again

EXPRESSIONS of disappointment greet me in some quarters when I haven’t used this column to have a rant or ‘get stuck in’.

I’m not keen on cultivating my grumpy old woman rep - it comes too naturally to me and I do believe positivity is a healthier state of mind. However, those who relish my rants are in for a treat this month because - let’s face it - there is much on which to fulminate.

Let’s start with an easy one: the Post Office. I choose it because it will circumnavigate my venting about other vexations including the NHS, bankers, HMRC, latepayers, nonpayers, private pension providers, no shows, incommunicado communications; corporate cannon fodder, corporate survival tactics, and people promoted well beyond their capabilities. Rachel, we’re going to need a bigger magazine!

You can see how Paula Vennells’ car crash testimony to the Horizon Scandal public inquiry leads to a litany about what is wrong with the world today.

The lives ruined while she earned £5.1m; the drive to protect the image of PO Ltd (to manage the media) and the estimated £1.5bn total cost to the taxpayer are beyond scandalous.

Vennells now knows what it feels like to be hung out to dry by the corporation but I doubt there will be much sympathy for this Anglican priest, although many will be asking how on earth she got the job in the first place.

The complete demotion of the second class postal service may pale when compared to Horizon, but not while bodies such as the NHS use it to send out appointments and test results.

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Which noodle decided to continue with this ‘money saver’?

I missed a mammogram on March 8 because notification didn’t arrive. Well it did, but not until March 31. Results sent out on March 29 arrived on May 19, but were postmarked May 14, so where had they been sitting for five days?

The cost of missed appointments and the anguish caused for some surely outweighs the cost difference between first and second class.

It’s a similar story with HMRC - the tax info they send is completely out of date by the time you receive it.

It’s useless before being put in an envelope so the second class missives are prehistoric. Then you face hours of phone calls.

Hold that thought while I tackle an issue that has serious implications for the Ladies of Printlate payments. We won’t be the only ones living on a knife edge because people just will not pay on time. We haven’t been able to pay this quarter’s VAT - I’m sure others have faced even more serious challenges.

At first when the Business Wife called HMRC to ask for a payment plan she was told to sell her car. She got the plan in the end, but she was almost penalised for being upfront.

I looked at taking some of my private pension out to cover the shortfall, but it was going to take six weeks to access my own money - this was because every man and his dog was trying to draw down some pension cash. Now why doesn’t that suprise me?

I obviously could go on as I’ve missed some miscreants. I’ll make it worth the wait.

JUNE ISSUE DEADLINE

Material for our next edition should reach us by June15, 2024. 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.

July issue out from July 2, 2024

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General Electionwill city greet another new face?

THE dust was just settling for Lincoln voters when Rishi Sunak announced that the General Election would be held on Thursday, July 4.

If the form at the ballot box in May’s local elections is an indicator Lincoln will change from blue to red in July.

Labour increased its dominance over City of Lincoln Council by three seats on May 2 taking its total number to 26, with six Conservatives and one Independent.

Among those losing their seats was Birchwood’s Eddie Strengiel who had been a councillor for 30 years, but he is still a member of Conservative controlled Lincolnshire County Council, currently serving as its chairman.

The city council was also celebrating having a new leader in Cllr Naomi Tweddle (above) – only its second woman to head up the controlling party for almost 50 years Lincoln born and raised Cllr Tweddle took over from Ric Metcalfe who stood down after 21 years heading the Executive and 42 years as a councillor.

There’s still a few more weeks until election day so the Independent has asked each of the candidates to submit the message they would like the voters to remember when they head out to vote on July 4.

Those standing are:

Hamish Falconer – Labour Party

Sally Anne Horscroft – Green Party

Craig Marshall – Social Democratic Party

Karl McCartney – Conservative Party

Jamie-Lee McMillan – Reform UK

Linda Richardson – Workers Party of Britain

Clare Smalley – Liberal Democrats

See www.lincolnindependent.co.uk under Community to see what the candidates have to say.

Deadline for registering to vote is June 18 – see https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Remember to take photo ID with you on polling day.

Your code to What’s On

THE Indie’s fantastic What’s On guide (pages 18-24) can be accessed using this QR code. Send to your friends and family so they can discover how much is really happening in Lincoln. Music, art, theatre, family, community and so much more.

WWW.MARTINSMITHOPTICIANS.CO.UK

Law firm expands into major centres

RINGROSE Law has announced the expansion of its regional footprint with the opening of three new offices in Grimsby, Peterborough, and Nottingham.

The move brings the firm’s presence in the region from five to eight offices and marks a notable milestone in its growth.

Ryan Clarke, Managing Director of Ringrose Law said the new offices were a testament to the firm’s ongoing success and its commitment to broadening its reach to serve more individuals and businesses.

“This expansion marks a significant period of growth for Ringrose Law. We are incredibly excited about the opportunities that these new locations will offer us,” said Ryan.

This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and teamwork of everyone at the firm. We look forward to continuing to serve our clients with the same level of excellence and professionalism that has defined our practice.

services and support to more communities. The firm is excited to embark on this new chapter and to continue making a positive impact in the lives of those they serve.”

“For over 100 years, Ringrose Law has been providing a wide range of legal services to individuals and businesses in Lincolnshire. Our expertise encompasses family law, divorce, childcare, personal injury, medical negligence, residential and commercial property transactions, wills and probate, discrimination law, dispute resolution, criminal law, and commercial law.

“Ringrose Law’s expansion in the major regional centres underscores its commitment to providing accessible, quality legal

The expansion has been fuelled by the ongoing growth of the firm’s departments and team and with these new openings

Ringrose Law aims to replicate its successful model of providing a comprehensive range of personal and commercial legal services, catering to both individuals and businesses.

“The firm is dedicated to maintaining the high standards of service and expertise that have been the cornerstone of its operations across the region,” added Ryan.

Market open again after £7m revamp

LINCOLN’S Cornhill Market has opened its door to shoppers after undergoing a multi-million pound redevelopment. Traditional market fare will combine with new offers and opening hours to position the facility as a prime city centre destination for food, shopping, and leisure.

The refurbishment was funding by a £5.9 million investment from the government’s Towns Fund programme through the Be Lincoln Town Deal, £1.9 million from City of Lincoln Council, and additional funding of £918,000 from Historic England.

Shoppers filled the Grade II listed building soon after it was opened by the new Mayor of Lincoln Cllr Alan Briggs on Friday, May 17 and were greeted by a mixture of stalls for small businesses and a variety of food offerings as well as public seating. Hundreds of traders had registered their interest in the new-look stalls including Verena Hanley of Fabric Tattoos Embroidery who was delighted with her pitch

as it is her first permanent base after seven years of taking her recycled creations to pop-up events.

“It means my regulars and other people now have somewhere they can drop and see me and I have somewhere permanent that’s affordable in the centre of Lincoln,” said Verena.

“I love being around people, so it really worked out.”

Cllr Naomi Tweddle, Leader of the Council said: “Seeing the building with such an exciting atmosphere has been incredible, and a taste of what’s to come for Cornhill Market’s new future.

“We’re excited for the people of Lincoln and further afield to visit Cornhill Market and enjoy this new addition to the city centre’s atmosphere.”

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Mayor Lincoln, Cllr Alan Briggs opens the market flanked by Cllr Naomi Tweddle (left) and chief executive Angela Andrews. Pictures: Lincoln Independent.

Bio hack your health

BY MELANIE DUNN NUTRITIONAL THERAPIST AND FOOD TECHNOLOGY AND HEALTH TRAINER

AT a time in the world where technology and biology converge, the buzz word biohacking is everywhere… but what does it really mean?

It’s basically the practice of using scientific knowledge with the latest technology to improve one’s health. It’s not just self help, it’s a systems approach to self-help.

And at the heart of it all lies that delicate balance of biochemical messengers that facilitate countless bodily functions -our hormones. Your hormones influence just about everything in your body and are influenced in turn by many things.

Signs that your hormones are out of whack include mood swings, low libido, erectile dysfunction, depression, acne, PMS, irregular periods, weight gain, menstrual headaches, infertility and fatigue. But by using a few simple biohacks related to lifestyle, nutrition, and supplements, it’s possible to rebalance your hormones to improve your mood and sex drive.

Here are three examples

l Fats are the building blocks of your hormones, so increasing your healthy fats, in particular omega 3 fatty acids may boost your libido by increasing the neurotransmitter dopamine, which improves blood flow.

As dopamine increases, testosterone rises further getting you ‘in the mood’. Great sources include nuts and seeds, avocado, salmon and olive oil.

l Take a magnesium supplement. Aside from helping to make progesterone, estrogen and testosterone in the body, magnesium may also increase total and free testosterone by binding it to a protein in your blood. This can increase your desire. Magnesium can also help to relax you, further priming you for sex.

l Resistance training is particularly important if you're trying to biohack your hormones to improve your mood and sex drive. It can lead to higher testosterone production in both men and women which can in turn boost your libido.

Biohacking legend Dave Asprey lists EMS Training in his new book as one of the top ways to build muscle quickly.

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Students sitting comfortably to fly high at ASI

LINCOLN-based TPS Office Furniture has completed the furniture install of Lincoln College Group’s new £15.4m Air & Space Institute (ASI) in Newark.

The students and lecturers are now enjoying world-class training at the new three-storey facility which features fully furnished classrooms, seminar rooms, breakout areas, CAD labs, library, kitchen facilities, staff rooms and staff offices.

The style of the furniture is flexible for easy reconfiguration of the rooms so they can be used for a wide range of activities.

The £200,000 install by the commercial furniture and accessories company included over 1,000 individual pieces of furniture across three floors.

ASI operates in partnership with aviation giants such as RAF to fill job roles for pilots, engineers and ground-crew in airlines, the military, airports and logistics companies in the UK and abroad.

Stuart Marsland, Sales Director for TPS Office Furniture, said: “It’s been great to be part of this amazing project with the Lincoln College Group. The facility opens up a whole range of educational options for local students.”

Lincoln College Project Manager Jasmine Craft added: “The TPS team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, efficiency, and dedication throughout. Their commitment to quality service was evident in every aspect, resulting in a functional and stylish space perfect for learning and collaboration.

“We highly recommend TPS Office Furniture for professional furniture delivery and installation.”

TPS Office Furniture recently became part of the APSS Group and sister company to specialist design and fit out business APSS, based on Kingsley Road, Lincoln.

Stuart explained: “With TPS Office Furniture now incorporated into the APSS Group, a dedicated service for standalone furniture is available to our customers across the East Midlands and throughout the UK.”

Following the acquisition, the group launched a new furniture showroom where customers can book an appointment to see new furniture in person featuring chairs, desks, privacy screens meeting pods and more.

“For over 25 years, the APSS Group has been at the forefront of designing and creating dynamic spaces and providing furniture for organisations in a wide range of sectors including professional services, industrial, retail, education and healthcare,” said Stuart.

Pedal power with a purposethe C2C2C charity bike ride

WRIGHT Vigar is one of the main sponsors and organisers of the C2C2C Charity Bike Ride along with Nicholsons, Ringrose Law and Bridge McFarland.

“We are immensely proud to be part of an event that is all about the community and making a difference, said Jack O’Hern, Director at Wright Vigar and one of the founders of C2C2C2 (originally Castle 2 Coast to Castle).

The C2C2C cycling adventure across the Lincolnshire countryside takes place in June when cyclists can choose between two routes - a 100-mile ride or a 200km route.

“Each pedal stroke represents a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others, and it is this ethos that drives us to organise and support such an incredible event,” said Jack.

“By bringing together cyclists, volunteers, and sponsors, we create a platform for positive change. Whether it’s raising funds for local charities or promoting the health and wellness of our community, C2C2C serves as a catalyst for community engagement, demonstrating a commitment to both physical health and social responsibility.”

Since the ride started in 2011 over 5000 people have taken part raising over £250,000 for various local charities.

“It is thanks to the local business sponsors thatcover the costs of the event that we can raise such a significant amount of money,” added Jack who has seen the event he started rise from 70 riders to over 600 this year.

“The idea came about when a couple of friends did a sponsored cycle ride around Lincolnshire and wanted to put on a bike ride for the business community. We wanted to create something that was different from the usual sportive that is all about your finishing time – we created a ride that encouraged people to do their first ‘century’

ride and motivated them to ride with colleagues.”

As organisers, Wright Vigar’s role extends beyond logistics and planning to creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved - from coordinating routes to ensuring the safety of participants.

“We work tirelessly to ensure that the event runs smoothly and seamlessly. But perhaps most importantly, we strive to cultivate an atmosphere of encouragement and hospitality at every stage of the journey.

One of the highlights of the Lincoln C2C2C is the food stops, where cyclists can refuel and recharge as well as catch up with friends before continuing their ride.

“As sponsors of one of these crucial pit stops, we take pride in providing nourishment and encouragement to riders as they take on the challenge. And we are honoured to be part of a movement that brings people together for a common cause, and we look forward to continuing our support for this remarkable initiative in the years to come.”

Jack O’Hern

Team Wright Vigar

CORNHILL Cove has returned for the summer bringing the fun of the seaside to Lincoln city centre.

Lincoln BIG has teamed up with Open-Air Events and Place Immersive to offer four months of summer entertainment at the Cornhill with its pop-up bar and street food, ice cream vendors and a customised crazy golf course.

Entertainment will include live DJs, musicians, science workshops, circus skills events, interactive challenges and street theatre.

“Everyone is encouraged to come and enjoy a round of golf, spend time with friends and family and relax in the heart of the city this summer,” said Lee Roberts, Head of Operations at Lincoln BIG. “We are pleased to again work with the team behind Open-Air Events to bring the Cornhill Cove back to the city this summer. Following the success of the event in previous years, we are excited to bring the cove back bigger and better than before.”

Suitable for all ages Cornhill Cove was scheduled to open on June 1. Ben Web of Place Immersive explained: “We’re looking forward to welcoming residents and visitors back to our outdoor social space in the heart of the city. The cove’s crazy golf holes will be back along with our custom- built pergola, bar, food and entertainment space. Over the summer you can expect live music and a programme of free entertainment that we’ll be announcing soon.”

David Nejrup at Open-Air Events added: “Cornhill Cove 2024 is set to be a great space for family and friends to enjoy throughout the summer months. We’re pleased to be expanding our offering to include summer essentials like ice cream and slushies along with increased entertainment on our Garden Stage.”

See updates at www.facebook.com/CornhillCove and in July’s Lincoln Independent.

ADULT COURSES at Lincoln College

SOME OF THE COURSES OFFERED INCLUDE:

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Great mayoral year for Biff

THE Hartsholme lad who became Mayor of the city he loves, Cllr Biff Bean had an incredible year as Lincoln’s ‘first citizen’.

“It’s been fanastic, I said how proud I was to be mayor when I first took office and that pride hasn’t gone away. It has been an honour and a privilege.”

Biff has enjoyed a diverse range of events from nursing home visits to opening the National Indoor Bowls Championships and lending civic support to businesses such as the White Hart Hotel and the Wig and Mitre pub following refurbishments.

“I am a people person and have always been keen to help vulnerable people, so I have particularly enjoyed my visit to care homes.

Pictures from top left: former Bradford City manager Chris Kamara with Wendy and Biff Bean during the commemorations for the Bradford Fire Disaster; The Mayor (left) and his Sherrif Biff and Cllr Neil Murray during the Lincoln Grand Prix; Cllr Biff Bean at his beloved Hartholme Community Trust’s Community Cuppa event.

Similarly, meeting young people - our future - has also been amazing.”

In a year full of highlights, it is a trip to Hartsholme Academy that is high on Biff’s list of favourites.

“It was coming full circle for me- I was a pupl at Hartsholme School in the 1960s and 55 years later I was back there as mayor. It did make the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.”

The animal-loving former mayor also spent the year fundraising for the Dog’s Trust and his own charity, Hartsholme Community Trust, which is dedicated to the well-being of people in the ward and organised the Hartsholme Festival in 2023.

Reptiles have feelings too - research shows tortoises have emotions

A WORLD-renowned expert in animal cognition at the University of Lincoln joined a global consortium of scientists and philosophers to sign the

New York Declaration on Animal Consciousness.

Professor of Animal Cognition Anna Wilkinson (pictured) signed the declaration to state consciousness in reptiles, amphibians and others is a ‘realistic possibility’ underpinned by strong scientific support.

The degree to which animals possess a conscious experience of the world remains uncertain, however, this declaration marks an important juncture in the field of animal ethics, supported by growing empirical evidence which suggests there is a wide range of animals, including invertebrates and vertebrates, that do possess an ability to subjectively experience their surroundings.

In 2022, the UK Government announced a new law, with the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act, as formal recognition of the sentience and welfare needs of all vertebrate animals and paving the way for more

robust legal protection for the welfare of animals.

Professor Wilkinson said she was delighted to be part of the groundbreaking declaration: “It is particularly important to consider feelings in species that are less similar to humans and may have feelings and emotions but not exhibit them in ways that we, as humans, are readily able to recognise.

“Consciousness or sentience is hard to demonstrate with a single study but, taken together, work demonstrating animal feeling, emotions and cognition can start to pave the way towards this understanding.

“Our research investigating the remarkable cognitive abilities in reptiles and amphibians has formed an important part of this evidence.

“We have shown that salamanders have substantial long-term memory, lizards can learn from each other, tortoises can feel emotions and change their behaviour on the basis of this.

“Taken together, this amongst other evidence, suggests that these groups of animals have a realistic likelihood of consciousness and that it is important to treat them as such when making decisions about them.”

Left: red footed tortoise. Picture: University of Lincoln.

To celebrate the opening of our new Lincoln workshop, we’re giving away £200 worth of vouchers redeemable for watches we have for sale, repairs or services.

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Archivist at Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School, Peter Harrod, continues to explore its pictorial past.

Jo presents purse to the princess

THIS charming photograph shows Josephine Lyon, Head Girl at Lincoln Christ’s Hospital Girls’ High School (LHS), presenting a purse to Princess Margaret at the Royal Festival Hall, London, on May 9, 1956.

The photograph was taken to commemorate the Jubilee celebrations of the Union of Girls’ Schools for Social service, and four other senior girls attended the event.

The spirit of the occasion was captured in an article by Sallie Hill in the Summer 1956 edition of the LHS magazine. She began the piece by describing the group sitting on the Thames Embankment, eating their picnic lunches and gazing admiringly at the bright masses of tulips adorning the Royal Festival Hall, and gloating over their fellow school mates still at morning lessons in Lincoln.

The group later entered the RFH ‘majestically’ through the Stage Door, feeling very important.

There were to be 2,000 schoolgirls in attendance, including groups of 70 or 80 from some schools. Everyone stood in silence as Princess Margaret made her way on to the stage wearing a pleated yellow silk dress and a close-fitting hat to match. She was accompanied by the Bishops of Southwark and Woolwich, Lady Ogilvie and Miss Baxter.

Following the singing of Jerusalem, Princess Margaret received 75 beautifully-made purses, including the one presented by Josephine Lyon. It was clearly a memorable day for Josephine, Sallie and all the girls in attendance.

VISIT LINCOLN’S HISTORIC GUILDHALL

The Stonebow and Guildhall are situated on the site of the southern gateway to Roman Lincoln. The gateway has stood for over 1800 years; although the present building was not completed until 1520.

The Guildhall sits proudly above the Stonebow and is the Official Home of the Mayor of Lincoln. Tours are available of this interesting historic building, which includes the main Council Chamber, where Lincoln’s Council still meets and, most importantly, the old Debtors’ Prison which now holds an impressive range of Civic Insignia, including the King Richard II Sword and many other Mayoral and City artefacts.

For more information about the open days, or to make a private appointment please contact: Kate Fenn, Civic Manager on 01522 873303 E-mail: kate.fenn@lincoln.gov.uk

Many years later, I had the pleasure of meeting Jo, and hearing about her memories of LHS in the 1950s when the school uniform had to be worn ‘just so’ and be in pristine condition. Even the hat had to be placed towards the back of the head so that the school badge was displayed properly, and the skirt could not hang below nor be above the knee!

Jo (now Mrs Jo Saxby) remembers her time at LHS with great affection. She recalled Miss Ryder, an English teacher who gave her a lifelong interest in English grammar and a somewhat persistently pedantic approach to its contemporary usage! Jo gave me an impromptu lesson on the difference between ‘due to’ and owing to’, a problem that I have never managed to resolve during my own teaching career!

Other teachers who inspired her included Miss Barker, who taught Jo’s favourite subject Maths, geography teacher Miss Ellery, and Miss Broadgate who taught music. Jo enjoyed music and played the ‘cello at LHS, and in the Lindsey Youth Orchestra, as well as being a member of the School Choir.

Jo was also captain of St Hugh House although she was no saint and was once caught hiding in the girls’ toilet after committing some misdemeanour.

On one occasion she was sent out of the art room by the legendary art teacher, Miss Judith Oyler who made her stand in the corridor for laughing at the teacher’s display of daffodils in the ‘still life’ class.

Clearly Jo was a bit of a prankster, and still retains that mischievous twinkle in her eye! Some readers may rememeber her as Mrs Saxby, a well-loved and highly respected former headteacher in Lincoln.

Station to station

In this month’s article from The Survey of Lincoln, ARTHUR WARD considers the city’s past and present railway stations.

HOW often do you stand back to appreciate the architecture of railway stations? They are places designed to process people: passengers. The architectural style is immaterial to many.

The arrival of the railway in Lincoln from Nottingham occurred in 1842. It was built by the Midland Railway, and terminated at St. Mark’s station.

The building, made of stone and gault brick, was single storey, with two platforms and four tracks, and covered by a ‘M’ shaped roof, which was removed in 1957. Entrance to the station was via an impressive Classical portico facing north onto a large, cobbled forecourt. Opinion differs as to who designed the station: William Adams Nicholson (1803-1853) of Lincoln, or, more probably, by J.A. Davies, an architect, employed by railway engineer Frederick Swanwick.

Davies was designer of Newark Castle station, also in the Classical style, together with other stations on the Nottingham to Lincoln line. Following a few years of operation, the line was extended over the High Street in 1848 to connect to the Great Northern Railway (GNR) east of its Central Station at what became known as the Durham Ox Junction, named after a nearby public house.

St. Mark’s station closed on 11 May 1985 and it became the subject of a planning enquiry to save it from demolition.

Thankfully, much of the main building was saved and incorporated into a substantial new-build shopping complex, winning an Ian Allen Heritage Award in 2009, which is commemorated by a plaque now displayed on the building. By comparison, Lincoln’s second station is very much the centre of rail traffic through the city, following St Mark’s closure and the reconfiguration and removal of lines in and around the city.

Lincoln’s surviving station was built in 1848 in the Tudor revival style for the Great Northern Railway by John Henry Taylor (1791-1867) of London, in yellow brick with stone dressings below slate roofs. This is one of two stations he designed in Lincolnshire, along with that at Stamford. The Lincoln building is located on the south side of a recently created pedestrian plaza and landscaped car park, once, like that of St. Mark’s, a simple cobbled forecourt.

Entrance to the station is via two arched openings below an ornate ‘replica’ canopy. Five platforms serve trains, with passengers sheltered from the elements by traditional canopies with fret-cut valances.

The central island platform is served by a new footbridge. Its lift towers mimic the design of the Tudor style tower on the main building, which initially contained a water tank.

To the west of the station building is the now redundant signal box from where the former crossing gates on High Street were operated, along with the complex of signals and points in the station. This box, like that at East Holmes, is a Great Northern Railway structure, though in much better condition than the latter, which still remains boarded up.

There is no trace of the original signal box serving St. Mark’s, only a replica built into the fabric of the shopping centre, carrying a British Railways-style sign.

The rather quirky octagonal single-storey brick-built box, now a take-away, still guards the former High Street crossing, built when the line was extended east to Market Rasen and Grimsby.

Some readers may recall the days when Lincoln’s two stations were operational, and the traffic (and pedestrian) delays that were caused when trains arrived and departed across the level crossings.

To discover more about The Survey of Lincoln, see www.thesurveyoflincoln.co.uk.

Future of food from the fens

LAURA STRATFORD

GREATER LINCOLNSHIRE FOOD PARTNERSHIP

IT turns out that Lincolnshire is not, in fact, flat.

Even the bits that seem flat - the wide, agricultural fields under the big skies of the Fens, with their straight blue drains and bone-shakingly bumpy roads - are less flat than you might think…

The Fens were drained over the course of the 1600s, and with considerable resistance by the locals (if you are interested in a spot of local history, check out James Boyce’s recent book, Imperial Mud).

“Draining the Fens” might sound like, well, digging some dykes, putting in a few sluices, and then the water trickling gently away. Again, not so much.

The Fens area is more like a bowl. In order to keep all that agricultural land and all those homes and businesses dry and safe, fresh water is constantly - 24/7 - pumped. Without this constant (and energyintensive) pumping, the Fens would be mostly underwater. And further underwater than before it was drained: the rich Fenland soil - once it is dried out, ploughed up and farmed with heavy machinery - becomes depleted and compacted.

You may be starting to see why this could cause problems in the long term, given that we are reliant on it for a considerable proportion of the nation’s food, especially potatoes and brassicas.

Add to that the ageing farmer population and a pack of challenges in the horticulture sector; chuck in the way that roads are not lasting as long as they were previously expected to; slosh in projected sea level rise… and you can suddenly see why it got us wondering - what is the future of food in the Lincolnshire Fens?

Not for the faint-hearted - a group of people from the Fenland food system are meeting throughout 2024, to face head on these and other issues.

More importantly, we’ll be asking, what would be robust responses for the long term?

The process is supported by moderator Dr Julien Etienne, and yours truly. We don’t have the answers, and we definitely can’t promise that it will be easy.

If you would like a glimpse of this process, we would love to hear your thoughts, questions and ideas - join us online, on Wednesday 12th June, 1011:30. Details and booking here: https://lincolnshirefoodpartnership.org/ fens/

County agri firms win innovation funding

TWO high-tech agricultural businesses have been offered funding from a new national £7.5 million pot to support innovation and growth.

An automated blueberry harvesting project led by Eyre Trailers in Coningsby, in partnership with the University of Lincoln, and a daffodil harvesting scheme at C Wright and Son in Gedney have each been offered around £300,000 from £1.84m awarded to 12 projects in eastern England. Ten other successful projects across the area include novel biological defences against aphids, enhancing the fibre content of food

and drink products, enhancements in crop breeding, and creating new types of plantbased food packaging.

“We’re absolutely delighted that 12 projects have been successful across all four areas in the Eastern England region,” said Effie Warwick-John, UK Food Valley Programme Manager at the Greater Lincolnshire LEP. The next round of funding for the Launchpads programme opened in May. Businesses can apply for a share of up to £4.5 million across two categories – New Innovators and Collaborative Reasearch & Development

C’est magnifique!

IN the glittering world of celebrity wines, where Hollywood glamour meets vineyard elegance, famous tipplers snapping up French estates isn't the sole premise of the former Brangelina.

Tucked away from the paparazzi flashes is Château d'Estoublon.

Owned by the enchanting Carla Bruni, former First Lady of France and wife of Nicolas Sarkozy, this vineyard embodies the essence of Provence in every bottle, mirroring Bruni's own elegance and sophistication.

Just a vine's throw away, Brad Pitt's Miraval may soak up the Hollywood spotlight, but Château d'Estoublon Roseblood revels in the glow of French chic, offering a sip of the high life with a distinctively Gallic twist.

While Miraval might be the blockbuster hit, Roseblood is the critically acclaimed indie darling—a tribute to Bruni’s refined touch and the winemaking prowess of Anaïs Maillet.

Crafted from a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, Roseblood is a masterclass in balance and subtlety. Each glass is a burst of vibrant flavours—strawberries, raspberries, freshly cut peony, and a hint of citrus zest, all presented in a hue as subtly chic as the finest couture, with a finish that's exquisite.

This rosé is more than just a wine; it's a celebration of Provence's lush landscapes and the refined art of French living. Perfect for any occasion Roseblood pairs beautifully with everything from delicate seafood to robust Provençal dishes. It’s available from Selfridges, Majestic Wines and Ocado priced from around £17.

So, here’s to Roseblood, the perfect companion for lounging in a comfy deckchair, as you watch the sunset paint its colours across a balmy summer evening. Bravo aux étés sans fin et aux verres toujours pleins (cheers to endless summers and ever-full glasses).

Francesco Canni, Aspiring Sommelier

Cheese Choice

HAMSTONE is another delightful addition to the Whitelake repertoire. Made from Guernsey cow’s milk, Hamstone has a delicate flavour and a creamy, soft texture.

Key Facts

Age 2-3 weeks

Country England

Milk Type Guernsey cows

Process Pasteurised

Hamstone

This lactic semi-soft cheese has a stunning golden colour boasting a delicate velvety centre and matures into a gooey liquid around the mould-ripened rind.

Made by the wonderful cheesemakers Whitelake who also make Rachel, Sheep Rustler and Eve. Head cheesemaker Roger is a third generation farmer and cheesemaking started way back in the 1930s with his grandfather making a traditional cheddar from the family herd. Ths evolved through the generations to finally become White Lake Cheese in 2004. Delving into what was then, a niche market of goat cheese production.

The winner of many recently deserved cheese awards 2 Stars – Great Taste Awards 2023, Gold and Silver Awards –Global Cheese Awards 2023 and Gold Award – World Cheese Awards 2023.

Region Shepton Mallet, Somerset

Strength Mild Medium

Style Soft

Vegetarian Yes

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

Wednesday 5 June –

Thursday

6 June

2pm & 7pm

Thursday

6 June

2pm – 3.30pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN

Legally Blonde

Presented by the talented students of Lincoln College of Performing and Production Arts.

Tickets £13, Concession £11

www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE

D-Day at 80 Concert

The Blighty Belles commemorate D-Day on its 80th anniversary by covering all the best loved songs from the 1940s in their open-air concert.

Free

www.internationalbcc.co.uk

T 01522 514755

Thursday 6 June

7pm

INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE

D-Day at 80 Music, Dinner & Beacon Lighting

An evening to celebrate the D-Day anniversary with music from the Military Wives Choir, three-course dinner, beacon lighting at the Spire. Tickets from £80

www.internationalbcc.co.uk

T 01522 514755

Fridays, June 7 & 21, 5-7pm

Friday 7 June 7.30pm

Saturday 8 June 7.30pm

Saturday 8 June 7.30pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN

The Black Charade & Fell Out Boy

Tickets £18, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN ELO Again

Tickets £30

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999

TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM, LINCOLN

A Celebration Of The Music Of Coldplay

Tickets £16 - £20

www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL

Saturday 8 June 7.30pm

A Night at the Opera by Candlelight

London Concertante presents an array of the finest opera arias and overtures, performing works from Puccini, Verdi, Rossini, and Mozart. From £22.38, booking essential www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600

BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY

Sunday 9 June

7.30pm

Thursday 6 June

7.30pm

Friday 7 June –

Saturday

8 June

Various Times

Friday 7June

5-7pm

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Rachel Parris: Poise

The BAFTA-nominated comedian is back with her biggest tour yet.

Tickets £21

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

T 01522 519999

LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE

The Grinning Man

Adult £8, Over 60s £5, Live Pass

Members £5, Age guidance 15+ www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk

T 01522 837600

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Commuter Jazz

Enjoy a glass of wine and some mellow jazz with a new artist of impeccable standard every fortnight. Light food available. Pay on the door £7

www.southsidelincs.com

T 01522 437942

Tuesday 11 June

7.15pm

Thursday 13 June 7.30pm

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Six Chick Flicks

After a sold-out Edinburgh Fringe and off-Broadway run, the smash hit comedy is now on tour.

Tickets £25

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

T 01522 519999

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Andrea Chénier – Live ROH

Screening

Adult £18, Concession £15

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

T 01522 519999

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Alabama 3

Tickets £25, 14+ only

www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

Friday 14 June –Saturday 22 June Various Times

LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE

Avenue Q

The triple Tony award-winning musical is presented by LAODSLincoln Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society.

Tickets £20, Age guidance 15+ www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk

T 01522 837600

Saturday 8 June 7.30pm

Maybe Dick

Herman Melville’s classic tale of revenge and retribution is retold in this inventive, comedic adventure. Adult £12, concession £11 www.broadbenttheatre.org

T 0300 400 0101

THE DRILL, LINCOLN

Saturday 8 June 8pm

Red Herring Comedy Club

Andrew Bird, Faizan Shan, Rich Wilson and MC Joe McTernan.

Tickets £17

www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

THE DRILL, LINCOLN

Sunday 9 June 3.30pm

The Veterans Big Band Ex-musicians from the Royal Marines, the Army, and the Royal Air Force bands. Supporting the DMRC Benevolent Fund.

Tickets £17

www.lincolndrill.co.uk

Friday 14 June 7pm

ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Porkpie: Bouncin’ Off The Walls

Tickets from £20, 18+ only www.engineshed.co.uk

T 01522 886006

Friday 14 June 7.30pm

TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE NORTH HYKEHAM

Film: Girlfriends (1978 USA. Cert PG)

Susan, a photographer, tries to adjust her life and career after her roommate Anne moves out of their Manhattan apartment. Season ticket holders only, apply online - www.lincolnfilmsociety.com

T 01522 889782 (after 5pm)

Friday 14 June 7.30pm

BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY

Science Fiction by Gaslight Exploring the origins of Steampunk with dramatic reworkings including Arthur Conan Doyle and H.G. Wells.

Adult £12, Concession £11

www.broadbenttheatre.org

T 0300 400 0101

Friday 14 June

7.30pm

Saturday 15 June 6pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Limehouse Lizzy Tickets £22, 14+ only

www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

LINCOLN CASTLE

Live at Lincoln Castle: Crowded House

A series of summer concerts arrives at the castle this year from tour promoters Cuffe and Taylor, Live Nation. Join waiting list online for additional ticket release www.lincolncastle.com

T 01522 782019

Saturday 15 June 7.30pm

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Patrick Monahan –Exclusively

Tickets Adult £18, Concession £15, Student £13 (ID may be required ) www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

T 01522 519999

Saturday 15 June

7.30pm

Sunday 16 June 5pm

Sunday 16 June

5.30pm

Sunday 16 June 6pm

The Asylum Players present Calendar Girls at The Blue Room

Sunday 16 June 7.30pm

Thursday 20 June –Saturday 22 June Various times

Friday 21 June 5-7pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Johnny Hates Jazz

Tickets £27.50, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

ST. PETER AND PAUL CATHOLIC CHURCH, SKELLINGTHORPE ROAD, LINCOLN, LN6 7RB

Lincoln Choral Society

A programme of music including Faure Requiem and Cantique de Jean Racine.

Free, retiring collection T 07960 606381

TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM

Theatretrain Newark Presents Matilda Jr

Tickets £12 - £15

www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055

LINCOLN CASTLE Jess Glynne

Tickets from £53.20

www.lincolncastle.com T 01522 782019

Friday 21 June 7pm

Friday 21 June 7pm

Saturday 22 June 6pm

Saturday 22 June 7.30pm

Wednesday 26 June 7pm

Wednesday 26 June 7.30pm

Wednesday 26 June 5.30pm – 9pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN The Zutons

Tickets £27.50, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Punt & Dennis

Tickets £28

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

T 01522 519999

INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE Hamlet

Join The Lord Chamberlain’s Men this summer for Hamlet, arguably the greatest play in the English language.

Tickets Adult £18, Under 16s £10, Parking £1.50

www.internationalbcc.co.uk

T 01522 514755

Wednesday 26 June 7pm – 10pm

Tickets £28.50

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

T 01522 519999

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN RARE Productions – High School Musical On Stage

The UK’s largest theatre movement for young people, RARE Productions is heading to Lincoln for the first time with High School Musical starring local performers aged between 8 and 21. Adult £22, Con £21, Under 16s £20 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

T 01522 519999

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Commuter Jazz

Enjoy a glass of wine and some mellow jazz with a new artist of impeccable standard every fortnight. Light food menu. Pay on the door £7

www.southsidelincs.com

T 01522 437942

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Pink by Vicky Jackson

Tickets £19.50, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Troy Hawke

Tickets £19.50, 14+ only, under 18s must be accompanied by an adult www.engineshed.co.uk

T 01522 886006

LINCOLN CASTLE Paloma Faith

www.lincolncastle.com

T 01522 782019

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Lincoln Pro Musica Orchestra 60th Anniversary Concert

Tickets from £7.50

www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN

Southside’s Jam Night A great way to sharpen up your performing skills, make local and industry contacts, or just be social.

Free entry www.southsidelincs.com

T 01522 437942

Thursday 27 June 7.30pm

Friday 28 June 6pm

Friday 28 June 6.45pm

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Luke Combs UK

Tickets £28.50

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

T 01522 519999

LINCOLN CASTLE Kaiser Chiefs

Tickets from £58.80 www.lincolncastle.com

T 01522 782019

ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Legend: The Music of Bob Marley

Tickets £30, 14+ only, under 18s must be accompanied by an adult www.engineshed.co.uk

T 01522 886006

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Walk Right Back - The Everly Brothers’ Story

Friday

28 June

7.30pm

Friday

28 June

7.30pm

TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM

Film: The Farewell (USA 2022. Cert PG)

A good-natured depiction of an extended Chinese family dealing with the approaching death of a grandmother by hiding the truth from her.

Season ticket holders only, Apply onlinewww.lincolnfilmsociety.com

T 01522 889782 (after 5pm)

THE DRILL, LINCOLN

Jack Broadbent

Tickets £18

www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

Saturday

29 June –

Sunday

30 June

3pm & 7pm (Sat)

6pm (Sun)

Saturday

29 June

7.30pm

Sunday

30 June 3pm

TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM Dance Fever 18

Presented by the Lyndsey Ellis School of Dance.

Tickets £9 - £10.50

www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Lost in Music - One Night At The Disco

Tickets £30 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999

LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE Lincoln Symphony Orchestra – Summer Concert

Adult £14, Over 60s £12, Child £7 www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk T 01522 837600

Sunday

30 June 6pm

Friday 5 July

7.30pm

Saturday 6 July

12pm – 2pm

Sunday 7 July

Various times

Sunday 7 July 4.30pm –6.30pm

LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE Evoke Dance Studios Presents ‘Curtain Up’

Adult £18, U16s & Over 60s £15

www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk

T 01522 837600

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Summertime Stars

Lincoln Academy of Theatre Arts main school is proud to present its foot tapping, hand clapping spectacular.

Adult £15, Over 60s £13, U16s £12 www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

Wednesday 10 July 1.10pm

LINCOLN CASTLE Gregory Porter

www.lincolncastle.com

T 01522 782019

THE DRILL, LINCOLN The View

Tickets £25, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Write Note

Open mic session without microphones! Acoustics of all styles and listeners welcome. Free www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshir e/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010

Thursday 11 July –Monday 15 July

Various times

Friday 12 July 7.30pm

Saturday 13 July 6pm

Saturday 13 July 7pm

Saturday 13 July 7.30pm

ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Embrace

Tickets from £25, 14+ only, Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult www.engineshed.co.uk

T 01522 886006

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN From Gold to Rio

Tickets £26

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

T 01522 519999

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CHAPTER HOUSE, LINCOLN CATHEDRAL

Bitter Blossoms: Lunchtime Recital

Combining folk songs and stories from England, Scandinavia, and Bulgaria, Bitter Blossoms create an unusual blend of traditions in a strangely cohesive manner.

Included in cathedral admission www.lincolncathedral.com

T 01522 561600

THE DRILL, LINCOLN

Lincoln Academy of Theatre

Arts Present: Les Misérables

Tickets £20 - £30

www.lincolndrill.co.uk

T 01522 534160

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Through the Years: Simon & Garfunkel

Tickets

£27

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

T 01522 519999

LINCOLN CASTLE Midsummer Motown

Concert

Tickets

£34.50

www.lincolncastle.com

T 01522 782019

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Until Thursday 6 June 10am – 4pm

Until Sunday 9 June 10.30am –5pm

Until Sunday 16 June 10 am - 4 pm

USHER GALLERY, LINCOLN Traces

Exhibition of work by University of Lincoln Fine Art MA students based on the museum’s collection. www.lincolnmuseum.com T 01522 782040

GALLERY AT ST MARTIN’S, LINCOLN Exhibition: Sarah Uldall Free instagram.com/galleryatstmartins T 07720 810468

INDIGO CROW GALLERY, BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Spectrum by Sally Kheng

A vibrant, bold and colourful exhibition of paintings, jewellery, cards and gifts by this local artist. Free www.indigocrowgallery.com

Mondays & Fridays 2pm – 3pm

Tuesdays every second & last of the month 6.45pm – 9pm

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Databank Surgery

Collect your data voucher as part of the National Databank initiative to combat digital hardship. Free www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire /lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Life Drawing

One short pose and one long pose class guided by local artist Tom Humby. Materials provided, all welcome.

Adult £8, Con£6, Book online www.southsidelincs.com T 01522 437942

Thursdays 2pm – 3pm

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Craft Club

Relax, socialise and share your story through the things you make. 16+.

Free

Thursdays

Until 11 July 5.30pm – 7pm

USHER GALLERY, LINCOLN Life Drawing Classes (Untutored)

Prices £9, Concession £7 www.lincolnmuseum.co.uk T 01522 782040

Fridays 2pm – 3pm

Until Friday 30 August 12.30pm

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Learn My Way

Basic beginners’ IT course. FREE, booking required

T 01522 782010

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Peace Doves – Share Your Message of Peace

Make paper doves and add your messages of peace, hope and love to contribute to a massparticipation artwork installation on show later this year.

www.lincolncathedral.com

T 01522 561600

Wednesday 5 June 11am

BRANSBY HORSES RESCUE & WELFARE, BRANSBY, LINCOLN Discover Donkeys

Meet the donkey herds, learn more about these magnificent equines and the specialist care they receive.

Free

www.bransbyhorses.co.uk

T 01427 788464

Wednesday 5 June 6.30pm –8.30pm

DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS Mech Night – Beginners

A great opportunity to learn all the cycling basics from what parts are called, safety checking, basic repairs, adjustments and cleaning. Adult £15, booking essential www.doddingtonhall.com

T 01522 694308

Thursday 6 June 10.30am

Saturday 8 June –Saturday 6 July 10am – 5pm (11am –4pm on Sundays)

Saturday 8 June 2pm

INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE

D-Day at 80 Briefings Historian, re-enactor and devotee of RAF history, Allan Jones, presents The RAF on D-Day and Operation Taxable, a key part of the campaign.

Free, booking essential www.internationalbcc.co.uk

T 01522 514755

HARDING HOUSE GALLERY, STEEP HILL, LINCOLN Duende

Paintings by local artist Phil Bowman.

www.hardinghousegallery.co.uk

T 01522 523537

QUEEN’S PARK COMMUNITY HUB, SOUTH PARK, LINCOLN Lincolnshire Family History Society

Speaker Dr Sarah Holland will be talking about farm work at the Lincolnshire Lunatic Asylum and exploring the patients’ experiences. Come in person or request a Zoom link by email

Free, Non-members welcome lincolnbranch@lincolnshirefhs.org.uk

T 07941 245322 (Tracey Fairhurst)

Sunday 9 June 10am – 12pm

THE USHER GALLERY, LINCOLN Roman Lincoln Walking Tour

Take a closer look at Lincoln’s beginnings as the ancient city of Lindum Colonia, tracing the route of the old city walls and gates. Free, booking recommended

www.lincolnfreewalkingtour.co.uk

T 01522 782040

LINCOLN MUSEUM

Sunday 9 June 2.30pm – 5pm

Historic Building

Mythbusting

Dr James Wright FSA explores whether exciting, romantic, and widely repeated stories about ancient buildings are really true.

Admission £5, SLHA Members £4, booking recommended www.lincolnmuseum.co.uk

T 01522 782040

Mondays 10, 17, 24

June & 1, 8 July 7 - 9pm

UPSTAIRS AT THE CARDINAL’S HAT Draw & Drink

Two-hour tutored portrait drawing class, led by Ellie Benton, working from live models. Beginner friendly, bring your own materials. £15

www.facebook.com/lincolndrawdrink

T 07810 835147

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL

Monday 10 June 7pm

Reviving Women’s Voices –Rethinking the Medieval World

Professors Janina Ramirez and Amy Livingstone, and Associate Professor Antonella Liuzzo Scorpo talk about the women who shaped the medieval world.

Tickets £8.66, booking essential www.lincolncathedral.com

T 01522 561600

ROBERT HARDY BUILDING, BISHOP

Monday 10 June 7.20pm

GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY, LN1 3DY

The Legacy of the Theatre in the 1930s Lecture by Malcolm Jones, radio and TV contributor, at Lincoln Arts Society. Everyone welcome. Non-members £10 www.theartssocietylincoln.org.uk

T 01522 789491 (Niki Gan)

Tuesday 11 June & Tuesday 9 July 7pm - 9pm

UPSTAIRS AT THE CARDINAL’S HAT Clay Play

Beginners’ pottery class working with air dry clay. Make anything you like – tile, pot, vase, tea light holder, or creature! All materials provided.

£15

www.facebook.com/lincolndrawdrink T 07810 835147

Wednesday 12 June 4pm

Saturday 8 June 2pm – 4pm

LINCOLN MUSEUM Alien Embodiment Laboratory

An exciting fusion of art and science presented by artist Dr Steve Klee and cognitive neuroscientist Dr Kirsten McKenzie from University of Lincoln.

Free, booking essential www.lincolnmuseum.co.uk

T 01522 782040

Wednesday 12 June 7.30pm

UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN Postgraduate Open Day

Find out what it is like to live and learn in the city.

Free

www.lincoln.ac.uk

T 01522 882000

ST HUGH'S HALL, MONKS ROAD, LINCOLN LN2 5AQ Pagans, Pennies and Power

Presented by Dr Johanne PorterVikings in the East Midlands in the 9th and 10th centuries.

Admission £4 SLHA Members £3. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/paga ns-pennies-and-power-tickets860134293827

Thursday

13 June 10am – 1pm

Thursday 13 June

10.30am

VILLAGE HALL, CARLTON-LEMOORLAND

Demonstration with Peter Barker

Oil painting demo of a landscape with water. Refreshments available.

Members free, Visitors £4

T 01522 811510

LINCOLN MUSEUM

Lincolnshire Tokens

Michael O’Bee introduces the Tower of London Moneyers and brings along his own collection.

Admission £4, SLHA Members £3, Booking recommended www.lincolnmuseum.co.uk

T 01522 782040

HILLSIDE GARDEN, LINCOLN

Friday 14 June 10am – 1pm

Saturday 15 June 1pm – 4pm

Tuesday

18 June –

Sunday

23 June 10am - 4pm

Tuesday

18 June

1.30pm –3pm

Wednesday 19 June 10.30am

Grow Your Own Plants

Green Synergy is hosting a series of workshops on sustainable gardening.

Per Session £30 www.greensynergy.org.uk T 01522 533077

CASTLE HILL, LINCOLN

Historic Pubs Walking Tour

This walking tour provides a deep dive into historic pubs, breweries and beer houses.

Tickets £30, booking recommended www.lincolnfreewalkingtour.co.uk

INDIGO CROW GALLERY, BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Summer Show

An exhibition by local art group, Grey Bear, specialising in portraits and life drawing.

Free www.indigocrowgallery.com

OUR LADY OF LINCOLN CHURCH HALL, LAUGHTON WAY, LN2 2HE Sir Joseph Banks

A talk by Paul Scott. Lincoln Bailgate U3A. Entry on-the-door £2 www.u3asites.org.uk/bailgate/home

LINCOLN MUSEUM

Unstitching the Postal Uniform

By Joanna Espin, Postal Museum Curator - history of the postal service and its uniforms. . £4, SLHA Members £3, booking recommended www.lincolnmuseum.co.uk T 01522 782040

Wednesday 19 June

6.30pm –8pm

VARIOUS VENUES

Find & Embrace Your Future at Lincoln College Open Day 22 June 10am-1pm

Saturday 22 June 10am – 1pm

Sunday 23 June 10am – 12pm

LINCOLN COLLEGE

Open Day

Giving prospective students, along with their friends and family, a chance to look around and get an idea of what college life is like.

FREE, booking essential www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lincolncollege-open-day-tickets-60010629 3077

T 01522 876000

HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK

Willow Dragonflies

Weave your own beautiful dragonfly sculpture to display in your garden or indoors. All materials and equipment are provided.

£28.70, Aimed at adults, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk T 01522 873735

HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK

Sunday 23 June 11am – 1pm

Discover the History of Hartsholme Country Park

This guided walk will take you back through time from when Hartsholme was a thriving estate, to the present-day Country Park. Free, booking essential, All children must be accompanied by an adult hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk T 01522 873735

Saturday 29 June –Sunday 30 June 10am - 4pm

Creative Lincs Art Trail

An “Open Studios” event: visit artists in their studios, see them at work with a chance to purchase some art. Brochures available from Indigo Crow. Free www.indogocrowgallery.com

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

Saturday 29 June 11am

Backstage Theatre Tour

Find out the best kept secrets and great stories of the theatre’s 130-year history.

Tickets £15.50

www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999

THE GREEN ROOM CLUB, 33

Saturday 29 June 7pm

TENTERCROFT ST, LINCOLN The Green Room Spoken Word Fellowship

Spoken word poetry, comedy, and storytelling open mic. Sign up on the night at the bar. 10 minutes’ performance time each. £1 venue entry fee, Free for club members, £15 for annual club membership www.facebook.com/groups/greenr oompoetry/ www.instagram.com/greenroomsw

Wednesday 3 July –Sunday 8 September 10am – 4pm

DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS Young Sculptor Exhibition

The historic working Kitchen Garden will provide the ideal backdrop for the display of varying works of art from young sculptors across the UK.

Tickets Adult £9.50, Child £4.50, Family £22

www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308

LINCOLN MUSEUM

Thursday 4 July 7pm

Evening with Joanne Harris

The bestselling author returns to Lincoln to discuss her new fantasy novel, The Moonlight Market.

Tickets from £7

https://www.lincolnmuseum.com/ex hibitions-and-events

T 01522 262374

Friday 5 July –Saturday 6 July 9am – 2.30pm

UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN Undergraduate Open Day

WATERSTONES, HIGH STREET, LINCOLN Evening with Jennifer Saint

The writer discusses her latest novel that casts new light on the sister-wife of Zeus, Hera. Admission £5, Book & Ticket £22 www.waterstones.com/events/anevening-with-jennifer-saint/lincoln-hi gh-st T 01522 540011

Friday 21 June 6pm

GENERAL PRACTICE STUDIOS, LINCOLN LANDING: The Extraterrestrial Experience of Earth

.A solo exhibition by visual artist Oliver Ventress, including sculpture and live feeds of what alien visitors might encounter as they descend onto Earth. Free www.oliverventress.com

Monday 24 June 7pm

LINCOLN COUNTY ASSEMBLY ROOMS, 76 BAILGATE, LINCOLN LN1 3AR

An Evening with Sharon Bennett Connolly

Sharon Bennett Connolly discusses the Lincolnshire Tudor women in her new book, Heroines of the Tudor World. Tickets from £7 https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ lindumbooks T 01522 262374

INDIGO CROW GALLERY

Tuesday 25 June –Sunday 30 June 10am –4pm

Creative Lincs Art Trail

Rachel Ashworth Jerem, Sally Kheng, Eve Marshall, Ellie Benton, Laura Andrew, Ali Kemp and Lisa Tank showing their work in the Gallery. Free www.indigocrowgallery.com

Saturday 13 July 2pm

Find out what it is like to live and learn in the city. Explore the Brayford Pool campus, look at accommodation options. Free

www.lincoln.ac.uk

T 01522 882000

QUEEN’S PARK COMMUNITY HUB, SOUTH PARK, LINCOLN Lincolnshire Family History Society

Speaker Bob Massey on female highwaymen – the women who disguised themselves as men to rob and steal on the King’s highway. Dr Sarah Holland on farm work at the Lincolnshire Lunatic Asylum and exploring the patients’ experiences. Come in person or request a Zoom link by email Free, Non-members welcome lincolnbranch@lincolnshirefhs.org.uk

T 07941 245322 (Tracey Fairhurst)

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays 10am – 12pm

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 10am –2.30pm

Mondays 10.30am11.30am

ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH

Coffee Morning Monday – Craft Morning. Wednesday – Bacon Rolls. Friday – Toast bar and board games.

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

Enjoy the creativity of messy play with your child. Suitable for babies, toddlers and preschool children. Free

Mondays First & Third Monthly 1.30pm

THE ARK, MOOR LANE, NORTH HYKEHAM

Music For Memory

Singing group for people with memory problems with carers.

Donation of £1.50 welcome, Free parking and refreshments lhoenes@virginmedia.com T 01522 262656 (Linda)

LINCOLN MUSEUM

Mondays 6.15pm –7.15pm

Mondays 6.30pm –

7.30pm

Post Work Yoga Flow

An evening yoga session with BWY Yoga Guide, Amanda Greenwood. All levels welcome. £7, Please bring your own mat and blanket www.lincolnmuseum.com

T 01522 782040

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Emily Warrior Yoga

Start your week with a 60minute yoga class for the mind and body. Book online £8 www.emilywarrioryoga.com

Mondays 7pm BURTON ROAD METHODIST CHURCH, LINCOLN RockFit

Classes combining dance fitness, cardio and toning with metal and rock music. Suitable for all fitness levels. Rock out and get fit.

First Class £1, Normal Price £6 Facebook: RockFit with Loli www.rockfit.org.uk

Promoting mental well-being Shine Lincolnshire is the chosen charity for Stokes Tea and Coffee in 2024. Fundraising activites will include the proceeds of Dance Fit classes led by Stokes’ managing director Nick Peel (see top listing, right).

Wednesdays 10.30am–12pm

Wednesdays Term time only 4pm –4.45pm

Wednesdays 7pm

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Rock Choir

Build new friendships, experience unique events, and improve your general wellbeing with the UK’s leading contemporary choir! www.rockchoir.com

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Lego Coding Club

Build stories and then bring them to life by learning to code with LEGO.

FREE, booking essential www.better.org.uk/library /lincolnshire/lincoln-central-library

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN RockFit

Classes combining dance fitness, cardio and toning with metal and rock music.

First Class £1, Normal Price £6 Facebook: RockFit with Loli www.rockfit.org.uk

Thursdays 9am

THE BLUE ROOM, THE LAWN, LINCOLN

Dance Fit with Nick

A fun and lively fitness class for all levels, no dance experience necessary.

£4, All proceeds go to charity www.lawnlincoln.com

T 01522 523548

Fridays 10am

Fridays Term Time

Only 10.30am –11.30am

Saturdays 9am

12 MINT LANE, LINCOLN, LN1 1UD Mint Lane Gardening Club Help to renovate the Mint Lane garden, learn and discuss permaculture principles and techniques. Free mintlanecic@gmail.com www.mintlanecafe.com

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY

Sensory Play Play session for babies and prewalkers. Free

www.better.org.uk/library/lincoln shire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010

BAILGATE METHODIST CHURCH HALL

Bailgate Yoga Club

Gentle 1-hour flow yoga class led by Elisabeth of Moksha Yoga. All levels welcome, mats available for use.

Adult £8, Student £6.50, £40 for 6week pass, booking essential www.mokshalincoln.com T 07493 387328

Saturdays 10am TOBY CARVERY, ST MARKS, LINCOLN Lincoln Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club

If you are a military veteran or still serving, come along to meet like-minded people for a breakfast and banter. www.afvbc.net

Saturdays 10am – 2pm

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, Crafty Saturdays

Discover your crafty side. Suitable for 4 years and over, plus parents or carers Free T 01522 782010

Thursdays 10am – 11am & 11.30am –12.30pm

Tuesday 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/lincolnshire /lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010

Wednesdays 10.30am –11.30am

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE Story & Rhyme Time

Have fun listening to stories and singing rhymes. Suitable for 0 –4-year-olds and their parents. Free T 01522 782010

Thursdays 10.30am –11.30am

Thursdays 11am – 12pm

TESCO EXTRA, WRAGBY ROAD, LINCOLN TinyTalk Baby Signing

Help your child communicate before they can talk. www.tinytalk.co.uk

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Connect Over a Cuppa

Have a catch-up over a cuppa and a biscuit. Refreshments provided. Free, donations welcome

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Family History Help

Using the resources available in the library’s archives and online databases.

T 01522 782010

Thursdays 12.30pm –2pm

AGE UK, 36 PARK STREET, LINCOLN, LN1 1UQ

Bring Me Sunshine Dementia-friendly singing group, full of fun, friendship, laughter and music! Cuppas and cakes included.

£3.50 per person, must be accompanied by a carer

T 03455 564 144

Saturdays 10am– 3pm

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Lego Club

A place for children to use their imagination and build their own world using Lego.Suitable for 4 years and over, plus parents. Free

www.better.org.uk/library/lincoln shire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010

Sundays 10am – 11am

LINCOLN MUSEUM Sunday Morning Yoga Session

All levels and experience welcome to join BWY Yoga Guide, Amanda Greenwood. Adult £7, please bring your own mat and blanket www.lincolnmuseum.com T 01522 782040

Wednesday 5 June 9am – 4pm

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND Arthur Swallow Antiques & Home Show

Entry £5

www.lincolnshireshowground.co. uk T 01522 522900

Thursday

6 June

7.15pm

Friday

7 June

1pm – 3pm

Saturday

8 June

9.30am

Saturday

8 June

1pm – 6.30pm

THE GRANDSTAND, LINCOLN Lincoln WI

A talk on Lincoln's Theatre Royal and its history. Free for Lincoln WI members, guest £5 thelincolnwi.co.uk

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL

People Planet Pastry

This informal event brings people together to learn about sustainability and take action. www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 61600

SAUSTHORPE STREET, SINCIL BANK Sincil Bank Litter Pick

Please wear sensible clothing and gloves. Equipment and refreshments will be provided.

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL

Be a Chorister for a Day

Young singers get a taste of what it’s like to be a chorister at Lincoln Cathedral. Aimed at children aged 6 to 12. Free, register by emailing music@lincolncathedral.com www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600

EARTHLINCS, 12 MINT LANE

Saturday

8 June

2pm - 4pm

Sunday

9 June

8.30am – 3pm

LINCOLN LN1 1UD

Wayapa Wuurrk

Find out about Wayapa Wellbeing before workshop. Free, tea and coffee, donations welcome earthlincs@gmail.com

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

The Vintage Flea Market Homewares, textiles, fashion, jewellery, art and much more. Entry £3, cash only www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900

Appleyard Studio Open Event

Appleyard Studio Laburnum House Cliff Road (A607)

Wellingore LN5 0HY

By the bus stop

Midsummer Weekend

22nd/23rd June 1-9pm

Friday 14 June 10am – 11am

Saturday 15 June 11am –1.30pm

HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK

Toddler Time

Dress to get messy for seasonal activities for the under 5s!.

Child £4, all children must be accompanied by an adult hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

T 01522 873735

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY

Lincoln Clothes Swap

Hosted by Lincoln Sustainable Fashion Forum - bring up to 5 preloved clothing, shoes or accessories to swap for new-to-you pieces.

Free, every third Saturday www.instagram.com/lincolnsustaina blefashion

DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS

Saturday 15 June 11am

Saturday 15 June 7pm

BRAYFORD WATERFRONT, LINCOLN Dragon Boat Festival

Visitors can look forward to a full day of racing, family-friendly activities, and food and drink stalls along the waterfront. Free to spectate www.ringroselaw.co.uk/about/lincolndragon-boat-race

BAILGATE METHODIST CHURCH

Film Screening: Six Inches of Soil

The inspiring story of young British farmers standing up against the industrial food system and transforming the way they produce food.

Pay what you can - minimum £5.50 lincolnshirefoodpartnership.org

Sunday 16 June 10am – 2pm

Wednesday 19 June –Thursday 20 June 8am – 6pm

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN

Second Hand Sunday

Lincoln’s favourite regular junk sale! If you love a bargain hunt, then this one’s for you.

Entry £1, Dogs welcome Pitch £10, Bookable by email hello@southsidelincs.com

www.southsidelincs.com

T 01522 437942

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

Lincolnshire Show

A true celebration of all that’s great about Lincolnshire including a mix of shopping, horticulture, live music, equine and livestock classes, local food and more.

Tickets Adult from £24, Child from £8, Under 5s Free

www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk

T 01522 522900

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

Tuesday 11 June –Saturday 22 June 9am – 4pm

Tuesday 11 June & Tuesday 9 July 12.30pm

Wednesday 12 June –Thursday 13 June

Various times

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Book Sale

Pick up a bargain and help support your local library. www.better.org.uk/library/lincolns hire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL

The Mindful Mile

Take time out from a busy day to reconnect with the outdoors. Meet at the West Front of the cathedral. Free www.lincolncathedral.com

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Zog and the Flying Doctors

Based on the book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler, Freckle Productions in association with Rose Theatre present a roar-some adventure. Adult £17, Child £15 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 519999

Wednesday 12 June 6.30pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Butterfly Club

The Drill’s accessible club night for adults with additional needs and their carers. Tickets £5, carer free www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160

Saturday 15 June 10am –12.30pm

Liv Beginner Rides

Supported by Doddington Cycling Club at Giant Lincoln. Free, booking essential www.doddingtonhall.com

T 01522 694308

Wednesday 19 June –Thursday 20 June 8am – 6pm

LAS Schools’ Challenge Ten challenges focusing on Lincolnshire’s rich agricultural history, its horticulture and landbased activities during show days. Open to all schools, early year establishments and external clubs, groups and associations. www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk

Saturday 22 June –Sunday 23 June 10am – 4pm

INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE

The Craft & Makers Market

A range of artisan creators, bakers, and sellers of beautiful things will fill the front lawn of the IBCC. Free, Parking £3 www.internationalbcc.co.uk

T 01522 514755

Saturday 22 June 6.30pm

EPIC CENTRE, LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

Lincolnshire Rural Charities Ball

Raising funds for three charities, the LAS, LRSN and LRAC who all contribute to the agriculture and horticulture sector.

Tickets £85pp www.lrsn.co.uk

Sunday 23 June 12pm – 4pm

DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS Wedding Open Day

View the Coach House, the Long Gallery in the Elizabethan Hall and the Bridal Suite accommodation as well as St Peter’s Church. Free, booking essential www.doddingtonhall.com

T 01522 694308

Wednesday 26 June

1pm – 4pm

Thursday 27 June 5pm – 7pm

Friday

28 June –

Sunday

30 June 10am

Sunday

30 June 2 - 4pm

COMMUNITY ROOM, TESCO EXTRA, WRAGBY ROAD, LINCOLN

Community Cuppa

Free drinks and biscuits every last Wednesday of the month.

DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS

Doddington Tree Walks

Discover stories behind these fascinating plants.

Adult £20, RHS Members £16, booking essential www.doddingtonhall.com

T 01522 694308

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

Lincs Wheels

The ultimate destination for car enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike.

Adult from £25, Under 13s Free www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk

T 01522 522900

CHILDREN'S LINKS TOY LIBRARY, LINCOLN

Lincoln Repair Café

Our Fixers will have a look at small electricals, clothes, jewellery and toys. Get in touch first, so you can be matched with a Fixer.

Free, donations appreciated www.facebook.com/Lincoln repaircafeUK

THE GRANDSTAND, CARHOLME ROAD

Thursday

4 July

7.15pm

Friday

5 July –

Saturday

6 July Various Times

Lincoln WI

A craft night with Nina, for needle felting.

Free for members, Guests £10 www.thelincolnwi.co.uk

NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN

The Tiger Who Came To Tea

Based on the children’s book by Judith Kerr.

Tickets Adult £15.50 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk

T 01522 519999

Saturday 6 July 9am – 4pm

Saturday 6 July 10am – 1pm

Saturday 6 July 2 pm - 4pm

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY

Summer Reading Challenge Launch –Marvellous Makers

Solve a summer mystery. www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshi re/lincoln-central-library

T 01522 782010

THE FERRY BOAT, HIGH STREET, WASHINGBOROUGH

Farmers’ Market

Support local small businessesoutdoor and indoor stalls. www.ferryboatwashingborough.co.uk T 01522 790794

EARTHLINCS, 12 MINT LANE, LINCOLN, LN1 1UD

All About Hedgehogs Workshop with Alex FoxleyJohnson. All ages welcome, children must be accompanied. Free, www.earthlincs.co.uk

HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK

Sunday 7 July 10.30am –12.30pm

Bird Watching For All

A guided walk to discover the many species which reside in the park throughout the year. Free, all children must be accompanied by an adult hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk T 01522 873735

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

Saturday 13 July –Sunday 15 September All day

LINCOLN CITY CENTRE

Elmer’s BIG Art Parade

A stampede of creativity is coming to Lincoln this summer with 12 colourful elephants helping to celebrate everything the city has to offer!

Free

www.lincolnbig.co.uk

T 01522 545233

See below for timetable and pages 1&3 for fll story

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

Sunday 14 July 10am – 2.30pm

Toy Collectors Fair

200-table trove of collectables, including everything from Corgi and Hornby, to Sci-Fi, Star Wars, film and TV related items.

Saturday 13 July 9am

Inflatable 5K

Bounce your way through the world's biggest inflatable 5K obstacle course!

Adult £24.50 - £39.50, Child £14.50 - £29.50 www.ukrunningevents.co.uk

SAUSTHORPE STREET, SINCIL BANK

Saturday 13 July 9.30am

Sincil Bank Litter Pick Please wear sensible clothing and gloves. Equipment and refreshments will be provided.

Sunday 14 July 11am – 1pm

Adult £3.50, Seniors £3, Under 15s Free www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk

T 01522 522900

HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK

Foraging: A Beginner’s Guide

Learn the golden rules of foraging and what to pick when. All materials and equipment are provided.

Adult £4, aimed at adults, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

T 01522 873735

The Summer of Fun schedule for active kids

Bring on the Calendar Girls

THE Asylum Players’ production of the archetypical British comedy Calendar Girls can be seen at The Blue Room over the last two weekends of July.

Written by Tim Firth it tells the story of a group of ‘middle-aged women going nuts’.

After losing her husband to the big C Anni and her best friend Chris decide to raise money to replace the worn-out sofa of the local hospital and the women of Knapely WI decide that a calendar of misty Yorkshire bridges might not cut it.

So, what to do instead? Bake sale? Tombola? Naked calendar?

Buns, baps, and euphemisms of all kinds will be running wild in this latest version of the true story of female friendship, crazy situations and local community

Stephen Gillard, Artistic Director of The Blue Room and Asylum Players: “Some shows are just so wonderfully British that they become instant classics. Calendar Girls is one of these. It makes you laugh, it makes you tear up and it makes you think.

“We’ve all been affected by cancer in some way and nothing typifies the British spirit more than finding a way to laugh in the face of these situations. Calendar Girls is that spirit on the stage.”

A donation from ticket sales and programme sales will be made to Macmillan Cancer Research.

The play can be seen July 18-20 and July 25-27 starting at 7.30pm at The Blue Room, Union Road, Lincoln, LN1 3BU, tickets from £20. www.lawnlincoln.com

Deadline for virtual art exhibition

THE first Lincolnshire Open Art Exhibition has now gone live giving artists a chance to see how their work will be promoted to a national and international audience.

The deadline for submitting a piece of work for the exhibition on the Open Art Lincs (OPAL) website (www.openart-lincs.com ) is mid-June. Artists considering entering can visit

the website, enter the virtual gallery and follow the instructions to navigate around the exhibition.

“The longer term aim for the virtual exhibition is to have a county-wide portal where as many artists as possible can have their own space,” explained OPAL founder Kevin Byron.

“When any pieces are sold another one can be uploaded. There are no fees or commission charges and the exhibition will remain in place indefinitely.”

Queer creativity celebrated during city’s Pride month

CREATIVE events seeking to amplify Lincolnshire’s LGBTQ+ voices by showcasing queer talent will mark the beginning of Pride month.

This takes place across the UK in June and students, staff and alumni from the University of Lincoln are taking part in the celebrations through contributions of creative work the public can enjoy.

Obscene Pomegranate is a Lincoln-based magazine and online platform that promotes the work of queer artists, writers and creatives, run by Emily Collyer (MA Fine Art student) and Cat Anderson (MA Arts and Cultural Management student).

Cat said: “We are delighted to share our second issue of Obscene Pomegranate this Pride month, filled with incredible submissions from Lincoln and beyond. We have always been in awe of the support that has surrounded us as an organisation.”

Issue One of Obscene Pomegranate was launched in February 2023, featuring work from 30 creatives. Issue Two has been available to buy from 1 June 2024, when it will be displayed at Spare Me the Details, an intimate arts exhibition at General Practice which is an artists’ event space in the city. The pink-infused display at General Practice will feature work from artists Emily Collyer, Will Thompson, Luna Rosson and a commission produced by Melody Phelan-Clark, all studying Fine Art at the University of Lincoln.Open and free to all, the exhibition represents a significant step in the students’ journeys as artists while enabling the public to see the work of fresh up-and-coming artistic talent from their own city.

Spare Me the Details art exhibition will be open until June 9 at General Practice, Clasketgate, Lincoln.

Submissions of paintings, drawings, photography, or 3D in any medium (eg sculpture, ceramics, or textiles) can be submitted on the artist’s interpreation of the theme This is Real!

See the website for terms and conditions and the Art News section.

Cyclists commemorate downed Dambuster crew

SEVEN RAF cyclists cycled nearly 300 miles from the International Bomber Command Centre in Lincoln to a memorial near Amsterdam to commemorate the anniversary of a downed World War 2 bomber crew’s death, with each cyclist wearing a jersey that represents one of those that lost their lives.

The trip, organised by the centre culminated in a service at Castricum-an-Zee in Holland where a memorial stands at the location their bodies were recovered after washing up on the shore.

The flight crew was led by Sqn Ldr Melvin “Dinghy”Young and played a central part in the IBCC’s ‘Men of the Dams’ art installation which featured silhouettes of the 53 men who lost their lives on the iconic Dambusters raid in 1943.

Station Commander of RAF Digby, Wing Commander Neil Hallett explained: “The history of the Dambusters’ raid is a proud part of our RAF heritage. The strong connection between

RAF Digby, a former Battle of Britain site and Wing Commander Guy Gibson, Officer Commanding 617 Squadron makes this commemorative endeavour, in its 81st year, even more special.

Nicky van der Drift, IBBC chief executive and organiser of the challenge, added: “On 16 May 1943, nineteen Lancaster aircraft from RAF’s 617 Squadron undertook a daring attack at the heart of Germany’s industrial complex.

“While it was a mostly successful operation, of the 133 men who took part in it, 53 of those had to sacrifice their lives in its completion. The cyclists who took on this challenge did a remarkable thing to add to and appreciate the Dambusters’ memories, recognising their organisations, heritage and history, and we’re very proud to have worked with them.”

internationalbcc.co.uk.

Academy students take to the National stage

STUDENTS from Sir Robert Pattinson Academy from Lincoln have been selected to perform Replica by Titas Halder on the Dorfman stage at the National Theatre on Friday, June 28.

The Academy is one of ten groups representing the range of UK talent at the National Theatre Connections Festival from 25 – 29 June.

Rachel France, Director the Academy said:“As this is our first Connections Festival, we really

didn’t know what to expect, but it has been nothing short of incredible. Giving the young people the opportunity to collaborate with professionals from the industry has been amazing! From the start, the Festival has been an incredible experience and we feel so lucky to get to end with a performance at the National Theatre.” Sofia, 17, added:“I feel that Connections was a great opportunity, especially coming from our area where the exposure to theatre is not as accessible. This is also a great chance to develop my skills before applying to further acting qualifications.”

The students first performed Replica at the Nottingham Playhouse, a Connections partner.

Something borrowed better for the blue planet than something new

BY REBECCA POOLE

A LENDING scheme for power tools, gardening equipment, sewing machines and more is due to open at EarthLincs this summer.

The project is currently in its application stages, after volunteers have put in a bid to secure funding from the lottery to cover running costs.

“They’ve offered us the use of a room at Mint Lane, so we’ve applied for grant money for the computer program that’s used to do the lending. It’s a great little program called ‘Lend Engine’.

“Also, the grant will help to buy or repair the tools,” explained Rosemary Robinson, EarthLincs volunteer.

it would show you what tools were available and you could then book them online.

“I think that a small hire charge would give us a bit of income to make the project sustainable and help with any repairs and PAT testing that needs doing, but also I think people tend to value things a bit more and look after them if there’s a price attached to it,” explained Rosemary.

“We’ve already had loads of offers from people who have got tools in their shed, so we’re quite confident that even if we didn’t get the full amount, we’d be able to go ahead because we’ll get donations from people.”

The idea of the Library of Things came from a countrywide network of climate emergency centres who noticed the emerging need of lending schemes to help reduce waste and CO2 emissions.

EarthLincs surveyed the general public through questionnaires, outreach at events, and in-person consultations at Mint Lane Café to understand the wants of the local community. From the responses, the majority said they felt that the lending system was a good idea benefitting low-income households, single parent families and people who want to do occasional jobs.

“It’s the idea of a local scheme, sharing things. If you’ve got 10 neighbours with a tiny bit of lawn, why does every neighbour have to have a lawn mower each?” said Carolyn Puzzovio, EarthLincs volunteer.

The most popular items wanted from respondents were power tools and carpet cleaners, with many providing the reason of being unable to store large equipment in modern properties.

“A tool library is very much like an ordinary book library, but with a tool library it would be on a computer program. People would be able to come in physically, but you would go onto the program and

Any fees would be dependent on size and type of the item, with larger items holding a higher charge. Concessions would be available for those on a low-income to avoid deterring people from using the scheme.

“The idea is not to make a profit, the idea is to provide a service,” added Carolyn.

It is hoped the project will start this summer if EarthLincs can secure funding.

“We will probably operate it in person for people to come and collect or drop off their stuff during our EarthLincs session on Saturdays.

“If anybody has got any ideas of workshops they’d like to run, things they think other people might be interested in or any

resources they can offer, we’re more than happy to hear from them. This is all about getting the community together and making a difference.”

If you are interested in volunteering with EarthLincs or if you’d like to get involved with the Library of Things – Stuff to Borrow project contact earthlincs@gmail.com or drop in on Saturdays 2pm – 4pm at Mint Lane Café.

Community World Cup scores success

LINCOLN City Foundation hosted its inaugural Community World Cup at the LNER Stadium in May with 18 different teams from various cultures and backgrounds going head-to-head in a 6a-side tournament.

The event was held in celebration of the diversity in the city with each team representing a different community.

Countries including East Timor, Nigeria, Ghana and Poland were all represented in a day, which focused on bringing local people from various backgrounds together.

The day was made possible by the City of Lincoln Council Community Chest Fund which provided the funds, along with the John Dawber Trust, Lincoln City Foundation, Lincoln City Football Club, LEAN (Lincoln Embraces All Nations) and the University of Lincoln.

Daniel Carter, head of sport and physical activity at the Foundation, said: “The inaugural Community World Cup was a powerful display of unity and diversity, driven by the universal appeal of football.

“Through the vision of our community manager Kate O’Reilly, local residents and organisations come together to create other memorable events like this.

“As a whole Foundation, we’re privileged to have supported and collaborated with other like-minded organisations to deliver such an impactful initiative.

“Looking ahead, we’re committed to backing similar events that foster inclusivity and unity within our community, utilising the unique power of sport and involving new groups with Lincoln City Football Club.”

Paul Carrick, neighbourhood manager at City of Lincoln Council said: “By funding events like the Community World Cup through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, we aim to improve local life and foster community togetherness.

“Thanks to LEAN, the City Council’s Neighbourhood Teams, and their connections, we ensured global representation.

“The event’s atmosphere and football showcased its positive impact, uniting diverse groups and forging connections. We’re thrilled to support this event and look forward to future involvement.”

A team representing the Arab community were the winners on the day after they defeated team Mosque in the final which was played on the LNER Stadium pitch.

Inam Ibrahim, a representative of the Arabic School for All and one of the key organisers of the event, expressed her delight at the success of the day” “The tournament has been brilliant - we have been waiting for this day for a long time.

“The main purpose of this event is to bring everyone together and unite the community. I want to say thank you to Lincoln City Foundation for doing an amazing job at uniting different communities not just today, but all the time.”

Lincoln City Foundation also utilised the Premier League Fans Fund to engage with these ethnically diverse groups who are often under-represented in the Imps’ fanbase, with the aim to improve cohesion within the community.

Teams from the University of Lincoln Women’s football society and the Lincolnshire Police force also took part to show their support for an important community event.

The Lincs Police FC team manager Cal McDonald explained why he felt it vital that Lincolnshire Police participate, “For us it’s a fantastic opportunity to represent Lincolnshire Police and get involved with a lot of the communities that were present.

“Events like this give us the opportunity to engage with our diverse communities in a sociable way, building relationships across the groups which are represented in Lincolnshire. It’s great to show the people behind the badge.”

If you are interested in taking part in the next Community World Cup in 2025 then please email community@lincolncityfoundation.co.uk.

Rescuing baby blackbirds

I DON’T know if I ever told you about my raising baby blackbirds?

It was about three years ago, in 2021 we noticed a blackbird nest in the clematis on the back of the house. It was not in a good place, too low down and close to the kitchen window sill.

We kept an eye on it. One morning the parents, who had been coming and going for about five days with food, were sitting on the birch tree screaming and calling, clearly in some distress.

I went and looked at the nest and found it empty, although not destroyed. Some while later I went onto the bricked area some way beyond the nest site and lo there were four, cold, unmoving babies. How they had got there is a mystery. Perhaps an attack by a magpie?

The two parent birds had gone by this time, so I fetched some paper to pick the babies up and had decided to bury them, not wanting them to be eaten by any passing cats. As I picked

them up they moved. What followed was a month or more of feverish

feeding, wiping up bits of poo, eventually bathing and drinking, getting up and walking round the room, more poo cleaning and finally, after a lot of fluttering, flying onto the bookcase.

They sang, they sat on our heads, they ate copious amounts of worms I had to buy from the fishing tackle shop and cut up (!!) I know, it was vile.

I was reminded of them today as I went to the greenhouse to water the few seedlings I have managed to produce and save from slugs this year.

A blackbird, swooped past my face and sat on the hawthorn giving me the beady eye treatment. He was very handsome and I obligingly went in and fetched the food and put some out for him. A female came down and they both fearlessly fed near to me. The life expectancy of a blackbird is three to four years. I like to think this may be one of my offspring. Wouldn’t that be lovely?

Bespoke banquette seating, dining chairs, roman blinds and scatter cushions.

The sounds returning to the natural world

BY RACHEL SHAW

LINCOLNSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

EVER since the beginning of May, I’ve been paying more attention to the sounds that surround us. The first Sunday of May was International Dawn Chorus Day.

I set my alarm ridiculously early so I could go to a nature reserve to listen to the birds sing as the sun rose. It is a magical few hours as sunlight returns to the landscape accompanied by bird song. The dawn chorus can be heard everywhere, even by opening your bedroom window, but there’s something extra special about listening on a nature reserve.

I am no expert on identifying birds from their song, I can identify a blackbird singing and those species which helpfully sing their names like the chiffchaff and cuckoo. Beyond that, I get a bit lost. But perhaps that’s the point. Just to listen and immerse yourself in the sound.

The nature reserve I choose is north of Lincoln. It’s a special reserve to me as it’s the first that the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust bought back in the 1950s.

On this particular morning, a low mist added to the atmosphere. And, as I’d hoped, the birds were singing. As I walked along the path, there were different calls and melodies, then in the distance, the sound of a cuckoo. I spent a few hours there, before, slightly reluctantly, I had to get back into my car and return to the commonplace sounds of the day.

Those everyday background noises that perpetuate our waking hours. It’s sad that most of these noises are man-made. In my garden in Lincoln, I do hear bird song as well as the buzzing of bees. Sometimes the buzzards’ mew as they fly high on the thermals above the Lincoln edge.Very occasionally, I’ve heard a faraway cuckoo.

I saw my first swifts the same weekend as the dawn chorus. I heard them first: those high-pitched screams as they swooped high above the streets. But I can always hear the constant noise of tyres on tarmac: the nearby roads and the distant bypass. The sounds of

people rise in volume above the sounds of the natural world. Scientific studies of birds such as great tits show they sing at a higher pitch in urban areas than rural areas to overcome the constant low-pitched rumble of traffic and man-made noise. Of course it’s not only the sounds we make that has changed the soundscape. The populations of so many of our birds, mammals and insects have declined too.

I wonder what would Lincoln have sounded like in the 1950s?

How many garden hedgerows were filled with chattering house sparrows? Today, they seem few and far between. But some natural sounds are returning.

In the last few weeks, I’ve been fortunate to hear the cranes bugling at Willow Tree Fen nature reserve in south Lincolnshire and the cacophony of croaking natterjack toads on the coast.

The soundscape with cranes had been silent for 400 years until the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust allowed water and wildlife to return to one small corner of the Lincolnshire Fens.

On the coast, natterjack toads had almost disappeared. Thanks to the dedication of my colleagues, their numbers and their nocturnal calls are increasing.

The return of these sounds due to the re-wilding of our soundscape, shows that it is possible for nature to recover. Through the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust’s Nature Recovery Fund we hope to help make that happen.

You can be part of it too by allowing nature to flourish in your garden, volunteering in your community greenspace or, if you can, by supporting the Nature Recovery Fund at lincstrust.org.uk/nature-recovery-fund

Still time to enter Lincolnshire Environmental Awards

If you are caring for nature in your community greenspacemaking it accessible to wildlife and people, then please consider entering the Lincolnshire Environmental Awards.

We’re looking for communities that are making a difference to their local area and helping nature recover. www.lincsenvironmentalawards.org.uk

Cranes bugling at Willow Tree Fen by David Roberts.

Great tit

Blackbird

Community and Environment

Regeneration of Sincil Bank

BY REBECCA POOLE

SINCIL Bank residents have been involved in each stage of the regeneration of the area, which started five years ago.

Government funding has helped projects to create a Sustainable Transport Network and improve green spaces in Sincil Bank, which is one of several proposed projects supported by the Levelling Up scheme, which provided financial support through the Towns Fund initiative.

“It’s a Highways project so the County Council is leading on that element of it, reconfiguring the road layout and making it one-way, and creating more room for cycling and walking. It’s come in after the introduction of residents’ parking, and has given the opportunity to transform that street because it’s taken the pressure off parking spaces and traffic,” explained Kate Bell, Climate Change Manager, City of Lincoln Council.

The focus is to create a cycle and pedestrian route to the South Common, making green spaces more accessible for the community by connecting areas and enabling a shift to sustainable transport reducing the need to travel by car. Residents’ parking was introduced into the area last year which Kate explained improved space and flexibility to make this project possible. The local community has been included in the project since the very start and has been integral in each planning stage through

public consultations to identify and highlight priority spaces that would benefit from the greening project.

City Council is taking on the ‘Gateways and Greening’ aspect, concentrating on improving green spaces and helping to define the area by introducing 4 gateways defining the community and celebrating the distinctive nature of the area.

“We’ve got some flexibility, it doesn’t just have to be Sincil Bank, the street. They had the opportunity because it’s ‘Gateways and Greening’ which is about the entrances to Sincil Bank and the sense of arrival into the area,” said Kate.

“The idea is to smarten it up a bit and make more of an arrival with new signage whilst working with the community, City Council, and County Council to maintain these spaces. Along Portland Street, there are really attractive buildings and it’s about highlighting things like that.”

Target areas identified by the community in need of improvement included overgrown shrubbery which affects visibility, and small unused areas of green space which groups have shown interest in helping to maintain.

“The ethos of Bridge Church is all about health and wellbeing so they’re very keen to use it as an activity for people to get out once a week and do some gardening.”

In addition to opening up spaces, adding things like bird boxes to encourage wildlife to the area and increasing seating areas, totems are also being developed to provide

a sense of arrival into Sincil Bank.

“The totems are signage and will show information about the area and about the project. The idea is they’ll be throughout Sincil Bank, so as you come in from the four gateway areas there will be the same signage.

“The signs are based on the shape of the whole Sincil Bank area and the blue line (on the signs) is the Dyke running through it, which will follow through on all of them.”

Lincoln was awarded £19 million to deliver a range of regeneration and connectivity projects, which was a share of the £3.6 billion government funding invested throughout the country.

The strategy was set out to create opportunities for everyone across the UK, improving jobs and living standards by investing in high streets and town centres and facilitated councils to deliver proposed projects.

Ambitious improvements in the city such as the Drill Hall development, Cornhill Market, and Lincoln Community Grocery Store on Beaumont Fee have already been delivered, with other projects needing to be completed by the end of the Towns Fund in 2026.

Find out more about the other Towns Fund projects in Lincoln at www.lincoln.gov.uk/governmentlevelling-funding-2/towns-fund-

streets.uk

01522 551200

General Electionwhat really matters to business?

THE wait is over and we now have a date for a general election – July 4.

While many will have been pressing for an election, how many of us have considered why or what we really want from the next government?

Individuals will, no doubt, have their own thoughts unique to them, but when it comes to businesses the needs and aspirations are probably more universal. Perhaps these might start with a government that provides greater stability, a sense of direction and vision for the future - one that has empathy for people and businesses alike, with the need for disruption and doing things differently being at the heart of addressing the challenges we face.

That is opposed to the internal politics and disruption we have seen over the term of this parliament, with infighting and a focus on themselves rather than the people they serve.

There also feels like a need to demonstrate more in terms of good governance and embracing the Nolan principles of public life, which are around selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

For many in business there is a real quest for a more stable economy along with greater certainty and growth. With a greater sense of confidence and trust, optimism tends to follow along with the

assurance and decision to make business investments and to drive change and growth.

It would seem that much of the challenge of the cost of living has rightly focused on individuals but we mustn’t forget that people run, manage and work in businesses. Therefore, businesses are also impacted both directly and indirectly by the cost of living and the cost of running a business.

Certainly, businesses are keen to see costs come down and stay down, something which no doubt requires a continued focus on the likes of energy costs and overall supply chain management.

Rising costs over recent years, along with workforce and skills shortages, are certainly taking their toll on established, new and scale up enterprises. As such there needs to be a greater focus on improving productivity and for ensuring that our education system, from primary to tertiary and lifelong learning, is best placed to support the needs of our businesses.

Business leaders are also frustrated by poor infrastructure, not least the inability to travel efficiently and effectively around the country whether by road, rail or public transport – we would all benefit from investment in the same. Whilst healthcare will be high on the list of issues campaigned about and will be

on the minds of the electorate, we often overlook the impact on the workplace of people not being able to access and receive the health and welfare care and support they need. Certainly, many a business could benefit from a more robust, resilient and responsive care sector.

Though it may seem an age since the pandemic, we are still dealing with the fallout and there’s still a lot to be done to support communities affected and the lasting changes we face.

Our vital third sector organisations and the social economy have been hit particularly and despite their key role in society, they are often overlooked.

We must also consider Brexit as we still seem to not have realised the supposed or otherwise benefits of our withdrawal from the EU. For some this will be around dealing with the challenges involved in trading with EU states, as well as the need to explore and realise new trading opportunities.

There are also the key issues of geopolitical challenges and a real sense of unrest, war and conflict around the world and let’s not forget global warming and the environment.

Whatever the outcome of the election, hopefully this has provided food for thought. Perhaps surprisingly there is little reference here to taxation and the need for tax reform or changes.

Business News from the Experts

Taxing time for holiday lets business

BACK in September we acquired a twomonth old Springer Spaniel puppy, Winnie (pictured) from a friend of a friend.

Being first time dog owners we thought we would start off with a nice, calm easily manageable dog (not).

She is now nine months old. In a couple of days’ time we are going on her first holiday, a dog appropriate week in a holiday cottage in Northumberland. What has this got to do with

DAVID NICHOLSON, DIRECTOR, DEXTER AND SHARPE (LINCOLN) LTD

accountancy? Well, since I booked this holiday there have been changes in the tax system that will cause a great amount of upheaval for those that run this sort of business.

In the last budget the reliefs for Furnished Holiday Lets that have been an ever present since I started working in tax were removed.

Or rather, the chancellor announced that these reliefs would disappear with effect from 6 April 2025. There may be some transitional reliefs available but we do not yet know what these may be.

Historically there have been significant reliefs available as long as you comply with the rules about the length of lets, the amount of time that the property is available to let (210 days a year) and the amount of days it is actually let (105 days a year on individual lets of less than 30 days duration each).

Up to the current tax year if you meet these criteria you can potentially benefit from these advantages:

l Full relief as an expense for mortgage interest;

l Capital allowances on furniture and fixtures;

l Business Asset disposal relief giving a 10% CGT charge on disposal; and

l Rollover relief against CGT if proceeds of sale are re-invested in another holiday-let property.

There is even for the lucky few a potential relief from Inheritance Tax if the business is of sufficient scale and significant services are provided.

So-called staycations had a high water mark as we emerged from the pandemic and the boom in Air B&B, but the outlook for these businesses was already tough and these changes can only make things tougher.

Coupled with the increases in borrowing costs over the last couple of years some will be looking to sell up. This may affect prices and tourism revenues in some areas will inevitably suffer.

Still, at least for this year our cottage owner will get full tax relief for any replacement furniture Winnie destroys. info@dextersharpelincoln.co.uk.

FARM businesses have broadened greatly over the past few years, with inventive farmers setting up innovative enterprises to ensure they remain sustainable for generations to come. Diversification is nothing new. According to the latest government figures, 69% of farms have already adapted their set-up. The more traditional options – such as transforming old outbuildings into commercial units, creating wedding venues out of barns and building holiday cottages – are now complemented by more novel enterprises, like selling ecosystem services, such as biodiversity net gain units to developers and carbon offsetting.

Whether health and safety, trading

Diversification - the legal impact

AMY COWDELL, PARTNER AND HEAD OF AGRICULTURE AT SHAKESPEARE MARTINEAU

standards or finances, each industry comes with its own rules and regulations, so there is a need to consider the legal implications of any type of diversification scheme being contemplated.

Legal agreements

Regardless of the type of business venture a farm chooses to embark on, it’s important to ensure all legal documentation is drafted correctly. For example, if you plan to let out premises under a business lease, you’ll need to be aware of the contracting out procedure to ensure tenants are not inadvertently provided with protection rights to remain. This can be a nightmare if you want to take back an outbuilding for another use once the lease has expired, so getting legal advice is essential to ensure this does not happen by mistake.

On the flipside, those considering tourism or wedding venues might be contemplating letting someone else manage the day-to-day running of the business. It will therefore be important to consider how risk is managed between

the two parties and ensure the correct form of commercial management agreement is in place.

Planning issues

When diversifying, it’s likely you’ll need to apply for change of use planning. If you’ve already diversified without securing planning permission, it might be possible for you to do this retrospectively. However, this may be risky as you may not be successful in being granted planning for what might have been a pricey diversification project.

Financial considerations

Steering away from a traditional farming operation could have a bearing on your inheritance tax liability. Adapting businesses should seek financial and legal advice in relation to succession and estate planning to ensure correct land and business structures are put in place to minimise the tax paid.

Visit www.shma.co.uk or contact Amy at amy.cowdell@shma.co.uk, T. 01522 313370

Choosing a structure for business

LAUREN OSBORNE,

STARTING a business is exciting but there are several business structures to choose from each with different benefits and drawbacks.

For those who dream of owning a business a brief overview is outlined below to help decide on its format.

Sole Trader

If you're self-employed, you can run your business as a sole trader. You'll run the business alone, be responsible for making all decisions, and own all the business assets personally. This structure has minimal formalities and low administration costs, but you'll be personally responsible for any debts and liabilities.

Private Limited Company (Ltd)

Limited companies are separate legal entities from the owners. The company can own assets, enter contracts with third parties, and be responsible for its debts so your personal assets won't be at risk if the business gets into debt.

However, a limited company needs to be registered with Companies House and the company’s registered office address, the names of its shareholders and directors must be publicly available. You will also have ongoing obligations to file accounts and other documents.

Partnership

In a partnership the business is run by two or more partners who share responsibility for running the business and are jointly responsible for its debts and obligations. There is no need to register a partnership with Companies House or file accounts. However, partners should enter into a written partnership agreement to govern the relationship between them.

Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

LLPs are similar to both limited companies and partnerships. They are run by at least two ‘members’ who have limited liability for the business’ debts.

An LLP has greater organisational flexibility and is taxed as a partnership but it must be registered with Companies House and file accounts and other documents and there should be an LLP agreement to govern how it is run.

If you need help deciding which business structure is right for you, get in touch with our team of corporate and commercial experts.

Visit www.wilkinchapman.co.uk, or call Lauren Osborne on 01522 515950

SOLICITOR AT WILKIN CHAPMAN

Small steps make a big impact

Turbines at a windfarm at Theddlethorpe, Lincolnshire.

Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland businesses

invited to embrace sustainability initiatives

GREATER Lincolnshire is making leaps towards sustainabilityfrom its renowned agricultural sector making innovative progress in the use of robotics and vertical farming through to Grimsby’s resurgent future as a renewable energy manufacturing base.

Lincolnshire is well placed to make the most of a worldwide movement towards sustainability, creating well paid jobs and business opportunities across the whole county.

While larger corporations have already pledged to streamline their efforts, every business can join the movement. After all, small businesses represent 99% of the UK’s enterprises and employ 60% of the workforce.

Recognising the challenges faced by smaller businesses, Business Lincolnshire is offering fully funded support with its Low Carbon Lincolnshire Programme, which includes a series of workshops for Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland businesses wanting to transition towards sustainability.

With mounting pressure to adopt sustainable practices across operations and supply chains, now is the time for SMEs to take action.

Low Carbon Lincolnshire is designed to assist SMEs on their journey towards Net Zero. Delivered by the experienced team at PECT, an environmental charity based in Peterborough, these fully funded workshops and materials are poised to equip businesses with the knowledge and resources they need.

Councillor Davie, Executive Councillor for Economy & Place at Lincolnshire County Council, emphasised the importance of the initiative: “Business Lincolnshire’s Low Carbon Lincolnshire

programme offers vital support to our local SMEs.

“These fully funded workshops are a gateway for small businesses in Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland to embrace sustainability and the opportunities it presents.  A crucial initiative for a greener and more resilient business landscape in our region.”

Each participating business will undergo a tailored onboarding process to confirm eligibility, ensuring that workshops are tailored to their specific needs.

Upcoming sustainability events:

l Carbon Reduction Clinic – June 4th, Healing Manor Hotel

l Creating a Sustainable Supply Chain – June 18th, Online

l Getting Started with Net Zero – June 20th, Mosaic Digital Hub, Lincoln

l The Basics of Decarbonisation – June 20th, Mosaic Digital Hub, Lincoln

l Getting Started with Net Zero – July 7th, The Boilerhouse, Grantham

l The Basics of Decarbonisation – July 7th, The Boilerhouse, Grantham

l Getting Started with Net Zero – September 10th, Market Rasen Racecourse, Mosaic Digital Hub

l The Basics of Decarbonisation – September 10th, Market Rasen Racecourse, Mosaic Digital Hub.

To book onto these events of for more information on the Low Carbon Lincolnshire Programme, visit Business Lincolnshire’s website, https://www.businesslincolnshire.com/.

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