celebrating two decades of treats & treasures in the heart of Lincoln’s Bailgate
fab fabulousyears lousyears A bulousyears of ofF
Follie - still fabulous at 20
FOLLIE is celebrating 20 years since opening its doors in the heart of Lincoln's Bailgate.
For two decades owner Josie Rossington has worked to create a unique space filled with beautiful gifts, jewellery and accessories.
“The milestone birthday is the perfect opportunity to fulfil my long-held ambitions and share the inspiration behind Follie.”
The vision for Follie came after a holiday to rural France, where Josie fell in love with the artistic atmosphere of boutiques in the town of Brive.
“I thought it would be fabulous to have a shop like that in Lincoln.”
That seed of an idea quickly grew - after spending a few frustrating years away from her design career Josie decided to take the leap and started to research opening her own shop.
She was encouraged in the venture by her mum, Sue, who had previously run children’s shop Ragamuffin in Bailgate. They went to a trade fair in London where they discovered products they knew would delight customers in Lincoln.
“From then on, there were no more what’s ifs, but more of where and when. I knew the shop’s location would be key and it needed to be in Bailgate - after a bit of legwork and asking around I discovered 83 Bailgate was available."
From the start Josie has hand selected products, choosing each item as if it were for herself and brought a personal touch by creating various handmade items such as lavender-filled, vintage fabric hearts, inspired by that first trip to Brive.
"It's definitely more than just a shop, it's a huge outlet for me to be creative, from the window
displays and visual merchandising, to the photographs I take of Lincoln…I wanted a space where people would leave feeling better than when they came in, whether they're inspired by Follie's shelves, found a brilliant gift or been unable to resist treating themselves to a little feelgood purchase."
To mark Follie’s milestone birthday, Josie’s launched a rebrand and new website and has also developed a special collection of limited edition items (pictured right). This exclusive line designed in collaboration with some of her favourite suppliers, reflects the unique spirit of Follie.
“Each piece in our 20th birthday collection was created by people who share Follie’s passion, they’re not just suppliers, they’re part of the extended Follie family. I’m so grateful to them for helping me make this dream project a reality”.
“I also wanted to share the Follie love, so each purchase from the range will be supporting two incredible causes with 100% of the profits from every sale from the birthday collection being donated to St Barnabas Hospice and Blood Cancer UK.
Reflecting on the last 20 years, Josie added: “I’m incredibly lucky to work in this magnificent area of Lincoln. Being part of the Bailgate community is at the heart of everything I do. But none of this would be possible without the phenomenal support from my family, friends and my fabulous Follie customers.”
Follie, 83 Bailgate, Lincoln, LN1 3AR. T. 01522 579 400
The city’s BIG decision time
CONGRATULATIONS to everyone involved in the GEM Awards - see page 47.
What I particularly like about the GEMs is that they are ‘proper’ awards.
By that I mean you don’t receive an accolode depending on how many tickets you’ve bought for the over-priced awards night ceremony.
To win a GEM award businesses are assessed by independent judges and I would like see all awards run along similar lines.
A business mentor once told the Mag Wife and I that we needed to be award-winners to get
The awards were either run by other media companies so we’d never win (at least that’s not a problem now) or they were structured in such a way we felt they meant bugger all.
We’ve thought about running our own ceremony honouring people whose work in their communities usually goes unrecognised.
It’s an idea we’d like to follow up, but we realise that to do awards well takes a lot of hard work.
One thing we do know is that it’ll be a pie and pea supper.
Back to GEM - these are, of course organised by Lincoln BIG, which is facing its five-year vote by levypayers this month (November).
If this doesn’t go the Business Improvement Group’s way the services they provide will end in June 2025...and then what?
We keep being told that times are hard, but we need to remember that we are still incredibly spoilt and entitled.
Most people don’t give a thought about who or what provides their services until
Dexter & Sharpe
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Landmark House 1 Riseholme Road
Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN1 3SN
Tel: 01522 533588
IN TOUCH
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something goes wrong and then they’re very quick to point the finger of blame.
Hopefully levypayers will remember that it’s not just events such the recent fabulous Halloween extravaganza that are provided by BIG. It also works to keep the city clean, safe and welcoming as well as offering business advice and deals on parking and bus journeys. We hope the vote goes BIG’s way.
Your code to What’s On
We are celebrating 24 years of the Lincoln Independent magazine in 2024 Lincoln’s premiere and FREE magazine brings you news, features and lifestyle coverage from the city and beyond.
THE Indie’s fantastic What’s On guide (pages 24-38) 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.
December ISSUE DEADLINE
Material for our December edition should reach us by November 15. We welcome your news and comments and will do our best to publish submitted items, but this is not always possible and we reserve the right to withhold content.
Next issue out from December 3.
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County’s first fox hunting conviction
A MAN has been found guilty of fox hunting, the first conviction of its kind in Lincolnshire.
Neil Burton, 59, the Huntsman of the Burton Hunt, had denied a charge relating to an incident on January 27 this year.
During a two-day trial at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court, footage captured by Lincoln Hunt Saboteurs was shown. In it, Burton is seen sitting on a white horse in the middle of Riseholme Lane, near Lincoln.
The footage then shows a fox running across the lane behind Burton, and into a wooded covert.
The fox was followed into the woodland by hounds. As this happened Burton rode his horse through a hedgerow and alongside the covert. He is heard using voice calls and his hunting horn. He was closely followed by the Hunt Saboteurs.
Burton denied he was encouraging his hounds to hunt the fox, but this was rejected.
DC Aaron Flint, of the Rural Crime Action Team, said: “We simply will not tolerate illegal fox hunting in Lincolnshire; it is a barbaric and savage activity. I hope this conviction sends a clear message that we will take anyone to court who, when the evidence allows, has taken part in such a cruel and primitive pursuit.
“The burden of proof for a court is beyond reasonable doubt and today they found that fox hunting had taken place.
“We will continue to monitor hunts closely and take robust and positive action against those who break the law.
“I would like to thank the witnesses who came forward and gave me the footage, this allowed me to carry out my investigation and I hope provides them with confidence that we will act when we can. I continue to appeal for any suspicious activity relating to foxhunting to be reported, this helps to identify where to focus our resources.”
Burton was fined £600 and must pay costs of £650 and a victim surcharge of £240.
He had told the court of his considerable experience as a Huntsmen in hunting and trail hunting. He knew of the Hunting Act 2004 and that it is now illegal to hunt foxes with hounds.
Burton went on to say he had been aware of the hunt saboteurs and was worried for the safety of his hounds. He had stopped his horse as he was waiting for his hounds to come to the road, which they did and they then took off. He said he was not happy with what the hounds were doing so went with the main pack and blew his horn to gather them all together; he did not want any hounds left on the road to get run over or damaged by the hunt saboteurs.
Neil Burton pictured with
City horse lovers’
A GROUP of local horse owners are continuing their mission to defend Lincoln’s common land to protect wildlife and enhance the community.
“Lincoln Commons Horse Association (LCHA) was set up in 1983 by a group of likeminded horse owners when we found out that there were plans afoot to get rid of the 1915 Lincoln Commons Act,” explained Barbara Woolfenden, LCHA Chair.
“When we probed into it, it would appear that the grazing rights were going to be significantly reduced. We all got together, along with the Open Spaces Society, and we fought the council regarding the changes in the Act and the outcome was the formation of the 1985 Lincoln Commons Act.”
Through this, current grazing rights were set out and laws and byelaws created that govern the city’s commons today which are protected by City of Lincoln Council.
“We work with the council to monitor the health and welfare of grazing animals, which is part of their management plan, we maintain affiliation with the Open Spaces Society, and we report works and hazards to the council.”
Throughout its 41 years, LCHA has raised many issues with the
common mission
authority to ensure the West and South Commons remain protected with the help of the Open Spaces Society and the Commons Advisory Panel.
One of its bigger challenges was in 1996 - 1997, when the late George Woolfenden, former LCHA Chair, and Mick Commons, Open Spaces representative, successfully fought the city council’s plans for a Park-and-Ride scheme on the West Common.
The Association carries on its mission to maintain the commons as open spaces and has made improvements such as acquiring feeding areas and a Pegasus horse crossing. In addition to this, representatives from LCHA join West End Residents Association, Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, local councillors, and other groups 4 times a year as part of the Commons Advisory Panel (CAP) to discuss any issues faced and ways to address them.
“As a representative from the Horse Association I am interested in the commons in general, I am interested in the wildlife and all the other aspects that are important in the area, so I’m not just focused on the horses,” added Oonagh Monaghan, LCHA Representative, CAP.
Barbara explained that all horses grazing on the commons are registered to individual owners who are responsible for their health and wellbeing, and that LCHA liaise regularly with Bransby Horses Rescue and Welfare to work together to check on any reports of possible problems with horses on the commons and contact their owners if necessary.
“The public are brilliant and they are helpful in so many ways, but I’d also like to thank all of the committee members and members throughout the years for all of their hard work and dedication.”
More information about Lincoln’s Commons can be found at https://www.lincoln.gov.uk/parks-open-spaces/commonsland-1/1
‘I wish I knew then what I know now’
The decisions facing young people today are as tough as they’ve ever been.
Fortunately there’s a wealth of experience locally from those
who have already made those work - life choices.
The Independent is asking business and community leaders what advice they would give their 16 or 18 year-old selves and how they got to where they are today.
Life is not set in stone
DAN Ellmore has a degree in Building Surveying that he has never used. By the start of his final year at De Montfort Univeristy he realised a career in construction was not for him.
Growing up Dan had always been involved in sport - it was a world he knew and loved. It was a natural path to follow, but one with twists and turns, challenges and opportunities.
He has since worked in, run and sold the family business, Imp Sport, and set up the Ellmore Group, specialising in sports clothing and full-service digital solutions. Along the way Dan has organised Lincoln Grand Prix, helped with equipment security at the Paris Olympics and made a couple of TV appearances with a rather special Mini Metro.
“I CAN think of nothing worse than to wake up at seven o'clock in the morning and think, ‘Oh, God, I've got to go to work again today. I don't even want to be there’.
“It's much better to wake up in the morning and think ‘Oh, yeah, I could do that todaythat'd be a really interesting challenge. And all the challenges can be different’.”
Dan Ellmore feels that one of the first real tests people face is having to choose their exam subjects at aged 13 or 14.
“That’s quite daunting at that age isn’t it? I think you need to keep thinking about what you want to do.”
When Dan changed his mind about about a career in constrcution and decided to follow his passion for sport instead he didn’t immediately jump ship from his degree.
“A degree is a qualification, it's a benchmark. It doesn't have to be what you're going to do, what you're going to be...it was important to finish it.
“So, really, the story is that nothing's set in stone.”
Dan had played lots of sports - football,
tennis, cricket, but finally settled on cycling, racing locally for Velo Club Lincoln and later nationally Ace RT a semi-professional feeder team for the top cycling crews.
Running Imp sport meant he was also working in the peripheral, behind the scenes areas of the industry.
He developed the business’ branding and website and in 2007 he won an innovation award for an online platform he developed with the late Colin Casey that allowed you to choose sports clothing in your favourite team’ colours.
When he sold his stake in Imp Sport in 2008 he was asked by other businesses to help with their digital development and more opportunites to innovate opened up.
At the Paris Olympics this year the world’s governing body used a system, developed by Dan and AI specialist Jonny Edwards, to ensure all the cycling equipment had met the required standards. They also worked on this year’s Tour de France.
Dan was involved in the Lincoln Grand Prix for around 20 years and was the main organiser between 2016-2022.
In the lockdown year the Grand Prix didn’t run he used his clothing contacts to supply reusable face masks, selling 25,000.
“There’s the adage that if you love what you do, you don't really work a day in your life.. If you've got something that you like doing or love doing, then that has got to be a big, big driver in what you do.”
Dan (centre) with Top Gear presenters
Paddy McGuinness (left) and Chris Harris at Grizedale Forest where Dan’s MG Metro 6R4 (one of only 200 made) was put through its paces by The Stig. Dan competing in Europe for Ace RT - before he swapped cycling for rallying.
Find & Embrace Your Future
Our open days give prospective students, along with their friends and family, a chance to look around and get a better idea of
OPEN DAYS
16th Nov 2024 | 10am-1pm
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Protect yourself when cohabiting
RESEARCH shows that cohabiting has continued to rise while marriage rates have been steadily declining.
The data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlights significant shifts in living arrangements and relationship dynamics in England and Wales.
As of 2022, the proportion of people aged 16 and over who are married has fallen below 50% for the first time.
Conversely, cohabitation has become more common, with an estimated 6.8 million people cohabiting in 2022, representing 22.7% of the adult population up from 19.7% in 2012.
Changes in social views of same sex relationships and changes in the law have increased the number of same sex couple families and a rise in the number of divorces has probably played a part in the number of people living alone.
Married couples are still the most common type of family, but co-habiting is a popular choice. Rising house prices are forcing couples to choose between housing their family and getting married and behind the number of young people still living at home.
In England and Wales 46% of people
believe in a ‘common lawmarriage - that because you are essentially living as man and wife you assume the rights as married couples.
Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a common law marriage, meaning that co-habiting couples do not have the same legal rights as married couples.
For example, if a co-habitee were to die without a Will, their partner would not automatically be entitled to their assets. Similarly, a co-habiting father would not have the same automatic parental responsibility rights as a father married to their child’s mother.
A cohabitation agreement sets out the financial arrangements and rights between cohabiting partners, offering legal clarity on asset division and responsibilities if the relationship ends or one partner passes away
The Family Law team can assist cohabiting couples by drafting a comprehensive cohabitation agreement that clearly outlines each partner’s financial contributions, asset
ownership, and responsibilities, helping to avoid future disputes.
It can also provide legal advice on the implications of not having such an agreement, especially concerning property, inheritance, and parental rights. It can also ensure that the agreement reflects both partners’ wishes and offer ongoing reviews as circumstances change.
For advice contact the Family Law team on 01522 561057.
Christmas at the Cathedral
Lincoln Cathedral Shop is home to a range of unusual and unique gifts making it the ideal place to find something a bit different this Christmas.
As well as many items which are exclusive to the Cathedral, the shop is supporting a growing number of local artisan suppliers including Saints and Sinners who produce jams and chutneys from local seasonal fruit, local photographer Keli Usher-Holmes, and No12 Chocolatier.
a splash of colour to winter outfits. And wrap up warm with Heritage traditions scarves and gloves.
glass
Count down the days to Christmas with a Lincoln Cathedral advent candle.
Handmade guardian angles Heaven Sent
Selection of gifts from the V&A Range including travel mugs, bag, notebooks and more in the popular ‘Strawberry Thief’ and ‘Almond Blossom’ designs.
Every purchase from Lincoln Cathedral Shop supports the work of the Cathedral and helps to fund the conservation of this internationally important building. The Cathedral is the only one to in the country to be listed in its entirety on Historic England’s heritage at risk register, so every penny raised is vitally important to ensuring the Cathedral can be maintained for future generations to enjoy.
Selection of gorgeous glass jewellery by Ruth Haldon
Dean’s Eye Gin Distilled in Saxilby by Lincoln Gin, this bespoke gin features botanicals inspired by those that grow in the Dean’s Garden on the North side of Lincoln Cathedral.
Handcrafted
plaques from Mama Bear’s Glass Crafts
The eyes have it!
Celebrating 20 years of Martin Smith Opticians
AWARD-winning Martin Smith Opticians has celebrated its 20th anniversary of providing patients with the highest level of eyecare.
The Lincoln-based practice was established by Dr Martin Smith in September 2004 and the anniversary marks two decades of optical and clinical excellence.
Patients from all over the world attend the practice for specialist and award-winning treatment and the highly acclaimed and innovative dry eye centre operated by Martin, the owner and Doctor of Optometry at the practice.
He started to think about working in the field during his teenage years as he had been a spectacle wearer from the age of nine and was a young man with a love of science.
He had his first taste of the profession while on work experience at a local optician and he decided to pursue a career in optometry.
At the age of 24 he was qualified and looking for a practice to buy and Martin Smith Opticians was born.
Since taking over at the Lincoln practice, Dr Smith has completed a doctorate, and continued a career of learning with additional qualifications in Independent Prescribing (IP) and glaucoma.
“As a result of my IP and glaucoma
qualifications I can detect patient’s pressures are increasing, monitor this on the OCT and then decide to do a treatment. A lot of my patients will hopefully never see a hospital because I will manage them in the practice”. After 20 years in practice, his main motivation still comes from the enjoyment he has in chatting to people and solving their optical problems so they leave the practice feeling better than they arrived.
Martin Smith Opticians national awards include: UK Optometrist of the Year, UK Dispensing Optician of the Year, Practice of the Year, and Technology Practice of the Year.
Technology is a real passion and Martin Smith Opticians was the first UK practice to offer the advanced Paskal 3D eye-test chart, Clarus 500 ultra widefield imaging, Zeiss Cirrus HD Oct scanning, slit lamp imaging, DNEye 2+ pre-screening and Impressionist4 measuring.
Dry eye monitoring, imaging and advice are also included as part of the comprehensive examination. This unique independent opticians has become a world leader in dry eye care providing treatment to patients from Australia, Europe, Asia, and the USA as well as all around the UK offering gold-standard Dry-Eye Consultations and treatments including IPL (intense pulsed light), Meibomian Gland Probing and amniotic membranes. Offering patients style as well as professional care is also a priority and the experienced practice team led by Sue Edwards can help patients decide on their best frame options to suit their prescriptions and lifestyle needs.
The range of frames includes iconic brands such as Etnia Barcelona, Blackfin from the Dolomites, Silhouette rimless frames, Tree frames from Italy, and Serengeti sunglasses.
Martin Smith Opticians, 22 Saltergate, Lincoln LN2 1DH, T 01522 521100.
hello@martinsmithopticians.co.uk
Exhibiting homegrown talent
AN exhibition at the Usher Gallery is showcasing the talents of city and county artists through an expressive and diverse collection of works.
“It is always a pleasure to showcase our art in the Usher Gallery,” said Anne Wood, Lincolnshire Artists’ Society (LAS) Chair, which is staging its latest Autumn Show at the Lincoln venue.
“LAS exhibitions are always diverse and eclectic, covering many different interests and working practices of our members.”
The show was officially opened by British painter and curator, David Remfry MBE RA, and can be seen until January 5.
“We truly believe that talent is homegrown and is not bound by where you develop that talent. Lincolnshire is a vibrant, exciting and important hub for new talent and our ability to show at the Usher Gallery and around the country is a vitally important part of the worldwide art conversation,” explained Medina Hammad, LAS Exhibitions Officer.
“The Lincolnshire Artists’ Society first exhibited at The Usher Gallery in 1927 and has exhibited there many times over the years, but it is always a very special occasion for its members.”
This year artists will also be engaging with visitors during pop-up residencies in the Exhibition space, demonstrating their own creative techniques and promoting the society’s almost 100-year link with the gallery and Lincoln Museum.
“It is an exciting initiative between the society and the Usher Gallery which allows artists to engage with visitors and showcase their art working processes. Each Saturday afternoon during the show will feature a different artist,” added Anne.
The majority of works featured in the exhibition are for sale. Prices and details can be found in the catalogue of works available in the gallery or from the reception.
Usher Gallery opening times are Thursday to Monday 10am –4pm and entry is free.
256 High Street
Lincoln LN2 1HW
01522 303760
shop@corvolincoln.co.uk www.corvolincoln.co.uk
OPEN
Mon-Sat: 09:30-17:30 Sun: 10:30-16:30
NEW Designer Menswear Store in Lincoln
Our exclusive collections are curated for those who appreciate the finer things in life. With every piece made in Italy, our garments embody a rich heritage of craftsmanship and sophistication.
Indulge yourself in soft tailoring offering a luxury touch that sets you apart from the crowd.
Each design is meticulously crafted to ensure a perfect fit, making you feel as exclusive as the pieces we source.
Lighting up Lincoln’s West End
BY REBECCA POOLE
LINCOLN’S West End will be taken over by a winter light festival this December, brightening up the streets for one night only.
Residents will get together to illuminate their homes, windows and front gardens with creative displays to bring sparkle to the area on Friday, December 6.
“It’s a community, organic, bottom-up festival that’s not imposed from above, so we try to keep it as hands-off as possible, we just tell them when it is and give them some ideas,” explained Jez
Ashberry, West End Lights Facilitator.
“People do all sorts of different ideas and themes, some of them are artistic, some make films, some are images, some are animations, all sorts of things.”
The West End Lights began in 2010 in response to a really cold winter which saw the Lincoln Christmas Market cancelled due to the bad weather.
Seasonal photo shoot
“I remember there was heavy snow, and then the snow froze and it hung around for weeks and weeks.
“Basically, people were kind of stuck in their homes for a bit in 2010 in the winter and some neighbours around the Hewson Road/Moor Street area decided to do something to stave off the boredom and decorate their front windows with lights.”
The first year of the impromptu light show saw nine residents get together to light up the West End streets in a bid to make the most of the wintry situation. The festival has grown each year since then, pausing during the pandemic for two years.
“I have 70 photos from 70 different windows last year and I’m sure I didn’t get round everybody!” said Jez.
“You don’t need to be really clever or creative, you can just put some coloured lights in your window or a candle. It’s also quite easy to project if you put tracing paper on your window and then you can use a projector to project images on there – it doesn’t need to be anything terribly complicated.”
Previous displays have included a projection of The Wizard of Oz on Richmond Road, an angel flying on York Avenue, and a Lincolnshire Boggart hiding his treasures in Moor Street.
Businesses in the area also join in on the festivities, with Anna’s Place and The Sycamore both open.
“It’s a really nice, creative family-friendly event that’s been going for 14 years and we’re keen to see it continue into the future.”
Visit West End Lights on Friday, December 6 between 6pm –9pm. Participants can sign up online and submit their address to be added to a downloadable Illuminators’ Map. People can then see where the light displays are and can follow the trail on the night.
Open daily for breakfast, brunch, lunch, drinks and cake, the Grain Store is the perfect setting to relax and refuel.
CAFÉ & BAR MON-SAT 8.30AM-5PM, SUN 8.30AM-4PM
RESTAURANT & BAR FRI-SAT 6-9PM, SUNDAY LUNCH 12-4PM
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS
Make your Christmas celebrations truly special with an unforgettable dining experience
FESTIVE SET MENU
*Dates booking up fast*
From 20 November, Wed & Thur evenings
Festive 3 course menu, £40 per person
CHRISTMAS À LA CARTE
From 22 November, Fri & Sat evenings
Booking essential, please book online (tables up to 14) For large parties, email: giovanni@doddingtonhall.com
WANT to spoil your mum, gran, sister daughter or even yourself this Christmas?
Get ahead of the festive rush and help Follie celebrate its 20th anniversary by entering this competition to win a £100 gift voucher.
With all the gifts and gorgeous goodies in store handpicked by Follie owner Josie Rossington we know you’re going to be spoilt for choice. All you need to so is tell us why you love Lincoln in 20 words or less.
Judge Josie will decide on the top two entries and they will each receive a £100 gift voucher (pictured above). Send your entries to admin@lincolnindependent.co.uk by Monday, November 25.
Full agenda for food summit
BY LAURA STRATFORD
CO-ORDINATOR
GREATER
LINCOLNSHIRE
FOOD PARTNERSHIP
AT last November’s Lincolnshire Food Summit, a foodbank volunteer shared deeply personal stories about the people seeking food support, highlighting that their struggles go far beyond hunger.
This powerful moment resonated with so many in the audience, emphasising that volunteers often feel more like counsellors, hearing stories of hardship, grief, and courage that are rarely heard but need to be voiced for real change.
On November 21 at 2024’s Food Summit, we’ll focus on communicating these untold stories to those with the power to instigate change.
We’ll also hear from speakers including Simon Hawking from Lincoln’s Acts Trust, Steve Meadwell from the Centre for Social Justice, Andy Cleaver from Trussell, and Matti Colley of the Lincoln Anxiety Resilience Association.
Last year’s key take away was food education. Reviewing participant notes, it was clear that better food education is crucial. Cooking skills are rarely taught in schools or practised at home, but they are vital for healthy eating on a budget. While policy changes are needed, local actions can be powerful.
At this year’s Food Summit, we will be hearing from some exceptional food educators who are showing what is possible- for example an inspiring partnership between a primary school and an urban market garden; a school that has become internationally famous for embedding good food right across the curriculum; the school kitchen garden and into the dining hall; and the county’s food team, that helps schools to improve food provision against the odds, and is willing to talk about the considerable challenges it faces.
Of course, learning is not just for children.
Chefs from GoGro will be speaking from their experience of teaching cooking skills to adults: how to make delicious, nourishing food - and
doing so on the tiniest of household budgets.
We’ll also map Lincolnshire’s food landscape with Carolina Camacho from the University of Lincoln, exploring where foodbanks source their food and how to use this knowledge to drive change.
Last year’s attendees left feeling inspired, hopeful, and connected, developing collaborative local solutions. If you’re committed to ending poverty and building a better food system in Lincolnshire, join us at this year’s Summit on November 21.
When - Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 9:30am until 4:30pm
Where - Market Rasen New Life Centre, Serpentine St, Market Rasen, LN8 3AR
Tickets - Free of charge
Bookings - essential, book at: lincolnshirefoodpartnership.org/foodsummit-2024
Old Bakery’s dark chocolate delice
Ingredients
Delice
300ml double cream
20g white chocolate
75ml whole milk
lx egg
200g dark Chocolate (70'%)
75g caster sugar
Cointreau Curd
2x orange juice
100g caster sugar
50g unsalted butter
2 x eggs
l x egg yolk
50ml Cointreau
Orange Sorbet
200ml orange juice
200ml stock syrup (1 part sugar to 2 parts water)
2 tbsp Cointreau
1 tsp xanthan gum (or 1 egg white)
Method
Delice
1. In a saucepan, add the cream, milk, and sugar. Simmer gently until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then slowly add it to the cream mixture, stirring constantly.
Chocolate Soil
25g caster sugar
25g ground almonds
15g plain flour
llg cocoa powder
17g unsalted butter
1.5g fine salt
5. Once thickened, remove from heat and allow to cool. Store in the fridge until ready to use.
Orange Sorbet
1. In a saucepan, mix the orange juice, stock syrup, and Cointreau.
2. Heat gently until the mixture reduces by about a third.
3. Cook the mixture on low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler method)
5. Remove the cream mixture from the heat and slowly stir in the melted chocolate until smooth.
6. Pour the mixture into molds or a serving dish, then allow it to set in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
7. Once set, garnish with grated white chocolate before serving.
Cointreau Curd
1. In a metal bowl, beat the eggs, yolk, and sugar together until pale and fluffy.
2. Add the orange juice and Cointreau to the mixture.
3. Place the bowl over a bainmarie (a heatproof bowl over simmering water), and cook the mixture gently, stirring continuously.
4. Gradually add the softened butter while continuing to stir, until the curd thickens and reaches a ribbon-like consistency.
3. Whisk in the xanthan gum (or egg white), ensuring no lumps remain.
4. Once cooled, churn the mixture in an ice cream maker for about 35 minutes until you achieve a smooth sorbet consistency.
5.Freeze until ready to serve. Chocolate Soil
1. Preheat your oven to 180° C (350° F)
2. In a bowl, mix together the sugar, ground almonds, flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to create a crumbly soil texture.
5. Allow to cool before serving.
To Serve
Place a portion of the dark chocolate delice on each plate. Add a spoonful of the Cointreau curd on the side. Scoop some orange sorbet and place it alongside the delice.
Orange wine - why all the fuss?
WITH rich hues and bold, unique flavours, orange wine is becoming an autumn favourite for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
But is it just its Instagram-worthy aesthetic behind its popularity?
Sylvia Ba, vinicultural expert with the VinoVoss sommelier app, believes there is more to its appeal than just being pretty in the glass.
“It’s gaining popularity for a variety of factors, including its natural and minimalintervention appeal (many have no additives or preservatives), unique flavour profile; food pairing versatility; artisanal and small-batch production.
“There exist some golden rules in food pairing: red wine with red meat, white wine with seafood, salads, and poultry.”
Orange wine, also known as skin-macerated white wine, has prolonged contact between grape skins and juice during fermentation imparting a spectrum of flavours.
“Simply put, orange wine can be described as a white wine made the red way.”
This means it can effortlessly tackle hard-topair dishes: “Indian food, Mexican meat-
Cheese Choice
VACHERIN Mont D’Or AOC is a wonderfully, soft, resin-scented, seasonal cow’s milk cheese that is eagerly looked forward to enjoying during the year’s colder months. Produced in the mountainous Jura region of France, this cheese is made using the exceptionally sweet milk produced from the
based spicy dishes, Middle Eastern, or Moroccan cuisines, although challenging for most red and white wines, pair well with orange wines. Indian curries rich in turmeric, cardamom, and cinnamon harmonize beautifully with orange wine, thanks to its ability to balance spice and acidity.
“Sommeliers are quick to stock orange wines in the cellars and present them to customers for two simple reasons, orange wines are highly drinkable and versatile in food pairing. As the fourth color of wine, orange wines offer a plethora of food pairing options to explore.”
Vintage Red Fox
famous Montbeliarde cow, which is used during the summer months to make the famous fruity, firm, Comte mountain cheese. The cheese is wrapped in slices of aromatic hand-cut spruce bark known locally as sangles.
Key Facts
Age 6 - 8 weeks
Country France
Milk Type Cows
Process Unpasteurised
The finished cheeses are then matured on spruce shelves to give an added dimension of flavour and then boxed to contain the soft, fragrant, almost liquid interior.
Vacherin Mont d’Or AOC can be enjoyed either spooned from the box and served at room temperature or baked gently in the oven (in the box) and served fondue style with crusty bread, crudités and warm new potatoes.
This is the perfect sharing cheese and one which we think is an absolute must over the Christmas period.
Pop this little beauty on your Christmas list to get the festivities going – enjoy it with a chilled glass of champagne.
Organic No
Region La Franche-Comte
Strength Strong
Style Soft
Vegetarian No
For a fantastic range of cheeses from around the world contact Lucie Nock, The Cheese Society, 1 St Martin’s Lane, Lincoln, LN2 1HY. T. 01522 511003, www.thecheesesociety.co.uk
Goodies and gifts under one roof
GET ready to kickstart the festive season at this year’s Lincolnshire Food & Gift event on Saturday and Sunday, November 30December 1.
There will be more than 150 exhibitors at the Lincolnshire Showground showcasing everything from handmade fudge to artisan gin along with live performances by local choirs, cooking demonstrations and festive fun for kids.
Returning exhibitors include A W Robinson, The Straw Collection, The Event Gallery, and Myers Bakery and among the new exhibitors are Fred and Emily, a bespoke jewellery producer, LapageMade, Badgers Chilli Kitchen, and Renegade & Longton, a local vineyard.
For food enthusiasts highlights in the Lincolnshire Kitchen include Kathryn Leverick from Cocoa Encounters with a chocolate tasting session, and the return of Richie Mason and Dominic Franks with another festive recipe. Uncle Henry’s will also be back with a special butchery demonstration.
For the little ones there’s a very special guest—Santa Claus himself! He will be spreading early Christmas cheer at this year’s event where youngsters can visit his magical lounge, where he’ll read one of his favourite festive stories.
Each child will receive a small gift and enjoy a glass of milk and a cookie while listening to Santa read. There will also be photo opportunities.
Lincolnshire Agricultural Society Chief Executive, Charlotte
Powell, said: “It’s that time again for our beloved Lincolnshire Food & Gift Event at the Lincolnshire Showground. It’s a fantastic experience for the whole family, featuring live music, cookery demonstrations and festive workshops for the little ones.
“Whether you’re on the hunt for unique Christmas gifts, indulging in seasonal treats or simply looking to get into the festive spirit, this is the perfect place to be.
“Children will especially love Santa’s Workshop and Bakehouse, along with the chance for Storytime with Santa Claus—just remember, spaces are limited, so be sure to book your tickets in advance!
We are passionate about supporting our local businesses, which is why we’ve kept ticket prices low, hoping to welcome as many people as possible. With your support, all proceeds will go back to our charity!”
visit lincolnshireshowground.co.uk/food-gift
We use the latest in computer technology to give you the ability to ‘walk around’ your new kitchen before it’s built, allowing you to amend any small features along the way including the use of soft close drawers and a choice of storage metalwork – small features that really make your kitchen stand out.
Once we’ve agreed your bespoke kitchen design, it will then be built within our Lincolnshire factory using the highest quality materials and our modern machinery.
Loaded up - Rob White (left) and Johnny Hardy after a visit to Food and Gift event.
‘Tis the season to be festive
GET ready for Christmas in Lincoln with your Lincoln Independent.
Whether you want some festive music to put you in the mood; want to get creative with your decorations; shop local for gift ideas or plan family entertainment we have got you covered.
The next few pages cover everything from pantomimes to late night shopping and where you can take the kids to see Santa.
Highlights this year include an ice adventure and the illuminations at Lincoln Castle (see centre pages).
Top of young children’s to-do lists is a visit to see Santa and he will be back in his city centre grotto from November 23 right up until Christmas Eve - closed November 25-27 and December 2-3. See centre page listings.
“We are excited to welcome Santa back to the Waterside Shopping Centre,” said Mary-Jane Booth, Centre Manager.
“Santa’s Grotto is a highlight for families every year, and we encourage everyone to book in advance to ensure a magical experience for their little ones.”
Feet First will be in the crowds welcoming everyone to the event before the main entertinment :
l 6pm - cast members from Lincoln Art Centre’s production of The Snow Queen
l 6.15pm - Jodie State (soloist)
l 6.30pm - CAODs choir with festive songs
Lincoln’s festive season officially starts on November 28 with the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On, which will be held in front of the War Memorial on High Street.
The event at 4.30pm with BBC Radio Lincolnshire DJ Ross Carrick, followed by Scott Dalton and Richard Stead at 5.30pm.
l 6.50pm. - Cast of the New Theatre Royal’s panto Snow White including Louis Smith and Amelia Lilly.
l 7pm - Mayor of Lincoln, Cllr Alan Briggs, will deliver his Christmas message and will then be joined by Louis Smith and Amelia Lilly to switch on Lincoln’s Christmas Lights at 7.10pm.
Until
Sunday
5 January
10am – 5pm (11am – 4pm on Sundays)
Saturday 9 November –Monday 23 December Various Times
Tuesday 12 November 10.30am – 2pm
HARDING HOUSE GALLERY, STEEP HILL, LINCOLN A Christmas Cracker Gift ideas from multiple artists. FREE info@hardinghousegallery.co.uk T 01522 523537
DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS
Christmas at Doddington
Soak up the seasonal atmosphere in a 400-year-old family home. £15, child £8.50, u3s FREE www.doddingtonhall.com
T 01522 694308
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Christmas Papercraft Workshop FREE www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire /lincoln-central-library
City’s winter wo
A MAGICAL time for the whole family will be created this Christmas at different attractions across the city.
The new Lincoln Ice Adventure aims to transform the city into a magical winter wonderland for all ages with 16 ice sculptures along a trail. Organised by the City of Lincoln Council the event will take place on December 7 and 8 from 11am to 5pm with demonstrations of icecarving a Lincoln Imp also held on both days.
The sculptures, designed by Ice Box, will be at:
1. Lincoln Transport Hub – Finger Post
2. Lower High Street – Star Wreath
3. Cornhill Square – Viking (sponsored by Thor’s Tipi)
4. Sincil Street – Turtle (sponsored by Turtle Bay)
5. City Square – Snow Globe
6. Highbridge – Post Box
7. Outside Lincoln Guildhall – Nutcracker
8. Top of the High Street/The Strait and Narrow – Angel Wings
9. Top of Steep Hill – Penguin
10. Bailgate (outside the White Hart Hotel) – Stag
11. Castle Square – Gingerbread House
Tuesday 12 November 7.30pm –9.30pm
Tuesday 12 November 7.30pm
Wednesday 13 November – Thursday 14 November 8pm
Saturday 16 November 10am
Saturday 16 November 10am – 12.30pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL G4 Christmas Mesmerising harmonies and impeccable showmanship in an idyllic festive setting. From £14.50 www.lincolncathedral.com.
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Dreamcoat Christmas Stars
£27.50 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 51999
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM, LINCOLN NYT Lincoln (Juniors) Presents Elf Jr £11.50, Conc. £11, child £11 www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
MONKS ROAD METHODIST CHURCH Christmas Fair Cakes, crafts, raffle and tombola. Adult £1.50, child FREE T 07579678910
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Christmas Decorations and Gift Tags
Air dry clay workshop with Fiona Hodges.
£30, booking essential www.indigocrowgallery.com
Sunday 17 November 10am – 4pm
Wednesday 20 November 5pm – 8pm
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND Big Craft Event
Discover beautiful items to give as a Christmas gift or a treat for yourself.
£3.50, u16s FREE, pay-on-the-door www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Christmas Extravaganza 2024
A festive evening at the cathedral shop with unique and unusual gifts. Book your place online www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
Saturday 23 November – Tuesday 24 December 11am-5pm
Saturday 23 November 11am – 3pm
WATERSIDE SHOPPING CENTRE, LINCOLN Santa’s Grotto
Lincoln’s only city centre Santa experience! £6 per child, book online www.watersideshopping.com T 01522 529566
VILLAGE HALL, MONTAGU ROAD, CANWICK Canwick Christmas Fair 25 stalls of handcrafted work with mulled wine, hot chocolate mince pies and more. Raising money for charity and supporting local artists. Free parking at Canwick Playing Field on Heighington Road. FREE entry
nderland events
12. Lincoln Castle – Eastgate
13. St Paul in the Bail – Lincoln Imp (live carving)
14. Bailgate – Steampunk Snowman
15. Outside the Duke William – Roman figure
16. Lincoln Cathedral Dean’s Green – Countdown to Christmas.
Lincoln Castle Illuminated will feature the Wall Walk (pictured right) snow machine, fairground rides, food and drink as well as a mini Christmas Express train ride.
The castle has more large-scale illuminations than ever before with timed entries so booking ahead is advised. The event runs from Friday, November 29 to Monday, December 23, (4 – 9pm at weekends and 5.30 – 9pm on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Monday, December 23). Train and fairground rides also available during the day on December 21, 22, 23.
Prices are £11.50 (adult), £10.50 (concession), £6.50 (child), £29.50 (family); or visit the grounds only for £3 per head (under 5s free).
Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 November 9.30am - 4pm
Sunday 24 November 4pm – 6.30pm & Thursday 28 November 6.30pm – 9pm
Thursday
28 November 3.45pm – 5pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Wreath Making Workshop
Make a beautiful classic wreath using locally grown materials and seasonal foliage. Price includes materials, nibbles and glass of fizz. £35, book online www.southsidelincs.com
GREEN SYNERGY, 49 ROMAN PAVEMENT, LINCOLN Family Wreath Making
Make a small wreath.
£10 per wreath/family, booking and prepayment essential wendy@greensynergy.org.uk www.greensynergy.org.uk
T 01522 533077
Thursday 28 November 5.30pm – 8pm
GREEN SYNERGY, 49 ROMAN PAVEMENT, LINCOLN Family Wreath Making
Make a larger wreath. Buffet and refreshments available.
£40 per wreath/family, booking and prepayment essential via eventbrite www.greensynergy.org.uk
T 01522 533077
CITY CENTRE
THE NATURAL WORLD CENTRE, WHISBY NATURE PARK, MOOR LANE, THORPE ON THE HILL, LINCOLN , LN6 9BW Christmas Art and Craft Weekend 2024
20 stalls covering a wide variety of handmade art and crafts, all made by local Lincolnshire artisans.Dog friendly.
FREE upcycledinnovations@virginmedia.com
Sunday 24 November 10am – 12pm
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Needle Felted Robin Decoration with Eve Marshall £30, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
Thursday 28 November
Thursdays 28 November & 5, 12, 19
December 5pm – 7pm see ad on page
28
Friday 29 November 7pm &Saturday 30 November 12.30pm & 6pm
Christmas Light Swith-On
Free see page 25.
UPHILL LINCOLN
Late Night Shopping
Visit the independent shops and eateries to soak up the seasonal atmosphere of historical Bailgate and Steep Hill. Free car parking available in uphill car parks using the app.
WELTON VILLAGE HALL
Robin Hood and The Babes in the Wood
Fundraising panto – see page 29 Tickets from £7 (early bird) https://www.tickettailor.com/events/ weltonpantomimegroup
Saturday 30 November 10am & 1pm
Saturday 30 November – Sunday 1 December 9am – 4pm
Sunday 1 December 6pm – 9pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Wreath Making
Create a moss-based wreath using fresh foliage and natural materials. All equipment and materials provided. £45, booking essential www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND Lincolnshire Food & Gift 2024 See page 24. £6.50, child £4.50, u2s FREE www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk
SOUTHSIDE
The Naughty Night Market; Christmas Special! £2, 18+ only www.southsidelincs.com T 01522 437942
Santa’s Grotto at the Waterside Shopping Centre.
Tuesday
3 December 7.30pm
Tuesday 3 DecemberTuesday 24 December 10-4pm
Wednesday 4 December 10am – 12pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL
Bublé Christmas by Candlelight Featuring a live Big Band and the UK’s number one Michael Bublé tribute act.
From £25
www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Crowscendo
End of the year exhibition Free www.indigocrowgallery.com
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Needle Felted Robin Decoration with Eve Marshall £30, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
Wednesday 4 December 6pm SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Movie Night: Elf (PG) Think blankets, sofas, fairy lights, Christmas drinks and popcorn –movie night for all the family. £7, £5 conc, book online www.southsidelincs.com
Wednesday 4 December 7.30pm
Thursday 5 December 10am –12.30pm
Friday 6 December –Sunday 5 January Various Times
Friday
6 December 10am –12.30pm
Friday 6 December 6.45pm
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN
Snow White Panto magic for all the family. £28, child £25, 65+ £25
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 51999
BOULTHAM PARK
Wreath Making Workshop
Try your hand at this traditional Christmas craft.
Adult £28.70, Booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk
T 01522 873735
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL
Christmas at the Movies by Candlelight
Unwrap the ultimate holiday treat with this concert. From £21
www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
Saturday 7 December 10am – 4pm
Saturday
7 December & Sunday
8 December 10am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 4pm
Saturday 7 December 10.30am –3.30pm
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Needle Felted 3D Snowman with Robyn Smith
£80, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
VISITOR CENTRE, HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK, LN6 0EY
Wreath Making Workshop
Try your hand at this traditional Christmas craft.
Adult £28.70, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk
T 01522 873735
INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE
Wartime Christmas Crafts Find out how children and adults in WW2 celebrated the Christmas season.
FREE
www.internationalbcc.co.uk
T 01522 514755
Saturday 7 December 6.30pm
Saturday 7 December 6.45pm
T 01522 437942
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Christmas by Candlelight West End cast and live band perform favourite Christmas hits. From £25 www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
ST SWITHIN’S COMMUNITY CENTRE, CROFT STREET, LINCOLN, LN2 5AZ Wreath Making Workshop
Try your hand at this traditional Christmas craft.
Adult £28.70, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk
T 01522 873735
Thursday 5 December 7.15pm
Sunday 8 December 10am – 4pm
THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Christmas Party
Bring your family, friends or colleagues and dance the night away! Includes a festive buffet, arrival drink, DJ & more.
£50 per person, 18+ only www.engineshed.co.uk
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Viennese Christmas Spectacular Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies of Johann Strauss, Tchaikovsky and more. From £21
www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE Craft & Makers’ Market Artisan foods, unique crafts and arts available to sample.
FREE
www.internationalbcc.co.uk
T 01522 514755
Tuesday 10 December – Wednesday 11 December 7pm
Wednesday 11 December 1.30pm – 3pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Carols by Candlelight A magical evening of popular carols performed by Lincoln Cathedral Choir in the candle-lit nave. From £10.78 www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
HILLSIDE GARDEN, LINCOLN Carols on the Garden Monks Abbey School Choir and Nettleham Community Choir will be rejoicing this festive season. FREE, light refreshments available www.greensynergy.org.uk
T 01522 533077
Wednesday 11 December 7pm – 9pm
INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE
Adult Wreathmaking Workshop
Create a homemade Christmas wreath which brings nature into your home. Tickets include all materials, glass of mulled wine, tea/coffee, and mince pie. £35, booking essential, limited tickets www.internationalbcc.co.uk
T 01522 514755
Thursday 12 December – Sunday 15 December
Various times
ST MARY LE WIGFORD CHURCH & ST MARY’S GUILDHALL, LINCOLN Medieval Christmas Market
Discover fantastic artisan crafts in two historical locations with a traditional atmosphere, music, and festive cheer. Also, meet our ‘dancing bear’ and willow weaver. FREE www.travellinghistoricmarket.co.uk
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
THE GRANDSTAND, CARHOLME ROAD Lincoln WI
Craft market, featuring local crafters and different Christmas gifts. FREE
Monday 9 December 10am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 4pm
VISITOR CENTRE, HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK, LN6 0EY Garland Making Workshop Learn what foliage to use, how to assemble and how to care for the garland. Adult £28.70, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk
T 01522 873735
Thursday 12 December – Saturday 21 December
Various times
The Snow Queen
Join Gerda on a quest to save her best friend Kai from the clutches of the frosty Snow Queen. Bursting with music and festive song. Various prices www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk T 01522 837600
Friday 13 December –
Saturday 14 December 7pm – 10pm
Saturday
14 December
11am, 1.30pm, 3pm, 7pm & 8.30pm
Sunday
15 December 6pm & 7.30pm
Saturday 14 December
11.30am1.30pm
THE BLUE ROOM AT THE LAWN, UNION ROAD, LINCOLN
The Nativity (Nightmare)
Lincoln Community Night School
Enthusiastic Semi-Amateur Theatre Company present the life of Jesus, from birth to death.
£63, includes 3-course Christmas dinner with a glass of fizz on arrival. www.lawnlincoln.com/the-blueroom T 07765 854025
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL
The Snowman with Live Orchestra
A special screening of The Snowman in the Nave, with a live orchestra and cathedral chorister. From £10.26 www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE
Children’s Wreathmaking Workshop
Create a wreath for Christmas with the Learning Team.
£7, booking essential www.internationalbcc.co.uk T 01522 514755
Saturday 14 December –
Sunday 15 December 10am – onwards
Saturday 14 December 10am – 4pm
BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY Santa’s Grotto
Each child receives a quality gift and parents can take a photo at no extra charge, plus meet the cast of The Snow Queen. £10 per child www.broadbenttheatre.org T 0300 400 0101
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND The Festive Makers’ Market
Over 100 makers, bakers, creators, and independent small businesses. FREE www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900
Strong panto tradition in Welton
Saturday 14 December 3pm
Sunday
15 December 1pm – 4pm
Sunday 15 December 7pm
THE GRANDSTAND, CARHOLME ROAD Christmas Charity Concert Lincoln WI and the City of Lincoln Brass Band
Free for everyone - but email for tickets as numbers are limited thelincolnwi@gmail.com
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Gelli Plate Cards, Gift Tags and Mounted Prints with Lisa Tank £40, book online www.indigocrowgallery.com
SOUTHSIDE, Southside’s Christmas Carol Sing-a-long Sing along to favourite carols with members of Lincoln Chorale, led by Mark Wilde. Pay what you feel on the door www.southsidelincs.com T 01522 437942
Monday 23 December 10am – 11.30am
HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK Christmas Crafts Make decorations out of all sorts of materials in time for the big day.
Child £4, all must be accompanied by an adult, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk
T 01522 873735
WELTON Pantomime Group has been presenting shows at the village hall for over 40 years while raising money for Lincolnshire charities.
This year’s panto is Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood with a script by Ben Crocker whose work has been performed throughout the UK. The directors this year are Welton stalwart Laura Millen who will be known to audiences for her vocals and guitar playing. She is joined by relative newcomer Baz Aveyard who created last year’s sell out show Dick Whittington.
“We are working hard to create a fun packed family pantomime with all the traditional aspects of pantomime including song, dance, slapstick and an epic rivalry between a particularly nasty Sheriff of Nottingham and a strong willed dashing Robin Hood,” said Baz.
Tickets priced from £7 available via https://buytickets.at/weltonpantom imegroup and the panto can be seen on Friday – Saturday, November 29 – 30 . The chosen charities this year are Sophie’s Journey and ADHD Lincs.
Top and bottom pictures show show scenes from Dick Whittington with the cast for this year’s show in the middle image.
Until Saturday 9 November
7.30pm
Friday
8 November 5pm – 7pm
Friday 8 November 7pm
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Sunset Boulevard CAODS £26, Conc. £24 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 51999
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Commuter Jazz
£8, pay on the door. www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Kris Drever Award-winning guitarist and singer/songwriter. £16, book online www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
Friday
8 November 7.30pm & Saturday 9 November
2.30pm & 7.30pm
Friday
8 November 7.30pm
Saturday 9 November 7.30pm -10pm
DECIMAL PLACE, 10 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN, LN1 3LB Weird Garden
An evening of alternative sounds & art by Humbox, Jason Kahn and Other Light Duo FREE pkrollings@yahoo.co.uk
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Sunday 10 November 3pm
Monday 11 November – Tuesday 12 November 7.30pm
Wednesday 13 November 7.30pm
Thursday 14 November – Saturday 16 November Various times
Thursday 14 November 6.30pm
Thursday 14 November 6.45pm
BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY Macbeth
Abridged version by Ruth Hewitt of Shakespeare’s classic play, accompanied by live music and special effects. A Lindsey Rural Players production. £11 - £12
www.broadbenttheatre.org T 0300 400 0101
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM, LINCOLN The George Harrison Project
£22
www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terryo-toole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
Saturday 9 November 7pm
Saturday 9 November 7pm
THE DRILL, LINCOLN The Bluetones
£25, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN Televised Mind + Support Welcoming local bands to the stage to support talent from Lincolnshire.
£5, book online
www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
Lincoln Symphony
Orchestra Autumn Concert
£14, over 60s £12, child £7 www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk T 01522 837600
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM, LINCOLN NYT Lincoln (seniors) Presents The Addams Family
£11.50, Conc. £11, child £11 www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
THE DRILL, LINCOLN Sunny Sweeney
£23.50, u16s must be accompanied by an adult www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
THE BLUE ROOM AT THE LAWN, UNION ROAD, LINCOLN Macbeth
The 1920s, Peaky Blinders meets William Shakespeare From £20 www.lawnlincoln.com/the-blueroom T 07765 854025
ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Ben Elton: Authentic Stupidity
£32.50, 16+ only www.engineshed.co.uk
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Cosy Classical - Duo Fisarco £10, book online
www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
Thursday 14 November 7pm
Thursday 14 November 7.30pm
Friday 15 November 7pm
Friday 15 November 7pm
THE DRILL, LINCOLN Murder: Staged
£25, wheelchair plus carer seats
£12.50, 18+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Forbidden Nights
From £28.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
T 01522 51999
THE DRILL, LINCOLN Definitely Oasis
£22, 14+ only
www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
SOUTHSIDE
‘The Whip’ Screening Fun, newly released, heist movie with Q&A with actor and director. £10, book online
www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN
Saturday 16 November 7pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN
House of Pixi Presents: The Hellions Ball
£18, book online
www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
Saturday 16 November 7.30pm
Saturday 16 November 7.30pm
Saturday 16 November – Sunday 17 November 7.30pm
Sunday 17 November Various times
Sunday 17 November 7pm
Monday 18 November 7.30pm
Tuesday 19 November 7pm
THE DRILL, LINCOLN Glen Matlock & Band £25, 14+ only
www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
NEW THEATRE ROYAL LINCOLN Anything for Love
£35.50 www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk T 01522 51999
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM, LINCOLN NYT Lincoln Presents The Addams Family
£11.50, Conc. £11, child £11 www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE Boogie Wonderland £15, Conc. £13 www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk T 01522 837600
THE DRILL, LINCOLN UK Subs £25, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
ST. MARY’S GUILDHALL, 385 HIGH STREET, LINCOLN, LN5 7SF The Guild Sessions £5 on the door, cash only www.facebook.com/TheGuildSessions T 07944 907051
ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN The Ks From £20 www.engineshed.co.uk
Friday 15 November 7.30pm
Shape of You – The Music of Ed Sheeran
£24.50, u16s £19.50
www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk
Thursday 21 November 6.45pm
SOUTHSIDE Cosy Classical: Gilbert and Sullivan Evening £10, book online www.southsidelincs.com
Thursday 21 November –
Saturday 23 November
Various times
Friday 22 November
Various times
Friday 22 November 7pm
Saturday 23 November 7.30pm
THE BLUE ROOM AT THE LAWN, UNION ROAD, LINCOLN Macbeth
The 1920s, Peaky Blinders meets William Shakespeare From £20
www.lawnlincoln.com/the-blueroom T 07765 854025
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE Demo
£7, Live Pass £5 www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk T 01522 837600
THE DRILL, LINCOLN London Calling £20, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM, LINCOLN Bernie Clifton – From Crackerjack to Vegas! £19.50 www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
Sunday 24 November 7.30pm
Wednesday 27 November 7pm – 10pm
Wednesday 27 November 7.30pm
THE DRILL, LINCOLN Eddie and the Hot Rods £20, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN
Southside’s Jam Night FREE www.southsidelincs.com
BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY Prima Facie
The Empire Street production captured live during the sold out run in London’s West End. £10
www.broadbenttheatre.org T 0300 400 0101
Friday 29 November 6.45pm
Friday 29 November 7.30pm
Friday 29 November 7.30pm
Saturday 30 November 7pm
Thursday 5 December 6.45pm
ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Legend: The Music of Bob Marley £30, 14+ only www.engineshed.co.uk
Thursday 5 December 7pm
Friday 6 December 7pm
Saturday 7 December 7pm
Monday 9 December –
Tuesday 10 December 6.30pm
Peaky Blinders take on MacBeth
MACBETH meets Peaky Blinders in an original take on Shakespeare’s Scottish play as Lincoln’s Blue Room is transformed into a 1920s speakeasy for the Asylum Players’ production.
THE DRILL, LINCOLN The Beat
£22, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk T 01522 534160
TERRY O’TOOLE THEATRE, NORTH HYKEHAM, LINCOLN ABBA Sensation
£20.50, Conc. £19 www.betterboxoffice.co.uk/terry-otoole-theatre T 0333 335 5055
ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Shed Seven
From £37.50, 14+ only www.engineshed.co.uk
SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN Cosy Classical: Richard Decker & Danny Murphy Bellot Ensemble explores love by candelight with catchy ground bass, a pinch of stylish improvisation, and a dash of 16th and 17th Century experimental writing..
£10, book online
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE Dystopian Hope
£3
www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk
T 01522 837600
THE DRILL, LINCOLN Vigilantes
£12, 14+ only www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
THE DRILL, LINCOLN The Luke Combs Experience
£20
www.lincolndrill.co.uk
T 01522 534160
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Lambstail Youth Theatre
Present: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe The second production since the company’s inception last year.
£8, £6 conc, book online www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
Taking place on November 14-16 and 2123 there are regular performances on the Thursdays and Saturdays and immersive meal evenings on the Fridays when the audience will be treated to cocktails and a two-course meal with their ticket.
“This is genuinely the most ambitious show we’ve ever put on,” said Stephen Gillard, Artistic Director of The Blue Room and Asylum Players.
Taking a play as iconic as Macbeth, with the incredible icons of Lady Macbeth and the three witches is no mean feat, but to transplant that tale into a 1920s setting, add live music, song and dance numbers to the piece and then attempt to organise dining evenings as well, it’s possible that we’ve gone completely mad. It’s an incredibly fun type of mad however and I think we’re helping to create an accessible but exciting new take on my favourite of Shakespeare’s works.”
See listings for ticket details
Throughout November Anytime
Until Saturday 9 November Various times
Until Sunday 10 November 10am – 4pm
DECIMAL PLACE, 10 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN, LN1 3LB
Art by Fran Land Fran uses felt tips and markers to create psychedelic designs of flowing lines, happy faces, landscapes - a major inspiration is his love of punk music. FREE On display in the window.
UNIT 1, ST MARKS SQUARE, LINCOLN Inside Odds On For two weeks only, Dante or Die Theatre Company has transformed an empty shop into a film and exhibition space.
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Telling Stories – Art Exhibition
Paintings and felt-work by Robyn Smith & Carly Gilliatt telling stories of time spent in places, real or imagined.
FREE
Until Saturday 16 November During library opening hours
Until Sunday 17 November 10.30am – 5pm
Until Sunday 5 January 10am – 5pm (11am – 4pm on Sundays)
Until Sunday 5 January 2025 10am – 4pm
Mondays 7 - 9pm
UPSTAIRS AT THE CARDINAL’S HAT Draw & Drink
Two- hour portrait drawing class, led by Ellie Benton. £15 www.facebook.com/ lincolndrawdrink T 07810 835147
Tuesdays every second & last of the month 6.45pm – 9pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Age UK – Exhibition & Craft Sale www.better.org.uk/library/ lincolnshire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
GALLERY AT ST MARTIN’S, LINCOLN The Collection Group exhibition. FREE www.instagram.com/galleryatst martins T 07720 810468
HARDING HOUSE GALLERY, STEEP HILL, LINCOLN A Christmas Cracker Wonderful gift ideas from multiple invited artists. info@hardinghousegallery.co.uk T 01522 523537
USHER GALLERY
Lincolnshire Artists’ Society Exhibition
Majority of works will be for sale. See page 40 . FREE www.lincolnmuseum.com T 01522 782040
Thursdays 2pm – 3pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Life Drawing Class guided by local artist Tom Humby. Materials provided. Adult £8, Con£6, Book online www.southsidelincs.com T 01522 437942
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Craft Club
Relax, socialise and share your story through the things you make. 16+. FREE www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire
Thursdays 6pm – 8pm
USHER GALLERY Life Drawing Classes
Relaxed tutored evening sessions suitable for all skill levels, £11, Conc. £9 www.lincolnmuseum.com
By Peter Walker
Wednesday 6 November 6.30pm –8.30pm
Thursday 7 November 6.30pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Peace Doves Late Night Opening Entry by donation
www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
WATERSTONES, LINCOLN
An Evening with Tiffany Murray Talking about her book My Family and other Rockstars.. £5
www.waterstones.com T 01522 540011
Friday 8 November 7.30pm
Saturday 9 November 10am – 4pm
THE VENUE CINEMA, BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY Film: La Chimera (Italy 2023. Cert 15)
Josh O’ Connor stars as an architect with a shady past in a tale about stealing ancient Etruscan artefacts.
Season ticket holders only www.lincolnfilmsociety.com
T 01522 889782 (after 5pm)
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Needle Felted 3D Toadstools with Robyn Smith
£80, booking essential online www.indigocrowgallery.com
Saturday 9 November 10am – 3pm
VILLAGE HALL, BRIGG LANE, CARLTON-LE-MOORLAND, LN5 9HP Watercolour Workshop with Gwen Scott Venice, painting windows, doors and old walls in watercolour and pen.
£15 members, £18 non-members 01522 811510
Saturday 9 November 12.30pm –3.30pm
USHER GALLERY Lincolsnshire Artists’ Society Pop-Up Residency: Laura Andrew Laura will be working on a new splash bird painting. FREE
www.lincolnmuseum.com
T 01522 782040
Monday 11 November 7pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Grand Organ Festival 2024 Recital by Christopher Stokes, Organist & Master of the Choristers at Manchester Cathedral
£15, booking required www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
Friday 8 November 7pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Recital under Peter Walker’s Peace Doves Phoebe Kirrage and Aric Prentice reunited for this one-off performance. Donation of £10 suggested www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
Tuesday 12 November –Saturday 16 November 10am – 4pm
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Colour + Chaos
An exhibition of landscape and abstract art by Lisa Tank and Sally Kheng. FREE
www.indigocrowgallery.com
Launch of Guy’s new thriller
ART imitates life in Guy Mankowski’s novel – You Complete The Masterpiece.
The thriller, set between Marrakech and Barcelona, was written to capture the precarious state of millennial living.
“Though I started writing it in about 2019 I have been shocked to see that the themes it explores have become more urgent,” explained Guy.
“The novel depicts a world in which a generation were brought up to believe that the traditional trappings of comfortable living could be achieved through hard work, when they all had to learn there were, in fact, limited spoils for them to duke it out over.”
A struggling young author believes he has found a way out of this insecurity when his favourite writer bequeaths him a grant.
Wednesday 13 November 6.30pm
Saturday 16 November 12.30pm –3.30pm
Saturday 16 November 7.30pm
WATERSTONES, LINCOLN
An Evening with Chloe Dalton
Raising Hare is he true story of human connection with one of our most charming wild animals.
£5
www.waterstones.com
T 01522 540011
USHER GALLERY LAS Pop-Up Residency: Szilvia Ponyiczki Showcasing the technique of the Constellations series.
FREE
www.lincolnmuseum.com
T 01522 782040
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL
A Night at the Opera by Candlelight
London Concertante presents works from Puccini, Verdi, Rossini, and Mozart.
From £21
www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
Saturday 17 November
9.30am - 4pm
Tuesday 19 November – Sunday 1 December (closed Monday) 10am - 4pm
Saturday 23 November 12.30pm –3.30pm
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Zipped Purse with Free Motion Embroidery with Deb Davis
£75, booking essential online www.indigocrowgallery.com
INDIGO CROW GALLERY, 57 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN Illumination: An Exhibition of Light
Work from members of the Creative Lincs artist network.
FREE www.indigocrowgallery.com
USHER GALLERY LAS Pop-Up Residency: Philip Bowman
Phil will tell the “Adventure of tony Bartl” using a storyboard.
FREE
www.lincolnmuseum.com
T 01522 782040
The catch is that he must complete his hero’s final, unfinished work.
But in entering into the artistic imagination of his hero- and the glamorous new life that comes with itthis author realises the toxic legacy that he will have to become a part of in order to find the security he craves. My hope is that people across generations will relate to the reality proposed by this novel and the issues it raises.
A performance launch party will be held for the novel at the Carghill Lecture Theatre at the University of Lincoln on Friday, November 29 at 5.30pm with novelist Amy Lilwall, Maya Shell, Em Burton and the comedian Tim Marks on the bill.
“I’m grateful that creatives making work I
Organist Christopher Stokes
find so exciting have agreed to join me on the bill to launch the book, including Tim Marks, whose touring comedy show ‘Multitude of Casualties’ performed at the Edingburgh Fringe uses lines from my last novel Dead Rock Stars.”
Friday 6 December 4.30pm
WATERSTONES, LINCOLN A Signing with Oliver Jeffers
Meet the writer and illustrator with his latest book Where to Hide a Star.
£14.99 (includes book) www.waterstones.com T 01522 540011
Friday 6 December 7.30pm
Saturday 23 November 7pm
Saturday 23 November 7pm – 9.30pm
THE GREEN ROOM CLUB, 33 TENTERCROFT STREET, LINCOLN Spoken Word Fellowship Poetry, comedy, and storytelling open mic. Sign up on the night at the bar for 10-minute spots. £1, members free, membership £15 www.facebook.com/groups/green roompoetry www.instagram.com/greenroomsw
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Handel’s Messiah
Lincoln Cathedral Choir is joined by Lincoln Choral Society accompanied by Lincolnshire Chamber Orchestra.
From £16.08
www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
USHER GALLERY
Saturday 30 November 12.30pm –3.30pm
LAS Pop-Up Residency: David Phillips
Montage of all David’s 100 + portraits.
FREE
www.lincolnmuseum.com T 01522 782040
Saturday 7 December 12.30pm –3.30pm
Monday 9 December 7 - 9pm
Tuesday 10 December 7 - 9pm
Saturday 14 December 12.30pm –3.30pm
THE VENUE CINEMA, BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY Film: L’Innocent (France 2022. Cert 15) French caper movie about the things we will – and won’t – do for love.
Season ticket holders only www.lincolnfilmsociety.com T 01522 889782 (after 5pm)
USHER GALLERY LAS Pop-Up Residency: Emily Cartwright Origami and paper manipulation experiments www.lincolnmuseum.com T 01522 782040
UPSTAIRS AT THE CARDINAL’S HAT Draw & Drink - Portraits Bring own materials.
£15
www.facebook.com/lincolndrawdrink T 07810 835147
UPSTAIRS AT THE CARDINAL’S HAT Figurative Clay Workshop All materials provided. £15
www.facebook.com/lincolndrawdrink T 07810 835147
USHER GALLERY LAS Pop-Up Residency: Jeanette Killner
Jeanette will be working on a 3D dodecahedron.
FREE
www.lincolnmuseum.com
T 01522 782040
Thursday 7 November 8am – 2pm
Saturday 9 November 9am – 3pm
Mondays & Fridays
2pm – 3pm
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/lincolnshir e/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Second Wednesday every month 7.15pm
BAILGATE METHODIST HALL, NEWPORT, LINCOLN Lincoln Minster Townswomen’s Guild
Speakers on a variety of topics or members’ nights for craftwork, games and conversation. Free for first two visits
Thursdays 11am – 12pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Family History Help
Use the resources available in the library’s archives and online databases.
FREE, booking required www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/ lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Fridays 2pm – 3pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Learn My Way
Join a basic IT beginner’s course, suitable for 16+.
FREE, booking required www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/ lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Saturday 9 November 2pm
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND
Greater Lincolnshire LEP Conference
This year’s theme Innovation for Growth will highlight how new methodology has been pivotal to economic success in the county.
FREE, registration essential www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900
UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN Undergraduate Open Day
Discover what it’s like to live and study in Lincoln. FREE, booking required www.lincoln.ac.uk
T 01522 882000
QUEEN'S PARK COMMUNITY HUB, SOUTH PARK LINCOLN, LN5 8EW Talk by Jenne Pape Mud & stud houses of Lincolnshire.
FREE
T 07941 245322
Sunday 10 November 2.30pm
Wednesday 13 November 7.30pm
THE OLD SCHOOL ROOMS, MILL HILL, NETTLEHAM LN2 2PE Society for Lincolnshire History & Archaeology
Sunday Special - History of Lincolnshire Waterways by Ian Newton; The Spirit of Sutterby Wolds Churches Project by Dave Start and Magic Lantern Show by Chris Hewis £4, pay on the door www.slha.org.uk
ST HUGH’S HALL, MONKS ROAD, LINCOLN LN2 5AQ
Society for Lincolnshire History & Archaeology
Where have Lincolnshire’s Medieval Timber Buildings Gone? Presented by Mark Gardiner and Jenne Pape £4, pay on the door or through www.slha.org.uk
Monday 18 November 3.15pm
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL St Hugh’s Day Lecture by Sir Jonathan Phillips
What the Good Friday agreement overlooked: the surprising longevity of the Northern Ireland Peace Process. All welcome, no booking required www.lincolncathedral.com
T 01522 561600
Tuesday 19 November 1.30pm – 3pm
Wednesday 10 November 10.am – 1pm
OUR LADY OF LINCOLN CHURCH HALL, LAUGHTON WAY, LN2 2HE
The Curious World of Olde Time Punishment
A talk by Ian Morgan to Lincoln Bailgate U3A.
£2 on-the-door www.u3asites.org.uk/bailgate/home
JEWS’ COURT, STEEP HILL, LINCOLN LN2 1LS
Society for Lincolnshire History & Archaeology
Craft Workshop: Victorian Christmas - cards decorations and crackers. Event is held on the first floor accessible only by stairs. Led by Kathy Holland. Beginners and experienced crafters all welcome. £8.50 pre-booking essential www.slha.org.uk
BY ZOOM
Wednesday 10 November 7.30pm
Society for Lincolnshire History & Archaeology
Rantanning, Riding the Stang and Rough Music: Discordant Noises and Effigy Burning in Lincolnshire, c.17801914 by Dr Andrew Walker. Admission by donation www.slha.org.uk
Thursday 21 November 7.30pm –9.30pm
Thursday 14 November 7.30pm
ROBERT HARDY BUILDING, BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY Adventures in the Wild by John Beatty – Nature Photographer £5, RSPB member £4, child FREE, pay on the door www.lincolnrspb.org.uk
T 01522 753809
Saturday 16 November 10am – 1pm
LINCOLN COLLEGE, MONKS ROAD, LINCOLN Open Day
Friday 22 November 10am
WHISBY NATURE PARK, MOOR LANE, LN6 9BW
Talk - Exciting Times at Wilder Doddington
Find out the latest developments from guest speaker, Project Officer Isobel Wright. £2.50, all welcome www.lincstrust.org.uk
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Navigating the Storm
Developing a strategy for care, communication, and managing backlash.
FREE, booking essential www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk T 01522 837600
Tuesday 5 November 7pm
LINCOLN COUNTY ASSEMBLY ROOMS Buried Secrets: Writing Archaeology in Crime Fiction and Memoir
With authors and friends Sarah Ward and Sarah Tarlow. Tickets £7 https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/lind umbooks/t-eamejvm
Tuesday 5 November 10am – 3pm
BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY Open Day
An opportunity to look around campus, attend subject talks and chat with staff and students to get your questions answered. FREE, booking required www.bgu.ac.uk T 01522 527347
Sunday 17 November 11am – 1pm
From technical training and ALevels to apprenticeships –there’ll be staff from across department areas to answer any queries.
FREE, register to attend www.lincolncollege.ac.uk
T 01522 876000
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Martini Glass and Chair Dance Workshop
Join House of Pixi for an exclusive workshop with Foxie Ginerella and her Martini glass! £44.04, book online www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
Wednesday 27 November 6.30pm –8.30pm
GIANT LINCOLN, DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS
Mech Night
Learn the basics of maintenance and bike care.
£15, booking essential www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308
Thursday 28 November 6.30pm –10pm
INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE
Caterpillars, Guinea Pigs & Goldfish
IBCC Lecture & Supper SeriesCovering the history of some of the clubs that have been associated with flying and aviation. Evening starts with a hot buffet supper.
£16
www.internationalbcc.co.uk T 01522 514755
Sat 23 Nov - 10am - 1pm
Wednesday 11 December 10am – 1pm
JEWS’ COURT, STEEP HILL, LINCOLN LN2 1LS
Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology
Craft workshop - create Diorama and 3D creative cards inspired by imagery of historic Lincolnshire
£8.50, pre-booking essential www.slha.org.uk
Find & Embrace Your Future at Lincoln College Open Days
Sat 8 Feb - 10am - 1pm Sat 29 Mar - 10am - 1pm Sat 14 Jun - 10am - 1pm
Tue 13 May - 5.30pm - 8pm
BOOK
CARGILL LECTURE THEATRE, MINERVA BUILDING, UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN
‘You Complete the Masterpiece’ Launch
See page 33. FREE www.guymankowski.blogspot.com
UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN
Saturday 7 December 9am – 3pm
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays 10am – 12pm
Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays
10am –2.30pm
Mondays 10.30am11.30am
Undergraduate Open Day
Discover what it’s like to live and study in Lincoln. FREE, booking required www.lincoln.ac.uk T 01522 882000
Thursday 12 December 6.30pm –9.30pm
INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE
Battle of Britain Spitfire Ace
IBCC Lecture & Supper Series -The life and loss of one of the few, Flt Lt William Henry Nelson DFC. Evening starts with a hot buffet supper.
£16
www.internationalbcc.co.uk T 01522 514755
BY ZOOM
Thursday 12 December 7.30pm
ST GILES METHODIST CHURCH
Coffee Morning Monday – Craft Morning. Wednesday – Bacon Rolls. Friday – Toast bar & 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 www.better.org.uk/library/ lincolnshire/lincoln-centrallibrary T 01522 782010
Wednesdays 10.30am –11.30am
Society for Lincolnshire History & Archaeology
Medieval Brick Buildings by Dr James Wright FSA of Triskele Heritage. On encountering radical new ideas in building from the German, Dutch and Baltic states, English architecture was never quite the same again. Brick as a highstatus building material. used almost exclusively by elite patrons. Looks at some brick buildings in Lincolnshire. Admission by donation through www.slha.org.uk
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE
Story & Rhyme Time
Have fun listening to stories and singing rhymes. Suitable for 0 –4-year-olds and their parents. FREE
www.better.org.uk/library/ lincolnshire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Thursdays 10am – 11am & 11.30am –12.30pm
Thursdays 10.30am –11.30am
Tuesdays 9am – 3pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Advice in the Community
Discuss your concerns and issues relating to benefit support, housing, and debt with an adviser from the Citizens Advice Lincoln and Lindsey team.
FREE T 01522 782010
Fridays Term Time Only 10.30am –11.30am
TESCO EXTRA, WRAGBY ROAD, LINCOLN TinyTalk Baby Signing
Help your child communicate before they can talk with baby signing classes. www.tinytalk.co.uk T 07590 123908 (Danielle)
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Connect Over a Cuppa
Have a catch-up over a cuppa and a biscuit. (provided). FREE, donations welcome www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/l incoln-central-library T 01522 782010
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Sensory Play
Play session for babies and prewalkers. FREE
www.better.org.uk/library/lincolns hire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
16th Nov 10am-1pm 14th Jan 4-7pm
8th March 10am-1pm 7th May 4-7pm 21st June 10-1pm
BUILDING,
Thursday 12 December 7.30pm
GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY Indy Kiemel Greene – RSPB Youth Ambassador, Naturalist & Conservationist
Brought up on the edge of Sherwood Forest, he has recently walked from John O’Groats to Land’s End – you might have seen him on TV. £5, RSPB member £4, child FREE, pay-on-the-door www.lincolnrspb.org.uk T 01522 753809
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– 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/lincol nshire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Until Thursday 7 November 9am – 5pm
Thursday 7 November 7.15pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY Book Sale
Pick up a bargain and help your local library. www.better.org.uk/library/lincolns hire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
THE GRANDSTAND, CARHOLME ROAD Lincoln WI
A talk from Midlands Migrant Support on how it supports those housed at Morton Hall. Free for Lincoln WI members, guest £5 (refundable if they join on the night) www.thelincolnwi.co.uk
ROBERT HARDY
BISHOP
Saturday 9 November 9am – 12pm
Sunday 10 November 10am –12.30pm
Sunday 10 November 10am –12.30pm
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Age UK – Coffee Morning www.better.org.uk/library/lincolns hire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
VISITOR CENTRE, HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK, LN6 0EY Willow Obelisk Workshop Weave your own garden obelisk for your plants. Adult £28.70, booking essential hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk T 01522 873735
DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS Winter Birdwatch Relaxed walk around Wilder Doddington with local birder Matt Vickers. Learn to identify birds through appearance, song and calls. £30, booking essential www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308
Sunday 10 November 10am THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Lincoln Vintage Kilo Sale
Nine tonnes of handpicked vintage and preowned stock to have a rummage through! From £2 www.engineshed.co.uk
Sunday 17 November 8.30am – 3pm
Monday 11 November – Friday 15 November 2pm to 4pm
Thursday 14 November –Friday 15 November Various times
Friday 15 November 10am – 11am
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND Farmhouse Breakfast Week
School children are given the opportunity to get hands-on with farm-to-fork interactive activities focused on breakfast. www.lincolnshireshowground co.uk, T 01522 522900
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE Room on the Broom Jump on board with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories’ funfilled adaptation of the best-selling picture book. £15, u12s £13 www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk T 01522 837600
VISITOR CENTRE, HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK, LN6 0EY Toddler Time
Dress to get messy for seasonal activities for the under 5s! Child £4, must be accompanied by an adult hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk T 01522 873735
Saturday 16 November – Sunday 17 November 10am – 4pm
Saturday 16 November 11am – 1.30pm
LINCOLN CASTLE Dog Friendly Days
Bring your four-legged friends to explore the banks of the Norman Motte to the Prison Cells.
FREE entry to grounds, www.lincolncastle.com
T 01522 782019
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE, LINCOLN Clothes Swap
Join this fun community clothing swap courtesy of the Sustainable Fashion Forum Team. Bring preloved clothing, shoes, or accessories to swap for new-to-you pieces.
FREE www.better.org.uk/library/lincol nshire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Monday 18 November – Saturday 23 November 9am
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND Vintage Flea Market
Rummage for bric-a-brac, cool vintage items and quirky collectables.
£3, cash only
www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk
T 01522 522900
ACROSS LINCOLN The Lincoln Climate Action Festival
A week dedicated to raising awareness on how you can take positive climate action in your community and further afield. Book onto events online www.lincoln.ac.uk
Tuesday 19 November 11am – 1pm
Saturday 23 November 9.30am – 3pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN
Coffee, Care & Bingo Mornings
Bring your pals or your Nan for a game of bingo, a hot drink and a natter! Hosted by St Katherine’s Care and funded by Lincoln’s Park Community Chest Fund. www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE, LINCOLN Harry Potter Day
Get sorted by the Sorting Hat, Potion Making, Divination Classes, Fancy Dress Competition, Visit Hagrid’s Hut, and more magical activities!
FREE
www.better.org.uk/library/lincoln shire/lincoln-central-library T 01522 782010
Sunday 24 November 10am
THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Craft & Flea Shop small and shop local in this authentic twist on a traditional craft market. £2, u12s FREE www.engineshed.co.uk
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND
Sunday 24 November 11am – 3pm
The Lincolnshire County Wedding Show
Find everything you need to plan your special day. FREE tickets available from www.cupidsweddingshows.com, £4 on-the-day www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Thursday 28 November – Friday 29 November Various times
Friday 29 NovemberMonday 23 December 4pm – 9pm
Science: Live on Stage A journey through the brain. £10, child £5, 7+ only www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk T 01522 837600
LINCOLN CASTLE
Lincoln Castle Illuminated
Enjoy the Illuminated Wall Walk, snow machine, fairground rides, food and drink, plus a mini-Christmas Express train ride.
£11.50, Conc. £10.50, child £6.50 www.lincolncastle.com
T 01522 782019
LINCOLN ARTS CENTRE
Saturday 30 November 7pm
Miss Ocean World UK
The winner of Miss Ocean World UK will go on to Internationals in India and represent the UK.. £20, child £10, chaperones £10 www.lincolnartscentre.co.uk
T 01522 837600
VISITOR CENTRE, HARTSHOLME
Sunday 1 December 10am –12.30pm
COUNTRY PARK
Bird Watching For All Join RSPB members for a guided walk to discover the birds living at Hartsholme. Free, children must be accompanied by an adult hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk
T 01522 873735T
Tuesday 3 December 9am – 4pm
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND Arthur Swallow Antiques & Home Show For collectors, interior designers, set-designers, prop buyers, and those passionate about creating stylish living. £5
www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900
THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN
Sunday 15 December 9.30am –2.30pm
Sunday 24 November 10am – 2pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN
Second Hand Sundays
Lincoln’s favourite indoor junk sale - the last one before Christmas. With music and the venue bar will be open. £1, pay-on-the-door £10 per pitch.
www.southsidelincs.com
T 01522 437942
Sunday 15 December 10am – 2pm
The Lincoln Record Fair Over 100-tables of vinyl records in one room. Admission £2 on-the-door, Under 16s Free www.engineshed.co.uk T 07587 103047
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND
Toy Collectors’ Fair
200-table trove of collectables, from Corgi and Hornby to SciFi, Star Wars, film and TV related items.
£3.50, seniors £3, u15s FREE www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk T 01522 522900
Room on the Broom
Mondays 10am
ONE NK LEISURE CENTRE, NORTH HYKEHAM
Wellbeing Walk Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks. 01522 444632
WHISBY NATURE PARK
Mondays 10.30am
Whisby Visually Impaired Walk
Meet Natural World Centre. FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks. 01522 444632
Mondays 12.45pm
CLIFF HOUSE MEDICAL PRACTICE, BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN.
Wellbeing Walk Walk to Castle Square for 1pm.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks. 01522 444632
Mondays 1pm BLACK BULL, WELTON. Wellbeing Walk Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
Mondays first & third of the month 1.30pm
FREE
THE ARK, MOOR LANE, NORTH HYKEHAM
Music For Memory
Singing group for people with memory problems accompanied by their carers. Free parking and refreshments included.
Donation of £1.50 welcome lhoenes@virginmedia.com T 01522 262656 (Linda)
Mondays 6.30pm –7.30pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN
Gentle Yoga with Emily Warrior Yoga
60-minute yoga class in the former St Katherine’s Church. £8, book online www.emilywarrioryoga.com
Mondays 7pm – 8pm
BURTON ROAD METHODIST CHURCH, LINCOLN
RockFit
Classes combining dance fitness, cardio and toning with metal and rock music. For all fitness levels. £6
Facebook: RockFit with Loli www.rockfit.org.uk
Tuesdays 7pm – 8pm
Wednesdays (2nd of every month) 10am
Thursdays 10am
ROSIE LEA’S CAFÉ, CHERRY WILLINGHAM, LN3 4JL
Wellbeing Walk
Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
Thursdays 10am
VILLAGE HALL, MERE ROAD, WADDINGTON, LN5 9NX
Wellbeing Walk
Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
Thursdays (1st and 3rd of the month) 10am
FALDINGWORTH MEMORIAL HALL, Authentic Argentine Tango Beginners’ tango class with Lucas Gou.
£8
www.authentictango.com/contact
BOULTHAM PARK HOUSE CARE HOME, ROOKERY LANE , LINCOLN, LN6 7PH
Boultham Sensory Stroll
Meet at the back gate next to the park.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks. 01522 444632
Thursdays (1st and 3rd of the month)
Thursdays 11am
PENNELLS GARDEN CENTRE, SOUTH HYKEHAM, LN6 9NT
Wellbeing Walk
Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
VILLAGE HALL, BRANSTON, LN4 1NS
Wellbeing Walk
Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
COMMUNITY CENTRE CAR PARK, LINCOLN ROAD, SKELLINGTHORPE, Wellbeing Walk
Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
FREE
Wednesdays 10.30am –12pm
THE BLUE ROOM, THE LAWN, LINCOLN Authentic Argentine Tango Embrace the elegance and passion of tango with Lucas Gou. For beginners.
£8
www.authentictango.com/contact
Wednesdays From 18 September 10.30am –12pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Rock Choir
Join the UK’s leading contemporary choir and improve your general wellbeing in a healthy and active hobby. First session free, then £30 a month www.rockchoir.com
Thursday (1st of the month) 12pm
Thursdays 12.30pm –2pm
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
NETTLEHAM VILLAGE HALL, BROOKFIELD AVENUE, LN2 2SS Nettleham Sensory Stroll
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
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.
Mondays Except Bank Holidays 7pm
LNER STADIUM, COMMUNITY HUB, SINCIL BANK, LINCOLN ANDYSMANCLUB
Talking group for men to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health through conversation. FREE www.andysmanclub.co.uk
Tuesdays 10.45am
YARBOROUGH LEISURE CENTRE, RISEHOLME ROAD, LINCOLN, LN1 3SP
Wellbeing Walk - Uphill Lincoln
Meet in foyer for short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks. 01522 444632
Tuesdays 1pm
COMMUNITY HUB, EAST STREET, NETTLEHAM, LN2 2SL Wellbeing Walk Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks. 01522 444632
Wednesdays 1pm
HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK Wellbeing Walk
Meet outside Rangers’ office for short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks. 01522 444632
Wednesdays 7pm – 8pm
SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN RockFit
Classes combining dance fitness with metal and rock music. Suitable for all .
£6
Facebook: RockFit with Loli www.rockfit.org.uk
Thursdays 9am-10am
THE BLUE ROOM, THE LAWN, LINCOLN Dance Fit with Nick A fun fitness class for all ability levels.
£5, all proceeds go to SHINE www.lawnlincoln.com T 01522 523548
Fridays 10am
£3.50, must be accompanied by a carer or loved one T 03455 564 144
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
WHISBY NATURE PARK
Fridays 10.30am
Wellbeing Walk
Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
Fridays 1pm
ACTIVE NATION LEISURE CENTRE, BIRCHWOOD, LN6 0JE
Wellbeing Walk
Short, friendly walks suitable for all abilities.
FREE
www.lincolnshirecoop/wellbeingwalks 01522 444632
Fridays (2nd of the month)
2pm – 4.30pm
Saturdays 9am
Virtual Autism Hub
If you have any questions about autism, come and see the Lincolnshire NHS LPFT Team. FREE www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/l incoln-central-library T 01522 782010
BAILGATE METHODIST CHURCH HALL Bailgate Yoga Club
Gentle one-hour flow yoga class led by Elisabeth of Moksha Yoga. All levels welcome, mats available for use.
£8, Conc. £6.50, must book www.mokshalincoln.com
Saturdays until 11 January 2025 10am – 12pm
Tuesday 12 November 12.30pm
GIANT LINCOLN, DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS
Cycling with Confidence Designed exclusively for women.. FREE, booking required www.doddingtonhall.com T 01522 694308
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL
The Mindful Mile
Take a moment out of a busy day to reconnect with an outdoor walk. Meet at the West Front of the cathedral.. FREE www.lincolncathedral.com T 01522 561600
Saturday 16 November
2pm – 4pm
Become a befriender and help tackle social isolation
MORE than a million older people go a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member.
Age UK Lincoln and South Lincolnshire (LSL) aims to reduce social isolation and loneliness in the older generation across the region through its Befriending Service. Its recent Befrienders’ Week is a national campaign to celebrate and raise awareness of befriending and the positive impact it has on individuals and communities. It is an opportunity to highlight the importance of befriending in combating the effects of loneliness and social isolation.
It is estimated that more than 2 million people in England over the age of 75 live alone and over half that number suffer social isolation.
“Our Befriending Service has been in operation for over 66 years, with our founder Frank Eccleshare (pictured above) setting up a visiting service for older people in Lincoln,” explained Catherine Forbes Age UK LSL’s Volunteering and Befriending Coordinator.
“It was the beginning of Age UK LSL as we now know it and the free service continues to be as much needed as it did then. Frank was a councillor and local builder who built low cost homes in the 1930s. He was also Mayor of Lincoln in 1960. When his mother went to live in a care home he was saddened to see the lack of provision for older people in the city.
“He set about building sheltered accommodation for the older generation by forming LACE Housing Association.
In 1970 premises were bought in Park Street where we continue to provide activities, events, services and support for those over 50.”
The charity has had several names over the years. It started as Lincoln Association for Care of the Elderly then Age Concern, Age UK Lincoln, Age UK Lincoln and Kesteven and finally Age UK Lincoln and South Lincolnshire.
Over six decades on and the Befriending Service currently supports over 90 clients across Lincoln, North Kesteven, South Kesteven, South Holland and Boston.
The service is free and is run by volunteers visiting an older person who live on their own, are unable to leave their home unaided and lack companionship.
For many this is the only social interaction they have.
“As the winter approaches and the days become shorter we anticipate that the demand for the Befriending Service will increase.
“To prepare for this prediction we are asking for people to consider volunteering to give their time to visit or ring an older lonely person in their community for an hour a week.
“Together we can tackle social isolation across our county.”
If you would like more information on joining the team of befrienders please contact Age UK LSL Volunteering Team at volunteering@ageuklsl.org.uk or call us on 0345 556 4144
Tuesday 10 December
12.30pm
MINT LANE HUB, LINCOLN, LN1 1UD Climate Circle
Inclusive safe space to discuss climate concerns in a structured and supportive environment. Booking required via email. FREE theclimateimps@gmail.com
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL
The Mindful Mile
Take a moment out of a busy day to reconnect with an outdoor walk. Meet at the West Front of the cathedral.. FREE www.lincolncathedral.com
LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY
Writers flash their talent at festival
THE page has been turned on another Lincoln Book Festival with organisers delighted by the support of local people, especially families.
Another indicator of success was this year’s Flash Fiction Short Story Competition which attracted over 100 entries from budding authors showcasing their talents.
“The creative writing contest invites authors to submit super short stories of exactly 50 words on a chosen theme or topic, which this year was Generations. More than 120 would-be wordsmiths entered the competition across three age categories –primary, secondary and adult - with submissions from writers aged between eight and 80 years old,” said Ian Richards of the LBF organising committee.
The winning stories were chosen by a panel of judges including the award-winning children’s author Jarvis, with book vouchers and certificates awarded as prizes. They were announced in a special event at Lincoln Arts Centre during this year’s festival. Schools and other organisation that would like to take part in Lincoln Book Festival’s Flash Fiction Competition 2025 should contact competitions@lincolnbookfestival.org
Secondary
Winner - My Brain Doesn’t Function by Ocean Peppa Pig is really weird. They’ve changed it. Dora the Explorer looks so different now. When we were little everything was perfect. I was a right Princess. Little kids now act like they’re like 25. The old people act like they’re younger, all the young people act like they’re older.
Highly Commended - Eternal Echoes by Mahfuz
Flash Fiction Competition - age category winners and highly commended entries
Primary Winner - Bedtime story by Willow
Layla laid in bed listening to another one of her mum’s stories about being a journalist. At least it wasn’t grandma talking about being a singer. She thought of something she actually wanted to hear. “Mum, what will I be?”
“That’s your tale to tell,” mum answered, hugging her goodnight.
Highly Commended - The Box by Oliver
The beautiful box has been passed down for over 300 years. It has never been opened and never will be. My great-great-granddad told my dad to never open it. The box is made out of very old oak which has been treated and lined with red felt. What is inside?
Under the ancient oak, children played. Grandmother’s lullabies intertwined with memories of her youth. Her daughter watched, eyes misty, remembering when she played here too. The oak stood tall, its branches whispering secrets of generations past. As the sun set, the cycle of life continued, roots deepening stories never fading.
Adult
Winner - Palm Lines by Sophie Harrison
In my sun-cracked palm, I see wrinkles and brow furrows, smile lines and stretch marks. My mother’s hand opens, the lines just as deep. I realise then: she is as real as me. The truth is lightning, exposing a tree to its roots. A chain of women rise in me.
Highly Commended - Next! By Liberty Price
This waiting room is full of old geezers: canes leant against the wall, legs outstretched like they’re waiting to trip someone. A baby is hammering the everloving life out of a xylophone in the corner, and all of them wince and adjust their hearing aids in synch. I’ll be next.
Pictures: Richard Hall
Hockey bullies off at girls’ school
PETER HARROD delves into the Garton Archive to explore the pictorial past of Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School and its predecessors.
THIS rare photograph was found on Facebook by Jane Burgess, the current President of the Old Christ’s Hospital Lincolnians Society.
could be played, somewhat handicapped by the challenge of the ‘slight inconvenience’ of hills and dales.
It claims to feature the first ever Lincoln Christ’s Hospital Girls’ High School (LHS) hockey team in 1913, but there is evidence in the School magazines that a team was formed as early as 1898 Although LHS opened its doors in 1893, the first school magazine was not published until 1898. In its pages three cheers were raised for the long-expected arrival of a field on which ‘a sort of hockey’
Such a trifling inconvenience was apparently matched by the ardour and staying power of the enthusiastic hockey players who formed the Lincoln High School Hockey Club.
I am fairly certain that the field was the former Ruston’s sports field on Greetwell Road, to the west of Lincoln Prison, as there are references to the generosity of Mr Ruston in allowing LHS to use his ground.
The article on hockey in the first edition of the LHS magazine celebrated the Club’s ‘typical hockey characters’. There was the ‘astronomical’ goalkeeper, who woke up from her reverie just in time to find the ball whizzing past her through the goal!
Then there was the ‘energetic poacher’ who ‘skedaddled about wildly all over the field, always getting in the way of her own side, and never on the wing where she was really needed’!
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
An appeal was made for boundaries to be clearly marked, because it was difficult to keep to one’s allotted space, and apparently made ‘poaching and unnecessary bullying quite excusable’!
The following edition of the LHS magazine (Easter 1899) reported that the great interest outside the school had been the development of the Hockey Club, and a meeting had been held for the purpose of electing a hockey captain.
The appointment of the team’s centre-forward, Rosamond Acworth, as captain turned out to have very sad consequences, as Rosamond later collapsed and died on April 6,1899, after climbing a rope in the Lincoln Drill Hall, used as the school’s gymnasium before the new hall was built.
In the ‘Criticisms’ of the players in the First X1, Rosamond was described as ‘…an excellent dribbler and dodger who might be a little faster and do more back work.’
The first recorded match result was a 4-2 win by the First Eleven against the Mistresses, and as the Hockey Club developed into the new century, other matches were arranged against the Ladies’ Club, Loughborough, Mansfield, Spalding and Lincoln Training College. Later, Nottingham High School was added to the fixtures list, and a match was played on the Lenton ground in Nottingham, which the home side won by 7 goals to 3.
The game of hockey continued to flourish at LHS until the school closed as a selective girls’ high school in 1974.
Heritage Survey of Lincoln The many roles of Lincoln Drill Hall
In this month’s article from The Survey of Lincoln, ARTHUR WARD examines a building with a varied past.
Built on the Broadgate site of a former sawmill, the Drill Hall was completed in 1890, and paid for by Joseph Ruston (1835-97), the Lincoln-based engineer and industrialist.
At the time, the new Drill Hall not only provided accommodation for the Volunteer Battalion of the Lincolnshire Regiment, but Ruston had also installed a soup kitchen. This was fitted with coppers and every appliance for cooking food in copious quantities.
In 1893, a series of free ‘Robin Dinners’ began in the hall, serving up to 1,200 poor children at Christmas.
Today, given that the Drill Hall’s newly reconfigured entrance is away from Broadgate, on Free School Lane, little attention is paid to the original ornate frontage on Broadgate, which gives the appearance of a mock castle.
Built of red brick with stone dressing, the architectural style is Crenelated Gothic. There is a three-storey central tower with rounded corner turrets, and the tower to the right is raised higher, as if for observation.
Flanking this central ‘tower’ are symmetrical set-back wings of two storeys with square corner towers. The parapets are all crenelated, and below these is a band of carved stone, mimicking the machicolations (defensive floor openings) as found at castles like the one at Tattershall.
Above the central Tudor arched doorway sits the Royal arms and regimental badges. Within this range was the Sergeants’ Mess, whilst behind sat the main single-storey Drill Hall itself.
The hall now provides ‘bleacher’ seating for live theatre. The former oak-block floor, set on bitumen that provided for indoor ‘square bashing’, and pockmarked from former studded boots, is now lost.
Also within the original Drill Hall was a rifle range in the basement, an ammunition store and, in the two-storey north range, a gymnasium.
In the current reception space of ‘The Drill’, using part of what was the main drill hall, is a bar located in the former ammunition
The 19th century building has been used as regiment headquarters, soup kitchen, bingo hall, wrestling ring - and now a modern entertainment venue.
Picture: Arthur Ward
Internally the gable wall carries a wreathed and corniced war memorial tablet designed by local architect Montague Ashley Hall (1887-1958) in 1920 to commemorate the fallen of the 4th Lincolnshire Territorials in the First World War.
A second, timber ‘shield’ style memorial found in the basement during alterations has been restored and is also on display. Outside on the gable is the mask sculpture inviting in patrons to this reused building.
The building had a later life as a venue for bingo, wrestling, and other social gatherings.
Take time to look at the once main entrance and appreciate its architectural style and the royal coat of arms and regimental badges carved in stone that emblaze its façade and give homage to its original use.
Think of the bingo caller and tag wrestler once providing entertainment as well as the students who took exams here while you enjoy live music.
Look out for the owl peering down on you from one of the arches above; or consider the memorial plaques and think of those who went to war and did not return. Think, too, of the poor and destitute children who enjoyed a free festive dinner in the hall at Christmas.
The Survey of Lincoln’s latest publication, ‘Learning in Lincoln’, which explores the history of many of the city’s schools and other education buildings, is available from December at Lindum Books, 4 Bailgate, and Steep Hill Bookshop, priced £9.50.
More details can be found at The Survey of Lincoln’s website: www.thesurveyoflincoln.co.uk.
store, and café.
Individuals – Groups
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Ruddocks’ store was part of the High Street for many years.
Ruddocks
Ruddocks comp room behind the High Street premises (top picture) in May 1956.
Managing director Paul Banton.
community and innovation
RUDDOCKS kick-started a year-long celebration to mark its 140 years in business.
Lincoln’s equally historic White Hart Hotel hosted the event for clients, staff, long-time partners, and members of the Ruddock family,
Managing director Paul Banton commented: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us to celebrate this remarkable milestone. It’s been a privilege to be part of Ruddocks for the past 25 years. I’m incredibly proud of the organisation we’ve become and all we’ve achieved since 1884. Thank you to everyone who’s made our story so special!”
expansion into markets in London, Birmingham, and overseas. By the 1950s, Ruddocks was at the forefront of industry advancements, embracing new technologies such as offset lithography in the 1980s to meet the demands of its growing client base.
The new millennium ushered in a creative evolution, transforming Ruddocks into a fully integrated design and print agency, including branding, digital printing, marketing campaigns, and website design and development.
Ruddocks’ journey began in 1884, when John William Ruddock and E. Keyworth took over Charles Akrill’s printing business in Lincoln. As the 20th century unfolded, Ruddocks quickly became a trusted supplier for the growing engineering, agriculture, and railway industries. In 1904, a pivotal move to consolidate operations at 286/7 High Street paved the way for new growth and expansion.
The company’s resilience saw it through the two world wars, economic shifts, and evolving technologies, leading to
The transition to a creative production agency in 2023 cemented the company’s commitment to offering comprehensive creative solutions to clients such as copywriting, merchandise, animation, and marketing automation, to name but a few.
As Ruddocks celebrates its 140th anniversary, the company remains focused on innovation and sustainability. With goals such as achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, it is committed to a future that balances responsible business practices with the quality and craftsmanship that have defined its legacy since 1884.
Scan the code above for more on Ruddocks’ history.
Henry Ruddock (second left) celebrated with his family.
The full Monty?
I AM rearranging the back garden again. This time I am determined to try and grow both flowers and vegetables, while balancing out the needs of both the wildlife and ourselves. Such high ideals!
ability to produce a garden that looks either coherent, tidy or glorious. It looks all of those things at times but not consistently.
I wonder if I am influenced by Monty Don who seems always to be changing bits of his garden, Longmeadow, which always looks a little like mine; weedy, with tangles of plants towering over head like a green cityscape.
Like Monty I don’t seem to have the
Like Monty I enjoy cramming things in where there is a space, making plants for free by dividing out cuttings, picking seeds and so on but unlike Monty, I don’t have a group of gardeners to help me achieve it. Does he have help? Surely with a garden that size.
Some people are truly gifted when it comes to gardening. I have always struggled to discover what my style is.
Dan Pearson thrills me with his natural landscapes; Chris Beardshaw is a wonder with dense, elegant planting and colour and Cleve West makes gardens with nature and sustainability in mind but still with beauty at the very core. I have not the vision to produce anything like these people can. It’s a gift.
I can garden though and my garden is often lovely but I want to incorporate some vegetables into the plot and this is the year I am going to start.
growing long and spindly. The roots, when I exposed them were circular. They could not get out of the pot shape.
That I had failed to notice when I planted it is criminal.
I began by taking out a rose, which has never thrived, producing a few, tired blooms now and again and
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I lifted it, cut the roots gently, reduced the top growth and potted it, hoping that this would solve the problem.
I chatted kindly to it throughout and it rewarded me by spearing my arm.
I hope this is not an omen?
Cherry picked a winner Project meets need of wildlife, residents and environment
BY RACHEL SHAW LINCOLNSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST
CHERRY Fields has been crowned the winner of the 2024 Lincolnshire Environmental Awards.
The project’s win was announced during an inspiring morning of presentations and Q&A sessions at the Education Centre at Whisby Nature Park on Saturday 28 September.
The Cherry Willingham-based winner fought off tough competition from The Community Growers CIC in Boston and Nettleham Woodland Trust with the judges highlighting the impressive balance it has
achieved in catering for the needs of wildlife, village residents and visitors.
The early vision for Cherry Fields began back in 2013 when the parish council conducted a survey to identify what local residents really wanted. There were two clear answers: access back to the River Witham and more greenspace.
"We wanted real, wild, natural greenspace, the kind where children can get mucky," explained Nigel Hooper, who has been one of the driving forces behind the project. Since Cherry Willingham Parish Council purchased the land - at the time, intensively farmed arable fields - in 2016, volunteers have planted nearly 10,000 native trees and shrubs and several hundred native woodland plants, and hand-sown four acres of wildflower meadow.
People, along with wildlife, have always been at the heart of the plans. There’s a network of surfaced paths, boardwalks, bridges and a wheelchair-friendly ramp to the riverbank, whave have ensured access for everyone.
Quieter nature areas are complemented by a popular dog exercise area, children's 'scramble trail', picnic sites, and a cycle
Access to the river was on residents’ wishlist - the local moorhens (above) are also happy.
track. An adjoining field that was part of the original purchase is now thriving community allotments, and the site also includes The Oasis, a youth-based YMCA charitable venture.
"Getting the balance between space for people and space for wildlife is tricky on a fairly small and well used site," Nigel acknowledged.
"But as long as people respect nature and accept that it does sometimes need a bit of peace and quiet, it works. We excavated a lagoon and planted bulrushes - there's a lot of footfall in that area and we didn't know if it would be too busy, but moorhens nested in the middle and fledged three chicks."
That crucial respect for the site and its species is there because the community has been so invested in the project from the start.
"There's hardly a teenager in the village who didn't plant a tree there as a child," Nigel said.Volunteer Paul Wood echoed the sentiment: "It is very satisfying to walk through this flourishing site and think, 'I planted that'."
The Lincolnshire Environmental Awards are organised by the Rotary Club of Lindum, Lincoln, in partnership with the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, and sponsored by Pennells Garden Centres.
Action-packed climate festival week
A WEEK-long festival dedicated to climate action returns to Lincoln this November to get people thinking and acting green.
The fourth community-focussed, Climate Action Festival (CAF) aims to inspire residents to take positive steps to protect the environment both in the city and further afield.
Led by the University of Lincoln, festival activities will celebrate this year’s themes of Climate Education, Nature Positive, and Community, all intrinsically linked to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals which were adopted by all UN Member States in 2015 to work towards a better world for all.
The CAF strives for quality education and lifelong learning opportunities, the protection, restoration and promotion of sustainable land use, and working together to make cities inclusive,
We are open for fresh cut and pot grown Christmas Trees from Thursday 28th November to Thursday 19th December 2024
Open 9am to 5pm (Sunday 9am-4pm) If you’re planning to visit us on a weekend please 昀nd the link to book on our website.
Castle Farm, Fillingham, Gainsborough, DN21 5BX
(Just o昀 the B1398, 8 miles north of Lincoln)
Call 01427 667014 or visit www.昀llingham-trees.co.uk
Refreshments provided by ‘This Li琀le Piggy’ & Nomad Co昀ee Company
Fancy mee琀ng Santa? Come visit him in his Gro琀o, 昀nd all the informa琀on you need on our website.
safe and resilient for the people who live there.
Attendees of the festival are offered the opportunity to learn how to survey wildlife, watch cult environmental film Silent Running at Southside, and take part in a city-wide litter pick, along with a full schedule of other ways to join the climate conversation across the city.
Visit www.estates.lincoln.ac.uk/sustainability/projects/caf/ SCHEDULE
Monday – Friday, November 18-22
9am – 5pm
Project Space+, Peter de Wint Building, University of Lincoln Nature Positive Lincoln Exhibition
Monday – Friday, November 18-22
8.30am – 6pm
Lincoln Arts Centre Café
Community Clothes Swap
Monday 18 November 12pm – 1.30pm
Hartsholme Country Park Fungi with Fungiary (booking essential) 12.30pm
Lawress Hall, Riseholme Park Campus Riseholme Autumnal Tree Walk 2pm – 3.30pm
MB2306, Minerva Building, University of Lincoln
Bitesize Carbon Literacy Training 6pm – 8pm
Lincoln Arts Centre Café Craft & Coffee (booking essential)
Tuesday 19 November 10am – 1pm
Project Space+, Peter de Wint Building, University of Lincoln Climate Action & Ecological Justice in Diverse Contexts: A Research and Scholarship Showcase (Booking advised)
2pm – 3pm
Outside Ross Lucas Medical Sciences Building, University of Lincoln Wildlife Photography Workshop (booking advised)
5pm – 7pm
Project Space+, Peter de Wint Building, University of Lincoln Wild Lincolnshire, A Panel Talk (booking essential)
6pm – 8pm
The Horse & Groom, Carholme Road
People Planet Pint – Informal Networking (booking essential)
Wednesday 20 November 12pm – 3pm
Outside Students’ Union, University of Lincoln Green Goodies & Herb Garden Pop Up 12pm – 2pm
University of Lincoln’s Library Freezone Sustainability Café 1pm – 3pm
Alfred Tennyson Building, University of Lincoln
Using UN Sustainable Development Goals – development workshop for academics and teachers 6:45pm
Southside, Colegrave Street, Lincoln Silent Running film screening 6pm – 9pm
Lincoln Arts Centre Café Eco Night Market
Thursday 21 November 8.30am – 12pm Riseholme Park Campus Introduction to Wildlife Surveying (booking essential) 4.30pm – 6pm
The Swan, Campus Way
Feel Good Thoughtful Thursdays: Fabric Painting 2pm – 4pm
Project Space+, Peter de Wint Building, University of Lincoln Pigment Paint Workshop
Friday 22 November
Lincoln Cathedral
Bring and Share Lunch at the Table for the Nation 12pm – 3pm
Brayford Campus, University of Lincoln Autumn at the Kitchen Garden (booking advised)
Saturday 23 November
The Big City Litter Pick - Details of each meeting point to be confirmed. see www.hellolincoln.co.uk
With large indoor and outdoor shopping areas, visit us to 昀nd your trees, stands, lights, decora琀ons and gi昀s.
Award winners go the extra mile
LINCOLN has got some gems when it comes to business.
The proof was in evidence at the GEM awards ceremony organised by the Lincoln Business Improvement Group.
GEM stands for Going the Extra Mile and all the nominees and winners had been judged by an independent, specialised company, Proinsight, to ensure all participating businesses are treated fairly and equally.
Experience & Entertainment - Glory Holes, New Theatre Royal
Health, Wellness & Beauty - Beauty by Leah, Acuitis Opticians
Independent Retailer - Coneys, Steep Hill Wines
Lee Roberts, Head of Operations at Lincoln BIG commented: “It was a fantastic evening, and it was great to see how much the awards have grown shown through the impressive number of nominees we had this year.
“Lincoln BIG takes pride in championing our members and celebrating local businesses of all sectors, and our GEM Awards are the perfect opportunity to honour this. We’re already counting down to the 2025 GEM Awards and it promises to be even bigger and better!”
Winners
Accommodation - The Rest
Bar, Pub & Club - Vice & Co
Experience & Entertainment - Akedo Experience
Health, Wellness & Beauty - Sincil Salon
Independent Retailer - The Cheese Society Professional Services - Pepperell’s Solicitors
Restaurant - ASK
Cafe - Vestry Hall
National Retailer - The Body Shop
Other nominees
Accommodation - The Tower Hotel, The Lincoln Hotel Bar, Pub & Club - Lincoln Jazz Café, Tap & Tonic
Professional Services - Halifax, Mundys Sales
Restaurant - Tortilla, Samba Brazil
Cafe - 200 Degrees, Stokes High Bridge
National Retailer - Joules, Three
ASK staff with Simon Beardsley of Lincoln BIG (left) who presented the awards
The Lincoln BIG team
Akedo
Beware of debt liabilities as a personal representative
PAUL HORTON, PARTNER, WILKIN CHAPMAN SOLICITORS
WHEN a person dies a personal representative, such as an executor or an administrator of a person’s Will, might be responsible for settling their debts such as any unpaid taxes, loans and bills.
Typically a personal representative is not personally liable for these debts, but there are certain situations in which they could be held accountable. This potential liability means that if you are the personal representative there are some important things to bear in mind if you want to protect your own assets as well as those of the deceased. First make sure all outstanding debts are settled before distributing any of the estate assets.
If you fail to do this and the estate runs out of funds, you could be personally liable to creditors.
Additionally, you should notify potential creditors correctly - and if you fail to do
this, you could be held personally responsible - even if you were unaware of the debt.
You should also exercise caution if you’re handling an insolvent estate. This is because you must follow specific rules on debt prioritisation - if you pay creditors in the wrong order, you could be personally liable for unpaid debts. Similarly, if you neglect to pay inheritance tax, HM Revenue & Customs may pursue you personally.
Personal liability can also arise from mismanaging overseas debts or failing to properly address joint debts that the deceased shared with others.
If you have signed a guarantee for the deceased's debts, you may be personally liable if the estate cannot repay it.
If you distribute estate funds to a beneficiary who is bankrupt, there is also a risk that you may also be held
personally liable to the Trustee in Bankruptcy for those funds.
To avoid getting caught out and being held personally liable, you should follow legal procedures, such as placing statutory advertisements, keeping accurate records and seeking legal advice. By doing this and acting diligently, you can ensure proper estate administration while protecting yourself from liability.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01522 515954, email
What’s around the corner for interest rates?
HELEN BRANDON-SNELL, MANAGING DIRECTOR AT MORTGAGE MINDERS (LINCOLN) LTD
WORKING in the Financial Services sector for over 35 years, I have seen a great deal of change in the mortgage market. Setting up Mortgage Minders (Lincoln) Ltd in a recession in 2008, was certainly a challenging time.
Around a third of mortgage brokers left the Industry.
They had been used to a plentiful supply of business and all of a sudden the market changed with new clients in shorter supply.
The Bank of England rate was 5.75% in November 2007 and I remember at the time thinking should I lock into a fixed rate as it was unclear what was around the corner.
I left if for another month and thankfully I did. Interest rates started to fall, in line with the Bank of England reductions.
I was on a lifetime tracker deal, paying 0.75% above whatever the Bank of England rate was. This meant that every time the Bank of England changed their rates, my rate would alter accordingly the following month.
The Bank of England rate ultimately dropped to 0.50% in June 2016. Until reaching a record low of 0.10% in October 2021.
With various factors taking their toll and instability setting in, rates increased month on month from January 2022. Reaching 5.25% in August 2023. In August this year, they reduced to 5.00%.
As I write this on October 21, it is anticipated that when the Bank of England sit again on Thursday, November 7 that this will be reduced, potentially having an effect on lending rates once more.
However, with various factors still prevailing, including the Budget on Wednesday, October 30, who knows what’s around the corner?
Even without a change in the Bank of England rate, some lenders have increased their fixed rate products over the last couple of weeks.
As an independent mortgage broker, with access not only to High Street lenders, but also specific ‘broker only’
routes, we are in the perfect position to be able to research the whole of the market and arrange the most suitable mortgage product for you - tailored to your individual needs.
Please get in touch to arrange a free, no obligation meeting to see how we can help.
Mortgage Minders (Lincoln) Ltd 41 Manrico Drive, Lincoln, LN1 1AD Tel 01522 822282
Email helen@mortgage-minders.co.uk www.mortgage-minders.co.uk
streets.uk 01522 551200
Valuing our older workers
IT might be said that 50 is the new 40. However, when it comes to working there can be significant changes and challenges when people hit the half century.
Perhaps the most obvious change is getting older and the challenges that present themselves in terms of health and the energy and ability to work. Certainly, those with a more physically demanding job can often find it more and more taxing.
More generally though as we get older, we can be more prone to illness and the overall ageing process. For women, especially going through and managing the menopause can and does have a significant impact on their ability to work. We may also face the need to support more elderly family members.
Older workers are also often, very wrongly, stereotyped as being less agile and resistant to change. While in terms of more physically demanding work, agility may be an issue, the ability to learn and adopt new ideas and new skills certainly is not age limiting.
How many world leaders, captains of industry and academics are well into their 70s and even beyond?
Burnout can also be a challenge for older workers, with work becoming or seeming monotonous, a chore and even a burden, as opposed to a
rewarding activity, with a real sense of purpose and value.
As people approach retirement and perhaps more recently with the costof-living crisis, thoughts more often turn to, or are more focused on, managing or coping with financial strains and burdens as well as providing for the future.
Taking all this into account, what might those aged 50 and over, as well as employers, look to do to manage some of the challenges and to improve working lives?
Perhaps the starting point for many employers is simply recognising the situation and the needs of an ageing workforce and then looking how it can support and manage team members.
While there is unlikely to be a one size fits all solution, there are a number of things that might be considered including:
l The provision of flexible working to accommodate individual circumstances and needs as well as to accommodate those with caring responsibilities
l A review of individuals roles and responsibilities, along with perhaps the potential to offer alternative roles that are more suited to any one individual
l More routine and structured assessments of skills, knowledge and competency and how any gaps can be addressed or provided for
l Consideration of mentoring for employees to support them both in and outside the workplace
l A review of working practices and environment, considering changes to accommodate employee needs
l Adopting a more obvious culture and positive mindset for understanding and supporting employees of all ages, but specifically the over 50s.
For some individuals this time of life can give rise to a total career change, whether to pursue a new interest, secure greater financial stability or to have a job that may be more suited to their health and personal circumstances.
For others it is the time to switch from employment to self-employment and start their own business, which seems to be the choice for a growing number of people.
So, while 50 may not be the new 40, those who have reached and passed this milestone certainly do have a lot to offer and have significant roles to play in our organisations and society.
Brian brings commercial property expertise to Shakespeare Martineau’s Lincoln office
LAW firm Shakespeare Martineau has further expanded its growing team in Lincoln with the appointment of commercial property partner Brian Noble.
With more than 18 years’ post-qualified experience, Brian (pictured) has joined Shakespeare Martineau as a commercial property partner, having worked previously for several law firms in London & the South East and most recently in Lincolnshire. In his new role, Brian will be specialising in landlord and tenant matters, providing property support for corporate transactions, and dealing with secured lending for both lenders and borrowers.
Brian, who will be based in Lincoln working with clients and teams nationally, said: “I relocated back to Lincolnshire from London in 2023 and have worked with Shakespeare Martineau on the opposite side of a number of transactions since then. “I have always been impressed with the firm’s pro-active and commercially-minded approach to deals, and I am excited to be part of its growing Lincoln office, while also having national exposure, and looking forward to helping the team and property practice grow in the region.”
Brian’s appointment is the latest in a string of new partner hires as part of Shakespeare Martineau’s growth strategy, broadening its footprint both north and south.
Joe Soul, partner and head of commercial property and development at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “We are delighted to welcome Brian to our Lincoln-based team. We are currently experiencing growing demand for our services due to the strong reputation we have built over the years, and Brian’s experience is perfectly aligned with our commitment to delivering exceptional service to our commercial property clients.”
Working with businesses and organisations of all sizes, Shakespeare Martineau delivers an extensive range of specialist legal services and has expertise across multiple sectors. The firm also provides services for individuals and families, whether on a personal basis or for succession and tax planning purposes.
Shakespeare Martineau, 12-14 St Mary’s Street, Lincoln, LN5 7EQ. T. 01522 313 370, shma.co.uk.
Showroom Address
The Stables, 11 Lincoln Road, Welton, LN2 3HZ
sales@ignitestoves.com www.ignitestoves.com
01673 274005
