Lincoln Independent February 2023

10,000 copies every month

February 2023

A new community chapter for former church

‘An exciting

Welcome to Southside

LINCOLN’S newest arts and community venue has opened its doors, offering something a little bit different in the south of the city.

Southside is the new name for the former Priory Centre and St Katherine’s Church situated where Lincoln High Street meets South Common.

It may still look like a church from the outside, but inside it’s a whole different story.

The new owners of Southside are offering a mix of regular live music events and community activities, and also hiring out the venue to local groups and businesses. Commuter

Continued on page 3

year ahead’Colin Webb

IMAGES: JASON ELLIOTT PHOTOGRAPHY

Southside - aiming to offer something for everyone

Continued from page 1

The former church building is also available for weddings

“We’ve got an exciting year ahead and we’ve been delighted with the response so far,” said Colin Webb, who bought the buildings last year.

“We’ve always said that Lincoln doesn’t end at the railway crossing, but sadly this part of the city has been a bit neglected when it comes to the arts and community activities.

“We want Southside to be a venue for the whole community in this part of Lincoln, while at the same time attracting people from all over the city and beyond.”

The venue is only 15 minutes walk from the city centre and is on a bus route. Colin describes Southside as “a broadminded space, inspiring music and creative community.”

It has already hosted weddings and concerts and it’s now the permanent home of Commuter Jazz, the popular bi-weekly live music event that promotes jazz, Latin and

world music in the city.

Southside also boasts a fully equipped professional kitchen, and Colin and his team expect to stage a number of foodrelated and dining events over the next few months.

There’s more going on behind the scenes too: Southside is the new home of Acoustic Nations Live CIC, a not-for-profit organisation which supports music and musicians throughout the county.

There’s also room to provide new office space for Colin’s domiciliary care business, St Katherine’s Care.

“We were looking for new offices for St Katherine’s Care, and as Acoustic Nations produces music, films and videos and promotes live events there was a good fit between the performing space offered by the old Priory Centre and the office space at the rear of the building,” said Colin.

“St Katherine’s Care can now grow and we’ve set up a care training facility to improve recruitment, while Acoustic Nations can promote events and community-based activities.”

The Grade II listed building reopened to the public in September 2022. Its multifunctional buildings have been renovated to an excellent standard and have won various design and heritage awards in the past.

“Now that we’re fully open people can enjoy music, theatre, supper clubs and more,” said Colin. “They can hire our spaces for weddings, parties or meetings, use the film and sound recording facilities, visit historic St Katherine’s Hall or take

part in community activities such as yoga, Irish dance and the Rock Choir. “Southside really does aim to offer something for everyone.”

Southside prides itself on being a fully accessible venue: “The car park at the venue is a good size and all our event spaces are accessible via ramps, and we have an accessible toilet.

“We also have access to a larger car parking area on the South Common, often used for football parking on match days. This is available for both our own events and private hires.

“We really hope nothing gets in the way if you want to visit Southside.”

Keep in touch and find out what’s on at Southside by signing up to the mailing list at www.southsidelincs.com or follow on facebook and Instagram –southsidelincs.

Amy Slavin Hall at Southside

Historic St Katherine’s Hall

‘Everyone should be more Joyce’

SHE danced, she sang, she cheekily bantered, she had a few whiskies and she was definitely Queen for a Day.

Joyce Leyshon celebrated her 100th birthday in her own inimitable way.

Friends and family were put to shame by her energy and her ‘Joyce de vivre’ at the party she had organised herself at Lincoln’s Civil Defence Club.

The card from King Charles and the Queen Consort had pride of place and she made sure she mixed with her scores of guests. I wish my pictures did Joyce’s enjoyment of the limelight more justice.

I sent the Business Wife a video of Joyce on the dance floor and she replied: “Everyone should be more Joyce.”

Obviously I couldn’t agree more - Joyce’s outlook is that you only come this way once and she still exercises everyday. She laughs loud and often.

She’s an amazing lady and we are trying to be more Joyce.

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Imps’ stand plans about community as well as football

PLANS to develop the Stacey West stand at Lincoln City Football Club’s LNER Stadium have been given the go-ahead. Planning permission has been granted for the project, which will provide a range of infrastructure improvements to the LNER Stadium, including new power and mains water supplies as well as a pitch water recycling system.

Working with the Sports Grounds Safety Authority, the club have also submitted an

application to trial safe-standing in a small section of the Stacey West Stand – with the intention of installing rail seats throughout the entire stand and into the GBM Stand should the trial be successful.

The project will also create space for Lincoln City Foundation by providing a new Community Skills and Education Hub. This will help tackle the growing skills gap

in the city by giving the Foundation a base from which it can champion the delivery of education and employability skills.

Martin Hickerton, chief executive at the Foundation, said: “This is fantastic news for everyone connected with the Foundationthe work we do in Lincoln and the surrounding area has never been more important.”

£20m bridge bid successful

THE £20 million bid for Government funds to alleviate traffic on Skellingthorpe Road will drive forward Lincoln’s urban extension.

In August 2022 City of Lincoln Council in partnership with Karl McCartney MP, submitted its bid - as part of the Levelling Up Fund Round Two - to create a road bridge and adjacent foot bridge linking the city’s Western Growth Corridor development to Tritton Road.

Plans for Western Growth Corridor (WGC), which include 3,200 homes, a local centre and business units were approved in January 2022.

Concerns were previously raised about traffic on Skellingthorpe Road which, due to the train level crossing, faces congestion issues daily.

Through the Western Growth Corridor development, the city council looked to address this by bringing forward plans for a road bridge over the railway.

This will attract traffic onto the spine road through the development, over the trainlines and onto Tritton Road, bypassing the existing crossing and alleviating congestion in the area. The Government’s Levelling Up Round Two programme will see the bridge completed by March 2025, with work anticipated to start at the beginning of 2024.

Cllr Ric Metcalfe, Leader at City of Lincoln Council said: “This is absolutely fantastic news for the city.

“The Western Growth Corridor is one of the most important developments in the city’s long history and these works will have a significant impact on traffic issues in this area of Lincoln.

“Growth is essential to securing Lincoln’s long-term future and this scheme will play a major part in delivering this.”

Cllr Neil Murray, Portfolio Holder for Inclusive Economic Growth at City of Lincoln Council added: “I’m incredibly pleased that we have been able to secure these funds which will allow us to begin

work on this vitally important bridge earlier than anticipated.

“The Western Growth Corridor development will provide Lincoln with much needed new homes as well as supplying local people with secure jobs for many years to come.

“We have listened to concerns raised by residents with regards to traffic in the area and we are happy to have received this funding to enable us in creating a solution ahead of schedule.”

BY NICK ASPLEY HEAD OF FAMILY LAW

IT has been a challenging year for so many.

Whatever your politics, the mix of the war in Ukraine, Brexit, three Prime Ministers, fuel and power bills, strikes and the cost of living crisis make it a worrying time for most people.

On top of that, the statistics tell us this is the time of year when, unfortunately, couples decide to separate, with all the emotional and financial turmoil that a separation can bring on both parents, their families and especially the children.

So money is tight and lawyers can be expensive. How can you afford a divorce?

How to afford a divorce in the cost of living crisis

T EN HINTS AND TIPS

Take time to think about what you want to do

Starting down a divorce/separation process needs your time, not just actual time but emotional time as well.You need to be calm in order to think carefully about the future. The time of day when you are freshest is usually the best time to think. Take time out of work or looking after the children.

The children’s needs come first

It will be a difficult road for you, but it is likely to be difficult for the children too. So think about what their arrangements might be. Two homes can be better than one.

Get your assets valued

This would normally include your home, cars, savings and do not forget pensions, especially if you work in the public sector such as the NHS, police, armed forces, fire fighters, teachers and in the civil service. Make a list of your assets and what they are worth.

What is your mortgage or borrowing capacity?

Seek independent financial advice as to how much you could borrow on your income and earnings. Is it a realistic option for you to buy the other out of the family home or should it be sold?

What are your future housing and income needs?

If you are to move house, what future property could you afford? Get the prices of properties you would potentially need to rehouse yourself and/or the children. Make a list of likely bills and compare to your net income. Will you need help to pay the bills?

Talk to each other

This may be difficult but find a way to try and sort something out. It is your money, your future and your children. This could be over a coffee in the kitchen or somewhere neutral such as a park or other open space. Once lawyers are involved it can get expensive.

Get early professional legal advice

A survey by the Law Society showed that on average 1 in 4 people or 25% who received early professional legal advice had resolved their problem within 3 to 4 months compared with 9 months without such advice.

Any agreement must be fair

A judge in the Family Court must approve any agreement as being fair before it is legally binding. Getting early professional legal advice should give you a steer here.

Fixed fee legal advice

Some lawyers offer free initial advice usually time limited. If you are prepared and want bespoke advice, consideration of documents including the documents listed above, with no time limit, and have that advice confirmed in writing, ask your lawyer for a fixed fee. And get it early.

Don’t go to court.

In most cases court is a last resort.Your lawyer can discuss with you other dispute resolution options including mediation, arbitration and collaborative law.

Ringrose Law can help, contact the family team on 01522 561020 or email wecanhelp@ringroselaw.co.uk

Grant to combat knife crime Police dogs sniff out city drug crime

SIX people have been arrested for various drugs offences in Lincoln after proactive work by officers and Police Dogs Ted and Eric to tackle suspected dealing and related crime in the city. There has been a significant police presence in Carr Street and the surrounding area to disrupt suspected drug dealing and a vehicle was stopped and searched on Tritton Road when cash and drugs were sniffed out by PD Eric. A 19 year-old-man, and a 40-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply.

PD Eric also helped with a search of a Carr Street property where further drugs and cash were recovered. A 44-year-oldwoman was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs. All three have been released under investigation.

PD Ted (pictured) got involved in a suspect vehicle stopped by Response officers, the Neighbourhood Police Team and Special Operations in South Park and he located a quantity of cannabis. Three men, aged 23, 24 and 25 were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply. The 23-year-old was also arrested on suspicion of driving whilst

over the specified limit of cocaine. Cash and phones were also recovered and are being examined as part of enquiries. A further four properties were searched in Bishops Gate, Roman Pavement, Bathurst Street and Usher Green where drugs and cash were also found.

The two days of action were in partnership with the CCTV and housing team from the City of Lincoln Council. Inspector Jon Birkin said: “We’re out on our streets every day tackling drugdealing, violent disorder or finding missing people - to name just a few things - and activity like this shows the public the work we do on itsbehalf. We take drug dealing and drug use very seriously because there is often associated crime such as theft, ASB, and sometimes more violent offences.

“These can have a significant impact on the people living and working in an area. This week’s work is just a small example of what we’re doing week-in, week-out, and we will continue to do so.

“We couldn’t do this without the help and support of our community, and we would like to appeal to people to continue to support our efforts by reporting issues they witness or have a concern about.”

LINCOLNSHIRE Police has secured £190,000 from the Home Office Homicide Prevention Fund which will be used to help reduce knife crime and murders in the county. Some cash will be used to provide specialist training to officers and staff, teaching them more about tracking and deterring serious violent crime. Training will also help predict hot spots and identify people likely to be impacted by serious violence.

“We will engage with vulnerable communities in Lincolnshire and work with the University of Lincoln, who will use focus groups and indepth interviews to understand people’s views, fears, and experiences with knife crime,” said Det Supt Suzanne Davies, serious violence reduction lead.

The force will attempt to identify and target the people and places at the highest risk of serious violence.

The work will form part of Lincolnshire

Police’s Think Sharp initiative – a prevention project which aims to reduce knife crime, weapon-based offences, and homicides, which starts in December.

D/Supt Davies added” “I am really pleased to be able to work with the University and young people so that together we can reduce knife crime and homicides in Lincolnshire.

“This additional funding means that we can work in a different way; we have all seen the devasting impact these offences have on families and I would much rather prevent knife crimes and deaths than investigate them.”

Dr Anthony Ellis from the University of Lincoln said: “The University is really pleased to be working with Lincolnshire Police on this important new project aimed at reducing serious violence across the county.”

After the results of the 15 months of research with the university a pilot programme will start at three secondary schools in Lincolnshire before the findings are combed over by experts.

Do you want to live well longer?

BY MELANIE DUNN NUTRITIONAL THERAPIST AND FOOD TECHNOLOGY AND HEALTH TEACHER

EXPERTS are warning that we are living longer than ever before. But the number of healthy and/or happy years many of us enjoy before chronic

disease strikes is falling.

Its no surprise that many modern-day diseases are the result of poor nutrition and vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Even if you think you eat a healthy diet here’s some of the reasons why you may be deficient in nutrients:

l the concentration of minerals in crops has dropped due to modern farming methods;

l our ability to absorb nutrients declines with age;

l medicines, alcohol, stress and smoking affect nutrient absorption;

l restrictive diets due to intolerances or personal reasons may contribute to micronutrient depletion.

Most scientists concur that the upper limit for human lifespan is actually 120 years. Yet the average life expectancy in Britain is 81 years and over half of us can expect to have a chronic health condition from the age of about 60.

Optimising our health so that we can carry on leading active and happy lives is an achievable goal.

There are many dietary factors to help us stave off disease and slow the ageing process

but here are some highlights:

l eat 7 to 10 servings of a wide range of vegetables daily;

l eat lean proteins with most or every meal;

l eat local seasonal produce;

l look after your gut ecology with probiotics;

l help to digest your food by relaxing after meals.

Discover if your diet is preventing you from living well - book a personal wellness assessment with Melanie by emailing mel@melaniedunn.co.uk or call 07539 635575.

It’s in the jeans!

Kerry’s giant denims to inspire green fashion debate

TEXTILE artist Kerry Gibson is passionate about sustainable fashion, writes REBECCA POOLE

She wants to start a conversation about the impact of the fashion industry and is letting her jeans do the talking. At 9ft tall her giant jeans will undoubtedly get people’s attention for Kerry’s message when they go on display this month.

“I’ve been trying to educate around my passion of sustainability through my work, whether that being my artwork or my speaking work,” explained Kerry, who runs the studio Rethread Denim at The Terrace, Lincoln.

“I have been selling second-hand denim for about 17 years and then recently I went back to university to study a Master’s in Fashion and Textiles at Nottingham Trent University.

“I was struggling a bit as to where to go with it. I was completely out of my comfort zone, but then I went to Denim Premiere Vision in London and I saw so many lectures about denim and sustainability.”

Kerry (pictured) took part in a jeans workshop run by Italian Pattern Designer Consultant, Alessio Berto, who took an original pair of 1950s Levi 501’s and demonstrated how to take a pattern from the jeans.

This inspired Kerry to scale up the pattern 280% using Adobe with the help of a university technician, to create her ‘Giant Jeans’ which are almost 9ft tall.

“I have been working with St Barnabas who have given me some denim and I requested denim that they couldn’t sell in the shops. I then have to break them down into a reusable resource, which is a similar process that would happen if they went to a recycling plant.” Using a laser machine, Kerry has then etched images on to the jeans to create a visual narrative of the lifecycle of denim, from the fabrics it is made from to what happens when it is disposed of and the environmental impacts.

“There are four panels. There’s the timeline of denim, and ‘what is in my jeans?’ which looks at what materials go into a pair of jeansI’ve got half and half, the top half is the good stuff, like cotton and hemp, then the bottom is polyester.

“The other two panels are ‘who made my clothes?’ which looks at the people and the construction, and the final one is about what happens to our clothes when we don’t want them, focusing on the climate in general and the wider conversation around that.”

When Kerry had completed all four panels she was invited down to London to work with denim designer Mohsin Sajid, who owns Endrime Denim and Denim History, and teaches on many of the London university fashion programmes about denim production and construction.

Kerry hopes the project will inspire others to look at their fashion footprint and to think about the finite resources that go into making clothes, advocating for recycling and reusing.

“Doing this project has made me look further into what things are made from, so now when I see a discarded piece of clothing, I see the valuable resources that were used.

“Natural things like hemp go back to 8000 BC, but polyester was only developed in 1941 and now over 60% of our clothes are

polyester and other man-made synthetics. Because these fabrics are made from plastics, a derivative of crude oil, they don’t biodegrade which means that all the clothing made from these fabrics, unless it’s incinerated, will still be on the planet somewhere.

“Clothes swaps are definitely part of the solution and, of course, buying less. If everyone does a little bit, then great things can happen. Think before you buy, make sure it’s something that you will really treasure. Consider the materials, the quality of the product, and think about who made your clothes.”

Kerry’s project was supported by Lincoln BIG as part of its Lincoln Creates initiative. It allowed her to work with a graphic designer and an illustrator on the project, who helped her to create a ‘contemporary, thoughtful’ piece.

“I’m pleased with the project. It’s taken so long but it’s a real labour of love. As a resource I hope they’re going to be a brilliant visual for people to see.”

The Giant Jeans will be making their debut outing during the half term week in February. They will feature as part of a sustainable fashion exhibition which will be held at the Project Space Plus gallery in the Peter De Wint building on the University of Lincoln campus near Lincoln Performing Arts Centre. The exhibition will also feature work produced by the students of Lincoln as part of ‘Project Fashion Fixed 2022 cohort’, a project that Kerry ran last year in Lincoln. The exhibition will be open to the public from Thursday to Sunday, February 16-19, from 104pm.

You can follow the journey of the jeans on Kerry’s Instagram page @rethread.denim

Steve’s retirement leaves BIG gap

STEVE Roney retired as a city centre warden with Lincoln BIG at the end of January 2023 after 16 years’ service.

Starting in June 2006 as one of the first wardens the city ever had Steve’s role was and continued to be to ensure that the city centre is bright and welcoming as well as raising the quality experience for businesses, residents and visitors. Over the years, Steve has been involved in removing flyposting, graffiti, chewing gum, painting benches and bins, and helping with events and markets in the city and more recently Steve became First Aid and defibrillator trained, providing that extra level of safety to the city.

His colleagues praised his knowledge, organisation, and input into the Lincoln BIG trails - Barons, Knights and Imps - as invaluable, contributing to their success.

Steve reflected that he’d never had a dull moment in his role especially with the multiple times he’s been to rescue animals in the city centre, including swans, dogs, horses and even deer.

“I’m proud of all that Lincoln BIG have accomplished and achieved in my time here and believe they’ll continue to add value to the city through their projects, events and partnership working with businesses.”

Lincoln BIG are currently in the process of recruiting new wardens, and Steve’s advice includes: “Take each day as it comes… there’s always something to be doing.”.

Head of Operations, Lee Roberts said: “Steve has been a tremendous employee throughout the years and Lincoln BIG colleagues recognise the hard work he’s done continuously in ensuring Lincoln is a great place to live, work and visit. “We will always be grateful for the knowledge, expertise, and positive attitude that Steve has brought to both Lincoln BIG, and the city of Lincoln. I would personally like to pay tribute to him for the work he has carried out in ensuring the city is a clean, safe and pleasant environment for all, ultimately improving the standard of the public realm.”

Simon Beardsley, Managing Director added: “It goes without saying we wish Steve all the very best, his contribution to the work Lincoln BIG does cannot be undervalued. Steve’s years of experience and knowledge of the city will be sorely missed. As he retires from Lincoln BIG, the team and I wish him all the best in the future with a very happy retirement”.

The work of Lincoln BIG wardens can be seen at www.lincolnbig.co.uk/welcome/wardens

Steve Roney (right) with fellow warden Danny Mason. BelowLincoln BIG colleagues mark his retirement after 16 years looking after the city centre.

Replica roof installed

LINCOLN Central Market enjoyed a dry January after a new replica glass roof was installed marking a major milestone in the refurbishment scheme.

New glazing panels to the arches around the building were also installed, which signified completion to the external works of the main market building and the start of the internal works. Once the building was fully watertight Lindum Group started work on putting up the internal walls, including the electricals and water pipes, and plastering. The main floors in the market will also be tiled, ready to receive the new timber stalls. Working on behalf of City of Lincoln Council, Lindum is transforming the old grade II listed central market building into a hub for retail and leisure in the heart of Lincoln.

Maria Clayton, Capital Projects Manager for the City of Lincoln Council said: “We are pleased to see the progress of the building works to both the main market hall and the new A3 unit, which are really beginning to take shape. We are also excited to see the internal works commencing.

“The scheme will aim to re-invent the market, bringing greater opportunity to showcase local produce as well as offer a variety of traders to respond to local needs and changing shopping trends.”

The work includes the demolition of the butcher’s corridor and the construction of a new two-story extension, incorporating a restaurant with a roof terrace.

Lindum Construction Manager Mark Leason said: “It is a fantastic achievement by the team to get the market watertight. We are well on the way to turning this old building into one of the most vibrant locations on the high street, benefitting the entire area.

“The new roof will be completely identical to the original, maintaining the building’s heritage amongst the modernisation and refurbishment works. It is important that while we are updating and upgrading the centre of Lincoln, we mustn’t lose the impressive architecture and heritage that comes with this historic city.”

The project is part of the government’s Be Lincoln Town Deal, a £19 million investment plan in which City of Lincoln Council has received funding to support the growth and development of the city. Funding has also come from Historic England’s High Street Heritage Action Zone scheme and Historic England.

COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY

Individuals – Groups

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MUPCA, MGASI

UKCP Accredited and Registered BACP Registered

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Mob: 07913 746337

www.laurenwhitetherapy.co.uk

Stig’s no longer down in the dumps

FROM the uncertain beginnings of living on a landfill site to becoming a much loved and cared for pony – it’s fair to say Bransby Horses’ Stig has had an adventurous year. The friendly black and white pony was rescued from the site in Gainsborough in January 2022.

Stig and Cyril live on land behind Victoria’s house so she is able to see them from her kitchen window.

“I just love the peace and tranquillity of being with horses. They are such majestic creatures and I think it’s a privilege to have them in my life.”

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The little colt had been spotted wandering around the site for a few days and concerned staff alerted the equine welfare charity to see what could be done. An abandonment notice was served and when no one claimed him, Bransby Horses was able to take him in and start him on a rehabilitation programme.

Nine months later he has started a new life in a foster home where he is providing companionship to an older horse with one of the charity’s supporters.

Stig’s handler at Bransby Horses, Natalia De Benedictis (pictured left) said: “From the day we started handling and training Stig he was amazing. He never said no or proved difficult, he’s such a lovely pony that deserves to be loved and cared for.”

Stig’s foster carer Victoria Hotchkin (right) recently collected Stig from the charity and says he has settled in well with her older horse Cyril.

“I applied to foster a horse from Bransby Horses after my old mare had to be put to sleep. When they rang me and said they had the perfect pony for us I couldn’t believe it.

“We had three dates with Stig, so we could get to know him and be sure he was right for us and we were right for him. It was love at first sight really. I just thought what a cute little pony.

“He will have a home for life with us and I feel so lucky to be able to give him a new start where he will be pampered and loved forever.”

Bransby Horses Perfect Partner Rehoming Scheme offers some of their rescued animals the chance to enjoy life in a carefully selected loan home, freeing up time and space at the charity for the rescue and rehabilitation of others.

To apply to rehome one of Bransby Horses’ equines, find out more about the charity’s work or to make a donation visit BransbyHorses.co.uk

What the law says about horse ownership

Since 2020 it has been a legal requirement for owners to ensure horses are microchipped and ownership details up to date. Microchips allow owners to be traced through the Central Equine Databasecheck www.equineregister.co.uk.

Ownership details need to be up to date with the Passport Issuing Organisation (PIO) and the microchip is properly registered with them so lost or stolen horses to be reunited with their owners.

An Abandonment Notice runs for four working days and, unfortunately, Stig’s expired without anyone coming forward. At the end of the notice, the ownership of the animal is legally transferred to the landowner who can then decide what to do with the equine, but must provide with adequate food, water, shelter and vet care while an owner is sought.

Bransby Horses and other animal welfare charities are always happy to offer advice.

Prefab living in Lincoln

In this latest article from The Survey of Lincoln, ANDREW WALKER explores how the city responded in the mid-twentieth century to supply problems and labour shortages to meet housing needs.

FOLLOWING the Second World War, some 1.3 million new dwellings were constructed during Clement Attlee’s period as Labour prime minister between 1945 and 1951.

Over 80% of these were council homes. However, despite this significant building programme, the continued housing shortage by 1951 was one reason why Labour lost that year’s General Election to the Conservatives.

A major problem preventing sufficient houses being built by 1951 was the shortage of materials and labour following the war. A partial short-term solution to the resourcing shortages was the construction of prefabricated dwellings. Although these cost more to construct than brick-built terraced homes, they consumed significantly fewer resources.

A prefab home weighed under two tons compared to 125 tons for a brick house. Between 1945 and 1949, 156,623 prefab homes were built in Britain under the Temporary Housing Programme scheme. In Lincoln, several prefab housing developments were built, mainly between 1945 and 1951. These were a distinctive but very small part of the city’s post-war public housing building programme. Perhaps the best known, owing to its location on a busy road, is the earliest development on Outer Circle Drive, where some 100 homes were built.

Further prefab developments followed in other parts of the city –including off Burton Road, and, also in the south west of the city. These include just under 30 prefab homes on Grainsby Close, off Rookery Lane, and a rather larger collection of 50 prefabs constructed in St Andrew’s Gardens, near to Boultham Park Road. Demand for these prefabs was high in Lincoln, as was the case nationally. Initially, these new homes were allocated mainly to members of the armed forces. By 1950, the emphasis had changed and, in the allotting of these new homes, priority was given to families whose main breadwinners were key workers linked to the export market.

Although the prefab was due to have a lifespan of only between ten and fifteen years it was considered by many to be an attractive housing proposition.

This was designed and constructed in sections by Arcon, later taken over by the Arcon Mark V, which conformed to the building standards for prefab homes laid down by the Ministry of Works – a minimum size of 635 square feet and a maximum width of 7.5 feet, which was to allow the homes to be transported in sections easily by road.

The Arcon Mark V comprised a living room, kitchen, two bedrooms, a bathroom and a separate toilet.

One of the most innovative aspects of its design was the service unit, designed by the Ministry of Works. This was a capsule containing the kitchen and bathroom, fitted back-to-back. The fitted kitchen included a built-in refrigerator, oven and water heater. These ‘mod cons’ attracted many potential tenants to the prefab, many of whom previously did not have access to such amenities.

A series of major renovations to the city’s prefab properties, for instance in the early 1960s, when brick skins were added, have ensured that most of them survived long after their intended lifespan, and many still remain among Lincoln’s housing stock.

Our next publication will examine the history of the city’s cemeteries. We are still looking for contributors to this work. To find out more, please see www.thesurveyoflincoln.co.uk

The Government commissioned several differing styles of prefab. The most commonly constructed was the Arcon Mark V, which was the type most prevalent in Lincoln.

The Arcon Mark V

Picture: Derek Broughton

Creating a ruck at Lincoln School

IT is said that soccer is a game for gentlemen played by hooligans, and rugby is a game for hooligans played by gentlemen. Lincoln School has traditionally been a soccer school, so readers can make their own inferences.

Although school rugby has not been the tradition in Lincolnshirewith The King’s School Grantham, and De Aston School Market Rasen being notable exceptions - the Lincoln Lindum Rugby Union Club has always flourished and those minority pupils who were interested in the game were welcomed to the Club under the watchful eye of Geography master Jack ‘Jim’ Shirley who played regularly for the club although he actually won a Blue for soccer when he was at Cambridge.

An attempt was first made to form a rugby team at Lincoln School in the 1949-50 season when sufficient pupils had become interested in the game and during that first official season, matches were played against grammar schools in Newark, Grantham, Southwell, Skegness, Spalding, and Market Rasen. After a poor start to the season, most of the later matches were won or drawn, and the team reached the semi-finals of the seven-a-side, or ‘Rugby Sevens’, tournament in Skegness.

The next reference to rugby in The Lincolnian magazine was in the July 1957 edition, in which Eddie Keal, a keen devotee of the game, was at pains to remind ‘the halt, the blind and the indolent’ that rugby training was still available on Wednesday afternoons on the Lindum. From this we can infer that, since the successful 1949-50 season, rugby had lost its popularity and was awaiting another surge of interest to revive its flagging fortunes.

The catalyst for the surge came chiefly in the form of a new Headmaster, Mr Patrick Martin, who was a ‘rugger’ man himself, and who ‘subtly’ encouraged the game by having rugby posts erected on the school playing fields in 1959.

We soccer hooligans deemed it a sacrilege, but we had to face the reality that rugby really ought to have been played at an institution with pretentions to be a minor public school, albeit alongside the ‘beautiful’ and ‘more dominant’ game.

Mr Martin’s arrival coincided with the emergence of another group of enthusiastic rugby players featured on the photograph, which was taken during the 1957-58 season on the Lindum playing field, and which included Richard Langdale, Mick Rossington, and David Leachman.

During the 1960s, rugby became the principal game during the Lent Term, and even in its first year of official fixtures the school was able to field two Under 13 XVs and a First Form XV to play a total of 12 matches against other schools under the worthy captaincy of Pickworth and Stewart.

Senior rugby at the school received a boost from the formation of The Lincoln and District Rugby Football Youth Alliance, when Headmaster Martin was its Vice-President.

Several players were selected for a County Trial with Dean, Rawding, Ashton, and Allport representing the school in the senior trial, and Boyer, Sendall and Blyton in the junior event.

Rugby had certainly made its mark at Lincoln school but soccer remained the dominant winter game.

Peter Harrod continues to delve into The Garton Archive to explore the pictorial past of Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School.

Popularity of Clarice Cliff’s colourful designs does not fade

THE enduring popularity of Clarice Cliff’s ceramics was underlined at a recent sale of her work by Golding Young, Chartered Auctioneers and Valuers.

Cliff is regarded as one of the most influential and revered ceramics artists of the twentieth century. She was born on January 20, 1899 in Stoke on Trent and started working in the potteries at just 13. When she was 17 she moved to AJ Wilkinson’s pottery factory where at the age of 28 she was given her own studio. While women in 20thC potteries were often tasked with hand painting pottery: outlining, banding or filling in designs, Cliff modelled figurines and vases, hand painted her designs, and kept pattern books.

Cliff’s story of a ‘working class Staffordshire girl who brought modern art to the people’ has inspired books, a play and a film, but Clarice herself preferred to let her art do the talking often refusing to give interviews in her later life.

She launched her famous ‘Bizarre’ wares in 1927. Strongly influenced by abstract geometric Cubist designs, Cliff’s range was hugely popular; in 1930 a separate decorating division for her studio was set up to meet demand.

The Ravel pattern was produced between 1929 and 1935; painted with an abstract design in green, orange and black against a paleyellow ground, the pieces are thought to have been inspired by the French composer, pianist and conductor Maurice Ravel who in the 1920s and 30s was regarded as France’s greatest living composer. A collection of Clarice Cliff Bizarre Ravel pattern wares was offered by Golding Young in one of its recent sales. The single owner collection sold above estimate, with pieces such as a coffee can and saucer selling for £130, and trio also for £130. The conical pieces in the range were highly sought after, with a jug selling for

Join Society’s history talks

TWO talks organised by the Society for Lincolnshire History & Archaeology focus on very different aspects of Grantham’s past.

The first on Wednesday, February 15 is The Night of 24th October 1942 - The Last Air Raid on Grantham presented by Peter Reichelt at St Hugh’s Hall, Monks Road, Lincoln LN2 5AQ at 7.30pm.

The speaker experienced the last air raid on Grantham and will talk about what happened to him and his family along with others who did not survive.

Peter will also discuss his quest to research the reasons for the raid, the Luftwaffe Squadrons, airfields, aircraft personnel, casualties and other family stories from that night.

Admission is £4, SLHA members £3 on the door

An evening talk by Zoom on Wednesday, March 1 at 7.30pm will see by Dr Anna Marie Roos, Professor of History & Science at the University of Lincoln, discuss Newton and the Apothecary.

The Grantham Corporation Minute Books and inventories from the apothecary shop of Ralph and William Clarke are analysed to illuminate neglected aspects of the life and letters of Sir Isaac Newton, particularly the influence of Lincolnshire social and intellectual networks. The talk also examines the nature of rural health provision in early modern Grantham.

To join visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/newton-and-theapothecary-tickets-461771901187 www.slha.org.uk

£100 on the day and a bowl for £130.

“Patterns other than the Ravel have also historically sold well at auction, with a Bizarre sandwich set comprising a rectangular tray and six plates selling for £300 at Golding Young Lincoln, and a Clarice Cliff Moonlight pattern globular vase, shape number 370 selling for £150, despite there being condition issues with the piece,” explained Associate Director Kirsty Young.

“Please visit goldingyoung.com to view the full range of lots and services to see if we can help you. Whether it be as a buyer to help build or start your collection, or even just to have a clear out we are always on hand to help. Do not hesitate and get in contact today. “

reduce the signs of ageing & correct facial imperfections with gold standard medical aesthetic treatments for men & women

arrange your personalised consultation with our experienced Medical Aesthetics Nurse Specialist: 07954 847470 or enquiries@dcaesthetics.co.uk

Jo still has what it takes to play pool for England

AGE is just a number for Jo Hobday when it comes to playing pool.

The important figures are the points she racks up in matches especially as her recent tally got her into the England Ladies Squad to represent her country in 2023.

Jo attended the blackball England Ladies’ trials at the Supreme Sports Lounge in Bristol in November 22.

“The England A team retained their places, so up to 50 players were trialling for 12 remaining places in the squad,” she explained. “The trialists were from all over and had all come in the top statistics for each of the nine County Regions in England that they play for and represent.

Jo has played for Nottinghamshire at county level for over four years and this squad, went to Southport in September to play in the E.B.P.F National County Finals 2022 having won their place by taking the Central East Region title.

“It was the team’s first time at this event and we came runners up, which was an amazing result.”

Other achievements include getting to the final of the Lincolnshire Pool Championships in September 2021.

“This is a huge achievement for a female pool player. The closest a female has got in this event is the last 16. My name will now be on the hall of fame board. It also means a lot to me as my partner, Ian Wilkinson runs this event. I also won the ladies’ competition for the 12th time.

Looking ahead Jo will also be playing in the Ultimate Ladies Series of pool in 2023 – the Ultimate Pool Group organises and promotes professional eight-ball pool events featuring the world’s top players, including snooker’s Mark Selby and Mark Williams among others. some of the games being live streamed

“I played in an UP mini ladies’ event last November in Daventry and was lucky enough to be on the live stream table. I used the event as practice for the main tour next year.”

The main tour next year is five events throughout the year, held at the Grand Hotel in Blackpool with group stages then knockouts for both amateur and professional pool players.

Ultimate Pool is a huge force in the pool world and is very successful.

It’s free to watch on ViaplayXtra on Sky on a Monday night so Jo could be making another live appearance.

knockouts throughout the day. The more frames you won, the more points you got towards getting in the England Team. I was lucky enough to earn my place in the squad.

“As an England Ladies pool player, I will be representing my country in 2023 in the Nations Cup of Pool in Bridlington and in November at the European Blackball Championships in Malta. Both events include ladies’ singles events and team events.”

Jo first played for England in 1989 and then qualified again in the 2017-18 season when she got to the quarter finals of the Home Internationals in Manchester and the European Championships in Malta.

“You need a lot of stamina and concentration for the long days of playing pool and at 55, I can tell it’s getting harder to play at a high level. So, to get into the England ladies team again was absolutely fantastic and I can’t wait to represent my country. I’d like to hope that I can keep achieving this level of pool for a few years yet.”

Above: Jo celebrates after coming runner-up in the Lincolnshire Pool Championships and winning the women’s competition. Above left: getting into the 2017-18 England Squad.

Jo Hobday playing on an Ultimate Pool live stream table.

Farming with the cycle of life

BY LAURA STRATFORD JOINT CO-ORDINATOR WITH TICKY NADAL

GREATER LINCOLNSHIRE FOOD PARTNERSHIP

THE picture below right is of a cow pat. Specifically, it is a Lincoln Red cow’s dung pat - one of the surprising things that I was giving my attention to during a recent walk in the fields with Isobel Wright, who looks after Wilder Doddington.

If you have been to Doddington Hall, you probably associate it with beauty - country walks in the winter landscape, elegant buildings, even weddings - and I want to invite you to join the increasing number of people like Isobel who find beauty and excitement in dung!

You’ll see the holes in the top - at this time of year those are peck holes made by birds, feasting on worms, dung beetle larvae and other grubs. Earlier in the year smaller holes will have been left by dung beetles and other creatures burrowing in to lay eggs in the nutrient rich pat. Traditionally, cattle would have been

wormed routinely, incidentally killing other important life. Many farmers now treat only when needed, so the poos of healthy cows become a whole microcosm of life, and a part of the wider ecosystem.The dung beetles perform a vital role taking all that goodness - including carbon - back into the soil.

In soils depleted by decades of intensive farming, this process shouldn’t be underestimated. It’s an example of regenerative farming at work. What has poo got to do with food?

I have just come back from the Oxford Real Farming Conference, which was set up 14 years ago in deliberate opposition to the famous Oxford Farming Conference and its sponsorship by the agrochemical industry, to provide a forum for agroecological, regenerative, organic and indigenous approaches to farming. The ORFC is now very much in the mainstream. In-person tickets to the ORFC sold out months ago, and it was attended by further thousands online.

Principles for healthy farming systems, according to headline speaker Vandana Shiva, are diversity instead of monoculture,

and cycles of life instead of waste. At first I was amused to hear of a dung beetle WhatsApp group, but this is a serious, optimistic and growing movement of farmers and foodies who see farming not as an industry but as an ecosystem. One thatas well as supporting biodiversity - provides people with nourishing, delicious, real food.

Durban inspiration

BY CARA OAKLEY OWNER OF PIMENTO

AS someone who loves food, I am lucky to have friends and family from all over the world. This recipe is inspired by two friends from South Africa. They recently shared with me a recipe for a Durban curry and it has become a firm favourite at home. I have given the recipe a bit of me and it will be added to Pimento’s specials this month.

If you want to make a curry that is colourful, delicious and healthy – this one is a great option. If you don’t usually make a curry from scratch this is a good one to try.

It is worth seeking out the most flavoursome and good quality ingredients you can. I really recommend finding an independent stockist, I like to use Spice Merchant Food Store on Gresham Street in Lincoln’s West End. I always cook curries in a ceramic coated cast iron pan as it distributes heat evenly and you can let the curry simmer away gently. Come and try our delicious homecooked food at Pimento 27 Steep Hill, Lincoln. Wednesday – Sunday 10am - 4pm.

hello@pimentosteephill.com www.pimentosteephill.com 01522 533225

Delicious, healthy curry

Ingredients:

• Vegetable oil or toasted sesame oil

• 2 bay leaves

• 3 cinnamon sticks

• 3 whole star anise

• 1 large white or brown onion

• 5 curry leaves – I use dry curry leaves

• 1 sprig fresh thyme

• 1 tbsp of fresh finely chopped garlic and ginger

• 4 tbsp of good quality curry powder

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• 2 tins chopped tomatoes

• 2 carrots peeled and roughly chopped

• 1 red pepper

• 4 small – medium potatoes peeled and cubed

• 1 tsp of good quality

vegetable stock

• Rice – following cooking instruction on packet

• Fresh coriander leaves to serve

Method

Heat a splash of oil (enough to coat the pan) on a medium heat, add your dry spices, bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, star anise and coat them in the oil, after 2 minutes add finely diced onion, curry leaves and thyme. Cook until the onions are lightly golden then add ginger, garlic and powdered spices (curry powder and turmeric). Allow the mixture to cook for no longer than 1 minute then add the chopped tomatoes. Add the stock and stir through, add the vegetables and stir thoroughly again.

Cook on a low heat for 30 – 45 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the vegetables are cooked.

Serve with rice, a sprinkling of fresh coriander and your favourite chutney. If you don’t want rice a soft flat bread is a great way to scoop up and enjoy the curry.

My version of this recipe is vegan and gluten free. Traditionally it would have been cooked with meat and served with halved hard boiled eggs.

THIS cocktail makes use of the refreshingly sharp early spring rhubarb and, like all the Tower Hotel’s cocktails, is then balanced with the right amount of sourness from citruses and bitterness from alcohol.

The syrup is made by heating sliced rhubarb in a pan of half sugar and half water until pink and rhubarby. Add stem ginger and juniper berriesexperiment with different fruits and spices, enlivening that leftover gin from Christmas.

Strain and leave to cool. The Tower pairs its rhubarb syrup with Pin Gin Valencia Orange complementing the ginger and balancing the sweetness of the syrup with zesty bitterness.

Shake with egg white and a drop of lemon juice to strain into a favourite coupe. The Tower’s is garnished with a shard of Italian meringue and dried powdered rhubarb and then topped up with a sparkling tipple.

25ml Rhubarb Syrup

25ml Pin Gin Valencia Orange

25ml Egg White

15ml Lemon Juice

50ml Prosecco (to top)

Italian Meringue Shard

Cheese Choice Sage Derby

FOWLERS Sage Derby is a firm-bodied cheese, made to traditional methods by Fowlers of Earlswood, Warwickshire, using milk from a local supplier 3.9 miles from the dairy. Fowlers of Earlswood has been producing cheese for over fourteen generations and can trace their cheese-making heritage back to the 1670’s and luckily we can benefit from those three hundred years of experience. It is a territorial cheese and was awarded best territorial cheese 2015 as well as receiving a Gold Medal Award at the British Cheese Awards 2015. A territorial cheese is a cheese that is made in a certain region so in this instance Warwickshire, this also applies to cheeses such as Lancashire and Cheshire. Fowlers Sage Derby is tasty and nutty, vegetarian cheese with the addition of freshtasting sage which adds specks of green to the pale cheese. Matured for nine months for a full flavour. A hard-pressed buttery and creamy textured cheese with the delightful, savoury addition of sage. Makes for incredible melted cheese on toast.

Key Facts

Age 3-4 months +

Country of Origin England

Milk Type Cows

Organic No

Pasteurisation Pasteurised Region Warwickshire Strength Medium Style of Cheese Firm

Vegetarian Yes

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

Why not join us for Sunday lunch – a lovely way to end the week. Our menu is seasonal and there is something for everyone.

OPENING TIMES:

Thursday - Saturday 6pm till close

Sunday Lunch: 1pm till close (Last orders at 3pm)

Fresh, local, seasonal menus with a Gavin Aitkenhead twist

Telephone: 01522 524851

www.jewshouserestaurant.co.uk

15 The Strait, Lincoln LN2 1JD info@jewshouserestaurant.co.uk

Romantic Rhubarb Gin Fizz The Tower Hotel

‘The dark brightest

WHEN it comes to chasing the winter blues away Lincoln ha got it covered.

The Independent’s What’s On pages are full of entertainmen and activities that can bring the chill rather than chilly to da nights, so the clocks will be springing forward before we kn it.

We’ve highlighted a few events on these pages including tw which could very definitely brighten up our lives. Lincoln Cathedral will host a stunning light and sound installation which will transform the interior of the building a giant canvas.

‘Life’ by Luxmuralis, will see the historic spaces bathed in stunning images and designs, complemented by an evocativ soundtrack. The installation will take visitors on an immersiv journey from dawn to dusk, through the natural world. The Very Revd Christine Wilson, Dean of Lincoln, said that s was very much looking forward to seeing the Cathedral bro to life in such a creative and inspiring way.

“This fantastic building has for centuries sat as a beacon o light across the city, so it is fitting that now we’ll be using l

Full of Beans - eternal optimist brings his uplifting folk to Lincoln

Following the runaway success of his extended UK tour last year cult hero Beans on Toast has already plotted his return with a ‘mahoosive ramble’ this year.

One man and his guitar with songs to sing and stories to tell fans will be able to catch him performing at 30 of the country’s finest independent venues including The Drill Lincoln on March 9.

“Folk music is an age-old art form, and it’s more relevant than ever in these wild and crazy modern times. You can expect an inspiring and entertaining gig, a relaxed and fun affair that leaves you feeling like you’ve met up with an old friend, and you’re all the better for it,” said Beans.

Since 2005, Beans on Toast has written simple songs about complicated subjects. Tackling the big issues of the day but doing so with his feet firmly on the ground, he’s become a people’s champ of the modern folk scene and amassed a huge back catalogue of songs in the process. An unrepentant optimist whose songs celebrate all that is wonderful about the human spirit, his live shows are similarly uplifting and he’ll be dipping into that back catalogue during his Back Out On The Road tour.

Beans on Toast, Back on the Road Tour, The Drill, Lincoln, Tickets £15

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T01522 534160

Life by Luxmuralis, Lincoln Cathedral, February 15-18

kest nights produce the t stars’

JOHN GREEN AUTHOR

to tell the fascinating story of life in all its many forms. It will be an exciting, colourful and entertaining experience for everyone to enjoy.”

Simon Hollingworth and the Different Light team have been commissioned by Lincoln Creates | Lincoln BIG to light up Lincoln using a short digitally animated film projection. All We Need Is Love is a new community projection project for Lincoln that will be shown on the outside of the House of Fraser building in the High Street. This project will consist of a short digitally animated film on the theme of Valentines and what people love, which will be projected on a loop from approximately 4pm – 9pm everyday.

Residents were encouraged to get involved by a photo or drawing of someone (or something) they really love with a few words saying who (or what) it is.

The results of what Lincoln people love most will be turned into a special community film to brighten up the High Street during the dark days of February.

See listings for more details.

Southside gets band’s vote as a great gig venue

MEMBERS of veteran performers The Stand In Blues Band have given Lincoln’s newest venue, Southside, their seal of approval. The band (above) has already played at the venue twice since it opened in September and is scheduled to be on stage there again in March. The Stand In Blues Band has played its fair share of pubs, clubs and festivals so know a thing or two about what makes a venue a crowdpleaser both from the musician’s and audience’s viewpoint. “Southside is well set out and the band was treated with respect and efficiency - we were made to feel very welcome,” said Stand Ins Eg and Liz Lucas.

They added other bonuses were the venue was easy to get to and it was

simple for bands to park and unload.

“Was a pleasure to play. Management have a good vision for the place becoming a community hub and serious music venue.

“Tables out in cabaret style, the room and the bar all made for a communal and comfortable atmosphere. People felt happy enough to get up and dance.”

Southside has a whole series of music nights set up from Commuter Jazz, folk nights, as well as jamming and the aptly named Snug Sessions. For more details see the What’s On listings and page 23.

www.southsidelincs.com

Alternate Fridays

From 3 February 4.30pm – 7pm

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN

Commuter Jazz

Enjoy a glass of wine and some toe tapping tunes. Artists for each event to be announced.

Pay on the door, tickets Adult £7, Student/UC £3

www.southsidelincs.com, T 01522 437942

Until Saturday 11 February 3pm & 7.30pm

Friday 3 February 7.30pm

BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY

The Wizard of Oz

Presenting Lindsey Rural Players’ annual pantomime. Come along to enjoy the classic story of the yellow brick road. Times available vary each day.

Tickets Adult £12, Concession £11, Family £40

www.broadbenttheatre.org, T 0300 400 0101

THE DRILL, LINCOLN

The Myth of Serial Killer Profiling

Professor Craig Jackson reveals evidence that criminal profiling has never resulted in identification or conviction of serial murderers, despite being used globally since the 1970s.

Tickets £21.50

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

Saturday 4 February 7pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Live/Wire – The AC/DC Show

AC/DC, arguably the greatest rock band of all time, are brought to life with the passion you would expect from professional musicians and AC/DC fans. This event is 14+

Tickets £20

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Saturday 4 February 8pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Red Herring Comedy Club

This month’s comedy club features performances from Matt Richardson and Kate McGann, joined by MC Rich Wilson for a night of laughter. This event is 18+

Tickets £15.50

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

Tuesday 7 February 8pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Seth Lakeman

This Westcountry folk singer, songwriter and multiinstrumentalist is coming to Lincoln as part of his UK and European solo tour. Support acts TBC.

Tickets £21.50

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

Thursday 9 February 7pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN The Noise Next Door: Hometown Heroes

The kings of improvised comedy are coming to save Lincoln, taking inspiration from YOUR suggestions of the best, worst and weirdest things about our city! This event is 15+

Tickets £15

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Friday 10 February 5pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Beam Me Up Festival

A new festival taking place across Lincoln & Oxford showcasing out of this world music from 12 of the freshest talents touring at the moment.

Tickets from £10

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

Friday 10 February 7pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

The Big 90s and 00s R’n’B Festival

Throwback to the very best of the 90s & 00s as the international touring festival smash-hit arrives in the UK for the very first time. This event is 18+

Tickets £34.95

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Friday 10 February 6pm

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND 100 And Counting

A look back at 100 TT starts with John McGuinness and James Whitham.

Tickets from £25

www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk

T 01522 522900

Friday 10 February 6.30pm -10.30pm

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN

The Mermaid Café

“Come on down to the Mermaid Café, and I will buy you a bottle of wine and we’ll laugh and toast to nothing and smash our empty glasses down.” – Joni Mitchell. We can’t promise Joni Mitchell, but line-up to be announced very soon.

Pay on the door, tickets £7

www.southsidelincs.com, T 01522 437942

Saturday 11 February 7pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

The Upbeat Beatles

Earning the reputation as the finest tribute to the music of The Beatles, enjoy as they bring timeless songs and this spectacular show to Lincoln. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult

Tickets £23

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Saturday 11 February 7.30pm -11pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN

The Smiths Ltd

If you never saw The Smiths then this is your chance to experience their songs played live with an authenticity that’s hard to beat.

Tickets £15

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

Saturday 11 February 7.30 - 10pm

DECIMAL PLACE, 10 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN LN1 3LB

Weird Garden - Paige Enefer/Tim Holehouse

Paige is a stylish and ambitious Lincoln-based singer/songwriter. She sings to her own electronic compositions and has an EP to be released soon called Ode To Adolescence, under the project name Shoot The Messenger. Tim is a Portsmouth-based singer/songwriter who has travelled the world with his music developing a strong vocal style and a growing fanbase. More acts TBA Free

See the Weird Garden group on Facebook

Sunday 12 February 7pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight

Returning to the UK with a massive, brand new 90minute setlist, featuring the biggest rock and metal of all time, performed in stunning, candlelit surroundings. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets from £30

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Wednesday 15 February –

Saturday 18 February 7.15pm

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL Life by Luxmuralis

Light show - see centre pages

Tickets Adult £8, Child £6, Under 5s Free www.lincolncathedral.com

T 01522 504394

Paige Enefer

What’s On sponsored by LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Thursday 16 February 6.30pm – 10.30pm

Every third Thursday of the month

Friday 17 February 6.30pm

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN

Thursday Folk Night

From the tradition to the now… folk music from the county and beyond. Check the website and social media for artist announcements.

Pay on the door

Tickets Adult £7

www.southsidelincs.com, T 01522 437942

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Fastlove: The Tribute to George Michael

Direct from London’s West End, this is the world’s favourite George Michael celebration. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult

Tickets £30.80

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY

Friday 17 February 7.30pm

Mummy – The Art of Saying Goodbye

A wonderfully intimate one-person show about death, grief, and the art of letting go, following the story of Elizabeth and her challenges with death and tragedy.

Tickets Adult £12, Concession £11

www.broadbenttheatre.org, T 0300 400 0101

Saturday 18 February 6.45pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN 1 Pro Wrestling: No Turning Back

Making their explosive debut, join the superstar duo John Hennigan aka John Morrison, and Taya Valkyrie with the promise of many more star-studded announcements soon. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult

Tickets from £30

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Saturday 18 February 7.30pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN

Troy Hawke: Sigmund Troy’d

Fresh from proving decisive links between IKEA, the CIA, and the Nazi’s, this 1930s throwback investigator battles a new enemy. This event is strictly 18+

Tickets £20

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

Saturday 18 February 8pm

THE BLUE ROOM, THE LAWN, LINCOLN Shades of Shearing Quintet

A celebration of the sound of Gorge Shearing Quintet, featuring Nick Tomalin, piano; Dave Warren, guitar; Nat Steele, vibes; Dominic Howles, bass; and Matt Fishwick, drums.

Tickets adult £16, Jazzpac member £14, under 18s £8

Sunday

19 February 3pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN

Classical Concert Series: Morassi Quartet

Formed in 2018 at the Royal College of Music, fans of classical music are in for a treat with this beautiful performance.

Tickets Adult £18, Concession £16 www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

Tuesday 21 February 7pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Fairport Convention

During its’ span of over half a century, the band that launched British folk-rock has seen many changes, but Fairport’s passion for performance remains unchanged.

Tickets £29

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

Wednesday 22 February

6.30pm – 10.30pm

Every final Wednesday of the month

ThursdaySaturday 23-25 February 7 - 10pm

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Southside Jam Night

A great way to sharpen up your performing skills, make local and industry contacts, or just enjoy a social! Expect original material, covers and improvisation.

FREE

Email to sign up: hello@southsidelincs.com www.southsidelincs.com, T 01522 437942

LINCOLN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

Indie-Lincs International Film Festival

Back for its 7th annual outing, this festival enables both filmmakers and members of the public to watch films made by independent filmmakers. Age restrictions apply.

Tickets from £30 www.engineshed.co.uk

T 01522 837400

So much to enjoy in 2023

THE Engine Shed is the largest live entertainment venue in Lincolnshire and its stage has hosted some of the biggest and best artists working in the industry - from live music to club nights and live comedy. 2022 was another successful year as the venue welcomed music legends such as Paul Weller and Royal Blood, comedy favourites Russell Howard and Jimmy Carr and big names such as Tyson Fury.

There will be a whole host of exciting performers and artists at the Engine Shed in 2023.

The February line-up includes 1 Pro Wrestling, Maisie Adam and Hybrid Minds. During March see Tom Allen, Danny Baker, Sigala, Tim Peake, Jimmy Carr and more.

Looking further into 2023, Razorlight, DMA’s and Chris Moyles are just a few of the acts coming to Lincoln.

Alongside The Engine Shed ‘s main stage, events also take place in The Platform, a smaller and more intimate venue, which often features local acts as well as national talent.

Thursday 23 February 7.30pm – 10.30pm

Every final Thursday of the month

Thursday 23 February 7.30pm

SOUTHSIDE, COLEGRAVE STREET, LINCOLN Snug Sessions

Bring your friends, have a drink and enjoy some cool music from the comfort of Southside’s living room. Pay What You Feel

www.southsidelincs.com, T 01522 437942

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Tom Stade: The High Road

With impeccable style, and his usual sense of mischief, the Canadian comedy legend goes to places that others dare not tread. This event is 16 +

Tickets £18.50

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Saturday 25 February 10pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Hybrid Minds

Fresh off the back of their sold out OVO Arena Wembley show, these Drum and Bass superstars are heading to Lincoln as part of their 2023 UK tour. This event is 18+.

Limited tickets remaining.

Tickets from £19

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Sunday 26 February 7.30pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs

The band made up of Matthew Baty, Sam Grant, JohnMichael Hedley, Ewan Mackenzie, and Adam Ian Sykes have recently completed work on their 4th studio album.

Tickets £16.50

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN

Thursday 2 March 7pm

Sofie Hagen: Fat Jokes

A show bursting with big jokes and fat punchlines. Sofie returns to her craft of devastatingly brilliant joke writing and storytelling. This event is 16 +

Tickets £16

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

The Engine Shed is in the heart of the city just a six-minute walk from Lincoln Central Railway Station and is surrounded by many hotels and car parks within a short walking distance.

“We pride ourselves on being accessible to everyone with wide doors, lowered sections at the bar, accessible toilets and accessible viewing areas which can be booked with seating if our customers require this,” said Business Development Manager Dominic Wilson.

“Throughout 2023, The Engine Shed is also available for private hire with dates filling up fast. If you’re looking for somewhere to host a corporate event, The Engine Shed is the perfect venue, having recently hosted a variety of conferences, award ceremonies and seated dinners.”

The venue has a seating capacity of 980 and a standing capacity of up to 2000 and Engine Shed’s team is also able to offer bespoke menus and customised catering options at dining events. For more information visit www.engineshed.co.uk or contact enquiries@engineshed.co.uk, social media: @engineshed.

Thursday 2 March –

Saturday 4 March 7.30pm

Friday 3 March 7pm

BROADBENT THEATRE, WICKENBY Gaslight

Common Ground Theatre Company perform their production of Patrick Hamilton’s 1938 play about a dark tale of a Victorian marriage based on deceit and trickery.

Tickets adult £12, concession £11

www.broadbenttheatre.org, T 0300 400 0101

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN David O’Doherty: Whoa Is Me

Here he comes again… there’ll be lots of talking, some apologising and some songs on a glued-together plastic keyboard from 1986. This event is 14+

Tickets £23

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Friday 3 March 7.30pm

Saturday 4 March 7pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN

The Spandau Ballet Story + Duran Duran

Presenting a double header of an evening, paying tribute to two of the 80s finest bands.

Tickets £18

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

LINCOLN CATHEDRAL

St Barnabas Morriston Orpheus Choir

Following three previously sold-out performances in support of St Barnabas Hospice, this world-famous choir is making its return as part of the charity’s 40th anniversary celebrations.

Tickets from £22

www.lincolncathedral.com, T 01522 504394

Saturday 4 March 7.30pm – 11pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN King No-One

This York-based band are heading to Lincoln on their 2023 tour with their unusual sound and new songs.

Tickets £11.50

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

What’s On sponsored by ART, LEARNING & CULTURE

Thursday 9 March 7pm

LINCOLN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE Fatherhood

Exploring the cultural and gender expectations on fathers and what it means to be responsible for a child navigating an increasingly complex world. Age guidance 12+

Tickets £9, Live Pass £5

www.lpac.co.uk, T 01522 837600

Thursday 9 March

7.30pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Beans on Toast

Outlaw Folk musician is hitting the road with his guitar, songs to sing and stories to tell with unrepenting optimism.

Tickets £15

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

Friday 10 March 7pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Sigala – UK Headline Tour 2023

Following an unforgettable performance at the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee concert, 2023 is set to be another standout as Sigala treats fans to live electrifying shows. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets £20

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Saturday 11 March 8pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Red Herring Comedy Club

This month’s comedy club features performances from Josh Pugh, David Eagle, and Dinesh Nathan, joined by MC Pete Otway for a night of laughter. This event is 18+

Tickets £15.50

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

Sunday 12 March 6.45pm

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Danny Baker: At Last… The Sausage Sandwich Tour

A brand-new full tilt non-stop thunderous performance, the last ever instalment in this gleeful eruption of true-life tales and show business revelation. This event is 14+

Tickets £27.50

www.engineshed.co.uk, T 01522 837400

Until Tuesday 28 February 12 – 2pm open most days

Until Monday 20 February 10am – 4pm

DECIMAL PLACE, 10 BURTON ROAD, LINCOLN, LN1 3LB Keith Duke

An exhibition of digital images including composite, wabi-sabi and Cconstructivist pieces. Free

THE COLLECTION, LINCOLN

Gathering Light: A Bronze Age Golden Sun

A British Museum Spotlight Loan to be shown in the archaeology gallery, featuring the extraordinary Shropshire sun pendant, a gold bulla over 3000 years old. FREE www.thecollectionmuseum.com, T 01522 782040

Wednesday 15 March

7.30 - 11pm

THE DRILL, LINCOLN Martin Simpson

The folk singer-songwriter and guitarist’s remarkable, intimate solo performances go from strength to strength – every gig is a masterclass.

Tickets £17.50

www.lincolndrill.co.uk, T 01522 534160

ART, LEARNING & CULTURE

Thursdays 2pm – 3pm

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE Craft Club

Relax, socialise and share your story through the things you make. Suitable for 16 years and over FREE

www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/lincoln-central-library

T 01522 782010

Thursdays 5.30pm – 7pm

THE USHER GALLERY, LINCOLN Life Drawing Classes (Untutored)

Do you have an artistic flair that you wish to explore? If so, these workshops could be the perfect place for you. Combined sessions available.

Prices £8, Concession £6

www.thecollectionmuseum.com, T 01522 782040

Thursdays 7.15pm – 9.15pm

THE USHER GALLERY, LINCOLN Life Drawing Classes (Tutored)

See listing above.

Prices £10, Concession £8

www.thecollectionmuseum.com, T 01522 782040

Fridays 2pm – 3pm

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE Learn My Way

Join this free, basic beginners’ IT course. Free, booking required www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/lincoln-central-library

T 01522 782010

Until Sunday 16 April 10am – 4pm

Until Monday 1 May 10am – 4pm

Tuesday 7 February 7pm

THE COURTYARD GALLERY, THE COLLECTION MUSEUM

Jeanette Killner: Natural Collections

All of the pieces in this exhibition have been inspired by nature, and feature recycled materials and a range of techniques. Free www.thecollectionmuseum.com, T 01522 782040

THE COLLECTION, LINCOLN

David Remfry: A Moment Captured

A celebration of scale, colour, and movement in this exhibition of watercolour paintings by renowned British painter David Remfry MBE RA. Free www.thecollectionmuseum.com, T 01522 782040

THE COLLECTION, LINCOLN

Author Talk & Signing: Elly Griffiths

The acclaimed crime author is back with her new book The Last Remains, which sees the end of Dr Ruth Galloway’s story, for now…

Tickets £7, Including book £26

www.thecollectionmuseum.com, T 01522 782040

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

Thursday 9 February 9.30am – 3.30pm

The Lincolnshire Farming Conference

Organised by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, this year’s conference is centred around the theme Healthy Soils, Healthy Minds.

Tickets Adult £15, Student £6, LAS FREE www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk, T 01522 522900

ROBERT HARDY BUILDING, BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY

Thursday 9 February 7.30pm

Exploring Iceland

This RSPB talk is presented by award-winning photographer Steve Magennis.

Admission charge on the door, card or cash. Free parking on campus after 6pm.

Adult £5, RSPB Member £4, Accompanied Child FREE www.lincolnrspb.org.uk, T 01522 753809

Keith Duke

What’s On sponsored by ART, LEARNING & CULTURE

Saturday 11 February

Monday – Saturday 2pm

QUEEN’S PARK COMMUNITY HUB, LINCOLN, LN5 8EW

Lincolnshire Family History Society: Lincoln Branch

Members are invited to share stories about a military ancestor and bring relevant items. Feel free to bring images on a USB stick. Come along in person or request a Zoom link by email.

FREE lincolnbranch@lincolnshirefhs.org.uk, T 07941 245322

Wednesday 15 FebruarySaturday 25 February 9am – 5pm & 9am – 4pm (Saturday only)

Thursday

16 February –

Saturday 18 February 10 – 4pm

Thursday 16 February 11am & 2pm

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE Book Sale for All Ages

Pick up a bargain and help support your local library. www.thecollectionmuseum.com

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

PROJECT SPACE PLUS GALLERY, UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN Project Fashion Fixed

An exhibition showcasing creative work inspired by sustainable fashion. The work is produced by students who worked on the project last year.

FREE www.instagram.com/rethread.denim

THE COLLECTION, LINCOLN

Hidden Lindum Colonia – Posterngate

Join the guided tour to learn more about the history of the site of a gateway that gave access to Roman Lincoln from the river. Booking essential

Tickets £4.10

www.thecollectionmuseum.com, T 01522 782040

MINERVA BUILDING, UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN

Thursday 16 February 5pm – 6pm

Accession Oaths and the Dynamics of Power

UoL’s Medieval Studies Research Group invites you to a talk with Dr Michael Wuk to examine the parallel oaths of Rome’s Anastasius and Athalaric of Constantinople.

FREE www.lincoln.ac.uk, T 01522 512361

INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE

Friday 17 February 10.30am – 3pm

Life on the Home Front

Join the learning team for a fun day of activities and step inside the reconstructed Anderson shelter to imagine what it was like during WW2.

FREE www.internationalbcc.co.uk, T 01522 514755

Wednesday 22 February 10am – 4pm

DODDINGTON, NR LINCOLN

Designing Small Gardens

Small gardens can be the hardest to design. This course will teach you important rules to consider and provide tips for getting the most from a small space.

Tickets £130

www.guypetheram.co.uk

BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY

23 February 4pm – 7pm

Postgraduate Open Evening

Get a feel for what BGU has to offer and find out more about its’ Master’s degrees or postgraduate teaching training courses. Book your place online.

FREE www.bgu.ac.uk

T 01522 527347

Saturday 25 February 10am – 4pm

CARLTON-LE-MOORLAND VILLAGE HALL, LN5 9HP

Portrait in Oils

Join in with the Carlton-le-Moorland and District Art Group on this workshop with Graham Laughton exploring portraits in oil paint. Prebooking required by phone.

Tickets Non-Members £18, Members £15 T 01522 811510

THE COLLECTION MUSEUM, LINCOLN

Saturday 25 February 7pm

Author Talk and Signing: Keith RylandsBolton

This Lincolnshire author’s new novel ‘Trying Times for Sebastian Scattergood’ chronicles the annus horribilis of an earnest but kind man.

Tickets from £7

www.thecollectionmuseum.com, T 01522 782040 See also page 30.

INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE

Thursday 2 March 6.30pm – 9.30pm

The Jimmy Tarbox Memorial Lecture

Dave Gilbert, Trustee and Losses Archivist, hosts a lecture with easy explanations of the technology during World War II. In April 2022, IBCC lost a dear friend and supporter Jimmy Tarbox who regularly attended lectures, particularly the Technology of War series. This lecture is presented in memory of him. Booking essential

Tickets £15 - Includes buffet supperwww.internationalbcc.co.uk, T 01522 514755

BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY

Saturday 4 March 12pm – 3.30pm

Open Day Lite

A short and sweet introduction to the courses, campus and BGU experience. This speedy open day includes talks, tours and opportunity to meet programme leaders. Book your place online. FREE www.bgu.ac.uk, T 01522 527347

DODDINGTON, NR LINCOLN

Thursday 9 March 10am - 4pm

Garden Design

For anyone who would like to understand the rules and principles of good garden design and learn how to use this in their own garden.

Tickets £130

www.guypetheram.co.uk

ROBERT HARDY BUILDING, BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY

Thursday 9 March 7.30pm

Dereliction to Tourist Hub

The remarkable story of RSPB Old Moor, Barnsley presented by Ian Rotherham.

Admission charge on the door, card or cash. Free parking on campus after 6pm.

Adult £5, RSPB Member £4, Accompanied Child FREE www.lincolnrspb.org.uk, T 01522 753809

INTERNATIONAL BOMBER COMMAND CENTRE

Saturday 11 March 11am - 3pm

British Science Week – Connections

Join IBCC for a pop-up activity to discover some fun science-related crafts that are suitable for all the family. FREE www.internationalbcc.co.uk

T 01522 514755

The Accidental Masterpiece - Da Vinci’s The Last Supper

Monday 13 March 7.30pm

On sponsored by

ROBERT HARDY BUILDING, BISHOP GROSSETESTE UNIVERSITY

The Accidental Masterpiece: Leonardo Da Vinci and the Painting ‘The Last Supper’

The Accidental Masterpiece: Leonardo Da Vinci and the Painting ‘The Last Supper’

This illustrated lecture by Dr Ross King recounts how Da Vinci received the commission for his masterpiece and went about creating it through experimental new style.

Free parking on campus after 6pm

Members free, guests £10

www.theartssocietylincoln.org.uk, T 01522 789491

Monday

13 March –

Saturday 18 March

During library

opening hours

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE Gallery

Go along to view the exhibition of art and crafts by Lincolnshire Young Carers. 4pm FREE

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

FAMILY & COMMUNITY

Mondays 10.30am – 11.30am

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE Messy Play

Enjoy the creativity of messy play with your child without the mess in your home! Please wear old clothes. Suitable for babies, toddlers and preschool children. Free www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/lincoln-central-

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE

Wednesdays 10.30am – 11.30am

Story & Rhyme Time

Have fun listening to stories and singing rhymes. Free www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/lincoln-centrallibrary, T 01522 782010

Saturdays 2pm – 3pm

FAMILY AND COMMUNITY

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE

Lego Club

A place for children to use their imagination and build their own world using Lego. Free www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/lincoln-centrallibrary, T 01522 782010

BRANSBY HORSES, BRANSBY, LINCOLN

Until Sunday 26 February 10am – 4pm

Sunday 5 February 9.30am – 3pm

Do You Know Your Donkeys?

Use your donkey knowledge to answer the clues dotted around outside whilst enjoying the great outdoors and meeting rescued horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules. Child £3.50, cost includes prize and trail sheet

www.bransbyhorses.co.uk , T 01427 788464

THE ENGINE SHED, LINCOLN Lincoln Record Fair

AA Record Fairs brings together 100 tables of vinyl records, from different national dealers, into one large room.

Tickets Adult £2 www.facebook.com/AARecordFairs, T 07587 103047

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

Sunday 5 February 10am – 3pm

Sunday 5 February –Wednesday 29 March 10am – 4pm Wed and Sun only

Sunday 5 February 10.30am – 12.30pm

Notts and Lincs Boat Jumble

This event provides an opportunity for the public to access exhibitors selling marine goods, from professional trade stands to car booters. www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk, T 01522 522900

DODDINGTON HALL, LINCOLN Spring Bulb Pageant

See the spectacular pageant of spring bulbs, with snowdrops, winter aconites, Cyclamen coum and Crocus Tommasinianus.

Tickets (gardens only) Adult £8.50, Child £4.50 www.doddingtonhall.com, T 01522 694308

VISITOR CENTRE, HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK

Bird Watching For All

Thursdays 10.30am – 11.30am

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE Connect Over a Cuppa

Reconnect and have a catch-up with others over a cuppa and a biscuit. All refreshments provided. Free, donations welcome www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/lincoln-central-library

T 01522 782010

Thursdays

10am – 11am Wed and Sun only

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE

Anne’s People Keep Fit Class

Keep fit with movement and dance. A warm welcome, exercise with fun, and plenty of laughs. Switch off your worries for an hour! For people aged 60+ and ideal for all ages with mobility problems. Limited spaces available, book in advance via telephone.

£4 per session

www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/lincoln-centrallibrary, T 01522 826149 (Anne)

Saturdays 10am – 2pm

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE

Kids’ Craft Club

Get creative and have fun discovering your crafty side. Free www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/lincoln-centrallibrary, T 01522 782010

Friday 10 February –

Saturday 19 February 4pm – 9pm

Tuesday 14 February 10am – 12pm

Join local RSPB members for a guided walk to discover the many species of birds which reside at the nature reserve throughout the year. Please wear activity clothing. All children must be accompanied by an adult. FREE hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk, T 01522 873735

HOUSE OF FRASER, HIGH STREET, LINCOLN All We Need is Love

A new community projection project consisting of a short digitally animated film on the theme of Valentines and what people love – see centre pages. FREE www.lincolnbig.co.uk, T 01522 545233

ST MARK’S, LINCOLN

February Half Term Kids Club

Join Nature’s Den for all things balloons. Including balloon modelling, balloon dinosaur crafts, squishy balloons, and more balloon fun!

FREE www.stmarks-lincoln.co.uk, T 01522 575240

ST MARK’S, LINCOLN

Wednesday 15 February 10am – 12pm

February Half Term Kids Club

It’s National Bird Box Week. Join Lisa from Hartsholme Rangers and create your own bird feeder wreath for your garden and help our feathered friends!

FREE www.stmarks-lincoln.co.uk, T 01522 575240

Do you know your donkeys?

Wednesday 15 February 1pm – 2.30pm

VISITOR CENTRE, HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK

Love Birds

Come and build your own bird box or create a bird feeder which will help birds during the winter. Part of National Nest Box Week. Booking essential. For 4 – 13 years olds.

Child £5.50 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk, T 01522 873735

BANDSTAND, LINCOLN ARBORETUM

Thursday 16 February 10am – 11.30pm

Thursday 16 February 1pm – 2.30pm

Friday 17 February 10.30am – 11.30am

Friday 17 February 10am – 12pm

Love Birds

See listing above for details.

CAFÉ, BOULTHAM PARK, LINCOLN Love Birds

See listing above for details.

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE Potions, Elixirs & Brews Class

Join local author Ann Dale for a magical morning of creating potions, elixirs and brews.Suitable for ages 4 and over, plus their parents or carers.

FREE

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

ST MARK’S, LINCOLN February Half Term Kids Club

Come and share the love this “All We Need is Love” week! Join ArtVenturers and create your own heart themed crafts to take home.

FREE www.stmarks-lincoln.co.uk, T 01522 575240

Friday 17 February 1 - 3pm

LNER STADIUM, SINCIL BANK Stadium Tour

Imps fans can go behind the scenes and meet some City players during the half-term holidays.

Prebooking essential, timed entry.

Tickets £10 adults, £5 U18 and £3 for junior imps. Starts at club shop.

Fridays from 24 February 10am – 12pm

Sunday 26 February 8.30am – 3pm

AND COMMUNITY

LINCOLN CENTRAL LIBRARY, FREE SCHOOL LANE

Sensory Rhyme Time

Suitable for ages 0-4, plus their parents or carers. FREE

www.better.org.uk/library/lincolnshire/lincoln-central-

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

The Vintage Flea Market

This event offers up the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning, bagging a bargain, rummaging for bric-a-brac or hunting down cool vintage items. Entry £2.50

www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk, T 01522 522900

Sunday 26 February 10am - 3pm

THE BLUE ROOM, THE LAWN, LINCOLN Wedding and Events Showcase

Find out why the Blue Room is an award-winning special venue as the original Victorian ballroom opens its doors. Take a look if you are planning a wedding, event, or business function.

Free events@stokes-coffee.co.uk

www.lawnlincoln.com/the-blue-room, T 01522 523548

Sunday 26 February 11am – 4pm

DODDINGTON HALL, LINCOLN Wedding Open Day

You are invited to discover how Doddington Hall can provide the perfect location for your dream wedding, along with a bespoke selection of handpicked suppliers. Prebooking essential, timed entry. FREE

RUSTONS SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB

Monday 27 February 7pm - 9.30pm

SOS Charity Fashion Show

Raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society and the Forget-Me-Not Café – a local independent dementia café.

Tickets £5 pre-booked, £7 on the door. Contact Jane 07852 822303 or Jean 07908 960879.

Wednesday 1 March 7pm – 9pm

THE CRAFTEA CAFÉ, LINCOLN Stitch & B*tch

Community project hosted by Prikli Pear bringing like-minded ladies of all ages together. Bring along whatever creative project you are working on and make friends. Booking essential. Nibbles included.

Tickets £12 www.priklipear.co.uk, T 07435 968851

Sunday 5 March 10am – 2.30pm

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND Toy Collectors Fair

The 200-table event is a trove of collectables with everything from Corgi and Hornby to Sci-Fi, Star Wars, film and TV related items.

Tickets Adult £3, Seniors £2.50, First Child £2 www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk, T 01522 522900

Saturday 18 February –

Sunday 19 February 10am – 5pm

Friday 24 February 10am – 11am

LINCOLN CASTLE Dog Friendly Days

Explore with paws! Unlock 1000 years of history with your four-legged companion on selected weekends this year. Tickets apply for the Medieval Wall Walk, Victorian Prison and Magna Carta. Book in advance online.

FREE entry to Castle grounds www.lincolncastle.com, T 01522 554559

VISITOR CENTRE, HARTSHOLME COUNTRY PARK

Toddler Time

Dress to get messy for seasonal activities for the under 5s. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Child £3.50

hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

T 01522 873735

Could the Blue Room at The Lawn host your wedding or special event?

Lucy’s solo photo exhibition

THE emerging talent of photographer Lucy Robertson can be seen in her first solo show this month. The 17 year-old is understandably excited that a selection of her images, including abstract pieces will be on display at the Gallery at St Martin’s in Lincoln. From February 13-17. “Being only 17 my confidence in my photography has ebbed and flowed, but since gaining a grade 9 at GCSE Photography and taking it for A level I have developed my own style and the selfbelief needed to experiment outside of it,” said Lucy. “Abstract work was not my first love, but I have enjoyed working on it to develop my portfolio, particularly the skill to create a mood and emotions from a piece with the deconstruction of the face.

Lucy has come a long way since being given a camera for her 10th birthday and her interest in photography grew when she combined it with her other hobby and passion - horses. “Horses were my first ever subject and continue to be my favourite even now. They will be among many other experimental pieces in my gallery exhibition at Gallery at St. Martins.

“I am beyond excited and grateful to have been given this opportunity and can’t wait to showcase my work.

“I am very fortunate that I have had some truly amazing mentors and photographers inspire and support me on my journey so far, one thing I have always been encouraged to do is think outside the box.

“I have found it quite challenging to work in colour photography as my preference is black and white, however I feel I have learnt the most about myself shooting in colour, it has led me to work with unpredictable materials, such as smoke and Holi powder.”

www.galleryatstmartins.com

Are you looking for somewhere to host a private business function? Look no further!

The Engine Shed is available for hire throughout 2023 and we are taking bookings now.

The perfect venue to host conferences, awards ceremonies, seated dinners and more.

For booking enquiries and more information, please get in touch with our events team!

Maryse inspired to write by Ukrainians’ plight

BY REBECCA POOLE

MARYSE Smith has been writing poetry on and off since she was a child finding inspiration in unlikely places and current events.

The latest book of poetry from the retired English teacher is The Sunflower & The Nightingale, which became a joint family project with her daughter designing the

cover illustration, her husband editing the book, and Maryse penning the verses.

“The title comes from two of Ukraine’s national symbols. The sunflower is their national flower, and as well as it being one of the country’s major crops also represents peace especially since the treaty for nuclear disarmament was signed in 1996,” explained Maryse.

“The nightingale is Ukraine’s national bird, and legend has it, it used to visit from India and because all of the Ukrainian songs were very sad, the nightingale supposedly sang to cheer them up,” said Maryse, who lives in Lincoln’s West End. There is also a poem in the book, which shares the same namesake as the title. Maryse based this poem on two incidents which happened early on in the war.

“The first was a woman in the street who confronted some Russian soldiers and she spoke to them. She was unarmed and they were the invaders, she offered them sunflower seeds.

“The second incident was a little girl who was underground hiding from the bombs and she stood up in front of strangers and sang ‘Let It Go’ from the musical film ‘Frozen’. I equated those two incidents with the two national symbols of Ukraine.”

Maryse was inspired to write the poetry book after speaking to her neighbours who had personal ties to Ukraine and explained how terrified people were not knowing what was going to happen.

“The same neighbour decided she was going to host some Ukrainians, and she talked to me quite a lot about it so I just started looking at the news more and more and it seemed everyday there was another dreadful incident and I just felt that I needed to write about it really.”

The poems are written about ordinary people, rather than politicians or notable figures, to look at and highlight the effects and impacts the war is having on everyday lives.

“A Ukrainian family have moved in just up the road, a mother and two children, and she’s left her husband behind because he wasn’t allowed to leave. He will probably have to do national service.

“Talking to her about what they’ve been through and what they’ve had to give up has really driven it home to me and made it a reality.”

Maryse’s aim with the poetry book is to raise vital funds for the charity British Ukrainian Aid, with all profits being donated.

The Sunflower & The Nightingale is available to buy at Lindum Books for £4, or by contacting Maryse for £5 including first class postage by emailing jessicamfaber@gmail.com

Misadventures in Tennyson’s Lincolnshire

SET in a small village in the Lincolnshire Wolds Trying Times for Sebastian Scattergood is a chronicle of a horrendous year, narrated by an earnest and pompous man who lacks any sense of self-irony. Part disaster diary, part social satire, it is a novel of literary fiction which is both humorous and moving in equal measure.

Author Keith Rylands-Bolton explained: “The novel is also an exploration of a particular area of England, Tennyson’s Lincolnshire, both factual and satirical. Factual, because most of the places and walks described in the novel exist; satirical, because it enjoys poking fun at the eccentricities of the life of a small community and its characters.

“In this sense, the novel is a cultural tour. However, beneath the amusing surface, there are also darker elements contained within, such as the moral turpitude of the gutter press and the crippling consequences of dementia.”

Keith studied English, philosophy and drama at the universities of

Middlesex, Lancaster and Bishop Grosseteste, Lincoln. “During my teaching career, I was head of special needs and professional tutor at a comprehensive school, later becoming head of drama. In my spare time, I acted in and directed many productions at the Broadbent Theatre.”

The Lincoln City FC season ticket holder is giving away two copies of his book - to win tell us which Lincolnshire village was Alfred Lord Tennyson born in?

Send you answers and contact details to admin@lincolnindependent.co.uk

Keith will also be signing copies of his book in Lincoln in February - see page 26. Facebook: @KeithRybo Cranthorpe Millner Publishers (ISBN: 978-1-80378-065-8)

The natural worldours to cherish and enjoy

RACHEL SHAW LINCOLNSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

THE morning light was a soft pink. I had a choice: stay indoors and start work early or quickly go out and try to capture the light of the sunrise.

It was rapidly changing; a creeping greyness and drizzle was taking over. But, I had a challenge to complete.

Sparked by The Wildlife Trusts ‘12 Days of Wild’ festive nature challenge, which encourages you to do one wild thing a day from 25 December to 5 January, I had set my own challenge – to go for a walk and photograph trees in the landscape every day for the twelve consecutive days. It was day ten and I didn’t want to be defeated by the persistent drizzle and grey.

I grabbed my coat and headed out to my nearest greenspace. It only took a few minutes but, by the time I got there the pink colour in the sky had virtually disappeared and wasn’t worth a photograph.

I slipped on a muddy slope, almost fell over and the drizzle turned to rain. This was ridiculous, I could have stayed indoors with a warm cup of tea and already been half way through my emails. Then, with perfect timing, a yaffling call of a green woodpecker broke me out of these internal thoughts. It pulled me back into the world around me.

The woodpecker was a reminder why we do these challenges, and why at the Wildlife Trusts, we always encourage people to get outside and experience nature. This

personal relationship with nature is important.

I know it’s beneficial for my own wellbeing to spend time outdoors, in a natural space and, following the response many had to experiencing their local green spaces during the enforced lockdowns over the past few years, I don’t think I’m alone. It’s also important for the protection of wildlife. As Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust founder, the late Ted Smith wrote: “conservation, to have any chance of success, had to win widespread support and understanding.”

Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust was one of the early pioneers of encouraging people to access nature reserves and learn about wildlife.

Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve was the first Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust nature reserve. Just one week after setting up the Wildlife Trust, in December 1948,

Gibraltar Point was established as a nature reserve.

In the late 1940s, the popular concept of a nature reserve was of an area fenced off to keep people out. Gibraltar Point was different. The first priority was to protect its important wildlife and natural features. However, from the very beginning, it was also open to the public for the quiet enjoyment of nature and for education and research.

It’s hard to imagine how revolutionary the idea was of nature reserves that people were encouraged to visit.

Protecting wildlife and encouraging visitors, isn’t always compatible. Disturbance of the very wildlife the nature reserves are there to protect has been an issue since the beginnings of the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust 75 years ago. This conflict is wonderfully illustrated in an old sign from Gibraltar Point of a foot about to trample two oystercatcher chicks We will always need strategies, signage and sanctuary areas to lessen the impacts of visitors but sometimes it is as simple as staying on the path and keeping your dog on a short lead.

We all have a responsibility to limit our impact on wildlife but also to take time out to enjoy and connect with it.

Ted Smith also wrote “What would the spring be without the first cuckoo or the first hedgebank primrose? These things have been objects of curiosity and delight for thousands of years and the inspiration of poetry and art and music. It would, I believe, be a dull and empty world without them.”

Snowdrops - unassuming little heralds of spring

WELL, now all the festive dust has settled and our New Year resolutions have been discarded as pointlessly unachievable we can all give in to the uplifting prickles of excitement that come when the days get slightly lighter and the snowdrops are up.

Warmer weather is just around the corner.

Snowdrops. This wee flower that welcomes in the longer days and the promise of spring is very unassuming and yet is avidly collected by people who call themselves ‘galanthophiles’.

‘Galanthus is the genus name for this small plant. They are found all over Northern Europe, being native in Spain and further east, but naturalising easily in vast areas of the northern hemisphere.

They were initially thought to have been brought over to Britain by the Romans, along with straight roads, aqueducts and the idea of vomiting at parties. However it is now thought that the snowdrop came over sometime in the 1600s.

They have wonderful local names: February fairmaids, snow piercers, Candlemass bells and the rather risqué, ‘dingle dangles’. There are thousands of different cultivars and the galanthophiles make every effort to collect them all; some rare cultivars fetching well over one thousand pounds at auction, reminiscent of the fierce scramble for tulip bulbs in the mid sixteen hundreds. Most have white petals but some are tinged with green, yellow, gold, grey and even pink. The differences are tiny but precious to those who collect.

Most gardens can grow snowdrops; they are easy.

Best planted in the green, that is after flowering but still with leaves. Bulbs can be a bit hit and miss.

They will be happiest in a bit of shade and they like damp soil but seem not to mind other positions.

If you want more, lift them after flowering and pull the clump apart, then replant the smaller clumps. They increase readily and are lovely gifts to give away in a pot.

I have a swathe of inherited double snowdrops, the galanthus nivalis ‘Flore Pleno’; small with ruffled petals.

I have also planted many single forms as they are a good source of nectar for early bees.

Contact Liz via editorial@lincolnindependent.co.uk

Lottery cash for food banks and green spaces

THE Lincoln Lottery Community Fund has allocated £10,000 to be split between three good causes working in areas highlighted by residents as priorities for the city.

Acts Trust was awarded £4,000 to buy food to help meet the current unprecedented demand being placed on Lincoln’s food banks including Lincoln Community Larder, Lincoln Foodbank and Lincoln Community Grocery. It is anticipated that funds will support the purchase of food during the first term of 2023 (January to April 2023).

GoGro CIC received £3,500 to deliver interactive cooking sessions for customers of food banks throughout the City of Lincoln. The sessions will be delivered at the food banks or as close as is possible

through community hubs / venues. The sessions will concentrate on the creation of healthy, nutritional meals for the family using ingredients commonly received from food banks, particularly those “hard to use” ingredients such as turnips and parsnips. The sessions will also look at power consumption required to create the meals focusing on the economic use of microwave ovens and slow cookers.

Old Wood Organic CIC received £2,500 to deliver green woodworking courses for participants to learn traditional rural crafts, develop new skills, recognise the importance of caring for our green spaces. The courses will cover axe skills and basic wood turning and will be aimed at both complete beginners and those who enjoy the practice of green woodworking. The

project aims to be welcoming and accessible for our diverse local community, providing opportunities for people living in Lincoln city and the surrounding villages.

Cllr Sue

Burke, Portfolio Holder

for Reducing Inequalities, said: “It is great that we are able to award the Lincoln Lottery Community Fund to local good causes for the fourth year in a row to support the delivery of a range of projects and activities aimed at benefitting the residents of Lincoln.”

Lincoln Community Lottery has raised over £165k for good causes since its launch in 2018.

To sign up as a Lincoln Community Lottery good cause, visit www.lincolnlottery.co.uk/good-causes.

Turn down the heat

Drive to make city more sustainable includes simple tips for our homes

BY REBECCA POOLE

AMBITIOUS plans for Lincoln to be at the forefront of sustainable heat energy are part of its long-term goals to tackle the climate crisis.

Lincoln’s Climate Action Plan outlines the proposal but the actions of residents are also central to the overall success of the drive for the city to be carbon neutral by 2030.

“Certain days and certain weeks 100% of the electricity has been produced by renewables, so with perfect conditions we can produce 100%, but that’s not enough,” said Kate Bell, Climate Change Manager at City of Lincoln Council.

Researchers have found that on average 40% of the UK’s electricity was made up of renewables such as solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower in 2022, but approximately 95% of Lincoln homes currently runs on gas.

Kate says that transitioning to Air Source Heat Pumps and Ground Source Heat Pumps, which use electricity rather than gas, is a great way to make homes more energy efficient,

“The best way of describing Air Source Heat Pumps is as a reverse refrigerator. A fridge sucks in the air from the kitchen and cools it through the coils and it creates cold. The heat pumps have the opposite effect - it takes the air from outside, extracts any warmth and tops it up.”

Air Source Heat Pumps look like an air conditioning unit on the outside of your home, and they work by heating the air to the remaining temperature you require, for example, if your home is set to the optimum 18 degrees, and it is 15 degrees outside, the electricity that you are using will top up the 3 degrees to reach the desired temperature.

“You are not heating it from 0, which is the expensive way of heating, you are taking what’s already out there,” explained Kate. By 2025 it will become a planning requirement for new housing to identify a low carbon solution, and although this hasn’t yet come into place, there are already some developers adopting these sustainable practices, such as developments in Doddington and near the Lincolnshire Showground.

“Ground Source Heat Pumps work in a similar way to Air Source Heat Pumps, but they extract the temperature from underground via a loop system. The ground temperature stays as a constant all

year round so they are really efficient, whereas air temperature fluctuates.

“On a development, all of the houses will have the same Ground Source Heat system which will be an area of green space with coils underground which then feed to individual heating systems for each household.”

However, Kate emphasizes that tackling the root issues is important when making our homes more energy efficient, as properties will leak heat if they are not properly insulated.

“If you’re living in a house with cavity walls and they’re not yet insulated then get them insulated.

“Get your loft insulated too and go around and check for drafts. If you can feel a draft, for example under the skirting board, there’s all sorts of really cheap ways to just fill the draft.

“People might have their boilers on full whack in terms of the radiators, but if you turn it down to half it slows down the heat coming off the radiators. The thermostat is still reaching temperature but it’s not blasting out the heat. I’ve been doing this at home and I haven’t even noticed a difference in terms of comfort levels.”

The Home Energy Upgrade Scheme is crucial in the decarbonisation plans and can help residents reduce energy bills and carbon emissions through funding.

Examples of what you could receive for free include external wall and cavity wall insulation, underfloor and loft insulation, and air source heat pumps.

To be eligible for the scheme, households must have a total income of £30,000 a year or less and be living in a home with an EPC below a ‘D’ rating.

“I’m hoping the government will expand the criteria so a lot more people can benefit from it. They need to open it up to more people, perhaps C and D rated properties. We’d benefit from that in Lincoln because the vast majority of our properties are C or D rated.”

For more tips on home energy efficiency, or information about grants you may be eligible for, please visit www.lincoln.gov.uk Read the Lincoln CAP at https://www.lincolnclimate.org.uk/lincoln-2030-climateaction-plan

Farming conference returns

HUNDREDS of people from across the county’s agricultural industry are expected to attend the annual Lincolnshire Farming Conference on Thursday, February 9.

Organised by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, this year marks the first conference in two years due to the pandemic and has the theme, Healthy soils, Healthy minds.

Attendees at the Lincolnshire Showground will be able to hear talks from a number of key speakers from the agricultural world, and take part in workshop sessions with industry experts.

Each year the event is a key date in the annual Lincolnshire farming calendar, with the opportunity to network and discuss the key challenges and topics affecting the industry.

Ticket sales are now open and cost £15 for adults, £6 for students and is free of charge to members of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society. All tickets also include complementary lunch.

Kelly Hewson-Fisher, chair of the Lincolnshire Farming Conference said: “After two years of forced cancellations, we’re very excited to announce that the Lincolnshire Farming Conference will return at the start of next year.

“Lincolnshire is one of the UK’s biggest agricultural counties, and it’s great to be able to bring the local farming community together with leading experts to discuss the future of the agricultural industry – with a focus on healthy soils.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors back to the conference to once again enjoy the workshop sessions and full

conference programme, which includes a great line-up of interesting and topical speakers, as well as the opportunity for attendees to explore the exhibition. The Lincolnshire Showground is well placed geographically, so the event always proves very popular with attendees and exhibitors from throughout the midlands, as well as further afield.

“Each year, the conference is organised by The Lincolnshire Agricultural Society but as a registered charity, we’re always thankful to our sponsors and the important work they do. They play a big part in allowing us to work closely with individuals, schools, businesses and organisations to educate about food, farming and the countryside, and we simply wouldn’t be able to put on this conference for another year without them.

“It’s set to be another great event and we can’t wait to welcome people back.”

This year’s event sponsors include Omex, University of Lincoln, Woldmarsh, Streets, Shakespeare Martineau, Anglian Water, Dallas Scott Davey, CLAAS, Brown & Co JH Walter.

To book a place at the 2023 Lincolnshire Farming Conference, visit:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lincolnshirefarming-conference-2023-tickets476494547017

For regular updates, follow the Lincolnshire Farming Conference on Twitter @LincsShowground or join the conversation at #LFC2019.

For more information about the annual Lincolnshire Farming Conference, visit www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk or call 01522 522900.

Challenges facing the industry including changing diets.

New technology for the industry will be on display.

James Pinchbeck Partner

What are customers doing differently in light of the cost-of-living crisis?

WITH the rate of inflation having hopefully peaked at a 40-year high and with Prime Minster Rishi Sunak’s aim to halve the rate of inflation by the end of the year, we might start to feel some sense of easing in the cost of living.

However, against this backdrop many households and businesses are still feeling the financial impact of the pandemic. This is aside from the fact that salaries are not keeping pace with inflation.

How then does or is the current economic situation affecting customers and consumers alike and what do businesses need to think about or consider? While this may depend on the nature of your business the broad considerations tend to be the same.

Perhaps the starting point is what we buy and why? Is it a necessity, essential through to desirable or even a luxury? Whilst we may cut back on and even forego luxuries, essentials are something we tend to continue to buy. Though for such items, products or services, we continue to purchase we may consider or are more likely to consider alternative provision perhaps trading down or seeking lower cost alternatives. We may also look at reducing not just our rate of consumption or use, but also the frequency of our purchase.

When it comes to where or whom we buy things from, while we may have our preferred supplier or outlet in the current climate, we are increasingly likely to at least consider the same in a quest to find comparable cheaper alternatives. This is often even despite the longevity or depth of a business relationship.

When things become financially tight we tend to be more thorough and considered, often taking longer to make the decision to make purchases, especially of high value capital items and one-off purchases - a process which is likely to involve greater consideration and analysis before reaching or justifying the decision to purchase or not.

Who doesn’t like a good deal or offer! Incentives, promotions

and offers are likely to be key for those considering making a purchase as consumers and customers seek to get better value for money.

While businesses will no doubt look to adapt their marketing to respond to conditions affecting their business, perhaps one of the key areas to focus on is customer service and experience, both for existing and new customers. At a time when businesses are dealing with rising costs, supply chain shortages, even labour shortages many will probably be experiencing a deterioration in their level of customer service and experience. Unfortunately, this comes at a time when most of us are feeling poorly served, perhaps are seeking or demanding more and as such puts in jeopardy our business relationship.

Business as normal may be the approach of some, though for most if not all there is a need to consider both the short and longer term impact of the current situation.

Few of us are likely to be running our businesses or undertaking our marketing in a year’s time like we are today. Taking time out to consider not how your business is being affected but also what you need to do differently are likely to be key to your continued success.

Passport, sunglasses, flip-flops… Will?

If you’re longing for summer holidays, you’ll have a check list alongside any booking: You’ll need up-to-date passports, insurances, visas if necessary. You’ll need to book dogs into kennels and get someone to feed the cat! But you should also consider making or updating your Will.

It’s awful to think about, but tragedies do happen while people are away on holiday. While no-one wishes to consider such an eventuality, we’re familiar with national and international news headlines which serve to remind us. This is why an up-to-date Will is essential, whether you’re a couple travelling on your own or holidaying with friends or family.

There are many complex precedents around death and inheritance which can come into play during a holiday. For example, if a married couple die together as a result of a crash or natural disaster, the question is raised of who died first?

If it cannot be determined, then the law deems the eldest person died first and, with no Will in place, the assets of that person pass to the younger husband or wife – it is then their surviving immediate relatives who inherit.

Aside from this important reason for making a Will, whether planning a holiday or not, there are many other considerations, including the protection of children and ensuring appropriate provision for spouses and partners. Lasting Powers of Attorney should also be in place to enable a person’s wishes to be carried out, should they be rendered incapacitated, either by injury or ill health.

While we’re all looking forward to warmer weather and a much-deserved break, we also wish to stress the importance of planning for the unforeseen.

For any element of future planning, Michele can be contacted on 01522 515982. Email michele.wightman@wilkinchapman. co.uk

Visit www.wilkinchapman.co.uk.

MICHELE WIGHTMAN, PARTNER AND HEAD OF WILLS, ESTATES, TAX AND TRUSTS AT WILKIN CHAPMAN SOLICITORS

How Linzi built a career in male-dominated property sector

JUST 15% of the property sector’s workforce are women, but Banks Long & Co has bucked that trend with a representation of just under 50% female employees.

Linzi Hewitt recently started with the leading commercial property business as a Senior Surveyor and outlined her journey into this male dominated industry.

Linzi’s route into the industry was not a traditional one as she started her career working in football as a Facilities and Investment Lead for the county.

“This involved developing projects from the ideas of local grassroot volunteers, to creating a business plan, working with local authorities to develop the strategy and then finding the investment to make that project a reality.

“I was involved in every aspect of the planning and preparation of building and investment works, but as soon as the spade went into the ground, I would step back until the cutting of the ribbon was completed to open the facility. I felt as if I was missing a huge part of the process, and to be honest, the part that interested me the most.

“Growing up, my Dad was in construction, and when able, I would always help him with projects around the home as a labourer. I enjoyed learning new skills and had a role model to learn from and inspire me.”

Linzi wanted to pursue her interest in property and construction so at the age of 30 and after 10 years in football she started work for a local building contractor.

“After a short time, the business recognised my passion for learning and developing my career and presented me with the opportunity to do a formal course with RICS in Quantity Surveying. This was a distance learning programme I completed in my own time whilst working full-time on 3 to 4 live building projects in my role. It was a quick learning curve, but every day was different and I loved it.”

Linzi did not find it difficult entering a male focused industry?

“At the time in most instances I was walking onto a building site as the only woman, but actually I didn’t feel that was a factor in others’ perception of me. I quickly came to realise that following my first few interactions with new people, they made an assessment of me based on my standards of work and ability to fulfil the role.

“If you stay consistent in your work, communicate often and treat people with respect, then that is what really counts and people base an opinion of you on that.”

Until she joined Banks Long & Co female figures and senior role models had been in short supply, but she did not feel that impacted her determination or career choices.

“For the first time I shared the room with other female professionals who were in senior roles with professional memberships and accreditations. That awareness and visibility around me has given me an extra drive and motivation that has challenged my own thoughts on personal development and inspired me to continue to push in my career to reach an equal level to them. I guess this is the first time in my career that I have truly recognised the importance of that.”

Linzi has set herself the goal of achieving her Masters in

Surveying over the next two years and become a Chartered Surveyor.

“The long-term goal from there is to establish myself as a key member of the team at Banks Long & Co and hopefully extend my role into senior management. You have to dream big!”

PR agency to promote charity’s community work

A CHARITY that provides support for vulnerable children and families will benefit from a year’s free PR and marketing support courtesy of award-winning agency Shooting Star.

BRIC (Building Resilience in Communities) has been selected by the Lincoln-based PR, marketing and digital agency as its charity of the year for 2023.

BRIC, based in Gainsborough, supports vulnerable children and their families across Lincolnshire. The team has changed the lives of thousands of children and their families since 1984.  It provides emotional support and practical help to get families back on their feet after dealing with issues such as illness, disability, abuse, isolation, and the demands of having young children.

Shooting Star will work with the charity on a pro bono basis throughout 2023 providing them with PR, marketing, social media and event support.

The agency will also stage its annual Chippy Quiz to raise funds for BRIC.

Kamila Zolotar, the Community Engagement Manager at BRIC, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Shooting Star for choosing us as their charity of the year for 2023.

“We are at our best when we support each other, and we are certain that the relationship with Shooting Star will help us raise awareness of the vital work we do to support vulnerable children and their families in Lincolnshire.”

BRIC’s Happier Families project provides support for children and their families to enable them to feel less isolated, healthier, and happier together.

The support could be offered over the telephone, online or by a Family Support Mentor visiting the home, or by accessing a community activity, whichever is right for the family at the time.

Kids’ Patch is BRIC’s community garden project, providing weekly activities in one of its community spaces across Lincolnshire, connecting children and their families with food, nature, and their community.

Jez Ashberry, a Director at Shooting Star, said: “BRIC will be the 16th charity we have supported since we launched our Charity of the Year scheme in 2009.

“We’re delighted to be helping this fantastic and very worthwhile cause. We know all about the important work BRIC does for people within Lincolnshire communities, and we’re really pleased to be supporting it through the coming year!”  Other charities to have benefited from Shooting Star’s help over the years include Headway Lincolnshire, The Bearded Fishermen, Help Us Grieve, Help Me, I’m Fine and Sophie’s Journey.

Lindum aim for spring completion of Lawress Hall refurbishment

WORK has started on the refurbishment of the former HMRC building, Lawress Hall, to convert it into a major new office space for the University of Lincoln.

Lindum Group is currently working on the internal strip out, which includes removing the electrics to ensure the fabrics of the building do not get damaged during the refurbishment works.

Internal walls and partitions will also come down to create an open space for the redesign.

The refit will include the installation of bespoke features, such as living walls, meeting pods and new work stations. There will also be new catering facilities, including coffee stations and a cafe. Bevan Adams, Estates Project Manager at the University of Lincoln, said: “Set on the University of Lincoln’s Riseholme Park

Campus, Lawress Hall will provide new opportunities in a wonderful setting for connection and collaboration within and between professional services departments.

“It responds to new patterns of agile working, with a strong emphasis of wellbeing where colleagues can work from home and from different on-campus locations depending on their roles, circumstances and business needs.”

New energy efficient LED lights will be installed, with upgraded Wi-Fi systems, new fire alarms and upgraded toilet facilities. A new multi-faith area will also be created as part of the works.

Ron Adamson, Lindum Construction Manager, said: “This is a very important project for the University of Lincoln. The building will be a flagship new hub for the University, bringing staff from various professional services teams together in one building.

“Lindum is very pleased to have been awarded the project for this very prestigious refurbishment of the old HMRC building. The building is designed with innovation and collaboration in mind. It also benefits from a wonderful location on the University’s Riseholme Campus, spanning more than 200 hectares and featuring woodlands, a lake and heritage features such as a registered park and garden.

“We will be working with local contractors on this project to maintain a local presence and ensure we carry on supporting the local economy.”

The original building, which was purpose built in 1994 for HMRC, was acquired by the University of Lincoln in 2021.

Jez is pictured with Kerrylyne Gooderham (left), and Kamila

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