Village People

Our Tribune reporter visits wellknown folk in our villages and asks the same questions. Hopefully, this will become a regular feature and readers will say, to coin a Michael Caine phrase, “not many people know that…”

This issue, it’s John Holdich OBE, from Glinton. John has held many offices during his 44 years of public service and is known to most locals as Cllr John Holdich, retired Leader of Peterborough City Council and Chair of Glinton Parish Councillor. John is a Freeman of the City of Peterborough, Freeman of the Parish of Glinton and was appointed a City Alderman when he retired.

1) So John, what brought you to Glinton?

I recognised not just the (then) affordable properties but also the warmth and friendliness of the rural community. 2) Where were you born and raised?

Peterborough, born and bred. My father was a Peterborough councillor for many years and there’s even a street named after my family. 3) What did you do as a career? I was involved in the motor trade for many years, Park Homes proprietor and, although I hesitate to use the phrase, a ‘career politician’ for most of my adult life. 4) What makes you happy? Being together with our family and our very regular trips to the Norfolk coast.

John, pictured centre, doing what he’s done during his many years in public life, standing up for residents of Peterborough.

5) What makes you angry or sad? Vandalism, anti social behaviour, rudeness and ignorance of other peoples’ quality of life. 6) Claim to fame? Setting up ‘Lifeline’ in the City, bringing a fabulous new university to Peterborough and being honoured by the Queen with an OBE. I was also extremely proud to be made Mayor of our City back in 1995, and during that year Barbara and I raised a recordbreaking £37,000 for our chosen Mayoral charities. 7) Hobbies? I love the peace when I’m gardening and the sheer pleasure of walking both familiar and new places. Indoors I’m a wordsearch buff.

8) Most famous person you’ve met? Has to be the Queen first, then Jeffrey Archer and many years ago, Diana Dors!! 9) Most treasured item you’ve owned? My wedding ring, my honours from the Queen, the City Council and Glinton Parish Council recognising my 44 years service to both community and City. 10) Sun seeker or staycation? I’ve had my fair share of holidays abroad, to far flung places like Canada and the West Indies but these days my preference is closer to home within the British Isles.

Bob Robertson I’ve just been on to Anglian Water regarding my most recent water bill, I asked if I could get a reduction in the surface water drainage charge as I divert the rain water from my roof purify it and then use it for window cleaning. I was told that there isn’t a surface water drain in this area, they have backdated the charge and credited my account with over £200. Check your bills for this charge.

Anne Lees We were ambling in Carlby this morning, a lovely area of the countryside nearer to Stamford. The land here is undulating, so nice views into the distance, and wide open spaces. The footpath was well marked and part of the route took us beside the River Glen. We walked beside woodland and across wheat fields, enjoying the shade and the sunshine equally. At one point there were four Red Kites circling in the distance, and several big dragonflies nearby - great to watch. A Brown Argus butterfly opened its wings for me, and we saw several Gatekeepers. Some healthy looking Burdocks were attracting the bees and we heard a beautiful Wren’s song. Another perfect start to the weekend