Discovering March issue 149, February 2026

Issue 149 / February 2026

and the surrounding villages

Xm Noveal s Huntty Winne Insiders Susan’s Soft Furnishings: Let Susan Come to You

The Ferry Project: One Pot Wonders Free Cookery Course

Spice Up Valentine’s Day with a Local Takeaway

Your favourite community lifestyle magazine – PRICELESS

2

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

Welcome to your February issue...

F

ebruary of course sees us celebrating Valentine’s Day, where we can shower our loved one with tokens of our affection. I once read that “Love” means nothing in tennis, but it's everything in life.

Songwriters have already been here many times before, and yes, it is indeed a “many splendored thing” and many would agree that “Love is all you need”. Some of you might even remember glam-rockers, Sweet, suggesting “Love is like oxygen” in 1978 – (not that I do, though!!)

With the recent dreadful weather seeming to have just taken a break from freezing/drenching us all, it is most encouraging to see our gardens starting to show some signs of spring on the way with bulbs poking through what was a covering of snow, only a few days ago. Let’s hope that the better weather puts a smile on everyone’s face and that those Valentine’s Day treats coming our way make us smile even more – (big hint, Chris! xx)

Claire x

It was a Monday and with a busy week ahead and magazine deadlines looming, I decided to get off to an early start.

However, when I switched on my computer everything was in slow motion and it would not kick in to gear. Now I’m not the most patient of people, but experience has taught me to keep calm when faced with this type of problem.

This I did, but when lunchtime came and went and my PC was still not following my commands, I only just refrained from chucking it out of the window, deciding instead to await the return of my business IT guru (my wife) later in the day.

Her abilities far exceed mine but after hours of toiling she too failed to get the offending machine to cooperate. However, she did manage to get me set up on her old laptop and, if you are reading this, it obviously worked.

Hopefully, by next month’s issue my old machine will be fixed and back in action, however more likely it will be replaced by a new workmate…

Andy

Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET Publisher and Sales Claire Saberton: 01778 421427 | 07837 499061 | sales@discoveringmagazines.co.uk Sales Paula Kirtland: 07903 776211 | marketing.discoveringmagazines@gmail.com Sales Sallyanne Davis: 07737 026594 | sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk Editor Andy Hurst: editor.march@discoveringmagazines.co.uk Ops Director Andy Armstrong: 07780 922214 Accounts Sarah Brooks: 07564 966452 | accounts@discoveringmagazines.co.uk Design Sarah Gumbley | Andy Beavis | Graham Copestake | Graham Booth

Inside Highlights 8 ................ Vine Law 14 ............. Gardening Tips For February 20 ............. Community Matters 24 ............. Christmas Novelty Hunt Winners 30 ............. Trevor Langley: Honey Delights 31 ............. Ferry Project Cookery School 32 ............. Whitings Chartered Accountants 34-35 .... The Spice Bank 37 ............. The Lunch Box 38 ............. March Podiatry 39 ............. K.E. Rolfe: Direct Cremation 40 ............. Community Matters 41 ............. The Little Resin Studio 42 ........... Wild About March 46 ............. March Heritage Buildings 48 ............ Diamond Byte 49 ...............Men United In Song 2026 58 ............. March Museum 61-63 ...... Business Directory

With thanks to Vine Law, Trevor Langley, Whitings Chartered Accountants, March Podiatry, Joan Munns, Jennifer Lawler, Diamond Byte, Steve Barclay MP, Lorraine Milton and Peter Wright.

Deadline details Copy deadline for the March issue is Thursday 5th February 2026.

Discovering March is published by a local team and is not associated with any other business. Care is taken to ensure that the content and information is correct at the time of going to press; however, we cannot take any responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by any errors. Permission must be granted to reproduce, copy or scan anything from this publication. For a copy of our contributors’ guidelines please email info@discoveringmagazines.co.uk.

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

3

FANTASTIC DISCOUNTS ON SOFAS & RECLINERS DINING & BEDROOM

reedshomestore.co.uk

BIG DISCOUNTS ON TOP NAME BRANDS REEDS | DOWNHAM Furniture, Flooring, Bed Centre & Homestore

Bridge Street, Downham Market PE38 9DS T: 01366 382213

4

D I S C O V E R I N G March

Opening Times Monday to Saturday: 9am - 5pm Sunday: Closed

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

HUGE SAVINGS ON FLOORING CURTAINS & BLINDS BEDS & MATTRESSES

N O W O N! N O W O N! N O W O N! N O W O N! REEDS | ELY

Furniture, Flooring & Bed Centre

Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely CB6 3NX T: 01353 669754 Opening Times Monday to Saturday: 9am - 5pm Sunday: 10am - 4pm

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

5

JOINING US IN 2026

BBC’S ADAM FROST | BBC’S CAROL KLEIN

BUNNY GUINNESS | MATTHEW WILSON | BEN CROSS AND MANY MORE!

OVER 250 EXHIBITS THEATRE GOLD MEDAL WINNING NURSERIES EXCLUSIVE SHOW GARDENS WORKSHOPS AFTERNOON TEA & FINE FOOD VINTAGE FAIRGROUND & CIRCUS

6

14-16 AUGUST 2026 . RUTLAND SHOWGROUND WWW.RUTLANDFLOWERSHOW.CO.UK/TICKETS D I S C O V E R I N G March FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

FREE

Deliv Insta ery, l & Re lation mova on l!

T YOUR OR PP

SU

UR

SU

AL LOC PS SHO PP O RT Y

O

ITEMS IN STOCK

sele modected ls

FOR PROMPT

DELIVERY!

INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL

AVAILABLE FREE DESIGN & QUOTE SERVICE ON KITCHENS BY

OR ADDED EXTRAS ON EXISTING SYMPHONY KITCHEN

/ FRIENDLY, FREE & PROFESSIONAL ADVICE / FREE IN-STORE DEMOS

KITCHENS • HOME APPLIANCES • TELEVISIONS CALL 01733 208787 FREE PARKING IN WHITTLESEY

OPEN Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm & Sat 9am-1.30pm • 26-28 Broad Street, Whittlesey PE7 1HA F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March sales@kellyvision-kcs.co.uk www.kellyvision-kcs.co.uk

7

I

GROSS MISCONDUCT: WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

n the world of Employment Law, few terms carry as much weight as gross misconduct. It’s a phrase that often leads directly to summary dismissal, ending an employee’s contract without notice or pay in lieu. But what exactly does gross misconduct mean and what are its implications for both employers and employees?

Gross misconduct refers to behaviour so serious that it fundamentally breaches the relationship of trust and confidence between employer and employee. In simple terms, it is conduct that makes it impossible for the employment relationship to continue and which justifies the immediate dismissal of an employee, without notice or pay in lieu of notice. This is known as summary dismissal.

There is unfortunately no single legal definition of gross misconduct. Instead, we must look to guidance from previous cases, as well as the ACAS Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures which describes it as misconduct which makes the continuation of the employment relationship impossible.

Most workplaces will have their own policies defining what counts as gross misconduct. These are generally contained in a Staff Handbook, a stand-alone disciplinary policy, or procedures.

Whilst every case turns on its own facts, common examples include: • Theft or fraud • Physical violence or threats • Serious breaches of health and safety • Gross negligence causing serious harm or loss • Harassment, discrimination, or bullying • Serious insubordination • Being under the influence of drugs/alcohol at work • Unauthorised disclosure of confidential information

However, what amounts to gross misconduct in one role or workplace may not automatically do so in another. Even where behaviour appears to be gross misconduct, employers must still act fairly.

This usually means: • Carrying out a reasonable investigation and gathering evidence • Holding a disciplinary hearing • Allowing the employee to respond • Making a decision proportionate to the misconduct • Offering the employee a right of appeal Failure to follow a fair process can make a dismissal unfair, even if the conduct itself qualifies as gross misconduct.

Currently, only employees with two or more years of continuous service can bring a claim for unfair dismissal. As a result, some employers shorten or even do not follow a full disciplinary procedure for employees with short service. However, the Employment Rights Bill which is currently making its way through parliament intends to change this so that the qualifying period of service will be reduced.

When considering whether a summary dismissal for gross misconduct is fair, the employment tribunals apply a test known as the Burchell test. Firstly, they consider whether the employer genuinely believed the employee was guilty of misconduct. If so, they then consider whether that belief was based on reasonable grounds, following an investigation.

In short, gross misconduct is a serious matter with potentially profound legal and practical consequences. While it grants employers the right to terminate employment immediately, that right must be exercised fairly, consistently, and lawfully.

If you would like a confidential discussion about your circumstances, you can contact Kim Cross on (01945) 898090 or email kimcross@vinelaw.co.uk

• Wills, Probate and Lasting Powers Of Attorney • Property • Employment Law and HR Services • Civil Litigation – dispute avoidance and resolution • Legal assistance for start-ups and SMEs

Units 19 & 20, Pondworld Retail Park, Lynn Road, Wisbech PE14 7DA (01945) 898090 | hello@vinelaw.co.uk | www.vinelaw.co.uk 8

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

J S PLUMBING SERVICES all types of plumbing work For • Radiators and Valves • Shower repairs • Toilet repairs • Bath - basin repairs • Full Bathroom installation • Kitchen Tap repairs & replacement • Dish Washer & Washing Machine installation • Outside Taps • Blocked Drains

For all your self-drive hire requirements

CARS • VANS • LUTONS MINI BUSES (7 to 17 seats with seatbelts)

7.5 TONNE WITH TAIL LIFT Daily, Weekly & Monthly Rates Competitive prices include:

Unlimited Mileage, VAT & Insurance Waiver

01354 691 408 07884 491161

T: (01945) 582458 or 465059 info@easternrentavan.com www.easternrentavan.com

LYNN ROAD, WISBECH, CAMBS PE14 7AL

Leading the way in providing an AFFORDABLE PROFESSIONAL service

Westminster Law

Wills ~ Estate Planning ~ Probate If you are over 60 it will cost you only £95* for us to prepare your Will. We are also Lasting Power of Attorney Specialists - only £120* each LPA if instructed during the Will appointment.

Our prices include home visits*, VAT and Inheritance Tax advice.

Call us now for a no obligation chat on: 01778 301716 www.westminster-law.co.uk ~ Bourne office email: nr@westminster-law.co.uk Westminster Law Group Ltd ~ Registered Office: Wellesley House, 204 London Road, Waterlooville PO7 7AN *These very special rates are only available if you are over 60 years old. Minimum spend for a free home visit is £95.

Our normal price for a standard single Will is £160, or £270 for a couple. VAT, when applicable, is included in these prices.

Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) registration fee, when applicable, is not included in these prices.

Mag half page landscape Kyde Collins 03/01/2025

F E BRUA RY 2026

02/01/2018

D I S C O V E R I N G March

9

01354 655200 info@aogwindows.co.uk

174 Station Road, March, Cambridgeshire, PE15 8NG

REGISTERED INSTALLER

Choose a SupaLite Tiled Conservatory Roof installed by a SupaLite Recommended Installer.

Temperature Regulation

uPVC Windows

Weather Resistant

10 YEAR INSURANCE BACKED GUARANTEE

Noise Reduction

COMPOSITE Doors

CONSERVATORIES

ROOF Lanterns

GET A FREE ONLINE QUOTE

www.aogwindows.co.uk 10

Showroom open Mon - Fri

D I S C O V E R I N G March

BI-FOLD Doors FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

Acole is the answer to all your plumbing needs

The COMPUTER Man

Acole Plumbing Services Ltd is a new business that has been set up to deal with Fenland homeowners‘ plumbing and heating requirements.

It has been launched by March-based Colin Ovenden who has more than thirty years’ experience in the business, primarily carried out in London.

INDEPENDENT I.T. SPECIALIST

Computer problems fixed | Laptops repaired Colin moved to the town from the capital five Internet and network issues resolved years ago and after being employed locally has Network cable | Server installations now decided to installations venture out on his own.

Network | Business He said: “I loveinstallations living in March and feltcall theouts time was right tocall start my own business. & servicing Home outs | Maintenance “I am looking to focus on much all general And much, moredomestic

plumbing and heating work, predominantly repair ContactinStuart Saberton: and refurbishment, the March, Wisbech and T: 07914 614513 Whittlesey area.”

E: stuart@thecomputermanpeterborough.co.uk www.thecomputermanpeterborough.co.uk Contact Acole Plumbing Services Ltd on (01354) 650502; or 07759 768060; FOR ALL YOUR COMPUTER NEEDS Email: acoleplumbing@btinternet.com

• All general plumbing repairs undertaken big or small.

• All domestic heating repairs undertaken.

• All domestic boiler fault finding undertaken both gas and oil.

• Landlord Gas Safety certificates • House purchase inspections of plumbing and heating • Boiler replacements.

• Central heating power flushing.

97 Nene Parade | March | Cambridgeshire 07759 768060 | 01354 650502 acoleplumbing@btinternet.com

YEAR S

20

E

THE TRAD

Service List

THE TRAD

IN

• 20

Colin Ovenden

IN

E

Acole Plumbing Services Ltd

RW Home Improvements

0 YEARS •2

Laminate Flooring • Painting and Decorating • Decking • Coving • Fit Internal Doors Power Wash Patios and Conservatories • Fencing and Shed Repairs Assemble Flat Pack Furniture • Fit Curtain Poles, Mirrors and Pictures • Wall Mount TVs Insurance Work Undertaken and so much more! Husband and Wife Team NO VAT ON LABOUR

Rick & Jan Wollen, 27 Breton Avenue, March PE15 9EY

01354 629281 • 07817 216067

FREE no-obligation quote and advice

rwhomeimprovements@hotmail.co.uk www.marchhandyman.com F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

11

Do you need help finding childcare in Cambridgeshire?

The Families Information Service provides free impartial information and advice to help you find early years childcare or wraparound provision. Visit the website cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/children-andfamilies/childcare-and-early-learning 03450 451 360 fis@cambridgeshire.gov.uk 12 D facebook.com/CambsFIS I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

Bespoke items made-to-measure for your home From bags to bunting – thoughtful gifts Memory cushions and throws Fabrics supplied by you and made by me

Let me come to you

Call 07545 630333 or email bettysuboo18@yahoo.com

TOM WESTBROOK Installation & Repairs Specialist TRUSTED IN THE TRADE FOR OVER 25 YEARS

• NEW WINDOWS & DOORS • • MISTED WINDOWS • • DROPPED DOORS • • REPLACEMENT LOCKS & HINGES • • CAT AND DOG FLAPS • Call today for a free no obligation quote on 01354 653445 or 07513 837719 westbrookwindowrepairs@gmail.com Find us on Facebook F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

13

Your Garden

P

reparing beds before sowing begins in spring is one of the most important February jobs.

In doing so, you’ll help to aerate, drain and warm the soil. When digging over, be sure to incorporate plenty of homemade compost or composted manure.

If you haven’t already done so, cover in plastic or cardboard for a few weeks to reduce weeds and to warm the soil. Clay soil will benefit from spreading with a mix of organic matter and grit over the surface which when dug in will open up the soil structure. For early crops, prepare and rake level the soil and put cloches in place a few weeks before sowing which will help the soil warm up.

If you intend to grow leafy brassicas such as kale, cabbages, cauliflowers etc, add lime to the soil a few weeks prior to planting and allow the rain to wash it into the soil, then before planting add some fish, blood and bone, raking it into the topsoil.

Other jobs for February include: • Make sure winter cabbages, cauliflowers and broccoli are netted against hungry pigeons.

• Prune autumn raspberry canes by cutting right down to the ground and then mulch.

• Feed and mulch fruit trees and bushes.

• The compost heap might benefit from a bit of attention. Rake it through with a fork

14

D I S C O V E R I N G March

to aerate it, add water if it seems dry and then re-cover it to keep it warm.

• All your seed potatoes for the year should have been purchased by the end of this month and spread out in egg boxes or seed trays for “chitting” in a cool light room. It is recommended to remove all but three of the “chits” as it is believed that this produces larger potatoes.

• If your rhubarb crowns show signs of activity, now is an excellent time to force an early sweet harvest by covering with a big bucket.

• Sow seeds indoors e.g. Broad beans, Brussels, leeks, onions, salad leaves, tomatoes, peas, spinach, summer cabbage, sprouting broccoli – to name but a few.

• If the weather allows, you can start a composting trench for your runner beans, courgettes or pumpkins. Mark out the area you will be planting and then dig a trench 60cm deep which you can then start to add layers of organic kitchen waste, covering each layer with soil.

• This time of year, can be unpredictable, so be prepared to cover sensitive plants or bring seedlings indoors if a cold snap hits.

The flowers on any early flowering fruit bushes or trees will need protection if there is a frost – cover with horticultural fleece.

Happy gardening!

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

J IRVINE

SPECIALISTS IN BATHROOMS, PLUMBING & TILING

Over 30 Years’ Experience | Supply & Fit | Free Quotations Bathrooms from £4,000, Ensuites from £3,500 and Cloakrooms from £3,000

BATH OUT - SHOWER IN A Simple Upgrade. A Big Difference. from £3,500

Before

Contact Jason Irvine on 07535 698 465 or jason@jirvinehomemaintenance.co.uk

SECURE CARD PAYMENTS ACCEPTED WITH

Find us on

Facebook

Blinds in Harmony For all your Blinds, Curtains and Awnings

After

UP TO

20% OFF SELECTED BLINDS

Handmade Blinds & Curtains Domestic and Commercial Vertical, Roller, Pleated, Vision, Roman Blinds, Venetian Blinds, Wood and Aluminium, Fly Screens Conservatory Blinds and Sails Perfect Fit and INTU Blinds Awnings and Canopies Child Safety Devices, Motorisation and Connectivity Curtain Tracks and Poles supplied and fitted

The Old Chapel, North Green, Coates, Whittlesey, Peterborough PE7 2BQ Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10.00am to 4.00pm

Telephone 0800 028 2942 or 01733 840258 • enquiries@blindsinharmony.co.uk

Visit us at www.blindsinharmony.co.uk F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

15

‘I’m sure I had a pension with…’

Let’s be honest, we don’t often pay attention to our pensions during our working life, everything else is a priority. But before you know it, all of a sudden, you’re turning 50 and have no idea what you have in place for your (what now feels like looming) retirement.

With most of our clients coming to us at this stage of their life, you’re in good company!

How we can help: We write out to all your providers for you so you don’t have to – obtaining the details of your pensions and putting the information into a clear and easy to understand summary.

16

Communication is key: Providers can take a few weeks to come back with information, so we keep youupdated and informed every week so you know where you are in the process.

Transparent fees: We’ll always be upfront and honest about the cost of our services. Our pension finding fee is fixed at £195.

By the end of the process you’ll know what you have, where it is and what it is worth, putting you back at the helm of your financial planning.

What’s more, if you want to know where it all fits in with your overall plan, we can upgrade you to our full cashflow service.

Book a free consultation online at www.nenefinancial.co.uk or call our friendly team in confidence on (01354) 278088.

88 High Street, March, PE15 9LD | 01354 278088

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

Swift Roofing is a family-run business with over 20 years’ experience. Whether you are looking for a simple roof repair or a complete re-roof, we can assist. Customer satisfaction is our priority and we work to the highest standard possible.

Free quotes given with no obligation so please contact us.

PROFESSIONAL ROOFERS IN WISBECH & SURROUNDING AREAS % NT S 10SCOUOAP DI OR F ROOFING WORK • RE-ROOFS • ROOF REPAIRS • CHIMNEY WORK• • FASCIAS & SOFFITS FOAM INSULATION REMOVAL • LEADWORK • GUTTERING • FLAT ROOFS EPDM • FIBREGLASS • TORCH ON FELT • SLATE & TILES • REPOINTING • VENTILATION FF0!IN0 TOUCH FOR A FREE QUOTE! MOSS REMOVAL • ALL WORK GUARANTEED •OGET

00ERRY100 1 £ 251141 . e M nds OFFICE: MOBILE: 07932 01945 897430 e 24 ot Qu Offer c. 20bsite) e e we D h se 20tCs apply,

www.swiftroofingcontractors.co.uk (T&

Struggling to bathe?

We can help Our qualified and friendly team can create a tailored solution for you.

9 Specialists in accessible bathing.

9 FREE home visit and quotation.

9 Full design and installation service.

9 VAT FREE for those with a long-term illness or disability.

9 Tailored solutions for arthritis, mobility issues and chronic pain.

9 ‘Bath out, shower in’ service in as little as two days.

9 Walk-in baths, wetrooms, bidets and toilet lifters also available.

Helping people regain independence since 1999

“The finished bathroom is wonderful,” Mrs Childs, Trustpilot, September 2025

Request a free brochure 01354 776240 www.ahminstallations.co.uk

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

17

OVER 500 APPLIANCES IN STOCK AND ON DISPLAY FOR SAME DAY/NEXT DAY DELIVERY WHERE AVAILABLE

We are a small independent business, looking to serve our community. We have a huge range of new appliances in our showroom, ready for collection or delivery to March

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9AM-5PM CLOSED SUNDAYS

WE OFF ER DE INST LIVERY , ALL ATIO N, AN REM D OVA L

A&B SMITH Appliance Warehouse

Unit 1, Honeysome Industrial Estate, Chatteris PE16 6TG Tel: 01354 575 079 Email: info@absmith.co.uk

www.absmith.co.uk

18

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

BELDOM PROTECT

BOILER COVER

FROM £8.99/MONTH

ALL ASPECTS OF PLUMBING AND HEATING – NO JOB TOO SMALL!

BOILER REPAIRS & INSTALLATIONS • AIR CONDITIONING SERVICES SERVICE MAINTENANCE • POWER FLUSHING UNDER FLOOR HEATING • LANDLORD SAFETY CERTIFICATES LOCAL & RELIABLE

CALL REECE ON:

FULLY INSURED

07469 248400 | 01354 461345 Email: info@beldom.co.uk | www.beldomheating.co.uk

WE TA K E UNDER ORK, W E H T A LL E SI G N FR O M D H TO G T H R O U ION AT INSTALL

C o m e an d b ro w se o u r e x te n si ve sh o w ro o m

£500 OFF WHEN YOU BUY A COMPLETE BATHROOM OR KITCHEN Simply visit our website for your discount voucher. Terms and conditions apply.

CALL US TODAY ON 01733 206733

8-10 Syer s Lane , Whittlesey, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE7 1AT OPENING HOURS Tues 9-5pm | Weds 9-5pm | Thur s 9-5pm | Fri 9-5pm | Sat 10-4pm

www.whittleseybathroomsandkitchens.co.uk F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

19

COMMUNITY

MATTERS

We bring you items of interest for your home and community. If there is something you’d like us to cover or you have something to say please get in touch at: Discovering March, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET Email: editor.march@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

COUNCIL RESPONDS TO LATEST FENS RESERVOIR PLANS

• Making the reservoir a place people want to visit year-round – it is calling for a clear plan to ensure the site offers more than just water storage – such as play spaces, cultural activities, walking and cycling routes, art, and places to relax.

It says the project could bring major benefits to local people and the wider region – but only if key issues are properly addressed.

• Better walking, cycling and horse-riding routes – it says people must be able to reach the reservoir safely without relying on cars. This means proper crossings on the A141 and A142 and clear links from March, Chatteris, Manea, Doddington and Wimblington.

Fenland District Council has submitted its response to Anglian Water and Cambridge Water's latest consultation on the proposed Fens Reservoir.

The council supports the idea of a new reservoir in principle, recognising the need for a reliable long-term water supply. It says more work is needed to make sure the project delivers for our communities, protects the environment, boosts the local economy and fits well within the Fenland landscape.

Cllr Chris Boden, leader of Fenland District Council, said: "This project could be a once-in-a-generation chance to create something really special for Fenland – improving nature, health and wellbeing, and giving people a fantastic place to visit. But it has to be done right, and that's what our response focuses on. We want this to be something that local people can be proud of. Our job is to speak up to ensure the final plans genuinely work for Fenland's communities, landscape and future."

Key points raised by the council include:

20

D I S C O V E R I N G March

• Protecting and improving nature – it supports new wetlands, woodlands and grasslands, but wants a better mix of different habitats and early delivery of wildlife areas before construction causes disruption.

• Managing construction impacts – the project could bring up to two thousand workers to the area at peak times. The council warns this could put pressure on local housing, roads, services and air quality unless properly planned. The council wants Anglian Water to look seriously at greener options – such as moving materials by train and, where possible, by water – to reduce the number of HGVs on local roads.

The council's full response can be viewed at: Fenland District Council decision notice (Fens Reservoir) For further information on the proposal see: Planning Inspectorate website Fens Reservoir

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

NEW ROOFS & ROOF REPAIRS Durable has it covered

DO YOU HAVE A LEAK?

Tired of roofers letting you down? Need a quote?

Need an emergency repair? Need a team you can trust?

Look no further. We guarantee to attend your request within 48hrs.

WE SPECIALISE IN ✔ New Roofs ✔ Flat Roofs ✔ Tile & Slate Roofs ✔ Leadwork

COMPETITIVE PRICES

F E BRUA RY 2026

✔ Re-pointing ✔ Chimney Stacks ✔ All Roof Repairs ✔ Valleys Repaired

ALL WORK GUARANTEED

0 1 3 5 4 5 5 301 2

✔ New PVC Fascias & Gutters ✔ External Painting ✔ Moss Removal

ATTEND WITHIN 48 HRS ●

A RELIABLE TEAM YOU CAN TRUST

073 40 3 256 6 1

D I S C O V E R I N G March

21

Joe Goodman

Tax Year 2025/26

‘

Financial Planning Find out more

The less you leave to chance, the more you leave behind

A little time on tax planning today, so more of your legacy reaches the people you love tomorrow.

The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time and are dependent on individual circumstances.

Discover the power of financial advice. Let’s talk before 5 April.

Joe Goodman Financial Planning

Associate Partner Practice

07850 269951 joe.goodman@sjpp.co.uk www.joegoodmanfp.co.uk

Joe Goodman Financial Planning is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

22

SJP Approved 05/01/2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March SJP15918c_DS B1 TYE Golden Age A5 Portrait Advert CMYK Print.indd 1

SJP15918_DS B1 (10/25)

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6 22/10/2025 09:37:00

A

T

7 19 9777 Esstt.. 1 E

SPEC FIRES

Fireplaces - Flues - Wood Burning - Multi-Fuel - Gas - Electric

Visit our showroom at

37 Market Street, Whittlesey, PE7 1BA

01733 202220 aspectfires

info@aspectfires.co.uk

aspectfires.co.uk

We install top quality Artificial Grass Let our team create your perfect outdoor space!

Call for samples and to arrange a free site visit

Call 01354 654422

artificialgrasscambridge.co.uk info@artificialgrasscambridge.co.uk We have moved: Unit 7, Wheelhead Farm, Turf Fen Lane, Doddington PE15 0TB

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

23

Time to Think Prom Dresses

T

he 2026 “prom year” is officially here, with still a massive selection of dresses to choose from, in a variety of different colours, styles and sizes. Here at Swanky Rags, VIP appointments are not exclusive … they are our standard!

We always provide you with a 1: 1 appointment, providing our specialist advice and care. This helps you find the perfect dress style, colour and size, that matches your personality and that is within your budget.

At your appointment there is no limit as to how many dresses you can try on; within the hour, you can try on as many as you want, whilst the Swanky Rags team will pick some out for you and listen to your opinions so that you find your perfect dress.

Swanky Rags have now introduced Gift Vouchers, which make the perfect gift for your family or friends. Why not use it towards your dream dress or accessories?

If you require an “out of hours” appointment, we are happy to accommodate you; please get in touch to discuss this.

CONGRATULATIONS Erin & Elodie the winners of our Discovering March Christmas Novelty Hunt

24

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

Bridal. Accessories. Prom Dresses. Special Occasion Dresses

01733 345181

07802 480747

Opening Times – recommended appointment only Tuesday – Saturday Wednesday F E BRUA RY 2026

10am – 5.00pm 12pm – 5.00pm

info@swankyrags.co.uk

Swanky Rags @ PR Boutique,

35a Broadway, DPeterborough I S C O V PE1 E R1SQ I N G March

25

01354 553134

26

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

House Clearance Specialist Professional and Confidential

Fast and Dedicated Clearance Service Houses + Outbuildings + Office + Business UPCYCLE / RECYCLE WHEN POSSIBLE

No obligation site visits offered FREE OF CHARGE Phone: 07984 473168 email: pmhouseclear@gmail.com

Affordable, Simple & Swift

Need trusted advice through divorce or separation?

The Family Law team at Fraser Dawbarns can support you through your legal family matter to ensure arrangements for your finances, property, and any children suit your family’s needs.

“A huge thank you to everyone that has helped me. The advice was excellent and I really do appreciate it. Many thanks again.”

Client, March office To discover more about how we can help you, visit our website or contact our team today. www.fraserdawbarns.com F E BRUA RY 2026

01354 602880

info@fraserdawbarns.com D I S C O V E R I N G March

27

ce n a ur KED s r In BAC a e

10

y

EE T AN R A

GU

Email: enquiries@tradelinkinstallations.co.uk Website: www.tradelinkinstallations.co.uk

28

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

Household and utilities bills are rocketing, so now is the time to consider insulation as the answer to inflation! According to the Energy Saving Trust in an uninsulated home up to 25% of heat is lost through the roof space! We can supply and install insulation to save your pocket and the planet – and you’ll be surprised how cost-effective our solutions are.

• No waiting around. We arrive on time, every time • Lifetime guarantee • Reliable, local company working in your home • Extra confidence because we are accredited

by Which? Trusted Traders • Absolutely no mess and no fuss.

01733 645 290 We are specialists in loft boarding and insulation – we also supply and install loft ladders and hatches www.access4lofts.co.uk

A Legacy of

Veterinary

Excellence

At SigmaVet, we deliver high-quality care for your pets. From routine check-ups to advanced diagnostics, our expert team ensures their health and happiness. Your pet’s well-being is our top priority!

107 High Street, March PE15 9LH reception@sigmavet.uk | www.sigmavet.co.uk

01354 553457 | 01354 553459 | F E BRUA RY 2026

OPENING TIMES Monday 08:30 - 18:30 Tuesday 08:30 - 18:30 Wednesday 08:30 - 18:30 Thursday 08:30 - 18:30 Friday 08:30 - 18:30 Saturday 08:30 - 14:30 Sunday open for emergencies only BOOK AN APPOINMENT NOW! D I S C O V E R I N G March

29

y e n Ho

Food & Drink

B

a culinary delight...

ees collect valuable nectar from plants, trees and flowers, including clovers, heathers, lavenders, roses, herbs, and fruit trees. Honey is widely recognised as an important ingredient in a vast number of culinary (and other) productions.

I located multi award-winning Honeyland, a company, established in 2024, that provides raw classics, creamy spreads and delectations which I found to be hugely admirable and appealing to my senses enormously, with Family Collection, Creamy Stars, Winter Wellness, plus others that include Acacia, Hazelnut, Matcha, Mango, Sunflower and more. Maryna heads the team at Honeyland and Maryna’s father has been a beekeeper since 1982.

Honeyland’s LOVE THE BEES PURE ACACIA HONEY is very popular with many families. Harvested from lush white Acacia groves, I found this production to be light, pure and smooth, with a perfectly balanced floral sweetness and ideal as a ‘regular use’ honey.

Honeyland’s CREAMED HONEY with MATCHA and ACV (Apple Cider Vinegar) suited my taste buds greatly. This fusion of delight has smoothness, with vibrancy from Matcha, plus probioticrich Apple Cider Vinegar, that combine to create a memorable, extended tanginess. A most versatile Natural Flower Honey, whether neat, from a spoon, drizzled over pancakes or yogurt, plus numerous other uses, this

30

By Trevor Langley

production has pleased many since its introduction.

Honeyland’s CREAMED HONEY with HAZELNUT and COCOA I found to be a great creamy blend of Natural Flower Honey, Premium Hazelnut Paste and Rich Cocoa.

A splendid addition, to spread on baked items and toast, and it makes a wonderful dip too, bringing a highly acceptable nutty taste to the fore, with no palm oil, soya or added white sugar.

These are just some of the Honeyland range of honeys.

Their very informative website has more details and further information about Honeyland, including their other honeys and stockists. Online ordering is easy, with all orders being dispatched quickly and efficiently. The Honeyland Wellness Club has special offers and allows early access to new productions.

I found excellent, authentic tastes, with products being very attractively presented. They are perfect for gifting too. Highly recommended.

Honeyland Family Ltd. Tel: 07467 634560 Email: maryna@honeyland.uk www.honeyland.uk

D I S C O V E R I N G March

As always, enjoy!

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

31

Financial Reflections Mike Blackledge Financial reflection is important at this time of year. It’s key to ensure that you take action before the end of the tax year to avoid losing any beneficial reliefs. It’s also a good idea to look ahead to what is being introduced from April 2026 that will affect you. Here I discuss some key areas to consider when reflecting on your finances this month.

Capital Gains For those with capital gains that may have accumulated during the year, you may wish to consider whether it is possible to reduce this by disposing of assets that will provide a capital loss. If you are disposing of assets, then consider how long will this take, as timing is important.

Making Gifts & Excess Income

32

Company Directors For Directors of companies, consider how you are looking to be paid and when. Will you be looking to bring forward a salary or dividend payment, or will you wait until after April 2026 when the dividend tax rates increase for basic and higher rate taxpayers? Ensure that you have had a meeting with your accountant to discuss the way forward and to make sure that the paperwork is in place.

Inheritance Tax Changes are being introduced from both April 2026 and April 2027 in relation to Inheritance Tax (IHT). Do you understand the implications and can you plan to mitigate the increases in possible IHT liabilities?

If you have been considering making gifts, then do so before losing the available reliefs which renew each year. The normal exemption for gifts is £3,000 per year and is only “carried forward” for one year if not used. Perhaps you have excess income, if so, this can be given away with few consequences, but again care needs to be taken.

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax

ISAs

We’re Here To Help

Don’t forget to make use of the ISA limits. These are due to change from April 2027 in terms of the value of cash that can be introduced from £20,000 to £12,000 per year for cash ISAs for those under 65. Stocks & Shares ISAs remain unchanged.

Discussing your finances with your local Whitings accountant means that you can receive timely advice on the actions you can take going forward.

D I S C O V E R I N G March

Making Tax Digital for individuals who are selfemployed, and landlords with turnovers over £50,000 will be starting from April 2026. Is everything in place? Have you moved onto the relevant accounting software to report each quarter to HMRC? If not, we are here to help.

Information that features in this article is correct at the time of writing.

www.whitingsllp.co.uk

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

Contact Your Local Whitings LLP office to Discover How We Can Help You From April 2026 Making Tax Digital for Income Tax becomes mandatory for self-employed individuals and landlords earning over £50,000 in qualifying income.

If you’re not yet prepared for this change, we are here to help you!

Our Services Include: •

Corporate Tax Advisory

•

Audit & Assurance

•

Business Advisory & Support •

•

Business Tax

•

IT Services

•

Cloud Accounting Support

•

Payroll

•

Corporate Finance

•

Private Client Tax

General Practice

•

Probate & Estate Administration

•

Start Ups

•

Tax Enquiry & Investigation Service

•

Wealth Management

Contact Us 01354 652304 march@whitingsllp.co.uk

Find Us Here Fenland House 15B Hostmoor Avenue March Cambridgeshire PE15 0AX

Connect With Us

Bury St Edmunds | Ely | King’s Lynn | March | Mildenhall | Peterborough | Ramsey | St Ives | St Neots | Wisbech

www.whitingsllp.co.uk

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

33

Mild (Dairy, Nuts)

STARTERS

1. ONION BHAJI ................................................... £3.95 Deep fried onion & leek

2. CHICKEN TIKKA .............................................. £4.95 24 hours marinated grilled chicken, diced

3. LAMB TIKKA ..................................................... £4.95 24 hours marinated grilled lamb diced

4. CHICKEN TIKKA NAGA ................................... £4.95 Hot, with mustard & naga chilli paste

5. CHICKEN SUKA .............................................. £4.95 With tama rind plum sauce

6. MEAT SAMOSA ............................................... £3.95 7. VEGETABLE SAMOSA ..................................... £3.95 8. VEGETABLE PAKURA ....................................... £3.95 Deep fried mixed vegetables

9. CHICKEN PAKURA ......................................... £4.95

33.CHICKEN KORMA ............................................... £10.95 34.LAMB KORMA ..................................................... £10.95 35.CHICKEN TIKKA KORMA .................................... £10.95 36.CHICKEN PASSANDA ......................................... £10.95 37.LAMB PASSANDA ............................................... £10.95 38.NUTTY CHICKEN ................................................ £10.95 39.BUTTER CHICKEN ............................................ £10.95 Spice Bank style

40.CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA .................................. £10.95 41.LAMB TIKKA MASALA ......................................... £10.95 42. VEGETABLE KORMA .......................................... £9.95

Medium (Peppers, Onion, Mustard) 43. CHICKEN TIKKA BALTI MASALA ........................ £9.95 Peppers, onion & dairy

Deep fried chicken in batter

44. CHICKEN OR LAMB REZALA (NEW) .................. £9.95

Deep fried king prawn in batter

45. KAHARI KEBAB KHYBERY ................................. £9.95

10. KING PRAWN PAKURA NEW .......................... £5.95 11. TANDOORI KING PRAWN .............................. £5.95 12. J-E GARLIC ..................................................... £5.95 King prawn with mustard, "cashews & garlic

13. KING PRAWN SUKA ....................................... £5.95 With tamarind sauce

14. KING PRAWN CHAAT MASALA ...................... £5.95 King prawn with tangy spice

15. CHICKEN CHAAT MASALA ............................. £4.95 Chicken with tangy spice

(Sha's style, dairy & nuts)

Chicken, peppers, onion & dairy

46. CHICKEN BHUNA ................................................ £9.95 47. LAMB BHUNA ...................................................... £9.95 48. CHICKEN ROGAN Tomato .................................. £9.95 49. LAMB ROGAN ..................................................... £9.95 50. CHICKEN SAG Spinach ...................................... £9.95 51. CHICKEN KAHARI Peppers & onion ................... £9.95 52. A LAMB KAHARI .................................................. £9.95 53. CHICKEN BALTI .................................................. £9.95 Peppers & onion. Tangy.

16. POTATO CHAAT MASALA ............................... £4.95

54. MIXED BALTI (NEW) .......................................... £11.95

17. SHEEK KEBAB ................................................ £4.95

55. LEBO CHICKEN .................................................. £9.95

18. TANDOORI CHICKEN ...................................... £4.95

56. MURGH MASALAM ............................................. £9.95

19. MIXED PLATTER FOR TWO PEOPLE .............. £9.90

57. KING PRAWN JHOOL ....................................... £11.95 58. SALMON FISH CURRY (NEW) .......................... £12.95

Potato with tangy spice

Minced lamb & spice

Quarter chicken on the bone Chef will choose

20 MIXED KEBAB (NEW) ..................................... £6.95

TANDOORI

21. TANDOORI MIXED GRILL .............................. £11.95 Chicken, lamb tikka, sheek kebab & chicken on the bone

22. CHICKEN TIKKA ............................................... £9.95 24 hours marinated grilled chicken, diced

23. LAMB TIKKA ..................................................... £9.95 24 hours marinated grilled lamb, diced

24. CHICKEN TIKKA NAGA (NEW) ....................... £9.95 Hot, with mustard & naga chilli past

25. TANDOORI CHICKEN ..................................... £9.95

Chicken & lamb with peppers & onion. Tangy.

With lemon. Zesty.

Chicken & minced Lamb

Medium semi dry traditional curry sauce .

59. KING PRAWN SAG PONNER (NEW) ............... £12.95 (mild to medium, dairy & nuts)

Spicy (Mustard, Green Chilli, Peppers, Onion) 60. CHICKEN JALFREZI .......................................... £9.95 61. A CHICKEN OR LAMB MIRRCEE (hot, dairy & nuts) NEW.. £9.95 62. LAMB JALFREZI ................................................. £9.95 63. KING PRAWN JALFREZI ................................... £11.95 64. CHICKEN GARLIC CHILLI .................................. £9.95 65. CHICKEN CHILLI MASALA ................................. £9.95 66. CHICKEN OR LAMB DANSAK ............................ £9.95 With lentils. Sweet & sour.

Marinated half chicken, on the bone

67. CHICKEN OR LAMB PATHIA .............................. £9.95

Grilled diced chicken, pepper, onion & tomato

68. CHICKEN ACHAAR (NEW) ..................................£9.95

Grilled diced lamb, pepper, onion & tomato

69. KING PRAWN DANSAK ..................................... £11.95

26. CHICKEN SHASHLIK ...................................... £9.95 27. LAMB SHASHLIK ............................................ £9.95 28. PA NEER TIKKA ............................................. £11.95 Marinated Indian cheese

29. TANDOORI KING PRAWNS .......................... £11.95 30. TANDORY SALMON FISH ............................. £12.95 Salmon fish marinated traditional tandory sauce

31. J-E GARLIC .................................................... £11.95 King prawn with mustard, cashews & garlic

32. SHEEK KEBAB ................................................ £8.95

FAST FOOD

DONER KABAB & CHIPS ....................................... £6.95 NAGA DONER KABAB & CHIPS (HOT) ................ £6.95 CHICKEN WRAP..................................................... £5.95 34 D I SNUGGETS C O V E& CHIPS R I N..............................

G March CHICKEN £7.95

Sweet, sour & hot.

Mustard, achaar spice & cilantro

Hot (Mustard, Chilli) 70. CHICKEN MADRAS ............................................ £9.95 71. MIXED SHAHI JALFRIZE (MSJ) (NEW) ...........£12.95 Chicken and lamb diced cooked with green chilli, garlic and naga

72. LAMB MADRAS ............................................................ £9.95 73. CHICKEN VINDALOO ......................................... £9.95 74. CHICKEN FOTKA ................................................ £9.95 With naga chilli

75. LAMB FOTKA ...................................................... £9.95 CHICKEN LONKA ................................................ £9.95 Crushed chilli & ginger

76. LAMB LONKA ...................................................... £9.95 77. CHICKEN OR LAMB MORRISA ........................... £9.95 Five different types of chilli

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

DINE IN • TAKEAWAY • DELIVERY DELIVERY RADIUS 5 MILES

Sides 78. MIXED VEGETABLE CURRY.......................... £4.25 79. BOMBAY POTATO ......................................... £4.25 80. SAG ALOO ..................................................... £4.25 Spinach & potato

81. SAG PANEER ................................................ £4.25 Spinach & cheese (dairy)

82. TARKA DAAL .................................................. £4.25 83. CAULIFLOWER BHAJI .................................. £4.25 84. MUSHROOM BHAGJL.................................... £4.25 85. SAG MUSHROOM ......................................... £4.25 86. ALOO GOBL ................................................... £4.25 87. ONION BHAJI ................................................. £4.25

Finest Indian Experience in Fenland Vegetarian & Vegan Dishes Available LOCALLY SOURCED, FRESHLY COOKED

Rice, Bread & Biryanis 88. PILAU RICE .................................................. £2.95 89. BOILED RICE ................................................ £2.95 90. MUSHROOM RICE ....................................... £4.50 91. VEGETABLE RICE ........................................ £4.50 92. SPECIAL RICE Egg & peas............................ £4.50 93. KEEMA RICE OR CHICKEN TIKKA RICE .... £4.50 94. SHAHI RICE Nuts .......................................... £4.50 95. LEMON RICE OR ONION RICE ....................£4.50 96. PLAIN NAAN.................................................. £2.95 97. PESHWARI NAAN ......................................... £3.25 98. KEEMA NAAN ............................................... £3.25 99. HONEY NAAN ............................................... £3.50 100. CHEESE NAAN ............................................. £3.50 101. CHILLI NAAN.................................................. £3.25 102. CHILLI & GARLIC NAAN ............................... £3.50 103. CHEESE & GARLIC NAAN ........................... £3.50 104. GARLIC NAAN .............................................. £3.25 105. TANDOORI ROTI............................................£3.25 106. CHAPATI........................................................ £1.95 107. PARATHA .......................................................£3.95 108. CHIPS ............................................................. £3.95 109. CHICKEN & CHIPS ....................................... £7.95 110. CHICKEN BIRYANI ...................................... £11.95 111. LAMB BIRYANl............................................. £12.95 112. CHICKEN TIKKA BIRYANI........................... £12.95 113. PAPADAM ..................................................... £0.70 114. CHUTNEY ..................................................... £1.80 Mango, onion & mint

115. MIXED PICKLES ........................................... £1.00 116. GREEN SALAD ............................................. £1.50

If you have any allergies, please let us know before you order Delivery charges may apply DESIGNED & PRINTED

F E BRUA RY 2026

■µiMililllt-54

033 0010 3521

Why not treat a loved one with a surprise special Valentine’s Meal?

ENJOY A CHEAPER NIGHT OUT...

MONDAY TO THURSDAY Bring your own alcohol to enjoy with your meal

SUN-THURS SET MENU £14.95pp (Starter, Main, Sharing Side, Rice & Naan)

EVERY SUNDAY LUNCH 40% OFF (Eat in or Takeaway, between 12 and 3pm)

01354 657 732 ONLINE ORDERING

www.thespicebank.co.uk Mon-Thurs 5.30pm-10pm

OPENING HOURS Fri and Sat Sun 5pm-10.30pm 5.30pm-10pm

56 High Street, March, Cambs PE15 9LD Email: D I S thespicebank@gmail.com C O V E R I N G March

35

Valentine’s Day ? n e h T t u o b A ll A It What’s When February 14th comes along, we can expect to exchange messages of love through thoughtful cards, flower bouquets, perfume, jewellery, and heart-shaped boxes of chocolate.

But why do we celebrate Valentine's Day in the first place, because it hasn’t always been a celebration of love?

Who was St Valentine?

At least two men named Valentine could have inspired the tradition.

One Valentine was a priest in third century Rome who defied Emperor Claudius II's ban on marriage (he thought it distracted young soldiers), illegally marrying couples in the spirit of love until he was caught and sentenced to death. Another legend suggests that Valentine was killed for attempting to help Christians escape prison in Rome, and that he was the first sender of a "Valentine" message himself while imprisoned, writing a letter signed, "From your Valentine."

However,

Although some historians believe that Valentine's Day commemorates the death of St. Valentine on February 14th, others believe that the holiday has its origins in a Pagan fertility festival called "Lupercalia," which was celebrated in ancient Rome. Dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, and Roman founders Romulus and Remus, the day was celebrated by sacrificing animals and smacking women with animal hides, a practice that was believed to encourage fertility!

In the 1300s,

it officially became a holiday associated with love.

At the end of the 5th century, Roman Pope Gelasius officially declared the date of February 14th “St. Valentine's Day." It wasn't until the Middle Ages, though, that the holiday became associated with love and romance, a tradition that first started from the common belief in France and England that birds started their mating season on February 14th.

The first Valentine was sent in the 15th century.

The oldest record of a Valentine being sent was a poem written by a French medieval duke named Charles to his wife in 1415. One of the lines in the poem read, "I am already sick of love, my very gentle Valentine,” penned while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London, aged just twenty-one. People were exchanging cards and handwritten letters to both lovers and friends during the 17th century, but it was in the 1840s that the first Valentine's Day cards were mass-produced.

Flowers…

36

The tradition of giving Valentine's Day flowers dates back to the 17th century, but the act of giving flowers then became a popular trend during the Victorian Era, including on Valentine's Day, with red roses symbolizing deep love.

D I S C O V E R I N G March

…and Chocolates !

The first heart-shaped box of chocolates was introduced in 1861. It was created by Richard Cadbury, son of Cadbury founder, John Cadbury, who started packaging chocolates in fancy boxes to increase sales … and the rest (as any dentist or dietician will tell you) is history!

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

New Takeaway thinks inside The Box! Zoe Bedford, 44, has recently realised her dream of opening up a takeaway sandwich shop. After much preparation and hard work, The Lunch Box, in Plough Road, was finally born just before Christmas, and it's been on a roll ever since!

Working alongside her mother-in-law, Josie, who has always been in the food industry, they have both loved the first few busy weeks in their new venture and enjoy chatting with the customers and getting to know them.

‘The people of Whittlesey have been so friendly and welcoming,’ Zoe said, ‘even bringing in gifts just before Christmas, even though we had only just opened!’

Opening at 7am for the early-risers, so close to the town centre, and with plenty of parking available, this a convenient location for all. Plans for the future include expanding into providing delivery.

The Lunch Box has a delicious and extensive, handmade and locally-sourced menu selection on offer, including sausage rolls, baguettes, bacon baps, jacket potatoes, salads, cakes, plus carefully selected and freshly roasted coffee to complete your warm welcome.

‘We look forward to seeing all returning and new customers for lunch very soon.’ smiles Zoe, as she prepares a hot and tasty-looking cheese and bacon turnover for another happy customer! And, that’s a wrap!

You can check out The Lunch Box full menu and keep updated on our Facebook page

Buffets for any occasion: meetings, parties etc. Contact The Lunch Box for a quote.

AY W A KE A T ADVANCE ORDERS: CALL 07355 782485 OPEN Mon to Sat: 7am - 2pm

LOTS OF CUSTOMER PARKING 2 Plough Road, Whittlesey PE7 1LT

F E BRUA RY 2026 The Lunch Box mag page.indd 1

D I S C O V E R I N G March

37

07/01/2026 12:22

Health

MICROWAVE THERAPY FOR SKIN MICROWAVE THERAPY FOR SKIN Microwave energy is widely used in a number MICROWAVE THERAPY FOR SKIN Microwave Therapy For Skin of medical fields to elevate tissue temperatures

M

and create precise, localised cell destruction.

icrowave energy is widely used in a number of Microwave energy is widely used in a number Microwave energy is a Microwave energy is widely widely used used in intemperatures a number number Infected tissue can exist to elevate tissue temperatures of to of medical medical fields fieldsmedical to elevate elevate tissue tissuefields temperatures several millimetres below of medical fields to elevate tissue temperatures and create precise, localised cell destruction. and create precise, localised cell destruction. the surface and can often and create precise, localised cell destruction. and create precise, localised cell destruction. be difficult to treat using traditional methods,

Infected Infected tissue tissue can can exist exist Infectedmillimetres tissue can exist several several millimetres below below several millimetres below the the surface surface and and can can often often thedifficult surface and can often be be difficult to to treat treat using using be difficult to treat using traditional traditional methods, methods, traditional resulting in inmethods, either resulting either resulting in eitheror untreated untreated tissue tissue or untreated tissue or significant significant damage. damage. significant damage.

resulting in either Verrucae tissue can exist several millimetres untreated tissue or significant damage. below the surface and can often be difficult to treat using traditional methods, resulting in either untreated tissue or significant damage. Swift delivers a precise, delivers a precise, highly controlledSwift energy dose. highly controlled energy dose.

As microwaves As delivers microwaves travel into the verruca tissue, travel into the tissue, Swift delivers a precise, precise, Swift a Swift delivers a precise, water molecules begin highly controlled energy highly controlled energy water molecules begin colliding and creating highly controlled energy dose. As As microwaves microwaves colliding and creating dose. dose. As microwaves travel into the tissue, localised heat travel into the tissue, localised heat energy – quickly destroying allenergy travel into the tissue, water water molecules molecules begin begin – quickly destroying all water molecules begin colliding and colliding and creating creating infected tissue within a infected tissue within a predetermined depth. colliding and creating localised localised heat heat energy energy localised heat energy – – quickly quickly destroying destroying all all – quickly destroying all infected infected tissue tissue within within a a infected tissue within a predetermined predetermined depth. depth. predetermined depth.

predetermined depth.

treatment treatment is is complete, complete, treatment is complete, leaving leaving the the body body to to leaving and the body to absorb absorb and replace replace absorb and tissue. replace the the treated treated tissue. the treated tissue.

absorb and replace

In just seconds the treatment is complete, leaving the body to absorb and replace the the In just seconds treatment is complete, In just treated tissue. leaving the body to In just seconds seconds the the In just seconds the

the treated tissue.

Contact us on 01354 651200 for more information about this specialist service and how we can help get rid of this painful, embarrassing problem so your feet feel and look wonderful again.

For For more more information information visit visit For more information visit

For more information visit

www.treatwithswift.com www.treatwithswift.com  Follow us on Facebook

www.treatwithswift.com

MRK25, Issue 2

MarchPodiatry PodiatryPractice PracticeLtd Ltd March Podiatry March Practice Ltd 47-49 High Street, March PE15 9JJ 47-49 HighPE15 Street, 47-49 High Street, March 9JJMarch PE15 9JJ MRK25, MRK25, Issue Issue 2 2 MRK25, Issue 2

01354 651200 Tel 01354 Tel 651200 www.marchpodiatry.co.uk www.marchpodiatry.co.uk

Opening hours: Mon 9am-7pm, Tues 9am-5pm, Weds 9am-7pm, Thurs 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-5pm and Sat 9am-1pm

38

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

Understanding Direct Cremation

W

hat is Direct Cremation?

Direct cremation is a straightforward and increasingly popular method of dealing with a loved one’s remains after death. Unlike traditional funerals, direct cremation involves the cremation of the body without an accompanying funeral service, procession, or ceremony at the time of cremation.

Who Might Choose Direct Cremation?

This option is suitable for those who prefer a nofuss approach, perhaps due to personal beliefs, financial considerations, or a desire for simplicity and privacy. It is also chosen by those who feel a traditional funeral is not required, or who wish to commemorate their loved one in a more personalised way at a later date.

Benefits and Considerations

• Lower cost: Direct cremation is typically the most affordable option for handling a loved one’s remains.

• Less stress: the simplified process can ease the burden on families during a difficult time, allowing them to grieve without immediate decisions about ceremonies and logistics.

• Personalised remembrance: families have the freedom to organise their own memorial or celebration in a way that best reflects the wishes and personality of the deceased.

• Lack of traditional closure: some may find the absence of a formal service or communal mourning difficult, so it’s important to discuss and consider the wishes of both the deceased and their loved ones.

Direct cremation is a dignified and practical option for those seeking a simple, affordable, and flexible approach to saying farewell. While it does not include the traditional trappings of a funeral, it allows families to commemorate their loved one in their own way and at their own pace.

For more information, please contact K.E. Rolfe Independent Family Funeral Directors. Tel: (01354) 651499, email: kerolfe.fd@gmail.com or visit the website: www.kerolfefuneraldirectors.co.uk

Independent Family Funeral Director

24 hours personal care

Professional and Experienced Advice Private chapel of rest All funeral arrangements catered for including Eco-friendly/green burials Agent for Golden Leaves Funeral Plans in 6-8 Dartford Road, March, Cambs PE15 8AD Tel: 01354 651499 association Email: kerolfe.fd@gmail.com • www.kerolfefuneraldirectors.co.uk with F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

39

COMMUNITY

MATTERS

We bring you items of interest for your home and community. If there is something you’d like us to cover or you have something to say please get in touch at: Discovering March, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET Email: editor.march@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

SCHOOLCHILDREN IMPRESS LOCAL VETS

March vets have once again been out and about visiting schools in Fenland.

SigmaVet’s community involvement programme took them to Kingsfield Primary School where they enjoyed a brilliant visit.

The pupils were full of energy and enthusiasm, turning the session into a real conversation about caring for pets. Things were wrapped up with a ‘fantastic’ Q&A session where the children had the chance to quiz staff, showing off their confidence and curiosity as they talked about: what animals need to feel safe, settled, and happy; how to approach, greet, and handle pets gently and respectfully; why daily care and regular check-ups are so important; and the long-term commitment and responsibility of owning a pet.

SigmaVet staff were so impressed by their engagement that they’ve already started planning more in-depth workshops for later in the year for the passionate students.

The company has paid a huge thank you to Kingsfield Primary School of Chatteris for welcoming them and report that more school visits are coming soon, so keep an eye out for more young pet champions.

40

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

EMMA’S MAKING NEW MEMORIES

A

March woman has used a new hobby to start her own business. Emma Foreman made the decision to set up The Little Resin Studio six months ago after the effects of ‘Long Covid’ stopped her from continuing to work as a music teacher.

“I can make all types of things, for example I can dry a wedding bouquet and then create a piece to be enjoyed for years to come. Or memorial keepsakes for people or pets. I even had a friend ask me to make an item from horse hair after losing their own horse.

Now she spends her time making an assortment of bespoke resin art, including memorial jewellery, keepsakes and flower preservation.

“I like to speak with people to discover what they would like and then try and make something personal to them. It is lovely to be able to make an item that makes someone happy.

She said: “When I became unwell, I was unable to continue to play the piano and work as a music teacher so I decided to look for a creative outlet.

I set about finding a new hobby and turned to working with resin, at first making things for friends and family and now as a business.

“I thought the time was right to share details of what I do with a wider audience.”

To discover more, visit Emma’s Facebook page or website www.thelittleresinstudio.co.uk or contact her via email at enquiries@thelittleresinstudio.co.uk

Hand Crafted in the Fens

Bespoke resin designs, created with love: Memorial Jewellery Memorial Keepsakes Pet Memorials Flower Preservation Wedding bouquets , Funeral flowers To discover how I can help you, contact Emma at: enquiries@thelittleresinstudio.co.uk www.thelittleresinstudio.co.uk

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

41

Lesser Celandine or Pilewort Ficaria verna

By Joan Munns, of March Wildlife Group & March & District Woodland Group

T

his flower is one of the first to brighten the days of late winter.

The glossy bright yellow flowers usually appear from mid-February and flowers can still be seen into the middle of May but by the end of May it will have died back to remain dormant until the next year. Like many early spring flowers, Lesser Celandines will not open in dull weather or rain and they are late to open in the morning and close early in the evening.

The flowers are an important nectar source for early insects, especially Queen Bees. However, blooming very early can mean a lack of pollinating insects so the plant has an alternative reproduction strategy.

Small bulbils develop at the junction of each leaf with the stalk and when the plant dies down, these can can be distributed by rain or wildlife to grow elsewhere. It also spreads underground from the roots.

The plants thrive in moist areas and are common under deciduous trees where they will bloom before the trees come into leaf.

The glossy heart-shaped leaves all rise from the base of the plant, as do the single flower stems.

It is a member of the buttercup or ranunculus family and was called Ranunculus ficaria for many years.

The lesser celandine is unlike buttercups having eight almost pointed petals that barely overlap whilst buttercups have five rounded overlapping petals.

Whilst these are delightful flowers, they are not recommended for gardens because of their tendency to spread and difficulty of removal once established. They are very resilient to all treatments.

There were many in the banks of Gault Wood car park but, when the car park was resurfaced in early autumn 2022, the banks were cleared and buried in new topsoil. Next spring they were back, not as prolific but they survived and are spreading again.

It is toxic to grazing animals like horses, cattle, and sheep. It is also bad for humans if consumed raw, causing nausea and gastric problems and has been responsible for liver damage. Heat destroys the toxins and it has beneficial medical properties once cooked.

42

D I S C O V E R I N G March

Lesser Celandine has eight glossy petals

Its alternative name of Pilewort is deserved, as it is an effective treatment for haemorrhoids.

It can be made Lesser Celandin into an infusion e of 1oz in a pint of water for internal consumption in small wineglassful doses. An ointment of crushed leaves mixed with lard can be used for external application or as suppositories.

There is also a Greater Celandine that is a member of the poppy family and totally different and unrelated to the Lesser Celandine, which we will look at next time.

Next Gault Wood Work Parties are Saturdays February 7th and March 7th at 10am.

If you'd like to support our work at the wood as a volunteer, please contact the Woodland Trust using this email: volunteering@woodlandtrust.org.uk Alternatively, you might like to support the Nature's Calendar project, which focuses on phenology, which is the study of plant and animal reaction to climate change. Nature's Calendar (woodlandtrust.org.uk) FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

Independent Family Funeral Directors in March, Cambridgeshire Compassionate and professional funeral planning and arrangement Whether you’re simply seeking advice, planning a funeral for yourself or someone close to you, we can provide compassionate and personal guidance.

We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to offer services that meet your needs and requirements.

Telephone: 01354 652 101 | Email: info@turnerandson.co.uk Turner & Son, City Road, March PE15 9LS

Professional Foot Health Practitioner Peter Stanley MAFHP, MCFHP • Nail trimming/reduction • Verrucae • Callus/corn removal • Ingrown • Fungal nail/athlete’s foot • Cracked heels • Thickened nails • Diabetes foot care • Neurovascular assessment

HOME VISITS ONLY

Call Peter on 07842 553554 Email footprinceuk@gmail.com F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

43

CLEARANCES

REMOVALS

AUCTIONS

Take the hassle out of a house clearance with our fast house clearance service (items sold on your behalf with potential return after costs).

Local and international removal services; professional and fully insured team with a range of vehicles to accommodate a full home to home move – distance is no issue!

Are you looking to buy or sell?

We hold regular auctions with online access available as well as in person, at our own auction rooms.

Contact us by telephone, email or pop in and see us for a chat to discuss our services.

01733 963031 or 07583 816019

email enquiries@glynjones-auctions.com visit www.glynjones-auctions.com UNIT 16, SPRINGWATER BUSINESS PARK, STATION ROAD, WHITTLESEY PE7 2EU

44

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

WEDNESDAYS

9am, 10.30am, 5.30pm & 7pm at 2nd March Scout Hut, Mill View (Nr Sainsbury’s), March, Cambs PE15 8SY Contact Jamie on 07415 175655

NEW 7.30am SESSIONS AVAILABLE NOW Same venue as above... this one is for you early birds!

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

45

Local History

THE HIPPODROME, DARTFORD ROAD

T

By Jennifer Lawler

he highlight in March in February 1929 must have been the opening of the magnificent new Hippodrome and Theatre Royal.

The Hippodrome, March’s ‘palatial new home of amusement’ by March Amusements Ltd, with directors Sir Walter West, Mr H Bancroft and Mr Stanley Pilgrim, opened on February 12th,1929.

It was described as one of the finest of its kind in East Anglia, with no expense spared, costing more than £20,000. The frontage was in Dartford Road, with a side entrance in Darthill Road, and high on the corner was the word ‘Hippo’ in large floodlit gilt letters.1

Newspapers described the details. At the main entrance, the attractive frontage was in stonework over which was a pediment bearing the company monogram. Two pairs of oak swing-doors with a large ruby glass leaded light above led into the foyer. The foyer with its red floor was spacious, with three steps to the auditorium. Walls were decorated in old gold and lemon with ten panels for paintings of scenes in the town. Three blue parchment glass bowls containing electric lights hung from the ceiling. The main staircase with oak handrail and wrought iron balustrading led to the balcony and the rest of the upper floor.

Three oak swing-doors opened into the auditorium.

The ground floor had seating for 650 people with elegant tip-up chairs, the floor covered with Wilton Turkey carpet. The walls were panelled in tangerine and old gold with a brown dado.

There were three exits from the auditorium – one into the foyer and two opening on to Darthill Road. A five-inch solid steel pillar supported the balcony. The balcony with Turkey pattern carpet extended over the auditorium with tip-up chairs for 424 people. At the rear of the balcony was the cinematographic operating room. Two of Gaumont’s latest Eclipse projectors were installed with electrical equipment. From the balcony also three exits were provided, opening on to fire-proof concrete staircases.

46

D I S C O V E R I N G March

The large stage held full equipment for lighting effects. Suspended above the stage were three reflectors containing fifty-four 100-candle-power electric lights, and thirty-two footlights. The space beneath the stage was a store room, next to the orchestra dressing-room. The boiler house and fuel store supplied hot water to the numerous radiators.

A modern system of ventilation had been installed.

Electricity was stored in a detached building.2 It was the first theatre that Messrs. Eggitt and Sons had built. Mr Burdett Wood, architect, said eighty-ninety men were employed. Sir Hugh LucasTooth MP described March as ‘one of the most prosperous, thriving and growing towns not only in East Anglia, but in the whole of England.’ He described March in the centre of the Fens with no big industries, relying on agriculture and the railway; surprising that the town was so prosperous.3 By 1970 films continued, though it became a Bingo Hall. It closed in 2009 and reopened in 2011 after a major refurbishment as Wetherspoons.

1

The Cambridgeshire Times February 8th, 1929

2

The Cambridgeshire Times February 8th, 1929

3

The Cambridgeshire Times February 18th, 1929

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

• Free hearing tests • State of the art rechargeable hearing aids which are compatible with all mobile phones • Effective painless wax removal • Noise protection You can visit us at one of our local clinics: St Ives Practice 13 The Broadway St Ives PE27 5BX Tel: (01480) 300955

“When someone in the family has a hearing loss, the entire family has a hearing problem.”

Wisbech Practice 31 High Street Wisbech PE13 1DE Tel: (01945) 466386

For information on any of the services we provide, or to discuss your specific requirements, please get in touch.

Email: info@clearerhearing.co.uk

AWARD-WINNING CARE AT THE GABLES CARE HOME IN CHATTERIS

We provide respite care or longer-term residential care and support at our home in Chatteris Rooms at The Gables are decorated to an exceptionally high standard and most feature ensuite facilities. There are large, communal living and dining areas and access to our beautiful, well-kept garden where we host events with families and our local community.

We provide high-quality care including fresh, nutritious meals and a wide variety of activities are available.

Prices are available on request and depend upon the room and level of care required.

Our home is rated as good with the Care Quality Commission and is one of the Top 20 care homes in East Anglia, based on reviews from the highly respected carehome.co.uk website.

To find out more, please give us a call or visit us online.

Tel: 01354 693858 Email: thegables@blackswan.co.uk www.blackswan.co.uk

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

47

TO PC OR NOT TO PC?

PHILIP AT DIAMOND BYTE

F

or decades, the gaming community has been squabbling over a single question: is gaming better on a PC or on a console?

As far as we are concerned, there is absolutely no doubt whatsoever – PC gaming is king! To discover why a gamer will always have a better experience on a PC than a console, read on!

Graphics and Performance. Built with high-quality components, a gaming PC offers significantly advanced performance and graphics: • Graphics card – for top-quality visuals.

• CPU (Central Processing Unit) – for smooth gameplay.

• RAM – for smooth transitions and rapid load times.

• Hard Drive – providing ample space for installing and accessing your games library.

In addition, it is quick and easy to upgrade these individual components over the course of time.

In comparison, consoles have fixed (therefore un-upgradeable) hardware configurations, meaning they have limited processing power, memory, and storage, as well as restricted frame rates.

Extensive Game Library. PC gaming has existed for more than sixty years, meaning that players have access to more games on PC than any other platform. From old classics to the latest releases, the availability of games on platforms like Steam, GOG, and Epic Games Store is second to none – Steam alone offers more than fifty thousand!

Console libraries are much smaller by comparison. The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X allow for backward compatibility with the previous generation and do have libraries for older systems. Nintendo Switch Online allows players to access restricted titles from older consoles including the NES, SNES, and N64. Nintendo offers approximately three thousand games.

Customisation. Personalisation is what PC gaming is all about! Players can configure controls, install various different peripherals, and even ‘mod’ their favourite games. Modding (modifications) allows players to tweak graphics, add new features, or completely overhaul a game, thus extending the interest of the game.

Online Community. Multiplayer gaming on PC is a cut above the rest thanks to dedicated servers, excellent communication tools, and

hundreds of forums and communities, making it easy to connect with friends or like-minded players.

Moreover, online play is often free, unlike consoles which may require subscriptions for multiplayer access.

Value for Money. While the initial investment in a gaming PC can be higher than a console, PCs offer better value over time. Steam, Epic GOG and Microsoft frequently offer highly discounted games and in addition, expensive online service subscriptions are rare.

On a console however, PlayStation games are only available from the PS Store, with Xbox, you’re limited to the Microsoft Store and on Switch, the Nintendo eShop is your only choice.

Whilst these stores do offer sales, prices generally remain higher for longer periods.

When you also factor in that a gaming PC serves as a normal desktop PC for business, schoolwork, or as a general home PC, the higher price can be justified. A gaming PC is actually a fantastic machine for creative professionals since the powerful CPU and GPU are able to handle demanding tasks such as video editing, 3D modelling, and graphic design.

FOR THIS AND ALL MY OTHER BLOGS GO TO WWW.DIAMONDBYTE.CO.UK

Diamond Byte Computer Repairs & Sales

wisbech@diamondbyte.com / www.diamondbyte.co.uk Find us on Facebook at fb.me/thepcguy

01945 585201

Unit 5, Pondworld Retail Park, Lynn Road, Wisbech PE14 7DA

48

D I S C O V E R I N G March

NO Fix NO Fee Business To Business-Home Users Call Out Ser vices-Remote Suppor t Vir us Removal-Data Recover y Broadband / W iFi-Networ k Setup New and Refurbished Laptops and Desktops Custom Built Gaming PCs

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

MEN UNITED IN SONG 2026 Supporting Prostate Cancer UK

If you’re looking for something new, exciting and very rewarding in 2026, then Men United in Song is it!

W

e’re looking for around forty ordinary men – just like YOU – to join a fun, nineweek singing project launching in March. There’s NO audition and you don’t need any experience – just your enthusiasm to jump in the deep end, try something new and give it your best shot!

Working towards a fantastic live charity event at Peterborough Cathedral on Saturday May 16th, you’ll learn to sing, meet new people, forge new friendships and perform live on stage - with plenty of laughs along the way - AND

raise lots of money for our charity partner, Prostate Cancer UK. Plus, of course, there are the well-documented physical and emotional benefits of group singing, which have been scientifically proven, time and again, to improve confidence, wellbeing, productivity and even immune response... what’s not to like?!

Project Director, Will Prideaux, explains, “It’s not about finding the next Gary Barlow or Alfie Boe. It’s about helping ordinary men find their voice. So many men truly believe they can't sing, but we promise to have you singing - and loving it - in no time!”

Men United in Song kicks off with sign-up sessions on Thursday March 5th (6.30pm - 10pm) and Friday March 6th (6.30pm - 10pm). This is NOT an audition, just an opportunity to find out more and get involved. Get in touch TODAY, book your time slot, and start YOUR singing journey!

For further details contact Jo on 01733 425194 or email menunited@peterboroughsings.org.uk.

F E BRUA RY 2026

Here’s what some of the men who took part last year have to say about the project:

“The hard work paid off! Thanks for finding something in us that most didn’t know we had!”

“Fantastic experience from the first rehearsal... thanks for getting us all through the journey!”

“What a great experience, would do it all again in a heartbeat!”

Sign-up sessions will be at The John Mansfield Campus, Peterborough, PE1 4HX. Please call or email first to register.

• Rehearsals will be on Thursday evenings, 7.45pm - 9.45pm, at The John Mansfield Campus, starting on Thursday March 12th.

• The Men United in Song event will be at Peterborough Cathedral on Saturday May 16th.

D I S C O V E R I N G March

49

Helping Community Groups across the Fens Whether you’re an existing group or thinking about starting one, Support Fenland can help with networking, training, volunteering, one-to-one support, funding advice and regular news updates.

Meet the Team Marija Lysak - Fenland Development Officer Marija has over 25 years’ experience across the private, education and charity sectors, with roles including Business Development Manager, UK Sales and Marketing Manager, Education Consultant, and within teaching and pastoral support. Having lived and worked in the Fens for much of her career, she supports community groups across Whittlesey, March, Wisbech, Chatteris and surrounding villages. Marija supports both established and grassroots groups with funding and grant applications, governance documents, free training and strategic events to help organisations grow and strengthen.

Sarah Hall - Fenland Communities Officer Sarah has worked in the voluntary and community sector for over 20 years and joined CCVS in 2024. A lifelong Fenland resident, she supports local groups with development and networking. Passionate about volunteering and the local community. Sarah works closely with organisations to strengthen community connections across Fenland.

Kenny Brown - Fenland Communications Worker Kenny joined CCVS in 2025, bringing extensive experience across marketing, communications and the charity sector. He supports local causes across Fenland through storytelling, digital engagement and raising awareness of the incredible work happening in local communities.

Rima Simkute - Volunteering Development Officer Rima joined CCVS in 2023 and supports volunteering across FenlandFacebook and the wider Cambridgeshire area. With experience leading community groups and developing local projects, she helps connect people with meaningful volunteering opportunities. Deeply involved in her local community, Rima is passionate about bringing people together and building strong, welcoming networks.

To find out more or get support, contact us at: fenland@supportcambridgeshire.org.uk 50

Support Cambridgeshire registered address: The Maple Centre, 6 Oak Drive, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, PE29 7HN Charity number: 1114926

D I S C O V E R I N G March

Facebook Facebook

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

Weddings at the

The GER Sports Club

The GER Sports Club is a wonderful venue situated in the heart of the town of March and hosts bespoke weddings for members of the club.

For further information please contact the club on 01354 652335 or email germarch@live.co.uk

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

51

COMMUNITY

MATTERS

We bring you items of interest for your home and community. If there is something you’d like us to cover or you have something to say please get in touch at: Discovering March, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET Email: editor.march@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

information on opportunities, services and support available to over-sixties in Fenland. There was music from 'Fenland's Choir' and, as always at Golden Age events, free refreshments.

Visitors to all Golden Age events, which are held at venues across Fenland four times a year, get a goodie bag.

Photo: Santa with Fenland District Council community support officer Hayley Mears (left), Cllr Sam Clark, Golden Age team leader, and Marjorie (Madge) Cotterell (right), widow of the late Cllr Mac Cotterell who founded Golden Age fairs twenty-two years ago!

RECORD ATTENDANCE AT GOLDEN AGE EVENT Generous donations given by the Fenland community have been distributed to older people at a free festive event which saw an unprecedented turnout of visitors.

Gifts given to the Golden Age Appeal were given to visitors at the December Golden Age event, this year held in March.

Individuals, organisations and community groups donated gifts, money and support to enhance and pack goodie bags given to visitors at the event.

Cllr Sam Clark, Golden Age team leader, said: "We're so incredibly grateful to everyone who supported the Golden Age Appeal and all those who have supported the Golden Age events for so many years.

“The Golden Age events are now in their twentysecond year and they couldn't happen without all the partners who come along. This is the second year we've run the gift appeal to enhance the goodie bags and so many individuals, organisations and community groups got behind it to help show Fenland's older people how cherished they are. A huge thank you to them all."

A total of forty-five service providing organisations were represented, offering chats and information, with a record-breaking turnout of 340 visitors enjoying festive cheer at the event where they were able to stroll around stands to gather 52

D I S C O V E R I N G March

£1.5M REVAMP FOR PLAY EQUIPMENT IN FENLAND'S PARKS Play areas across Fenland are to get a £1.5million revamp, Fenland District Council's cabinet has agreed.

Detailed plans are to be drawn up in consultation with elected members and communities across the district to identify where the money can be best used.

The council will fund the project through an award from the Government's Pride in Place Impact Fund with funds having to be invested by March 2027.

Improving play equipment across the district was identified as a council priority for investment through the 'Fenland Inspire!' priority list of investment drawn up by cabinet.

Cllr Jan French, the district council's portfolio holder for parks and open spaces, said: "This is an exciting opportunity for Fenland. This investment will make a tangible difference to the open spaces that are so valuable to our communities and we're eager to ensure the investment is spread across the district."

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

What’s Coming Up EVERY THURSDAY: FREE PUB QUIZ

7.30pm start, FREE entry, all welcome. No limit on team size

SATURDAY 14th FEBRUARY VALENTINE’S NIGHT WITH ONE WILD NIGHT

Tickets £10 members, £12 guests

SUNDAY 15TH FEBRUARY SUNDAY CARVERY

by Pig ‘n’ Spud Roasts

Come and give it a try! £17 per person for two courses

Future dates in 2026...

SUNDAY 15TH MARCH – MOTHERS DAY SUNDAY 19TH APRIL FRIDAY 20th FEBRUARY: CASH BINGO NIGHT Eyes down at 7.30pm

SUN 22nd FEBRUARY: MONTHLY QUIZ NIGHT 7.30pm start

FRIDAY 27th FEBRUARY ELVIS TRIBUTE NIGHT WITH PETE WEBB

Tickets £8 members, £10 guests

SATURDAY 7th MARCH THE BEATLES TRIBUTE NIGHT

Tickets £10 members, £12 guests

SATURDAY 21st MARCH CHARITY HORSE RACE NIGHT IN AID OF THE AIR AMBULANCE Free entry

For more information contact the Club on

01354 653150

or go to the Club Facebook page and just search for March Con Club. If you like the page you will get all the updates for what’s going on.

Why not come and see what the Club has to offer?

We have very limited availability for private bookings. For more information about this or any of our events, please contact the club.

GAMES ROOM Featuring snooker and two pool tables, a big screen TV, PLUS TWO DARTBOARDS! We also have a JUKEBOX that is able to play in all rooms!

The games room can be accessed by members from 9am.

D I Road, S C O VMarch E R I N PE15 G March NEW MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME 14 Creek 8RD53

F E BRUA RY 2026

T

BACKING THE FIGHT FOR FREEDOM

By Steve Barclay MP

he scenes from Iran have been both uplifting and horrifying. The most incredible bravery from Iranians of all ages protesting in the hope of freedom, contrasting with the regime’s appalling tyranny and killings.

At the time of writing, we don't know whether the protests will succeed. It is already clear that very many lives have been lost through the brutality of the security services. I'm sure many across Fenland are watching these events closely and hoping for a better future for those fighting for their liberty.

Parliament started the year with a series of Government U-turns on the family farm tax, business rates on pubs and digital ID cards. This has dominated the conversations in Westminster, with speculation that stopping the proposed restrictions to trial by jury may be next. I certainly hope so as jury trials have for more than eight hundred years been a cornerstone of our legal system.

The detail on these changes has yet to be published in full, and I know many farmers remain concerned as only a partial reversal has been announced. Likewise, the changes indicated for pubs have not been announced for other hospitality businesses which is worrying. I continue

to work actively in Parliament to highlight local examples of what these changes will mean to firms and farms within our community.

A long-running issue locally has been the risk of environmental pollution from Saxon Pit. It is welcome that Cambridgeshire’s Director of Public Health has begun investigating. An initial threemonth study established that higher than normal heavy metal is present in nearby waterways, but the Director of Public Prosecutions has said she does not regard this as a threat to public health She has undertaken to do further work in particular on noise, odour and dust concerns.

Another continuing issue is the proposal to build huge pylons up to fifty metres high across the north of Fenland. Many residents locally are understandably alarmed about the visual impacts of the pylons and the reduction it may cause to house valuations. These pylons should be placed underground as is the case in many other countries and I will continue to make that point In Westminster.

On a happier note, a huge congratulations to Wally Newman from Whittlesey who recently celebrated his 100th birthday and who has been recognised for contribution to the community with the award of the Freedom of Whittlesey. After two decades as chairman of the Royal British Legion, this honour is a fitting tribute to his remarkable service and dedication.

To find out more about my work in Parliament or local campaigns, visit my website www.stevebarclay.net or follow me on social media:  @SteveBarclay  @SteveBarclayOfficial  @SteveBarclayOfficial 54

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

Answers

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

55

1) You Tube, 2) Aquarius, 3) Amour, 4) Paris, 5) Richard Cadbury, 6) Oliver Cromwell, 7) Italy, 8) Cupid, 9) Amethyst, 10) Dove, 11) Robert Burns, 12) Swizzles, 13) Al Capone, 14) Chicago, 15) Keira Knightley, 16) Brokeback Mountain, 17) Elvis Presley, 18) The Supremes, 19) Adele, 20) Simon Pegg.

FIVE STEPS TO BREAK FREE from Debt Blues this Winter

Fenland debt coach reveals top tips to getting out of debt in 2026

A

By Lorraine Milton

s a debt coach with Christians Against Poverty (CAP) in Fenland, I witness the severe toll that financial anxiety takes on many people.

As the weather turns colder and the heating needs cranking up, many face the harsh reality that there’s no money left for the meter. Then the credit card bills begin to pile up. If that’s the kind of situation you currently face, here are my top tips on how you can start to break free from the debt blues.

Have a post-Christmas clear-out Why not have a good clear-out and set aside any unwanted toys, clothes or other items that you could sell to earn a little extra cash? Organise your kitchen cupboards so that you know exactly what food supplies you have.

Take some time for yourself Financial worries can take a toll, so it’s important to prioritise your wellbeing and take some time out without putting stress on your budget. Search online for free local activities, go for a quiet 56

walk at a local beauty spot or even check out what events are going on at your local church.

There are lots of free things you can do that can help keep you positive.

Plan ahead, don’t put off It might be tempting to ignore the unopened bills piling up, or to avoid checking your bank balance for fear of what it might reveal. However, facing your financial situation headon is crucial. Why not start by downloading CAP’s budgeting guide at capuk.org/budgeting to create your own personal budget?

Get support from a friend Addressing our financial worries can be a difficult task to tackle alone, so if you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider talking to a trusted friend or family member who can support you.

D I S C O V E R I N G March

Seek free help Start the year off well by investing in your financial wellbeing. We provide free, expert debt advice, guidance on finding work and money coaching workshops, all delivered face-to-face so you’ll receive an effective combination of practical and emotional support.

If you’re struggling with unmanageable debt, call our free helpline on 0800 328 0006 and chat to one of our friendly CAP advisors who’ll arrange for a local debt coach to visit you in your home. They’ll chat through your options and support you through the process until you become debt free.

You can find more information on all CAP’s services in your area at capuk.org/help Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity working with more than 800 affiliated churches to deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills education and more.

Visit capuk.org to find out more.

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

A&S Hearing Services

Ears Blocked with Wax?

Struggling to Hear the Television or Telephone?

You may be suffering with blocked ears.

Same Day Wax Removal Service

Independent Hearing Aid Specialist Free Hearing Tests & Home Visits Available 31 Queen Street, Whittlesey PE7 1AY

01733 840454

(WHITTLESEY BY APPOINTMENT ONLY)

2 East Park Street, Chatteris PE16 6LD

01354 741517

Open: Mon, Tue, Thurs & Fri: 10am-4pm, Sat: 10am-2pm, Wed & Sun: Closed

Treat a loved one to a delicious meal for valentine’s day Book with us now!

OPEN TUES, WEDS & THURS: 12–11PM FRI & SAT: 9AM–11PM SUNDAYS: 9AM–8PM

THE SEVEN STARS Breakfast served 9a m-11. 30pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday WIDE RANGE OF BEERS & SPIRITS GREAT SELECTION OF REAL ALES

FOOD SERVED

TUES, WEDS & THURS: 12–2.30PM & 5–8.30PM FRIDAY & SATURDAY: 9AM–2.30PM AND 5–8.30PM ON SUNDAYS: 9AM–3.30PM

75 THE AVENUE, MARCH PE15 9PS T: 01354 655258 THESEVENSTARSMARCH@GMAIL.COM • FIND US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM

F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

57

Local History

INFERNO AT CENTENARY BAPTIST CHAPEL

T

By Peter Wright on behalf of March & District Museum

he funeral of Frank Stewart at the Centenary Baptist Chapel in High Street early on Thursday afternoon October 15th, 1959, was conducted

by Rev W C Spooner who then went to the Hereward Boys’ School to attend Speech Day.

After the burial in Eastwood Cemetery, the mourners returned to the school room in the basement of the chapel.

Five ladies, including Mrs Spooner, assisted with the refreshments. The last to leave was Mrs N Lewis, of Gaul Road, at about 4.05pm. She neither saw nor smelled anything of Centenary Baptist Church 1900 (Haylock Collection) the catastrophe that was to follow.

A few minutes later, Don Aveling, a farmer of Station Road, was passing. He glanced up and saw a tiny wisp of smoke filtering up between slates in the chapel roof. As he watched, he saw more smoke and immediately reported the matter to March Police Station. The alarm was sounded at 4.12pm. Several policemen ran to the chapel and broke in at the rear through the boiler house door.

However, the blaze was well established high up in the roof above the chapel entrance. It was clear Firefighter at the height of the blaze (Photo: Cambs Times) that it was too far advanced for them to try and extinguish it. All they could do was dodge burning debris as they unbolted the front doors so that firemen could get in as soon as they arrived and close all the internal doors to prevent draughts encouraging the flames.

Crowds gathered on the pavement to watch a great column of black smoke rise and blow towards Burrowmoor Road. The crackle of flames as they bit deep into the beautifully carved and varnished wooden roof panelling could be clearly heard. The first firemen arrived just as the glass of the large window above the entrance doors shattered in the heat and great tongues of orange-red flames could be seen filling the interior and billowing out through the window.

Police and firemen managed to rescue the chapel safe with marriage records and other documents.

58

D D II SS C C O O V V E E R R II N N G G March

Above: Firefighters at the height of the blaze (Photo: Cambs Times) Left: Centenary Baptist Church 1900 (Haylock Collection)

By 4.30pm, the fire had burned through the roof and seconds later it disintegrated, crashing down in a sea of fire, sending flames and debris high into the darkening sky. Rev Spooner was called from the school and he managed to salvage some communion plate and choir music. Rev Spooner could only then join the crowd of onlookers and watch in silence as his beloved church was destroyed before his very eyes.

The firemen faced a helpless task. They were hampered by insufficient water pressure and concentrated their efforts on containing the fire and protect adjacent properties. Firemen from Chatteris and Wisbech also assisted while the fire was at its height. Although the fire was brought under control fairly quickly by March men under the direction of station officer A W Hudson, they were not able to leave until 11.45pm. Even then, two men remained all night as a precaution to watch for any hidden spark of fire. Mr Hudson said that as his men first entered the chapel, they faced 'a mass of fire'. It was the biggest blaze in March for many years.

March Museum is located in High Street and is open Wednesdays and Saturdays 10.30am-3.30pm www.marchmuseum.co.uk Email: info@marchmuseum.co.uk

FE FE BR BR UA UA R RY Y 2 20 02 26 6

...then you need Hurst Media Services

Is your business the best kept secret?

We are an experienced Cambridgeshire-based public relations consultancy with a proven track record of providing top-quality editorial for companies across a variety of business sectors, from small one-man operations through to £multi-billion international corporations.

We can handle all your publicity requirements... from press releases, company reports and presentations through to social media content.

Want to get your message in front of potential new customers?

Don’t delay, contact Hurst Media Services today PR by professionals, for professionals.

Tel: (01354) 657253 or 07736 947803 Email: andyh.stonecross@btinternet.com

Fancy having a stylish website built and LIVE in 7 hours?

With our new ‘lucky7’ websites you definitely can! ➜ Agreed date to commence work ➜ 7 dedicated hours including... ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

Domain name registered Web hosting setup 3-4 page website designed Wordpress website built Browser and device tested SEO / Google Analytics added Website made LIVE

Call 07423 564231 Call 07423 564231

£395 Plus do and ho main sting

Call 07423 564231

Call 07423 564231

Call07423 07423564231 564231 Call

Interested? Contact marketing.discoveringmagazines@gmail.com F E BRUA RY 2026

D I S C O V E R I N G March

59

LOCAL CLUBS & GROUPS Fenland Music Centre: For musicians of all ages and abilities.

Fridays (term-times) 6-9pm at St Peter's Church March. Orchestra, Concert Band, String, Wind, Brass and Recorder Ensembles. For more information see our website, find us on Facebook or email fenlandmusiccentreassociation@gmail.com Solo Club: For people who have lost partners through bereavement. Come along and join us every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month; midday at Hot Pots Cafe – The Cricket Club, Burrowmoor Road, March PE15 9RS. Membership £5/year.

For more details contact 01354 656181 or 01354 654169.

Friends of March Library: Coffee morning at March Library on the last Saturday of every month from 10 30am to 12 noon.

Hot and cold drinks plus biscuits cost 50p and we also hold a raffle. All profits are spent on/by March Library. For more details contact Maureen Malvern on 01354 658247.

Wisbech and District Flower Club: See beautiful flower arrangements being made by local and national demonstrators.

Meets every 3rd Monday of the month at St Peters Hall, Wisbech.

For more information, call 07857 690312 (Secretary) or 07780 790163 (Treasurer).

March Parkinson's Group: Meets on the first Wednesday of each month from 10.30am-12.30pm at the Braza Club, Elm Road, March. This is a friendly group and everyone is welcome. £1 per session so pop along for a free taster and check us out. Please contact Wendy Summerlin on 01354 661997 for more details.

March Lions Club: Meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 7.30pm in the FACT Community Room at Martin Avenue.

New members always welcome. For more information visit marchlions.org.uk or call 0345 833 5101.

March Raceway: One of the oldest 1/12 radio control car oval clubs in the UK. Our members range from 8 to 75 years old so all are welcome! Race every Friday at Longhill Road Social Club, Longhill Road, March PE15 0PR (at the prison). Doors open 6.30pm. For fixtures and further information visit marchraceway.weebly.com or find us on Facebook.

March Rifle Club: meets at the indoor range, Upwell Road, March, every Tuesday evening from 7pm-9pm to shoot 0.22LR target rifles. Also bench rest and prone air rifle shooting. Please contact us prior to first attendance. Email info@marchrifle.club March Dog Training Club: Meets at Tower Hall, Maltmas Drove Fridaybridge PE14 OHW every Wednesday evening. Membership is £5 per year and classes are £3 per session. Puppy class commences at 6pm. For more information of other classes please contact Maggie on 01354 657185 or 07514 882509.

March Bears Rugby Club: Be part of a thriving, supportive, and fun-loving community that celebrates rugby in all its forms. Reach out on social media: @marchbearsrugby on Facebook and Instagram or email info@marchbearsrufcorg.uk to learn more.

March Wildlife Group & March and District Woodland Group: Meets regularly at 10am on the 1st Saturday of each month at Gault Wood for work parties. For details contact marybarrington123@gmail.com March Friendship Club: Meets on the second Thursday of every month at St Peter's Church Hall, High Street, March PE15 9JR from 2pm to 4pm. All people over 50 welcome, refreshments available. The Club is associated with the Cambridgeshire Older People's Enterprise (COPE), looking after the interests and well-being of Older People in Cambridgeshire. For more details contact Rosie on 07887 514591 or Susan on 07547 191315.

Rotary Club of March: Meets at the Conservative Club, Creek Road, on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month at 7pm for a meal at 7.30pm. Open to all adults, supporting local and international good causes. For more information, search March Rotary Club on Facebook or online or call 07920 556501.

March Morning WI: Why not join our lively and friendly group?

Meets on the 2nd Thursday of the month at The Braza Club, Elm Road, March PE15 8NZ at 9.30am to 11.45am. All ladies welcome.

If you are interested, phone 01354 660873 for more information.

March Jive Club: At the Braza Club, Elm Road, March PE15 8NZ. Meets every Wednesday night 7.30-10.30pm with 1:1 personal tuition available. Every 3rd Friday of the month dance with top line groups and DJs. For more info call Hannah 07990 072974 or Terry 07979 442920.

March Probus Club: Meets every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at March Conservative Club as a group of semi or fully retired gentlemen; 10am for a cuppa and a chat and then at 10.30am we have a guest speaker for approx 45 mins covering a wide range of topics. To find out more please contact Dr Allan J Whyte (Club Secretary) on 07979 887110 or pop in.

To advertise your club or group please call Paula for more information on 07903 776211 or email marketing.discoveringmagazines@gmail.com

March U3A: For people in their third age; retired or not in full time employment. Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Braza Club, Elm Road, March at 2pm. There is a range of activities available in groups run by U3A members.

New members are very welcome. If you would like any more information please email march.u3a.enquires@gmail.com March Marlins Swimming Club: We swim every week night and can offer membership to swimmers of all ages and abilities from stage eight to masters. We are a friendly, competitive swimming club. Contact us for a free trial session at swimatmarlins@gmail.com The Other Art Group: Meets every Thursday afternoon 2-4pm at March Library. Membership fee is £30 for 12 weeks paid quarterly. If you are interested, please contact the Chairman; Derek on 07799 485477.

60

www.wisbechtennisclub.org.uk

07549 263767 wtcmembership@hotmail.co.uk

ALL AGES AND LEVELS WELCOME Call, text or email for information about a range of membership options for individuals and family groups.

PAY-TO-PLAY ALSO AVAILABLE

D I S C O V E R I N G March

FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6 Wisbech Tennis 1-8 june 22.indd 1

17/05/2022 13:21

DIRECTORY BUSINESS FEATURE OF THE MONTH:

MARCH OSTEOPATHS: A BALANCE OF SPIRIT, MIND, AND BODY

A

gentle, effective, and drug-free treatment, administered by an osteopath, begins with a diligent search for the cause of affliction and dysfunction.

Rather than treating symptoms in isolation and prescribing common suppressive drugs, we observe the entirety of the individual, assessing posture, lifestyle, relationships and the root cause of pain and dysfunction. Treatment addresses your posture, your spinal alignment and vitality.

This is healed by the easing of muscles and tissues which uphold the spine, permitting joints to find their natural repose, thus engendering flexibility and ease in movement. We approach each soul's care with a mind to the whole, achieving a balance of spirit, mind, and body.

Very often, spinal joints, as a result of compression, impinge on nerves and cause pain. Both back, knee and head pain are the result of nerve compression.

For more information, contact March Osteopaths on (01354) 660513 or visit the website www.gurusingh.org.uk

GENTLE, EFFECTIVE & DRUGFREE, AN OSTEOPATH TREATS THE WHOLE INDIVIDUAL; EVALUATING ALL THE CAUSES OF PAIN, DYSFUNCTION & LIFESTYLE FACTORS RATHER THAN TREATING SYMPTOMS IN ISOLATION.

Treatments for Back Pain, Neck Pain, Migraine, Headache, Frozen Shoulder & Plantar Fasciitis.

2 Station Approach Tel: 01354 660513 www.gurusingh.org.uk www.whitetantriclondon.org

ALL VEHICLES WANTED

AERIAL & SATELLITE INSTALLATIONS

TV Aerial Installations ● CCTV Systems ● Satellite Installations ● Data Cabling ● IRS & Commercial ● Servicing & Repairs

MARCH OSTEOPATHS

WANTED ALL CARS, VANS, TRUCKS & 4X4s, NEW

●

AND OLD FROM £100-£10,000 PAID! INCLUDES SCRAP VEHICLES TOP PRICE AND NON-RUNNERS S PAID WE COME TO YOU

www.airborneaerials.co.uk gary@airborneaerials.co.uk

01733 691200 07512 394975

Other services include TV aerial and satellite installations and repairs

DECORATING & TILING

A.M Fisher Electrical Contractor

Decorating and Tiling Specialist

March (Est 1972)

Expert interior and exterior decoration, including:

✓ Domestic & Commercial installations

• FREE estimates & references available on request • Fully insured

Call Tony on - Mobile: 07908 008007 | Telephone: 01487 815926 E-mail: tda-services@hotmail.co.uk | Based in March

10% OFF

if you men tion this advert

Appearance is not everything, it’s the only thing!

W W W.DI SCOVER INGMAGAZI N E S.CO.UK | F E B RUARY 2026

WWW.WP-CARS.CO.UK ELECTRICIAN

T. D. A. Services • All types of painting, staining & varnishing • Wall & floor tiling • Wallpapering

CALL WAYNE: 07778 057991

✓ Inspections & testing carried out 01354 740206 | 07770 931667 alwynfisher@btconnect.com

Business Directory

61

GATES & FENCING

GARDEN CARE

FENLAND GATE & FENCING ESTD. 30 YEARS

ALL TYPES OF GATES & FENCING SUPPLIED, INSTALLED & REPAIRED

HEDGE & CONIFER REMOVAL • TRIMMING SERVICE GARDEN SHED REPAIRS & ROOF RE-FELTS • FREE ADVICE • FREE QUOTES

CALL STEVE KENNEDY 01354 653782 | 07897 339334 GUTTERING, FASCIAS & ROOFING

ROOFING, FASCIAS & GUTTERING

5 STAR

Please call for a FREE estimate • Fascias & Guttering • All roofing work undertaken 07393 942998 • Repairs & replacements • All colours supplied & fitted 0800 1910467 • UPVC Fascias & Soffits 01480 877586 • Ridge Tiles • Slipped Slates Don’t move 01354 776396 14 day cooling off period ve!

• Lead Work – impro Your happiness is our priority!

• Moss Removal

PINE TREE CARE & LANDSCAPES LTD

ALL TYPES OF GARDEN MAINTENANCE UNDERTAKEN Tree Felling • Pruning Shaping & Crowning Hedges Pruned & Shaped Overgrown Gardens Cleared Waste Removed • Fencing Patios • Turfing • Power Washing

All work fully guaranteed No deposits required OAP DISCOUNTS

CALL STEVE TODAY ON 01945 898314 OR 07780 929409 pinetreecare1@gmail.com

GARDEN CARE

Ashwood Tree and Garden Landscapes YOUR HAPPINESS IS OUR PRIORITY

✔ Patios & Paving ✔ Landscape Garden Work

✔ Fencing ✔ Tree Work ✔ Power Cleaning

✔ Moss Removal ✔ Full Garden Tidies 14 day cooling off period

We now provide metal fencing in a variety of colours and sizes (as pictured in the background) W i t h a l i f e t i m e g u a ra n t e e !

Free estimates and friendly advice

0800 1910467

Steve 07393 942998

01354 776396

Andy 01480 877586

ONE DOES ITCALL ALL

GARDEN CARE

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK GUTTER CLEANING

SRW GARDEN CARE All kinds of general gardening: Hedge trimming, cut and shaped ✔ Trees pruning, cut or taken down ✔ Weeding and weed prevention ✔ Grass cutting ✔ Gravelling ✔

For a free quotation please call Sharlene:

Gutter Cleaning • Free Estimates Gutter Repairs • Full Insurance RELIABLE AND PROFESSIONAL

Call Richard: 07817 882832 MARCH, CAMBRIDGESHIRE Email: rconey@mail.com

62

Business Directory

W W W. D I S COV E R IN G M AG A Z IN E S .CO.U K | FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6

PRINTING SERVICES

OSTEOPATH

MARCH OSTEOPATHS

25% OFF

t n i r P

GENTLE, EFFECTIVE & DRUGFREE, AN OSTEOPATH TREATS THE WHOLE INDIVIDUAL; EVALUATING ALL THE CAUSES OF PAIN, DYSFUNCTION & LIFESTYLE FACTORS RATHER THAN TREATING SYMPTOMS IN ISOLATION.

Treatments for Back Pain, Neck Pain, Migraine, Headache, Frozen Shoulder & Plantar Fasciitis.

your print order

Business Cards ● Flyers ● Menus Stationery ● And much more

GET IN TOUCH TODAY!

sales@discoveringmagazines.co.uk 01778 421427  07837 499061

2 Station Approach Tel: 01354 660513 www.gurusingh.org.uk www.whitetantriclondon.org

SEWING SERVICES

PAINTING & DECORATING

Carol’s Sewing Service

­

CAROL STANBRIDGE

Curtain Making & Clothing Alterations Wedding & Bridesmaid Dresses and much, much more

carolssewingservice@mail.com Mobile: 07833 556877 30 Riverdown, March PE15 8RA

ROOFING SERVICES Repair Services

Ridge Tiles Replaced & Repointed Tiles, Slates & Guttering Replaced ■ Lead Work & Storm Damage ■ Chimneys Repointed & Removed ■ Roof Moss Removal ■ Felt, Flat Roofing, Fibre Glass & Rubber ■ New Complete Tiled and Slate Roofs ■ ■

JB Roofing (Cambs) Ltd Repair Specialists and PVC Roofline No job too small – Free Quotations

ALL REPLACED OR REPAIRED t: 01733 808831 | m: 07388 781766 e: jbroofingcambsltd@yahoo.com www.jbroofingcambsltd.co.uk

Unit 5, Lazy Acre Farm, Crease Bank, Whittlesey PE7 1GR

PVC Roofline

Fascia, Soffits & Cladding Window Boards & Guttering ■ Dry Verge & Dry Vented Ridge Systems ■ Lightweight Tiled Conservatory Roofs ■ Conservatory Cleaning & Maintenance ■ ■

VETERINARY SERVICES

24/7* INDEPENDENT EMERGENCY VETERINARY SURGERY

01354553457 01354553459

TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE

www.sigmavet.co.uk

CALL PAULA ON 01778 421427 OR 07903 776211

reception@sigmavet.uk 107 High Street, March PE159LH

PRICES START FROM JUST £29

*24/7 emergency service available for registered patients ONLY

W W W.DI SCOVER INGMAGAZI N E S.CO.UK | F E B RUARY 2026

Business Directory

63

nt ns ge e A eF th of

Right up your street for over 200 years Looking forward to the next 200!

For five generations we have been helping clients buy, sell, let and manage property and land in this area. Whether it be your home, farm, factory or development site, talk to the Agents with local knowledge and professional expertise, who are an established part of your community.

2026

March Residential Sales

Wisbech Residential Sales

01354 607100

01945 428820

March Residential Lettings

Wisbech Residential Lettings

01354 607105

01945 428825

March Professional

Wisbech Professional

6401354 D I S602030 C O V

E R I N G March 01945 428830

maxeygrounds.co.uk FE BR UA R Y 2 0 2 6