Furniture, Flooring, Bed Centre & Homestore
Bridge Street, Downham Market
PE38 9DS T: 01366 382213
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: Closed
Furniture, Flooring & Bed Centre
Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely CB6 3NX T: 01353 669754
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
As we bowl headlong into the second half of the year, we are now in the month of school sports days and “proms”, signifying a conclusion to another school year and the start of that longed-for summer holiday.
It is so pleasing to see how many people are now realising that there are opportunities to put on events and attractions in our towns and villages to keep everyone involved and have “fun in the sun”. An excellent case in point is how the Elsea Park Community Trust in Bourne will be hosting a three-week long “Urban Beach” next month with free activities galore.
I was amused to discover that July 7th is “World Chocolate Day”, celebrating the joy of that heavenly product, and then, eight days later, we have “National Give Something Away Day” which is designed to promote generosity and sharing – yes, but we’ll have already eaten it all on July 7th!
Walking into town the other day I saw a man cutting an overgrown hedge with a very small set of garden shears.
It was on one of our rare recent hot days, so I felt quite sorry for him as from experience I know what a thankless chore that can be.
For at my previous home, I had two hedges that I had to regularly keep trim but, in my case, I had a secret weapon… my dad who had some electric hedge cutters.
The problem was that if he came round to help me, he had to be in control of the trimmer. My role was very much that of the junior partner, meaning that I was tasked with clearing up the mess he made, including retrieving assorted pieces of rubbish that had either been blown in or stuffed into said hedges.
As both hedges were quite thick, I also often had to bury my head inside to collect fallen clippings which often resulted in assorted insects falling onto my head and inside my shirt collar. It was a hot, sticky job, but someone had to do it, and in those days that always meant me…
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
Deadline details
Copy deadline for the August issue is Friday 10th July 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.
ByTrevorLangley
here are some wine productions that can be classed as irresistible.
For this quest, I searched for a range of wines and found a most acceptable list, that were indeed, labelled “Irresistible”. Various types of wines satisfy numerous people, be it a dry white, off-dry production, sweeter delectation or perhaps something sparkling.
EXPLORERS SAUVIGNON BLANC (12% vol), from Marlborough, New Zealand, I found to be dominated, exceptionally well, with the fruity flavours of gooseberries. This dry wine is extremely popular, satisfying many white wine lovers, constantly.
VIOGNIER ST GABRIEL PAYS
D’OC (13% vol) hails from France. This dry, fully flavoured wine production has the pale gold colours and excellent bouquet enticing to the mouth’s pleasures. Floral and ripe stone fruits are most evident.
BACCHUS (12% vol), from Kent, England, is a further, very popular dry white wine. I rated this production highly, having overtones of elderflowers and gooseberries. Fresh, and again with an aromatic pleasure for the nasal senses, this wine has countless devotees.
SOLO (12.5% vol). This dry Garnacha pink pleaser comes from Spain. The pale pink colour adds ‘interest’ to many dining tables. Old bush vines provide the red fruits for this delectation.
EIGHT ACRES (11.5% vol), from Kent, England, is highly rated by many dry, sparkling rosé, wine lovers. Ripe, juicy red fruits are very noticeable, for the mouthfeel and the palate’s delight. Again, this elegant wine adds delicate colour to a lot of dining occasions.
PROSECCO (10.5% vol) is hugely popular around the world. Both the sparkling white and sparkling rosy productions are regularly a feature at celebrations, parties and events. Italy is one of the countries, renowned globally, for wine productions of highquality and their Prosecco wines are always in demand.
All these wines can be very much enjoyed on their own, as well as accompanying numerous foods, such as white meats, fish, seafoods, salads and more, admirably.
I located these wines at a Coop store, all in their “IRRESISTIBLE” range. I found the Co-op range of wines, including a good number of award-winners, to be excellent. Knowledgeable advice is always available in stores, if required. Take time and pleasure, to find your favourites. www.coop.co.uk
DINE-IN • TAKEAWAY • ORDER ONLINE FOR COLLECTION/DELIVERY
PERSON EVERY SUNDAY LUNCH & THURSDAY EVENING
Please choose any from our A La Carte Menu POPPADOM & CHUTNEY
STARTER (Choose one)
MAIN COURSE (Choose one)
Any seafood, Mixed Grill or Special Biryani will cost £2.50 extra
CONDIMENTS (Choose from plain rice or plain naan) Special rice or Special Naan will cost £1.00 extra
OPENING HOURS: MONDAY Closed TUESDAY 5pm-9:45pm • WEDNESDAY 5pm-9:45pm
THURSDAY 5pm-9:45pm • Friday 5pm-10pm SATURDAY 5pm-10pm • SUNDAY 3:30pm-8:45pm
Regular hoeing and watering are key this month. A regular hoeing regime keeps your soil open, weed-free, and allows water to penetrate easily.
Consistent watering is critical especially during dry spells. Water deeply, rather than ‘little and often’, preferably in the early morning or late evening, as evaporation is reduced and this helps plants absorb moisture properly.
If the weather is wet and warm it provides the ideal conditions for the fungal spores of blight to reproduce and it can wreak havoc with your crops if not identified and dealt with immediately. Spray tomatoes and potatoes against blight and dig up any rogue potato plants from last year as they may be harbouring disease. If you do find blight (look out for black blotches on foliage) and if spotted early, cut down the top growth immediately to protect the tubers or fruit. Do not compost the leaves, preferably burn them. It is time to lift garlic, onions, and shallots. Loosen the soil around the roots then choose a dry spell to lift them, lay them on the ground to dry out in the sun and this should help prolong their storage life.
Although it is getting late for sowing and planting there are still a few crops that can be planted:
• Lettuce, rocket and a variety of salad leaves – succession sow for an ongoing supply in the autumn.
• Fast growing varieties of peas, beetroot and carrots – a good time to sow carrots to avoid the carrot fly.
• Plant out cabbage, cauliflowers, Brussels, broccoli and kale for autumn and winter cropping, using the space created by lifting onions, garlic and early potatoes.
A few jobs for this month include:
•Strawberries will finish fruiting so tidy up old foliage and cut off runners or use them to produce new plants.
•Earth up brassicas to give them a firm hold in the soil and give them a top-dressing of nitrogenous fertiliser or an organic liquid feed.
•Cover cauliflower heads with the leaves to prevent them from going yellow.
• A major cause of poor crops with potatoes is poor nutrition. They are a very greedy plant, and a boost now will pay a dividend in tubers. A feed balanced as for tomatoes is ideal.
• Ensure that peas and brassicas are netted to keep the pigeons off.
• Inspect cabbage leaves for eggs or caterpillars and squash them or spray.
• Liquid feed crops weekly to maintain productivity, especially for tomatoes, cucumbers, courgettes, and sweetcorn.
Just think... all that soil preparation and planting in the colder and wetter months and now a vegetable patch or allotment that is brimming with wonderful fruit and vegetables.
Enjoy!
Good friends Michelle Larkins and Ann Cross are aiming to clean up with their company From Grime To Shine. The March duo started the business to provide a range of professional cleaning services, from one-off deep cleans to Airbnb and end of tenancy contracts.
Both women have a background in cleaning and care work and started their business in April 2025 focusing on March and surrounding villages.
Michelle (55) said: “We decided just to go for it having previously worked for other people. We work individually on certain cleaning jobs but also work great as a team on bigger jobs when we put the radio on and then concentrate on our own cleaning tasks.
“We are really good friends, even going on holiday together, and both take great pride in what we do.”
Michelle and Ann moved to March a few years ago, from Barnet and Potters Bar respectively and enjoy being based in the town.
Ann (60) said: “We have both been accepted well and have found March people to be very friendly and supportive. We are passionate about our work and love seeing the difference we can make to someone’s home.”
From Grime To Shine offers a number of bespoke services including kitchen and bathroom cleaning, with attention to detail throughout the property and flexible booking with short notice availability.
Contact From Grime To Shine today. Tel: Michelle on 07530 190551 and Ann on 07942 909704; Email: itsmichellelark@aol.com; or search Facebook.
Writing
a will online or using a DIY template can feel like a quick, cost-effective solution. With so many low-cost or even ‘free’ options available, it’s
easy to see the appeal.
But in reality, what seems like a saving now can lead to far greater costs, both financially and emotionally, for the people you leave behind.
At Vine Law, we regularly see the consequences of poorly drafted DIY wills. Small mistakes or unclear wording can lead to delays, disputes, and outcomes that simply don’t reflect what was intended. By the time these issues come to light, it’s often too late to fix them.
One of the most common problems is validity. For a will to be legally binding, it must meet strict requirements. Something as simple as having the wrong witnesses, signing it incorrectly, or making handwritten changes later on can invalidate it entirely. If that happens, your estate may be distributed under the rules of intestacy, rather than according to your wishes – which can have serious consequences, particularly for unmarried partners, stepchildren, or estranged family members.
Even where a will is valid, unclear wording can create real difficulties. Phrases like ‘my savings’ or ‘divide everything equally’ might sound straightforward but can quickly lead to confusion.
Does ‘savings’ include investments? What about joint accounts? Uncertainty like this can cause disagreement between families at an already difficult time.
Modern family life also adds complexity. Blended families, second marriages, cohabiting couples and vulnerable beneficiaries all need careful consideration. A simple, one-size-fits-all template rarely reflects real life and can unintentionally leave people unprotected or excluded.
It’s also easy to overlook important aspects such as Inheritance Tax, business interests, pensions, digital assets or property held abroad. Many estates are more complex than they first appear, and online templates simply aren’t designed to deal with individual circumstances.
When comparing costs, it’s worth looking beyond the initial outlay. The difference between a DIY will and professional advice may be a few hundred pounds, but the cost of resolving problems later can run into thousands – not to mention the stress and strain placed on loved ones.
Putting a properly drafted will in place is one of the simplest ways to protect your family and ensure your wishes are clear.
If you’d like to talk things through, Cath Collins at Vine Law would be very happy to help guide you through your options in a clear and friendly way. Get in touch: contact Cath Collins on (01945) 898090 or cathcollins@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
| www.vinelaw.co.uk
Come along to our recruitment open day at HMP Whitemoor on 26 August 2026.
• Talk to our staff about their work and what it’s like working at HMP Whitemoor.
• Hear about the range of job roles available.
• Ask any questions you have about the skills you need and the application process.
Scan the QR code for further details and to register your place. Choose a morning or afternoon slot.
Choosing a new bathroom involves understanding your bathing needs, but there is a variety of options to consider when deciding to alter your bathroom.
One option is to replace your bath with a low-level shower; this is suited to those with limited mobility and who struggle to step into a traditional bath. Slip-resistant shower trays are available in various sizes, and accessories like shower seats mean you can relax and let the water wash over you. Grab rails provide further safety, and they come in a variety of modern designs, so they won’t make your bathroom feel clinical.
However, some people still prefer having a bath to a shower so this is when we would recommend a walk-in bath. These are available in various sizes and come with moulded seats (sometimes heated), quick fill and drain options, and some even have jacuzzi functions to help ease aches and pains.
The third option is a wet room which eliminates obstacles, with slip-resistant flooring and a central drain, making them ideal for wheelchair users and caregivers. However, they can be more costly.
It can be overwhelming knowing which solution to choose, but at Living Well Bathrooms by AHM Installations, we have a friendly team of home surveyors who will visit you at home to discuss your bathing needs. We provide FREE quotations and visuals of how your new bathroom could look. At AHM we believe everyone should have access to safe, affordable bathing so we’ll always find a solution to meet your needs and your budget.
Please call our customer care team on 01778 338151 to request a brochure or to find out more information.
A March charity duck race for the Little Miracles charity will take place next month. Town mayor Andrew Woollard will start the race from March town bridge at 12.30pm on August 29th. Organisers have given a huge thank you to the local community and local businesses for their donations and support.
Thousands of people flocked to West End Park last month for the March Summer Festival which saw a variety of bands, stalls and attractions enjoyed by local people of all ages.
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
By Ashlie Barnard
When it comes to planning for the future, it’s easy to focus on the big goals - savings, investments, and that dream retirement. But there's one thing that should always come first: understanding your cashflow.
Cashflow is simply the movement of money in and out of your life - your income, spending, and savings. It’s the foundation of every financial decision. Without a clear picture of your cashflow, how can you know if you’re on track to retire when you want to, or if you're saving enough for the future?
At Nene Financial Planning, we take a client-first approach. It's not about selling you products; it’s about achieving the right outcomes for you.
We help you understand your cashflow in detail, considering the often-overlooked factors - like interest rates, inflation, and tax - that can impact your financial future. By focusing on what’s truly important, we ensure your money is working harder for you.
If you’re asking yourself, “How do I know if I can afford to retire?” or “Am I factoring in all the right things?” it might be time to start with your cashflow.
What our clients say:
“Giving up work (and a regular wage packet) is a daunting prospect, more so when it’s earlier than planned. The team at Nene Financial Planning have been so helpful. Ashlie and her team have gone out of their way to explain everything in an easy to understand way that Julia and I are looking forward to retirement.”
“We spent a very useful morning with Ashlie as we made plans for the future of our family farm – she really knew her stuff and was able to give us plenty of advice about the different options open to us. We were very impressed and reassured. We look forward to working with her as we move on with the next stage of our future proofing.”
“Ashlie and the team really worked very hard and efficiently for us when processing our pension plans. I highly recommend them to anyone who needs to use the services they offer. I feel we’re very lucky to have such a knowledgeable and professional business in our town.”
If you have a ‘when can I? or ‘how can I?’ question, then get in touch with our friendly team in complete confidence on (01354) 278088 or book online at www.nenefinancial.co.uk
£1,500 OFF YOUR NEW
❱ Fully permeable & SUDS compliant
❱ 5 year installation guarantee
❱ 15 year daltex peace of mind guarantee
❱ 6 year no crack guarantee
❱ BBA approved resin bound
❱ UVR approved resin
❱ Over 15 years experience
❱ Durable stylish low maintenance driveways
❱ 5 star customer satisfaction
❱ Free Quotations
BPC Air Conditioning and Refrigeration is proud to serve its local community with reliable, high-quality air conditioning services you can trust.
As a locally owned and operated business, it understands just how important comfort is - whether at home, in the workplace, or anywhere in between.
The company is committed to keeping your spaces cool, hot, efficient, and running smoothly all year round and specialises in the installation, maintenance, and repair of a wide range of air conditioning systems. Whether you’re upgrading an older unit, fitting out a new property, or simply need a quick fix during a warm spell, its experienced team is here to help.
Its staff combine technical expertise with a friendly, straightforward approach with honest advice and dependable service and are dedicated to providing customer satisfaction to tailor solutions that suit your space and budget. The company’s engineers are fully trained, punctual, and respectful of your property, ensuring every job is completed to the highest standard.
By recommending modern, cost-effective systems and maintaining existing units properly, BPC helps customers reduce energy bills while minimising environmental impact. As part of the community, it values building long-term relationships with customers.
Whether it’s a one-off repair or ongoing maintenance, it is there when you need it most. If you’re looking for a dependable air conditioning service with a personal touch, get in touch today — the company looks forward to keeping you comfortable all year round.
For more details call 07707 749840 or vist www.bpcairconditioning.co.uk C a l l : 0 7 7 0 7 7 4 9 8 4 0 Email: info.bpcaircondi�oning@gmail.com DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL INSTALLATIONS SERVICE AND REPAIRS
Cooling and hea�ng air condi�oning systems to keep you comfortable all year round.
Winter offers available on Air Conditioning Systems installations from £1200
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.
Colin moved to the town from the capital five years ago and after being employed locally has now decided to venture out on his own.
He said: “I love living in March and felt the time was right to start my own business.
“I am looking to focus on all general domestic plumbing and heating work, predominantly repair and refurbishment, in the March, Wisbech and Whittlesey area.”
Contact Acole Plumbing Services Ltd on (01354) 650502; or 07759 768060; Email: acoleplumbing@btinternet.com
• All general plumbing repairs undertakenbig or small.
• All domestic heating repairs undertaken.
• All domestic boiler fault finding undertakenboth gas and oil.
• Landlord Gas Safety certificates
• House purchase inspections of plumbing and heating
• Boiler replacements.
• Central heating power flushing.
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.
Ben Beech
Changes to accounting rules probably aren’t your top priority, but this one might be worth a closer look. Although an update to FRS 102, the standard used by most UK small and medium-sized businesses may sound technical, the changes could have unexpected consequences.
One key update relates to operating leases, such as leased vehicles, equipment and even premises. Previously, these were treated simply as rental expenses in the profit and loss account.
Under the new rules, most leases will be recognised on the balance sheet as a “right-of-use” asset, alongside a corresponding lease liability. This increases both assets and liabilities. In the profit and loss account, rental costs will be replaced by depreciation of the asset and interest on the liability—both of which sit below EBITDA. As a result, EBITDA is likely to increase, even though the cash payments remain unchanged.
A key measure used by lenders and buyers is EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation). It is commonly used to assess performance and calculate the value of a business.
Banks often include financial covenants in loan agreements that are based on EBITDA. For example, they may require EBITDA to cover interest by a certain multiple or limit how much debt a business can hold relative to its EBITDA.
While EBITDA may increase under the new rules, reported debt will likely rise due to lease liabilities being recognised. Depending on your specific covenants, this could put pressure on existing loan agreements and, in some cases, risk a breach if not addressed early.
If you are planning to sell your business, buyers may still focus on “adjusted EBITDA.” However, they are likely to make further adjustments to assess the underlying performance of the business and determine an appropriate valuation.
The updated rules also introduce enhanced disclosure requirements, particularly for tax, related party transactions, and dividends. While this improves transparency for lenders and investors, it also means that companies will need to provide more detailed information than before. As a result, there may be a reduction in financial privacy, with greater public visibility over transactions, relationships, and profit distributions.
The key is to be prepared. Understanding the impact early allows you to avoid surprises and present your business clearly to lenders or buyers. At Whitings, we’re already helping clients assess what these changes mean in practice and how best to respond. If you’d like a clear, practical view of how this could affect your business, we’d be very happy to talk it through.
Information that features in this article is correct at the time of writing.
Making Tax Digital for Income Tax became mandatory from April 2026 for self-employed individuals and landlords earning over £50,000 in qualifying income. We’re here to help if you’re not prepared for this change.
• Audit & Assurance
• Business Advisory & Support
• Business Tax
• Cloud Accounting Support • Corporate Finance • Corporate Tax Advisory
• General Practice
• IT Services • Payroll • Private Client Tax • Probate & Estate Administration • Start Ups
Tax Enquiry & Investigation Service
• Wealth Management
March farmer Ben Brooke was part of the choir put together by Jeremy Clarkson that’s been named the 2026 winner of Britain's Got Talent.
The Hawkstone Farmers' Choir was set up by the TV presenter and Oxfordshire farmer to support farmers with their mental health.
Ben said: “The last few weeks have been an absolute whirlwind and something I’ll remember for the rest of my life. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who voted, supported us and got behind our message. A huge honour to represent British farming on such an incredible platform.”
The choir received a £250,000 cash prize and the opportunity to perform at the annual Royal Variety Performance in November.
Photo: March farmer Ben Brooke (fourth from left) celebrates the choir’s Britain’s Got Talent victory
It was a celebration of volunteering in the community at Trinity Hall in March with a big thank you given to some local volunteers. It was a collaboration between four organisations, these being Support Cambridgeshire/Support Fenland, Care Network Cambridgeshire, Cambsight and March Armed Forces & Veterans.
Photo: courtesy RWT Photography/Radio Fenland
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
Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service has issued advice for anyone thinking of swimming in open water this summer.
The weather might feel nice and warm, but the water temperature can still be very cold, which could cause cold water shock making it difficult to swim to safety. The water might also be deeper than it looks, with hidden dangers under the surface.
The service says fun can quickly turn to tragedy and advises If you get into difficulty, you should ‘Float to Live’ by leaning back, using your arms and legs to stay afloat, and try and control your breathing. Once calm, either call for help or try and swim to safety.
We buy caravans in full working order, any year, any make, any model. We also buy caravans with damp issues, window damage, and not in full working order. IF YOUR CARAVAN STILL HAS FINANCE OR IS SITTING IN STORAGE WE WILL STILL BUY! We buy all static caravans any size, any layout, any berth We can arrange collection from site or home.
Any age, any condition, running, or non
en Mobility Centre has just celebrated one year since upgrading its Cambridgeshire showroom — and chose to mark the occasion by giving something back to the local community. As part of the celebrations, the team launched a free-to-enter competition offering local residents the chance to win a brand-new mobility scooter worth £899 with the winner being local woman Pauline Short from Manea.
The team at Fen Mobility Centre in Ely, is known for being friendly, supportive, and truly attentive to individual needs. Customers often comment on the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the respectful, no-pressure approach offered by staff. Whether someone is exploring options for the first time or looking to upgrade existing equipment, they can expect knowledgeable guidance and a helpful ear. Customers are certainly happy; they have a 4.9 rating on Google Reviews. What truly sets Fen Mobility apart is the presence of their in-house Occupational Therapist (OT). This unique service means that assessments and recommendations are backed by professional insight, helping to ensure that the right solution is found for every customer. The OT works closely with the team to offer tailored advice, making complex decisions feel simple and stress-free.
Joining the celebrations were the mayor and his wife, who attended to congratulate Pauline and recognise the occasion with the Fen Mobility Centre team.
bathroom equipment. All products are carefully chosen for comfort, reliability, and value, and the centre prides itself on offering competitive pricing across the board. It is very important to really try, test and feel the products to ensure the right choice.
In addition, they provide reliable delivery, installation, servicing and repairs across the Fens and the surrounding areas, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience from start to finish.
Whether supporting older adults, those living with long-term conditions, or people recovering from surgery or injury, Fen Mobility Centre is dedicated to helping individuals stay independent and confident in their everyday lives.
Fen Mobility stocks a wide range of high-quality mobility and daily living products – from scooters and powerchairs to riser recliners, walking aids, and
The prize was a practical and easy-to-use 4mph scooter which conveniently disassembles to fit into almost any car boot, helping users maintain independence and stay active and collected by Pauline and her husband and daughter from the Ely showroom.
Alongside the competition, Fen Mobility Centre also made a £250 donation to Just George, a charity raising funds for children’s cancer causes — a cause that has touched the team personally and reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting local initiatives throughout the year.
To learn more, visit the showroom, call the team, or explore their website – Fen Mobility is always ready to help, with professionalism and care at the core of everything they do.
Fen Mobility Centre owner Sara, who is also a qualified occupational therapist, said: “We are so lucky to be a part of the local community and are thrilled to be able to give back when we can. Charity is very important to us and through the year we run many collections and raffles. Just George is such an important charity, raising funds for cancer in children and it really touched our hearts. To also be able to give away a brand-new scooter to a local resident has been fabulous and heartwarming.”
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
107 Money Bank, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE13 2JF
A local care home has been given a prestigious accolade.
The dedicated team at Orchard House Care Home is celebrating after being crowned Team of the Year at the Fenland Citizen Business Awards.
The award recognises the exceptional teamwork, commitment and community spirit demonstrated by staff at the Wisbech care home, which supports residents with nursing and dementia care.
The accolade marks an extraordinary period of success for the Orchard House team. Over the past five months, the team has achieved twelve finalist nominations and three award wins across both regional and national platforms. This includes winning the Palliative Care Award at the East of England regional finals of the Great British Care Awards, and Activity Team of the Year at the National Activity Awards – highlighting the consistently high standards of care delivered to residents and their families.
The Team of the Year award celebrates organisations whose staff work collaboratively to deliver exceptional service and support. Judges praised Orchard House for its commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care, while maintaining strong and meaningful links with the local community.
Sarah Watson, pictured right (inset), General Manager at Orchard House Care Home, said: "This award is a wonderful recognition of the passion, dedication and teamwork shown by every
member of the Orchard House team. Everyone works incredibly hard to ensure residents feel supported, valued and truly at home, and it is fantastic to see that commitment recognised. The whole team is very proud of what has been achieved together."
Orchard House Care Home has become well known across Fenland for its strong community engagement, welcoming local groups, supporting charities and creating meaningful experiences for residents through a wide range of activities and events.
Part of RCH Care Homes, the home continues to play an active role in strengthening connections between residents and the local community.
Pauline Manning, Director of People and Culture, said: "This award is thoroughly deserved. The Orchard House team demonstrates every day what can be achieved through compassion, teamwork and dedication. To receive twelve finalist nominations and three award wins in such a short period is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the commitment of the entire team."
The judges, in announcing the award, highlighted the team’s outstanding contribution not only to organisational success, but also to colleague wellbeing and enhancing the overall experience for residents and families.
The team attended the awards ceremony in Fenland to celebrate their achievement alongside other businesses and organisations recognised for their contribution to the region.
Salticus scenicus
By Joan Munns, of March Wildlife Group & March & District Woodland Group
For all those people who are afraid of spiders, these cute, tiny creatures are a good place to start to cure your arachnophobia. They are never more than 6mm (1/4 inch) long and do not make webs. They are jumping spiders, one of thirtyseven or thirty-eighty species in Britain. This is the largest group of spiders worldwide with an estimated five thousand species.
They are common throughout southern Britain and can be found in open habitat like rock faces and shingle beaches or in urban areas on walls and fences. They also take up residence in our homes and are very welcome visitors.
Because they are very small when seen from a distance, they do not look like spiders at all. They have comparatively large bodies and keep their legs tucked in most of the time. The one photographed was well aware of the camera, even if it didn’t know what it was, and was moving very quickly on wallpaper so the legs were fully extended.
They are always very alert and will quickly jump clear of danger. If you see a tiny spider and are unsure if it is a jumping spider, put something close to it and a Zebra Spider will bounce away. Whilst they do not make webs, they will abseil down if they fall or are dislodged from a high place. They produce a fine silken fibre to ride on until they reach a solid surface. Even if you see them do this, the fibre is so fine it is totally invisible. They are mostly black with patterns of white hairs that give the abdomen a black and white striped appearance which has earned them the name Zebra Spider.
With eight eyes, Zebra Spiders’ vision is excellent and the two front central eyes give them perfect binocular vision. They stalk their prey in the same
way as cats and they can accurately judge the distance they need to leap to catch a meal. They can leap up to 10cm (almost four inches) that is fourteen times their body length.
Their diet consists of smaller spiders and other arthropods, but they will take prey up to three times their size like mosquitoes. Dust mites are a favourite food, so they make very good house pets. Even the cleanest home cannot be kept free of dust mites that feed on dead human skin cells. We all shed about five hundred million skin cells a day, which amounts to about 1.5 grams, occupying the size of a water drop, so there is plenty of food for them.
Next Gault Wood Work Parties are Saturdays July 4th and August 1st 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)
Discover something you’ll love, whether for your home or as a thoughtful gift.
Wednesday 8 th – Sunday 19 th July
The Old Brewery, Spalding Road, Bourne, PE10 9WG
Onsite parking, plus refreshments available Scan the QR code to book your tickets
March’s very own
Jamie Holland, the award-winning consultant behind the hugely successful March with Jamie Slimming World group, has been honoured with one of the organisation’s highest accolades — the Committee Diamond Award.
Jamie collected the award at Slimming World’s annual Oscar’s ceremony, a sparkling celebration hosted by the organisation’s managing director Lisa Salmon at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham. The Diamond Award recognises consultants who deliver truly exceptional support, inspiration, and longterm success for their members – marking Jamie as one of the top weightloss experts across the UK and Ireland.
Jamie, who runs five thriving Wednesday groups at the 2nd March Scout Hut, Mill View, was recognised for the standout level of support he offers every single week. His warm, inclusive and motivational approach has helped members in March achieve incredible weightloss results, build confidence, and transform their health.
Jamie says the award belongs to the whole group: “While I was the one collecting this award, it’s an achievement for every single member of our group. They’re all diamonds in my eyes. Their amazing weight losses and the way they support each other make this the best, most rewarding role in the world.”
Support for every journey – including those using weightloss medication
Jamie is passionate about ensuring that everyone feels welcome, understood, and supported –including those using weightloss injections as part of their journey.
He explains: “When you’re unhappy with your size, I’ve been there too. I understand how hard it can be to find the right support. Everyone’s journey is different – for some people, that may include weightloss medication. What really makes the difference longterm is having support to build healthy habits around food, activity, and mindset.”
Jamie runs his award-winning groups every Wednesday at: 7.30am; 9am; 10.30am; 5.30pm; and 7pm at 2nd March Scout Hut, Mill View, March PE15 8SY.
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
Same venue as above... this one is for you early birds!
By Jennifer Lawler
Behind the Victorian shop fronts was the fine late 18th century/early 19th century house. It had originally three windows to the first floor, then extended to four when the carriageway filled the space next to The Ship Inn.
Traces of the carriageway can still be seen. The tiled roof had a large central chimney stack and right-hand parapet plus three, later four, dormer windows. There was a central doorway.
Owner Nathaniel Jarman Goodman, gentleman, was living in 2 Well End in 1828. In 1837-8 Thomas Aveling and his wife lived in the house while Thomas was extending the rear of his Norland House, 125 High Street.1
In 1851, Thomas Elliot, auctioneer, estate agent, farmer with 180 acres employing sixteen men, occupied the house, with his wife Emma Titchmarsh, daughters Emma and Eliza, and son Henry, farmer of fifty acres employing three men, and two servants. Thomas Elliott bought the house following Jarman Goodman’s death in 1845. Thomas Elliott‘s daughter Mary Ann married Ambrose Grounds, landlord of the Griffin Hotel, and son Thomas Titchmarsh Elliot married Mary Grounds, Ambrose’s sister. Thomas Elliott died in April 1859 and was buried in St Wendreda’s churchyard.2
In 1860 following a ruling of the High Court of Chancery, there was a claim by Joshua Gales against Emma Elliott and Thomas Titchmarsh Elliott. Thomas Elliott’s creditors, through their solicitors, were requested to prove their claims at the Chambers of the Master of the Rolls in Rolls Yard Chancery Lane by April 25th. Sale of the house, part of Thomas Elliott’s estate, was announced for December 1860 following a decree of the High Court of Chancery in the case of Gales and Elliott. Ambrose Grounds was appointed auctioneer.3 The riverside house contained ten rooms, kitchens, convenient out-offices, farm buildings, barn, granary and stables, flower and kitchen gardens, and yard. The land, measuring three rods eight
perches, extended to Creek Road near Station Road. The house recently occupied by widow Mrs Elliott, was suitable for any business. Particulars and conditions of sale were available from solicitors Mr Hanslip, Bedford Row, London and Mr H Lawrence, Gray’s Inn, London.4
In March 1861, the house was advertised to let, easily convertible into business premises. William Gee owned the house, let by 1871 to Ann Aveling, farmer and railway carrier, widow of Owen Gray Aveling and sister of Ambrose Grounds, with son Charles, aunt Ann Vawser, lodger Stephen Parkes, Wesleyan Methodist Minister of March Chapel, and servant Elizabeth Faircloth.5 By 1881 William Gee lived there and had his grocery business. Joseph Pepperdine, grocer and draper, had his business there in 1912 onwards.6
1 March Parish Valuation 1828, March Rate Books, March Museum; https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list entry/1216221?section=official-list-entry
2 1851 census, March Museum; St Wendreda’s parish records, March Museum
3 Cambridge Independent Press: April 7th 1860, p1; December 15th 1860, p4
4 Cambridge Independent Press December 15th 1860, p4
5 Cambridge Chronicle and Journal, March 16th 1861, p1; 1871 census
6 1881 census, March Museum; Cambridgeshire Times, March 15th 1912, p1
Military Displays & Vehicles • Land Rovers
Recruiting Area • Classic Motor Vehicles
Motorbikes & Scooters • Farming Equipment
Bands • Choirs • Hundreds of Stalls
Battle of Britain Flyover • Closing Parade Act of Remembrance
Sunday 23rd August 2026 11.00-17.30hrs
PHILIP AT DIAMOND BYTE
Abrowser extension is a piece of software that adds features to your web browser or to the programs you use in your browser. Each extension tends to focus on one single function, for example, allowing you to print a PDF file of a web page directly from your browser, blocking adverts, checking grammar and saving passwords.
While most legitimate browser extensions don’t pose a risk and are in fact incredibly useful, there are security and privacy concerns associated with many not quite so trustworthy extensions that are available to install on the internet.
servers to collect data about your browsing habits.
• Some extensions get you to grant them excessive permissions by asking to ‘read and change all your data on the websites you visit.’ This allows them to capture login sessions, alter search results as well as access tabs, browsing history and sensitive information.
Since a browser extension runs inside the browser, it can gain access to the web pages you visit and therefore potentially collect sensitive information. If the extension is badly designed, overly intrusive or deliberately malicious, it can compromise the security of your PC:
• Browser extensions often come bundled with other software which, if you fail to pay attention to the fine print on the installation wizard, install themselves onto your system. Once installed, they can modify your browser settings, change your default search engine, and redirect your searches through their own
• Many toolbars inject advertisements into websites you visit, track every search query you make, and sell this information to third parties. Some even create security vulnerabilities that can be exploited.
• Even legitimate-looking tools can later become dangerous if the developer account is compromised or if the extension is sold and updated with harmful code. Good reviews or an official store listing do not necessarily make an extension safe.
Treating browser extensions with the same caution as any other
software is the best way to keep your information safe. Avoid extensions that ask for far more access than their purpose would actually need. For example, a coupon finder, wallpaper tool or calculator absolutely do not need permission to read all browsing data on every site.
‘Free VPN,’ ‘PDF converter,’ ‘video downloader’ and ‘AI assistant’ extensions from unknown publishers should also be avoided.
The safest approach is to install as few extensions as possible and only download them from official stores for browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and MS Edge. In summary, the advice to adhere to is:
• Only install the extensions you genuinely need and remove any you no longer need or use.
• Check what permissions an extension is asking for before adding it.
• Avoid extensions from unknown publishers or those with vague privacy policies.
• Be cautious with free VPNs, downloaders, converters and search helpers.
• Read recent reviews and look for signs of poor maintenance.
• Keep your browser and all extensions up to date.
• Do not assume an official store listing means an extension is safe.
In celebration of Sir David Attenborough’s one hundredth year, Leicestershire’s famous annual Wistow Maze has been designed in the shape of a Mountain Gorilla, which he famously filmed in Rwanda in 1978 for the iconic BBC series, “Life on Earth”.
The giant eight-acre maize maze has a fun Quiz Trail hidden amongst three miles of pathways, with high-level bridges and towers giving stunning panoramic views.
Visitors are challenged to find twelve quiz boards, featuring animals from his pioneering nature series, as well as interesting facts about this famous naturalist and broadcaster. They can also take part in a variety of mini mazes and games in the ‘Activity Funyard’, which includes a space-hopper track, hoopla, beanbag throwing and a football shooting game.
Across the road is the Wistow Rural Centre with its cafe, Garden Centre, art gallery, model village and numerous shops, making it a great day out for all ages.
Wistow Maze is situated opposite the Wistow Rural Centre, which is signed from the A6 at Great Glen and Kibworth, and the A5199 at Kilby. (Kibworth Rd, Wistow, Leics. LE8 0QF)
Opens: July 20th – September 6th (daily), and the weekend of September 13th/14th. 10am – 6pm. Free Parking. Admission charges: Adult 10.95 Child
For your chance to win a Family Ticket (two adults and two children) to the amazing Wistow Maze, simply answer the following question:
what shape has the 2026 Wistow Maze been designed? Send your answer and contact details to Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET or email sales@discoveringmagazines.co.uk stating in which magazine you have seen the competition.
20/07/26
East Anglian Air Ambulance is calling on local walkers of all abilities to take on Trek 24 Cambridgeshire this September – a hiking challenge that will raise money to help keep the charity’s lifesaving emergency service flying from the county.
Taking place on Sunday, September 6th, Trek 24 Cambridgeshire offers participants the chance to walk either 24 miles, 24 kilometres or 2.4 miles across the Cambridgeshire countryside.
With three different walking routes available, all starting from Cambridge and Newmarket Polo Club, the event is designed to appeal to everyone: from families looking for a short stroll to solo walkers and people who to want to join forces to hike a longer distance alongside friends, family, or colleagues.
Funds raised through Trek 24 Cambridgeshire will directly support East Anglian Air Ambulance. The charity urgently needs to raise £8.2 million to build a new air base just outside the village of Fulbourn – ahead of the closure of Cambridge Airport in 2030. Without a Cambridge base, the air ambulance’s service risks being cut in half, leaving just one air base in Norfolk. This would dramatically increase response times to people facing lifethreatening emergencies across Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Suffolk and Norfolk.
Every participant in the 24-mile and 24-km treks will receive: an official Trek 24 t-shirt; snack and drink stops (on the longer routes); a hot meal and celebratory drink at the finish; and a finisher’s medal.
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
Participants completing the 2.4-mile route will receive a finisher’s medal and t-shirt, but refreshments and meals are not provided due to the shorter distance.
Subject to taskings, there will also be an appearance by the East Anglian Air Ambulance helicopter.
Places for Trek 24 Cambridgeshire must be booked in advance. Tickets start from as little as £6 for the shorter family friendly route with different entry options linked to fundraising for the longer distance walks. To find out more or to sign up, please visit: www.eaaa.org.uk/support-us/events/ trek-24/cambridgeshire
In a world of instant messages and digital communication, the national cancer support charity From Me to You is showing the lasting impact of a handwritten letter.
Founded in 2017, the charity supports people living with cancer by sending thoughtful letters written by volunteers across the UK and beyond. The idea began when co-founder Alison Hitchcock wrote regularly to a friend undergoing cancer treatment. Those letters became a source of comfort and encouragement, inspiring the creation of a charity dedicated to helping others feel less alone during difficult times.
The Donate A Letter programme is being used to brighten the lives of people living with cancer. Today, From Me to You delivers tens of thousands of letters each year to hospitals, cancer centres and individuals.
The charity also works with healthcare professionals and support organisations to ensure letters reach those who may benefit. Volunteers write messages filled with stories, humour and everyday moments, offering connection and kindness when it is needed most.
You can find out more about the Donate a Letter programme and discover how to support the charity by visiting the website: www.frommetoyouletters.co.uk
EVERY THURSDAY: FREE PUB QUIZ
7.30pm start, FREE entry, all welcome. No limit on team size
SUNDAY 5th JULY: ABBA GEMS TRIBUTE ACT
A world-class act at the club!
Tickets £10 members, £12 guests
SUNDAY 19th JULY:
TINA TURNER TRIBUTE ACT
Tickets £10 members, £12 guests
SUNDAY 26th JULY: ONE WILD NIGHT
Tickets £10 members, £12 guests
BURGERS & HOT DOGS AVAILABLE AT ALL THE JULY OUTDOOR MUSIC EVENTS!
SUNDAY 11th JULY: PRIZE BINGO
Eyes down at 7.30pm
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?
Eyes down at 7.30pm
SUNDAY 2ND AUGUST
FRIDAY 17th JULY: CASH BINGO
BBQ ON THE LAWN WITH ROCKIN’ REVIVAL
Two course BBQ – £15 members, £18 guests
We have very limited availability for private bookings. For more information about this or any of our events, please contact the club.
WE’RE ALL HOPING THAT ENGLAND WILL QUALIFY FOR THE KNOCKOUT STAGES SO IF THEY DO, WE WILL BE SHOWING THE GAMES ON THE NORMAL TV AND THE BIG SCREEN.
FREE HOTDOGS AT HALF TIME FOR THE ENGLAND GAMES WITH TUCHEL’S TIPPLE LAGER AT £2.90 PER PINT
Club sports include Bowls, Pool, Snooker, Dominoes, Darts and Crib
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.
By Steve Barclay MP
People often ask me, as their Member of Parliament, why it takes so long for public sector bodies to act. It’s a question I ask too, because it is a source of regular frustration that issues take far longer to resolve than they should.
A key focus over recent months has been maintaining pressure on these bodies so they cannot hide behind their lack of action. One of the clearest examples is the major pollution incident that struck the Whittlesey area in September 2024 when a significant discharge entered the Kings Dyke and Stanground Lode system near Whittlesey.
Local anglers and residents first raised the alarm after spotting dead fish, discoloured water and a strong chemical smell along the affected stretch. The Environment Agency confirmed that a category 1 – the most serious – level of pollution incident had taken place and opened a formal investigation. The incident caused widespread concern because the waterway feeds into a network of drains and ditches vital to Fenland’s wildlife, agriculture and angling community. Despite the seriousness of the event, no prosecution has yet been brought, and residents have been left waiting for answers. After repeatedly raising this issue with the Environment Agency, I raised it on the floor of the House of Commons in March, then with the Speaker of the Commons in late April and was then promised it would be resolved by May 8th. Yet even this date was missed. So, I raised it again this month, with Labour’s Environment Minister issuing an apology in Parliament to Fenland residents for the lack of response. Ministers say the case is still being reviewed, so I will continue to follow it up until residents get the answers they deserve. Another issue where progress is slow is our community campaign for a pelican crossing outside Westwood School in March. The school is the largest primary school in Cambridgeshire, with
around 750 pupils split across two sites separated by a busy road. Despite the size of the school and the heavy traffic at drop off and collection times, there is no pelican or zebra crossing, nor even a school crossing patrol.
The response so far from the county council has been woeful – they say they need to wait for ‘a cluster of accidents’ before acting. We have cross-party support from every town councillor in March, and this month Cllr Sam Hoy will move a motion at Shire Hall to force a vote by county councillors on the issue. I find it remarkable that with so much new housing in March, the county council refuses to take action to protect school children from the road safety risk they face.
Another long-running campaign, albeit on a much more positive note, is my local literacy campaign ‘Read to Succeed’ which this year marks the eleventh anniversary. The campaign gives every Year 4 child in Fenland a new book of their own ahead of the summer holidays, helping to spark a love of reading at the age many children first begin to read independently. Thanks to the generous support of local businesses, councillors and residents, more than 25,000 brand new books have been donated over the years, and we also use this to encourage children to visit the local library, often for the first time.
Over the years I have been interviewed by many journalists, but it is undoubtedly the case that the best questions I am asked come from school children. That certainly was the case during one of my regular visits to local schools, when I met children at Alderman Jacobs School in Whittlesey following a similar visit to the sixth form at Sir Harry Smith Community College. It was great to see their energy and curiosity and shows the bright young talent we have in Fenland.
To find out more about my work in Parliament or local campaigns, visit my website www.stevebarclay.net or follow me on social media:
By Richard Munns on behalf of March & District Museum
In the last article we outlined the circumstances in which Aircraftman Clifton was awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal at Habbaniya in the Middle East in 1941.
In 1944, he had been promoted to Sergeant and was based at Woodbridge in Suffolk. Woodbridge had been constructed in 1943 as a RAF military airfield specifically with an extra-long (9000ft) and extra wide (750ft) runway to take badly damaged aircraft on their return from raids over Germany.
On July 13th, 1944, a Luftwaffe Junkers JU88G-1 (4R+UR) night fighter from Volkel in Holland had been on night patrol over the North Sea. The German crew, who had only just completed one hundred hours of flight training, had been flying by compass heading and had proceeded in exactly the wrong direction.
They thought that they were over their own airfield in Holland and landed at Woodbridge at 4.25am. The plane was spotted by Sergeant Clifton. He jumped into a jeep and marshalled the plane into a dispersal area and, with nothing more than fist power, he captured the crew. The crew were disorientated and Clifton was an Air Force boxing champion.
This aircraft was of particular interest to the RAF as it was fitted with the latest FuG 220 Lichtenstein SN-2 radar, Naxos-Z and FuG 227 Flensburg radar detectors. These homed onto the H2S radar units fitted to the RAF bombers and were being successfully used to intercept them.
Within days the aircraft had been moved to the Royal Aircraft Establishment, Farnborough and countermeasures to these pieces of equipment were being developed. This single mistake provided the RAF and its Allies with examples of Germany’s most closely guarded secrets. For his quick thinking and action Sergeant Clifton was mentioned in a dispatch for distinguished service and awarded an Oak Leaf on his 1939-45 War Medal.
After the War, Ken Clifton moved from Chatteris to March and was employed by Johnson’s Engineering before joining the Post Office in 1980. He was instrumental in resurrecting the Air Cadets in March. They had been initially formed in the early days of the war with training sessions being regularly held at the Grammar School in Station Road. The Air Cadets was disbanded in 1945, when the war ended. They were reformed in 1966 when Ken joined them as a civilian instructor. A year later he became Squadron Warrant Officer and subsequent promotions lead him to become their Squadron Commander.
He retired from the Squadron in July 1976, while still working for the General Post Office in Peterborough. He lived in Highfield Road, March, and died in September 1994 aged seventy-six.
Top photo: The Junkers 88G-1 safely on the ground Middle: 1220 Squadron with Ken Clifton DFM on right Inset: Notification of being mentioned in a dispatch
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
Over the last year, BLHRT volunteers have worked very hard to clear the remaining UP line track between Waldersea and Coldham, along with the station house and signal box areas just north of the Station Road crossing at Coldham. We have also been working on clearing the full trackbed width back to the boundaries, ensuring there is a clear distance at the side of the line to walk along. We also got through to the old Coldham toilet block.
Our usual workdays are the first and third Saturdays of each month, starting 9am at Waldersea Yard. We usually finish between 2pm and 3pm, depending on the work and the weather. We look forward to hearing from you or seeing you soon. Please check out our Facebook pages and website for more information, history and photos. Please email us to let us know you are coming.
The 1st September 2026 will see 150 years since Coldham Station was renamed from Pear Tree Hill to reflect the local parish name.
Come and talk to us at the Coldham Carnival at the playing field on 11th July 2026.
BLHRT Waldersea Depot, Long Drove, Waldersea, Friday Bridge, Wisbech PE14 0NP. Email: office@bramleyline.org.uk www.bramleyline.org.uk
08:30 - 18:30
08:30 - 18:30
08:30 - 18:30
08:30 - 18:30
08:30 - 18:30
08:30 - 14:30
As our beloved dogs age, it's natural to see some changes. Maybe your onceenergetic pup is taking more naps, hesitating before jumping into the car, or lagging behind on walks? While slowing down can be a normal part of getting older, it's important to recognise that it may also signal discomfort or pain. Canine physiotherapy is an increasingly accessible and effective way to improve quality of life for ageing dogs.
Dogs generally start to show signs of aging between seven to ten years old, though this varies by breed and size. Common signs include:
• Stiffness after rest
• Reluctance to exercise or play
• Difficulty climbing stairs or getting into vehicles
• Changes in posture or gait
• Behavioural changes, such as increased irritability or withdrawal
Many owners mistake these signs for ‘just getting old,’ but they may indicate underlying joint pain, arthritis, or muscular weakness. Left unchecked, these issues can affect mobility, cause chronic pain, and reduce a dog’s overall well-being.
Canine physiotherapy is focused on improving movement, reducing pain, and enhancing recovery after injury or surgery. Certified canine physiotherapists use techniques adapted from human physical therapy, including massage therapy, therapeutic exercises, laser and ultrasound treatments and joint mobilisation and stretching. These all aim to strengthen muscles, improve joint flexibility, boost circulation, and reduce inflammation.
Physiotherapy can address common issues like: Arthritis pain: Controlled exercises and modalities like heat therapy or laser treatment can ease joint pain and slow down degeneration.
Muscle atrophy: Therapeutic exercises help maintain muscle mass and strength, supporting better balance and movement.
Mobility problems: Improved range of motion and co-ordination can reduce falls and increase independence.
Your veterinarian may refer you to a qualified canine physiotherapist or rehabilitation centre. After an initial assessment, a treatment plan will often combine in-clinic sessions with at-home exercises. Progress is typically gradual but noticeable.
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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 1.30pm. 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 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.
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 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.
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 TOWN CRICKET CLUB: Get involved this season! Looking for fresh air, friendly faces, teamwork and a great time? We are a welcoming, community-focused club for all ages and abilities! Offering mens, womens & girls and junior cricket. Pick up a bat and give it a go! Contact @marchtowncricketclub or lesm841@aol.com
To advertise your club or group please call Paula for more information on 07903 776211 or email marketing.discoveringmagazines@gmail.com
www.wisbechtennisclub.org.uk
07549 263767
wtcmembership@hotmail.co.uk
Call, text or email for information about a range of membership options for individuals and family groups.
Quote ‘Discovering’ when you call us to enquire or book! Family owned & run since 1957, Islawr ordd Caravan Park o ers
Quote ‘Discovering’ when you luxury caravan park with 201 holiday homes and 75 fully serviced hard best facilities, including a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna and Jacuzzi, restaurant and bar, children’s activities and adventure play area.
Situated at the southern end of the magnificent Snowdonia National Park coastline in the village of Talybont, Islawrffordd is an award winning, 5 star luxury caravan park with 201 holiday homes and 75 fully serviced hard standing touring caravan/motorhome plots, all benefitting from the very best facilities, including a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna and Jacuzzi, restaurant and bar, children’s activities and adventure play area
• Just a few minutes’ walk from the beach
• Just a few minutes’ walk from the beach
• South-facing decked balcony with stunning mountain and sea views
• Decked balcony with stunning mountain and sea views
• Fully centrally heated
• Available for Weeks /Mini Breaks/ Weekend Breaks
• Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom
• Master Bedroom with en-suite bathroom
• Smart TVs with DVD in every room
• Smart TV’s with DVD in every room
• Fully insulated and double glazed
• Fully Insulated and double glazed
• Free wi-fi, (including Amazon Dot)
• Fully Centrally Heated
• Free wi- , (including Amazon Dot)
For more information visit Call 01341 247269 or Email
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.
March Residential Sales
01354 607100
March Residential Lettings 01354 607105
March Professional 01354 602030
Wisbech Residential Sales
01945 428820
Wisbech Residential Lettings 01945 428825
Wisbech Professional 01945 428830