Welcome to your February issue...
February 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
The wonderful thing about following sport is that it teaches you that for every silver cloud, there’s often a filthy old black cloud not far behind to dash your hopes. Think England’s recent Ashes debacle … again! This month, though will see the England men’s rugby team challenge for the Six Nations championship. Surely an unbeaten run of eleven games since losing to Ireland on February 1st, 2025, ought to mean that now is the time for a Grand Slam … or is it?
Not forgetting Valentine’s Day of course, here’s Nat King Cole’s perfect line from ‘Nature Boy’: “The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” Enjoy all the treats on February 14th!
And finally:
● I’m so good at sleeping, I can do it with my eyes closed.
● I never take my dogs to the park as the ducks keep trying to eat them. That’s what you get for having two ‘pure bread’ dogs!
Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET
Publisher and Sales Claire Saberton 01778 421427 | 07837 499061 | sales@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
Ops Director Andy Armstrong: 07780 922214
John
Accounts Sarah Brooks: 07564 966452 | accounts@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
Group Editor John Schwarz | editor.bourne@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
Design Graham Copestake | Sarah Gumbley | Andy Beavis | Graham Booth
Sales Paula Kirtland: 07903 776211 | marketing.discoveringmagazines@gmail.com
Events Hilary Bloomer | hilary@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
Sales Sallyanne Davis 07737 026594 info@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
4-5 Swanky Rags.
6 Crown Hall Farm.
7 Deep-in Aesthetics.
8.............. W & P Legal.
14 The Carers Sitter Service.
15 Sound Advice Hearing Centre.
18-19 ...... The Liberty Partnership.
20 Food and Drink: Honey.
21 ............ The Griffin at Irnham –February offer.
32 Spirited Dawn Kennels and Cattery.
33 ........... Gladwells Pet and Country Stores.
34 Gardening: Advice for February.
40 Local History: Stagecoach Days.
42-43 .... Consumer advice from Safe Local Trades.
46 Valentine’s Day: What’s all that about then?
47 Vine House Farm Shop and Café.
48 ........... Lucy Conley, CEO of SLAT, awarded MBE.
50 Men United in Song: Singers needed!
52-53 Events Guide.
54 Lovebirds’ Quiz.
58 ........... Schools News.
61-63 Business Directory.
With thanks to
Richard Ash, Peter Baker, Deepings Heritage, Rob Schwarz, Nick Ash, Vine House Farm.
Deadline details
Copy deadline for the March issue is Thursday 5th February 2026.
Discovering Deeping 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’
Time to Think Prom Dresses
The 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.
Tallington Lodge’s Festivities Featured ’Forties Fashion
Tallington Lodge Care Home recently hosted a ‘Resident and Relatives Christmas Party’ with a delightful difference. Staying true to its personcentred approach to care, the team at Tallington Lodge decided to create an event that was not only festive, but also meaningful and memorable for residents. The result was a 1940s-style fashion show, bringing history, personality and plenty of festive cheer together under one roof.
Members of the wellbeing team carefully sourced authentic, 1940s-inspired clothing, giving residents the opportunity to dress up and take to the catwalk, accompanied by members of the wellbeing and care teams, who also dressed in 1940s-style attire for the occasion. Residents fully embraced the idea, proudly showcasing their outfits and personalities as they made their way down the runway to cheers, applause and encouragement from fellow residents and visiting family members.
The celebrations continued with live entertainment from Ryan Hornett, who took a break from his day job in IT to perform a range of musical hits from the 1940s onwards. Residents and relatives were soon in the party spirit, enjoying singing, dancing and reminiscing together. Finally, everyone enjoyed a festive Christmas buffet, featuring a selection of traditional finger foods, sweet treats and refreshments.
Natalie White, Home Manager at Tallington Lodge, commented, “It has been a wonderful afternoon. Seeing the residents in their fantastic 1940s-inspired attire, and watching them have so much fun dancing, singing and reminiscing, has made it all worthwhile.
I would like to thank all our staff for taking the time to organise such a special event for our residents.”
www.countrycourtcare.co/our-homes/ tallington-lodge-care-home
New year, new you? Isn’t it time your skin reflected how good you feel?
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Access to advanced medicalgrade products and techniques
Non-surgical Medical Aesthetics Treatments
Anti-wrinkle Injections
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Vitamin Injections
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2026 Starts with a Bang at W & P Legal
We’re kickstarting 2026 with some big news: W&P Legal is welcoming Bright Legal Solicitors into its highly respected group of Legal Services companies.
Bright Legal Solicitors, based in Leicester, is led by Parvien Akhtar and has earned a strong reputation in Leicester and beyond for providing expert advice across Family Law and litigation.
Speaking about Bright, Nick Ash, Managing Director of the W&P Legal Group, said, “Welcoming Bright Legal Solicitors into the group is the logical next step for W&P. We have specialised in wills and probate for over twenty years but, for a long time now, our clients have been asking us for more. Parvien and her team at Bright bring acknowledged expertise in Family Law, conveyancing and litigation, a perfect expansion of our portfolio of services.”
Nick continued, “Parvien shares our values and, like me, is active in the governance and ongoing education of the legal sector. She currently serves as a Council Member for the Law Society of England and Wales and is an examiner for the solicitors’ qualifying examinations.”
The search for the right firm took W&P Legal over three years, and we both believe this partnership will ensure clients have access to both specialist
NICK ASH, Managing Director W&P Legal
estate planning support and general legal advice. The continuation of high-quality services and dedication to client care means our services can be delivered across a wider location, making expert legal services more accessible.
Bright Legal will continue to operate from their offices in Leicester, adding the W&P portfolio of services to their core offering.
W&P Legal will continue to grow at its Market Deeping base, and has recently welcomed Tracey Allen, former Financial Director of Suremove, to its management team. Tracey brings over twenty years of legal financial management experience to the team.
What this means for you:
Whilst this is great news for W & P, you might be wondering what this means for you as a client. Put simply, we are going to be able to offer you more help and advice, in greater depth than ever before. Be it divorce, family issues, conveyancing or one of our more traditional areas of law (will writing and probate) you can be confident that the team at Bright or W & P will have the answers for you.
Call us on 01778 252301 to find out more about what we can offer.
Care Visits At Home
● Care visits in the comfort of your own home, promoting and supporting independent living.
● Personalised care packages
● Meal preparation
● Cleaning
● Home care
● Medication support
● Domestic support inc. shopping
● Befriending and companionship
● Wellbeing checks
● Respite and carers’ breaks
● Transportation
● Social outings
● Wheelchair transport
● and much more!
Ness Group Choir
The Ness group choir, St Michael’s Church Langtoft, would like to recruit some new members.
If you enjoy singing why not consider giving us a try? What’s the commitment? Weekly choir practice - Thursday evenings 7pm - 8.15pm plus singing at a monthly service - usually the 3rd and 5th Sundays of the month and occasional weddings.
Contact Debbie Howardstmichaelchurchwarden@gmail.com for more information
◆ One to one consultation review of a plan of treatment. Options taking into consideration any treatment preferences with fully qualified pharmacist Osman.
◆ Once agreed, you will be provided with your medication. We offer a demonstration of how
use it and provide a free sharps and
◆ Ongoing support with advice on how to maintain your weight loss.
◆ Confidential and discreet service.
◆ Competitive pricing and choice of
Glinton
T: 01733 253433
We are an independent pharmacy giving patients a one-to-one service.
We like to model ourselves on the old community pharmacy where patients get to know us and and you will always see a familiar face. Here at The Chemist Shop, we are proud to be part of the community and are always striving to give the community the best service available to them.
Our other services include
● We offer blister pack medication to patients who meet the criteria.
● If you are over 39, then come in for a free Blood Pressure Check.
● NHS unwanted medicine service, where you can return all unwanted medicines to the pharmacy where we will dispose of them safely.
● Emergency supplies: if you need one of your regular medicines in an emergency and you are unable to contact your doctor, we may be able to help.
DEEPING ST JAMES PHARMACY
T: 01778 349646
Did You Know?
We can help with the following, no doctor’s appointment or referral necessary.
● Men’s Health
Hair retention, erectile dysfunction
● Women’s Health
Delayed period and menopausal symptoms
● Skin Problems Dermatitis and Eczema
● Asthma – Salbutamol
● Help to stop smoking
● Free Blood Pressure check
This is just a few of the services we are licensed to help with, please call us to find out what else is available and how we can help.
01733 253433
Call with your NHS number and we can set up your prescription account over the phone
Exciting Times Ahead for The Carers Sitter Service
The Carers Sitter Service is a voluntary organisation which provides a service to assist carers and their families in Bourne, Stamford, the Deepings and surrounding villages. So many people are practically housebound because of the 24-hour care they are providing for dependent relatives and friends. The Service, therefore, attempts to meet the needs of carers, on either an occasional or a regular basis.
Just think how difficult it is for a carer to get to the hairdresser, to the shops, or even just to meet a friend for a coffee? Caring for someone at home 24/7 is a challenging task, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
With the help of the Carers Sitter Service, a volunteer sitter can enable that carer some much-needed time out. This service is unique, free and has been operating successfully for over thirty years. In 2025, the service covered approximately one thousand ‘sitting hours’, saving carers hundreds of pounds that they would have had to have paid for social care, or alternatively chosen not to go out.
The Carers Sitter Service now needs your help please
With the increase of referrals and recognising that carers need more time out, they want to expand the team to improve that service. It is a wonderful team of dedicated volunteers; some are trustees, some are sitters, a few do both. This call out is for more trustees and sitters.
◆ Have you a couple of hours a month to spare?
◆ Do you enjoy having a chat and being sociable?
◆ Do you fancy being a sitter to one of the service's “cared for” in their own home?
(Please note this is an insured sitting service and does not provide personal care).
◆ Could you help with fundraising, networking and/or promoting events?
◆ Do you want to support the service with donations?
If so, then the Carers Sitter Service is here for you.
And if you are an unpaid carer, living at home supporting a dependent
◆ Do you find it difficult to get time to yourself?
◆ Do you find yourself juggling each day and just wanting some time to yourself?
◆ Do you want to find time to meet a friend or just get to the hairdresser?
If so, then the Carers Sitter Service is here for you.
For more information regarding any of the above, the Carers Sitter Service is always happy to chat and can make an appointment for you to visit their office at Wake House, 41 North Street, Bourne, PE10 9AE.
Please drop either Paula and Sara an email at carersitterservice@ gmail.com or call 01778 420257.
Opening Times Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9.30 to 1.30.
Open Event at Sound Advice Hearing Centre!
Sound Advice Hearing in Market Deeping is your go-to choice for all hearing healthcare matters. This award-winning, independent audiology company is a family-run business. As such, they can give the very best impartial advice to their patients, whilst offering a friendly, competitive service with aftercare that is second-to-none.
Being independent means that they can offer much shorter waiting times than many other options people face when looking for hearing tests and advice on hearing aids. It also means that they work with multiple, world-leading manufacturers, offering patients a fantastic range of hearing aids, including all the latest technology, and not limited to just one or two brands.
Hearing loss can have negative impacts on individuals for many different reasons. Looking after your hearing can ensure you don’t miss out on those important social, leisure and communication opportunities. Sound Advice Hearing is here to discuss your individual needs with you, and find the right solution for you, your lifestyle and your budget.
16th- 20th February 2026
Sound Advice Hearing is hosting an “Open Event” at their Winchester Hearing Centre, running from Monday 16th to Friday 20th February. Come along and meet the friendly team and see how you can transform your hearing and your quality of life! The premises at 37 Market Place in Market Deeping has free, accessible parking to the front and rear, with major bus routes right outside.
Why our customers love Prime Comfort:
Mobility Scooter Service & Repairs; Replacement Batteries; Punctures; Replacement Tyres; Body Work; Electrical Components: Free collection and delivery back to your home.
Setting up one of our adjustable beds or comfy recliners - all installation work is free and carried out by one of our trained engineers. We also provide free home surveys for stair lifts. Free next day delivery on all stock items. Simply call 01476 560044.
Smiths Funeral
Directors Service without compromise
Church View House, 75 High Street, Fletton, Peterborough, PE2 8DT
Email: smithsfuneraldirectors@btconnect.com www.smithsfuneraldirectors.co.uk
• Sensitive caring attention given at all times with advice provided on all aspects of funeral arrangements.
• Arrangements made in the pleasant surroundings of our funeral home or in the comfort of your own home.
• Offering a full range of funerals at very competitive prices.
• Ample parking and easy access for the disabled.
• Jaguar funeral vehicles available.
• Golden Charter Pre-payment Funeral Plans available and accepted.
Proprietors: Ruth & Ian Smith Dip.FD Mark & Naomi Smith Dip.FD
Funeral
Honey a culinary delight...
BBy Trevor Langley
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
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
-1.30pm/6pm8.30pm
12pm-2pm/6pm8.30pm Sunday: 11am-4pm
Quote ‘Discovering’ when you call us to enquire or book!
Family owned & run since 1957, Islawr ordd Caravan Park o ers the very best in quality.
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
2 Bedroom Luxury Holiday Home
2 Bedroom Luxury Holiday Home
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• Just a few minutes’ walk from the beach
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• 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 information visit www.islawr ordd.co.uk Call 01341 247269 or Email info@Islawr ordd.co.uk
For more information visit Call 01341 247269 or Email
ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Email: enquiries@tradelinkinstallations.co.uk
Website: www.tradelinkinstallations.co.uk
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Clinics in Deeping and Bourne
Free Family Legal Clinics
Whether it is separation or divorce, an incident of domestic abuse or putting in place arrangements for children, we are expertly placed to advise on your rights, and to help bring about the best solution.
To make a free 20-minute appointment call 01778 230 030 , email emma.mcgrath@hegarty.co.uk or visit hegarty.co.uk/familyclinic Rated Excellent on
hegarty.co.uk
Every Tuesday we offer free 20-minute family law advice appointments at our offices in Market Deeping and Bourne, to discuss your situation with our family solicitor, who can offer advice about your options and recommend next steps. Legal support for business, for family, for life
• All PVC and insulated and fully licensed
• Large run area where different toys for simulation will be added.
• Plenty of different beds for your cats needs
• Wood chip litter provided
• Pens: maximum 2 cats sharing from the same household. First cat £15, second cat £10 per pen plus VAT
• Feline first-aid qualified
• All dietary and behavioural needs catered for • The welfare of your dog is our top priority • Fully licensed and K9 first-aid qualified • Someone on site 24/7
Preparing 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
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!
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Let SunWise Solar Harness the Power of the Sun For You
SunWise Solar is a Lincolnshire-based, independent installer of solar panels, battery storage, and electric vehicle (EV) charging systems.
Their mission is to help homeowners and businesses across Lincolnshire and beyond transition to eco-friendly, sustainable energy solutions. The company offers a tailored experience from your initial quote all the way through to installation.
SunWise Solar have over seven years of experience installing solar panels for homes and businesses across the county. The dedicated team is led by Josh Cuff, an expert electrician, fully qualified to install solar panels and EV charging solutions. Josh will provide advice on the most efficient solar energy options to meet your unique needs.
Stress is placed on the fact that when you choose SunWise Solar, you’ll get the personal touch and receive honest, clear advice on your solar panel investment and accurate long-term return-oninvestment calculations. They prioritise building strong relationships with their customers, working closely with them to ensure their needs are fully met and their expectations exceeded. As a local, independent installer, you'll work directly with a qualified electrician— not a sales advisor. This means you get accurate, reliable advice without inflated promises or exaggerated calculations.
SunWise Solar partner with the best wholesalers in the county to ensure that every solar panel and EV charging solution they install meets the highest industry standards for
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Make Your Business More Sustainable and Go Green!
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SunWise Solar aim to simplify the process of selecting the best solar panel system that fits your needs and budget. With the introduction of new government grants and incentives, solar panels are now more affordable than ever, making it the perfect time to invest in renewable energy solutions.
Deeping’s Stagecoach Days
The Stage Hotel in Market Deeping is named to reflect its history as a staging post for horse-drawn coaches, although during that era it was called the New Inn. Stagecoaches travelling between Boston and London, or Boston and Stamford, stopped at the inn to change horses. Tired animals were led through the front archway into stables to be fed and rested, while four fresh horses were swiftly harnessed. Refreshments were brought outside to travellers, as they had no time to leave the coach, unless a meal stop had been scheduled.
Before the New Inn opened in 1803, coaches called at The Bull which had stables for more than fifty horses, and it continued to receive some business during the coaching heyday of the 1820s and 1830s, when eight vehicles came through Deeping daily. Typically, each stagecoach carried four people inside, with up to ten sitting outside on seats near the roof plus a driver and guard. Only prosperous travellers could afford coach fares, and those staying overnight preferred the modern luxury of the New Inn.
One Deeping boy recalled his excitement at the clatter of powerful horses when a coach arrived, swinging around the corner and then stopping with a jolt which threw outside passengers into a heap.
His own first ride was equally dramatic. On the way to Boston, rain fell in torrents and soon he and other “outsiders” were soaked. A leading horse then slipped on a stone and the animal behind it fell as well. Fortunately, the coach stayed upright, but after leaving one injured horse at a farm, they arrived wet and miserable, and over an hour late.
For about sixty years, the stagecoach network was the main form of public transport, bringing trade and vitality to local inns. Daily life was structured around coach timetables to ensure that horses and passengers were despatched efficiently, but in the 1840s the system came to a sudden end. The development of railways wiped out longdistance coach travel and Deeping became a quieter place. The New Inn continued to hire out private post chaises, like the vehicle shown in the 1820s illustration. These were painted yellow and operated like taxis, being charged by the mile and supplied with horses and a driver. The inn also attracted wealthy customers who arrived in their own carriages.
In the 20th century, touring cyclists and motor vehicles brought custom to Deeping’s inns. The coach entrance at the New Inn was converted into a seating area during modernisation in 1975, and it was re-named The Deeping Stage. In recent years that name was shortened to The Stage.
1820s illustration of The New Inn (now The Stage)
Have you been refused a mortgage or equity release due to spray foam?
If you suspect you’ve been misled or had a poor-quality removal, act now! Contact us for a FREE survey and expert advice before it’s too late.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) states that spray foam may affect a property's valuation, particularly if applied incorrectly. Spray foam can reduce airflow in the roof, potentially leading to issues like mould, wood rot, and reduced structural stability.
❌ Foam left behind in eaves – Often hidden and hard to reach without proper access (scaffolding may have been necessary).
❌ Torn or damaged roofing felt – Careless removal can cause holes, leading to leaks and structural issues.
❌ Foil tacked to rafters – A common trick used to hide incomplete removal, preventing proper inspection.
Consumer Advice
Romance Fraud – Don’t Let Scammers Steal More Than Just Your Heart This Valentine’s Season
By Eileen Le Voi at Safe Local Trades
Romance fraud is a growing crime that targets both the heart and the pocket. It ranks among the top five scams reported to Action Fraud, where criminals trick people into sending them money by pretending to be in a real relationship. In the UK's 2024/2025 financial year, romance fraud saw a 9% rise in reports, with over £106 million lost – that’s an average £11,222 per victim!
Hardest hit financially was the 50-59 age group and while more men reported cases, women faced higher losses, often stemming from loneliness and occurring on social media/dating apps. Fraudsters trick victims into sending money or gather enough personal information to steal their identities, resulting in financial and emotional misery.
But it is not just financial misery that takes its toll; there is emotional devastation with victims experiencing anger, embarrassment, and loss of trust, with many discouraged from future relationships.
How to stay safe from romance fraudsters:
• Be suspicious of any requests for money from someone you have never met in person, particularly if you have only recently met online.
• Be cautious about how much information about yourself you are sharing online and who you are sharing it with.
• Speak to family or friends to get advice. Fraudsters will subtly isolate you for their own purposes.
• Profile photos may not be genuine. Performing a reverse image search can find photos that have been taken from somewhere, or someone, else.
• Don’t rush into an online relationship – get to know the person, not the profile: ask plenty of questions.
• Analyse their profile – check the person is genuine by putting their name, profile pictures or any repeatedly used phrases and the term ‘dating scam’ into your search engine.
• Stay on the dating site messenger service – don't use email, phone, social media or other messaging apps until you’re confident the person is who they say they are.
• Fraudsters sometimes re-establish contact with previous victims claiming that they can help them recover lost money; this is just a secondary scam. Hang up on any callers that claim they can get your money back for you.
If you, or someone you know, may have been a victim
fraud, contact Report Fraud
Valentine’s Day
What’s It All About Then?
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…
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.
…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!
Mrs Lucy Conley Awarded an MBE in the New Year's Honours List
The former Chief Executive Officer of South Lincolnshire Academies Trust, Mrs Lucy Conley has been recognised in the New Year's honours list. Mrs Conley, who retired at the end of 2025 after thirty-five years of working in education has been recognised for services to education.
The honours are given by the King and recognise the achievements of people from across the United Kingdom. The MBE is awarded to those who make substantial contributions at the local or regional level, with around eight hundred awarded each year.
Whilst Chief Executive Officer of South Lincolnshire Academies Trust, Mrs Conley has transformed three failing, non-selective secondary schools who were previously graded by Ofsted as 'Inadequate' or 'Requiring Improvement' before they moved into the Trust. Under her leadership, Spalding Academy, Giles Academy (in Old Leake) and Cowley Academy (in Donington) have all rapidly improved educationally, pastorally and financially, and were all graded 'Good' within their first Ofsted inspection.
WE HAVE A WINNER
The smiling face belongs to eight-year-old Emily Burrow from Deeping St James who has just been presented with her £50 prize, having won our Christmas Treasure Hunt in December’s issue of Discovering the Deepings. The Linchfield Primary School pupil successfully matched all the novelties in the shop windows with the names of the participating shops and businesses in her copy of the magazine. As ever, the response from our readers was terrific – better luck next time if your entry wasn’t a winner.
South Lincolnshire Academies Trust has an outstanding reputation with the Multi Academy Trust (MAT) being ranked top in the East Midlands area by the Department for Education and in the top 6% of all MATs in England. It is also the only Multi Academy Trust in the East Midlands to be performing 'well above average'. Many of the schools now outperform many grammar schools in Lincolnshire, with Bourne Academy ranked as the top performing non-selective secondary school in the whole of Lincolnshire.
Mrs Conley said, "I feel so honoured to receive recognition for my work within education and this is the perfect end to my time as Chief Executive Officer. I have always put the wellbeing of students and families at the heart of everything we do, and it has been the most rewarding career seeing so many students flourish and succeed. The future of the Trust will continue to be incredible as it has a highly experienced and talented team of leaders who will build upon my blueprint of providing high quality education with exceptional pastoral care."
Mr Will Hawkins, Chair of Trustees for South Lincolnshire Academies Trust said, "It's a pleasure to have worked with Lucy and testament to her leadership and vision that every school in the Trust is now oversubscribed, as parents want to send their children to the four academies. Her legacy of ensuring every child receives the best possible education and the brightest future will continue. On behalf of the other Trustees and Governors, I am delighted to congratulate her on this achievement."
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!
We’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.
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.
HALLAM TRAVEL STILL HAVE THE FOLLOWING SEATS AVAILABLE:
Cirque Du Soleil – Ovo (afternoon show)
Only 3 left Fri 23rd January £130
Hercules (afternoon show) Only 12 left Thurs 29th January £85
Sunny Afternoon (afternoon show) Thurs 19th February £77
Natural History, Science, & Victoria and Albert Museums Fri 20th February £34
Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift Weds 25th February £66
The Woman in Black (afternoon show) Weds 11th March £61
The Last Days of Pompeii: The Immersive Experience Fri 13th March £68
Arsenal Emirates Stadium Tour Sun 15th March Adult £63 Senior £59 Child £54
Thriplow Daffodil Event and Country Fair Sat 21st March £36
Manchester United Museum and Stadium Tour Sun 22nd March £69
Coronation Street Experience Sun 12th April £70
Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile (afternoon show) Thurs 16th April £65
Hampton Court Palace including the Tulip Festival Fri 17th April Adult £64 Senior £59 Child £50
Ely Leisure Day Sat 18th April £27
RAF Museum, Cosford Sun 19th April £32
York Shopping/Leisure Day Weds 22nd April £31
St Paul’s Cathedral Sat 25th April Adult £59 Senior £57 Child £45
London Leisure Day Sat 25th April £35
Harrogate Spring Flower Show Sun 26th April Adult £56 Child £32
Priscilla Queen of the Desert (afternoon show) Thurs 30th April £73
The Bodyguard Tues 14th July £79
Great Yorkshire Show Thurs 16th July Adult £65 Child £45
Galway Bay Hotel – 6 days Sun 19th July £899
RHS Sandringham Flower Show Sat 25th July Adult £61 Child £27
Bakewell & Matlock Bath
Holt Sunday Market & Sheringham
Sat 2nd May £31
Sun 3rd May £28
The Princess River Cruise Experience includes 2 course meal Weds 6th May £56
Haworth and Keighley & Worth Valley Railway Sat 9th May Adult £46 Child £39
Aldeburgh & Southwold
Highgate Cemetery
My Neighbour Totoro (afternoon show)
Sun 10th May £31
ONLY 20 LEFT Weds 13th May £52
Thurs 14th May £75
The View from The Shard Sat 16th May £62
London Leisure Day Sat 16th May £35
Makers Central Sun 17th May Adult £44 Child £29
Legally Blonde (afternoon show)
Strictly the Professionals
Weds 20th May £78
Tues 26th May £90
Gravity – Starring Kerry Ellis, Louise Dearman & Rachel Tucker Fri 30th May £79
Portobello Road Market/London Leisure Day Sat 30th May £35
Rushden Lakes Sun 31st May £28
Fawlty Towers – The Play Thurs 4th June £75
Southend on Sea Weds 10th June £34
Saltaire Village Experience Sat 13th June £40
London Zoo Sun 14th June Adult £58 Senior £57 Child £51
Les Misérables The Arena Concert Tour (afternoon show) ONLY 20 LEFT Sun 14th June £117
Royal Ascot – Ladies Day ONLY 18 LEFT Thurs 18th June £112
RHS Garden, Bridgewater Sat 20th June RHS Member £35 Adult £50 Child £40
Great Yarmouth Leisure Day Sun 21st June £29
Wroxham & Summer Jazz Cruise Sun 21st June £51
Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance ONLY 7 LEFT Thurs 25th June £81
Skipton & Canal Boat (includes 2 course meal) Sat 27th June £64
Skipton Leisure Day Sat 27th June £35
Kew Gardens Sun 28th June Adult £56 Child £42
Moreton in Marsh & Bourton on the Water Tues 30th June £34
Jersey Boys (afternoon show)
Weds 1st July £84
Kinky Boots (afternoon show) ONLY 1 LEFT Thurs 2nd July £94
Blenheim Palace, Gardens and Parkland Sat 4th July Adult £68 Child £53
Grassington and Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway Sun 5th July Adult £50 Senior £49 Child £44
Oulton Broad 2 course lunch and Boat Weds 8th July £64
Avenue Q (afternoon show) Thurs 9th July £79
Colchester Zoo Sat 11th July Adult £55 Senior £54 Child £49
East Ruston Old Vicarage Gardens and Wroxham Sun 12th July £46
Operation Mincemeat (afternoon show) Weds 29th July £86
Althorp House and Gardens Sat 1st August Adult £56 Senior £49
Cannon Hall Farm Weds 5th August £42
Crich Tramway Village Sat 8th August Adult £48 Child £43
Jesus Christ Superstar starring Sam Ryder at the London Palladium ONLY 20 LEFT Sat 15th August £106
Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey) Sun 16th August £64
Hever Castle and Gardens Weds 19th August Adult £51 Senior £50 Child £41
Tower of London Thurs 20th August Adult £71 Senior £65 Child £55
London Leisure Day Thurs 20th August £35
Dirty Dancing (afternoon show) Fri 28th August £80
Whitby Leisure Day Weds 2nd September £35
Annie (afternoon show) Thurs 3rd September £78
Canterbury Cathedral Sat 5th September Adult £53 Child £47
Canterbury Shopping/Leisure Day Sat 5th September £35
Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style Sun 6th September Adult £55 Young Person £48 Child £45
Buckingham Palace State Rooms & Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style Sun 6th September Adult £85 Young Person £67 Child £60
London Leisure Day Sun 6th September £35
The Devil Wears Prada (afternoon show) Weds 9th September £83
Barnum the Circus Musical (afternoon show) Thurs 10th September £75
Duxford Battle of Britain Air Show Sun 13th September Adult £74 Child £30
Cromer Pier Summer Show (afternoon show) Weds 16th September £56
Sheringham 1940s Sat 19th September £30
Andre Rieu and His Johann Strauss Orchestra ONLY 18 LEFT Sat 19th September £175
Michael Ball: Glow UK Tour ONLY 20 LEFT Sat 19th September £117
Waitress (afternoon show) Weds 23rd September £78
Matthew Bourne’s New Adventure – The Car Man (afternoon show) Thurs 24th September £83
Churchill War Rooms Weds 30th September Adult £69 Senior £65 Child £52
Household Cavalry Museum Weds 30th September Adult £47 Senior £45 Child £44
London Leisure Day Weds 30th September £35
Beetlejuice (afternoon show) Fri 2nd October £79
The Piece Hall Sat 3rd October £44
Halifax Shopping/Leisure Day Sat 3rd October £34
Abba Voyage (afternoon concert) Sun 4th October Seated £130 Dance Floor £90
Leonardo Hotel, Liverpool – 4 days Weds 7th October £249
Mamma Mia! (afternoon show) Thurs 8th October £83
High Society (afternoon show) Weds 4th November £73
Mean Girls (afternoon show) Thurs 5th November £80
Simply Christmas, Sewing for Pleasure, Creative Craft, Cake & Bake International Shows Sat 7th November £39
Ely – Christmas Gift and Food Fair Thurs 19th November £40
Bakewell Christmas Market Sun 22nd November £30
The Fifties & Sixties Christmas Party (afternoon show & 2 course lunch) Tues 24th November £89
York Christmas Market/Shopping/Leisure Day Fri 27th November £31
Stratford Upon Avon Christmas Market/Shopping/Leisure Day Sat 28th November £30
Lakeside Shopping Centre Sun 29th November £31
Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market/Shopping/Leisure Day Sat 5th December £31
Windsor Leisure Day Sat 5th December £36
Christmas at Windsor Castle Sat 5th December Adult £65 Young person £55 Child £51
Leeds Christmas Market/Shopping/Leisure Day Sun 6th December £31
*Thursford Christmas Spectacular Thurs 10th December £82
Cromer Pier Christmas Show (afternoon show) Fri 11th December £57
Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre Sat 12th December £65
What's On Events: February 2026
1st and every Sunday - Bourne Wheelers club ride leaves the Bourne Post Office car park on Burghley Street at 9am.
5th - Soup lunches in Baston Church 12 noon - 1.30pm. A bowl of delicious homemade soup plus roll and butter, hot dessert with custard, tea/coffee £6.50 (cash please). Everyone is welcome.
5th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Lunch at the Hall, 12.30pm. Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street, Market Deeping PE6 8AN. £7 (£6 members). Book with David on 01778 347876.
7th, 14th and 28th - St Michael’s Church Langtoft open for tea, coffee, toast and biscuits 10.30am - 12.30pm. Board games and jigsaws available. All welcome.
7th - Live Country Music evening at Masonic Centre Hall, 1-2 Roman Bank, Bourne, PE10 9LQ. This month Derek Darby: 7pm - 10pm. Entrance £10, no bar, so bring your own drinks. For further information, call Donna 07718972329 or email DCALiner@aol.com.
7th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Family History: A Case Study 6pm. Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street, Market Deeping PE6 8AN. Free talk. Donation for refreshments. Book with the office on 01778 342006.
7th and every Saturday - Bourne Wheelers social ride leaves Coggles Causeway at 9am Beginners ride leaves Bourne Leisure Centre at 9am
9th - Langtoft, The Deepings & District branch of the Royal British Legion welcome Brian Thornthwaite to talk on ‘RAF North Witham – Paths in the Woods’ 8pm The Stage, Market Deeping. Visitors welcome.
10th - Following their AGM, Deeping Ladies Coffee Club will be pleased to welcome Nicholas Watts talking about “Farming and Wildlife” on his farm. Doors open at 10am at The Priory Church Hall. Any enquires, contact Liz on 01778219668.
10th - Second Tuesday of every month, Dementia Support South Lincs Coffee Morning from 11am12.30pm at Langtoft Village Hall, £3 donation will be greatly appreciated.
11th - A Crafty Cuppa 10.30am at Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street, Market Deeping. Donation for refreshments. Book with Janice on 01778 560059.
12th - The Arts Society Peterborough’s monthly talk at The Fleet, Community Centre, PE2 8DL is by Twiggs Way whose talk “Gardens of the Impressionists” celebrates the centenary of the death of Claude Monet. Doors at 10.15am for coffee and a chat; the talk starts at 10.45am and lasts an hour. Everyone welcome, so why not come and join us? Parking free. For more details
of how to join the society, visit: www.the-arts-societypeterborough.org.uk.
14th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows - Oh La La! French Night, 6.30pm at Coronation Hall, Market Deeping. £12 (£10 members). Includes a dinner. Dress up ‘Allo ‘Allo style encouraged. Book with Jenny on 07788 534290.
15th - Enjoy a free afternoon of quality music with Pennyless at Mama Liz’s, Stamford. 4pm - 6pm.
16th - The Deepings u3a welcomes a speaker from the Lincolnshire Emergency Blood Bikes Service who will tell us all about the charity. The doors open at 9.30am for a 10.30am start at The Deepings Methodist Church, DSJ when refreshments are served. The cost is £2. For more details, call David on 01778 343158.
17th - The Deepings Flower Club AGM and Social Evening - meet at the Parish Hall, Deeping St James at 7pm. We welcome new members and our first visiting demonstrator will be in March. We meet on the third Tuesday of each month. There is a raffle of arrangements and we have a club sales table with items for flower arrangements, books and magazines.
18th and 25th - St Michael’s Church, Langtoft. Lunches in church, serving soup, hot puddings and tea or coffee. Cost £6.50 per person, Primary age children £3, Preschool children free, 12 noon - 1.30pm.
18th - Bourne Organ Club’s guest this month is David Ingley. 7.30pm at Bourne Corn Exchange. Tickets on the door - £8 members, £9 visitors, everyone is welcome. For more details, call 01778 424947.
18th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Friendship Lunch at the Crown Inn in Surfleet, 12 noon for 12.30pm. Contact Christine for further information and to book on 07714 096801.
19th - Soup lunches in Baston Church 12 noon to 1.30pm. A bowl of delicious homemade soup plus roll and butter, hot dessert with custard, tea/coffee £6.50 (cash please). Everyone is welcome.
20th - Glinton Horticultural Society - A talk on the gardens at Burghley by Head Gardener, Joe Whitehead. Glinton Village Hall, 7.30pm Tea/coffee and biscuits. Members £4.00, visitors £5.00. All welcome.
20th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Degree Workshop. Oddfellows Hall at 10.30am. Open to all members. Further details from Christine on 07714 096801.
21st - The Rotary Club of the Deepings Quiz Night at The Community Centre, Market Deeping. 7pm for 7.30pm start, Teams of up to 6 / £5 per person. To book a table, contact Mary Martin on 01778 343927.
Events are brought to you by Hilary Bloomer. To send in your events please contact her via hilary@discoveringmagazines.co.uk or phone 01778 421427 / 07837 499061
21st - St Michael’s Church, Langtoft. Cake and bacon butty morning with cake stall. Soup also being served. All welcome. 10.30am - 1pm
21st - Surprise Bingo! Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street, Market Deeping, at 2pm £1 for a book of 10 games Donation for refreshments. Contact Jenny on 07788 534290 to book.
21st - Community singing workshop, led by Val Regan at Stamford Arts Centre from 10.30am - 4pm (lunch 12.30pm – 1.30pm). Singing is for everyone and you are welcome, whether you are new to singing or an old hand. You’ll learn uplifting songs in harmony parts. Val leads choirs and singing workshops all over the UK and is the composer of the musical, “Gwenda’s Garage”. She is known for her engaging style and sense of humour. She’ll have you singing before you know it! Tickets £25 from www.stamfordartscentre.com.
25th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Let’s Do Lunch! 12.30pm. Thorney Golf Club. Cost as per menu. Contact Jenny on 07788 534290 to book.
26th - DSJ WI will be holding their monthly meeting at the Priory Church Hall, DSJ with doors opening at 7pm. Our speaker will be telling us all about “Blood Bikes”. Visitors welcome. Please call Sue on 01778 344195 for more information.
27th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Museum workshop 10.30am. Oddfellows Hall. Members only. Please confirm attendance with Christine on 07714 096801.
28th - Bourne Town Hall Pop-Up events present an evening of live music at Bourne Abbey Church Hall and are delighted to welcome back local musicians, KTN who sold out at their last Old Town Hall gig. KTN comprises Kevin, Tim and Nick who are a locally-based trio who regularly perform at the monthly Hare and Hounds Open Mic nights. Doors at 6.45pm for a 7.30 start. Licensed Bar. All proceeds to the Bourne Town Hall Regeneration Project. Tickets £10 from www.bournetownhall.org.uk. Get your tickets soon!
Peterborough Choral Society Spring Term has started and we are welcoming anyone interested in joining or just coming to try us out. The next event is A Meditation of Light in Peterborough Cathedral on Saturday March 28th. Contact the choir via ‘contact us’ on our website www.peterboroughchoral.com.’
DEEPINGS CAMERA CLUB
Meet every Wednesday 7.30pm - 9.30pm at Deepings Community Centre, PE6 8PA. We enjoy presentations with stunning images from top photographers, also friendly competitions and much more. Visitors are always very welcome - your interest in photography is more important than ability. See our programme and get in touch at www.deepingscamera.club.
Auction of Promises Supporting Bourne’s Old Town Hall
A dedicated team of volunteers has been working tirelessly to bring something truly special to Bourne – an Auction of Promises to raise vital funds for the regeneration of the Old Town Hall. Their enthusiasm has attracted an incredible array of lots, each one offering a unique experience or opportunity.
Imagine yourself learning choreography or singing with members of the Strictly Come Dancing team, enjoying tickets to dazzling West End shows, or taking part in exclusive local sports promises. Perhaps you’d prefer art, music tuition or live gigs, or even private tours of local facilities and heritage sites. The list is long, varied, and full of surprises – there really is something for everyone!
The promises and event ticket booking will be launched on January 24th, with the auction online from March 1st, giving you the chance to browse and bid at your leisure. It will all culminate in a vibrant live event on March 20th at the Corn Exchange, Bourne, where auctioneer, Stephen Knipe will take to the rostrum, ensuring an evening of excitement, entertainment, and spirited bidding.
This is more than just an auction – it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and generosity.
● Full details of the auction and promises can be found at: www.bournetown hall.org.uk/events
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this joyful occasion – place your bids, join the fun, and help make history in Bourne!
Watch this space!
More details coming in March’s edition.
Answers
1) You Tube, 2) Aquarius, 3) Amour, 4) Paris, 5) Richard Cadbury, 6) Oliver Cromwell, 7) Italy, 8) Cupid, 9) ethyst,Am 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.
Baston C of E Primary School
Recently, Years 3 and 4 pupils took part in a remarkable live assembly, broadcast from the South Pole, six hundred miles away! Explorer, Robert Swan OBE, who was the first person to walk to both poles, spoke to the children directly from Antarctica, sharing stories of life on the ice and the urgent importance of protecting our planet’s frozen continent.
Linchfield Academy
• Year 5 pupils held a parent showcase as the outcome of their biography writing unit. Throughout the unit, pupils researched significant individuals, developed their note-taking skills, and organised information, clearly and effectively. Thank you to all the parents and carers who attended
• Our Design and Technology focus was upon investigating and designing
This was the first time ever that a live video call had been made globally via Starlink from Antarctica’s Union Glacier Field Camp, and Baston made history by being part of it! They even got a special shoutout after asking Robert how cold it was there. He explained that it was around –20°C, but with the wind-chill, it often felt like –30°C. He also told the children that at the South Pole itself, temperatures had recently dropped to a staggering –44°C!
the best features for a bird hide shelter and mini habitats for hedgehogs. The children loved using the ‘Forest School’ area to combine sticks and different materials to create their structures from their book designs.
• Year 6 went on a trip to the National Holocaust Museum and followed the journey of a ten-year-old Jewish boy (Leo), who lived at the time of the Holocaust in Germany.
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