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Welcome to your March issue...

I’m often surprised at just how quickly, within a few weeks, we move on each year from those cold, dark mornings and all that rain and those gale force winds. Blossom is now on show and summer is nearly upon us, and there are smiles on people’s faces.

As ever, I hope you find the wide range of topics included in this month’s magazine both informative and enjoyable. Many thanks to all the contributors and advertisers for their hard work and for your continuing support and words of encouragement; your feedback is always welcome. Enjoy the Easter celebrations, and best wishes for a happy break to you all.

Claire x

Sport continues to provide so many thought-provoking moments. It’s much more than just the game. On February 7th, the Scottish men’s rugby team surprisingly lost their opening Six Nations game in Italy. Soon afterwards, Scotland won their next three matches. Recently asked whether he found that Italy result such a disaster, Scotland’s Head Coach, Gregor Townsend, simply smiled, implying that it had been a chastening experience for the squad, from which they have since built a more effective team and recently hammered both England and France. Learning from life’s “bad days”, seeking new ways forward, and believing in ourselves, is such an important lesson for us all.

And finally:

➡ When the nurse told me that every finger on my right hand was broken, I found it hard to grasp

➡ After the bank robbery, police questioned a dummy and a ventriloquist who might have had a hand in it. Enjoy the read.

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

4 Hairdressers Salon – glowing review.

5 Deep-in Aesthetics.

6 .............. Swanky Rags.

8 For You Healthcare.

10-11 The Chemist Shop in Glinton.

12 ............ W & P Legal: Nick Ash’s new book.

14 ............ Food for Thought: Yogurt and Kefir..

18 Community Matters.

31-33 Easter Egg Hunt: Win a chocolate explosion.

Local History: Halfleet Through Time.

36 Schools News.

38-39 .... The Liberty Partnership.

42-43 Consumer advice from Safe Local Trades.

44 ........... Special Easter Quiz.

45 Stowe Fly Fishing Club: Give it a go!

46 Vine House Farm Shop and Café.

47 ........... Exotic Pet Refuge Open Days 2026.

48 The Potting Shed: Gardening advice.

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

52-53 What’s on: Events guide.

54 ........... Go Cruise & Travel with Kieran and Lyndsay.

60-62 Business directory.

With thanks to

Richard Ash, Deepings Heritage, Rob Schwarz, Nick Ash, Vine House Farm.

Deadline details

Copy deadline for the May issue is Friday 10th April 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’ guidelines please email info@discoveringmagazines.co.uk.

HAIRDRESSERS for a “Moment of Pure Indulgence”!

Market Deeping’s fabulous new hairdressing salon reviewed by Discovering Magazines’ Sales Manager, Paula Kirtland:

“I have just had the most incredible Takara Belmont Japanese Head Spa treatment provided by Sharon from Hairdressers, and I am genuinely blown away by the whole experience. From the moment I sat back in the iconic, extremely comfortable chair, I felt completely cocooned in comfort with the added little touch of the soft blanket placed over me to keep me warm.

The treatment was wonderfully calming yet rejuvenating - a perfect balance of soothing scalp massage and expert technique and luxurious care given by Sharon, whose gentle reassuring voice, talks you through the whole experience. The attention to detail was exceptional. Every step

felt intentional, from the warm water flow to the gentle, rhythmic movements that melted away the tension I didn’t even realise I was holding! My scalp now feels refreshed, my hair looks healthier, and I feel lighter and deeply relaxed.

If you are looking for a treatment that goes beyond the typical salon experience, something truly restorative, then I can't recommend the Takara Belmont Head Spa highly enough for both women and men. I can't wait to return and will most definitely advise my family, friends and relations to receive this treatment. It's a moment of pure indulgence that stays with you long after you leave, thank you Sharon.”

Sharon and Tina have both been trained by specialists, Lisa and Yumi from Takara Belmont London, and have achieved accreditations as Yume Head Spa therapists.

The Spa Mist is used for sensory relaxation, folic stimulation, aromatherapy, hair colouring, perming and deep conditioning treatments.

You can receive a free fifteenminute head spa trial when

four or more appointments are booked at Hairdressers.

For more information and to book your treatment, please call on 07814 560184 or find more information on their Facebook page.

Sharon is also looking for experienced hairdressers to join her team on a selfemployed basis. Please contact her for further details.

Smooth, Youthful Skin Awaits!

Try An Expert Anti Wrinkle Treatment

Deep-In Aesthetics brings you expert Anti-Wrinkle Treatments designed to refresh your look and boost your confidence. Say goodbye to fine lines and hello to a naturally youthful glow!

Smooth away fine lines & wrinkles for a youthful look

Expert, safe and tailored antiwrinkle treatments

Professional accountability, ethics and trust you can rely on

Quick, effective results with minimal downtime

Boost your confidence with naturally refreshed skin

Over 27 years of pharmacy experience combined with Harley Street aesthetic training

Anti-Wrinkle Treatment Concerns:

Forehead lines

Frown lines (between eyebrows)

Crow’s feet (around the eyes)

Bunny lines (on the nose)

Lip lines (smoker’s lines)

Chin dimpling

Neck bands

Also used to treat excessive sweating

Over 100 5* Reviews

Coming into April and your Prom is getting closer, but still far enough away for you to get Swanky Rags to find your dream Prom dress. Please note that our “special orders” policy (any size and choice of a colour that a dress is available in) has now stopped.

However, don’t panic as we still have a great variety of different colours, styles and sizes for you to choose from in the Swanky Rags store.

We can still order dresses, only if they are in stock, so get your Prom appointments booked now to avoid disappointment.

For You Healthcare

For You Healthcare is a family business, based in Market Deeping, dedicated to enabling adults with support needs to live independent lives in the comfort of their own home, and to participate within the communities where they live. Having been established in 2014, this agency, which employs fulland part-time carers, has managed to build up a very favourable reputation, largely based upon this vastly experienced team, but particularly upon the leadership provided by it’s managers.

Both managers are registered nurses with over forty-two years between them of clinical experience, and a wealth of knowledge and skills, having worked with people with a broad spectrum of physical and mental health conditions.

All the people who are cared for are in constant contact with the managers, which helps to provide them with security and comfort - no “faceless names behind a desk” here!

All care workers at For You Healthcare undergo strict pre-employment checks, including one-to-one interviews, with professional references required and police criminal record checks made.

A comprehensive induction training programme and then regular refresher and specialist training courses ensure that the highest standards are always being met.

For You Healthcare covers the Deepings and surrounding villages. However, they can also go much further afield, if required for their “live-in care service”. Whereby, for two weeks at a time, a carer lives on the premises of the service user, enabling independence to be retained and companionship provided, and this can be at any location, in or outside the local vicinity.

As its name would suggest, For You Healthcare has, at its heart, the maximising of independence and choice.

Promoting independent living in your own home

At For You Healthcare we pride ourselves on providing the highest quality of care and support. Maintaining dignity, respect and choice is always important to us.

WE GO THE EXTRA MILE!

The right care and support will enable you to live as independently as possible in your own home. Our team of DBS checked, highly skilled and trained carers provide person centered and holistic support.

For You Healthcare offers a wide range of homecare options for our clients including:

• Personal care

• Home help

• Companionship

• Reablement

• Live in care

• 24 Hour care

• Respite care

• Sitting in

• Waking nights

• Palliative

• Medication Administration

• Nurses for complex needs

• Domestic Cleaning

• Escorting to social activities & appointments

• Fully trained care

• Visits from as little as ½ an hour

If you or someone you know is looking for quality, reliable care then contact us on: 07990 002600 / 01778 219062 / 01778 341457 Visit our website: www.foryouhealthcare.co.uk

We are now recruiting in your area please call for details

◆ 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 to use it and provide a free sharps and disposal unit.

◆ Ongoing support with advice on how to maintain your weight loss.

◆ Confidential and discreet service.

◆ Competitive pricing and choice of products available.

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

New Book by Nick Ash Will Help to Simplify Probate

Not long ago, I was sitting with a client who had recently lost a close family member. It was an emotional conversation, as you might expect, but what struck me most wasn’t just the grief they were experiencing — it was the confusion.

“Nick,” they said to me, “I don’t even know where to start.”

It’s something I hear far more often than you might think.

When someone passes away, families are suddenly faced with a long list of unfamiliar responsibilities. Probate, executors, estate administration, Inheritance Tax, paperwork, banks, property — the list can feel endless. And it all arrives at a time when people are already dealing with the emotional impact of losing someone they love. Over the years, I’ve sat with many families who felt overwhelmed by the process. They often tell me the same thing: “Nobody ever explained how this works.”

That’s exactly why I decided to write “The Probate Book”.

Probate is one of those topics that many people have heard of, but few truly understand. Some assume it will be incredibly complicated, while others think it will be quick and straightforward.

NICK ASH, Managing Director W&P Legal

In reality, every estate is different.

When I began writing the book, my goal was simple: to create a clear, practical guide that explains probate in plain English. Too often, legal topics are wrapped in complicated language that makes them harder to understand than they need to be. I wanted to focus on answering the questions people ask me every day — what probate actually is, when it’s required, what an executor needs to do, and what families should expect along the way. The book walks readers through the process, step by step, so they can feel more confident and informed.

Many people also tell me they wish they had understood probate before they had to deal with it. Having that knowledge in advance can make a real difference and can help people plan their own affairs more effectively.

If writing “The Probate Book” helps even a few people feel less overwhelmed during a difficult time, then it will have achieved exactly what I had hoped.

And of course, if you ever have questions about probate or estate planning, my team and I at W&P Legal are always here to help guide you through it.

“The Probate Book” was published in December 2025 and is available now at £16.99 from Amazon.

Components:

YOGURT AND KEFIR Food for ought...

Yogurt is a semi-solid dairy (or it can be a nondairy) production, utilising fermented milk to create a product that is rich in nutrients, including calcium and protein, plus probiotics, that assist the health and well-being of bones and gut. Greek-style productions are usually recognised to have a thicker consistency and higher protein level.

Multi award-winning Tims Greek Family Yogurts (Est. 1949) are inspired by their Greek family recipes and have the ﬁnest natural ingredients, plus gutfriendly bio-live cultures and fresh, pasteurised British milk combining to bring really great tastes to fruition, with dairy goodness and creamy textures to the fore. Founded by the Timotheou family, their amazing story developed and now ‘Tims’, as the brand has become known, creates productions that continue to gain prestigious awards.

Tims Greek Family Natural Yogurt I found to be very delicious on its own, also when accompanying fruits. Delights around the

table were experienced. Other comments were that this product is so versatile it can be drizzled with honey and used as a favourable dip, topping or dessert, as required. Other very popular choices include Blackcurrant, Honey, Caffe Latte, Mango, Raspberry and Vanilla ﬂavoured yogurts.

Tims Greek Family Natural Kefir is a probiotic-rich dairy production that is fermented and produces a refreshing sensation which has digestive and immune benefits. The smooth productions of kefir are known to improve digestion and gut health, and, similarly to yogurt, can assist in the fight against infections.

By Trevor Langley

Tims Foodservice Range offers opportunities for chefs, hotels, colleges and universities, catering establishments, wedding venues, also schools, plus hospitals and many other outlets, that require these types of productions, to gain access to bulk supplies. Stockists, further productions, information and more details are available on their very informative website. Doorstep deliveries are available and online ordering is easy too. Tims itself does not sell online – just through wholesalers for the food service and, for example, Waitrose and Ocado for the Greek family range. All orders are dispatched quickly and efﬁciently. Highly recommended.

Tims, Mopes Farm, Denham Lane, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire SL9 0QH. Tel: 01753 888380. Email: info@timsdairy.co.uk www.timsdairy.co.uk

As always, enjoy!

• 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.

The Griffin Inn Irnham

Spring Menu

Lunchtime meal deal in April, Thursday & Friday lunchtimes to include a bottle of house wine per table

Now Available

BEER FESTIVAL 2026

Sat 29th August, Sunday 30th and Bank holiday Monday 31st

24HR CHARITY WALK

with 'Don’t lose hope' Sunday 24th May, bank holiday Monday 25th

V=Vegetarian Ve=Vegan GF(O)= Gluten Free (Option)

To Start

Smoked salmon and crayfish

Confit tomatoes salad £9.50

Braised pig’s cheek

Manchego croquette and chorizo relish (GFO)

£10.50

Soup of the Day

Homemade focaccia (GFO) (VeO) £6.50

Bang Bang Cauliflower

Topped with chilli, coriander and sesame seeds (Ve) (GF) £8.50

Wild mushroom and Stilton bread pudding

Watercress veloute and pine nuts (V) £8

For The Main Course

Pan fried seabream

Romesco sauce and Mediterranean roast vegetables (GF) £25.50

Shakshuka

Tomato, onion, peppers, egg served with baguette (GF0) (V) £18.00

Lamb rump

Sweet potato fondant, beetroot puree, olives, feta and salsa verde (GF) £28.50

Beer Battered Fish and Chips

Mushy peas and homemade tartare sauce £18

Green Thai cod loin curry

Jasmine rice, stir fried vegetables (Gf) £26 (tofu gyoza £19.00) (vgo)

Pie of the week

Triple cooked chips, seasonal vegetables and gravy £18

10oz rib eye Steak

Triple cooked chips, roasted tomatoes, Portobello mushroom and watercress salad (GF) £32

Chicken and Bacon burger

Mozzarella, tomato relish, fries and salad £18

To finish

Textures of chocolate brownie, white choc sauce, milk chocolate ice cream £9

Sticky toffee pudding praline, black treacle ice cream £8.50

Lemon pannacotta poached strawberries, basil sorbet (GF) £8

Tiramisu coffee cream, amaretti biscuit and chocolate sauce £8.50

Blackcurrant souffle boozy berries, lavender ice cream (GF) £10

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 with Sal : 01778 421427 or 07737 026594 info@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

Deepings Raft Race 2026 Theme Announced

The organisers of the Deepings Raft Race are delighted to reveal that the 2026 theme will be ‘Marvellous Musicals’. The Raft Race will take place on Sunday August 2nd, 2026, promising a show-stopping day of colour, creativity and entertainment on and off the water.

This year’s theme offers incredible scope for teams to let their imaginations run wild, as Deepings Raft Race Committee Chairman, Kevin Barber explains: “Marvellous Musicals gives teams so much scope to be creative. You could go for the timeless classics like ‘The Sound of Music’ or bring some modern magic to life with shows like ‘Wicked’. We’re also hoping to see the ‘Phantom’ and ‘Christine’ paddling down the river!”

While entry is not yet open, organisers are encouraging teams to start getting together to plan their builds. “We’d really love to see more businesses taking part this year,” says Kevin. “It is such a good way

to get your name in front of thousands of people, as well as having a lot of fun.”

Join the mailing list at www.deepings raftrace. co.uk to be the first to hear when entries go live. The Deepings Raft Race is one of the area’s most anticipated annual events, drawing thousands of spectators and raising vital funds for local causes. The event would not be possible without the generous backing of its sponsors, whose support ensures the race can take place each year.

There are still sponsorship packages available for 2026. Sponsoring the Deepings Raft Race offers fantastic exposure within the local community, both on race day and in the months leading up to the event, through social media promotion and print media coverage.

Businesses interested in becoming part of this community event are encouraged to get in touch through info@deepingsraftrace.co.uk.

Meet Finn – A Local Young Racer

Hello, my name is Finn and I’m an 11-year-old karting enthusiast, proudly representing the local area. I started racing at club level in April 2025, and in 2026 I’ll be taking a big step forward by competing in a National Championship. Karting is more than just a hobby for me - it’s a passion that takes commitment, resilience, and constant learning, both on and off the track.

Support a Local Dream

I’m looking for support from local businesses who would like to be part of my journey. Sponsorship starts from £50 per month and includes brand exposure on my kart or race suit, plus promotion on social media and livestreamed races. By sponsoring me, you’ll be helping a young racer chase his dreams, while showing your support for local talent and the community. I’d love to have you on board!

If you are interested in supporting me and working together, please have a chat to my mum, Tracy Hollis, on 07764 971068 or email tracyhollis3@gmail.com. You can also follow me on Instagram @hollis_racing.

Market Deeping Council Updates

➜ Annual Town Meeting

This will be held on Tuesday April 21st at 7pm in The Green School, 24 Church Street, Market Deeping, your opportunity for residents to come along and ask questions. There will be several organisations attending with general interest information, and an update regarding the Deepings Emergency Plan and the measures in place for The Deepings should we suffer from flooding in future.

➜ Re-surfacing of Halfleet and Church Street

The long-awaited resurfacing work for the entire length of the road will be happening from April 14th until May 20th. The road will be closed between 9pm and 6am throughout this period whilst the work is carried out, and diversion signs will be in place.

THE BEST QUALITY PRODUCTS AT VALUE

FOR MONEY PRICES

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.

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.

To make a free 20-minute appointment call 01778 230 030 , email emma.mcgrath@hegarty.co.uk or visit hegarty.co.uk/familyclinic

hegarty.co.uk

Legal support for business, for family, for life

Email: enquiries@tradelinkinstallations.co.uk

Website: www.tradelinkinstallations.co.uk

Handmade Blinds & Curtains

Domestic and Commercial Beautiful Shutters

Vertical, Roller, Pleated, Vision, Roman Blinds, Venetian Blinds, Wood and Aluminium, Fly Screens

Conservatory Blinds and Sails

Perfect Fit and INTU Blinds

Awnings and Canopies

Child Safety Devices, Motorisation and Connectivity

Curtain Tracks and Poles supplied and ﬁtted

EggEasterHunt

Write in the boxes provided, which shop window features each egg!

Crowland Carpets

Briggs Residential

Deeping Television

DT Stoves

Shampooch

Grooming

Participating Businesses

Oakwoods Beebys

Winkworth

Empire Gym

Deeping Bed Shop

Pet’s Pantry

Riverside Beads

Cafe Mills

Markey’s Wee

Barber Shop

Lilli’s Tea Room

Liberty Partnership

Linfords

Private Kollection

Willow & Grace

NAME:

ADDRESS:

TEL:

DJ Barber Shop

RSPCA Shop

Sharman Quinney

Godsey Lane

Coffee Shop

Competition closes 30/04/2026. Good Luck!!

Please fill in your details below and post your entry form to:

In the boxes provided under the pictures, write down the name of the shops where you find the matching Easter eggs for your chance to win a chocolate explosion!

Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET or pop your entry into

Briggs Residential, 12 Market Place, Market Deeping, PE6 8EA

Halfleet Through Time

The southern end of Halfleet was originally marked by a waterway which flowed across the street, close to the milestone near Market Deeping church. In medieval times, this stony stream was called the Harefleet, and its name was later used for the road leading up to Towngate. A footbridge and small pond remained near the milestone in the 1930s, when the rest of the stream was piped underground.

Hall Farm nearby was demolished in 1989 to make way for a housing development of the same name. Its farmhouse, built in 1907, had in turn replaced an ancient manor house on the site, once owned by the Wake family who were Lords of Deeping in the 14th century. Before modern houses were built beyond the farm, Halfleet was separated from the main village by open fields and smallholdings. It had an unusual feature of mud walls along the roadside. These consisted of compacted layers of mud on a stone foundation with pantiles on top. The mud became riddled with holes made by burrowing bees, which generations of children captured in matchboxes. The walls are thought to have been built around 1800 to avoid a brick tax, and the last surviving section collapsed in 1956.

The photograph looking towards Towngate shows part of the Oddfellows Arms public house in the

left foreground. It was trading by 1816 and may have been named when a Lodge of the Society was founded in Deeping a few years earlier. The pub was said to be entirely remodelled in the 1890s, selling only strong ales and Nottingham bitter.

Halfleet’s second public house, The George Inn, is barely visible in the distance on the right-hand side. Its landlord in the 1780s was also a farmer, and the premises were later adapted for butchers and wheelwrights. The George was closed down by Licensing Authorities in 1908, when they decided Market Deeping had too many pubs for its population. The Oddfellows Arms stopped trading in 1918, leaving only The Wheatsheaf at Towngate crossroads to serve Halfleet’s drinkers.

The Greenfield family’s workshop, centre-right in the street scene, was started by Elijah in the 1840s, when he took over a blacksmith’s premises to make ploughs and other horse-drawn farm implements. Over time, his son Walter diversified into selling bicycles and then servicing early motor cars. When Elijah Greenfield died in 1909, he was the oldest tradesman in the village.

With an increasing population in the 1950s, a residential caravan site called Halfleet Grove was established on former farmland to provide homes until new estates were built behind the west side of the street in the late 1980s. The two former pubs and workshop still survive as private houses, retaining a link to the past.

Greenfield Motor Engineers

Looking north towards Towngate

for the Home Est. 2004

for the Home

Est. 2004

for the Home Est. 2004

Kitchen & Bedroom Showroom

New Showroom Now Open

Don't forget we have moved to King Street Ind Est PE6 9NF

New Showroom Now Open

Fitted Kitchens

-5 Piece Shaker Kitchens

Fitted Kitchens

-5 Piece Shaker Kitchens

-Inframe/Mock Inframe Kitchens

-5 Piece Shaker Kitchens

-5 Piece Shaker Kitchens -Inframe/Mock Inframe Kitchens

-Inframe/Mock Inframe Kitchens

-Quartz & Porcelain Worktops -Painted Kitchens -Handleless Kitchens -Integrated Appliances

-Inframe/Mock Inframe Kitchens

-Quartz & Porcelain Worktops -Painted Kitchens -Handleless Kitchens -Integrated Appliances

Next door to the factory to see your kitchen come to life

Unit 22 King Street Ind Est, Langtoft, PE6 9NF

Next door to the factory to see your kitchen come to life Perfect for the Home

Unit 22 King Street Ind Est, Langtoft, PE6 9NF

01778 420700 sue@perfectforthehome.co.uk

‘Gladiator’ Steel Visits Thurlby CP Academy

When the pupils of Thurlby CP Academy gathered for a recent assembly, they were surprised that it was a real-life TV gladiator taking the lead and not Mrs Finch, their Headteacher. Stepping into the hall to cheers and wide-eyed excitement was Steel, one of the formidable stars of the hit UK series ‘Gladiators’.

REVITALISE YOUR KITCHEN WITH NEXT-GEN FINISHES

Want to give your kitchen a makeover, but don’t want the stress, upheaval, and cost of a major renovation? Then look no further than Next-Gen Finishes.

Steel explained that being a gladiator isn’t just about lifting heavy weights or training for hours — it’s about discipline, rest, nutrition and, crucially, mental resilience. The children listened

intently as he described how a positive mindset helps him push through demanding training sessions and bounce back from setbacks. What made the assembly even more special was how he involved everyone in the hall, turning the assembly into a lively, interactive experience.

cabinetry and breathe new life into it with a fresh, durable finish. In just a few days, you can enjoy the look and feel of a brand-new kitchen. It is:

The Peterborough-based business specialises in professional kitchen resprays, furniture painting, and internal decorating innovations, including wallpaper hanging and digital mural installation. It is run by Coates-born Grant Roberts (46), who has more than twenty-five years’ experience, and is City & Guilds assured in airless spray painting, fitted furniture renovation, fine finish spraying, and digital mural installation. He said: “We offer a wide range of services but are specialising more and more on kitchen resprays that can give our customers’ kitchens a great new look with revitalised doors and units. We pick up a lot of business in the Whittlesey, Peterborough and Stamford areas and plan to add granite spraying to the services we can provide to give our customers even more choice.”

For kitchen resprays, the company offers a thorough process: removing all doors and drawer faces for workshop treatment, degreasing and sanding surfaces, prior to applying paints. The result is a flawless, durable finish backed by a five-year workmanship guarantee.

A Next-Gen Finishes kitchen respray can:

• Boost the value of your property

• Give your home a fresh, modern feel

• And provide a stylish and functional space to entertain

With the growing trend towards ecofriendly home improvements, Grant says a kitchen respray is a sustainable choice for homeowners as his business uses eco-friendly paints that are safe for your home and the environment, making your kitchen makeover a green choice. A kitchen respray is the perfect solution for anyone looking to update their kitchen without the hassle of ripping out cabinets or replacing expensive units.

Next-Gen Finishes can take your existing

Steel also highlighted the importance of hydration, explaining how drinking enough water supports concentration in the classroom, boosts energy levels and keeps muscles working properly during sport. The session included practical advice: keeping a refillable water bottle on hand, eating balanced meals and finding forms of exercise that are fun, whether that’s football, dance, cycling or playground games.

• Cost-effective: a kitchen respray can save you up to eighty percent compared to the cost of a full replacement.

Eco-friendly: by respraying your existing cabinets, you reduce waste and your environmental footprint.

Durable: when it comes to selecting the right paint for your kitchen cupboards, quality and durability really matters.

Perhaps the most powerful part of the visit was Steel’s openness about mental health. He spoke about handling pressure, staying calm before competitions and asking for support when things feel overwhelming.

Customisable: the company offers a wide range of colours and finishes to match your style and vision.

Plus, there’s a quick turnaround – no need to wait weeks or months for a renovation – most kitchen resprays take just a few days.

The visit wasn’t just exciting; it was uplifting, motivating and filled with moments the children will remember forever. The school felt it was a privilege to welcome such a hardworking, friendly and inspiring role model into their school and would like to thank the PTFA for providing this opportunity.

Cross Country Success for DSJ Pupils

Next-Gen Finishes – which recently won Peterborough’s painting & decorating business awards 2024 – actively promotes its services through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, Google, Bark, MyBuilder, Houzz, and is featured in Peterborough City Council’s eBook and local magazines such as Discovering Whittlesea. You can contact Next-Gen Finishes on 07780 546795; Email: grant@nextgenfinishes.com; www.nextgenfinishes.com

New Trim Trail Open

On Tuesday, March 3rd, Deeping St James County Primary School was represented by forty-six children across Key Stage 2 in the Cross-Country competition held at Market Deeping Park. Thankfully, the weather was bright and cheerful which encouraged the children to put in extra effort, which culminated in several medals for their hard work, at the event and in the preceding weeks training around their school’s “Daily Mile” track. Children in Years 3 and 4 ran ¾ of a mile and the children in Years 5 and 6 ran a full mile! Mr Bell, Mrs Meekin and Mrs Collins accompanied the children to the event (thankfully, they were not asked to compete!) and all had a thoroughly enjoyable time. There are limited spaces available for children in some year groups across the school. For more details call Mrs Russell or Mrs Holden in the school office on 01778 342314.

There was much excitement at Market Deeping Community Primary School last month when the whole school gathered on the playground to watch the ribbon being cut on the new trim trail with fundraisers, Jude Young (Deepings Caravan Park), Vicki Carter (Chairlady of the PTFA) and Chris (Community Champion from Tesco), gathered with head teacher, Mark Ratchford.

The children, along with help from a few local businesses and the school’s fabulous PTFA, raised just under £10,000 to get a fantastic Trim Trail built on their newly renovated Astro Turf area, for which the PTFA had also helped to fund £12,000.

DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL

INSTALLATIONS SERVICE AND REPAIRS

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Winter offers available on Air Conditioning Systems

Email: info.bpcaircondi�oning@gmail.com

Website Adds Peace of Mind When it Comes to Selecting a Trusted Trader

By Eileen Le Voi at Safe Local Trades

A new website has been highlighted by TV consumer champion, Matt Allwright, on a recent episode of “Watchdog”. The site provides a user-friendly online checker tool for customers searching for reliable and trusted businesses.

The Financial Conduct Authority www.fca.org.uk regulates the conduct of around 42,000 businesses in the UK to ensure that financial markets work well. But it isn’t just limited to financial companies; professional trades can also register and in fact, you may find some of our own valued Safe Local Trades members listed too – providing another layer of security.

Our members (or other home improvement companies) may appear on the register because they act as credit brokers or appointed representatives for ﬁnance companies, allowing them to offer payment plans, loans, or insurance for their work.

This may include offering ﬁnancing options (like twelve months interest-free) to pay for a new boiler or bathroom installation; they are engaging in regulated credit broking for example. This requires authorisation from the FCA.

The website also offers advice and signposting on checking ﬁrms, spotting the warning signs when it comes to scams and how to report suspected scams.

Spotting the warning signs for scams

If you get an unexpected call and feel uneasy, pause and check for these red ﬂags:

• Is it unexpected? Scammers may reach out suddenly through calls, emails, texts, social media, mail, or in person.

• Are you pressured to act fast? They may push you to invest quickly with limited-time deals or bonuses.

• Does it sound too good to be true? Be wary of promises of high rewards.

• Is the offer exclusive? Claims that you've been specially chosen should raise suspicion.

If you’re worried about a potential scam, or you think you may have been contacted by a fraudster, you can report it to the FCA on 0800 111 6768 or get in touch via the website. If you have lost money to a scam, contact Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

However, there is peace of mind to be had by using www.safelocaltrades.com as all our tried and test traders have been vetted. C a l l : 0 7 7 0 7 7 4 9 8 4 0

1) Bonnet; 2) Good Friday; 3) Italy; 4) The resurrection of Jesus; 5) Judas Iscariot; 6) Germany; 7) Pacific; 8) Chile; 9) True; 10) Palm Sunday; 11) Thorns; 12) Faberge; 13) Washing clothes; 14) Donkey; 15) Lent; 16) The Last Supper; 17) Roast lamb; 18) Fry’s; 19) 1873; 20) Raisins.

Fancy Fly Fishing?

Here’s Your Chance To Give It A Go!

Stowe Fly Fishing Club hides itself away in plain sight in a gem of unspoilt nature just off King Street at West Deeping. Treasurer Andy told me that often, when he fishes in early summer, his favourite time of year, there is no-one else at the lake, and all he can hear is a woodpecker, a cuckoo and the jagged rattle of reed warblers. A dozen red-crested pochard over wintered at the lake and a bittern has been heard and seen.

Frequent visitors include herons, egrets, ospreys, red kites, buzzards, tufted ducks, cormorants, mink and otters, although the latter three are not welcomed by the fly fishers!

The Club itself has a limited membership, but has vacancies for a few more this season, which runs until the end of December. At a cost of under £1 per day, the annual subscription compares very favourably to local fly-fishing clubs and is far cheaper than the large local reservoirs run by Anglian Water.

In addition, there are two locally built Coulam rowing boats available. Fishing is from the bank

or boat. Many members fish for the rainbow trout and return their catch, but taking the odd fish for the pot is allowed. The fish are locally sourced from River Gwash Trout Farm, and the reputation of the Club is such that employees of the trout farm have become members. Stocking with two hundred rainbow trout and an occasional “brownie” of 1kg and upwards occurs several times each season.

Stowe Fly Fishing Club encourages members of all levels of skill and actively encourages newcomers. Through close links with Peterborough District Angling Association, introductory open days with coaching are available, the next one being on Saturday May 2nd.

The club is also lucky to count, amongst its members, two of the current England Ladies Fly Fishing squad, and a ladies national coarse fishing ex-champion, who has been converted to fly fishing!

For details of the Open Day on May 2nd, and enquiries about membership, please contact stoweflyfishingclub@gmail.com. You will be made very welcome!

W H A T ’ S O N T H I S A P R I L …

lenty of act i v it ies & treats o ver Eas ter!

L i t t l e o n e s c a n j o i n o u r c l a s s i c E a s t e r E g g H u n t

O l d e r c h i l d r e n w i l l l o v e o u r E g g F a c t Q u i z T r a i l

S p e c i a l g u e s t P e t e r R a b b i t i s h o p p i n g i n f o r s t o r y t i m e

o n T u e s d a y 7 t h & We d n e s d a y 8 - e n t r y b y t i c k e t o n l y ! t h

W h i l e y o u ’ r e h e r e , d o n ’ t m i s s o u r f a r m - f r e s h e g g s ,

d e l i v e r e d d a i l y f r o m o u r h a p p y h e n s i n T a l l i n g t o n a n d

u s e d i n a l l o u r h o m e m a d e b a k i n g a n d C a f é d i s h e s .

P l a n n i n g y o u r E a s t e r f e a s t ? P i c k u p a q u a l i t y j o i n t

f r o m o u r G r a s m e r e F a r m b u t c h e r y . K e e p a n e y e o u t f o r

n e w p o t a t o e s i n l a t e A p r i l & a s p a r a g u s s e a s o n i s

n e a r l y h e r e ( f i n g e r s c r o s s e d f o r S t G e o r g e ’ s D a y ! )

There will be plenty to keep you busy this month as the days are longer, soil temperatures are rising and it should be warm enough for many crops to be planted outdoors… but be wary of late frosts!

Aim to get all your potatoes planted by the end of the month – plant out chitted second early potatoes in the ﬁrst two weeks of the month and maincrop potatoes in second two weeks. Second earlies and maincrop need more growing space so plant them about 38cm (15 inches) apart and 75cm (30 inches) between rows. When the shoots appear, earth up each plant by covering it with a ridge of soil.

If you want to grow asparagus and haven’t already prepared your bed, do it this month or it will be too late. Plant the crowns by digging a trench 12 inches deep and add some wellrotted manure, making a 4-inch ridge at the base and spread the roots of the crown over the ridge, replace the soil, leaving the tips just visible. Water in and add mulch. Don’t forget to leave the asparagus for two years before harvesting – it’s well worth the wait!

You can sow several seeds indoors; chillies, peppers, celery, courgettes and summer squashes, runner and French beans, sprouting broccoli, Florence fennel, courgettes, summer squashes and sweetcorn are just a few.

Other jobs:

• Last chance to plant onion sets and sow aubergines and tomatoes indoors for transplanting out.

• Most root crops can be sown now; it is probably your last chance to sow parsnips.

• You can sow the following outdoors but under cover; beetroot, cucumbers, lettuces, turnips, oriental leaves, leeks, cabbage and salad leaves. They can be sown in pots, modules or prepared seed beds from which you can transplant them. If you do grow any seedlings in trays or modules and they have grown a couple of “true leaves” prick them out and move to individual pots or larger modules. You can also harden off young plants by putting them outdoors on sunny days but bring them back in at night or put them in a cold frame or under cloches.

• Don’t forget to regularly hand weed or hoe around seedlings as the weeds appear as they create a lot of competition for food and moisture.

• Make sure that fruit trees, canes and bushes are kept watered, as any fruit planted in the last 18 months is susceptible to drought damage. Adding mulch around the base will help.

• Sow maincrop peas and make the last sowing of summer broad beans.

Happy planting!

Market Deeping’s Outdoor Living Specialist

TO SPEND IN STORE BY 13th APRIL 2026 ON ALL ORDERS OVER £1000 WITH THIS ADVERTISMENT*

For full terms & conditions please visit www.ernies.co.uk/terms-conditions/

Come and visit us and view our premium outdoor living, showcasing a curated selection of high-quality furniture. Featuring stylish Pergolas, BBQs Pizza Ovens and more.

Scotgate House, Whitley Way

Northfields Estate Market

Deeping, PE6 8AR

contact@ernies.co.uk

01284 663770 ernies.uk

Ernie’s Outdoor Living www.ernies.co.uk

MONDAY - WEDNESDAY 9PM - 5PM

THURSDAY 9AM - 7PM ● FRIDAY - SAT 9AM - 5PM

SUNDAY 10AM - 2PM

HALLAM TRAVEL STILL HAVE THE FOLLOWING SEATS AVAILABLE:

Coronation Street Experience

ONLY 5 LEFT Sun 12th April £70

Hampton Court Palace including the Tulip Festival ONLY 20 LEFT Fri 17th April Adult £64 Senior £59 Child 50

Ely Leisure Day Sat 18th April £27

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

Bakewell & Matlock Bath Sat 2nd May £31

Holt Sunday Market & Sheringham Sun 3rd May £28

The Princess River Cruise Experience includes 2 course meal Weds 6th May £56

Haworth and Keighley & Worth Valley Railway ONLY 13 LEFT Sat 9th May Adult £46 Child £39

Aldeburgh & Southwold Sun 10th May £31

Highgate Cemetery ONLY 1 LEFT Weds 13th May £52

Makers Central Sun 17th May Adult £44 Child £29

Legally Blonde (afternoon show)

Strictly the Professionals

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

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 13 LEFT Sun 14th June £117

Royal Ascot – Ladies Day ONLY 17 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

Skipton & Canal Boat (includes 2 course meal)

Skipton Leisure Day

ONLY 19 LEFT Sat 27th June £64

ONLY 19 LEFT Sat 27th June £35

Kew Gardens Sun 28th June Adult £56 Child £42

Moreton in Marsh & Bourton on the Water

Jersey Boys (afternoon show)

Tues 30th June £34

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 Child £44

Oulton Broad 2 course lunch and Boat Weds 8th July £64

Avenue Q (afternoon show) Thurs 9th July £79

The Household Division presents A Military Musical Spectacular ONLY 19 LEFT Fri 10th July £86

Colchester Zoo Sat 11th July Adult £55 Senior £54 Child £49

East Ruston Old Vicarage Gardens and Wroxham Sun 12th July £46

The Bodyguard ONLY 19 LEFT Tues 14th July £79

Great Yorkshire Show Thurs 16th July Adult £65 Child £45

Galway Bay Hotel – 6 days ONLY 10 LEFT Sun 19th July £899

RHS Sandringham Flower Show Sat 25th July Adult £61 Child £27

Operation Mincemeat (afternoon show) Weds 29th July £86

Woburn Safari Park Thurs 30th July Adult £58 Child £49

Althorp House and Gardens Sat 1st August Adult £56 Senior £49

Highgrove Gardens and 2 course lunch ONLY 20 LEFT Sat 2nd August £127

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 11 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 Aug £80

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

Bletchley Park Weds 9th September £51

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 9 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) ONLY 2 LEFT Sun 4th October £90

Leonardo Hotel, Liverpool – 4 days ONLY 9 LEFT Weds 7th October £249

Mamma Mia! (afternoon show) Thurs 8th October £83

Sinatra the Musical (afternoon show) Thurs 15th October £90

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

Bakewell Christmas Market Sun 15th November £30

Ely – Christmas Gift and Food Fair Thurs 19th November £40

The Fifties & Sixties Christmas Party (afternoon show & 2 course lunch) Tues 24th November £89

Norwich Christmas Shopping/Leisure Day Weds 25th November £28

Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra Weds 25th November £90

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

Littlecote House Hotel (Warners) – 5 days Mon 30th November £569

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 ONLY 19 LEFT Thurs 10th December £82

Cromer Pier Christmas Show (afternoon show) Fri 11th December £57

Hampton Court Palace and Festive Fayre Sat 12th December £65

*Thursford Christmas Spectacular – Long Sutton departure ONLY 20 LEFT Sat 12th December £85

Cruising into Christmas ONLY 19 LEFT Sun 13th December £62

*Thursford Christmas Spectacular – Long Sutton departure ONLY 18 LEFT Tues 15th December £82

Holkham Hall by Candlelight Weds 16th December £60

*Thursford Christmas Spectacular ONLY 1 LEFT Sun 20th December £85

Carols at the Royal Albert Hall (afternoon show) ONLY 3 LEFT Tues 22nd December £108

Jack & The Beanstalk (afternoon show) Sat 2nd January £64

Cats (afternoon show) Thurs 7th January £83

Back to the Future (afternoon show) Weds 10th February £91

The Full Monty (afternoon show) Weds 10th February £67

Paranormal Activity (afternoon show) Thurs 25th February £76

*All Thursford Christmas Spectaculars are afternoon shows and centre deluxe seating. Coaches depart from Spalding Bus Station, unless stated otherwise. New excursions are being added weekly.

Events: April 2026

4th, 11th, 25th - St Michael’s Church Langtoft open for tea, coffee, biscuits and toast. 10.30am - 12.30pm.

5th - Open mic at The Hare and Hounds, Haconby, 8pm. PA and soundman provided - hosted by Nick Gomm01778 571428.

7th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Lunch, 12.30pm. Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street, Market Deeping PE6 8AN. £7 (£6 members). Book with David on 01778 347876. 8th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows. A Crafty Cuppa 10.30am at Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street, Market Deeping. PE6 8AN. Donation for refreshments. Bring along your current craft project. Book with Janice on 01778 560059. Check out our Facebook page: OddfellowsNeneWelland or have a look at the national website on: www.oddfellows.co.uk. We are a not-forprofit, friendly society that has been around for over 200 years. Our aim is to bring people together through our social events, and support members with a range of benefits and services.

9th - The Arts Society Peterborough’s monthly talk is ‘The Race to Decipher Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphs’ with Vicky Bailey. The talk covers the history of Egypt at the time the Rosetta Stone was constructed: a time of chaos and rebellion. Doors open at 10.15am at The Fleet, Community Centre, PE2 8DL for coffee and a chat; the talk starts at 10.45am and lasts an hour. All are welcome, so why not come and join us? Parking free. For more information and details of how to join the society, visit: www.the-arts-society-peterborough.org.uk

10th - Deepings Heritage present a talk by Steve Critchley about “The importance of querns and hand-mills in domestic life, from the Neolithic to medieval times.” Starting at 7.30pm in the main hall of the Community Centre, Market Deeping. Admission £3

11th - Delaine Bus Museum, Spalding Road. PE10 9LE. Open 12noon-4pm. Admission: Adults

£2.50, accompanied U16s free. Heritage Bus Rides at 1.15pm & 2.45pm. Further details at: www.delaineheritagetrust.org

12th - Deeping Ladies Coffee Club are pleased to welcome The Stamford Stompers for their Easter Celebrations. Doors open at The Priory Church Hall at 10am. Any enquires contact Liz on 01778 219668.

12th - Enjoy a relaxing Sunday afternoon with Pennyless at Mama Liz’s in Stamford. 4pm - 6pm Admission free!

14th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Business Meeting. Open to all members (must book). Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street, Market Deeping. PE6 8AN at 10.30am. Book with the Office on 01778 342006.

14th - Second Tuesday of every month, Dementia Support South Lincs Coffee Morning from 11am - 12.30pm at Langtoft Village Hall, £3 donation will be greatly appreciated.

14th and 28th - Deep In Friends 2pm - 4pm, then the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at The Priory

Church Hall, Deeping St James. New members welcome. For more details, contact Vanessa 07714 667482.

15th - Bourne Organ Club’s guest this month is Mark Thompson. 7.30pm at Bourne Corn Exchange. Tickets on the door - £8 members, £9 visitors, all welcome. For more details, call 01778 424947.

15th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Friendship Lunch at the Crown Inn in Surfleet, 12 noon for 12.30pm. Contact Christine for further details and to book on 07714 096801.

17th - Glinton Horticultural Society talk - ‘An evening with photographer David Lowndes’. Glinton Village Hall, 7.30pm. Members £4, visitors £5, includes tea/coffee and biscuits. Everyone is welcome.

18th - 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

18th - St Michael’s Church Langtoft Monthly Cake and bacon butty morning with soup, Lucky Dip stall and gardening stall 10.30am - 1pm.

18th - The Alamo Country Music Club at Edenham Village Hall PE10 0LS. This month “Sundown Country” - Tickets £7 - Doors open at 7pm for 8pm start Tea/coffee and refreshments available; bring your own drinks. Contact Graham on 01529 455449 / 07984 161738 or Mags on 07872 926143.

18th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Wacky Races, 2.30pm at Coronation Hall, Market Deeping. PE6 8DB. £15 (£12 members). Includes sandwiches and cakes, and one bet per race (purchase more for £1). Raffle for Deepings Community Library. Book on 01778 342006 or email sarah. hitchcock@oddfellows.co.uk.

18th - Hardy Plant Society, Fenland Group welcome Steve Edney who will be talking on “Exotic gardening.” 2.30pm at Swines Meadow Farm Nursery, 47 Towngate East, Market Deeping, PE6 8LQ. Non-members welcome, £7 Angie, janda.salix@gmail.com.

19th - Hardy Plant Society, Fenland Group “Plant Fair” with visiting nurseries. 10am - 2pm at Swines Meadow Farm Nursery, 47 Towngate East, Market Deeping, PE6 8LQ. All welcome, Entry free.

21st - The Deepings Flower Club will be holding a ‘Spring’ themed workshop at Priory Church Hall, Deeping St James, 7pm for 7.30pm., Visitors are welcome £10: we hope that you will be inspired to come along to see our professional demonstrators during the coming months. Membership £50, ‘Tasters’ 3 meetings for £25. (you can choose which three from our programme). Enquiries: Sue Boardman, 01778 349419 or boardman19@hotmail.co.uk.

22nd - Deepings Library have a talk at 7pm by Tim Cook: ‘Starting your family history journey with Deepings Library’. Tickets are £5pp including refreshments.

23rd - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Surprise Bingo! Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street, Market Deeping, PE6 8AN at 2pm. £1 for a book of 10 games. Donation for refreshments. Contact Jenny on 07788 534290 to book.

24th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Museum workshop

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

10.30am. Oddfellows Hall. Members only. Please confirm attendance with Christine on 07714 096801.

24th - Pennyless in concert at Moulton Mill near Spalding. Doors 7pm Tickets £10 from Geoff 07709 260937.

25th - Bourne Old Town Hall Pop Up events are delighted to welcome “Miller Magic,” at Bourne Corne Exchange. Lincolnshire Big Band performing the swing music of the 1940s to the 1980s from the ‘Big Band Greats’ such as Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Ted Heath and more! This is a fundraising event for the Bourne Town Hall regeneration project, kindly organised by volunteer Malcolm Scriven. 7pm start doors at 6.30pm. Tickets £15 from www.bournetownhall.org.uk/events.

25th - Heritage Running Day, Delaine Bus Museum,

Spalding Road, Bourne, PE10 9LE. Open 9am4.30pm. Admission: Adults £7, accompanied U12s free. Frequent Heritage Bus Rides on three routes throughout the day featuring the Delaine Heritage Fleet and guest vehicles. Further details at: www.delaineheritagetrust.org

28th - West Deeping Heritage Group: Village Heritage Walk and Annual General Meeting 2pm - 4pm. Meet at West Deeping Village Hall, before taking a 45-minute walk up and down King Street. Refreshments at the Village Hall afterwards and a brief AGM to review the last year. (In case of wet weather, a PowerPoint presentation will take place in the Village Hall instead of the walk.)

29th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Let’s Do Lunch! 12.30pm. Thorney Golf Club. Cost as per menu. Contact Jenny on 07788 534290 to book.

30th - DSJ WI will be welcoming the Peterborough Morris Men to their meeting at the Priory Church Hall. Doors open at 7pm and visitors are welcome. For more information, please call Sue on 01778 344195.

MAY

2nd - Glinton Horticultural Society “Plant Sale.” Glinton Village Hall, 10am – 12 noon. Come and buy your plants. 2nd - Bowls Club Open Day 10am - 12 noon. Come and try your hand at lawn bowls. All equipment provided. Coaching. Refreshments to follow. FREE to all. Call Neil to book your place 07808 938341 Deepings Bowling Association, Spalding Road, Deeping St James, PE6 8NJ

DEEPINGS CAMERA CLUB

Meet every Wednesday 7.30pm - 9.30pm at the 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 visit www.deepingscamera.club

Linchfield Academy

Writing in EYFS

We’ve been creating lots of exciting opportunities to encourage writing across EYFS, helping children see writing as something fun, meaningful, and part of their everyday play. One of our biggest successes has been our writing dens under the tables! With clipboards, notepads, pencils, and small torches to add to the sense of adventure, the dens have inspired

Playground Markings

We are delighted with our vibrant new playground markings, made possible through the generosity and community spirit of three fantastic local supporters: The Deeping Lions, The Deeping Rotary Youth and Community Committee, and the Tesco Blue Token Scheme.

Grow a Garden

Over the next couple of months, we will be getting our garden ready for growing, something which our pupils love to be involved with, not just in lessons but during their breaks too. We are looking for donations of equipment, seed trays plant pots, grow bags, soil - anything really that you think will help us ‘Grow a Garden’; if you have anything you’d like to donate, please get in touch with the office.

Whether you’re planning a weekend break, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, or a laid-back getaway, get in touch with us before you book anywhere else. Enjoy exceptional value and our award-winning personal service - at no extra cost. It’s a win-win, so why not give us a call every time you’re thinking about a holiday?

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Europe, City & Rail - Short breaks, rail touring and cultural escapes across Europe.

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Worldwide Touring - Escorted tours, safaris and immersive holidays on every continent.

How We Work For You

Listen & Design - Share your wish-list. We shape options around your price range, dates and style.

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Support All The Way - From documents to shore excursions, we’re here before, during and after.

Giving You Complete Peace of Mind

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Trusted partner of leading cruise & holiday brands

Unbiased advice

Transparent pricing Award-winning network

Family owned & run since 1957, Islawr ordd Caravan Park o ers the very best in quality.

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, benefitting from a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna and Jacuzzi, restaurant and bar, children’s activities and adventure play area.

2 Bedroom Luxury Holiday Home

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• Walton Shopping Pk • New England Boulevard Retail Pk

• Peterborough: City Centre • Queensgate • New Cinema

• • • i • luding

• • For information visit www.islawr ordd.co.uk Call 01341 247269 or Email info@Islawr ordd.co.uk

Islawr ordd Caravan Park, Talybont, Barmouth, Gwynedd, LL43 2AQ

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• Stamford: Markham Retail Park • Hospital • Town Centre

• Spalding: Town Centre • Springfields Shopping Outlet

• Stamford: Hospital • Town Centre

& VAN HIRE

HOUSE REMOVALS BY DEEPING CAR

Are you looking to move house ?

Look no further than our professional, affordable and reliable house removal service

Rest assured all of your items will be fully protected ensuring they arrive safely at your new home.

✓ Dedicated team of removers

✓ Dedicated vehicles

✓ Protective equipment always used

✓ Professional uniformed staff

Call our friendly team now for a free quotation

Let us take the stress out of moving

We have a brand new box shop open providing all your packaging and material needs.

We sell the following items:

✓ Boxes ✓ Wardrobe Boxes

✓ Bubble Wrap ✓ Wrapping Paper

✓ Tapes ✓All other accessories

Available to purchase individually or as a bundle.

Feel free to pop into our shop or alternatively give us a call.

Neil Armstrong Painter & Decorator

Savings

(Opposite M&S) 01778 394774

(Near to Waitrose) 01780 762908 (Down from B&M) 01775 711014

OVER THE LAST 12 MONTHS, OUR TEAM HAVE SOLD NEARLY THREE TIMES MORE

PROPERTIES THAN ANY OTHER DEEPING AGENCY

We still have many buyers looking to purchase in the Market Deeping, Bourne and surrounding area - so if you are thinking of moving, then please call our team today on 01778 349300

Since starting in estate agency 39 years ago, Paul Briggs has been involved in the sale of almost 10,000 properties, from starter homes to some quite stunning properties, so your home is in safe hands with us.