Discovering Whittlesea issue 253, August 2025 by Discovering Magazines

Welcome to your August issue...

Those longed-for summer holidays are now here and hopefully, the dear old sun won’t have worn itself out burning everything to a frazzle in July.

As I write, the (very welcome) rain is freshening things up so there is hope that we won’t be facing a hosepipe ban. It’s always a challenge for parents to keep little ones occupied during the school holidays so I’m hoping that you’ll be able to find plenty for them to do.

Here, in Bourne, we are so fortunate that our fabulous open-air swimming pool continues to attract hundreds of people year on year, and long may that continue. As with any of the events that are staged during the summer in our towns and villages, they only succeed with the general public making the effort to go and spend money having fun (in the sun!) Don’t forget your sun cream either!

August is traditionally the month when families take their annual summer holiday. With the kids off school, it’s the time when many pay exorbitant prices for a flight to a far-flung sun-drenched location.

However, when I was young things were a bit different. The few people I knew who went abroad invariably took their luggage ladened car over the Channel to France. For the rest of us, the most glamorous it got was a break on the English coast... and if you lived around here that invariably meant Norfolk.

If my family took a holiday, it was usually a trip to ‘Sunny Hunny’ or one of the county’s other seaside towns, making our way in an over-packed car full of various family members and cigarette, or even worse, pipe smoke! Yes, the good old days...

Even new cars were so rubbish in those days that a trip of more than thirty miles meant an essential maintenance check before leaving, with fingers crossed that no breakdowns would occur en route.

Once there it was a case of the beach all day punctuated by the occasional foray to a local pub for a meal. This was way before the advent of gastro pubs, when food and hygiene standards were low and customer service standards lower still.

Yet somehow those days conjure up memories of happy days that are sadly long gone but still fondly remembered...

Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET

Publisher and Sales Claire Saberton: 01778 421427 | 07837 499061 | sales@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

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Editor Andy Hurst: editor.march@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

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Design Sarah Gumbley | Andy Beavis | Graham Copestake | Graham Booth

Sales: Sallyanne Davis 07737 026594 sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

With thanks to Deadline details

Copy deadline for the September issue is Friday, 15th August 2025.

Discovering Whittlesea 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.

or scan

from this publication. For a copy of our contributors’ guidelines please email info@discoveringmagazines.co.uk.

Alex Miscandlon, Tania Cannon, Eileen Le Voi, Rob Schwarz, Kellyvision, The Shed Shop, Whittlesey Christian Church, Marija Lysak (Professor Pompoose), Robert Windle/RWT Photography and Natalie Brannigan.

A Better Way to Live

Located in the charming countryside of Wisbech, Barton Manor provides personalised residential, dementia and respite care in a stylish, welcoming setting.

One weekly all-inclusive fee covers care, meals, activities, hairdressing, chiropody and more for complete peace of mind.

Spacious en-suite bedrooms with wet room, Smart TV, mini-fridge and telephone point Cinema, library, hair salon, garden rooms, landscaped gardens and assisted bathrooms

Expert support tailored to indiviual needs

Wi-Fi access across every room and communal space

Compassionate Homecare in Whittlesey with Greenwood Homecare

At Greenwood Homecare, we provide high-quality, personalised homecare services to individuals and families in Whittlesey and the surrounding areas. Our mission is simple: to help people live comfortably, safely, and independently in their own homes. Whether you need daily personal care, companionship, or specialist support, our dedicated team is here to help - with kindness, professionalism, and respect at the heart of everything we do.

We understand that no two people are the same, which is why we work closely with you and your family to create flexible care plans tailored to your specific needs. From help around the house to more complex care, Greenwood Homecare is here every step of the way. Choose trusted, local care that puts people first.

Contact Greenwood Homecare in Whittlesey today for a free, no-obligation consultation and find out how we can support you or your loved one.

We will still be taking all the necessary precautions to keep you and our team safe during your visit to the

So whether you are a new or existing client and would like an eye examination or new eyewear please get in touch or if you just want a catch up we are here to help.

MATTERS COMMUNITY

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

As summer progresses, the weather is just great and I hope you are all enjoying it but remember that the pavements are very hot if you are taking your dog for a walk; it could be very hot on their feet and they are wearing a fur coat.

The call on my time has been great over the past few weeks including the Armed Forces’ week which I was asked to kick off by Matt Page; it was great, thank you Matt. The Drum Head service that took place on the Sunday was very well attended and the DL Mark Knight thanked Whittlesey for putting on a great display.

With the help of Cllr D Laws and Simon Black and, of course, Rob Windle with his camera, we went round Whittlesey with a reporter to do a story on the diversity of shops that have come to Whittlesey over the past few years. To name one in particular, Lily of the Valley Chinese Restaurant, which I had the honour of sampling with a dim sun menu and can confirm it was amazing and would recommend it to anyone. On a personal note, I welcomed the owners and wished them all the best for the future. The other shops were very positive about their future and are happy to be in Whittlesey as they believe it’s a great town.

Regards, Alex Miscandlon

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

Email: editor.whittlesea@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

BIGGER & BETTER BOOKLET OUT NOW

The 2025/25 edition of the EDP Insulation Group Sports and Community booklet is now out and is the biggest edition yet at fifty-two pages.

The booklet highlights not only the many community groups in the parish of Whittlesey, but advises who local councillors are, which council is responsible for what, and where to access support and advice if needed.

It is free thanks also to Whittlesey Town Council and can be obtained from Peel House, the Manor Centre, the Post Office and stores in Coates and many more outlets.

Photo: The official launch with the Mayor of Whittlesey, Pepe and Maria Boccia of Vesuvio Restaurant and creator Robert Windle (photo courtesy Simon Black)

PROUD DAY FOR LOCALS

Whittlesey fared well at the recent Pride in Fenland Awards held at Wisbech St Mary.

Anna Foster from the Helping Whittlesey Food Pantry, the Whittlesey Small Fry Youth Fishing Tutoring team, and Cody Lenton all received runners-up awards and cash prizes whilst Steff Webb, who supports local youth groups, was awarded the judges’ special award.

Photo: The winners line up (photo courtesy RWT Photography)

Alex Miscandlon

Discover the Heart of Care at Aliwal Manor

Welcome to a life well lived, every day

Aliwal Manor is a small, welcoming care home with a warm and personal approach to care. Located in a comfortable and homely setting, we offer a range of services including respite, residential, dementia, and end-of-life care.

Our dedicated team members take the time to build strong relationships with people and their families, delivering person-centred care tailored to each individual. We focus on creating a supportive, secure environment where people feel truly at home.

Mealtimes are an important part of life at Aliwal Manor. People enjoy freshly prepared meals in our inviting dining areas, or in the comfort of their own rooms if they prefer. Each mealtime is an opportunity to connect, share stories, and enjoy good food together.

A wide variety of activities are available, such as arts and crafts, gardening, and trips to local attractions – all designed to promote wellbeing and a fulﬁlling lifestyle.

At Aliwal Manor, we strive to make every day meaningful through compassionate care, comfort, and companionship. Come and

City & Co Accountants: Grow, Prosper

Eand Realise Your Potential

stablished since 2020, City & Co Accountants has brought together a team of accounting experts with twenty-five years of experience from previous large-scale and small accountancy practices. This allows us to specialize in all accountancy services, from self-employed and sole traders up to small and large businesses. We also offer services for Property Tax, offshore planning, and business relocation. Taxation is ever changing, and we pride ourselves on the latest knowledge to make your tax easier to deal with. We offer a cost-effective solution with the personal touch to help your business. We are fully committed to help you and your business and offer a free twenty-minute consultation. Our aim is to help you grow, prosper and realise your potential.

Make the call you won’t regret it

We are personal, professional and progressive firm of accountants that think out of the box to help your business overcome its challenges unlike traditional accountants. We work with small to medium businesses, tradesmen, Property Landlords.

Are you a business that wants to expand or improve its profits. Are you paying out too much tax, are you in need of better business advice and better tax advice.

If your accountants are not offering solutions to your business problems or adding any value you need to work with us.

We can help you with, setting up better company structures, discuss tailored tax strategies to help you expand and become more efficient.

We offer so much more than your average accountant, that’s what’s stand us apart.

Make the call you won’t regret it

accountancy all accountancy sole We planning, changing, knowledge offer to help you consultation. and Contact Email: Website: Make info@cityandco.org.uk

Email: info@cityandco.org.uk Website: www.cityandco.org.uk

MATTERS COMMUNITY

WHITTLESEY FESTIVAL FAST APPROACHING

With the Whittlesey Festival fast approaching, the organisers say make sure you have Sunday, September 14th, 10am-4pm, firmly fixed in your calendars when the town centre will be filled with music, dance, entertainment, stalls and many attractions for all the family.

There will be a full programme of entertainment for you to enjoy on the Market Square, in St Mary’s Church and Church Yard Green throughout the day, with a craft fair in Childers and the school’s art exhibition in the library.

Marija Lysak, festival committee member and organiser of the art competition, said: “We’ve had a tremendous response from all the local schools with more than two hundred entries this year – the children and students have worked really hard and should be very proud of their achievements.

“To encourage the young people of our town, please visit the Whittlesey library to view their work on festival day and for two weeks after the event. We are also pleased to announce there will be a model railway display in the library on the Sunday too.”

Once again, the streets will be lined with a tremendous line-up of more than 150 classic vehicles where you can enjoy cars, bikes and other transport from years gone by including

SCOOTER SHOWDOWN A BIG SUCCESS

The Rotary Club of Whittlesey had a busy day at the town’s annual Big Bash event at the Manor Leisure Centre in Station Road, Whittlesey.

It was proud to be a main sponsor of the Summer Showdown Scooter competition, run by Future Scooters CIC, Generate Marketing UK, Fenland Youth Work Network, Fenland Youth Tribe, 20 Twenty Productions CIC and Phoenix Youth Provision CIC.

The Rotary Club of Whittlesey president Jim Saunders and president-elect Kevin Buckland gave out the prizes for the beginners’ category.

Photo: courtesy Rotary Club of Whittlesey

amazing Hot Rods in Kesh’s supermarket car park in Broad Street. There will be an array of stalls for you to browse at your leisure. Bookings for stalls will close soon so to avoid disappointment go to the Fenland District Council website or email marketsandevents@fenland.gov.uk

There will be plenty of rides and attractions for all the family. The festival committee is keen to ensure these are either free of charge or at a subsidised cost to ensure families can enjoy the day without having to worry about expense. This is largely made possible by the event sponsors and by fund raising activities throughout the year by the committee. There’ll also be a fly past from a World War Two aircraft – more details will be available soon.

For more information about the festival visit Whittlesey Festival 2025 | Facebook

A Whirlwind Month: Market Insights and Honest Conversations

This month has been a whirlwind! One of the things we’re most excited about is the return of our Property Market Updates. After taking a short break, it became clear just how much people appreciated them, so they’re back.

We’ve made a small change: instead of releasing them on Sundays, you’ll now find them every Friday on our Facebook page: Cannon and Co Sales and Lettings. These updates aren’t about selling houses – they’re simply about helping people stay informed about what’s happening in the local market.

We also had the opportunity to attend an industry conference at Wembley last month. The speaker line-up was incredible; full of valuable insights and fresh perspectives. It was a chance to learn, reflect, and look at how the market is evolving.

We also met with suppliers to explore new ideas and tools that could help us stay informed and better support our community.

One standout point from the conference: there are currently more homes on the market than at any point in the last twelve years, and around 47 percent of those properties have seen price reductions.

That tells us a lot about current conditions. Buyers are hoping for prices closer to 2018 levels, while sellers are still thinking back to the highs of 2021.

Finding the right balance is crucial – and it’s clear that pricing a property realistically from the start makes a real difference.

Another strong message? The importance of honest conversations. We say it all the time: talk to people who will tell you the truth, even when it’s not what you want to hear.

Real insight comes from real honesty.

The market is always shifting, and it’s important to keep learning, observing, and adapting.

We’re committed to sharing what we know – not to sell, but to keep you informed and in the loop.

So, if you’re curious about what’s going on, follow along on Facebook every Friday, on Cannon and Co Sales and Lettings. Knowledge is power, and we’re here to share it.

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Consumer Advice

Make Sure That IT Security is High on Your Holiday Checklist

By Eileen Le Voi at Safe Local Trades

This month, many of us will be taking a well-earned break and the chances are (and particularly if you have teenagers) that your mobile phone or tablet will be going with you. You may be needing to catch up on work emails or simply want to flood your social media channels with photos of your getaway!

But how do you look after those devices like laptops and PCs that will most likely be staying at home?

Home insurance and/or travel insurance will cover most cases of theft or accidental damage (be sure to check your policy) but it's still a good practice to take a few simple steps to make sure your devices are as safe as they can be.

• Back up your devices. It’s so simple and it should be something you do regularly anyway. Make it a priority to get everything backed up before you leave. Accidents happen and it’s easy to lose all your important data with just the slip of a hand. Don't just back up to the cloud, consider having a backup to a separate hard drive.

• Update your software. Again, a simple task that’s easily forgotten but can make a huge difference if anything goes wrong. Making sure you have up-todate security software is paramount!

• Secure your devices. Use a PIN, pattern lock or two factor authentication. Don’t forget to add security authentication to your laptops and PCs.

• Be wary of which Wi-Fi you connect to. It's tempting to connect to any free Wi-Fi when you’re away to save using up your valuable data allowance. Think very carefully before connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi. There’s a huge risk that your devices could be hacked, sensitive data stolen or infected with malware.

• Be careful what you share on social media. You might think you’re just making your friends envious with your beach or foodie photos but, if you make it public that you’re away from home, any thieves will be able to take advantage of your absence. Now is a great time to check who sees your posts and consider making it private to friends only so you know only those you trust can see where you are. Safe Local Trades member, Ben from File Genie and his team can offer a wealth of advice and support, whether updating your software and backing up your devices or if you think your device is not operating correctly. Get in touch here: https://member.safelocaltrades.com/file-genie

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Knowing Your Numbers

Nwith Rob Schwarz

avigating the world of personal finance can be daunting, especially if you’re just starting out. However, by focusing on a few key numbers, you can set yourself up for long-term success. Here are three essential metrics that I track with my clients…

Your Savings Rate

Your savings rate is the percentage of your income that you save and invest each month. This single number will have the biggest impact on your financial future. The higher your savings rate, the more you will accumulate over time. If you’re currently saving 15% of your income but can cut out some unnecessary expenditure and nudge that closer to 20%, you’ll be making great progress.

Life will throw changes your way—promotions, bonuses, and lifestyle shifts—so make it a habit to adjust your savings rate accordingly.

Your Effective Tax Rate

Understanding your effective tax rate is crucial for maximising your financial position. This metric reflects the average rate at which your income is taxed and can be a powerful tool for financial planning.

By tracking this number, you can identify any leakage and look at ways to improve your tax efficiency accordingly, by taking advantage of available tax allowances.

In my opinion, every pound of tax saved is an instant return on your investment. Smart tax planning can significantly reduce your tax burden, leaving more of your hardearned money to save and invest.

If you’re diligent about saving and investing, and you plan ahead to save tax, you should see your net worth increase over time

Adjust Your Investment Strategy

While it’s easy to view net worth as a vanity metric, tracking your net worth provides a clear picture of your overall financial health and whether it’s trending upward. Your net worth is the difference between what you own (assets) and what you owe (liabilities). If you’re diligent about saving and investing, and you plan ahead to save tax, you should see your net worth increase over time. This upward trend is not only motivating but also a tangible indicator that your financial planning is paying off!

From my experience, improvements in any of these areas will boost confidence and demonstrate that you’re making meaningful progress. Remember, financial success won’t just happen – it takes work, especially in those formative years.

What next?

If you want to find out more about how I can help you on your financial journey, scan the QR code to set up a free initial, 30-minute call. See you next month!

with Rob Schwarz

Coles Barbers

Dream Elite Care

Fontanella’s

Gerrard Knight

Grosvenor Flooring

Harrison Rose

J Neville Opticians

Kellyvision

Krog & Whitehead

NAME:

ADDRESS:

Lock Shop

Lucy’s Flowers

Making Waves

Malcolm James

Parkers Newsagent

Penny Marie

Nails & Beauty

Premier Shop

The Milky Bar

The Muffin Oven

Whittlesey Bathroom & Kitchen Studio

Whittlesey Dental Care

Whittlesey Christian Church

Jacko’s Pet Foods

Sharman Quinney

The Boat Inn

The Letter B

Jason’s Barber Shop

TEL:

EMAIL:

Please fill in your details above and pop your entry form in to Kellyvision or post your entry form to us at Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET. Competition closes Sunday 31st August 2025. Good luck!!

MATTERS COMMUNITY

BOWL UP FOR A NEW PASTIME

If you fancy a sport that is competitive but played in a friendly spirit then why not take up bowls? There are midweek and weekend leagues as well as social play on offer in Whittlesey. Local teams and venues include the Manor Bowls Club, Whittlesey Town Bowls Club and the Indoor Sports and Bowls complex on Station Road. Photos: courtesy Robert Windle/RWT Photography

PEGGY AND SUE ENTERTAIN WI GROUP

Coates WI’s July meeting saw Sue Jakeman give a very interesting talk about Peggy Spencer’s life full of dancing.

The next meeting on August 6th will see Barry Wainwright give a talk on drone flying.

Guests and new members are always welcome to join the group which meets on the first Wednesday of the month (no meeting January) at Coates Village Hall at 7.30pm.

For any information, please contact Fiona on (01733) 208516 or Jen on 07703 385661.

WI MEMBERS KEEP A BEADY EYE ON JEAN

Jean Place recently entertained Whittlesey WI members with a talk about the art of beading. She is a skilled beader and explained how she started beading, about the beads which are available in all colours and sizes and the patterns that she uses and has developed over the years and displayed her beautifully crafted work.

The meeting on Tuesday, August 5th will feature Julie Windle with a talk about Queen Victoria when members will also enjoy a cream tea together.

Ladies are always very welcome to join members at meetings which start at 7.30pm on the first Tuesday of each month in St Andrew's Hall, Parkinson Lane, Whittlesey.

HELP SOUGHT TO DISCOVER TROLLEY

People are always trying to get hold of an extra copy of Discovering Whittlesey magazine, but someone went a step too far when they made off with a delivery trolley containing copies while it was being distributed in the Bassenhally Road area of town on Monday, June 30th. If anyone has any information, please email the magazine (see contact details on page 3).

COUNCILLOR SURGERIES

Councillor surgeries are held in Peel House at 8 Queen Street, Whittlesey from 9.30am-10.30am on the first Saturday of every month throughout 2025.

On Saturday, 2nd August 2025, Councillors present will be Roy Gerstner (District and Town) and Eamonn Dorling (Town).

The Surgery is in the Town Council Offices at Peel House, 8 Queen Street, Whittlesey, PE7 1AY, and is accessed via the covered walkway. The entrance is to the left through the double doors, the offices offer full disabled facilities. If you wish to speak to a councillor but are unable to attend any of the above sessions you can make a separate appointment, the councillor’s details are available on the council website www.whittleseytowncouncil.gov.uk, the notice board at the offices or via the Town Clerk –Sue Piergianni on 01733 351296 or clerk@whittleseytowncouncil.gov.uk

CITIZENS OF THE YEAR NAMED

Whittlesey Town Council has announced its Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year. The Mayor of Whittlesey Cllr Alex Miscandlon presented the Citizen of the Year to Big Bash organiser and Christmas Extravaganza lead organiser Robert Windle. Freddie Johnson received a double award, receiving not only the Youth Citizen Award but also a High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire Award. Both were also recognised for their commitment to local community radio, firstly Fenland Youth Radio and now Radio Fenland.

Photo: courtesy RWT Photography

For Peterborough’s Poshest Prom Products

What is Swanky Rags?” I hear you ask… maybe Peterborough’s best kept secret when it comes to Prom, occasional wear, and weddings. We have been dressing ladies in the finest of gowns for all their special occasions since 2006 and we are going from strength to strength. As styles change, so do we and we aim to have the most sought-after designs in store, at all prices to fit everyone’s budget.

Prom ’25 was our biggest and best yet. Such a huge success and all our swanky girls looked absolutely stunning in their chosen dresses, some of which can be seen on our Instagram and Facebook pages, through photos they have sent us of them in their dresses.

The Prom 2026 season kicks off with some very exciting news… we are going to the EXCLUSIVITY of the UK’s leading designer and supplier of Prom Dresses, Evening Wear and Leavers Party Dresses in the UK: PROM FROCKS – which guarantees no saturation of the same brands in every shop selling the same dresses. That’s a scoop! We are so excited to be bringing this brand to Peterborough stores and have already been to choose our dresses for Prom ’26, and they are dazzling.

One question we always get asked is, “When should you start Prom shopping?” and the answer is unbelievable, but October is the perfect start time – our appointment book is now open and starting to fill up for half term. “Why so early?” you may think. Well, we get our new season dresses in September/October and it's always ‘first come-more choice’ as we only sell one style of dress to one function – not even in a different colour. To ensure this, we keep a Prom log and as the dresses are sold to each school, they are logged to that school, and we don’t allow customers that attend the same school to even try on any dress that may have been logged.

Right now, we have a massive sale on with prices from £50, so if you can’t wait and want to grab a bargain, contact us at www.swankyrags.co.uk, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram and get yourself an appointment now.

INSTANT CASH

WATCHES, JEWELLERY, GOLD, SILVER,

ALL MILITARY WATCHES WANTED, ALL BRITISH & FOREIGN COINS WANTED, ANY AMOUNTS BOUGHT.

CASH PAID FOR SILVER, BANK NOTES, COINS ETC...

Come and see us at:

WHITTLESEY: St Andrew’s Parish Hall 5 Parkinson’s Lane, Whittlesey PE7 1BZ on Wednesday 20th August, 11.30am-2-30pm and Wednesday 10th September, 11.30am-2-30pm or call 07724 473810

JOIN OUR TREASURE HUNT: Do you have cash in the attic? Come along to our Antique Roadshow – if the offer is OK, flog it!

So come on down, this is the Real Deal! From scrap gold to the finest antique jewellery, we’ll take it. We purchase all quality watches and jewellery – gold and silver is at an all-time high, so cash in. From old silver coins to antique silver tea sets,we want them all. WANTED – all Aviator diver/military watches. Best price paid.

MATTERS COMMUNITY

MATT ATTRACTS

THE CROWDS

Whittlesey Rifle Club had a hugely successful open day at the town’s recent annual Big Bash event (at the Manor Leisure Centre in Station Road.

Club president Matt Skelhon, a multi-medal winning Paralympian, World Champion and world recordbreaking target shooter, who trained at the club from 2006 before famously winning gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, hosted the day.

The club is run entirely by volunteers and more than eighty members of the public had a free chance to try rifle shooting, the youngest participant being just three years old. The diverse range of people who attended emphasised the inclusive and social nature of the sport and the value of the club as a social hub.

Matt was interviewed about his Paralympic success and his hopes to be selected for a sixth time and later in the day in front of a large crowd, was joined by the High Sheriff, the Honourable Frances Stanley DL, the town’s Mayor Alex Miscandlon, Whittlesey Rotary Club president Jim Saunders, town and district councillor Dee Laws and county councillor Michael Fisher, along with members of the rifle club’s committee to unveil a blue plaque celebrating his achievements.

RECORD BREAKING TURNOUT AT GOLDEN AGE EVENT

A record-breaking number of visitors attended the latest Fenland Golden Age event for over-sixties.

A total of 213 people attended the Golden Age event at Whittlesey’s Manor Leisure Centre to discover opportunities, services and support by strolling stands staffed by service providers and volunteers.

As always, visitors got to enjoy free tea, coffee and cake and take away a goodie bag including a refillable water bottle, reusable straw and pen.

Matt, along with club chairman David Ransome, and vice chairman Andy Surtees, presented awards at the day’s Youth Scooter competition, which the rifle club part sponsored, and then gave a demonstration of Paralympic standard target shooting.

Photo: courtesy Whittlesey Rifle Club

Wednesdays 10:00-12:00 Tea at 23

Wednesdays 19:00-21:00 Themed Prayer

YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS IN TREE CARE

Castle Tree Services is a local, family-run business delivering professional, high-quality tree work with a personal touch. Founded in 2022 by couple Kyle and Becky, the company was born out of a desire to offer expert tree care that’s honest, reliable, and carried out with pride.

Kyle brings fifteen years of experience as a fully qualified and insured tree surgeon. Known for his expert climbing skills and attention to detail, he approaches every job with care and precision. He’s supported by a small, trusted team of five experienced lads who help maintain the same high standard of work across both residential and commercial sites.

From hedge trimming and tree removal to pruning, stump grinding and emergency call-outs, Castle Tree Services offers a full range of expert work, with a friendly, reliable approach you can count on.

The team is committed to the highest safety standards, using professional equipment and techniques to ensure every job is done properly and responsibly. Over the past three years, the company has worked with local schools, doctors’

private estates, and many local residents. Whether it’s a one-off job or ongoing maintenance, Castle Tree Services brings the same care and attention to every job.

Castle Tree Services combines professional results with the values of a small business that genuinely cares – doing the job properly, and leaving every site neat, safe, and looking its best.

How Physiotherapy Can Help Your Ageing Dog

As our beloved dogs age, it's natural to see some changes. Maybe your onceenergetic pup is taking more naps, hesitating before jumping into the car, or lagging behind on walks? While slowing down can be a normal part of getting older, it's important to recognise that it may also signal discomfort or pain. Canine physiotherapy is an increasingly accessible and effective way to improve quality of life for ageing dogs.

Dogs generally start to show signs of aging between seven to ten years old, though this varies by breed and size. Common signs include:

• Stiffness after rest

• Reluctance to exercise or play

• Difficulty climbing stairs or getting into vehicles

• Changes in posture or gait

• Behavioural changes, such as increased irritability or withdrawal

Many owners mistake these signs for ‘just getting old,’ but they may indicate underlying joint pain, arthritis, or muscular weakness. Left unchecked, these issues can affect mobility, cause chronic pain, and reduce a dog’s overall well-being.

What Is Canine Physiotherapy?

Canine physiotherapy is focused on improving movement, reducing pain, and enhancing recovery after injury or surgery. Certified canine physiotherapists use techniques adapted from human physical therapy, including massage therapy, therapeutic exercises, laser and ultrasound treatments and joint mobilisation and stretching. These all aim to strengthen muscles, improve joint flexibility, boost circulation, and reduce inflammation.

Physiotherapy can address common issues like:

Arthritis pain: Controlled exercises and modalities like heat therapy or laser treatment can ease joint pain and slow down degeneration.

Muscle atrophy: Therapeutic exercises help maintain muscle mass and strength, supporting better balance and movement.

Mobility problems: Improved range of motion and co-ordination can reduce falls and increase independence.

Your veterinarian may refer you to a qualified canine physiotherapist or rehabilitation centre. After an initial assessment, a treatment plan will often combine in-clinic sessions with at-home exercises. Progress is typically gradual but noticeable.

There's lots to Discover in the...

So, school’s out for summer – yay! and I hope you’re having a great time. I’ve got so many plans for the holidays and it’s whizzing past. I’ve already signed up for the Summer Reading Challenge, have you? If not, there’s still time – just pop along to Whittlesey Library to register.

I thought you had to read at least one hundred books, so you can imagine my surprise when they said I only needed to read six books over the summer – that’s brilliant news because I’m determined to get my certificate and medal at the end.

I was so excited when I found out this year’s theme is the Story Garden because as you know by now, I love everything to do with nature, science and the environment and I like reading A Lot! Reading is cool, it teaches me so much –after all I am Professor Pompoose-Know-eet-all and it can be tough being the cleverest, Ha-ha!

I was in the library the other day and I discovered so many interesting books. I’m spending time in my garden exploring this summer, so I need to identify all the different bugs and creepy-crawlies that I find. There were so many books about nature, but I also chose some story books including my favourites, Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney and War Horse by Michael Morpurgo. These all count towards the Summer Reading Challenge, it includes, fiction (stories), non-fiction (factual), poetry, comics, and even audio books – it’s brilliant!

I also found out that reading bible stories counts too and you can choose one book from home. I love the story of David and Goliath where

he slays the giant with his sling. Did you know Goliath was almost three metres (10ft) tall? that’s nearly as tall as a basketball net. But he was no match for David who was good at ‘long shots.’ I’m not saying we should throw stones at people, that’s very dangerous, but this story encourages me to trust that God is always on our side when we’re in difficult situations.

Read it yourself in 1 Samuel 17 v45 where David challenged Goliath and said, ‘You come to me using a sword and two spears – but I come to you in the name of the Lord-All-Powerful.’

So, I’ve sorted my reading books and now I’m going to the seaside with my deckchair to have a well-deserved rest, and a paddle in the rockpools. Enjoy your summer!

See you in September!

Professor Pompoose

AMAZING

FACT:

The “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series of books has sold more than 290 million worldwide.copies

Vet Visits Home

CROCHET WORKSHOPS

One to One available to suit on

Wide range of beautiful yarns, needles crochet hooks and buttons.

We also offer a free delivery service in the local area.

We have newly created facebook page and webshop to view what we can offer.

There is a repair and alteration service including new zip, hems, rips and holes.

MATTERS COMMUNITY

NEW FREE ACTIVITIES

New free sessions have been added to a programme of social and activity classes in Whittlesey.

An Active Fenland tea dance, including light nibbles and dance tuition priced £4 per person, is being held on Friday, August 8th at Manor Leisure Centre in Station Road. Beginners’ dance lesson is at 1.30pm to 2pm, and the main event for all abilities is at 2pm to 4pm. Booking is essential at Active Fenland Bookings.

There will also be a free turn up and play family fun session involving stories, imagination and movement on Monday, August 11th, 2pm to 4pm, at Whittlesey Library in Market Street.

The full Active Fenland programme including yoga, social low intensity multi-sports circuit sessions and much more is at www.fenland.gov.uk/article/18548

IRON AGE ROUNDHOUSE DESTROYED BY FIRE

Vandals are believed to have started a fire that has almost completely destroyed the Iron Age roundhouse at Flag Fen Archaeology Park near Whittlesey. Fengate Fire crews were called out to the site near Peterborough at 21.43pm on Sunday, July 13th, sending four vehicles after being alerted by local onlookers who had seen flames above the tree line.

It is believed the fire was started by vandals, either as a prank that got out of control or a deliberate arson attack, with flames causing the thatched roof to catch fire, followed by the rafters and purlins, daub wall and oak door frame. All that partially remains are the charred wattle walls.

The blaze towered above the surrounding woodland, but the swift action of the fire brigade ensured the rest of the ancient archaeological site didn’t catch fire, which would have resulted in the loss of priceless Bronze Age artefacts.

The Iron Age roundhouse was constructed in 2022 with donations from The Arts Council England, The Francis and Maisie Pryor Charitable Trust and Tyrrell Builders. It is based on an actual Iron Age roundhouse that was discovered at Cats Water, next to Flag Fen and replicates how our ancestors lived around 2500 years ago, providing a vital educational resource for Flag Fen’s schools programme.

Whilst Flag Fen remains open as usual and its summer activities are unaffected by the fire, the team has launched an emergency appeal to secure resources, building materials, volunteers and funding to start work on a new roundhouse.

General manager Jacqui Mooney said: “We are desperate now for support from local businesses who may be able to help us with timber, materials, thatch, scaffold, and labour – along with volunteers to help support the build and of course financial support to get the project underway. We are going to need around £50,000 to replicate the previous roundhouse. If people can manage a donation, no matter the amount, it will really help us to continue the magic here for future generations.”

To donate, please visit https://gofund. me/657b1e00 If you are a business who can help or have time to volunteer, please contact flagfen@peterboroughlimited.co.uk

LOCAL EVENTS HIGHLIGHTS

Photos: Robert Windle/RWT Photography

It's been a busy summer so far in Whittlesey, what with The Big Bash, Armed Forces Weekend and Music On The Square –here's just a few more highlights from them all!

The New Rutland Flower Show, sponsored by Gates Garden Centre, will be held on August 15th – 17th at the Rutland Showground, near Oakham.

It promises to be a spectacular family-oriented event, bringing together national, regional, and local gardening and flower clubs – not forgetting allotment societies, for the very first time in Rutland. The show will host many famous gardeners, delivering talks and demonstrations, including Adam Frost from BBC Gardeners’ World, Matthew Wilson from Radio 4 Gardeners’ Question Time, and Nick Hamilton from Barnsdale Gardens. We will also be joined by the BBC Radio 4 Gardeners’ Question Time who are recording a Postbag edition at the Show (Friday only).

Beautiful flower arranging demonstrations will be provided by the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS) throughout the three days, giving you the opportunity to learn and potentially get involved in the future. The show has over 200 exhibitors and will be a visual treat, providing you with plenty of opportunities to buy something unique for your home and garden.

Competitions for Flower Arranging, Show Gardens,

Borders, and Produce, will also be held and are available to enter by all, clubs or individuals, with over 120 classes to choose from. The full Competition Guide can be found on their website with closing entries not until August. There are also other opportunities to get involved at the show with excellent workshops on the day including ‘Sweet Pea Seed-Sow-Along’ by Cara Thompson and ‘Make Your Own Planter’ by Amanda from Pebble Home & Garden (tickets sold separately).

Under 16s are FREE (with a paying adult) and they will be thoroughly entertained by the amazing circus shows, giant bubble shows, stilt walking, outdoor games, and a vintage fairground. Flypasts by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, over thirty specialist nurseries, art, crafts, fine foods, and live music from Govannen, Herbie Lamb Quartet, Sammy Dean, and Sam Torr, can also be expected.

For more information, and to book your advanced tickets, please visit rutlandflowershow co.uk

Sing for Life Supporting Sue Ryder

Thorpe Hall Hospice

If you’ve ever thought about giving singing a go, NOW is your chance! We’re inviting around forty women to join a fun, ten-week singing project, starting in September.

Working towards a fantastic live performance at The Cresset on November 6th, you’ll learn to sing, meet new people, perform live on stage AND raise money for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice, with plenty of laughs along the way!

Over one hundred women sang last year and raised thousands of pounds for charity. Most of them had never sung, rehearsed or performed as part of a group – or in public – before, and here’s what they had to say:

✦ Loved every moment and wish I could do it all over again!

✦ An amazing experience… the support was fantastic!

✦ Fabulous experience shared with a great group of women!

Annette Mawby, Community Fundraiser at Sue

Become a Member

awe of the passion and dedication that participants bring to this project. The funds raised help Sue Ryder continue to support people going through the hardest times of their lives, ensuring no one faces dying or grief alone.”

#Sing4Life2025 kicks off with introduction sessions at the John Mansfield Campus in Peterborough (PE14HX) on September 4th (7pm-9pm), September 5th (7pm-9pm) and September 6th (2pm-4pm).

There’s NO pressure - just a friendly introduction and a chance to meet the team and some of the other women who’ll be taking part.

For more details visit www.peterboroughsings.org.uk, email info@peterboroughsings.org.uk or call 01733 425194, but contact first to reduce waiting time.

LOCAL CLUBS & GROUPS

Whittlesey WI: Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm at St. Andrew’s Parish Hall. All ladies warmly welcomed.For any information please contact Christine on 07778 422484 or Julie on 01733 204445.

Whittlesey Amateur Boxing Club: River Drove, Beggars Bridge, Coates PE7 2DH. Contact Mark Hurst: 07377 941011 or email: markhurst@hotmail.co.uk

Whittlesey Lions Club: Meets second Monday of month at 7.30pm at The Falcon Hotel, 1 London Street, Whittlesey PE7 1BH. New members welcome. Contact Lynn Palmer, 18 Glenfields, Whittlesey PE7 1HX, 07767 373264, whittlesey.lions@btinternet.com www.whittleseylions.org.uk or find us on Facebook.

March & District Model Railway Club: Meets on Wednesdays, 7.30-10pm at St Mary’s Church Hall, Wisbech Road, Westry, March PE15 0BA. Visit www.mdmrc.net for further information or email: manddmrc@gmail.com

Whittlesey Manor Dolphins: Swim England Affiliated Club Meets Mondays (term time) 6.30-8.30pm depending on ability. At Whittlesey Swimming Pool. Free Trial – to book contact manordolphins@gmail.com

OOBAC Archery: New Road, Whittlesey. Taster sessions 1st Sunday of the month. GB licensed coaches. Outdoor 24/7 access and weekly winter indoor shooting. Family friendly club. Email Jean: oobacarchery@gmail.com

Whittlesey Ladysmith WI: Meets on the second Tuesday of the month, at 7.30pm, at St Andrew's Parish Hall. For more information, please contact Liz Phillips 07982 854872 or find us on Facebook.

Rotary Club of Whittlesey: Meets on the 2nd & 4th Monday of each month at The Falcon Hotel, 1 London Street, Whittlesey PE7 1BH. Contact David Denson (Secretary) email: whittleseyrotary@gmail.com Visit www.facebook. com/whittleseyrotary or www.whittlesey.rotary1080.org

Whittlesey Manor Bowls Club: at Manor Leisure Centre –open all year round. Bowling April-September. Bingo on Mondays and Thursdays at 7pm. Clubhouse available for hire – contact 07771 725109. Further information on 07752 291103.

Painting Group: Meets every Tuesday in Eastrea Village Hall between 1pm and 4pm. The group has been established for ten years. Please contact Sue on 01733 205241 for more details.

Whittlesey Patchwork and Crafts: Meets every Monday 1pm to 3.30pm in the Bowling Centre at Manor Leisure. Sociable sewing, knitting, patchwork, crochet, crafting and chatting over tea and cake. Find out more from Rita on 01733 204271 or 07875 269145.

To advertise your club or group please call Sallyanne for more information on 07737 026594 or email sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

By Natalie Brannigan Director, The Little Marketing Company

Update Your Marketing Strategy!

arkets change, and your marketing strategy should too! Regularly reviewing and updating your plan helps keep your business competitive and adaptable.

If you don’t have a strategy yet, now’s the time to create one. A clear plan ensures you stay visible, attract customers, and continue to grow, even in challenging times.

Want to sign up to more marketing tips? Email natalie@thelittlemarketingcompany.com