Discovering Whittlesea issue 256, November 2025 by Discovering Magazines

Welcome to your November issue...

It’s getting closer by the day, and I’m not talking about the ticklish thirty days ahead for us ladies, as some of our chaps let loose that moustache once more during “Movember”. No, I’m talking turkey, trees, tinsel and trimming-up, as the whole wonderful Christmas season gathers momentum once more.

Whatever you are planning over the next few weeks and hopefully finding plenty of ideas in this issue to help you, make sure to book early for your special events.

With Bonfire Night upon us, early this month, please remember to look out for our pets but also to see how our neighbours are coping, not just with the fireworks, but with the cold, wintery days ahead. Good neighbourliness costs nothing but can mean so much to the elderly who may be struggling on their own.

Claire

The countdown is underway to Christmas... a time of year that alongside the special celebrations also brings increased expense for families throughout the land.

The cost of everything seems to be rising at present and the seasonal presents for family and friends only adds to the financial burden.

However, in my household December is nothing... it’s November that’s the big spending month as it is littered with birthdays!

November brings my son and my birthday on the same day, my daughter’s – which was coincidentally on the same day as my late father’s – my granddaughter’s and father-in-law’s, not to mention a number of close friends.

This month will see celebrations for all the ages... from two years old to ninety!

I have often pondered why November is so full of family births and have come to the conclusion that there must be something in the Fen air each February...

Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET

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

Sales Paula Kirtland: 07903 776211 | marketing.discoveringmagazines@gmail.com

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

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

Ops Director Andy Armstrong: 07780 922214

Accounts Sarah Brooks: 07564 966452 | accounts@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

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

Discovering Whittlesea is published by a local team and is not associated with any other business. Care is

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

Copy deadline for the December issue is Thursday 13th November 2025.

the

and

at the time of going to press; however, we cannot take any responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by any errors.

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

Trevor Langley, Alex Miscandlon, Tania Cannon, Eileen Le Voi, Robert Windle, Kellyvision, Marija Lysak (Professor Pompoose), and Natalie Brannigan.

As always, enjoy!

A ordable Burgundy Alternative from e WineBarn

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Iris Ellmann is MD and is highly respected in the business. Iris was one of the ﬁrst Fellows (the Riesling Fellowship) and is renowned for her knowledge and expertise of German wines. Iris and the team are very proud of their many awards and have been recognised as IWC ‘Best German Wine Merchant’. All advice and requests for information are dealt with experience and knowledge by this company – be it for parties, events, occasions and/or accompaniments for foods. Their Rare and Antique Wines Service is much appreciated by investors, for sourcing wines from ‘hidden cellars’ in Germany.

Fantastic and affordable alternatives to Burgundy Pinots are now available from The WineBarn Ltd Company. Spaetburgunder (Pinot Noir) is widely known for its splendid ageing potential. The WineBarn Ltd Company has an excellent range of these full-bodied wines and the Pinot Noir Collection is available as a 6/12 bottle case –titled, ‘The Burgundy Alternative Collection’.

Familie Friedrich Becker, one of Germany’s leading producers of elegant Pinot Noir wines, has Pinot Noir (13.5% vol). I found this to

By Trevor Langley

be a most impressive production from the Pfalz region. The very best, ﬁnest handpicked grapes are utilised for this ﬁne, dry wine. A genuine handcrafted experience for wine lovers and connoisseurs. I found this wine to be smooth and expressive, with a juicy freshness and long on the palate.

Jurgen Ellwanger produces an impressive range of wines.

Hebsacker Linnenbrunnen Spaetburgunder GG Dry (13.5% vol) has many devotees. This elegant, dry and dark fruitﬂavoured delectation pleases numerous lovers of red wines, from its bouquet to the mouthfeel and on to the sensation for the palate’s delight.

These selections are included in ‘The Burgundy Alternative Collection’, along with productions from other top producers, including Bercher, Bischel, Kranz and Meyer-Naekel, with each of the Pinot Noir wines portraying most excellent and very impressive qualities throughout.

Online ordering is easy, with orders being dispatched quickly and efﬁciently, whether to homes, ofﬁces, retailers, private clients, hotels or Michelin-starred restaurants. Highly recommended.

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Christmas Cake EASY TO MAKE

Ingredients

FOR THE SOAKED FRUIT

300g raisins

150g dried apricots, chopped

75g mixed peel

150g glace cherries, chopped

180g dates, chopped

1 cup + 2 tbsp apple juice or for a boozy cake – 1 cup apple juice and 2 tbsp of brandy FOR THE CAKE

115g unsalted butter

11/2 cups dark brown sugar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

3 tbsp golden syrup

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp all spice

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

3 large eggs

1/2 tsp baking powder

12/3 cups plain ﬂour

3/4 cup walnuts, chopped

This flavourful fruit cake has a rich, velvety texture that is so moist it can be eaten plain, without icing!

Method

1 Place the dried fruit and apple juice/ brandy in a large microwavable container. Microwave for 1 minute and 30 seconds on high or until hot.

2 Stir well to coat all of the fruit in the liquid. Cover then set aside for 1 hour (to plump up/soak and cool).

3 Preheat the oven to 160°C/320°F (140°C fan). Grease and line a 21-22 cm/8 -9 inch round cake tin with baking paper (parchment paper) (7cm/2.75 inch tall).

4 Using an electric whisk, beat the butter and sugar until smooth and creamy.

5 Add the vegetable oil and golden syrup, then whisk until combined.

6 Add the salt, spices and baking powder –whisk until incorporated.

7 Add in the eggs, one at a time, whisking until incorporated.

8 Stir in the ﬂour. When mostly incorporated, stir in the fruit mix (including all the extra liquid in bowl) and the walnuts.

9 Pour mixture into the cake tin, cover with foil and bake for 21/2 hours. Remove the foil then bake for another 30-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into middle comes out clean (check ﬁrst at 30 minutes).

10 Remove from oven and cool for 20 minutes before transferring to cooling rack. Cool completely before decorating (in your preferred way) and/or serving.

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CHURCH SERVICES AND ACTS OF REMEMBRANCE

Sun 9th November, 9.30am - Morning Service with Act of Remembrance – St Andrew’s

Sun 9th November, 10.00am - Holy Communion at Holy Trinity followed by Act of Remembrance at 11.00 at Coates War Memorial.

Sun 9th November, 10.55am - Act of Remembrance followed by Morning Service, St Mary’sChurch

Sun 9th November, 10.55am - Act of Remembrance followed by Morning Service, St Thomas' Pondersbridge

Sun 9th November, 11:45am - Act of Remembrance at Eastrea Memorial

Sun 9th November,12.30pm - Act of Remembrance at Turves Memorial

Tue 11th November, 10.50am - Act of Remembrance at Coates Memorial

Tue 11th November, 10.50am - Act of Remembrance at Whittlesey War Memorial

For more details on church services, please contact hello@pathway-church.co.uk, or call 01733 205337, any late changes will be listed on www.pathway-church.co.ukv

THE HYMNS

I VOW TO THEE, MY COUNTRY I vow to thee, my country, all earthly things above, Entire and whole and perfect, the service of my love; The love that asks no questions, the love that stands the test, That lays upon the altar the dearest and the best; The love that never falters, the love that pays the price, The love that makes undaunted the final sacrifice.

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REMEMBRANCE PARADE

SUNDAY 9TH NOVEMBER 2025

The parade will start to form up at 1:00pm at St Andrew's Church Hall on Parkinsons Lane

Ready to step off at 2pm, via Barrs Street & Market Street to the War Memorial on Queen Street for the Act of Remembrance.

After the laying of the wreaths, a brief Service of Remembrance will be held. This will be followed by a reception and refreshments for those on parade at The Masonic Hall, Woolpack Lane, Whittlesey

And there's another country, I've heard of long ago, Most dear to them that love her, most great to them that know;

JERUSALEM And did those feet in ancient time Walk upon England's mountain green? And was the holy Lamb of God On England's pleasant pastures seen? And did the countenance divine Shine forth upon our clouded hills? And was Jerusalem builded here Among those dark satanic mills? Bring me my bow of burning gold! Bring me my arrows of desire! Bring me my spear! O clouds, unfold! Bring me my chariot of fire! I will not cease from mental fight, Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand, Till we have built Jerusalem In England's green and pleasant land.

If you have any questions about this, please contact: The Town Clerk on 01733 351296 or email clerk@whittleseytowncouncil.gov.uk

There will be a service on Tuesday 11th starting at 10.50 at the War Memorial on Queen Street, Whittlesey

MATTERS COMMUNITY

KEEP PEOPLE SAFE ON BONFIRE NIGHT

Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service is urging organisers of local Bonfire Night firework displays to advertise them on its map of local displays. It wants to encourage families to attend organised fireworks displays to ensure communities stay safe while enjoying the fireworks celebrations and hopes to include as many displays as possible to offer them the closest options to their home.

Any reported planned firework displays taking place in and around the area will be included on the map of organised displays to be featured on the service’s website and across its social media channels.

For more details log on to www.cambsfire.gov.uk, follow on social media or call 01480 444500.

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

FRIENDS TO HOLD AGM

The Friends of the Manor Annual General Meeting and bi-monthly meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 11th, at 6.30pm in the meeting room. The hot topic at the moment is the redevelopment of the Manor Centre and additional sporting facilities. The meeting is open to members of the public.

Photo Credit: RWT Photography/Radio Fenland

MATTERS COMMUNITY

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

As the winter nights and mornings are getting darker can I make a plea to parents and guardians to make sure their loved ones have lights on their bikes to keep them safe as there have been some near misses recently with people not being seen due to them wearing dark clothes.

The good news is that Whittlesey Town Council has a new Town Clerk. Her name is Angelka Piotrowicz and all the councillors wish her well and, as the Mayor, I look forward to working with her.

Going forward, my diary dates are filling up at great speed with some notable events coming up including Remembrance Day when I fully expect Whittlesey town folk to put a great presence in as they always do and the town is always grateful for the attendance of outside dignitaries who give their time to honour the town’s fallen in all conflicts.

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

WATCH OUT THERE’S ELVES ABOUT

Whittlesey Christmas Lights Committee reports that elves will be seen around town starting to put up the wonderful Christmas lights. This happy bunch of volunteers deliver a display that many other towns can only dream of so, if you spot one, come and say hello and you can also make a donation.

GILDENBURGH CHRISTMAS CONCERT

The Gildenburgh Choir Christmas Concert will take place this year on Saturday, December 13th from 7.30pm at St Jude’s Church, Cranford Drive, Peterborough with an evening of music led by musical director Sean Douglas. Tickets, priced £6 for adults with accompanied children free, are available from David Perkins (Tel: 01778 343158) and on the door. There will be a short interval and refreshments will be available at the end of the concert The group welcomes new members, contact jennymsheldrake@live.co.uk for further details.

Alex Miscandlon

The Personal Touch for that Perfect Special Dress

Here at Swanky Rags, we specialise in helping you find the perfect dress for the occasion, whether that be your prom, wedding, or maybe you are a bridesmaid or wedding guest. Perhaps you are just looking for an elegant evening outfit that will make you shine. We will do our best to assist you in finding this.

Brides-to-be can explore a wide range of dresses in various shades and sizes, ensuring you find the one that makes you feel truly special. For the bridesmaids, we have over sixty different colour dresses to choose from, and with colour swatches on hand to help you find the perfect match which allows you to pick your dress and then worry about the colour later.

For brides seeking a lightweight and simple dress, our bridesmaid dresses can be transformed into bridal gowns. Available in ivory and enchanted with an added layer of ‘extra bridal touch’, they offer a comfortable and elegant option.

Ready to find the perfect prom dress? Well, look no further, Swanky Rags is here to help you. We are open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. Can’t make it during these hours? Not to worry, Swanky Rags are happy to accommodate you with a convenient, alternative appointment. Please inquire and we will always do our best to suit your schedule.

Booking early in the school year is essential, especially with a Swanky Rags “prom promise” that we only sell one dress style per school, so once you have chosen your dress, it’s yours exclusively. We won’t sell it to anyone else from your school, not even in a different colour. This means your dress will be unique, making you stand out on your prom night.

At Swanky Rags, we pride ourselves on providing an exclusive one-to-one appointment, allowing you to enjoy a special personalised experience with one of Swanky’s stylists who are delighted to guide you into finding the perfect dress.

Contact us at www.swankyrags.co.uk, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram and get your appointment booked today to start the quest for your perfect dress at Swanky Rags.

Are Cash Buyers Still Dominating The Market?

When we’re out and about valuing or showing properties, we often hear the same comment: “It’ll be a cash buyer or investor who snaps this one up.”

It’s a common perception - but how true is it in today’s market? We decided to take a closer look at the latest data on cash buyers versus mortgage-funded purchases, and the results may surprise you.

Across Great Britain, the share of cash buyers has fallen over the past year. Currently, 27 percent of property sales are cash-funded, compared to 33% a year ago. This suggests the balance is shifting as more buyers return to the market with mortgage finance.

Regionally, the South West continues to see the highest proportion of cash buyers at 33%, though this is down from 40% last year. In contrast, London has the lowest at 18%, a drop from 25%, reflecting the capital’s higher property prices and greater reliance on lending.

Interestingly, cash buyers paid an average of £19,385 less per property, around 7.2% below what mortgage buyers paid. That discount highlights the ongoing advantage of being chain-free and able to move quickly — something sellers still find appealing.

The data also shows a shift back toward longer-term trends. The surge in cash purchases seen during 2023 and 2024 was largely fuelled by high interest rates, which priced many mortgage buyers out.

Now, with affordability improving, financed buyers are regaining confidence and re-entering the market.

At Cannon & Co Sales & Lettings, we’re seeing this first-hand — a more balanced market emerging, where both cash and mortgage buyers play an important role. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just keeping an eye on the trends, we’ll continue to keep you updated every step of the way.

Flooring

Property

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• Patio’s/ Decking

• Fencing

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• Pruning and Tree Work

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Vet Visits Home

Consumer Advice

Self-Assessment Scams – Don’t Get Caught Out!

By Eileen Le Voi at Safe Local Trades

The Self-Assessment tax deadline isn’t until January – but if you are self-employed or a small business owner, this is for you!

You might receive an HMRC scam email, or a scammer could pretend to be HMRC over the phone or through a text message. Common tricks include offering a rebate, requesting you to update tax details, or threatening arrest for tax evasion.

Five ways to spot a fake HMRC scam

1) Fake HMRC email address: The key to spotting whether the address is real is to hover over the ‘from’ address. The actual link the text leads to will not end in @hmrc.gov.uk (which all official emails from HMRC will). Use this HMRC email address to report suspicious emails: phishing@hmrc.gov.uk

If you receive what you think is a text scam, forward it to 60599.

2) Tax rebate offers: An HMRC tax refund email is almost certainly a scam. Emails from HMRC will never offer you any repayment, tell you about a tax rebate, or ask you to send personal information.

3) Request for immediate action: Fraudsters will often try to scare you into complying by using phrases like “you only have three days to respond” or “urgent action required”.

4) Fake links and dodgy attachments: Any emails that contain links or have an attachment should be treated suspiciously. Don’t open any attachments that you aren’t expecting. These could contain viruses that will give scammers a backdoor into your computer and allow them to access your personal information, as well as your clients or customers.

5) Beware generic greetings: Be wary of emails that start ‘Dear Sir/Madam’, ‘Dear customer’ or ‘Hello’. Emails from HMRC will address you by your name. Report other types of HMRC scams

If you get:

• a message in an application, for example WhatsApp, take a screenshot and email it to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk

• a phone call asking for personal information or threatening a lawsuit, report it via the online form at www.gov.uk

• a letter, contact the HMRC team the letter says it’s from at www.gov.uk/contact-hmrc

• a message from a social media account, and you cannot verify the account it comes from, send details by email to security.custcon@hmrc. gov.uk and ignore it.

THE ODD JOB MAN

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How To Own Your Own Dream Home

After years of living with relatives and never quite finding a place to call their own, Katarzyna and her family knew it was time for a change. The constant moving left them longing for stability – a home where memories could be made and roots could finally take hold.

Their search for a home was not without its challenges. Many developments felt too far from work or simply didn’t fit their needs. But a simple Instagram advert offering Shared Ownership changed everything.

Shared Ownership was a new concept to her. She’d never heard of it before, but every question was met with patience and clear explanations. The team took time to outline how Shared Ownership works: a lower deposit, the chance to buy a share of a home, and the flexibility to potentially increase ownership over time. It was a revelation-suddenly, buying a home felt within reach.

the difference. The process, which had once seemed daunting, now felt manageable. Homemade Homes guided her through every step, making sure she understood her options and helping her see the possibilities ahead.

“Everything was explained so clearly,” Katarzyna recalls. That reassurance made all

Katarzyna describes their new home as warm and inviting, with spacious bedrooms and a generous living area that instantly felt right. She speaks fondly of the support she received from Lucy Woods at Homemade Homes, whose guidance eased every worry. “Lucy’s help was invaluable,” she says, reflecting on the journey from uncertainty to confidence.

To those considering Shared Ownership, Katarzyna’s advice is simple: “Just do it. Don’t wait. You might be closer to owning your dream home than you think.” Her story is proof that, with the right support and a little courage, homeownership is not just a dream, but a reality within reach.

MATTERS COMMUNITY

MEMBERS LEARN MACRAME

Coates WI’s October meeting was an enjoyable evening where all members made a macrame key ring, thanks to a demonstration given by Veronica. The next meeting on November 5th will be the annual meeting.

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 further information, contact Fiona on (01733) 208516 or Jen on 0770 3385661.

MAKING MEMORIES

HARVEST CELEBRATION

Whittlesey WI ladies have held a splendid Harvest Supper at their October meeting. They had each prepared or cooked a delicious plate of food to share with the group, enjoying a tasty supper together with plenty of time to chat and catch up on news.

The group’s next meeting is on November 4th at 7.30pm in St Andrew’s Hall, Parkinson’s Lane. The AGM will be followed by making Christmas tree decorations to adorn a tree at St Andrew’s Church festival in December.

Ladies interested in the WI and membership are welcome to join the group’s meetings. For more details contact Christine on 07778 422484 or just come along to a meeting.

LADYSMITH WI GETS READY FOR CHRISTMAS

Whittlesey Ladysmith WI will be making Christmas tree decorations on Tuesday, November 11th, 7.30pm, at St Andrew's Hall.

Guests always welcome, so go along and meet new friends. Contact Liz on 07982 854872 or follow on Facebook.

Sporting Memories has recommenced at Whittlesey Manor Centre on Station Road.

These are free sessions where locals can get a hot drink, chat about their sporting times and have a go at a gentle sporting activity. The sessions are every Wednesday at 1pm-2.30pm.

If you wish to attend then either just go along or email studio@radiofenland.com

RETRO DISCO RAISES £1000 FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

The Rotary Club of Whittlesey marked its 71st Charter Night, the club’s birthday, in style this year with a 1960s and 70s’ themed disco at the town’s Falcon Hotel, combining music, food and dancing in a lively community celebration.

Around seventy guests enjoyed a night of retro fun with hot food served 70s-style in baskets, with plenty of dancing and many dressing up in gear from the era to mark the occasion.

Entertainment came from singer Stacey Wood and DJ Groovy Michelle whose disco mix kept the crowd on their feet late into the night. There was also a showcase by young local dancers from Tu Danse Academy in Peterborough.

Tu Danse had more to celebrate the following day when the group took second place at the North/Midlands National Entertainment Awards at the Cresset Theatre in Peterborough, securing an invitation to the 2026 NEA finals in Las Vegas. Of course, the disco was about more than music, dancing and celebrating local talent, with the Rotary Club donating £1000 to support and raise awareness of the East of England Ambulance Service Community First Responders, local volunteers trained to reach life-threatening emergencies in the first vital minutes before an ambulance crew arrives.

ANNVERSARY CELEBRATION

Whittlesey & District u3a has been celebrating its 10th Anniversary.

Stories were shared about how the u3a was started in the town and who the movers and shakers were in the early years. Members donated various food items to the Whittlesey Emergency Food Aid and Anna Foster from the Helping Whittlesey Community Pantry made more than sixty cakes to go with the main cake.

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, 1st November 2025, Councillors present will be Dr Haq Nawaz (District & Town Councillor) & Eamonn Dorling (Town Councillor).

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 on 01733 351296 or clerk@whittleseytowncouncil.gov.uk

Do you have a business? Are you a sole trader? Self-employed? And are you based within Whittlesey and District?

If you are, we would like to invite you to meet the Whittlesey and District Business Community. We are a friendly, motivated group of local business owners who meet up to support and learn more about each other’s businesses and we would love you to join us.

Not been to a meeting like this before? Why not come and say hello and see how it can benefit your business?

When: Wednesday November 26th 2025 - 6:30pm

Where: AGM/Christmas Social, Poppy’s Coffee Shop, 15 Market St, Whittlesey PE7 1BA

Contact: Kerry on 07879 452291 or Erica on 07572 383312 or just turn up!

We look forward to seeing you there! Visit www.whittleseybusinesscommunity.co.uk

Photo credits: Whittlesey Rotary Club

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 Friday 14th November, 11.30-2.30pm 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.

This month is not as restful as you might think, as the allotment needs a good tidying-up. Don’t leave old crops to rot and get rid of as many weeds as possible so that they don’t take hold in the spring. Also, a priority is to give the allotment or vegetable patch a thorough digging over and spread manure over the surface, no need to dig in just leave it to be absorbed naturally. Don’t dig if the soil is too wet or frozen. You can then cover over the newly dug plot to keep the weeds at bay and the soil warmer for planting in the spring.

An important task for November is pruning fruit trees and bushes (except for cherries and plums) as they have shed their leaves and are dormant for the winter: also remove any netting from fruit cages to allow the birds to eat insects and eggs. Securing grease bands around fruit trees will help to fend off the winter moth. Bare-rooted fruit trees, bushes and canes are also dormant and therefore now is the time to plant them whilst the ground is not too wet or cold. Prepare the planting holes by digging in good compost or manure and when they are planted spread a mulch of well-rotted manure around the base.

Other jobs include:

• Protect cauliﬂowers from frost by bending over a few leaves to cover the curds, tie them in place.

• Secure covers over compost heaps/bins, although the material needs to be damp winter rain and snow will saturate it and slow the rotting process down.

• Start to harvest winter cabbage, Brussels sprouts, leeks, and parsnips, wait until after a frost for the parsnips as the frost encourages the sugars which give parsnips their sweetness.

• Propagate rhubarb crowns by lifting and dividing into smaller pieces, planting at the same depth in their new position.

• Dismantle bean canes, if you haven’t already, as leaving them in the ground will cause the bases to rot.

• In milder areas, broad beans can be sown for an early spring crop.

• Sow some windowsill herb seeds for the coming winter months.

• Salad leaves can also be sown now. In fact, sow every 3 weeks throughout the year and you’ll never again need to buy salad leaves. At this time of year, try Salad Leaf ‘Winter Mix’.

• Continue raking up fallen leaves and turn them into valuable leaf mulch.

If you have a greenhouse, give it a good clean and insulate if you intend to use it over winter. Don’t forget on sunny days to open the windows to increase ventilation as this will stop fungal conditions and especially downy mildew growing.

GOLD PACK £90

• 2.5 kilo Turkey Breast; Plain, Stuffed and/or Dressed with Streaky Bacon

• 2 kilo Prime Topside of Beef

• 2.5 kilo Boned & Rolled Pork Loin

• 20 Best Pork Chipolatas Wrapped in Bacon

• 2 x 1lb Best Pork Sausage Meat Lincolnshire OR Cambridgeshire Gold

• 2 x 1lb Best Back OR Streaky Bacon

VOUCHERS AVAILABLE FROM NOVEMBER 1ST

TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY

a n d y m a n

You know those small jobs that builders are not interested in doing because they don’t make a mint or those niggly little jobs that never get done because you may not have either the skills, tools or time.

1. Make a list

• Lawns cut

• Small tree surgery

E l e ct r i c a l

• Fencing repaired, replaced or installed

• Panelling, feather board and palisade

• Gates repaired, replaced or installed

• Decking nstalled and maintained

O t h e r st u f f

• Replacement of light ﬁttings, switches and power sockets to existing position.

• Laminate and wood ﬂooring ﬁtted

• Painting and decorating

• Patios laid, cleaned and re-sanded

• Sheds repaired and roofs re-felted

• Dry walling

• Water butts nstalled

• Gutters cleared.

P l u m b i n g

• Leaking taps and pipes...sorted

• Washing machines, dishwashers and taps installed

• Sinks, toilets and bathrooms ﬁtted

• Waste pipes unblocked.

C a r p e n t ry

• Unﬁnished DIY projects you just have not got the time to do

• Get those wobbly shelves sorted

• Doors ﬁtted/hung/adjusted to ﬁt/work properly.

• Locks and door fur niture ﬁtted

• Kitchen and bedroom units repaired adjusted and ﬁtted.

Why not let me have a look at it?

• Pictures and mirrors hung

• Flat pack furniture: do you ﬁnd it frustrating? Always got bits left over? Can’t ﬁnd that Allen key? Let me assemble and install where required

• Tiling of walls and ﬂoors and tiles replaced

• Blinds,curtain rails and poles ﬁtted

• Lofts/attics insulated and boarded & loft ladders installed

TOWN TYRES

•

zzzzzzzz... The Power Of Sleep!

It’s official! Autumn is here and it’s the season when nature is preparing for the cold winter months ahead. It’s the time when things go to sleep. Hmm… I wonder if that means I can have some extra hours in bed?

Well as I’m Professor Pompoose Know-eet-All, the cleverest scientist, I can tell you the reason we find it harder to get up on winter mornings. It’s because we don’t have as much sunlight and it confuses our body clock, so it takes longer for our brains to wake up.

I’ve been watching the birds, swallows, swifts and sparrows gathering on the telegraph poles preparing to fly south to warmer countries such as South Africa. They do this because food is scarce, with a lack of insects and bugs in the winter and it’s a lot harder for them to survive here in the UK. I wondered if I could go away for the winter but then I don’t think my workplace would be happy if I disappeared for six months. Oh well – here’s a joke to cheer us up!

Q. Why do birds fly south in the winter?

A. Because it’s too far to walk… Ha-ha!!

Also, some animals will hibernate during the winter including hedgehogs, bats, mice as well as my friend’s tortoise, Terry who will be tucked in his box. He’s normally kept in the garden so it’s important that we find a nice, sheltered area for him in my garage during the winter. Hibernation allows animals to survive the winter when food is scarce by slowing their heart rate and breathing to save energy. They build up a layer of body fat to use as reserves whilst they’re not active.

In autumn you’ll see the leaves changing colour and falling to the ground. Remember it’s only temporary as trees become dormant (which is like a deep sleep) to save energy and protect themselves from frost damage. This rest allows trees to be ready to sprout new leaves and grow

once the weather warms up in the spring.

AMAZINGFACT

Tortoises can live for 80-200 years with the oldest in the UK being 192 which died in 2023.

It’s also important that we get enough sleep so that we can be alert and stay healthy. Whilst we are sleeping, the brain processes all that we’ve learnt during the day, repairs itself and restores energy – it says in the bible, Psalm127 v2, "The Lord gives sleep to those He loves" – because he knows we need to stay well - I’ll remember that next time I’m tempted to stay up late to watch TV or play on my computer.

Happy Sleeping Zzzzzzzz….!!

Professor Pompoose

The COMPUTER Man

MATTERS COMMUNITY

MATT SHOOTS BACK TO THE TOP

Whittlesey Rifle Club president and Paralympic legend Matt Skelhon added a European silver medal to his record at the WSPS European Championships in Osijek, Croatia.

Competing in the R3 10m Air Rifle Prone event, one of the most precision-based target shooting disciplines, Matt battled through a tough qualification and a world-class final to claim second place. The R6 50m Prone Rifle event, held outdoors, didn’t bring another medal this time, with colder than expected conditions likely affecting scores.

Club chairman David Ransome added: “Seventeen years at the elite level, five Paralympics behind him and a sixth ahead is a superhuman achievement. A European major silver represents amazing consistency and a real inspiration for our club competitors and volunteers.”

Matt’s achievement followed hard on the heels of him winning gold at the Novi Sad WSPS Grand Prix in Serbia and setting a new British record.

credit: RWT Photography/Radio Fenland

MAGICAL TIME AT CHURCH

St Andrew's Church Thursday Monthly Lunch Club was recently entertained by local magician Rob Windle at Whittlesey’s Falcon Hotel. The church provided transport via the Whittlesey Community Car Scheme and a hot meal was provided. Anybody interested in magic can attend the monthly gatherings of the Peterborough Society of Magicians on the third Tuesday of the month 7.30pm at the Millfield Centre, Lincoln Road Peterborough.

Photo credit: RWT Photography/Radio Fenland

NEW BUSINESS OPENS

Another new business has opened in the centre of Whittlesey. Cherry Peppers Cafe at 4 Lovells Court is up and running and the Mayor and Radio Fenland were there for the official cutting of the ribbon.

Photo credit: RWT Photography/Radio Fenland

Photo

Hundreds

Schools Art Competition Winners

of people visited the Schools Art exhibition at the Whittlesey Library as part of this year’s Whittlesey Festival and during two weeks after the event.

Marija Lysak, festival committee member and organiser of the exhibition said: “The standard of work was the highest we’d ever seen, with over two hundred entries from all the local schools, Sir Harry Smith Community College, Park Lane, Alderman Jacobs, New Road and Coates.

Primary Schools:

4-7 years category

1st Elliot Foster (5), New Road

2nd Charlotte Badcock (4), Park Lane

3rd Jack Moore (7), Park Lane

Highly Commended: Ivy Taylor (7), Alderman Jacobs

Congratulations also go to six-year-old Alice Danacott at Alderman Jacobs, whose picture was selected for next year’s festival programme cover.

8-11 years category:

1st Ava Stimson (8), New Road

2nd Maisie Findlay (10), Alderman Jacobs

3rd Amillie Berridge(10), Park Lane

Highly Commended: Cora Florence Smith (10), Coates

“The judges Jenny Parker, local artist James Green, and I had the privileged, but challenging task of choosing the final winners. Thank you to all those that took part and to everyone that visited the exhibition; it’s a great encouragement to the young people of our community. Thanks also goes to Jakki Racey, manager of Whittlesey and Fenland libraries, and her team for all their support and for the use of their space.”

The winners of the art competition were:

Senior School:

Sir Harry Smith Community College (SHSCC)

11-14 years category:

1st Sophy Doherty

2nd Assieh Blencowe

3rd Finley Watson

Highly Commended: Enola Moulding

15-18 years category:

1st Lucas Giakoumi Horta

2nd Laura Konrath

3rd Alex Woodbridgea

Highly Commended: Liam Sheldrick

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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.

Whittlesey Indoor Bowls Club: 194-198 Station Road, Whittlesey PE7 2HA. Open all year round. For more information visit www.whittleseyibc.co.uk or call 01733 202209 or email whittleseybowlsclub@yahoo.co.uk

Whittlesey Concert Band: rehearse on a Thursday evening in the church hall at Queen Street Church, Whittlesey. Anyone who plays a brass or wind instrument and is interested in joining us are welcome to come along. To discuss further message us on our Facebook page or contact Mikala on 07970587423.

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