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.
The Easter Bank Holiday comes early this year, with Good Friday falling on April 3rd.
Weather permitting, it is usually a time when many people try to shake off the winter blues of months spent inside their homes and either get busy outside in the garden or plan trips away. With the advent of British Summer Time on the last weekend of March there is always a feeling that we should all take advantage of the longer daylight hours and make an effort to take some fresh air on board.
Like most people, I have some tasks I need to undertake outside of my home, although I will keep these to myself and won’t announce them in public as I don’t want to become a hostage to fortune.
I also fancy taking a trip away, however with the current spiralling cost of fuel, where I go may be closer to home than I had previously hoped…
Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET
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Design Sarah Gumbley | Andy Beavis | Graham Copestake | Graham Booth
41 Introducing: SB Refrigeration
Professor Pompoose
50 Whittlesey Museum: 50th Anniversary
Sales: Sallyanne Davis 07737 026594
sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
With thanks to
Marija Lysak (Professor Pompoose) and Natalie Brannigan.
Copy deadline for the May issue is Friday 10th April 2026.
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. 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.
Readers will remember that Burnthouse Wind Farm fund gave us £3000 to go to small groups. The following groups have received a small cash donation to help them going forward: Whittlesey Small Fry; Whittlesey Scouts; Whittlesey Poppy Blitz; Fen Hands; Platinum Wood; Chill and Chat Café Coates; Whittlesey Rifle Club; St Jude RC Church; Coates Primary School; and Holy Trinity Church. These groups all showed the need for help in progressing their efforts that they give to the residents of the parish of Whittlesey. With that £3k spent I hope the wind farm can see their way to giving some more funds so we can help more groups. I will, of course, keep the residents of Whittlesey informed if this does happen so more groups can apply. It may be worth a note that the towns of March, Chatteris, and the villages of Benwick, Doddington, Wimblington also receive the same amount to help their residents. 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
The Big Walk Whittlesey is once again taking place this year in aid of the Cinnamon Trust.
It is being held on Manor Field on Bank Holiday Monday, May 4th in aid of the organisation which works to ensure that older people and those living with terminal illness never have to face the sorrow of parting from their beloved pet due to lack of support.
There is another opportunity for some pampering as Flori Aesthetics has opened in Market Street, Whittlesey. Owner Jessica McNamara welcomed the Mayor of Whittlesey Cllr Alex Miscandlon to cut the ribbon.
Photo: courtesy RWT Photography/Radio Fenland
In Whittlesey there are several Cinnamon Trust volunteers supporting local people who are no longer able to walk their dogs or look after their other animals due to age or ill health. One of these local volunteers is Julie Shortland, and to support the charity’s forty-year anniversary last year, she hosted the first Big Walk Whittlesey.
This year’s event has a target of raising £750, and Julie is inviting local people to get themselves sponsored to walk laps of the Manor Field with, or without, their dogs to raise much needed funds.
Sponsorship forms can be picked up from The Market Street, Emporium, Poppy’s Coffee Bar, or Parkers Newsagent.
The event will start with registration and collection of sponsorship forms at 10am with the walk commencing at 10.30am, finishing at 12pm. The Cricket Pavilion will be open to serve light refreshments and there will also be a merchandise stall offering goodies for dogs and their owners. For more information, email: TheBigWalkWhittlesey@gmail.com or check out our Facebook page.
We will still be taking all the necessary precautions to keep you and our team safe during your visit to the practice. 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.
Alison Watts and her son Ryan are to take part in a national sponsored walk to raise funds for The Alzheimer's Society.
They have signed up for next month’s Trek 26 in memory of Alison’s late father Anthony Hogg who suffered from the illness.
She said: “My dad suffered with Alzheimer's for several years before passing away in January 2025 and I wanted to do something to help raise funds for the charity. His twin sister is still living with Alzheimer’s, and his mother also had the disease, so it is quite prevalent in my family.
“As someone who has been supported by the Alzheimer's Society in the past, I know how much it means to be listened to when you are struggling to come to terms with a loved one’s diagnosis and what life is going to look like as a family going forward. I feel this will be a fitting tribute to my Dad who used to love going out for a walk every day and lived a long and happy life.”
Trek 26 is a thirteen or twenty-six-mile walk held in various locations throughout the UK and the Whittlesey mother-and-son will be taking part in the thirteen mile walk in the Peak District on Saturday, June 27th.
If anyone would like to make a donation please see the links to the Just Giving pages: www.justgiving.com/page/ryan-watts-1 or https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ Trek26PeakDistrict202613miles-AlisonWatts
Microwave energy is widely used in a number of medical fields to elevate tissue temperatures and create precise, localised cell destruction.
Infected tissue can exist several millimetres below the surface and can often be difficult to treat using traditional methods, resulting in either untreated tissue or significant damage.
Swift delivers a precise, highly controlled energy dose. As microwaves travel into the tissue, water molecules begin colliding and creating localised heat energy – quickly destroying all infected tissue within a predetermined depth.
In just seconds the treatment is complete, leaving the body to absorb and replace the treated tissue.
For more information visit www.treatwithswift.com
www.marchpodiatry.co.ukwww.marchpodiatry.co.uk
Opening hours: Mon 9am-7pm, Tues 9am-5pm, Weds 9am-7pm, Thurs 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-5pm and Sat 9am-1pm
Whittlesey Town Council is pleased to announce the annual search for the Whittlesey Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year. This prestigious award aims to recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to our community, embodying the spirit of service and excellence. Whether through acts of kindness, dedicated charity work, or outstanding achievements in various fields, we are eager to honour those who go above and beyond to make Whittlesey a better place for all.
WHITTLESEY CITIZEN:
• Over 18 years old
• A resident of Whittlesey, Coates, Eastrea, Turves, or Pondersbridge
WHITTLESEY YOUNG CITIZEN:
• 18 years old and under
• A resident of either Whittlesey, Coates, Eastrea, Turves or Pondersbridge
To submit a nomination, please provide the individual's name, address, and the reason for the nomination. Email your submission to: clerk@whittleseytowncouncil.gov.uk or send to:
Angelika Piotrowicz – Town Clerk, Whittlesey Town Council, Peel House, 8 Queen Street, Whittlesey PE7 1AY
Please mark the envelope ‘Citizen of the Year’ or ‘Young Citizen of the Year’
NOMINATIONS CLOSE ON FRIDAY, 24TH APRIL 2026
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.
If comfort, nostalgia and staying on plan had a baby, this would be it... a Slimming World-friendly Hot Cross Bun Hug!
This Hot Cross Bun-inspired baked oats dish is proof that you don’t have to miss out to stay focused. It’s warm, gently spiced, lightly sweet and hits that “I need something proper” spot without sending your food optimising out the window.
Made with simple, everyday ingredients and baked until golden, this is the kind of breakfast (or pudding) that feels indulgent but totally works with your goals, not against them.
Why we love it:
• Hearty oats for staying power
• Fat-free natural yogurt keeps it creamy
• Spices bring that classic Hot Cross Bun vibe
• Finished with a symbolic cross because… tradition matters.
Ingredients:
40g plain porridge oats
1 level tsp sweetener granules
1 small egg
90g fat-free
natural yogurt
Few drops of vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp mixed spice
½ tsp ground nutmeg
25g sultanas
½ level tsp icing sugar, for dusting Method
• Preheat your oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6.
MONDAYS
5.30pm at The Eastrea Centre, 2 Roman Gardens, Eastrea PE7 2DF
• Mix everything apart from the icing sugar in a bowl and stir well.
Transfer the mixture to a small ovenproof dish/ ramekin and bake in the oven for 35 minutes, or until browned.
Create a cross on top by sprinkling the icing sugar through a cross-shaped stencil.
Dust, serve, smile and enjoy with a generous helping of Speed-Free Food fruit for balance and brightness.
Contact Corrina on 07761 822301
TUESDAYS
9.30am, 11am, 6pm, and 7.30pm at the Methodist/UR Church Hall, Queens Street, Whittlesey PE7 1AY
Contact Maria on 07801 974440
One thing we have recently introduced at Cannon & Co is sharing more of our completion stories, real examples of what happens behind the scenes once a sale is agreed and the final stages of moving begin.
In simple terms, completion is the point where ownership officially changes hands, keys are released, and a move becomes real. It is the stage everyone works towards, but often it is also where the pressure can increase, because there can still be several moving parts that need to line up at exactly the right time. It had been on our to-do list for a while to start sharing these stories and now we have begun putting them onto our website, we are already finding it a useful way of showing the work that often goes unseen.
People often see a sold board or hear a property has completed, but not always the level of communication, follow-up and problem-solving that can sit behind getting a sale over the line. A recent completion is a good example of that. This particular sale had several moving parts within the chain and, as we got closer to the agreed completion date, there were signs things could easily begin to drift. Conversations were happening and updates were being requested, but it became clear that attention was focused in one area while the real issue sat elsewhere. As we kept following everything through, the final hurdle became clearer; a key piece
of paperwork further up the chain still needed signing and returning, and with half term affecting availability, there was a genuine risk that timings would slip. What followed was one of those moments where estate agency is far from desk based. Late afternoon quickly became evening calls, paperwork needing printing, dropping off for signature, and early morning followup to make sure documents were returned quickly enough for solicitors to proceed, which we did even though it wasn’t our sale.
By the Tuesday, what had looked uncertain was back in motion, meaning the agreed Friday completion date stayed achievable.
If you would like to read more, head to our website and click on Sold Success Stories, where we will be adding more real examples of recent completions and the journey behind them.
Grosvenor Flooring – which has been providing a quality service to customers in Whittlesey and the surrounding area since 2011 – has announced an exciting change to its business.
To reflect changes in customers’ buying habits in recent years, it is to close its premises in Queen Street on April 30th to focus on home visits.
Grosvenor is run by Ian Rattan and his wife Jackie.
Jackie said: “We’re excited to share that our family-run flooring business, with over forty-five years of experience, is evolving to serve you better. As we notice more and more of you reaching out by email and phone rather than visiting our physical shop, we’re bringing our decades of expertise right to your doorstep.
“Instead of you coming to us, we’ll come to you with samples, so you can choose your perfect flooring in the comfort of your own home.
“We’re adapting to the convenience of modern times, and just so you know, our email address and phone number remain the same. Rest assured, we’re here to make your flooring journey as seamless and professional as ever, now with a personal touch that comes right to your door.”
The company will continue to supply a comprehensive selection of top-quality flooring including carpets, Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) and cushion floors, to households.
To discover more, contact Grosvenor today. Tel: (01733) 208484; email: sales@grosvenorflooring.com; visit www.grosvenorflooring.com or search Facebook.
Female electrician based in Whittlesey, covering Peterborough, Huntingdon & surrounding areas
Contact Stuart Saberton: T: 07914 614513
E: stuart@thecomputermanpeterborough.co.uk www.thecomputermanpeterborough.co.uk
• Full and partial rewires
• PAT testing
• EICR testing and landlords safety reports
• Additional sockets and lighting
• Changing lights and faceplates
• New installs
Call Kirsty Parnell: 07958 391662 Email: wattshername.electrician@gmail.com
Swift Roo ng is a family-run business with over 20 years’ experience. Whether you are looking for a simple roof repair or a complete re-roof, we can assist. Customer satisfaction is our priority and we work to the highest standard possible. Free quotes given with no obligation so please contact us. 10% FORDISCOUNT OAPS
The Rotary Club of Whittlesey recently enjoyed an inspiring talk from 17-year-old local up-andcoming darts player Mitchell Brightwell, who is now being supported by the club in recognition of his dedication and the positive example he sets for young people in the town.
The club is delighted to be sponsoring Mitchell, who practices for five hours a day and competes in local, national and international competitions, saying he is clearly a very motivated and inspirational young man whose dedication and work ethic are already setting him apart.
Mitchell is becoming a youth ambassador for the club and will be consulted on ideas and initiatives focused on young people. He is also hoping to attend some of the club’s charity events, where he will give talks and demonstrations.
He said he was delighted to be sponsored by Rotary and to be made a youth ambassador for the club. He added that he was also lucky to have supportive friends and family to help him progress in the sport.
Club President, Kevin Buckland said: “Supporting young people is key to our work in the community, and it is great to see a young man like Mitchell blazing a trail and putting Whittlesey on the map.”
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
Fenland District Council has backed a motion from its leader Cllr Chris Boden setting out a clear commitment to address transport issues in Whittlesey and Chatteris.
The motion, titled ‘Breaking the Bottlenecks: A Plan to Unlock Growth in Whittlesey and Chatteris,’ has been brought forward to secure the transport evidence needed to address these issues as part of the new Local Plan, Fenland 50.
Introducing the motion at last month’s full council, Cllr Boden stressed that the authority cannot plan for the district’s future or secure investment without robust transport data. He said while the March and Wisbech Access Strategies have established “a gold standard of technical evidence” – providing those towns with a clear, evidence-led pathway for the future – other parts of the district remain at a disadvantage.
The motion said the infrastructure deficit on the A605 at Whittlesey is a significant and unacceptable barrier, and pressures in the town become even worse when the B1040 closes due to flooding.
Park Lane and New Road Primary Schools were the special guests of the Methodist/United Reform Church in Whittlesey.
They entertained the members of the Holiday at Home Club, which meets twice a year at the church for social interaction where they enjoy a meal and take part in some gentle activities.
For further details, email Zoe Drury at zdrury67@ gmail.com or phone her on 0777 9038074.
Photo: courtesy RWT Photography/Radio Fenland
Do you need a wall painting? A tap xing or replacing? A fence painted? Flat packs assembled? A light switch or sockets repaired/replaced? Path/patio cleaned? A picture or shelf hanging? A hole dug? Small tip run? A skip lled? Or any other odd job? If so, you need The Odd Job Man No job too silly or small T: 07442 915628 E: bondhigh@icloud.com
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.
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.
Afew months after returning to work following maternity leave, I remember sitting in a meeting and having an unexpected thought: ‘Am I still good at this?’
It surprised me. I had spent years building a career in programme management, working across aviation and global technology companies, managing complex programmes and making confident decisions every day. Yet suddenly, after becoming a mother, that confidence felt quieter. Through conversations with many other women returning to work, I realised I wasn’t alone. Highly capable professionals often come back from parental leave questioning their abilities and wondering whether they still belong in the room. It’s rarely about skills. More often, it’s about confidence and self-belief.
That realisation led me to create Reignite Careers, a coaching practice focused on supporting parents – particularly mothers – who are navigating their return to work and rebuilding their confidence along the way.
But through this work another question kept coming back to me: if so, many talented women struggle with confidence later in life, where does that self-doubt actually begin?
Increasingly, the answer appears to lie much earlier. Young people today are growing up in a world shaped by constant comparison. Social media, academic pressure and the expectation to ‘have everything figured out’ can influence
By Kat Fiedorczyk, Founder/ACC Coach
how teenagers see themselves long before they enter the workplace. Research from organisations such as Girlguiding UK has highlighted how confidence levels in girls often decline during the teenage years.
Confidence and self-belief – skills that influence everything from career choices to leadership –are often formed during these early stages of life.
This is why I am now developing Power Within You, a programme designed for schools, charities and youth organisations. Its aim is to help young people recognise their strengths, develop resilience and build confidence in their potential before self-doubt becomes deeply rooted.
Supporting parents returning to work and supporting young people are closely connected missions. When we help young people develop strong self-belief early in life, we help shape more confident adults in the future.
To better understand the needs within our local community, I’m inviting readers to take part in a ‘3-Minute Confidence Check.’ The short questionnaire asks just a few questions about when confidence challenges appear and what support would be most valuable for parents and young people locally.
You can take part by scanning the QR code at the top of this page or by contacting me directly at connect@reignitecareers.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
Opening
Household and utilities bills are rocketing, so now is the time to consider insulation as the answer to inflation! According to the Energy Saving Trust in an uninsulated home up to 25% of heat is lost through the roof space! We can supply and install insulation to save your pocket and the planet – and you’ll be surprised how cost-effective our solutions are.
• No waiting around. We arrive on time, every time
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We are specialists in loft boarding and insulation – we also supply and install loft ladders and hatches www.access4lofts.co.uk
How do you know if you can afford to retire?
By Ashlie Barnard
When it comes to planning for the future, it’s easy to focus on the big goals - savings, investments, and that dream retirement. But there's one thing that should always come first: understanding your cashflow.
Cashflow is simply the movement of money in and out of your life - your income, spending, and savings. It’s the foundation of every financial decision. Without a clear picture of your cashflow, how can you know if you’re on track to retire when you want to, or if you're saving enough for the future?
At Nene Financial Planning, we take a client-first approach. It's not about selling you products; it’s about achieving the right outcomes for you.
We help you understand your cashflow in detail, considering the often-overlooked factors - like interest rates, inflation, and tax - that can impact your financial future. By focusing on what’s truly important, we ensure your money is working harder for you.
If you’re asking yourself, “How do I know if I can afford to retire?” or “Am I factoring in all the right things?” it might be time to start with your cashflow.
What our clients say:
“Giving up work (and a regular wage packet) is a daunting prospect, more so when it’s earlier than planned. The team at Nene Financial Planning have been so helpful. Ashlie and her team have gone out of their way to explain everything in an easy to understand way that Julia and I are looking forward to retirement.”
“We spent a very useful morning with Ashlie as we made plans for the future of our family farm – she really knew her stuff and was able to give us plenty of advice about the different options open to us. We were very impressed and reassured. We look forward to working with her as we move on with the next stage of our future proofing.”
“Ashlie and the team really worked very hard and efficiently for us when processing our pension plans. I highly recommend them to anyone who needs to use the services they offer. I feel we’re very lucky to have such a knowledgeable and professional business in our town.”
If you have a ‘when can I? or ‘how can I?’ question, then get in touch with our friendly team in complete confidence on (01354) 278088 or book online at www.nenefinancial.co.uk
Find all 22 Easter eggs around Whittlesey for a chance to WIN a
Coles Barbers
Fontanellas
Dream Elite Care
Grosvenor Flooring
Harrison Rose
J Neville Opticians
Kellyvision
Krog & Whitehead
NAME:
ADDRESS:
The Lock Shop
Making Waves
Penny Marie Nails & Beauty
Premier Shop
EMAIL:
Parkers Newsagents
The Milky Bar
The Muffin Oven
Whittlesey Bathroom & Kitchen Studio
Whittlesey Dental Care
TEL:
The Boat Inn
The Letter B
Whittlesey Christian Church
Jacko’s Pet Supplies
Jason’s Barber Shop
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 22 matching Easter eggs for your chance to win a chocolate explosion! Competition closes 30/04/2026. Good Luck!!
Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET or pop your entry into Kellyvision, 26-28 Broad Street, Whittlesey PE7 1HA.
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.
• 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!
Whittlesey Library has been a hive of activity as two special events have taken place.
The first event was titled Outta Nothing where children could test their creative drawing skills, and the following week, writer and illustrator Matty Long, whose books include the TV Happy Magic Forest series, was special guest.
Other events at the library include: Mondays 10am-11am, Keep Calm & Colour for adults; Wednesdays 10am-11am, Cuppa and Company, be in a warm place and chat over your favourite brew; and on Saturdays there is the monthly Retro Gaming sessions with the next on April 25th and May 23rd at 10am-noon. All sessions are free to attend. For further details contact faith.bissett@cambridgeshire.gov.uk
The Mayor of Whittlesey Cllr Alex Miscandlon and Mayoress Mrs Pat Miscandon welcomed special guest Benjamyn Damazer JP DL to St Mary's Church for the Mayor's Civic Service.
Amongst the congregation were local and past councillors, Freedom of the Town recipients, previous Citizens of the Year, as well as members of the public and other invited guests, who came from Wisbech, Hunstanton, Raunds and other local councils. Refreshments were held at Sadie's with cakes supplied by The Little Tea Room.
Photo: courtesy RWT Photography/Radio Fenland
We bring you items of interest for your home and community. If there is something you’d like us to cover or you have something to say please get in touch at: Discovering Whittlesea, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET Email: editor.whittlesea@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
Flags were waving and voices were raised at Whittlesey Indoor Bowls & Sports Complex as the Rotary Club of Whittlesey brought a little Last Night of the Proms magic to the Fens.
Around one hundred people enjoyed the RAF Wyton Area Voluntary Band’s first concert of the season when, under new bandmaster Colin Swaep, it delivered a programme that had the audience on their feet, from the stirring sweep of Jerusalem and Land of Hope and Glory to the drama of Les Misérables and the brooding glamour of Skyfall.
Rotary President, Kevin Buckland and past President, Jim Saunders thanked the band, volunteers and everyone who came out to support the evening, which raised more than £1200 for the club’s charitable work, both locally and further afield.
They also thanked Wing Commander J Grenville, RAF Station Commander at Royal Air Force Wyton, for permission for the band to attend, along with the venue hosts and sponsors for their support. Special thanks were also given to Whittlesey Indoor Bowls Club and Versuvio Restaurant for their generous donations.
Photo: courtesy RWT Photography/Radio Fenland
It is fundraising time for the Whittlesey Scouts as they are looking to raise enough money to travel to Poland for the 2027 World Scout Jamboree.
The first two events towards the cause have been a quiz with a virtual duck race, followed by a dance/disco while they have also paid a visit to the Radio Fenland studio to tell others about their forthcoming adventure.
Coates WI’s annual meeting ended with cake and sausage rolls enjoyed by all, and members playing games together.
The next meeting will be on April 1st and will feature a flower arrangement demonstration by Anne Purt.
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, contact Fiona on (01733) 208516 or Jen on 07703 385661.
Whittlesey WI members went back in time at its annual meeting last month.
Members looked through archived local WI material dating from 1919, including minutes from the first meeting held that year, and examined plenty of interesting photographs and articles.
The group’s youngest member found photos of her grandparents from the 1960s when her grandfather was the Mayor of Whittlesey, while another member came across a photo of her three daughters who had all won their classes in a musical competition in the town.
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 7th at 7.30pm in St Andrew's Hall when the speaker will be Barry Wainwright with an illustrated talk about drones and photographs. Guests and prospective members are very welcome to join members for a fun evening.
The group is now on Facebook: Whittlesey Women's Institute. For further information, contact Christine on (01733) 844199 or Julie on (01733) 204445.
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 2026.
On Saturday, 4th April 2026, Councillors present will be Roy Gerstner (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, Angelika Piotrowicz, 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, April 29th 2026 at 6:30pm
Where: The Falcon Inn, London Street, Whittlesey
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
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Recently, several Year 6 pupils including the house captains at Alderman Jacobs School, Whittlesey, were set a challenge by The Mayor of Whittlesey, Cllr. Alex Miscandlon to find out more about the founder of the school, Alderman Jacobs. The children gathered lots of information through extensive research at Whittlesey Museum and put together an informative display for all to see in the school lobby, helped by staff members Miss Smith and Miss Stephenson.
In the weeks following the event, Robert Windle from Radio Fenland came to the school to interview the children live on air to showcase what they had learnt and, together with the Mayor and Cheryl Wright from Whittlesey Museum, was invited to see the final display.
Alderman Jacobs' relative Judith Jacobs visited the school to see the display and talk to the
budding researchers about her family history. She was then joined by her daughter, Pamela Campbell and the latest addition to the Jacobs family, twelve-week-old Noah Campbell, the great, great grandson of Alderman Jacobs.
The Mayor said: “I didn’t expect the display to be so big, it’s double the size of what I had expected! The children have done an excellent job and it is marvellous to see that they have learnt so much about our town's history.”
Head teacher, Martin Fry, said: “I am so proud of the energy and teamwork shown by the children during this project. It has been lovely to see local history at the heart of the curriculum for the Year 6 children."
Hey everyone, There’s lots of exciting things to celebrate this month and here’s just a few of them.
Firstly, have you noticed the signs of spring? At the beginning of March, I spotted the first bumble bee in my garden, hard at work gathering pollen. Me being a leading scientist, Professor Pompoose-Know- eet-all, I love this time of year as very soon more insects and creatures will be coming out of their winter sleepwhich means lots of exploring and learning for me to do – and of course to share with you.
The birds are singing and beautiful flowers are already decorating our gardens, grass verges, and woodlands. If you look closely at the trees and hedgerows you’ll see the buds are beginning to grow and it makes me think of warmer, longer days ahead – Hooray!!
Secondly and yes, you’ve guessed it – It’s Eastertime!! So, what is the first thing you think of? Is it baby chicks or bunny rabbits – or is it chocolate EASTER EGGS?
As you know this is something I love to do – and you can join me for some funfilled, action-packed sessions at Whittlesey Library during the school holidays starting Friday, May 29th, look out for my page next month for more details.
Well, I must admit I look forward to those tasty treats, it’s very hard to resist when you see so many in the shops. Easter eggs are a symbol of new life and rebirth and that’s why as well as chomping our way through chocolate we should remember the real reason why we are doing that. We celebrate Easter because Jesus died on the cross and he came back to life again bringing us new hope and a happy future. I read in my bible in Ephesians 3 v19: Christ’s love is greater than anyone can ever know and I hope that you too will be able to know that love. Then God can help you to be a better person.
WOW! When I read that it nearly made me cry, happy tears, when I think about how special we all are to God.
Thirdly, I’m so Egg-cited – did you see what I did there? Ha Ha!! Have you heard that it’s the National Year of Reading? This means all across the country there’s lots of exciting activities going on to encourage children and grown-ups to get reading!!
Happy Easter!!
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This year, the Whittlesey Museum will be celebrating its fiftieth anniversary since its establishment in 1976.
The Museum can be found in Market Street, next to the Black Bull Public House; look for the blue double doors. The building is currently owned by Whittlesey Charities.
The building has had a mixed history, being a Court House and it still has its own cell, complete with iron door. The building also housed the horse drawn fire engines, with the horses being kept in a field across the road. Do you know where the sign is for the fire engine? Come and find out.
The Museum is based mainly on the ground floor but there are outside buildings as well, containing a forge and railway signs and signals. The Museum has a large collection of photographs covering all aspects of life and major events in Whittlesey, Coates, Eastrea, and the surrounding area. A visit will include everything from a Mammoth tusk and Roman pottery to vintage toys and medals. The Museum can be booked for private viewings. We can liaise with schools for history projects as part of the curriculum. The Museum can also create “memory boxes” which can be made available to schools, nursing homes or care homes; again, please contact the Museum.
Have you moved to the area and want to know more of the local and social history, such as brickmaking, thatching and the Workhouse?
Have you moved into an old house? We may have previous photographs in our records.
The Museum is a registered charity, and we rely on donations and grants plus admission fees to keep the Museum open. The Museum is run completely by volunteers. The formal accreditation was renewed in 2025.
The Museum is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 10am-1pm. Admission is £2.50 for adults and 75p for children. Contact us on 01733 204875 or email whittleseymuseum@gmail.com
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 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. Email whittlesey.lions@ btinternet.com, visit 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
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 Inn, 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 is welcome to come along. To discuss further message us on our Facebook page or contact Mikala on 07970 587423.
SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT GROUP: Friendly and welcoming group meets at Peel House Town Council offices on the 2nd and the 4th Tuesday of the month, from 9.30am-11.30am. The charge is £8 per person. Contact Barbara for more information by emailing greenwoman_harmony@yahoo.co.uk
COATES SILVER LINING CLUB: If you are over 55 and enjoy a game of dominoes, a chat and a cup of tea why don’t you come and join us? Only £15 per year for membership and we meet every Tuesday at Coates Public Hall between 1pm and 3.30pm. Ring Pauline on 01733 841103 or Gaynor on 01733 202984.
To advertise your club or group please call Sallyanne for more information on 07737 026594 or email sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
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Wednesday 15th April 2026
Whittlesey Manor Bowls Club, based at the town’s Manor Leisure Centre for more than sixty years, opens its bowling season at the end of this month and once again its doors are open for anyone who wants to get a taste of this sociable and family sport.
The club provides free tuition and free use of equipment, so all that is needed is a pair of smooth flat-soled footwear.
It is open every midweek night from mid-April to mid-September, so why not pop in and see what the club has to offer as well as arrange a time when you can come along and try your hand at this excellent sport?
Tuition during the day can also be arranged if that is more suitable, so ring one of the two mobile numbers on this page to obtain more details if you are unable to visit the club.
As Whittlesey rapidly expands, the many newcomers making their home here, perhaps even some long-term residents, may not be aware that one of the best bowls facilities in the area is on their doorstep.
Whether you are an experienced bowler seeking a fresh challenge, or simply a novice, all are welcome.
With a capacity of eighty, a fully equipped kitchen and well-stocked bar, the clubhouse is the ideal venue for small family gatherings, funeral wakes and community groups etc.
With twice weekly bingo sessions throughout the year and regularly used by two craft groups, Whittlesey Manor Bowls Club is more than just a bowls club operating during the summer months – more like an all-year round community sports and social hub.
Manor Leisure Centre is open all year round Bowling April-September Bingo Mondays and Thursdays at 7pm
Clubhouse available for hire – contact 07771 725109
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Volunteer-led Whittlesey Small Fry Youth Fishing Club continues to provide opportunities for young people to learn new skills and enjoy the art of fishing.
At Peel House, Queen Street, two presentations were made, firstly by Kim Ingram on behalf of John Hart, who was a keen angler who sadly recently passed away. Thanks to donations made at the funeral and afterwards, Kim was able to make a generous donation to the club.
The club also recognised the contributions made by Jackie Smith of the Conifers Guest House who has donated £1000 over recent times.
Many items of equipment have also been donated by local residents which in turn have been passed on to children to enable them to fish. The club also recognises support of Fishing Republic, BGL, ARC Welding, Float Fish Farm, Decoy Lakes, Holland Bazaar, Whittlesey Town Council, Compare the Market and KeshGo, all who have contributed in some way to the monthly sessions and the special Barbecue Day or even providing a meeting room.
For more details about the club, go to https://whittleseysmallfry.odoo.com/
Lucy, the familiar face of Lucy’s Flowers, is swapping flowers for pints. After spending the past twenty years providing flowers for all occasions, fresh fruit and veg and, latterly, pick and mix sweets, she has decided to move onto pastures new with the role of landlady of The Plough at Holbeach St John’s accompanied by husband Steve.
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
Whittlesey lead volunteer and long-serving member Norman Flatt and his wife Trish have attended the National Scout Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey. The couple were delighted to have been invited to participate in the big day to mark Norman’s acclaimed work for the organisation.
Photo: courtesy Trish Flatt of Whittlesey Scouts
Alderman Jacobs School has held a careers day with Radio Fenland invited to capture the day. Parents, volunteers, businesses and emergency workers joined together and the whole school had a go at building a wall with real bricks and cement, and hear from St John Ambulance, the local Police, the Fire Service and much more.
Sixteen-year-old 2020 Voice Kids finalist George Elliott also gave an inspiring presentation about his journey as a ten-year-old to being a star on national television.
Regular customers say they will miss her and have wished her the best of luck. Caroline has taken over at the shop and it is business as usual so pop in and say hi.
Head teacher Martin Fry thanked Mrs Montgomery for her hard work organising this event for a fourth year and the many guests who attended.
Friends of the Manor continue to meet on a bi-monthly basis to discuss way of improving the facility and give suggestions on future developments.
Subject to final FDC cabinet approval, a provisional timetable is in place at a cost of £17.6 million, work will start in August 2026 on the swimming pool building which will require it to be closed and then anticipated to reopen in December 2027. Once the pool building is completed, the dry side building will be demolished in January 2028.
The next meeting of the Friends of the Manor will be on Tuesday, April 7th at 6.30pm when members of the public are welcome to attend.
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