REEDS | DOWNHAM
Furniture, Flooring, Bed Centre & Homestore
Bridge Street, Downham Market
PE38 9DS T: 01366 382213
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: Closed
reedshomestore.co.uk
REEDS | ELY
Furniture, Flooring & Bed Centre
Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely CB6 3NX T: 01353 669754
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
Welcome to your July issue...
A warm welcome to our July issue in what is turning into a rather warm summer for us here in the east of the country – although rather damp at times too! In 1935, George Gershwin penned the immortal line: “Summertime and the livin’ is easy”, and I’d like to think that every year, we go some way to making your summer a little easier with our extensive range of interesting features, advice and a comprehensive schedule of what’s happening in our area in the weeks to come.
It certainly seems that there are plenty of events to visit and activities to get involved in around our local area. Please try to find time to take advantage of all the hours of hard work and dedication put in by so many people who have been involved in organising such events, however small they may be, (the events, not the people!)
Claire x
Sport plays a major part in many people’s lives. Whether you participate or simply spectate there is always some sport to focus on throughout the year.
July is a particularly busy month for spectators. There’s The Open Golf Championship, Wimbledon Tennis Championship, British Formula 1 Grand Prix taking place alongside the UEFA Women’s European Football Championship and the England v India Test Match Cricket Series.
I will definitely be tuning into these great sporting events although my enthusiasm for some is greater than others. However, despite this constant stream of new live action, I’m afraid that I will also be focusing on my phone. Why? Because I can’t stop looking at the latest football transfer speculation.
The team I have followed all my life was pitiful last season, giving me countless more lows than highs, but I cannot stop myself from going onto Google to read about which over-paid players the club may be buying for next season even though the gossip is invariably wildly inaccurate. Sad isn’t it….?
Account Manager Paula Kirtland: 07903 776211 marketing.discoveringmagazines@gmail.com
Publisher and Sales Claire Saberton
Sales Sally Anne Davis 07737026594
Ops Director Andy Armstrong
Editor Andy Hurst editor.march@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
Accounts Sarah Brooks: 07564 966452 accounts@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
With thanks to: Diamond Byte, Whitings LLP, March Podiatry, Bridget Hunter, Steve Barclay
Discovering Wisbech 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.
Design Andy Beavis | Sarah Gumbley | Graham Copestake | Graham Booth
July is generally a warm, dry month and you will need to make sure that you keep the crops watered frequently as sporadic watering can cause several problems: flowers may fall, skins split, fruits may not form, and plants may bolt. Putting mulch around the plants can help conserve the moisture.
Another problem is pests:
• Check for blackfly on broad beans, runner beans, beetroot and apply a spray as soon as you see them. There are several products on the market, both organic and non-organic.
• Inspect cabbage leaves for eggs or caterpillars and squash them or spray.
• Spray tomatoes and potatoes against blight and dig up any rogue potato plants from last year as they may be harbouring disease. Although it is getting late, there are still a few crops that can be planted:
• Lettuce, rocket and a variety of salad leaves – succession sow for an ongoing supply in the autumn.
• Fast growing varieties of peas, beetroot and carrots.
• Florence fennel.
• Space may be created by lifting onions, garlic and early potatoes; you can use this space to plant out Brussels sprouts, cabbages and cauliflower that you have grown from seed.
• Transplant leeks into their final growing position. Have you tried growing edible flowers in amongst the vegetables? Not only do they provide colour in cooking but also attract
beneficial insects. Examples of flowers to grow are borage, nasturtium, viola, chives, lavender, and marigold.
A few jobs for this month include:
• When climbing beans have reached the top of the canes, pinch out the growing tip.
• Strawberries will finish fruiting so tidy up old foliage and cut off runners or use them to produce new plants.
• Earth up brassicas to give them a firm hold in the soil and give them a top-dressing of nitrogenous fertiliser or an organic liquid feed.
• Cover cauliflower heads with the leaves to prevent them from going yellow.
• Lift garlic, onions and shallots: loosen the soil around the roots then choose a dry spell to lift them, lay them on the ground to dry out in the sun: this should help prolong their storage life.
• Nip off the side shoots of your tomatoes; they appear in the “v” between leaf stems and main stems, and when there are four or five trusses, pinch out the growing tip of the plant to allow the fruit to ripen. Water them with a liquid feed as soon as the first fruits are formed. Likewise for peppers.
• Ensure that peas and brassicas are netted to keep off the pigeons.
• Lift early potatoes. What better than freshly dug potatoes with mint, butter and a summery salad?
• Plant potatoes ready for Christmas; garden centres usually stock the winter varieties.
Happy harvesting!
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BITLOCKER RECOVERY KEY IN WINDOWS 11
BitLocker is a data encryption feature provided by Microsoft that helps protect data on Windows computers and drives. It works by encrypting the entire Windows operating system drive and other fixed or removable drives with advanced encryption algorithms, thus ensuring that unauthorised users cannot access your files.
To make sure you can still access your data after a major change to your device — such as a hardware change, Windows update, BIOS update, or system reset — Windows automatically generates a BitLocker recovery key. This recovery key is a unique 48-digit alphanumerical password that BitLocker will ask for
if it doesn’t recognise your device after a major change or reset. Without it, BitLocker will not give you access to your device.
It is important to note that Windows 11 comes with BitLocker pre-installed and configured to turn on under specific circumstances, such as the above. On older devices where BitLocker may not be preinstalled, problems can arise if users inadvertently accept a prompt to enable drive encryption (i.e. BitLocker) during initial setup or while navigating through Windows settings. On the other hand, some users often intentionally enable BitLocker without fully understanding the role of the recovery key, assuming they’ll never need it.
• It is therefore crucial that you make a note of your BitLocker recovery key. Without it, you will be unable to unlock the encrypted drive, and you may need to reset your device. Resetting your device will remove all of your files.
• If you are using Windows 11, take the time now to find and record this recovery key, then store it in a location that is both accessible and protected. This could be a password manager or even writing it down and putting it in a safe place will work. Some users even save the key to a USB drive for safekeeping. If you signed in with a Microsoft account while enabling BitLocker, it may be stored there. Log in to your account on another device and navigate to the ‘Devices’ section to check.
• Do not rely solely on a single location, especially if it’s digital, as hardware failures or account breaches could make retrieval difficult. Remember that it is not just a string of numbers — it is your protection against losing access to your encrypted files.
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NEW NHS AGREEMENT AIMS TO MAKE CLINICAL NEGLIGENCE CLAIMS SMOOTHER FOR EVERYONE
If you or a loved one has ever had to bring a clinical negligence claim, you’ll know it can be a daunting process. Thankfully, a new agreement introduced by the NHS in August 2024 is aiming to make things a bit easier, for both patients and legal professionals.
Replacing the temporary COVID-19 Clinical Negligence Protocol set up during the pandemic, the Clinical Negligence Claims Agreement encourages a more open, co-operative approach between NHS trusts and those bringing claims. The goal? Fewer delays, earlier resolutions, and a better experience for everyone involved.
Here are some of the key changes you should know about:
Extra time when inquests cause delays
When someone has died and a coroner's inquest is needed, legal proceedings can’t always move forward straight away. The new agreement allows more flexibility with deadlines in these situations, giving families and their solicitors extra time when needed. More transparency from the start
The NHS is now expected to share important documents earlier in the process. This includes internal investigation reports, any formal complaints made, and correspondence related to the Duty of Candour: the NHS’s obligation to be open and honest when things go wrong.
Help with travel costs for medical exams
If you're asked to attend a medical appointment with an expert chosen by the NHS, they should now cover your travel and incidental expenses. A small gesture, perhaps, but one that can ease the burden for many.
Interim payments made easier
In cases where it's clear that compensation will be paid, the NHS is being encouraged to provide interim payments earlier; helping claimants manage financial pressures while the case is ongoing. These payments can now include compensation for pain and suffering, not just financial losses.
Focus on early settlements
The new approach puts more emphasis on resolving claims early. NHS representatives who have the authority to agree on a settlement are expected to attend early joint meetings, making it more likely that fair compensation can be agreed without going to court. Saying sorry, and making sure it doesn’t happen again
Where the NHS accepts fault, they're now expected to act swiftly. That means providing an early admission of responsibility, a sincere apology to the patient or family, and details of what steps have been taken to prevent a similar incident in the future.
A step in the right direction
With the civil court system under increasing pressure and delays becoming more common, this new agreement is a positive step. It’s designed to help claims move forward faster, reduce unnecessary legal wrangling and, most importantly, ensure that people affected by clinical negligence receive the compensation and closure they deserve.
As always, if you think you might have a clinical negligence claim, it’s best to speak with a legal professional who can guide you through the process and explain your options.
For advice, contact Marcus Chapman on (01945) 898090 or email hello@vinelaw.co.uk
• Wills, Probate and Lasting Powers Of Attorney
• Property
• Employment Law and HR Services
• Civil Litigation – dispute avoidance and resolution
• Legal assistance for start-ups and SMEs
Units 19 & 20, Pondworld Retail Park, Lynn Road, Wisbech PE14 7DA (01945) 898090 | hello@vinelaw.co.uk | www.vinelaw.co.uk
How to choose a boarding kennel?
It is best to find your kennel before you need it by searching online and checking all the websites. Call and make an appointment to view the potential kennels. On your visit chat to the owner and ask to see all the facilities. The premises should be clean and not smelly (kennels that smell are damp and unclean). Look at the space, lights, heating, ventilation, and views. Ask what they supply and if you can bring your own bedding, toys and food.
Hopefully you will be shown where the dogs are walked both in sunshine and in the rain. You may want to ask if they mingle the dogs. The regulation default is no mingling unless there is the owner’s written consent.
If this is your first encounter, book
Tejaycey Dog HoTel
an overnight stay. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date. This is the chance for your pet to get used to the routine, for both of you to get to know the owners and staff and for them to know you and your pet. But the most important thing is that your pet learns you will come back to take him home.
When you come to collect ask the owners how it went. When you get home watch your pet’s behaviour. They should come home clean, clean smelling, happy and if they had a good time, tired.
Now you can book your holiday knowing that your dog will look forward to having his/her holiday in a place he knows and with people he is used to.
Home from
Home
Tejaycey Dog Hotel is a well-established luxury boarding kennel situated 5 minutes outside of Wisbech, on the border of Norfolk and Cambridgeshire.
We work together with you and your dog(s) to make sure their holiday is as much fun as yours.
Luxury large renovated kennels with covered runs so that your dogs can enjoy the views, breezes and smells of the great outdoors.
2 daily walks in our 6 acre private nature reserve shaded by old apple trees and filled with exciting smells and sights.
We are the kennels chosen by many local vets and vet nurses.
You are welcome to come and visit any day between 9:30 and 12:00 (except Wednesday).
Please see our website for further details www.tejayceydoghotel.co.uk
Looking forward to seeing you soon
FENLAND FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY
By Bridget Hunter
We are a group interested in learning and sharing information about family history. We love helping others with their research.
We love finding old traditions and things which were banned but are now accepted. Being left-handed was firmly discouraged until the mid-1950s. Left-handed people were punished and forced to use their right hand. This often caused problems for them. I remember at school getting confused when forced to use my right hand and I wrote my essays backwards. I re-read it and was pleased with it and could not understand why I was being punished for it. I now use either hand but can still write backwards and read backwards. Quite a useful ‘talent.’ I wonder how many of you are the same?
RESEARCH SESSIONS
If you would like help with your researching why not join us either at the Wisbech Library on the first Tuesday of each month from 10am-12noon or Baytree Garden centre at Hilgay near Downham on second Monday of each month from 11am-2.30pm. We have a team of experienced researchers at both sessions available to help you.
MONTHLY MEETINGS
These are held on the fourth Thursday evening at Wisbech Library from 7pm-9pm, except August and December. We have interesting speakers with other members sharing their family research hobby and all willing to share their research. Visitors are always welcome for a donation to help pay for the room hire. Our June meeting was due to be a talk about the history of Elgoods Brewery by Susanah FARMER. In July we will enjoy our outing to Wisbech Castle lead by Kevin RODGERS.
SPEAKERS
Our speakers are available to attend groups and clubs to give talks in the local area. Our talks are very amusing as well as informative and also feature a display of items for added interest. They include: ‘Starting your Family History’; ‘We’re going down the pub - a talk on local’ history’; ‘History of Elgoods’; ‘Wisbech heritage’; ‘The Littleport Riots’; ‘The Fun of Family History’; ‘My Naughty Great Aunt Eliza’; ‘The Ups & Downs of Being a Magistrate’; and ‘The Sad Tale of The Blacksmiths Family’.
For further information on any of the above please phone me on (01945) 587723. Email: bridget25hunter@btinternet.com
FENLAND AERIALS
What finally killed him?
When I rst moved to Wisbech, which is quite a few years ago now, I stayed at a place just north of the town that you had to go down a single-track road to get to. Little did I know but the house next door to where I was staying was hiding a secret. I passed it every day without realising the history I was passing.
Now, I am fascinated by the history of this part of the country and to my surprise, when I looked to see where this famous person lived that I was investigating it was down that little single track road next door to where I had been staying! e name of this famous person was Barry Sheene, British motorcycling legend, who lived for a time in the Fens. He was described as perhaps the most famous English motorcyclist racer ever and the rst motorcycling racer to become a multi-millionaire.
e rst one was while he was living in Wisbech. e race was at Daytona, Florida. His rear tyre blew as he was travelling at 175mph! He was lucky to live. It shattered his left leg, smashing a thigh, breaking six ribs, and fracturing a wrist. He also had compression fractures of several vertebrae, damage to the kidneys and collarbone. He was own back to England and then a helicopter ew him to Wisbech where the garden was big enough for it to land. His friends carried him indoors in an armchair.
You would imagine that would stop him racing any more but after just seven weeks he was back, racing and winning more international 500cc and 750cc races than any other rider. But then came the worst accident ever. At 165mph he hit a bike lying on the track. He was launched thirty feet in the air, throwing him a massive three hundred feet down the track and... he lived!
He was twice world motorcycling champion and whilst living in Wisbech he was awarded the MBE by the Queen. ere is a famous photograph of him in the back garden of Ashwood Hall sitting on the bonnet of his Rolls-Royce.
It was also during this time that he met Stephanie, a model, who appeared in magazines like Penthouse and who would become his wife and people got used to seeing him and Stephanie riding around Wisbech in his Rolls-Royce.
Barry knew Wisbech well as his father used to stop here with a friend between race meetings and so it was natural to think of Wisbech as a place to live.
His father, Franco, was a keen motorcyclist and he made his son a small motor bike when he was aged just ve. Barry had his rst race, aged seventeen, and his rst accident. e bike seized up. Undaunted, he grabbed another bike and nished third. He was to have eight more accidents before he had the rst of two close brushes with death.
Smashed knuckles and shattered legs but he lived. He had metal plates in both knees and twenty-eight screws in his leg and left wrist. But then in 2002 he had his very last race.
As well as chronic asthma, he was now su ering from arthritis, so the family all moved to warmer climes, to Australia where he enjoyed ying his own personal helicopter.
He lived through not one, but two death defying accidents so could anything kill him? e answer was yes.
It’s what he did at the age of nine that killed him...he had a cigarette. His father caught him smoking. Was he told o ? No, instead his Dad gave him some more cigarettes and Barry ended up smoking sixty a day.
Whilst in Australia he was diagnosed with cancer. After an eight-month ght, he died. He was fty-two.
His death marks the end of one of the most daring and legendary motorcyclists ever and for a time, Wisbech was his home.
Written by Chris Donald, author of ‘Wisbech’s Secret Princess’ and ‘Interesting and
Inheritance Tax Matters
Scott Bishop
October 2024 was a time of change for farmers and business owners alike with the announcements relating to the beneficial tax reliefs provided to qualifying business assets for the purpose of both agricultural and business property from April 2026. Up to this date relief is available up to 100% on all qualifying assets whatever their value is.
Following the announcements, the relief is to be reduced to 100% on the first £1 million, with a 50% reduction on anything above this on all other qualifying assets.
For landowners the tax arising from qualifying land can be paid in instalments over 10 years interest free rather than immediately, as with other types of Inheritance Tax.
The announcements have provided a huge level of discussion, protest and lobbying since, and they continue to do so however, there have been no changes announced by the government as yet.
What This Could Mean For An Individual
If an individual were to die before 6 April 2026 with an estate value of qualifying assets of £5 million, then they would have no liability.
If they were to die after 6 April 2026 with an estate value of qualifying assets of £5 million, then they would have a liability of £800,000, and subject to the exact nature of the assets, the tax is due as early as 6 months after death.
In addition to these changes, as from 6 April 2027 the value of most pension funds will fall
into the estate of the deceased, and the rate of tax expected on these funds will be 40%. Any tax arising from such funds will be payable directly from the pension fund managers to HMRC.
What We Have Noticed
We have noticed an increase in not only discussions with our clients, but also action being taken, although this has been very dependent upon the individual circumstance of each client.
With them either bringing their own plans forward, in terms of the younger generation coming into the business, or forming a partnership, to making use of other suitable planning opportunities which are available to them.
It certainly hasn’t been a one size fits all approach, but a more specific one in which the wish of the client is central to any planning acted upon.
Example calculation is without consideration of other reliefs that maybe available.
Get In Touch
There are many colleagues within the firm that can offer the advice required, and through regular communication we have been able to allay many of the fears that clients have had on the matter. If you require more advice, then please contact us.
Information that features in this article is correct at the time of writing.
Email:
Marion-Russell, November 2024
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
• Lifetime guarantee Reliable, local company working in your home
• Extra confidence because we are accredited by Which? Trusted Traders
• Absolutely no mess and no fuss.
01733 645 290
We are specialists in loft boarding and insulation – we also supply and install loft ladders and hatches www.access4lofts.co.uk
Handmade Blinds & Curtains
Domestic and Commercial
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 UP TO 20% OFF SELECTED BLINDS
The Old Chapel, North Green, Coates, Whittlesey, Peterborough PE7 2BQ
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10.00am to 4.00pm Telephone 0800 028 2942 or 01733 840258 • enquiries@blindsinharmony.co.uk Visit us at ww w.blindsinharmo n y.co.u k
This is the lovely Sarah Jane, who attends Wisbech Rugby Club on Wednesday morning
WE SPECIALISE IN:
• New Roofs
• Flat Roofs
She has struggled with her weight for the last twelve years. She was really suffering and had high blood pressure and high cholesterol and was given medication but after losing just over three stone is now off medication and feeling great.
• Tile & Slate Roofs
• Leadwork
• Re-pointing Chimney Stacks
• All Roof Repairs
SARAH JANE’S SUCCESS STORY
CAN YOU HELP BLHRT CLEAR THE TRACK AND DO TRACK MAINTENANCE SO WE CAN RUN HERITAGE ROLLING STOCK?
BLHRT Waldersea Depot, Long Drove, Waldersea, Friday Bridge, Wisbech PE14 0NP www.bramleyline.org.uk | office@bramleyline.org.uk
Bramley Line Heritage Railway Trust
Registered Charity Number 1211887
Over the last few months, we have given talks to groups in Norwich, Ipswich and Wisbech to promote BLHRT and pass on the history of the line to even more people.
• Valleys Repaired
• New PVC Fascias & Gutters
She says: “I’m so much more active doing 15,000 steps daily and am able to run around with my grandchildren. I feel great.
• External Painting
• Moss Removal
Experts in all Aspects of Roofing in the South Kesteven area.
“Walking into the group was daunting for me, but ‘wow’ I’m so glad I did. It’s helped with my weight and mental health. I have made so many friends and it’s a plan that is so easy the whole family can follow. Don’t wait, walk through the door of one of our fun, friendly groups.”
Fully Insured Reliable Roofers Local to you.
Stamford: 01780 250 244
Grantham: 01476 820 833
Bourne: 01778 540 534
If you have a connection to the railway and the M/W branch line and have a story about it or have any artifacts you would like the BLHRT to have, with a connection to the operation of the line, please contact us on Facebook, by email, letter, even a visit to the address above. We look forward to hearing from you or seeing you; usual workdays are 1st and 3rd Saturdays in the month, starting at 09.00 at Waldersea.
We also received our new, plush rail trolley, funded by FDC Culture Fund because we are promoting heritage railway history in the area.
Carrie, her consultant, says: “The day Sarah Jane joined she walked
Email:info@southkestevenroofing.co.uk www.southkestevenroofing.co.uk
in with her head down and looked really scared but today she is a big part of group, head up and proud of what she has achieved.”
Recruiting now
please contact Jamie Holland Team Developer on 07415 175655
MONDAYS
Queen Mary Centre, Wisbech 9am, 10.30am, 4pm, 5.30pm & 7pm
Tel Tina on - 07798894639
THURSDAYS
BLHRT would like young and old to come, help and be involved with the line, but we do have age restrictions from Network Rail and our insurers, regarding our licence whilst being on the track. Please wear safety footwear or walking/work boots or good strong trainers, no sandals
Thank you, Chair BLHRT
Slimming World
Slimming World
TUESDAYS
Emneth Central Hall 9.30am
Tel Carrie on - 07876636833
Outwell Village Hall, 9am
Upwell Village Hall, 6pm Tel Allison on - 07826362418
Leverington SSC, 5.30pm & 7pm Tel Katie on - 07928395615
Tel Sandy on - 07547486801 BEFORE
WEDNESDAYS
Rugby Club, Wisbech 9.30am
Tel Carrie on - 07876636833
Rugby Club, Wisbech, 5.30pm
Tel Katie on - 07928395615
SATURDAYS
Rugby Club, Wisbech, 8.30am & 10am
real food, real support, real results
real food, real support, real results
Waldersea Depot, Long Drove, Waldersea, Friday Bridge, Wisbech, PE14 0NP
MORE THAN 350 ARTISTS TO OPEN THEIR STUDIOS TO PUBLIC THIS MONTH
The free July Open Studios art festival, organised by Cambridge Open Studios, returns this month with this year marking the first time the event has been held since its founder, Julia Ball, passed away. For four weekends in July, art enthusiasts and collectors across Cambridgeshire are invited to step into artists’ studios, garages and galleries to learn more about art and the creative process. With both long-term professionals and emerging talents participating, the event is a showcase of Cambridgeshire’s diverse and vibrant creative community.
ince 1974, Cambridge Open Studios July Open Studios has grown to encompass hundreds of artists specialising in a vast range of disciplines including painting, jewellery, printmaking, ceramics and pottery, glass art, digital art, drawing and illustration, woodwork and furniture, sculpture, textiles, photography, book art, lettering and calligraphy, mixed media and collage and much more.
Gabriella del Valle, chair of the management team, a small team who volunteer their time to
organise the event each year, said: “What started as a small showcase of artists’ work in 1974 has grown to become a muchloved event that people look forward to every year. It is a unique opportunity for people to both view art in the space it was created and to hear directly from artists about their inspiration and methods.
“While Cambridge Open Studios has a rich legacy, I am excited that this year will see our first ever young artists' open studio in the newly refurbished learning studio at the Fitzwilliam Museum. Thanks to its support, we are able to nurture the next generation of creative talent in Cambridgeshire. I encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of the opportunity to meet with artists and visit as many studios as possible this July – I know I can’t wait to welcome guests into my studio.”
Visitors can download the Cambridge Open Studios app or digital guide so that they plan their visits to artists in Cambridge and surrounding towns and villages.
This year’s July Open Studios is sponsored by Feilden+Mawson, Inclume, Movewells, myspace, Paus and St John’s Innovation Centre.
To find out more about Cambridge Open Studios, visit: https://camopenstudios. org/
Lyncroft Care Home
Lyncroft Care Home provides the kind of care we’d want all of our loved ones to receive. Our home is beautifully furnished, whilst retaining a warm family atmosphere that makes Lyncroft feel extra special.
Devika Dementia Day Centre
Every Friday 10am – 3pm We host The Day Centre which provides dementia-friendly activities on a secured floor and is ideal for those living at home to give family carers a break and an opportunity to meet others in a similar situation.
A Better Way to Live
Sound Advice From Clearer Hearing
TFamily Funeral Directors
Personal, caring & affordable
Advice without obligation 24 hours a day
here’s no need for people to suffer in silence if they feel they have hearing problems. That’s the message from Clearer Hearing Ltd which says people should treat their hearing just as they do their eye-sight.
Funerals from £2,950
Jackie Mantle, manager of the company’s Wisbech and St Ives branches, said: “Most people have their eyes tested every year and they should treat their hearing the same.”
Inclusive of all fees
Chapel of Rest
The company can help people deal with a host of hearing issues, including tinnitus and noise protection, but Jackie says the most common procedure they carry out is ear wax removal.
“People shouldn’t be afraid to come in and have their ears checked; they shouldn’t sit at home in silence. We are here to give advice and have many regular customers at our Wisbech clinic, many of whom have been with us for years with some coming from as far afield as north Norfolk.”
Direct Cremation from £1395
Established in 2002 and with a presence in Wisbech since 2008, Clearer Hearing is a family owned independent hearing healthcare company with team of qualified and registered hearing aid audiologists.
Funeral Directors James and Laura are proud to be serving the community
Traditional, Modern & Eco-friendly funerals
Pre-paid & pre-arranged funeral plans
She said: “Wax removal is definitely the most common problem we deal with. People tend to think that if their hearing worsens they may need a hearing aid, which due to technology today are small and unobtrusive, but invariably it’s because of a build-up of ear wax.
The company’s comprehensive website –www.clearerhearing.co.uk – boasts a quick and easy hearing checker which provides a snapshot of your hearing ability to give an easy assessment and the opportunity of a priority booking should you require a full consultation.
17 Old Market, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, PE13 1NB 01945 405950 (24 hours)
mail@wisbechfuneralservice.co.uk
www.wisbechfuneralservice.co.uk
Contact Clearer Heating Ltd at 31 High Street, Wisbech PE13 1DE. Tel: (01945) 466386; Email: info@clearerhearing.co.uk Opening hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-4pm.
• Free hearing tests
• State of the art rechargeable hearing aids which are compatible with all mobile phones
• Effective painless wax removal
• Noise protection
“When someone in the family has a hearing loss, the entire family has a hearing problem.”
the
Inquisition
Name the films from which these famous lines came
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LOCAL FIRMS SUPPORT READ TO SUCCEED CAMPAIGN
By Steve Barclay MP
The Read to Succeed campaign is now in its tenth year, with more than 20,000 books distributed to Fenland schools. It distributes a book to each Year 4 primary school student ready for their summer holidays, so they have a book of their own to keep with the aim of encouraging a passion for reading.
Year 4 is the age many students start to read independently, and the campaign aims to also promote the use of our local libraries during the summer break. Thank you to all the local businesses and residents who have supported our campaign, including Nestle, Clarion Futures, Bowsers Solicitors, and Persimmon Homes through their Community Champions Fund. It is always a pleasure to welcome local groups to Parliament, and recently that included Cambridgeshire’s National Farmers’ Union (NFU). It is a tough time for farming with the introduction of the family farm tax and changes to key farming schemes, and so it was good to have the opportunity to hear from those at the heart of our food security. The discussion underscored the need for policies that protect farming and ensure the sustainability of the sector. Our farmers are at the heart of our local economy in Fenland.
As a regular user of Fenland roads, I share the deep frustration of motorists particularly in Whittlesey at the ongoing delays to work at the Ralph Butcher Causeway. I have been pressing Cambridgeshire County Council to do more to
accelerate remedial work given the disruption this is causing to journeys.
It may be surprising as we approach the hottest months of the year to be talking about flooding, but taking action now when conditions are dry is timely to mitigating problems later in the year. So, I am championing a number of residents who have been plagued by repeated flooding on their property, and pressing for work now ahead of problems emerging again in the autumn.
In Parliament, I led a debate over the poor performance of the Environment Agency, who have failed to take sufficient action over waste illegally dumped at Saxon Pitt or the pollution incident last September in the River Nene. This quango needs to accelerate enforcement action against those responsible.
The summer months also feature a number of local shows, such as the Gorefield Show which is always a highlight. Thank you to all the volunteers on the organising committees involved who do so much to enable these community events.
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GUIDING YOU THROUGH: FUNERAL SUPPORT IN THE HEART OF WISBECH
Arranging a funeral can feel daunting, especially if it’s your first time. With so much to think about, many people aren’t sure where to start. Brendan Smith, funeral director for Central Co-op’s Wisbech, Hunstanton, and King’s Lynn funeral homes, explains how his team helps families navigate through difficult times with compassion, clarity and care. Here, he helps demystify the process and explains how his team supports local families with compassion, clarity, and care.
What’s the first step when a loved one dies?
“If it’s expected and happens at home, the family should contact their GP or call 111 to have the death certified,” Brendan explains. “Once that’s done, we can bring their loved one into our care. The doctor and medical examiner will confirm the cause of death, and the certificate will be sent to the local registry office. Then, the family can register the death and obtain a death certificate.”
For many, registering a death is unfamiliar and moving. Brendan and his team are there to make the process easier. “We guide
families gently through the steps, answer their questions and provide practical advice. If they need legal support, we can connect them with free guidance on things like wills or finances.”
What does a funeral director really do?
“People often think it’s just about conducting funerals, but the role is much broader,” Brendan says. “We arrange services, care for those who have died and support the bereaved. No two days are the same, and every family we meet has different needs. We also spend time in the community,
working with charities and local groups.”
Each funeral is tailored to reflect the life of the person who has died. “We listen closely to families, talk about their loved one’s life and help create a personal, meaningful service,” he says. “That can make all the difference.”
How does the Wisbech team support the wider community?
“We offer more than just a funeral service. We check in with families after the funeral, host regular coffee mornings and bereavement groups, host tribute services on Mothers’/Fathers’ Day and at Christmas time and remain a point of contact for those who want ongoing support,” Brendan shares. “We’re proud to be part of the Wisbech community, and we’re here for people before and long after the funeral is over.”
To learn more, head to http:// www.members.coop/funeral or call/visit your local Central Co-op funeral home. Details on becoming a Member can be found on Members.coop
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LOCAL CLUBS AND GROUPS
Wisbech u3a is an organisation which aims to meet the social, recreational and creative needs of those no longer in full-time employment. We meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month in St Peter’s Church Hall, Wisbech at 2-30pm. We have lots to offer you so please come along and find out for yourself. wisbech.u3asite.uk
Friends of Wisbech & Fenland Museum hold monthly talks at Wisbech Public Library. For further details, please see Facebook Friends of Wisbech and Fenland Museum, www.wisbechmuseum.org.uk or email: friendsofwisbechmuseum@outlook.com
Royal Air Force Association Wisbech Branch Welcomes everyone to sample our newly refurbished club. For your comfort and enjoyment we offer: Fully air conditioned • Free Wi-Fi • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks • Choice of hot drinks and snacks • Pool table • Meeting facilities by arrangement • Quiz night, games night, entertainment • Friendly welcome • New members always welcome, not required to be ex-Forces. Opening Hours: Thursdays/Fridays 7pm till 11pm | Saturdays 11am till 2pm and 7pm 11pm. rafawisbech.co.uk Situated at 22 Lynn Road PE13 3DJ
The Green Party: Meets on the second Tuesday of each month at The Rookswood Club, 27 West End, March at 7.15pm and on Zoom quarterly. For more details, find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/FenlandNECAMBSGreens
07932 162606
Wisbech Scouts and Guides. Meet at The Robert Hall Centre, St Augustine's Road, Wisbech. For more details contact 07986 144534. Robert Hall is also available for hire, and the contact number is 07986 144534
Wisbech Baptist Church Hill St by the side of BOOTS. Our Church is open for worship every Sunday at 10.30am and all are very welcome Open doors is a drop in for coffee chat every Monday at 10-1.15pm closed Bank holidays. Again all welcome. Contact Secretary Lin Stanton 07906 938571 or wbcsecretary7@gmail.com
Wisbech & District Flower Club. See beautiful flower arrangements being made by local and national demonstrators. Meets every 3rd Monday of the month at St Peter's Hall, Wisbech. More info 07949 443 251
Wisbech & District Stroke Club
We are a club for stroke survivors and their carers. We meet twice monthly on the second and last Friday of each month at the Tesco Community Room Cromwell Road at 2pm. Members enjoy chatting with other Stroke Survivors ,Guest Speakers. Trips to the theatre and places of interest to get them rehabilitated back into the community. At the last meeting of the month we are joined by a qualified specialist keep fit instructor to get survivors moving again. We are a friendly bunch come and join us. Contact Brian Sandall on 07778 755105 or 410225
