Furniture, Flooring, Bed Centre & Homestore
Bridge Street, Downham Market
PE38 9DS
T: 01366 382213
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: Closed
Furniture, Flooring & Bed Centre
Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely CB6 3NX T: 01353 669754
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
It is always such an encouraging and welcome sign, whenever you’re faced with personal sadness, that friends and work colleagues gather round and offer their heartfelt support. So it was at the end of August when my sister Paula and I lost our dear father. A business like this relies so heavily on the editorial and sales team, the contributors and advertisers all pulling together and ensuring that the final copy is as appealing and informative as possible. My sincere thanks go to everyone who helped in any way to make that happen.
So, that was one heck of a summer and, this being our unpredictable British weather, we’re already debating whether or not it’s time for the heating to go on! Never mind, why not snuggle up with a cuppa and your “favourite freebie” and just let the wind and rain make us realise it’s now autumn, and our clocks go back on October 26th?
Now, my garden is invariably windy, but the autumn’s first gales took things to another level. When taking rubbish to one of our many bins one evening, I suddenly noticed that one of the fence posts had lurched to a worrying angle and required an urgent repair to prevent some panels from crashing down.
Shouting for the assistance of my trusty work colleague (my wife), I assembled an emergency repair kit; including hammer, assorted nails, bricks and sundry other items that I thought might be needed. After clearing up glass from a shattered light that had been attached to the post, we set to work. With one holding said post upright, padding was put between it and the surrounding brickwork it was supposed to be connected to while bricks and nails were used to prop it up from the other side (an allotment).
After a few minutes, the temporary fix was complete and the rest of the evening was spent with regular checks on the health of the offending timberwork.
In the morning, the post was surprisingly still upright and now the task is on to come up with a more permanent and professional solution following the repairs carried out by Bodgit & Bodgit....
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, Vine Law, Trevor Langley, Christians Against Povety
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
This month sees jobs that are mainly clearing the plot, ready for the winter months, plenty of digging and manuring.
Harvest or protect any remaining crops that are susceptible to frosts and clear away any remaining debris and place on the compost heap: the larger the quantity, the better as this helps the heap to warm up and accelerates the rotting process. It is advisable to shred or pulverise thick, woody stems such as sweetcorn, beans and brassicas so that they decompose more quickly. Do not put any diseased foliage on the compost heap, burn or discard it.
• Protect cauliflowers by bending a leaf over the curd.
• Finish pruning blackberries and raspberries.
• Keep removing yellow leaves from brassicas – leaving them on the ground risks spreading grey mould.
• If you have pumpkins or squashes cut and leave them to dry in the sun, which will harden the skins and improve their shelf-life.
• If you have not already done so earth up, or stake (or both) Brussels sprouts and sprouting broccoli plants.
Crops that can be sown this month are:
• Japanese over-wintering onion sets.
• Last chance to transplant spring cabbages – be sure to net them to prevent pigeons eating the young leaves.
• Plant garlic.
• Broad beans – early varieties should overwinter.
• Sow a pot of basil seeds and put in a propagator or on a warm windowsill, keeping the soil moist. Parsley and mint can be dug up from an established clump, put in a pot and kept on the windowsill – much cheaper than the supermarket!
Other jobs for this month include:
• Continue to earth up celery and leeks.
• Check the condition of last year’s fleece, cloches and winter protection so that you can plan for any cold spells that may be imminent.
• Potatoes should all be harvested now and stored in paper or jute sacks in a dark, dry, frost-free environment.
• Pick the unripe tomatoes and put a few in a bag with a ripe banana – this gives off ethylene gas which speeds ripening.
• Cut back asparagus and artichoke foliage and compost.
• Remove runner bean canes: if left in the ground they will easily rot.
• Clear the tops from your spent beans, peas and sweetcorn plants. If you cut the long stems at the base and lay them on the soil, they act as a weed suppressing mulch. Add them to the compost when they turn from green to brown.
• October is a good month for cleaning the greenhouse; ridding it of pests and airing it before thinking about heat and insulation that may be required over winter.
Happy gardening!
• Divide large, oversized crowns of rhubarb: if established plants are left indefinitely, they do eventually produce less each year. Cut up and divide the crowns into good sized pieces, making sure each has signs of dormant buds.
PHILIP AT DIAMOND BYTE
Now that everyone has upgraded their PCs and laptops to Windows 11 (if you haven’t, what are you waiting for?), you may be spending a bit of time navigating your way through all the new settings and features and customising it to how it best works for you. The following are some of our favourite features:
Start Button - previously located in the lower-left corner of the screen (where, in our opinion, is where it was always intended to be) the Start Button is now in the middle of the taskbar. However, it can be relocated by right-clicking on a space within the taskbar and opening Taskbar Settings. Half-way down the screen, is the Taskbar Behaviours drop-down menu – click on this and change the Taskbar Alignment to Left.
Manage and create multiple desktops - the old Task View button has been replaced with a redesigned icon on the taskbar, making it easier to create and manage multiple desktops. Just
hover over the icon to see any open virtual desktops or create a new desktop. You can then rearrange these desktops as necessary and drag apps from one desktop to another. To differentiate between them, you can use different wallpapers by right-clicking on the Desktop > Personalise > Background
Widgets - a new Widgets icon on the taskbar provides quick access to various useful apps and features, such as weather, traffic, news etc. You can customise the Widgets board with the apps that interest you most, you can also add third-party widgets to the panel, including those from Facebook Messenger and Spotify.
Snap Windows Layout - Although you can still drag windows to the
sides and corners for half and quarter-screen layouts, Windows 11 has added a hover menu over the Maximize button that offers layout options. You can choose from various layouts depending on the size of your display. Click to select your preferred formation and then move your apps into place.
Pin Apps to the Start Menu - a more simplistic Start menu where you can pin apps for easy access has replaced Live Tiles. Open the App List, right-click on an app, and select Pin to Start to move it to the Pinned section. Then drag the app into the position you prefer. To remove apps, right-click and choose Unpin from Start. You can also drag icons on top of each other to create folders, as you would on a mobile phone.
New Keyboard Shortcutsthese are definitely worth learning:
• Windows Key+W to open the Widgets panel
• Windows Key+A to access the Quick Settings
• Windows Key+Z to access Snap Layouts
• Windows Key+K to cast media
Austria has a wine producing history dating back many centuries. Numerous people have found the delights of Austrian wines whilst holidaying there, maybe perhaps visiting or working in Austria. I searched for an Austrian company that offers an excellent range of quality wines – be it someone’s preference for red, white, sparkling or a ‘pink’ one.
Weingut Nastl is a major producer of wines, including many awardwinning productions and is located in the Kamptal region of Austria, with the winery being situated in Langenlois. Nastl winemaking has a history from 1656 and today, the company very much participates in the reductions of interventions, to produce affordable, outstanding wines, with quality and attractive presentations. Gravity is utilised to a great advantage in their winemaking process, furthering reduced interventions.
Nastl Muskateller (12.5% vol) is produced with grapes that have grown on vines which have their vine ancestors dating from ancient times. The vines from this varietal have had a lot of increased plantings in recent
years. This white wine is very popular for pre-dining and at the commencement of meals.
Nastl Riesling (10% vol) is a further, often selected, white production. Good aromas of stone fruits and an extended finish on the palate, which is off-dry, attribute to this wine’s popularity.
Nastl Zweigelt Rosé (12.5% vol) I found fruity, with a hint of floral, for this easy-drinking wine. A good, light body has this firmly in the juicy, pink delectation category.
Nastl VelKam rot (12.5% vol), may I suggest, for a red wine. This dry production balances its fruity overtones throughout, from the bouquet to the palate. An excellent red wine, as a good ‘all-rounder’ which pairs with casseroles and red meats very well. The Nastl family pride themselves on commitment and dedication, producing delectable wines to a high standard. The traditional Austrian on-site restaurant, plus tastings and tours, are further very popular features of the winery. For all details, information and of other wines too, including stockists, please contact and/or visit their most informative and interesting website. Online ordering is available and easy, with orders being dispatched quickly and efficiently.
By Trevor Langley
As always, enjoy!
Email: office@nastl.at www.nastl.at
As our beloved dogs age, it's natural to see some changes. Maybe your onceenergetic pup is taking more naps, hesitating before jumping into the car, or lagging behind on walks? While slowing down can be a normal part of getting older, it's important to recognise that it may also signal discomfort or pain. Canine physiotherapy is an increasingly accessible and effective way to improve quality of life for ageing dogs.
Dogs generally start to show signs of aging between seven to ten years old, though this varies by breed and size. Common signs include:
• Stiffness after rest
• Reluctance to exercise or play
• Difficulty climbing stairs or getting into vehicles
• Changes in posture or gait
• Behavioural changes, such as increased irritability or withdrawal
Many owners mistake these signs for ‘just getting old,’ but they may indicate underlying joint pain, arthritis, or muscular weakness. Left unchecked, these issues can affect mobility, cause chronic pain, and reduce a dog’s overall well-being.
Canine physiotherapy is focused on improving movement, reducing pain, and enhancing recovery after injury or surgery. Certified canine physiotherapists use techniques adapted from human physical therapy, including massage therapy, therapeutic exercises, laser and ultrasound treatments and joint mobilisation and stretching. These all aim to strengthen muscles, improve joint flexibility, boost circulation, and reduce inflammation.
Physiotherapy can address common issues like:
Arthritis pain: Controlled exercises and modalities like heat therapy or laser treatment can ease joint pain and slow down degeneration.
Muscle atrophy: Therapeutic exercises help maintain muscle mass and strength, supporting better balance and movement.
Mobility problems: Improved range of motion and co-ordination can reduce falls and increase independence.
Your veterinarian may refer you to a qualified canine physiotherapist or rehabilitation centre. After an initial assessment, a treatment plan will often combine in-clinic sessions with at-home exercises. Progress is typically gradual but noticeable.
Email:
Scott Bishop
October marks the start of the final quarter of the year, and is therefore a time for change, reflection and planning ahead. For Accountants, it means the continuation of a very busy year, one in which there has already been many changes which have resulted in a great deal of discussion with many of our clients, both old and new.
As we look ahead to the final quarter of the year, we must remember the upcoming deadlines, and we start with Company clients who have a 31 December year end. These clients are required to pay their Corporation Tax liability by 1 October, this doesn’t include those companies that are required to make instalments during the year.
We then move on to 5 October, with the need for individuals to register with HM Revenue & Customs if they have an income and Capital Gains Tax liability in the previous tax year who are not already registered for self-assessment.
The month then ends with the submission of non-corporate paper tax returns needing to be submitted to HM Revenue & Customs.
In addition to the October deadlines, there is also the build up to the 31 January selfassessment deadline for the submission of noncorporate tax returns. However, after last year’s alignment of accounting years to the tax year, we have noticed that there is no longer such a
steady flow of accounts coming into the office, as when there were different year ends. We therefore expect to have an influx of information and quick turnarounds in order to complete the accounts and tax returns before the 31 January 2026 deadline.
We cannot forget our company clients, with 31 March year ends who need to pay their Corporation Tax by 1 January 2026 and also for the numerous 31 December year end companies being required to submit their accounts and tax returns to Companies House and HM Revenue & Customs.
This is all without what is expected to be a tax raising Budget by the Chancellor, which as you will expect will provide us all with much to consider as we move forward to the end of the year!
No matter what changes occur in the world of tax, we are here to help. Whether you would like more information, advice or guidance on your specific circumstances, simply contact your local Whitings LLP team to discover how we can assist you today.
Information that features in this article is correct at the time of writing.
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
We are pleased to welcome Tanaya Mayoh, a Sports Therapist from Optimal Performance to the clinic. Tanaya is passionate about helping people move better, feel stronger, and recover smarter. She graduated with a degree in Sports Therapy in 2020 and since then has built a wide range of experience treating people across both sport and clinical settings.
Her previous work highlights include working for three years at Northampton Town FC, with both the Academy and the first team and providing postrace sports massage to runners after completing the London Marathon. Tanaya has also worked for two years in neuro-rehabilitation, helping clients regain function, movement and independence in daily life after life-changing health conditions.
From pitch-side injuries to long-term rehab, she has worked with all kinds of people at all levels and is passionate about tailoring each session to meet your individual needs. Whether you're an athlete, weekend warrior, or simply want to move better and feel great, Sports Therapy could work for you.
This is how it could help you:
General public with musculoskeletal issues
• Individuals with back pain, joint stiffness, or muscle imbalances from work, posture, or lifestyle.
• Office workers with neck, shoulder, or lower back pain from sedentary habits.
• People recovering from falls, sprains, or soft-tissue injuries, even outside of sport.
Rehabilitation and special populations
• Post-operative patients (e.g., after ligament repairs, shoulder, hip or knee surgery) needing structured rehab.
• Older adults aiming to maintain mobility, strength, and balance this helps to reduce falls risks.
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• People with long-term musculoskeletal conditions (like arthritis or chronic pain) seeking management strategies.
Active individuals
• Gym-goers, runners, cyclists, and fitness enthusiasts with aches, strains, or recurring injuries.
• People training for events (e.g., marathons, triathlons) who want to reduce injury risk.
• Anyone experiencing delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), tightness, or reduced flexibility.
Athletes and sports participants
• Professional, semi-pro, and amateur athletes needing injury prevention, treatment, or rehabilitation.
• People returning to sport after an injury, needing sport-specific rehab and conditioning.
• Athletes seeking performance enhancement through improved mobility, strength, and recovery strategies.
Call us now on 01354 651200 for more information and to get booked in.
WE ARE CURRENTLY OFFERING £5 OFF YOUR FIRST SPORTS AND REMEDIAL MASSAGE. PLEASE BRING THIS ADVERT WITH YOU TO RECEIVE YOUR £5 OFF. Call us now to book your first appointment and receive your discount (cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer).
March Podiatry Practice Ltd
March Podiatry Practice Ltd
March Podiatry Practice Ltd
47-49 High Street, March PE15 9JJ
47-49 High Street, March PE15 9JJ Tel 01354 651200
47-49 High Street, March PE15 9JJ Tel 01354 651200
www.marchpodiatry.co.uk
www.marchpodiatry.co.uk
Opening hours: Mon 9am-7pm, Tues 9am-5pm, Weds 9am-7pm, Thurs 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-5pm and Sat 9am-1pm
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Residential, Dementia, Respite Care
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. With regular activities and outings which provide variety, social stimulation and enjoyment for residents, we ensure that every day at Lyncroft is filled with opportunities for connection and happiness.
What really makes a difference for them is their group — they show up
If you’re stuck or feeling like it’s all too much, reach out. Find a Slimming
World group in Wisbech and raised £310 for Cancer Research.
Recruiting now
Tplease contact Jamie Holland Team Developer on 07415 175655
MONDAYS
Queen Mary Centre, Wisbech
9am, 10.30am, 4pm, 5.30pm & 7pm
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.
“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.”
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.”
Tel Tina on - 07798894639
TUESDAYS
Emneth Central Hall
9.30am
WEDNESDAYS
Rugby Club, Wisbech
9.30am
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.
Tel Carrie on - 07876636833
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.
THURSDAYS
Outwell Village Hall, 9am
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.
Upwell Village Hall, 6pm Tel Allison on - 07826362418
Tel Carrie on - 07876636833
Rugby Club, Wisbech, 5.30pm
Tel Katie on - 07928395615
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.
Leverington SSC, 5.30pm & 7pm Tel Katie on - 07928395615
real food, real support, real results
real food, real support, real results
• Free hearing tests
• State of the art rechargeable hearing aids which are compatible with all mobile phones
• Effective painless wax removal
• Noise protection
SATURDAYS
Rugby Club, Wisbech, 8.30am & 10am
Tel Sandy on - 07547486801
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.
“When someone in the family has a hearing loss, the entire family has a hearing problem.”
By Bridget Hunter
Recently a 10-year-old grandson of mine asked what I remembered of my school and growing up years. I enjoyed telling him lots of stories. My school life was very different to his, which surprised him. Plus, all the adventures I had as a young girl and teenager. Even his father, my son, was surprised to hear the stories. Looking back, I have had a very varied life. That is family history! Have you recorded your life?
Our team of family history researchers enjoy helping others with their family history research. We do not charge for our time and research. We love helping and sharing our knowledge with others.
Our researchers can be found at three different places at different times of the day. Our newest research session is on the third Wednesday of every other month and started on September 17th in the restaurant of The Red Lion pub in North Brink Wisbech from 6.30pm-8pm. Enjoy a meal and/or a drink and learn about your family. Others are on the first Tuesday of every month in Wisbech Library 10am12noon and at Baytree Garden Centre in Hilgay on the second Monday of every month, 11am- 2.30pm. We can help you no matter where your family originate. Why not come and meet us?
Monthly meeting are held on the fourth Thursday each month at Wisbech Library from 7pm-9pm except August and December. Our October 23rd speaker is Malcolm BRUCE who will talk about Wisbech Hospital. November 20th will be our end of year buffet plus Sharing Family History & Research. Visitors are always welcome to join us at our meetings.
The events team arranges displays at events to match the theme of the event being held. We research and display some interesting facts about the theme of the event. If you would like us to attend an event for you please contact us.
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. They include: ‘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
www.wisbechtennisclub.org.uk 07549 263767
wtcmembership@hotmail.co.uk
Call, text or email for information about a range of membership options for individuals and family groups. PAY-TO-PLAY ALSO AVAILABLE
There were some unusually strange things that were going to happen to the Eccentric Man. To start with... one New Year’s morning he woke up a Quaker.
Well, some people might wake up on New Year’s Day with a hangover, but a Quaker? A Quaker is a person who follows Christianity in a particular way. And that way doesn’t include much music. ey have more than ve hundred Meeting Houses (Churches) and not a single organ! So that’s not what you would think would be suitable for Eccentric Man who was Music Man.
e nearest Quaker Meeting House here is on the North Brink, Wisbech next to Peckover House and that’s where Eccentric Man went. So, Eccentric Man has come to Wisbech.
At heritage weekends the Meeting House is open to the public. e Eccentric Man enjoyed showing people around the building and the graveyard behind where all the Quaker Peckovers who died in Wisbech are buried.
But there was one grave that everybody looked at and commented on. One grave that was totally di erent and totally unique. at was the grave of Jane Stuart, natural daughter of King James II who lived for the latter part of her life in Wisbech.
ere were some articles about her but the more Eccentric Man read them the more it seemed like a fairy story. Was Jane Stuart what she was supposed to be or was it all make believe? He needed to nd what was written about her originally. at meant nding the earliest documents about her. Enter Detective Man.
After some searching, he found some documents in London. Here was the very rst article about her and the author happened to be the rst Peckover who lived in Wisbech, John Peckover - some people like to call him
Johnathon Peckover as it sounds posh, but he liked to be known as John. And John had two articles printed about Jane Stuart and guess what? e rst of these articles was a load of rubbish! ankfully, the second article had some very interesting facts which helped prove that Jane was very, very likely the natural daughter of King James II.
It was time for Detective Man to become Author Man. He wanted to write a book with all this information so it will be there for ever for people to read. Now here comes another strange thing.
e founder and former chairman of the Octavia Hill Birthplace Museum, Peter Clayton, found out what the Author Man was doing and immediately told him to go ahead and publish the book NOW, don’t wait. But how did he nd out? We know that Peter was very strongly in favour of anything to do with the history of Wisbech. e book, called Wisbech’s Secret Princess, was published in 2016 together with a preface by Peter Clayton himself.
Now here comes yet another strange thing. Author Man was still Music Man who advertised his teaching of music in a number of local Parish magazines of which the Village Voices, run by Richard and Penny Gilbert, was the biggest. Richard read the book about Jane Stuart and had the idea that Mr Author Man could write articles for their magazine each month.
Now, here comes yet another strange thing. A few weeks later Discovering Wisbech magazine contacted the Author Man and asked if he would write articles for their magazine (which by the way is a very good magazine).
e Author Man enjoys writing about Wisbech and the Fens and will still keep going as long as he can.
So, the Music Man, the Detective Man and the Author Man keep going. And the Eccentric Man... what do you think?
Written by Chris Donald, author of ‘Wisbech’s Secret Princess’ and
By Lorraine Milton, Debt Centre Manager at Fenland CAP Debt Centre
With just a few paydays left before December 25th, many of us are already thinking about Christmas. For some, this can be a really fun time, but for others, the financial pressure at this time of year can be really overwhelming. On the positive side, Christmas doesn’t have to be a burden, and there are some really simple things you can do to reduce the cost of Christmas without losing any of the joy of it.
The first place to start is by listing everything you think you’ll need – this will help to plan your Christmas budget. The reality is you may not have enough money to buy everything you want, so start with what you really need, and then look at where you can cut costs so you stay within your budget. It can be a good idea to chat with family and friends about how much you're happy spending this year, so that you've set realistic expectations for everyone.
Why not get creative, use the skills you have and save money by making your gifts instead of buying them? You don’t have to spend a lot to show someone that you care, and giving a homemade gift, or even doing a task for someone, can truly demonstrate your love and thoughtfulness. You could also check if any local churches in your area are holding early
Christmas events where you can purchase great Christmas gifts at low prices.
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of gift wrap, cards and stamps in your Christmas budget, as all of these small expenditures add up. If you’ve any gift bags left over from previous years, perhaps reuse them this Christmas.
Making your own cards may be cheaper than shop-bought ones, and hand delivering cards and gifts will save on the price of postage. How about sending e-cards this year instead? It could work out cheaper, especially if you have a go at making your own digital card and emailing it for free!
Over the years, Christmas decorations can become tired and outdated, so it's understandable if you want to purchase some sparkling new
ones. Just think about the cost and if they’re really needed. Check out charity shops or local Christmas fairs for some low-cost options, or you could even try making your own. There are plenty of creative ideas for decorating on a budget available on CAP’s website that you can try.
Do you ever find yourself buying Christmas food that never gets eaten? Rather than buying purely for tradition, you could save money buying what your family genuinely loves to eat. Often making things from scratch is cheaper and tastier than buying shop-bought, and if hosting Christmas dinner for adult guests, perhaps agree who buys what for the meal so that the cost doesn’t all fall on you.
Many people on low incomes are unable to afford the basics, never mind having any money set aside for Christmas. So, if you are overwhelmed by debt and financial pressure this season, please know that there is free, confidential help available. Visit capuk.org/help to find out more.
Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity working with more than 1000 affiliated churches to deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills education and more. Visit capuk.org to find out more.
Most of us are fortunate enough never to need to think too much about harassment laws. But for those who do find themselves targeted by persistent, unwanted behaviour, the experience can be frightening and overwhelming.
Harassment can take many different forms: from threatening messages, or abusive social media posts, to being followed in person or subjected to constant unwanted contact. However it appears, the impact is often the same: stress, anxiety, and a loss of peace of mind.
The good news is that the law offers protection. The Protection from Harassment Act 1997 (PHA) was introduced to give individuals legal remedies against this sort of behaviour. Harassment is usually defined as a ‘course of conduct,’ meaning at least two separate incidents, but what really matters is the effect on the victim rather than the method.
When it comes to taking action, there are two possible routes. A case can be pursued through the criminal courts, usually by the police and Crown Prosecution Service, where the offender may face prosecution. Alternatively, a victim can bring their own civil claim. Criminal cases require proof ‘beyond reasonable doubt,’ while in civil cases the standard is lower – ‘on the balance of probabilities.’ In practical terms, this makes civil claims an important option where there may not be enough evidence for a criminal conviction.
Through the civil courts, victims can apply for an injunction to prevent further harassment, and they may also be entitled to compensation. The amount awarded depends on several factors, including how serious the harassment was, how long it went on for, whether it involved elements such as racial or sexual abuse, and the overall effect on the victim. Courts will often look to established ‘Vento bands’ as a guide, which can range from just over a thousand pounds for less serious cases up to sixty thousand pounds or more where the impact has been particularly severe.
If harassment takes place in the workplace, an employer may be held vicariously liable for the actions of their employee. This means victims can still pursue a claim, even if the harassment came from a colleague.
Taking that first step towards action can feel daunting, but specialist advice makes the process far more manageable. At Vine Law, we work with clients to explore the options available, from contacting the police and seeking an early undertaking from the offender, through to applying for an injunction or pursuing a claim for compensation. We can also help obtain expert medical evidence to support your case. In many situations, we are able to act under a ‘No Win, No Fee’ agreement, and can advise on insurance options to cover legal expenses.
If you would like a confidential discussion about your circumstances, you can contact Marcus Chapman on (01945) 898090 or email marcuschapman@vinelaw.co.uk
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SERVICES
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You can contact Steve at Fenland Gate & Fencing on (01354) 653782 or 07897 339334, email: wagmontana@aol.com
customers in the March and Wisbech area but can travel further afield if required. Most people who contact me want a side gate, replacement posts or a new wooden fence along one of their home borders. I am also able to provide concrete posts and remove hedges and conifers to enable a fence to be put up.”
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
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 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
Capital of the Fens Oddfellows
The Oddfellows meet on the Second Thursday of the month at The Rugby Club in Wisbech at 10.30 a.m. onwards, for coffee and chat We are a friendship group that offers two activities a week so pop along and see what we have to offer.
For further details please contact Gemma on 07939 860968, E-mail: gemma.thomas@oddfellows.co.uk
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
