Discovering the Deepings issue 089, November 2022

Welcome to your November issue...

It’s getting closer by the day, and I’m not talking about the ticklish thirty days ahead for us ladies, as some of our chaps let loose that moustache once more during “Movember”. No, I’m talking turkey, trees, tinsel and trimming-up, as the whole wonderful Christmas season gathers momentum once more. Whatever you are planning over the next few weeks and hopefully finding plenty of ideas in this issue to help you, make sure to book early for your special events.

I hope you all continue to find your “Discovering” magazine both entertaining and useful, as we approach the Christmas period, just around the corner.

Finally, I’d like to wish our youngest son, Ed, a very happy 21st birthday this month –where have those years gone?!

Claire x

What a fabulous month ahead for sports fans - four ‘World Cups’ in the same month! England ladies are in the Rugby Union World Cup in New Zealand; England’s Rugby League World Cup in England features men, women, and wheelchair competitors; In Australia, England’s men are in the Cricket T20 World Cup; whilst in Qatar, both England and Wales are our representatives in the men’s FIFA World Cup. Exhausting stuff keeping up with it all!

And finally, the very last word on the death of Her Majesty comes from the BBC’s Nicholas Witchell: “Then she had significant weight loss and we saw less and less of her!”

… and one from me: When I saw a couple of pigeons on my roof, whispering suspiciously to each other I couldn’t help wondering whether they were plotting a coup.

Enjoy the read.

Inside Highlights

Oliver’s Baby Care feature.

Community News.

Vine House Farm Shop.

Spinroom Studios.

Deep-in Aesthetics.

Will & Probate Services.

Mortgage advice from Path Mortgages.

Creative Touch.

Consumer advice from Safe Local Trades.

Nature Feature.

Alto Electrical.

Lincolnshire Resin Drives.

What’s on: Events and gigs guide.

The Quiz Inquisition.

businesses directory.

With thanks to: Coleen Everitt, Richard Ash, Gordon Cochran, Deepings Heritage, David Denman, Nick Ash, Vine House Farm.

Deadline details:

Copy deadline for the December issue is Friday 11th November 2022.

Parent-friendly Specialists and Home to the Biggest Brands

Olivers Babycare’s store is part of EDPA Limited, a long-established online retailer, trading in Peterborough for sixteen years.

John Lewis announced in April 2021 that their Peterborough branch would close immediately, leaving the area without a specialist baby store. That was the catalyst for the CEO of EDPA, Gerad Barclay, to fill the gap, by opening the Olivers Babycare store, at 24b King Street Industrial Estate, Langtoft, PE6 9NF.

Speed was of the essence. EDPA already operated five warehouses around Peterborough; creating shop space, therefore, was not a problem. Designing the store space and finding professionals for the shop fitout during the Covid lockdown was certainly a challenge though. However, with determination and incentives, the store fitout was completed quickly, and it opened in June 2021.

In recognition of the out-of-town location, emphasis was placed on quality, to create a parent-friendly, relaxing environment which includes baby changing facilities and air conditioning. The shop was instantly popular, attracting parents from the Deepings, Bourne,

“We are here to help”

Liz - Before joining Olivers Babycare, Liz worked in childcare for eight years. Being a mother herself, Liz can share her wealth of knowledge on “all things babies and children” and the things that make parents’ lives that bit easier. Liz works in the store most days, ready to create a personal shopping experience for you whilst visiting Olivers Babycare.

Charlotte - is a mum of two and has worked at Olivers Babycare for four years. She has incredible product knowledge and is also Sales Manager for EDPA Ltd. She stays in touch with trends by working in the shop on Saturdays, sharing her knowledge and experience and helping you find the best options for you and your family.

March, Stamford, Peterborough, Bedford, Cambridge, Norwich, Leicestershire, Rutland, and Nottinghamshire.

These early customers indicated that they wanted to see more products on display in-store, so, in order to meet the demand, Olivers Babycare invested heavily to triple the space, thus enabling them to have feature displays from big-name brands, such as Silver Cross, Nuna, Joie, Venicci, Cybex, Munchkin, Uppababy, and Chicco, to name but a few. Customers can try these products in-store and have access to a range of 4,000 products from the extensive stock in the warehouses.

You can find out about all their latest promotions, new products, fantastic competitions, and product demos via their social media: @oliversbabycareuk @oliversbabycare.

What our parents say:

Sixth

Richard Westley, Headteacher

Deepings Business Awards Presentation Night [ October 8th

This was another great awards year with seventy-six shortlisted businesses/ organisations and with thousands of votes being cast by the public. Sponsored by Moore Thompson, chartered accountants, and run by Deepings Business Community (DBC), the sell-out event was held at the Deepings School. The awards were presented by Nick Ash of Will & Probate services (Vice-chairman of DBC, who also gave £500 to the winning charity of the year and £250 to the runner-up.)

Following the fabulous food (big thanks to Sonia at Oasis Catering!) and presentations, music was provided by local band, Cosmic Rodney. Thanks go to the Deepings School for allowing us to use their main hall.

Deepings Business Awards - Results

Top Take

Best

– (sponsored by

- Sponsored by

The Giving Back Award - Sponsored by Home

of

Year - Sponsored by

Top Tradesperson - Sponsored by

Shop Outstanding Customer Service - Sponsored by Will & Probate Services

Stop Arts and Crafts Award - Sponsored by Graytones Printers

Deeping Antiques Centre Charity of the Year - Sponsored by Discovering Magazines

Age Concern Deepings

The Black Horse Baston Beauty and Wellbeing Award - Sponsored by The Beauty Retreat

Best Eatery - Sponsored by the LK Barn

Pub of the Year - Sponsored by Direct Peak

Best Professional Service Provider Sponsored by Homefind Solutions

Deeping

The Waterton Arms

First Steps Day Nursery

Anna’s Home from Home Pets Best Online Business - Sponsored by UPP Next Level Broadband

Best Home Based Business - Sponsored by Marina Murden Bookkeeping Services

The AOB Award - Sponsored by Adept Cloud Solutions

The Chairman’s Award – Sponsored by AM Kreative Media

United FC

Ironing Service

Andy Pelling Deepings Business of the Year – Sponsored by Moore Thompson

The Outstanding Achievement Award - Sponsored by Lilli’s Tea Room

Stop

What’s available in November...

What’s available in July...

Christmas is coming! We’ll help take the stress out of your preparations, by providing you with your complete Christmas dinner & much more! Our order books are open for veg boxes, filled with home grown & locally grown seasonal vegetables. You can order your Christmas turkey from Grasmere Farm’s butchery counter. Come to our Christmas Event on November 27th, for mulled wine, mince pies & supplier tastings. Don’t forget that bird food, feeders, nest boxes & accessories make a great gift too!

Summertime at Vine House Farm! We’re happy to see ripe strawberries & raspberries arriving daily; fresh broad beans & peas are available now too. Our chillers are stocked to the brim with plenty of fresh produce, much of which we serve on our Café menu. Have you tried a pint of freshly pasteurised milk from Bassingthorpe yet? Deliveries are on a Monday & Thursday - from cow to bottle to chiller all in one morning! We’ve a new cabin in our wildlife garden, which will serve hot & cold drinks, ice-cream & cake too - dogs are welcome in that area & we also have a new range of dog treats!

8AM - 5PM

MON-SAT 8AM - 5PM SUNDAY 9AM - 4PM

Café hours: MON-SAT

Café hours: MON-SAT 8.30AM - 4.30PM SUNDAY 9AM - 3.30PM

DEEPING ST. NICHOLAS, SPALDING, LINCS, PE11 3DG PHONE 01775 630244

DEEPING ST. NICHOLAS, SPALDING, LINCS, PE11 3DG PHONE 01775 630244 ONLINE VINEHOUSEFARMSHOPCAFE.CO.UK

TOFFEE APPLES

Festive Menu

Served 1st to 24th December

Tuesdays to Saturdays 12noon-2pm and 6pm-8.00pm

27.95 for 3 Courses

Toffee apples are popular at this time of the year and the kids will love helping to decorate them with their favourite sweets and treats!

Ingredients

10 wooden skewers (or lolly sticks)

10 Golden Delicious apples, scrubbed

350g Fairtrade light soft brown sugar

2 tsp white wine vinegar

35g unsalted English butter

2 tbsp golden syrup

To decorate, why not try sugar stars, crushed ginger snap biscuits, chocolate M&Ms, sprinkles or bits of popcorn? Yummy!

Method

• Insert a wooden skewer or lolly stick into the stalk end of each apple. Line a large baking tray with baking parchment.

• Put the sugar in a heavy-based pan with 120ml cold water and heat gently, stirring until it dissolves. Bring to the boil and add the vinegar, butter and golden syrup. Boil gently for 12 minutes, until it has reached the soft crack stage (138°C on a sugar thermometer, or the point at which a little of the mixture, dropped into cold water, forms threads that bend slightly before breaking).

• Dip the bottom two-thirds of the apple in the toffee, turning to coat. Working quickly, get the children to add their decoration of choice to each apple. Leave to set on the baking parchment for 15 minutes.

21.95 for 2 Courses

Add a Filter Coffee for £1.20 extra

STARTERS

Leek and Potato Soup (GF)

Goats Cheese and Tomato Bruschetta Classic Prawn Cocktail with a Marie-Rose Sauce Creamy Garlic Mushrooms on Toasted Ciabatta

MAINS

Roast Crown of Turkey with a Chipolata and Chestnut and Sausage-meat Stuffing Roast Sirloin of Beef with a Homemade Yorkshire Pudding Pan roasted Cod Loin with a Mixed Herb Butter Sauce Spinach, Mushroom and Butterbean Vegan Pie Main courses are served with Seasonal Vegetables, Braised Red Cabbage, Roasted Potatoes, and a Rich Gravy. Gluten Free and Vegan Gravy available

DESSERTS

Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce Sticky Spiced Pear and Brandy Tart with Ice-cream Bucks Fizz Mousse Torte

Warm Chocolate Brownie (Gluten free and Dairy Free)

Please notify us of any allergies or dietary preferences on the meal pre-order.

Gluten Free bread can be provided as an alternative meal. Pre-order is due a minimum of 1 week before table reservation date.

Non-refundable Deposit of £5.00 per person due before 1st December.

( GF=GLUTEN FREE, V=VEGAN, VG=VEGETARIAN )

food

The Griffin Menu

Thursday 24th November

All beef courses are made from Blizzard, a 16-month-old heifer, born and bred from Sir Jamie’s herd and delivered to your plates by chef Michael.

Starters

Canapes

Surf ‘n’ Turf

Pan-fried Beef Rillette, topped with Tempura Prawns, Watercress and an Oriental Glaze

Carpaccio of Irnham Beef Fillet

Served with Pickled Vegetables and Liquorice

Pimm’s Jelly

Orange Granita and Strawberry Sorbet

Medallion of Beef

Served with Wild Mushroom Fricassee, Honey Glazed Carrots, Roasted Shallots, Potato Fondant, covered in a Rich Red Wine Jus

Dark Chocolate Fondant

Served with Kirsch Cherries, Honeycomb and Cherry Ripple Ice Cream

Tea/Coffee with Petits-Fours

Celebration of Irnham Estate Christmas Menu

Mains

Honey Roast Parsnip Soup Served with Parsnip and Ginger Crisps

Juniper Cured Salmon Served with Whipped Horseradish Cream and Melba Toast

Smoked Duck Salad Served with Figs, Fresh Rocket and Pine Nuts

Classic Turkey Roast Served with Seasoned Veg, Roast Potatoes and Rich Gravy

Slow Cooked Beef Fore Rib Served with Creamed Potatoes, Roasted Shallots and Gravy Fillet of Sea Bass

Served with Sautéed Potatoes, Spring Onions, Ginger and Prawns

Vegan Nut Roast Finished with Tomato Arabiatta, and Basil Oil

Desserts

Traditional Christmas Pudding

Topped with Custard

Baileys Amaretto Cheesecake

With Chocolate Shards and Vanilla Ice Cream alongside

Individual Lemon Posset

With Homemade Shortbread and Raspberries served alongside

Beef

£69.95

For any food allergies or dietary requirements please let our team know and we will try to accommodate you as best as we possibly can!

locals' Lunch for less also available

SEASONAL MENU starters

Classic French Onion Soup

“Gruyere Croute”

Ham Hock, Pickled Estate Roots, Quail’s Egg and Mustard

Home-cured Juniper Salmon, Cucumber Sorbet

Chargrilled Halloumi, Sun-blushed Tomatoes, Olives and Balsamic Dressing

Twice-baked Parmesan Soufflé, Basil Oil and Rocket

Mains

Twelve Ounce Sirloin Steak, Grilled Garnish, Giant Onion Rings and Watercress

Breast of Chicken, Smoky Bacon Risotto, Tenderstem, Madeira and Truffle

Loin of Venison, Baby Vegetables, Roasted Beetroots and a Blackberry and Port Jus Wild Mushroom Parmesan and Rocket Linguine with Truffle Oil

Moroccan Vegetable Tagine, Roasted Garlic, Giant Cous Cous and Flat Bread

Desserts

Lemon Posset with Shortbread and Raspberries

Vanilla Panna Cotta, Cherry Soup and Apple Crisps

For any food allergies or dietary requirements please let our team know and we will try to accommodate you as best as we possibly can!

Farmhouse Sticky Toffee Pudding, Toffee Sauce and Vanilla Ice Cream

Chocolate Ganache, Pistachio Halves, Honeycomb and Blood Orange Sorbet

Selection of Cheeses

Oliver Leads the Way in Deepings Swimming Club “Medals-Fest”

Oliver Clarke was crowned ‘top boy’ in the 9/10yrs age group as Deepings Swimming Club came away from the March Marlins Autumn Challenge with a stack of medals, personal bests, and county qualifying times. In total, the team won thirty medals, with nine gold, twelve silver and nine bronze, at the competition, held in Whittlesey recently.

Nine-year-old Oliver medalled in all eight of his events, with five golds and three silvers. Also achieving gold were Jacob Briers in the 50m breaststroke in the 13/14yrs age group; Mieke McDonald in the 11/12yrs 50m and 100m butterfly; and Isobel Vause in the 13/14yrs 200m freestyle.

Three of the youngest swimmers, (Olivia King, Annabel Shepherd, and Lucy Jenkinson) also reached the podium, as did Chloe Bellis, Isabella Reynolds, and Charlotte Jenkinson.

Deepings Head Coach, Sam Peeroo, was delighted with the team’s performances, commenting, “The medals won by some of our younger swimmers shows

a growing strength in depth at the club which we can build on for the rest of the season. We’re always looking for more swimmers to join our team, so anyone that is interested should get in touch with the club to arrange a free trial.”

The Deepings squad

the March Marlins Autumn

DEEPING ST JAMES PHARMACY

We are an independent pharmacy giving patients a one-to-one service. We like to model ourselves on the old community pharmacy where patients get to know us and and you will always see a familiar face. Here at Deeping St James Pharmacy, we are proud to be part of the community and are always striving to give the community the best service available to them.

Our other services include

● We offer blister pack medication to patients who meet the criteria.

● Flu vaccinations will be available this winter as a pre-book or drop-in service.

● NHS unwanted medicine service, where you can return all unwanted medicines to the pharmacy where we will dispose of them safely.

● Emergency supplies: if you need one of your regular medicines in an emergency and you are unable to contact your doctor, we may be able to help.

PATIENTS DETAILS

Getting myself physically ready for a big challenge ahead.

“It was my new year’s resolution this January to get fit enough to run my best-ever marathon. By October, I managed it and am fitter than I have been for years. The classes have really helped me get stronger; I have particularly loved the thirty-minute “cardio classes” which I do a couple of times each week. If I have a busy week at work, it is easy to drop into an alternative class which works really well for me.” KATHERINE

pride ourselves on being dedicated to help you achieve your fitness goals - we are the home of fun! That’s who we are and that’s what we do, but what do our many happy customers think, and why do they keep coming back, time and time again, for more?

Feeling that I’m being supported in my mental health too.

“Spin keeps me mentally and physically fit. An hour for me, to focus on me. An hour to forget the rest of the world. A place where the only demand on me is the goal which I set for myself … with good support, and gentle (or sometimes not so gentle!) pushing to improve myself.” MAGGIE

Meeting new people while getting my body into shape.

“After moving to Market Deeping during the pandemic, Spinroom has been awesome from the first visit. Moving to a small new town hasn’t been easy but the warmth and welcoming from members and instructors has not only helped me to burn off a few calories, but also meet some awesome people. The classes have also had a massive impact on getting myself “Ibiza-ready” this summer! Really looking forward to making a start on “beach body 2023” and having a giggle with everyone along the way.” COREY

The Spinroom team are so friendly which boosts my confidence.

“The Spinroom is such a welcoming place for everyone. Claire and her team are so friendly which puts you at ease and gives you the confidence to train at your own ability. There is a variety of classes too, so you can mix things up as much as you like. I am not the most confident person, but since I joined the Spinroom I have made so many new friends, who I enjoy exercising with. I now call them my Spinroom family!” CLAIRE

Keeping fit is easier when it’s fun!

“The Spinroom has been brilliant for us. We’re usually there three times a week, at spin and pump. They make keeping fit so much easier. Claire and her team are friendly, challenging and encouraging. And it’s fun.” ALISON AND ADRIAN

We are an independent pharmacy giving patients a one-to-one service. We like to model ourselves on the old community pharmacy where patients get to know us and and you will always see a familiar face. Here at Deeping St James Pharmacy, we are proud to be part of the community and are always striving to give the community the best service available to them.

Our other services include

● We offer blister pack medication to patients who meet the criteria.

● Flu vaccinations will be available this winter as a pre-book or drop-in service.

● NHS unwanted medicine service, where you can return all unwanted medicines to the pharmacy where we will dispose of them safely.

● Emergency supplies: if you need one of your regular medicines in an emergency and you are unable to contact your doctor, we may be able to help.

PATIENTS DETAILS

Title (Mr/Mrs/Miss/Dr):

First Name:

of Birth:

Number (can be found on repeat prescription slip):

Name:

Address:

Tel:

by means

Chemist Shop, Peterborough to

from the surgery shown above

Call with your NHS number and we can set up your prescription account over the phone

in

Wreath Making Workshops

Not only is a wreath a stunning way to bring some festive cheer to your home, but the process of crafting your own is a wonderful form of selfexpression. The sense of pride, and satisfaction of having learned a new skill is sure to put a smile on your face.

The ever popular two-hour ‘Christmas Wreath Making’ sessions are to be held at Wittering Parish Hall. You will get to take your wreath home, enjoy some refreshments, and spend time chatting with existing and new friends. Limited spots available, so be sure to book yours early!

You can stay up to date with all future workshops, by following @floral_dimensions on social media.

Christmas Wreath Making Workshops

Saturday 3rd of December 10am - 12 noon

Sunday 4th December 10am - 12 noon

Saturday 10th December 10am -12 noon; 3pm - 5pm and 6pm - 9pm

Wittering Parish Hall £50 per person including all materials and refreshments

With Christmas fast approaching, Floral Dimensions are delighted to open bookings for their December Wreath Making Workshops.

TREATMENTS WE OFFER

Dermal fillers

As we approach the end of the year, we are seeing more aesthetic clinics popping up on the high street, offering the latest in anti-wrinkle treatments, fillers, and skin boosters. There has been a massive increase in the number of people offering these treatments, but not all is as it should be. We would like to try to educate you in knowing what to look for when choosing your preferred clinician.

Legally, practitioners should only be performing these procedures after the patient has had a face-to-face consultation with a registered prescriber such as a doctor, dentist or pharmacist who holds an additional qualification in this area. Being a nurse alone is not enough and you can check if they have the additional qualification by searching their first and last name at www.nmc.org.uk/ registration/search-the-register.

If no prescribing qualification is stated they need to have another fully qualified person in the room with them during the consultation. For over a decade, these non-surgical treatments have been almost entirely unregulated. This has led to major and irreversible impacts on patients’ health and wellbeing, as well as their physical appearance. With many clinics able to advertise directly through social media, in the absence of safeguards and regulations, vulnerable clients may find themselves being treated by somebody who does not hold the correct qualifications to practise safely.

Alistair, at Deep-in Aesthetics, is a registered pharmacist and has been so for over twenty-five years. He also holds both medical and aesthetic qualifications, as well as a post-graduate master’s degree in prescribing. This allows the client to feel safe in the knowledge that, if anything untoward happened and there was a medical issue, you know that you would be in the best of hands.

So, to sum up…. May we ask you that next time you visit your aesthetic practitioner, simply ask whether they are themselves the prescriber and, if not, ensure you are receiving a face-to-face consultation with the medical professional who is responsible for your care.

Lip fillers

Bunny lines

Downturned corners of mouth

Gummy smiles

Fat dissolving

Profhilo (turkey neck)

Vitamin B12 injections

Anti-wrinkle treatments

Smoker's lines

Profhilo (five-point face lift)

D injections

eye treatments

sweating

Brow lift

Cheek filler

rejuvenation

PRIVATE PARKING

10% off every treatment booked

DISCREET LOCATION

TREATMENT REVIEW

Lovely professional couple, Alistair is well qualified and rehearsed in the administration and guidance of the beauty aesthetics and Julie knows what the client wants. A perfect combination. They are so reasonably priced which is reflected on their determination to be accessible to clients."

Can't recommend Alistair and Julie enough; I wouldn't go anywhere else for aesthetics. Super informative and friendly, and incredibly patient with my anxiety that creeps in around procedures. In addition to them being welcoming and highly professional, the results obtained are excellent."

PACKAGES

felt more like snow than

and I think it's really, really good stuff! Definitely as a skier, skiing on Proslope, it's nice because you can really feel the difference and you get the speed, but you can also do the technique as well."

Delivering Peace of Mind

Iwas at a conference last week, and the eminent psychologist, Jamil Qureshi asked me what I do. I gave my normal answer, “I am a lawyer” and he said, “Yes, but what do you do?” I dug my hole a bit deeper. “Well, I run a firm that writes peoples wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and deals with their estates after they die”, I explained.

He looked at me as if I was talking gibberish (and frankly, it turned out I was!) Then he told me about a guy that he had met in a bar. He had asked him the same question and the answer he got was, “I enable people to live their life to the full and I protect the environment”.

Jamil was intrigued and asked the guy to explain, and he said, “Most people would call me a fire fighter, but I don’t see it like that. What I do enables the people I save from a burning building to live their lives to the full, and the property and places that I safeguard don’t burn down, so I protect the environment as well”.

So, Jamil asked me again what I do, not what my job is, but what value do I add to the world. It’s a question I have never been asked before, but the answer was obvious and came to me in a flash “I deliver peace of mind”.

● peace of mind that your family will be protected when you are gone,

● peace of mind because the right people will be able to make decisions for you if you can’t,

ADVICE FROM NICK ASH, MANAGING Director Will and Probate Services

● peace of mind that your estate will be taxed and distributed correctly.

I have been delivering peace of mind for seventeen years now. However, until I spoke with Jamil, I never really knew how to answer the question, “What do you do?”

Will and Probate Services –

Deliverers of Peace of Mind since 2005! Call us today and ask us what we can do for you 01778 252301.

How do the recent Interest Rate Changes and the Mini Budget affect me?

Interest Rates

The Bank of England base rate has been increasing steadily since December 2021. It has increased from 0.1% to the current rate of 2.25% (as of October 11th). The budget announcement on September 23rd and market uncertainty has led to the pound dropping in value, further increasing inflation pressures on our pockets, and potentially leading to further interest rate rises in the future.

Moving or buying your first home?

The mini budget came with cuts to the Stamp Duty rate which means that now when you purchase a property that is your sole residential property there is no Stamp Duty to pay up to the value of £250,000, saving a home mover up to £2,500. For first-time buyers, the exemption level has been raised from £300,000 to £425,000.

Here are some examples (FTB is a first-time buyer):

What to do if you have a mortgage?

best advice I can give you is to review your mortgage, sooner rather than later, because you can secure new products long before your tie-in period ends.

can help you even if your tie-in period is not due to end until August 2023. So, if you are concerned about rising interest rates, contact us as soon as possible and we may be able to fix a rate for you much earlier than you could with your existing provider.

Securing a product sooner can help safeguard you from further rate changes. If we find a better deal before the end of your tie-in period, we can switch to another product without additional cost.

without compromise

UP AND SNUGGLE DOWN with advice from Creative Touch

Colour

Don’t be afraid to make a statement; choose rich, earthy colour palettes for that cosy autumnal feel. Start with a natural base, adding splashes of warmer tones of nutmegs and burnt oranges or mustard. Add some glamour with metallic golds and coppers to help reflect the light in the dark winter months. Include some contrasting subtle hues of sage green, inky blues, and browns.

Pattern

Choose a fabric you love and don’t be afraid to have some fun; show a bit of your eccentric side. This season’s “must”, (traditional florals and plaids) takes on a modern twist with bigger bolder patterns. Mix it up with some plains; think of ombre styling in a coordinating colour or adding tapes and trimmings. Simply picking out a feature colour with a cushion trim can help define a space and pull a scheme together.

Textiles and materials

Use textiles with lots of texture this season. Natural fibres such as wool, plush-cut velvets, weaves and bouclés are not only stylish but functional. Thicker fabrics will help your home feel cosier and warmer.

Lighting

Turn off the overhead pendant lighting and add some softer floor-standing or side lamps to provide enough light for watching television or reading, but low enough to make the space feel warm, inviting, and intimate. Upgrade your lamp shades to rework your autumnal colour scheme.

Accessories

Scatter some beautiful new cushions, light a candle, and snuggle up in your favourite throw. Adding a thick rug to wooden floors or an extra layer on a carpeted floor will also help give your space a focal point.

Creative Touch

INTERIORS & DESIGN

Bespoke Curtains, Blinds and Soft Furnishings

Your local specialists in beautifully handcrafted, made-to-measure soft furnishings, shutters, blinds and home interiors.

Book a free home consultation or visit the showroom and view our full range of fabrics, rugs, wallpapers and accessories, all made-to-measure for your home.

Consumer Advice

Shoppers Urged to be Extra Vigilant as “Black Friday” Draws Near

By Eileen Le Voi at Safe Local Trades

With “Black Friday” coming up on November 25th, millions of shoppers will be looking to bag a bargain, particularly online, but it’s a perfect opportunity for scammers to target potential victims. Scam online shopping bargains cost shoppers £15.4 million over the Christmas period last year, according to ‘Action Fraud’.

Here's some helpful tips on spotting a scam:

If you’re making a purchase from a website or person you don’t know and trust, research the seller first.

• Use a payment method that offers buyer protection, such as a credit card.

• Take care with links in emails and texts. Some of these may contain links to fake websites.

• Make sure you have a strong password for your email. Criminals can use your email to access other online accounts, such as those you use for online shopping.

• Keep your devices up to date. Make sure you install the latest software and app updates.

Popular scams to look out for:

Order confirmation. These emails will claim that an order has been confirmed but won't tell you what the order is. Instead, you'll be asked to click on a link to find out. If you do, you will then be directed to a page that looks just like the retailer's site, but it'll be fraudsters who will receive your personal information if you have inputted it anywhere.

A fake invoice from a scammer claiming that your payment hasn't been received, asking you to re-enter your bank details. If you receive one of these, regardless of whether you think you have tried to purchase, make sure you read the information carefully and compare it against your most recent bank statement.

Scammers email shoppers saying their billing information is incorrect and that they need to change them immediately, or they will lose out on an order. This sense of urgency is when you should be suspicious, as they hope to draw you into entering your bank details into a fake website they've created to look like the real deal.

If you think you may have been taken in by a bogus website, take a note of the website's address, then close down your internet browser. Report the details online to Action Fraud (or call 0300 123 2040) and contact your bank to seek advice.

Scary Spiders and Baffling Badgers

[ by David Denman ]

Autumn brings a return to traditional pursuits such as conkers and blackberry picking, activities not usually associated with unplanned surprises.

e were enjoying a relaxed Sunday afternoon, collecting blackberries, with nothing more than the odd sleepy wasp to negotiate. I reached in to take a ripe berry and my hand brushed against a large spider’s web. The tenant moved in my direction, and it did not look happy. It was so close I could count its eyes! It was the leg span that was jaw dropping – very large and, quite frankly, a little intimidating. The sporty yellow, white and black stripes over the body and legs befitted a rugby shirt. Shy and retiring it was not!

This was a wasp spider, and it has quite a backstory. The species arrived from the continent in the 1920s and has slowly spread through the south of the country. Rarely for UK invertebrates, it is very colourful and easy to identify to species level. The pattern is a mimic of wasp coloration.

The specimen I found was a female and measured approximately 15mm (head and body) – an alarming size when level with your nose! The body and head of the males are smaller, at approximately 4.5 mm.

Just when you thought this year could not get stranger, an autumn mystery

Wunfolded along the banks of one of our watercourses – well-chewed and partially eaten sweetcorn lay scattered at random intervals along the footpath. And the sweetcorn field was on the other side of the watercourse. Suspicion soon fell on badgers.

They are truly omnivorous, and they love sweetcorn, especially when fallen corns lie on the ground after harvesting. They probably carried them from the field to eat on their way home. One corn had a stray badger hair, which are usually black and white and being oval in profile they “flick over” when you move them between your fingers. So, one question solved! But how did they get over the watercourse? Investigations are still ongoing, but I guess they either paddled their way across or used a nearby bridge!

There is plenty to look for this month. Are we to have a bumper mushroom season, or will the summer heat have reduced the numbers? It will soon be time for the calls of redwings and fieldfare flocks at night and increasing numbers of wildfowl in local lakes. The Deepings in autumn are characterised by large flocks of lapwings, especially on stubble fields, which is good to see as the species is on the “Red List” as one of the many bird species that are of the highest conservation concern.

Finally, spare a thought for the hedgehogs and check leaf piles and especially bonfire bases for early hibernating hogs!

Important Safety Advice

BY COLEEN EVERITT, ALTO ELECTRICAL LIMITED

Whenhaving building work completed, the consumer unit is often left until last, and this could mean leaving in a system that may not be compliant or offer fault protection. I understand the desire to leave this work until last; it is almost like a “cherry on the top” but, by completing this work at the beginning, it gets a chance to serve its purpose in the event of an accident or fault.

This fault protection protects you and your family from electric shock and also helps to prevent electrical fires. But having the correct protection at the outset will protect your builders from injury if they drill through cables or encounter unexpected connections.

Having an RCD (residual current device) will make your electrical system trip off within milliseconds, protecting your heart from damage.

Next time you have any work completed, check you have protection in place for your workforce, and if you are not sure, you can e-mail us a photo of your consumer unit to enquiries@altoelectrical.co.uk and we can advise if your electrical inspection is in date, and whether your system is properly protected, giving you and your builder peace of mind.

Why you should consider the condition of your electrics when having building work completed

Create ‘Kerb Appeal’ and Add Value to Your Home

This Holbeach-based firm are establishing a very impressive reputation for the quality of their work and the service they provide, across a wide area of South Lincolnshire and neighbouring counties. This can be clearly confirmed by the huge number of very favourable recommendations from satisfied customers on their website, www.lincolnshireresindrivesltd.co.uk, but especially on their Facebook pages.

Resin driveways are a long-lasting and easy-tomaintain option to transform the front of your home. An eco-friendly alternative, thanks to the non-toxic materials used, and available in a range of colours, a resin driveway is naturally draining, meaning no more puddles from heavy rainfall. They are highly resistant to rust, oil, corrosion, salt, and cracking, and are also the safest option, being resistant to abrasion, slipping, indentation and ignition.

The business owner explains how important it is to have a sound foundation, upon which the resin is to be applied. He recommends

RECOMMENDATIONS:

❝ … the men worked very hard, they were polite and very tidy and were able to answer all questions we asked them - a big thank you to Mark and his staff - well done!” (C.H.)

❝ From my very first meeting I felt I could trust Mark to ensure a professional job would be done. The team were very hard working and a pleasure to work with.” (P.H.)

❝ Mark’s team were very professional, tidy, and really friendly - cannot fault any aspect of their work from start to finish. They have transformed the front of our bungalowcannot recommend highly enough.” (S.S.)

to his clients the method which involves the excavation of the existing surface and installation of a permeable, tarmac sub-base, before a mixture of stone aggregate and a resin bonding solution is to be applied.

Whether you are looking for something subtle or eye-catching, Lincolnshire Resin Drives Ltd are confident you will find a driveway, path or patio that fits your requirements and complements your home. Their prices are very competitive, and their service is friendly, professional, with high quality, experienced installers.

To discuss your requirements or for a free quote, please call 01406 308201 and check out their gallery at www.lincolnshireresindrivesltd.co.uk for examples of their work.

Insurance

10yearGUARANTEE BACKED

Libert yPart nershi p

Liberty Lunch’

BY RICHARD ASH CHARTERED FINANCIAL PLANNER AND DIRECTOR

You may know one of those ‘champions’ who always helps where they can or goes that extra mile for a neighbour, a stranger or a friend, and if you do then we would like to hear from you. Our plan is to offer a modest reward of lunch out at a local pub, diner, coffee shop or eatery up to the value of £100. We would ask that this offer is taken up locally to support our fantastic local businesses. We will select a monthly ‘champion’ from any nominations we receive. When contacting us, we would ask that you say who they are, how you feel they have positively contributed towards our community, and provide their contact information, having asked their permission to do so. Please see this as being a good thing, something to celebrate, a way in which we at Liberty Partnership can celebrate our community. Sadly, we will not be able to recognise everyone, which we hope you all understand.

To make a nomination

What's On

Events: November 2022

2nd - The Deeping Men’s Group Charity Fund November talk by Alastair Goodrum is entitled “They Spread Their Wings.” 7.30pm for 8pm start at the Masonic Hall, New Row, Deeping St James. Visitors welcome £4 or £15 annual subscription, includes admission to every month’s speakers.

3rd - Lunch in Baston church: 12 noon to 1.30pm£6 for a bowl of homemade soup, roll and butter, pudding and custard, coffee/tea. (Pre-schoolers £2.) All welcome.

5th and every Saturday - Bourne Wheelers Cycling Club, “social ride” leaves Coggles Causeway at 9am. For further information, visit www.bournewheelers.co.uk.

6th and every Sunday - Bourne Wheelers Cycling Club, “club ride” leaves from the Post Office car park on Burghley Street at 9am. For further information, visit www. bournewheelers.co.uk.

6th - Open Mic at the Hare and Hounds, West Road, Haconby, 8pm. PA and soundman provided - hosted by Nick Gomm - 01778 57142.

8th - Deeping Ladies Coffee Club meeting at the Priory Church Hall, Deeping St James with a talk by Rosemary Sneath on “Becoming a Norland Nanny”. Doors open at 10am. Visitors welcome. For more information, please call Sue on 01778 344195.

9th - The Oscar Preston Memorial Trophy at The Red Lion, 48 King St. West Deeping PE6 9HP: 7.30pm for 8pm start. An annual, and very light-hearted, competition to encourage solo traditional singing. Come and enjoy hearing some of the finest local traditional singers compete for the trophy. More information, ‘rules’ and entry details on our website: www.bastontradmusic.org.

11th - Deepings Heritage present a talk on “The History of Stamford Hospital” by David Baxter at 7.30 pm in the main hall of the Community Centre, Market Deeping. Everyone welcome. Non-members £3.

13th - Enjoy a relaxing Sunday afternoon with Pennyless at Mama Liz’s, Stamford: 4pm -6pm - free.

16th - Bourne Organ Club every 3rd Wednesday of the month at Bourne Corn Exchange. This month Chris Jones: 7.30pm. Tickets on the door £7 members, £8 visitors. For more information, call 01778 424947.

16th - An evening of original acoustic music at the Iron Horse Ranch House, Market Deeping, featuring Dave Smith with Patti Vetta and Tony Harris, also Cloe Lorentzen and Julie Morgan-Walters. 7.30pm start. Entry fee £5.

18th - Glinton Horticultural Society. ‘Every Show has a Story’ by Johnny Walkers – anecdotes on a lifetime in showing. Glinton Village Hall, 7.30pm.

19th - Langtoft Village Hall Management Committee Craft Fair, in Langtoft Village Hall: 10am - 4pm. A variety of craft and gift stalls. Free entry, refreshments on sale. Further information, please e-mail Sue ArcherSarcher321@sky.com.

19th - St Michael’s Langtoft, 10am-1pm. ‘Cake and bacon butty morning’, also serving soup. Lucky Dip table. All welcome.

20th - Irnham Hall is the setting for a ghostly new play, “Another Winter’s Tale,” a show for all (8+) with live music, humour, songs, and an enthralling story. The show is produced in partnership with Shoot First Theatre and their amazing puppets. Doors at 6.30pm, bar from 6.45pm, performance starts at 7.30pm. Tickets £12 (£10 for under 18yrs) Box office www.ticketsource.co.uk/ irnham-community-entertainment : Irnham Hall is between Bourne and Grantham, NG33 4JD.

22nd - Glinton Horticultural Society: AGM. Glinton Village Hall, 7.00pm.

24th - Deeping St James WI meeting at the Priory Church Hall, DSJ, with a talk by Chris Carr on “Medieval Christmas Customs”. Doors open at 7pm. Visitors always welcome. For more information, please call Sue on 01778 344195.

24th - “Coracle” at The Barn, Baston, 9pm start. Coracle are Paul Hutchinson, Karen Wimhurst and Anna Tam. Expect to be thrilled by the silvery voice of Anna Tam and the free-flowing mix of reeds, clarinets, accordion, cello, nyckelharpa, viola da gamba and hurdy gurdy. Admission £15 - bring your own drinks. Reservations and further information about concerts at The Barn from Alan & Maggie on 07526 742289 or 01778 560497 or a.wood571@btinternet.com.

26th - Baston church open for refreshments 10.30am –3.30pm. Wreath making sessions at 11 am and 1 pm. £25 to include all materials, instruction, a hot drink, and a mince pie. Please contact Maryon, 07471 198498 to book your slot. Don’t delay, as these have previously proved very popular!

26th - Movies at The Old Town Hall, Bourne. “Top Gun: Maverick” pulls off a feat even trickier than a 4G inverted dive, delivering a long-belated sequel that surpasses its predecessor in a wildly entertaining style. 6.15pm for a 7pm start, licensed bar. Tickets £5-50 plus booking fee from www.bournetownhall.org.uk/events.

Events are brought to you by Hilary Bloomer. To send in your events please contact her via hilary@discoveringmagazines.co.uk or phone 01778 421427 / 07837 499061

27th - Board Game Cafe at The Old Town Hall, Bourne, open from 11am - 3pm. Come along and enjoy a whole range of board games, for all ages. Our café will be open for light refreshments too. This event is free, but a small donation is welcomed.

27th and until January 5th, 2023, St Michael’s, Langtoft, Travelling Nativity set will be available for families to share the Christmas Story. For more details, please contact Debbie Howard at debbiejanehoward1952@ gmail.com.

27th - St Michael’s, Langtoft, Advent Sunday Christingle Service 10am. All welcome.

27th - Lawrence’s singaround/playaround/sayaround - all welcome, 7.30pm at the Red Lion, 48 King Street, West Deeping, PE6 9HP - Lawrence Haydock 01733 253347.

What’s On in the Deepings in November and December

Sunday November 6th - 3pm: Opening of the Remembrance Garden at Riverside Park (opposite the library). Short service followed by refreshments in the Deepings Community Centre.

Sunday morning November 13th: Annual Remembrance Parade along Church Street in Market Deeping.

Sunday November 20th - 3pm: Closing of the Remembrance Garden at Riverside Park (opposite the library). Short service followed by refreshments in the Deepings Community Centre.

Sunday December 4th - 6am to 7pm: Road closure from the Market Place roundabout in Market Deeping to Deeping TV/Fillers Sandwich Bar.

Sunday December 4th - 10am to 5pm: Deepings Christmas Market in the town centre. This year’s event includes trade stalls, ‘Super Sunday’ shopping, street entertainment, fun fair, craft marquee, food stalls, refreshments, Christmas tree festival, model railway display, Mayor’s tombola, and lots more!

Sunday December 4th - 4pm to 5pm: Grand Prize Draw (£100 plus other prizes), family carols in the Market Place, followed by Christmas tree lights switch-on at 5pm

Does your caravan need a little TLC?

REPAIR

Our onsite workshop offers a fully comprehensive

INSURANCE

service for

or motorhome.

SERVICING

From a minor

to

full

We are a fully, insuranceapproved repair centre for all major UK insurers and manufacturers.

ACCESSORIES

We’ve got everything for your camping needs in our friendly, onsite shop.

SPARES

Looking for a spare part? Why not get in touch? With our contacts in the industry, we may be able to order spares in for you.

was no hiding Sid’s surprise when he heard how much Briggs