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Welcome to your December issue...

And so, here we are in December but with still so much in store, especially as the fabulous build-up to Christmas continues. Excitement (and perhaps a bit of stress!) will no doubt increase in the weeks to come, whether that involves the buying and packing of presents, the planning of provisions for ‘the big day’, or maybe enjoying the school Nativity Play.

Whatever the month has in store, we hope that this Christmas can be really special for you and your family and that this month’s issue will continue to inform, advise and entertain you along the way.

Sincere thanks go to all our contributors and advertisers for their continued support and here’s wishing all our readers a wonderful Christmas and a healthy, happy 2025.

Claire x

Let me be the first to wish you all good health and happiness for Christmas and the new year. Just in case your crackers haven’t got any cracking jokes in them, try these for sighs!

✦ When I told my vet that my dog had swallowed seven Scrabble tiles, he said, “That could spell trouble!”

✦ That Australian dessert kept coming back on me – it must have been a “boo-meringue”.

✦ Most people were shocked when they found out just how bad I was as an electrician.

✦ Don’t you just hate it when people answer their own questions? I do.

✦ I was addicted to the ‘Hokey Cokey’, but then I turned myself around, picked myself up and …

FUN FACT: The Hokey Cokey was invented by a Russian dancer, Yaputcha Leftlegin.

Here’s hoping that you can look back on this year with fondness, and forward to 2025 with optimism and a smile on your face. John

Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET

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

Ops Director Andy Armstrong: 07780 922214

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

Group Editor John Schwarz | editor.bourne@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

Design Graham Copestake | Sarah Gumbley | Andy Beavis | Richard Hallam

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

Events Hilary Bloomer | hilary@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

4 Christmas at Waterside.

6-7 Inside Out Home Store. 10 ........... Food & Drink: Ports to Shorts!

12 Christmas Greetings Messages. 13 South Lincs Academies Trust: Recruitment roadshows. 14 ........... Deep-in Aesthetics. 16 ........... Community Matters.

18-19 The Chemist Shop (Glinton/Deeping St James) 20 Will & Probate Services (W&P Legal) 24 .......... Path Mortgages.

26 Vine House Farm Shop and Café. 32-33 Christmas Novelty Hunt: Win £50! 34 Christmas Quiz 36 .......... School News

40 Financial Affairs with Finova Money. 42-43 Consumer Advice from Safe Local Trades.

46 .......... Briggs Residential: Prestigious award.

The Liberty Partnership.

What’s on: Events guide.

Local History – Alice at the Guildhall.

Stamford Property Maintenance 59-62 Businesses directory.

With thanks to Richard Ash, Peter Baker, Deepings Heritage,

Sales Sallyanne Davis 07737 026594 info@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

Discovering Deeping 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.

Christmas at

Magical 4D Sleigh Ride

Hop on Santa’s Sleigh this winter at Waterside & fly through Santa’s toy workshop! Feel the excitement in this super festive 4D experience that’s sure to bring Christmas joy to the whole family.

Just £6pp | Book online to avoid disappointment.

RIDES AVAILABLE EVERDAY | BOOK ONLINE | IN-STORE | WALK-INS MAY BE AVAILABLE

Winter Wonderland - Christmas Shop Open Daily

Artificial & LED Trees

FREE BREAKFAST IN JANUARY*

with this voucher when you buy any breakfast in January 2025.

T’s & C’s Apply: Offer available from open until 11:00am. Cheapest breakfast is free when you purchase any other breakfast dish - both must be ordered in same transaction. Offer ends January 31st 2025. Copies not accepted. This voucher has no cash value & cannot be replaced.

Homemade Carrot and Ginger Soup

Baked Creamy Garlic Mushrooms

Baked Ham Hock Pots

Potted Mackerel with Malba Toast with Horseradish Mayo

From the Carvery Roast Turkey, Roast Beef or Chestnut and Cranberry Nut Roast with Cauliﬂower Cheese, Carrots, Minted New Potatoes, Roast Potatoes, Braised Red Cabbage, Selection of Green Veg, Yorkshire Pudding and Pigs in Blankets or Salmon and Prawn En Croute Pork Tenderloin with Apple infused Mash, Parsnip Crisps and Calvados Gravy Mains Deserts

Traditional Chrismas Pudding with Brandy Sauce

Warm Peacan Pie with Ice Cream

Vanilla Panna Cotta with Fresh Berries Rum and Raisin Cheesecake

11:30-9pm

29th 12-8pm

30th 12-8pm

Ports to Shorts

Whether having a meal with family or friends or just quietly on your own, many people enjoy a ‘tipple’ towards the end, when dining. I have selected some popular drinks, which appeal to me and other lovers of fortified wines and spirits. Port is a fortified sweet wine from Portugal. This is very much enjoyed with many desserts (chocolate/caramel, for example). Port wine has a rich and ‘comforting’ sensation, for the mouth’s pleasures, having splendid flavours of red and dark berry fruits. Port wines also pair wonderfully with cheeses (particularly blue cheese, I find).

LATE BOTTLED VINTAGE PORT (20% vol) is a port produced by Taylor’s, a very much respected company that has over 300 years of experience (since 1692). Taylor’s ports are renowned for their high standard of quality. Another hugely popular port wine production – again, produced by Taylor’s – is 10-year-old IRRESISTIBLE TAWNY PORT (20% vol). The ageing process, in oak casks, creates this fortiﬁed wine, which is admirably mellow and rich, making it a further ﬁrm favourite, to accompany desserts and to have towards the ending of dining occasions.

As always, enjoy!

Many people enjoy a good spirit – sometimes by itself and sometimes as part of a dining experience. From the several choices of spirits that are available, two regular selections are gin and whisky. Options for both of course are vast.

IRRESISTIBLE LONDON DRY GIN (40% vol) is ‘ﬁve times distilled’. This is all part of the process to bring a very impressive, balanced production to fruition. Juniper berries, with ﬁfteen botanicals, including angelica, cardamom, coriander and lemon verbena, plus others, combine to produce citrusy enjoyment, with a spicy hint.

IRRESISTIBLE SINGLE MALT WHISKY (40% vol) is an extremely popular, classic ‘highland whisky’. This, often selected, well-balanced production is matured in exBourbon oak casks, which ensures the rich taste. For me, this single

By Trevor Langley

malt whisky ‘stands out from the crowd’. Single malt whisky means that the whisky is from a single distillery.

I located these drinks at a Co-op store. I found the Co-op “IRRESISTIBLE” range to be most impressive, along with Co-op’s other available drinks. Co-op also supports Fairtrade. www.coop.co.uk

www.infofairtrade.net

New Winter Menu available now Christmas Menu from 13th November Bookings being taken now

I T ’ S C H R I S T M A S

At the Five Bells Inn

STARTERS

Soup of the Day £7.25

With crusty bread.

Garlic Cured Salmon £9

With beetroot & baby leaf salad (gf).

Game Terrine £8.50

With homemade blackberry & port chutney, ciabatta.

Lightly Coated Whitebait £8

With rosemary mayonnaise & baby watercress (e).

Honey Roasted Fig £7.85

Honey Roasted Fig, Glazed Colston Basset, pickled walnuts & rocket (d)(n).

MAIN COURSES

Norfolk Bronze Roast Turkey £19.50

With roast potatoes, stuffing, pigs in blankets, sprouts, roasted carrots, parsnips, red cabbage, homemade bread sauce & gravy (g).

Five Bells Burger £16.50

A Mill Farm 6oz beef burger, with mature cheddar, streaky bacon, pickles, jalapenos, aioli, relish & skin on fries.

Beer Battered Fish and Chips £17.50

With crushed minted peas & tartare sauce (gf)(e).

Mill Farm Lincolnshire Sausage £17.50

Wrapped in bacon, with buttery mash, tender stem broccoli and caramelised onion gravy (d).

Roasted Pheasant Casserole £21.50

With garlic & rosemary fondant potato, honey roasted carrots & parsnips (gf)(d).

32-day aged 8oz Rib Eye Steak £29.50

With skin on chips, portobello mushrooms, roasted tomatoes, with peppercorn sauce (gf)(d).

Add king prawns £4.50

Five Bells Veggie Burger £16.50

A sweet potato & bean burger, with mature cheddar, pickles, jalapenos, aioli, relish & skin on fries (v)(d)(e).

Pan Seared Seabass £24.50

With a creamy white bean & spinach Cassoulet, mussels, clam and kale (gf)(d)(sf).

Wild Mushroom Risotto £18.50

With tarragon, parmesan, truffle oil & goats’ cheese (v)(d)(e).

Ale Braised Beef Feather Blade £23.50

With creamy mash, spiced red cabbage, braising juices (gf)(d).

DESSERTS

Rum & Dark Chocolate Delice £8.25

With roasted hazelnuts and cherry ice cream (gf)(v)(e)(n).

Sticky Toffee Pudding £7.95

With butterscotch sauce, vanilla ice cream (gf)(v)(d)(e).

Chocolate Fudge Brownie £7.95

With raspberry puree and salted caramel ice cream (gf)(v)(d)(e).

Christmas Pudding £7.25

With brandy sauce (v)(d)(e).

Trio of Ice Cream £6.25

Chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, salted caramel, black cherry, or banana (v)(d)(e).

Coconut Panna Cotta £7.95

With cherry compote, apple sorbet (ve).

Apple & Plum Crumble £7.25

With clotted cream or custard (gf)(v)(d)(e).

Orange & Cranberry Parfait £7.25

With raspberry puree & forest fruits sorbet (gf)(v)(d)(e)

Trio of Sorbet £6.25

Strawberry, raspberry, apple, or rhubarb.

A Selection of English Cheeses £10.50

Colston Basset, Lincolnshire Poacher, and a SomersetBrie, with cheese biscuits, grapes and homemade chutney (d).

Christmas MESSAGES

Happy Christmas and all the very best for 2025

LIBERTY PARTNERSHIP

Christmas greetings from us all at

LINCS GARAGE DOORS

Don’t worry, be happy... it’s Christmas!

WATERSIDE GARDEN CENTRE

Eat, drink and be merry at Christmas time

BRIGGS RESIDENTIAL

Warmest wishes for the festive season and new year HEGARTY’S

Keep rocking around the Christmas Tree WINKWORTH

May the joy of Christmas stay with you throughout the new year

PATH MORTGAGES

Seasons greetings from us all at FIREPLACE FINESSE

Festive Greetings and best wishes for 2025

AMANDA ABBOT

May your Christmas be full of joy and laughter!

THE LITTLE SEWING SHOP

Wishing you a Christmas that’s merry and bright!

BEEBYS

Keep smiling and have a smashing Christmas DOUBLE AND MEGSON

All the very best at this wonderful time of year

PERFECT FOR THE HOME

Merry Christmas

FROM THE DISCOVERING MAGAZINES TEAM

Wishing a Merry Christmas to All Our Clients, Old and New

So, this is our last advert of the year and, instead of telling you about a certain treatment or what we are up to right now business-wise, we wanted to just say a huge thank you to every single person that has helped make our business what it is today.

Over the six and a half years of being established, we have grown our business tenfold and we couldn’t have done it without our loyal client base who have, not only stayed with us since the beginning, but have also been instrumental in helping us to grow by giving such positive feedback

to friends, family and colleagues who have also adopted us as their “go-to practitioner”.

With over one hundred five-star reviews on Google and Yell and with lots of positive feedback about our care and professionalism, we have managed to maintain our position in a growing, and sometimes saturated, market. We continue to take on board what our clients need and move forward with training in new areas of treatments and courses. We will continue to do this when the new year takes hold and look forward to 2025 being an even better year. Thank-you again for your continued support and we look forward to seeing you soon.

TREATMENTS WE OFFER

NC Foot Health Care Taking Giant Strides Over Six Years!

Having been established by Ryan Clements and James North in Bourne, NC Foot Health has become one of the leading providers of foot care in the area. In the last year, diversiﬁcation on a grand scale has taken place, with sports massage, reﬂexology and ear wax removal services being added to this thriving company’s offering.

The day-to-day operation and overseeing a team of seven professionals in their respective ﬁelds, is entirely in the capable hands of Ryan. The original clinic, located within North Shoes shop on North Street in Bourne is now one of three, as premises in North’s Oundle store and in Sleaford cater for an increasingly wide client base.

DAY, LIVE-IN OR NIGHT CARE AVAILABLE

Clinic Director, Ryan Clements trained at the SMAE Institute and is one of four qualiﬁed Foot Health Practitioners.

Claire Neal qualiﬁed as a Foot Health Practitioner in February 2020. Her decade of experience in healthcare means that she is conﬁdent in treating more senior patients with other ongoing medical conditions.

Julie Hancock trained at the SMAE Institute in 2008 and is now an established Foot Health Practitioner.

Julie Walton joined the team in March 2022 and specializes in foot health care.

Alex Atkinson graduated in Podiatry in 2015 and now splits her time between clinical work, Care Home and home visits.

David McKee is a seasoned sports therapist and reﬂexologist who brought his wealth of experience to NC Foot Health in March 2023.

Julia Brown is registered with the HCPC (Health and Care Professionals Council) and boasts a rich career as a Hearing Aid Audiologist, with an additional ﬁve years specializing in ear microsuction.

NC Foot Health Bourne 18 North Street, Bourne, PE10 9AB 01778 422886 Monday - Saturday

NC Foot Health Sleaford 40 Westgate, Sleaford, NG34 7PN 01778 420324

Tuesday - Saturday

SERVICES AVAILABLE

 Nail Cutting

 Diabetic Foot Checks

 Thickened and Fungal Nail Treatment

 Removal of Corns and Calluses

 Verruca Treatment

 Ingrowing Toenail Removal

 Nail Surgery

 Verruca Needling

 Gait Analysis

 3D Printed Bespoke Insoles

NEW SERVICES FOR 2024

 Ear Wax Removal

 Sports Massage

 Reﬂexology

NC Foot Health Oundle 7 Market Place, Oundle, PE8 4BA 01832 272534

Wednesday - Thursday

at www.ncfoothealth.co.uk

Ryan Clements Claire Neal Julie Hancock Julie Walton

Alex Atkinson

David McKee

Julia Brown

Recycle Your Real Christmas Tree and Support Sue Ryder’s Vital Work

National healthcare charity, Sue Ryder is inviting residents to participate in their “Christmas Treecycling” scheme to help raise essential funds for families in need of palliative and bereavement care. For a suggested optional donation, the charity will collect real Christmas trees directly from your front door, garden, or driveway and recycle them.

As part of “Christmas Treecycling”, Peterborough residents in the PE1, PE2, PE3, PE4, PE5, PE6 , PE7, PE8, and PE9 postcodes can have their trees collected between January 9th and 12th, 2025.

Real Christmas trees are fully recyclable and can be transformed into compost or wood chippings for use in parks, gardens, and landscaping. By choosing to Treecycle, you’ll not only support Sue Ryder but also help reduce landfill waste. To learn more

Langtoft Primary School

about this eco-friendly, fundraising initiative in Peterborough and to book a collection by midnight on January 5th, 2025, visit www.sueryder.org/ treepeterborough.

It has been a busy start to the term. The Hallowe’en disco saw everyone dressed up and ready to boogie to the sounds of ‘Thriller’ and ‘The Monster Mash’.

“Around the World Day” gave every class an opportunity to learn about a different country. We learnt about the geography, language, culture and cuisine of our country. Year 6 learnt about Japan, making sushi and learning origami, Year 5 explored France, dining on a French breakfast. Other classes discovered Italy, Germany, Brazil, Norway and India.

Our new ‘Wellbeing Champions’ have received their badges and are ready to help everyone with their mental health. There is a ‘happy box’ brim full of ideas to help if you feel sad, a buddy stop to support at playtimes, and plenty of books to borrow.

Our ‘Peer Mediators’ have been trained and are on duty every playtime and lunchtime. Their role is to help other children to find solutions to minor disputes, providing a forum for their discussions.

Forest school happens one afternoon each week. Every class has an opportunity to learn woodland skills in our forest school area. Climbing the ‘grandmother tree’ is popular, as is den building. We also love the mud kitchen, woodland crafts, bug hunting, bird watching; this term we made and cooked damper bread and pressed our own apple juice.

Report written by our Rights Respecting School Council children.

T: 01733 253433

■ Sinusitis

■ Sore throat

■ Earache (children)

■ Infected insect bite

■ Impetigo

■ Shingles

■ Urinary tract infection (women)

T: 01778 349646

*NHS Prescription charge rules apply where medicine is supplied. We can prescribe antibiotics where necessary.

4 Rectory, Lane, Glinton, Peterborough PE6 7LR

Glinton

T: 01733 253433

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 The Chemist Shop, 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.

● Are you over 39, then come in for a free Blood Pressure Check.

● 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.

DEEPING ST JAMES PHARMACY

T: 01778 349646

Did You Know?

We can help with the following, no doctor’s appointment or referral necessary.

● Men’s Health

Hair retention, erectile dysfunction

● Women’s Health

Delayed period and menopausal symptoms

● Skin Problems

Dermatitis and Eczema

● Asthma – Salbutamol

● Help to stop smoking

● Free Blood Pressure check

This is just a few of the services we are licensed to help with, please call us to find out what else is available and how we can help.

01733 253433

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

A Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

As the festive season descends upon us, bringing with it the warmth of family gatherings, the joy of shared meals, and the sparkle of twinkling lights, the team at W & P Legal would like to extend our heartfelt wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

This time of year often prompts reflection, a time to look back on the year that has passed and to consider the year ahead. For many of us, this reflection also includes thinking about those we love and ensuring their future well-being.

As a firm dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of estate planning, we understand the importance of ensuring your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are protected.

NICK ASH, Managing Director W&P Legal

This is why the little bit of downtime we all enjoy over the festive period is an ideal time to consider your estate planning. A well-crafted will and Lasting Power of Attorney can provide peace of mind, knowing that your assets will be distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones will be cared for in the event of your incapacity.

Don’t wait until the New Year to take action! Make this Christmas a time to prioritise your future and ensure your family’s security.

So, contact us today on 01778 252301 to schedule a consultation. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and guide you through the process of creating a comprehensive estate plan that meets your unique needs.

We hope you have a joyous holiday season filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories, and may the New Year bring you health, happiness, and peace of mind.

HOUSE OF WILLS LTD:

Legally Qualiﬁ ed Specialists with a Unique Approach to Will Writing

House of Wills Ltd specialise in wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, trusts and probate services. Their unique selling point is that they travel to see you at your home and at a time of your convenience, FREE of charge and with no obligation.

The specialists at House of Wills will review your current provision and tailor a bespoke will to your exact requirements, often with specialist clauses and terms that competitors are often even unaware of.

They are passionate about you being able to have the last say in your estate planning, avoiding family disputes.

House of Wills are experts in Lasting Power of Attorney administration and are proud for

customers to be able to review numerous comments and feedback on Yell.com. With over thirty years’ experience, they look forward to chatting any time. Give them a call on 01642 900600 or 07803 344940 for FREE legal advice; alternatively submit an enquiry on www.HouseofWills.co.uk. They guarantee to o er service and fees that no other provider can match, and service the Peterborough area.

Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) We all need LPAs

Only 4% of people have financial LPAs Every five minutes someone suffers a stroke. Attorneys must act in your best interest by law

Without an LPA, even your next of kin have no legal rights when you need them most. It is too late to set up once those you love are unable to make their own decisions. £50 discount on dual LPAs or £50* Next voucher if you refer a friend. Wills £160, Lasting Power of Attorney £225. We visit you at home for your comfort.

*Terms apply

Why our customers love Prime Comfort:

Mobility Scooter Service & Repairs; Replacement Batteries; Punctures; Replacement Tyres; Body Work; Electrical Components: Free collection and delivery back to your home.

Setting up one of our adjustable beds or comfy recliners - all installation work is free and carried out by one of our trained engineers. We also provide free home surveys for stair lifts. Free next day delivery on all stock items. Simply call 01476 560044.

• Sensitive caring attention given at all times with advice provided on all aspects of funeral arrangements.

• Arrangements made in the pleasant surroundings of our funeral home or in the comfort of your own home.

• Offering a full range of funerals at very competitive prices.

• Ample parking and easy access for the disabled.

• Jaguar funeral vehicles available.

• Golden Charter Pre-payment Funeral Plans available and accepted.

Proprietors: Ruth & Ian Smith Dip.FD Mark & Naomi Smith Dip.FD

A Christmas Message from Path Mortgages

It’s the most wonderful time of the year here in Market Deeping! As the town lights up for Christmas, we at Path Mortgages wanted to share a little festive cheer— and a few seasonal tips for homeowners and those dreaming of finding their perfect property in the new year.

The holiday season is all about spending time with family and friends, enjoying the warmth of home. For some of you, this may spark dreams of a new home or those extra rooms you’ve always wanted. But with all the fun of decking the halls comes the reality of finances and the need to plan ahead if you’re looking to make big moves in 2025. Here’s our Christmas gift to you: a bit of advice for preparing for your next home journey while enjoying the festivities.

1 Time to Plan, Not Panic

December can feel like a whirlwind, but it’s actually a great time to start preparing if you’re considering a new home. While many buyers wait until the new year, you can get ahead by checking your finances now. Consider setting aside some of that holiday budget to begin saving for your deposit or any moving costs. If you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to offer free consultations, even during the busy season.

2 Get ‘Prepped’ for January

Many mortgage advisers (including us here at Path Mortgages) offer guidance on budgeting, credit checks, and paperwork before the big January rush. This way, you’re ready to

start house-hunting or remortgaging as soon as possible. Remember, Spring is traditionally busy in the property market, so getting prepared early is a great way to get ahead of the crowd.

3 Christmas Costs vs. Long-Term Goals

While it’s tempting to splurge on Christmas gifts, bear in mind your financial goals for 2025. If you’re hoping to buy or remortgage soon, try not to stretch your credit too far. Little things like managing credit card usage can help boost your credit rating and improve your mortgage options in the long run.

4 Enjoy Your Current Home

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the here and now! Decorate to your heart’s content, spend quality time with loved ones, and maybe even take a stroll through the twinkling lights of Market Deeping. A happy home now means you’re even better prepared for an exciting new home journey in the future.

So, from all of us at Path Mortgages,

What’s available in December...

We can provide you with your complete Christmas dinner & much more! Order your turkey & all your festive favourites from Grasmere Farm’s butchery counter & order a veg box to go with it, filled with home grown and locally grown seasonal vegetables. We’ve plenty of treats available, as well as locally made Christmas cakes. Take a break & sample our Festive menu in the Café. Don’t forget that bird food, feeders & accessories make a great gift too!

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

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

CHRISTMAS

NOVELTY HUNT

WIN £50 CASH

Match the correct festive novelties with those placed in participating shop windows and win £50 cash!

Linchfield Community Primary School

Roots to Food

All children from Foundation to Key Stage 2 took part within our yearly “Roots to Food” workshops. The session focused upon healthy nutritional techniques, cooking a chicken Szechuan with different ingredients. The children focused on techniques such as chopping, steaming, mixing and frying. Every plate was empty when the children got to taste the finished dish! If you can make the meal at home, please bring in a picture to share. Thank you again to chef Darren for all his help!

Hallowe’en Discos

Once again, the FLS (Friends of Linchfield School) did an amazing job of organising the Hallowe’en Discos for the whole school. The children looked fantastic in their costumes, they were extremely well behaved, and they all thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Thank you to the FLS for organising this successful event and thank you to the staff who helped to ensure that the children were happy and safe.

Year 3 Poetry

Lynda Hall visited from the local Deeping Library to witness a Year 3 calligram poetry showcase. Lynda shared some poems and discussed her favourite authors. We look forward to visiting the library soon!

Flat Roofs

Tile & Slate Roofs

Leadwork

Re-pointing Chimney Stacks

Valleys Repaired

New PVC Fascias & Gutters

Festive Finances!

For December’s issue, let’s take a moment to review key changes announced in the UK’s Autumn Budget under the new Labour government. As we wrap up the year, these are updates which may impact how you approach your financial planning in 2025 and beyond. Here’s what you need to know:

Capital Gains Tax

One of the most significant changes in the Budget was the increase in Capital Gains Tax (CGT) rates. The lower rate has risen from 10% to 18%, and the higher rate from 20% to 24%. This change, effective immediately, will impact individuals and investors selling assets like shares and property.

Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) is a relief that gives business owners a lower tax burden when they dispose of qualifying business assets. This has remained, with a lifetime allowance of £1 million. However, the applicable rate of CGT will increase from 10% to 14% from 6 April 2025 and go up to 18% from April 2026.

Pensions will be included in an estate’s taxable value, marking a shift from previous rules where pensions could be passed on tax-free

beneficiaries who inherit pensions after this age will also pay Income Tax on death benefits at their marginal rate.

Implications for Farmers and Business Owners

The budget introduced targeted reforms to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR), which are key for farmers and small business owners. Under the new rules, the first £1 million of business or agricultural assets remains exempt from IHT, but any amount exceeding this threshold will be taxed at a reduced 20% rate (after a 50% relief).

Inheritance Tax on Pensions

Starting from April 2027, pensions left to heirs will be subject to Inheritance Tax (IHT). This means pensions will be included in an estate’s taxable value, marking a shift from previous rules where pensions could be passed on tax-free. The move is expected to generate over £2 billion in revenue, though it may prompt individuals to review their estate planning to mitigate future tax impacts. This will become a particularly important area of planning for those over the age of 75, as

What next?

With these changes in mind, now could be a good time to assess your financial plans. There were many other announcements not covered here, so scan the QR code to schedule a free initial 30-minute consultation with me to explore how you might adapt to the new landscape.

A very Happy Christmas and a healthy, prosperous New Year to you all.

with Rob Schwarz

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Consumer Advice

Solar Panel Cleaning

Solar Panel

Bird Proofing

By Eileen Le Voi at Safe Local Trades

With almost nine in ten of us making at least one purchase online last year, online shopping has never been more popular, and parcel piracy (at it has become known) looks set to peak over the next few weeks.

Recent ﬁgures from Cambridgeshire Constabulary show some 189 porch thefts were reported to them over a 12-month period. The total reported value of the stolen items amounted to £33,729.74 and the average value of the items stolen was £178.46.

Opportunistic thieves are making off with goods, potentially worth hundreds of pounds at a time, after spotting boxes dropped off at homes by couriers during the day when their recipients are not in.

How to reduce the risk of doorstep theft:

• Track your parcel to ensure you or someone else is at home for the delivery.

• Install a video doorbell; this can be connected to your mobile, so you are notiﬁed immediately of any delivery, and is easier to install than a full CCTV system.

• Arrange for your parcel to be delivered to a trusted neighbour, or other family members.

• Opt for your parcel to be delivered to a secure off-site locker (Amazon and In Post are among the most popular) or arrange for your parcel to be couriered to a supermarket or post ofﬁce.

• If you agreed for your parcel to be left “in a safe place” and it’s then stolen, it’s your responsibility. However, the potential for misery can start even before the parcel is delivered.

How to spot a parcel delivery scam:

• Check the number. A scam text message will often arrive as a mobile number, rather than from an ofﬁcial source.

• Scams are often vague and won’t be speciﬁc about where the parcel is coming from, or what’s inside.

• A common way to spot a scam is spelling errors –check for mistakes or broken English. You may also see exclamation marks or strange capitalisation on fraudulent messages.

• Royal Mail will never use text or email to collect fees. If your message is from Royal Mail and it’s asking you to pay a fee, you can be sure it’s a scam.

If you receive a ‘missed parcel’ message that looks suspicious, you can report it to your mobile operator. Reporting a scam is easy – don’t open the message, just forward it to 7726, a free spam-reporting service provided by phone operators. Once reported, you can simply delete the message.

Have a very safe shopping period and wishing you a wonderful Christmas.

Our beautiful bedroom range covers everything from cool and contemporary to the classic and timeless. High sheen finishes, natural wood veneers, mirrored doors and sliding wardrobes. The options are endless and we now manufactor for our own carcasses enabling us to offer complete flexibility when it comes to size and function. Brilliantly designed, expertly crafted, every piece of furniture is made to measure for your own room. Storage has never looked so good.

Handmade

Vertical,

Conservatory

Perfect

Awnings and Canopies

Child

Curtain

Opening

Telephone

We offer highly qualified Financial Advice on a wide range of planning areas including: Investments ✦ Pensions Mortgages ✦ Wills Lasting Powers of Attorney ✦ Inheritance Tax Business Planning ✦ Cashflow Modelling

Our goal is to build long-term relationships with every one of our clients. We take the time to get to know our clients and to understand their objectives and priorities. We know that the world of financial services is complex and can sometimes feel daunting. We will work for you in simplifying the process and we will communicate with you in terms that you will understand.

If you would like to speak to one of our advisers regarding any of these areas of financial planning, then please contact our office to arrange a FREE initial discussion as follows:

Phone: 01778 342291

Email: advice@liberty-partnership.co.uk www.liberty-partnership.co.uk

Wills

Why do I need a will?

Wills are important to ensure that your assets pass to those you would like. If you are not married, your partner will not automatically inherit your estate.

If you have children, you can also use a will to nominate guardians to ensure they are looked after if the worst may happen.

Lasting Powers of Attorney

What are they?

Lasting Powers of Attorneys (LPAs) are documents that allow someone that you nominate as your attorney, to deal with your financial or health affairs on your behalf.

These are used when you lose mental capacity but must be created while you can still make decisions. If you do not create these in time, then unfortunately the solution is more costly and time consuming.

Probate

What is it?

When a person sadly passes away, some banks and institutes require a Grant of Probate to enable you to collect in their assets. If you are selling a house, a solicitor will require this to complete the sale.

We are licensed to assist with the probate application on your behalf, as well as distribute the estate, making everything simpler at this difficult time.

What's On

Events: December 2024

1st - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Open Event during Deeping Christmas Market 10am- 2pm. Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street, Market Deeping. PE6 8AN. Why not pop in and try your hand at our tombola and find out more about us? Raising funds for Three Counties Dog Rescue. Free crafts for children.

1st - Open mic at The Hare and Hounds, Haconby, 8pm. PA and soundman provided - hosted by Nick Gomm - 01778 57142.

2nd - Deeping St James WI will be hosting a Carol Service at the Priory Church, Deeping St James at 2pm. Everyone is welcome to join us.

3rd - Surprise Christmas Bingo! 2pm at Oddfellows Hall, 57 Church Street. PE6 8AN. £1 for a book of 10 games. Includes Christmas refreshments. Contact Jenny to pre-book on 07788 534290

3rd - First Tuesday of every month, Dementia Support South Lincs Coffee Afternoon from 1.30pm - 3.30pm at Deeping Community Centre.

4th - The Deeping Men’s Group Charity Fund’s November talk by John Dewis is entitled “People of Peterborough”: 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. And there’s BEER!

4th and11th - Deepings Camera Club, 7.30pm9.30pm at Deepings Community Centre, Douglas Road, PE6 8PA. Now in their 40th year, they enjoy friendly competitions, presentations with stunning images from top photographers, and much more. Visitors are always very welcome - your interest in photography is more important than ability. See our programme and get in touch at www. deepingscamera.club Re-opens on Jan 8th, every Wednesday until mid-May.

5th - Baston Church soup lunch in church, if building works are complete! 12noon to 1.30pm in church. £6.50 per adult for a bowl of homemade soup, roll and butter, followed by a hot dessert with custard. Tea or coffee to finish. Phone 07471 198497 to check we are going ahead.

6th - Glinton Horticultural Society Christmas Evening. Main course and dessert, bring your own drinks and glasses. Quiz, raffle etc. Cost £9 members, £10 visitors. Book your tickets -lynne.best89@yahoo.co.uk or 01778 342115. All welcome.

6th - Parkway Club, Maskew Avenue, Peterborough presents an evening of entertainment from impressionist, Christopher Gee; vocalist, Simon Paul

(ex Union Gap UK); fantastic ’60s harmony band, The Denotones and The Bullionaire Disco. Tickets £14 available from the Club bar or by phoning 07771 758142. Doors Open 7pm. Hot food available, raffle and Secret Santa.

7th, 14th and 21st - Deepings Library will be hosting craft stalls during opening hours.

7th - Bourne Old Town Hall will be open for their traditional ‘Mince Pies and Mulled Wine’. Students from Bourne Academy and Bourne Grammar School will be entertaining you with music and song during the day. Why not come in from the cold and enjoy a glass of warming mulled wine? Open from 11am5pm. All proceeds will go towards Bourne OldTown Hall Trust renovation project.

7th - Elton John Experience at Ron Dawson Memorial Hall, Corby Glen, NG33 4NU. A remarkable Elton John lookalike and soundalike, Elite Elton’s solo tribute act performs live piano with professional musician backing tracks. 7pm Tickets £13 – discounts for groups. Box office www.ticketsource.co.uk/ events-corby-glen

8th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Carol Service at Oddfellows Hall. PE6 8AN. 3pm. Free to attend, but please bring a plate of food to share. Book with Brian on 01778 423332.

8th - Second Sunday Singaround (songs and tunes) 7.30pm at the Hare and Hounds, Haconby, hosted by Dean and Jen Hardy - 07788 410530.

10th - Deeping Ladies Coffee Club will be celebrating Christmas at their meeting at the Priory Church Hall, Church Street, DSJ. Doors open at 10am.

10th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows business meeting at Oddfellows Hall at 10.30am. Free to attend and open to members. Book on 01778 342006 with the office.

12th - The Arts Society Peterborough’s monthly talk ‘What is an original print?’ with Dr Susan Owens, Curator of Paintings at the V&A Museum, is at The Fleet, PE2 4 DL. Some of the best-known works by the world’s greatest artists are prints. Surprisingly, little is generally known about the subject. Using examples by the greatest masters, this talk de-mystifies the idea of the ‘original print’ and offers clear explanations of the processes involved in printmaking techniques such as engraving, etching, wood-engraving, woodcutting and lithography. Doors open at 10.15am for coffee and a chat, the talk starts at 10.45am and lasts an hour. All are welcome, so why not come and

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

join us? For more details of how to join the society, visit: www.the-arts-society-peterborough.org.uk.

13th - Deepings Heritage present a talk “The Wise Woman - Spells and Witchcraft” by Chris Carr at 7.30 pm in the main hall of the Community Centre, Market Deeping. Everyone welcome. Admission £3.

14th - Deepings Library, Storytime and selfies with Santa and Mrs Claus between 2pm - 5pm. Cost £4.50 per child.

14th - Christmas Fayre and Santa’s Grotto at Twenty Village Hall, Station Road, Twenty PE10 0AZ. 11am5pm.

18th - Bourne Organ Club. This month Matthew Bason. 7.30pm at Bourne Corn Exchange. Tickets on the door- £7 members, £8 visitors. Everyone welcome. Call 01778 424947.

18th - Nene and Welland Oddfellows Friendship Christmas Lunch at the Crown Inn in Surfleet. 12.30pm. Cost as per menu. Contact Christine for further details and to book on 07714 096801.

19th - Stamford’s popular community choir, Woven Chords, led by talented musical director, Graham Dale, will be back on stage in the Stamford Arts Centre ballroom. Specialising in ‘a cappella’ (unaccompanied) songs, and often singing in the original languages, they aim to take the audience around the world with songs from Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. Enjoy their glorious harmonies, be uplifted and filled with seasonal cheer. 8pm tickets £10 from www.stamfordartscentre.com, 01780 763203 or on the door.

19th - Traditional music and song at The Barn in Baston at 8pm. Christmas Show with Magpie Lane, a 5-piece folk band based in Oxford, who perform traditional English music and songs. Tonight, they will be performing a programme of seasonal songs and music. Admission is £15 (cash please), unreserved seating, bring your own drinks. Phone 01778 560497 and talk to Alan or Maggie to check availability or make a reservation.

21st - St Michael’s Church, Langtoft will be holding their annual ‘Festive Trees and Treats’ event from 10am -2pm. Lots of Christmas trees, various stalls, bacon butties, soup and cake. All welcome.

KEEP FIT CLASSES

Every Wednesday morning 10am -11.30am

Keep fit classes at the Coronation Hall. For more information, call Michele 07746 828920.

Imagine Dry Carpet Cleaning

Alice at the Guildhall

In 1332, when a list of Deeping taxpayers was compiled, not everyone had a hereditary surname. Some were identified by their jobs, like John the Blacksmith and Hugh the Cook, or where they lived, like Robert by the Bridge and Alice at the Guildhall.

The main purpose of medieval guilds was to pray for the souls of members who died, in the belief that it would ease their entry into heaven. “Brothers and sisters” contributed towards the cost of a guild priest, and money was also raised by feasts held in the guildhall. It is likely that Alice looked after the hall, preparing the food and possibly brewing. Contents of a later guildhall at Deeping St James included a large chest for storing flour or corn, a chopping block and a stand to hold a cask of ale, as well as stools, forms and a bedstead.

Market Deeping had two guildhalls. One dedicated to All Saints, stood near the corner of Towngate West, next to the stone cross which dates from the 14th century. The building shown opposite the cross was once a public house known as The Angel and was demolished when the road was widened around 1960. The other guild of the Blessed Virgin Mary had its hall in Church Street.

There was also a guild chapel in St Guthlac’s Church where candles would be lit to commemorate saints’ days and festivals. Belonging to a religious guild gave church-goers extra benefits. They were assured a decent burial if unable to pay, and received assistance in times of need, as well as joining in social activities and ceremonies. Only seven years after Alice was listed at the guildhall, the plague, known as the Black Death, spread to Lincolnshire. There is no record of people who died in Deeping, but the guilds survived and acquired more property in the village by bequests and gifts from members.

In the mid 1500s, when images of saints and the practice of saying mass for the dead were forbidden by the Church of England, parish guilds closed down. Their land and buildings were confiscated, to be used for secular and charitable purposes. Towngate’s guildhall was used as a barn, and the Church Street hall became a free school for boys. Charity trustees, known as feoffees, managed the properties, and a re-built Endowed School continued on the site until 1966.

Towngate and Deeping St James retained their guild tradition of annual feasts until the early 20th century. Families gathered to enjoy special meals and entertainment, with fairground rides in the streets.

Towngate’s medieval cross, opposite the former Angel public house

Endowed School (right, foreground) in Church Street, 1860s

Email: enquiries@tradelinkinstallations.co.uk

Website: www.tradelinkinstallations.co.uk

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HOUSE REMOVALS BY

DEEPING CAR & VAN HIRE BOX SHOP

Are you looking to move house ?

Look no further than our professional, affordable and reliable house removal service

Rest assured all of your items will be fully protected ensuring they arrive safely at your new home.

✓ Dedicated team of removers

✓ Dedicated vehicles

✓ Protective equipment always used

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Call our friendly team now for a free quotation

Let us take the stress out of moving

We have a brand new box shop open providing all your packaging and material needs.

We sell the following items:

✓ Boxes ✓ Wardrobe Boxes

✓ Bubble Wrap ✓ Wrapping Paper

✓ Tapes ✓All other accessories

Available to purchase individually or as a bundle.

Feel free to pop into our shop or alternatively give us a call.

I’m Gareth, owner of Stamford Property Maintenance.

With over thirty years of experience as an electrician, I’ve made it my mission to bring dependable, highquality property services to Stamford, Deeping, Bourne, and the surrounding area. Fully insured and NICEIC accredited, I work with local homeowners and businesses to keep things running smoothly and safely, whether it’s rewiring, installations, testing, or smaller troubleshooting jobs.

I live in Stamford with my wife, Cheryl, and our lively dog, Dolly. When I’m not with clients, I like to unwind at the local gym, and

● Installations, from wiring and

● Fuse board consumer unit replacements

● Troubleshooting, fault finding and repairs

● EICR and PAT testing

● Handyman services

● Locksmith

when I find some downtime, you’ll often spot me behind a camera lens or flying my drone, capturing new perspectives of our beautiful area.

In addition to electrical work, I offer a range of handyman services to tackle essential property upkeep and repairs,

from fixing cracks and holes to clearing gutters and everything in-between. I also provide locksmith services, like lock repairs and replacements.

Whether it’s a quick fix or a major project, I’m here to make life a little easier!