Discovering March issue 126, March 2024

Issue 126 / March 2024

and the surrounding villages

WIN TICKETS TO THE

Spring Makeover?

Visit Goddens’ New Showroom

East Anglian Game & Country Fair

Spring Clearout?

There Could Be Cash in Your Attic

Your favourite community lifestyle magazine – PRICELESS

A FANTASTIC RANGE OF DESIGNS FROM CONTEMPORARY TO CLASSIC

A WO R L D O F C H O I C E AT R EED S UNBEATABLE PRICES FROM A FAMILY BUSINESS YOU CAN TRUST!

SOFAS | CHAIRS | FURNITURE | BEDS | MATTRESSES | FLOORING | CURTAINS | BLINDS AND MORE! Opening Times: Mon – Sat 9am to 5pm in Downham and Ely | Sunday 10am to 4pm in Ely only Visit the café in our Downham Market Store where delicious food and drink awaits you.

Check out our website reedshomestore.co.uk

|

Find us on facebook for the latest updates

REEDS Furniture, Flooring, Bed Centre & Homestore, Bridge Street, Downham Market PE38 9DS T: 01366 382213 REEDS Furniture, Flooring & Bed Centre, Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely CB6 3NX T: 01353 669754 2

D I S C O V E R I N G March

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Welcome to your March issue...

T

his is the favourite month for many of us mums. On the one hand, it gives us the opportunity to thank our wonderful mothers on their special day, (this year March 10th) for everything they do for us and for ‘providing the glue’ to keep the happy family together.

Some of us whose mothers are no longer with us (and this being our second Mother’s Day without our dear mum) can take time to remember fondly all those times when she turned out to have been right all along … but forgave us anyway!

On the other hand, of course, it’s the time when we mothers are allotted by our partners and families a full day of doing nothing, a whole day in which we are spoilt rotten with flowers, chocolates, and perfume. Tell me if you think I’m dropping too big a hint here!

Enjoy the day... whatever form it may take.

Claire x

This month sees the advent of Easter when Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the dead.

Alongside the religious festival, many workers will also look forward to the event as it represents the first Bank Holiday since the New Year.

It is a time when families often get together and, of course, it is also synonymous with the giving of Easter eggs, a custom which is believed to have originated in Persia.

Now, however it is associated with chocolate and I recall when my own children were young spending time hiding eggs in the garden for them to find. Their enjoyment was disproportionate to the size of the mini eggs but they loved to hunt for them... and still would today.

Talking about confectionery. The news has just been announced that Nestle is withdrawing the Breakaway biscuit. I’m so old I remember Breakaway being introduced and the TV adverts featuring Monty Python star Eric Idle in the 1970s.

Although I haven’t eaten one for years, I haven’t been as shocked since they changed the name of Marathon bars to Snickers...

Andy

Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET Publisher and Sales Claire Saberton: 01778 421427 | 07837 499061 | sales@discoveringmagazines.co.uk Sales Paula Kirtland: 07903 776211 | marketing.discoveringmagazines@gmail.com Sales Sallyanne Davis: 07737 026594 | sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk Editor Andy Hurst: editor.march@discoveringmagazines.co.uk Ops Director Andy Armstrong: 07780 922214 Accounts Sarah Brooks: 07564 966452 | accounts@discoveringmagazines.co.uk Design Sarah Gumbley | Andy Beavis | Graham Copestake | Richard Hallam

Inside Highlights 6 ................. Gardening Tips For March 10 ............. ColourFence 16 ............... Safe Local Trades 18 .............. Lincolnshire Resin Drives Ltd 23 ............. Goddens: New Showroom Open 26-27 ... Community Matters 30 ........... Diamond Byte 32-33 .... Have You Got Cash In Your Attic?

34-35 .... Game & Country Fair: Win Tickets!

36 ............. Connecting With The Spirit World 40 ............. Vine Law 44 ............. March Heritage Buildings 46 ............ Good Friday: Why Do We Eat Fish?

48 ............. Steve Barclay MP 50 ........... Wild About March 52 ............. Six Free Easter Activities For Kids 54 ............. History With March Museum 56 ............. Mother’s Day Quiz 59-61 ...... Business Directory

With thanks to The Shed Shop, Eileen Le Voi, Diamond Byte, March Podiatry, Vine Law, Jennifer Lawler, Steve Barclay MP, Joan Munns, Lin Stanton and Peter Wright.

Deadline details Copy deadline for the April issue is Friday, 15th March 2024.

Discovering March 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.

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

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4

D I S C O V E R I N G March

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Your Garden

D

ays are starting to lengthen Other jobs – too numerous to mention them all! and, with the clocks going • Lettuces and other salad crops can be sown either indoors or outdoors under cloches or forward at the end of the in cold frames. Tomato and cucumber month, there should be seeds can be sown indoors but wait until more time to spend on the end of the month. the allotment.

You could, of course, use the extra daylight to create some raised beds, especially if your plot is on clay soil or if you wish to permanently separate the cultivated areas of your plot.

Make sure that the width does not exceed 3-4 feet(90-120cms), as you may have trouble reaching the centre. Some benefits of a raised bed are: less weeds, better drainage in areas with clay soils, more growing space, no soil compaction from human feet, warmer soil earlier in the season, longer growing season, better soil structure, improved germination of seeds, and earlier crops.

The fertility of the soil is paramount and keeping your soil at its best involves adding decaying plant matter such as compost or manure but, as a rule of thumb, split your plot into thirds: one third heavily enriched, good for potatoes, peas, beans etc and salad crops; one third topped with a mulch of good compost, which will suit onions, cabbages, leeks, broccoli etc; one third unenriched for root crops such as parsnips and carrots. If it is too well nourished, the tops may grow at the expense of the roots, and you may end up with “hairy carrots.”

The vegetable plot is a veritable smorgasbord for insects and pests. Have you thought about putting up bird boxes or bird feeders to attract the birds who will in turn eat the pests?

• Sow Brussels sprouts, cabbage, sprouting broccoli indoors and, to take full advantage of the ripening season, sow aubergines, chillies, and peppers indoors.

• Herbs such as rosemary and sage will benefit from a good trim, and chives and mint can be propagated by dividing them and re-planting.

• Plant out onion and shallot sets – last chance to plant garlic.

• Early varieties of carrot, beetroot, spring onions, peas, chard, parsnips, spinach, and broad beans can be sown into the open ground but may need to be under cover.

• Last chance for planting bare-rooted fruit trees and bushes.

• Feed and mulch fruit trees – fertilise the base, water in and then cover with wellrotted manure or compost to act as a mulch.

• Remove dead leaves from cabbages and Brussels.

• Don’t forget to feed your over-wintered crops such as onions, kale, spring cabbage – use blood, fish and bone meal, chicken manure or seaweed–based organic fertiliser.

• Prepare seed beds by raking over to a fine tilth and add fertiliser.

Happy planting!

Sheds • Concrete Garages THE Workshops • Fencing • Glass No4 Hand Planess SHED SHOP FeltANY• SIZE, ANY STYLE

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

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SUMM HOUSEER S M A R CH 2 0 2 4

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OPENING HOURS: MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9AM-5PM CLOSED SUNDAYS

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

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ColourFence A BEAUTIFUL BACKDROP TO YOUR SPRING GARDEN

T

he ColourFence range is maintenancefree, guaranteed for twenty-five years, withstands gusts of 130mph, fireproof and environmentally friendly.

Professionally installed for peace of mind ColourFence has installed more than 100,000 fences throughout the UK. There’s a choice of colours and now, new grey has been added to the range. Simply fit and forget! And you can choose either a plain or trellis top.

What do customers like best about ColourFence?

Sharone, Director of ColourFence Cambridge, explains: “Without a doubt, it’s the no-maintenance aspect of the fence and its longevity.

Additionally, the choice of colours gives the garden a beautiful and stylish backdrop.

Brown, green, blue, cream and new grey."

How much can fencing really change the look of a garden?

“It depends to a degree on the garden itself but in most residential gardens the fencing is one of the most prominent features, particularly in the autumn and winter as plants die back. A poorly maintained fence can easily make the whole garden look scruffy and uncared for. With ColourFence as a backdrop, your garden stays looking good all year round.”

Creating a perfect garden for spring can be a challenge when ravaged by the wind and winter weather. Over the past twenty years, ColourFence has been supplying and installing a fencing system like no other that reduces the impact of the changing seasons on gardens across the UK. 10

D I S C O V E R I N G March

Is ColourFence ‘weatherproof’?

• The answer is YES. • ColourFence is made of Colorbond™ steel.

• Colorbond™ steel requires no painting, and it will not rust, peel, rot or warp.

• ColourFence has been tested to stand up to wind gusts of 130 mph.

Our customers see ColourFence as weatherproof, because the winter storms do not leave them with a huge repair bill, and they do not need to paint or maintain the fence at all for the length of the twenty-five year guarantee*.

ColourFence can be supplied and installed by our team of professional installers, ensuring a professional job. Alternatively, we can supply products direct to individuals to arrange their own installations. Go green with our 100 percent recyclable product – say no to composite plastic and treated wood.

Please see our advert for more details and for a free no-obligation quote, contact Sharone on (01354) 800 034; www.colourfencecambs.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply

M A R CH 2 0 2 4

est. 2003

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01354 655200 info@aogwindows.co.uk

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Blinds in Harmony For all your Blinds, Curtains and Awnings

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Come & visit our showroom at 15 Market Place, Whittlesey, PE7 1AB Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10.00am to 4.00pm and Saturday 10.00am to 1.00pm

Telephone 0800 028 2942 or 01733 840258 • enquiries@blindsinharmony.co.uk

Visit us at www.blindsinharmony.co.uk M A RCH 2 0 24

D I S C O V E R I N G March

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TIRED OF ROOFERS LETTING YOU DOWN? NEED A QUOTE? NEED AN EMERGENCY REPAIR? NEED A TEAM YOU CAN TRUST? Look no further. We guarantee to attend your request within 48hrs.

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

15

Consumer Advice

How to See Clearly if Your Double Glazing Fails

By Eileen Le Voi at Safe Local Trades

For all your self-drive hire requirements CARS • VANS • LUTONS MINI BUSES (7 to 17 seats with seatbelts)

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Acole Plumbing Services Ltd Colin Ovenden

Service List

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• All general plumbing repairs undertaken big or small.

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• All domestic boiler fault finding undertaken both gas and oil.

• Landlord Gas Safety certificates • House purchase inspections of plumbing and heating

air

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• Central heating power flushing.

97 Nene Parade | March | Cambridgeshire 07759 768060 | 01354 650502 acoleplumbing@btinternet.com 16

D I S C O V E R I N G March

Window condensation is a common problem, especially in the colder months, when windows typically remain closed for long periods. When the seal on a double-glazed glass unit breaks down, or ‘fails’ as it is known in the industry, that condensation will get into the inside of the glass unit, resulting in misted double glazing which can be permanently trapped. If this is the case, it won’t only be the heat that is rising from your home, your energy bills could see a hike too.

So – what should you do at the first signs of condensation in your windows?

Internal condensation within the room can be prevented by opening your windows for a short period of time every day, or opening your window trickle vents if you have them, or making sure the room is adequately ventilated.

Double glazing is made by putting two panes of glass together with a thermally efficient spacer bar in between that is slightly smaller than the overall dimensions of the glass to form a gap between them. The glass is then sealed together using a hot melt adhesive to form a double-glazed unit.

The air trapped inside the two glasses (or gas for improved thermal efficiency) creates an insulating barrier that keeps heat in and the cold out. If the seal fails, and condensation gets trapped inside these two panes of glass, this can result in misted windows.

The message from Safe Local Trades double glazing experts is that the most common misconception is that a brand-new window is needed when the sealed unit fails, meaning that a lot of people put off having the unsightly misted window replaced due to cost.

It is also worth mentioning that broken sealed units are leaking expensive energy out from your home into the environment, making your heating system work harder than it needs to To repair this window, all that is required is a new double-glazed unit (providing the frame is in good condition), not the entire window. This unit can be fitted in minutes with minimal disruption!

Whatever your style of window, or concern, there is likely to be a solution. For more information on this and other double-glazing repairs, please visit www.safelocaltrades.com/PE/pe-central/ window-and-door-repairs/pe1 Other trades from our extensive range of tried and tested professionals can be found www.safelocaltrades.com M A R CH 2 0 2 4

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his 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.)

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.

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 bungalow cannot recommend highly enough.” (S.S.)

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

M A R CH 2 0 2 4

Resin,Block BlockPaving Paving &&Landscaping LandscapingSpecialist Specialistin inLincolnshire Lincolnshire Resin,

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

22Church ChurchSt, St,Holbeach, Holbeach,Spalding, Spalding,PE12 PE127LL 7LL 22

WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN TO DECORATE?

A

March painter and decorator is giving local householders the chance to learn new DIY skills by offering a series of ‘How to’ courses.

Rick Wollen, who has more than twenty years’ experience, plans to give the lessons in people’s homes so they can carry out their own improvements.

He plans to offer advice on painting and wall papering; step-by-step lessons in preparing a room; offer the use of his own equipment and give advice on what equipment to purchase; tricks of the trade; and practical lessons on how to fit coving, all helping to give homeowners the satisfaction of carrying out their own decorating work.

He said: “I have been thinking about providing courses for the past six months. My plan is to offer decorating lessons in people’s own homes, covering everything from how to prep and prepare a room through to painting and decorating.

“I used to successfully train apprentices in coach building and have a lot of patience when teaching people who want to learn a new skill. My plan is to offer my services at a day rate, say from 8.30am to 3.30pm. Obviously the length of time required to teach people will vary so I won’t have a set module but I expect to be able to teach most people the skills they need in two to three days.”

Rick said that although people can learn new skills on YouTube it is not the same as having someone in person showing them how to do it.

He added: “I will go through everything stepby-step, giving advice about the importance of sheeting up, rubbing down and how to set up a room for papering etc. I will stress the importance of things like fully taking down curtains or blinds and covering the carpet properly as sometimes people think you don’t need to do it because it is too much trouble, but it really does pay dividends.”

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

Rick is joined in his RW Home Improvements business by his wife Jan who works three days a week.

Jan didn’t know anything about painting or papering when she started with me, but since I taught her, she is now able to work on her own with confidence.

The new ‘how to’ courses will run alongside his usual decorating business with most new customers being attracted via adverts and articles in Discovering March magazine.

The company offers all quotes in writing, so there is no misunderstanding, and usually only gives quotes, not estimates so customers know exactly what they are expected to pay. In addition, there are no hidden charges and no VAT, with the cost of materials and labour clearly listed.

Rick said: ”It is amazing how many people contact us after reading about the business in the magazine. It really works for us.”

RW Home Improvements is based at 27 Breton Avenue, March PE15 9EY. Tel: (01354) 629281 or 07817 216067; Email: rwhomeimprovements@ hotmail.co.uk; Facebook: RW Home Improvements M A R CH 2 0 2 4

RW Home Improvements Laminate Flooring • Painting and Decorating • Decking • Coving Fit Internal Doors • Power Wash Patios and Conservatories Fencing and Shed Repairs • Assemble Flat Pack Furniture Fit Curtain Poles, Mirrors and Pictures • Wall Mount TVs Insurance Work Undertaken and so much more!

Husband and Wife Team NO VAT ON LABOUR

We very much look forward to meeting you for a FREE no-obligation quote and advice

20 01354 629281 • 07817 216067 Rick & Jan Wollen, 27 Breton Avenue, March PE15 9EY

rwhomeimprovements@hotmail.co.uk RW Home Improvements

M A RCH 2 0 24

www.marchhandyman.com D I S C O V E R I N G March

21

Whether you are saving for a specific goal, or just to

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are here to advise you through the different stages of your life.

Our aim is to educate our clients when it comes to their financial situation and make things easier for them. This is why we

will always explain the advice in plain language with no jargon.

We have a strong belief in reviewing your circumstances to

help meet any changing needs. We have regular meetings with

our clients so that we can discuss and explain performance, tax implications and make any changes as and when required.

“I understand that the subject of financial planning can have the potential to be daunting and confusing, which is why no matter who you come into contact with at Mayflower, we ensure that all our clients are dealt with in a respectful, confidential, and compassionate manner”.

Ashlie Barnard, Director

PENSIONS | INVESTMENTS | INHERITANCE TAX PLANNING BUSINESS EXIT STRATEGIES | CARE FEES PLANNING | PROTECTION

88 High Street, March, PE15 9LD | 01354 278088 The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested. The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. The value of any tax relief generally depends on individual circumstances.

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

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TOM WESTBROOK Installation & Repairs Specialist TRUSTED IN THE TRADE FOR OVER 25 YEARS

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COMMUNITY

MATTERS

We bring you items of interest for your home and community. If there is something you’d like us to cover or you have something to say please get in touch at: Discovering March, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET Email: editor.march@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

FREE FENLAND ACTIVITY SESSIONS A wide variety of events are on offer for families with young children in Fenland.

Beginners’ circuits sessions are taking place in March and dates have also been confirmed for no-cost tea dances across the district with free entry and refreshments, and a half-an-hour beginners’ dance tutorial before the main all-ability event.

ARIA COURT CARE HOME ACHIEVES FIVE-STAR FOOD HYGIENE RATING Aria Court Care Home in March is delighted to have retained a perfect 5-star score in its latest Environmental Health Officer (EHO) inspection. The efforts of the Aria Court team have ensured that the home is meeting the stringent criteria set by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).

The FSA's coveted five-star rating is a testament to a business's commitment to impeccable standards in three key areas – the hygienic handling of food, the physical condition of the premises, and the overall management of food safety. Businesses are thoroughly scrutinised in various aspects during an inspection, including cleanliness, layout, lighting, ventilation, and pest control. The evaluation also extends to examining processes, training programmes, and systems implemented to ensure the maintenance of optimal hygiene standards.

Abhilash Gopi, the home manager at Aria Court, expressed his appreciation for the team's efforts, stating, "Aria’s kitchen team continues to deliver exceptional home-cooked food for our residents, while collecting numerous awards."

He highlighted a recent initiative, 'chef’s table,' an interactive session where residents actively participate in creating and taste-testing a variety of dishes that the kitchen team is trialling.

Photo: The Aria kitchen team celebrates its 5-star rating 26

D I S C O V E R I N G March

The sessions are all part of the programme offered and supported by Fenland District Council’s Active Fenland, which secures grant funding to provide opportunities for people to live more active lives.

Cllr Alex Miscandlon, Fenland District Council portfolio holder for leisure, said: “Active Fenland does an absolutely marvellous job of delivering activities across the district, with more and more opportunities for our whole community to get involved in something active.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re older, younger, not used to exercise, worried about your weight or not very mobile, Active Fenland offers something for you. We’d urge people to see what’s on offer and to sign up. You’ll be made welcome, and your needs met.”

Beginners’ circuits are taking place at George Campbell Leisure Centre, City Road, March on Wednesdays, from 8pm to 9pm while tea dances will be held at March Braza Club, Elm Road, on Friday, May 31st, and Friday, August 2nd. Times: 1.30pm to 2pm (free dance tuition), 2pm to 4pm main event.

Sign up at: www.fenland.gov.uk/ activefenlandbookingform

FENTASTIC BAND DATE The band that gave the world the anthem ‘Girl from The Fens’ is appearing in March on Friday, March 1st.

The Ouse Valley Singles Club will play March United Services Club in New Road for the first time. Tickets are available in advance from the club and also from seetickets.com and on the door.

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said: “We’re delighted with the amount of interest in the first round of our Fenland Culture Fund and the large number of applications. The recipients capture the breadth and depth of cultural excellence in Fenland and reflect a growing recognition of the role that arts, culture and heritage can play in the vibrancy and economic prosperity of Fenland and the good health and wellbeing of our communities.”

Local recipients include:

GRANTS AWARDED TO FENLAND ARTS, CULTURE AND HERITAGE ORGANISATIONS Local artists, museums and festivals are among nineteen organisations set to receive a share of more than £34,000 from the first round of the Fenland Culture Fund, boosting arts, culture and heritage across the district.

The inaugural recipients have each received a grant of up to £2000 to help develop local talent and deliver a range of cultural projects and activities to people across the district.

Fenland District Council received fantastic applications from forty-two community groups and individuals representing all corners of Fenland.

Due to the quality and high number of applications, more than £11,000 of extra funding was made available in addition to the original £23,000 grant pot, to allow as many projects to go ahead as possible.

Given the high quality of the remaining projects that applied for funding, work will be undertaken to signpost groups to other opportunities to progress their ideas where possible. They will also be invited to apply for the second round of the Fenland Culture Fund when it opens later this year.

The Fenland Culture Fund was launched in October 2023 with the aim of supporting the district’s diverse creative sector while providing more opportunities for people to access and experience arts and culture in Fenland. It also supports the delivery of the district’s creativity and culture strategy.

Cllr Chris Seaton, Fenland District Council’s portfolio holder responsible for arts, culture and heritage, M A RCH 2 0 24

• Dance tutor Teigan Liebscher, of March-based Teapots Dance Company – to help fund delivery of ‘You Can Dance’, a new series of free dance classes to be offered to primary schools in March for children with additional physical and emotional needs. Funding will also be used for bursaries to enable children to attend additional dance classes outside of school.

• Sarah Starr, Neale Wade Academy, March – to deliver a student workshop with Mandinga Arts at Neale Wade, creating a Dragon’s Head for the St George’s Festival parade, taking place in March on April 21st, 2024.

• Godfrey Smith, Fenland Arts Association – to deliver banner and pennant screen-printing workshops for St George’s Festival in March.

• Maureen Davis, Wimblington Parish Council – to commission a local artist to paint the pavilion and toilet block at the War Memorial Playing Field with graffiti-style murals, and work with young people in the community to see what murals they would like to see.

BUSINESSES URGED TO BID FOR £400K OF FUNDS Business owners and people with a plan for a new start-up in Fenland can apply for a slice of a grant pot totalling £400,000.

Two new Fenland grant schemes are now open for bids, with a total of £150,000 earmarked to support start-up businesses in the district and £250k to help established businesses of all sizes thrive and ultimately sustain and create jobs.

The grants are being delivered by Fenland District Council's economic growth team Fenland for Business. They're funded by the UK Government's Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) Shared Prosperity Fund thanks to a successful bid by Fenland District Council in partnership with Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA).

D I S C O V E R I N G March

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iamond Byte Solutions is thrilled to be taking the business to the next level and has opened a new retail unit at Bambers - Pondworld Retail Park, Lynn Road in Wisbech.

Diamond Byte offers top-quality IT support, and our aim is to provide a first-class customer experience. We are incredibly proud of our dedication to providing an outstanding service as well as competitive pricing and user-friendly support options.

The business was established in 2008, although Philip, our director, has more than twenty-five years’ experience in the IT industry. Being a family-run business means that we will always offer a personal touch and ensure that we put the needs of the customer first.

value for money but also an environmentally friendly option.

Our refurbished laptops and desktops are expertly restored and come with a six or twelve month guarantee. We can build new custom desktops from cheap and cheerful desktops for simple surfing and shopping to more powerful ones for editing photographs and videos, all with a minimum of two-year warranty.

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We use the latest technology from reputable brands such as

Intel, AMD, and Nvidia so that you can play your favourite games in the highest settings possible. We will work with you to configure a gaming PC to your exact requirements at competitive prices using our instore PC Builder website, which offers over a trillion different combinations.

Our retail unit is of course open for you to bring in your computers for repair. We work hard to diagnose problems and to get desktops and laptops fixed as quickly and as professionally as possible. Our services include (but are not limited to) virus removal, software and hardware issues, data recovery, system back-ups, and we will always gladly offer advice on how to take care of your device.

We will continue to offer call-out services should you be unable to travel to us.

Our new retail unit offers a range of both new and good-quality refurbished laptops and desktops, the latter being not only great

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Come along to our Antique Roadshow – if the offer is OK, flog it!

So come on down, this is the Real Deal! From scrap gold to the finest antique jewellery, we’ll take it. We purchase all quality watches and jewellery – gold and silver is at an all-time high, so cash in.

From old silver coins to antique silver tea sets, we want them all.

WANTED – all Aviator diver/military watches. Best price paid.

M A RCH 2 0 24

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20th Anniversary Show

T

he East Anglian Game & Country Fair will take place on Saturday, April 27th and Sunday, April 28th, 2024 at the prestigious Euston Estate, home to The Duke and Duchess of Grafton, situated just off the A11 at Elveden, on the Norfolk/Suffolk border.

This two-day event welcomes world class attractions each year. Main Arena displays confirmed for this year’s show include ‘The Squibb Freestyle Motocross Show’, performing breath-taking jumps and stunts mid-air. Jamie Squibb will also be available after each performance to meet his followers and have photos taken with the Squibb Freestyle Team.

The highly popular and entertaining ‘Dog and Duck Show’ return to the show once more, and firm favourites the Horseboarding UK Championships will be filmed and broadcast live from the arena, showcasing how speed, agility and bravery are all essential ingredients in this addictive spectacle.

There’s a fantastic line up of more free events to watch across the show including the much-loved British Scurry and Trials Driving Championships, Lowestoft Dog Agility Display Team, Gun Dog displays, Fishing demonstrations with World Champion Fly Caster Hywel Morgan, the hilarious Sheep Show, Traditional Ferreting Demonstrations with Simon Whitehead, live craft demonstrations and much more!

Have a go at a range of country activities from clay shooting with John Bidwell’s High Lodge instructors (or enter the forty-bird shooting competition for men, women and juniors).

Visitors can try their hand at fly fishing and coarse fishing on the Black Bourn River. Archery, axe throwing and the air rifle range can also be enjoyed.

If your family’s dog likes the water, then why not enter them into the ‘Have a Go’ or the competition at the K9 Aqua Sports pool, (long jump into water!)?

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

The pet dog show is also a favourite with visitors and the vast array of dogs that love to come to the show, (so many classes to enter!)

There are more than 350 shopping stands with a wide variety of products from fashion and footwear to gun makers and fishing products. BASC will be among a number of national organisations on hand to discuss conservation, countryside pursuits and memberships. There are also many children’s activities, traditional fun fair, food and drink hall with Game Fair Country Kitchen, where talented chefs from across the East Anglian region showcase their culinary skills, craft and gift marquees and much more.

If you are interested in exhibiting, trade stand application forms can be downloaded from the event website. Please do take a look at the show highlights video; encapsulating what a fun family day out the show is, with something for everyone. https://youtu.be/ejPoo3qy9dA Advance discounted 2024 tickets are available to buy online at www.ukgamefair.co.uk or by calling the ticket hotline number (01263) 735 828 Adult £21, Children (5-16 Yrs) £8.00 and Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) £55. (Discounted ticket offer valid until midday 22/04/24) After this time tickets are available to buy on the gate at the 2024 onthe-day rates. Under 5s are free and car parking is free for all. (A small booking fee applies to phone bookings).

VIP Memberships and Camping weekend tickets also available at discounted rates if booked in advance. Visit our website for more information.

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CLOSING DATE: 31/03/2024 M A RCH 2 0 24

D I S C O V E R I N G March

35

C O N N EC T I N G W I T H the spirit world

People of all ages and backgrounds have consultations with March psychic and spiritual medium Lisa-Jane Checkley.

S

he carries out psychic and spiritual readings either in person or via skype/video calls and specialises in traditional tea leaf readings on vintage China, crystal ball, palmistry and tarot as well as working from photographs or objects (psychometry) to provide a spiritual link.

She said: “All sorts of people come to me, of all ages and careers, including a couple of famous people, who it would not be fair to name, who are actors. Sometimes people come to me in grief or come for spiritual guidance or they may come for advice or reassurance.

“I love what I do, sometimes it is uplifting and sometimes it is sad, but I love to help people connect with the spirit world.”

Lisa-Jane first became aware that she had ‘the gift’ when she began to ‘hear voices’ as a child, although at that time she thought that was normal.

She said: “I thought that everyone could hear voices. When it is natural to you, you think it is natural for everyone. It wasn’t until later that I realised that this was something that only a few people experience.

“I’m more likely to hear voices than see spirits walking around

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

but I am fortunate to be able to connect people to the spirit world.

Sometimes during readings there are big reactions and emotions and sometimes there is something very specific and personal to someone.”

Lisa-Jane says she shares this gift with her mother, Margaret, and her daughter Jessica.

She said: “It is definitely a family thing. I carry out traditional tea leaf readings on vintage China which is currently very popular, whereas a few years ago tarot was more popular. Working from photographs is also requested a lot, which could be of anything.

For example, I had someone come to me with photos of horses they wanted to know more about.

“Some readings provide a lot of information while others have two to three strong bits of information, you never know.”

As well as psychic and spiritual readings, Lisa offers divination, fortune telling, spiritual healing and house cleansing of negative energy, which is a very discrete service.

One-to-one readings cost £25 for a 45-minute session and Lisa-Jane also carries out party reading through her Snowflake Mediumship business.

You can contact Lisa-Jane at Snowflake Mediumship on (01354) 659845 or 07833 087473, and via Facebook.

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icrowave energy is widely used in a number of Microwave energy is widely used in a number Microwave energy is a Microwave energy is widely widely used used in intemperatures a number number Infected tissue can exist to elevate tissue temperatures of to of medical medical fields fieldsmedical to elevate elevate tissue tissuefields temperatures several millimetres below of medical fields to elevate tissue temperatures and create precise, localised cell destruction. and create precise, localised cell destruction. the surface and can often and create precise, localised cell destruction. and create precise, localised cell destruction. be difficult to treat using traditional methods,

Infected Infected tissue tissue can can exist exist Infectedmillimetres tissue can exist several several millimetres below below several millimetres below the the surface surface and and can can often often thedifficult surface and can often be be difficult to to treat treat using using be difficult to treat using traditional traditional methods, methods, traditional resulting in inmethods, either resulting either resulting in eitheror untreated untreated tissue tissue or untreated tissue or significant significant damage. damage. significant damage.

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MRK25, Issue 2

MarchPodiatry PodiatryPractice PracticeLtd Ltd March Podiatry March Practice Ltd 47-49 High Street, March PE15 9JJ 47-49 HighPE15 Street, 47-49 High Street, March 9JJMarch PE15 9JJ MRK25, MRK25, Issue Issue 2 2 MRK25, Issue 2

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39

LPAs: IT'S NEVER TOO SOON TO MAKE ONE WHAT?

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA ) are documents that you can put in place, giving permission to people that you trust to manage your financial affairs or to make decisions about your health and welfare, if you can’t make decisions for yourself.

WHY?

Without an LPA, the actions that can be taken on your behalf will be extremely limited. You cannot set up an LPA if you lack capacity, so this is not a job that should be put at the bottom of the to do list – even if you think you’re fine now and don’t need it yet!

If you don’t set up LPAs, an application will need to be made to the Court of Protection for someone to manage your affairs (your deputy) and this can be a long, drawn out and complicated process. There are also ongoing costs and obligations for those managing your affairs as a deputy.

WHO?

Choosing your attorneys should not be done lightly and you should, of course, choose those people that you trust implicitly.

Making a Lasting Power of Attorney does not mean that you are giving up control and that your attorneys now take over. Whilst you can make your own decisions, you remain in charge and your attorneys only act if you want them to. If you do lose capacity, your attorneys should only ever make decisions which are in your best interests.

If you wish, you can include guidance within the LPA about how your attorneys should act. You can also give instructions to your attorneys. For example, if you have a large family and don’t wish to appoint all of your children as attorneys, you could include the instruction that those acting as your attorneys must still report to the others on a regular basis.

WHEN?

There seems to be a common perception that LPAs are only relevant to the more mature members of the community, perhaps something to be thought about at retirement or even later.

However, you may find yourself in circumstances where you need someone to help you, even if only on a temporary basis, at any time of your life (for example, if you were to suffer from an illness or be involved in an accident that meant you couldn’t manage your own affairs). As you can set up an LPA from the age of eighteen, the time to look at making an LPA is often when you start to have financial responsibilities.

Setting LPAs up now can make life easier for both you and your attorneys, in the event you find yourself in a position where you can’t look after yourself, whether temporarily or permanently, in the future.

HOW?

If you would like to chat to us about how to set up LPAs then please contact Cath Collins on (01945) 898090 or send her an email at cathcollins@vinelaw.co.uk

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• Free hearing tests • State of the art rechargeable hearing aids which are compatible with all mobile phones • Effective painless wax removal • Noise protection You can visit us at one of our local clinics: St Ives Practice 13 The Broadway St Ives PE27 5BX Tel: (01480) 300955

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Professional and Experienced Advice Private chapel of rest All funeral arrangements catered for including Eco-friendly/green burials Agent for Golden Leaves Funeral Plans in 6-8 Dartford Road, March, Cambs PE15 8AD Tel: 01354 651499 association Email: kerolfe.fd@gmail.com • www.kerolfefuneraldirectors.co.uk with M A RCH 2 0 24

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New Bridal Boutique Opens in Whittlesey The Glass Slipper had a fabulous evening on February 1st, hosting some local businesses to raise a glass to their new boutique at its official opening night.

K

ay Mayor, Whittlesey Town Mayor, had the honour of officially cutting the ribbon and The Glass Slipper would like to thank Kay and all their other guests for giving up their evening to celebrate with them.

Owners Marie and Stefanie King, have been overwhelmed by the welcome they have received from all those in the local community and they’re thrilled to call Whittlesey their new home.

You can pop in or book an appointment via their website www.the-glass-slipper.co.uk or follow them on Facebook. Their aim is to make every customer feel special with a large choice of gowns, evening wear, mother of the bride and accessories.

It is their greatest pleasure to help their customers ‘say yes to the dress’. The Glass Slipper is fully open now and Marie and Stefanie look forward to welcoming you.

Professional Foot Health Practitioner Peter Stanley MAFHP, MCFHP • Nail trimming/reduction • Verrucae • Callus/corn removal • Ingrown toenails • Fungal nail/athlete’s foot • Cracked heels • Thickened nails • Diabetes foot care • Neurovascular assessment

HOME VISITS ONLY

Call Peter on 07842 553554 Email footprinceuk@gmail.com 42

D I S C O V E R I N G March

M A R CH 2 0 2 4

Helping you to find balance Toni Wilkes Acupuncture

BSc (Hons), LicAc, MBAcC

• Aches and pains

• Strengthens the immune system

• Infertility

• And numerous other conditions

• Allergies

• Balances the emotions

For more information or to book an appointment contact: Mobile: 07780 608343 In the interest of safety for my clients - I have taken the decision to work from home in my purpose built treatment room - please call me to arrange an appointment to suit you.

Toni Wilks Acupuncture 1/2 page - March 22.indd 1

15/02/2022 21:48

Chatteris Independent Funeral Services Proudly serving the people of Cambridgeshire since 2013, our caring and compassionate team are here to help your family in your hour of need. We realise that every funeral is different, and so we strive to make sure that your funeral is exactly as you and your loved ones intended.

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Transport, catering, flowers, orders of service - we can assist with all elements

info@chatterisfuneralservices.com

www.chatterisfuneralservices.com

D I S C O V E R I N G March

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Local History

CHERRYHOLT FARMHOUSE

T

By Jennifer Lawler

he Grade 2 Listed 17th century Cherryholt Farmhouse, Burrowmoor Road, March stands in an historic area. The medieval Bishop of Ely owned the land in Burrowmoor with its fisheries. In 1249-50 the Lady Mabel of March is recorded as leasing two thirds of the Newer and Byrewere (Burrowmoor) fisheries of March in the manor of Doddington, for 39s annually.1 In the 16th and early 17th century the ‘stampe’ (pond) in Burrowmoor was released for fishing on five-yearly leases.2 Cherryholt farmhouse, dated from the late C17 after drainage, is built of rendered gault bricks with a steep pantile roof. The central chimney stack has back-to-back fireplaces heating the left parlour and central hall. The right bay has an C18 staircase with a rear unheated room. The house has one storey and an attic, with a later rear extension. There is a door to the left, three fourpane sash windows in the three bays and three dormer windows. There is good C18 and some C19 joinery with panelled doors, and panelled partitions in the hall, parlour and between chambers. There are chamfered beams and C19 cast-iron range in the hall fireplace. There was also an C18 lobby-entry gault brick cottage.3 In the 1805 Inclosure Award, Mrs Ann Dixon’s heirs owned Burrowmoor Farm House (Cherryholt) in the Sumps and Burrowmore Drove and several allotments of Burrowmoor land.4 In June 1839 Burrowmoor House (Cherryholt) with forty-five acres of land was described for sale: ‘an excellent farmhouse with out-offices and convenient extensive farm buildings and closes of rich old pasture and arable land, well-timbered, and good supply of excellent water.’ The sale included the house, farm and rick yards, garden, orchard, two paddocks of pasture in front of the house, Cherry Holt Close, Pond Close and two arable fields. Being close to Burrowmoor Fen was an advantage. The proprietor was Mr. Thomas Golden.5

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Cherryholt Farmhouse

In 1841 Burrowmoor House was occupied by farmer William Golden (27), wife Susannah, son William, three months, Elizabeth Cave (11) and three employees.6 In 1866 William Goodale was the occupant of Burrowmoor House and land, which was owned by Thomas Golden’s executors. The sale of the late Mr Thomas Golden’s estate July 11th, 1866, included Burrowmoor House, with barn, stable and other farm buildings, yards, garden, orchard and closes of arable and pasture land, altogether more than twenty acres of which thirteen acres were arable and the rest old pasture, plus five lots of land.7 The next owner was William Golden Snr and by 1871 it was owned by his executors. Cherryholt farmhouse was sold in 1873 to Dr Thomas O’Connor who owned it until its sale in 1912.8 1

Eds. Willmoth, F. and Oosthuizen, S., translated Miller, E., The Ely Coucher Book 1249-50, p107.

2

St Wendreda’s Churchwardens Accounts, March Museum.

3

Historic England, https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/thelist/list-entry/1287804?section=official-list-entry

4

March Inclosure, Enrolled copy of award (V) 2 August 1805 EQ/RDz1, Cambridgeshire Archives

5

Cambridge Chronicle and Journal June 15th 1839, p1.

6

1841 census, March Museum.

7

Cambridge Chronicle and Journal June 30th 1866, p5.

8

March Rate Books, March Museum.

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Why Eat Fish and Not Meat on

T

Good Friday?

he British tradition of eating fish on Good Friday is, for many, as much a part of Easter as chocolate eggs and the Easter bunny. Christians have abstained from eating meat on Good Friday for centuries and many Christians, especially Catholics, won't eat meat on any Friday.

The reason behind this tradition is very much a religious one. It is believed that Jesus Christ suffered and died on the cross on a Friday, so Christians set aside that day to remember this and 'unite their sufferings'. This led the Church to mark every Friday as a 'Good Friday', where people remember the Passion by offering the 'penance'.

Meat was seen as a worthy sacrifice as it was linked with feasts and celebrations. In ancient cultures, meat was seen as a delicacy and "the fattened calf" wasn't slaughtered unless there was something to celebrate. Eating meat on a Friday, however, to "celebrate" the death of Jesus didn't sit well with the Church.

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

So why is fish not seen as meat?

The Church law stipulates “land animals", namely meat that comes only from animals such as chickens, cows, sheep, or pigs. Whilst birds are also considered meat, fish are not seen as the same classification. The distinction is mostly down to the Latin, where the word used for meat is “carnis”, which means “animal flesh”.

In the past, while meat was seen as celebratory, fish was seen as an 'everyday thing' with many more people being fishermen than today. There has clearly been a huge culture change over the centuries in how we see meat. It has long been more of an everyday meal choice whereas today, fish is now seen as more of a luxury.

Why is it called “Good Friday” anyway?

It may seem strange to call the day when Jesus was executed "good", but there's a reason behind it. Some say it's "good" as it's holy, others say it's a weird corruption of "God's Friday".

It's technically neither; the Oxford Dictionary states the use is down to the actual meaning of the word - good simply "designates a day on (or sometimes a season in) which religious observance is held".

M A R CH 2 0 2 4

Looking for hope and joy this Easter?

Join the churches in March as we For details of activities and services: www.lovemarch.uk/easter celebrate that Jesus is alive!

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HELPING THE HOMELESS

By Steve Barclay MP

B

y the end of the month, we’ll be celebrating Easter, clocks will have gone forward and we’ll be on the run-in to spring and warmer weather. Right now, it still feels like mid-winter and makes us spare a thought for anyone still sleeping rough. Last month the Government announced another £17 million (in addition to the £34.6m announced in September) as part of the wider funding for homelessness.

Fenland District Council has secured a further £42,672 to help rough sleepers into long-term housing and create more bed spaces. The council has done great work in recent years tackling rough sleepers with more than 150 supported into accommodation since 2020.

If you’re concerned about someone sleeping rough or are sleeping rough yourself go to www.thestreetlink.org.uk or call (01354) 654321.

It’s great to see that 135 pharmacies in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have signed up to the Pharmacy First scheme. It means those community pharmacies will be able to offer NHS consultations and supply prescription-only medicines for common conditions including earache, sinusitis, sore throat, impetigo, infected insect bites, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women. This is a super initiative that should reduce pressure on GP appointments and allow residents to access services for minor ailments quickly and easily, freeing up GPs to deal with more complex conditions.

Well done to pupils at Park Lane Primary School in Whittlesey and to executive headteacher Rob Litten who have launched a monthly book swap to help encourage children to read more. This is a great initiative and I was delighted to join them to

add my support. I hope all schools will encourage similar schemes as a way to expand the range of books each month for pupils to read.

Throughout my time as a local MP, I have sought to secure funding for grassroots sports, so it’s great that an additional £50,178 has been made available from the Government to help local clubs improve their facilities. This includes £20,985 towards an artificial grass pitch at March Town FC at Estover Playing Field; £7059 for new floodlights at March Town United YFC at Elm Road sports field; £900 for goalposts at Wisbech St Mary Sport and Community Centre; and £21,234 for an upgrade to the Multi Use Games Area at Little Downham recreation ground. These are great schemes that will have a benefit in the community and build on the progress we have already seen at other local football clubs like Leverington.

Last month, I offered my congratulations to the nineteen organisations that were successful in gaining support for their activities from the Fenland Cultural Fund. The list of recipients is now out and it’s greatly encouraging for our cultural engagement ambitions that the quality of applications was so high that an extra £11,000 of funding was made available on top of the £23,000 original grant pot for a whole range of activities.

Successful organisations include Wisbech and Fenland Museum to deliver free summer holiday activities linked to the ‘Beasts’ exhibition, Wimblington Parish Council to commission a local artist to paint the pavilion and toilet block at the War Memorial Playing Field with graffiti-style murals, and Chatteris Town Council to fund new attractions at the Chatteris Midsummer Festival in June.

Other projects include free dance classes at primary schools in March for children with additional physical and emotional needs, a student workshop at Neale Wade Academy to create a Dragon’s Head for the St George’s Festival parade in April, and a photographic exhibition at Whittlesey Library celebrating the volunteers who maintain the tradition of the Straw Bear Festival. I look forward to seeing the outcomes of this funding and hope it will pave the way for many more cultural and heritage projects in the constituency.

To find out more about my work in Parliament or local campaigns, visit my website www.stevebarclay.net or follow me on social media:  @SteveBarclay  @SteveBarclayOfficial  @SteveBarclayOfficial 48

D I S C O V E R I N G March

M A R CH 2 0 2 4

Stockists of the

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food and drinks from around the world: Africa, Asia, Europe, The Caribbean, USA and more...

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Call 07503 802511 or 01733 913471 Find us at: Unit 7, Platinum Business Park 59 Thorby Avenue, March PE15 0AR

ly slimmingg- frboielnd spa Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and join a friendly and super-supportive group today!

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slimmingworld.co.uk M A RCH 2 0 24

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49

FROGS AND TOADS Rana temporaria and Bufo bufo

By Joan Munns, of March Wildlife Group & March & District Woodland Group

F

rogs and toads are quite different; the easiest difference to see is the shape of the pupil in the eye.

A frog has a round pupil whilst the toad has a horizontal slit shaped pupil. Other differences are that toads have dry warty skin whilst frogs have moist glossy skin and to move, frogs hop whilst toads crawl.

The Common Frog spends most of the year on land but between January and March they gather in shallow ponds to spawn. If you have a garden pond there is a very good chance frogs will eventually appear. From the introduction of the pond to the appearance of frogs will vary from a few years to thirty or forty years.

Males will cling onto females for days Eggs soon develop into tadpoles

In about their fifth spring, frogs will return to water to breed. The males will grow horny patches on their front feet so they can hold on to a female to mate.

Frogs will appear overnight in varying numbers, sometimes just a few and sometimes very many.

When there are a lot of males they will fight for females and some will die of exhaustion. The males will call as they pair up with females and he will hold on to her until she lays her eggs and he immediately fertilises them.

Frogspawn appears as a large number of transparent spheres, with black eggs inside, in a large amorphous blob that is usually produced so it is supported by floating vegetation.

Toads also live on land but breed quite differently, migrating to their chosen pond in vast numbers and probably never using garden ponds. Where there is a toad breeding pond, people will monitor roads around the pond to reduce the number of toads killed by vehicles. They mate under water and their spawn is in a continuous transparent tube, with eggs inside, wound round the stems of submerged plant stems.

Tadpoles emerge in a few days, or a week or so, depending on the ambient temperature. When they first emerge, they have external gills and remain under water. These gills are soon absorbed and the tadpoles have to take air from the surface 50

D I S C O V E R I N G March

of the water. Initially they swarm around the pond and eat algae but, as they develop, they eat dead animals and will resort to cannibalism. They are an easy meal for many pond dwellers and only a few will fully develop and leave the pond to live on land.

Under no circumstances should spawn be moved between ponds to avoid spreading infections. As both frogs and toads are protected species, it is actually illegal to interfere with them.

Next Gault Wood Work Parties are Saturdays, March 2nd and April 6th at 10am.

If you'd like to support our work at the wood as a volunteer, please contact the Woodland Trust using this email: volunteering@woodlandtrust.org.uk Alternatively, you might like to support the Nature's Calendar project, which focuses on phenology, which is the study of plant and animal reaction to climate change. Nature's Calendar (woodlandtrust.org.uk) M A R CH 2 0 2 4

SOVEREIGNS AND HALF SOVEREIGNS WANTED TOP CASH PAID

M A RCH 2 0 24

MARCH: The Oliver Cromwell Hotel, High Street, BOURNE: The Angel Hotel, North Street, Bourne, March PE15 9LB on Thursday 14th March, Lincs PE10 9AE on Tuesday 11th June, 11am-2pm or call 07724 473810 11am-2pm or call 07724 473810 D I S C O V E R I N G March

51

Cheap, cheap!

Six FREE Easter activities for children

I

By Lin Stanton, Debt Coach Manager for Fenland Christians Against Poverty (CAP)

f you’re searching for ways to keep the kids occupied over the Easter holidays and keen to keep costs down, take a look at our six free (or cheap) suggestions.

Please share any other ideas with us on social media – just search Christians Against Poverty UK.

A world of stories Visit your local library and see what events they have going on over the Easter holidays. You might want to challenge the kids to dress up as their favourite story character too – a perfect opportunity to prepare for World Book Day on March 7th (or get a second use out of the costume!)

Hunt Zog From Forestry England, Zog trails can be found in locations across the UK – a fun and inexpensive day out with a ready-made activity pack and lots of photo opportunities. Find your nearest trail at forestryengland.uk/zog

Perfect pebbles Go for a walk with the kids and collect a selection of pebbles (ideally ones that are big enough to paint or draw on). Design and paint them when you get home, 52

then use them for an Easter egg-style hunt, or to create a beautiful display.

Fun at church Many churches organise fun activities and events for children around Easter. Many also run regular mums and tots groups, kids clubs and youth groups all year round. Check out your local church’s website or notice board to find out more.

Indoor picnic Rainy day? Put up a tent in the living room, or create a den with blankets and cushions, and have your own indoor picnic.

This is also a great opportunity to teach children about budgeting: give them a certain amount of money (e.g. £5) and challenge them to buy all the picnic items you need without going over budget.

D I S C O V E R I N G March

Scavenger hunt Get out and about, perhaps at a park or lake near you, and challenge the kids to spot everything on the list below.

Feel free to add more!

Find a: • ladybird • caterpillar • butterfly • woodlouse • bird • person wearing a hat • person wearing something of a certain colour • person wearing trainers • small dog • big dog • funny-shaped leaf • funny-shaped pebble • purple petal (don’t pick any, just point) • daisy • daffodil • curvy twig • brown leaf • signpost • an ice cream van or • something to sit on Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity working with more than 800 affiliated churches to deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills education and more.

Visit capuk.org to find out more.

M A R CH 2 0 2 4

THE SEVEN STARS Have you tried our

indoor/outdoor OPEN TUES: 12–11PM WEDS–SAT: 9AM–11PM SUNDAYS: 9AM–8PM

cosy dining area yet?

Breakfast served 9a m-11. 30pm Wednesday through to Sunday WIDE RANGE OF BEERS & SPIRITS GREAT SELECTION OF REAL ALES

FOOD SERVED

TUES: 12–2.30PM AND 5–8.30PM WEDS–SATURDAY: 9AM–2.30PM AND 5–8.30PM ON SUNDAYS: 9AM–3.30PM

75 THE AVENUE, MARCH PE15 9PS T: 01354 655258 THESEVENSTARSMARCH@GMAIL.COM • FIND US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM

members only club – please call in and see us to enquire about membership regular Quiz & Bingo Nights, open mic nights, Discos, Karaoke and Music Entertainment Evenings plenty of outside seating in a south facing garden to enjoy

March Events FRI 15th join us for Woodfordes Beer & Cider Tasting and Hot Dogs

sun 17th celebrate st patrick’s Day with Irish Stew & Dumplings

THE

ROOKSWOOD CLUB

sun 31st bring the family for Easter Sunday roast

Riverside lounge available to hire for parties, weddings, anniversaries, christenings and wakes opening hours: tues 7-10.30pm thurs 7-10.30pm fri 6.30-11pm sat 12-11pm sun 12-8pm

27 west end, march pe15 8dp 01354 652233 M A RCH 2 0 24

D I S C O V E R I N G March

53

Local History

The sudden and violent death of

WILLIAM WHITE

W

By Peter Wright on behalf of March & District Museum

illiam White was born in about 1847. He had a family with his first wife but she died and he remarried Elizabeth Doncaster at St Mary's Church, March on October 7th, 1894.

Elizabeth was forty-two years old and may have been the daughter of Mary Ann Doncaster, who was the publican at the Three Fishes in West End, March in 1893 and subsequently at the Jack of Trumps in Dartford Road.

This could have been the stimulus for William becoming the publican at the Three Fishes but, to supplement his income at the pub, he also worked for Mr Fred Powell, a farmer, of Westry Farm, March. White was a trusted employee and much respected by a wide circle of friends. However, he was about to end his employment with Mr Powell.

During the final week of this business relationship, Powell had been ill and confined to his bed for a week. On Friday afternoon, September 30th, 1904, he requested that White did one last task for him which was to take a horse and cart loaded with bags of turnip seed to the railway station goods yard for transhipment into a railway wagon. It was thought that the horse had never been to the railway yard before, which might explain why it was in a restive mood.

White backed the cart up to the door of the appropriate wagon but did not tether the horse.

White was in the farm wagon and began passing the bags of seed to GER goods porter Fred Clow, who was packing them into the railway wagon.

The transfer was almost complete, with only one full bag and a part bag of three bushels* to be transferred; the time being about 2.15pm.

Suddenly, the horse was startled by a steam engine, as it moved off, some sixty-seventy yards away on the main line; it was thought there was nothing else that could have frightened the horse.

White was still in the cart as the horse galloped away. He managed to get over the front of the cart and on to the nearside cart shaft, clinging to the horse's saddle back band. He was attempting to reach the horse's bridle rein and bring the

54

D I S C O V E R I N G March

Photo: The Three Fishes in West End, now replaced by a more modern house still bearing the name.

frightened animal to a standstill. However, he lost his hold and slipped, only managing to cling to the shaft for two-three yards before falling to the ground. A wheel of the cart passed over the lower part of his body. As quickly as he could, Clow got to where White was lying, about seventy yards down the station yard. White gasped once but did not speak. Death must have been practically instantaneous due to shock and injuries. Dr O'Connor was called and arrived quickly but could do nothing but pronounce life extinct.

An inquest was held the following morning at the Temperance Hall. White's body was identified by his son, Harry, a railway signal fitter's assistant, and death was declared to be accidental. William was buried in Station Road cemetery on Tuesday, October 4th and his wife, Elizabeth, was buried in the same cemetery on August 31st, 1910, aged fifty-eight. *Bushel, a volume measure for corn or seeds equal to eight gallons or 36.4 litres

MARCH MUSEUM

is located in High Street and is open Wednesdays and Saturdays 10.30am-3.30pm www.marchmuseum.co.uk Email: info@marchmuseum.co.uk

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GER

Sports & Social Club PRESENTS

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

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56

D I S C O V E R I N G March

M A R CH 2 0 2 4

What’s Coming Up WEDNESDAY LUNCHES Served from 12 noon to 2pm

EVERY THURSDAY: PUB QUIZ NIGHT 7.30pm start, FREE entry, all welcome

SATURDAY 2nd MARCH CELEBRATE ST DAVID’S DAY WITH TONY GOLD AS SIR TOM JONES FOLLOWED BY A DANCE SET £5 members, £6 non-members

SUNDAY 10th MARCH MOTHER’S DAY TRADITIONAL CARVERY With choice of desserts followed by tea or coffee.

Only £16pp – booking essential

SATURDAY 16th MARCH ST PATRICK’S DAY PARTY WITH THE HIGGLEDY PIGGLEDY IRISH BAND £10 members, £12 non-members

GOOD FRIDAY 29th MARCH CURRY NIGHT

A choice of currys with rice and naan for £10, includes a drink (from list)

SUNDAY 24th MARCH MONTHLY SUNDAY QUIZ

Teams of four (max), £2 per person, 7.30pm start.

All welcome

EASTER SUNDAY 31st MARCH EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA

A Ploughmans tea with music and an Easter egg hunt.

4pm start. £10 members, £12 non-members.

Booking essential

For more information contact the Club on

01354 653150

or go to the Club Facebook page and just search for March Con Club. If you like the page you will get all the updates for what’s going on.

Why not come and see what the Club has to offer?

Our live music events are second to none in the local area, with comfortable, spacious and well decorated rooms.

Did You Know...

Pool, Snooker, Dominoes and Crib are all played at the club? We also have a six-rink bowls green, FREE jukebox, plus lots of events for members.

Why not come along and enjoy yourself?

D I Road, S C O VMarch E R I N PE15 G March NEW MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME 14 Creek 8RD57

M A RCH 2 0 24

and amazon prime football live here FRIDAY 1st MARCH

THE OUSE VALLEY SINGLES CLUB

Doors open 7.30pm | Tickets £15 in advance, £20 on the door

SATURDAY 9th MARCH

VERY BEAUTIFUL SOUTH

Doors open 7pm | Tickets £15

SATURDAY 30th MARCH

SATURDAY 23rd MARCH

ZIGGY

Doors open 7.30pm | Tickets £5 members, £7 non-members

CHILDREN’S EASTER PARTY

Doors open 1pm Tickets £3 per child

THE FUNCTION HALL IS AVAILABLE TO HIRE FOR PARTIES & WEDDINGS ETC PLEASE CALL US TO ENQUIRE

March United Services Club 1 New Road, March PE15 9AN Telephone: 01354 657271 Email: uscmarch@yahoo.com 58

Facebook: D I S C O @marchunitedservices V E R I N G March

M A R CH 2 0 2 4

Family owned & run since 1957, Islawrffordd Caravan Park offers the very best in quality.

Situated at the southern end of the magnificent Snowdonia National Park coastline in the village of Talybont, Islawrffordd is an award winning, 5 star luxury caravan park, benefitting from a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna and Jacuzzi, restaurant and bar, children’s activities and adventure play area.

2 Bedroom Luxury Holiday Home • Just a few minutes’ walk • Smart TV’s with DVD in from the beach every room • Decked balcony with stunning • Fully Insulated and double mountain and sea views glazed • Available for Weeks /Mini • Fully Centrally Heated Breaks/Weekend Breaks • Free wi-fi, (inc. Amazon Dot) • Master Bedroom with en-suite bathroom

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Call 01341 247269 or Email info@Islawrffordd.co.uk

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Islawrffordd Caravan Park, Talybont, Barmouth, Gwynedd, LL43 2AQ

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Spring Business Directory

59

ELECTRICIAN

GARDEN CARE

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Spring Business Directory

14 day cooling off period

We now provide metal fencing in a variety of colours and sizes (as pictured in the background) W i t h a l i f e t i m e g u a r a n t e e !

Free estimates and friendly advice

0800 1910467

Steve 07393 942998 60

✔ Moss Removal ✔ Full Garden Tidies

01354 776396

Andy 01480 877586

ONE DOES ITCALL ALL

W W W . DIS COV E R IN G M A G A Z IN E S . CO. U K | M A R CH 2 0 2 4

GARDEN CARE

MASSAGE

ALL TYPES OF GARDEN MAINTENANCE UNDERTAKEN

PINE TREE CARE & LANDSCAPES LTD

Tree Felling, Pruning, Shaping & Crowning Hedges Pruned & Shaped Overgrown Gardens Cleared Waste Removed Fencing/Patios/Turfing/Power Washing All work fully guaranteed No deposits required • OAP discounts

CALL STEVE TODAY 01945 898314/07780 929409 pinetreecare@outlook.com

OVEN CLEANING

Need your Oven cleaning?

TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE

OVENS AGAS MICROWAVES HOBS EXTRACTORS BBQS FRIDGES-FREEZERS t. 0800 999 1021 e. info.ovenbrite@gmail.com

CALL PAULA ON 01778 421427 OR 07903 776211 PRICES START FROM JUST £29

Brighten your oven with OVENBRITE

ROOFING SERVICES

FURNITURE SHOP

FURNITURE SHOP 45 HIGH STREET, MARCH PE15 9JJ

We can arrange for our van to collect your items Please telephone 01354 653857 OPENING TIMES: Mon-Sat 10am-4pm

TREE SURGERY

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE SURGERY FOR WISBECH, MARCH, CHATTERIS AND SURROUNDING AREAS:

VEHICLE REPAIRS

Nigel’s Vehicle Repairs of March

• Felling, shaping and pruning • 24hr emergency service • Stump grinding and removal • All waste removed • Fully insured CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTATION

T: 01945 450082 M: 07711 897089

www.bowlestreeandgardenservices.co.uk

Folleys Drove, Guyhirn, Wisbech

W W W .DI SCO VER INGMAGAZI N E S. C O . UK | M ARC H 2024

CAR RESTORATION RESPRAYS & ACCIDENT REPAIRS MOT PREPARATION • WELDING ALLOY WHEELS REFURBISHED Gaul Farm, Gaul Road PE15 0YY

TELEPHONE 07907 683866 Automatic closing gates installed; please call Nigel to gain access

Spring Business Directory

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LOCAL CLUBS & GROUPS Fenland Music Centre: For musicians of all ages and abilities.

Fridays (term-times) 6-9pm at St Peter's Church March. Orchestra, Concert Band, String, Wind, Brass & Recorder Ensembles. For more information see our website, find us on Facebook or email fenlandmusiccentreassociation@gmail.com Solo Club: For people who have lost partners through bereavement. Come along and join us every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month; midday at Hot Pots Cafe – The Cricket Club, Burrowmoor Road, March PE15 9RS. Membership £5/year.

For more details contact 01354 656181 or 01354 654169.

Friends of March Library: Coffee morning at March Library on the last Saturday of every month from 10 30am to 12 noon.

Hot and cold drinks plus biscuits cost 50p and we also hold a raffle. All profits are spent on/by March Library. For more details contact Maureen Malvern on 01354 658247.

Rings End Nature Reserve: Family workshops for all to be involved in. Meets every second Sunday of the month in the car park for the nature reserve Rings End PE15 0BE. Conservation for all 9.30am-12 noon.There is a meeting at the Rookswood Club on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 7pm to discuss the nature reserve management and events. All are welcome (please check Facebook for any last minute changes to venue).

Please call Hayley on 07962 337988 for more information.

March Parkinson's Group: Meets on the first Wednesday of each month from 10.30am-12.30pm at the Braza Club, Elm Road, March. This is a friendly group and everyone is welcome. £1 per session so pop along for a free taster and check us out. Please contact Wendy Summerlin on 01354 661997 for more details.

The Other Art Group: Meets every Thursday afternoon 2-4pm at March Library. Membership fee is £30 for 12 weeks paid quarterly. For details contact March Library on 03450 455225 and your details will be forwarded to them.

March Marlins Swimming Club: Meets each weekday at Manor Leisure Centre Whittlesey and George Campbell Leisure Centre March please come along and join us; all abilities welcome (must be able to swim at least one length).

Please contact swimatmarlins@gmail.com March Town Cricket Club: Burrowmoor Road, March PE15 9RS. Cricket for adults, ladies and juniors including All Stars & Dynamos (From 5 to 15 years). Regular social events and bar open most evenings. Call 01354 652029 or visit www.marchtowncricket.com March Brass 2000: Your local brass band – we rehearse at St Peter's Church in March every Monday evening, from 7pm.

We are a family-orientated band and enjoy performing at a variety of venues. If you can play a brass instrument please come along and meet the band on a Monday night; you would be most welcome. For more information please contact Secretary Anita Mackie on marchbrass2000@gmail.com Intrigue Circle of Light Clairvoyance Evenings: Every Monday; starts 7pm for 7.30pm at The Braza Club, Elm Road, March PE15 8NZ. £4/person. Please call 01354 655093 for information.

March Dog Training Club: Meets at Tower Hall, Maltmas Drove Fridaybridge PE14 OHW every Wednesday evening. Membership is £5 per year and classes are £3 per session. Puppy class commences at 6pm. For more information of other classes please contact Maggie on 01354 657185 or 07514 882509.

March Bridge Club: At the Braza Club, Station Road, March.

Every Thursday 1.15 -4.30pm. Cost £3 per session. Please contact George Jupp on 01354 652586 or 07963 771179 The March Society: March’s civic society, involved in the promotion and conservation of March. Concerned with March history, geography and architecture. Monthly talks at March Library with guest speakers, topics include; past, present, future of March. Next event: Local Historian Peter Wright with Stories and History of Station Road Cemetery, 20th March at 7.30pm. Entry is £2 members, £3 visitors. www.themarchsocietychessck.co.uk

March U3A: For people in their third age; retired or not in full time employment. Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Braza Club, Elm Road, March at 2pm. There is a range of activities available in groups run by U3A members.

New members are very welcome. If you would like any more information please email march.u3a.enquires@gmail.com

March Rifle Club: meets at the indoor range, Upwell Road, March, every Tuesday evening from 7pm-9pm to shoot 0.22LR target rifles. Also potential for air rifle shooting. Please contact us prior to first attendance. Email info@marchrifle.club

Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire Family History Society.

Meets 2-4pm on the first Wednesday of the month at March Library Meeting Room. We have speakers on both family and social history. For further details contact Wendy 01354 650932.

www.wisbechtennisclub.org.uk

March Lions Club: Meets on the second Wednesday of every month at 7.30pm in March Town Hall. New members always welcome. For more information visit marchlions.org.uk or call 0345 833 5101.

March Raceway: One of the oldest 1/12 radio control car oval clubs in the UK. Our members range from 8 to 75 years old so all are welcome! Race every Friday at Longhill Road Social Club, Longhill Road, March PE15 0PR (at the prison). Doors open 6.30pm. For fixtures and further information visit marchraceway.weebly.com or find us on Facebook.

March Jive Club: At The Braza Club, Elm Road, March PE15 8NZ. Meets every Wednesday night 7.30-10.30pm with 1:1 personal tuition available. Every 3rd Friday in the month dance with top line groups and DJs. For more info call Andrew and Donna on 01354 776229 or Terry 07979 442920.

07549 263767 wtcmembership@hotmail.co.uk

ALL AGES AND LEVELS WELCOME Call, text or email for information about a range of membership options for individuals and family groups.

PAY-TO-PLAY ALSO AVAILABLE

March Triathlon Club: Meets every Thursday 8-9pm for swimWisbech Tennis 1-8 june 22.indd 1 training at the George Campbell Leisure Centre. All abilities welcome. Please contact Martyn on 01354 460000.

March Probus Club: Meets every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at March Conservative Club as a group of semi or fully retired gentlemen; 10am for a cuppa and a chat and then at 10.30am we have a guest speaker for approx 45 mins covering a wide range of topics. To find out more please contact Dr Allan J Whyte (Club Secretary) on 07979 887110 or pop in.

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D I S C O V E R I N G March

17/05/2022 13:21

To advertise your club or group call Paula for more information on 07903 776211 or email marketing.discoveringmagazines@gmail.com

M A R CH 2 0 2 4

Discover your perfect Vauxhall

at Thurlow Nunn

CORSA

LAND CROSS

MOKKA

ASTRA

£179

£179

£199

£229

After initial rental of £2,535

After initial rental of £4,737

After initial rental of £2,787

After initial rental of £5,751

Starting from

PER MONTH*

Starting from

PER MONTH*

Starting from

PER MONTH*

Starting from

PER MONTH*

Visit us today or browse online at www.thurlownunn.co.uk Thurlow Nunn Wisbech Cromwell Road, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, PE14 0RG 01945 561496 www.thurlownunn.co.uk *Thurlow Nunn Ltd is a credit-broker not a lender. Subject to status. Terms & Conditions apply. You will never own the vehicle. Finance provided by Stellantis Financial Services, RH1 1QA.Prices available on a 47 month term Personal Contract Hire agreement. Excess mileage charges apply. We may receive a commission from the hire company for arranging a Contract Hire agreement for you. Offers end 31/03/2024.

M A RCH 2 0 24

D I S C O V E R I N G March

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nt ns ge e A eF th of

Right up your street for over 200 years Looking forward to the next 200!

For five generations we have been helping clients buy, sell, let and manage property and land in this area. Whether it be your home, farm, factory or development site, talk to the Agents with local knowledge and professional expertise, who are an established part of your community.

2024

March Residential Sales

Wisbech Residential Sales

01354 607100

01945 428820

March Residential Lettings

Wisbech Residential Lettings

01354 607105

01945 428825

March Professional

Wisbech Professional

6401354 D I S602030 C O V

E R I N G March 01945 428830

maxeygrounds.co.uk M A R CH 2 0 2 4