Elyi #65

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ElyiMagazine Reflecting the Richness of Ely Life

10,000 COPIES DELIVERED DOOR TO DOOR IN ELY & AVAILABLE ONLINE www.elyimagazine.com

LOCAL BUSINESSES & SERVICES

LOCAL GROUPS & MEETS

JAN/FEB 2023 Issue No. 65

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

LOCAL EVENT INFO

FREE PLASTERING & ELECTRICS OnAllOrdersPlaced

before 28/2/23

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www.projects4roofing.co.uk 2 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Certificate No: EWS320

CONTENTS

Dear Readers

EDITORIAL AND FULL PAGE ADVERTISERS

When I look back over the magazines of 2022, I’m so heartened and impressed by the energy and commitment of our local people. So many folk work hard to make Ely the great place it is. There's the Visit Ely team and City Council who oversee our big civic events like Ely’s Eel Day, Apple Fayre and the Jubilee celebrations as well as all the boring, behind the scenes stuff needed to get things done.

Then there’s the Ely Events Team who put on a fab firework show this year supported by many and Ely Rotary who are active raising funds for good causes throughout the year and bring us the ever-popular Aquafest. It’s been an exciting time at the Cathedral with Hollywood stars descending for the filming of Bradley Cooper’s latest blockbuster which was closely followed by the festive craft and food fayre.

Congratulations to the cathedral staff for all their efforts in maintaining the beautiful building as a place for everyone. Now a chance for the Palace, Cross and East Greens’ grass to recover! A mention must go to the Ely Markets, The Ely Museum and Ely Library who all beaver away throughout the year finding creative ways to provide events and interesting things to do for local people. I couldn’t possibly mention everyone but a big thank you to all the local groups that send in their info on a regular basis. There is always an open invitation to clubs and societies to send in reports on their activities and advertise up and coming events.

Our little mag gets everywhere - delivered by our wonderful 19 strong team of adults and teenagers (and their Mums & Dads!) Thankyou to them!

Happy 2023!

.

Bridget

PROJECTS4ROOFING 2 BUSINESS DIRECTORY 4-6 COMPLETE KITCHENS 7 THE POLE SHED 8 FENPROBE TALKING NEWS 10 REEDS FURNITURE STORE 11 VERA JAMES HOUSE 12 WORLD DAY OF PRAYER 12 ELLGIA SKIP HIRE 13 NEWS FROM OLIVER CROMWELL HOUSE 14 RJ PEPPER 15 ELY WILDSPACE 16 ELY FUNERAL SERVICES 17 THE HIVE LEISURE CENTRE 19 COLLAGEN ELIXIR 21 USEFUL LOCAL SERVICES 22-29 CITY COUNCIL UPDATE 30-32 BUST A RUT 33 COMMUNITY NEWS 3436 EVENTS 37-40 ELY GROUPS AND MEETS 41-53 EAAA 54 ELY CATHEDRAL CELEBRATION 55 GREENSLEEVES CARE 56

ElyiMagazine

EDITORIAL, DESIGN & ADVERTISING: Bridget Hickish : 01353 722568 / 07580689600 / editor@elyimagazine.com FRONT COVER IMAGE: The Girl Choristers of Ely Cathedral PRINTED BY: Clanpress 01553 772737 / info@clanpress.co.uk FIND US ONLINE: Tw: @elyimagazine FB: @TheElyi / Web: www.elyimagazine.com FIND US BY POST: SERRULA LODGE, REGENT PLACE, SOHAM, ELY, CAMBS CB75RL SUBMISSION DEADLINE: FOR MAR/APR 2023 MAGAZINE www.elyimagazine.com - FEBRUARY 13TH 2023 | Elyi Magazine | 3

ELYi BUSINESS & SERVICES QUICK GUIDE ACCOUNTING CB25 Accountancy Accountancy Service covering everything your business needs Tel: 07803 782423 Email: info@cb25accounting.co.uk

ADVERTISING The Elyi Magazine Reflecting the richness of Ely Life Tel: 01353 722568 E: editor@elyimagazine.com www.elyimagazine.com

AERIALS BM Aerial, All aerial, Satellite & TV work undertaken Tel: 01353 863922 Email: bmaerials@gmail.com

BICYCLE REPAIRS J T Cycles All Bicycle servicing & repairs Tel:01353 667627 E: jerrytcycles@hotmail.com

BUILDERS / CARPENTERS D Silcock Construction Quality local builder based in Littleport.

Tel: 01353 862400 Email: office@dsilcockconstruction.so.uk Ely Carpentry and Construction A well-established, local, family run construction company. Tel: 07943 816 901 email: ashley-elyconstruction@hotmail.com

BUILDING SUPPLIES MAM Tiling & Plant Hire Stunning wall and floor tiles for every room. Selfdrive mini diggers, dumpers, trailers.

Tel: 01353 863916 www.mamtiling.co.uk Sharman's Garden Centre, Camel Rd Littleport

SPA Mortgage Broker Mortgage and Insurance Specialist Tel: 07799 794 887 Email: aireysp@aol.com

FLORIST Flowers by Chloe Independent Family Funeral Director 2 Pont’s Hill Littleport Tel: 01353 863200 www.flowersbychloeely.co.uk

FUNERAL SERVICES R. J. Pepper & Son Independent Family Funeral Director 14 Prickwillow Rd, Ely, Cambs CB74QT Tel: 01353 665300 Ely Funeral Service Here for you when you need us most. Funerals, Private Chapel of Rest, Memorials Tel: 01353 666566 (Tower Rd) 01353 880555 (Forehill)

FURNISHINGS Langtry Fitted Furniture We design and manufacture kitchens, bedrooms & home offices Tel: 01353 725 380. https://langtryfurniture.co.uk/ Reeds Furniture Store A world of choice at Reeds Tel: 01353 669754 E: info@reedshomestore.co.uk www.reedshomestore.co.uk

GARAGE DOORS Garolla Garage Doors Affordable made to measure electric garage doors Tel: 01353 930 124 www.garolla.co.uk

GARDEN SERVICES

TW Electrical Ely Electrical Installations & repairs Tel: 01353 862900 E: nfo@twelectrical-services.co.uk

Cabin Viva Bespoke Garden Studios, www.cabinviva.co.uk M Evans Landscapes Landscaping, Fence Repairs, turfing, hedge cutting and more Tel: 01353 969 388 Email: m.evanslandscapes@gmail.com Florin (Gardener) Get your garden under control!

Call Florin: 07787 594763 Email: egimiflorin@gmail.com The Joshua Tree All Tree Works undertaken, hedge cutting, fencing, garden maintenance and more! https://www.thejoshuatree.uk/ Email: jane@thejoshuatree.uk Tel: 01638 597711 / 07909 291094 Paul Hopkin Paving Block and Slab Paving Specialist, fencing and garden work. Tel: 07930 528 519

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

GARDEN MACHINERY

CLASSES FOR CHILDREN Tumbletots Ely A fun physical activity to do with your child. from 6 months to 7yr olds in and around Ely T: 07979757202 E:fran.badcock@tumbletots.com https://www.tumbletots.com/ely

CLEANING DMAK Oven Cleaning Ovens, Hobs, Extractors, Microwaves, BBQs Tel: 01353 864685 Email: dmakcleaning@outlook.com

ELECTRICIANS

Absolute Sense Your local chartered financial planning firm.

Tel:01353 880033. 21 Market St. Ely CB74LS email: general enquiries@absolutesense.co.uk 4 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Fenland Spirit Services Lawnmower sales, Servicing & Repairs Tel: 07753 836 499 Email: fenlandspiritservices@gmail.com

HEALTH & THERAPY

PET SERVICES

Collagen Elixir Improves skin elasticity, collagen density & skin moisture. Call Angela on 07485 565572 Email: bustaruthk@gmail.com Ely Ear Care Highly experienced Registered General Nurse with a specialist interest in Ear Care, Tel: 07984 831 177 / 96 Cambridge Rd, Ely www.elyearcare.co.uk Hannah’s Holistic Therapy Reflexology Tel: 07808 133253 Email: hannahfinbow@outlook.com The Village Foot Clinic Foot Care – Clinic and mobile appointments Tel: 07909 943 171 Real Life Therapy Heart-Centred Therapy from the Mind E: realifetherapy@gmail.com Tel: 07739 260027 Mob: 01353 664920, Try Homeopathy Natural, holistic, therapeutic system of healthcare Tel: 07962179976

Mongoose Pet services Cat, Dog and small animal sitting/walking Email: mongoosepets@gmail.com

LANGUAGE LESSONS Spanacademy Online Language Lessons Tel: 07522 504 729 Email: info@spanacademy.co.uk

LEAFLET DELIVERY The Elyi Magazine Delivery Team 500-8000 Leaflet runs to Ely homes- starts at £60/1000 T:01353722568 www.elyimagazine.com

LOCKSMITH Bargate Master Locksmith 24hr emergency call out service T: 07872 169 428 E: paulbarham@btinternet.com

MOTOR SERVICES B and T Motors MOTs, Servicing, Repairs, All Motor Services.

Tel: 01353 667788 www.bandtmotorrepairs.co.uk Gem Tyres Tyres, puncture repairs, exhausts, brakes, batteries, servicing Tel: 01353 665094 www.facebook.com/GemTyresEly Email: sales@gemtyres.co.uk Glovers Autocentre For all your car and van repairs. Also van hire and sales. Tel: 01353 664234 www.ggvs.co.uk / www.practical.co.uk Winthorpe Ltd MOTs, Servicing, Welding, Recovery & more Tel: 01353 968042 Web: www.winthorpeltd.co.uk

PIANO TUNER Simon Bridges Piano Tuning, Voicing, Cleanouts & Repairs tel: 01353 664917 mob: 07940 088358 email: bridges_piano_services@yahoo.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING LNW Plumbing For all your plumbing & heating needs Tel: 07960 222 388, Email: lnwplumbing@gmail.com Mark Bennett Plumbing and Heating Services Family Business with 30 years’ experience.

Tel: 01353 862054 Mob: 07775 832 894 Mason Heating & Plumbing Plumbing & heating experts covering Ely & surrounding area-You're in good hands!

Email: info@masonplumberely.co.uk Tel: 01353 969686 Mob: 07749 507018 www.masonplumberely.co.uk/ Port Plumbing Heating, bathroom and electrical supplies www.portplumbing.co.uk Tel: 01353 860093 Email: info@portplumbing.co.uk

PRINTING ClanPress Ltd Large and small print jobs and great customer service. Tel: 01553 772737, email: info@clanpress.co.uk

PROPERTY SERVICES CJ Property Services Handyman, painting and decorating, carpentry, tiling, Kitchens and bathrooms Tel: 07957 144375 Email: cjhayproperty@gmail.com Complete Kitchens Specialists in quality German kitchens http://www.completekitchensely.co.uk Email: info@completekitchensely.co.uk, Tel: 01353 860879 Ely Home Maintenance Bringing quality work to the local community for 20 years Tel:07824 878 690 Email: mr.alto@live.co.uk Frames Conservatories Direct Transform your conservatory into and extension Tel: 01353 809719, www.fcdhomeimprovements.co.uk Magical Interior Renovations Bathrooms and Kitchens, plumbing repairs, wall movement and loft conversions, Tel: 01353 664044 Email: magicalinteriorrenovations@gmail.co.uk Projects4Roofing Enjoy your conservatory all year round, www.projects4roofing.co.uk Email: info@projects4roofing.co.uk Tel: 01638 507730 www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 5

Turn to Ted For all house maintenance and garden services https://www.facebook.com/turntoted.ted Mob07967 796 992 Email: turntoted@btinternet.com

SPORT & FITNESS 10is Academy We love tennis, We live tennis, We are 10is A friendly tennis club based in Ely providing lessons for adults and children.

Email: seb@10is.co.uk / Tel: 07980 551 015 https://10is.co.uk/ https://www.facebook. com/10isAcademyCoaching Bustarut Science backed isagenix nutritional reset - also Colagen Elixir to improve skin Tel: 07485 565572 bustaruthk@gmail.com On Par Golf Club 9 Hole golf course, 16 Floodlit Driving range, Friendly club Tel: 01353 669192. Email: meganonpar@aol.com The Hive Leisure Centre The feel good place www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/ely/the-hive Tel: 01353 655030 The Pole Shed Providing pole, aerial, circus & other fun fitness classes for adults & children www.facebook.com/thepoleshed Email: thepoleshed@gmail.com Tel: 07961583473 Mob:07961583473

SKIP HIRE Ellgia Skip Hire, Waste Management, Recycling Solutions Tel: 01223 322799 / 01353 688354 www.ellgia.co.uk

STORAGE Stretham Storage Secure and affordable storage near Ely www.strethamstorage.co.uk Tel:07506 022 347. Email: rachel@harv.co.uk

WELDING Tig-a-Tak Welding Services, specialising in aluminium, steel & repairs, Tel:01353 667627 Email: jerrytcycles@hotmail.com Thank you to all our local advertisers who support the magazine!

Directory listing costs just £100 for the year please book ONLINE LINK: bit.ly/3p6Y3oD 6 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

ELY AND DISTRICT NSPCC FUNDRAISING GROUP Once more the group rose to the festive occasion with Carol Singing, Wreath Making Workshops and a Quiz in aid of NSPCC courtesy of The Riverside Bar and Restaurant, in Ely, who not only ran the quiz but provided the prizes for us. It was virtually a full house and a great start to the Christmas for us and all those who supported us - thank you.

A thank you also to the COOP shop who supported our lunches at the Wreath Making workshops. We had to extend it from one to three Workshops such was the demand and it was three times the fun.

There is always more room on the team for more volunteers. We are running some spectacular events to raise money this coming year including a Jazz Supper, card and calligraphy workshops and the famous Summer Supper. If you want to have fun and help NSPCC this year give us a ring on 07912617135 anytime or leave a message.

Happy New Year from Johanna and the NSPCC team.

Elyi Prices for Advertising (per issue one-off / 3 / 6 ) 1/8 page advert £50 / £47 / £45 1/4 page advert £81 / £78 / £70 1/2 page advert £150 / £140 / £125 A5 page advert £250 / £230 / £205 Directory Listing £100/year

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Offer is valid from 1st December 2022 to 28th February 2023.

Offer excludes additional works costs such as electrics, plumbing, tiling and ooring.

www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 7

Join us for an enormous range of Pole, Aerial, Bungee and other fun fitness activities for both adults and children Scan the QR code to view our timetable and book in to classes.

· Pole Fitness · Aerial Silks · Bungee Fitness · Aerial Yoga · Pole Dance · Aerial Hoop · Aerial Meditation · Static Trapeze · PoleHIIT · Aerial Rope · Yoga Wheel · Acro · Parent & Child Sessions · Junior Classes · Junior Fundays

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The Pole Shed, Unit 16 Oak Lane Business Park, Littleport, Cambs, CB6 1AA thepoleshed@gmail.com 01353 861150 www.thepoleshed.com 8 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

START YOUR OWN ONLINE BUSINESS I achieved #17 Top Income Earner in Europe for my company in 2022 and I would love you to achieve the same success in 2023.

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www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 9

When Tony May, of Stretham in Cambridgeshire, lost his eyesight in his early thirties, he was determined to find a way of making local news available to others with similar problems.

The first tape was sent out at Christmas 1978.

Enthusiastic volunteers raised money to buy recording equipment and cassette players, and readers were recruited from Ely dramatic societies.

Initially, tapes were a combination of news from local newspapers and interviews with local people. By March 1989, Fenprobe TN had become a weekly service with a separate magazine.

Early recordings were made in the living room of our President, Richard Hobbs. As the service grew, six groups recorded in six homes, which meant that six sets of recording equipment were needed. In 1999, Fenprobe TN moved into a bespoke studio rented from Cambridge Housing Society. The quality of the recording and copying equipment was upgraded and weekly production continued for another ten years. However, it then became apparent that cassette recording was going to be difficult to sustain. Tapes were becoming obsolete and servicing charges rose to a new high. After a lot of discussion and research, it was decided to make a radical change from cassette to digital recording and this was completed in the autumn of 2011.

Funded by The Big Lottery© and Grassroots©, the news is recorded via computer and the tapes are now USBs. This has meant a much better experience for our listeners. The sound is clear and the news is unlimited because there are no capacity constraints. Fenprobe provides each listener with a free digital player with just a USB slot in the top and simple controls. The listeners have written in to say how much they appreciate the change and nearly everyone found the changeover easy. Our costs - such as rent, recording and copying equipment, USBs and players - are met by private and corporate donations and grants.

In January 2019 we had to leave our Bedford House studio and a member offered the use of a well set up annexe to his home in Ely as our new base. Since moving in, recording technicians John Shippey and Steve Burgess have made several innovative changes to assist recording. Group members have also been encouraged to train as recording technicians and most groups have a member who is now able to take responsibility for recording.

VOLUNTEERS Our volunteers are dedicated people who operate our recording equipment, prepare the news for reading and each Thursday gather together to read the result, copy on to memory sticks and post to our listeners. We are always looking for new volunteers to help with all aspects of the service and any new listeners who would enjoy hearing the news in this way. They get a free player and postage, there is no charge.

TO VOLUNTEER: ring the Secretary 01353 861153 TO JOIN OR ENQUIRE FURTHER go to: www.fenprobe.exintra.net FOR A FORM EMAIL: fenprobe@gmail.com or ring 01353 861153

10 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

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*Furniture, beds, mattresses and upholstery are available to order online. www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 11

A glimpse of life

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

AT VERA JAMES HOUSE

FRIDAY 3 MARCH 2023, 1.30pm at St Peter’s Church, Ely

Being a family caregiver can be an overwhelming and demanding role. This is when in September, Maurice’s family sought and found support at Vera James House, a care home in Ely. The House is part of Glenholme Healthcare Group who provide residential care, dementia care and also short term respite support.

“I have heard about your faith”

(A Women-led, Global, Ecumenical Movement)

The World Day of Prayer is an international, interchurch organisation which enables us to hear the thoughts of women from all parts of the world: their hopes, concerns and prayers.

“For me it was a chance to meet new people, enjoy a change of scenery and be part of the community,” said Maurice.

Maurice made the most of the caring, dedicated and highly trained care professionals at the setting and enjoyed every moment of it.

He relished the opportunities to create connections and improved his mental and physical wellbeing by engaging in the everyday activities. The programme of activities at Vera James is thoughtfully put together and Maurice built his strength, balance, and emotional wellbeing over his time at Vera James.

“I have a passion for history. I believe that for us to move forward, we ought to look back and relate to what happened in the past” said Maurice “I really enjoyed taking part in groups like “Newspaper Club” and “History Group” We were all sharing stories and experiences by reminiscing about the old days”. The staff encourage residents to share personal stories and develop that sense of community and belonging.

Maurice has now returned to live with his family again. Of his time at Vera James, he said: “If it wasn’t for this place where I made friends and the reassurance from staff, I wouldn’t have recovered so well. This place kept me going and I am very grateful for the support I received every day!”

This year’s service is written by women from Taiwan – an island rich in natural resources and culturally diverse. The Taiwanese women share the issues faced geographically, politically and socially, and also their hopes for the future.

We join with them in giving thanks for their beautiful island and the people of Taiwan, and in encouraging one another in faith just as the Apostle Paul did in his letters.

On Friday 3 March services will be held nationwide and worldwide, when the Day of Prayer is celebrated in over 120 countries. It begins in Samoa, and travels throughout the world – through Australasia, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas – before finishing in American Samoa some 38 hours later.

Come and join in with the local service in Ely, taking place at St Peter’s Church, Broad Street, Ely, starting at 1.30pm. Refreshments will be served after the service in St Peter’s Church Room (beside the church).

All are welcome to attend – men, women, young people, and children.

For further info email: ElyWDP@hotmail.com or see the website: www.wwdp.org.uk

12 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Ely’s NO. 1 Independent Skip Hire

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News

FROM THE OLIVER

CROMWELL HOUSE TEAM By the time you are taking a moment to read this, 2022 will be in the rear-view mirror of life and your mind will no doubt be turning to the year ahead. It is very much the same here at Visit Ely and Oliver Cromwell’s House. We actually start thinking about 2023 at the end of September but that’s because of what we need to do in advance.

We’d like to take some time however, to look back at 2022 and share some memories of what a wonderful year has been, before we let you know what’s being planned for 2023.

In early 2022 our latest edition of the Visit Ely Guide was delivered to the Tourist Information Centre – an entire pallet of them – and that was only just over half, as the rest went to Sheffield to be distributed the length and breadth of the country! Once that was done, it was on to preparations for a once in a lifetime celebration for the Nation and the Commonwealth, the Platinum Jubilee of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. After many months of planning, a four day series of events was hosted in Ely, beginning with the Beacon Lighting, a Grand Jubilee Food Drink and Craft Fair, the selection of a new Town Crier and finishing up with the return of the Eel Day Parade and Eel Day Event in Jubilee Gardens – renamed for one year only as “Jubil-Eel Day” It was a very well-received four day period, and one that we will remember for many years to come.

Even though we had done all that, planning continued and in October we hosted our muchloved Apple and Harvest Fayre for the 21st year, once again received with much love and joy from residents and visitors. It wasn’t long then until Ely’s Festive Fayre in late November, a family fun filled event. From there, it rolls on and we’ve come full circle with the office abuzz putting the Visit Ely Visitor Guide together!

With that task afoot, we’re firmly looking at 2023 and all the wonders that that holds ahead of us.

We’ve got some old favourites next year and hopefully a few new things to really keep the great vibe going in Ely! From Eel Day to Apple and Harvest Fayre, the return of the Two-Day Food, Drink and Craft Fayre along with so much more!

We hope you’ll save the dates and join us throughout 2023!

14 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

R. J. Pepper & Son Ely’s only Independent, Family-owned Funeral Director, serving Ely and the surrounding villages.

24 Hour Service with Dignity and Respect Private Chapel of Rest Pre-Paid Funeral Plans 14 Prickwillow Road, Ely Cambs CB74QT

Tel: 01353 665300 2, Pont's Hill, Littleport, Ely, Cambs, CB6 1PZ

Flowers for all occasions

Tel: 01353 863200

Email: flowersbychloeetc@gmail.com Website: www.flowersbychloeely.co.uk www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 15

habitat. The blue/grey-headed male sports a long mandarin-style moustache (not a beard) whereas the female has an unmarked face.

THE BEARDED TIT, DENIZEN OF THE REED BED ELY WILDSPACE A distinctive ‘ping’ call from the reeds may draw your attention to a group of long-tailed, tawny birds hanging on the reed seed-heads These are bearded tits, year-round residents of reed beds on which they depend for their survival, and which you may be lucky enough to see in the Ely Wildspace.

‘Bearded tit’ is a misnomer. It is not a member of the tit family, but has a family all to itself. Its closest relatives are the larks. Its alternative name ‘bearded reedling’ at least relates to its preferred

16 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Bearded tits are prolific breeders, laying usually five to seven eggs (but sometimes up to 12) in well-hidden nests in reeds or sedge. The nest is cup-shaped and is made of reed stems and marsh plant leaves. The eggs are incubated by both sexes and hatch after fourteen days. They have up to four broods in a season. This is just as well because their population can be severely hit by harsh winter weather.

Bearded tits feed mainly on invertebrates during the summer, switching to a seed-based diet in late autumn and winter. To facilitate this dietary change, their gut develops hard plates and increases in size so the birds can fill it with small stones to help grind the seeds into a digestible pulp. Many nature reserves with large populations of bearded tits put out trays of grit in late summer to help the bearded tits in this process.

Get involved by visiting elywildspace.org.uk or email: lpcre@elywildspace.org.uk.

Find us on Facebook and Twitter.

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www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 23

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24 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

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www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 25

Ely Home Maintenance

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cOVENS cHOBS cEXTRACTORS cMICROWAVES cBBQs DMAK Cleaning is a local family run business.

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26 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

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Chettisham Garage • Lynn Road • Ely • Cambs • CB6 1SA

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All vans are sold with 12 months MOT. www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 27

Tig-a-Tack Tig Welding Service

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OUR SERVICES Class 4 & 7 MOT’s With new MOT lane and fully qualified tester, we have the facilitates to carry out Class 4 (cars) and Class 7 MOT’S Class 4 £40 Class 7 £50 Servicing With fully qualified Mechanics and the latest equipment we carry out servicing of all tyres of vehicles at competitive pricing. Labour £40 + VAT per hour Diagnostics With the latest Snap-On diagnostics technology we will be able to find out what is wrong with your car.

Batteries, Tyres & Exhausts We offer competitive rates on batteries, tyres and exhaust that can be fitted while you wait (subject to stock) Welding We have fully qualified welders on site, able to carry out repairs to MOT standards.

Recovery & Vehicle transportation We now have a recovery lorry and can also carry out vehicle transportation.

28 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Gem Tyres, Exhausts & Batteries t

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www.bandtmotorrepairs.co.uk www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 29

CITY OF ELY COUNCILUpdate

City of Ely Council Sessions House, Lynn Road, Ely, Cambs CB7 4EG Phone: 01353 661016 Fax: 01353 667057

Regular readers may recall my article about the 20s Plenty campaign in a previous edition of Elyi. Under the scheme, traffic in Ely will be kept to a 20mph limit by signage and road markings.

This will ease congestion, reduce toxic emissions and make roads safer thus increasing active travellers' confidence to use the roads, especially for short journeys e.g. the school run. The City will be safer for pedestrians too. But we don't have 20s Plenty yet.

I am delighted to announce that we have taken delivery of wheelie bin stickers with the 20s Plenty logo on them. They're A4 sized and intended to remind everyone, especially drivers that Ely residents want the City's roads to be safe. These are free to Ely residents to stick on their bins and display proudly. The Council will assess the roads most likely to benefit and pop the stickers through letterboxes along them in the New Year.

Find out more on the 20’s Plenty website at:

https://www.20splenty.org/ Cllr Rebecca Denness Chair Climate and Environment Committee City of Ely Council

MEETING DATES FOR THE CITY OF ELY COUNCIL Mon, 16 Jan –

7.00 pm

Full Council

Tues, 17 Jan –

6.00 pm

Christmas Lights Sub-Committee

Mon, 23 Jan –

6.30 pm 7.00 pm

Planning A Personnel, Finance & Governance

Tues, 24 Jan –

7.00 pm

Tourism & Town Centre

Mon, 30 Jan –

7.00 pm

Assets

Mon, 6 Feb –

Mon, 20 Feb –

6.30 pm 7.00 pm 6.30 pm 7.00 pm

Planning B CIL Sub-Committee Planning A Climate & Environment

Mon, 27 Feb –

7.00 pm

Full Council

Mon, 6 March – 6.30 pm

7.00 pm Mon, 13 March – 7.00 pm

Planning B Personnel, Finance & Governance Assets

Mon, 20 March – 6.30 pm

7.00 pm

Planning A Tourism & Town Centre

Mon, 27 March – 7.00 pm

Annual Parish Meeting

Tues, 28 March – 6.00 pm

Christmas Lights Sub-Committee

30 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

speak to me or the clerk about your obligations: there are about twelve Full Council Meetings a year, plus monthly planning and other committee meetings to attend. All meetings are open to the public so do come and attend as a taster!

CLLR RICHARD MORGAN THE RIGHT WORSHIPFUL THE MAYOR OF ELY Since the last edition of Elyi I have lain wreaths at the War Memorial for Remembrance Day and for the memorial for the Cambridgeshire Regiment in St Etheldreda’s Chapel in the cathedral. I was pleased to read ‘My Boy Jack’ by Rudyard Kipling at the Market Square. On behalf of the city council, I presented the Honorary Freedom of the City of Ely to former mayors Sheila Friend-Smith and Richard Hobbs in recognition for long and valuable service to the local community. I have attended two art exhibitions at Babylon Gallery by local artists Amy Wormald and Stuart Green; and attended a Service of Celebration & Thanksgiving for the new ordering of St Mary’s Church. with teacher and artist, Stuart Green

Thanks to the Xmas lights team!

Over the Christmas period we have seen the trees illuminated in Market Square, Old Palace Yard, outside Oliver Cromwell House, and in the Cathedral. The city council is most grateful to all the volunteers who helped erect the street illuminations and especially to the American airmen from RAF/USAF Lakenheath who also came to help out.

As we move into 2023 let us continue in the spirit of hope and optimism – there will be better times ahead but no matter what the future holds we must always support each other.

At Christmas we should think of the bereaved, those who continue to battle illness and those who may be lonely, isolated or vulnerable. In particular, keep in mind the families of our late council colleagues, Alan Arnold and Mike Rouse.

The Mayoress and I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and wish you a Happy New Year!

Richard Morgan

I was pleased to attend fine artist, Stuart Green's exhibition at the Babylon Gallery recently. He was my art teacher some 40 years ago so many memories were shared.

During the next few months current councillors and prospective councillors will be deciding whether to seek a new term, to stand down, or to seek office for the first time. If you think you are able to give up some of your spare time by serving the community as an elected councillor please

Laying a wreath on behalf of the City Council during the Remembrance Ceremony on Ely Market Place www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 31

CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER!

Many congratulations to Richard Hobbs and Sheila Friend-Smith who were honoured for their outstanding service to the City of Ely. Colleagues, family and friends gathered at Ely Maltings on 29th November for the ceremony where they were made "Honorary Freemen" of the city.

This was put forward some time ago by the late, great Mike Rouse and it was the very pleasant duty of the current Mayor of Ely, Cllr Richard Morgan to carry out the presentation.

It was a moment almost unique in the history of the City of Ely as it was only the second time that the City Council has solemnly resolved that the Mayor of the City of Ely Council shall proclaim the Freedom of the City of Ely on two outstanding living individuals. To become an Honorary Freeman of Ely, a person must have been born in the city, lived there for at least 25 years, or given positive national or international attention to it.

Sheila and Richard have both served as Ely's Mayor more than once, were both members of the District Council and enthusiastic supporters of the Ely Master Plan that was constituted 12 years ago, and ultimately gave rise to the cinema complex, the new bypass, and the new housing to the north of the city, all of which have contributed to the prosperity of Ely. As city councillors they worked together on various city initiatives, including installing the lift and bringing Sessions House into use as the City Council Headquarters.

In proclaiming them Freemen of the City of Ely, Richard Morgan said, "I only propose a formal recognition of the place they have long since won in the history of this place and in the affections of our fellow citizens."

32 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

EXCERPTS FROM THE CITATIONS: MRS SHEILA FRIEND-SMITH MBE for the long and valuable service she has rendered to the citizens of the City of Ely by her dedicated commitment as Mayor and Councillor of the City of Ely Council, Chairman and Councillor of East Cambs District Council and County Councillor for Cambridgeshire County Council, as Governor for Highfields School, Ely College and the Lantern School and founder of the Friends of Jubilee Gardens. Also, for her commitment as Chairman of ACHE, spokesperson for Social Services and her contribution to the Carer’s Charter and for her years of dedication to the Needham’s Foundation, Ely Perspective and her contribution to the setting up of the Old Dispensary Community venue.

Also, for her services to the Ely in Bloom Committee and her involvement in the Bernie Parker gardening award project for schools.

Ely

MR RICHARD HOBBS for the long and valuable service he has rendered to the citizens of the City of Ely by his dedicated commitment as Mayor and Councillor of the City of Ely Council and East Cambs District Council, Chair of Governors for Ely St John’s Primary School, and founder member of Fenprobe. Also, for his commitment as Chairman of the Needham’s Foundation, Ribe Twinning Association, founder member of Campaign Amateur Theatre and for his contribution to the saving of the Princess of Wales Hospital and voluntary services at Ely Cathedral.

Ely

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Feeling great doing this programme again just in time for Xmas (so I don't feel guilty eating my chocolate orange this year). Thanks Angela for getting me started again!!!"

See more success stories and find out how Angela can help you bust your weightloss rut at: https://www.bustarut.net or call 07485565572 www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 33

ELY CITY WI’S WOODLAND WORK Ladies from Ely City WI assembled to plant a selection of trees, courtesy of the Woodland Trust Community Trees Scheme. With wellies on, spades in hand and a whole heap of determination; members set to work in contributing to the late Queen Elizabeth’s Green Canopy Scheme.

Originally created to mark the Platinum Jubilee, His Majesty the King has extended the initiative to enable more people to plant trees in memoriam to honour Her Majesty.

The aim of the scheme is to support the UK in reaching its 2050 carbon net-zero target.

With permission granted from East Cambridgeshire District Council, an approved location near Teasel Way in Ely was identified where thirty trees of flowering Cherry, Silver Birch and Wild Hawthorn have been set.

Sheila, Maureen, Marion, Elizabeth and Helen came together in order to support this farreaching project not only to commemorate our late Queen but also to help in the fight against climate change with a legacy that will benefit future generations.

With a mature tree absorbing Carbon Dioxide at a rate of 40 pounds a year, an acre of forest can absorb twice the CO2 produced by an average car’s annual mileage in one year. It very much is a case of trees being the first line of defence against Climate Change.

Speaking about the venture, President Sheila Willson said “I am delighted with our efforts and looking forward to watching our trees grow. Not only will we be helping to fight climate change but this area will also encourage wildlife too”.

Informally named “WI Wood”, Ely City WI hope that their act of sustainability will have a big impact.

If you would like to get involved with Ely City WI then we would love to meet you. A growing, friendly group we are always open to new members and you are more than welcome as a visitor to one or two of our meetings to see what we’re all about.

The WI is open to women over the age of 18 and allows you to get involved in events at a local, federation and national level. By joining us you will be able to make a difference in your community, try out different activities, access learning opportunities and make new friends. Ely City WI has members from all walks of life and as a member you will have access to 11 main meetings a year, all of the sub-groups, our private social media groups and 8 copies of the WI magazine ‘WI Life’ per year.

You can visit our website: https://wielycity.wixsite. com/home or find us on Facebook (just search Ely City WI). You can also email us at elycitywi@ yahoo.com

LUCY FRAZER MP LAUNCHES SOUTH EAST CAMBS VOLUNTEER AWARDS

Lucy Frazer, MP for South East Cambridgeshire has launched the South East Cambridgeshire Volunteer Awards, to spotlight the dedication of volunteers right across the Cambridgeshire area.

Coinciding with International Volunteer Day, the awards will give special recognition to individuals

34 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

and groups who have made an exceptional contribution to their local community through their unpaid work. There are no formal criteria for nominations, except that the individual or group conducts voluntary work within S E Cambs.

In Cambridgeshire alone, there are over 3000 volunteers on the national register, but there could be between four or five times that number of unregistered groups, according to the Cambridge Council for Voluntary Service.

It is well-documented that volunteering delivers a host of benefits for physical and mental health, including lower rates of stress and anxiety, lower rates of general illness, and even lower mortality rates. It also teaches valuable skills like creativity, communication, and teamwork.

If you would like to nominate someone you know for their voluntary efforts, please email me on lucy.frazer.mp@parliament.uk with your name, your postal address, your email address, and the name and email address of your nominated volunteer, and your reason for the nomination.

Nominations will close on Friday 13th January, when Lucy Frazer will begin the process of selecting the winners.

ST MARY’S BEREAVEMENT CAFÉ Beginning on Wednesday 25 January 2023, St Mary’s Church in Ely will be running a Bereavement Café on the last Wednesday of the month, where anyone who has suffered the loss of someone close to them either recently or many years ago is invited to drop in between 10am and 12 noon, have a free cup of tea or coffee and find a warm welcome and someone to chat to. Trained listeners will be on hand if needed, or just come and meet other people who are also trying to navigate their way through loss and grief – it can help to talk to those who have had similar experiences.

The Cafe will take place in the side chapel of our recently reopened building on St Mary’s Street in Ely. All are welcome. Dates for the next few months: 22 Feb, 29 March, 26 April.

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www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 35

The St. Mary’s Church

Transformation There was an invitation to everyone in Ely to get an early look inside St Mary’s Church when the doors were opened for the first time after its transformation on 27th November.

“The building has become the beautiful, accessible, flexible and functional space we’d hoped for,” said the Rector, the Rev Chris Hill.

“Please do come along and take a look when you have the opportunity. Imagine how your group or organisation might like to use it. Whoever you are, wherever you are from, you are welcome here.”

The Grade 1 Listed building which dates back 800 years has a new stone floor laid with underfloor heating. Air source heat pumps will reduce the building’s carbon footprint.

“This has been a magnificent team effort,” said the Rector. “I’d like to thank all those whose generosity and hard work contributed to getting to this point, Archangel architects, Coulson and Son contractors, the members of the church who donated and the grant providers.”

One of the first groups to use the building was the “Sing Together” Dementia Choir Community and Ely Choral Society’s 2022 festive concert also filled the amazing space with music. The St Mary's congregation were back in their building for the Christmas Programme of services which included a Christingle, a traditional Carol Service, a Festive Football drop-in for the World Cup final and a Crib Service. The celebration service for the reopening of the church was held on December 8th and saw an excited throng in attendance. To find out more about services in the New Year visit the church website: www.stmarysely.org.

The transformed church includes a sensory area, offering special ways to engage with the God. We hope it will be a place of expanded horizons for school children and young people, offering opportunities for hands-on discovery and imagination. We hope it will be a place of safety, hospitality and warmth, especially for those more vulnerable members of our community; a warm, buzzing place to meet old friends and new, a place to come for a chat if you are on your own.

Rev. Chris Hill & the Church Wardens

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l

SELECTED ELY EVENTS l JAN/FEB 2022 l email: editor@elyimagazine.com before 13th February 2023 for inclusion in the MARCH/APRIL 2023 issue Quarter page posters now available to non profit groups & meets for a £30 contribution towards printing.

5th FEBRUARY BABYLON CINEMA CORSAGE (15) (SUBTITLED) 7.30pm https://www.babylonarts.org. uk/cinema.htm

1st JANUARY COME AND SING CAROLS ELY CATHEDRAL – 2.15pm Be part of the choir for an afternoon of favourite carols in this festive free-for-all! This annual service is led by local singers and any other singers who happen to be visiting Ely and who would like to join them. Singers are asked to assemble under the Octagon at 2.15pm to rehearse.

The carol choices are selected from books 1 and 2 of Carols for Choirs. Some copies will be available to borrow on the day, but we rely on most singers bringing their own books. All welcome. https://www.elycathedral.org/events/ come-and-sing-carols

5th FEBRUARY ETHELDREDA 2023 LAUNCH EVENT – ELY CATHEDRAL – 5.15pm Throughout 2023, Ely Cathedral is celebrating 1350 years since St Etheldreda founded the very first religious community here in Ely - a joint monastery for men and women. We will be marking this important anniversary with a programme of services, concerts and events through the year.

All members of our congregation, volunteers and staff are warmly invited to the launch event for this celebratory year. Join us under the Octagon at 5.15pm, following Evensong at 4pm, for a wine reception and previews of the year’s programme. Tickets are free but please reserve a place here: https://www.elycathedral.org/events/ etheldreda-2023-launch-event

2023 marks 1350 years since a monastery was first established by St. Etheldreda in Ely in AD 673. To mark the occasion, Ely Cathedral is celebrating the life and legacy of this remarkable Saxon Queen who became a Saint, with a year-long programme of events, concerts, services and exhibits. Highlights include:

•

15th JANUARY BABYLON CINEMA AFTERSUN (12A) 7.30pm https://www.babylonarts.org. uk/cinema.htm

•

• A new guided tour centring on Etheldreda’s dramatic life.

A timeline of visual interpretation depicting the four key stages of her life from East Anglian Princess to Anglo Saxon Saint.

• A specially commissioned theatre production focused on Etheldreda presented by Time Will Tell Theatre.

• A commemorative floral display depicting Etheldreda’s life.

Two special festival services, June and October, celebrated by the Archbishop of York.

• A gala performance of Handel’s Messiah by the Britten Sinfonia.

• Son et Lumière Evenings.

Please check the Cathedral website for dates and times of these special events plus many other activities taking place across the city to commemorate this historic anniversary year for Ely. www.elycathedral.org

19th JANUARY BABYLON CINEMA ROYAL BALLET - LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE - 7:15pm https://www.babylonarts.org. uk/cinema.htm 26th JANUARY BABYLON CINEMA - NT LIVE - THE CRUCIBLE 7pm https://www.babylonarts.org. uk/cinema.htm

9th FEBRUARY BABYLON CINEMA - I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY (12A) 7.30pm https://www.babylonarts.org.uk/cinema.htm

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15th FEBRUARY

BABYLON CINEMA - ROH LIVE- THE BARBER OF SEVILLE - 7pm

https://www. babylonarts.org.uk/ cinema.htm Tel: 01353 616991 19th FEBRUARY

BABYLON CINEMA EMPIRE OF LIGHT - 7.30pm

https://www.babylonarts. org.uk/cinema.htm Tel: 01353 616991

23rd FEBRUARY

BABYLON CINEMA - NT LIVE - OTHELLO - 7pm

https://www. babylonarts.org.uk/ cinema.htm Tel: 01353 616991 26th FEBRUARY

THE DRAUGHTSMAN'S CONTRACT 7.30pm

https://www.babylonarts. org.uk/cinema.htm Tel: 01353 616991

Continuing until 28th FEBRUARY SWAN FEEDS - WELNEY

Experience one of our winter wild swan feeds enjoying commentated wild bird feeds from the comfort of our centrally-heated hide.

Times: 12noon daily, 3.30pm daily, 6.30pm floodlit feeds Saturdays and Sundays only. We advise arriving at the centre 30 minutes prior to the swan feed you want to enjoy. Cost: Free to members, included in admission - you will need to purchase 38 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

an admission ticket, but do not need to book spaces at the actual feeds.

Groups of 12 or more people, who book to visit a swan feed can get a reduced admission fee.Open every day, except Christmas Day

ELY ARMED FORCES & VETERANS DROP IN CENTRE On Thursday 26th January 2023 we will be opening a Drop in Centre at Ely Library to be run every Thursday from 0900 - 1300. This will be open to all members of the Armed Forces, Veterans and their dependants. The aim of the Drop in Centre is to have a place for all service personnel to come and have a brew and a chat with like minded people and, if help is required, we will endeavour to signpost them to the right organisation.

We are being assisted by East Cambs District Council and Cambridgeshire County Council, and have local charities and businesses on board.

We are a non profit making and volunteer run organisation and would like to thank Good Vibes Local / Spotted in Ely and Twenty Pence Garden Centre for their help in getting this project up and running. All our volunteers are ex military and are members of Ely Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club. Please contact Les Wilson for any further information on 07950300122

ELY YOUTH CHOIR Rehearsals 6-7 p.m.

Mondays in term time St Mary’s Church Rooms, Ely

• • •

A wide range of music in great arrangements for young singers.

Training by a top choir director to perform at concerts and festivals.

Experience is not essential. There are no auditions and no fees. It’s for ages 11 and up. Come and try!

We are part of Ely Choral Society.

Message us on Facebook: Ely Youth Choir

Breaks for carers in East Cambridgeshire Do you, or someone you know, look after a family member or friend in East Cambridgeshire? We know that carers do an amazing job and that looking after someone can be really rewarding but it can also be really hard at times, especially without a break.

We have launched a new project which can provide free short breaks to carers through the support of volunteers.

Short break volunteers can provide company for the person being looked after so that carers can take a break and do something they enjoy – such as going for a walk with a friend, going to the hairdressers, an exercise class or doing something else at home such as gardening or spending time with other family members.

If you are in East Cambridgeshire and would like to find out more you can contact us on 01480 499090 or email eastcambsproject@caringtogether.org

www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 39

WINTER OPEN 2023 SMALL... BUT PERFECTLY FORMED Babylon Arts is delighted to announce our new Winter Open, presenting small but perfectly formed mini-artworks created by artists from across the region. The exhibition provides an open call out to all of our talented local artists to exhibit their mini-artworks in our gallery.

How to enter: Calling all artists! Babylon Gallery is looking to banish the January blues with a brand new ‘Winter Open’ exhibition featuring small, but perfectly formed, artworks from across our community.

The exhibition will run from Tuesday 10 January to Sunday 29 January 2023: We’ll be hoping to fill our walls with a diverse range of affordable artworks from professional and amateur artists over the age of 16. We welcome submissions from all UK-based artists, in particular those living in Cambridgeshire, West Norfolk and West Suffolk. We are also keen to receive submissions from traditionally under-represented groups, such as D/deaf, disabled and neuro-diverse artists, and artists who are from minority ethnic backgrounds. Entry fee and sales commission: The entry fee for the exhibition is £5 + VAT (£6) per work, with a maximum of 6 works per artists. We want to encourage you to price your work affordably, and to minimise administration, we are asking you to choose from a small range of sale prices - £60, £90, £120 or £150. Should your work sell, Babylon Arts will charge a simple commission of £10 + VAT (£12) per work sold.

Entry Tickets: go to: https://bit.ly/bawinter22 - please purchase one entry ‘ticket’ per work. Works will then need to be brought to the Babylon Gallery from 10am – 4pm on either Friday 6 or Saturday 7 January 2023 for hanging. For full information (including FAQs) please go to https://www.babylonarts. org.uk/gallery/exhibitions.htm or you can email: office@babylonarts.org.uk.

40 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

ELYi GROUPS AND MEETS DIRECTORY ENTRY TO THIS DIRECTORY IS FREE FOR ANY LOCAL NON PROFIT GROUP. PLEASE SEND YOUR DETAILS IN TO: editor@elyimagazine.com or fill in the online form here: https://bit.ly/3dszlbv

ARTS & CRAFTS

THE ARTS SOCIETY - ELY On February 16th our lecture will be given by Sarah Burles and is entitled ‘The 3 grandes dames of impressionism ‘ (No meeting in January) Our lectures take place at the Old Palace, Ely. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Visitors are welcome for £7 on the door. Refreshments are available after the lecture for £1.

Further information about the Arts Society can be found on our website www.theartssocietyely.org.uk or have a look at our Facebook page ISLE OF ELY ARTS SOCIETY This is a very active, friendly society which welcomes professional and leisure artists, as well as non-artists who enjoy and appreciate art. We meet on the fourth Friday of the month at the Ely museum, 7PM to 9PM. The annual membership cost is £35. For info email: elyartsociety@gmail. com or go to our website: www.elyartsociety.com PAINT-ELY Adult Art Classes - drawing, painting and life drawing classes for beginners and refreshers alike.

Friendly and informal atmosphere. All are welcome! email: hello@paintely.com Tel: 07968810550 https://www.paintely.com SUGAR IN THE FENS Sugar in the Fens is a sugarcraft club for all levels and all types of sugarcraft. We meet once a month on the second Monday of the month at the Bowls Club in Ely - 7pm for 7:30 pm. (new venue from Nov 22) We have either a demonstration or a workshop each meeting. We also arrange national and international artists to come and do day/2 day classes where members get a discounted price.

Come along and have some tea, refreshments and a great evening. E: sugarinthefens@gmail.com FB: https://m.facebook.com/sugarinthefens ELY GUILD OF WOODTURNERS The Ely Guild of Woodturners exists to enable amateur woodturners to further the cause of woodturning and to preserve this beautiful ancient craft. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month at the Village Hall in Little Thetford, starting at 7pm (we offer a beginners’ instruction from 6pm).

Meetings usually consist of a demonstration by a visiting expert or one of our experienced members. www.elyguildofwoodturners.org.uk SKETCHBOOK WEDNESDAY GROUP Meets 1st Wednesday of every month Venue: Riverside Bar & Kitchen, Ely

Time: 6.30pm-8.30pm Price: £9 pp inadvance / £10 pp on the door/ £5 each for you and a friend's first session.Informal sociable group. All abilities welcome. Each month comes with a new theme or technique. We meet halfway to offer words of sketching encouragement and then end with a group display of our evening's sketches.

Free materials included for the theme or technique but remember to bring a Sketchbook and preferred materials too (starter sketchpads and pencils available to purchase on the night) www. instagram.com/sketchbookwednesdayclub/ To book in advance or register your interest email: artintheburrow@gmail.com TEL: 07966727289 ELY WATERCOLOUR WORKSHOP We meet on Tuesday evenings during term time at Ely College to paint 1830 to 2100. During the summer term we paint outside. New members always welcome! Cost for half a year is £35.

IG: @ely_watercolour_workshop FB: @ElyWatercolourWorkshop Contact: Nancy Voak: nancyvoak@gmail.com

CAMPAIGN GROUPS & CAUSES

EAST CAMBS ACCESS GROUP We meet fortnightly on a Wednesday in the council offices to make written comments on planning applications, for buildings that the public use, especially for wheelchair access and for those with a visual impairment. These access concerns are added to East Cambridgeshire District Council’s response to the planning application. Everyone is welcome to become a new member of the group. For further info Tel: 07875 222861 or email:getstevecarter@yahoo.co.uk ely.org.uk/ECAccessGroup/EastCambsAG.htm EAST CAMBS NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ASSOCIATION Urgently seeking to recruit new coordinators in your area Contact: Karen Springthorpe Email: karenspringthorpe@gmail.com https://sites.google.com/site/eastcambsnwa Phone: 01353 668390 ELY CITY AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL GROUP We hold regular meetings on the first Tuesday of the month at 7.00pm at St Peter’s House, Broad St, Ely, and would welcome new members to campaign and plan events. For info on talks and activities go to: www.amnestyelycity.org.uk email: info@elyamnesty.org.uk

www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 41

ELY HUMANISTS Ely Humanist Group Normally informally meet once a month on a Saturday morning for a coffee and a chat. Details and times of meetings will be posted on the website along with any other events that may be of interest. If you’d like to stay informed, please subscribe for update emails via the website or email: elyhumanistssec@gmail.com or visit: http://ely.humanist.org.uk/ FEN LINE USERS ASSOCIATION The Fen Line Users Association was formed 35 years ago and is an independent organisation which represents the interests of users of the railway line from King's Lynn to Cambridge (the Fen Line) and services from there to London. Membership is open to all who use or have an interest in the line and the benefits include 3 newsletters every year and the opportunity to question rail industry managers directly at our AGM. For further info email the Secretary: fluasecretary@flua.org.uk or visit our website at www.flua.org.uk We would especially welcome an Ely resident or station user on our Committee.

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH We support the local police force in their efforts to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour and thus ensure that we live in a safer and more secure community. Through our many members we endeavour to build friendly and helpful neighbourhoods where residents feel part of their community and can rely on each other for assistance. For further information see our web site: https://sites.google.com/site/eastcambsnhw/, or contact Kevin Evans: 01353 614892 email: kevin.g.evans@ntlworld.com

DRAMA & THEATRE

ELY AMATEUR DRAMATIC SOCIETY www.facebook.com/ elyamateurdramatics.org / elyamateurdramatics / @DramaEly CAMPAIGN AMATEUR THEATRE Next production: Elf the Musical 17-19 November 2022. Visit our website at www.cattheatrecompany. co.uk or contact Chair: Gemma Crossland 07896 860252 email: gemma.crossland@yahoo.co.uk

DANCE

DEVIL'S DYKE MORRIS MEN Learn to dance with Devil’s Dyke Morris Men Morris Dance is a great way to keep fit, meet others and helps to keep an ancient tradition alive. Its also free to join! We would also like to hear from any musicians who would like to play for us. Venue: The Scout Hut, Bottisham, CB25 9BB. For more information or a lift contact: Gordon 01223 833983 or bagman@devilsdykemm.org.uk or visit www. devilsdykemm.org.uk 42 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

EAST CAMBS DANCING FOR FUN Tea Dance Tuesdays from 2-4pm, £3.50 including refreshments. Line Dance Thursdays, Improvers 6.30-7.30pm, Advanced 7.30-8.30pm, £3.00. We meet at the Brooklands Centre Sutton. Further Details 01353 523563 or 07885 727368 HIAM SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB (PRICKWILLOW) HAPPY HIAMS LINE DANCE CLUB facebook.com/hiamslinedanceclub Wendy & Bill - 0772 9790 698 or 01353 860187 ELY & LITTLEPORT BORDER MORRIS DANCERS We are group of dancers and musicians performing Border Morris style dances, mainly our own tradition but with some traditional dances. Practices are at 8pm on Fridays in Centre E on Barton Road.

If you are interested in joining us see contact details below or come along to have a look. email:contact@elriot.co.uk /www.elriot.co.uk

EDUCATION

ELY COLLEGE COMMUNITY EDUCATION Ely College Community Education offer a range of VTCT Beauty Courses including Reflexology & Swedish Massage. We also offer competitive room hire rates for your local group/society. Please email: community@elycollege.co.uk for further information.

ELY LIFELONG LEARNERS Ely Lifelong Learners offer an 8 week course on Gender, Crime and Justice with tutor Professor Loraine Gelsthorpe. The course will explore the different amounts of crime committed by men and women, the different types of crime they commit, the different explanations offered for their crimes, their different treatment in the criminal justice and penal systems and their different rates and types of victimisation. Venue: The Methodist Church Hall, Chapel Street Ely. Wednesday January 25th 2023, 10.30am - 12.30pm. Course fee £40. Payment by cheque only. Pre-booking and payment is preferred.

Please contact Anne on 01353 662712 or at awarham575@btinternet.com ELY & DISTRICT U3A 'Live, Learn, Laugh'. We are part of a national movement for people no longer in full-time work, providing the opportunity to continue the pleasure of learning and sharing knowledge and activities. We meet at 2.30 on the first Tuesday of each month, at the Countess Free Church, Chapel Street. We have a very wide range of interest groups from craft to card games, badminton to book groups and everything in between! New members and visitors are very welcome. http://u3asites.org.uk/ely ELY DINING CLUB Contact Sylvia Farmer on Tel: 01353 777373 or email: sylvia.farmer2@btinternet.com

ELYSIAN RIDING FOR THE DISABLED GROUP Contact: Viv Seymour on 01353 610164 or Ros James on 01353 969948 FRIENDS OF JUBILEE GARDENS *NB No experience needed - General tidying up & gardening in Jubilee Gardens. We meet at Jubilee Gardens for Working Parties. We are a friendly, welcoming group who enjoy being outside, tidying and gardening Jubilee Gardens! For more details, contact: The Subscription Secretary Judith Lockyear plockyear@hotmail.co.uk Website https:// jubileegardensely.org.uk ELY HEREWARD ROTARY We have short meetings twice a month and also organise social events and trips out. If you would like to meet us and hear more about what we do, see our Facebook page or contact Janet Porter at j.e.porter@btinternet.com INNER WHEEL CLUB OF ELY The Inner Wheel Club of Ely has been active in the local area for over 70 years. We are a social group meeting monthly and our objects are to promote true friendship, encourage the ideals of personal service and to foster international understanding.

Please contact Mrs Sallis-Browne on 07737341648 for info THE LIONS CLUB OF LITTLEPORT Lions come together with others in their local communities to raise funds through friendship and teamwork. We volunteer with integrity, enthusiasm, innovation and creativity. If you would like to come along as a guest to one of our meetings please let us know so we expect you.You are under no obligation to join our club but hopefully you will like what we do and would be interested in becoming a member. If you do decide to join us your commitment is as much or little as you want it to be. We don’t expect you to commit more than you are willing to do. We usually meet on the first Thursday of the month (except August) at The High Flyer Newnham St Ely at 7.30pm. Tel: 01353 664906 or email: lionscluboflittleport@gmail.com www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/littleport FB: Littleport Lions Club LITTLEPORT ROTARY CLUB www.littleportrotary.org.uk Contact: David Ambrose Smith 01353 861010 ELY & DIST' NSPCC FUNDRAISING TEAM Fundraising events throughout the year.

If you would like to get involved or support us, please get in touch with either Johanna on 07912617135 or Wendy on 01353610787.

THE ORDER OF ST ETHELDREDA The Order of St Etheldreda is an opportunity for Ely Cathedral's most generous supporters to work together with the Cathedral to achieve mutual goals of prosperity and success. Order Members are

invited to a programme of exclusive events that include the coveted annual Order Dinner, receive free admission to the Cathedral and Stained Glass Museum, and priority booking to popular Cathedral events and services. Contact Hannah Wilcox for info: 01353 660321 e: h.wilcox@elycathedral.org ROTARY CLUB OF ELY The Rotary Club of Ely is part of a world-wide organisation, promoting fellowship, whilst helping charities all over the world, but especially at home.

We meet weekly on Wednesdays, alternating between lunchtime and evening, often with a speaker. We are always pleased to welcome new members to the Club, and if you would like to know more, please contact: John Dennick at jdennick@ btinternet.com or tel: 01353 662636. www.elyrotary.co.uk ELY WOOD GREEN FUNDRAISERS A group for animal lovers who would like to raise funds to support Wood Green and the pets and owners we support. All are very welcome.

If interested please get in touch. Beth Twite 07966775455 e: Bethany.twite@woodgreen.org.uk

HEALTH

KEEP ACTIVE ELY Every Thursday morning between 9am and 12pm at The Paradise Centre and is low cost exercise for over 50's and people returning to a healthy lifestyle. Badminton, T'ai Chi and Keep Fit to Music, 50 weeks a year for £4. A not for profit event. We would like to be included in the listings. For more info: faradena@yahoo.co.uk YOGA4HEALTH Classes with Paul Fox 10am - 12 noon every Friday at the Methodist Church Hall, Chapel Street, Ely. Suitable for all abilities. Classes can be done in a chair or on a yoga mat (provided). Donation only. contactyoga4health@gmail.com or call 07782 413146. Pre-booking required.

YOGA STUDIO ELY - MEDITATION EVENINGS Yogic Meditation, practice and theory. Chanting, dharma talks, good company. Beautiful designated yoga studio in a peaceful garden setting. We welcome yoga practitioners and anyone else interested in meditation and spiritual practice to these gatherings. Charitable donations accepted. www.yogastudioely.co.uk t: 01353 698090 e: mark@yogastudioely.co.uk Tower Farm, Little Downham CB6 2TD

HISTORY

CAMBS COMMUNITY ARCHIVE This is a web site for old and new photographs of Ely and the immediate area surrounding it.

Contribute photos etc by filling in the on line form on the website: www.ccan.co.uk / email:ely@ccan. co.uk www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 43

PRICKWILLOW ENGINE MUSEUM Tel: 01353 688380/720737 www.prickwillowmuseum.com www.facebook.com/museumatprickwillow THE STAINED GLASS MUSEUM For further updates and information please check the museum’s social media and website updates at: https://stainedglassmuseum.com/visiting Contact email: curator@stainedglassmuseum.com Tel: 01353 660355

HOBBY & INTEREST GROUPS

ELY ALLOTMENTS & GARDENS ASSOCIATION The Association is run by volunteers on behalf of the City of Ely Council. Our purpose is to encourage domestic horticulture and provide allotment gardens for rent to the residents of Ely in Cambridgeshire. If you would like to apply for a place on the waiting list for a plot, please go to our website: www.elyallotmentsandgardens.org ELY & DISTRICT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY We will have meetings at 8.00 pm, on the following dates: 16 Jan 2023, 20 Feb 2023, 20 Mar 2023, 15 May 2023. Info can be obtained from our website.

Meetings: New Room of Ely Methodist Church.

Access may be obtained through the blue gates at the rear of St Mary's Street Car Park. Email: kevin.g.evans@ntlworld.com Tel: 01353 614892 https://www.elyarchaeology.org.uk ELY ASTRONOMY CLUB A club in Ely, Cambridgeshire, UK for anyone interested in astronomy and space exploration.We have regular meetings, and observing evenings.

The aim of the club is to be informal, friendly and exciting. Beginners and families are welcome. Mike Stephens / mike@sulis.demon.co.uk - Facebook: Ely Astronomy Club Website: http://sites.google. com/site/elyastroclub/ ELY BRIDGE CLUB Find more info at: www.bridgewebs.com/ely/ Barry Lowe: 01353 658356 e: elybridgeclub@gmail.com ELY AND DISTRICT CAMRA The Campaign for Real Ale and its main aims are to promote real ales and cider, Pubs in our area that serve these (encourage those that don't to change), support CAMRA, organise and run festivals and outings. Tel: 01934 853656 E: contact@elyanddistrictcamra.com Facebook: @ElyandDistrictCamra Twitter:@ElyBeerFestival ELY EVENING SCRABBLE CLUB Contact: Sheila on 07879863199 (text or call), email: mail@sheilawillson.plus.com CITY OF ELY FLOWER CLUB Further info: Pat Simmonds 01353 661837 psimmonds696@btinternet.com 44 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

FEN FOLKS FRIDAYS A great opportunity to meet up with others to learn more about the fens, hear speakers on fen topics, and discuss fen themes and upcoming events.

Please book attendance in advance via our website.

If you are a business and would like to sponsor these evenings, please get in touch an follow us on Twitter and Facebook for more updates go to: www.fascinatingfens.com email: fascinatingfens@outlook.com Booking: https://fascinatingfens.com/FEN-FOLKSFRIDAY/ GIRLGUIDING - ELY CITY DISTRICT We are a uniformed youth organisation for girls aged 5-18. Through fun, friendship, challenge and adventure we empower girls to find their voice, inspiring them to discover the best in themselves and to make a positive difference in their community. We also are seeking more volunteers to help provide these opportunities.Contacts are Alexa and Jenny email: GGElyCity@gmail.com https://www.girlguiding.org.uk/ THE K9 COMMUNITY CAFE Usually meeting at the "Unwrapped' cafe at the Lighthouse centre. www.facebook.com/thek9cafe/ Tel:07552462040 ELY AND DISTRICT MODEL RAILWAY CLUB We are a group of individuals who enjoy the hobby of model railways. We are currently building a model of Wickham Market station on the East Suffolk line in 4mm scale OO gauge. However we have members who are interested in other scales both larger and smaller. We meet regularly and will hold our annual exhibition at Ely College on Saturday 20th May 2023. If you would like to know more please visit our website, www.elymrc.org.uk or view our Facebook page @Elymodelrailwayclub.

Our Secretary David Abbott will be happy to provide any further information. He can be contacted on 01353 721280 email at davidjabbott70@gmail.com ELY PHILATELIC SOCIETY Did you once collect stamps when you were younger? We’re a small friendly club and would welcome new members. Our stamp collecting interests are wide-ranging and we cater for all levels from beginners upwards. Why not come along and see what we do with no obligation. We have now changed our venue and time of meeting.

We meet at the Lighthouse Centre, 13 Lynn Road, Ely from 10.00 for 10.30 until 13.00 on the first Thursday of the month. We meet in the room at the right hand end of the rear courtyard. Full details of our meetings can be obtained from our Secretary, Chris North, on 01354 659358 or 07749565418.

ELY PHOTOGRAPHIC CLUB For info please contact: Phil 07739 848871 or our website at www.elyphotographicclub.co.uk has a ‘Contact Us’ form ELY-RIBE ASSOCIATION The Ely / Ribe Twinning Association. For info email: elyribe.association@ntlworld.com Chairman: Howard McMillan Tel: 01353 667949 TEMPUS AMICUS We are a small group, local to Ely and Newmarket, with an interest in re-enacting the 17th century English civil war period. We are able to portray a variety of crafts, trades, and military life during the 1640's We would be happy to visit and talk to groups or even attend your events. We are a self funded group so only ask for travelling expenses which are kept to a minimum. For more information contact tempus.amicus@gmail.com or Brian Faulkner 07871595245 ELY TREFOIL GUILD The Guild is for anyone over 18 who was ever a Brownie, a Guide or an adult leader in the Guide Association. We have members who live in Ely and the surrounding villages. We meet on the first Wednesday each month at the Guide Hall in St Johns Road Ely. We have a varied and interesting programme and would welcome new members.

Come along to any meeting and see if you like us.

Contact Barbara Kippax via email: bjk17@btinternet.com THE ELY WALKING GROUP We are an informal group of like-minded walkers of all ages. We meet on alternate Sundays throughout the year, come rain or shine, to walk together and enjoy the fresh air and the company of others. The group has been walking, since 1985. Our proud boast is that it hasn't cost anyone a penny. There are no obligations to walk every fortnight, you simply turn up at the specified time & place if you wish to walk that day. If you wish to know more visit our website for more details and how to contact us. email: elywalkinggroup@gmail.com https://elywalkinggroup.wixsite.com/walks

LANGUAGE & LITERATURE

ELY ENGLISH LANGUAGE CAFE Do you need help with your English? If so then why not come along to the Ely English Language Café.

Meetings are friendly, fun and informal, and, what's more, free! Every Tuesday and Friday mornings at 11am, at the High Flyer Pub, 69 Newnham St, Ely. Wednesdays at 11am, at Lyons Languages, Basement Office, 41 Forehill, Ely. Please e-mail if you wish to attend. Our team of volunteers are happy to help you with all aspects on the English language and culture. Bob Handley: handleybob46@gmail.com T: 01353 666367 www.elyenglishlanguagecafe.co.uk

FRIENDS OF ELY LIBRARY Friends of Ely Library coffee mornings are now on the 3rd Saturday of each month in the Meeting Room between 10am and noon. At the moment, all events in the Library's meeting room, are subject to CCC rules. Please check on the Friends notice board for any updates. There will also be some books to purchase and there will be some jigsaws about too as well as refreshments and cake.

Everyone is welcome and we look forward to seeing old and new members at the coffee morning.

FENPROBE TALKING NEWS Fenprobe is a free service for blind or visually impaired residents in East Cambridgeshire. We offer a smart black audio player (free of charge) with bright yellow buttons, which runs on rechargeable batteries – and the news is delivered on a USB stick. 40 volunteers help read the news, on a five-weekly rota. There’s also a monthly magazine.

Users of the service need to register, and must be referred by a doctor, optician or professional carer.

If you know someone who has difficulty reading the local news, and who would benefit from this service, you can contact the secretary on 01353 861153. email: jsmith9306@aol.com FEN SPEAK We are Ely's regular poetry and spoken word open mic night with a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Come along to share your work, or listen to the great variety of talent. Includes an extended headline slot from a guest performer.

Usually at the Babylon Gallery, currently running online via Zoom. Third Wednesday of every other month (February, April, June, August, October, and December). Free entry, all welcome. Find out more at https://www.fenlandpoetry.co.uk/ or https://www. facebook.com/groups/fenspeak or contact: stewart. carswell@hotmail.co.uk ELY LIBRARY Cambirdgeshire Libraries - Ely. Free weekly rhymetimes, Wednesday 2pm and Friday 10.30am for 0-4 years olds. Creative Tuesday crafting session. Bring your own craft and socialise with other crafters, 10am. Monthly Engage talks, 2nd Tuesday of of each month. Lego clubs for children, Scrabble club for adults.

Email: rob.gwilliam@cambridgeshire.gov.uk https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/directory/ listings/ely-library Contact details for all events and activities are: Ely.Referral@cambridgeshire.gov.uk, 0345 045 5225.

SMALL WORLD BOOK GROUP A friendly and informal book group. If you'd like to join us email or message/follow on Facebook. Here are details for Nov and Dec (Dec for those of us who find a good book helps with Christmas).

Jan 3rd: The Night Tiger by Yangsze Choo www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 45

Jan 31st: The Eternal Audience of One by Remy Ngamije Feb 28th: Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev Meet in the Royal Standard, 7-9 pm Email smallworldbookgroup@gmail.com or find us https://bit.ly/smallworldbookgroup

MUSIC

ELY ACOUSTIC Everyone sits in a circle and takes turns singing/ playing a song or tune. All welcome regardless of ability/style/instrument. A hosted event is held every month 2nd Thursdays at the West End House Pub. Ely. Follow us on Facebook – Ely Acoustic CAMBRIDGESHIRE CALEDONIAN PIPE BAND Learn to play the bagpipes, snare drum, tenor drum or bass drum. Tuition is provided free of charge and we can provide instruments for beginners too.

Contact Iain Soutter: iain.soutter@hotmail.com T: 07745925544 http://www.ccpb.org.uk CAMBRIDGESHIRE MUSIC Cambridgeshire Music is the county hub for music education and arts therapies. website: https://www.cambridgeshiremusic.org.uk/ email: jason.howard@cambridgeshire.gov.uk Tel: 01480 373 500 CITY OF ELY MILITARY BAND We are an amateur band comprising of Brass and Woodwind players. We get together on Tuesday evenings at Ely College throughout the year. If you are looking for a group to play with, you are welcome to get in touch via Bandmaster Phil Green 01353 721782, or online: www.elyband.co.uk ELY CHORAL SOCIETY Our large, mixed voice community choir rehearses at St John’s Primary School, Ely on Monday evenings at 7.30 to 9.30 with our conductor, Andrew Parnell. We rehearse towards four concerts each year. If you are interested in joining, please check our website, Facebook page or email our membership secretary. For further details: W: www.elychoralsociety.org E. membership@ elychoralsociety.org T: 07970 956401 FENLAND JAM We are a community group set up to support local musicians. A monthly meet-up combines all ages, styles and abilities to create what we call, Fenland Jam! Find us: https://www.facebook.com/FJELY/ ELY FOLK CLUB Folk concerts on the “teenth” Wednesday of the month with nationally acclaimed folk musicians/ bands and local support acts. Upcoming events: 18th January Dan Walsh and Brooks Williams 15th February Jackie Oates with Mike Cosgrave at the Arkenstall Centre, Haddenham, 7 for 7.30pm.

For further info www.elyfolkclub.co.uk or 01353 740999/664706 ELY AREA MUSIC CENTRE The Ely Area Music Centre runs at King’s Ely Junior 46 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

School, Barton Road, Ely, CB7 4DB, from 10am to 12.30pm every Saturday during term time. Contact Cambridgeshire Music: 01480 373500, Email: cm@cambridgeshire.gov.uk ELY SINFONIA Ely Sinfonia was founded in November 1999 by a group led by ADeC (Arts Development in East Cambridgeshire), with the aim of becoming a beacon of excellence as East Cambridgeshire’s own community orchestra. Since then it has become one of the region’s best respected orchestras. Today, Ely Sinfonia is made up of players of all ages and from a wide range of backgrounds, including school and college students, business professionals, retired people and local music teachers. Contact: 01353 721007 www.elysinfonia.co.uk SING! CHOIRS Come and join us! Everyone is welcome, with no auditions - just enjoy singing pop, rock and songs from the shows and you will be a welcome member of the groups! Contact Kathryn on kathryn@ singchoirs.com or through our website: www.singchoirs.com All sessions back in-person now so do contact us to find out more. Please also see a listing in "Support and Care" for information about a local singing group for people living with dementia and their carers.

SOHAM COMRADES BAND A friendly established 1st section band based in Soham. We currently have some some vacancies so if you are a brass player new to the area and looking for a home. We have some exciting plans to build the band within the local area including a partnershipwith Soham Village College to grow our junior section. For the latest info find us and message us on Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/sohamcomradesband.

VOCELY COMMUNITY CHOIR We are an inclusive, non-audition, and very friendly community choir based in Ely. We currently rehearse on Monday evenings, 7.45pm at The Lighthouse Centre on Lynn Road. We sing all sorts of songs (mostly unaccompanied), and are welcoming new members! If you would like to join us, please get in touch (we especially need lower parts, i.e. Tenors, Baritones, Basses).Email: hellovocely@gmail.com Facebook /helloVocEly ELY YOUTH CHOIR A community choir for young singers aged 11 and up. There are no auditions and no fees. The group sings a wide range of music styles, from Handel to Hairspray, trained by professional choir director and composer Andrew Parnell. Held in the Church Rooms at St. Mary’s Church, Ely. For more details, email youth@elychoralsociety.org Find us on Facebook @elyyouthchoir

NATURE & OUTDOORS

ELY WILDLIFE WATCH Ely Wildlife Watch - a roving gang of nature sleuths in and around Ely. All kids and families who want to discover and help protect Ely's wildlife are welcome.

Feel free to join our Facebook group in support of Ely Wildlife Watch and/or come along to the events!

Contact helen@moorehse.co.uk or look for Ely Wildlife Watch on Facebook https://www.facebook. com/groups/49771974577 WILDLIFE TRUST - ELY LOCAL GROUP Discover more about nature both by exploring outdoors and by attending illustrated talks given by experts in their field. The group is run by enthusiastic local volunteers. It is not necessary to be a member of the Wildlife Trust to attend our events. See Wildlife Trust BCN website for more details. Will Burdett, 01353 661339, willburdett@ btinternet.com, see https://www.wildlifebcn.org/ ely-local-group ELY WILDSPACE Our vision is “To protect and enhance the Ely Wildspace environment for the benefit of wildlife and the local community.’ Our aims are to: Defend Ely Wildspace against harmful developments and strengthen its legal protection and status; Promote the enjoyment of the Ely Wildspace environment, in participation with stakeholders, local people, local government and other organisations; Enhance the Ely Wildspace environment through integrated and effective conservation management, in participation with stakeholders, local people, local government and other organisations; Promote Ely Wildspace as a place of education, in participation with local schools and other educational bodies. Contact: lpcre@elywildspace.org.uk www.elywildspace.org.uk

WILLDERLAND FARM We are a 4.5 acre community farm, based near Haddenham. We established ourselves as a membership organisation in 2015, with the aim of growing food sustainably, supporting wildlife; benefitting members and the wider community. If you would be interested in becoming a member, please email: info@willderland.com or website: www.willderland.com

RELIGIOUS ORGANISATIONS

ELY BAHA’I COMMUNITY Every 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm we host a virtual zoom meeting entitled “Meaningful Conversations” where we share principles and ideas from the Baha’i perspective on personal and social transformation to which everyone is welcome to join. Zoom ID: 837 3293 7000. A very warm and relaxed group trying to make a difference in our daily life and through acts of service contribute to the betterment of the world. For info Tel or Text: 07746 761 519,

Email: elybahais@gmail.com FB: Ely Baha’i Community https://www.facebook. com/Ely-Bahai-Community-734901983310678/ ELY CATHEDRAL The College, Ely. Tel: 01353 667735 www.elycathedral.org n Ely Cathedral - Mothers’ Union The Mothers' Union is a Worldwide Christian Women-led organisation with over 4 million members around the world. We offer Christian fellowship and friendship to one another, and work to highlight issues and support for the vulnerable in society, locally and overseas.

Leader Gail Swanson:11yewtrees@gmail.com Landline: 01353 661576 https://www.mothersunion.org/diocese/ely n Ely Cathedral - Edward Bear Group An informal Worship group for parents/carers and babies/ young children, with stories, songs and fellowship. We meet in Powchers hall, off the Cathedral South Door entrance, at 10.00 am on Fridays, in term-time.

Contact: Jean Webb E: jmw35n@gmail.com Phone: 07443598322 CHRISTCHURCH @ THE ISLE OF ELY SCHOOL Loving God, Loving People. Everyone welcome.

All generations discovering faith together.16:00 Tea and Cakes – 16:30 The service begins e: office@ stmarysely.org - LandLine: 01353 659550 https://www.christchurchely.org ELY CITY CHURCH 15a Silver Street. Tel: 01353 662172 www.elycitychurch.co.uk COMMUNITY OF THE ISLE OF ELY AND THE FENS A community — without walls or borders — of the Open Episcopal Church serving The Fens. We are open, accepting of all, affirming, non-judgmental, offering the sacraments to everyone with unconditional love. We meet everyone where they are, and love them as they are! Please get in touch for sacraments; all types of blessings, including houses, boats, etc; reconciliation and healing; life (and death!) celebrations, markers, and milestones, such as anniversaries, mixed and same-sex partnership blessings, renewal of vows, etc. https://www.facebook.com/isleofelyandthefens email: FatherDavidGoode@gmail.com COUNTESS FREE CHURCH Seeking to Worship, Seeking to Serve - a vibrant community of people following Jesus welcomes you. We are on Chapel St. (opposite the Lighthouse) in Ely CB6 1AD Tel: 01353 662396 E: hello@countessely.co.uk For more info see: www.countessely.co.uk n Sunday Mornings We gather at 10.30 with groups for children & youth and all are very welcome www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 47

COMMUNITY NEWS n Two by Two Parent n Toddler Thursdays 9.30 - 11.00 (term time only) £2 per family. Babies and toddlers with their parents/carers enjoy time to play with different activities each week. n Rich Tea Club Offering fun, faith and friendship for adults with learning disabilities plus any carers and friends. We meet once a month, usually on the third Sunday each month 3.30-5pm at Countess Free Church in Ely, for tea and biscuits, and activities including singing, Bible stories, craft and drama. To find out more call Cate on 07938187907 or see www.countessely.co.uk A whole lot more happens across the city - please see our website!

ST ETHELDREDA’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 19 Egremont Street, Ely CB6 1AE n SUNDAY MASS Anticipatory Mass – Saturday, 6:30 pm Sunday - 9.00 am and 11.00 am n WEEKDAY MASS Times of Masses and other services are advertised in the church porch and on the parish website: www.elyrcchurch.com Contact Tel: 01353 662759 Parish Office email: priest@elyrcchurch.com JUBILEE CHURCH ELY Jubilee Church meets every Sunday morning at 10am at the Beet Club on Lynn Road for worship, teaching, children's work and fellowship. We also meet mid-week evenings in smaller groups. Part of the Relational Mission family of churches, Jubilee Church seeks to love God, love people and love Ely. email: office@jubileechurchely.co.uk Tel: 01353 664160. www.jubileechurchely.co.uk THE LIGHTHOUSE FELLOWSHIP n Junior Hangout Fridays 16.30 – 18.00 (Term time only) £1.50 per child. School years 3 – 6. Crafts, activities, games, snack bar. Lighthouse Centre, 13 Lynn Road, Ely, CB7 4EG More info: 01353 662228 or info@luvely. org n The Hangout Fridays 19.30 – 21.00 (Term time only) Youth club for secondary school age.

Membership is £2.50. Session cost: £1.00 for members or £1.50 for non-members.

The Garage, Chapel Street More info: 01353 662228 or info@luvely.org n Little Ones (Under one’s group) – Mondays 10.00-noon (term time only) £2 per parent. Parent and baby group. A safe space for new parents to relax and meet other new parents/guardians. n Parent & Toddler group Wednesdays 9.30-11.30 (term time only)

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£1.50 per adult & £1.50 per child. An opportunity for parents and carers and little ones to enjoy a friendly & relaxed environment to chat and play. n Sunday mornings 10am Church Service, we provide children & youth work throughout the morning for all ages. n LuvEly Social Club (11.00 – 14.00) This club is for our anyone over age 60 to come and join us for a time of friendship and a hot meal with bingo or a quiz. £6 per person. All at The Lighthouse Centre, 13 Lynn Road, Ely, CB7 4EG More info: 01353 662228 or info@luvely.org n LuvEly Support in the community LuvEly receives surplus food from local supermarkets which we make available for all in the community to collect during the week. Helping you to fill your fridge for free and reduce food waste. n ROOM/VENUE HIRE Lighthouse Centre has various size rooms available to hire. Please contact the office for prices and availability. One-off bookings or long-term. More info: 01353 662228 or info@lighthouse-ely.org ELY METHODIST CHURCH Chapel Street, Ely. Minister: Revd. Catherine Dixon on 01353 662426 https://www. elyandnewmarketmethodists.org.uk/ely.htm ST MARY’S, CHURCH OF ENGLAND EVERY SUNDAY ‘the eight30’ Traditional Service – 8:30 ‘the eleven’ Informal Worship – 11:00 Bishop Woodford House, Barton Rd ‘the nine45’ discovering together – 09:45 St. Mary’s Church Grounds and Rooms ALL MIDWEEK MEETINGS CURRENTLY IN THE CHURCH ROOMS. n MONDAY Under 1s Parents & Carers – 9:30am Mon Club for Seniors – 14:00 1st & 3rd Mondays Contact: Elizabeth Flood on 01353 662385 n TUESDAY Under 5s Parents & Carers – 9:30am n WEDNESDAY Mothers Union – 14:15pm 2nd Wed each month Bereavement Cafe - last Wed of the month - drop in 10am -12pm 23 Jan, 22 Feb, 29 Mar, 26 Apr n THURSDAY Market Day Communion – 9:30am Market Day Coffee – 10:15am Church Office email: office@stmarysely.org Landline: 01353 659550 https://www.stmarysely.org/ https://www.facebook.com/StMarysEly A church for all generations. Everyone welcome. www.stmarysely.org 01353 659 550

NEW CONNEXIONS @ HIGH BARNS Larkfield Community Centre, High Barns, Ely CB7 4SB Website: newconnexionschurch.org.uk Contact: Elder Russell Grief: russellgrief@ntlworld. com. Tel 01353 612200 Website: www.newconnexionschurch.org.uk ST PETER-IN-ELY, CHURCH OF ENGLAND Broad Street, Ely CB7 4BQ Join us every Sunday morning at 9.30am for a sung celebration of the Holy Eucharist in the AngloCatholic style using traditional language, followed by refreshments in St Peter's House. All ages welcome. www.elystpeterschurch.co.uk ELY QUAKER MEETING Ely Quakers meet every Sunday at 10.30 for an hour of worship in silence and stillness. We offer a blended meeting format that allows participants to join either in person (in the Aedwen Room, Ely Museum) or online via Zoom. Visitors are warmly welcome: please contact us for information on COVID safety or for the Zoom link.

Contact:Sue Brock-Hollinshead Email: suebhisas@gmail.com ELY AND DISTRICT SPIRITUALIST CHURCH Located at Ely Museum, The Old Gaol, Market Street, Ely CB7 4LS. Free Parking available in the council offices. Every Thursday evening 19.15 21.00. Healing 18.45 - 19.10. Come and join our inclusive like-minded group for connections, insights and an uplifting experience. Entry is free, funded by weekly raffle funds and a collection. Raffle prizes are always welcome.For further information contact Elizabeth Burton 07769963850.

SOCIAL CLUBS

ELY ARMED FORCES AND VETERANS DROP IN CENTRE Starts on Thursday 26th January 2023 at Ely Library to be run every Thursday from 0900 1300. Open to all members of the Armed Forces, Veterans and their dependants. We are a non profit making and volunteer run organisation. All our volunteers are ex military and are members of Ely Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club. Please contact Les Wilson for any further information on 07950300122 ELY AND DISTRICT EX-ROUND TABLERS CLUB For people formerly in Round Table, a social gathering to grow old gracefully.When we resume meetings, they will be at Ely City Golf Club, Cambridge Road, Ely 7.00 for 7.30 on the 2nd Thursday of the month. Contact: Nigel Davies.01353 721037 e: njdavies1@aol.com LGBT+ IN ELY & CAMBRIDGESHIRE Email: lgbtqcambridgeshire@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/LGBTEly https://www.facebook.com/LGBTCambridgeshire ELY BRANCH ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

Become a member of the Royal British Legion family today and take pride in supporting all generations of the Armed Forces community.

Membership starts from only £18 a year and is open to everyone. Join us today and, in return, you can then choose to hear the latest news, events and stories from inside our RBL magazine and e-newsletters. Brian Crabtree Tel: 07741 143605 http://counties.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/ ely Contact: E-Mail: CityOfEly.secretary@rbl. community ELY CITY WOMEN’S INSTITUTE We meet at the Old Dispensary, St Mary’s Street, Ely, CB7 4ER on the second Monday of each month. 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start to approximately 9.45pm. 9th Jan 2023: Quiz Night We welcome new members to join us at any time of the year. To get in touch you can visit our website: https://wielycity.wixsite.com/home or find us on Facebook (just search Ely City WI) or email elycitywi@yahoo.com ELY FAMILY GAMING Ely Family Gaming is a group for light-hearted and sociable board gaming suitable for families in the area of Ely. We meet monthly, on the 2nd Saturday of each month, at Ely Library (meeting room) 12:30pm-3:30pm. Find out more either on Meetup (https://www.meetup.com/ely-family-gaming/) or Facebook (search groups for Ely Family Gaming).

ELY TUESDAY GROUP (LADIES) We are a group of ladies who meet on the 3rd Tuesday of the month in The Old Dispensary, St Mary's Street. 10am for 10.30 starts. Invited guest speakers. If you are new to the city and looking for a friendly group, why not come along. Contact Leslie on 07946 020001 for info ELY WOMEN’S CIRCLE We are a support group for women who want to share from the heart and be witnessed by other women in love, support, acceptance and nonjudgement. We normally have a meditation, an activity and a sharing circle. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month from 7 30 to 9 30 pm at St Peter’s rooms on Broad Street. Find us on Facebook ‘Ely Women’s Circle’ or contact Louise at ldecaux@btinternet.com ELY PROBUS A club that provides regular meetings for semiretired and retired people at The Methodist Chapel 13-15 Chapel Street Ely CB6 1AD. From Chapel Street it is the side entrance or from town the gate in St Mary's Car Park. New members are welcome to attend and if you have any questions please contact Peter Nancollis at:peterandjudy@nancollis. plus.com Full list of speakers available at: https://www.probusonline.org/ely-and-district/ www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 49

SPORT & EXERCISE GROUPS

ELY ARCHERS A friendly and thriving archery club. We promote shooting socially, for fun and shooting seriously for tournaments. We are based in the Cathedral City of Ely, Cambridgeshire and we shoot both indoors and outdoors (weather permitting). Our qualified coaches are on hand regularly to help where needed and we run archery beginners' courses throughout the summer for newcomers to the sport of archery. http://www.elyarchers.org.uk General enquiries to: info@elyarchers.co.uk. or membership@elyarchers.org.uk ELY HIGH BADMINTON CLUB We meet at Ely College Sports Hall on Wednesday evenings. Contact: Ron Grant: ron.grant@ntlworld. com. Tel: 01353 610743 ELY VICTORIA BADMINTON CLUB Contact: elyvicbad@gmail.com www.facebook.com/elyvictoriaBadminton www.badmintonely.co.uk / Twitter @ElyVicBad EAST CAMBS BASKET BALL CLUB Contact: contact@eastcambsbasketball.co.uk www.eastcambsbasketball.co.uk ELY BEET SPORT & SOCIAL CLUB Ely Beet Sports and Social Club is a Members Club, operating on a Not-for-Profit Basis, which hosts a variety of sports, offers a social facility as well as a private Members bar which is open 7 days a week.

We have ample car parking facilities with dedicated disabled parking bays and we are also ideally located close to the City Centre. Tennis and Bowls are available. All courts / rinks must be booked in advance. Please see the notice board or contact the Manager for full details. Tel: 01353 666753 / 07376 404495. email: beetsecretary@gmail.com http://www.elybeetclub.co.uk/ CITY OF ELY BOWLS CLUB www.cityofelybowlsclub.org.uk Tel: 01353 665272 Email: cityofelybowlsclub@btconnect.com CITY OF ELY CRICKET CLUB www.cityofely.play-cricket.com email: cityofely_cc@hotmail.com OCTAGON CYCLING CLUB We are a friendly, local cycling club based in Ely. Formed in 2009, we are a mixed ability social group of riders. Our group boasts a couple of ex-pro racers, ladies, complete novices, newbies, charity cyclists, mechanics, pub riders, triathletes, mountain bikers, and just about anybody who enjoys getting on a road bike. email: octagoncyclingclub@gmail.com www.octagoncycling.com

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ELY & DISTRICT CYCLING CLUB Contact Cliff Loveday on 07823 338615 ELY CITY GOLF CLUB Contact: 01353 662751 www.elygolf.co.uk / email: info@elygolf.co.uk HEALTHY YOU A free lifestyle and signposting service offering advice and support to those wishing to be more active and to lead a healthier lifestyle. Sophie Dalpra: 01353 616348 Sophie.dalpra@eastcambs.gov.uk Facebook @HealthyYouEastCambs Ely City HOCKEY CLUB www.pitchero.com/clubs/elycityhockey Tel: 07815 905288, Facebook: Ely City Hockey Club, Twitter: @ElyHockeyClub ELY VIKINGS KORFBALL Contact: http://www.elyvikings.com / elyvikings@ outlook.com KEEP ACTIVE ELY Every Thursday morning between 9am and 12pm at The Paradise Centre and is low cost exercise for over 50's and people returning to a healthy lifestyle. Badminton, T'ai Chi and Keep Fit to Music, 50 weeks a year for £4. A not for profit event. We would like to be included in the listings. For more info: faradena@yahoo.co.uk LET'S RUN GIRLS ELY We are a supportive running group for ladies.

Our aim is to support each other to lead healthier, happier more connected lives. Look for our group on Facebook and join us to come on a run each week of about 5k around Ely. https://www.facebook. com/groups/letsrungirlsely LITTLEPORT LIONS KORFBALL Contact Andy on: andrewdunlop@hotmail.com, website: www.littleport-lions.co.uk ELY TANG SOO DO MARTIAL ARTS CLUB Contact: Mr Russell (instructor) on 07732746179 or email robertrussell_4@hotmail.co.uk CITY OF ELY NETBALL CLUB web: www.cityofelynetball.co.uk email: elycity@hotmail.co.uk ELY NETBALL CLUB Offering netball to ladies (age 16+) on Wednesday evenings, at Witchford Village College 730-9pm and also Walking Netball sessions (adults) Tuesday evenings at Ely College. Get in contact for more information. email: elynetball@hotmail.co.uk https://elynetballclub.wixsite.com/elynetball ELY ON PAR GOLF DRIVING RANGE LTD. Downham Road, CB6 2SH 16 Bay flood-lit Driving Range & 9 Hole Golf Course. All players for the golf course must have their own golf clubs and golf bags. Everyone is welcome to come and give golf a go, Live Music, Charity Days & Monthly Golf Competitions.

Tel:01353 669192 Web:www.elydrivingrange.co.uk Email: Meganonpar@aol.com RAMBLERS WELLBEING WALKS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Find a local Wellbeing Walk here: https://beta. ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/wellbeing-walks For more information or to find out about opportunities to volunteer, local coordinator: Sophie. dalpra@eastcambs.gov.uk 01353 616348 Facebook @HealthyYou EastCambs ISLE OF ELY ROWING CLUB Contact: chairman@elyrowingclub.org.uk Web: http://www.elyrowingclub.org.uk/ RIDING AND SKATING ELY (R.A.S.E.) Advocating for a new skatepark in Ely. Join RASE on Instagram and Facebook. FB/Riding and skating Ely ELY RUGBY CLUB Contact email - playrugby4ely@gmail.com Website - https://elytigers.rfu.club/ ELY RUNNERS Richard Hill:secretary@elyrunners.co.uk ELY SAILING CLUB www.elysailingclub.org e: training.elysc@gmail.com ESC MODEL YACHT FLEET Contact: ESC Model Yacht Fleet Captain on email: training.elysc@gmail.com Tel: 01353 626838 THE PARADISE CENTRE The Paradise Centre consists of two main areas, the indoor sports centre and the outdoor recreational grass area. Includes fitness centre, gym, classes, courts and rooms for hire T: 01353 667580 E: admin@paradisecentre.co.uk http://www.paradisecentre.co.uk/ ELY SQUASH CLUB Tel:01353 662156 www.elysquash.mycourts.co.uk ELY TABLE TENNIS CLUB We hold weekly practice sessions at Ely College (Needhams Hall) every Monday from 7pm to 9pm.

FREE taster session for new members. Further sessions pay as you go. Adults £5.00, Under 18’s £3.00. Annual membership - Adults £10, Under 18’s £5. One to one coaching available for everyone wanting to improve. All ages and abilities welcome to join the practice sessions and one of the clubs 8 league teams. Bats available to loan.

For more information contact Karen Byford, Club Secretary, elytabletennis@gmail.com or visit www. elytabletennis.co.uk ELY TENNIS CLUB Ely Tennis Club was formed in 1989 and is proud to be a community based not-for-profit organisation, with its home at the EOSA complex at Ely Leisure Village. New members are always welcome, contact:elytennisclub@hotmail.com or

visit the Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ elytennisclubuk if you are interested in having a chat, organising a tour of the facilities, or just coming along to play tennis!

ELY TRI CLUB Duathlon 2022 The Ely Tri Club Duathlon (formerly the Monster Racing Duathlon) is a great way for hibernating triathletes to rub their eyes, shake out the winter legs and kick off the race season in style!

For all the latest updates please go to: https://www.elytriclub.co.uk/duathlon TUJI TAEKWONDO We are a not-for-profit community martial arts club.

We cater for adults and children aged 4+, including family classes where children and parents can train together. Tuji Tigers is a special class for our youngest members aged 4-6. We teach Olympicstyle taekwondo with sessions bringing together fitness, kick and strike techniques, sparring and self-defence. New members including complete beginners welcome.. Contact Lois Kim - info@ tujitaekwondo.org.uk / www.tujitaekwondo.org.uk

SUPPORT & CARE GROUPS

AGE UK CAMBS AND PETERBOROUGH Working with and for older people, providing a wide range of services and support helping older people remain independent in their own homes. Tel: 0300 666 9860, FB: /AgeUKCAP e:informationservices@ageukcap.org.uk, www.ageukcap.org.uk AL-ANON FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP We are a support group for families of alcoholics.

We have been meeting in Ely for 30 years. We meet every Monday at Centre 33 at 7.30pm. During these times we are meeting by zoom meetings.

For details of the zoom meeting or for help and local contact numbers please call the helpline 0800 0086811. There are no fees for membership. email: al-anonuk.org.uk ST MARY’S BEREAVEMENT CAFÉ Starts Wednesday 25 January 2023, St Mary’s Church in Ely and continues on the last Wednesday of every month. Anyone who has suffered the loss of someone close to them either recently or many years ago is invited to drop in between 10am and 12 noon, have a free cup of tea or coffee and find a warm welcome and someone to chat to. Trained listeners will be on hand if needed, or just come and meet other people who are also trying to navigate their way through loss and grief. St Mary's Church, S Mary's Street, Ely. All are welcome. Dates for the next few months: 22 Feb, 29 March, 26 April.

CRUSE BEREAVEMENT CARE Cruse Bereavement Care is a charity that has been providing bereavement support to people across the UK for over 60 years, predominately through face-to-face and group sessions. As well as www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 51

telephone support, there is also helpful information on the Cruse website at: www.cruse.org.uk If you would like telephone bereavement support, please contact the Helpline on 01223 633536 (open 9.30am-1.30pm weekdays) or the National Helpline on 0808 8081677 (open 9.30-5pm weekdays with extended hours on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings until 8pm and Weekends 10am2pm). The service is free of charge and donations welcome.

SING! TOGETHER A weekly singing and music-making group for people living with dementia and their carers, run by registered charity All In Sound. No experience needed, just come along to enjoy the singing and the music. Contact Kathryn Rowland on kathryn@ allinsound.co.uk or call 01353 662022. You can also see more on our website: www.allinsound.co.uk CARE NETWORK CAMBS Supporting Volunteers, Encouraging Independence, Developing Good neighbour projects. Tel: 01954 211919 email: volunteering@care-network.org.uk Website: www.care-network.org.uk twitter @CareNetworkCamb Facebook: Care Network Cambridgeshire ELY BABY BANK The Chicken Shed, 78 Mildenhall Road, Fordham CB7 5NR. Tel:07715 908024 Email: thesofachurch@gmail.com Opening times: Tues 10-2 / Thursdays 10-2 Out of hours by appointment only Our volunteers can deliver if you can't travel to our base. We can collect items but would love it if you could try and get them to us please. Donation drop offs- Monday- Saturday: 78 Mildenhall Road, Fordham, Ely, CB7 5NR 1 Gault Cottages, Chettisham CB6 1RU 22 Little London Road, Isleham .

We are very grateful for your support.

Donate online: https://uk.gofundme.com/f/ely-babybank/donate EARTH We are an Ely based charity, based at Larkfield in the High Barns area, providing horticultural experience and recreational activities for adults with learning difficulties. There is a small charge for the day. We operate on a Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. To find out more please call:07900 627796 on one of the above days.e: info@earthely.co.uk w: www.earthely.co.uk ELY DEATH CAFÉ At a Death Cafe people come together in a relaxed setting to openly talk about death. You set the agenda. All very welcome. Open to public & professionals. If you attend as a professional please leave your work hat at the door - we 52 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

simply attend as people who will all die one day.

Warning: feelings of relief, positivity and unexpected humour may occur. Free, booking essential: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/ely-death-cafeonline-30153110542 Email elydeathcafe@gmail.com Facebook: Ely Death Café Twitter: @Ely_D_Cafe ELY FOODBANK Email:info@ely.foodbank.org.uk www.ely.foodbank.org.uk T: 01353 468626 OASIS ELY CANCER HUB Oasis Ely Cancer Hub is a new community spirited platform, which aims to signpost and connect people, to offer free practical help and provide well-being sessions and a positive place for anyone experiencing cancer in Ely and its surroundings.

Oasis offers a calm environment in which those affected by cancer can rebuild confidence, improve their quality of life and find new skills and pastimes to build their resilience. We offer online and face to face sessions (currently at the Ely St Mary’s Church Rooms on Fridays 10:00 to 11:30AM). Contact us for a program E: oasiselycancerhub@gmail.com; Tel. 07548 183888; https://www.facebook.com/ Oasis-Ely-Cancer-Hub-107167038300494 POSABILITY PosAbility is a Cambridgeshire based charity offering chair-based and specialist exercises to people living with long-term neurological conditions including, but not limited to, Stroke, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis and Muscular Dystrophy and disabling conditions such as arthritis. We are always Positive About Your Ability www.posability.org/ E: admin@posability.org Phone: 07565598193 RICH TEA CLUB Offering fun, faith and friendship for adults with learning disabilities plus any carers and friends.

We meet once a month, usually on the third Sunday each month 3.30-5pm at Countess Free Church in Ely, for tea and biscuits, and activities including singing, Bible stories, craft and drama. To find out more call Cate on 07938187907 or see: www.countessely.co.uk TMW ELY A social group of performing arts for individuals with disabilites. Contact Suzie on 07739638817 email info@touchmyworld.co.uk. www.touchmyworld.co.uk and find us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ touchmyworld VERSUS ARTHRITIS A charity promoting self-management and online support groups and free physical activity sessions Email: c.preston@versusarthritis.org Phone: +447834418472

YOUNG PEOPLE’S SUPPORT - CENTRE 33 ELY DROP IN Natalie Gildersleeve. natalieg@centre33.org.uk / www.centre33.org.uk Tel: 0333 4141 809

VOLUNTEERS

ELY COMMUNITY FIRST RESPONDERS Contact Emma Greaves 01353 614794 / Elycfrs@virginmedia.com / Facebook.com/ ElyCommunityFirstResponders/ ELY LITTER PICKERS A voluntary group dedicated to helping keep Ely litter free and looking its best. Ely Litter Pickers loan litter picking equipment, offer advice and safety tips, organise group litter picks, supply bin bags and labels, as well as liaise with the council.

Some group members have chosen to ‘adopt’ local roads areas but there is no obligation to do so.

Pick as little or as often as you want – it all helps!

A rewarding and fun activity for all ages, to find out more search ‘Ely Litter Pickers’ on Facebook or contact elylitter@gmail.com / Brian Calvert 07974 082868.

LITTLEPORT & ELY TIME BANK We are a friendly group of volunteers who exchange time and skills with members for free.

Everyone’s time is equal and everyone has something to offer, whether visiting someone for a cup of tea or designing a website. Join us and get to know people in the community and share your passion or skill. Non members are welcome to join us at coffee morning to find out more. We are also conducting safe time exchanges and social activities within our own bubbles.

For further info please email littleportandelytimebank@btinternet.com or visit Facebook: @LittleportandElyTimebank

RELIABLE DOOR TO DOOR LEAFLET DELIVERY September onwards PRICES START AT £60/1000 Call 01353 722568 or email editor@elyimagazine.com

YOUTH ORGANISATIONS

GIRLGUIDING: ELY CITY DISTRICT We are a uniformed youth organisation for girls aged 5-18. Through fun, friendship, challenge and adventure we empower girls to find their voice, inspiring them to discover the best in themselves and to make a positive difference in their community. We also are seeking more volunteers to help provide these opportunities. Contact: Alexa and Jenny - GGElyCity@gmail.com https://www.girlguiding.org.uk/

Please keep your entry up-to-date!

Email Bridget on editor@elyimagazine.com or us the website form. www.elyimagazine.com Groups who haven't been in touch for a while and appear to be dormant will be removed.

MAR/APR COPY 13/2/23 DELIVERY 24/2/23 MAY/JUNE COPY 11/4/23 DELIVERY 24/4/23 CONTACT: 01353 722568

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EAST ANGLIAN AIR AMBULANCE It is highly unlikely that anyone across East Anglia has not heard, or heard of, EAAA and the wonderful work it undertakes. The scale of the operation – two state-of-the-art + - HS145 helicopters plus rapid response vehicles means that a substantial bank account is required to meet costs. What are the costs you might ask – well, about £3,750 a mission on average which currently translates to around £17m this year !

We receive an absolutely astounding level of active and passive support from young and, not so, young alike. We need more – please.

If you have an idea by which money for EAAA can be raised please get in touch.

Quiz’s, walks, rambles, scrambles !, climbs, orienteering, collections ( at parties or at work, anything – the list doesn’t stop there. It’s fun too.

This year our Trek24 raised over £88k, Only The

Brave over £83k and the ‘Together We’ series a further £74k plus – please do get in touch* ( info@eaaa.org.uk ) to find out how you can join the teams or do your own thing. Remember, we run a weekly regional lottery and an accumulator – up to £25k. 2023 EAAA pocket diaries are still available for new lottery players and their introducers ! *also to find out about ‘gifts in wills’ – an increasingly important component of our overall income.

Another ‘New Years Resolution ? So, what’s stopping you ? Please help East Anglian Air Ambulance to save more lives.

Michael White

Do you need help this Winter?

Are you struggling to buy food or to pay for household bills?

The Household Support Fund is designed to provide short-term financial support for people struggling to pay for essentials such as food, heating and water.

Get in touch and see how the Household Support Fund could help you.

To apply directly to the Household Support Fund, please go to www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/household-support-fund or call 0345 045 5219 54 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

2023 marks 1350 years since a monastery was first established by St. Etheldreda in Ely in AD 673. To mark the occasion, Ely Cathedral is celebrating the life and legacy of this remarkable Saxon Queen who became a Saint, with a year-long programme of events, concerts, services and exhibits. Highlights include: •

•

• A new guided tour centring on Etheldreda’s dramatic life.

A timeline of visual interpretation depicting the four key stages of her life from East Anglian Princess to Anglo Saxon Saint.

• A specially commissioned theatre production focused on Etheldreda presented by Time Will Tell Theatre.

• A commemorative floral display depicting Etheldreda’s life.

Two special festival services, June and October, celebrated by the Archbishop of York.

• A gala performance of Handel’s Messiah by the Britten Sinfonia.

• Son et Lumière Evenings.

Please check the Cathedral website for dates and times of these special events plus many other activities taking place across the city to commemorate this historic anniversary year for Ely. www.elycathedral.org

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“I feel so much more like the person I was before I lost my husband.

I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

Maureen

Choosing a care home for you or a loved one can be a daunting decision.

Care Home

an empo we ring cho ice .

When our residents and families first come to us, they have often started their care journey worried. Worried about making the right decision. About moving. About costs.

For over 25 years, at Greensleeves Care we’ve been working to make moving into a care home an empowering and life-affirming experience for people like Maureen*.

When you move into one of our homes, you become part of our not-for-profit care community. You and your family: Get financial peace of mind with our Home for Life commitment Fund care, never company profits Enjoy 24/7 award-winning specialist care, and companionship Support a charity working to transform ageing

To explore what life would be like with us, call your local Greensleeves Care home, The Orchards in Ely today:

01353 880 945 or search for the orchards greensleeves

*For Maureen’s full story search greensleeves Maureen.

Registered charity in England and Wales No. 1060478.

56 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com