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ElyiMagazine Reflecting the Richness of Ely Life

LOCAL BUSINESSES & SERVICES

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ELY COMMUNITY & BUSINESS NFORMATION

GROUPS & MEETS

JAN/FEB 2025 Issue No. 77

LOCAL EVENT INFO

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

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Certificate No: EWS320

CONTENTS

EDITORIAL AND FULL PAGE ADVERTISERS PROJECTS4ROOFING 4 BUSINESS DIRECTORY 4-7 ELY STAINED GLASS MUSEUM 8 ELY FUNERAL SERVICE 9 MENOPAUSE MASSAGE 10

30 INSPIRED BY NATURE PROJECT CLOSES 36-37 CAMBRIDGE ESTATE AGENT 40-41 HELLO ELY PICS 42 WICKEN FEN 44-45 SPORT IN ELY

ELY COMMUNITY LUNCHES 10

46 CHARLOTTE CANE NEW YEAR UPDATE

R.J. PEPPER & SON 11

48-55 WHAT’S ON LISTINGS AND POSTERS

NSPCC FUNDRAISING 12 WORLD DAY OF PRAYER 12 THE ORCHARDS CARE HOME 13 PORT PLUMBING 15 ART ON GLASS 17 ANGLESEY ABBEY 18 THE ILLUMINA COMMUNITY FUND 18 POETS HOUSE 19 ELY & LITTLEPORT BORDER MORRIS 20 NELLIE THE TUKTUK 20 REEDS FURNITURE STORE 21 ELY DOG FIELD 22 VINE LAW 23 CITY OF ELY COUNCIL 24 FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK 25 SAVE OUR CINEMA 26 VISIT ELY UPDATE 26-7 CAIT MORETON-LILE 28

49 ELY COLLEGE 55 ELY REPAIR CAFÉ 56-71 GROUPS AND MEETS 72 EATON HOMECARE

Hello!

I hope you have had a good Christmas - or at the very least some down time to recharge your batteries. We have had a festive season of travelling as our grown up family has now spread to different parts of the country which is both a joy and a challenge as we sample the delights of Yorkshire campsites! As we go into another year I'd like to thank all our supporters and advertisers who come back year after year. Please remember to use their services and do tell them you saw them here :) wishing you a blessed, fruitful and positive 2025

Bridget

ElyiMagazine

EDITORIAL, DESIGN & ADVERTISING:

Bridget Hickish : Tel / whatsapp 07580 689 600 / editor@elyimagazine.com

FRONT COVER IMAGE: Luxmuralis - LIFE Son Et Lumiere Cathedral Art FIND US ONLINE: Facebook: @TheElyi / www.elyimagazine.com FIND US BY POST: SERRULA LODGE, REGENT PLACE, SOHAM, ELY, CAMBS CB75RL SUBMISSION DEADLINE: FOR MAR/APR 2025 MAGAZINE - MON 10th FEBRUARY 2025 www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 3

ELYi BUSINESS & SERVICES DIRECTORY ACCOMMODATION Poets House A Charming Historic Hotel Just a Stone's Throw From the Beautiful Ely Cathedral, Offering the Perfect Venue for Weddings, Events, or Stays.

T: 01353 887777 www.poetshouse.co.uk AUTOCARE Ely Tyre Services Tyres, MOTs, Servicing, Repairs, Diagnostics, Airconditioning. T: 01353 669990 E:admin@elytyre.com Glovers Autocentre For all your car & van repairs, servicing and MOTs and Geoff Glover Van sales.T: 01353 664234 email: ggvs@btconnect.com / www.ggvs.co.uk Stewart & Wisbey Independent Mercedes Benz Specialist Chettisham Garage, Lynn Rd CB61SA T:01353 665343 E:info@stewart-wisbey.co.uk www.stewart-wisbey.co.uk CAR & VAN HIRE Bayfield Short or long term car and van hire. Affordable prices, expert knowledge T: 01353 666671 www.bayfieldvehiclehire.co.uk Glovers Autocentre For all your car & van repairs, servicing and MOTs and Geoff Glover Van sales.T: 01353 664234 email: ggvs@btconnect.com / www.ggvs.co.uk CARE SERVICES DOMICILLIARY CARE Eaton Homecare Short or long term care aimed at enabling you or a loved one to stay independent. T: 01223 857235 www.eatonhomecare.co.uk Trinity Care A nurse led domiciliary care company supporting people in their own homes T: 01223375100 E:office@trinitycarestaff.com RESIDENTIAL CARE The Orchards Care Home Superior care with not-for-profit values 2 Forsythia Road Ely CB62FU T: 01353 885165 CHILDCARE Bright Horizons Little ones aged 3 months to 5 years learn, flourish, have fun and make friends.

5 St Thomas Place, Ely CB7 4EX For info Tel: 01353 882 040

4 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

CLUBS, CLASSES & LESSONS 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 DANCE LESSONS Cambridge Ballroom Ballroom, Latin, Tango, Street Dance and more.

More info: www.cambridgeballroom.co.uk/ MUSIC LESSONS Haze Law Music Piano tuition for all ages, also KS2 maths and English. T: 07702102406 E: hazelawmusic@gmail. com Web: www.hazelawmusic.co.uk Karen Setchfield Guitar Guitar lessons for adults and children M: 07828192869 E: karen@classicalguitartuitionely.co.uk www.classicalguitartuitionely.co.uk CLEANING CHIMNEY Chimneys R Ted Qualified Chimney sweep Av cost £60 and discounts for more than one chimney.

T: 07835 938718 E:chimneysrted@gmail.com www.chimneysrted.co.uk DOMESTIC DMAK Oven Cleaning Ovens, Hobs, Extractors, Microwaves, BBQs T: 01353 864685 E: dmakcleaning@outlook.com Ely Eco Cleaning Services 15 years experience in professional domestic cleaning, fully insured, fully professional.

E: elyecocleaningservicesltd@hotmail.com T: 07719140614 Oven Wizards We clean your oven so you don't have to.

T: 07934 509298 E: nickbashford@ovenwizards.com DRIVEWAY Clean Driveway Cleaning, resanding, repairs and sealing of blocks, decking, sandstone, slabs & tarmac.

T: 01353 362283 E:contact@clean-driveway.com EAR CARE Ely Ear Care Highly experienced Registered General Nurse with a specialist interest in Ear Care, T: 07984 831 177 Address: 96 Cambridge Rd, Ely www.elyearcare.co.uk

ESTATE AGENTS

FURNISHINGS

Gavin Human - Cambridge Estate Agent Buying or selling? I am here to get you #MovingOn E: gavin@gavinhuman.co.uk T:07388 057 789 www.gavinhuman.co.uk FINANCIAL SERVICES

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

ACCOUNTANT CB25 Accountancy Accountancy Service covering everything your business needs T: 07803 782423 El: info@cb25accounting.co.uk ADVICE Absolute Sense Your local chartered financial planning firm.

T:01353 880033. 21 Market St. Ely CB74LS E: general enquiries@absolutesense.co.uk PAYROLL Pride Payroll Ltd Local payroll services for your business Tel: 07595289736 E:georgina@pridepayroll.co.uk FITNESS Fight Klub Ely & Littleport The Original Boxing Bag Workout to DrumNBass, suitable for all fitness levels. The most fun you can have whilst exercising. ely@fightklub.co.uk T:07485 565 572 https://www.fightklub.co.uk/ely FLORIST Flowers by Chloe Independent Family Funeral Director 2 Pont’s Hill Littleport T: 01353 863200 www.flowersbychloeely.co.uk FOOTCARE Keifer Page Foot Health Professional Treatment for nails,verrucas, corns & calluses and well as general Foot and nail management.

T: 07810 387 185 Stepwise Footcare Podiatry Clinic based in Burwell, offering the full range of services including diabetic footcare.

T: 01638 741973 www.stepwise-footcare.co.uk The Village Foot Clinic Clinic and mobile appts for Foot and nail care.

T: 07909 943 171 Carpond Lane, Wilburton CB63RJ FUNERAL SERVICE Ely Funeral Service Here for you when you need us most. Funerals, Private Chapel of Rest, Memorials T: 01353 666566 (Tower Rd) T: 01353 880555 (Forehill) R. J. Pepper & Son Independent Family Funeral Director 14 Prickwillow Rd, Ely, Cambs CB74QT T: 01353 665300

SOFT FURNISHINGS A.J Read Upholstery Full and complete re-upholstery service for both domestic and commercial. Free home consultations. Quality Fabrics T: 01223 860800 www.read-upholstery.co.uk Dentons Carpets & Flooring Carpets, Flooring, Blinds. Quality guaranteed. Free no obligation Quotes.

91 High St Cottenham T:01954 250189 www.dentonscarpets.co.uk GARDEN SERVICES GARDENING A Different Garden Organic Garden Services T: 07787594763 E: egimiflorin@gmail.com Let's Garden Trained gardeners you can trust. We create the garden space you dream of.

Free Quotes T: 079024 922 595 facebook.com/LetsGarden1 Sunflower Gardening Regular and one-off garden maintenance (weed control, pruning, trimming, leaf removal etc).

No job too small.

Tel: 07710 432562 E: SfGardening@mail.com The Joshua Tree All Tree Works undertaken, hedge cutting, fencing, garden maintenance and more! www.thejoshuatree.uk/ E: jane@thejoshuatree.uk T: 01638 597711 / 07909 291094 GARDEN BUILDINGS & LANDSCAPING Cabin Viva Bespoke Garden Studios - beautiful, versatile, Unique. Free No obligation Quote. www.cabinviva.co.uk M Evans Landscapes Landscaping, Fence Repairs, turfing, hedge cutting and more T: 01353 969 388 E: m.evanslandscapes@gmail.com Paul Hopkin Paving Block and Slab Paving Specialist, fencing and garden work.

T: 07930 528 519 www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 5

MACHINERY Fenland Spirit Services Lawnmower sales, Servicing & Repairs T: 07753 836 499 E: fenlandspiritservices@gmail.com TREEWORKS MD ARB Ltd (Tree Care Professionals) All aspects of tree work undertaken. Specialist Tree Removals, Tree Planting, Site Vegetation Clearances. Fully Insured.

T: 07555514839 www.mdarb.co.uk LEAFLET DELIVERY The Elyi Magazine Delivery Team Leaflet runs to Ely homes start at £65/1000 T:01353722568 www.elyimagazine.com LEGAL SERVICES Metcalfe Copeman & Pettefar We offer a full range of legal services to both individuals and businesses.

E:dawn.coller@mcp-law.co.uk T:01842 756103 www.mcp-law.co.uk Vine Law Specialising in wills, probate and estates as well as commercial law, employment and property T: 01353 240079 www.vinelaw.co.uk PET SERVICES Mongoose Pet Services Cat, Dog and small animal sitting/walking E: mongoosepets@gmail.com White Wonders Ely Pet Services Dog training, pet sitting, dog walking services.

E: info@whitewonderselypetservices.co.uk www.whitewonderselypetservices.co.uk T: 07445 377 175 PROPERTY SERVICES AERIALS BM Aerials & TV Services All aerial, Satellite & TV work undertaken T: 01353 863922 Mob: 07826 840 922 Email: bmaerials@gmail.com CONSERVATORIES Projects4Roofing Enjoy your conservatory all year round, www.projects4roofing.co.uk E: info@projects4roofing.co.uk T: 01638 507730 CONSTRUCTION DS Silcock Construction Your local quality builders!

T: 01353 862400 E: office@dsilcockconstruction.co.uk Ely Carpentry and Construction A well established, loacal, family run construction company T: 07943 816901 E:ashley-elyconstruction@hotmail.com 6 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

DECORATING DSD Services Painting, Decorating and General Maintenance.

Indoor & Outdoor. Free quotes in Ely. I make spaces look good!

T: 07789535103 E: dsdservices.ely@gmail.com www.instagram.com/dsd_services_ely/ William James Decorating A professional independent painter and decorator offering a high quality, clean and reliable service at competitive rates. T: 07828 392 666 www.williamjamesdecorating.com ELECTRICIAN James Loosley Electrical Ltd Domestic and commercial installations, rewires, air conditioning, EICR/landlord certificates, EV charging and more. T: 07584 084258 E:jamesloosleyelectrical@gmail.com TW Electrical Ely Electrical Installations & repairs T: 01353 862900 info@twelectrical-services.co.uk HANDY MAN / HOME IMPROVEMENT CJ Property Services Handyman, Painting & Decorating, Carpentry, Tiling, Kitchens and Bathrooms T: 07957 144375 E: cjhayproperty@gmail.com KC Bespoke Renovations For all your home improvement needs T: 07383 833737 kcbespokerenovations@gmail.com Turn to Ted For all house maintenance and garden services www.facebook.com/turntoted.ted Mob: 07967 796 992 E: turntoted@btinternet.com KITCHENS & BATHROOMS Magical Interior Renovations Bathrooms and Kitchens, plumbing repairs, wall movement and loft conversions, T: 01353 664044 E: magicalinteriorrenovations@gmail.co.uk LOCKSMITH Bargate Master Locksmith 24hr emergency call out service T: 07872 169 428 E: paulbarham@btinternet.com LOFTS Access for Lofts Expert loft ladders and hatch installations.

A 'Which' trusted trader.

T: 01223 787275 W: www.access4lofts.co.uk PLUMBING & HEATING LNW Plumbing For all your plumbing & heating needs T: 07960 222 388 E: lnwplumbing@gmail.com

SUPPLIES Port Plumbing Not just a plumbers merchant! Bathroom, heating, plumbing and electrical supplies at our store behind Sharman's Garden Centre. CB61EW T:01353 860093 www.portplumbing.co.uk TILES MAM Tiling & Plant Hire Stunning wall and floor tiles for every room. Selfdrive mini diggers, dumpers, trailers.

T: 01353 863916 www.mamtiling.co.uk Sharman's Garden Centre, Camel Rd Littleport STORAGE Stretham Storage Secure and affordable storage near Ely www.strethamstorage.co.uk T:07723 016 591 E: admin@harv.co.uk

Business Directory listings cost £100 for the year and can be booked by contacting the editor editor@elyimagazine.com

fnd out to

re mo

A bright future to look forward to at Ely

THERAPY/COACHING Psychexcite Parties, workshops, shows, & talks, to learn about the brain, mind, behaviour change and well-being.

T:07932 450936 E: rayheath@psychexcite.com W: www.psychexcite.com Real Life Therapy Heart-Centred Therapy from the Mind E: realifetherapy@gmail.com T: 07739 260027 Mob: 01353 664920

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Mark Bennett Plumbing and Heating Services Family Business with 30 years’ experience.

T: 01353 862054 Mob: 07775 832 894 Mason Heating & Plumbing Gas safe registered engineer and plumber with over 30 years experience. From boilers to bathrooms, we can help. info@masonplumberely.co.uk T:07749 507018 M: 01353 969686

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www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 7

THE STAINED GLASS MUSEUM CELEBRATES A MAJOR REDISPLAY. The Stained Glass Museum is delighted to have reopened its doors after a major redisplay of its 20th and 21st century collections. More works than ever before are now on display in the museum’s permanent gallery, located in the south triforium of Ely Cathedral.

The event also marked the official launch of an exciting new Collections Fund – and the ambition to reach £500,000 in gifts and pledges by 2029 to help care for and further develop these unique collections and ensure they are available for future generations.

As part of the redisplay, over a third of the museum’s gallery was rehung, with fourteen recently acquired acquisitions placed on display for the first time and the number of works by women artists in the gallery also increased by more than a third.

The Stained Glass Museum’s collection has grown significantly in the last forty years since the museum first opened to the public. Since 2000 the collection has evolved to include many beautiful examples from a variety of secular and sacred buildings from across the United Kingdom, Europe and beyond. Many of these acquisitions were made possible with the support of the Art Fund, the V&A Purchase Fund, and many generous individual donations.

Amongst the new stained glass exhibits that can now be seen are artworks by Arts and Crafts pioneer Christopher Whall, Scottish modernist Douglas Strachan and leading Irish expressionist Evie Hone, modern post war German craftsmen such as Johannes Schreiter and Joachim Klos, as well as contemporary painter Hughie O’Donoghue RA and glass artist Grace Ayson. Supplementing the new 20th and 21st century displays are some beautiful 17th century domestic and heraldic pieces, enhancing the museum’s chronological permanent gallery which includes examples from the medieval period through to the present day.

The museum closed for a week in November to enable the redisplay, which was generously funded by The Headley Trust. The works were carried out by the museum’s small team of staff with carpentry assistance from local firm Coulsons, and bespoke metal frames provided by Neil Wilton of The Stained Glass Display Company.

Earlier this week The Stained Glass Museum marked this significant milestone in its history with celebration events and were honoured to have in attendance HM Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire Mrs. Julie Spence OBE CStJ QPM, as well as the Mayor and Mayoress of Ely, alongside many Friends, volunteers and supporters of the museum. Several artists and conservators who have designed, made or helped conserve works on display in the gallery were also in attendance. The Lord Lieutenant, Mrs. Spence, addressed attendees – and in her speech praised the efforts of the museum’s team and highlighted the museum’s importance and significance as a cultural asset.

8 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Jasmine Allen, Curator of The Stained Glass Museum says; “This is the largest redisplay The Stained Glass Museum has undertaken since the present gallery opened in the south triforium of Ely Cathedral in 2000. We are really pleased to have been able to showcase some of the recent acquisitions we have made to enhance and diversify the collection. We now call on those who care about the future of this precious collection to consider donating or pledging to the new Collections Fund and play a part in ensuring its survival for the future!”

Vice Chair of Trustees Suzanne Phillips-Galloway speaks to guests.

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www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 9

MENOPAUSE MASSAGE Are you tired of suffering through the symptoms of menopause alone? At NRBFitness I understand how challenging this phase can be. That's why I am using a unique solution to help you find relief.

Introducing the revolutionary massage therapy designed specifically for menopause.

Experience the incredible benefits of a deeply relaxing massage, tailored to address the common symptoms associated with menopause. As a skilled therapist I combine the best elements of relaxation and Swedish massage techniques to provide you with optimal comfort and rejuvenation.

The specially formulated aromatherapy blend works in harmony with your body, helping to balance hormones naturally. Let the soothing scents transport you to a peaceful state, relieving mood swings, hot flushes, brain fog, and anxiety.

Discover the ancient art of acupressure, known for its ability to restore balance and vitality. I will apply gentle pressure to specific points on your body, targeting hormonal imbalances and alleviating migraines, aches, and pains.

Once more Ely Community Lunches received a wonderfully generous response of donations and volunteers giving their time to make the annual Christmas Lunch happen.

A hundred and sixty people in Ely, Soham, Littleport and the surrounding villages were able to sit down at “The Almonary” or Ely Methodist Church or in their own home for lunch on Christmas Day.

Those who may have been alone or be without a special lunch, or get a present from Santa, were also able to have their meal from our Santa delivery team of volunteers.

We are grateful also for the many businesses and supermarkets in Ely that made contributions which enabled us to put on this feast.

Enhance the effectiveness of your treatments with an acupressure magnet plasters, and take home oils designed for use in between sessions and as part of your at-home aftercare routine.

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Take the first step towards relief today. Book your massage therapy session now! Or contact me for a chat as to how this massage can help you.

NRBFitness (Massage) 07810681224, www.nrbfitness.com Lastly to Gareth Holdsworth, and his team at Crucial Cuisine and all the drivers, waiters, “washer uppers” and entertainers that made the day once more run so smoothly we want to say a huge “Thank You”.

From the Ely Community Lunches Team For further information on this Charity, please contact 01353 662228 op 2 or www.elycommunitylunches.com

10 | 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 | 11

Ely NSPCC Fundraising Group had a lovely time helping supporters of the charity to make Christmas Star Wreaths in December.

The group are now all geared up for a “Quiz Night with Fish & Chips” for £20 each at St Mary’s Church Hall on 17th January 2025 at 7pm. We are also taking bookings for another of our famous Jazz Nights at King’s Monastic Barn on 14th February 2025.Tickets £42 each to include a 2 course supper. To book tickets for either of these events please go to buytickets.at/ElyNSPCC or contact us on elynspcc@gmail.com or 07876 244305.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER (A Women-led, Global, Ecumenical Movement) FRIDAY 7th MARCH 2025, 1.30pm at St Etheldreda’s Church, Ely

“I made you wonderful” The World Day of Prayer is an international, inter-church organisation which enables us to hear the thoughts of women from all parts of the world: their hopes, concerns and prayers.

This year’s service is written by women from The Cook Islands, a group of 15 islands in the South Pacific Ocean, with a rich and colourful Māori heritage and a deep connection to nature. Over time, their cultures have interwoven with 12 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Christianity, and the blessings are evident today. As guardians and caretakers of God’s marvellous works, they always treasure these words, “I made you wonderful”.

On Friday 7th 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 in St Etheldreda’s Church, Ely, starting at 1.30pm. Refreshments will be served after the service. All are welcome to attend – adults and children.

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

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Servicing and Repairs Access to Mercedes Benz Digital Service History, Using all genuine parts

Independent Mercedes Benz Specialist Offering servicing and updates to your dealer digital service history - a family run business offering a high level of knowledge and expertise - a friendly team with years of experience of the Mercedes Brand known for outstanding customer service.

Diagnostics MOT Class 4 Air Conditioning Tyres Batteries Courtesy Cars Mercedes Courtesy Cars by request.

We also offer a collection and delivery service by request in Ely.

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Stewart & Wisbey Ltd Chettisham Garage Lynn Road Ely CB6 1SA

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ANGLESEY ABBEY Illumina and Cambridgeshire Community Foundation have launched a new fund to support cancer patients and their loved ones.

Photo: © National Trust Images / Justin Minns

Wishing you all a baa-rilliant New Year!

Find the Flock As we say goodbye to the beautiful bear sculptures at Anglesey Abbey that have been extremely popular over the Christmas season, we are excited to announce that Shaun the Sheep will be joining us this spring! Working in collaboration with Wild in Art and Aardman, visitors can embaa-rk on another sculpture trail around the gardens at Anglesey Abbey from 1 Mar to 27 Apr 2025. Keep an eye on our social media channels and website for more information and plans.

Snowdrops From mid-January to February, the gardens will be full of beautiful snowdrops. The snowdrop collection at Anglesey Abbey boasts over 500 varieties of these delicate white flowers and you can join a specialist tour to learn more about them.

Tours this year will run from Monday 27 Jan to Friday 28 Feb, every Sunday to Friday (no tours on Saturdays) at 11am and 13.30pm.

Please note that there is no option to pre-book tours this year on our website, instead, please arrive early on the day and ask to join a tour when you arrive at the visitor centre. You will be given a ticket on the day at the welcome desk. We recommend arriving early to avoid disappointment as the tours are always really popular.

House tours We have enjoyed a wonderful Christmas at Anglesey Abbey with decorations highlighting particular treasures in each room – some of which you can see on BBC iPlayer if you’re an Antiques Roadshow fan! From the 6 Jan, the house will be open for accessible tours on the ground floor only at 11am, 12.30pm and 2pm, while the team remove the Christmas decorations and complete the annual start-of-year cleaning and conservation work in January. Please head to our website for more information and opening times: nationaltrust.org.uk/anglesey-abbey 18 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Illumina, a global genomics and human health leader, has partnered with Cambridgeshire Community Foundation to set up the Illumina Community Fund. It will offer grants of up to £10,000 to local charities and community groups whose work benefits individuals diagnosed with cancer and their loved ones.

Michael O’Toole, CEO at Cambridgeshire Community Foundation, commented: “Local charities and community groups play a crucial role in providing tailored, on-the-ground support that complements NHS services for cancer patients and their families. The funding will help these organisations to expand their reach, develop new programmes, and continue to provide essential services that help to face the challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis.”

Grants are available for projects across Cambridgeshire. National charities are eligible to apply, but applications are particularly encouraged from smaller, Cambridgeshire-based charities and community groups. If the fund becomes oversubscribed, priority will be given to the latter.

The fund has a total of £30,000 available to apply for from 2024 to 2025.

The first application deadline is 1 February 2025, with outcomes expected to be shared in spring 2025.

The fund is now open for applications, which can be submitted to Cambridgeshire Community Foundation. To find out more and apply for a grant, visit: cambscf.org.uk/funds/illumina/

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Poets House, St Mary's Street, Ely CB7 4EY www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 19

ELY AND LITTLEPORT RIOT BORDER MORRIS The Ely and Littleport Riot is a mixed Morris side based in Ely. We dance our own version of Border Morris, a style of dancing from the counties that border Wales. We do dance a few traditional dances but most of our dances are our own compositions named after local places, Aldreth Mill, Black Bank, Padnal……

The side is named after the bread riots that took place in Ely and Littleport in 1816. A number of men were hanged and more transported to Australia for their part in the riots. There is a memorial on the south side of St Mary’s Church tower in Ely. We practice from the beginning of September to the end of April and ‘Dance out’ almost every week in May, June and July, sometimes twice, and from time in the Autumn and Winter. These are mainly regular events like March Winter Fair and Whittlesey Straw Bear.

The dance out season starts on 1st May at 5:20am outside Ely Cathedral. In common with many other Morris sides around the country we will be dancing the sun up on May Day. Our regular events include St Neot’s Day of Dance, Eel Day, Whittlesey Straw Bear, Denny Abbey May Open Day and Ely Folk Festival.

This year we also danced at Chippenham Folk Festival. We also dance at local pubs, and provide entertainment at events over the Summer.

We are available for displays at events in the local area and to organisations like the WI, Guides, Beavers, Lunch Clubs, schools etc for whom we can do displays and/or teaching sessions.

The practice season starts on Friday 1st September. We meet at Centre E in Barton Road, Ely from 8 till 9:30. New dancers and musicians are always welcome so please come and join us.

Find us on Facebook – ElyandLittleportRiotBorderMorris and Instagram – elyandlittleportriot

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Raising funds to buy Nellie the tuk tuk!

Back in 2019 Soham Community Association teamed up with Viva to buy Nellie the tuk tuk for Soham. Until the Covid lockdown she was zooming around Soham with volunteers driving people to the local shops, doctors and other activities… Soham Community Group being a favourite.

Unfortunately insurance changes mean it’s no longer possible to use tuk tuks to transport members of the public on the roads, however, she could of course be used to transport other items or for events!

Nellie is up for sale at the bargain price of £3000 (ovno). She is being sold as seen and hasn’t been used since Covid, but has been kept inside and has been given a short run around periodically. To enquire please email Wendy on sohamcommunityinfo@gmail.com Further Info: Nellie the tuk tuk is a beautiful Piaggio, petrol engine size 200cc, 4 seats (including driver) her tax class is as a Tricycle.

If you are looking for community transport you can try the East Cambs Social Car Scheme run by Voluntary and Community Action East Cambs.

To enquire contact: info@ vcaec.org.uk or call 01353 666 166 between Mon Thurs: 9:30am-12:30pm.

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20 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

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PLANNING AHEAD In the October 2024 Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves introduced changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) regulations, increasing the potential tax burden on estates. Key measures include freezing the IHT Nil Rate Band at £325,000 and the Residential Nil Rate Band at £175,000 until 5th April 2030, meaning more estates may now fall within the scope of IHT. While much attention has focused on revisions to Agricultural and Business Property Reliefs, another change could affect more individuals: the treatment of pension pots for IHT purposes.

Currently, pension pots are mostly exempt from IHT. However, from 6th April 2027, inheriting a pension pot may incur tax, particularly if the pension holder dies after the age of 75 or the pension pot is sizable. This marks a significant shift in financial planning for families intending to use pension pots to pass on wealth tax-free.

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CITY OF ELY COUNCIL

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

MEET YOUR ELY NORTH WARD CITY COUNCILLORS Cllr Rupert Moss-Eccardt Rupert is a security consultant, specialising in policing and public protection. He lives in Queen Adelaide and is Chair of the Ely Level Crossing Action Group.

Cllr Caoimhe Ni Dhonaill My name is Caoimhe Ní Dhónaill and I am proud to represent Ely North on the City of Ely Council. I am chair of the Personnel, Finance and Governance committee, which oversees the Council's budget, its ways of working as well as its many employees. I also sit on the CIL subcommittee that decides how funds received from developments in Ely are spent to better the city.

I'm particularly passionate about the environment, access to social amenities, and trying to ensure the council is a great place to work. My favourite part of my role as councillor is our annual grants process, where we learn more about the great organisations around Ely that do vital work for the city and its inhabitants, and we get to help and support them through our grant scheme.

Cllr Richard Morgan Richard Morgan was elected to the Council in 2019. He is chairman of both the Assets and Planning Committees.

He successfully negotiated with Network Rail to stop the trains 'hooting' through Prickwillow; and asked the county council to repair and replace the old defective bollards on Kings Avenue and Thistle Corner. With the aid of CIL money, a new bus shelter was provided for Prickwillow schoolchildren. Richard has also taken a keen interest in the development in North Ely regarding proposed local amenities.

Cllr Ross Trent Cllr Ross Trent was elected as a City Councillor in September 2023. He is committed to amplifying the voices of local residents.

Bringing a community focussed approach to local issues.

Ross has lived in and around Ely for 18 years and is a self-employed cabinet maker. He was also elected onto the District Council for Ely West in April 2024.

Cllr Rebecca Ward Rebecca Ward is a local doctor and has been on the council since 2023.

She has lived in Ely since 2017. She has a young family and her aim on the council is to try to improve facilities in the Ely North area including the development of the Ely North Hub and to have more playparks and green spaces in the area for residents to enjoy.

24 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS Mon, 13 Jan 6.30pm Planning A 7.00 pm Full Council Mon, 20 Jan 7.00 pm Assets Mon, 27 Jan 6.30 pm Planning B 7.00 pm Climate & Environment

Mon, 3 Feb 7.00 pm Tourism & Town Centre Mon, 10 Feb 6.30 pm Planning A 7.00 pm Personnel, Finance & Governance Mon, 24 Feb 6.30 pm Planning B 7.00 pm Full Council

The City of Ely Military Band

From the Mayor's Desk I promised, the last time I wrote, to say something about the Mayor's role as an ambassador to other parts of our region. Quite often I get invitations to nearby towns to join mayors in their own communities and it's good both to be able to meet other people working in local government and to see something of what they are doing.

A little while ago, for example, the Mayoress and I were asked if we'd like to go to Wisbech to attend the local Mayor's Civic Service. It turned out to be a very fine visit not only because the service was held at the Throne of Grace Pentecostal church, with all that that meant in terms of lively music and congregational participation, but also because the Mayor of Wisbech is originally from Nigeria and so is writing a whole new chapter in the town's history. In the six years that he has lived there he has established himself as a local businessman, become involved in local politics, been elected to the Town Council and with the backing of his colleagues has been selected first to serve as Deputy Mayor and then as Mayor. It's a good story for that community, and indeed for the rest of us who rejoice in equal opportunity and growing diversity - but it was easy to see from the Mayor's welcoming speech with its emphasis on people coming together for the greater good just why he has made such an impression on the life of his adopted town.

Just a little while ago, back in Ely, we were invited to a function at the Stained-Glass Museum in the Cathedral. It was an 'eye-opener', as they say. The Museum has a collection of glass which is of national, if not international, importance displayed in a stunning environment showcasing the history of an art form that stretches back hundreds of years. The Museum encourages visits from children and school parties and runs courses on different aspects of glass making.

Recently there have been significant new additions to the collection that include much

Remembrance 2024

Careers & Skills Fair 2024

vibrant contemporary glass. If you haven't been to the Museum, it is well worth a visit and I mustn't forget to mention that there's a shop there too with a fine collection of books to browse and some lovely gifts for the discerning!

In November the City remembered its war dead and as Mayor I laid wreaths both in the Cathedral and at the War Memorial in the Market Place. It seemed to me that this year there were more people than ever at the Service and the Parade. It was good to see our young people from various uniformed organisations out in force and to have the support of men and women who had served in the Armed Forces as well as those serving now - including a contingent from the U.S. Military.

The City of Ely Military Band added enormous dignity to the occasion and they and the Royal British Legion presided over a fitting remembering of what those who have gone before us in Ely suffered in the cause of freedom.

It's impossible in a short article to do justice to all the things we've attended, the volunteers we've met and the good causes we've been able to support but there's one thing I must mention and that's the East Cambs Careers and Skills Fair that was held in the Cathedral, again in November. It brought together sixty businesses, colleges and universities and allowed more than 1500 students to engage with a wealth of educational and career prospects. It was a real treat to be able to go along to the Fair and to see just how seriously everything was taken by our young people and to note the highly professional involvement of those who had stalls for them to visit. A wonderful day in the local educational calendar!

Chris Phillips www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 25

CITY NEWS

TOURISM AND THE CITY OF ELY COUNCIL from Anna Bennett Toursim, Events & Town Centre Manager

SAVING ELY CINEMA! The support has been tremendous. 64 interested parties attended our second Public Meeting to Save the Cinema on Tuesday 3rd December Babylon Arts has agreed to transfer the management of the Maltings venue to the Dawe Charitable Trust (DCT) which makes it possible for us to Save The Cinema. Babylon Arts is fully cooperating with us in the handover and we are planning to re-open the Cinema early in the New Year.

You, our many volunteers, are also making it possible for us to Save The Cinema and you have been allocated to 5 groups under the titles of: Public Facing, Screening Technical, Marketing & Ticketing, Administration and Friends of Cinema.

Working with us, Peter Dawe and Linda Neate, these groups will be organising the day to day activities.

If you have volunteered and don’t hear from us shortly, please get in touch with lindaneateely@ gmail.com. If you wish to volunteer and haven’t yet, also get in touch with me.

We plan to continue initially in the same historic way, however, within 3 months we will be holding another meeting to discuss suggestions and new ideas to further enhance the Ely Community Cinema and secure its future.

We have our heads down right now getting on with the transfer, but if you have any immediate questions or observations please get in touch with me on the above email.

Linda Neate & Peter Dawe

26 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Since April 2018, the Tourism and Events service, previously known as Tourism and Town Centres service, has been a provision provided by the City of Ely Council, taking over the service from East Cambridgeshire District Council.

Since then, The City of Ely Council has fully backed the service encouraging both the retention and development of both the tourism and events offering within the City. Operating both the Tourist Information Centre and Oliver Cromwell’s House, the City of Ely Council have continued to support the work of Visit Ely to promote the city as a visitor destination. The Visit Ely team works closely with a range of local businesses and stakeholders to bring an exciting calendar of events throughout the year, not forgetting all the staff based at OCH, who advise and equip our annual visitors to the area with maps, advice, ticket booking, and more.

Every year, the office team create and publish a free comprehensive printed guide to the area.

Over 13,000 copies are produced with a substantial quantity sent to a distribution centre in Sheffield.

Other attractions, hotels and tourist destinations, then

proceed to order this fantastic product resulting in Ely being well placed on the map of the UK increasing the economic share from the tourism sphere.

The London Plane Tree in the Bishop's Palace Garden was a gift from King Charles II in 1674

The events calendar provides many incredibly popular large-scale free public events including Ely’s Eel Festival Weekend, Armed Forces Day and Ely’s Apple and Harvest Fayre. With many of these wellestablished events there is a very strong track record of supporting local organisations, charities, and new and burgeoning local businesses! Some of these local businesses have now transferred to permanent high street locations including Victoria’s Cheese and Love Lane by Abi. It is important to remember the impact tourism has on our beautiful city as it’s not just economic growth, but in our fine heritage and its preservation. We are proudly supporting King’s Ely this year by unlocking heritage funding to preserve and maintain the London Plane Tree which was a gift from King Charles II in 1674, this is one of the largest and oldest Plane Trees in the UK. This fine tree is situated in the Bishop’s Palace Garden. This year there will be open days for artists and the public, plus tours of this hidden historic gem.

Year on year, Ely’s visitor numbers are on the increase, and that couldn’t be achieved without the City of Ely Council, the tourism committee and the teams involved in making Ely one of the most desirable places to visit in the UK. Here’s some dates for your 2025 diary that you won’t want to miss out on: Ely’s Eel Day 3rd May 2025 Ely’s Food, Drink and Craft Fair

4th and 5th May 2025 VE Day 80 8th May 2025 Armed Forces Day 21st June 2025 Apple and Harvest Weekend (25 years in 2025)

11th and 12th October 2025 For further information regarding the above events, and all your tourism requirements, please contact info@visitely.org.uk

www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 27

CELEBRATING ELY PEOPLE

Cait Moreton-Lisle is an internationally renowned quilt designer, living and working in Ely. She has recently published a book, “Modern Quilting: From First Stitches to Finishing Touches” * and 20 of her quilts have just returned from travelling the country as part of the Grosvenor Quilt Show.

This touring show culminated in an exhibition at Duxford. Cait’s quilts displayed a perfect capsule of her style, from her penchant for rainbows to her creativity in restyling classic blocks to produce new and original designs.

Visitors commended the impact of the bold colours used and the technical expertise displayed, with many particularly noticing the perfect points on triangles - a feat more difficult to achieve than it sounds!

Rainbow Fields to beat design block. As for people, Cait is a member of the Cambridgeshire Modern Quilt Guild, a supportive and lovely group of people who have always encouraged her designs. *Readers of Ely Magazine can get 10% off Cait’s book and patterns at www.caitlisledesigns.com by using the code ELYMAG

‘Threads That Bind’ was a real stand out, with the complex, layered design speaking to many visitors. One explained how to her it symbolised community, and evoked her memories of moving to a new city and slowly building her own community there. Another visitor admired ‘Halo’ - their adoration of the texture created by the hand quilting was very appreciated, as it had taken approximately 16,500 stitches to fill the inner circle.

Both the place and people of Ely have been integral to Cait’s quilting journey. The country park has been a common refuge when inspiration is lacking; submerging herself in nature has always been Cait’s favourite way 28 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Threads That Bind

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INSPIRED BY NATURE

project comes to a close in November 2024 Babylon ARTS has worked in partnership on a project for 18 months with Ely Museum, the National Trust’s Wicken Fen Nature Reserve, the Highfield Littleport Academy, RNIB, CamSight and Vision Norfolk to deliver an exciting and innovative project ‘Inspired by Nature’, made possible with funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The programme was designed to improve access to arts and heritage to a wider range of people and to enable Babylon Gallery, Wicken Fen and Ely Museum to become welcoming, inclusive and accessible sites. We are delighted to have completed this project with some truly transformative outcomes and increased awareness!

Highlights of the project include the formation of a ‘Nature Group’ in association with CamSight and Vision Norfolk, who joined artist Tom Adams for sensory walks, boat trips and taster workshops. Together they created an audio piece entitled, ‘The Lantern Men’, The ‘Nature Group’ case study is available on the Babylon Arts website.

The ‘Sensing Nature’ challenge was a call out to our local communities to spend time in nature and submit their creative impressions to be considered for inclusion in the exhibition of the same name. Babylon Arts’ ‘Young Associates’ group (Basecoat Collective) curated the exhibition and 2 of their members wrote and recorded audio descriptions of 7 artworks being exhibited, which also gained them the first ever digital badges for ‘Audio Describing & Recording for the Visually Impaired’ awarded via Badge Nation. They repeated the process by selecting a further 10 artworks from the Babylon Summer Open and producing the audio descriptions and

30 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

recordings, which were available via scanning a QR code or through headphones.

For both the ‘Sensing Nature’ exhibition and the ‘Summer Open’ Babylon Arts was also able to produce ‘raised drawings’ of works on display, to be available in the gallery for visitors with visual impairment to allow them tactile access to the works. Project partners at Wicken Fen benefited from 9 further raised drawings featuring a map, wildlife and buildings on site, and Ely Museum received 3 raised drawings featuring historic images of Fenland workers with traditional tools.

These targeted interventions to increase access for the visually impaired are a first for Babylon Arts and their partners!

Ely Museum ran handling sessions for the public and for the group with low vision to allow them to touch artefacts involved in working the Fenland landscape and also increased their access to the collection via the raised drawings.

Babylon Arts also worked intensively with Highfield Littleport Academy delivering a series of workshops led by 3 artists, Kaitlin Ferguson, Amy Wormald and Lyn Pryor co-creating some remarkable prints and ceramics and a large-scale artwork hung in the school hall, entitled ‘Deep Time’.

The final icing on the cake of the ‘Inspired by Nature’ project was Babylon’s achievement of the RNIB’s Visibly Better Employer standard which signals it as an organisation that both welcomes and supports those who may be blind or with low vision to the workplace as employees, with a commitment to making the necessary changes to facilitate their access. To date, Babylon Arts is the only cultural organisation in the country to have been awarded the ‘Visibly Better Employer’ standard, of which the whole organisation is very proud!

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#MovingOn #MovingForward #MovingHome www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 37

IN NOVEMBER ELY ROTARY WERE RAISING FUNDS TOWARDS A SHELTERBOX

On Saturday 9th November, an event was held in the Methodist Church in Ely to help the Rotary Club of Ely raise funds towards a shelterbox.

There was a variety of stalls many of which were themed with Christmas colours and which featured a popular cake stall and stalls of cards, books, and knick-knacks.Tea or coffee and cakes and scones were also provided. It was very well attended and raised £353. For more information about Shelterbox: https://shelterbox.org For more information about the Rotary Club of Ely: info@rotaryclubofely.co.uk or Facebook: Rotary Club of Ely. New members are welcome.

A MOVING REMEMBRANCE SERVICE IN ST ANDREWS WITCHFORD

A very moving Remembrance Day Service was held to a packed church in St. Andrew's Church Witchford on Sunday 10th November, led by Canon Rev Stuart Mitchell and Katrina Myers.

It was attended by members of Squadron 115 - the squadron based at Lancaster Way during the Second World War. The service was very well supported by the Scouts, Guides, Beavers, Brownies and Rainbows who presented their flags.

Several wreaths were also presented during the service and the names of those from the village who had died in the first and second world wars were read out and remembered.

38 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

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www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 39

CELEBRATING ELY PEOPLE

On Sunday 1st December 2024, the Rotary Club of Ely, after a hard month of working for charities, relaxed for their Christmas celebration lunch at the City of Ely Golf Club.

Guests from the Inner Wheel were also present at the lunch. It was also used for an occasion to create a reverse hamper for the foodbank - people brought something rather than took something.

President Viv Doji was During the lunch enough money was raised to make up the difference for a Shelter Box that the club has been working towards buying. Find Ely Rotary on Facebook: Rotary Club of Ely.

The spectacular Ely Panto continues at the Maltings until 5th January. Ely's very own professional pantomime produced by KD Theatre Productions runs every Christmas and is now it its 12th year.

Hello Ely! Readers' photos from recent months send to: editor@elyimagazine.com

Hundreds of people of all ages were transported to the vibrant, high-stakes world of 1940s New York thanks to the superb 34-strong King's Ely cast of students in Years 9-13, who staged the lively musical comedy in the Hayward Theatre from December 4th-7th.

Viva Arts and Community group in Soham performed Jack and the Beanstalk in early December at The Viva Theatre before transferring the show to Haverhill Arts Centre. Lots of laughs from a very accomplished cast.

40 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

CELEBRATING ELY PEOPLE

Campaign Amateur Theatre's production of Monty Python's Spamalot played to packed houses at the Maltings in November.

This show was directed Peachy andof the MD was Graham Brown who lead a superb Years 5 and 6 hilarious King's School pupils readyby forStephanie their opening show 'Alice in Wonderland' in October. band. Every ounce of comedy was wrung out of the script by an energetic and enthusiastic cast.

St Andrew's, Witchford

On Saturday the 30th November, St Andrew's Day, St. Andrew's Church Witchford celebrated the day with lighting the Advent Star on the tower of the church.

Volunteers, George Jellicoe, Keith Dolan, and Keith McCourt set up the star and Peter Norman provided the remote control as well as decorating the lynch gate with lights to help with this festive occasion.

On 7th December Ely Consort performed a fabulous concert in Chatteris. An excellent concert, well worth braving the storms to hear.

Photo Anna Rudd

Thank you to all the workers and volunteers who decorated Ely City Centre for the festive season.

www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 41

WICKEN FEN

Winter is the perfect time for a wildlife walk at Wicken Fen. Whether its misty, frosty or beneath a fiery sky, the calls of ducks, geese and wild swans carry on the breeze. So why not wrap up warm and head out along one of the many trails across the wider nature reserve.

The Docky Hut Café has a selection of warming comfort food, hot drinks and tasty treats including midweek chilli, nachos and rice and weekend pies. In the visitor centre, dogs receive a warm welcome and a stamp in their National Trust Pooch Passport. While you can browse our selection of festive goodies in the gift shop, perfect for a bit of yuletide shopping. And don’t miss the secondhand book stall, which also stocks a collection of jigsaw puzzles. Both the café and visitor centre/ gift shop are open 10am – 4.30pm daily.

A new winter trail, around the boardwalk, will be open daily until 13th January, where families can help lost Highland calf Parsnip find her way back to the herd, meeting resident and visiting animals along the way. Normal admission applies, but the trail is free.

For nature lovers, it’s well worth standing by the visitor centre at dusk to look out for roosting hen harriers, Wicken’s Sedge Fen is a renowned wintering ground for this rare bird of prey.

42 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

PEAT PROJECT Our exciting Peatland Restoration Project is well underway, with works taking place on Burwell Fen, Verrall’s Fen and Tubney Fen. Contractors have been constructing clay banks (known as buds) around areas of deep peat on Burwell and Tubney Fens to wet them up. This locks in carbon, therefore helping mitigate climate change, and creates important habitat for both wintering and breeding birds. The footpath through the middle of Burwell Fen will be closed until March 2025, but there is access via the National Cycleway Route 11 and along the Burwell and Reach Lode-banks.

Excavation works along Spinney Bank, on the far west side of the Fen, uncovered the foundations of an historic old drainage windpump and also a glass bottle (possibly an old lemonade bottle) made in Burwell at the old Guyatt and Droford Mineral Works, which closed in the 20th century.

The £2million project is predominately funded through the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) 'Nature for Climate' Peatland Grant Scheme (NCPGS) managed by Fens East Peatland Partnership (FEPP), with funding from corporate partners including Starling Bank and Anglian Water.

Details of our events and trails can be found on our website at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ wicken-fen-nature-reserve/whats-on For the latest reserve information, please visit our website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wicken-fen Follow the progress of our Peatland Restoration Project on our website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cambridgeshire/ wicken-fen-national-nature-reserve/ peatland-restoration

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www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 43

SPORT Roller hockey has a long, fascinating history in England.

First played in the late 1800s, it even had famous fans Charlie Chaplin and Stan Laurel played in their youth! While today it’s a minor sport in England, popular mainly in the eastern regions, roller hockey is huge in countries like Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Argentina.

Here in the UK, it’s kept alive by dedicated clubs under the National Roller Hockey Association (NRHA). One of those standout clubs is Ely & Chesterton United (ECU), known for its commitment to girls’ roller hockey. This year, ECU’s commitment has paid off in a big way.

A group of young women, ages 15 to 18 and all from around Cambridge, just made history as the first English women’s team to qualify for the WSE Female Champions League.

For a country where roller hockey flies mostly under the radar, this is huge!

Their journey began seven years ago when this tight-knit group could barely stay on their skates.

Through friendship and sheer determination, they’ve trained together ever since, overcoming challenges with support from their families and coaches. Their hard work has taken them from local matches to international tournaments, where most of them played for England’s U17 team and brought home a Silver Medal at the 2023 European Championships - the best result for England in over a century.

Winning the first-ever NRHA Female Premier League earned them this shot to play against Europe’s elite teams. This started in November with the Champions League qualifiers, and in the New Year, they’ll keep pushing to join the group stages or the Championship competition.

Want to be part of their journey? Show your support on ECU’s GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/35f2fae7.

Every little bit helps keep the dream alive!

44 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

SPORT

Basketball is a great all round team sport which can help with motor skills, coordination, balance, fitness and mental health; it is a high impact exercise which can also help you to develop good concentration and self-discipline. Basketball is a fun sport in which teams develop friendships and camaraderie.

Sessions are £5 each, no need to book in advance just arrive in sports clothing and footwear with a water bottle and be ready to enjoy a fast paced game of basketball. Sessions are as follows:

‘East Cambridgeshire Warriors’ are a not for profit Community Basketball Club for ages 7 to adult; male and females of all abilities are welcome.

The coaches are all passionate about the game and strive to get the best from their teams, a typical training session might include ball control and shooting skills, tactics and drills as well as games and conditioning for health and fitness. All the teams get to play in locally organised leagues, and we are very excited about our recently started girls only sessions for the ‘East Cambridgeshire Amazons’.

Girls 12-16yrs, Monday at Ely College Sports Hall, 6-7.15pm Seniors, Monday at Ely College Sports Hall, 7.30-9.30pm Under 14yrs, Tuesday at Kings Ely Sports Hall, 6-7.30pm Under 16yrs, Tuesday at Kings Ely Sports Hall, 7.30-9pm Year Groups 4 and 5, Wednesday at Kings Ely Sports Hall, 6-7pm Year Groups 6 and 7, Wednesday at Kings Ely Sports Hall, 7-8pm Please follow us on social media, www.facebook. com/EastCambsBasketball, Instagram or email us at contact@eastcambsbasketball.co.uk

CALLING ALL ELY SPORTS CLUBS! If you would like your team or club to be featured in this section of the magazine please do get in touch by emailing: editor@elyimagazine.com We have a number of free bookable 250 WORD slots throughout the year! www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 45

Asking questions about police resources in parliament

CHARLOTTE CANE MP NEW YEAR UPDATE As we settle into the new year, the last few months of 2024 brought both celebration and hard work, with a busy schedule in Westminster and across our constituency.

One recent highlight was visiting the Repair Café at Littleport Village Hall. This inspiring initiative brings people together to fix household items, share skills, and reduce waste. It was heartening to see the dedication of volunteers who give their time and expertise to support others. Projects like this not only foster community spirit but also champion sustainability, reminding us of the practical ways we can care for our environment while connecting with one another.

Amid these uplifting moments, my work continues to focus on issues affecting our area. Rising employer National Insurance contributions have been a recurring theme in discussions with local businesses. I recently met GPs at Staploe Medical Centre to hear how these costs are straining surgeries, and I welcomed East Cambridgeshire farmers to Parliament to discuss their impact on agriculture. Supporting those who provide healthcare and food is vital for our community's future.

Agriculture, the backbone of our local economy, has been a focus. Joining the ‘Traditional Fenland Celery’ harvest near Ely and visiting a sugar beet farm in Stetchworth underscored the dedication of our farmers. They face mounting challenges, and I remain committed to advocating for the support they need to thrive.

Infrastructure is another priority. The Ely Area Capacity Enhancement scheme (the proposal to upgrade the railway to allow more trains to run through Ely) is crucial for our region’s future, promising growth and improved connectivity.

Its omission from the Autumn Budget was

46 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

At the G's Fresh Celery Harvest

disappointing, but I’ve raised the issue directly with the Secretary of State for Transport and will continue to push for action.

In Parliament, I faced one of my most difficult decisions: how to vote on the Assisted Dying Bill.

After listening to all sides and reflecting deeply, I chose to support it at its second reading. This decision was not taken lightly, and I will continue to engage with constituents and experts as the bill progresses.

Closer to home, concerns about shoplifting have been prominent in conversations with shopworkers across East Cambridgeshire.

I’ve urged the government to provide our overstretched police with the resources they need. Meanwhile, the ever-present flood risk in our region requires urgent, long-term planning, which I emphasised in a recent parliamentary debate.

It’s been a pleasure meeting so many local residents. Opening The Edmund Trust’s new respite service in Milton was a particularly meaningful moment, and thanking our hardworking posties at the Royal Mail delivery office in Ely was another highlight.

Education is the foundation of a healthy democracy, and my visits to Bottisham Village College and Robert Arkenstall Primary School in Haddenham offered an inspiring glimpse of the creativity and ambition shaping our future.

My team and I are here to help. If you need assistance or would like to attend one of my surgeries, please get in touch via charlotte.cane. mp@parliament.uk.

Wishing you all the best for 2025, Charlotte Cane MP Member of Parliament for Ely and East Cambridgeshire

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What's on....

WE WELCOME INFO FOR EVENTS LISTINGS FOR EACH MAGAZINE. PLEASE SEND IN YOUR MAR/APR 2025 EVENTS BY 10/2/25 Simple Listings free / guaranteed non profit posters £30 email: editor@elyimagazine.com or use the form here: https://bit.ly/443DKJK

JANUARY 11 JAN

10am - 2pm COMMUNITY DIRECTORY DAY Ely College CB62SH A day designed to showcase the wealth of clubs, groups, and societies available to people of all ages and abilities in Ely. Free entry

12 JAN

3-5.30pm POPUP PAINT WINTER & CREAM TEA The Maltings CB74BB Themed around Gordon Bruce‘s Man and His Dog painting! Warm your winter as you Immerse yourself in Gordon Bruce’s beautiful scenery. All art supplies – including paint, brushes, canvas and apron / guidance from a practising artist – but feel free to go off-piste! / A themed playlist to immerse you in your experience / Cream tea – includes a scone, jam, cream and tea/coffee. £39.99 https://popuppainting.com/event/ sip-paint-winter-cream-tea-ely/ Continuing until 13 JAN WICKEN FEN’S WINTER TRAIL Wicken Fen, Lode Lane, CB7 5XP Wicken Fen’s brand new Winter Trail on the boardwalk is perfect for children! Parsnip the Highland calf has become separated from the herd, but don’t worry – a happy ending is in sight!

Free with admission ticket https://www.nationaltrust.

org.uk/visit/cambridgeshire/ wicken-fen-national-nature-reserve

18 JAN 19 JAN

1.30pm & 6pm 12pm & 3.30pm ROBIN HOOD Little Downham Village Hall A pantomime by Peter Crussell, directed and choreographed by Becky Smith, Produced by carol Hebbard. Tickets £5/£10 from: www.ticketsource.co.uk/ youth-acts-up

18 JAN

BANTER 7.30pm Ely Folk Club presents Banter (traditional English song and dance “with a quirky Banter twist”) at the Arkenstall Centre, Haddenham, 7 for 7.30pm, £14 (advance) £15 (door). Bookings and further info www.elyfolkclub.co.uk or 01353 740999/664706.

6.45 for 7.30pm start BRENTWOOD MAC The Maltings CB74BB From the haunting vocals of Stevie Nicks to the driving rhythms of Mick Fleetwood, Brentwood Mac pays homage to every member of Fleetwood Mac, delivering a performance that transports audiences back in time. £20 https://www.brentwoodmac. co.uk/

17 JAN

19 JAN

15 JAN

10.30-12pm YOGA4HEALTH 10-WEEK COURSE STARTS Ely Methodist Church CB61AD Suitable for all abilities, no experience needed. Class can be done from a chair or on a yoga mat. Donation only. The Yoga4Health programme is an NHS-commissioned and accredited evidence-based course to support physical and mental health through gentle breath-led practice. Phone: 07782413146 E: contactyoga4health@gmail.com www.yogainhealthcarealliance.com/

17 JAN

6.45 for 7.30pm start 5678 THE STEPS EXPERIENCE The Maltings CB74BB This high energy tribute to Steps faithfully recreates the flawless vocals and slick choreography of the 90's & 00's party favourites in a fast paced, spectacular concert. £33.25 www.themaltingsely.org.uk/events

48 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

1pm-5pm BOARD GAMES @ THE MALTINGS The Maltings Ely, CB74BB An afternoon of board gaming for all. Bring your own games to play or try something new from the games library. Drinks available for sale from the Maltings. info@odysseygames.co.uk Tickets £5/£3 www.odysseygames.co.uk/products/ games-day-the-maltings-adultentry-19th-january

23 JAN 6.45 for 7.30pm start

BEAUTY BANGS THE BEAST The Maltings CB74BB Madame et monsieur, and everyone in-between, you’re invited to Be Our Guest this Panto Season! After their sellout debut “Snow White and the Seven Inches”, NOW! That’s...PANTO! are BACK with their hilarious new adult pantomime... “Beauty Bangs The Beast!” (Strictly 18+ only) £19 www.themaltingsely.org.uk/events

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF COMMUNITY AT ELY COLLEGE

of all ages and abilities in Ely. The event will feature individual stalls representing local sports, social, and arts-based clubs, along with other exciting opportunities for personal growth and involvement. It’s a chance to discover something new for the year ahead, with refreshments and lively conversation to accompany the experience.

Our mission remains clear: to be an exceptional college for an exceptional community. We look forward to serving Ely for the next 100 years, continuing to provide a place where everyone can learn, grow, and belong.

At Ely College, we are incredibly proud of our legacy as a community-focused institution. In 1924, Henry Morris introduced the groundbreaking concept of village colleges, which aimed to serve as multi-purpose education and cultural hubs at the heart of their communities. This vision sparked the birth of community education, with Ely College continuing to play a central role in fostering learning and skills development for the people of Ely. Today, we serve over 1700 students aged 11 to 18 and our facilities are home to a diverse range of community groups, from sports teams and children’s holiday clubs to music ensembles and the annual model railway fair.

As we look ahead to the start of another year, we are excited to celebrate the many opportunities for learning and connection within our community. On Saturday, 11th January 2025, we will be hosting our first Directory Day, an event designed to showcase the wealth of clubs, groups, and societies available to people www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 49

24 JAN 6.45 for 7.30pm start

THE GUNS AND ROSES EXPERIENCE The Maltings CB74BB a true Guns N' Roses sound and stage show, THE GUNS N' ROSES EXPERIENCE meticulously recreate every visual detail and every musical note to capture that reckless spirit of the original Guns N' Roses legendary high octane live performances. £25.85 Standing audience with some edge seating available. www.themaltingsely.org. uk/events

25 JAN

11am - 2pm

ELY REPAIR CAFE Ely Library, The Cloisters CB74ZH Volunteers will be on hand to rDo you have something that's broken that you can't bring yourself to throw away? Bring it along to Ely Repair Cafe and we'll take a look!

Explore our website to pre-book. www.elyrepaircafe.org.uk

25 JAN 6.45 for 7.30pm start

THE NEIL DIAMOND STORY The Maltings CB74BB Bob Drury is joined by his amazing band and the show tracks Neil’s journey from unknown and struggling New York songwriter to international megastar. £24 + online fee www.ticketsource.co.uk/ neildiamondstory/t-rpgjexq

30 JAN 6.45 for 7.30pm start

DIVAS OF LAS VEGAS The Maltings CB74BB The Divas of Las Vegas is an energetic show that showcases the talents of some of the greatest stars to have ever graced the Las Vegas stages. From Tina Turner and Celine Dion to Christina and Katie Perry, this show will bring generations together through great music. £23 www.themaltingsely.org.uk/events

31 JAN

8pm THE BEST IN COMEDY The Maltings CB74BB SARA PASCOE decided she wanted to be famous at 14 years old. Since then, she has auditioned for Barrymore, scared Pete Burns and ruined Hugh Grant’s birthday but look at her now…

Also RED RICHARDSON, ESTHER MANITO, ADAM BEARDSMORE £22.50 + fee www.themaltingsely.org.uk/events

FEBRUARY 1 FEB

7.30pm AN EVENING OF RADIOHEAD A full live band, with vocalists, accompanied by the nationally renowned Mike Nowland String Quartet, will transport you on an epic journey through the bestselling band's back catalogue within the stunning surroundings of Ely Cathedral, for a special show of live music you will never forget. £22.75 - £43.96 www.elycathedral.org/events/ an-evening-of-radiohead

2 FEB

10am - 1pm CRAFTERS DESTASH The Maltings Ely, CB74BB Any crafters looking to destash their craft rooms are invited to book a table and crafters looking for some crafty bargains will not be disappointed. This is a sustainable approach to managing your crafting supplies, by enabling recycling and reuse of craft supplies and avoiding perfectly good items going to landfill.

Crafters please contact: alison.pritchard030@gmail.com to book a table

4 – 8 FEB

LUXMURALIS Ely Cathedral CB74DL Life – A Breathtaking Sonet-Lumière Event by ‘Luxmuralis’

50 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Step into the awe-inspiring Ely Cathedral and immerse yourself in Life, an extraordinary sound and light show created by the renowned artistic collaboration, Luxmuralis. £10/£6 Tues,Thurs,Fri 6.45pm – 8pm / Wed & Sat 5-8pm www.elycathedral.org/events/ life-by-luxmuralis

7-8 FEB 11am-10pm & 11am-8pm 15TH ELYSIAN WINTER BEER FESTIVAL The Maltings CB74BB The 15th Elysian Winter Beer Festival is back at The Maltings 7th & 8th February 2025!

Come along and try one or as many as you can of the great ales, stouts and ciders available by local brewers. The Maltings will be serving food, not forgetting the famous melt in your mouth pork pie.Entrance free to CAMRA members / £3 general public

12 FEB – 16 MAR

10-4pm (Sun 12-3pm) CLOTHED IN GLORY EXHIBITION Ely Cathedral CB74DL A truly unique exhibition showcasing a wide variety of embroidery techniques and styles of ecclesiastical vestments produced by the Sisters and their helpers in their embroidery workroom. Each piece on display has been created with an imaginative use of textiles from silk damasks to dress fabrics.

Included in entrance ticket www.elycathedral.org/events/ clothed-in-glory-exhibition

14 FEB 6.45 for 7.30pm start

THE MONKEES TALE The Maltings CB74BB Enjoy all the MONKEES hits performed live by this amazing band as our seasoned host, Jimmy Rafelson unfolds the fantasy and fiction. £32.06 inc fee www.themaltingsely.org.uk/events

www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 51

15 FEB 6.45 for 7.30pm start

LEGENDS OF MOWTOWN The Maltings CB74BB Legends of Motown is a high energy tribute show jam packed with all of Motown’s biggest hits, with stunning vocals and amazing live band, celebrating the music of the iconic and timeless Motown era.

Undoubtedly the golden era of music, the show pays tribute to the legendary artists that appeared on the Motown label at that time. £24 + fee www.themaltingsely.org.uk/events

16 FEB

12.45pm POT OF GOLD SHANTY CREW The Maltings CB74BB Singing songs out of Swaffham in the heart of Norfolk, 10 Norfolk based musicians with 8 years of tight vocals, guitars, melodic, banjo. singalongs and of course Shanties! £18 inc fee www.themaltingsely.org.uk/events

16 FEB 6.45 for 7.30pm start

THE ALTER EAGLES The Maltings CB74BB The Alter Eagles are delighted to bring their celebration of one of the best-loved bands of all time to The Maltings, Ely. Now in their 20th anniversary year, the band have established themselves as one of the country's top tribute acts. £29.15 inc fee www.themaltingsely.org.uk/events

19 FEB

MOUNTAIN SONG 7.30pm Ely Folk Club presents Mountain Song (James Hickman and Will Greenway) at the Arkenstall Centre, Haddenham, 7 for 7.30pm, £12 (advance) £13 CHORAL MUSIC

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(door). Bookings and further info www.elyfolkclub.co.uk or 01353 740999/664706.

21 & 22 FEB

6.45 for 7.30pm start DARKSIDE – THE PINK FLOYD SHOW The Maltings CB74BB Wish You Were Here 50th Anniversary - Friday night will be dedicated to celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic album Wish You Were Here. This will also be Darkside’s 20th year on the road. The show will feature the best-selling album plus a selection of favourites in a two-and-a-halfhour spectacular that has been leaving audiences enthralled across the country.

The Dark Side of the Moon & From the Piper to the Bell - The Saturday night will be packed with the very best of Pink Floyd including The Dark Side of the Moon and a pretty career spanning set. £29.70 / £51.36 both shows www.themaltingsely.org.uk/events www.seetickets.com/tour/ darkside-the-pink-floyd-show.

23 FEB

6.45 for 7.30pm start THE GEORGE HARRISON PROJECT The Maltings CB74BB Enjoy the UK's leading live music tribute to George Harrison, performing his best-loved hits from The Beatles, his solo career, and The Traveling Wilburys. £23 + online fee www.themaltingsely.org.uk/events continuing until 28 FEB WWT WELNEY SWAN FEEDS 3pm daily WWT Welney, PE14 9TN Experience one of our winter wild swan feeds enjoying commentated wild bird feeds from the comfort of our centrally heated hide. Time: 3.30pm daily Please note: 6.30pm floodlit feeds Saturdays only.

Free to members and included in general admission.

BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

22 FEB

BEN PORTSMOUTH – THIS IS ELVIS Ely Cathedral CB74DL Making history in 2012, Ben broke records becoming the first European to be crowned by Elvis Presley Enterprises as the ‘Worldwide Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist’ in Memphis, which swiftly followed with an invite to headline a special Elvis week on the Late Show with David Letterman. £28-£45 www.elycathedral.org/events

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7-11pm THE GREAT GATSBY BALL Ely Cathedral CB74DL Step into the opulence and glamour of the 1920s at The Gatsby Soirée in the Cathedral!

This unforgettable evening brings the Roaring Twenties to life in an enchanting, historic cathedral setting. Don your finest flapper dresses, dapper suits, and pearls as we transport you back to the Jazz Age with a night filled with elegance, style, and sophistication. £38-£45 www.eventbrite.co.uk / search Ely Cathedral

FAMILY

COMEDY MIND & BODY

7 JUN

PARTY ATMOS

FOLK OR COUNTRY MUSIC

FILM POP & ROCK MUSIC

LECTURES & TALKS CULTURE

THEATRE & MUSICALS

VERDI REQUIEM Ely Choral Society Grantham Choral Society David Humphreys director

Wymondham Symphony Orchestra Judith Jenks leader

Tara Bungard soprano Cassandra Manning mezzo-soprano Thomas Elwin tenor Alastair Miles bass Andrew Parnell conductor

Saturday 29th March 2025 Ely Cathedral 7.30 pm Tickets £28, £22, £15 and £5 for U18s from the cathedral box office or at www.elycathedral.org/events Alamy ID:BR4124/T56GG6

www.elyimagazine.com | ElyiNo: Magazine Choral Society: Registered Charity 802308 | 53

Life A Spectacular Light & Sound Experience by Luxmuralis Tuesday 4 - Saturday 8 February 2025 Life is a captivating Son-et-Lumière event that will transform Ely Cathedral’s magnificent interior into a mesmerising journey across the globe, depicting life and nature through immersive images and music.

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 6.30pm - 8.30pm Wednesday & Saturday, 5.00pm - 8.30pm The experience will last about 1 hour Tickets sold in 15 minute intervals. Adult £10, Child £6. www.elycathedral.org

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REPAIR CAFE Repair Cafe is back again in Ely Library and will help you save money & reduce your impact on the environment Do you have something that’s broken that you don’t know how to fix but can’t bring yourself to throw away? Something like a toaster, kettle, lamp, bag, toy, jewellery, pair of jeans or computer? Bring it along to the Repair Cafe being held on Saturday 25 January from 11.00am – 2.00pm in Ely Library and get it seen to by an experienced volunteer repairer for free. They will pinpoint the problem and try to fix it there and then for you, or let you know what spare parts to get for when you come back next time.

Saturday 25 January 2025, 11.00am - 2.00pm Ely Library, 6 The Cloisters, Ely, CB7 4ZH

We had a hugely successful Repair Cafe back in January 2024. We fixed a total of 26 items, prevented 69kg of waste and 230kg of CO2 emissions – that's like growing 4 tree seedlings for 10 years!

Repair Cafes don’t just save money and reduce waste, they also bring people together. Our repairers are keen to share their skills, stop things going to landfill and reduce the impact that buying new stuff has on the environment.

We’re looking for general volunteers and repairers to help us on the day and at future cafes. Get in touch with us at info@elyrepaircafe.org.uk.

Please note that our repairers may not always be able to fix things, but will try their best.

To find out more about Ely Repair Cafe and to book your items in for repair visit https://elyrepaircafe.org.uk/.

Find out about other events in the Cambs Repair Cafe Network:https://cambridgecarbonfootprint. org/repair-cafes/

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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

ARTS & CRAFTS AT BAIRD LODGE

Baird Lodge, Lumley Close CB74FF The first Thursday of each month 2pm - £2 per child e: emma.tiley@sanctuary.co.uk Tel: 01353 666967

THE ARTS SOCIETY - ELY

FEBRUARY MEETING (inc AGM): Wedgwood byJane Gardiner - Thursday 20 February 2025 This lecture looks at the contribution of Josiah Wedgwood to the history of world ceramics. It begins by looking at Wedgwood’s early career as a potter and his work with Thomas Whieldon. It goes on to examine the development and marketing of cream-coloured earthenware, the partnership with Thomas Bentley and the subsequent opening of the Etruria factory; with its production of black basaltes and the development of encaustic painting. It will consider the collections of Sir William Hamilton as a source of inspiration and Wedgwood’s response to the new neo-classical taste. Finally, it will discuss the development of Jasper ware and its decorative uses and the copying of the famous Portland Vase.

We meet at The Old Palace, Palace Green, which is part of The King's School in Ely. Doors open 7pm for 7.30 start. Visitors are welcome for £7 on the door. Refreshments after the lecture for £1 in the refectory. www.theartssocietyely.org.uk, or see our facebook page, email:smholgate@outlook.com

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 Methodist Church, Chapel Street, 7:00 to 9:00PM .

The annual membership cost is £35. www.elyartsociety.com e:elyartsociety@gmail.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: 07968 810550 https://www.paintely.com

CAMBRIDGE & ELY OPEN STUDIOS

The Cambridge Open Studios July Art Festival runs over the first four weekends of July every year, and provides the opportunity to visit working studios, and buy art direct from the artists. More info at: https://camopenstudios.org/ 56 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

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 and we even squeeze in a raffle, chat and a cup of tea! Everyone is welcome to attend a couple of meetings as a guest before deciding to join the club. Membership is currently just £45 per annum. www.elyguildofwoodturners.org.uk

HEREWARD STITCHERS

We meet last Thursday of the month at The Glebe, Sutton, Ely. CB6 2RB. 2 - 4 pm. We do every kind of stitching and would welcome new members of all abilities. Come along and see what we do!

For more information contact Anne: 01353 778873

SKETCHBOOK WEDNESDAY GROUP

We meet at Riverside Bar & Kitchen, The Maltings, 6.30pm- 8pm - Informal social adult sketching club meets 1st Wednesday of the month. Suitable for beginners or anyone looking to add more creativity to their lives. Starter sketchpads and sketchpad kits available to purchase. Different sketching techniques/ themes each month. Guest Artists invited to collaborate on special sessions.New membership discounts available when booking termly/annually. Pay per session available too. To book in advance or register your interest T: 07966 727 289 email: artintheburrow@gmail.com www.instagram.com/sketchbookwednesdayclub/

ELY WATERCOLOUR WORKSHOP

We meet on Tuesday evenings during term time at Ely College to paint 18:30 to 21:00. 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: Vivienne Robinson email: vivienne@thehall.co.uk tel: 07932 828416.

ELY YARN CRAFT AND SEW SOCIAL

We are a friendly group of yarn and textile crafters who meet up on most Monday evenings to work on projects, share ideas and make friends. Our meeting times are Mondays from 6pm to 9pm, (but not the second Monday of each month).

We meet at the City of Ely Bowls club - Nutholt St. For info please email: ely.yarncrafterssewsocial@ gmail.com - or phone: 07779434354

CAMPAIGN GROUPS & CAUSES 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 & activities go to: www.amnestyelycity.org.uk email: info@elyamnesty.org.uk

EAST CAMBS CLIMATE ACTION NETWORK

We inspire, educate and persuade people to take action in their own lives and communities to adapt and respond to climate change. The aim is a fair transition to net-zero carbon emissions, increasing biodiversity and reducing pollution, in East Cambridgeshire and beyond. We’re a Community Interest Company (CIC): non-partisan and nonpolitical. Sign up to our mailing list, join for free as a member, and hear about community energy initiatives, nature restorations, active travel and public consultations. You’ll be welcome at our free monthly informal discussions at the Ely Earth Café, Prosper Cafe, Fresh, Broad Street, Ely, CB7 4AH. Visit: https://eastcambscan.org https://eastcambscan.org/events/ www.facebook.com/groups/4406301109595555 Email: peter@eastcambscan.org

ELY HUMANISTS

Ely Humanist Group usually meet informally 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. For further info email the Secretary: fluasecretary@flua.org.uk or visit our website at www.flua.org.uk

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. For further information see our web site: https://sites.google.com/site/eastcambsnhw/, or contact Kevin Evans: 01353 614892 email: kevin.g.evans@gmail.com

DRAMA & THEATRE

ELY AMATEUR DRAMATIC SOCIETY

www.facebook.com/ elyamateurdramatics.org / elyamateurdramatics / @ DramaEly

CAMPAIGN AMATEUR THEATRE

Visit our website at www.cattheatrecompany.co.uk For more information, contact the Chair, Trevor Babbs: info.campaignamateurtheatre@gmail.com

THEATREGOERS & SOCIAL CLUB

Various venues regularly visited - Plays, Ballet, Musicals, Concerts. A number of Social Outings (always popular) also arranged. Prices include cost of coach travel and driver’s tip. We have pick up points in Littleport, Ely and Soham. For further info – please call General Secretary on 07887 240483 Or see website:www.elytheatregoers.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

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)

Hiam Sports and Social Club is a friendly club with a superb semi-sprung dance floor, a licensed bar, level access, ample free parking, free wifi and a raffle at every dance. Main activities include Ballroom and Sequence Tea and Evening dances, Country Line dances, Rock'n'Roll nights and Bingo.

See the website for organisers' contact details. The hall is also available to hire for meetings, parties, wedding receptions etc. Venue: Hiam Sports and Social Club, Putney Hill Road, Prickwillow ELY Cambs. CB7 4UU email: info@hiam.org.uk website: https://www.hiam.org.uk/ Tel: 07470 098996 or 01353 688576

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 www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 57

details below or come along to have a look. email:contact@elriot.co.uk Facebook – ElyandLittleportRiotBorderMorris and Instagram – elyandlittleportriot

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 courses in Ely. Next Course: War and Crime - tutor Ruth Jamieson There are currently no less than 183 wars ongoing globally. This short course explains the historical background of the development of international humanitarian law and discusses the following questions. What are the core principles that govern the conduct of war? What are the main categories of war crimes that arise when these are breached? How can these principles be enforced and by whom? Concrete examples from conflicts will be provided. Venue: The Methodist Church Hall, Chapel Street, Ely. Wednesdays November 6 and 13, 2024, 10:30am - 12:30pm. Course fee £10. Payment by cheque or cash. Pre booking preferred. Contact Anne on 01353 662712, or at awarham575@btinternet.comTo book 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 of any age no longer in full time employment providing an opportunity to share activities and knowledge with like minded people.

We meet on the first Tuesday of the month at the Countess of Huntingdon Chapel in Chapel street, Ely at 2.30 for general meetings. During the week you can take part in over 60 interest groups meeting all over Ely and the surrounding area.

New members are welcome. For more information come along to a general meeting and visit our website – type in Elyu3a into your search engine.

FUNDRAISING & VOLUNTEERS

ELY COMMUNITY FIRST RESPONDERS

Community first responders (CFRs) are volunteers who are trained by the East of England Ambulance Service to attend certain types of emergency calls in the area where they live or work.

Their aim is to reach a potential life-threatening emergency in the first vital minutes before the ambulance crew arrives.Their role is to help stabilise the patient and provide the appropriate 58 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

care until the more highly skilled ambulance crew arrives on scene to take over the treatment. If you are interested in becoming a CFR then visit https:// www.eastamb.nhs.uk/join-the-team/community-firstresponders OR EMAIL: elyfirstresponders@gmail.com

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.

ELY FREEMASONS

Freemasonry is one of the oldest secular social and charitable organisations in the world. Membership is open to adults from all backgrounds and our aim is to empower members to be the best they can be. It provides a structure for members to build new friendships and develop themselves, whilst having family inclusive fun. One of the largest charitable givers in the country, Ely Freemasons support a great many good causes locally. For more information email us at elyfreemasons@gmail.com or visit: www.pglcambs.org.uk

ELY HEREWARD ROTARY

Meetings 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month at St Peter’s House in Broad Street, or via Zoom Please see our Facebook page or contact Chris Lee at udillytwo@msn.com

HOME START

Home-Start Cambridgeshire is part of the HomeStart network, one of the UK’s leading family support charities. Our mission is to give as many children as possible in Cambridgeshire the best start in life. We offer support to families with at least one child under five, at times when they need us most. Family challenges could include parental mental health issues, isolation, disability, bereavement, multiple births, poverty, a lack of parenting skills and/or confidence. A significant part of our service is the volunteer led in-home support, whereby trained volunteers spend around two hours per week supporting any one family, for up to six months. Tel: 07875108674 E: kath.gerighty@homestartcambridgeshire.co.uk W: https://homestartcambridgeshire.co.uk/

INNER WHEEL CLUB OF ELY

Inner Wheel is the largest service women’s organisation in the world. The Ely club is 75 years old and has been working in the local community

and internationally fund raising and supporting many charities. We are a social group meeting monthly having fun and friendship. Come along, make friends and make a difference.

Contact Joy Hockey 01353 663525 or President Pauline Lancaster 01353 663378 Paulinedlancaster@yahoo.com

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.If you do decide to join us your commitment is as much or little as you want it to be. We usually meet on the first Thursday of the month (except Aug) at The West End Pub in Ely at various times (check online) Contact via Facebook Messenger or email: lionscluboflittleport@gmail. com www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/littleport FB/ Littleport Lions Club

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. 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

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

Ely Rotary are largely responsible for Aquafest, the House to House Christmas Collection and the collections in the High Street in Ely and Ely

Fireworks . We are also seen at the Eel Parade, Applefest, Pride and other community events. We meet at Ely Bowls Club three Thursdays in the month at 8 p.m. and we go out for a meal on the fourth. We have speakers and more importantly we have fun. We would love you to become a part of our Rotary family. For more information- contact Viv Doji - vclariced@hotmail.com or 07368229318

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

Learn new skills to manage your health with this NHS approved and accredited 10-week yoga programme taught by Paul Fox. 9.30-11am on Fridays at the Methodist Church Hall, Chapel Street, Ely, CB6 1AD. Classes can be done in a chair or on a yoga mat (provided). No experience necessary. 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: www.ccan.co.uk email:ely@ccan. co.uk

CATHEDRAL HISTORY CLUB

A fortnightly club for home educated children who want to discover more about the history of Ely Cathedral and its city. 01353 667735. www.elycathedral.org/events www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 59

PRICKWILLOW ENGINE MUSEUM

CLOSED January & February 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

ELY & DISTRICT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY

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@ gmail.com Tel: 01353 614892 web: https://www.elyarchaeology.org.uk

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 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. https://sites.google.com/view/elyastroclub/ mailing list: elyastro+subscribe@esperi.org.uk

ELY BRIDGE CLUB

Find more info at: www.bridgewebs.com/ely/ Barry Lowe: 01353 658356 e: elybridgeclub@gmail.com

ELY & DISTRICT CAMRA

The Campaign for Real Ale and its main aims are to secure the long term future of real ale, cider and real perry. Promote and protect pubs and clubs.

Recognise the benefits of responsible, moderate social drinking and provide information to all those with an interest in beer, cider and perry. We also organise and run festivals and outings in the local area.Email: elycamra@yahoo.com Web: https://ely.camra.org.uk Facebook: @ElyAndDistrictCAMRA

ELY BEET CLUB CHESS

We are a friendly bunch comprising players of a wide range of skill levels, from beginners new to 60 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

the game to seasoned veterans Our club nights are hosted at the Ely Beet Sports & Social Club every Monday from around 7:15 pm (except for Bank Holidays) in the lounge bar, and we would love to welcome new people into the fold.

Email:contact@elybeetchess.co.uk www.elybeetchess.co.uk/

ELY BEET CLUB POKER NIGHT

Mondays 8pm £10 to play + £10 top up (optional) Friendly, low-stakes card game. All skill levels welcomed. Learn to play poker every Monday night 20:00-23:00. Ely Beet Club. Just turn up!

ELY EVENING SCRABBLE CLUB

2025 meeting dates 27 Jan, 24 Feb, 24 Mar, 28 Apr, 19 May, 23 Jun, 28 Jul, 18 Aug, 29 Sept, 27 Oct, 24 Nov No meeting in Dec at the King's Arms Pub, St Mary's Street, Ely. 4th Monday of the month (unless Bank Hol) @ 7.15 pm until approx 9.00pm. No fee but you must buy a drink from the bar. Bring a scrabble board and scrabble dictionary if you have them (to ensure we have enough boards to play), notebook and pen for your scores. Contact: Sheila 07879863199, mail@sheilawillson.plus.com We play just for fun, come and join in!

CITY OF ELY FLOWER CLUB

Friendly welcoming club for anyone with a love of flowers. Demonstrations, Workshops, Social Events. We meet on the first Thursday of the month (except January and August) at Adelaide Hall, Ely College, Downham Road @ 7pm. New members and visitors are very welcome. Please call for further details. Stephanie Laing Tel: 07740263309

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-FOLKS-FRIDAY/

THE K9 COMMUNITY CAFE

Usually meeting at the "Unwrapped' cafe at the Lighthouse centre. www.facebook.com/thek9cafe/ Tel:07552462040

ELY MODEL AIRCRAFT CLUB

For well over 20 years the Ely Model Aircraft Club has provided an attractive and friendly environment for relaxed model flying in the Ely area. Its 30 or so members of all ages fly a mixture of models including Aeroplanes, Helicopters, and Drones.

New members are welcomed and we provide training for novices. Preparing model aircraft and

flying them in a club environment provides people of all ages with opportunities to be creative and to develop interests and responsibilities. It’s also great fun! website:https://elymac.bmfa.club email: elymac.bmfa.com

ELY & DISTRICT MODEL RAILWAY CLUB

We are a group of individuals who enjoy the hobby of model railways. Our main 4mm scale OO gauge layout project is a model of Wickham Market station on the East Suffolk line. We have now started another 4mm project to build a layout with digital control for those members who operate with the new system. However we have members who are interested in other scales, both larger and smaller, and we have started construction of an N gauge layout based on the Scottish Highland main line station at Dalwhinnie. 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 and by 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, John George, Tel: 07949901290

ELY PHOTOGRAPHIC CLUB

For info please contact: Phil 07739 848871 or our website at www.elyphotographicclub.co.uk has a ‘Contact Us’ form

ELY RESEARCH SURGERY

Ely Library CB7 4ZH WEDNESDAY 20 NOVEMBER 10am – 3.30pm Come along to the Ely Library every 3rd Wednesday in JAN, MAR, MAY, JULY, SEPT, NOV for help with anything genealogical! Whether you are a novice or expert, we can help, so pop in and see us!

ELY-RIBE ASSOCIATION

The Association links the Cities of Ely and Ribe in Denmark and was one of the first town twinning groups to be set up in the UK – in 1956! You may have heard of and seen the amazing tapestry commissioned to mark the 50th anniversary of the twinning in 2006, on display in the Riverside

Maltings. Our recent exhibition in Ely Library included highlights from visits to and from Ribe. During the year we also organise Danish themed gatherings for Association members. To find out more contact Chair, Anne Heffernan at elyribe23@gmail.com or visit our webpage: www. cityofelycouncil.org.uk/about-the-city-of-ely/ely-ribeassociation/

SUGAR IN THE FENS

We are 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. Come along and have some tea, refreshments and a great evening. E: sugarinthefens@gmail.com FB: https://m.facebook.com/sugarinthefens

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

LANGUAGE & LITERATURE ELY ENGLISH LANGUAGE CAFE

Free English lessons with native speakers.

You are welcome to the High Flyer, Newnham St. Ely. Tuesday and Friday. 11a.m for one hour approx. For more information: email: enfield4141@outlook.com

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.

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

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. From February 2025, 3rd Thursday of the month (except January and August in 2025) with events either online or at Centre E on Barton Road. For full details see: https://linktr.ee/Fenspeak or email: fenspeak@gmail.com Free entry, all welcome.

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 monthly book group for people interested in international literature. We mostly read contemporary fiction with the odd classic and nonfiction work thrown in and we usually meet on the last Tuesday of the month, 7-9 pm.

Contact us for dates, books and venues: smallworldbookgroup@gmail.com or via Facebook. https://bit.ly/smallworldbookgroup

MUSIC

ELY ACOUSTIC

Everyone gathers 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 62 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

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 weekly at St John’s School, Ely on Mondays at 7.30pm with our Conductor, Andrew Parnell. If you wish to join us for our 2025 season when we will be singing Verdi’s Requiem, please contact us through Facebook or contact our membership secretary through the link at www.elychoralsociety.org

ELY CONSORT

We are a chamber choir of about 40 voices. We perform music in a wide variety of styles; our performance venues include Ely Cathedral as well as other local churches. Ely Consort has built up a performing reputation over the last 30 years, to be known as one of the premier Chamber Choirs in East Anglia. A reputation we are very proud of maintaining! info@elyconsort.org.uk https://elyconsort.org.uk

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 usually on the “teenth” Wednesday of the month with nationally acclaimed folk musicians/ bands and local support acts. Upcoming events: 15th January Banter (support David Collins) 19th February Mountain Song (support tba) 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 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.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'll be a welcome member of the groups! Contact Kathryn on kathryn@ singchoirs.com, call 01353 662022, or through our website www.singchoirs.com Keep in touch for regular weekend workshops too! Please also see a listing in "Support and Care" for information about a local singing group for people living with dementia, memory loss 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 partnership with local schools 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 a fun, friendly and inclusive community choir of approx. 40 people, and we meet every Monday at 7.45pm at St Mary's Church in Ely. We are mixed ability and non-audition, singing a mix of pop, folk, jazz and more! If you love singing and are interested in joining us, drop us an email at helloVocEly@gmail.com. We particularly need lower voices, but are open to all! Or, if you just want to find out more about us and where/when you can hear us sing, follow us on Facebook! facebook.com/helloVocEly.

WICKEN CORONATION BAND

We are a traditional, non-contesting brass band based in the village of Wicken. We perform at a variety of events including garden parties, concerts, fetes and bandstands. The Senior Band rehearse on Wednesdays at the Wicken Village Hall, and our Youth Band rehearse on Mondays at the Wicken Methodist Church. Tuition and instruments are available. If you would like to hire or join a local friendly brass band, you are welcome to get in touch via the website: https://wickenbrass.band.

Alternatively, contact Claire (Secretary) on 07810 543889 or Jerry (Chairman) on 07850 661973 for more information and a chat.

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

WALK TALK & CONNECT

Promoting positive mental and physical health in Ely | Free to attend: WALK, TALK, and CONNECT with like-minded people. Explore nature, exchange like-minded explorations on real life stresses and anxiety, self-development, inner spirituality, connect with nature and exercise. For a connective experience on the Last Friday in every month (starting on Friday January 24th) between 2pm-4pm meet in Pocket Park, Ely. Free parking is available in Sainsbury's. Meet at the entrance to pocket park nearest Sainsbuys, Leaving at 2.00pm sharp. Walking will take place in all weather. A refreshment stop-off is possible en-route depending on numbers. The beauty of our wonderful City will be explored on foot. For more information and registration please contact Madeleine on 07739 260027 | Madeleine.funnell@gmail.com

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WILLDERLAND FARM

We are a registered charity and care farm based just outside Haddenham, Cambridgeshire. We seek volunteers to help with animal care of our Boer goats and Shetland sheep, management of our habitats for turtle doves and great crested newts, to help grow produce in our community garden and orchard, as well as to support therapeutic visits for people with learning difficulties. Please get in touch: info@willderland.com / www.willderland.com

RELIGIOUS ORGANISATIONS ELY BAHA’I COMMUNITY

Meet friends and neighbours at our relaxed family festivals. Make connections over tea and cake. Do drop in. All welcome! at The Larkfield Community Centre, High Barns, Ely CB7 4SB Sunday 16th February 2025 - 2-5pm Sunday 18th May 2025 - 2-5pm Sunday 17th August 2025 - 2-5pm Sunday 16th November 2025 - 2-5pm For info Tel or Text:07746 761 519, Email: elybahais@gmail.com https://www.bahai.org.uk

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 www.mothersunion.org/diocese/ely

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

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 64 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.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 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 Community 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 More happens across the city - 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 -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) £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

13-15 Chapel Street Ely CB6 1AD All are warmly welcome to join our worship on Sundays at 10.30am. n Open fellowship and bible study group. See www.elyandnewmarketmethodists.org.uk/ely n Coffee Drop-In 10-11.30am – Come along for free coffee and cake and a chance to chat. 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month. n Saturday coffee morning with stalls for a range of causes. 2nd Saturday of the month 10-12 noon. n Make Way Singers Community Choir is free and open to singers of all ability. There is no audition, and they rehearse and perform in our church. Contact Berniece on 07845 555679.

Excellent facilities to rent for your meetings and events. For information please e mail bookings4emc@gmail.com or telephone 07894 400425. Superintendent Minister: Rev’d Catherine Dixon Tel: 07894 400426 Admin: 07894 400425.

Email: elyandnewmarket@gmail.com website for more information on current events and https://www.elyandnewmarketmethodists.org.uk/

ST MARY’S, CHURCH OF ENGLAND

n Every Sunday: The eight15 – traditional service – 8.15am The nine45 – intergenerational worship – 9.45am

The eleven15 – contemporary worship – 11.15am Midweek Meetings: n Monday Under 1s, Parents and Carers - 10am Monday Club for Seniors – 2.30pm 3rd Monday of the month n Tuesday Under 5s, Parents and Carers - 9.30am n Wednesday Open Space - drop-in 10am – 12.30pm Bereavement Café – drop in 10am – 12 noon last Wednesday of the month Mothers’ Union – 2.15pm 2nd Wed of the month n Thursday Market Day Communion 9.30am Market Day Coffee Morning 10.15am – 11.30am 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

ST PETER-IN-ELY, CHURCH OF ENGLAND

Broad Street, Ely CB7 4BQ St. Peter’s is a small traditional Anglican church near the station and the river, where everyone is welcome. Regular services are Sung Eucharist at 9.30am every Sunday; Evening Prayer at 6pm on Mondays; Holy Communion (said) at 12 noon on Tuesdays. The church is open for visitors and quiet prayer on Mondays from 9.30am until 1pm and the priest, Rev’d Ann Williams, is available in the church room for anyone who would like to come and talk for any reason. The church is also open from 5pm before Evening Prayer and again on Tuesdays from 10am and Ann is available in the church, and at other times by appointment.

Please contact Rev’d Ann for more information: annmewilliams@gmail.com; or 07722 127239.See St. Peter-in-Ely on Facebook or the website https:// www.elystpeterschurch.co.uk

ELY QUAKER MEETING

Ely Quakers meet every Sunday at 10.30am 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 more information or for the Zoom link. Contact: Sue Brock-Hollinshead Email: ely-clerk@cambridgeshire-quakers.org.uk https://ely.quakermeeting.org/

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 www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 65

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 GROUPS

ELY LIBRARY DEMENTIA SOCIAL GROUP

Ely Library CB7 4ZH 10am – 12pm For people living with Dementia and their carers.

Refreshments and activities will be provid-ed.

If you are interested in attending this group or would like more info please contact: ely.referral@ cambridgeshire.gov.uk or pop into Ely Library to register your details

ELY ARMED FORCES & VETERANS DROP IN CENTRE

Meets at Ely Library every Thursday from 10:00 13:00. Open to all members of the Armed Forces, Veterans and their dependents. 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.Meetings at Ely The Prince Albert, Silver Street, 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

Take pride in supporting all generations of the Armed Forces community. Membership starts from only £18 a year - £20 for 2024 renewals. You don’t have to be part of the Armed Forces community to join, everyone is welcome, but serving members of the Armed Forces can join for free. Hear the latest news, events and stories from inside our RBL magazine and e-newsletters. As a thank you for your support, you’ll also get some exclusive member offers includ-ing: priority access to tickets for the Festival of Remembrance & access to purchase members-only products from the Poppy Shop and a 15% discount on other products.

For further information about joining, please contact either Dave Martin - cityofe-ly.chairman@rbl. community - T: 07748 592148, or Brian Crabtree - cityofe-ly.secretary@rbl.community - M: 07533 593848 For details on branch activities and meeting dates, please see https://counties.britishlegion.org. uk/branches/ely/meeting-dates/ 66 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

ELY CITY WOMEN’S INSTITUTE

2nd Monday of each Month - 7pm to 9pm. Bishop Laney Sixth Form, Downham Road, CB6 2SH. We are a thriving and friendly group, priding ourselves on ensuring a warm welcome to all WI members and visitors. Web: https://wielycity.wixsite.com/home E: elycitywi@yahoo.com. National Federation of Women’s Institutes: https://www.thewi.org.uk

ELY COMMUNITY LUNCHES

Ely Community Lunches would like to thank the lovely people of Ely for their kind donations to Ely Community Lunches and for volunteering to help us at Christmas. We rely on the generosity of our local people to support and help us with Community Lunches. This is not just Christmas as we can pop up for other occasions like last year's Kings Coronation and give people a jolly good time! If you think that you are interested in knowing more or supporting us then please go to our website and or FaceBook page or call 01353 662228 (op 2).

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).

KNITTING GROUP

We call ourselves the Knitting Purls, we knit and natter every Tuesday morning 9.30 to 11.30 at Lavender House, West Fen Road, we pay £1 per session which includes refreshments and a raffle.

If you can’t knit, sew or crochet - we can help.

Just come along to Lavender House and join us, we are a friendly group who share ideas and welcome new members.

ELY TUESDAY GROUP (LADIES)

We are a group of ladies who meet on 1st Tuesday of the month in the Methodist Church Hall,Chapel St. Access through the blue gate from St Marys carpark. Coffee and tea are served from 10.am,followed by a guest speaker 10.30am.If you are new to the city and looking for a friendly group,come along.You can find out more by contacting Lesley 07946020001

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 third Wednesday 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

An organization for retired or semi-retired people who come together each month to meet and make new friends. We meet on the third Tuesday of each month from 10:00am (with tea or coffee) for 10:30am start in the New Hall at Ely Methodist Church, Chapel Street, Ely CB6 1AD. Each meeting we have a speaker – Upcoming Meetings: 20 Jan: Safety on Computers and Modern Phones 18 Feb: St Kilda Outer Hebrides. New members are most welcome to attend. Contact Michael Brisbourne at michaelbrisbourne@hotmail.com for further information. Full list of Speakers available at: https://www.probusonline.org/ely-and-district

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 bothindoors 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. 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

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, 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

ELY & DISTRICT CYCLING CLUB

Contact Cliff Loveday on 07823 338615

ELY CITY WOMEN FC

A friendly & welcoming team, offering weekly training, match opportunities and regular socials.

Matches on the Demcom Stadium pitch / Competing in the Cambs Girls' & Women's League / Female coaches / Weekly training for all abilities - Mondays 7-8 / Creating a pathway for females 17+ to Vets / Partnered with Her Game Too. Please email for more details.e: elycitywomen@gmail.com

ELY WOMEN'S VETS FC

EAST CAMBS BASKET BALL CLUB

We'd love more local women to join us. We offer relaxed weekly football sessions in a fun, pressurefree environment for women aged 35 and over.

Female coaches - All abilities welcome Opportunities for matches - £3 per session - pay as you play - First session free - Mondays 8-9pm Ely Outdoor Sports Association astro turf pitch, on Downham Road. Her Game Too Grassroots Partner Email us for details: ElyWomenVets@gmail.com

ELY BEET SPORT & SOCIAL CLUB

Contact: 01353 662751 www.elygolf.co.uk / email: info@elygolf.co.uk

BENDING AND STRETCHING

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

ELY VICTORIA BADMINTON CLUB

Contact: elyvicbad@gmail.com www.facebook.com/elyvictoriaBadminton www.badmintonely.co.uk / Twitter @ElyVicBad Contact: contact@eastcambsbasketball.co.uk www.eastcambsbasketball.co.uk

ELY CITY GOLF 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. 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/

ELY ON PAR GOLF DRIVING RANGE LTD.

Keep fit for the over 60s. Every Wednesday morning 10am-12noon at Centre 33, Barton Road Ely. email: margaret-briggs@ymail.com or phone:07745 504 877

HEARTBEAT FOR HEALTH

We are a walking group which has been going locally for over 20 years. There is no fee to join and you can just turn up. The walks run on the following days: Monday 10:00am Soham meet at the church gates. Tuesday 10:30am Littleport meet www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 67

opposite the church, Tuesday 2pm meet opposite the Cathedral. Wednesday 10:00am Sutton meet outside junior school gates the Brook. Thursday Burwell 10:00 am meet at war memorial the causeway Friday Sutton 10:00 am Junior School the Brook (only the last week of the month)

HEALTHY YOU EAST CAMBS

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 E: elyvikings@outlook.com

LITTLEPORT LIONS KORFBALL

Contact Andy on: andrewdunlop@hotmail.com, website: www.littleport-lions.co.uk

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

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

Competitive netball for ladies, with 3 teams playing in Premier and Cambridge district netball leagues.

Training every Thursday at Kings School Ely, 7.309pm. A friendly club, focused on improving fitness and agility with teamwork, leading to success in matches. Regular socials in local area. See our website for more details: www.cityofelynetball.co.uk or email elycity@hotmail.co.uk Junior netball (from year 7) with U14 and U16 squads. Training every Thursday at Kings School Ely, 6.15-7.15pm with experienced qualified coaches. Email: juniornetball@hotmail.co.uk

ELY NETBALL CLUB

Offering netball to ladies (age 18+) on Wednesday evenings, at The Kings School Ely 7.30-9pm 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

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ISLE OF ELY ROWING CLUB

Contact: chairman@elyrowingclub.org.uk Web: http://www.elyrowingclub.org.uk/

ELYSIAN RIDING FOR THE DISABLED GROUP

Elysian Riding for the Disabled have recently moved venues and are now at Old Tiger Stables (North Angle Farm Soham.) We offer riding therapy sessions to disabled children and meet on Tuesday mornings in term time. If you are interested in helping out by volunteering or fundraising please contact us via email:elysianrdagroup@gmail.com or telephone Ros James on 07845 198 551

RIDING AND SKATING ELY (R.A.S.E.)

Advocating for a new skatepark in Ely. Join RASE on Insta and Facebook. FB/Riding and skating Ely

ELY RUGBY CLUB

Contact email - playrugby4ely@gmail.com Website - https://elytigers.rfu.club/

ELY RUNNERS

A welcoming and friendly club for runners of all abilities. We host regular Beginners Courses, plus various weekly training sessions, and lots of opportunity to race (cross-country, road and relay).

Please visit www.elyrunners.co.uk or contact Lauren Thomas – secretary@elyrunners.co.uk – for further details.

LET'S RUN GIRLS ELY

We are a group for women that like to be active and we meet regularly on the Market Square Ely at 6.30pm. We offer different levels of activity, and different days of the week - details are on our Facebook page (Let’s Run Girls Ely). We are working towards inspiring women to lead healthier, happier and more connected lives.

E: letsrungirlsely@yahoo.com www.letsrungirls.com

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 SAILING CLUB

Ely Sailing Club is based at Roswell Pits in Ely, Cambridgeshire. We have over 35 acres of fresh water with islands, trees and banks. The sailing is interesting, challenging and fun. There is dry launching directly from jetties, and crews are able to sail without getting their feet wet. We are a recognised training centre providing a range of sailing courses. In addition to sailing, we run a variety of social events. Our club is family orientated and run by its members, for its members, with good value and enjoyment for all. Our key goal is to promote sailing as an enjoyable hobby in a

friendly and welcoming club, open to all levels of experience. Email: commodore.elysc@gmail.com www.elysailingclub.org

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. Practice sessions - Adult: £6, Under 18: £3. League Membership - Adult £15, Under 18: £10. 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

We are a proudly not-for-profit, friendly club that is on a mission to make tennis available to all in Ely and the surrounding communities. We offer coaching for all levels and ages, social tennis and events, Cambs League team opportunities, and club championships. With new courts being planned, a new logo and a growing membership base, the future is very bright for Ely Tennis Club.

Drop us a line at elytennisclub@hotmail.com if you’d like to play some tennis.

ELY TRI CLUB

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

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

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

ESC MODEL YACHT FLEET

Contact: ESC Model Yacht Fleet Captain on email: training.elysc@gmail.com Tel: 01353 626838

YOGA ON PRESCRIPTION

Would you like to increase your flexibility, mobility, and strength through gentle breath-led yoga practice? And learn breathing and mindfulness techniques to reduce stress/anxiety and boost health and wellbeing? Weekly yoga classes from Friday 17th January, 9-10.15am at the Methodist Church Hall, Chapel Street, Ely, with Paul Fox. Paul has been teaching yoga for over 25 years, has trained over 200 yoga teachers, and leads the Yoga In Healthcare Alliance charity contactyoga4health@gmail.com https://www.yogaonprescription.org

SUPPORT & CARE GROUPS ADAMS CREATIVE CAFE

A regular creative and relaxing session at the form Victorian Ironmongers shop in Littleport now are centre for arts and heritage. This session is for people with mild to moderate dementia and their carers who wish to have a go exploring different creative activities with trained facilitators and artists. A friendly supportive group who understands the challenges of dementia for people and for their family and friends. Free. 1.30pm – 3.30pm every other Friday. Adams Heritage Centre, 117 Main Street Littleport For dates please visit our website or email.

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 www.ageukcap.org.uk e:informationservices@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. www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 69

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

St Mary’s Church in Ely currently hosts a Bereavement Café on the last Wednesday of each month, where anyone who has suffered the loss of someone close to them either recently or longer ago is invited to drop in between 10am - 12pm, 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 Café takes place in the church building on St Mary’s Street in Ely. All are welcome.

CARING TOGETHER CHARITY

Looking after someone? Caring Together offers a range of support for people looking after a family member or friend, including groups and activities for you and the person you care for and information, advice and guidance to help you in your caring role.

Come along to our carers hub on the first Thursday of the month from 10.30am - 12.30pm at the Paradise Centre, Newnham St, Ely. Call 0345 241 0954, email hello@caringtogether.org or visit our website, caringtogether.org

CRUSE BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT

If you are bereaved and in need of support, you are welcome to drop into the free Cruse Bereavement support group held on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month 10.30am-12noon at the Methodist Church room in Ely. There is no obligation to attend every time and it is an opportunity to meet others in a similar situation. If you would like further information or bereavement support, please email cambridge@cruse.org.uk for further details.

Helpline: 0300 011 0128

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 CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Home - Care Network (care-network.org.uk) We Put People At The Heart Of Everything Helping individuals and communities to live happier, healthier and independent lives.

Help at Home - Cambridge, S. Cambs & E. Cambs 01223 714433 E: helpathome@care-network.org.uk 70 | Elyi Magazine | www.elyimagazine.com

Practical and emotional support after a hospital stay or period of ill-health Community Navigators - East Cambs Tel: 01353 659639 A gateway to information and services in your local area Wellbeing - 0330 094 5750 One-to-one support to boost your mood, confidence and independence. Alternatively, if you would like to volunteer with us please call 01954-211919 for more information.

ELY BABY BANK

Based in Fordham. We are open two mornings a week for you to browse our sheds which are packed full of all the baby items that you need up to 18 months. 78 Mildenhall Road, Fordham CB7 5NR. Tel:07715 908024 E: elybabybank@gmail.com Opening times: Tues & Thurs 9.30-1pm Our volunteers can deliver if you can't travel to our base. Donation drop offs are possible Monday - Saturday. Please leave in the shelter at Donate online: https://uk.gofundme.com/f/ely-baby-bank/ donate www.elybabybank.com and find us on Facebook

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 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 e: elydeathcafe@gmail.com Facebook: Ely Death Café Twitter: @Ely_D_Cafe

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) which runs on rechargeable batteries. The player has bright yellow buttons making it easier for those who are visually impaired to use. The news is delivered weekly, in the post - free of charge, on a USB stick. If you wish to sign up to this service, users need to register. You must be referred by a doctor, optician, or professional carer/partner. If you know someone would benefit from this service,

please contact: fenprobe1@outlook.com or via the website: fenprobe.exintra.net

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 community spirited platform, which aims to signpost and connect people, to offer free practical help and provide well-being sessions 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-CancerHub-107167038300494

POSABILITY

PosAbility is a charity offering chair-based and specialist exercises to people living with long-term neurological conditions We are always Positive About Your Ability www.posability.org/ E: admin@posability.org Phone: 07565598193

all of these services are free and you don’t need an appointment. On occasion you may have to wait until someone can talk with you. Call us, email us or message us. hello@centre33.org.uk / www. centre33.org.uk Tel: 0333 4141 809

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 www. girlguiding.org.uk/

Send your group updates for the MAR/APR 2025 magazine to Bridget at editor@elyimagazine.com

by Monday 10th February 2025

RICH TEA COMMUNITY

Offering fun, faith and friendship for adults with learning disabilities plus any carers and friends.

Usually meeting 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: 07834418472

YOUNG PEOPLE’S SUPPORT CENTRE 33 ELY DROP IN

Someone to talk to: If you need a chat about housing, emotional well being, mental health, money matters or anything else that is on your mind, then please contact us during our opening hours. We also offer support with sexual health related issues and food bank vouchers. Remember www.elyimagazine.com | Elyi Magazine | 71

SUPPORTERS OF

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