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The newspaper for all North Kesteven residents

Autumn 2014

Turf turned for District’s Bomber Command memorial More than a dozen veterans of Bomber Command gathered under the flight of the last two flying Lancaster Bombers as a memorial centre marking their brave heroics became a reality.

One of their number – District Councillor, Sqn Ldr Geoffrey Whittle DFM – turned the soil at the top of Canwick Hill for construction of the International Bomber Command Centre to begin.

A 31 metre spire surrounded by the names of the 25,611 aircrew who lost their lives flying from Lincolnshire’s 27 Bomber Command bases will be installed by next June, followed next autumn by an interpretation centre to provide

a world-class facility as a point of recognition, remembrance and reconciliation.

Lord Lieutenant Tony Worth, described this first physical act in delivering a memorial recognising those who served with Bomber Command in World War Two and telling the human story of those affected, as ‘the end of the beginning’.

NKDC approved the plans this summer, hearing that it would draw up to 80,000 visitors and contribute up to £2.25m, making it importantly economically, historically and culturally.

Cllr Whittle said it was important to tell the story of the Bomber Command campaign while there were still veterans such as himself alive.

North Kesteven is named ‘safest place in Britain’

Residents applauded for their vigilance in keeping District crime rates low and maintaining high public safety North Kesteven is now officially recognised as the safest place to live in England.

Official figures for the 12 months up to last April show there were fewer crimes committed across the range in North Kesteven than anywhere else in the country.

This is the latest – and ultimate – success for the North Kesteven Community Safety Partnership which has assisted in the continual fall in crime locally over a series of years – coming down from a steady 8th lowest for three consecutive years to 7th lowest last year.

In 2013/14 there were 24.62 crimes per 1,000 people in North Kesteven – 2,690 in total, which was an 8%, fall on 2013’s figure of 2,918.

The Lincolnshire average was 50 crimes per 1,000 people and the nation’s worst performer had 715 crimes per 1,000 people.

Community Safety Partnership Chairman Cllr Mike Gallagher said this was a proud achievement for everyone involved in maintaining a safe and peaceful community – most notably residents who were vigilant in keeping cars and houses locked and placing bags, valuables and shopping out of sight.

North Kesteven District Council has also taken key measures across all sections including housing, licensing, environmental protection and community engagement, with broader cooperation from the police, probation, courts and judicial agencies and

Our Communities

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01529 414155 / 01522 699699

businesses for increasing security and intelligence sharing.

Cllr Gallagher said: “This is a tremendous accolade for the District, its residents, partners and businesses and we should congratulate everyone involved in promoting and developing community safety within North Kesteven.

“But with us all having worked so hard to keep crime away from our homes, streets and lives I implore residents to maintain their vigilance in locking doors, securing property and keeping an eye out for their neighbours as a safer place is undoubtedly a happier, healthier and better place to live, work and do business.”

North Kesteven’s low-crime status comes on top of recent studies

marking the District out as 19th best for quality of life and 15th most peaceful in relation to exposure to violent crime.

The District’s leading low-crime status reflects well across all of the Council’s corporate priorities for safer communities, better more-secure homes and a more vibrant economy.

It is a consequence of established partnership work across all areas to reduce crime and disorder and also reflects on the success of a number of initiatives pioneered by the District’s CSP which have been adopted for county-wide use, including a campaign to highlight the potential consequences of certain life choices to every 13-yearold school pupil and a support initiative for victims of anti-social behaviour.

Our Homes

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info@n-kesteven.gov.uk

If you experience crime or anti-social behaviour, or have any concerns, call: > Police on 101 in non-emergency situations > Police on 999 in emergency situations > NKDC’s anti-social behaviour team on 01529 414155

Our Economy

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www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

inside

newsnk is your newspaper The newspaper is edited by the Communications Team at North Kesteven District Council.

Each issue costs 6.3 pence to produce and print and 9.75 pence to deliver direct to your door.

Editorial Phone: 01529 308116 Email: communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk Address: North Kesteven District Council District Council Offices, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 7EF Council Enquiries Phone: 01529 414155 or 01522 699699 if calling from a Lincoln number Minicom: 01529 308088 Emergency: 01529 308308 or 01522 699650 Website: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk Email: customer_services@n-kesteven.gov.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/northkestevendc Twitter: @northkestevendc INFO-LINKS North Hykeham North Kesteven Centre, Moor Lane, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 9AX INFO-LINKS Metheringham 15a High Street, Metheringham, Lincoln, LN4 3DZ Billinghay Cottage & Parish Office The Old Vicarage Cottage, Church Street, Billinghay, Lincoln, LN4 4HN Branston Connect Branston Community Library, Station Road, Branston, LN4 1LH Heckington Parish Office St Andrew’s Street, Heckington, NG34 9RE Navenby Village Office The Venue, Grantham Road, Navenby, LN5 0JJ Osbournby Village Hall London Road, Osbournby, Sleaford, NG34 0DG Skellingthorpe Village Office Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe Community Centre, Lincoln, LN6 5UT The Witham Office 16 Torgate Lane, Bassingham, Lincoln, LN5 9HF Waddington Parish Council High Street, Waddington, Lincoln, LN5 9RF Washingborough Civic Office Fen Road, Washingborough, Lincoln, LN4 1AB

This document is available in large print, Braille, audio, electronic formats such as CD, or in a different language.

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2 newsnk Autumn 2014

Memorial Guardians Volunteers sought to take care of local War Memorials 4

Have your say Get involved in the consultation to map out policies for future development 11

Visitors welcome Tourism trade in the District increases as more than 2m visitors bring almost £110m to the local economy 5

Get growing Learn more about a project to get the LN6 area working harder for business 12

Independent living Support and advice for all 6

Happy Halloween Cut-out poster to display at your door to keep trick or treaters at bay 13

Unsung Heroes Meet the NK Community Champions whose tireless, voluntary endeavours have been recognised by the Council 7-10

In a lather A unique exhibition of objects shaped from soap heads up a vibrant winter programme of creative and cultural arts 14 & 15

Plan to increase polling access

Review aims to make it easier to cast your vote

A review is underway into the location of some polling stations in the District to ensure they are in the most appropriate and suitable places.

Electors had four weeks during September to comment on proposals to create four or five new polling stations in Sleaford and Bracebridge Heath and move some others.

All of the feedback will now be considered by councillors under the polling review, ready to take effect for next May’s District and General elections.

In most cases, the current arrangements are recommended to remain unchanged, but the review does propose new polling stations at: > The Greenfield Road Communal Rooms, Sleaford > The TA Centre at The Drove, Sleaford > St Botolph’s Primary School, Sleaford, for both the Castle and Quarrington wards. > The Pavilion off Bath Road, Bracebridge Heath.

And moving Doddington’s station from the Old Rectory to the hall’s Coach House to offer better facilities and access.

Independents win Sleaford by-elections A new group of councillors has become the official opposition on the District Council following the election of a further two independent Members.

Both Steve Fields and Mark Suffield stood as Lincolnshire Independents at the by-elections in June to fill two Sleaford seats which had become vacant during the spring.

This prompted the three remaining Sleaford Independents and the two Rural Independents to join forces with the two new Lincolnshire Independents to form a group, under the leadership of Cllr Marianne Overton MBE, called Lincolnshire

Register now to ensure you can vote Anyone hoping to vote at next year’s elections needs to ensure they are registered before December 1.

All 85,500 District electors have been written to about changes to voter registration; switching towards individual registration to limit scope for electoral fraud and the convenience of no longer having to register annually, unless circumstances change.

People were also advised about the option to have details removed from the public, open register which marketing firms can buy and use.

If you have not yet registered, please do so simply and easily online or using the form.

Anyone who has not done so can anticipate a canvasser to call during October as it is a legal requirement to register As well as ensuring your eligibility to vote, registration also helps with credit referencing.

For the first time this is possible online, at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Councillors’ calling

Cllr Steve Fields

Cllr Mark Suffield

Independent NK. This is now the second largest group of members on the Council.

Cllr Fields represents Sleaford Westholme and Cllr Suffield Sleaford Quarrington & Mareham. All 43 District Council seats face re-election on May 7 next year.

Want to get more involved in your community?

Want to make a difference locally?

Want to influence local service provision?

Why not think about becoming a councillor?

There will be elections on May 7, 2015 for both District and Parish Councillors.

Call the NKDC Elections Team or visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/your-council

Civic service marks Council anniversary

Lights Out illuminates minds for War commemoration An estimated 450 people attended a community event at St Denys’ Church in Sleaford where the turning out of lights served to illuminate remembrance of one of the darkest period’s in the nation’s history.

As part of the nationwide Lights Out initiative to mark the centenary of Britain’s entry to World War One, the church became the focal point of the District’s commemoration.

Poems, accounts from the trenches and letters to unknown soldiers were read by the NKDC reading group Beyond the Page.

Prayers, reflections and musical contributions from the Tennyson Collective and The Ruffs preceded the reading of Sleaford’s Roll of Honour remembering the 132 Fallen, in the

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near-darkness of the candlelit church.

The event was a collaboration between St Denys’ Church, the Sleaford Branch of the Royal British Legion and NKDC, whose Executive Board Member for culture Cllr Lindsey Cawrey remarked: “It was a truly moving event which reflected the mood of the nation and told the very real, personal, painful stories of individuals who knew the horrors of the Great War first hand and whose experiences are often overlooked by history.”

“The music and readings in church plunged and lifted our emotions in a profound way and I am grateful to everyone who shared their vision, talents and time to commemorate this sombre date in our history.”

The 40th anniversary of North Kesteven District Council’s existence will be celebrated at this year’s Civic Service on Sunday, October 19.

Residents are invited to join Council Chairman Cllr Lance Pennell, other NKDC Councillors, officers and civic guests from around the county at St Denys’ Church, Sleaford, from 3pm.

The service is an annual fixture and on this occasion Cllr Pennell wants to hold it in the District’s principal church, in the principal town.

He is especially keen to welcome former members and officers of the Council, which came into existence in April 1974 following local government reorganisation.

He has also organised a 1940s evening on for November 14, with a ausage and mash supper and music from Miller Magic - Tickets £15 in aid of the Lincs Air Ambulance.

For details of both events, call Pauline Collett on 01529 308220.

News Focus

Craft union forged at design centre The Arts Council is supporting continuation and expansion of the Council’s highly-regarded community arts programme.

It will receive more than £603,000 in National Portfolio Funding over the next three years starting next April.

The money will enable the NK Arts Partnership – comprising the National Centre for Craft & Design, the Design Factory co-operative fostering emerging creative talents and artsNK visual and performing community arts programme – to continue the delivery of its £1m-plus annual arts programme through to 2018 and beyond.

The National Centre is known as the home of British contemporary craft and design with world-class status as England’s largest space dedicated to the exhibition, celebration and promotion of craft and design.

ArtsNK is now one of the largest rural arts development agencies in the country, including operation of the Terry O’Toole Theatre, older people’s exercise programme Vitality, and a series of visual and dance projects.

Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, who has the Executive portfolio for culture, said the funding reflected on the quality, excellence and value for money for which NKDC’s arts programme has come to be respected.

Garden take-up More than 60% of householders in North Kesteven have paid to have their garden waste taken away this year.

Six months into the current charging period, 29,273 households have paid to have at least one bin emptied – a rate of 60.15%.

This is an increase on the full year’s 59.2% take-up in 2013/14 the first year of being able to opt in or out of the service.

The amount of green waste collected in 2013/14 was 10,528.55 tonnes, only an 18% fall in volume despite a 41% drop in the numbers of green bins being picked up, which justifies the decision to charge only those who most wanted to use it.

NK Centre refurbishment fund grows to £3.6m Extra funding delivers more for sports centre users right across the District An additional £1.1m is being invested by the District Council to ensure the refurbished North Kesteven Sports Centre more fully meets the needs of users wanting to access excellent sports and leisure facilities.

The Full Council unanimously agreed to put up the extra resource from the New Homes Bonus balance to give a total investment of £3.6m – considerably more than was spent on last year’s successful re-profiling of the Sleaford Leisure Centre.

This extra funding means: > Replacement and relocation of the flume to enable better spectator viewing of the pool and broaden its use to gala and competition activities; > Re-tiling of the pool surround; > Modernisation of the pool hall; > Creation of a Toddler Splash area; > Renewing the pool hall heating; and > Re-waterproofing the entire roof.

This meets many of the desires expressed through public consultation and comes on top of the previously approved plans to create a new 3G Pitch; relocate and enlarge the gym space; provide more studio space for classes; create a changing village and move the café downstairs to the reception area to create a community hub with Infolinks.

In response to the feedback of more than 250 people through consultation, there will also be more showers in the changing village than originally planned, additional toilets in reception, swipe card entry to the

gym, even more studio space and a separate theatre box office.

Council Leader, Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said: “I am so thrilled we have been able to expand the scope of our refurbishment at North Hykeham through this additional funding.

“The refurbishment of Sleaford Leisure Centre has been such a great success for residents and visitors alike, and we anticipate the same outcome from the NK Centre refurbishment,” she said.

“As a Council we are committed to leisure, health, well-being and the arts and wish to provide another excellent facility fulfilling all of theses leisure interests, which we can all be proud of for many more years to come”.

The better heating and ventilation systems will improve energy efficiency by 50% alone and save £8,000 a year, better acoustics in the pool hall will help with teaching and the re-invigorated learner pool area will support family-friendly leisure.

With the first phase of the NK Centre refurb – a new 3G multi-sports surface – complete, in full use and attracting professional clubs’ junior teams, the rest of the programme to upgrade the 40-year-old facility will follow on chiefly in the new year.

Planning permission was given at the end of September for a number of initiatives including alterations to the entrance area and relocation of the flume – which members were keen to retain and replace as a unique attraction locally.

Sports centre bowls Hoggard over

Further investment at the Northgate Sports Hall in Sleaford has upgraded the facilities and broadened the range of sports on offer.

The new sport of Futsal has been added following a refurb which paved the way for a transfer of operations to Carre’s Grammar School, ensuring better sporting opportunities for both the school and the community.

It now boasts new changing facilities, four new cricket nets, national standard basketball layout and facilities for the South American alternative to Association Football.

This was all carried out by NKDC under its ongoing commitment to the health and wellbeing of its residents and the almost £7m programme of refurbishment at both Sleaford Leisure Centre and North Kesteven Sports Centre.

Council Leader, Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said: “This facility now offers so much more, which will only be enhanced by the new delivery model.”

To celebrate completion of the refurbished facility, and the introduction of new operations relationship, former England cricketer Matthew Hoggard MBE joined PE students to put it through its paces. He said it was a ‘fantastic facility well-suited to developing skills and progressing well in the sport’.

Job Centre Plus adds to the Council office’s offer of useful services Residents will soon find access to broader public services at the main North Kesteven District Council offices, with Sleaford’s Job Centre Plus poised to relocate.

Throughout the summer, coupled with an emphasis on staff working more effectively in the field and away from the offices, NKDC has been

reducing the amount of space it needs for its operations.

This was aimed at freeing up space for Job Centre Plus and, in time, potentially some other local services, to move into the Kesteven Street building in Sleaford The arrangements will become effective from late October.

Cllr Geoff Hazelwood who has Executive portfolio for the property programme said the principle of a more unified delivery of public services would be of great benefit to the public.

“It will undoubtedly save time, expense and hassle for people if they are able to access advice on complementary services such as benefits claims, money

Black bins are not to be used for garden waste put into the black bins each year.

This affects the burning efficiency and capacity of the Energy from Waste plant where all black-bin waste is incinerated now and costs more to dispose of than through composting.

From next year bins with garden waste in them will be tagged in the first instance and then left behind if they continue to be contaminated. As a last resort fixed penalty notices could still be considered.

Cllr Richard Wright, who has Executive oversight for environmental matters, said: “With options to pay

for the convenience of having regular garden waste collections from home, to compost at home or take it to a household waste recycling centre in Sleaford, Leadenham, Whisby or Lincoln, there is really no reason for people continuing to put garden waste in their black bins alongside residual waste.

“It is only fair for all tax payers, not just the 60% who have already opted to pay for garden waste collections, that we take this step to protect resources and enhance the quality of waste services.”

Christmas collection cut-out guide All refuse collection dates will be changed in Christmas Week, with two further tweaks to accommodate the New Year holiday.

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Residents who continue to put garden waste into their black bins face having it left behind and ultimately enforcement action.

From April 1 next year, North Kesteven District Council is placing a ban on the disposal of garden waste in the black bins used for getting rid of all residual waste that cannot be recycled or composted.

Up to now the Council has always discouraged householders from putting garden waste in with their nonrecycleable waste, but it is calculated that around 2,500 tonnes is still being

advice and housing matters alongside work availability, in one place, at the same time without having to travel from place to place.

“It also serves to support the Council’s financial savings and carbon reduction plans by making better, more efficient and effective use of the assets we have,” he said.

Normal collection day

Revised collection day

> Monday, December 22 > Tuesday, December 23 > Wednesday, December 24 > Thursday., December 25 > Friday, December 26

> Saturday, December 20 > Monday, December 22 > Tuesday, December 23 > Wednesday, December 24 > Saturday, December 27

> Monday, December 29 > Tuesday, December 30 > Wednesday, December 31 > Thursday, January 1 > Friday, January 2

> No Change > No Change > No Change > Friday, January 2 > Saturday, January 3

Autumn 2014 newsnk 3

News Focus

All generations join up to celebrate our Armed Forces – past, present and future

Parade, concerts, flag-raising, badge-presentations, competitions and applause North Kesteven District Council arranged a fuller programme of events and activities than ever before to celebrate our Armed Forces’ contribution to society – past, present and future.

Over the course of a week there was a badge presentation to veterans, an exhibition, a 40s style concert, an open-air public concert, flag-raising ceremony and shop-window display and tea-towel design competitions – all allied to a parade for the Freedom of Sleaford by RAF College Cranwell.

Station Commander of RAF College Cranwell, Air Commandant Chris Luck MBE, presented the veteran’s badges and radio personalities Rod Whiting and John Marshall compered the two concerts.

Guardians appeal for memorials Local people are invited to help create a lasting legacy for Lincolnshire’s Fallen by becoming war memorial guardians.

Playing a vital role in protecting local monuments and ensuring memories of the dead live on, guardians simply need to volunteer with the Lincolnshire Remembrance project.

Volunteers can access specialist training in war memorials, including how to care for them, record and research them and re-discover and share the stories of those listed on them, with no minimum expectations on time and commitment.

There are around 3,000 war memorials in Lincolnshire and The Lincolnshire Remembrance: Memories and Memorials project is working with volunteers to research and record them all in a new, searchable online database and interactive map.

To volunteer or find out more about the project: > visit www.lincstothepast.com/warmemorials > email warmemorials@lincolnshire.gov.uk > or call Cath Pike on 01522 554959.

Pact signed to support bypass delivery Move on mowing The Council has signed up to an arrangement to support the delivery of Lincoln’s Eastern Bypass.

Along with the city council, West Lindsey District Council and primary road funders Lincolnshire County Council, NKDC has pledged to use its powers to secure funding from developers, where appropriate and possible, to build up funds towards an outstanding balance of £34m.

The partners recognise the importance of securing the bypass in order to achieve aspirations for growth and regeneration across the wider area and the need to secure the funds to see it delivered.

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In the meantime the county council is underwriting the outstanding £34m.

The county council has pledged that it will build the city’s eastern bypass after the Government required it to re-submit its plans.

Before being granted the necessary legal orders the authority has to amend plans for a junction in the West Lindsey stretch of the £100m road.

It will cross the River Witham and join the A15 south of Bracebridge Heath, running passed Washingborough, Heighington and Canwick.

The aim is to have all matters resolved as soon as possible, without causing significant delay.

Problems with verge maintenance in the early summer were quickly resolved by the Council not wanting to let the grass grow under its feet.

After winning NKDC’s contract for mowing amenity grass Glendale was initially unable to meet the Council’s quality requirements and standards slipped.

NK maintained significant pressure and after recruiting more staff and prioritising resources the company improved its performance to a standard which could be expected of experts with specialism in grass and hedge maintenance for local authorities and housing schemes.

Stay out of danger Hykeham library Open water swimming can be a foolish thing to do at the best of times, but especially dangerous in the area’s many disused quarries.

Even into the autumn, hardy – and fool-hardy – swimmers brave cold water, but are advised to stay safe and stay out of the water.

The Council is especially keen to advise against swimming at North Hykeham’s Millennium Green where it is not always clear what lurks beneath the water – old machinery, poisonous algae, weils disease and unpredictable water temperatures that can trigger muscle spasm and an inability to stay afloat.

The Council has lost its bid to house North Hykeham’s threatened library in the refurbished NK Centre.

While preferring the county council to retain it in-house, NKDC made a proposal to house the library if the county council continued with its restructuring plans.

While it supported community groups to suggest local solutions for the seven threatened local libraries within the District, it made an approach to take on the North Hykeham branch into the NK Centre.

But it is North Hykeham Town Council’s bid which has been preferred by the county council.

News Focus

Extra parking supports boomtown Scheme includes more affordable homes Plans are being drawn up for 100 new cheap, long-stay car parking spaces on the south side of Sleaford to support an increasingly vibrant town centre.

The Council’s vision for an old depot alongside the railway off Grantham Road is to build around 40 new council houses, costing around £4m, in addition to the car parking, which wouls be laid out closer to town with easy access over the tracks via the new footbridge.

While these plans progress, the intention is to install temporary car parking within weeks or months so that the benefits for residents, shoppers and workers can be realised as soon as possible.

It comes at a time when the county council is reviewing traffic management across the town and goes some way to satisfying residents’ concerns about on-street parking locally.

It is the initial realisation of the Sleaford Car Parking Strategy, represents significant progress on the Sleaford Masterplan and dovetails neatly with a range of initiatives planned and underway to support the vibrancy of the town centre, including the anticipated delivery of the Link Road to open up the southern part of Sleaford to new investment built around the Maltings regeneration.

It comes at a time when the rate of shop unit vacancies is at an all-time low of 5%, many new businesses are starting up in the town and interest from would-be developers to bring new retailers is soaring.

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE, said: “Growth is something we all support for Sleaford, economically as well as in its vibrancy and vital facilities. The delivery of much-needed car parking and homes at the heart of the town will future-proof it further “Not only will it reduce congestion as people park up and walk across the footbridge rather than drive through, but by introducing additional, lower-cost parking in this area we hope to draw more shoppers to this end of the town and provide for workers in need of all-day parking, “It is an exciting scheme which is integral to the jigsaw of initiatives which form the regeneration vision for Sleaford,” said Cllr Brighton.

“To now be seeing delivery on the masterplan and a number of those strategies we have developed in partnership with the town over the years, in physical terms on the ground, is most welcome and gives developers more confidence that this is a town which means business.

This is the first of a number of new car parks envisaged over coming years.

Opening up the heart of Sleaford A partnership is being forged to help regenerate central Sleaford.

With the Corn Exchange and Bristol Arcade at its core, the Heart of Sleaford project is being pioneered

by NKDC and the owners of both properties to create a new public right of way between Money’s Yard and the Market Place.

This will see a new bridge over the River Slea, with access via the garden of 25b Southgate which the Council owns, linking to the redeveloped and regenerated arcade and exchange.

To secure, manage and maintain the new public access a Community Interest Company will be set up.

Heart of Sleaford will harness community, commerce and conservation interests to have a positive impact on the success of Sleaford Town Centre. It will pioneer the broader vision outlined in the adopted masterplan and dovetail with the many other regeneration initiatives underway.

Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said it was ‘a very exciting statement of intent for regeneration’, representing a very definite, concrete start to realising the vision set out in the Sleaford Masterplan, with the support of committed business people.

Improving traffic flows and ease of travel in Sleaford A plan to improve traffic flows and accessibility within Sleaford and encourage more walking, cycling and public transport use has been agreed by delivery partners.

Having commissioned a Transport Strategy for Sleaford to address a range of current transport issues, both the county council and North Kesteven District Council have endorsed a series of measures, schemes and initiatives up to 2030, in support of the emerging proposals for significant growth in the town.

In a bid to address varying transport issues, suggested interventions cover public transport, active travel, smarter travel and highways, ranging from quick delivery in the first two years

through to a longer 10-year-plus programme. These include: > Expanding bus and rail services and infrastructure to make them easier and more attractive to use; > A network of direct walking and cycle routes, including junction priority; > Traffic calming on minor roads; > A town centre 20mph zone; > More secure cycle storage and potentially hire bike provision; > Rationalisation of parking into fewer, better-located car parks, including a new southern car park; > A bus link between Holdingham and Sleaford’s East Road; > Making junctions more efficient; and > Reviewing traffic orders to smooth traffic flows.

Increased visitor numbers put more than £110m into District economy The value of tourism to the North Kesteven economy has risen by a further 5% to almost £110 million in the past year.

The District attracted more than 2.2m visitors during 2013 – 150,000 more than the year before – supporting the equivalent of 1,818 full-time jobs across the year, which in itself was a 6.7% increase on the previous year – 114 more jobs.

Job numbers varied from month to month, peaking in August at 3,241.

The total value of tourism to North Kesteven was £108.46m in the 12 months up to last April – showing that visitors are increasingly important in sustaining local businesses.

Most of the 2,203,000 visitors are day visitors which underlines the Council’s determination to entice them to linger longer by increasing the amount of accommodation.

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE, said: “It is quite incredible that in these ongoing difficult times and reflecting on last year’s weather, we attracted so many visitors to the District, especially when we cannot claim a castle, a cathedral or coast.

“I am sure the cancellation of next year’s Waddington Airshow will have an impact, but so too will the buzz surrounding Lincoln’s Castle re-opening and the Magna Carta

Progress on powers

Sleaford’s Renewable Energy Plant has begun operating commercially, pumping free heat into a range of community facilities.

Following a period of testing, the £165m straw and wood-burning facility, built to perform to the highest environmental standards, will now take 240,000 tonnes of straw a year to generate enough renewable energy for 65,000 homes.

Surplus heat will be sent freely into NKDC’s offices, Sleaford Leisure Centre, the William Alvey School, bowls and football clubs.

The plant has created 30 permanent jobs on-site and will support a further 50 in haulage and other areas essential to its smooth running.

As a key component in the Council’s regeneration vision for Sleaford and its commitment towards sustainability and economic growth, NKDC’s Economic Development team worked hard to secure this investment.

The Council anticipates making imminent, significant progress with its Compulsory Purchase powers to secure regeneration in Sleaford.

The CPO seeks to secure the land and rights required for a new road which would facilitate regeneration of the Bass Maltings and enable broader economic development in excess of £100m and create hundreds of new jobs.

Keep an eye on local media and www.n-kesteven.gov.uk for details.

anniversary, after which we will of course have the International Bomber Command Memorial at Canwick.

“With all of this on top of the perennially popular aviation and countryside offer so distinct to North Kesteven, and the anticipated return of the Cereals farm show, as well as the enduringly popular Heckington Show, Spires & Steeples challenge and the attractions we run as a Council, I believe we have every reason to remain optimistic for the future.”

All of the statistics are collated by the nationally recognised leader in assessing tourism impact, showing that over four years total visitor numbers have risen 7.1%, supporting a 10% rise in employment and a 6.5% increase in economic impact.

Winds of change for visitor attraction

Main objectives are to: > Support the sustainable development, regeneration and growth of Sleaford – helping attract investment and meeting current and future housing and business needs; > Minimise carbon emissions; > Improve access for all to employment, shops and services; > Enhance access to alternatives to the private car by widening choice, frequency and reliability of public transport and making it easier to walk and cycle; > Improve road safety and promote safe travel to school; > Reduce the amount of traffic entering the town centre and the amount of private car use.

Green energy plant fires up free heat

> Visitor numbers – 2.203m, up 6.3% on 2012 (2.073m) > Day visitors – 1.9m, up 6.5% on 2012 (1.783m) > Visitor days – 2.642m, up 5.6% on 2012 (2.502m) > Direct visitor spend – £81.57m, up 5% on 2012 (77.69m) > Total Contribution to the local economy – £108.46m, up 5% on 2012 (103.25m) > Supporting 1,818 FTE jobs, up 6.7% on 2012 (1,704)

Mill Manager Jim Bailey with Cllrs Stewart Ogden, Gill Ogden, Marion Brighton OBE, Sally Tarry and Mike Gallagher during a business visit to Heckington Windmill

With its distinctive eight sails now replaced, Heckington Mill is making history while the wind blows.

As the Heckington Windmill Trust moves forward with the early stages of its £1.13m regeneration project to triple visitor numbers to around 15,000 within six years, numbers are already on the rise and flour is flying off the shelves.

Barley is now being milled for brewing and travelling only yards to the onsite brewery right alongside – the only one in the country using stoneground barley.

On a recent visit, district councillors were thrilled to learn of the trust’s ongoing success as it progresses its ambitious plan to develop a world-class visitor attraction that teaches baking skills, educates all generations, serves up a landmark teashop and tells the story of flour, from field to fork.

Airshow bows out with sell-out crowd This year’s 20th RAF Waddington Air Show attracted a sell-out crowd of more than 135,000 visitors, but next year’s event is already cancelled.

It has been halted due to the 59 week runway works at the station and there is no confirmation whether the event will continue from 2016.

The show generates more than £10 million to the District economy, plus thousands for charities. There is an online petition to the Government to resume normal service from 2016, as the RAF reviews all of its air show commitments.

Autumn 2014 newsnk 5

Our Community

In-house team is here to help NK’s Community Initiatives Team has worked closely with local groups to support the allocation of the Sleaford Renewable Energy Plant’s Community Fund through its liaison panel.

In the last 18 months the panel has allocated £32,000 from the plant’s owners for use locally – £30,000 within Sleaford and £2,000 to an organisation in Kirkby la Thorpe.

These have included the Little Theatre, Riverside Church, striders running club and allotments in Sleaford, as well as Beyond the Blues craft workshop and Zygote Festival.

With a total of £120,000 to allocate across both communities over three years, the panel meets quarterly to consider grant applications. > See www.sleafordrep.co.uk Five projects across North Kesteven are reaping the rewards of community facilities funding from the District and County councils.

During the last financial year NKDC paid out £25,124 and the county council £75,413 in grant aid tor a new kitchen and toilets in Heckington Methodist Church; structural work on Dunston Village Hall; modernisation of Harmston Memorial Hall; a toilet refurbishment in Branston Village Hall and a play area in Swaton.

In all cases NK’s Community Initiatives Team worked alongside the organisations. For details of how they might help your community hall or facility, drop them a line or call.

A further source of potential support is FundNK, which helped six projects in the District with a total grant allocation of £4,655 last year.

These were Sleaford Museum, Made by Katie Green dance workshops, Digby playing field drainage work, turbo trainers and mats for Tri3 Sleaford, flood lighting on Heckington playing field and lighting in Aubourn community room.

For details on all funds contact the NK Community Initiatives team on 01529 414155 or email community_ initiatives@n-kesteven.gov.uk

To promote the sustainability, wellbeing, safety and health of North Kesteven’s growing communities

Communities have winning ideas

Businesses support local facilities improvement projects Community facilities are being developed in two District villages after local people stepped forward with bright ideas to improve their neighbourhoods.

A plan pioneered by Bracebridge Heath Parish Council won top billing in a county-wide competition to win £15,000 of expertise to kickstart the projects, with Dunston’s IDEAS group taking a runner’s up prize.

The Big Idea competition, backed by the Business in the Community charity and organised by 16 firms in the Lincolnshire Pro-Help group offering free professional advise and support to good causes, aimed to help three not-for-profit groups get their schemes off the ground.

The winning case was made by Bracebridge Heath Parish Council, which will use £10,000 worth of professional expertise in bringing forward its plan to revamp the village hall and the pavilion as the first phase of a broader project to connect the two. It was of particular help in organising a thorough consultation.

Parish council chairman John Kilcoyne said: “Our plan, drawn up through community consultation, is to redevelop the two existing buildings as dedicated community hubs and foster our youth groups.

“The link between the two will be provided by a green corridor which provides a direct connection with village history, including the burial ground for the former St John’s Hospital and the woodland strip along the A15,” he said.

“It’s a really exciting time with quite

a few things all coming together at the same time, like the library review, St John’s development, the Scout group needing help with their building, and the community seeing the potential in positive change and new beginnings.”

Having already made great strides on its own initiative, and using a £71,000 grant from Wren as well as its own fundraising, Dunston’s playing field is now equipped with a significant installation of play facilities. Their prize was £2,500 of professional help, as was the Lincoln RSPCA branch’s.

Cold weather help

Library review

Communities bloom

An initiative based on good old fashioned neighbourliness will be rolled out again this winter to support the more elderly and vulnerable in our communities.

Although last year’s mild winter meant there was no call on the NK Winter Wellbeing programme, volunteers are again ready to offer support to people locally unable to get out for basic shopping in the coldest weather.

A group of people will be ready to help right across the District with the delivery of an emergency food parcel containing the basics for hot, healthy meals for a couple of days – and for pets too – when there is snow or ice on the ground, consistently cold conditions and someone is unable to get to the shops themselves.

It is open to anyone aged 18 and over, subject to eligibility and mobility criteria, by calling the Council on 01529 414155. Look out for further publicity in the winter months.

Further work is being carried out by the county council into its plans to shake-up local library provision.

Following a judicial review, some additional work needs to be done over the coming months, including fresh consultation during October where alternative models can be suggested.

The authority still favours an option that enables 74% of all households to reach a council-run library within 30 minutes by public transport, with online services backed up by a network of community hubs and mobile libraries.

This would meet legal requirements and achieve savings.

Communities affected by the changes have already proposed local solutions for taking on local provision in Bracebridge Heath, Branston, Metheringham, North Hykeham. Ruskington, Skellingthorpe and Washingborough.

Two NK communities have been awarded in the East Midlands in Bloom contest this year.

The ArtsNK mosaics on Sleaford’s riverside path helped the town maintain its Silver-Gilt standard and Bracebridge Heath won both silver and a special judges award.

Building on last year’s bronze as first-time entrants, the judges said Braceridge Heath had made ‘Great progress, with developments everywhere; a splendid community spirit prevails and an engaging approach to what you are doing. The village tour was most enjoyable and the sense of fun that overarches everything that you do was wonderful.’

That comment referred to a golden syrup tree with lion and knitted bees outside the village hall and giant sunflowers and bunting in empty shops.

Lose weight Get physically active Learn about food Exercise tips Why not enrol on a 12-week course that will not only teach you about, health, nutrition and exercise, but also encourage you to change your lifestyle.

Courses operate throughout the year The latest is on Wednesdays in Brant Broughton, 1pm - 3pm

Interested in attending? Call 07733368676 6 newsnk Autumn 2014

Front, from left: Penny Slesser from IDEAS, Sue Manders from Bracebridge Heath, Harry Cowling from Dunston, and Nikki Harris from Lincoln RSPCA, with representatives of the supporting businesses.

Wellbeing support is freely available Anyone experiencing a change in their circumstances should remember the NK Wellbeing Service is at hand to help – for free.

While there are broad eligibility criteria for service requests, it is almost certain that some sort of support, advice, or guidance can be given in most cases to help people to continue living independently at home.

The service is open to everyone aged 18 or over, living in North Kesteven, who is in need of a little extra support, advice or signposting to services to promote their independence at home, identify areas

of need or assist with the installation of small aids, minor adaptions or alarms.

Potential situations for Wellbeing support could include pregnancy, child-birth, depression, anxiety, change in household income, discharge from hospital, bereavement or complications associated with ageing.

It is all about integrating services and offering them at an early stage to ensure people have the best possible chance of remaining safe and independent at home.

Requests can be made in person or on behalf of family or friends: > via a GP, on 01522 782140 > or by calling NKDC on 01529 414155

Moving forward with LN6 travel Cycling within North Hykeham has nearly doubled in the last two years, according to the county council arm promoting it as a sustainable travel option.

Access LN6 says there are now an average of 332 cyclists on Station Road per day and 362 on Doddington Road, an increase of 97% and 92% respectively, since 2012.

This has been supported by a range of measures including cycling promotion to residents and businesses, grants to set-up cycle facilities at work and in communities, road improvements in cyclists’ favour and discouragement from using cars.

The number of passengers at Hykeham Station has more than doubled in the last four years.

Passenger counts in July show on average 143 people per day board or leave the train there, up from 64 in 2010.

Access LN6 recently improved facilities at the station and has been working with local businesses and residents to encourage more people to use the train.

The distinctive orange Access LN6 hirebikes can now be picked up and dropped off at more locations.

With more than 1,000 people registered to use them during their first year and 1,350 bikes rented out for a few hours or a day at a time, they have proved very popular.

As well as sites across Lincoln, the 48 bikes can now be found at Hykeham Train Station, Station Road, Kingsley Road and Newark Road in North Hykeham, at Lakeview Close, off Newark Road, and at Skellingthorpe Community Centre.

A shared cycle and footpath has been installed to help children, commuters and leisure cyclists travel between in South Hykeham and North Hykeham.

The £130,000 project was funded through the county council’s Access LN6 programme to alleviate concerns about the existing narrow path.

Work is scheduled this autumn on a new shared footway and cyclepath along Station Road in North Hykeham.

As well as a 2.5m wide kerbed path on the west side of the road between the station and Whisby Road, more street lighting, bus stops and road repairs will be included in the £500,000 cost.

Diversions will be in place affecting traffic north of Freeman Road.

All initiatives are part of the Access LN6 project. Call on 01522 370143 or visit www.accessln6.co .uk

NK Community Champion Awards 2014 The 2014 Winners North Kesteven’s unsung heroes have been rewarded for their contribution to making the District a better place to live

This year’s winners with host John Marshall

Community-spirited individuals, groups and businesses from across the District have been awarded as North Kesteven Community Champions.

Awards and applause were heaped on a record number of 27 finalists in eight categories to recognise the talents and contributions of North Kesteven residents in making the District a great place to live.

People of all ages and all circumstances were nominated by members of their communities whose lives they have touched through their outstanding endeavours and achievements.

> Community Spirit: Andy Dunlop, Swaton > Young Achiever: Matthew Livingstone, North Hykeham > Community Business: New Life Centre, Sleaford > Contribution to Sport: Nikki Fletcher, Canwick > Contribution to Arts & Culture: Heckington Windmill Trust > Contribution to a Better Environment: Sleaford River Clean-up Group > Contribution to Health & Wellbeing: IDEAS, Dunston > Contribution to Sustainable Transport: Paul Jowett, Ruskington

The winners of Nk Community Awards 2014 are...

‘The only way to get anything done was to get off our backsides’ Health & Wellbeing

inspire their own installations.

From the outset they sought to ensure it was for the whole community and to ensure the community’s longterm care for it, a range of measures for future-proofing it have been built-in so everyone has a sense of inherent responsibilty and ownership.

IDEAS, Dunston

The Improving Dunston’s Empty Area Spaces project is delivering a legacy for Dunston which, by enhancing sporting activities and the local environment, is improving the health and wellbeing of the village at large.

When the IDEAS team canvassed every home to establish a plan for the playing field, 99% of respondents wanted healthy activities for children, which are now being delivered.

After 18 months of active fundraising there are now swings, slides, climbing frames, an amphitheatre, tunnels and landscaping to the value of around £100,000, with a further £30,000 worth of goodwill invested.

And with the village overwhelmingly in support, they are now pioneering the next phases for games courts, goal, clubhouse and changing facilities.

At the heart of the action is a handful of dedicated people making a big difference to achieve healthier

lifestyle choices, encourage serious sports participation and save parents driving to find alternatives nearby.

Diana Hammond told the awards audience that it was through the initiative of a few – all grandparents – who recognised the village of 350 homes had ‘diddly-squat’ for its young

people and ‘enough was enough’.

“We realised that the only way to get anything done was to get off our backsides and just do it,” she said.

Since the phase one equipment has been in place it has made a real difference to community life, with all generations meeting at the field, the school and pre-school using it often and neighbouring villages using it to

This award was sponsored by 1LIFE. Other finalists were: Betty Ashton from Washingborough who has used her own experience to support scores of women who have had breast cancer and as a committee member of the local Breast Cancer Support Group over 20 years.

Nick Grimshaw from North Hykeham, a walk leader with the NK Social Strollers programme, always keen to share his passion for walking with others and especially active, vocal and involved in enthusing others.

Ian Kendrick from Waddington, who consistently goes the extra mile to support participants of NK’s Health Walks, making walking sticks for and driving them to walks.

‘They’re all winners’ The awards were again hosted

by Lincs FM presenter John Marshall, who said each finalist’s contribution to their community was ‘really inspiring’.

“It has been a privilege to meet all of this year’s community champions and to be a part of the recognition being given to their efforts to make their communities a better place to live,” he said.

“Each person has shown such selfless commitment to others.

They are all winners in my eyes!”

“

So very many people in North Kesteven are working tirelessly, selflessly and voluntarily to improve the lives of others and enrich our communities – and I thank you all.

We are all striving to support our villages and towns as 100 Flourishing Communities, to enhance our neighbourhoods and to contribute as active and engaged citizens.

The example of this year’s winners, the legacy of those who have gone before and those who continue quietly going about their community endeavours is an inspiration to us all. Our participation in community life, however great or small, makes a significant difference.

This year we again broke records with more than 150 nominations made for people from all across our District – all much-appreciated for what they do and all very worthy of our praise and thanks.

To have such support for the awards from the public and from our sponsors is very gratifying, as it enables us to show our appreciation for what goes on in our communities locally.”

Cllr Marion Brighton OBE, Leader North Kesteven District Council

With thanks to our sponsors... we couldn’t do it so well without you The NK Champion Awards 2014 were presented courtesy of generous and much-appreciated sponsorship from these businesses and partners.

If your business or organisation wants to be involved in next year’s awards, email pip_batty@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Autumn 2014 newsnk 7

Thanking the unsung heroes who work tirelessly, quietly From cleaning out rivers, feeding the hungry and pioneering new play parks to beating bullies and inspiring athletic attainment, community spirit is seen to be thriving in North Kesteven

‘We just do what we do because we are human’ Community Spirit Andy Dunlop, Swaton

Described as a one-man Citizen’s Advice Bureau, who is a good allrounder and does an extraordinary amount for Swaton, Andy never stops.

Vice-chairman of the parish council, he works tirelessly behind the scenes in all manner of ways for the benefit of villagers.

A former fireman, in times of flooding he’s out there with sandbags, cones, signs and bacon butties, brings together many agencies for flooding action, champions the case of residents facing eviction and helped rehouse and re-work the financial affairs of a woman with learning difficulties.

He revitalised Swaton Vintage Day to raise significant sums for charity, invented the sport of egg throwing to international acclaim, chairs Sleaford Rotary Club’s community committee, helps with Sailability in North Hykeham, set up Swaton’s LIVES group with which he is a responder and will generally take anyone under his wing and help them.

With such an exhaustive – and exhausting – profile it was the depth and breadth of his involvement that singled him out for the judges.

But modest Andy insisted that everyone in the room at the awards presentation and many more besides were deserving.

“What I do, I do because it’s fun; I

get a buzz out of it and all the people here tonight do what they do too, whether it’s leading a walk, picking litter, handing out food parcels or helping others, because they enjoy it – not because they have to do it.”

“After 30 years in the emergency services when I see a situation that needs rectifying, an injustice or somewhere I can help, it’s just as easy to get on and do it,” he said.

“The politicians talk about Big Community, but it’s just what we do because we are human. Of the 200 people living in Swaton I‘d say 50 or so are the ones that do, organise and get on with it – all putting in an hour or a half here and there and together we make things happen. A quarter are kids and the rest come out and support what ever it is we do; that to me is what makes Big Community.

“We don’t think ‘what can the community do for me,’ but ‘what can I

do for my community’. If we all thought that way, life would be so much better.”

This award was sponsored by Lindum Group Ltd. Other finalists were: Betty Ashton from Washingborough who has avidly raised funds for St Barnabas Hospice for 14 years, is dearly loved by the whole team and always willing to help where she can.

Wendy and Richard Dann, from Ruskington, set up a popular social club for residents after receiving a warm and helpful welcome and personal support, making a difference to the lives of around 100 members weekly.

Nigel Reid of North Hykeham is a dedicated supporter of community groups, going beyond his paid role at Asda to raise money and hold events to promote wider awareness for scores of good causes and draw everyone else into the fun along the way.

Platform pioneer humbled by award

Sustainable Transport Paul Jowett, Ruskington

“It’s my love; it’s my passion and while I have breath in my body I will do it’ – so says Paul Jowett whose committment is beyond doubt.

He has been dedicated to promoting rail travel since joining the national campaign group Rail Future in 1976. From the age of six he has had a passion for railways – always harbouring a dream to work on them.

He is irrespresible in his desire to ensure easy access to trains and buses as reliable alternatives to the private car and tireless in his efforts to keep the rail network high on public agendas. Passionate about train travel, he represents railway users on District transport forums.

On the ground he is especially diligent in ensuring both bus and train timetables are topped-up and visible at

8 newsnk Autumn 2013

all local railway stations and relentless in his cause to ensure rail routes are adequately and accurately promoted.

Having secured extra stops on local lines, he continues working to ensure the local rail network meets the needs of the communities it serves.

A proud East Midlands Trains station volunteer, he can be found on platforms at least three times a week – in support of ‘Pete the paid man’ – litter-picking, tidying, gardening and maintaining order as well as timetable advice and information.

“In all honesty I would prefer not to be doing it because I feel there should be paid staff doing these things,” he says. “But that’s the way of the world and I do feel rather proud in my blue uniform solving problems for people.”

“I like to go about my tasks and get on quietly and shall continue to do so, for as long as I am able, humbled that my efforts have been appreciated.”

This award was sponsored by Toyota Lincoln. Other finalists were: Nicholsons Chartered Accountants, a North Hykeham company which has taken cycling to heart by encouraging staff into the saddle and setting up a community cycling club which raises charity cash.

Jon Moody, from North Hykeham, lives and breathes bikes, making a real difference to the lives of children, parents and staff – in fact entire communities – through his work as a schools cycling officer and his own personal passions.

All winners and finalists with NKDC Leader Cllr Marion Brighton

‘I’ll do all I can to stop the bullies’ Young Achiever

Matthew Livingstone, North Hykeham Having always had the moral courage to stand up the bullies, Matthew was in utter disbelief that his active support of other teenagers who are going through difficult periods was recognised with a community award.

Matthew did not have the best start in life, being born with a hole in his heart, but after undergoing open heart surgery a week before his first birthday, he went on to enjoy happy, successful early years with a flair for drama.

But at senior school he encountered significant bullying, often being outnumbered, outsized and ostracised.

Having established his own coping mechanism, Matthew has developed a strength to support others who are being bullied; standing up for friends at school, helping school to realise its impact and the need to take it seriously, and becoming a mentor at North Hykeham Youth Centre to share his experiences, help others and put something positive back into the community.

Now studying a youth work course, Matthew’s confidence has begun to shine and he remains focused as a role model for others.

“I just don’t like to see anyone being bullied and can’t stand by while it happens. I can’t understand why it happens, but it does and I want to do what I can to stop it; even if I can just

help one or two people,” he said.

“It’s not always physical, abusive, verbal or provocative but can be really subtle, sometimes just constant, incessant and annoying messages on Facebook and things or provoking a rise in the classroom so that you’re the one who gets into trouble with a teacher.”

Through reconciling and resolving his own and others’ bullying issues at school, and through increasing success in drama, Matthew is now looking forward to a brighter, more positive future.

This award was sponsored by Pygott & Crone. Other finalists were: Lewis Blake of Heckington, who has devoted innumerable nights to inspiring others to play football and has been a lead volunteer on the NK Community Kickabout project over three years.

Joel James from Sleaford, who has achieved a great deal overcoming the mobility and learning difficulties associated with cerebral palsy, developing a love of sport and aspiring to be a Paralympian.

y and voluntarily right across the District Fair wind brings fortune to iconic mill Arts & Culture

Heckington Windmill Trust

‘Amazing’ community givers rewarded for their kindness Community Business New Life Centre, Sleaford

Dedicating the New Life Conference Centre’s award to the 120 volunteers so pivotal in its success and broad acclaim, Rod Munro said, ‘this is all about the community’.

“It’s about the community stepping up and supporting us in doing what we do, so that we can use that support in supporting the broader community through their needs,” said Rod, New Life’s community co-ordinator.

As a venue offering excellent, affordable, friendly facilities to business, corporate and social clients, New Life’s mission is to generate money solely in support of wider ventures that help those in greatest need – not only in Sleaford, but District-wide.

All profits are specifically targeted at enhancing the lives, health and wellbeing of the young, old, hungry, homeless, lonely and vulnerable through the community larder food bank, provision of hot meals in holiday time to those who get free meals at school, weekly dining and recreation for the most needy, weekly activities for teenagers and senior citizens and basic budgeting to help with money management.

There were 19 separate nominations highlighting the breadth of New Life’s

Winning a Champion Award has capped off a year of significant success for the Heckington Windmill Trust in pursuit of its 10 year dream of pioneering a £1m transformation of the iconic eight-sailed mill into a major tourist attraction.

With a core group of 60 or more of the Trust’s 250-strong membership actively engaged in the last year, chairman Charles Pinchbeck dedicates the award to everyone who has enthused, supported, funded and backed them along the way.

The Trust and its predecessor Friends group has been sharing a passion for this internationally-unique mill for 33 years – a decade ago setting out on plan to buy the buildings and surrounding land and deliver a project to triple its visitor appeal.

In the last year they have secured funding and permissions, negotiated land ownership, managed the re-fitting of new sails and pushed forward with plans to root the mill even more firmly in the local community.

Work will begin shortly, aiming for completion in spring 2016.

“Apart from its eight sails, another thing that defines Heckington Mill is the support of a broad community behind it, not only from the village and the

District, but across the world. There are a lot of people who are 100% behind us and if it weren’t for them we would not be where we are now, enhancing and securing the future for the mill,” said Charles.

With open days, milling demonstrations, festivals, events, baking tuition and increased participation, the trust’s work ultimately contributes to the broader cultural wellbeing of the District.

This award was sponsored by DPS, Sleaford. Other finalists were: Alison Duncombe who works tirelessly for the ACTion Community Theatre group at North Hykeham’s Terry O’Toole Theatre, covering all aspects of theatre craft; without whom it is likely the group would not survive.

James McQuade, musical director of the Sleaford Concert Band for all of its 16 years, who has brought immeasurable pleasure at events far and wide and raisied more than £50,000 for local good causes over the years.

Clean-up group scoops deserved trophy Better Environment

Sleaford River Clean Up Group work, which is all supported by the popular conference centre that not only gives so much to so many community projects but looks after clients and delegates so well too.

Beyond this, Rod’s good common sense and eagerness to make a difference make him a shinning example of community care in action.

Modestly, he said: “We could not do what we do with our community activities without people supporting the conference centre itself and without so many volunteers all more than willing to put others first.

Over the past year alone there has been a 50%-plus increase in demand for the community larder’s food parcels, now supporting around 2,000 people a year, and many measures operating alongside this to stabilise and improve recipients’ circumstances.

Having herself received a parcel,

For the first time this year, short films were made to promote all 27 finalists’ tireless, voluntary endeavours.

These can be seen at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/communitychampions

Kim Dixon was one of the nominators to say how ‘amazing’ and ‘deserving’ they were. “When I found myself in a situation where I was in need of some help, they were extremely kind.

“Without them me and my children would not have been able to eat; for this I an truly thankful and now my situation is slightly better I have been able to take a bag full back so they can help more people,” she said.

This award was sponsored by Duncan Topliss. Other finalists were: Elite Fish & Chips whose Sleaford & Ruskington branches helped raise £27,489.42 to spread across five charities, including Sleaford Scout Group who used its funds to improve their HQ for young users.

Hodgson Elkington at North Hykeham which has supported more than 70 local sports clubs and schools through its Junior Sports Programme Trust which sees staff direct their personal and corporate charitable support on celebrating participation and achievement over competition.

When faced with a litter-choked river at the heart of Sleaford, rather than sit back and moan about other people’s lack on environmental concern Andrew Greenwood took the initiative to do something about it.

“It would have been so much easier to be a keyboard warrior like so many others would and complain, but instead I took to my keyboard to see who else wanted to take positive action,” he said.

He was highlighted in five separate nominations as the person who ‘galvanises the townsfolk of Sleaford to help keep the Slea clean and tidy.’

As organiser of the six-weekly Sleaford River Clean Up working parties he is credited with making a ‘huge difference to the river’.

Twenty or so volunteers turn out each time to free the river of rubbish, making it a safer and more attractive place for local people, visitors and wildlife to enjoy and improving its flow.

The initiative is very much community based, set up by Andrew via social media in June 2013 as a form of direct action rather than bemoaning others and now with around 150 members

operating eight times a year it is part of the Keep Britain Tidy project River Care.

“We’re certainly very proud of what we can achieve on the occasional Sunday morning. I’d rather we didn’t have to do it but people are just too lazy to walk 10 metres or so to the nearest bin.”

This award was sponsored by Ringrose Law. Other finalists were: Henk Buijs, from Swaton, a popular, dedicated and determined picker of litter and maintainer of environmental order in the village, enthusing all villagers to get involved in direct action.

Richard Dimbleby, from Bracebridge Heath, who picks litter across Bracebridge Heath to rid it of the senseless actions of the litter-throwing few and ensure residents and visitors are greeted by green and litter-free views.

Autumn 2013 newsnk 9

Community Awards

‘Thrilled’ triathlon leader Nikki adds to her trophy haul

Contribution to Sport Nikki Fletcher, Canwick

With a driving passion to encourage all levels of sports participation, Nikki Fletcher was thrilled just to be among so many other enthusiasts in contention for the award.

To win it was ‘thrilling’ she said, but to do so against other finalists who had secured facilities for tennis and gymnastics and other nominations covering rugby, disabled athletics, rugby, football, judo and junior sports was ‘humbling’.

The judges were impressed with all of their contributions, but what really impressed them about Nikki was that ‘she has done such a good job in bringing something new to the District and building it up so quickly’.

In 10 months, using bases at the new Sleaford Leisure Centre, RAF Cranwell and Northgate Sports Centre in Sleaford, the Sleaford Tri3 triathlon club has grown to 100 members, with 140 people in total using her coaching facilities.

“Everyone has given a 100% commitment, especially North Kesteven, and are just as passionate about it as I am,” said the Team GB competitor whose drive has been to provide quality coaching.

“The District was ripe for a triathlon club, especially Sleaford. It’s a sport that’s grown rapidly since the Olympics and it’s great that it’s so well recognized by people.

“What’s really great about these awards though is that they show how strong all sports are locally. For so many people to reflect the impact of so many different sports through their nominations is good for the District as a whole and I’m really thrilled by that.”

Nikki’s club participants describe her as friendly, enthusiastic, motivating, patient and inspirational, attending regularly to build in skill, speed and self-confidence through her skillful coaching.

An outstanding athlete herself, she is passionate about using her experience to guide adults and juniors to be the best they can in all three disciplines and also tireless in raising awareness and funds for the Women’s Aid domestic violence and Royal Marines charities.

This award was sponsored by Running Imp. Other finalists were: Julie Leighton, whose devotion to Sleaford Tennis Club over six years has resulted in it securing a new facility worth £420,000. Club membership secretary and treasurer, the committee says her massive contribution is ‘simply amazing’.

Patsy Shields, from Sleaford, is credited with bringing gymnastics to the town, working tirelessly over all hours to secure new premises and build membership.

Nominations were also made for: > Young Achiever: Katy Heath, Sleaford. > Community Business: Fitness Warehouse, South Hykeham Katezart, Sleaford No 20 Tapas Bar, Sleaford. > Community Spirit: Graham Arnold, Leasingham Betty Ashton, Washingborough Bert & Shirley Balding, Bracebridge Heath Peter Beach, Ruskington Janet Burtenshaw, Heighington Anne Carratt, Waddington Stuart Couling, Greylees Steve Fields, Sleaford David Hyde, Scopwick Barbara Jones, Quarrington Karen Lilliman, Sleaford Shelagh McIntyre, Cranwell Jackie Mills, Cranwell Connie Mumby, South Hykeham Rod Munro - New Life, Sleaford Jenny Wilkinson, Ashby de la Launde Michael Wilkinson, Ashby de la Launde Jacki Wright, Heckington Sleaford Carnival & Christmas Market committee. > Contribution to Sport: Andy Allen, Carres Grammar School, Sleaford Barry Cooper, Branston / Sleaford Judo Academy Chris Groome, North Hykeham Rugby Club Phil Mason, Sleaford Junior Sports Programme Trust Ltd, North Hykeham Laffletics Club, Sleaford. > Arts & Culture: Pauline Dobson, Sleaford. > Health & Wellbeing: Richard & Wendy Dann, Ruskington Sue Kenyon, Waddington Tracey Smith, North Hykeham Nigel Stephenson, Carre’s Grammar School, Sleaford Lincoln Area Dial a Ride. > Sustainable Transport: Bert & Shirley Balding, Bracebridge Heath VXI Power, North Hykeham Lincoln Area Dial a Ride. > Better Environment: Martyn Crute, Sleaford.

The Council thanks everyone who made a nomination. If you know someone worthy of an award for the work they do in North Kesteven nominate them for an award in 2015.

Council Leader Broader show of is hailed a ‘hero’ good citizenship Council leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE has herself been awarded as a Local Authority Hero after 41 years’s involvement with NKDC. There from the very beginning in April 1973 and still at the helm, Cllr Brighton was recognised by Locality, the leading nationwide network for community-led organisations, as someone who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to support community organisations in their local area.

She was nominated by Hill Holt Wood at Norton Disney for championing their work and recognising the value social enterprise can bring to a community.

Hill Holt director Karen Lowthrop MBE said: “Marion has supported us by recognising our worth as a business first, and very quickly realising the added value the Council could gain by trading with us.

“She is not afraid to challenge the status quo and when an opportunity arose for Hill Holt Wood to look at providing the countryside services for the District she was more than supportive.”

Karen and husband Nigel are pictured above with Cllr Mrs Brighton and Steve Donagain, Hill Holt’s project director.

This summer Lincolnshire County Council awarded three District residents as Good Citizens.

Pete Beach from Ruskington was named Citizen of the Year as a champion fundraiser for many years. Over six years he has organised an annual dinner, raising £6,000 for organisations, and a further £8,000 through the village’s annual sponsored bike ride.

He also edits the Ruskington Village Crier newsletter.

A new couple’s award was won

by Bill and Marion Goodhand, pictured top. They have been at the heart of village life in Welbourn for almost 50 years. Both are staunch supporters of the village church and choir members. Churchwarden Bill is a local history buff running the forge and behind the parish council’s purchase of Castle Hill, the village trail and path network, while Marion, a playgroup founder, edited the parish magazine, was involved in the hospital car scheme and is a long standing member of the village hall committee.

View images from NK Community Champion Awards ceremony at www.stuartwildephotography.com Prints can be easily ordered through the website Stuart Wilde Photography Ltd Tel: 07974 695626

Chairman’s Charity benefits from awards event As well as celebrating personal and charitable achievements, the NK Community Champion Awards also helped to support one particular charity, the Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance.

As this year’s Chairman Cllr Lance Pennell’s chosen charity, the Air Ambulance will receive almost £800 from ticket sales and a raffle at the awards evening.

Cllr Pennell chose the service because of its universal support for people in need of a quick, accessible emergency service right across the District and region.

“In addition to the obvious aviation connection to my career as an RAF pilot, last year the Air Ambulance was instrumental in saving the life of a friend in a neighbouring

10 newsnk Autumn 2014

village, following a major road accident.

“The Ambucopter contributed significantly to both his immediate survival and the success of the spinal surgery.

It is a wonderful service deserving of the great support of our guests at the awards,” he said.

The distinctive yellow helicopter, now in its 20th year, is based at RAF Waddington from where it can reach any point in the two counties within 20 minutes, unaffected by congestion, roadworks and county roads – a time which can mean the difference between life and death for patients.

Every year it flies around 1,000 missions, all supported by the generosity of donations.

To promote housing growth that meets the current and emerging needs of North Kesteven

Switch on to low energy prices District residents are again advised of an opportunity to switch on to lower energy prices.

In a fourth promotion of Lincolnshire Energy Switch this year, NKDC has joined forces with other Lincolnshire councils to help people save money on their energy bills by negotiating better deals for gas and electricity.

Rather than switching provider as an individual, residents use their combined buying power across our community to negotiate cheaper prices with energy companies. The more people register, the better the potential price as companies will be more interested in winning customer volumes.

Where this has been done before hundreds of people have been able to secure significantly lower tariffs. In June, average savings per household were £234 a year.

People can register their interest for free – with no compulsion to follow through once the tariffs are announced – up until October 13.

Offers will be sent out on October 24.

To register, call 01529 301990 (9am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday)

Energy testing North Kesteven’s Building Control team has a newly qualified energy assessor able to carry out EPCs on houses.

The performance certificates are needed when selling and letting houses and also help identify efficiencies and scope for cash-saving improvements.

Building Control Technician Sharron Routledge can now carry out the work at a time and date to suit, £80 inc VAT. The team can also carry out SAP, EPC, Air Pressure Testing for new houses,access audits and fire risk assessments, detailed at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/bcservices Call 01529 308136 or email building_control@n-kesteven.gov.uk

New cash helps deliver 48 homes

Our Homes

One million pounds of extra funding for new council housing

Older council homes revived

North Kesteven District Council is looking to further broaden its massive £47m expansion of new council housing using an additional £1m-plus in grant funding.

The £1,011,300 awarded by the Government’s Homes & Communities Agency is the third largest grant given in the East Midlands and will contribute towards the Council’s cost in delivering 48 more affordable homes for rent over the next three years.

Even before setting out on its tenyear 500-home vision, the Council had built 51 homes in four years and this autumn it will complete the 100th new home since pioneering a new era of council house building in 2009.

There are currently 64 houses under construction – or approved – in Sleaford, Ruskington, Metheringham, Helpringham and North Hykeham.

This money includes funding towards the six homes in Helpringham and 14 in North Hykeham, as well as a further 28 at six other sites which are yet to be settled right across the District, increasing the number of new homes within the Council’s expanding stock to meet local need.

Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Board Member for housing said: “It

A major refurbishment is proposed for some of the Council’s oldest homes.

Consultation is taking place with tenants of all 69 homes at Newfield Road in Sleaford to shape the progress of a three-year programme to revive the properties built in 1936.

Input has covered preferences for the size and shape of their homes going forward, with a view to work beginning in autumn 2015.

Executive Board Member Cllr Stewart Ogden said no firm decisions would be made until all tenants had given feedback, but it was clear that there were design and construction issues that needed to be resolved.

“Given the Council’s ambitions to deliver new Council housing, it is also appropriate to consider the scope of building new Council properties on Newfield Road, and tenants have been asked if they would like to see this,” said Cllr Ogden.

Options emerging from the consultation will be fed-back to tenants, with decision due by the end of the year. Any subsequent newbuild proposals would go through the planning process and neighbours will have the opportunity to comment.

More homes are set to be built through NKDC’s ongoing commitment to increase council house availability in all parts of the District is a significant achievement to have secured this extra funding and reflects well on the excellence we have come to be regarded for in the quality, efficiency and principles of our newbuild programme.

“The Council’s allocation is the only one to any local authority in the county and the third largest amongst councils in the East Midlands. It reflects well on our pro-active approach towards house-building and our readiness to do more and keep ahead of the pack.”

Nationally there is a programme to increase the supply of new affordable homes by the HCA contributing £1.7bn

to the delivery of 165,000 homes by March 2018. Through this funding round, support totalling £886m has been given to facilitate 37,685 units – 10,024 of them in the Midlands alone.

Waterloo Housing Group has secured the largest allocation of and Registered Provider nationally, with financial help towards 2,128 units – 49 of which will be in North Kesteven in addition to those the Council is delivering directly.

This award strengthens NK’s commitment to increase the supply of affordable rented homes over next 10 years.

Local priority for affordable housing Rough sleeping gets the cold shoulder Twenty three affordable homes being built for Waterloo Housing in Bassingham are due to be completed in December.

A range of one-bed flats, one and two-bed bungalows and two, three and four bedroom houses, 15 of them are to be let on affordable rents and eight are part rent/ part buy.

Priority will be given to local people with a connection to Bassingham parish or the adjoining parishes of Aubourn & Haddington, Carlton le Moorland, Norton Disney, Thurlby, Boothby Graffoe, Coleby and Navenby.

To have a ‘local connection’ you must either be a current or previous resident, work in or have immediate family in one of the parishes. > NKDC has first nomination rights to the rental houses, scheduled to be advertised through the Lincs Homefinder website in October. Register at www.LincsHomefinder.co.uk or contact NKDC on 01522 699699. > Waterloo Housing is compiling a list of people interested in the shared ownership option. See www.waterloohomes.org.uk or call 0345 450 3995.

Support is available to anyone facing the prospect of homelessness and rough sleeping all through the year, not just in the coldest months when the problem is most apparent.

Through housing advice and homelessness prevention services which are open to all NK residents, regardless of tenure, the main emphasis is to prevent homelessness occuring in the first place.

An emergency line is even available outside office hours on 01529 308308.

Support options depend on individual circumstances, ranging from actually

providing accommodation to general advice or information and crisis loans to bridge rent or mortgage payments.

The key is intervention in advance of homelessness occuring.

Engaging directly with rough sleepers, the Council helps them access services and accommodation. > If you think someone is sleeping rough or know of a particular spot, call 0800 066 5365 to raise awareness and opportunities for support. > Circumstances and options can be discussed with the Housing Needs Team on 01529 414155.

Public consultation opens dialogue on draft vision to map out Central Lincolnshire’s future The first round of public consultation on the draft of a new Local Plan to guide the location and development of housing, jobs, shops and schools over the next 20 years is now open.

As one of the earliest stages in setting out the forward vision for growth in Central Lincolnshire through to 2036, this initial consultation is an essential opportunity for residents, businesses and organisations to comment on the overarching vision behind the polices which will guide the way planning applications are considered by the councils covering North Kesteven, West Lindsey and the City of Lincoln.

Through to November 11, people can review the draft local plan for

Central Lincolnshire and submit their comments to guide its ongoing development. This will be the first of three rounds of consultation.

The Central Lincolnshire Strategic Planning Committee is developing the joint plan to co-ordinate where, when, how and to what extent growth takes place across the three areas and how this will be supported by new and improved infrastructure.

Growth is needed to accommodate an increased need for homes as people live longer, are more likely to live alone or in smaller family units and move around more, attracted to the area for work, retirement, education and quality of life.

Committee chairman Cllr Marion

Brighton OBE, said: “The main principle is that the area needs to grow, but that growth must be in the right places, at the right pace and at the right time, with infrastructure developed alongside so that communities remain vibrant, sustainable and thriving.

“At this stage it does not include suggested site allocations which we know will be of great interest to people, nor precise target numbers; those will come next year and be subject to further consultation at that time.

“What the plan is about at this time is setting the framework for how we identify suitable sites, what we would be looking for and where.

“It sets out named settlements where we anticipate the growth to be focused

and we welcome contributions to guide where it is considered most appropriate.

The framework within which policies for growth will be shaped includes the concepts of: > A settlement hierarchy targeting most growth in and around Lincoln, Sleaford and Gainsborough > No specific allocation of sites suited to fewer than 25 homes > A pro-growth plan, with protection for sensitive landscape, heritage and conservation areas > Infrastructure delivery of roads, shops, schools, utilities, healthcare etc running alongside principle housing and employment development > There being no delineated village boundaries going forward.

Drop-in consultation events in North Kesteven – all 4pm – 7pm: > North Hykeham – Town Council Offices, Fen Lane, October 16; > Sleaford – The Source, October 23; > Navenby – The Venue, October 29; There are also events in Lincoln and West Lindsey and other dates may be added – all detailed at www.central-lincs.org.uk > The Showroom, Tritton Road, Lincoln – October 7, 10am -12pm Information is available at NKDC offices, all libraries, including mobiles, and all parish councils, as well as online at www.central-lincs.org.uk

Autumn 2014 newsnk 11

Our Economy

To promote the prosperity of North Kesteven

newsnk visits businesses across North Kesteven to establish firm facts about the local employment scene District schools are among the first to delve into the underground world of potatoes.

Locally-based UK leaders in potato growing, processing and marketing, Branston Ltd has launched a new initiative to help children learn more about potatoes being at the heart of healthy eating.

In conjunction with its key customer Tesco, Branston is rolling out its new mascot Billy Branston and the Amazing Potato Factory tour bus in order to explain the potato process with children across the UK. It is a fully kitted-out double decker

On a business visit to Branston Ltd, NKDC members toured the new fresh potato processing factory where some of the nation’s leading chip and crisp brands are made.

They were told the firm employs nearly 400 people locally, handling 18% of all the UK’s fresh table potatoes, with a plan to expand further into the prepared foods

bus where children can learn all about a potato’s journey from field to fork, designed to tie in with the Key Stages 1 and 2 curriculum, including a chance to do some cooking and gain an interactive insight into where their potatoes come from.

Schools can book a visit from Billy and his bus by emailing billy@branston.co.uk One of Billy’s first outings was to Branston All Saints’ Kidz Club where he gave out some goodies and learned about what the 4 to 11-yearolds get up to with the twice monthly church group throughout the year.

market in the coming years.

As a pioneer of green technology it generates 34% of its electricity on site and recycles 60% of its water.

More business units to meet demand A lighting company has relocated from London to Metheringham, taking up the only available business unit operated by the District Council to support jobs in rural locations.

Topledshop’s move maintains the 100% occupancy rate of the Council’s 77 units, consistent since the spring.

Owner Ian Holmes had been looking to move his family from London to the area for some time, attracted by many factors including quality of life, affordability and lowcrime rates – reflected in the District’s new safest status.

His business originated in his own desire to have internal lights in a computer and grew slowly over four years as he initially made up the kits himself and sold them on ebay. He now supplies two major gaming PC suppliers, model companies in America and fittings for aquariums and marking machines.

“We identified Moorlands as a place we would like to trade from when visiting my parents last year, and kept an eye on it since that time. When the unit came up we had to move. We now look forward to

12 newsnk Autumn 2014

growing into our new unit and hopefully taking on our first new employee to help us keep it going,” he said.

Currently looking to invest in additional new workshop units at Metheringham and North Hykeham, the District Council remains dedicated to supporting new, emerging and growing small businesses.

Council Leader, Cllr Marion Brighton OBE, who has Executive Board oversight for economic development, said: “To have every unit occupied is a splendid endorsement of everything we strive to achieve through our small business support.

“We believe that by creating the right conditions for businesses to grow and by nurturing them, we all bear the fruits of their success through increased employment and greater economic strength, diversity and vitality.

“So many new firms have an appetite to establish themselves in North Kesteven that we are looking to add a further 20 or so to the estate, confident in the difference they will make to prospering entrepreneurs like Mr Holmes.”

Re-defining Sleaford’s focus for vibrant future Survey results show public preferences

Further work is underway to establish what it is that residents, traders, visitors and shoppers using – and not using – Sleaford Town Centre like or dislike about the town.

Throughout the summer a survey gave people a key opportunity to shape and re-define the way the town centre operates in the future.

It attracted the biggest ever response to an NK survey.

That feedback is being assessed whilst an ongoing project with schools continues as part of the Council’s desire to ensure the town centre remains vibrant and functions in the way people want it to today.

Questions covered such things as transport and parking preferences, what discourages you from shopping locally and using the town for leisure, what attracts you or would entice you in, where else you shop and local pride.

The findings will: > Establish local preferences and priorities; > Help the Council to support existing retailers and entice new ones; > Highlight the likes, dislikes and desires of people who use or refuse the local shops; > Support traders in making the most of the anticipated increase in trade from the wider regeneration around Tesco and the Maltings; > Help to retain more of the 80 pence in every pound which is spent by local people on non-food shopping outside Sleaford; > Identify whether people support pedestrianisation, better-located car parks, more restaurants, leisure activities etc;

> Build up a base of evidence for positive change.

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE, who has oversight for economic growth and regeneration, said: “It is critical that we hear the views of those who live, shop and work in Sleaford so that we can create an action plan that captures the needs and desires of the people who really use the town today.

“It’s clear that the way people relate to market towns like Sleaford has changed and we need to re-define it for today’s resident, shopper or trader and identify ways to make it distinctive “Having a strong independent sector is extremely important to the life and vitality of a market town like Sleaford, but it has to be about much more than just shopping these days; town centres are places for leisure, socialising and meeting.

“Sleaford performs really well in terms of numbers, with the highest proportion of independent retailers of any town for miles around, at 68%, and the lowest percentage of empty shop units (under 5%) – showing that business is booming locally. But we want to help the traders retain more of people’s spending locally and part of that is to ensure the town centre is somewhere people want to spend their time and money.”

“The outcomes of this work will help in capitalising on the positive impacts of the agreed developments with Tesco and the Maltings which have potential to draw many more people into the town centre and maximising Sleaford’s appeal in meeting people needs,” said Cllr Brighton.

Garden centre’s £1.8m growth plan Work is underway on a £1.8m expansion of a popular garden centre.

When work at Pennells in South Hykeham is completed next spring it will include a food hall, butcher, extended restaurant, covered outdoor plant area and 100-extra parking spaces.

The plans for this expansion were approved in 2012.

Originally built in 1971, the heart of the operation will remain a love of plants, gardens and gardeners, said chairman Richard Pennell.

Showing pride in local products A festival celebrating the skills, creativity and craft of local businesses will be coming to Sleaford – home of world-class manufactures in wide-ranging sectors – next autumn.

The week-long Made in Sleaford event will showcase business excellence and products ranging from farm machinery, film and furniture, composites, crafts and ceramics to pianos, ploughs and printing.

It will build on a business conference being held in Sleaford on October 10 at one of these worldclass makers – SHD Composite Materials which is involved in the Bloodhound Super Sonic Car project and supports Formula 1 engineering.

Next year’s Made in Sleaford will also be an ideal opportunity for innovators, inventors and designers to showcase their ideas, prototypes and products to potential investors and manufactures.

Council leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said: “As a celebration of the varied and vibrant businesses adding to local economic vitality, Made in Sleaford will be a fantastic opportunity to raise your business profile, promote your business to potential customers and suppliers and recruit staff.

“It will also be an excellent and exciting way for us all to fully appreciate the breadth of world-class manufacturing activity here in North Kesteven,” she said.

It will be open to any business that makes and sells products in and around Sleaford.

Get in touch now with NKDC’s economic development team.

Call 01529 414155 Email ecodev@n-kesteven.gov.uk Follow @businessNK

Shopmobility A new scooter has been donated to the Sleaford Shopmobility scheme to help more people get out and about in the town centre.

Working with the Sleaford & District Lions Club, the family of the late Mick Walker has given the fourth scooter to the NK Access Group.

There will still be three scooters available for regular use – free to use and easy to pick up at the National Centre for Craft & Design and the Citizens Advice Bureau – with the fourth held in reserve to ensure consistent cover during repairs.

Shopmobility loans the scooters for use for a couple of hours without having to transport your own.

Anyone who wishes to use a scooter simply needs to call 01529 308710 or 0344 4111444 for availability and to book.

News Focus

Additional workshop units planned to support business growth in LN6

Residents need to take responsibility for waste

With the Council’s current 77 workspace units at full occupancy, more are to be built in North Hykeham.

The £1.5m project to build up to 19 spaces, of varying size totalling 20,000 square feet, is the first phase under a three year expansion plan and directly responds to need in the LN6 area at the north of the District where there is a strong emphasis on business growth.

They will be built at Teal Park, the region’s biggest new employment park, where they will be a catalyst for further commercial development and grow-on space, and delivered by October 2015.

Cllr Geoff Hazelwood, who has Executive Board oversight for the Council’s property portfolio, said: “There is a clear need for new business space and economic growth within the LN6 area and especially North Hykeham

Failing to check the credentials of a scrap dealer he paid to take away waste has cost a Branston man more than £800 in court fines.

Ryan Barnett’s misfortune serves as a reminder to all residents to make sure they take all reasonable steps to ensure their household waste is transferred to someone who is authorised to transport it.

In February, NKDC environmental health officers responded to a number of fly-tip incidents in Branston, where they found a large freezer with food waste, household items, a number of refuse sacks and items relating to a property on Magnolia Close, Branston.

They identified the householder who advised that her son Ryan Barnett was responsible for clearing the garage while she was on holiday.

He said he had given the waste to a mobile scrap collector and was charged £40 by the man driving the van – but did not take any details.

Consequently the Council was unable to trace the person directly responsible for the dumping.

Mr Barnett made no checks to see if the man was authorised to transport the waste, contrary to a law which requires an occupier to take all reasonable measures to do so.

Cllr Richard Wright, Executive Board Member responsible for waste services and enforcement, said: “This case highlights the importance of making sure you know who it is you are using to take your waste as you can’t always be sure that people will do as they say they will.

“A much cheaper course of action would have been to make use of the comprehensive range of services we offer to help residents dispose of their waste safely, securely and with confidence.”

These are listed in the panel alongside or at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

More reliable rails Grow LN6 event An initiative to improve rail services for North Hykeham has received wide support and financial backing.

The District Council has pledged £10,000 a year for three years from next April towards a £205,000 annual package from a partnership of nine Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire councils and enterprise partnerships to upgrade the Castle Line between Lincoln and Nottingham.

The Government has just approved the scheme to start next May, speeding up journey times and adding an extra 11 stopping trains a day at Hykeham Station.

This will be good for residents and businesses by helping more people to travel by regular, reliable, faster trains rather than use their cars.

It also supports work locally to make the area more attractive to incoming businesses.

There are currently eight stopping trains per day and recent improvements to the station have seen a surge in use. This initiative doubles the number of trains for Hykeham.

Want to find out more about what Grow LN6 is and what it’s up to?

If you live or work within the LN6 postcode area, you are invited to a business-focused event on October 7 to learn more.

There will be two briefings at The Showroom, Tritton Road, Lincoln – at 8am and at noon.

Bringing together businesses from across the LN6 postcode, both the Grow LN6 partnership and the LN6 Business Group will be there to explain what is happening in the area and how you and your business can become involved.

So, if you are a business within the Grow LN6 area, or have an LN6 postcode, please come along.

Email Julie or Jeffery to register: Julie_Schofield@n-kesteven.gov.uk Jeffery_Kenyon@n-kesteven.gov.uk Follow progress on Twitter @Grow_LN6

Alliance crafts economic strength A new, stronger alliance to champion craft and design has been crafted by North Kesteven District Council’s arts operations.

By bringing Design Nation into the fold with Design Factory and Sleaford’s National Centre for Craft & Design, NKDC has united three brands into a joint mission to deliver new opportunities and growth for the UK’s creative community.

Like Design Factory, Design Nation is a prestigious creative agency and membership organisation, bringing additional prestige to the strong reputation established by NKDC’s artistic enterprise over time.

Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, Executive Member with responsibility for arts and culture, said: “We are immensely proud of our long-established commitment to cultural services which do so much to enhance the creative sector, visitor economy, broader economy and the emotional wellbeing of our residents.

“The new union aims to become Britain’s leading resource for celebration, support and promotion of craft and design,” she said.

Collecting scrap without the proper licence and failing to produce paperwork cost a scrap dealer more than £600 in penalties.

Billy Richens, of Swinderby Road, Collingham admitted operating as a scrap metal dealer in Heckington last January without the Council’s authorisation, and failing to produce the required licences for collecting and carrying waste.

While Mr Richens does not have the required dealer’s licence from NKDC authorising him to collect scrap in the District. He has an Environment Agency waste carrier’s licence but refused to show it when asked to.

All mobile scrap metal collectors must buy a licence from each district council they operate in.

It is essential that residents demand to see all relevant paperwork and authorisations so that they know the person they are handing waste to is operating legitimately; otherwise they face the risk of prosecution themselves.

DO NOT DISTURB!

Trick or Treaters ...

We hope you have a

Happy Halloween

Easy to use Cost less than disposables Better for the environment Fashionable with modern designs

The Lincolnshire Real Nappy Campaign also offers a £30 cashback deal

To ensure your waste is handled properly, it makes sense to use the comprehensive council facilities for residents to dispose of their waste safely, securely and with confidence. > Bulky Waste Collection Service – removal of up to three large items, such as mattresses, TVs, appliances, carpets and furniture costs £11, or £22 for up to six. > Household waste recycling centres – free disposal at Sleaford, Leadenham, Whisby and Lincoln. > For garden waste – £25 a year for year-round paid-for collection and offer of discounted composters.

There are many private waste removal contractors, but always ask to see paperwork and check with ensure the Environment Agency. > Other options can be discussed by calling the NK Streetscene and Waste Team on 01529 414155.

Halloween can be fun for anyone wanting to get into the spirit of the event, but it can also be a period of great worry and concern.

This Halloween, if you don’t want trick or treaters to darken your door, why not cut out and display this poster in a front window to discourage callers.

Children should be accompanied by parents, guardians or a responsible adult if they are out trick or treating and wherever you see this poster displayed – and where you are advised at the door – please respect the householders’ wishes not to call there.

Real nappies are a cost-saving, environmentally friendly option which can improve the world your baby grows into.

• • • •

NKDC’s safe, secure & sure waste handling services

Stay safe and secure this Halloween

BUT PLEASE DO NOT CALL HERE

0800 195 8776 www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/nappies LINCOLNSHIRE POLICE

✁

which is among the fastest growing business development area in the East Midlands. As the private sector is not responding to this need, we are pioneering the lead.

“We have already established a priority in supporting the seed-bed economy as a strong growth area with capacity to deliver significant new jobs and opportunities and LN6 is key to that.

“Our aspiration is that over 25 years it would provide around 280 jobs and, as well as addressing urgent need, it would prove to be a sound financial investment for the Council and lead to a prospect of the county council delivering similar,” said Cllr Hazelwood.

Furthermore, the Council is working to find solutions for two large employers locally who cannot find the expansion space they need through the private sector.

Failure to check and carry paperwork caused costs in two cases

policing with PRIDE

Autumn 2014 newsnk 13

What’s On

Getting in a lather over soap sculptures

Silver, soap, wool, willow, porcelain and photos shape up for craft-filled artistic activities this winter The National Centre for Craft & Design

Workshops Life Drawing

Saturday, October 4, 10am –3pm

Phil Bowman leads another series of life drawing classes.

Limited easels and materials for use or take your own. Also on November 1, December 13 and January 10. For adults, £22 per session, £80 for all four.

Dinky Designers

Tuesday, Oct 21, 10.30am – 12pm

Messy and creative crafting for under 5s, £4 per child, adults free. Book. Also on November 18, December 16 & January 20.

Listen, Make and Create October 30, 1pm – 3pm Storytelling, music and craft for 4 -10 years, £5 per child, adults free. Book. Also on December 22 and January 24, 1 - 3pm and November 29, 2 - 4pm.

Seasonal Sewing Club Tuesday, Nov 14, 10am – 2pm Three days of festive makes,

learning new skills and brushing up old ones to make a fabric advent calendar. Materials and equipment provided but do take own machine and special fabrics.

For adults, £25 for course.

Also November 21 and 28.

The Big Draw 2014 Saturday, Oct 25, 10am – 4pm Drop in to join professional artists and designers in the national Big Draw campaign, this year celebrating our environment – urban, rural and coastal. Free for all.

WWI Digital Arts Project Mondays, September 29, October 6, 13, 20 & 27 and November 3 plus Tuesday, November 11, 3 – 5pm Work with digital iPad artist Jason Wilsher-Mills in a project of theatre, music and a digital installation involving 1,000 children from four participating schools, culminating in a live performance at the NCCD

Terry O’Toole Theatre Children’s Theatre Fireside Tales with Granddad Saturday, October 18, 3pm Exquisite puppets, captivating storytelling and beautiful shadow puppetry spark the imagination! For ages 4 to 104.

The Case of the Curious Case Saturday, November 1, 1pm A show bursting with fun, mistaken identities, mischief and visual fantasy while waiting for a train. For ages 5+. With a fun family workshop, 11am , £3.

Navigation Wharf, Sleaford, 01529 308710 or www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk

Main Gallery – Meekyoung Shin Continues until November 2 Working entirely in soap, Meekyoung Shin bridges the gap between craft and conceptual art, interpreting classical sculpture and porcelain from the 16th Century.

This solo exhibition includes exciting collections of Shin’s work, some of which has been used as sculptural toilet soap. Visitors can handle some of it to grasp an understanding of her meticulous craftsmanship.

Lesser Known Architecture November 22 – March 29 Focusing on hidden architecture, Theo Simpson’s ongoing project brings it to a wider audience.

on Tuesday 11 November alongside the unveiling of the 70ft digital installation projected on the outside of the NCCD. The community has chance to contribute through these six workshops, learn new iPad skills to create your own tribute. For all ages 11+ and all skill levels.

Architectural Photography Saturday, Nov 1, 1 – 4pm In readiness for the architecture exhibition, Graham Quinn leads a photography workshop around Sleaford, getting the best from your camera and seeing the town in a new light.

For ages 12+, £5.

Lesser Known Architecture Exhibition Talk and Tour Saturday, Nov 22, 1 – 4pm Join Theo Simpson for an insight into his photographic practice, documenting specific sites, exploring their historical, conceptual and aesthetic significance and remembering the engineers and architects who developed them. Free for all.

Incident: Jane King Saturday, Dec 6, 2 – 4pm Hear ceramicist Jane King discuss her Project Space exhibition ‘Incident’ and the influences and ideas behind

Visualising Data Saturday, Oct 4, 10am – 4pm Join digital artist James Steventon to understand and illustrate real world data using digital methods and develop ‘software sketchbooks’.

For adults and ages 12+. £25 each or £5 under 19.

Porcelain Decorations Friday, October 31, 1 – 4pm Join ceramicist Samantha Robinson to make delicate porcelain decorations. For adults, families and ages 8+. £25 each inc materials.

The Art of the Paper Bead Saturday, Nov 15, 10am – 4pm Join paper artist Phiona Richards to turn old books into beads to make unique jewellery. Take books, papers and an apron. For adults, £35.

Silver Wrap Rings

Saturday, Nov 1, 10.30am – 4pm

Kate Bajic’s popular silver workshop, this time to design and make rings. For beginners and improvers. £58 each, plus around £15 in silver on the day.

Photo portfolio review Monday, Nov 24, 10am – 4pm Book a slot with Theo Simpson for guidance on the development of your work, exhibiting and selling. Free, for ages 16+.

Rolled Clay and Cut Paper Saturday Dec 6, 10am – 1pm Combining Swedish and British craft skills to make a

The Handmade Home December 6 – February 8 The Northampton Guild of Designer Craftsmen teams up with a Swedish crafts guild to bring crafted objects back into our homes. personalised tile. For adults, families and ages 12+, £25 each.

Swedish Wool Embroidery Saturday Dec 6, 10am – 1pm An introduction to Swedish folk art wool embroidery. For adults, families and ages 12+, £20 each.

Washed-up Wool Saturday, Dec 13, 10am – 1pm A workshop to learn more about knitting and felting for beginner knitters to the more experienced. For adults, families and 12+, £20 each.

Fantastic Felt Making Saturday, Dec 20, 1-4pm Make your own hand-made felt picture using colourful sheep’s wool. For adults, families and ages 6+, £20 each.

Festive Willow Sunday, Dec 21, 10am – 4pm Learn festive designs with willow. £45 each, for ages 16+ including materials and refreshments.

North Kesteven Centre, North Hykeham. Booking on 01522 883311 or www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk

– plus CBeebies’ Patrick Lynch – this show promises surprises, a gripping story and beautiful images. For ages 3+.

Cherie Gears to present more great Cole Porter, George Gershwin and Duke Ellington.

Tickets: £15.50, £14.50 & £9.

Santa’s Little Helper!

Sunday, December 21, 3pm A funny, festive adventure with a happy ending. For Ages 3+ and big people too.

Dance double bill Thursday, October 16, 7.30pm Squish and Box Fresh present dark, funny, touching dance along with B-boying and contemporary moves. Tickets: £10, £8 & £5.

Tickets for Children’s Theatre: £6 each or £20 for a family of four. Three shows for £15 per person or £60 for a family.

Jack & The Beanstalk Saturday, November 8, 3pm With enormous shoes, tiny houses, showers of silver and gold and a big, leafy explosion

Booking now for The Three Musketeers: La Pantomime January 14 – 17, 7pm with 2.30pm Saturday matinee.

Tickets: £5 – £9, with family & group booking discounts.

Ayckbourn’s Table Manners October 10 & 11, 7.30pm ACTion presents a comic feast of a play. Tickets: £8.50 & £7.

In A Sentimental Mood Sunday, October 12, 7.30pm The Good Guys Orchestra returns with Guy Garrett and

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her work. See her sketchbooks, drawings, ceramic tests and samples. Free for all ages.

Class of 2014 October 11 – November 30 Annual showcase of graduate

talent from UK universities.

54 North Friday, October 17, 7.30pm 54 North, joined by The City of Lincoln Male Voice Choir cover, everything from folk to swing and anywhere in between. Tickets: £10, £8 & £5.

Världens Band Thursday, October 23, 7.30pm Fifteen musicians from seven countries over four continents add a very modern energy to deliver folk from their

homelands with a twist of roots and the fizz of Mumford & Sons. Tickets: £12, £10 & £5.

The Happy Prince Thursday, November 6, 7.30pm Chantry Dance Company celebrates Oscar Wilde’s 160th anniversary with a new ballet of his poignant short story.

Tickets: £10, £8 & £5.

Gary Grace Saturday, November 8, 7.30pm With his 8-piece band, Gary performs music by Sinatra, Martin, Monro, Michael Buble and many more. Tickets: £14.

Aladdinsane Saturday, Nov 15, 7.30pm A spellbinding tribute to David Bowie with stunning vocals, incredible attention to detail and impressive musicianship.

Tickets: £14.

Steve Brookstein Friday, November 21, 7.30pm The first X Factor winner brings songs from his new album, funded by fans. Tickets: £15.

The Trench Wednesday, Nov 26, 7.30pm Blending live music, puppetry and physical performance, follow one man’s epic journey battling for salvation and sanity amid the mud and death of WW1. Tickets: £12, £10 & £5.

Julie Sassoon Thursday, Nov 27, 7.30pm Jazz improv and 20th century classical piano with lyrical, dramatic and emotion-packed music. Tickets: £12, £10 & £5..

The Wizard of Oz Tuesday, Dec 9 – 12, 7.30pm NK School presents the classic musical. Tickets: £7 & £5.

Festive Favourites Saturday, Dec 13, 7.30pm Join the RAF Waddington Voluntary Band for a selection of seasonal music and carols.

Tickets: £8.50 & £6.50.

Hark, Hark!

Wednesday, Dec 17, 7.30pm Tight-packed harmony carols in the Sheffield tradition, old favourites, new gems and spicy winter instrumental sets.

Tickets: £12, £10 & £5.

It’s A Wonderful Life Saturday, December 20, 7pm A wonderful stage adaptation of the movie classic, warming hearts for Christmas. Tickets: £10, £8, £5 & £26 for a family.

What’s On

Riverside discovery trail for holidays

After a successful summertime launch, the Sleaford Riverside Discovery Trail remains available during the October half term holiday.

The self-guided walk along the River Slea allows families to follow a map through Lollycocks Field and The Nettles, visiting the National Centre Craft for Craft & Design, Navigation House and Cogglesford Watermill, hunting down time capsules, enjoying the fascinating exhibitions at the

NCCD and discovering the history of the River Slea.

The trails cost £1.50 each from Navigation House, Cogglesford Watermill and the NCCD and encourage the whole family to search for clues and creative inspiration, completing the challenge to earn a prize.

For details visit www.heartoflincs.com or call North Kesteven District Council’s tourism unit on 01529 308102.

Whisby Nature Park & Natural World Centre Half-term activities at the Natural World Centre October 27 – Spiders web: Create a scary hanging mobile of flying bats, creepy spiders and ghastly ghouls to hang in your room.

October 28 – Stained glass lantern: Using card, foils and coloured paper to create your very own stained glasseffect lantern.

October 29 – Witches and wizards hats: Create your very own pointy hat to wear for Trick or Treating!

Throughout – A lucky dip cauldron at reception, £1 a go, to pick out a trick or treat goody.

Exhibitions October 5 to November 2 – Ebb and Flow: A touring show inspired by marsh and freshwater landscapes and wildlife at Beckingham’s RSPB site.

A collective exhibition that explores both conceptual and traditional artistic responses and methods – including Vincent Canning who works in willow, paper and found materials, botanical illustrations by Jacqui Dawson, multi-media work by Shaun Clarke, watercolour landscapes by Richard Vessey, ceramics by Kelly Fisher and textile work by Julie Willoughby and Ruth Pigott.

Christmas Crafts November 17 to January 4: The Centre’s 13th annual Christmas Craft Fair, supporting local artists and crafters.

From beautiful handcrafted children’s toys to delicate handmade jewellery, it’s the ideal place to find unique gifts for all occasions.

If you wish to exhibit and sell in this year’s exhibition for further information and how to apply email Ann Worrell whisby.exhibitions@ LITC.org.uk

Spires & Steeples Challenge

Sign up to walk or run a countryside course Entries can be made right up until the 9.30am starting gun for Sunday October 12th’s Spires & Steeples Challenge.

Up to 1,000 are able to take part in the 13 or 26 mile options to walk or run between Lincoln Castle or Metheringham and Sleaford along the Spires & Steeples arts and heritage trail which takes in the B1188 villages.

Entry is open to anyone aged 16 and over.

To date, entries have been coming in steadily and organisers are looking forward to a bigger and better challenge this year. Entries cost £15 in advance or £18 on the day.

Follow on Facebook and Twitter @ Spires_Steeples for regular updates.

The challenge is in aid of Wheel Appeal which provides sports wheelchairs, training and support to disabled people.

Thorpe on the Hill, 01522 688868 www.naturalweorlscentre.co.uk

Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust The Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust Education Centre at Whisby offers a range of activities, wildplay sessions and workshops. Various age restrictions and prices apply.

Book on 01522 696926 or email whisbyeducation@lincstrust.co.uk Children must always be accompanied Wednesday, October 1, 10am – 11am.

Nature Tots - Seasonal activities for the Under 5s, £2 per child.

Saturday, October 5, 10am – 1pm.

Junior Wardens - Practical hands on tasks and activities for 10-16 year olds to get involved in nature conservation. No need to book.

October 25 – November 2, daily 10am – 4pm. Autumn Spotters Guide Pick-up a free spotters guide to see what you can find around Whisby Nature Park this half term holiday. A

free self-guided trail requiring adult supervision.

Saturday, November 1, 10am – 1pm.

Junior Wardens – As October 5.

Wednesday, November 5, 10am – 11am. Nature Tots – as October 1.

Wednesday, December 3, 10am – 11am. Nature Tots – as October 1.

Saturday, December 6, 10am – 1pm. Junior Wardens – As October 5.

Christmas Market Sunday 14 December, 10am – 4pm: Celebrating Christmas at the Natural World Centre with unique gifts and hand crafted items, mulled wine, mince pies and all the trimmings – a Crackin Christmas Celebration!

Email whisby@LITC.org.uk if you wish to have a stall at this event. Last year it attracted more than 1,000 visitors to savour the arts and crafts.

Calendar winners bring nature home A series of stunning images taken by walkers and nature watchers at Whisby will help to keep the Nature Park in mind during 2015.

They feature in the park’s annual calendar after being chosen as the winners in this year’s photo competition.

The calendar will be for sale at Whisby’s gift shop from November17, priced £4.99, and entries for next years calendar will be welcome from March – so get out and about now snapping your favourite scenes at the nature park.

Rachel Bernes’ Walk into Nature was chosen as the winner, ahead of Paul Sutton’s Family Meeting and Clea Butcher’s colourful Sunset Spectrum.

Highly commended were Neil Roberts, Dan Newton, Barry Pearce, Graham Roberts, Louis Sanguy and Kevin Bonser.

The cover shot is Joanne Borrill’s Walking the Willow Walk, the visitor’s favourite was Ellie Roberts’ A Squirrel of Nuts and Vera Holmes and Phillip Lewis were also runners up.

This year the 13 mile run and walk from Metheringham starts at 11am.

Organisers are still seeking volunteer help, so if you think you can spare some time to be a marshal along the route or hand out water at a checkpoint, call on 01522 870273 or email eventsofficer@1life.co.uk.

You can also get involved simply by lining the route, standing still and cheering the participants on.

Online entries can be made at www.runnersworld.co.uk/ spiresandsteeples26 Pick up an entry form at Whisby Natural World Centre or the National Centre for Craft & Design in Sleaford Download a form at www.spiresandsteeples.com Call: Donna Sutton on 01522 870273 Email: EventsOfficer@1life.co.uk

Vitality for health An exercise programme for the over 60s goes from strength to strength in the District Vitality, part of artsNK, has a core activity of more than 40 weekly classes across the county, 18 of them in North Kesteven.

Each week more than 500 attendees enjoy the relaxed physiotherapy-based classes which aim to improve flexibility, strength, posture and coordination, all set to music from all eras.

In NK with 22% of the population currently aged over 65, and this proportion increasing steadily, this brings challenges of social isolation and higher demands on health services – but with regular light physical activity and good diet being important on physical and mental wellbeing, Vitality is vital.

As well as the class environment, Vitality can also support people with tailored sessions at home. Last year 108 clients were helped in this way, with more in the current year.

With a small dedicated team, Vitality is striding forward in the delivery of exercise and sociability to the older population of North Kesteven.

Cogglesford Watermill Sunday, October 12, 11am – 4pm Milling Day. See the mill in action, producing organic wholemeal flour.

Thursday, October 30, 6.30 – 8.30pm Halloween happenings. Lots of scope to test detective skills and hunt down some spooky treasure, bob for apples and explore a creaky old mill. Children must be accompanied.

Sunday, November 9, 11am – 4pm Milling Day. As October 12 Sunday, December 14 Medieval Christmas Event.

Call for details.

Cogglesford Watermill, East Road, Sleaford, NG34 7EQ 01529 413671 or 01529 308102

Navigation House Saturday, November 29, 11am – 4pm Christmas event. Activities, bran tub, craft event and more.

Navigation Wharf, Sleaford, NG34 7TW 07966 400634

CountrysideNK Walk Sunday, October 5, 10.30am – 12.30pm Join a WatchNK countryside ranger an Autumn Walk around the Blankney Stepping Out walk. Over a distance of 3.8 miles, enjoy the berry-filled hedgerows and find out which ones are good to eat. Starting at Blankney Stepping Out Car Park.

Contact CountrysideNK on 01522 688868 or www.countrysidenk.co.uk

District dance The artsNK Dance Development Team delivers dance opportunities throughout the District.

With a track record of delivering high quality dance projects in schools, the community, leisure centres and events, the Youth Dance Programme specifically works with 7 – 19 year olds in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Sessions take place at the NK Centre in North Hykeham, Monday to Thursday during term time, for hip hop and contemporary/creative dance.

Email emma.terzza@litc.org.uk or call her on 07884990592 for details.

What do you love about NK?

Photography Competition – FREE ENTRY Capture what you love about NK. Something in your village or maybe your favourite place to visit; we want to capture the distinctive character of North Kesteven from its heritage and history to its diverse landscapes and communities.

Winning entries will be featured in our NEW calendar available from November 2015.

Entries open from Mon 6 Oct- Fri 3 Jul For more information and how to apply, contact 01529 308207 or email discovernk@n-kesteven.gov.uk

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SUCCESS! Being the nation’s safest place isn’t all that North Kesteven is about. Supporting job creation, house-building and booming business is all in a day’s work for your District Council as it delivers quality services and value for money.

330 jobs generated through building of £150m Eco2 strawburning power station

75% of people broadly satisfied with the way the Council runs things

Building started on 47 new council houses

No.1 safest place in the Country

53 affordable homes delivered, 10 of them council-owned

2.6m visitors to NK

19th best place to live & 11th most peaceful

218 jobs created or safeguarded

Directly helped bring 27 empty homes brought back to use

First to introduce Living Wage to Lincolnshire

North Kesteven District Council

£2.85m refurb of Sleaford Leisure Centre reaping eight awards and a 300% uptake in use

22% cut in Council’s carbon emissions – saving £125,000

87% of residents say Council provides good quality services; 81% that it offers value for money

Increase to 94% the number of businesses complying with food safety requirements

£20m capital plan focussed on new Council housing

99.2% of Council Tax collected and 99.5% of Business Rates – both among the country’s best 100% occupancy of Council’s 77 business workshops

These are just a few of the community-focused highlights contained in the Council’s Annual Report for 2013/14.

It presents a true – and chiefly positive – picture of service delivery across all areas of the Council’s work, including participation with partners to achieve a safer, more peaceful, prosperous and productive District as a place to live, work and visit.

It highlights hundreds of achievements in meeting the Corporate Priorities, areas for targeted action and stated challenges.

The full report, with quotes of endorsement from residents, partners, contractors and customers, is available to view at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk