Lincolnshire Pride May 2016

LincolnshirePride

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MAY 2016

EXCLUSIVE ‘NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW’ IMAGES

HOMES & GARDENS SPRING INSPIRATION

COVERING LINCOLNSHIRE AND NEWARK ON TRENT

LincolnshirePride

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR HIGH QUALITY HOMES

MBE for Skegness lifeboatman Ray Chapman...

EXCLUSIVE

Ray Meets The Queen

MBE FOR COXSWAIN Royal award for RNLI’s Ray after 45 years service...

Page 28

BLANKNEY HUNT Exclusive images from ‘Wonderland’ Ball...

Page 22

2016: LIVE IN LINCOLNSHIRE The best country shows, live music and theatre events for a whole summer of family fun...

Page 40

All Creatures COVER STORY

Great & Small MAY 2016

Exploring Lincolnshire’s natural world - from our animals, to native flowers and plants species...

This Month: Food & Drink - recipes utilising Lincolnshire-grown asparagus...

£3.70

The Poppies Come To Lincoln BIG FEATURE

Tower of London’s Poppy Sculpture at Lincoln Castle

Page 16

Eating Out in May

The Inn at

Woodhall Spa

SUMMER FASHION

Page 50

Recommendations

by Boston’s Coney’s plus local beauty recommendations

Page 137

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JULIAN WILKINSON MANAGING DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER

ROB DAVIS, EDITOR 01529 469977, editor@lincolnshirepride.co.uk

LincolnshirePride MAY 2016

EXCLUSIVE ‘NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW’ IMAGES

HOMES & GARDENS SPRING INSPIRATION

COVERING LINCOLNSHIRE AND NEWARK ON TRENT

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR HIGH QUALITY HOMES

EXCLUSIVE

Ray Meets The Queen

MBE FOR COXSWAIN Royal award for RNLI’s Ray after 45 years service...

Page 28

BLANKNEY HUNT Exclusive images from ‘Wonderland’ Ball...

Page 22

2016: LIVE IN LINCOLNSHIRE The best country shows, live music and theatre events for a whole summer of family fun...

Page 40

All Creatures COVER STORY

Great & Small

Exploring Lincolnshire’s natural world - from our animals, to native flowers and plants species...

This Month: Food & Drink - recipes utilising Lincolnshire-grown asparagus...

£ 33 . 7 0

The Poppies Come To Lincoln BIG FEATURE

Tower of London’s Poppy Sculpture at Lincoln Castle

Page 16

Eating Out in May

The Inn at

Woodhall Spa

SUMMER FASHION

Page 50

Recommendations

by Boston’s Coney’s plus local beauty recommendations

Page 137

COVER PHOTO

A fallow deer enjoys the sunshine in the Wolds see our A-Z of Lincolnshire nature later in this edition.

Lincolnshire is rich in nature, with a degree of biodiversity seldom matched by any other county in the UK. The county’s mix of coast, countryside, agricultural land and urban environments ensure the county enjoys an abundance of both common and more unusual species.

This month we celebrate this incredible mix with an A-Z of Lincolnshire’s natural world.

Also this month we’re delighted to witness RNLI Coxswain Ray Chapman as he receives an MBE from HM The Queen for his 45 years of service as a coastal lifesaver.

We’re staying in best bib and tucker for the Blankney Hunt Ball, too, joining over 925 attendees as they celebrate their end of season in typically colourful and exuberant style.

Elsewhere, we’ll meet Jenny Waldman, who brings to the county Lincoln Castle’s own version of the Tower of London’s WWI Poppies.

This incredible installation enjoyed unprecedented popularity with its dramatic display of colour, and will look equally dramatic in Lincoln from 28th May. Also in this edition, we’ve summer fashions from Coney’s, quality dining in Woodhall Spa and a roundup of 2016’s best country shows, for a whole summer of rural entertainment!

Rob Davis, Editor

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LincolnshirePride MAY 2016

EXCLUSIVE ‘NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW’ IMAGES

HOMES & & GARDENS SPRING INSPIRATION

COVERING LINCOLNSHIRE AND NEWARK ON TRENT

THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR HIGH QUALITY HOMES

EXCLUSIVE

Ray Meets The Queen

MBE FOR COXSWAIN Royal award for RNLI’s Ray after 45 years service...

Page 28

BLANKNEY HUNT Exclusive images from ‘Wonderland’ Ball...

Page 22

2016: LIVE IN LINCOLNSHIRE The best country shows, live music and theatre events for a whole summer of family fun...

Page 40

All Creatures COVER STORY

Great & Small

£3 .7 0

The Poppies Come To Lincoln BIG FEATURE

Tower of London’s Poppy Sculpture at Lincoln Castle Page 16

Eating Out in May

The Inn at

Woodhall Spa

SUMMER FASHION

Page 50

Recommendations

by Boston’s Coney’s plus local beauty recommendations

Page 137

Exploring Lincolnshire’s natural world - from our animals, to native flowers and plants species...

This Month: Food & Drink - recipes utilising Lincolnshire-grown asparagus...

With best wishes from the Lincolnshire Pride team Managing Director and Publisher: Julian Wilkinson.

General Manager: Ian Bagley.

Executive Editor: Rob Davis. Features Editor: Tilly Wilkinson.

Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray. Distribution: Joe Proctor.

Office Manager: Sue Bannister.

Account Managers: Lauren Chambers, Jasmine Johal National Sales Manager: Zoie Wilkinson.

Sales Manager: Roberta Hall.

Sales Executives: Sian Jarratt, Emily Brown, Carissa Clay, Hayley Scott, Jessica Cobbold, Sarah Allen, Yvette Curry, Aileen Perolio-Jones and Cassy Ayton.

www.facebook.com/lincolnshirepride Why not follow us on Facebook? You can keep up to date with any news we may have for our lovely magazine!

twitter.com/@LincsPrideMag Follow us on Twitter so you can read our tweets. We’ll let you know what’s going on and keep you well informed!

By supplying editorial or adverts to Lincolnshire Pride you accept in full the terms and conditions which can be found online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk. In the event of an advert or editorial being published incorrectly, where Pride Magazines Ltd admits fault, we will include an advert of equivalent size, or equivalent sized editorial, free of charge to be used in a future edition, at our discretion.

This gesture is accepted as full compensation for the error(s) with no refunds available. Selected images in our content may be sourced from www.shutterstock.com.

Enjoy Lincolnshire Pride, read it cover to cover.

Pick it up, put it down and when you have finished with it pass it on. When everyone has had a good read, pop it in the recycle bin!

Pride Magazines Elm Grange Studios East Heckington, Boston Lincolnshire PE20 3QF Tel: 01529 469977 Fax: 01529 469978

www.pridemagazines.co.uk enquiries@pridemagazines.co.uk

Page 28: RNLI Coxswain Ray Chapman was recently recognised in the New Year’s Honours with an MBE from HM The Queen.

Contents

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May 2016

Following the popularity of the Tower of London’s poppies LINCOLN CASTLE displays its version of the installation from this month.

Don’t be late for a very important date with our exclusive photographs from the BLANKNEY HUNT BALL’S own ‘Wonderland.’

The RNLI’S COXSWAIN RAY CHAPMAN has been saving lives for over 45 years. His efforts were recognised last month with an MBE.

Summer sees a whole programme of COUNTRYSIDE EVENTS taking place across Lincolnshire, we’ve a special roundup.

Our FOOD AND DRINK pages this month include dining out in Woodhall Spa and Glentham plus recipes with local asparagus.

In our HOMES AND GARDENS section we’ve a brace of luxury properties, and the latest colourful kitchen tech, plus a summer garden.

We celebrate natural Lincolnshire this month with an A-Z OF THE COUNTRYSIDE, and the LWT’s new visitor centre at Gibraltar Point.

Our FASHION & BEAUTY pages this month include summer fashions from Coney’s of Boston and cosmetics recommendations.

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County News Lincolnshire devolution to grow economy by £8bn 10 Lincolnshire authorities to grow county’s economy by forming combined superpower...

n Boston Stump was recently floodlit in blue and yellow light recently. The colours mark Wold Downs Syndrome Day, and the illumination was organised by Boston mum Charlotte Clarkson.

n The Red Arrows, based at RAF Scampton, begin their 52nd season on 8th May. They can be seen at the Lincolnshire Show next month and over our heads throughout the summer.

n Lincoln’s Transport Hub has been given the green light following the submission of amended plans. Phase one of the £30m project will begin in August and will see a new bus station and shops. n Louth Town Council supported The Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations with tea parties and a public beacon lighting ceremony last month.

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Lincolnshire will be handed important new powers from central government when 10 local councils combine to create a combined authority.

A devolution deal document has been agreed with Whitehall by all 10 local authorities from the Humber to the Wash, plus the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

The ten local authorities involved are North Lincolnshire Council, South Kesteven DC, West Lindsey DC, South Holland DC, City of Lincoln Council, East Lindsey DC, Boston BC, North Kesteven DC, North-East Lincolnshire Council and Lincolnshire County Council.

Although all the councils will continue to exist in their

Collie brings owner Caroline sunshine with Crufts heelwork Grantham owner is proud of her seven year old border collie with third place at Crufts with Morecambe & Wise heelwork performance...

current form, they will also come together to form a ‘combined authority’ to exercise the new powers over transport, housing, health & social care and court & prison services.

Each council will have to formally agree the deal at their full council, following consultation with residents in the summer. The devolution arrangements could boost the area’s economy by £8bn, create 29,000 jobs and provide 100,000 new homes.

The combined authority will receive £15m a year, for the next 30 years.

Besides the 10 councils and the LEP, the Greater Lincolnshire deal has the support of other public bodies such as the police.

Grantham’s Caroline Johnson and her border collie Sunny enjoyed success at Crufts last month with a routine inspired by comedians Eric Morcambe & Ernie Wise.

The routine was part of Crufts’ Heelwork to Music competition, which sees participants devise routines of up to four minutes, set to music, then perform the routines with their dog. HTM is divided into two categories Heelwork to Music and Freestyle.

The category is designed to show a creative ‘play’ with pet owners developing a bond with their dogs. Caroline and Sunny took third place and are now famous thanks to a video on YouTube which has already been seen 14,000 times.

“This was our first time at Crufts and I am very proud to have got third place,” said Caroline.

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Send your press releases and county news to: Features Editor via tilly@pridemagazines.co.uk.

Scunthorpe’s new stadium part of £1.2bn regeneration Sports stadium will create 500-700 new jobs and forms centrepiece of £1.2bn regeneration project to include 6,000 new homes and five new villages...

Robot Alfie is proving a futuristic way to look after Grantham’s residents...

Elderly people will remain active for longer thanks to a prototype robot being trialled in care homes

Grantham’s elderly population are benefiting from a prototype robot currently being trialled in Lace Housing’s Brick Kiln Place care home.

The new robot is known as ENRICHME and has been created in conjunction with the University of Lincoln.

The robot can give reminders to take medication, integrate with a ‘smart home,’ and can provide both round-the-clock feedback to other carers, and video chat with family members.

Initial reactions have been very positive according to project leader Hazel Ashmore.

Chaos in Horncastle after ‘villain’ swan causes terror Scunthorpe will gain a new £25m sports stadium for the town’s football team as part of a £1.2bn regeneration project which will create five new villages and see a total of 6,000 new homes built.

The new stadium is expected to create between 500 and 700 jobs in construction and future use and will be built on the outskirts of Scunthorpe as part of the ambitious Lincolnshire Lakes development that will also see a new business park.

Scunthorpe United Football Club will move from its present location at Glanford Park in Scunthorpe to a 60-acre site on the west side of the M181, close to the main rail line.

The iconic building will cater for 12,000 fans in an all seating arena for live music and other events as well as its sporting

Feathers fly as Cyril the swan is dubbed ‘villainous’ at Horncastle Town Council meeting. Locals debate how to deal with Bain’s aggressive avian anarchist... remit. The new stadium will have also house club and executive facilities, a gym, office space and areas for commercial development, plus club venue and supporters bar.

In the longer term, it is hoped to provide a new railway station to support the stadium and wider Lakes development.

The stadium will be at the centre of a new leisure hub for the Lincolnshire Lakes that includes the creation of recreational lakes that will provide a range of water-based and other sporting and leisure activities. Leisure developments could include new artificial beaches, windsurfing, sailing, boating, outdoor swimming plus cycling and triathlon facilities.

Horncastle is in the grip of terror with rogue swan Cyril scaring families who congregate around the River Bain in the town.

Feathers are flying in the town after a letter was read out to a recent meeting of Horncastle Town Council with councillors urging families not to feed the bird life around the river for fear of encouraging Cyril’s territorial antics.

The swan has already worried young children feeding the ducks that live adjacent to Tesco.

The town council’s clerk Gillian Mauger acknowledges that Cyril is on the large side and could pose a risk to children, with some members of the council proposing signs warning of the danger of swan attacks.

Others, such as Councillor Phil Cantwell want to allow feeding of the birds to continue.

It’s hoped that a new junction will be created from the M181 into the stadium too.

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CLAYPOLE, NEWARK, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE

£850,000

A fine individual village house standing in grounds of about an acre together with an adjoining paddock of approximately 3 acres.

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HOUGHAM, LINCOLNSHIRE

A delightfully situated Grade II Listed Rectory standing in beautiful south facing private grounds in excess of 2 acres.

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HOUGH ON THE HILL, LINCOLNSHIRE

£685,000

Beautifully restored and substantial former crew yard and barns set in about 3 acres.

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HORNCASTLE, LINCOLNSHIRE

An exceptional Victorian former vicarage together with outbuildings converted to provide three high quality apartments.

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GREAT STEEPING, SPILSBY, LINCOLNSHIRE

£675,000

Versatile barn conversion with annex. Finished to a high standard with grounds and paddock extending to 3 acres.

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EPC Rating: B

Fine & Country Lincoln 55 High Street, Navenby, Lincs LN5 0DZ Telephone: (01522) 287008 Email: lincoln@fineandcountry.com www.fineandcountry.com

£1,150,000

MARSTON, LINCOLNSHIRE

A superb individual home offering high quality and flexible accommodation standing in grounds of 7.66 acres with wonderful views .

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A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON BUYING, RENTING AND SELLING HOMES.

Hunters Court, Quarrington, Lincolnshire, NG34 8YG £620,000 Freehold For more details on this property or to arrange a viewing call

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Hunters Court is a development of just four individual properties constructed in hand dressed Greetham stone.

Located in a desirable area the impressive homes have open field views to front and paddock views to the rear.

The properties have high spec modern finishes throughout including CAT6 data points, stylish high quality German kitchen with Neff appliances, feature oak and glass staircase and free standing baths.

Each property has spacious and well-proportioned accommodation, laid out across three floors. The properties vary in size but are all substantially proportioned family homes with a balance of traditional yet contemporary layouts, ideally suited to family life. The site is nominated for the Builder of Excellence Awards, small development of the year category. Prices vary per plot.

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Accommodation has been much improved and extended in recent years to include the sitting room, a light and spacious garden room, kitchen, family bathroom, three double bedrooms (two with ensuites) and an additional downstairs bedroom or study. Outside, access is via private gates with extensive gardens front and back and a detached double garage with automatic doors. EPC: D. Guide Price: £425,000

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Rosebery Avenue, Lincoln Situated in an enviable position overlooking the historic West Common. Combining original architectural features, including intricate cornicing and beautiful corbels, with modern styling. Four bedrooms and three reception room with the addition of a self contained home office. West Common is packed with amenities including hard and grass tennis courts, football and cricket pitches, over 240 acres of open space allowing you to keep a horse just across the road. EPC: E Guide Price: £325,000

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GREAT WOOD LODGE, BOOTHBY PAGNELL

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Great Wood Lodge and Cottage offer a spacious and adaptable living arrangement across two adjoining properties with a total of seven good sized bedrooms. The properties are situated within approximately 0.7 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens, enjoying desirable views across the surrounding rolling countryside.

THE GRANGE, BARKSTON

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A substantial nine bedroom attractive country house attractively set down a long driveway approach in grounds extending to approximately 3 acres, including a tennis court and swimming pool. Having been recently re-refurbished to an extremely high standard with impressive accommodation.

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LITTLE BURTON, BURTON LAZARS

GUIDE PRICE £1,250,000

Panoramically positioned 5 bed luxurious home. Built to the highest quality & having been lovingly kept to an immaculate standard. Designed with proportions only normally found in far larger country houses with features to include stone mullion windows & handmade galleried oak staircase. indoor pool with own changing room & shower room. South facing gardens & set within approx. 1.5 acres with water gardens.

ASHWELL HALL, ASHWELL

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Set just on the out skirts of Oakham, in the mature grounds of approx. 2 acres the West Wing forms the major part of the hall which has some stunning features with an impressive entrance hall, grand oak staircase framed by a stain glass window. The property has recently undergone a large amount of renovation with newly fitted kitchen and bathrooms and seven bedrooms.

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- POPPIES IN LINCOLN -

CASTLE

PoppiesAround t he

They’re bold. They’re red. They’re coming to Lincoln Castle next month. After the success of the Tower of London’s 2014 installation of ceramic poppies, ‘Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red,’ poppies from the installation are touring selected destinations around the UK. May 28th sees the arrival of the poppies at Lincoln Castle. This month, we meet Jenny Waldman of 14-18 NOW, who is responsible for bringing the display to Lincolnshire... Words: Rob Davis.

In Flanders Fields the Poppies Blow... it’s with these words that Canadian soldier John McCrae in 1915 mourned a fallen comrade and friend who fought alongside him and died, cut down at Ypres. Since his doleful words were committed to paper the poppy has remained a symbol of remembrance.

The connection was ratified in 1921 by France’s Anna E. Guérin’s introduction as artificial poppies, with production in the UK adopted by Field Marshal Douglas Haig, founder member of the Royal British Legion and his wife, who established a factory to produce them in Scotland in 1926.

Though the factory still exists today and produces 5,000,000 poppies, the majority of our remembrance poppies come from a facility in Richmond whose 365 workers produce 36,000,000 each year along with 80,000 wreaths, including those laid by The Queen at the Cenotaph.

The Tower was gradually surrounded by a vast field of ceramic poppies, each one planted by a volunteer in memory of the life of a British and

Colonial soldier lost during the First World War.

The scale of the installation, its visual impact and its popularity was absolutely unprecedented, taking even Jenny Waldman’s 14-18 NOW by surprise.

Back in 2014, the poppy’s relevance to remembrance was corroborated for a new generation by the creation of artist Paul Cummins’s installation of 888,246 poppies at the Tower of London.

Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red, conceived by Paul Cummins and designed

by Tom Piper, was seen by 5,000,000 people.

Funded by central government, the Arts Council and Heritage Lottery Fund, the organisation is an independent charitable arts association commissioning works across the UK to deliver a cultural programme from 2014 to 2018 to connect people with the First World War.

“We firmly believe in the transformative power of the arts to bring the stories of the First World War to life,” says Jenny.

“Perceptions of the war have been shaped by the artists of the time, including poets, painters, photographers and film-makers.”

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- POPPIES IN LINCOLN -

“LINCOLN CASTLE IS SYNONYMOUS WITH THE IDEA OF STRIVING FOR JUSTICE, INTRINSICALLY LINKED TO JUSTICE VIA MAGNA CARTA AND SEVEN BATTALIONS FROM LINCOLNSHIRE...”

>>

“Many of these artists served and they then reflected on the war and its effects. One hundred years later, today’s artists are opening up new perspectives on the present as well as the past.”

“We are commissioning artists from all art forms to look afresh at this conflict and create shared experiences exploring this significant moment in time.”

Jenny and her team are responsible for delivering over a 100 new commissioned art projects, and with the popularity of Paul Cummins’s and Tom Piper's installation, wanted as many people as possible to see the installation, localised around the UK to resonate with the heritage of, for instance, Lincoln and those from Lincolnshire.

That’s why the team has chosen Lincoln Castle to host Wave - a local version of Paul’s Tower of London installation, from 28th May to early September.

“Lincoln Castle, like the First World War, is synonymous with the idea of striving for justice,” says Jenny. “The building is intrinsically linked to the concept via Magna Carta and with no fewer than seven battalions from Lincolnshire fighting at The Somme, not to mention the fact that the city created the first tank.”

heads suspended on towering stalks. These remained until after the Armistice Day anniversary and with the unprecedented and unexpected success of the installation, it was decided to tour the two sculptures around the UK, to 19 different landmarks over four years to ensure that in addition to the 5,000,000 who saw the poppies in London, many more would be able to witness the installation for themselves.

The initial installation at the Tower of London was created by Derby based Paul using 888,246 of the painted clay flowers, each around 15cm in diameter, and one for each of the fallen soldiers of the commonwealth during the great war.

After the display, most of the poppies were sold for £25 each, raising £10m for the six charities; but those which formed two elements of the installation, the Wave and Weeping Window, were saved for the nation by the Backstage Trust and the Clore Duffield Foundation, and gifted to 14-18 NOW and the Imperial War Museums.

Weeping Window is a cascade comprising several thousand handmade ceramic poppies seen pouring from a high window to the ground below; Wave is a sweeping arch of bright red poppy 18

“The original installation was conceived of as transitory, the sea of poppies growing in size until the final one was planted on 11th November 2014.”

Opposite: The original installation featured 888,246 poppies - one for every fallen soldier of the Commonwealth.

Lincoln’s installation will feature over 5,000.

“On completion, however, everyone agreed that the works of art at the heart of this broader act of memorial should be preserved for the nation.”

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“We’ve a brilliant team of conservators who are charged with the responsibility of preserving the 5,000 poppies we’ve kept back to use for Weeping Window and the 5,500 we use in Wave.”

“Lincoln Castle’s installation will be created by a team of 15 people who will be assisted by a team of volunteers working at the installation site. They will carefully assemble then disassemble and clean the installation’s poppies, by hand, after each venue. The castle has a really strong visual impact, and has been designed to take advantage of each site.”

The poppies are brought to the site on DAF lorries, who have sponsored the peripatetic installations. Because the sculptures have to be slightly redesigned for each site, frames are created into which the poppies are pushed, making installation as fast and safe as possible.

“In addition to the installation itself, we’ve a learning and engagement programme at each site, with community activities that both adults and youngsters can engage with.”

“We’re thrilled the poppies are coming to Lincoln Castle,” says Councillor Nick Worth, executive member for culture and

Above: 15 full-time members of the team and additional volunteers will create an

interpretation of the tower of Lincoln installation at Lincoln Castle from this month.

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“IT’S FAIR TO SAY THAT THE DISPLAY IS UNPRECEDENTED IN LINCOLN, AS NO SUCH INSTALLATION HAS EVER BEEN ATTACHED TO THE GRADE I LISTED SCHEDULED ANCIENT MONUMENT...” having the poppies will be a fitting tribute.

“Of course, the castle is also home to one of only four surviving 1215 Magna Cartas.

The messages of freedom this document still represents will chime perfectly with the meaning of the poppies. I’m sure people will travel from far and wide to see this iconic work,” Jenny adds.

It’s entirely fair to say that the display is unprecedented in Lincoln, as no such installation has ever been attached to the Grade I listed scheduled ancient monument.

Little wonder, then, that the sculpture will be on display until Autumn to give as many people as possible the opportunity to witness its drama over the course of the summer.

“In their original setting they captured the public imagination and were visited by over five million people,” says Jenny.

“We anticipate the same enthusiastic Above: Artist Paul Cummins and designer Tom Piper with Jenny (pictured far right).

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Above: Poppies from the original installation were sold to raise £10m for charity.

response from those from Lincolnshire who take the opportunity to see such a poignant installation resonanting with their own region.”

While Wave is at Lincoln Castle, Weeping Window can be seen at St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall and the Black Watch Museum Perth, before being shown at Caernarfon Castle in the autumn. After the installations have toured for a further year, they will be gifted to the Imperial War Museum.

“As with all 14-18 NOW projects, the presentation of these sculptures to new audiences across the United Kingdom aims to prompt a new, nationwide dialogue around the legacy of the First World War,” says Jenny.

n Wave will appear at Lincoln Castle from 28th May until 4th September, presented by 14-18 NOW. Partners include the Backstage Trust, Clore Duffield Foundation, Heritage Lottery Fund and Arts Council England, DAF, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Imperial War Museum, Historic Royal Palaces and Paul Cummins Ceramics.

Admission to the sculpture will be free. For more information see www.lincolncastle.com.

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- POPPIES IN LINCOLN -

CREATING THE POPPIES

About the Installation...

The major art installation Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red at the Tower of London, marked one hundred years since the first full day of Britain's involvement in the First World War.

Created by artist Paul Cummins and designed by Tom Piper, 888,246 ceramic poppies progressively filled the Tower's famous moat between 17th July and 11th November 2014. Each poppy represented a British and Colonial military fatality during the war.

The poppies encircled the iconic landmark, creating not only a spectacular display visible from all around the Tower but also a location for personal reflection.

The scale of the installation was intended to reflect the magnitude of such an important centenary and create a powerful visual commemoration.

All of the poppies that made up the installation were sold, raising millions of pounds which were shared equally amongst six service charities Cobseco, Combat Stress, Coming Home, Help for Heroes and The Royal British Legion and SSAFA.

In addition to being visited by over 5,000,000 members of the public, the Queen and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as well as Prince Harry and David Cameron all visited the installation, which filled the whole of the tower’s 16 acre moat.

Paul Cummins and Tom Piper were both made MBEs in the 2014 New Years Honours for the installation.

A Vision of Armstice

by Paul and Tom...

Paul Cummins is an inspirational ceramic artist whose reputation has grown exponentially over the last few years, with a number of high-profile commissions both regionally and, more recently, nationally and internationally.

His bold, exuberantly organic flowers and vibrant glazes, combined with the raw presence of steel and wire, deliver arresting results. Drawing on a myriad of inspirations and subconscious prompts from his life, experiences and his previous career as an architect abroad, Paul’s work is informed by a detailed understanding for aesthetic form and holds a commanding visual authority For this project, with Historic Royal Palaces, Paul was inspired by a line in the will of a Derbyshire man who joined up in the earliest days of the war and died in Flanders.

Knowing that everyone was dead and he was surrounded by blood, the man wrote: 'The Blood Swept lands and seas of red, where angels fear to tread.' From this line came the idea for 888,246 poppies, one for each British or Colonial military fatality during the First World War. Potters at Paul's studio hand-made the pieces using techniques which were utilised by potters during the First World War.

www.paulcumminsceramics.com

Tom Piper was born in London and studied biology and art history at Trinity College, Cambridge, and production design at the Slade School of Fine Art. He worked as an assistant to Chloé Obolensky before beginning his freelance career in theatre.

He regularly collaborates with various directors including Michael Boyd and Sam Mendes.

He was associate designer for the Royal Shakespeare Company from 2004-2013.

Tom collaborated with the British Museum and Alan Farlie Architects on the exhibition Shakespeare: Staging the World in 2012 as part of the Cultural Olympiad. His many awards include an Olivier Award (costume design) for the Histories series.

www.tompiperdesign.co.uk

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To view and purchase photographs from The Event visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk

The Blankney Hunt Ball ‘Blankney In Wonderland’ held near Newark...!

Curiouser and curiouser! The Blankney Hunt Ball took place not only in the George Stephenson Centre at the Newark and Nottinghamshire Showground recently, but in ‘Wonderland’ too... with a Lewis Carroll themed event for its 920 or so attendees.

In addition to a three course meal comprising garlic mushrooms, herb seasoned pork fillet and assiette of desserts in chocolate, guests drank a potion before entering to shrink down small enough to visit a beautifully decorated wonderland with champagne and amuse bouche reception, dancing and wackiness. Also attending was the White Rabbit, the Queen of Hearts and of course, the Mad Hatter! n For more information see www.blankneyhunt.co.uk.

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LIvES ears of a ing

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AS AN RNLI LIFEBOATMAN, RAY CHAPMAN HAS DEVOTED OVER 45 YEARS TO SAVING THE LIFE OF THOSE UNFORTUNATE ENOUGH TO ENCOUNTER TROUBLE ON LINCOLNSHIRE’S EAST COAST. HE’S USED TO APPROACHING DANGER WITH A COOL HEAD, BUT MEETING THE QUEEN IN ORDER TO RECEIVE HIS MBE WAS A DIFFERENT MATTER ENTIRELY. OUR LIFESAVING ORGANISATION’S LONGEST SERVING MEMBER EXPLAINS HERE WHY KEEPING PEOPLE SAFE IS A REAL FAMILY BUSINESS...

W

e’re lucky to have some rather incredible stretches of coastline in Lincolnshire, but with their beauty comes danger, too. Nobody knows that better than Ray Chapman, who is the UK’s longest serving lifeboatman last month collecting an MBE for 45 years of service to the coastal lifesaving service, the RNLI.

“My father, Ron Chapman, was a lifeboatman when I was younger. He worked his way up to the position of coxswain and served 39 years. He’s still involved with the service as Skegness’s Station Chairman.”

“My wife April has been station treasurer for nearly 20 years and is also chairman of the fundraising committee. My brother Dale is a Lifeboat Operations Manager in Mablethorpe too, and I’ve two nephews serving there as well.”

Serving the RNLI is a real family affair, for Ray, but nowhere in the UK is there likely to be another member of the service who reaches Ray’s longevity. That’s because the coxswain signed up at the age of 16 - the minimum age for joining the service now is 17, and because the upper age limited for active service in the RNLI has been raised from 55 to 65 recently - a length of service that Ray fully intends to reach.

Ray’s efforts were recognised last month with the awarding of a New Year’s Honour, which was announced rather out of the blue just before Christmas.

The award was created in 1917 by King George v, who recognised the need for a new award of honour which could be more widely awarded, in recognition of the large numbers of people in the British Isles and other parts of the Empire who were helping the war effort both as combatants and as civilians.

Words: Rob Davis.

Today the Member of the British Empire award is the order of chivalry used to reward services to the state in a much wider sense.

It’s an acknowledgement of a lifetime spent dropping everything at the bleep of a pager to venture out in all weathers, at any time of night or day, to rescue someone who has experienced difficulty on the East Coast.

“I was inducted at an early age, definitely.

I followed in my father’s footsteps having seen just how much he gained from being a part of the service. I’d seen first hand the camaraderie, the act of giving back to the community and I’d seen what it’s like to be there for someone at a crucial moment, a moment that would determine whether someone lives or dies.”

“It’s hard work but I’ve definitely got more out of the service than I’ve put in. In the early days it was about the adrenaline buzz.

All shouts were different and it was a fantastic feeling to know that you’ve made a difference, been a hero, perhaps.”

“But as you grow older it becomes less about that and more about becoming a more rounded person, about the education the service provides. The training that the RNLI has given me has been absolutely great.

I’ve had ongoing training as well as training on navigation, radio use, and the use of boats with full RYA accredited certificates.”

“RAY’S EFFORTS WERE RECOGNISED LAST MONTH WITH THE AWARDING OF AN MBE, NEWS OF WHICH CAME JUST BEFORE CHRISTMAS.”

The RNLI was established in 1824, with Skegness’s station established in 1859, replacing an existing lifeboat run by the Lincolnshire Coast Shipwreck Association at Gibraltar Point.

The current boathouse was created on Tower Esplanade in 1990 to house its Mersey Class lifeboat - The Lincolnshire Poacher one of two craft currently used by the service, and a craft due to be replaced this summer by a brand new £1.5m Shannon-class lifeboat.

Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved at least 140,000 lives. volunteers make up 95% of the charity, including 4,600 volunteer lifeboat crew members and 3,000 volunteer shore crew across a total of 236 lifeboat stations adjacent to stretches of coastline and more than 180 of the UK’s beaches.

After their initial training, Skegness RNLI personnel begin their lives on the service’s ILB (in-shore lifeboat). This is the smaller of the station’s two crafts, launched 22 times in 2015, compared to the Lincolnshire Poacher, an ALB or all-weather lifeboat, which was launched nine times.

The larger of the two vessels can withstand rougher seas and has a greater towing capacity when a pleasure boat or commercial craft - a fishing vessel for example - needs to be towed to safety.

The smaller craft is more manoeuvrerable and better suited to rescuing people who get into trouble on inflatables in the sea, whilst the larger vessel typically rescues boats which get into trouble or in the event of rough ebb and tides. From the age of 55 you’re considered too old for the ILB - and >> 29

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I recently turned 61,” says Ray. “I’ve four years left on the ALB, but intend to remain with the service, in the background, supporting a crew of about 30 operational members of staff.”

“Fundraising, especially, is really important,” says Ray. “The people who help us are all volunteers, and it costs around £160,000,000 a year to keep the service functioning.”

“Unless specified, donations are put into a central fund, but the most important thing to remember is that the service is completely funded by donations with no central or local government funding.”

“It’s an essential service that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. All stations are different, and each one has its own geographical or operational challenges. Skegness has a diversity of

The MBE came as a shock when Ray found out he’d been nominated on 1st December last year, but it’s equally well-deserved.

“I was absolutely flabbergasted. I had no idea and was just having breakfast one morning when a letter from the Queen’s Chancery Office dropped through the letterbox.”

“At this stage, you’re advised that you can’t tell anybody. The announcement is strictly embargoed... imagine trying to keep that secret! The letter asked me if I wanted to accept, but then advised that I could not tell anyone anything until six weeks prior to the ceremony on March 22nd.”

“I was informed that I’d be able to take three guests - my mum Audrey, my wife April and my sister Angela Curan. We arrived at the palace at about half past nine. There were plenty of security checks, and checks of our

“YOU’RE TOLD TO TURN LEFT TO FACE THE QUEEN, BOW, THEN TAKE THREE STEPS FORWARD. THE AWARD IS PINNED ON FIRST, THEN SHE ASKED HOW LONG I’D BEEN IN THE SERVICE. IT WAS SURREAL BUT A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE!” people using its coastline from tourists in the high summer - with around 8,000,000 visitors to the area, and commercial vessels further north along the coastline.”

“The most memorable ones for me were during my time spent on the ILB, when you would pull a kiddie from an airbed and repatriate them with their parents, a fantastic feeling, you can’t buy that!”

“It’s nearly as good as watching the expression on a new crew members face on their first shout when they pull one in off an airbed and realise they have saved someone’s life.”

Ray’s recognition, then, is hard-earned, and follows a long service award in 2011 presented by Skegness’s then Town Mayor, Councillor Sue Binch.

Left: Ray has been working for the service for 45 years and leads a team of about 30 operational crew, praising the work of

fundraisers and other people who ensure the service can continue to save the lives of tourists, locals and those who work at sea.

passports. We drove through the quadrangle right up to the red carpet and my guests were ushered into the Grand Ballroom.”

“Buckingham Palace is so beautiful, so opulent, and the organisation was impeccable. There were three senior army officers who briefed us as to the correct way to address the Queen, how to bow and so on, it was very slick, very well organised.”

“In total there were 60 recipients, all receiving their MBE, CBE, OBE, knighthoods or forces honours. The Queen is reducing her workload and is cutting the number of investitures she performs by about a third, so I’m really lucky that she was officiating the ceremony.”

“The recipients were called up in groups of 12, and were ushered by an army officer.

My name was announced, along with an explanation that I was receiving an award for services to Skegness Lifeboat.”

“You’re told to turn left to face the Queen, bow, then take three steps forward.

The award was pinned on first, then she asked me if I had been busy. I replied that we were approaching the busy season, and

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- LINCOLNSHIRE PEOPLE -

she asked how long I’d been in the service.”

“I replied that I’d been with the RNLI for 45 years, and she remarked that it was a long time, to which I replied that it was still half the time that she had reigned for, which made her smile.”

“She was really knowledgeable, and pointed out that I must be a coxswain, to which I replied ‘yes, since 1988 and a senior coxswain since 2012.’ The end of the conversation is determined when she shakes your hand, at which point you’re told to take three steps back, then bow.”

“You’re then led to the back of the ballroom and watch the rest of the ceremony. Then, at the end, the Queen walks down the aisle and smiles straight at you, it’s such a lovely experience, and there’s no sense of ‘going through the motions,’ you can tell her heart is really in it.”

“It’s surreal, but a lovely experience.

Everyone at the palace is so polite, congratulatory and so courteous. I was still being congratulated out into the courtyard where the media was taking photographs.

I even had a photograph taken with Barbara Windsor, who was receiving her CBE. She was so lovely and down to earth!”

“It was a lovely day too, warm and sunny.

Until that point I think my proudest day was serving as coxswain on the Mersey Class lifeboat which was towed down Pall Mall during the Queen’s Golden Jubilee celebrations. I received an etched tankard for that, which is in my living room, and now, next to it, is my MBE too!”

“It’s an honour to receive the award, but it’s not just for me – I don’t operate the lifeboat on my own, I go out with a whole crew and it’s all about team work,” says Ray.

n The RNLI in our area operates from the Skegness station on Tower Esplanade. Donations and volunteers are always being sought to ensure the service can continue to operate. See www.rnli skegness.org.uk or visit the centre for a tour.

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- LOCAL PEOPLE -

The London Marathon. It’s one of the six World Marathon Majors, the distance is 26 miles and 385 yards, and if that isn’t daunting enough, there were 38,000 participants in last year’s race.

It’s officially the largest annual fundraising event in the world according to the Guinness Book of World Records, having raised over £450,000,000 for charity since 1981.

The fastest contestant to ever complete the London Marathon is a man named Wilson Kipsang from Kenya, running the event in a phenomenal two hours, four minutes and 29 seconds.

The fastest woman to ever complete the marathon was Paula Radcliffe in 2003, not far off Kipsang, finishing the course in two hours, 15 minutes and 25 seconds.

Taking part in the London Marathon is definitely no mean feat to say the least; not only do you have to have the physical and mental strength to be able to do it, you have to raise quite a lot of money for charity in the first instance.

This month in preparation and celebration for this incredible fundraiser which happens as Pride goes to press - 24th April - we met Grantham’s marathon mum Sarah Willis who had been training for the race in the city for the past 10 weeks.

Sarah is a 37-year-old mum of three to Molly who’s 15, Phebe who’s 11 and JJ who’s 10. She works part-time in a primary school and works part-time for a company called Petpals, caring for pets while their owners are at work.

Whilst taking on three kids, and two jobs, she’s also running with a team from the NSPCC for the London Marathon, with a passion for securing a safe and fulfilling life for children across the country, and a passion for raising money for charity.

“I am so proud to call myself a member of Team NSPCC,” says Sarah. “They’ve supported me every step of the way with training and fundraising.”

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Sarah’s fundraising target is £2,200 and she had reached £1,500 when we spoke to her in March.

reach now thanks to the run. It’s great to get the kids involved too especially considering it’s a children’s charity, and everyone was so enthusiastic and just enjoyed the afternoon.”

Marathon

She has gone all out to hit her target, organising a fun run with the children at her school and an ‘Oscars at Oscars’ fundraising event at Oscars Wine Bar in Grantham, where guests were invited to attend dressed as their favourite film character.

“I’ve given up lie-ins for long runs and smart clothes for fluorescent lycra,” says Sarah. “I’ve lost one and a half toenails from training and a large portion of what dignity I may have initially had!”

MUM

The London Marathon takes place as Pride goes to press and it’s the biggest annual fundraising event in the world. We interviewed Grantham’s marathon mum Sarah Willis who goes above and beyond for charity and children. Whilst juggling two jobs and her three kids, Sarah still finds time to train for the marathon on the 24th April with the NSPCC Words: Tilly Wilkinson. team, running 42 miles every week...

“I’m the council leader at school so we arranged a sponsored charity fun run with about 100 pupils arriving with costumes and crazy hairstyles, and just for 20 minutes in the afternoon, we set up a course around the playing field to see how far we could go. Half of the money raised went to the NSPCC and the other half went back into the school.”

“Some of the amounts each child was bringing in was amazing. I thought if everyone could raise £5, that’s potentially £500 so £250 for my run, but some of the children were coming back with £70 or £80! The target is definitely in

“The outfit for the day will be my charity vest with my name on it. I’ve had two really big donations from local companies so I’ve bought transfers of their logos to put on my vest. I have some really funky socks and a fluorescent pink top too. I decided on bright colours because I think it ties in with the theme of doing this for children.”

“I decided to start running about two years ago - I just woke up one morning and said ‘I think I’m going to go for a run.’ My partner sat up and looked at me as if I was talking in my sleep, but I just got up and went.”

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- LOCAL PEOPLE -

“I continued to do so after that moment.

I find it so good for me, mentally more so than physically. I get a lot out of it.

I was never particularly good at sport at school; I was always the last person to be picked for a team and I looked for every excuse to get out of sport at school. To find some satisfaction out of it now, and to know it doesn’t cost anything either - you just put your trainers on and go - is great. I love the freedom. You just have music in your ears, and it’s just my time to switch off from everything else that’s going on.”

Sarah competed in the Great North Run in 2014 which is a half-marathon.

She did this for the NSPCC too, and dabbled in and out of runs from then on.

“I did the Mablethorpe Marathon in October last year because it’s local and my dad lives out that way. I don’t think I realised how painful it would actually be. The only pain or feeling I could relate what I was going through to, was childbirth!”

“I’m passionate about charity work and I’m also passionate about securing better lives for children so that’s the main reason why. I’ve worked at the primary school for 10 years now.

Although it’s a really small local village school, I’ve noticed that every child has their own battles, no matter what background they’re from.”

mile run in one week, it’s a case of setting the alarm for five in the morning to do it before the day starts. Juggling everything you have going on with training is the trickiest part!”

From there, Sarah set up a drop-in session at school for students to talk to her, something that wasn’t there before.

She looked into joining Childline but the distance to the nearest group was too far and she used to be a part of the Samaritans too.

Sarah’s motivation is her family, friends and herself. She’s very self-motivated, wanting not only for other people to be proud of her, but to be proud of herself.

“I used to be the person they would come to with any problems they had going on. I’m not a teacher so I think they see me as less of an authority figure and more approachable. The children would come to me often with small worries, and sometimes with quite big problems.”

“The fundraising is coming together now but it scared me more than anything when I started. £2,200 is a lot of money!”

“I don’t stick to any particular diet but I’m eating so much food. My partner is eating the same as me, so his weight and our food bill is slowly increasing!

It will be interesting to see what my appetite is like after the exercise because if it stays like this, I could be the size of a house!”

“The real sense of achievement I get from it is phenomenal. I want to prove to myself that I can do it, that I’ve set this target and I can reach it. You just have to focus your mind.”

“Although it’s a local village school, I’ve seen that every child has their own battles, no matter what background they’re from...”

“It was like the last part of childbirth where you switch off.

My partner joined me for the last 13 miles on a bike and I was aware that he was there encouraging me on, trying to help me but I just couldn’t focus on anything other than the running - in that way, it’s exactly like childbirth!”

“I wanted to go one bigger and better which is why I applied to join the NSPCC team for the marathon. It was a charity place that I was given with a target to reach and they’re in touch quite regularly. It’s really nice to be a part of it.”

“I’m hoping London isn’t like the past marathons I’ve ran and I think it will be quite different because with the Mablethorpe run, you wouldn’t see another runner or person for that matter for miles. With London I’m sure I’ll bump into one or two of the other 30,000 runners! I have a feeling the atmosphere of the crowds that you see around the course will pull me along, and I’ll enjoy it... hopefully!”

“Running for charity is continuing my goal in life of helping people especially children, but it gives me a little more freedom. I’m still able to give something back whilst being able to fit in three kids and two jobs!”

“The hardest part of training for the marathon isn’t the effort, it’s more the time. The running is becoming more natural. I can do distances, I’m getting stronger and faster, I no longer care what I look like whether I’m dripping in sweat or wearing not so flattering colours, but it’s just finding the time.”

“I’m trying to stick to a 16 week training plan and as it’s getting closer to the big day, the number of miles is increasing.

I try to do four runs in the week; three shorter ones and one long one. Initially the shorter ones were perhaps three miles. They’re eight miles now and the longer runs are 18. If you’re wanting to fit in three eight mile runs and one 18

“I want to prove to anyone saying ‘I can’t do it,’ or ‘she won’t do it,’ that they’re wrong. You just have to take that leap of faith. You can do it, and you’ll get so much out of it. That’s my main motivation.”

“I have a feeling I would do another marathon after London. I can imagine it will be like when you’re planning a wedding and you’re putting everything into it, but after the day, I’m going to be at a loose end and quite emotional.”

“It’s taken up so much of my time, I feel I’ll be quite lost afterwards. I don’t think I’ll do something as big as the London Marathon, but I’ll definitely keep up the charity work!” n Spot Sarah at the London Marathon and the NSPCC team on the 24th April. Go to www.justgiving.com/SJ-Willis to donate, or text ‘SJSJ98’ with the amount you want to give in British pounds to 70070. Just £4 answers a childs call and could potentially save a life or at least a childhood.

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What’s On...

CECILIAN SINGERS

Find out What’s On this month with events taking place in different venues across the county. There are many tribute artists coming Lincolnshire in May including a tribute to the late and great David Bowie...

POLITICALLY INCORRECT

Friday 6th May Join the Plowright Theatre in Scunthorpe for an evening with Edwina Curry on a journey from Strictly Come Dancing to Westminster to her explosive time on I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here, £16.50/pp.

08448 542776, www.plowrighttheatre.com

LINCOLN JAZZ WEEK

Friday 6th May The jazz scene comes to Lincoln for a nine day celebration of jazz music featuring UK and international acts in venues across the city. Tickets can be purchased from the hosting venues.

01522 545711 www.lincolnbig.co.uk

CITY OF LONDON SINFONIA

Saturday 7th May The City of London Sinfonia has won several awards including the Best Opera Recording Grammy. The concert at Stamford Arts Centre begins with two serene, poetic pieces, £22.

01780 763203, www.stamfordartscentre.com

BUDDY HOLLY’S WINTER DANCE

Saturday 7th May 2016 is a year of celebration for all Buddy Holly fans as the star would have been 80 years old. Marc Robinson from Stars in their Eyes, Buddy The Musical and many more shows around Europe, is coming to Scunthorpe’s Plowright Theatre, £18.50/pp.

08448 542776, www.plowrighttheatre.com

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Saturday 7th May An incredible performance held at the Stamford Arts Centre and conducted by Jeremy Jackman. It’s a wide-ranging programme to include music by Schumann, Bob Chilcott and Cole Porter, £12.

01780 763203, www.stamfordartscentre.com

- TRIBUTES -

WHITNEY HOUSTON

Sunday 1st May ‘Queen of the Night’ is an award winning production featuring a stellar line up. This lineup also includes an incredible rising West End Star, Rebecca Freckleton who will deliver a powerhouse and breathtaking performance as Whitney, £23.

01522 519999, www.lincolntheatreroyal.com

ELVIS PRESLEY

Saturday 14th May ‘A vision Of Elvis’ is one the world’s leading touring Elvis productions, celebrating all the music of Elvis Presley and engaging audiences with an uplifting and authentic Elvis experience at Grimsby’s Auditorium, £21/pp.

BIG SWING BAND

Saturday 7th May High flying professional trumpeter, Steve Walker, will be swinging into Gainsborough in May for the first time with his powerhouse 17 piece Big Swing Band, £15 at the Trinity Arts Centre.

01427 676655, www.microsites.lincolnshire.gov.uk/tac

A NIGHT OF ELO

Saturday 7th May ELO Again really do give you a dramatic taste of what the classic ELO were like in their heyday. The experience is a professional re-enactment of an ELO concert at Grimsby Auditorium, £21/pp.

08448 713016, www.grimsbyauditorium.org.uk

03003 000035, www.grimsbyauditorium.org.uk

DAVID BOWIE

Saturday 21st May The Bowie Experience is a concert featuring all of David Bowie’s hits.

The show is an unforgettable journey of sound and vision through David Bowie’s golden years. This is the world’s favourite and most authentic tribute of the late and great hero in pop music, £24/pp.

01522 519999, www.lincolntheatreroyal.com

ELO Again...

MORRISTON ORPHEUS

Saturday 7th May There will be a concert by The Morriston Orpheus Choir in aid of St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice held at the Cathedral this month. The Morriston Orpheus choir is a leading exponent in male choral singing.

01522 561600, www.lincolncathedral.com

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Send your press releases and events to: Features Editor via tilly@pridemagazines.co.uk.

MEDIEVAL MINSTREL

Tuesday 10th May The art of a Medieval Minstrel is a show performed as a solo concert by Peter Bull, a historical musician who plays a wide variety of medieval instruments, including the dulcimer, hurdy gurdy, recorders and lute at Lincoln Cathedral.

01522 561600, www.lincolncathedral.com

ST BARNABAS COLOUR DASH

Saturday 14th May Local charity St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice will host Lincolnshire’s second Colour Dash in 2016. Held at the Lincolnshire Showground, the event will see runners cover 5k while covered with friendly powdered paint.

01522 522900, www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk

75 YEARS OF JET FLIGHT

Saturday 14th - 15th May Celebrate this aviation anniversary with activities at Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre. On 15th May 1941, RAF Cranwell saw the very first full flight of an allied jet-powered aircraft, the Gloster E28/39, using an engine designed by Frank Whittle.

To celebrate this momentous historic event, Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre is teaming up with the Jet Provost Group and Metheringham Airfield visitor Centre. We spoke to expert David Harrigan in last month’s edition of Lincolnshire Pride who works at the aviation centre.

01529 488490, www.cranwellaviation.co.uk

Cranwell Aviation...

- HIDDEN ENGLAND -

DODDINGTON HALL

Sunday 15th May This is the first of Doddington Hall’s Music at Doddington evenings with Artistic Director, Graham Oppenheimer, in the classical setting of the Long Gallery at Doddington Hall.

01522 694308, www.doddingtonhall.com

EASTON WALLED GARDENS

May - September Easton Walled Gardens Photography Competition is running through May to September. This is a fantastic opportunity to canvas the beauty of nature and the beauty of the gardens in addition to showing off the work of budding local photographers. If you’re wanting to enter the competition, call them below.

01476 530063, www.eastonwalledgardens.co.uk

ROCKINGHAM CASTLE

Sunday 15th May Rockingham International Horse Trials will be held on Rockingham’s Great Park for its fourth year. Throughout the weekend there are demonstrations and displays from Mullenscote Gun Dogs, Icarus Falconry, Nuneaton Dog Display Team along with a have-a-go agility ring ran by the Empingham Dog Agility Team.

01536 770240, www.rockinghamcastle.com

Rockingham Horse Trials...

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What’s On...

- NGS OPEN GARDENS -

FOTHERBY GARDENS

Sunday 1st May Louth LN11 0UW A collection of three gardens, Nut Tree Farm, Shepherds Hey and the Woodlands, previously featured in Lincolnshire Pride.

MARIGOLD COTTAGE

Saturday 7th - 8th & 28th - 29th May Sutton-On-Sea LN12 2NP Slide open the Japanese gate to find secret paths, lanterns, a circular window in a curved wall, water lilies in pots and a gravel garden, vegetable garden and propagation area.

DUNHOLME COTTAGE

Sunday 8th May Lincoln LN2 3QA Three acre garden with a spring bulb area, shrub borders, fern garden,

topiary, large natural pond, wild flower area, orchard and vegetable garden. RAF Dunholme Lodge Museum and War Memorial in the grounds.

THE OLD VICARAGE

Sunday 15th May Holbeach Hurn PE12 8JN

Two acre garden with 150 year old tulip, plane and beech trees.

Herbaceous borders full of shrubs, roses, herbaceous plants.

PEAR TREE COTTAGE Sunday 15th May Louth LN11 9UP

The garden is an oasis of bright colour within the delightful village of Goulceby. The balance of perennials and annuals ensure a vibrant display throughout the seasons.

Lord Hennessy of Nympsfield...

TIM RICHARDS HEXTET

Saturday 14th May London-based jazz pianist Tim Richards has been a presence in the UK, and the international jazz scene since the early 1980s and he’s coming to the South Holland Centre in Spalding this month, £13.50/pp.

01775 764777, www.southhollandcentre.co.uk

KITE FLYING WORKSHOPS

Saturday 14th May Create your very own kite and fly it on Belton House’s Oval. The event will be held in May and also held on five other dates throughout the summer. The workshop only costs £2.50 and it adds something extra to a visit to the period property in Grantham.

01476 566116, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belton-house

BIRDWATCHING BOAT CRUISE

Monday 16th May South Holland Centre in Spalding is acting as the Ticket Agency for The RSPB Wash Birdwatching Cruises aboard the Boston Belle. Boarding is at Sluice Bridge on the River Witham Boston, £21/pp.

01775 764777, www.southhollandcentre.co.uk

SISTER ACT

Wednesday 18th May Based on the 1992 film, Sister Act tells the story of aspiring disco diva Deloris van Cartier. Trying to work her way to the top in 1970s Philadelphia. See the show at the Louth Playgoers Riverhead Theatre, £10/pp.

01507 600350, www.louthplaygoers.com

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Send your press releases and events to: Features Editor via tilly@pridemagazines.co.uk.

MEN OF STEEL & LESLEY GARRETT

Saturday 21st May The Scunthorpe Male voice Choir had an idea to get choirs from all steel making areas to sing in a 200 men concert entitled Men of Steel. They’ll perform again at Baths Hall with guest soloist Lesley Garrett, £27.50/pp.

The Queen...

90 GLORIOUS YEARS

Thursday 19th May Come and enjoy a regal and patriotic afternoon, as Grimsby Auditorium celebrate in style Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th Birthday. Join Neil Sands and his West End cast as they travel back in through the past 90 years, £11.50/pp.

This event will also be held at the Guildhall in Grantham also hosted by Neil Sands and his West End cast. From show tunes to the swinging sixties, a cockney knees up to a flag waving finale with a section from Last Night of the Proms, this event is a must, £11.50.

03003 000035 (Grimsby), 01476 406158 (Grantham),

www.grimsbyauditorium.org.uk, www.guildhallartscentre.com

LINCOLN FASHION WEEK FINALE

Friday 20th May This is the culmination of a week long celebration of fashion culture, held at St Swithin’s Church. This all-ticket event will be a spectacular showcase of Lincoln fashion from high street labels to cutting edge design from the University of Lincoln.

01522 545711,

www.lincolnbig.co.uk

08448 542776, www.bathshall.co.uk

RE-TAKE THAT

Saturday 21st May Playing at sold-out venues to audiences of hundreds, Re-Take That has enjoyed phenomenal success to date, having secured a loyal following. This performance also stars Rob-B-Williams, £15.50/pp.

01780 766455, www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

WILD ART WEEKEND

Saturday 21st May Be inspired by Belton’s woodland and create your own work of art from nature. Meet the play team in the playground to get started.

The event is free but normal admission fees apply at Grantham’s Belton House.

01476 566116, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belton-house

LUNCHTIME CONCERT

Saturday 28th May This lunchtime concert will be performed by The Stifskantorei full of love, romance and the woods. It’s full of romantic songs for choir and piano by Mendelssohn, Schubert and Reger. The choir comes from Neustadt an der Weinstrasse, Germany.

01522 561600, www.lincolncathedral.com

LORD HENNESSY OF NYMPSFIELD

Friday 20th - 21st May Peter Hennessy gives a public lecture in Lincoln Cathedral’s Chapter House this month. The lecture promises to offer a fascinating evening, titled Writing the History of One’s Own Time.

01522 561600,

www.lincolncathedral.com

Ceramic Poppies...

Retake That...

- POPPY WAvE -

A sweeping arch of red poppy is coming to Lincoln Castle, presented by 14-18 NOW, which marks the centenary of the First World War. Wave and Weeping Window, sculptures by artist Paul Cummins and designer Tom Piper, are brought to audiences at venues across the country as part of the 14-18 NOW programme - Lincoln Castle will host The Wave and will be the only place in England it can be seen.

The breath-taking sculptures were initially conceived as the dramatic sculptural elements in the installation Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red at the Tower of London in the autumn of 2014.

Over the course of their time at the Tower, the two sculptures were gradually surrounded by a field of ceramic poppies, each one planted by a volunteer in memory of the life of a British and Colonial soldier lost during the World War I. For the remainder of the 14-18 NOW programme, the poppy displays will be at locations around the UK finishing at IWM North and IWM London in 2018. The sculptures will be gifted to the Imperial War Museums.

020 7091 3114, www.1418now.org.uk

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Country Events...

WINTERTON SHOW

Find out what county shows, equine events and summer fairs will be taking place this season across Lincolnshire. This year, there are more shows than ever, not forgetting the Lincolnshire Show at Grange-de-Lings...

BROCKLESBY COUNTRY FAIR

Sunday 19th June This year’s Brocklesby Country Fair promises to showcase the very best of the countryside with its fabulous arena displays and popular demonstrations from falconry and sheep shearing to gun dog trials and rural craftsmanship.

Headlining the event and back by popular demand is The Kangaroo Kid, plus giant tortoises and alpacas to meet and a huge children’s area including a mini tank driving experience.

Pre-book a super lakeside picnic spot for your vehicle and enjoy an action packed Father’s Day to remember.

01469 561400, www.brocklesby.co.uk

BURGHLEY FINE FOOD MARKET

Saturday 25th - 26th June Food markets with a difference; meet around 30 local suppliers at Burghley House in a celebration of local produce with handmade cheeses, artisan breads, organic vegetables, luxury sweet treats and rare breed meats at one of Burghley’s four seasonal Fine Food Markets. Held in the courtyard, free admission.

01780 752451, www.burghley.co.uk

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Saturday 2nd & 3rd July This agricultural show in the North of Lincolnshire features cattle and sheep, in addition to horses and a special pony show.

There will also be motor cycle displays, galloping acrobatics, and other shows like a parade of vehicles in the main ring.

01724 732789, www.wintertonshow.net

- SPILSBY SHOW -

SPILSBY SHOW

Sunday 10th July A thoroughly enjoyable day awaits visitors to this year’s Spilsby Show which is being held on the Spilsby Recreation Ground, off Ancaster Avenue on Sunday 10th July. Entry prices are just £3 for adults and £2 for children/concessions.

The organisers have worked all year to ensure a wide variety of entertainment is on offer. The main arena is packed full of displays and includes the not to be missed Heavy Horse Show. This is always one of the highlights of the day. very few county events continue to uphold the Heavy Horse tradition but the Spilsby Show is proud to continue this long established competition.

The main arena includes displays by Hundleby Equestrian, Storm UK Martial Arts Cross Training School, Higashi Judo Club the Grand Parade kindly sponsored by Duckworth Land Rover. A vast array of vintage exhibits ride around the main ring as owners proudly show off their classic cars, tractors and motor cycles. The show prides itself on its friendly attitude towards its visitors and exhibitors.

01790 752213, www.spilsbyshow.co.uk

A FESTIVAL OF ASTON MARTINS

Sunday 3rd July See a Festival of Aston Martins displayed at Burghley House. Admission is free but the event is for charity so feel free to donate a contribution. This will be one of the biggest collections of Aston Martins in the country.

01780 752451, www.burghley.co.uk

HECKINGTON SHOW

Saturday 30th & 31st July visit the 149th Heckington Show, the largest village show in Britain. In the main ring, find the children’s cycling and running races, Backdraft Wheelie fire truck displays, grand livestock Walking and Cycling Festival... parades, and national showjumping.

The show has been running since 1863. The show also features the horticulture section which incorporates horticulture, floral art, cookery, honey, wine, handicrafts, art and photography, as well as a large selection of general trade-stands.

01529 461823, www.heckingtonshow.org.uk

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Send your press releases and events to: Features Editor via tilly@pridemagazines.co.uk.

EQUIFEST

Wednesday 17th - 21st August Equifest is organised by the East of England Agricultural Society, now in its ninth year. With various attractions, shops and entertainment, alongside the competition schedule, it attracts over 10,000 riders & visitors each year.

01733 363500, www.equifest.org.uk

REVESBY COUNTRY FAIR

Sunday 7th August For over 30 years Revesby Fair has taken place on Revesby Estate, attracting huge numbers of visitors and exhibitors each year.

It has an ability to entertain all ages, from young to old, £10/adult, £3/child.

07831 533375, www.revesby-country-fair.co.uk

BURGHLEY FLOWER FESTIVAL

Saturday 1st - 9th October Burghley Flower Festival will transform the magnificent State Rooms of Burghley House with beautiful floral displays created by local flower societies offering a new perspective on the Elizabethan House.

01780 752451, www.burghley.co.uk

OASBY HORSE TRIALS

BATTLE PROMS CONCERT

Saturday 9th July Join Burghley for the 12th anniversary of Battle Proms at Burghley House, a premier picnic proms offering an evening of classical music. Featuring a Spitfire display, cannons, cavalry, fireworks and more.

Burghley House in Lincolnshire is simply beautiful and the Battle Proms concert takes place from an elevated position overlooking the grand Elizabethan architecture, giving Battle Promenaders a stunning view of this 16th century stately home in addition to all of the shows and events involved with the Battle Proms event on Saturday 9th July, from £34.

Saturday 15th - 16th October Oasby is run over flat ground. It’s built as an early season event, suitable for first time runs. Oasby - near Grantham - provides good ground at this time of year.

01949 829061 www.bede-events.co.uk/oasby2

- BURGHLEY -

BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS

Thursday 1st - 4th September The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials is an event the county looks forward to every year, just a little after the show season.

In addition to hundreds of trade stands, there are dressage, cross country and show jumping events.

The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials is the premier equestrian and social event in the international sporting calendar and a focus for the best horses and riders in the world.

The parkland of Burghley provides a perfect setting for the four day event competition and a stunning location for the popular shopping village of more than 600 exhibitors – tempting all ages and tastes.

01933 304744, www.burghley-horse.co.uk

01780 752451, www.burghley.co.uk

BUCKMINSTER PARK HORSE TRIALS

Saturday 9th - 10th July A British Eventing affiliated event held in Buckminster Park near Grantham. Each day watch Dressage, Show Jumping and Cross Country. There is no charge for entry, and refreshments are available on site. www.buckminsterparkode.co.uk

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Country Events...

THE LINCOLNSHIRE SHOW

Thursday 22nd & 23rd June More than 60,000 people are expected to flock to the Lincolnshire Showground this June as the world-famous JCB Dancing Diggers are announced as one of the headline acts for the 132nd Lincolnshire Show.

This is the first time in over ten years that the high-octane act has performed at the show. The routine will see the JCB diggers weave and circle past each other with inches to spare and with split second precision, and audiences will be amazed as the buckets and shovels become acrobatic arms, lifting the machines into the air.

“The Show always delivers two days of non-stop entertainment and we are delighted to announce that JCB Dancing Diggers will be one of our headline acts this year,” says CEO Jayne Southall. “We aim to offer the very best in entertainment and this is an act I really can’t wait to see!”

“We’re proud to celebrate the best of Lincolnshire and its great heritage with everything from cooking demonstrations to live entertainment, livestock and equine shows and plenty of shopping.”

“We had record-breaking visitors across the two days last year which resulted in extra car parking being required, and we are preparing for the same again this year.”

The Show is expecting to welcome more than 600 traders and exhibitors all showcasing their latest products from handbags to hot tubs, mowers to muck spreaders and combines to candles, plus much more.

Savage Skills will be returning this year to demonstrate freestyle bike tricks and visitors to the Countryside Ring will be able to enjoy professional chainsaw sculptures crafted in a matter of minutes.

The Main Ring will see the return of freestyle motocross riders Broke FMX, with a number of traditional displays, where audiences can watch the talented show jumpers and the parade of the hounds.

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The Lincolnshire Kitchen is launching this year and will see popular chefs and producers demonstrating the creation of exciting dishes using their favourite local produce.

“The Show is a great testament to the fantastic trade and produce that Lincolnshire has to offer as well as further afield and we love that the Showground is able to showcase this,” says Jayne.

“Trade bookings are already flooding in from businesses who visit us every year and first timers, who see the value of attending the show commercially as it gives a unique opportunity to reach large audiences. If you’d like to exhibit with us, our advice is to get in touch with our trade team as soon as you can.”

visitors are also encouraged to take advantage of fantastic membership and hospitality opportunities at the Showground. Becoming a member of the Agricultural Society will provide entrance to the Show on both days plus vIP access to the member’s area and special discounts throughout the year at other Showground events.

01522 522900, www.lincolnshireshow.co.uk

- FLORAL TALENT -

COUNTY FLOWER SHOW

Saturday 4th June The Lincolnshire County Flower Show promises to be a great family day out, capturing a vintage feel with flower tents, plant displays, bunting, cream tea, talks and theatres that will stretch across a range of horticultural interests.

Main attractions include the Welsh Cavalry ride, live music and a children’s area of soft play, inflatable rides, mud kitchen and junior planting all free.

Ladies Day will be held on Saturday, with a spa voucher up for grabs for the best dressed with a floral hat.

Attendees include presenter of Chelsea Flower Show Nikki Chapman, Jonathan Moseley and Grandma Abson.

07970 489905, www.lincolnshirecountyflowershow.com

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The ULTIMATE Combat Gaming Experience Airsoft is a military simulation game similar to paintball. It costs a lot less to play, it hurts less and uses realistic looking replica weapons.

Two unique sites and different styles of gaming.

Fight in and around buildings or in the woods and undergrowth.

The games run with two teams, each are given objectives which they have to try and achieve.

Competitive Prices Private, corporate and open days catered for.

01733 247171 www.urbanassault.org.uk www.freefirezone.co.uk Designed by email: games@urbanassault.org.uk Airsoft Shop www.fire-support.co.uk

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Live Entertainment - THEATRE -

STAMFORD SHAKESPEARE

7th June - 27th August Stamford’s Tolethorpe Hall Open Air Theatre is a must-visit attraction each year. Our annual pilgrimage in 2016 which will be the 400th anniversary of The Bard’s death - will be to see one of two Shakespearean plays - Macbeth and The Tempest and its ‘wildcard’ play, which will be Wind in the Willows.

It seems rather opprobrious to refer to the group as ‘amateur’ dramatic; each play has a cast of up to 70, and there are 100 team members behind the scene working hard to host 80 shows a season at the 600 seater auditorium in the grounds of the Grade II* hall.

Yet, all who work hard to produce the open air theatre’s productions are volunteers, so please do support the group and enjoy some fine acting!

01780 756133, www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk

- LOOKING AHEAD: A SUMMER OF LIVE MUSIC -

BRYAN FERRY AT BURGHLEY HOUSE

Saturday 11th June, Live at Burghley House, a special performance featuring the founder of Roxy Music, Bryan Ferry in the parkland of the Elizabethan stately home, in association with Live Promotions.

From his earliest recordings with his group Roxy Music, at the beginning of the 1970s, Bryan Ferry has taken his place as one of the most iconic and innovative singers and lyricists to emerge in popular music. See him perform popular hits such as Lets Stick Together, Slave to Love, and Don’t Stop the Dance.

01775 768661 www.livepromotionsconcerts.co.uk

NEWARK FESTIVAL

Friday 17th - Sunday 19th June Newark resident and former world water ski champion Liz Hobbs who turned live music empresario a number of years ago, and created Newark Festival, a fantastic long

weekend of live music, in order to bring a whole festival of live music and entertainment to the town.

This year’s event is once again a three-day one, with Riverside Rocks on Friday 17th June including tribute acts to popular rock bands of the 80s and 90s. Saturday, meanwhile, sees 80s Night, with performances

by Tony Hadley, ABC, Bananarama and Midge Ure. The festival will conclude with Sunday’s Swing in the Park event which will feature performances by artists like the Boston Youth Jazz Orchestra, Newark Young Sinfonia, and the Miller Magic Swing Band as well as featuring family entertainment including Horrible Histories and The Pirates & Fairies show.

Families will be treated to a whole day of great entertainment, and there’s a firework finalé, too. Adult entry £15/Friday; £29.50/Saturday, free/Sunday.

For tickets see www.newarkfestival.co.uk.

UB40 AT LINCOLN CASTLE

Saturday 9th July Next month Lincoln Castle welcomes founder members of 1980s reggae group UB40 (pictured left) for an outdoor concert.

Ali Campbell, Astro and Micky Virtue’s performances will include Red Red Wine, Kingston Town and Can’t Help Falling In Love. Gates from 6pm, tickets £39.50.

01522 873894 www.livepromotionsconcerts.co.uk

JESS GLYNNE IN MARKET RASEN

Saturday 13th August Brits nominated chart sensation Jess Glynne headlines Market Rasen Racecourse this summer. Her number-one charting debut album, ‘I Cry When I Laugh‘, has now turned double platinum in the UK, making it the highest selling debut album of the past year. Tickets £50/adult, gates 3.30pm.

01673 843434 www.marketrasen.thejockeyclub.co.uk

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WINGS

s it s t e G n The In A £2.5m investment at The Inn at Woodhall Spa, just three years ago, when its new owners took over, hasn’t prevented a further makeover earlier this year, with a transformation of the hotel’s Lancaster brasserie...

Nick Prowse is nervous. His mobile phone is on, and he’s exchanging occasional glances at it. He and his partner are expecting their first child, and the due date is long gone, and the General Manager of The Inn at Woodhall Spa has come into work especially for our photoshoot despite the fact that he could receive ‘the call’ at any time.

It’s a nervous excitement to which any parent can attest, but one thing he doesn’t need to be nervous about is our reaction indeed any customer’s reaction - to what is a superb dining experience indeed.

The hotel’s two owners are Richard Fielding and Geoff Lennox, who also owned, and were responsible for transforming, the other hotel in the group, The Dower House, which is primarily a weddings and events venue, rather than a hotel specifically oriented towards dining, which is the role The Inn serves.

Main Course: The Inn Burger, served in a Brioche bun, with Poacher cheese, relish, pancetta, gherkin, fries and onion rings.

Words: Rob Davis.

Previously known as The Woodhall Spa Hotel, the place wasn’t great, but the two owners spent £2.5m in 2013 when they purchased it transforming the look and feel of the place, bringing it into the 21st century.

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Left: The 40-cover Lancaster Brasserie provides dining in a more formal environment.

The 617 bar offers family friendly dining too.

“Modern British dishes are created by Scott Hinch and a brigade of seven in the kitchen.

Scott says his brigade is young and eager to produce food of exceptional quality...”

Below: Head Chef Scott Hinch leads a brigade of seven.

board feedback and embarked on a £5,000 refurbishment of the Lancaster Brasserie in January of this year to remove the heavy blue colour scheme and provides a lighter, brighter space.

Dining, then, is seven days a week, with daytime service via the bar or carvery menus from noon-9pm. We’d recommend the Brasserie’s à la carte menu instead though, which runs from 5.30pm-9.15pm and comprises seven starters, seven main courses and a choice of desserts.

Below: Pea and goat’s cheese risotto with caramelised red onion and breadcrumbs.

In addition to a substantial makeover which included communal areas and the 26 bedrooms, the owners took on Nick, who one year ago became GM, and has a clear vision as to what the hotel should be.

“I’m a massive fan of the hotel as it is now,” says Nick. “We’re a really close team determined to provide a really welcoming feel to families as well as adults. Our Licensing arrangements ensure our Lancaster Brasserie is adult-only from 8pm, proving a smart restaurant with an à la carte menu or modern dining options.”

“Then, we’ve the 617 Bar which provides three dining rooms and a bar area with more a casual feel, a day menu and a carvery option seven days a week. There’s a large play area for youngsters to the back of the bar, and a terrace for dining in the warmer months.”

Despite being just three years into its transformation, the team have taken on

Modern British dishes are created by Scott Hinch and a brigade of seven in the kitchen.

Scott says his brigade is young, eager and have the necessary talent and drive to produce food of exceptional quality.

He’s especially keen to instill in them an appreciation for local ingredients, with nearby Coningsby’s Papworths Butchers providing meat alongside Derbyshire based Price & Fretwell, whose beef is hung for 30 days, and whose steaks are the best that Scott and the team have tasted.

Other Lincolnshire names of note include M&J Seafood, Stokes of Lincoln, Pipers, Bateman’s, and the usual local cheeses; Cote Hill, Dambuster and Poacher.

Our starters included a chicken liver parfait with char-grilled bloomer bred and homemade chutney, as well as a carpaccio of beef with lemon, black pepper, rocket, Parmesan and horseradish. Both were cleanly presented, with plenty of colour, following Scott’s philosophy of fewer elements and flavours to allow quality ingredients to really stand out.

Main courses, were equal in precedent, with special mention for an especially good vegetarian option of pea and goat’s cheese risotto, utilising caramelised red onion and for flavour and breadcrumbs for texture.

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Main Course: 8oz 30 day dry aged Ribeye, fries, mushroom roasted vine tomatoes, slaw, onion rings.

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“ON THE STRENGTH OF OUR VISIT, IT’S VERY EASY INDEED TO RECOMMEND THE INN’S BRASSERIE DINING OPTION...”

It’s unlikely you’ll be unable to find satisfaction on the main menu, but in such an event, there’s a specials board with three or four daily-changing options.

Additional options were a beautiful 30-day aged rib-eye steak as mentioned above, which was absolutely mouthwatering and presented with vine cherry tomatoes, mushrooms and fries. The hotel is providing a choice of different steak and fries as a Wednesday evening Grill Night promotion (with steaks from £13.50) and Steak Night promotion on Fridays £35-£38/two diners.

A final main course option was the Inn Burger, a ‘gourmet’ burger but with excellent quality meat, a glossy brioche bun, Poacher cheese, tomato relish, pancetta and mushroom. With gherkins, home made ‘slaw, plus onion rings and fries it’s a satisfying option presented in a novel crate, best accompanied with the hotel’s exclusive Bateman’s Dambuster ale.

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Desserts, finally, are homemade and options include our lemon and lime crème bavarois with lemon and lime flavours, accompanied by honey frozen yoghurt. To accompany dining, a list of 11 wines by the glass and 12 by the bottle range from less than £18 to just under £40.

It’s easy to recommend The Inn’s brasserie dining. The fact that, simultaneously, it provides a comfortable dining room, familyfriendly bar for casual meals, al fresco dining plus the option of private dining too makes it a versatile option no matter what the occasion.

The fact that the food is as well-presented and as delicious as it is, too, makes it an even more compelling option, and the fact that the restaurant cleared over 850 covers last week seems to affirm its popularity.

Nick and the team are doing a terrific job at the hotel, so we’ll recommend a visit... but if you see a general manager who doesn’t appear to have had much sleep the night before, do be gentle... after all, we’ve all been there!

Dessert: Lemon and lime bavarois with honey flavoured frozen yoghurt.

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Sample Menu STARTERS

Soup Wild mushroom soup with white truffle oil, micro herbs.

£4.95

Parfait Chicken liver parfait with char-grilled bloomer, house chutney.

£5.95

Carpaccio £7.00 Carpaccio of beef with lemon, black pepper, wild rocket, Parmesan, horseradish.

MAINS Steak £19.95 8oz 30 day dry aged Ribeye, fries, mushroom roasted vine tomatoes, slaw, onion rings.

Fish & Chips Fish and chips with crushed minted peas and tartare sauce.

£11.95

£10.95 Inn Burger Inn Burger with Poacher cheese, tomato relish, mushroom, pancetta, gherkin, slaw, fries, onion rings, brioche bun.

PUDDING Bavarois £call Lemon and lime bavarois, with honey frozen yoghurt, honeycomb and compote.

Cheese Board £9.50/for one; £16.50/for two Medley of Lincolnshire cheese including Poacher, Cote Hill, Dambuster and Yellow Belly.

The Inn at Woodhall Spa, The Broadway, Woodhall Spa LN10 6ST

Tel: 01526 353231 Web: www.theinnatwoodhallspa.co.uk.

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DELICIOUS NEW MENU IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR SPRING/SUMMER

SUNDAY LUNCH MENU AVAILABLE ALL DAY Event coming up...

FRIDAY 6TH MAY

Murder Mystery Evening Includes 3 Course meal ÂŁ30pp Book early to avoid disappointment

NOW AVAILABLE

The Dining Club Card Join up now to enjoy exclusive discounts and offers.

Riby Rd, Stallingborough

Nr Grimsby, N/E Lincs DN41 8BU

Tel: 01469 561302

events@stallingboroughgrange.co.uk www.stallingboroughgrange.co.uk

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f o e t s a T A QUALITY As befits the warmer weather, we wanted to recommend a great day out, a satisfying dining experience, and a way to spend a sunny afternoon in the garden, too.

Fortunately Glentham’s Willows Garden Centre affords you the opportunity to enjoy all three, simultaneously!

Remember summer? The feel of sunshine on your back. Long afternoons in the garden when the amount of time spent enjoying a Pimm’s in a comfy chair exceeds the amount of time spent weeding borders. Remember those weekends when you quite fancy, on impulse, a ride out somewhere and a bit of a treat?

Well, summer is officially here, and certainly for those who want to enjoy the latter, or an afternoon in the garden, there’s one place we’re especially keen to recommend this month. It’s The Willows Garden Centre, situated at Glentham, just 20 minutes or so from Lincoln, Market Rasen and Gainsborough, and about half an hour from Scunthorpe and Grimsby.

It’s a garden centre, but a whole lot more besides, with retail units offering homewares and gifts, designer clothing and handbags, a hair salon and retailers like Odlings Butchers and Treehouse, which sells fruit, vegetables and deli goods.

Quiche: The centre has daily changing quiches - as shown here - plus pies and soups.

At The Willows’ heart, though, is a dining out opportunity which rivals most dedicated restaurants in terms of quality, choice and service, turning the garden centre into a true destination shopping experience that’s just perfect for summer afternoons.

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Left: On site butcher Odlings provides Lincolnshire sausages and bacon for the centre’s exceptional all day cooked breakfasts.

Below: Salmon fillet with sweet chilli sauce, one of the blackboard specials during our visit.

“A blackboard of daily-changing dishes ensures regular diners are met with a degree of variety.

These include daily changing soup, pasta, quiche, pie, salad and vegetarian options...”

Dining takes place in the centre’s 80-cover restaurant, with its mismatched farmhouse pews, tables and chairs, comfortable sofas, Lloyd Loom casual seating area and its two log burners.

A private dining room seats an additional 40 diners and is used to ensure extra capacity without having to turn tables during Sunday lunch service, when up to 200 diners can take advantage of the restaurant’s choice of two roast options from noon until 3pm.

This room - The Harvest Suite - is also available as a function suite and private dining room for family celebrations.

Below: A number of daily-changing options soups, pastas and quiches - included this ham and mushroom quiche during our visit.

The centre covers about nine acres and is a cinch to reach, just off the A15 at Caenby Corner. There’s also plenty of (free) parking, ensuring a convenient visit. The site was dilapidated prior to March 2013 when new owner David Nelstrop arrived and transformed the site into its current form.

Born and raised in Market Rasen, David belongs to the well-known farming family who have land both around the garden centre and at Branston and Woodhall Spa. Though David’s land is now farmed by contractors, and produces wheat and OSR, rather than veg, he’s still very much connected to the Lincolnshire countryside and our farming industry with, at his heart, a desire to promote locally farmed and produced food.

This is evident in the restaurant, which is open for breakfast/brunch via a dedicated menu until noon (slightly earlier on Sunday), a main menu seven days a week until 5pm, and a Sunday lunch menu which runs from noon until 3pm.

Brunch service provides a choice of a satisfying full Lincolnshire breakfast option with, as one would expect, ‘proper’ sausages and thick bacon, as well as a satisfying eggs benedict option.

Lighter lunchtime options include a choice of six baguettes and six jacket potato options.

The main menu, however, comprises 12 ‘favourites.’ These are quality pub restaurant inspired options including the ubiquitous ‘gourmet’ burger and fish & chips.

In addition, a blackboard of daily-changing dishes ensures regular diners are met with a degree of variety. These include daily soup, pasta, quiche, pie, salad and vegetarian options.

The board also includes daily main course dishes, created on a supplier-led basis to take advantage of the best ingredients available.

During our visit, that meant roast pork with all of the trimmings and a cottage pie dish.

Desserts are also displayed on the blackboard, and included a caramel torte homemade apple crumble, plus jam, chocolate and sticky toffee sponge options.

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Main Course: Haddock and chips, when prepared and fried well, is a profound pleasure, and The illows’ implementation of the dish is flawless.

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Tiers of Joy: Afternoon tea at £20/couple is a popular option during summer afternoons at the garden centre.

“The Willows is recommendable at any time of year, but especially in May...”

town’s docks and other local names like Myers supply, for instance, plum loaf.

Special mention must be made of the restaurant’s tiered afternoon teas, which are set to be popular in the summer months as an alternative to heavier lunches.

At £20/couple, the cake stand comes laden with finger sandwiches, cakes and scones, all baked in the kitchen each day.

To accompany, Belvoir Fruit Pressés, six white, red and rosé wines and a range of beers and ciders all feature on the menu, alongside local firm Lincoln & York’s Peros fairtrade coffee and a range of teas.

The centre’s onsite butcher, Odlings, and its fresh produce retail outlet Treehouse, provide the restaurant with all of its meat, fruit and veg, whilst Grimsby’s Steve Owen provides regular deliveries of fish from the 62

One of the best aspects of The Willows, says David, is the centre’s ability to keep the whole family amused. Whilst mum enjoys a little pampering at Blossoms Hair & Beauty or the shopping opportunities afforded by Catkin or Lifestyle, dad can experience a bit of peace and quiet, reading through the papers in the restaurant and the children can enjoy the outdoor play area.

That’s where The Willows Garden Centre really comes into its own. The trend over the past decade or so has been for garden centres to become ‘destination shopping’ venues, and this is very much evident in Glentham. Central to that is a restaurant which provides more than just tea and cake.

David has created, alongside chefs Louise Rutherford and Kim Otley, a restaurant that goes well beyond the usual remit of a garden centre coffee shop. The Willows is highly recommendable at any time of year, but especially in May, and especially on the strength not just of its food, but its ability to keep the whole family entertained all day long.

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Sample Menu Brunch

Full Lincolnshire Breakfast £6.95 Grilled back bacon, Boston sausage, sautéed mushrooms, fried egg, grilled tomato, sautéed potatoes, baked beans and toast.

Eggs Benedict £6.95 Toasted English muffin topped with crispy bacon, poached eggs and hollandaise sauce.

Willows Favourites ‘Gourmet’ Burger £8.45 6oz burger, handmade, served in a seeded soft bap with bacon & melted cheese, chunky chips, salad and coleslaw.

Fish & Chips £8.45 Fresh Grimsby haddock. In beer batter with chunky chips, mushy peas and tartare sauce.

Steak and Ale Pie £7.95 Beef steak cooked in local ale with mushrooms and root vegetables, topped with a suet crust, served with hand cut chunky chips, garden peas & gravy.

Roast Pork (Blackboard) Roast pork with stuffing and Yorkshire pudding with potatoes and vegetables.

£6.95

Something Sweet Willows Afternoon Tea £20/couple Selection of sandwiches, two fruit scones, selection of cakes and pot of tea for two.

Sponge Puddings Choice of jam, chocolate or sticky toffee puddings.

£2.95

The Willows at Glentham Gainsborough Road, Glentham, Lincoln LN8 2EG

Tel: 01673 878971 Web: www.thewillowsglentham.co.uk 63

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THIS MONTH WE’VE COMBINED TWO BEAUTIFULLY FRESH INGREDIENTS TO CREATE TWO DISHES PACKED FULL OF FLAVOUR. SALMON AND ASPARAGUS WORK SO WELL TOGETHER AS A SUMMER SALAD OR AS A DELICIOUS GARDEN PARTY CANAPÉ...

ASPARAGUS AND SMOKED SALMON SALAD INGREDIENTS

SERVES 2

FOR THE SALAD: 1 PACK OF BRITISH ASPARAGUS TIPS • 135G WATERCRESS AND SALAD LEAVES • 100G SMOKED SALMON • 2 PRE-COOKED BEETROOTS, CUT INTO EIGHTHS • FOR THE DRESSING: 3 TBSP HORSERADISH CREAM • 2 TBSP YOGHURT • 1 TSP WHITE WINE VINEGAR • BLACK PEPPER TO SEASON • 1 LEMON, JUICED •

This salad is a gorgeous starter for spring or summer, and the horseradish gives it a perfect kick against the soft silky asparagus.

It’s a fabulous combination.

Place the British asparagus tips into a pan of boiling water and cook for three to four minutes.

Meanwhile assemble the salad leaves and watercress onto two small plates and lay on the smoked salmon.

Add the beetroot. Then drain the British asparagus tips and lay on top of the salad.

Finally mix the dressing ingredients together and drizzle over the salad with lots of black pepper over the top. Finish with the lemon juice.

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ASPARAGUS WITH SALMON AND GINGER DRESSING INGREDIENTS

SERVES 4

• 1 TBSP FRESH GINGER GRATED • 2 CLOVES GARLIC, CRUSHED • OIL FOR FRYING • 50ML DRY SHERRY • 2 TBSP SOY SAUCE • 2 BUNDLES BRITISH ASPARAGUS • 200G SMOKED SALMON SLICES • FRESH CORIANDER TO SERVE • 1 RED CHILLI SLICED • 1 LIME CUT INTO WEDGES •

Fry the ginger and the garlic in oil for 2-3 minutes then add the sherry and soy. Once the mixture has reduced slightly leave to cool for a few minutes.

Trim the ends of the asparagus and coat with a little oil, cook on a pre-heated griddle pan for 4-5 minutes turning until cooked through but still retaining some bite.

Cut the smoked salmon into 2cm thick strips and wrap around the asparagus spears.

Drizzle over the soy dressing.

Garnish with chilli and coriander leaves.

Serve with a wedge of lime.

n We recommend buying your asparagus fresh from Abbey Parks Farm Shop, 01205 821610, www.abbeyparks.co.uk, Boston PE20 3QG.

Asparagus

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AL FRESCO

Recipes: British Asparagus, www.britishasparagus.com or call 01779 247220.

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The Wine

This month the wunderkind of wine, Harish Khanderia, presents all things bright and beautiful - a selection of lighter wines which are more suitable for spring.

From dinner parties with lighter dishes to spring barbecues these are easy drinking, not too arduous...

1. Muscadet Sèvre-Et-Maine D'or £11.30

Bright aromas of apple and lemon peel with some minerality. Crisp, dry palate with vibrant fruit flavours.

Sauvion is a well established Loire producer that, while offering a négociant range from the appellations along this great river, specialises in Muscadet, where the family’s Château de Cléray is based. The new generation is represented by Pierre-Jean Sauvion, who joined the business in 2004 and is now the oenologist.

2. Metal Label, Vermentino, Australia £11.75

This wine is pale lemon in colour and bursting with tropical fruit aromas, which follow through on to the palate. It is so refreshing with its vibrant acidity that one glass is never enough!

3. Nebbiolo D’Alba Occhetti £21.85

This single-vineyard Nebbiolo offers an elegant nose with hints of raspberries and roses. On the palate, it is full and harmonious with a long, positive finish.

4. Dopff Au Moulin, Gewurztraminer £17.49

Decanter World Wine Award winner; silver, 2015.

An expressive, classic nose of rose petal, jasmine and exotic fruits carries into an elegant, off-dry wine with notes of candied fruit and spices.

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Cellar...

5. Neil Ellis Vineyard Selection, Pinotage £19.99

Few South African winemakers have done more to champion elegance and terroir than Neil Ellis. His winemaking career spans four decades, and he bottled the first wines under the Neil Ellis label in 1986. Since 2006 he has been joined by his son Warren, who looks after both winemaking and viticulture. Pristine red fruit, plum and cherry aromas with subtle hints of tobacco lead to a generous yet neatly balanced palate that sets a new standard for poise in Pinotage.

6. Château de la Perrière, Brouilly £14.95

This estate was founded by a solicitor, Antoine Brac, in 1631. Four generations of Bracs built it up from under a hectare to its present size of fifteen hectares.

This juicy Brouilly shows a fine spectrum of fruit, especially raspberries, Morello cherries and blackcurrants.

7. Pineau Des Charentes Blanc, 10 Years Old £29.99

Aperitif or after dinner wine with five grape varieties plus the fragrances of old cognacs. Superb dessert wine which will suit chocolate especially well. Reserved 10 years in oak, full, delicate and mellow.

Orange bark, fruit stone and gingerbread, with a bergamot finish.

n Our featured wines are available from Lincolnshire’s leading independent wine retailers, prices are correct at time of going to press but may vary according to each retailer.

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Just Desserts...

YOU’LL GET YOUR ‘JUST DESSERTS’ AT THE COUNTY’S RESTAURANTS AS WE LOOK AT SOME WONDERFUL THIRD COURSES FROM SOME OF THE COUNTY’S BEST RESTAURANTS...

GOING BANANAS

Stallingborough Grange near Grimsby presented this banana cake for our visit, combined with butterscotch sauce, and crème Anglaise.

01469 561302, stallingboroughgrange.co.uk.

n Stapleford Park is just a stone’s throw from Grantham and Stamford, and less than an hour from Lincoln. It’s a great place for an overnight treat, and speaking of treats, this rich and delicious hazelnut

n Hotel Supreme is the sister hotel of Green Welly Inns’ Poachers Country Inn and Bicker’s Red Lion Inn. An apple crumble is a fairly traditional dessert but chef Evan Owen has given it a lift with pear and cinnamon, and a crème Anglaise, ensuring a beautiful variation on an old favourite.

01205 822804 See www.green wellyinns.co.uk.

cake is typical of the dessert offering in the two AA-Rosette Grinling Gibbons dining room. A lovely venue for an overnight stay.

01572 787000, www.staplefordpark.com.

n THE CHEQUERS AT WESTON, SPALDING presented this assiette of desserts, with a peach melba and raspberry panna cotta, eton mess and glazed lemon tart.

01406 370407, www.thechequers.pub

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- SAMPLE DISHES -

beautifully

presented

The Comfy Duck at Grimsby’s Oaklands Hall Hotel is home to Steven Bennett (right).

Shown here is a plum and star anise parfait with roasted plums and frangipane.

Comfy Duck; 01472 872248, www.thecomfyduck.com

A TRUE CLASSIC

The Lincoln Hotel knows there’s no favourite like an old favourite, and their classic crème brûlée is just that. Deliciously creamy with that irresistible caramelised top, served with homemade biscotti.

01522 520348, www.thelincolnhotel.com.

The White Horse, Baston presents this peach melba, with caramelised peaches, toasted almond ice cream and raspberry compote.

01778 560923, www.thewhitehorsebaston.co.uk.

n Featured desserts are representative examples of our featured chefs’ skills... the menus of our featured restaurants change frequently so desserts are subject to availability. Check each restaurant’s website prior to your visit for an up-to-date menu.

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- HOMES -

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The Open

PLAN

Family Barn...

This month’s 19th century property welcomes families into a warm, sociable, open plan space. The Stables provides enough space for every family member at any time of year.

It’s the perfect home for barbecue parties with a garden house and pretty, established grounds, which Nigel and Liz will be enjoying for the final summer this year...

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

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- HOMES -

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A converted barn is a property you associate with warmth and comfort. The Stables is no exception to this and Nigel and Liz, the current owners, are definitely in agreement.

Nigel works in insurance and Liz is a housewife. The couple have lived in the property with their children for the past 10 years which is since the conversion of the barn.

“It was previously home to sheep and cattle,” says Liz. “We are the first family to live in the house which was quite a surprise, and we’ve made few changes to it over the past ten years. It was a family home as soon as we moved in and this may be down to the property being a converted barn but the style was impeccable.”

Design features such as latch-handled doors, solid oak flooring and high vaulted ceilings add to the character and the elegant feel of the house. Mixing welcoming family rooms with sociable entertaining space, the house also has flexible accommodation with bedrooms and bathrooms on both the ground and first floors.

Above/Main: The kitchen features bespoke handmade cabinetry, a range cooker, a clearview stove, granite surfaces and a Miele dishwasher. It opens up to the dining room and lounge area.

“The key attraction is

the French doors letting

in floods of light and opening in summer to provide the ideal venue for family parties....”

The main attraction of the property would have to be the practical open plan layout incorporating three large French doors which let in a wealth of light and open out in the summer to provide the perfect venue for a family party.

“We are always the hosts for family parties which is something we’ve never minded,” says Liz. “We welcome guests through the large double doors from the gravelled area and front of the house to the kitchen. They can then walk through the rest of the house, to another set of large double doors into the garden - a large green space with a summer house we built at the top is full of summer furniture and garden games.”

“The house isn’t just a great location for summer. It’s also a great space for Christmas. We installed a log burner which 77

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- HOMES -

is perfect for winter nights - and of course, Santa Claus - so we’re normally the family residence on Christmas Eve, too.”

As you enter The Stables, to the right you’ll find the living room, and to the left you’ll look onto the open plan space of the dining area and kitchen both with apex ceilings.

There are also two bedrooms and bathrooms downstairs in separate rooms.

On the first floor, there are two bedrooms, both with en-suites.

“The kitchen is my favourite room in the house,” says Liz. “Not only does it have a great apex ceiling but it has large double doors and a central island. It’s the room which is used the most and the family tend to gravitate towards it, so it’s normally a full and friendly kitchen.”

“There’s bespoke cabinetry and granite surfaces in the kitchen so it’s all of a high quality,” says Nigel. “There’s also a Clearview stove, butler sink, range cooker, and Miele dishwasher so it has an element of practicality, as well as being a welcoming environment.”

Above/Main: The large family dining room opening up to the kitchen and living space with the open plan layout of the home.

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“As well as the River Glen, there’s a wealth of bridleways and nice walks in the area as it’s rural although not isolated.”

The garden has a number of well established fruit trees planted with three quarters of an acre to grow but the original owner planted willow trees about 35 years ago. They’re now large and rather beautiful trees hanging over the garden giving the family plenty of privacy.

“What’s fantastic about the green space is the safe play area for the children,” says Nigel. “Having said that, the first day we moved in, our son fell in the River Glen which runs close to the garden! It’s more of a stream than a river only being a couple of inches deep, so it wasn’t too bad and it’s a stunning feature!”

“As well as the River Glen, there’s a wealth of bridleways and nice walks in the area as it’s rural although not isolated. We’re only about 15 minutes from Stamford, a beautiful town with visible heritage and modern

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- HOMES -

features. It’s also a very short distance from the Burghley and Belton horse trials, a great day out, and yet the view from the home is the beautiful countryside of Stamford so it really is in an ideal location.”

“We don’t own any pets but the neighbours definitely do,” says Nigel. “There are cats, dogs, rabbits, chickens and even sheep in some of the neighbouring properties that definitely keep the children entertained.”

“It’s great to have nice neighbours as well; that is also another reason why we’ve loved living at The Stables and we will miss the place a great deal.”

Above: The River Glen runs close to the The Stables in Stamford along with many bridleways.

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“The special features of the home that make it unique would be the French doors, summer house and log burner.”

“We also have a sort of gym room as it’s where our running machine is but could easily be converted, perhaps into a fifth bedroom or office.”

“The main reason we’re leaving the property is because the children go to Bourne Grammar School and I’m about to to start working again,” says Liz.

“Simply because of location, we will have to move house so the children can get to school easily and I can get to the office easily.”

The key theme running throughout the property and something the couple really wanted to express is that The Stables is so family friendly.

It’s very much a family home that Nigel and Liz hope the next owners will enjoy just as much as both they and their children have.

The Stables, Stamford

Location: Stamford 4.8 miles, Market Deeping 6.9 miles, Bourne 6.8 miles.

Style: A handsome stone barn with a stylish, light-filled interior in a rural location close to Stamford

Receptions: Four, currently arranged as hall, cloakroom, pantry and utility.

Beds: Four; two upstairs with ensuites, two downstairs with separate bathrooms.

Other Features: Three French doors, summer house, log burner and gym room with running machine.

Guide Price: £525,000

Find Out More:

Estate Agency: Fine & Country Tel: 01780 750200 Web: www.fineandcountry.com

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Unsurpassed Quality, Affordable Craftsmanship Bespoke Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms - full project management and free quotations

Peter Jackson Cabinet Makers Ltd Devereux Way, Horncastle LN9 6AU

Tel: 01507 527113 W: www.peterjacksoncabinets.co.uk E: info@peterjacksoncabinets.co.uk

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Peter_jacksonCM

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OVERSIZED CLOCKS , MIRRORS, URNS , PLANTERS, FOUNTAINS, PRE LOVED FINDS, LIGHTING, DISPLAY DOMES, SHELVES, HOOKS & MORE BESIDES...

ELIZABETH & STEVENS GARDEN ORNAMENTS, FURNITURE AND ARCHITECTURAL GAZEBOS, VISIT ELIZABETH & STEVENS AND BE INSPIRED

The Showrooms, Great North Road, Markham Moor, Retford DN22 0QU Telephone: 01636 822000 www.elizabethandstevens.com Open daily Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm.

Just oямА the A1. Free parking.

Please call us if you are making a special journey

ANTIQUE BITS AND BOBS, BRONZE SCULPTURE, BENCHES, GARDEN RETRO, CANDLES, LEATHER CHAIRS, RECYCLED WOODEN TABLES & CHAIRS,

CAST IRON GATES, STREETLIGHTS, VINTAGE POST BOXES,

SUPER CUSHIONS, BAR & GLASS WEAR, PICTURES, ART,

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- LUXURY & RURAL PROPERTY -

Navenby’s Strategy For

SUCCESS

FOR ANYONE SEEKING TO BUY OR SELL A COUNTRY OR VILLAGE HOME IN LINCOLNSHIRE, THERE’S A NEW FINE & COUNTRY OFFICE OFFERING A STRATEGY FOR SUCCESS THROUGH LOCAL EXPERIENCE AND STATE OF THE ART MARKETING...

Fine & Country is a name synonymous with expertise and integrity in the field of country homes. Now the estate agency itself has a new home in the form of a new office in Navenby.

“Together with our Stamford and Nottingham branches we offer country and village properties for sale within the counties of Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and further afield through our national network and flagship Park Lane office,” says Matthew Brouwer who heads up the new Lincoln office.

“Our local knowledge of Lincolnshire - and more specifically the rural property network within our region - allows us to deliver the best results possible whether you’re buying or selling a property. Our sophisticated marketing technologies and our experienced team combines to deliver an outstanding estate agency service.”

“Every Fine & Country agent is a highly proficient and professional, independent estate agent, operating to a strict code of

SEVEN

conduct. As well as our new Navenby office, we’ve offices in 275 different locations worldwide and our widespread marketing includes not only county titles like Lincolnshire Pride, but national titles like The Sunday Times, Country Life and Horse & Hound too.”

“People buy into a lifestyle associated with a property and its location as much as they do the bricks and mortar. We utilise sophisticated, intelligent and creative marketing that provides the type of lifestyle information buyers seek in today’s world, especially if they’re moving from one part of the country to another.”

“This means that if a London buyer is interested in a Lincolnshire property, we’re in a good position to provide information about schools, transport and so on.”

“Fine & Country’s Lincoln office will cover a vast area of the county, from Colsterworth up to the area north of Lincoln, and east of the A1 at Newark right to the Wash, so we’ll

MAGNIFICENT A few of the current properties in Fine & Country’s portfolio...

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Coulallenby

£875,000

Five bedroom property set in one acre in the village of Claypole, Newark. Three large receptions, versatile accommodation over three floors with potential self-contained apartment.

The Old Vicarage £995,000

An exceptional Victorian former vicarage near Horncastle with outbuildings converted to provide three apartments. Standing in delightful private grounds of approximately five acres.

The Old Farm House £1.15m

Six bedroom family home in Marston standing in grounds of 7.66 acres with wonderful open views to the south and east.

Three receptions. Additional land by separate negotiation.

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also be well-placed to keep an eye on property trends affecting the whole of the county. What’s more, we’ve around 30 properties in our portfolio, priced from around £400,000 to £1,500,000.”

“Research indicates that 40% of home sales happen between April and July, and with interest rates at record lows and with booming demand, this surge is expected to continue.”

“For that reason we’re really delighted that the new office is ready for a very busy spring, helping to pair those seeking their ‘forever home’ with a property in a part of the world where good value, a good standard of living and good schools are among the reasons to live here. Established in our new Navenby office, we’re in the best position ever to help you to take advantage of all that Lincolnshire has to offer.”

FINE & COUNTRY LINCOLN Matthew Brouwer MRICS – Managing Partner Chartered Surveyor in the region for over seven years: “We’re delighted with the location of our new office – it provides us with a good reach right across Lincolnshire.”

Stephen Binder

Stephen has over 40 years experience working in Lincolnshire, Notts, Leics, and Cambs specialising in the upper quartile (properties over £400,000) selling prestigious and country homes for a valued client base.

n For more information visit Fine & Country at 55 High Street Street, Navenby. Call 01522 287008 or see www.fineandcountry.com.

The Old Rectory £1.35m

Substantial Grade II former rectory near Hougham. Four receptions, eight bedrooms arranged over three floors together with delightful wooded grounds of approximately 2.5 acres

The Old Rectory £775,000

Unspoilt former Georgian rectory in Ropsley with five bedrooms and four reception rooms.

Grounds of around one acre, planning permission for a substantial extension.

Elm Grange

£1.55m

Beautifully landscaped estate.

Four/five bedroom home with four acres of grounds and range of office and retail suites, plus two storey garage block suitable for conversion. Near Heckington.

The Manor House £1.2m

Fine Grade II* listed former Manor House near Folkingham.

Six bedrooms and four floor with piano nobile and five reception rooms. Range of outbuildings and gardens of one acre.

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Scandinavian Design THE WONDERFUL

YESTERDAY

Advises Golding Young & Mawer auctioneer Colin Young Since the late 1990’s the UK has been attracted, and perhaps addicted, to the clean lines of design and functionality that are the key exponents of Scandinavian based designer furniture retailers.

A current marketing slogan for one such company is ‘the wonderful everyday’. But I prefer to view it as ‘the wonderful yesterday’.

We are actually living in an era and generation of time lapse appreciation of this design art form.

From the post-war period Scandinavian designers were at the very cutting edge of neo-futuristic style. Leading exponents of the art included the Finnish-American Eero Saarinen, introducing structural curves and machine-like rationalism to functional furnishings.

The Danish furniture design company of Fritz Hansen was another groundbreaking company

from the early 20th Century making steam bentwood chairs.

Once Hansen collaborated with designers such as Arne Jacobsen some of the most iconic designs of the mid 20th Century were produced. Another highly desirable manufacturer is Frem Rojle, employing designers such as Hans Olsen in the 1960’s and taking the message of this new era mainly to the middle classes.

Mixing your home with design classics of mid-20th Century and those straight from today’s warehouse priced for the mass market blends perfectly and period pieces can prove excellent value for money in acquisition. Here are a few examples to ponder.

n Colin Young MRICS - Colin is senior auctioneer with the Lincolnshire Firm Golding Young & Mawer, established in 1864 and is a BBC Bargain Hunt antiques expert.

A Frem Rojle Danish teak circular dining table, and four integrating tripod chairs. Sold for £280.

A Fritz Hansen beech and teak framed armchair, with a canvas backed red leather seat, marked to the underside, 74cm high.

Sold for £280.

A Danish tea tray designed by Jens H. Quistgaard, circa 1958, 60cm wide. Sold for £65

A 1960/70's Danish rosewood Arne Vodder Sibast sideboard. Sold for £500.

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Contemporary

LIvING

PETER & LEIGH COX FROM IMMINGHAM HAVE BEEN WORKING ON A PROJECT OVER THE PAST SIX YEARS, TRANSFORMING A DERELICT BUILDING INTO A MODERN FAMILY HOME. THE DESIGN IS OF IMPECCABLY HIGH QUALITY AND THE OPEN PLAN STYLE MAKES IT A GREAT SPACE FOR ENTERTAINING...

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

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- HOMES -

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We often feature grand period properties in the magazine. These usually have a swimming pool, gym and tennis court included.

However, we’ve discovered a property in North Lincolnshire that may not include an underground pool or perfectly lined tennis court, and yet still promises luxury living.

If you have lived in a grand property in Lincolnshire for most of your life, the children have left for university or work and you’re looking to downsize, this is a fantastic opportunity to do so without the compromises of a smaller home.

Peter & Leigh Cox - builder and midwife moved into the property around three or four years ago, purchasing it three years prior. It was completely derelict so they spent three years working on this big project.

“I live at Chapel Farm with my wife and three children,” says Peter. “It had been derelict for 30 years before we moved in. We bought it three years before we moved in so we had plenty of time to transform it into a Above: The kitchen has a wine cooler built into the central island.

Main: The dining room and kitchen is the main hub of the house with the more formal living room leading off one side of the dining room and the more relaxed orangery leading off the other side.

“We literally had to strip it back to an empty shell before we did anything.

There was a great amount of structural work that needed to be done...”

family home. We literally had to strip it back to an empty shell before we did anything.

There was a great amount of structural work that needed to be done.”

There are four reception rooms to the property - study/hall, kitchen, orangery, and living room.

However the property is very open plan, so these rooms all merge together making a communal area for the family and guests to enjoy together.

There are four bedrooms, one main bathroom and an en suite.

“We don’t know a great deal about the history of Chapel Farm,” says Peter.

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- HOMES -

“We know that it used to a farm, of course, at one point, and the family of the previous owners to the people we bought it off still live in the village.”

“Really, the building was in ruin when we came to it. The biggest task we had was to rebuild most of the walls.”

“The back of the house is completely new whereas the front has more of the original brickwork but we still had to do a lot of rebuilding to the front, too.”

The traditional relaxed intimacy of the welcoming sitting room with its cast iron stove gives way to a dramatic open plan kitchen and dining area.

The kitchen is appointed with an integrated extensive range of Burford bespoke cabinetry, a wine fridge and a butler sink.

It includes a dishwasher, washing machine and housing and plumbing for an American refrigerator, oak flooring, double glazed windows to the rear aspect, inset five burner

Above: The more formal living room at the front of the property.

Main: The beautiful orangery, decorated to an impeccably high standard with a large bay window looking onto the garden.

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“The kitchen forms the social heart of the home which leads to a stunning garden room with a cathedral style window linking the gardens...”

Leisure gas range with extractor hood over, additional glass fronted china display cabinets and bank of larder stores, vertical radiator and double glazed concertina doors opening to the orangery.

The kitchen forms the physical and social heart of the home which in turn leads to a stunning garden room with exposed truss work and cathedral style window linking the lawned gardens and terrace into a single space. The forward facing lounge has become a private retreat of simple elegance.

The inclusion of high quality handmade doors retains the period feel and contrasts with both the contemporary underfloor heating in the garden room and bathrooms, the discretely situated integral music

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- HOMES -

speakers and the modern heat recovery system.

The careful arrangement of space has allowed for the creation of four first floor bedrooms together with an indulgent family bathroom with a double-ended bath and superb en-suite wet room.

“It’s a great space for entertainment,” says Peter. “The whole house is very guest friendly. The open plan style of Chapel Farm allows the hub of the house to be most of the house, so for parties you have the kitchen area for food, an outside terrace and an extensive lawn.”

“If the weather isn’t too sunny, there’s always the orangery where guests can relax and enjoy and afternoon.”

Above: The orangery opens onto a terrace area, great for barbeques and garden parties, with an extensive garden largely laid to lawn leading off from this.

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There is extensive guest parking together with a substantial garage and the private, fenced, primarily lawned grounds form an excellent family space.

“We’re leaving the property because we want to take on another property.”

“We’re not moving out of the county because our children go to school in the next village along from us so we don’t want to take them out and put them into a different learning environment, we just want to take on something new.”

“It’s what we’ve enjoyed most about Chapel Farm - the actual renovation process of it.

We’ve enjoyed transforming something that was left to ruin into a beautiful family home, and hopefully we can do the same to the next property.”

“The character is something we’ve loved about living there too. It’s bursting with character and we’ve made sure to do the interior design to an impeccably high standard.”

Chapel Farm, East Halton

Location: 13 miles from Grimsby, nine miles from Humberside Airport, 14 miles from Brigg.

Style: A property transformed over six years into a contemporary home suitable for family living.

Receptions: Five, arranged as study/hall, kitchen, orangery and living room, all over an open plan style.

Beds: Four, one main bathroom and an en suite to master.

Other Features: Garage and spacious orangery.

Guide Price: £300,000.

Find Out More:

Estate Agency: Fine & Country.

Tel: 01724 304999.

Web: www.fineandcountry.com.

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High Quality Appliances

and the best customer service Visit our new website: www.bostonelectrics.co.uk Buy Online, ‘Click & Collect’ or visit us in store

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e h t w o l l o F LEADER We’re following the leader this month as we visit National Garden Scheme county organiser Sally Grant, and take a tour around her colourful, thriving garden. With acres dedicated to wildlife and a pond, you’re likely to see all sorts of creatures on her open day in May...

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

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- GARDENS -

We’re following the leader of the National Garden Scheme in Lincolnshire this month.

Sally Grant, County Organiser, is opening her garden in May so we took a tour of the six acre area of land in Frithville.

Unfortunately, our visit at the start of March was frightfully cold and the garden only featured a few lonely hellebores, random patches of snowdrops and a couple of daffodils.

However by May, Sally’s garden is bursting with colour from all sorts of different flowers around the herbaceous borders and woodland.

“We moved into Holly House 35 years ago,” says Sally. “There was no garden, just a greenhouse, a field, five old cattle wagons previous owners used for pigs and other animals, and the house was just a two-up two-down smallholding.”

“We lived in a caravan for the first ten months whilst we built onto the house, through one of the worst winters I’ve seen!”

Once Sally had settled into her new home, she started to create her garden and soon joined the Hardy Plant Society.

“After I joined the Hardy Plant Society, my passion for gardening grew,” says Sally.

“I started collecting different plants and I learned a lot from other members of the group.”

“I joined the National Garden Scheme through the Hardy Plant Society after a friend suggested I join. After opening Holly House to visitors for a number of years, the county organiser at the time, Susie Dean, suggested I help her with organising all of the gardens in the area.”

“I was delighted to help Susie out, and thought it would be something fun to do now and then - before I realised the amount of work it involved!”

“I still enjoy doing it although there is an awful lot to manage. There’s a great deal of stationery that I have to organise for each

individual garden. The owner of each open garden will say what they want - car park signs, direction signs, posters etc - and I order and send them out.”

“We had 60 garden owners in the house last week to meet and discuss plans for 2016. It’s a big job but it’s for a great cause and I really enjoy doing it.”

“When I settled into my house after moving in, I wanted to start on my garden, and the first move was to make a pond. We made a clay-lined pond which worked really well for 15 to 16 years. Unfortunately, as the trees surrounding it grew up, they sucked the water up out of the ground.”

“We decided to make it smaller after this and put lining around it. Unfortunately, rain water managed to get around the lining!

We’ve finally managed to make the pond work, and it’s a great site in summer with frogs, toads, newts and dragonflies dancing around the waters edge.”

Surrounding Sally’s pond is a small woodland area with mixed borders and a variety of trees. In 2005, she bought the field just next door.

“I bought the extra bit of land because I absolutely love wildlife,” says Sally.

“I wanted to create a habitat for bees, birds and butterflies. Nature and gardening is like a homemade therapy for me.”

“One of the neighbours made a donkey out of corrugated iron to go in the field - a beautiful sculpture. We used to open our garden alongside our neighbours for the National Garden Scheme. They cleverly shape their hedging along the side of their garden to make out the word ‘JIGSAW,’ which is the name of the house.”

“The main aim for my garden is to encourage wildlife so we have many plants that attract animals. You can usually see all sorts of birds - even tawny owls in the beech trees. I tend to the garden mainly but my husband David looks after the grass cutting.”

“I wanted to create a habitat for bees, birds and butterflies.

Nature and gardening is like a homemade therapy for me...”

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- GARDENS -

“In May, visitors will see hardy geraniums, iris sibirica, clematis montanas and many, many more colourful flowers. Spring is definitely my favourite time of the year.”

“In May when I open my garden for visitors, I get help from friends and volunteers who open a tea and cake stall in addition to a plant stall. I have to admit, many people say the reason they came was for the tea and cake! They do a great job. I get people to park in the field at the back of the property.”

“Most of the plants in the garden and plants I tend to sell at the open evenings are self-seeding plants. I used to buy ‘fashionable’ plants - the plants that seemed to be trending at the time - and they just don’t last. I think it might have something to do with the soil in my garden; it sits on quite heavy clay.”

It’s a really beautiful garden that’s so peaceful; a garden of several different areas to attract wildlife of all sorts.

With a keen interest in birds, bees, butterflies moths, and amphibians, a wide variety of

“Many people say the reason they came was for the tea and cake! The volunteers do such a great job with the cake and tea stand and the plant stall too...” species are attracted to the garden. Native species of wild flowers rub shoulders with more unusual plants. Mature trees add shade. There is also a small vegetable garden and a well organised composting area.

We fully recommend visiting this garden for one of the open days.

Above: A patch of Iris Sibirica you can see in Sally’s garden in spring Sally is the County Organiser for the National Garden Scheme in Lincolnshire.

If you would like to visit Sally’s nature-filled garden, it’s open for the National Garden Scheme on Sunday 22nd May between noon and 5pm.

n Visitors also welcome by arrangement May and June for groups of 10 or more. Admission is £3.50 with children allowed to enter for free.

Visit www.ngs.org.uk for more information.

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BEFORE: A patchy, unloved area of lawn, before the arrival of lawn treatment service Lawnmaster. This image was taken on 3rd May.

GRASS For healthier, greener looking

IT ONLY TAKES TWO WEEKS TO BEGIN TO TRANSFORM YOUR TIRED AND PATCHY, WEED-RIDDEN GRASS INTO A LAWN TO BE PROUD OF, AND THE RESULTS ONLY GET BETTER AFTER A YEAR OF TREATMENT. LAWNMASTER’S IAN STEPHENS EXPLAINS HOW TO GIVE YOUR GARDEN A TOUCH OF GRASS...

TWO WEEKS LATER: The same lawn, taken on 17th May. No returfing took place, just intensive treatment by Lawnmaster, and these are just the initial results. After six months or a year, lawns are left healthier and thicker.

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- GARDENING -

BEFORE &

AFTER

Everyone loves having a thick, healthy, green lawn, weed-free, uniform and soft. It’s a tricky thing to achieve, but if the grass is greener on the other side of your fence, don’t worry... just two weeks is all it takes to effect a dramatic change, thanks to the expertise of Ian Stephens at Lawn Master.

Established in 1990, with a franchise operation in our area since 2010, Lawn Master is a lawn treatment service with a difference - it’s staffed by experienced golfing greenkeepers, people like Ian with his 25 years in the industry - when you can have a qualified professional, why use anyone else?

Lawn Master uses a range of professional grade slow release feeds and selective weed treatments, scarifying, aerating and pest and disease control products as appropriate.

Lawn Master will survey your lawn and perform whatever action is needed to ensure not just rapid results, but the long-term health of your lawn.

RESULTS ARE VISIBLE EVEN AFTER TWO WEEKS BUT AFTER SIX MONTHS OR A YEAR, THE DIFFERENCE IS EVEN CLEARER...

Ian currently has over 750 clients, 90% of which are domestic customers, though the firm undertakes commercial work too.

Clients’ lawns range in size from 20m2 to 3,500m2, with price structures to reflect.

Above: Above images show improvement from 17th August to 9th September of a patchy lawn suffering from drought.

Ian works across Nottinghamshire and much of Lincolnshire, with prices remaining competitive despite the firm’s greenkeeping expertise.

Results are visible even after two weeks - as our ‘before and after’ shots demonstrate, but after six months or a year, the difference is even clearer. Lawns are thicker, greener and the underlying structure is more able to sustain naturally occurring new growth.

If your lawn is in desperate need of help, and you are thinking of returfing, please ask Lawn Master about the bespoke Regener8 lawn recovery system.

“No lawn that I’ve seen is beyond repair, and the products we use are unavailable on the domestic market, matched by our experience as greenkeepers. So, if you’re looking to lift your lawn in time for summer, there is still time to see a dramatic improvement in the health of your lawn.

n For a free quote, text ‘lawn’ and your postcode to 60777, call Ian or Jenny on 0800 326 5015, or visit www.lawnmaster.co.uk.

Above: From 16th May to 30th June, this drought-ravaged lawn takes on a fuller, brighter appearance.

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Your Great British garden begins with a visit to Gates...

All you need to create a beautiful garden this summer - and a great day out too!

Gates Nurseries

& Garden Centre Somerby Road, Cold Overton, LE15 7QB 01664 454309 | www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk

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n e d r a G e In Th SIX JOBS FOR MAY FROM LAVISHING SOME LOVE ON YOUR LAWN TO PLANTING SUMMER FLOWERING BULBS, IT’S TIME TO GET YOUR GROWING GOING...

Chive Talking It’s a bumper month for making the most of your kitchen garden. Sow herbs like chives, coriander, dill and parsley, as well as salad leaves, spring onions, watercress and peas. Sow brassicas, cabbage, brussels and peas into the ground.

Nurturing Nasturtiums Direct sow nasturtiums in your summer borders, or in pots and containers to brighten up a terrace.

Grow Tropaeolum minus or majus as part of a kitchen garden, to add a peppery flavour to salads.

Salvia Salvation

Growing in a Greenhouse

One of the brightest and bushiest additions to your summer bedding is Salvia.

Its aromatic foliage grows up to five feet tall. Good for well-drained soil, with new growth each spring.

Foxgloves, sweet william, wallflowers and other biennials can all be planted in seed trays.

Setting Sunflower Seeds The sight of sunflowers is a cheery one in midsummer. They can be set in their final growing position now from seed - an ideal project for the children to get involved with, perhaps as part of a competition with siblings - who can grow the tallest sunflower?

Get Trim for Summer...

If you’ve not yet completed the first cut of the season, now’s the time! Make sure your mower is professionally serviced, cut once with the blades reasonably high, then a little closer for a finer cut.

Hedging will benefit from a short back and side right now, too. ‘Multi-tool’ garden machines provide interchangable, long-reach chainsaw pruners, brushcutters and hedge trimmers.

n Our recommended Garden Centres in Lincolnshire are Johnson’s Garden Centre on Wainfleet Road, Boston 01205 363408, and Downtown Garden Centre at Downtown, Gonerby Junction, Grantham 01476 590239.

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- FARMING MATTERS -

On The Farm Discussing the state of our ‘tates...

Barry Poston, Pride’s farming expert, this month discusses potato growing , weather conditions affecting sowing times, daffodils and the unfortunate state of the livestock market at the moment...

Words: Barry Poston.

Most farmers in our area have been treated well by the weather this winter. However poorer prices for the varied commodities have been considerably reduced and most farmers are expecting poorer returns.

Weather in April has been considerate with delayed sowings of sugar beet, peas and cereals being sown.

The vining pea crop has been considerably hindered due to colder and drier weather.

Sugar beet due to be sown in warmer conditions whilst reduced acreage will have taken place.

Spring sown cereals are less affected with the time of sowing. Potatoes can be planted a little later, especially those which have ‘chits’ on them.

These chits have been grown in temperature controlled stores or in glass houses, the latter being a lot more expensive with the use of chitting trays etc.

Potatoes grow a lot earlier when these methods are used, the chits giving the crop a good early start at planting time.

A few daffodils are now grown mainly to augment the extra flowers after the Cornwall daffs. Many growers used to grow the actual bulb crop. The bulbs grown in forcing sheds

also provided flowers around Christmas time. However prices were poor and this expensive operation ceased to continue.

Another crop has been brought into supply.

Maize is now grown to produce the gas to several anaerobic digester plants which are seen to be rising above the ground at several plants.

The additional advantage of spring sown and cultivated maize is the advantage of blackgrass control.

The sowing of the vining pea crop has been disrupted by the early cold spring weather as these crops mature at specific times to enable the peas to be harvested and

processed to provide the crop at the best condition.

Once again I have to report poor returns for milk, cattle, sheep and especially pigs.

No doubt the local arable farmers in the area will not be suffering as much due to the prices obtained.

Barry Poston is the area’s foremost farming expert with a long history working in both arable and livestock environments. He has seen a great many changes in the county’s main industry!

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A-Z

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- NATURE -

The

of Lincolnshire’s Nature

FROM THE ADDER’S TONGUE TO THE ZEBRA SPIDER, LINCOLNSHIRE BOASTS SOME OF THE UK’S RICHEST BIODIVERSITY, AND AS GIBRALTAR POINT’S NEW VISITOR’S CENTRE PREPARES TO REOPEN FOLLOWING THE DESTRUCTION OF THE PREVIOUS ONE IN THE 2013 FLOODS, WE’VE Words: Rob Davis.

A COMPENDIUM OF SPECIES, FROM CREEPY-CRAWLIES, TO FLORA AND FAUNA...

A is for Avocet...

What is it? A scarce wader, the avocet is about the same size as an oystercatcher but much more slender. It feeds on aquatic insects, worms and crustaceans which it finds by sweeping its bill from side-toside in shallow water.

How will I spot it?

Unmistakeable: mainly white with black patches on the back and wings.

The avocet is most recognised by its long, black, upturned bill.

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B is for Badger...

What is it? There are only about 288,000 badgers left in the UK. These short, stout powerful animals are a nocturnal species, omnivorous and protected from harm by law under a 1992 act.

How will I spot it? Badgers are increasingly finding themselves in urban areas. It’s an offence to interfere with them or their sett.

They can be observed from dusk but beware of wearing strong smells or making a noise - badgers are easily startled.

Webcams and similar can best help you to observe them.

C is for Cuckoo...

D is for Deadly Nightshade...

What is it? Infamous and highly poisonous plant famed for its shiny black berries. Found on chalky soils.

What is it? Summer visitors, cheeky birds who steal other birds’ nests and lay their eggs in other nests.

How will I spot it?

Adults can be seen from April and the species departs in July or August. Look out for a bird with grey upper parts, head and chest, and white underparts. Cuckoos have a sleek body with long tail and pointed wings.

Above: Cuckoo.

Right: Deadly Nightshade.

How will I spot it? Bell-shaped flowers appear from June to August, with oval pointed leaves and berries which turn from green to black, closely resembling cherries.

Also known as Belladonna, avoid this attractive but deadly plant which induces severe respiratory distress.

E is for Emperor...

What is it? The Emperor Dragonfly is one of the largest species of dragonfly, often found near wetlands and lakes.

How will I spot it? Found between June and August.

Pale blue with apple green thorax.

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- NATURE -

F is for Fallow Deer...

What is it? A larger species than muntjac deer, which are about the size of a Labrador or similar breed of dog.

Widespread in less densely populated areas of Lincolnshire, on farmland, and in woodland.

The animals can run up to 30mph, and bucks have large antlers which are shovel-shaped.

How will I spot it?

A fallow deer can be spotted by its larger size approx 1.7m long and standing 1m tall.

Life expectancy is about 16 years, and does give birth to their fawns in June and July after a 229 day gestation.

Peak activity for the animals is around dusk and dawn, binoculars will help to get a good view of these timid creatures.

G is for Grass Snake...

What is it? The Grass Snake (natrix natix) is the UK’s largest species of snake, and it likes wetland habitats like Lincolnshire’s nature reserves in particular.

How will I spot it? Grass snakes hibernate from October until April. Out of these months, grass snakes can be seen near ponds, in rotting vegetation like composting areas, or even swimming.

Usually green with black and yellow markings especially around the collar. Females are larger than males, and the species can grow to just over a metre in length.

Left: Fallow deer.

Below: Grass snake.

“IVY MAY BE A FAIRLY MUNDANE SIGHT IN OUR GARDENS, BUT ITS PRESENCE IS REALLY INVALUABLE FOR BATS AND ROOSTING BIRDS.”

H is for ‘Hog

What is it? Only 1.5m of these prickly creatures are left in the UK. Populations are under threat from warmer weather which causes the creatures to wake early from hibernation.

See them in gardens, but avoid feeding them bread and milk - cat food is best.

I is for Ivy

What is it? This evergreen shrub is a familiar sign in pretty much every garden.

Retain areas of it in your garden as it makes a good roosting site for birds and bats.

J is for Jay...

What is it? Bird species closely related to the crow. Typically seen around autumn.

How will I spot it? Look out for a bird around 34cm in length with a wing span of about half a metre. Jays are buff-coloured with white wings that have bright blue flashes.

You’ll also recognise the Jay through its distinctive screaming ‘caw’ call.

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K is for Knapweed...

What is it? Knapweed (sometimes known as Black Knapweed), is in bloom from June to September, with bright pink flowers and long ragged bracts which resemble a thistle.

L is for Lapwing...

What is it? Lincolnshire’s farmland areas are probably the best places in the UK to see this red list bird.

The lapwing is classified as a Priority Species in the UK, under the country’s Biodiversity Action plan.

Grows up to a metre tall adjacent to roadsides and is a real favourite of butterflies.

N is for Natterjack Toad

Retain it in your garden as a good source of nectar for bees to ensure rich biodiversity.

THE COUNTY’S GIBRALTAR POINT REOPENS THIS SUMMER WITH THE CREATION OF A NEW £1M VISITOR’S CENTRE ON THE SITE...

How will I spot it?

This hardy plant will grow in almost any place and can be seen in many natural spaces from June to September.

What is it? Another protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, the

M is for Mallard...

How will I spot it?

Long crest with black and white pattern which is iridescent close-up. Head to Gibraltar Point, Far Ings or to Freiston Shore for a glimpse.

Natterjack is a smaller toad than the common variety, about 7cm long and weighing less than 20g.

How will I spot it? Most abundant around sand dunes and in shallow pools.

What is it? The most common duck species in the UK, with a population of around 710,000 birds and 146,000 breeding pairs.

How will I spot it? You won’t need to go far to see a mallard your local watercourse will be teeming with them!

A small population is found at the Saltfleetby and Theddlethorpe Dunes reserves. Interestingly, Sir Joseph Banks knew of the species from near his home at Revesby Abbey so we know it was once found inland.

Main Image: Lapwing.

Above in Roundel: Natterjack toad.

Roundels, Above/Left: Jay and mallard bird species.

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- NATURE -

O is for Ox-eye Daisy...

What is it? The daisy that grows in lawns is one of the most common wildflower species.

The ox-eye daisy is a taller plant with larger flowers.

How will I spot it?

Ox-eye daisies aren’t likely to be in people’s gardens.

Look for them on road verges, wasteground and along field edges deliberately looked after for wildflowers. Include them in wildflower meadows to create plentiful food for bees.

Q is for Queen Bee...

What is it? Maintaining bee populations is essential for biodiversity. A bee colony typically contains around 60,000 workers, with a queen bee, and there are over 275 species of bumblebees alone, world wide.

How will I spot it? Create a bee haven with one of a number of commercially available ‘bee boxes’ and by ensuring your harden has a good provision of wild flowers that like to encourage pollination like clover and Buddleia.

What is it? Common and grey seals, are usually found on the East Coast in areas like Donna Nook, the former RAF site, now a reserve home to grey seals and about 250 s pecies of coastal wildlife in total.

BEE POPULATIONS HAVE BEEN IN DECLINE SINCE THE 1930S, AND IF THE TREND CONTINUES, THEIR LOSS WILL HAVE A SEVERE IMPACT ON THE FOOD CHAIN

P is for Peacock Butterfly...

What is it? One of the top five butterfly species in the UK (the Gatekeeper and Large White are the most common 42,754 were counted in the 2015 Big Butterfly Count.

How will I spot it?

The best way to spot UK butterflies is to ensure your garden provides plenty of food by creating wildflower meadows with species like trefoil and sorrel.

R is for Roe Deer...

What is it? The Roe deer is Lincolnshire’s most common species, and wild examples can frequently be spotted over open fields.

Roe deer are about 1.4m long and 70cm tall.

How will I spot it? Slender, medium sized and with short antlers and no tail. Mostly brown but slightly darker in the summer.

They can be seen throughout the year, but the roe deer grows its antlers in from about November.

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S is for Seal...

How will I spot it?

Common seals are common The Wash, they can be seen at Gibraltar Point hauled out on the sand banks.

Seals can be seen along the coast at all times of year. The grey seals at Donna Nook are popular with visitors because in November and December they come to the top of the beach to give birth to their pups. It’s an incredible wildlife spectacle and very unusual to be able to get so close to wild animals.

LWT manages Donna Nook to allow people to visit and see the seals, whilst minimising the risk of disturbance.

The Trust asks people to follow the Visitor Guidelines and if possible visit during the week rather than at the weekend.

>>

ALTHOUGH THE TAWNY OWL IS NOT DECLINING THEIR WOODLAND HABITATS ARE DISAPPEARING AND THE INTENSIFICATION OF AGRICULTURE HAS REDUCED THE AVAILABILITY OF THEIR SMALL MAMMAL PREY...

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T is for Tawny Owl...

What is it? The UK’s most common owl species, around 40cm in length, with a wing span of around a metre and a lifespan of about four years.

How will I spot it? Chestnut brown with heavy streaks and a broad, round head. At least ten calls - they’re the most common species to use the ‘too-wit toowoo call, and there are around 50,000 breeding pair in the UK. Each female lays two to four eggs in early April, with an incubation period of around a month. The male feeds the brood for a month or so, before the youngsters fledge around a month and a half later.

The tawny owl lives in deciduous and coniferous woodland, wooded farmland and parkland. It can also be found in towns where there are large trees, such as in parks and churchyards.

The birds usually nests in hollow trees or barns, so it’s there you’ll typically find them.

Tawny owls do have fixed territories which they patrol very conscientiously and appear to know very well.

However, within the territory their roosting place is regularly changed.

Look for the birds’ pellets as evidence of habitation.

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- NATURE -

U is for ‘You Can Help Too...’

Lincolnshire’s Wildlife Trust is one of 47 such trusts in the UK and has a membership of 26,000. Membership provides three copies of the Trust’s Lapwings magazine each year, a map of nature reserves in the county and an events guide with over 350 guided walks, family events and wildlife talks, as well as the knowledge that you’re helping to support Lincolnshire’s previous wildlife.

X is for Extent...

V is for Vipers Bugloss...

What is it? A very distinctive plant with spikes of purple-blue flowers. It is in bloom from May to September and provides food for a range of insects including bumblebees, painted lady butterflies and six-spot burnet moths.

How will I spot it? Found on coastal sand dunes at Gibraltar Point and SaltfleetbyTheddlethope Dunes National Nature Reserves.

W is for Waxwing...

What is it? A common visitor to the county in winter. Starling sized and found in Lincolnshire’s woodlands environment its Wolds Limewoods and Snipe Dales, for example.

How will I spot it? An unmistakable bird seen from October to March, with a pink crest and breast, black ‘mask’ and throat, and a black tail tipped with bright yellow.

The extent that nature contributes to the county’s economy was revealed recently as Dr Simon Woodward from Leeds Beckett University delivered research into the value to Greater Lincolnshire of nature tourism. “Our research suggests that nature tourism in Greater Lincolnshire already generates around £58 million for the economy every year, supporting more than 850 jobs. It is important, therefore, that we make the most of the opportunities that exist to get visitors to think a little bit more about the landscapes they are enjoying and the wildlife that lives here.

Y is for Yellow Rattle...

What is it? Once seen as an indicator of poor quality grassland, yellow rattle is now seen as a valuable conservation species, feeding off different grass species in order to allow more delicate species to push their way through.

How will I spot it? Yellow-rattle has yellow, tube-like flowers protruding from an inflated, green calyx, which appear May to September. It has serrated leaves with heavy, dark veins, which sprout opposite each other all the way up the stem.

Its stems have black spots.

A common plant species across Lincolnshire’s farmland and grassland environment, yellow rattle typically grows up to 25cm tall and is dubbed the meadowmaker’s helper, ideal for those keen to create an environment conducive to bees.

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Main Image: Gibraltar Point.

Above in Roundel: Waxwings.

Right in Roundel: Lincolnshire farmland.

Z is for Zebra Spider...

What is it? Arachnophobes may wish to look away now, as this common jumping spider can be found on walls, rocks and trees in virtually any habitat around Lincolnshire, urban and rural.

How will I spot it? A small spider, with a large body, so-called because of its black and white markings. Usually 7mm in length, the spider pounces on its prey, rather than constructing webs.

LOOK OUT FOR THE ZEBRA ‘JUMPING’ SPIDER IN VIRTUALLY ANY LINCOLNSHIRE HABITAT - IT POUNCES ON ITS POOR PREY...!

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A NEW NATURE VISITOR CENTRE FOR NATURE LOVERS Construction is nearly complete of a spectacular new £1m visitor centre at Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve which is due to open in late spring or early summer 2016.

The new building work will include a café and educational information.

It replaces the former visitor centre, which suffered extensive flood damage during the storm surge in December 2013. The new building will be raised on stilts to protect it from any future flooding.

Cllr Colin Davie, Executive Member for Economic Development at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “The new visitor centre has been designed to make the most of the reserve’s stunning views, with expansive windows facing the dunes and sea, and a rooftop viewing deck.

Paul Learoyd, Chief Executive, Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, said: “We have worked with the county council at Gibraltar Point for over 65 years, and look forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come.

Gibraltar Point has been popular for generations - the new centre will hopefully encourage more visitors to discover this wonderful reserve.”

The project is being funded by Lincolnshire County Council (£430k), the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust (£200k) and the Government’s Coastal Communities Fund (£420k). n For more information on the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, the new Gibraltar Point Visitor Centre and Trust membership call 01507 526667 or see www.lincstrust.org.uk.

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ARCHITECTURAL

GARDEN ORNAMENTS

Enhance the look of your garden - from our range of Old Stone Troughs, Urns, Staddle Stones & Planters.

‘Finders’ service, delivery and collection available.

Call 07773 997437 or email jandpmackey@btinternet.com 118

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- NATURE -

Nature Discovering birds of prey in

Richard Owens is out looking for birds of prey this month, in particular, the kestrel.

It’s one of the most common birds of prey in the country and Richard is focusing on its habits, habitats, and its prey this month...

Last month, I wrote about a species that although not native to the UK, is well and truly colonised not just in our county but all over most of the UK too: the secretive muntjac deer.

Kestrels don’t build their own nests. They use old nests of other large birds such as crows, or a hole in a tree, a crevice in a wall, or even on ledges on buildings.

Kestrel boxes can do very well, indeed one that I put up at Boston West Golf Centre a few years ago yielded 15 chicks in three years.

This month I’ve decided to write about a species that is native to the UK and one that I’ve been up close and personal with on more than a few occasions - the beautiful kestrel.

One of our smallest and most common birds of prey, I’m sure many of us have seen them either sitting on top of pylons, on the wires or simply hovering by beating their wings rapidly or using the wind to stabilise itself above the grass verge searching out its next meal. I see quite a lot of them on my daily commute to work and I never tire of their presence.

The one thing that I find frustrating though is that kestrels as well as barn owls spend so much time hunting by the roadside. This of course makes them quite vulnerable to injury or worse from road users.

The barn owl will always be most at risk though as they have poor vision and rely heavily upon their acute sense of hearing, and will therefore stay quite close to the ground.

Kestrels, on the other hand, hunt very much with their eyes and can therefore search for their prey from a higher vantage point swooping down and pinning its dinner to the

Boxes provide the ideal opportunity to ring the chicks so that in the future we are able to monitor survival rates, age and population trends.

If you have somewhere to put up a box, ensure that it is approximately 12 feet off the ground, that there is a clear flight path in and out and most importantly that it is well away from any major roads.

ground with its strong claws. The grass verges tend to be a quite prolific habitat for small mammals including field voles, shrews, mice and kestrels have even been recorded feeding on moles.

If you’re unsure of their identity, the kestrel is easy to recognise with its barred brown plumage, reddish back, pale under-parts, black cheek flashes and bar on the tail feathers.

The male and female are almost alike, but the male has a blue-grey head, rump and tail, and the female has a brown barred head and tail.

If you already have an owl box then this too may be used by kestrels.

Please enjoy seeing this beautiful bird of prey if you manage to spot it as you travel around the countryside.

n Richard has spent his career promoting bio-diversity within the world of turf and is a former UK Golf Course Conservation Greenkeeper of the Year.

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WORLD CLASS HORSEMANSHIP THE FOURTH YEAR OF ROCKINGHAM INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS WILL BE HELD IN ROCKINGHAM CASTLE’S GREAT PARK FEATURING DRESSAGE, CROSS COUNTRY AND SHOW JUMPING AT BE100, NOVICE, INTERMEDIATE, CIC* CIC** LEVEL AS WELL AS OTHER EQUESTRIAN DISCIPLINES...

Words: Hilary Manners. Images: John Whowell, Adam Fanthorpe & Hilary Manners.

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- ROCKINGHAM HORSE TRIALS -

Now in its fourth year, the Rockingham International Horse Trials gets bigger and better every year. Not only is it a firm favourite in the calendars of many of the best event riders in the world, an ever-increasing number of spectators flock to Rockingham Castle every May to enjoy a combination of top class sport, interesting country demonstrations and fabulous shopping.

With the stunning 11th century home of the Saunders-Watson family nestled on the hillside and breathtaking views across the Welland valley, Rockingham Castle is the perfect location to enjoy an entertaining day out with all the family.

As in previous years, the 2016 event boasts attractions for all tastes and ages.

While entries for the eventing classes have yet to open at the time of going to press, equestrian fans can be sure of the opportunity to watch riders who will later be heading out to Rio for the 2016 Olympic Games.

WORLD CLASS TALENT...

Every year the organisers are blown away as entries rocket in, running in to four figures as competitors rush to book their place.

Sir Mark Todd was last year’s recipient of a stunning hand made English watch, donated by the Official Timekeeper, Robert Loomes & Co from Stamford; the odds are that he will be back to bid for the pair.

He’s likely to have to fend off stiff competition in the form of 2015 British European Championship squad members Izzy Taylor and Kitty King, New Zealand Olympians Caroline Powell and Blyth Tait, and the cream of the cream from around the world; last year 16 nations were represented at the event.

YOUNG EVENT HORSE QUALIFIERS It's not all about eventing though. Burghley Young Event Horse qualifiers will run on the Friday, showcasing the equine stars of the future, with British Showjumping, Pony Club and Arena Eventing classes featuring at the weekend.

With a new sponsor, Met Zurich, supporting the Pony Club classes, one lucky young rider will take home a £500 training bursary so competition is sure to be hot.

The organisers are ringing the changes with this year’s attractions. The Nuneaton Dog Display team, X-Treme Falconry and

climbing wall will all return. Making Rockingham debuts are the Mullencote Gun dogs and the Empingham dog agility team; the latter will be running a ‘have-a-go’ arena so that spectators can put their canine family members to the test.

COUNTING DOWN...

Event Administrator Andrew Norman knows very well the importance of catering for the less horse-minded members of the family, and to that end there are also catering outlets to suit all tastes, along with a large, on-site bar. “There truly is something for every member of a family - if you felt so inclined you could spend a whole day barely setting eyes on a horse!” promises Andrew.

With the clock ticking, work both on the ground and in the office is picking up pace.

volunteers are being allocated their roles, stables have been ordered, tentage confirmed, tradestand bookings finalised, and all the while that all-important ground work continues.

EQUESTRIAN FANS CAN BE SURE OF THE CHANCE TO WATCH RIDERS WHO WILL LATER BE HEADING OUT TO RIO FOR THE 2016 OLYMPIC GAMES...

Local hotels, pubs and restaurants, who benefit from event-related bookings, are also looking forward to the annual surge in business.

“Expanding the number and type of classes that we can offer at the Horse Trials is very exciting.

“The more riders and spectators who can experience our ever-more action packed

programme, and enjoy the stunning parkland at Rockingham Castle, the better.

We are counting down to the arrival of the riders, horses, owners and spectators with our usual excitement; visitors can be sure of a warm welcome at this year’s Rockingham International Horse Trials,” Andrew concludes.

SHOP TILL YOU DROP...

Don't forget to raid your piggy banks ahead of arriving at Rockingham. visitors can buy everything from a Land Rover or hand made Robert Loomes English watch to clothing, jewellery, gifts and homeware. Fairfax & Favour’s stylish shoes and boots are always popular, while Mackensie & George’s stunning hand made leather belts are making a first appearance at the show.

ROCKINGHAM CASTLE - history and horsemanship...

The Rockingham International Horse Trials has existed in its current incarnation since 2013, when the event was moved from Brigstock to Rockingham Castle. The building was built on the instruction of William the Conqueror in 1086 and has been the Saunders Watsons’ family’s home for 450 years.

Today, visitors can enjoy a walk about the castle on a ‘freeflow’ basis, or a more structured tour beginning ‘below stairs.’ There’s a programme of events including the Flashback Festival (Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th July offering a fantastic programme of live music. See www.theflashbackfestival.com).

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ROCKINGHAM INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS NEED TO KNOW When is it on?

Rockingham’s Horse Trials takes place over the weekend of the 20th - 22nd May 2016.

Where is it based?

It’s all happening in the parkland of Rockingham Castle, set your sat nav to LE16 8TH.

What can I see?

Top class sport, made up of many of the best event riders in the world, plus the stars of the future in the Young Event horse competition, and ever-competitive members of the Pony Club.

What does it cost? £10 per person on Friday and £15 per person on Saturday or Sunday.

Tickets purchased online prior to the event are reduced to £7 on Friday and £12 Saturday/Sunday.

A weekend ticket can also be bought, in advance only, for £30.

Where can I find out more: For more information on all aspects of the Event visit www.rockingham castlehorsetrials.com, and you can find them on Twitter @rockinghamLIvE! Alternatively, call 01536 770240.

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- ROCKINGHAM HORSE TRIALS -

“THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE WHETHER IT’S SHOPPING IN THE TRADE STANDS, FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT OR ENJOYING THE EQUESTRIAN COMPETITION IT’S SURE TO BE A FULL DAY OUT...”

There will be a comprehensive range of equestrian shops, including voltaire saddles and regular horse trials supporters Tiggas Saddlery.

You can even buy a photograph of your favourite rider competing at Rockingham from the onsite official photographer, Julia Shearwood.

The numerous food outlets offer both snacks and meals on the day and delicious goodies to take home with you. The Brownie Company is a particularly hard stand to walk past, while other stall holders market delicious jams, pickles, cheeses and sweets.

Rockingham Castle is a stunning location, built in 1066 on the instructions of William the Conqueror himself. Today, as well as being a family home, it’s also the home of an international class sporting event, a country show and a great family day out, whether your passion is horses, or a day spent at one of the area’s best local attractions. n 123

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AFFAIRS International

Elizabeth and Ashley’s wedding in Spalding was an international affair; it wasn’t just a union of the couple, it was an alliance between the Brits and the Yanks! Stars and stripes meet the Union flag in this family wedding held at three beautiful venues...

Words: Tilly Wilkinson. Photographer: Charlotte Maddison, 01205 872182, www.charlottemaddison-photography.co.uk.

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Weddings symbolise the union between a couple in love. But Elizabeth and Ashley’s wedding is not only an alliance in love, but an alliance between the Yanks and the Brits.

“Ashley and I met through mutual friends after he moved to the US to coach football,” says Elizabeth. “My family is from New Jersey, just outside New York City, and Ashley’s family is in Spalding.”

“Our first step in planning was to decide which side of the pond to have our wedding.

We decided on England to be able to celebrate with Ashley’s entire family. So much of our lives are now in the US, it was important to us that this milestone was in England.”

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“It was a no-brainer at that point to decide on Spalding, Ashley’s hometown. We were fortunate to have had the support of both set of our parents, and it was wonderful to be able to celebrate with everyone.”

“Planning from 4,000 miles away was difficult, but we were lucky to work with some incredible suppliers. Our entire wedding was planned via email and Skype, and would not have been possible without the tremendous help from our parents, Ashley’s parents, and the patience of everyone from our florist to the vicar of St. Mary and St. Nicolas.”

“Planning our wedding was truly a group effort. Ashley had a lot of insight about Lincolnshire and was onboard with helping to plan from day one. My parents and

“We didn’t have a theme when planning the wedding - we wanted the day to be a real celebration of our union and include all of our favourite things...”

Photography: Charlotte Maddison, 01205 872182, www.charlottemaddison-photography.co.uk.

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- WEDDINGS -

Right: The couple opted for a ‘naked cake’ for their wedding from Cakes by Adele.

Top: The beautiful bouquet featured pink and white roses, suiting their ‘touch of pink’ wedding well.

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- WEDDINGS -

Main: The guests pictured outside the marquee at Ashley’s parent’s house.

Photographer: Charlotte Maddison, 01205 872182, www.charlotte maddison-photography.co.uk.

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Ashley’s parents were also very involved.”

“We didn’t have a theme when planning the wedding - we wanted the day to be a real celebration of our union and include all of our favourite things.”

“Our ceremony took place at the Parish Church of St. Mary and St. Nicolas in Spalding. The church is gorgeous.”

“We were nervous beforehand, but the vicar, John Bennett, was warm and funny.

My sister and best friend, who flew over from New York, gave readings and everyone sung hymns.”

“We were played out of the church on the organ to our song, Love is All Around by The Troggs.”

“Our reception was at Cley Hall Hotel, just down the road from the church. We had a

classical guitarist, Ed Peczek, who played brilliantly throughout the entire event. We all got teary-eyed at my father’s speech.”

“After the reception at Cley Hall, Ashley’s parents threw a beautiful dinner reception in their back garden. The tent was beautifully decorated, the caterers were spectacular, and they even created a bar from the antique bathtub that was originally in the house.”

“After saying goodbye to our families, we jetted off to Corfu for our honeymoon.

The weather was beautiful, and we enjoyed exploring the island.”

“Our wedding was beyond our expectations, and we are grateful to our families and friends for making the day unforgettable.”

Elizabeth & Ashley’s Wedding

Church: St. Mary & St. Nicolas, 01775 722772, www.stmaryandstnicolas.org.uk.

Reception: Cley Hall Hotel, 01775 725157, www.cleyhall.com.

Photographer: Charlotte Maddison, 01205 872182, www.charlotte maddison-photography.co.uk.

Flowers & Decor: Flowers N’ Things, 01775 724297, www.flowersnthings-spalding.co.uk.

Cake: Cakes by Adele, 01406 258643, www.cakesbyadele.co.uk.

Caterer: OK Catering, 01775 762469, www.okcatering.co.uk.

Guitarist: Ed Peczek Wedding Guitarist, 07859 41372, www.edpeczek.co.uk.

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The National

WEDDING SHOW Lincolnshire Pride’s sister magazine UKbride recently took the team across the country to experience The National Wedding Show held at both the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham and London Olympia...

Words: Tilly Wilkinson.

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- WEDDINGS -

The National Wedding Show. It seems a little odd to feature an event with that title in a county magazine. However, Lincolnshire Pride’s sister magazine UKbride, recently took the team to the national event in London and Birmingham.

The shows are the perfect solution for brides struggling to find certain suppliers or looking for ideas, or if you’re in the first stages of wedding planning.

You’ll find beautiful stands at both London Olympia and the NEC in Birmingham, full of flowers, cake, dresses, and all of the other wedding necessities.

There are thousands of wedding dresses to suit all styles and budgets, showcasing the very best in the Boutique and Designer Areas.

You can have a liquid lunch at the Champagne Bar or tea and cake in the Rock n Roll Café. If you’re wanting something a little extra, get the vIP Treatment in the vIP Lounge with a goody bag packed with freebies.

There are other freebies throughout the day including magazines, manicures, makeovers, massages and plenty of cake!

There are also Catwalk Shows throughout the day for you to find the dress you’ll walk down the aisle in. >>

Opposite/Main: A bride with her bridal party enjoying a glass of champagne in the Champagne Bar. Opposite/Top: Savoury cheese cakes are becoming increasingly popular.

This page: The wedding show brings brides to the suppliers - find toast masters, cake shops, thousands of wedding dress designers, florists, and of course models showing brides the best in the industry.

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>> The Catwalk Show at the National Wedding Show is the largest wedding catwalk in the UK.

Watch as some of the industry’s most talented designers pick their favourite pieces to showcase, and whether you’re shopping for the one or for dresses for individual members of your bridal party, there really is something for everyone.

The dresses featured on this page at the National Wedding Show Catwalk in Birmingham’s NEC and London’s Olympia are from all sorts of designers from Berketex Bride, to Debenhams Wedding Collection, to Ronald Joyce and Alfred Angelo.

The style of the catwalk covers all sorts of wedding themes and the dresses shown are all different styles.

Menswear, bridal underwear, bridesmaid dresses and mother of the bride dresses are also all featured on The National Wedding Show’s catwalk. n

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Opposite/Top Left: Nigel Rayment Luis Civit for the mother of the bride.

Opposite/Top: Berketex Bride.

Opposite/Centre: Qiana Bridal.

Opposite/Right: Debenhams.

Main: Ronald Joyce - Because I Love You collection.

Top/Right: Youngs Hire for the groom or groomsmen.

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2016 WEDDING TRENDS Dessert vs Cake: Desserts have started to become a preference over cake recently.

Can a tiramisu really go up against a three tier wedding cake? Apparently so.

Effortless Beauty: Hairstyles have become a lot more relaxed in the wedding world. There are less formal updos or tight curls, and rather simple styles.

Backs are back: Open back wedding dresses are popular, with the models at the National Wedding Show, showing off bare skin on the Catwalk.

Blushes and creams: Hairstyling isn’t the only element of weddings that has become more relaxed. General weddings have chosen the effortless beauty still with cream and blush colours.

Different Dresses: Separate style dresses for bridesmaids is a big change to hit the wedding world this year, with brides steering away from the uniform look and, with all key elements at the moment, relaxing and letting their maids have a little freedom.

>>

The wedding industry is a market that is constantly changing. Every year, the general style of weddings is different and this year, we’ve seen a great change in weddings.

Over the past five years, weddings have been quite formal with neat bouquets, tight updos, and most weddings held in stately homes or grand marquees.

This year, weddings seem to take a more relaxed approach with liberal bouquets, loose hairstyles, and receptions held in venues that like to party a little more.

Men have diverged from formal suit and tie to braces and bowties, two piece dresses have started to become a fashionable style of wedding dress showing bare skin around the waist, and bridesmaids who aren’t in uniformed dresses, with brides choosing different styles for each maid.

This relaxed wedding style turns the focus to enjoying the day and enjoying the marriage rather than the concept of a big white wedding, which is what the more traditional weddings seemed to focus on. n To discover the other bridal trends of 2016, visit www.ukbride.co.uk, Lincolnshire Pride’s sister company. This is full of ideas and planning advice for brides-to-be. If you’re a bride-to-be, sign up for free to be in with the chance of winning a £25,000 wedding competition and receive a free UKbride magazine.

Opposite Page: Macarons are a great idea for wedding cakes - it means you don’t have to cut the masterpiece! Peony flowers are a beautiful idea for bouquets.

Above: Braces, bow ties and even shorts for summer weddings are what men are beginning to wear more.

Right: Weddings are more of a party nowadays, with the formality of a traditional wedding becoming a little more relaxed.

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- FASHION -

white

HOT You’ll find the latest high summer trends at Coney’s of Boston. The business was established in 1856, but its provision of fashion is as modern and on-trend as you’ll find in any metropolitan city...

Words & Images: Rob Davis.

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Opening Page/Below: Ted Baker Trellis dress £169 with elastane ‘stretch’ properties. White hedge-heels £120. Large bag £179 - also available clutch/purse £85.

Coney’s of Boston may possess more than 160 years of provenance in the town, but its fashions are absolutely cutting edge.

That’s especially true in 2016 following a refurbishment and the introduction of new key brands for the high summer season.

“We’ve embarked on a mini-refit and reinvented the family firm, retaining the established values of exceptional service and trustworthy advice, whilst introducing new brands like Michael Kors, Weekend by Max Mara, French Connection and Saint Tropez,” says Carl Jacklin.

“Alongside our key brands of Armani, Ted Baker and Tommy Hilfiger, we’re ensuring that daughter, mother and granddaughter will all find essentials, key pieces and accessories for any occasion this season.

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Opposite Page: Main image shows Ted Baker jump suit £150.

Left/Bottom: Tommy Hilfiger white skater dress £155, with Tommy Hilfiger indigo wrap/shawl £135.

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Right: Max Mara Weekend coral jumper, with honeycomb knit ÂŁ139 and silk-mix lightweight skirt ÂŁ169 - trousers in same design/material also available.

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Left: shows model Alicia McLaren in a Second Female denim dress £93 with Ted Baker brogues £105.

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Main Image/Above: Tommy Hilfiger Cathleen denim dress £140, which Coney’s stylist Carl Jacklin accessorised with Tommy Hilfiger shoes £105 and bag £call.

Find Out More: Many thanks to stylist Carl Jacklin and our model Alicia McLaren. Our shoot took place in Boston’s town park and in-store.

All outfits available from Coney’s of Boston.

34-36 Wide Bargate, Boston, PE21 6RX or 255 High Street, Lincoln LN2 1HW or 3 Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL. Call 01205 311 355 or 01522 511 187 or 01780 481 298. coneysdesignerwear.co.uk.

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Bespoke & Made to Measure Suits by a Savile Row Tailor, Andrew Musson

Andrew J Musson Bespoke Tailor of Lincoln

CALL TODAY TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT FOR A BESPOKE OR MADE TO MEASURE SUIT. 39 High Street, Lincoln LN5 8AS

Tel: (01522) 520142 info@andrewjmusson.com www.andrewjmusson.com

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GENTLE PEELING Release your inner radiance with Clarins Peeling Away Cream.

This gentle facial scrub contains pollutionabsorbing natural clay and skin-loving primrose extract to unlock the doors to a fresh rosy complexion. Apply like a face mask on clean dry skin, leave for a minute, then remove with light sweeping motions using fingertips, £25.

g n i n a e l C g Sprin

FOR THE SKIN

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LINCOLNSHIRE BEAUTY BLOGGER JOHN ROHNAN-WHARFF’S MOST INNOVATIVE EXFOLIATORS TO ENSURE YOUR SKIN IS FRESHLY SCRUBBED FOR SPRING...

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A CHARCOAL SCRUB

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JUST FOR MEN

Detoxify the skin with this jet-black charcoal-activated body & face scrub. This clever scrub absorbs the nasty toxins and pollutants, whilst bamboo extract provides gentle exfoliation removing dead skin cells revealing those fresh, healthy new skin cells, £17.98.

REVITALISE SKIN

This smart silver pen resurfaces skin bumps and fine lines. With its liquid-like texture, smoothing away fine lines and bumpy skin never felt so simple! £40.11.

RUBY EXFOLIATION

Formulated with 100% exfoliating pure ruby crystals. Red tea extract decreases skin ageing, and tightens enlarged pores whilst Hyaluronic Acid leaves skin looking plumped and feeling supple, £85.

TINGLE

GET READY TO

Be prepared to tingle!

Resurfacing face pads are a great alternative for those who don’t like using abrasive face scrubs. Malin + Goetz face pads offer real glycolic power by deeply exfoliating skin with a single swipe over the face, it’s as easy as that! They do a grand job at reducing the appearance of pesky wrinkles too, £38.

n John Rohnan-Wharff is a beauty and makeup blogger, who reviews & rates products at www.mr-wharff.com. All products available from good independent local stockists unless otherwise stated, prices are RRP. 145

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Changing Lives

WITH MODERN DENTISTRY

The dedicated and professional team at the Dental Health Centre in Grantham aims to change lives with modern dentistry. We make every effort to get to know our patients and allay any fears they may have so they look forward to their dental visits with us.

Our practice doesn’t look – or smell - like a traditional dental practice.

The Dental Health Centre is a modern building that has been decorated with our patients in mind. It is equipped with the latest in dental technology to provide a painless, precise and perfect outcome.

The Dental Health Centre excels in providing quality dentistry, hygiene therapy and cosmetic treatments and has built an enviable reputation across the East Midlands for our dental implant procedures.

We are one of very few dental practices to have invested in a 3D dental CT scanner. Our state-of-the-art scanner makes dental implant treatment, safer, quicker and more accurate for our patients and makes us one of the most technologically advanced dental clinics in the area.

Everyone at our practice is committed to providing the very best in dental health care.

n Call one of our friendly team on 01476 594480 or visit our website.The Dental Health Centre, 3 Avenue Road, Grantham, NG31 6TA. www.dentalhealthcentre.co.uk 146

“The team is fantastic and they know who I am. I’m not just a number here and you get a very personal service.”

Robyn B, Lincoln “The staff are so warm and friendly and they greet you by name. I’m thrilled to bits that I’ve found a dentist who listens to me, my fears and my concerns and treats me accordingly,” Sandy B, Spridlington “Right from the beginning Colin Sutton was technically excellent and I felt very confident about his competence and ability to find a solution that was best for me.

He has moved with the times and made sure he is always at the forefront of dentistry.”

Elizabeth P, Grantham

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Purveyors of Luxury Eyewear Since 1979

Children’s frames from Ray Ban and Wolf Cubs - just two of the quality brands available at O’Briens.

43/44 Wrawby Street, Brigg, North Lincolnshire DN20 8BS Tel: 01652 653 595. Web: www.obriensopticians.co.uk

Call for an appointment or pop in to view our latest designer eyewear.

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To view and purchase photographs from The Event visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk

Bollywood in Lincoln

for the Inner Wheel and Rotarians of Bailgate...

The Inner Wheel Club and its Rotarian group held a valentine’s Bollywood event at MaCh restaurant on Wragby Road last month. The event was attended by around 50 members who dressed in colourful authentic Bollywood dresses and enjoyed a meal at the contemporary Indian restaurant. n For more information see www.rotary-site.org.

Feature your event in our magazine.

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Call 01529 469977 and speak to our Events Desk...

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Purchase photographs from this event online.

Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

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- FREEFIRE ZONE -

FRONTS Att ack on all

“Your County Needs You!” John Dean from Free Fire Zone may not be Kitchener, but he rallies his airsoft troops with as much enthusiasm.

Free Fire Zone is an airsoft base near Bourne, a game that definitely isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you go down to the woods, you’re sure of a big surprise; around 100 ‘airsofters’ ready to shoot on command...

Words & Photos: Tilly Wilkinson.

“Just relax,” said John Dean the CEO of Free Fire Zone reassuringly as I held up an airsoft rifle to my shoulder for the first time, clearly seeing the fear in my eyes that I was about to accidentally shoot someone or fall back from the power of the gun.

I usually shoot with a camera so I had minimal experience; shooting with a gun was a bit of a novelty for me. It turns out it’s not as scary as it seems, especially when you’re using one of John’s intricately designed, light and powerful airsoft guns.

However, I feel the adrenaline would be pumping around my body a little faster if I was shooting at people rather than trees, and I also happened to be a target.

John has been running Free Fire Zone alongside a friend and airsoft enthusiast Frank, for more than 12 years. Airsoft is a sport in which two teams go head-to-head attempting to eliminate opponents by shooting each other with spherical non-metallic pellets.

Since airsoft pellets do not mark their target like paintball and hits aren’t always obvious, airsoft relies on an honor system; it’s the

Main: Player with modified M4A1 assault rifle practising by aiming at a target. The teams are divided usually into a blue team and a red team.

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duty of the person who’s been hit to call themselves out regardless of whether anyone saw it happen.

“Free Fire Zone has been running events every other Sunday for the last two and half years,” says John. “Free Fire Zone plays on a mixture of open areas, woodland and scrubland over 70 acres in total. At the site we have five complexes of bunkers.”

Free Fire Zone is able to supply hire guns for up to 20 people.

Corporate and private days are available on requests and a price will be calculated for the whole day. Game days are usually held twice a month on Sundays and they usually get around 80 people turn up with a maximum on one day of 105.

“We aim to provide a top quality service with the best possible prices,” says John. “Customer service is our main priority. In stock are all the latest Airsoft guns and pistols. Our stock includes models by manufacturers such as Tokyo Marui, Classic Army, Western Arms and KSC. We also stock upgrade parts made by Systema.”

“Games played include bunker assaults, search and destroy missions, downed pilot recoveries, medic games and many other realistic scenarios. Also a new speedball area has just been completed.”

“WE AIM TO PROVIDE A TOP QUALITY SERVICE WITH THE BEST POSSIBLE PRICES,” SAYS JOHN. “CUSTOMER SERVICE IS OUR MAIN PRIORITY. IN STOCK ARE ALL THE LATEST AIRSOFT GUNS AND PISTOLS...”

“We have invested heavily into the Free Fire Zone site to make it packed with great features that add an extra dimension to your game play,” says John. “We have a multitude of bunkers scattered around the site, a vietnam style village, an artillery fire base as well as many other great features all set in woodands with varying terrain. You could not ask for more from a woodland Airsoft site.”

Above: The players divide into two teams to play games like search and destroy missions and medic games.

If you’re already an airsofter and have your own airsoft gun, it’s only £20 for the day.

If you’re wanting to test the game out and try something new, Free Fire Zone have a hire package which is only £40 with a deposit of £25, and includes a gun, around 1,700 BBs, a camo jacket and a wire mesh mask.

They also sell BBs on site, gas, wire mesh full face masks, BB Grenades and Smoke grenades. Additional items of equipment can be ordered from Fire Support as they have their own shop.

We fully recommend a game whether you’re 16 or 60 and wanting to try a sociable sport that offers an adrenaline rush.

n For more information on the airsoft base near Bourne and to pre-book a game, visit www.freefirezone.co.uk or call 01733 247171.

To buy any of John’s airsoft products, visit www.fire-support.co.uk

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ESTATE

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- MOTORS -

OF THE ART

4X4S ARE USEFUL IN OUR PART OF THE WORLD, BUT IF YOU FIND A BULKY SUV SLIGHTLY TOO UNWIELDY IN THE COUNTY’S TIGHT PARKING SPACES AND ALONG BACK LANES, THERE’S NOW A THIRD OPTION. AUDI’S A4 AVANT ALLROAD BLENDS THE ADVANTAGES OF A 4X4 WITHIN A MORE COMPACT, CAR-LIKE BODY STYLE...

Words: Rob Davis.

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In our part of the world, a 4x4 can be a useful asset. Muddy roads, the need to park on verges or pull over to allow cars to pass, as well as country lanes and estates with less than ideal road surfaces ensure that having decent ground clearance and all-wheel drive worth its weight in gold, perhaps not all the time, but certainly on occasion.

The problem is, we’re also a county of tight market towns with awkward parking spaces, and narrow country lanes. Even relatively compact SUvs can be unwieldy, and they’re certainly less economical than conventional cars.

It’s a condition of compromise which Audi’s A4 Allroad Quattro seeks to address. What we have here, essentially, is an A4 Avant (Audi’s term for an estate), but with plastic cladding to resist wheelarch damage, and 34mm of extra ground clearance. On sale this summer, it’s still not as lofty to drive as an SUv-shaped 4x4, but the trade off is a flatter, more car-like driving dynamic when you’re on A-roads and motorways... it’s a sort of occasional-use 4x4.

The previous Allroad launched in 2009, with a new model in 2012. The third generation of Allroad reflects the changes to a widely praised A4 model which has a sublime cabin of exceptional quality, even more efficient engines mated to a new eightspeed Tiptronic gearbox and beefed-up Quattro system, and weight savings of 90kg which, as well as providing fuel savings, are likely to make the car lighter and therefore even better in muddy conditions, ensuring it ‘floats’ over poor quality surfaces rather than sinking into the mire.

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The Allroad provides a choice of one petrol (TSI) and five diesels (TDi) - 2.0 four cylinder and 3.0v6 units, which will be mated to a manual transmission, seven-speed sportsoriented or eight speed economy-oriented automatic gearboxes, with the company’s Quattro all-wheel drive and spring, rather than air suspension mandatory.

Our advice is to stick with the 2.0 190ps diesel which should strike a good balance between brisk performance and decent economy.

In addition to being a competent performer, the Allroad benefits from the many virtues of its sister car - the A4. These include build quality which surpasses anything in the sector - even the interior of Mercedes’s C-Class which is already limo-like in appearance and panel fit. The cabin also features plenty of

Above: The Allroad provides the car-like driving dynamics of an estate, with the four wheel drive and body protection of a more rugged SUV.

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head and leg room for four passengers, and a comfortable driving position for the model’s intended company car drivers’ long slogs up and down motorways.

Avant (estate) versions of the A4 also boast a whopping boot, 505-litres with the seats up, and 1,501-litres of luggage space - or plenty of room for big gundogs - with the 40:20:40 seats folded. A power tailgate and electrically retracting load area cover are also standard, and both aid practicality, whilst a low-loading lip makes utilising the boot space a cinch.

Every A4 comes with three zone climate control, Bluetooth and DAB radio, cruise control and rear parking sensors. Final trim levels for the Avant are still to be confirmed for the UK market, but are likely to add sat nav and leather. Audi offers a typically extensive list of optional extras, but we’d

especially recommend the firm’s adaptive cruise control system at £1,250 and the Parking Assistance pack, also at £1,250 which includes automatic bay and parallel and bay parking, and a 360° camera to make life in tight spaces a little easier.

When considering the Allroad against a dearth of SUv rivals, there’s a temptation to ask the question ‘why,’ but the question is, rather, ‘why not?’

After all, very few motorists need a large SUv all the time, and if your motoring is biased towards pounding along A-roads, rather than muddy farm tracks, the Allroad is ideal. Providing a good compromise of compact executive car comfort when you’re on tarmac, with extra ground clearance and the security of all-wheel drive when the going gets tough... the Allroad really is a car for all seasons, especially ideal for our county.

Audi A4 Allroad Quattro

Price: £35,500 (est UK pricing).

Engine: 2.0v4 diesel, 190ps, sevenspeed automatic with Quattro 4x4.

Economy: 57.7mpg (combined), 128g/km CO2.

Top Speed: 136mph, 0-60mph 7.8 seconds.

Equipment: Leather, sat-nav, cruise, climate, Bluetooth, power tailgate.

Find Out More:

Address: Lincolnshire Audi, Doddington Road, Lincoln LN6 3RS, Marsh Lane, Boston PE21 7QS, Hewitts Avenue, Humberston, Grimsby DN36 4RJ Tel: 08445 765306, 08442 494476, 08443 714832. Web: www.audi.co.uk.

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The Directory – To advertise here call our friendly team on 01529 469977 L.F. Connell & Son FURNITURE CLEARANCE, HOUSE REMOVALS & GARDEN CLEARANCE munity, Supporting the com centre sis cri e th d the needy an Help Lincoln’s poor and needy with unwanted furniture and home accessories - REMEMBER these people have nothing!

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MOBILITY

TOWN & COUNTRY Electrically assisted cycles from £199 - eco-friendly, cheap to run and great fun!

“Your One Stop Shop for all your Mobility & Healthcare needs...”

Scooters, wheelchairs, stairlifts, bath and shower aids... Your one stop shop for all your mobility needs!

Sales • Servicing • Repairs • Hire • Finance

Call 01205 362444 • Market Place, Boston

www.townandcountrymobility.co.uk

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Making your conservatory comfortable, all year round...

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