1972 VT151 Stitched PDF File-Turning Pages

VE Day 80th Anniversary

Tribland Amblers...

... enjoy nature’s winter landscape

Let’s celebrate! Fetes, Galas and Balls!

March / April 2025

Village Halls Week

From the Editor

March was not always the third month of the year, when in the Roman era it was known as Martius, named after their god of War, Mars, it was the first month, and the Romans in their inimitable fashion spent at least half of Martius celebrating the new year! Many cultures around the world still consider March to be the start of the year and this inspired the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow to declare; ‘I Martius am! Once first, and now third!’

One can certainly understand why March was seen in ancient times as the month of new beginnings. All around us life is stirring. Plants in our gardens are beginning to stir from their winter slumber, on the bird table some seasonal visitors have left, and others have arrived, neighbours are opening their windows wide to let in the rejuvenating air and planning family barbeques. Our parks and open spaces are once again buzzing with the sounds of laughter. People in our cities,

towns and villages are looking for new starts and hoping to find a new home. And many of us are once again visiting the beauty spots dotted around our nation as the days grow longer and warmer.

Inside this edition of the Trib’ you will find details of festivals being held later in the year in Glinton and Helpston along with articles to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the modern railway and 80th anniversay of VE

day in May. Also, don’t miss the Helpston Beer Festival on Saturday 22nd March!

I hope our readers are enjoying the new ‘slightly larger’ size of the magazine - please let us know.

Tony Henthorn

Many thanks to Jay Gearing of Red4 Productions for allowing us to use his images captured at Helpstonbury 2024.

Editor - Tony Henthorn

35 Maxey Road, Helpston PE6 7DP T:07842 805561 E: villagetribuneeditor@me.com

Advertising Sales - Harley T 07572141603 E: harley.villagetribune@gmail.com

Rector Gary Alderson, Rector of Barnack with Ufford, Bainton, Helpston and Wittering t: 07503 975 588 e: gary.aldersonwrites@gmail.com

Reverend Keir Dow, The Nine Bridges Benefice The Rectory, 11 Lincoln Road, Glinton PE6 7JR t: 01733 669 810 m: 07980 412 345 e: vicar@9bridges.church

Distribution

ASHTON Hilary Smith

Thatched Cottage, Ashton E: hilly.smith@virgin.net

BARNACK Sally Hullock

3 Hillside Close, Ufford sally@sallyhullocktraining.co.uk T: 07795 565658

ETTON Anne Curwen

The Coach House, Rectory Lane, Etton T: 01733 253357 E: acurwen@hotmail.com

GLINTON Shirley Hodgkinson

30 Websters Close, Glinton T: 01733 252351 E: hodgkinsons@talktalk.net

HELPSTON Clive Marsh

Clive Marsh, 34 Maxey Road, Helpston clive.marsh815@btinternet.com M: 07511 011662

MAXEY Cllr Peter Hiller E: Peter.Hiller@peterborough.gov.uk

NEWBOROUGH Cllr John Hill

Speechley Drove, Newborough

NORTHBOROUGH Polly Beasley

15 Claypole Drive, Northborough T: 01778 380849 E: polly.beasley@btinternet.com

PEAKIRK Trish Roberts 9 St Pegas Road

PILSGATE Sally Hullock

3 Hillside Close, Ufford

sally@sallyhullocktraining.co.uk T: 07795 565658

SOUTHORPE Daphne Williams

The Old Dairy Barn, Main St. T: 01780 740511

UFFORD Sally Hullock

3 Hillside Close, Ufford sally@sallyhullocktraining.co.uk T: 07795 565658

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The Legacy of VE Day

The day that ended a global conflict and united communities across generations

This year, we celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day, a momentous occasion that marks the end of World War II in Europe and the triumph of hope over despair. On May 8, 1945, the Allied forces achieved victory, bringing an end to years of conflict, sacrifice, and suffering. For our rural village, as for communities across the world, VE Day is not just a historical milestone but a time to reflect on the resilience and unity that carried us through one of humanity’s darkest chapters.

VE Day, short for “Victory in Europe Day,” was a day of both jubilation and solemn remembrance. While the streets of cities and villages alike were filled with celebrations, there was also a deep awareness of the cost of freedom. In our village, stories from that time still echo through generations. Tales of

blackouts, air-raid drills, and loved ones sent to fight serve as poignant reminders of the hardships endured. Yet, alongside these stories of struggle, there are also accounts of community spirit, ingenuity, and unwavering determination.

As we commemorate the 80th anniversary, it’s important to honour the legacy of those who lived through the war years. Many of our older residents have vivid memories of VE Day itself—of bunting strung across streets, tables laden with whatever food could be spared, and the sheer relief that the fighting had ended. For some, it was a day of quiet reflection, remembering those who did not return, while for others, it was a chance to come together and embrace a brighter future.

This anniversary is also an opportunity to educate

younger generations about the significance of VE Day. It’s not just a chapter in a history book but a testament to the courage and resilience of ordinary people who faced extraordinary challenges. By sharing stories, photographs, and mementos from the era, we can ensure that the sacrifices made are never forgotten. Local schools and community groups can play a vital role in this, hosting events, exhibitions, and discussions that bring history to life.

While we celebrate, let us also take a moment to reflect on the enduring lessons of VE Day. It reminds us of the importance of unity, perseverance, and hope. In a world that still faces its share of challenges, these values are as relevant today as they were eight decades ago.

As we gather to commemorate this historic anniversary, let us honour the past, cherish the present, and look to the future with gratitude and determination. VE Day is not just a day of remembrance; it is a reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope.

Bare Trees, Bright Berries:

Finding Life in the Winter Landscape

Bare trees – to me – are the symbol of winter. Standing tall, silhouetted against the sky, they are also statements of longevity: witnesses to the passing of the seasons, year after year after year.

The Amblers love looking at trees in the landscape. They are constant companions on

our walks, providing structural interest in the colder months and welcome shade in high summer. On a gloomy, overcast day or in failing light they can sometimes appear threatening as they overhang the lanes we are travelling; with their long, twisted limbs and straggly twig fingers, it is easy to imagine malign forces within their nature. But that is the stuff of imagination and mostly we are appreciating that the lack of foliage allows us a better view of the birds perched in their branches.

In winter it is easier to see those trees which support other plant and animal life too: the ivy-covered trunks that

…No leaves are now upon the birch tree there:

All now is stript to the cold wintry air.

See, not one tree but what has lost its leaves--

And yet the landscape wears a pleasing hue.

(From

create an evergreen appearance to otherwise bare forms and provide necessary food for our feathered friends, both through black berries and the insect life living within its dense foliage;

The Winter’s Come by John Clare)

and the mistletoe with its clusters of pearlescent white berries – in winter, a favourite with hungry birds such as thrushes.

Mistletoe is a hemiparasitic plant, which means that it extracts water and nutrients from its host via the support structure which attaches it to the tree, but also photosynthesises (converts light energy into chemical energy) through its own leaves.

‘In recent years, mistletoe’s range in the UK has begun to expand, particularly into eastern areas of England. This may be due in part to an influx of continental blackcaps from

Germany that have started overwintering in Britain, with many thousands now spending their winters here.

Blackcaps are migratory warblers that are becoming regular winter visitors to our bird tables. Berries, including those of mistletoe, are an essential part of their diet. On eating the white flesh of the mistletoe berry, the birds wipe their bills on twigs and branches, leaving behind the seed. If the seed is deposited on a host tree and manages to take hold, a mistletoe plant might germinate on the branch. It seems that blackcaps are more efficient at spreading mistletoe seeds than other birds...’ (www. woodlandtrust.org.uk)

Despite growing on trees, mistletoe is rarely seen in woodland because it prefers

wide open spaces with plenty of sunlight. The Amblers recently saw some impressive clumps hanging in the high branches of the trees beside the visitors’ car park in Burghley Park, Stamford. They certainly drew our attention.

Other things that have drawn our attention over the last couple of months include beautiful blue skies on sunny days; daffodils, snowdrops and aconites; crunchy ice and frost underfoot; frozen ripples in puddles; splashes of colour on damp days from Stinking Iris berries, holly berries, and stained glass windows; the magnificent historic buildings in Stamford; and the reflections of winter trees in rivers, ponds and puddles. There are wonders all around, even in winter – happy ambling!

MOT TESTING NB SANDERS

MOT TESTING NB SANDERS

*We

*We test all Class IV and Class VII vehicles

• Conservatory Blinds • INTU Blinds (no screws used) • Vision Blinds

• Vertical/Roller/Pleated/Roman Blinds • Venetian Blinds, Wood and Aluminium

• Black-out Blinds • Fly Screens, Domestic & Commercial • Awnings & Canopies

• Made to measure and Handmade Curtains • Curtain Tracks and Poles supplied and fitted

• Child Safety Devices available on all blinds

Parish Improvements

Some among you will have noticed that there is a new noticeboard now in place, at the junction of the Old Lincoln Road and Deeping St James Road, by the Parish Boundary stone. Big thanks to Councillors Phil Thompson and Martin Trude for their work liaising with the supplier Mark Pinfold. This new board replaces the 15 year old one which was so cracked and scratched that it meant reading the contents inside was difficult, not to mention councillors risked losing fingers placing new items inside! This is part of an ongoing programme to upgrade all our noticeboards across the parish. Lots of work goes on behind the scenes to make this happen, starting with getting external grant funding so that we don’t use up the precious precept from the council tax contributions, finding a range of suppliers and contractors, considering different designs and materials to ensure they are “in keeping” with the surroundings and are hard-wearing, through to overseeing the installation. Noticeboards are an essential part of Parish Life. They were recorded as being used back in ancient Rome, and are a familiar site in rural

and town settings across the UK. In this digital age, it’s important to ensure that information is available to all, regardless of whether you can, or simply don’t want to, view it online. So next time you walk past a noticeboard, pause, read, and take a moment to enlighten yourself!

Nature Notes

If you follow our news items on the website, you will have read about Councillor Richard Milligan and a local resident planting bulbs donated to the Parish, plus

some of his own home-grown additions, last autumn. As I write I can see the snowdrops flowering, so be sure to look in the verges for the later spring bulbs appearing. Some of these may have been newly planted by the council!

Meet Your Council

And this edition we feature Vice Chairman Councillor Martin Trude who joined the Deeping Gate Parish Council in 2024. He has a wealth of experience in the IT industry, in project and change management. He enjoys gardening, travelling, and is a keen DIYer! He can often be spotted on one of his regular long walks with his lovely spaniel. Martin loves the peaceful rural nature of Deeping Gate, and the surrounding area, and is passionate about maintaining the village’s identity.

Keep In Touch

You can keep up to date with news items by going to our website https:// deepinggatepc.org/ and signing up for our newsletter. A reminder that we welcome parish members at our meetings, the details of which are published on the website. Roll on spring!

VILLAGE VIEWS

Etton news - February 2025

A good crowd gathered for our annual nativity service on the village green. We welcomed back Mark Hotchkin who led the service. Afterwards, we received a warm welcome at the Golden Pheasant.

The pub was closed for a few weeks in January whilst some renovations took place. If you haven’t visited recently the grounds and interior are both transformed. Come and see for yourself!

Sadly, I must report that the village has lost two stalwarts since Christmas.

Firstly, Maurice Wright, our oldest resident, passed away on

Boxing Day aged 96. He had lived in the village for most of his life with his wife Audrey. His funeral, which was well attended, was conducted by Revd Keir at the Crematorium.

On 1st January, Robin Vergette died, aged 87, leaving his widow Valerie, four children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Robin was born at Church Farm where he grew up and, as a teenager, joined his father farming in and around Etton. He continued running the farm with his own son until he retired aged 65, when he moved out of the village. Over the years Robin was very active and well liked in the community.

You may have noticed that a new water butt has been installed behind the bus shelter and new planters are going to be installed either side of the bench on the village green. This has been made possible due to a grant from the Fund for Nature, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough awarded to the Parish Council.

The village has also been

fortunate to receive a grant of £5,000 from the Earl Fitzwilliam Charitable Trust towards the cost of the Chancel roof repairs, the last outstanding piece of work resulting from the lead theft in 2018. The works are due to cost £30,000 so we are some way from being able to proceed, but we are very grateful for this generous cornerstone grant.

On 5th March, St Stephen’s is hosting the Benefice Ash Wednesday service at 7pm.

Defibrillator training has been organised for Etton residents at 7.30pm on 12th March at the Golden Pheasant.

Looking forward, the village will be holding various events to celebrate the 800th anniversary of Etton church over the weekend 27th to 29th June. More details soon!

In this issue of the Trib you will also find articles about the history of St Stephen’s and an exciting archaeological find between Etton and the A15…… Anne Curwen 07730301404

Architectural Design Services

FOR ALL YOUR HOME DESIGN SOLUTIONS

CPRE Cambridgeshire and Peterborough recognises that our rural communities are facing a disproportionate impact from the wider economic crisis.

The Government has announced that future Winter Fuel Payments would only be made to those in England and Wales on low incomes who receive pension credit or other means-tested benefits,

• Small & Large Extensions

• Garage & Loft Conversions

• Planning & Building Regulation

Submissions including Listed Buildings

• New Builds

meaning millions of pensioners will no longer receive the payment designed to help with the cost of adequate heating.

Rural consumers often have to afford the high cost of oil,

• Internal Alterations

• Change of Use Applications

We’ve updated the Cost of Living support page on our website for those affected by the loss of the Winter Fuel Payment www.cprecambs.org.uk/cost-of-living-support.html This page details resources to help with the cost of living, such as financial support, energy saving advice and warm hubs.

Contact Jason Thomas: 01733 252 850 / 07841 521 271 or e-mail JasonADServices@yahoo.co.uk for your free consultation.

Winter Fuel Payment, the cost of living and rural communities

CPRE has joined the ‘Warm This Winter’ coalition calling for urgent action from the government. To add your voice, go to www.warmthiswinter.org.uk

we tend to use beef shin or braising (chuck)

It’s the 21st June for Helpstonbury-2025

Plans are racing ahead for the much anticipated Helpstonbury 2025. Join us in wishing for good weather, good spirits, generous guests, free-flowing fun and laughter all packaged up with fantastic community spirit.

The organising committee are putting together another talent packed stage, complimented by all the stalls, food offerings, children’s entertainment and so much more!!! With the new earlier gate opening time of 1pm.

Be one of the special local and national companies who choose to support this incredible event through a limited sponsorship opportunity, aligning yourself to the community and their values. A community who endeavors to support those who support us. Contact helpstonbury@mail.co.uk or 07949 602199.

Please be aware – dogs on the field and underage drinking will not be allowed as we are on School premises.

On a bright January day the Granary hosted a rolling back the years party in celebration of completing 15 years trading. Yes that is a lot of breakfasts and cups of tea! The partners and myself would like to thank all customers and staff throughout the years that have supported us.

The party was a fun afternoon, serving our own home-reared beef roast dinner, homemade puddings and fun with pass the parcel, a quiz and birthday cakes! Thoughts also go to customers that are no longer with us and are still remembered by ourselves

Thanks to Jo and the M&F farm partners we will continue to hold occasional events throughout the year to mark our 15 year celebrations

Pork pie making, VE Day party & Xmas events to follow. Keep reading the Trib’ for more details and visit our website: www. thegranaryatwillowbrookfarm. co.uk

Jo & Robin

Helpston Parish Council

A very Happy new year in this wonderful village of ours!!!! We would like to thank the Helcats and all volunteers through December for creating a very special festive season.

Parish Council to full capacity

At the time of publishing, the Parish Council should have filled the two vacancies created after the resignation at Christmas of Joe Dobson and the position vacant from the last election. An un-precedented five candidates put themselves forward for consideration. Whether successful or otherwise, we hope they will all be able to engage at some level in developing the initiatives in the Community Action Plan.

Helpston’s Community Action Plan..

The first step of the plan, to create and agree the Community Engagement Policy that will allow for greater feedback and communication throughout the village on the Action Plan is near conclusion.

This will open up other ways in which information can be shared and feedback, ideas and concerns can be brought forward. If you would like to be part of the email list to ensure you are kept up to date with all the information, links and changes, please send a message to Tony, the Clerk, at helpstonpc@hotmail.co.uk.

Village Infrastructure Action Darker nights and very wet weather highlights the faulty equipment around the village, be

that street lights, hidden pot holes until it is too late or drainage issues. We have undertaken a review of the outstanding FixMyStreet actions aswell as a survey of streetlights, dog poo bins and signage to create and maintain an asset review such that we can proactively expedite the correct departments for action. We would underline that any member of the Parish can report something faulty or of concern on www.fixmystreet.com where it will be flagged and monitored.

Local Plan Housing Developments

We certainly haven’t taken our eyes off the ball - The consultation on the new City Council Local Plan continues without any news to report back. The two developments on West Street and Broadwheel Road are also being closely monitored and we are actively seeking engagement at all levels with the developers and City Council departments.

Your Parish Council works hard behind the scenes to represent the community as has been seen with the above actions and initiatives. Monthly meetings are open to all village residents and we welcome input so we can continue to keep Helpston the community we all wish to live in.

www.helpstonparishcouncil. org

Parish Council Clerk – Tony Henthorn – helpstonpc@ hotmail.co.uk

Current Chairman – Ali Peat – 07399 532266 – alastair@ alfrescolandscaping.co.uk

Current Vice-Chair – Andy Ratnett – 07798 651872 –andy@ratnett.co.uk

Councillor - Alastair Bradley – 07941 570653 –alastairbradley@hotmail.com

Councillor – Lee Kaminski –07725 970070 – lee@ choicewindows.info

Councillor – Prem Gyani –07770 833999 – premgyani@ gmail.com

Councillor – Arthur Cross –01733 252291 - arthurcross@ vivaldi.net

Councillor – Rosemary Morton – 01733 252243 – g. morton526@btinternet.com

Street light being fixed in Church Lane

VILLAGE VIEWS

Vintage Musical Memories

Enjoy an afternoon of 1940s music and recollections on Saturday, 3rd May, in Botolphs Barn, Helpston), ahead of the 80th Anniversary of V.E. Day.

Vintage Musical Memories, introduced by Clair Wordsworth, celebrates many singers, musicians and comedians, who provided important light relief to the nation during the Second World War. Songs by Gert & Daisy, Vera Lynn and George Formby are among those on the afternoon playlist. There will also be fascinating personal recollections from current village residents, who either remember local V.E. Day celebrations, or

daily life during the Blitz.

Peter, for instance, spent evenings playing his trombone in dance bands across London, after completing his shift at the Woolwich Arsenal, where he worked as an apprentice in the Ministry of Supply. A lifelong music lover, 98-year-old Peter covets the collection of 78 r.p.m. gramophone records he purchased during wartime.

I’m Gettin’ Sentimental Over You by Tommy Dorsey was the first disc Peter ever bought. He was clearly a fan of Tommy Dorsey (who was not only an expert trombonist, but the first bandleader to sign Frank Sinatra), as Peter’s record collection contains other discs by Dorsey on the His Masters Voice label, including: Smoke Gets in Your Eyes, On the Sunny Side of the Street and Trombonology.

Judy, another resident of the village today, still has clear childhood memories of V.E. Day celebrations, especially of

watching the red, white and blue bunting going up between houses on her road on 8th May 1945. Little Judy was excited to get a day off school along with her friends. Subsequently, she came down with a very bad case of the measles and had lots more days off school, but these were far less enjoyable. After much rest, she thankfully came through that awful illness too!

Vintage Musical Memories is a unique event designed to commemorate in style the forthcoming 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe.

Given the bijou venue, early booking is advised on 07894448012. Tickets are £6 including refreshments. (£5 to members of Helpston Local History Group). Doors open at 2.30pm with the event starting promptly at 3pm in Botolphs Barn, off Church Lane, Helpston. It would be lovely if you were there!

Cllr Helen Aylesbury who  came up with the idea of the orchard and cut the ribbon

Glinton Gears Up for a Year of Community Spirit

will be shared closer to the date.

Ashburn Playpark

The manufacturing of new play equipment for Ashburn Playpark is underway, with installation planned for the spring.

Glinton’s Community Orchard

The Glinton Community Orchard was officially opened on 30 January in front of an enthusiastic group of supporters. Cllr Gerry Kirt expressed gratitude to all involved, with special thanks to Cllr Helen Aylesbury, whose idea brought the orchard to life. Cllr Aylesbury had the honour of cutting the ribbon.

Nature Recovery Area

Exciting Events, Village Improvements and Planning Updates for 2025

Glinton Social Events

This year’s programme of community events kicks off with the Lighting of the Beacon of Peace to commemorate the end of World War II. Join us on 6 May at 9:30 pm by the water pump for this special occasion, with hopes of a performance from the Benefice Choir.

Mark your calendars for the inaugural Great Glinton Charity Fun Run/Walk/Mobility Scooter Extravaganza on Sunday, 1 June 2025. If successful, this fun-filled event may become an annual fixture. Keep an eye on village

Cllr Gerry Kirt

notice boards and Facebook for more details.

The Glinton Fayre and WW2 Victory Commemoration will be held on 28 June, from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm at Glinton Primary School. Expect a vibrant day with stalls, rides, competitions, food and drink, live music, classic cars and bikes, WW2 vehicles, scale models, and much more.

Later in the year, the eagerly anticipated GlintonFest 25 returns on 6 September, promising an exciting lineup of bands and acts. Full event details

The Parish Council is considering the creation of a moat and ditch around the Nature Recovery Area along Lincoln Road towards McDonald’s. This measure aims to deter unauthorised occupation and address related community concerns, subject to affordability and practicality.

Village Hall Upgrades

Progress continues on the village hall upgrade project. After missing out on a Lotto grant, the council has applied for funding from Biffa and awaits further news.

Village Sign

The new village sign, the first since 1977, will be installed once weather conditions improve and the water table lowers. It will be set in a substantial twotonne concrete base. A special unveiling ceremony is planned, with invitations extended to the

art club and Glinton Primary School. The sign will feature a QR code providing historical context about the previous sign and the significance of the new design.

Planning Updates

Recent planning applications have seen notable decisions: n Hereward Homes’ proposal for 24 homes east of 29 Peakirk Road and Larkfleet Homes’ plan

for 95 homes off Lincoln Road have both been rejected by Peterborough City Council (PCC).

n The application for residential development at Manor Farmyard, High Street, involving nine detached dwellings and garages, was objected to by Glinton Parish Council due to concerns over the lack of architectural merit, especially given its proximity to

Welcoming Spring with the Glinton Friendship Club

Here we are in the second month of 2025, and it’s still blooming cold, wet, foggy, frosty, windy, stormy, and dark. But there’s a glimmer of hope as the evenings and mornings grow a bit lighter, graced by magical sunrises and sunsets. Glinton is beginning to look springlike with snowdrops and daffodils brightening the landscape, muddy pathways turning greener, and golden catkins dusting the air with pollen. Enough of nature! The Glinton

Friendship Club has weathered the worst of winter after our seasonal break. Although our numbers dipped when the cold was at its fiercest, we are back together again, sharing warmth and companionship. We celebrated Burns Night in style with poetry, a lively Scottish quiz, and, of course, plenty of tartan! Looking ahead, we have a variety of activities planned to keep us engaged. Our book sales will keep us reading, talks on fire

VILLAGE VIEWS

the Grade II listed James II Manor House.

Peterborough Local Plan

The draft Peterborough Local Plan has been delayed and is now expected to be revealed to parish councils in March. Following this, the draft will be open for public consultation over a six-week period, providing an opportunity for community input.

safety will ensure we’re informed, and Bingo promises the thrill of a win or two. We also hold dear several members facing health and family challenges, and we send them our heartfelt wishes for better days ahead.

Coming up soon, we have a Valentine’s Day craft session, our Annual General Meeting, and an intriguing talk by Stuart Orme about none other than Henry VIII’s grandmother! If you’d like more information or simply fancy joining us, come along to the Village Hall on Mondays after ten. We’d love to see you there.

Pam

© shutterstock/PJ photography

Councillor Emma Crowson

Keeping Peakirk Beautiful: Your Parish Council Update

Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes a chance to refresh and rejuvenate our village. Here’s how you can get involved in upcoming community activities and make a real difference in Peakirk.

Annual Peakirk Village Litter Pick - 26 April

With the long days of January behind us, it’s time to look forward to spring. To help Peakirk shine, the Parish Council is organising the annual village litter pick on Friday, 26 April, starting at 11 AM on the village green. After the clean-up, join us for refreshments in the village hall from 12 noon.

But it’s not just about litter! We’ll also have a list of other tasks to help keep Peakirk looking its best, such as cleaning village entrance gates and reclaiming the

80th Anniversary

footpath on St Pega’s Road.

For more information, contact the Parish Clerk at clerk@ peakirk-pc.gov.uk or Councillor Emma Crowson at peakirk. cllrcrowson@gmail.com.

Help Tackle Speeding in Peakirk

Speeding is a concern for many in our village. To address this, we’re eager to restart our Speedwatch sessions as the weather improves. We urgently need more volunteers to help. Training takes just 40 minutes online, and once completed, you’ll be insured to participate in Speedwatch sessions. We aim to run these monthly, but with a good pool of volunteers, we could increase the frequency.

Interested? Contact Councillor Emma Crowson at the email above.

Become a Parish Councillor

Want to make a difference in your community? We have a vacancy on the Parish Council. No special skills or prior experience needed—just a passion for Peakirk and a willingness to help.

Meetings are held monthly on Monday evenings, except in August. For more details, contact the Parish Clerk.

Your Voice Matters: Questions for Local Police Liaison Team

The Parish Council has been invited to meet with the Local Police Liaison Team. Do you have any questions or concerns you’d like us to raise on behalf of the village? Let us know by contacting the Parish Clerk.

VE Day 80th Anniversary8 May

We’re considering hosting a small event in the village hall on 8 May to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day. Would you be interested in attending? Do you have ideas for the event? Please share your thoughts with the Parish Council—we’d love to hear from you!

Celebrate Village Halls Week: The Heart of Our Rural Community

Daffodils outside Ufford Village Hall

From 17th to 23rd March 2025, join the nationwide celebration of village halls and their vital role in bringing rural communities together.

Village Halls Week is coming!

Running from 17th to 23rd March 2025, this annual campaign by Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) highlights the invaluable contribution of over 10,000 village halls across the country. These cherished spaces are at the heart of rural life, providing a hub for events, activities, and community connections.

Here in our villages, we are fortunate to have a wonderful selection of community spaces, including Bainton Reading Room, Barnack Sports Pavilion, Barnack Village Hall, Ufford Village Hall, Helpston & Etton Village Hall, Maxey Village Hall, Peakirk Village Hall, Northborough Village Hall, Newborough Village Hall, and Glinton Village Hall. These spaces host meetings, parties, regular classes, and social gatherings, enriching our community life.

Did you know that across England, more than 80,000

people volunteer their time to keep village halls running? From managing finances and bookings to organising events, these dedicated individuals ensure our halls remain vibrant and welcoming. But they can’t do it alone! Volunteers are always needed to help maintain and support these vital community hubs.

This Village Halls Week, why not show your support? Join a group, start a new one, attend a fundraiser, or simply pop in for a social event. Every little effort helps to keep these spaces alive and thriving.

Details of all the Tribland village halls can be found on the Directory page of the Village Tribune website: www. villagetribune.org.uk. Let’s celebrate and sustain the spaces that bring us together!

Emma Thorp

Email: uffordvillagehall@gmail. com

It might have been a very chilly day, but the weather didn’t keep residents away from the Helpston & Etton Village Hall Presentation Event held on Sunday 9th & Monday 10th February. Over 140 residents visited the hall where they were able to view a dozen story boards, detailing the history & search for a new village hall site. Village Hall Committee members were on hand to answer questions and over a cup of tea residents were able to discuss their views.

If you were unable to visit over the weekend, the presentation can be viewed on the Helpston website at: www.helpstonvillagehall.co.uk

“Posies for Patty”

– remembering Martha Clare, the wife of the “Northamptonshire peasant poet”, John Clare

By the time you read this, Martha Clare will be 225 years old! She was born in Tickencote on 3 March 1800, an illiterate dairymaid who was to become the wife and the real-life Muse of John Clare, the peasant poet from Helpston. She died in February 1871 and is buried in the churchyard of St Andrew’s church, Northborough.

As the son of a farm labourer, John Clare had a rudimentary education, but enough to instil in him a burning desire to write poetry that recorded the natural world in and around his birthplace of Helpston. Coming from an impoverished farm

labouring family and owning no property or land, the young Clare had to get work where he could find it. Unable to find any farm work nearer to home in 1817 John ventured further afield and got a job as a lime-burner near Great Casterton – a fortuitous event for this is where he met Martha Turner of whom he wrote:

“I saw her love in beauty’s face I saw her in the rose I saw her in the fairest flowers In every weed that grows.”

They married in 1820 and lived together with his parents in Helpston for 12 years before

moving to Northborough in 1832. By this time, they had 6 surviving children and one more son was to be born in Northborough in 1833. After John was committed to a mental asylum in Northampton in 1841, Martha continued to live in Northborough becoming, as “Widow Clare”, a well-respected member of the community. The so-called “Clare graves” in St Andrew’s churchyard have the headstones of Martha and a number of her children and grandchildren.

Northborough will be celebrating the life and times of Martha Clare at a weekend of events on 3-4 May. The SOSt Andrew’s Church will be teaming up with the Packhorse pub and the local WI to bring you talks, poetry, music, flowers and food. Come and visit the Clare graves in Northborough churchyard as well as seeing where John and Martha Clare lived in Northborough with their family. Look out for the posters!

An extremely damp and chilly morning in late 2024 saw Parish Councillors out bright and early planting spring bulbs around the village including snowdrops, bluebells and hyacinths. The results of their efforts are just beginning to poke their heads above the soil and will soon be heralding spring in the village.

Unfortunately, over the new year, a major sewer failed in Church Street. A prompt response from Anglian Water did provide a temporary fix but now works to fully repair the infrastructure are in place. This does mean that Church Street between Lincoln Road to St Andrews will be completely closed until approximately 14th March 2025 18.00. Anglian Water have apologised for the disruption and would like to thank the community for bearing with them while they work.

Residents will have noticed tree works taking place at Northborough Primary School over half term. NPC has asked that comments from the City Council’s trees officer be considered and that replacement planting with appropriate sized trees to be part of the works. The comments stated that ‘suitable and appropriate replacement planting is considered within the school grounds, in order to maintain future tree canopy cover locally for numerous environmental, health and welfare benefits.’

PECT are offering a workshop to residents on Net Zero Barriers and Opportunities on Tuesday 25th March between 5.30pm and 7.30pm in the Cromwell Suite, Northborough & Deeping Gate Village Hall, no prebooking required and all residents are welcome.

Northborough Parish Council is also delighted to announce a save the date for the Annual Parish Meeting on Saturday 10th May from 10am at Northborough & Deeping Gate Village Hall. The meeting is an excellent chance to have your say as a resident and hear about other initiatives in the parish.

Council meetings are held in person at the Village Hall. Members of the public are welcome to attend at 7.00pm on the second Wednesday of the month (excluding August). We also have one vacancy available for a potential parish councillor wishing to join our proactive team and make a real difference in their community. We also welcome any volunteers to help with ongoing projects and activities. The Parish Council website or village notice board will advise the date of our next meeting.

Local residents are invited to share their thoughts and ideas on energy solutions to help create a cleaner, greener future.

Celebrating Local Talent Maxey Art Group at Willoughby Gallery

WORKSHOPS FOR CHANGE

Exploring Future Energy Solutions in your Village

Art enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The ever-popular joint exhibition by the Maxey Art Group and Deepings Art Club is making its way to the Willoughby Memorial Trust Art Gallery in Corby Glen. Following successful showcases in Stamford and Maxey, this exhibition promises a diverse display of high-quality works from around 30 talented local artists.

Organised by environmental charity PECT in partnership with Peterborough City Council,

The two groups, based in

Your voice matters. to understand residents’ views in Barnack, Glinton, Maxey, amd Northborough.

Deeping St James and Maxey, have a long tradition of collaborating on exhibitions.

Exhibition Details:

Discover stunning works by local artists at the Maxey Art Group and Deepings Art Club’s joint exhibition at the charming Willoughby Memorial Trust Art Gallery in Corby Glen this spring. This November, we are inviting residents to take part in a series of workshops, focused on your thoughts and aspirations when it comes to achieving Net Zero in your local area. As climate change remains one of the most critical challenges we face, it’s vital that our efforts to tackle it are clear, inclusive, and locally relevant.

these workshops will provide a unique platform for everyone to voice their thoughts on carbonsaving practices, and explore practical solutions tailored to your village. We can collectively work towards reducing our carbon footprint and building stronger, healthier communities. Participants will explore carbon-saving technologies, as well as potential community energy projects. Residents will learn about support and

Corby Glen, Lincolnshire, NG33 4NL.

Dates: Wednesday, 26th March, to Wednesday, 16th April 2025.

Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 12 noon to 5 pm (closed on Mondays).

Admission: Free.

Venue: Willoughby Memorial Trust Art Gallery, Moreleys Lane,

training opportunities available and how they can play an active role in achieving the city’s net zero ambitions. This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow residents, explore barriers and potential solutions together, and help shape the future of your village's energy landscape.

Please note that the gallery, built in 1623, is a heritage building and is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www. willoughbygallery.com.

Food and drink will be provided at the workshop, as well as family-friendly activities to keep children entertained throughout the session.

Celebrate the creativity and talent of local artists this spring and don’t miss this wonderful exhibition in a truly unique setting.

For more information and to register, visit www.pect.org.uk/projects/panz/

Traditional Hedgelaying

Cllr Lynne Yarham

Maxey Parish Council has been fortunate in acquiring the services of a hedge layer to carry out work around part of the village field. Hedgelaying is a traditional country skill and art form used to maintain healthy hedgerows. It involves partially cutting down young trees so they can lie at an angle while still growing from the base.

This process encourages new growth and creates a living “stock proof fence” as well as looking more attractive than the more modern way of flail cutting hedgerows.

New Interpretation Boards

The two new information boards have now been installed on the village field replacing previous ones which were out of date and weather damaged. The boards contain information on the history of the field, types of trees and plants growing on the field and the many types of wildlife that can be seen there as well as other features.

Both boards are weather and graffiti proof, but we hope to cover them with an extra layer of Perspex protection as soon as possible.

CPR & Defibrillator Training

Maxey Parish Council will be hosting a second CPR & Defibrillator Training workshop run by East Anglian Air

Ambulance on Tuesday 18th March 2025 at 7.00pm - 8.00pm in Maxey Village Hall. Places are limited and priority will be given to Maxey residents. If you would like a book a place, please email clerk@maxey-pc.gov.uk.

Peterborough Accelerated Net Zero Brunch

The Peterborough Accelerated Net Zero project are hosting a complimentary brunch for Maxey residents on Saturday 8th March 2025 at 10.00am - 12.00pm. Come and discover how you can reduce your carbon footprint, discuss energy saving solutions for your home and learn about heat pumps and retrofitting.

Maxey 200 Club

Maxey 200 Club Lottery is open to Maxey residents and offers the opportunity to win cash prizes each month. All profits go towards the upkeep and improvement of Maxey Village Hall. For more information, please contact Andy Bagworth at abagworth@aol.com

Councillor Vacancy

Maxey Parish Council currently has one vacancy for co-option to the Council. If you are passionate about your community and interested in joining the Council, please contact the Clerk for more information at clerk@maxey-pc. gov.uk

Newborough and Borough Fen Councillor Corner

Happy New Year to all Village Tribune readers!

Today’s article comes from Cllr Kevin Angrave (Borough Fen ward) who has offered an update on recent planning matters in the parish.

by Cllr Kevin Angrave

Planning Update

On 5th December 2024

Newborough & Borough Fen Parish Council held an Extra Ordinary Meeting, to discuss two controversial planning applications. The meeting was well attended with 35 members of the public and our two ward councillors Cllr. Steve Allen and Cllr. Mark Ormston.

The first application was a proposed vegetable nursery unit with nine polytunnels and associated buildings on Werrington Bridge Rd Milking Nook. The Parish Council heard numerous residents’ concerns regarding the application. These included the erection of a steel fence around the site, flood risk,

the visual impact of the nine polytunnels, wildlife and traffic among some of the objections. After a lengthy discussion the Parish Council unanimously resolved to object to the proposal based on the concerns of the residents and several other factors, such as loss of privacy to residents, runoff of rainwater from the polytunnels, increased traffic along Werrington Bridge Rd and light pollution from the site in the winter months. This application was later withdrawn by the applicant on the 24th January 2025.

The second application was for outline planning permission to erect 55 dwellings on land East of St Martins Rd Newborough. This was the third attempt by the developers for permission to be granted on this site. Once again, the Parish Council heard the objections from residents regarding the application. The objections were mainly concerning flooding, road and pedestrian access to the site, the increased traffic along roads leading to the site and privacy to existing properties.

The Parish Council agreed with the residents’ comments and once again voted to unanimously reject the application. The Parish Councils objections where the site

is on flood zone 3 and continually floods, St Martins Road could not be widened enough to allow easier access to the site along with pedestrian footpaths, increase traffic along Soke Road, the lack of infrastructure within the village and utilities. That the parish currently exceeds the required development as outlined by Peterborough City Council local plan. The main reason for this is that the developers did not consider the current development by Longhurst Group for 30 dwellings along Thorney Road. The application is still awaiting a decision; however, we have assurances from both ward councillors that they would call the matter in for a full debate by Peterborough City Council.

Overall, the meeting was very civil, with both the residents and the Parish Council in total agreement.

As a resident if you have any issues within the parish please feel free to contact the clerk or any of the parish councillors. Better still why not come to one of the monthly parish meetings –all residents are welcome.

It is a shame when residents take to social media to air their views rather than bring them to the Parish Council, for a full and constructive debate.

Newborough Fire Brigade

Newborough Fire Brigade was disbanded at the end of the Second World War.

Part 1 by Paul Cooper

In an article printed in the Peterborough Standard on May 19th 1944, the chief Fire Officer confirmed to a meeting of the Rural District Council that the decision to close the Newborough Fire Station (and others) was irreversible. The fire engine station (shed) was adjacent to the burial ground on School Road. The site is now occupied with a small building which is owned by The National grid housing a transformer.

The Village has owned a fire pump since 1834. Under the leadership of the vicar, Rev Christopher Carr, the parish meeting agreed to purchase a Tilley Horse drawn Manual Fire Pump. The pump in the picture is the same model as the one purchased and used by Newborough Fire Brigade. It was purchased from the Tilley Company of the Blackfriars Road in London. The model purchased was a Braidwood-body horsedrawn manual fire pump (Tilley

Fire Pump). The pump was developed as the distinctive type of manual fire pump known as the London Fire Brigade Engine. The model in the picture is dated around 1841. The Tilley “sidepumper” engine was a significant progression from the earlier “end-stroke” models, enabling more men to take part in the pumping operations. The Tilley Company was taken over by Shand Mason in 1849 when Mr Tilley retired. Shand and Mason were his sons-in-law. A model identical to the pump used by Newborough Fire Brigade sold at Bonhams Auctioneers on 14th June 2014 for £5290.

It was not until 1896 when the parish meeting, chaired by the Rev Howard McCririck, decided that a fire brigade be formed: Proposed by Mr J. W. Vergette and seconded by Mr Robert Jesson, that a committee be elected to manage the fire engine, consisting of Messrs W. Harris, H. Harris, R Williams, F.

Fire Station closed in 1944

Law, R. Jesson and W. Saywell, with power to add thereto to form a fire brigade and the expenses to be taken out of the poor rate. Robert Jesson was later elected as the Chief Fire officer. Receipts surviving in the Parish Council archives tell us that in 1895 Mr W. R. Jesson and Mr Saywell were elected to be the “engineers” for the fire pump and were paid £0.10.0d per annum for attendance to the fire pump. They were still paid that amount in 1930.

Records indicate that the brigade was dissolved in 1944 and the fire station shut. But, the question is; what happened to the fire station and the equipment? As stated above the fire pump, which was horse drawn and dated back to 1834. When new, it was the latest technology but, despite its limited use it was described in a 1939 valuation as old and obsolete. However, it did have a valuation of £7.17s.6d. The outbreak of the Second World War brought a temporary halt to the disposal of the fire engine and equipment. The pump was inspected by the county fire officer who determined that it, along with the associated equipment was; “very old, but useable”.

More from the Newborough Fire Brigade history in the next issue.

Tilley horse-drawn pump

NEWBOROUGH TEAS OODNEIGHBOU

We offer regular, weekly or fortnightly garden maintenance visits to keep your outdoor spaces looking tip top. We also can carry out one-off garden clean ups if yours has got a little out of hand.

Monthly

A chance for local residents to get together

2 - 4pm | Village Hall

If you require transport call Wendy on 07507635617

Deeping’s First and Only Micropub

Micro pub. No music, no fruit machine, no sports, no fizzy terrible lager!

Up to nine real ales on tap at any given time, direct from the barrel. 20+ traditional ciders, nice wines (no rubbish!) and genuine German lager bier. A choice of Belgian beers and some quality spirits.

You can order your takeaway from any of our neighbouring establishments and eat in the pub. We’ll even provide proper plates, serviettes and cutlery (we won’t actually spoon the food into your mouth but you get the idea)

Wed 3–9pm, Thur 3–9pm, Fri 3–10pm, Sat 3–10pm, Sun 3–7pm Mon/Tues: Available for private functions, plotting of revolutions or respectful shenanigans.

glasses in the vicar’s nice garden.

Last Wednesday in the month Cheese Club. Bring something cheesy to share! For up-to-date info: /thirstygiraffedeeping

Last Month Sunday from Club rude……but 24th Woodforde’s Showcase. Wherry to taste… 7th Priory. of ales 25 ales of ciders, and perfect a few vicar’s For gence page thirstygiraff

Newborough’s Miriam Green celebrates her 100th Birthday

Picture and text by Paul Cooper

A lot has happened in the past 100 years and there are not many people who can recall the events over the past century. Miriam was 100 years old on the 7th February 2025. She was the third child to Ellis and Alice Eyre from Delph in Yorkshire. When she was just a few weeks old the family moved to Oldham. Miriam enjoyed her school years and was the proud recipient of the Higginshaw prize for being the Top Girl in her studies. Miriam has had a varied working career, starting in a wallpaper shop when she left school. But it was office work where she excelled, firstly in a clothing manufacturer and then, following WWll, to Yorkshires Cotton Mills, where she was eventually promoted to company secretary. Her office skills made a contribution to the war effort during WWll where she worked in the offices of a

munitions factory. Miriam met her husband to be, Norman, whilst he was serving in the RAF. Miriam and Norman were married on 10th June 1944 and their daughter Margaret was born in March 1947. Miriam enjoyed her holidays, in the country and abroad. However, it was not until a holiday on the Isle of Man in 1955 that she experienced her first trip in an aeroplane. Miriam and Norman divorced in 1962. She later met and married John Green in 1964. In the meantime Miriam had opened a shop in Oldham in 1958 and ran it for six years before selling it to move to Parsons Drove with her new husband John. Miriam continued her career in office work with several local companies before she took a well-earned retirement. John was a keen darts player and sea angler; they would both be regulars on the Cambridgeshire Darts League venues and many

coastal holidays where John could enjoy his hobby. Not content with retirement John and Miriam would follow one of their other passions growing fuchsias and pelargoniums. Miriam’s administration skills were particularly useful, as secretary, to several local and national fuchsia and pelargonium societies. After the death of John in 2012 Miriam continued to be active with memberships of various WI groups, gardening clubs, senior citizen clubs and Age Concern. Miriam claims she stopped going to the latter because people she made friends with kept dying, a typical example of Miriam’s sense of humour.

Miriam moved to Newborough in 2021 to be with her daughter and son-in-law. She now spends her time knitting, playing cards on her iPad, watching TV and being a popular attendee at the monthly GNRP (Good Neighbours Rural Peterborough) teas at Newborough Village Hall. On Thursday 13th February the monthly tea session was dedicated as a birthday party for Miriam. Over 40 of her friends attended and entertainment was provided by the duo “Memory Lane Live” who played a selection of well-known sing-a-long songs. Apart from her daughter and son-in-law, Miriam has; two granddaughters, five great grandchildren and a great, great, grandson. I’m sure everyone in Newborough will join me in wishing Miriam; a very happy 100th birthday and especially from everyone at GNRP Newborough.

Many thanks go to Miriam’s daughter Margaret, for the information about her life.

FARMING Rosemary’s DIARY

February 2025

As we apprehensively head into 2025, wondering what this year’s weather will throw at us, I have been thinking back to last year’s horrendous weather and all the flooding we had to deal with. Thankfully it is a very different story this year with less rain, but with reports that it was the mildest January for many years we are all left scratching our heads wondering what the late months of winter will give us. If I remember rightly January 2023 was dry and cold and we couldn’t even lift our sugar beet as the ground was too hard. Although it’s not been as cold as 2023 or as wet as 2024 the ground is still wet enough to have had an impact on the farm with sowing delayed, and it may not begin until late spring – this is likely to have an impact on yields at harvest time as the plants may not get chance to develop a strong root structure before the dry season.

All the sugar beet has gone with the last lorries leaving for Whissington Sugar Beet Factory in the first week of January. The yield and sugar content were average. Our grain store is slowly emptying, with grain giving average prices. Once this is emptied we will clean ready for this year’s harvest.

We passed our annual Red Tractor Assured inspection once again. We are very proud to hold this award, it is the most trusted assurance scheme in the country and the inspection is quite rightly

a rigorous and thorough process, looking at crop production and storage; animal welfare, food safety and traceability.

This time of year is very much our ‘maintenance period’, it’s when we get all our jobs done in the yard and around the farm. Machinery has been serviced and repaired when needed; important ditch and land drains is underway - we know from last year how important a job that is! Hedge cutting is also in progress and we will be in good time for the cut off date of March 1st. This is of course put in place to protect all the nesting birds that are soon to fill our hedgerow with new life, transforming them once again into a bustling hive of activity. I have said many times that the countryside is a living

and working environment and as farmers we are lucky to live and work within it and can enjoy the merits of helping nature to thrive, we are currently marking out new areas of flower rich margins. The government are keen for farmers to do more of this and are bringing out new schemes and grants all the time.

It is a relief to notice that the days are lengthening after what seems like a very grey winter. Daffodils and snowdrops are beginning to emerge and the birdsong is delighting us earlier every day. Somedays it feels like spring is on its way and others, like today I wonder if it will ever come! Thankfully though nature gifts us with its wondrous cycle and will begin its emergence very soon.

Hello from Clare Cottage!

Thank you for the warm community welcome. A special thank you to Richard Astle, Gary Anderson, and Tony Henthorn for their kind support—I’m looking forward to spending more time locally and working together to keep Clare Cottage at the heart of Helpston.

As we prepare for our spring reopening, we’re looking forward to getting Clare Cottage back up and thriving. To do that, we need to recruit a substantial group

of new and enthusiastic volunteers to help support our work. Whether it’s welcoming visitors, assisting in the café, gardening, or helping with maintenance, there are plenty of ways to get involved—whatever your skills or availability, we’d love to hear from you!

Take a look at some of the roles on the Village Tribune website – www.villagetribune. org.uk and drop us an email if you’d like to get involved. Thank you to those who’ve

Volunteer Open Morning 10.30 - 12 Saturday 15th March

Please pop in for a cuppa and piece of cake to hear about how you might support us through volunteering in the museum, gardens, cafe and shop.

already reached out—we really appreciate your support!

Of course, volunteering isn’t the only way to support—popping in for a cuppa once we reopen, attending an event (the Pantaloons will be performing two shows at Clare Cottage, more info to follow shortly!), or contributing financially towards essential projects like rethatching the cottage roof all help keep Clare Cottage a vibrant part of the community.

I’ll highlight these and other ways to support Clare Cottage in upcoming editions of the Tribune.

All best wishes, Keira

Spreading Cheer and Learning: A Heartwarming Term at Our Preschool

From festive celebrations to nurturing wildlife, this past term has been an inspiring journey of joy, community, and hands-on learning for our preschoolers and their families.

The past term at our preschool has been filled with joy, learning, and moments that brought our community closer together. From festive cheer to fostering care for nature, the experiences have left a lasting impact on both children and adults alike.

One of the season’s highlights was our festive celebration, where parents joined their little ones to sing Christmas carols, create beautiful crafts, and savor delicious mince pies and tea. The sight of children’s faces

lighting up with excitement and creativity made the occasion truly unforgettable.

Another magical moment was our visit to the Arms House, where the children brought holiday cheer to residents with heartfelt carol singing. The warmth and joy shared in that space were a powerful reminder of the kindness and community spirit that define the season.

We also owe a special thank you to Helcats and Santa for their generous visit to the preschool.

Their thoughtful gifts for each child added an extra sprinkle of magic to our Christmas celebrations.

Beyond the festive fun, our young learners have been dedicated to caring for local wildlife. Ensuring that birds and small creatures have enough food for the winter months has inspired a sense of responsibility and compassion among the children.

Looking ahead, the excitement continues with plans for the upcoming term. One of the most eagerly anticipated activities is caring for baby chicks. Watching them hatch and nurturing them before they find their forever homes will provide a hands-on learning opportunity, teaching the children about responsibility, compassion, and the wonders of new life.

As we reflect on this past term, we celebrate the joy, community, and learning that have made it so memorable. Here’s to more heartwarming experiences in the year ahead!

Arthur Mellows Village College

As we head towards the end of the first half term of 2025, I am delighted to reflect on the numerous achievements and experiences that have enriched life at Arthur Mellows.

Since our last update, we had a busy few months filled with trips, fundraising and events. Our recent Holocaust Memorial Day event for our Year 9 students was a huge success. We had the privilege of listening to Eva Clarke, herself a Holocaust survivor, speak about her experiences. We even had Channel 4 join us to film a piece for their news program.

Trips this term have included a Media outing to Sky Studios and a visit to Warwick University for a ‘Science in Action’ day. In March, our Year 12 Geographers will be off to Wales for 3 days, we hope they have a wonderful time.

Some of our students recently met with the Parish Council to discuss Safer Cycling and issues

that are encountered around the College. This was a productive meeting, and they will continue to meet to update on the progress they have made.

Charity work continues to be a focus at the College. We held Christmas Jumper Day in December, raising £245 for Save the Children. We also contributed to the Peterborough Elderly Shoebox appeal, donating 50 shoeboxes full of essentials and treats.

Our Presentation Evening for Year 13 students who left last summer to receive certificates and awards was extremely well attended. We had the absolute pleasure of listening to Matty Edgell, 2023 winner of ‘The Great British Bake Off’, who was our Guest Speaker for the evening. He shared his experiences since being on the show and his words of wisdom resounded with all who attended.

Our Christmas Concert

took place towards the end of December and highlighted many of our talented students. Thank you if you were able to attend, it was a fantastic evening.

Our Key Stage 4 and 5 students are now in the midst of preparing for exam season to start in May, with lots of revision sessions, both in school time and after school taking place. We wish them the best of luck.

Mr Gilligan has been invited by Sue Ryder, Thorpe Hall to run the London Marathon on 27 April and has been set the challenge of raising £2,000. Fund raising and training is well under way. If you would like to sponsor him and contribute towards providing essential care for people and their families facing life-changing conditions, please use the QR code below.

I want to express my gratitude to our entire school community - students, parents, and stafffor your continued support and engagement. Working together we help our young people thrive and I look forward to the opportunities and challenges that await us in the coming term.

John

Gilligan

Head of

CollegeTop of Form

HELPSTON PRIMARY SCHOOL

Unlocking the Past and Exploring the Future

School Celebrates 60 Years

While Embracing New Adventures

Helpston School is marking 60 years on its current site this July, coinciding with John Clare’s birthday. Sheryl Myatt, Teacher and Curriculum Lead, has been working with the Helpston Local History Group to uncover fascinating school records, some dating back to the 1800s. The children have been captivated by the beautifully handwritten entries, and Mrs Myatt will be sharing these discoveries in assemblies and on Facebook for the wider community.

December saw Year 6 take a memorable trip to London to explore Tudor architecture. Arriving at St Pancras, they took in iconic sights along the South Bank before heading to the Tower of London. A visit to the Crown Jewels left many in awe, and the experience inspired further history, writing, and art projects back at school.

January brought an exciting space adventure for Buttercross and Woodgate classes at the National Space Centre. Pupils took part in a rocket workshop, explored interactive exhibits, and visited the planetarium to learn about astronauts and spacecraft. The experience has fuelled their classroom learning on planets, space, and Earth’s atmosphere.

Forest School continues to be a highlight for Buttercross, providing hands-on outdoor learning. Activities have included scavenger hunts, building animal shelters, and creating natureinspired art. Pupils have also made bird feeders to support local wildlife as part of the Big Garden Birdwatch.

From uncovering history to exploring new frontiers, it has been a season of discovery and inspiration for Helpston School.

• All aspects of tree work undertaken.

• Specialist in sectionally felling trees in restricted areas.

• Site clearance and stump grinding service available. • Full Liability Insurance.

St Stephen’s, Etton:

800 Years of History

by Dr Avril Lumley Prior

Etton’s St Stephen’s church, betwixt the seventeenth-century manor house and the nineteenthcentury Old Rectory, celebrates its 800th anniversary this year. For, we learn from Bishop Hugo de Welles of Lincoln’s records, that in 1225, Sir Robert de Stokes, tenant of the manor of Etton, appointed his second son, John de Stokes, rector of the parish.

Etton: 1225

Sir Robert’s former chaplain, Richard, was made ‘vicar’. It is possible that his duties were those of a chantry priest, hearing confessions and offering constant prayers for the souls of the de Stokes family within the sanctity of the parish church. Indeed, on the north side of St Stephen’s chancel, there was once a side chapel and a vestry or robing room. They were dismantled centuries ago, though you can still see the blocked doorway, an arch and the scars of a piscina (where the priest washed his hands and the communion vessels). However, it is more likely that

Evidence of openings and a piscina

John de Stokes intended to be an absentee rector, delegating the pastoral care of his Etton flock to Father Richard, whilst he joined a Crusade or pursed other interests. The de Stokes family probably was ensconced in a hall on the site of the present manor house. Though I suspect that Richard was relegated to a cottage to the immediate south of the church, where Smithers’ Church Farm now stands, since the priest’s door at

St Stephen’s church, Etton

St Stephen’s is directly opposite. A similar arrangement existed at Helpston, Sutton, Ufford and many other parish churches.

St Stephen’s was built almost entirely during the first half of the thirteenth century in EarlyEnglish style, strongly suggesting that it was commissioned by Robert de Stokes – or his son, Stephen (hence the dedication). No evidence survives of a predecessor. Yet, it seems feasible that there was an earlier church

or at least a chapel-of-ease at Etton. Church attendance was crucial, not only for the salvation of the soul and to hear the Scriptures but it also instilled medieval serfs with a sense of duty and obedience towards their feudal lord. A deeply splayed ‘low window’ was inserted in the south wall of the chancel, as at Helpston and Maxey, so that mud-spattered labourers straight from the fields could participate in the daily Masses without messing up the church. (Contrary to popular belief, this was not

a lepers’ window. Sufferers were dispatched to St Leonard’s lazarette in Peterborough). And, of course, the de Stokes family worshipped in their private chapel next to the chancel, well away from the hoi polloi and ‘nearer my God to Thee’!

To the Manor Born

Alas! Pre-1225 information about Etton and its peasant population is non-existent since it is not mentioned in Domesday Book (1086). Our earliest citation of the settlement appears in a list of knights of Peterborough Abbey, compiled c.1125 and copied into a register twenty years later. The document reveals that land in Etton together with Thornhaugh, Wittering and the lost hamlet of Sibberton (south-west of Thornhaugh) was held in return for the military service of six knights to Ansketyl de St Médard; his reward for fighting alongside Abbot Turold of Peterborough

for William the Conqueror, in 1066. Ansketyl chose Thornhaugh as his power base and sub-let his other holdings to reduce the burden of supplying and equipping several knights for Peterborough Abbey’s standing army or paying the exemption fine of scutage instead. By the mid-twelfth century, Ansketyl’s grandson, Geoffrey, had leased the manor of Etton to the de Stokes family. The sub-letting of estates was not uncommon after the Norman Conquest and their tenancy did not necessarily signify low status or servitude. Indeed, Robert de Stokes’ son, Stephen, increased his portfolio by acquiring land in Sibberton, Maxey and Lolham, in return for providing the services of six knights. Upon the death of his uncle, Rector John de Stokes, he replaced him with Thomas Blundel (1240-74), formerly a priest at Sibberton. It is tempting to speculate that

The Manor House from the churchyard

The ‘low window’

Quirky churchyard stile

the coffin lids, crafted by Barnack masons, in the north aisle of the church belonged to members of Stephen’s extended family. Other medieval monuments shared an ignominious fate, recycled as coping stones to the churchyard wall (as at Bainton, Helpston and Maxey), whilst an eighteenth-century headstone is redeployed as a stile.

Rev. Keir The 9 Bridges Benefice

www.9brideges.church

The Vicar’s View

I am often asked about what I think of church. It is a really hard question to answer, not because I don’t know but rather the questioner may have different understanding of the word church. Do they mean the building, do they mean the organisation (the Church of England) or do they mean the community that is church?

Stephen de Stokes’ son and namesake relinquished the tenancy of Etton, c.1291. Afterwards, the manor passed through various sub-tenants until it was purchased by Sir William Fitzwilliam of Milton, in 1514.

Etton 2025

I have written a little about how I would choose to answer this question; Community plays an essential role in the life of a church, embodying the heart of its mission and purpose. A church is not merely a building or a gathering of individuals; it is a living, breathing collective of believers who come together to support one another, grow in their faith, and extend the

To mark St Stephen’s 800th anniversary, Etton residents are planning a series of events for the weekend of 27-29 June

and you are cordially invited. Meanwhile, you can always visit this beautiful church, which is open every day. There’s lots to see, including a fragment of a medieval wall-painting and the

love of God to the world. The importance of community in the church cannot be overstated, as it reflects the very nature of the Gospel and the teachings of Christ.

cheeky little sheela-na-gig (an ancient fertility symbol) high in the south wall of the tower, suggesting that either Robert de Stokes or his son, Stephen, had a wicked sense of humour!

Medieval coffin lids

A welcome awaits

Almost 11 million people hit by post delays over Christmas

Citizens Advice found almost 11 million people were hit with letter post delays over Christmas. As well as Christmas cards not arriving in time, 3.4 million people faced serious consequences as a result. This includes missing vital health appointments, bills, legal documents, letters from the bank, fines and benefit decisions. The East of England was in the top 5 regions to be hit with letter delays over Christmas

with 22% of adults being affected in December. The four worst-hit regions were: East Midlands (24%), North West (25%), South West (26%) and South East (27%).

Royal Mail holds the Universal Service Obligation (USO) in the UK and is required by law to deliver letters six days a week, Monday to Saturday, but is exempt from delivery targets around the Christmas period. However, year-on-year, since 2019, Royal Mail has failed to meet its annual First and Second Class delivery targets.

to the USO come at a critical time. Cutting deliveries won’t automatically lead to the more reliable service people need - nor should they be expected to pay more for a reduced service.”

Citizens Advice

Peterborough is only able to champion the interests of consumers and those in need because of the support it receives from a committed army of volunteers.

“Letter delays and poor service have become business as usual at Royal Mail,” says Tom MacInnes, Director of Policy at Citizens Advice. “With the future of our postal service at stake, reforms

With apologies to John Clare...

Blue plastic pipe was lying in the rain

Wondering if he ever would be a water main.

He lay there by the Helpston Road as year and year went by

And though his outside was quite wet, his inside was quite dry.

Big plastic pipe was lying in the mud,

For years beyond the project plans – much longer than he should.

He sunk into a water-pudge, and draggled in the Fen

And wondered if Anglia Water would e’er return again.

Blue plastic pipe, you lie there quite serene

The waste of time and money is something quite obscene

Your home should be down underground, not up where puddocks* fly

So, big blue plastic pipe, I’ll bid you a goodbye.

Gary Alderson

* red kites

New volunteers are always welcome. So, if you have an hour or two to spare each week, why not get in touch? A range of roles can be matched to your skills and availability. Plus, it’s even possible to volunteer from home. Would you like to help make a real difference to the lives of people across Peterborough? Check out different roles on offer via the Citizens Advice Peterborough website.

Miles of blue plastic pipes can be seen throughout Tribland

Good neighbours coffee morning launches in helpston

The Good Neighbours Rural Peterborough (GNRP) scheme launches in Helpston with a Coffee Morning on Tuesday 4th March at 10am in Helpston Village Hall.

Hopefully, by now, many of you will have seen the flyers or read previous Tribune articles about GNRP and have an understanding of what the scheme offers. But for those that don’t know, GNRP is a Peterborough based Charity that works to offer non-emergency support to individuals living in the rural areas of Peterborough –such as Helpston.

Good Neighbours offers practical help and support - with absolutely no cost - to those who need it and aims to help a wide range of people, old and young (over 18), who may find themselves feeling lonely or

isolated and who live within the community of Helpston.

Examples of support could be taking someone shopping or to a hospital appointment, undertaking basic DIY, tidying up a garden, collecting prescriptions or having a coffee and a chat - it really does depend on the need of the individual. To be clear though, Good Neighbours does not offer medical/personal care, legal advice or regular cleaning/ gardening!

We will be launching Good Neighbours Helpston with a Coffee morning in Helpston Village Hall between 10am -12.00 on Tuesday 4th March and every first Tuesday in the month thereafter. So, we just need you all to come along!

Maybe you are looking for someone to give you a little bit of help & support to make

your daily routine a little easier, such as being taken to a hospital appointment or maybe a feeling of isolation could be alleviated by someone calling in for a coffee and a chat. Good Neighbours could be just what you need.

Equally, please also come along if you would like some more information about offering to give help & support. Volunteers can be as involved and as active as they wish to be. There is no requirement for a weekly or monthly commitment - it’s entirely up to the volunteer.

So, put Tuesday 4th March 10am in your diary and we look forward to saying “hello” to you at the launch of Good Neighbours in Helpston.

If you would like any further information, please contact Prem Gyani on 07770 833999 prem@gyani.co.uk or

Tammy Tushingham on 07734 544578 tammy.tushingham@ btinternet.com

From the Kitchen of Chez Pierre

Paupiette

Bonjour residents of the Tribland Villages. I hope you are all well and looking forward to the Springtime. As you might imagine our kitchen is very busy at this time and everyone is wanting good food well-cooked for them, but we still try to please with a varied menu.

A Paupiette is a type of roulade and prepared in many different fashions throughout France. Available ready-prepared in all our butchers and in most of our larger supermarkets for busy housewives to cook for their families and friends, they are not so common here in Britain but so easy to prepare for yourselves that it is not to matter. At CP we often serve with a white wine sauce or other, depending on the stuffing and accompanying vegetables. The original recipe came from around Lyon many years ago and was prepped

mainly using leftovers from the previous day’s evening meal for the stuffing. This dish I’ve cooked many times and for our guests who never really tire of it due to its many manifestations on the plate. You can vary the stuffing for your own friends of course but a hint of sweet and savoury is always good here to bring the plate to life. It is usually prepared with veal but I do not use this so I use either pork or, in this case, chicken.

For four guests: 4 good-sized free-range skinless chicken breasts, beaten thin between cling-film sheets; 6/8 good quality Italian or French spicy sausages (well-seasoned, or decent Cumberland will do) de-skinned to leave you with the meat only; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 2 medium onions chopped finely; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 8 thin slices of pickled cucumber;

4 crushed and chopped garlic cloves; 1 tbsp dried herbs du Provence; 8 rashers of streaky, non-smoked bacon or pork fat strips; salt and pepper to season Fry the onions gently in olive oil until soft, adding the sausage meat and Dijon mustard half way to cook through. Add the herbs du Provence and garlic. Lay out each chicken breast and in turn, put an equal amount of cooked sausage meat, onions and herbs in the centre, on top of 2 sliced cucumber strips, and fold evenly into a parcel. Lay 2 rashers of bacon (or pork fat strips) around the edges and tie the parcel with string. Options now are to either oven roast with melting cheese topping or to gently pan sauté, as I prefer. With seasoning to taste this will create a very flavoursome supper, served with homemade ratatouille and French-fries. I would choose a Sauvignon Blanc or white Burgundy (Chardonnay grape) wine to compliment the dish; many of which are available now at reasonable prices. Lightly chill only though, not too cold or you will stamp on the flavour. Bonne Chance Pierre x

Embracing Community Wellness

The Deepings Patient Participation Group (PPG) had their first meeting of the year on January 14th. We were able to welcome four prospective members and there are two more who couldn’t make it on the day but are very keen to join us.

That brings our number into double figures. There was plenty to discuss, and the Practice gave us some interesting statistics (see below). We have also had good news from the Voluntary Drivers group. There are eight new drivers joining so that will ease some of the pressure of finding help for the ever-increasing demand.

Our big event this year is our Well Being Day on May 17th. The theme is CARE. We will give more details in our April Newsletter. If you would like to suggest an article for the newsletter, please let us know. In the autumn we talked about the alternative therapy of Reflexology. Do you have a qualification in a therapy that you would like to mention? Please let us know.

Author Sandra Jones

The Flying Scotsman visited the Nene Valley Railway in February

Railway 200 Celebrating Two Centuries of Innovation and Connection

Marking 200 years since the

Stockton & Darlington Railway’s historic opening, Railway 200 is a yearlong celebration of rail’s transformative past, vital present and sustainable future.

On September 27, 1825, the Stockton & Darlington Railway opened, forever changing the way people and goods moved, and setting the stage for a revolution that would connect places, communities, and ideas across the globe. Now, nearly two centuries later, Railway 200 will commemorate this milestone with a nationwide campaign of celebration and inspiration.

A Nationwide Partnership Railway 200 is developed by a crossindustry partnership, with a small core team delivering national initiatives and partner organizations leading a variety of activities. The campaign aims to inspire the next generation to explore careers in rail, while encouraging more volunteers to join heritage railway projects.

Four Themes of Celebration To

tell the Railway 200 story, four key themes will guide the festivities: Skills & Education: Innovation, Technology & Environment: Heritage, Culture & Tourism: The Railway Today

In 2022/23, the UK railway carried 1.4 billion passengers across 9,864 miles of route and moved over 15.7 billion tonnes of freight—equivalent to removing 6.4 million lorries from congested roads. With major projects like HS2, the Transpennine Route Upgrade, and East West Rail in progress, the railway continues to evolve, addressing the challenges of a changing world.

Railway 200 is not just a celebration of the past; it’s an invitation to shape the future. Join us as we honor two centuries of rail innovation and inspire the next generation of pioneers.

Eight new volunteer drivers have been recruited

Anniversary of Etton Church

Next year will be the 800th anniversary of Etton church, that means that the current building was consecrated during the reign of Henry III and in the same year the Magna Carta was confirmed! We would like to mark the occasion with a weekend of celebrations.

Next year will be the 800th anniversary of Etton church, that means that the current building was consecrated during the reign of Henry III and in the same year the Magna Carta was confirmed! We would like to mark the occasion with a weekend of celebrations.

Do

Christmas Card and Wreath Making Workshop

you have an EPC?

Details are still to be agreed but the chosen weekend to note in your diaries is you would like to be involved in organising the event, please do let me know- I’d love some help!

around 22% of emissions come from our from things like heating, and running household

Details are still to be agreed but the chosen weekend to note in your diaries is 27 to 29 June 2025. If you would like to be involved in organising the event, please do let me know- I’d love some help!

After the great success of these events last year, 18 November, be holding a Christmas card making workshop at the Coach House from 2.30pm to 5pm or 5.30pm to 8pm. The cost is £15, and places can be booked by messaging Andrew on 07836213406. On

After the great success of these events last year, on 18 November, we will be holding a Christmas card making workshop at the Coach House from 2.30pm to 5pm or 5.30pm to 8pm. The cost is £15, and places can be booked by messaging Andrew on 07836213406. On Monday

Andy Staines - Glinton Climate and Environmental Group

2 December there will be wreath making workshops in the church. Cost £30, same booking arrangements as above.

Christmas Tree Lights Swith-on & Nativity

have lived in the same owned house since before 2007 then it is probable you do not have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and since date it is a requirement before you can sell, or rent out, your property.

Do you have an EPC?

Our usual switching on of the Christmas tree lights will take place on the village green at 5pm on Sunday 1 December and the Nativity service will be held on the Village green on Christmas eve at 5pm.

If you have lived in the same owned house since before 2007 then it is probable you do not have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and since that date it is a requirement before you can sell, or rent out, your property.

If you have lived in the same owned house since before 2007 then it is probable you do not have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and since that date it is a requirement before you can sell, or rent out, your property.

The EPC was by the government in help people understand current level of energy and offer guidance on make it greener.

In the UK, around 22% of carbon emissions come from our homes, from things like heating, lighting, and running household appliances. The EPC was introduced by the government in 2007, to help people understand their current level of energy efficiency and offer guidance on how to make it greener.

In the UK, around 22% of carbon emissions come from our homes, from things like heating, lighting, and running household appliances. The EPC was introduced by the government in 2007, to help people understand their current level of energy efficiency and offer guidance on how to make it greener.

good idea so you know what improvements might save you wasted energy.

To put it simply, a high EPC score will mean cheaper energy bills. But the EPC also shows where the energy efficiency can be improved - be it, for example, in missing insulation or double/ triple glazed windows etc. So even if you are not planning to sell your home, getting an up to date EPC rating is still a

To put it simply, a high EPC score will mean cheaper energy bills.

To put it simply, a high EPC score will mean cheaper energy bills. But the EPC also shows where the energy efficiency can be improved - be it, for example, in missing insulation or double/ triple glazed windows etc. So even if you are not planning to sell your home, getting an up to date EPC rating is still a

you are looking to buy a home always check the property's EPC score which can be found here: www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate Remember - a rating of ‘A’ is the best.

But the EPC also shows where the energy efficiency can be improved - be it, for example, in missing insulation or double/ triple glazed windows etc. So even if you are not planning to sell your home, getting an up to date EPC rating is still a

At the time of writing, an EPC survey costs somewhere between £70 to £100 - just search the web for ‘EPC’ and you will find links to qualified EPC surveyors.

good idea so you know what improvements might save you wasted energy.

good idea so you know what improvements might save you wasted energy.

Everything you might need for your pets and large animals

If you are looking to buy a home always check the property's EPC score which can be found here: www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate.

If you are looking to buy a home always check the property's EPC score which can be found here: www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate.

Remember - a rating of ‘A’ is the best.

Remember - a rating of ‘A’ is the best.

you might need for your pets and large animals

At the time of writing, an EPC survey costs somewhere between £70 to £100 - just search the web for ‘EPC’ and you will find links to qualified EPC surveyors.

At the time of writing, an EPC survey costs somewhere between £70 to £100 - just search the web for ‘EPC’ and you will find links to qualified EPC surveyors.

For the record, my own EPC gave me a rating of ‘C’ but it also suggested how I can easily move to a ‘B’ without, hopefully, breaking the bank!

For the record, my own EPC gave me a rating of ‘C’ but it also suggested how I can easily move to a ‘B’ without, hopefully, breaking the bank!

For the record, my own EPC gave me a rating of ‘C’ but it also suggested how I can easily move to a ‘B’ without, hopefully, breaking the bank!

Cemetery and Roman pottery discovered at Etton

By David Rowell

A small cemetery and a Roman jug that could have been used as an offering to ancient gods were among the finds at an archaeological dig at Etton.

Archaeologists discovered the well preserved jug - believed to be almost two thousand years old - while working in a field between Etton village and the main A15 road.

Other items included a larger bowl, probably used for food. The cemetery contained six graves. Several other graves were uncovered individually in ditches away from the cemetery grouping.

Some coins, rings and a decorative pin were found in other excavations linked to the site. But it is the jug, believed to be a ‘votive offering’ - something that people would have left for the gods to win favour with them - that is the star find because it was almost complete and in excellent condition.

The burnished jug - very small standing around 30cm tallwas originally used to store oil

and would have been used by Romano-British people, who used to live in the UK when much of it was part of the Roman Empire between the years 43AD and 410AD.

Anglian Water’s Archaeology team leader Pippa Adams said: “The jug was remarkable because of its good condition. We suspect it was used for oil before being left and might have been owned by a wealthier family.”

She added: “The site helps us to piece together a picture of what was going on across the area.”

It was one of 80 similar digs happening across the length of the pipeline.

The excavation area was divided into sections because of a large ditch or dyke that ran across the site. Earlier trial trenching confirmed features that had been identified by geophysical surveys and crop mark surveys.

Two main phases of activity were recorded by the archaeologists, a Middle Iron Age period was represented by settlement enclosures and boundaries although no obvious structures were found. This was followed by Early Roman and Middle-Late Roman phases which showed a more complex sequence of land division and ditched enclosures as well as a small cemetery.

According to archaeological reports the Roman finds from the site are thought to be from the second and third centuries

The tiny jug - likely to have been left as an offering to ancient gods.

and suggest occupation in the area was continuous, but not necessarily on the actual site.

The location of the burials also suggested that the actual Roman occupation was nearby and not on the site,

Other work on the site produced a small amount of Middle Anglo-Saxon pottery from one feature and evidence of medieval ridge and furrow ploughing - already a major preserved sight in fields in the village.

Work is still going on to gain a wider understanding of the site and details will be published in the future.

Work on the site was carried out by teams from York Archaeology, Oxford Archaeology and Pre-Construct Archaeology.

At around the same time excavations also took place at Woodcroft and on the outskirts of the Maxey village. More details about this will be included in a future edition of the Tribune.

A bowl, probably used to store food.

The images are courtesy of York Archaeology.

diary MAR

PANTO

01/03/2025 @ 07:30 PM08/03/2025 @ 09:30 PM  Peakirk Village Hall

Good Neighbours Rural Peterborough

04/03/2025 @ 10:00 AM04/03/2025 @ 12:00 PM  Helpston Village Hall

Sue Kent – my evolving garden

06/03/2025 @ 07:00 PM06/03/2025 @ 09:00 PM  Castor C of E Primary School

Craft Dabble Day

09/03/2025 @ 10:00 AM09/03/2025 @ 03:00 PM  Market Deeping Community Centre

The Arts Society

Peterborough

13/03/2025 @ 10:30 AM13/03/2025  The Fleet Fletton

Good Neighbours

Friendship Tea

13/03/2025 @ 02:00 PM13/03/2025 @ 04:00 PM  Newborough Village Hall

God in the Garden - Hints of Resurrection

16 March 2025 4.30-5.30 St Mary’s Church Bainton

Helpston Church Coffee Morning

22/03/2025 @ 10:00 AM22/03/2025 @ 12:00 PM  Helpston Church Church Lane Helpston

Helpston Beer Festival 22/03/2025

The much-loved Helpston Beer Festival returns for its 6th year. Location: Helpston Village Hall, 7 West Street, PE6 7DU

Maxey Art Group at Willoughby Gallery, Corby Glen – High quality work from local artists

26/03/2025 @ 12:00 PM16/04/2025 @ 05:00 PM  Corby Glen

Helpston and its Railways

27/03/2025 @ 07:00 PM27/03/2025 @ 08:30 PM  Helpston Village Hall

Bingo

28/03/2025 @ 07:00 PM28/03/2025 @ 09:00 PM  Northborough and Deeping Gate Village Hall

Star Party

Peterborough Astronomical Society (PAS) are holding their Star Party here at Sacrewell on the 29th March 2025.

3rd Traditional BARN DANCE

29/03/2025 @ 06:00 PM29/03/2025 @ 11:30 PM  Northbotough & Deeping Gate Village Hall

Bainton Primrose Festival

30/03/2025 @ 01:00 PM30/03/2025 @ 05:00 PM  St Mary’s Church Bainton near Stamford

Another Op’nin, Another Show

- The Stamford Concert Singers Saturday 5 April 7 pm Tickets £10 (children & students free)

Upcoming Services

Day Date Services

Sunday 23/02/2025 9:00 Northborough HC 10:30 Glinton FC 18:00 Peakirk Evensong

Sunday 02/03/2025 9:00 Glinton HC

10:30 Peakirk FC

15:00 Messy Church Peakirk VH

18:00 Maxey Taizé

Wednesday 05/03/2025 10:00 Maxey BCP (+Ashes) 19:00 Etton HC (+Ashes)

Sunday 09/03/2025 9:00 Peakirk HC

10:30 Northborough Family Praise

18:00 Maxey Taizé

Sunday 16/03/2025 9:00 Maxey HC 10:30 Etton FC 18:00 Glinton Joyful Journey

Sunday 23/03/2025 9:00 Northborough HC 10:30 Glinton Family Communion 18:00 Peakirk Evensong

Sunday 30/03/2025 10:30 Glinton, United Benefice Communion

Sunday 06/04/2025 9:00 Glinton morning Worship 10:30 Peakirk Sung Communion 15:00 Messy Church Peakirk VH 18:00 Northborough Celtic

Sunday 13/04/2025 9:00 Peakirk Morning Worship 10:30 Northborough Family Praise 18:00 Maxey Taizé

Friday 18/04/2025 10:00 Walk of Witness 15:00 Maxey, Good Friday Service

Upcoming Services - All are welcome

Readings

Genesis 2.4b-9, 15-end

Psalm 65

Revelation 4

Luke 8.22-25

Exodus 34.29-end

Psalm 99

2 Corinthians 3.12 - 4.2

Luke 9.28-36 [37-43a]

Isaiah 58.1-12

Psalm 51.1-18

2 Corinthians 5.20b - 6.10

Matthew 6.1-6, 16-21

Deuteronomy 26.1-11

Psalm 91.1-2, 9-16*

Romans 10.8b-13

Luke 4.1-13

Genesis 15.1-12, 17-18

Psalm 27

Philippians 3.17 - 4.1

Luke 13.31-35

Isaiah 55.1-9

Psalm 63.1-9

1 Corinthians 10.1-13

Luke 13.1-9

Joshua 5.9-12

Psalm 32

2 Corinthians 5.16-21

Luke 15.1-3, 11b-32

Isaiah 43.16-21

Psalm 126

Philippians 3.4b-14

John 12.1-8

Isaiah 50.4-9a

Psalm 31.9-16*

Philippians 2.5-11

Luke 23.1-49

Isaiah 52.13 - 53.12

Psalm 22*

Hebrews 10.16-25 or John 18.1 - 19.42

From the Vicar

As we approach the season of Lent, many people reflect on its significance and what it can mean in their lives. Traditionally observed in Christian communities as a time of preparation leading up to Easter, Lent invites us to pause, reflect, and renew. Beyond its religious roots, Lent offers a powerful reminder that God hears our prayers—even if we don’t fully

know Him, understand Him, or have the right words to say. Prayer is at the heart of Lent. For Christians, it’s a way to communicate with God, to seek His guidance, and to deepen our relationship with Him. And the beauty of prayer is that it doesn’t require perfection or eloquence. Scripture assures us that God hears us even when we struggle to find the words. Romans 8:26 reminds us: “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.”

Whether you are a lifelong believer, someone exploring faith, or simply curious, prayer is an open invitation from God to connect. It can bring peace, comfort, and clarity in life’s challenges, reminding us that we are never alone.

Even if you don’t yet know God or are unsure of where to start, prayer is a way to open your heart. You don’t need to have all the answers or adhere to a formula. Simply speak to God as you would to a trusted friend. Share your thoughts, your

worries, your hopes—He listens. Prayer transcends barriers and offers a pathway to experience God’s presence and love.

How to Begin

If you’re new to prayer or reflection, Lent is an ideal time to start. Here are a few suggestions: Set Aside Time: Dedicate a few minutes each day to prayer. Begin by thanking God for the blessings in your life or simply sit in His presence.

Be Honest: Speak to God openly, without fear or hesitation. He knows your heart and welcomes your words, no matter how simple.

Use Scripture: The Bible is filled with prayers and promises. Reading Psalms or the Lord’s Prayer can be a helpful starting point.

Ask for Guidance: If you’re unsure how to pray, ask God to lead you. Trust that He is with you, even in your uncertainty.

As Lent begins, consider how this season of reflection might inspire you to grow in faith. Through prayer, acts of kindness, and drawing closer to God, Lent can be a time of profound spiritual renewal. Remember, God’s love is for everyone. Whether you’re seeking Him for the first time or renewing your commitment, He is ready to meet you where you are. In a world that often feels fast-paced and overwhelming, prayer offers a moment of stillness in God’s presence. Let this Lent be a time to explore the transformative power of prayer and discover the comfort of knowing that God hears you, always.

Rev. Keir

Of primroses and resurrection

As you’ll see elsewhere in this magazine, we’re holding the Bainton Primrose Festival again in St Mary’s, the Churchyard, and the Reading Room this year on 30th March (Mothering Sunday). We love the nature in Bainton, and celebrating Creation in the wonders of our surroundings. The primrose family are fascinating. The pale yellowflowered one, found in the wild on our dyke banks, is Primula vulgaris – literally, “common primrose”. Then the ones you find in pastures – the cowslips – are Primula veris – “spring primrose”. Its English name seems to come from “cowslop”, because they could be found growing in cowpats. Got made more polite, that did.

Then there’s the oxlip – Primula eliator. They’re quite rare. But you can make something very similar by crossing a primrose with a cowslip, to get the false oxlip. They’re really good at crossbreeding, the Primula family. The purple, red, multicoloured and so on primroses we see in St Mary’s Churchyard are more examples of false oxlip, generally called polyanthus. And then they cross with the native primroses and we see the colours fade back to pale pink and yellow. And they’re hardy little chaps. While we are looking forward to a good bloom from the primroses in mid to late March, we know that you can get a dash of colour from them almost at any time of year. There are a couple of primroses on the grave of poor Elizabeth Culpin in Helpston Church. And as I write this in early February, I know there are primroses blazing with colour. Even on

a cold winter morning, I see hopes of resurrection – of new life challenging the rule of death and darkness. Every sunset brings another dawn closer. Statistically, it’s more likely to snow on Easter Day than on Christmas Day. Good news for all the folk planning to be out on Hills and Hollows at 6am on Easter Sunday… But Easter comes round at that mid-point in the spring where all the birds are singing and mating, the bulbs are sending up glorious colours in daffs and tulips, it won’t be long till the bluebells, and all of nature is springing into life. And if it does snow, you know it won’t last. And in the church we jointogether and praise because we believe that, as winter will be gone, so one day death will die forever. We look forward to a Resurrection bought by Jesus in his death on the cross, and then gloriously shown on Easter morning to a group of sad and baffled women in a graveyard in Jerusalem. And we will light our Easter candles and declare – He is risen indeed! Alleluia! Revd Gary Alderson

CHURCH SERVICES

Church services

02 March 2025 Sunday before Lent

9:30 AM St John, Barnack Communion

10:30 AM All Saints, Wittering All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston Communion

3:00 PM All Saints, Wittering Messy Church

3:30 PM St Botolph, Helpston Messy Church

4:30 PM St Mary, Bainton Taizé

05 March 2025 Ash Wednesday

11:00 AM St John, Barnack Communion

09 March 2025 Lent 1

9:00 AM St Mary, Bainton Communion

9:30 AM St John, Barnack Communion

10:30 AM All Saints, Wittering Communion

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston Communion

3:30 PM St John, Barnack Messy Church

16 March 2025 Lent 2

9:30 AM St John, Barnack Communion

10:30 AM All Saints, Wittering All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston Communion

4:30 PM St Mary, Bainton God in the Garden – “Hints of Resurrection”

23 March 2025 Lent 3

9:00 AM St Mary, Bainton Communion

9:30 AM St John, Barnack All Age Service

10:30 AM All Saints, Wittering Communion

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston All Age Service

30 March 2025 Lent 4 (Mothering Sunday)

9:30 AM St John, Barnack Communion

10:30 AM All Saints, Wittering All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston All Age Service

4:30 PM St Mary, Bainton Primrose Festival Service

06 April 2025 Lent 5 (Passion Sunday)

9:30 AM St John, Barnack Communion

10:30 AM All Saints, Wittering All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston Communion

3:00 PM All Saints, Wittering Messy Church

3:30 PM St Botolph, Helpston Messy Church

4:30 PM St Mary, Bainton Taizé

13 April 2025 Lent 6 (Palm Sunday)

9:00 AM St Mary, Bainton Communion

9:30 AM St John, Barnack Communion

10:30 AM All Saints, Wittering All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston Communion

14 April 2025 Holy Monday

7:00 PM St John, Barnack Compline

15 April 2025 Holy Tuesday

7:00 PM St Mary, Bainton Stations of the Cross

16 April 2025 Holy Wednesday

7:00 PM St Mary, Bainton God in the Garden – Gethsemane

17 April 2025 Maundy Thursday

6:00 PM St John, Barnack Communion

7:00 PM All Saints, Wittering Communion with shared meal

8:00 PM St Botolph, Helpston Communion – at St Botolph’s Barn

18 April 2025 Good Friday

9:00 AM All Saints, Wittering Good Friday Service

10:00 AM St John, Barnack Messy Church

1:00 PM St Mary, Bainton Good Friday Service

3:00 PM St John, Barnack Good Friday Service

6:00 PM St Botolph, Helpston Good Friday Service

19 April 2025 Holy SaturdayEaster Eve

2:00 PM All Saints, Wittering Easter Egg Hunt

7:00 PM St Andrew, Ufford Easter Vigil & Communion

20 April 2025 Easter Day

6:00 AM St John, Barnack Morning Praise

8:30 AM St Mary, Bainton Communion

9:30 AM St John, Barnack Communion

10:30 AM All Saints, Wittering Communion

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston Communion

4:30 PM St Mary, Bainton Easter Praise

27 April 2025 Low Sunday

9:00 AM St Mary, Bainton Communion

9:30 AM St John, Barnack Morning Praise

10:30 AM All Saints, Wittering All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston Parade Service

Lent Courses

Tuesdays at 3pm from 11 March - a short talk on “People on the Path to the Cross” during Common Prayer Holy Communion at St John’s Barnack Fridays at 12.15 pm from 14 March - a short discussion on “People on the Path to the Cross” within Prayer During the Day at St Botolph’s Helpston Thursdays at 7.45 pm in Botolph’s Barn, Helpston: “A Journey to the Cross”following Jesus’s journey to Jerusalem

St Mary’s Bainton Primrose Festival

St Mary’s Church Bainton PE9 3AQ With the Langdyke Trust And Bainton & Ashton Nature Recovery From 1 pm on Sunday 30 March (Mothering Sunday)

n Nature walk round the Village at 2 pm

n Nature walk round the Churchyard and Butter Cross 3 pm

n Praise Service at 4.30 pm

n Cream Teas - Celebrate Mothering Sunday!

n Children’s treasure hunt

n Children’s crafts

n Flower Arranging Competition

n Art Display in Bainton Reading Room

Safeguarding at the Heart of the Nine Bridges Benefice

The Nine Bridges Benefice is a thriving collection of parishes committed to serving our communities with faith, care, and responsibility. As part of the Church of England, we cherish our role as a source of support and sanctuary for all. However, we also acknowledge the challenges currently facing the wider Church and remain dedicated to ensuring that our churches are safe spaces for everyone.

Commitment to Safeguarding

At Nine Bridges, safeguarding is not just a policy—it is a core value woven into the fabric of everything we do. We are committed to protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults, ensuring they feel safe, valued, and heard. Our clergy, staff, and volunteers undergo regular safeguarding training, and we maintain clear

Paws For Thought

Rev. Keir is seated in the lounge with a cup of tea, leafing through his Bible. Jessie, his black Labrador, sits nearby, Watching the rugby on her laptop, wagging her tail expectantly.]

Rev. Keir: Jessie, I’ve been thinking. Lent is starting soon, and I need to decide what to give up this year. Any suggestions?

Jessie: (perking up) Biscuits. You should definitely give up biscuits.

procedures for responding to concerns with transparency and accountability.

We work closely with the Diocese of Peterborough and statutory authorities to uphold best practices, ensuring that our approach is always up to date with current safeguarding guidelines. Each parish has a dedicated safeguarding officer, and we encourage an open culture where anyone can voice concerns, knowing they will be met with care and swift action.

Learning from the Past

It would be remiss not to acknowledge the difficulties the Church of England has faced in recent years concerning safeguarding failures. The past has shown us the deep and lasting harm caused when safeguarding is not taken seriously. At Nine Bridges, we see these lessons as a call to action—to be ever-vigilant, to listen, and to ensure that our

Especially the chocolate ones you never share.

Rev. Keir: (chuckling)

Chocolate’s bad for you, Jessie. Besides, it’s not just about giving up something, but about selfdiscipline and reflection.

Jessie: Oh, I’m very disciplined when it comes to snacks. Have you seen my focus when there’s a sausage nearby?

Rev. Keir: True, but Lent is about more than snacks. It’s a time to think about sacrifice. Jesus spent 40 days in the

church is a place of trust and refuge.

We recognize that true safeguarding goes beyond policies and procedures; it is about fostering a culture of kindness, respect, and accountability. Our churches must be places where all feel safe to worship, seek support, and engage in community life.

Moving Forward with Hope

Despite the wider challenges, the Nine Bridges Benefice remains steadfast in its commitment to being a beacon of safety and support. We invite our congregations and communities to join us in this mission, holding each other accountable and ensuring that our churches are places of genuine welcome and protection.

If you would like to learn more about our safeguarding policies or have any concerns, please visit www.9bridges.church or email safeguarding@9bridges.church. Together, we can build a future where the Church truly embodies care and protection for all.

wilderness, fasting and resisting temptation.

Jessie: (tilting her head)

Wilderness? You mean like the park? I could do 40 days there, no problem. Except for the fasting part. I’m not sure Jesus had squirrels to chase, though.

Rev. Keir: Probably not, Jessie. But fasting teaches us gratitude and strengthens our connection to God. Maybe you could give something up for Lent, too?

Jessie: (looking horrified) Me? Give something up? Like what?

St Pega’s

Peakirk

The church is for all the local community and is open seven days a week between 10.00am and 4.00pm

Everyone is welcome to ‘drop in’ for a moment of peace, to offer a prayer or just to admire the wonderful architecture and wall paintings

Come and sing the Christmas Story

We celebrated Christmas with a family service where members of the congregation told the Christmas story through the eyes of its characters. Ben and Laura were the donkey and ox! The

children provided the ‘backing group’ to accompany the carols with shakers and bells.

Souper Wednesdays

To take off the winter chill, St Pega’s have held a Souper Wednesday in Peakirk Village Hall in January and February. Fresh homemade soup, bread rolls, home baked cakes and tea and coffee have been served on both occasions.

St Pega’s Quiz Night

It was great to see so many people turn out on a chilly February night to support the Peakirk Quiz Night for St Pega’s. Congratulations to the winning team and to all who took part. Our thanks go to Heather Revell and her wonderful helpers for organising such a successful Quiz

Coming up ...

n Lent Lunch on Wednesday March 19th 12.00 to 2.00pm Tickets £10 From Sheila Lever tel. 01733 252416 or email: sheila.lever@btinternet.com

which was enjoyed by all.

Visitors to St Pega’s

We were delighted to welcome to a group of volunteer guides from Longthorpe Tower and other visitors who came to the church to learn more about its history and to see at first hand our wall paintings. Thanks go to Dr Avril Lumley Prior for giving a informative talk and for showing our visitors around the church. The visits concluded with refreshments.

n Easter Fayre on Saturday April 5th in Peakirk Village Hall 2.00pm to 4.00pm

Do come along we would love to see you.

Nine Bridges Benefice Messy Church

Our family Christingle started in Peakirk Village Hall where we made the Christingles. We then went over to St Pega’s Church for our service. We also joined in with the lighting of the Christmas tree in the church and with

refreshments afterwards.

The new year started with A New Start when our activities were about saying ‘Sorry’ and God’s forgiveness. We enjoyed drawing round each other and writing ‘sorry’ messages to say sorry when we hurt someone. Our disappearing writing reminded us that God wipes away the wrong things we do if we say that we are sorry to him.

Messy Church Dates. All families are welcome:

n Sunday March 2nd Peakirk Village Hall from 3.00pm to 4.30pm

n Sunday April 14th Peakirk Village Hall from 3.00pm to 4.30pm

Great start to 2025 for Langdyke

It’s been a happy New Year for Langdyke Countryside Trust for a number of reasons.

Firstly Trust chair Richard Astle found himself among the names in the King’s New Year’s Honours List, He was awarded the British Empire Medal in recognition for his services to the environment and charity.

He has been a driving force behind the success of Langdyke for a number of years, not only chairing the organisation and championing its expansion but also leading walks around the nature reserves and joining volunteers at work parties to carry out a variety of tasks including repairing fences, removing unwanted trees and shrubs and planting hedgerows.

At the same time the Trust has been enjoying a surge in membership with around 20 new members joining the organisation.

Some of them enjoyed a

guided walk, led by Richard, around the newly acquired Christ’s College Nature Reserve site alongside the banks of the Maxey Cut between Helpston and Maxey.

A number of volunteers have also come on board - joining the regular weekly work parties at Etton (Monday) and Swaddywell (Thursday) as well as a new group which has taken on work at the Christ’s College site, meeting on a Saturday. Details of this group’s meetings are in the Events

section of the website: langdyke. org.uk

The Trust has exciting plans in the pipeline to enjoy more success in 2025 and is in early negotiations to possibly take over two more local sites - expanding further along the South Drain and taking on a new site on the Cambridgeshire/Lincolnshire border

Langdyke is a registered charity and relies totally on volunteers to run it. If you would like to get involved either as a member or volunteer you can find more details on the website: langdyke.org.uk or by emailing membership@langdyke.org.uk

The picture shows some of Langdyke’s newest members and volunteers being given a tour of Christ’s College nature reserve by Richard Astle (fourth from right)

Glinton Horticultural Society

Following a wet and stormy January the February weather as I write this remains grey, cloudy damp and cold, but hopefully things will improve as spring approaches and we are able to get out into the garden again.

The plant sale is on Sat.3rd May this year and donations of plants to sell are always welcome. In January we sorted out the

Schedule for this year’s Show on September 20th. It will be our 80th Show this year and we would like to make it extra special. If you do any of the following: grow vegetable and/ or flowers, bake, make jams and pickles, work at handicrafts, artwork, winemaking and/or take photographs you would be very welcome to enter the Show.

The schedules, giving full details for entries, should be available around the end of March. If you have not entered before and would like a copy please contact Lynne Best on 01778 342115 or visit our website to be added to the mailing list. The talk on Orchids held in January was very interesting and I look forward to the talk on British butterflies on the 21st February

Men

United in Song:

Raising Voices and Funds for Prostate Cancer UK

Discover the joy of singing while supporting a great cause! Men United in Song 2025 invites local men to join a life-changing singing project culminating in a spectacular concert at Peterborough Cathedral.

Are you looking for something new and inspiring in 2025? Men United in Song is back, and we want men like YOU to join our fantastic pop-up singing project supporting Prostate Cancer UK. Whether you’re a complete novice or someone with a little experience, this nine-week adventure offers the chance to sing for a cause and experience the thrill of performing live.

Following its phenomenal success in recent years, the project will launch in March, signing up around 40 local men to perform in a charity concert at Peterborough Cathedral on Saturday, 10th May. No previous singing experience is needed— just a willingness to dive in and

give it your best shot.

The project kicked off with introduction sessions on Thursday, 27th February, and Friday, 28th February, from 6:30 to 10:00 pm at Hampton Gardens School (PE7 8HR) – as promoted on the Village Tribune website.

Key Details:

Rehearsals: Thursdays, starting 6th March, 7:45-9:45 pm, at Hampton Gardens School. Concert: Saturday, 10th May, at Peterborough Cathedral. For more information, contact Jo on 01733 425194 or email menunited@ peterboroughsings.org.uk. Don’t miss this chance to raise your voice for a worthy cause!

Calling All Model Enthusiasts in Tribland!

Are you passionate about modeling? Whether your interests lie in scale models, transport and railways, military, aviation, nautical themes, or anything else that sparks your creativity, a potential new “Modelers Club” in Tribland is looking for you!

The idea behind this club is to bring together hobbyists of all ages and interests to share their work, discuss techniques, and inspire each other. Regular meetings would provide an opportunity for members to display their creations, exchange ideas, and build a vibrant community around this versatile hobby.

If this sounds like something you’d enjoy, please get in touch at jazzintransit@btinternet.com. Let us know your area of interest and your age group—we’d love to hear from you and gauge interest in forming this exciting new club. Let’s get modeling together!

Joe Dobson

pitchperfect

YOUR AT-A-GLANCE GUIDE TO LOCAL BUSINESSES

By featuring your lineage adverts for 12 months, spanning six issues, we will get your details in front of over 12,000 village residents But wait, there's more! As a bonus, advertisers in our Classified Section will also gain access to our vibrant online community. With over 4,600 active members on our Facebook group, you'll have the opportunity to share promotional messages with a wider audience on the last Friday of every month for an entire year. 12 months coverage for just £99 per year (no VAT to pay)

ACCOUNTING

JB Accounting Services T: 07432 550002

E: jb_as@outlook.com JB Accounting Services jb-accountingservices.co.uk

Nene Valley Financial Planning

Friendly, Knowledgeable, Mortgage, Equity Release and Insurance Advice. Call to discuss T: 07870 611914 E: info@nvfp.co.uk www.nvfp.co.uk

ARCHITECTURAL

Architectural Design Services

T: 07841 521271 01733 252850

E: JasonADServices@yahoo.co.uk.om / Architectural Design Services

T W Architectural Services

T: 07765 880309

E: tonywilliamson61@btinternet.com twarchitecturalservices.co.uk

BABY & TODDLER

Little Owletts

Baby, toddler and pre-school multi-sensory sessions

M: 07834 837017 E:info@littleowletts.co.uk www.littleowletts.co.uk

BUILDERS & LANDSCAPING

Owen Builders and Landscaping

T: 07850994577

E: owenbuilderslandscaping@gmail.com

Owen Builders and Landscaping

CG Carpentry and Building

T: 07830 364989

E: cgcarpentryandbuilding@gmail.com

www.c-g-carpentry-and-building.business.site

BC Carpentry

T: 07710 328848 E: Info@bc-carpentry.co.uk www.bc-carpentry.co.uk

MJW Carpentry

T: 07720 530335 E: Mitchelljw31@gmail.com

MJW Carpentry

COMPUTER REPAIRS & UPGRADES

The Wizard’s Tech Lab

We are dedicated to providing computer repairs, upgrades, advice and services to our customers

T: 07544 277 544 E: russell@wizardstechlab.co.uk www.wizardstechlab.co.uk

MacLogics

Specialising in Apple Mac repairs and services since 2002. Most tasks carried out in client’s home

T: 078941 44588 E: info@maclogics.co.uk www.maclogics.co.uk

CYCLE SERVICING & REPAIRS

Stamford Cycleworks

T: 07498 010093

E: matthew@stamfordcycleworks.com www.stamfordcycleworks.com

DOG WALKING AND PET SITTING

Marathon Mutts

Dog walking and pet sitting services

T: 07484683268 E: mymarathonmutts@gmail.com www.marathonmutts.co.uk

TL Hall Farming Supplies

T: 07940297788

E: les.farmsupplies@yahoo.com

TL Hall Farm Supplies FARMING & PET SUPPLIES

FENCING

Webwood Fencing Services & Supplies

Fencing Supplies & Installations. Superior workmanship. Quality Materials. Excellent customer service.Open to the public. T: 01733 639111 E enquiries@webwooduk.com www.webwooduk.com

GARDENING

Adcock Propery & Garden Maintenance Services

T: 07787 556817 E: adcockspgs@gmail.com

Adcocks Property & Garden Interior Decorating, Garden Maintenance & General Handyman work offering a reliable service at competitive rates.

Lifestyle Property Maintenance (Gardens)

Regular, weekly or fortnightly garden maintenance visits to keep your outdoor spaces looking tip top T: 07714 266307 E: sharon.lifestylepm@gmail.com www.lifestylepropertymaintenance.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY

The Cove Aesthetics T: 07872893326 @thecoveaesthetics_ @Thecoveaesthetics

E: thecoveaesthetics@icloud.com www.thecoveaesthetics.com

Heel The Sole Foot Healthcare T: 07889 798370

E: Suewillcox01@gmail.com www.heelthesole.uk

Meta Physiotherapy T: 07946 067439

E: daniela@metaphysiotherapy.net www.metaphysiotherapy.net

Truly Confident Aesthetics

1c West Street T: 07951 484752

E: trulyconfidentaesthetocs@gmail.com www.trulyconfidentaesthetics.net

HOME SERVICES

Campbells Home Improvements

Providing home and garden repairs and improvements to local home owners, tenants and landlords. From small odd jobs to conversions and extensions.

M: 07494 734226

E: Kieran@campbellshomeimprovements.com www.campbellshomeimprovements.com

Newborough Pharmacy T: 01733 811917 www.newboroughpharmacy.co.uk PHARMACY

King Plastering T: 07817 737277

E: kingplasteringltd@icloud.com PLASTERING

PLUMBING & HEATING

Fenland Heating & Plumbing

T: 07930 865642

E: Fenlandplumbingandheating@hotmail.com /Fenlandplumbingandheating

PUBS, RESTAURANTS & MOBILE FOOD

Amo La Pizza T: 07514 771388 E: info@amolapizza.uk woodfiredpizzauk

Ruddy Duck at Peakirk T: 01733 252426 E: nigelcook502@gmail.com www.ruddyduckpeakirk.co.uk

The Pack Horse, Northborough T: 01733 913155 E: mail@northboroughpub.co.uk www.the-packhorse.co.uk

TREE SURGEONS

Paul Sharpe Tree Surgeon

All Aspects of tree work undertaken & seasoned hardwood logs for sale. M: 07432 308225

E: paulsharpe6610@gmail.com

Path Mortgages

T: 01778 428158

E: hello@pathmortgages.co.uk www.pathmortgages.co.uk MORTGAGE ADVICE

tribune DIRECTORY

n Bainton Church

Reverend Gary Alderson 07503 975588

n Barnack Church (St John the Baptist)

Gary Alderson, Rector 07503 975588

n Barnack Community Association

Sally Hullock 07795 565658

n Barnack Cricket Club

William Armitage, Chairman 01780 740749

n Barnack Home from Home Club

Niamh Holman hfhbarnack@gmail.com

n Barnack Messy Church

Julie Stanton 01780 749123

n Bowls Clubs

John Broadbelt 01780 740133

Glinton Bowls: Jeff Bell 01733 252395

n Botolph’s Barn

Kate Hinchliff 07745 116621

n British Legion

Max Sawyer 01780 765507

n Castor, Ailsworth and District Gardeners’ Society

Chair - Ann Huckle 01733 3780745

ann.huckle@cobnut-cottage.co.uk

Secretary - Richard Pearce - cadgsociety@gmail.com

n Cubs, Brownies, Guides, Scouts & Rainbows

General Guiding Queries

Helpston Brownies, Morag Sweeney ........07801 357701

Helpston Guides, Anna Batty 07780 115792

Helpston Rainbows, Charlotte Moles 07549 152192

General Scouting Queries

Martin Hall 07778 707952

Helpston Beavers, Alison Cook 07437 909735

Helpston Cubs, Susan Hodge 07399 252033

Helpston Scouts, Mark Crookes 07808 633018

n Doctors

Deeping Practice (Main line) 01778 579000

Deeping Practice (Appnts.) 01778 579001

Glinton Surgery 01733 252246

n Etton Church (St Stephen’s)

Churchwarden: Anne Curwen 01733 253357

n Fenland Clarion Cycling Club

www.fenlandclarion.co.uk

n Glinton Friendship Club

Pam Kounougakis 01733 252018

n Glinton Church (St Benedict’s)

Churchwarden: Veronica Smith 01733 252019

n Helpston Church (St Botolph’s)

Rector: Gary Alderson 07503 975588

n Helpston Helcats

Phil Roberts 07925 720195

n Horticultural Societies

John Best - Glinton ................................................. 01778 342115

Debbie Martin - Barnack Show 01780 740048

Kirsty Scott - Peakirk 01733 253952

n Langdyke Countryside Trust

Richard Astle 01733 252376

n Maxey Church (St Peter’s)

Churchwarden: Mandy Loveder 01778 343100

n Newborough Good NeighboursCate 07735 810139

n Newborough Pre-school Playgroup

Debbie 07423 519890

n Newborough Indoor Carpet Bowls –Brenda Vessey 07941 308148

n Northborough Church (St Andrew’s)

Jane Knott, Church warden 01778 345101

Polly Beasley, Church warden 01778 380849

n Peakirk Church (St Pegas)

Churchwarden: Sheila Lever 01733 252416

Churchwarden: Pauline Cooke 01733 253116

n Pre-School & After-School Clubs

Helpston Playhouse pre-school

Lucy Garwood 01733 253243

Helpston Before & After School Club

Roz Sowinski 01733 253243

Peakirk Tots

Emma Thornton 07876 822173

Little Lambs Toddler Group, Barnack

Julie Stanton 01780 749123

Sunflower Seed Pre-School, Northborough

Kirsty Wislawski 01733 253685

The Owls’ Nest, Amy Quarizzo 01733 252361

n Schools & Education

Arthur Mellows Village College 01733 252235

John Clare Primary 01733 252332

Barnack C of E Primary 01780 740265

Peakirk-cum-Glinton Primary School 01733 252361

Northborough Primary 01733 252204

Peterborough Adult Learning 01733 761361

n Tennis Clubs

Helpston Tennis Club 07714 780573

n Ufford Church Enquiries

Peter and Sally Hudson 01780 740475

n Village Halls

Barnack Village Hall Bookings

Sally Hullock 07795 565658

Glinton Village Hall Bookings

Sue Lane 07923 475966

Glinton Whist, Joyce Heathcote 01733 253790

Helpston Village Hall, Caryn Thompson

07801 260240

Maxey Village Hall, Jacqui Barnard ......... 07902 536476

Northborough Village Hall: www.northboroughvillagehall.co.uk

Peakirk Village Hall (Bookings) 07938 386226

Ufford Village Hall

Emma Thorp 07769 587742

n Village Tribune

Editor, Tony Henthorn 07842 805561

n Ward Councillors

Barnack Cllr Irene Walsh 07753 203 844

Glinton & Castor Cllr Peter Hiller 07920 160487

Glinton & Castor Cllr Neil Boyce 07483 958795

Eye, Thorney & Newborough Cllr Mark Ormston 07483 373084

n Women’s Institute (WI)

Northborough WI

Tracy Thomas (Secretary)

n Youth Clubs

07720 327145

Barnack Youth Club, Colin Morgan 07850 366528

Maxey Youth Club: Tina Lapinskis ............ 01778 347280

Parish Council Contact Details

n Ailsworth Parish Council

Anne Perkins, Chairman 01733 380541

Jenny Rice, Clerk 07889 669550

n Bainton & Ashton Parish Council

Councillor Susie Lucas (Chairman) 01780 740159

Susie.lucas@baintonandashton-pc.gov.uk

Clerk; Jenny Rice email; clerk@baintonandashton-pc. gov.uk 07889 669550

n Barnack Parish Council

Chair: Jonathan O’Shea –  jonno.barnackpc@gmail.com

Michelle Dickens: 07595 377236 clerk@barnack-pc.gov.uk

n Deeping Gate Parish Council

Cllr Philip Thompson (Chair) philip.thompson@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk

Clerk – Elinor Beesle ...............................................07713 194173 clerk@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk

n Etton Parish Council

Cllr Fred Morton (Chair)  fred.morton@etton-pc.gov.uk

Clerk – Elinor Beesley 07713 194173 clerk@etton-pc.gov.uk

n Glinton Parish Council

Cllr Gerry Kirt – Chairman 01733 252839

Mr J Haste – Clerk 07591 834163 clerk@glinton-pc.gov.uk

n Helpston Parish Council

Parish Council Clerk – Tony Henthorn –  helpstonpc@hotmail.co.uk

Chairman, Cllr Ali Peat  07399 532266  alastair@alfrescolandscaping.co.uk

n Maxey Parish Council

Cllr Lynne Yarham – (Chair) lynne.yarham@maxey-pc.gov.uk

Clerk – Elinor Beesley 07713 194173 clerk@maxey-pc.gov.uk

n Newborough Parish Council

Cllr Mark Ormston Mark.ormston@ newboroughandboroughfenpc.org.uk

Clerk Irene Healiss clerk@newboroughandboroughfen-pc.gov.uk

n Northborough Council

Cllr John Dadge (Chair) –  john.dadge@northborough-pc.gov.uk

Elinor Beesley ................................................. 07713 194173

Clerk to Northborough Parish Council clerk@northborough-pc.gov.uk

n Southorpe Parish Council:

Clerk Alison Hurford 07898 217307

Peakirk Parish Council

Chairman: Cllr Henry Clark 01733 253203

Clerk: Angela Hankins................................. 01733 253397

Email: clerk@peakirk-pc.gov.uk

n Ufford Parish Council

Chair – Cllr Paul Wilde ............................. 07960 018148

paul.wilde1@aru.ac.uk

Clerk Amie Fenech – clerk@ufford-pc.gov.uk

Full details of all Parish Council Councillors and contacts for local churches, village halls, schools, community associations, sports clubs, guides, brownies, scouts (etc) can be found in the Directory section of the Village Tribune website: www. villagetribune.org.uk/contact-directory/