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WWW.VILLAGETRIBUNE.ORG.UK January / February 2026

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Parish News

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Early Baptisms Newborough archives

Rosemary’s Diary Farming update

A PERSONAL JOURNEY BACK IN TIME

Reflections of a publisher HERITAGE • FARMING • VILLAGE VIEWS • TRIBUNE AMBLERS • DIARY DATES

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22/10/2025 16:34

WELCOME

Happy New Year to you all, and welcome to our first edition of 2026.

January always feels like a month of fresh starts. The days are slowly stretching out again, diaries are filling with plans for the year ahead, summer holidays are being dreamt about, and - if you’re anything like me - those New Year resolutions are still holding strong… for now!

For many of us, January is when we decide to turn over a new leaf and look after ourselves a bit better. That might mean finally dusting off the gym membership, lacing up those new trainers from Christmas, or simply heading out for a brisk walk around the lanes and footpaths we’re lucky to have on our doorstep. Fresh air, open skies and a bit of movement can do wonders.

Of course, plenty of people are also embracing Dry January to improve sleep, boost mental wellbeing and give the bank balance a small breather after Christmas. But let’s be honest - looking after yourself doesn’t

© AdobeStock

From the Editor

have to mean missing out entirely. A good walk followed by a cosy country pub lunch, a soft drink in hand, still ticks a lot of wellbeing boxes.

And health isn’t just about exercise and diet. Sometimes it’s about slowing down. A bit of pampering - whether at home or at a local spa or health studio can be just as important. Taking time to relax can ease aches and pains, improve circulation, reduce stress, lift your mood and even help you sleep better. And

if it leaves you feeling refreshed, restored and a little more confident, that’s no bad thing either.

However you choose to approach January, I hope this month finds you feeling positive, supported and ready for whatever the year ahead brings. As always, thank you for welcoming the Village Tribune into your homes we’re glad to be starting another year with you.

Tony Henthorn

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CONTENTS January/February 2026 Publisher - Tony Henthorn 35 Maxey Road, Helpston PE6 7DP T: 07590 750128 E: villagetribuneeditor@me.com Advertising Sales - Annett Allen T 07396 736991 E: sales@villagetribune.org.uk 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

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 Jane Knott 2 Cromwell Close, Northborough E: jane.knott101@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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From the Editor Contact Details Village News Amblers in Tribland Deeping Gate News Etton Parish Council Barnack Parish Council Helpston Parish Council Glinton Parish Council Peakirk Parish Council Northborugh Parish Council Maxey Parish Council Newborough Parish Council Newborough - Back in Time Farming Diary Creating a Legacy AMVC School Report John Clare Update History with Avril Chez Pierre From our Facebook Group Diary Listings Church News & Services Pitch Perfect Contacts Directory

Design & artwork by d15 Design T: 01780 470420

GLINTON Simon & Sarah Clayton 15 Pembroke Grove, Glinton PE6 7LG T: 07939 586787 E: s.clayton@me.com

INSIDE ISSUE 156

Front cover image: Editor and Publisher of the Village Tribune shares details of his ‘Legacy Project’, looking back at his family history and into the potential future.

Advertisers Warranty and Indemnity The Advertiser warrants: (a) that the advertisement is legal, decent, honest and truthful and that it complies with the British Codes of Advertising and Sales Promotion, with any relevant codes of practice and with all requirements of current legislation; (b) that nothing in the advertisement is defamatory or constitutes a malicious falsehood; (c) that the publication of the advertisement will not infringe copyright or any other rights vested in a third party; and (d) that the Advertiser has secured all necessary authorities and consents in respect of the use in the advertisement of any pictorial representations or other representations of (or purporting to be of) living persons and of references to any words attributed to living persons. (ii) The Advertiser will indemnify the The Village Tribune Ltd in respect of all costs, damages or other charges arising as a result of the publication of their advertisement or incurred in connection with any actions or claims brought against the Company arising from a breach by the Advertiser of the warranties in this paragraph 1 or otherwise from the publication of the advertisement.

The views expressed within this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor. All copy is believed correct at time of print but no responsibility can be taken for errors and/or omissions. No part of this publication and/or website may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without prior written permission of the Publisher. Permission is only deemed valid if approval is in writing. The Village Tribune own all rights to contributions, text and images, unless previously agreed to in writing.

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23/12/2025 14:05

TRIBLAND NEWS

Helpston Local History Group In 2025, our group completed another varied and informative year, We welcomed speakers to talk about the Railway and RAF Collyweston (to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day) and held group meetings and village talks. With generous support from John Clare School we shared our ‘Schooldays in Helpston’ exhibition with the wider community and had a busy and interesting day talking about the displays.

Brian Cocks, aged 96, was one of our founder group members, and sadly passed away at the end of August following a short illness.

His passion for aviation and his ongoing fascination about the history of his home and the local community stayed strong to the very end. Although very poorly, he managed to come along to the RAF Collyweston talk in July.

Brian had lived in the village for 55 years and took a keen interest in village life. His memory will remain with us.

On our website – www. helpstonhistory.org.uk we have many varied articles relating to People, Places and Topics linked to the village. If you wish to contribute an article, follow the links and we will get back to you.

2026 sees another exciting year ahead. Events for group members will include a history walk and talk in Market Deeping in June. Helpston has had close trading and family connections with this local market town since at least the 1800s and this outing will add another thread to our 6 villagetribune

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understanding of local heritage.

Our AGM will take place on 15th January. New members are always welcome. Our annual subscription is £12 for an individual or £18 for 2 members at the same address.

If you have an interest in people from the village, either your relatives or owners of your property, an interest in village trades, land ownership or properties or you just have something to share about our community we would love to hear from you and welcome you to our group.

As 2026 marks the 180th anniversary of the coming of the Railway to Helpston and the 60th anniversary of the closure of Helpston Station, ‘Railways in Helpston’ has been chosen as our next project.

To help make this a success, we are reaching out to anyone who has memories, memorabilia etc to share for the exhibition in the village in October 2026. If you can help in any way, please contact us at helpstonhistory@gmail.com

Sad news of the death of Barnack resident Catherine Thompson Barnack resident Catherine Thompson sadly died in November after a very short illness. She leaves her son William, family and her many friends, neighbours and colleagues in the Peterborough and Spalding legal community.

Moving to Maxey in 1986, Catherine also lived in Ufford before moving to Barnack.

Catherine will be well known to so many people locally. Her friendship and vitality will be severely missed. A memorial is being held at The White Hart, Ufford on 9th January at 2pm.

Make sure you’re protected this winter NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough urging anyone eligible for their COVID-19, flu, RSV or pneumococcal vaccines to make sure they’ve had them this winter. Each vaccine has a slightly different eligibility criteria.

To find out more about these vaccines, and how to book them, or find a walk-in clinic, please visit The Vaccinators website https:// www.cpics.org.uk/the-vaccinators www.villagetribune.org.uk

27/12/2025 11:51

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25/06/2025 14:44

‘I cannot think it how the reason is That every trifle nature’s bosom wears Should seem so lovely and appear so sweet And charm so much my soul…’ from ‘A Ramble’, by John Clare) Another year arrives and, like John Clare, the Amblers are keen to experience all that the countryside has to offer in the coming months. It might be cold and relatively barren at the moment, but without the distraction of fulsome foliage and colourful blooms, we are free to appreciate the scenery in its entirety - and, occasionally, feel the full force of the unimpeded wind!

When the trees are fully clothed, they interrupt the views - very attractively, of course - but their skeletal frames in winter allow our eyes to see through them to the far horizon; one 8 villagetribune

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of the wonderful advantages of living in the Fens. Gaggles of geese fly in formation across vast grey skies, honking with annoyance (or glee; who can tell?)

Starlings gather at dusk to swarm in flight, carving amazing organic shapes in the air. Tree boughs stretch out silently or, in strong breezes, sway like dancers in thrall to a hidden melody. Clouds scud across the sky, occasionally threatening rain, creating moody contrasts with the sunlit trees, dead stalks and emerald grass.

The sights thrill us still, regardless of the time of year, because they are ever changing and remind us of our smallness in the universe.

The photos accompanying this article were taken in Burghley

Park on one of our last walks of 2025. The morning began brilliantly for two of us as we sat waiting at Helpston crossing and spotted a movement in the undergrowth beside the car: a sparrow hawk was resting beneath the hedgerow! Such moments are a privilege.

Burghley Park is an example of open landscape that stretches for miles, with some undulation: to the north, the former main entrance off the Stamford Road via its sweeping parallel avenue of trees to guide the carriages, and the adjoining deer park with views toward the town; to the west, wide, meandering footpaths surrounded by sheep give access to the so-called ‘bottle lodges’ www.villagetribune.org.uk

27/12/2025 11:35

TRIBLAND AMBLERS

exit opening onto the London Road; to the south, rolling grassland bordered by the ribbon of water that adjoins the lake; and to the east, the magnificent stately home and gardens.

The aim of famous landscape gardener, Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, when designing the park was to employ natural planting and open vistas. This creates the feeling of being in the countryside rather than the edge of a bustling town, and makes visitors feel closer to nature. It is relaxing. There is space to breathe, opportunity to admire, and a feeling of peace to be enjoyed - plus large areas for children and dogs to let off steam. /groups/villagetribune

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I have purposely taken Clare’s quote out of context, as it resonates with the Amblers’ response to nature. But the poet goes on to explain that the puzzling thing, to him, is that other people ‘stalk along as though [their] eyes were blinded’, heedless of their surroundings and the beauty all around them. It is easily done, when we are in a hurry to get from A to B, or have walked the same route repeatedly. But if we take the time to focus on our surroundings, there are treasures to be discovered in the natural world.

So, if you are one of those people who pass through the countryside without noticing it,

maybe this will be the year you begin to interact with it and let it charm your soul; after all, who doesn’t need a break from the ordinary sometimes, and relief from worry. The Amblers wish you all the joy of discovery, and the inner peace that comes from being surrounded by nature in 2026.

As long as it is not pouring with rain, or deep snow, please do come and join us…

20 January’s amble will begin from junction Church Street/The Pingle, Northborough, at 10:00.

17 February’s amble will begin from junction High Street/Quarry Lane, Maxey at 10:00.

We look forward to meeting you! villagetribune 9

27/12/2025 11:36

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COUNCIL CORNER

VILLAGE VIEWS

DEEPING GATE

Contributor: Deeping Gate Parish Council

people of the Parish thronging the riverside to join in song and to spread some festive cheer. The weather was once again kind to us, and we had a superb sunset.

Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, helped along by a mince pie and some delicious mulled wine! We would like to thank everyone for turning out.

Meet Your Council

Alexis Bennett

Volunteers Always Needed!

The Parish Council for Deeping Gate is hard working, talented, but compact. When things appear such as the Peterborough City Council (PCC) Draft Local Plan and potential housing development which would grow our tiny hamlet to five times its size, it takes a lot of work to publicise these things, run public meetings and collate responses.

The next version of the PCC Draft Local Plan is expected to

be issued August or September 2026 at which time we will know what is included. We may have a very busy year ahead of us, and so if anyone in the Parish has skills or experience in planning, project management, or legal areas, or simply wants to lend some of their valuable time, we would welcome additional helpers. “Many hands make light work” as the saying goes.

Planting

wonderful results will not be apparent for some time, but in the long run it will make Deeping Gate a greener place and more full of wildlife.

This month we feature Alexis Bennett who has lived in the Parish since 2021with her partner Mark and 3 children. Having moved around the UK all her life for work reasons, she “has finally found somewhere that feels like home…somewhere to put roots down”. Alexis joined the Parish Council in October 2024, wanting to give back to the community now the children are older, and her other half is helping at the local Rugby Club. As a Financial Adviser in a busy family practice in Deeping St James, her skill sets include numbers (obviously!), problem solving and a love of meeting and communicating with people. In her spare time, she enjoys yoga, literature, music and is a keen runner, often seen around the Parish in brightly coloured lycra! Her skills do not extend to cycling, so if you see her wobbling along the local roads, keep well clear!

Keep In Touch Woodland Trust have once again donated lots of free tree whips to be planted around the Parish. Huge thanks to Councillor Richard Milligan for taking delivery, distributing, and doing lots of the planting himself. The /groups/villagetribune

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Christmas Singalong!

Sunday 14th December saw

We welcome people to sign up to our newsletters on our website at https://deepinggatepc.org/. Parish members care always welcome at our meetings, details of which are published on the website and noticeboards around Deeping Gate. villagetribune 11

23/12/2025 14:06

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22/10/2025 16:41

EVERYTHING

VILLAGE VIEWS

ETTON

On Sunday 9th November a good crowd gathered on the village green to remember all those who had lost their lives in war so that we might be free.

Revd Keir led our simple ceremony of Remembrance and Andy and Sarah laid the Wreath on our behalf.

Remembering those who gave their lives.

A few weeks later, Jacqui Barnard and Barbie led two very successful card and Christmas wreath making workshops.

The card and wreath creations were amazing. With thanks to The Golden Pheasant for kindly letting us use the Marquee, and of course, our wonderful bakers!

The events raised a fantastic £812.29 for the Church.

St Stephen’s also benefitted from a 50% share of the £3,500 profit from the 9 Bridges Charity Beer Festival. Representatives from Little Miracles and the Church received the cheques at the Pheasant. We are very

Festive card-making fun and handmade wreaths for Christmas /groups/villagetribune

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grateful for the support.

On 30th November we gathered on the Green again for the Switching on of the Christmas Tree Lights and the burial of the Etton 800 Time Capsule on the Green (see below). Matt Phillips sang ‘O Holy Night’ beautifully, having dedicated the song to all those in the village who had or were suffering with health issues this year.

As part of the St Stephen’s 800th Birthday celebrations, it was agreed that we should bury a Time Capsule. In it, there are 84 photos of the events from this year, residents and their houses, well known landmarks including the pub and the church.

A guide to the church, the Etton book, a message from me as Churchwarden since 2003, and a message from Keir, some King Charles stamps and a £10! We also added a stone from our collection painted by Charlie and an Etton tea towel. Finally, we added the music from the Hymn to St Stephen specially written

by Bradley Smith for our service in the summer. We now need to arrange a memorial stone with engraving and decide when the Time Capsule can be lifted. The current suggestion is 2075 when St Stephen’s will be 850 years old!!!

Christmas lights shine on the Green

To ensure the church will still be standing then it requires some maintenance. The next phase of work is the replacement of the Chancel roof. Due to generous grants from Augean, the Benefact Trust, CHC Trust and the Earl Fitzwilliam Trust combined with the fundraising this year we are now able to order this work.

We have the Bat Licence, and scaffolding should be erected towards the end of January.

The project should take about 8 weeks.

In addition, we are working on a project to enable the replacement of the low Chancel window with a commemorative piece. Angela Trotter and Katy Dean have worked on a design.

We now need to proceed with the practicalities.

Looking forward we have our ususal simple Nativity on the Green at 5pm on 24th December, Christmas Eve. Mulled wine will be available as will a warm welcome in the Golden Pheasant afterwards.

On Christmas Day we are hosting the Benefice Christmas service at 10.30am in the church with refreshments. All welcome.

Anne Curwen: 07730301404 villagetribune 13

23/12/2025 14:07

question; Community plays an essential role in the life of a church, embodying the heart of its mission and purpose. A

is a living, breathing collective of believers who come together to support one another, grow in their faith, and e tend the

in the church cannot be overstated, as it re ects the very nature of the Gospel and the teachings of hrist

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www.villagetribune.org.uk 19/10/2024 17:01 23/12/2025 14:10

COUNCIL CORNER

VILLAGE VIEWS

BARNACK

Thanks, Updates and Village News Barnack & Pilsgate Parish Council (BPC) has thanked community supporters, shared updates on planning and highways, and encouraged residents to get involved in upcoming working groups and council vacancies.

Barnack & Pilsgate Parish Council (BPC) has issued a round-up of community news, including thanks to local supporters, reminders on community safety, and updates on planning, highways and ways residents can get involved.

BPC offered a big thank you to Cllr Barry Witmond, who sponsored the purchase of new speakers for parish eventsthrough his company Barry Witmond Silver and Goldsmiths (based at Burghley). His £1,000 donation was gratefully received for the benefit of the parish.

The Council also issued a polite reminder to dog owners: please clean up after your dog and, if a dog waste bin is full, dispose of waste appropriately.

Residents are encouraged to report all crimes, no matter how minor, via the online neighbourhood policing portal (and to call 999 if urgent). BPC also highlighted the Bobby Scheme / Bobby Project, a charity supporting home security and community safety, and noted that residents can contact the local policing team directly using the Cambridgeshire

Constabulary website.

BPC is also inviting ideas for spending Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to support development in the village. Suggestions are welcome by email to the Clerk.

BPC thanked Sally Hullock (BCA) for her continued help organising village events, and said the annual Barnack Light SwitchOn, supported by the BCA, was a huge success again this year.

Planning All planning and tree applications received from Peterborough City Council can be viewed on the BPC website planning log.

The Council also noted that enforcement notices have been served regarding The Orchard (25/00450/FUL)and The Vineyard (25/01157/FUL) on Uffington Road. Looking ahead, the draft Local Plan is expected to go out for public consultation in early 2026, and BPC is seeking planning advice and preparing to respond.

Highways

Barnack’s Christmas tree lights switch-on brought the community together on the village green - thanks to all volunteers and organisers who made it another festive success /groups/villagetribune

015 VT156 Barnack PC.indd 15

Work continues on Speedwatch and traffic calming, with a Speedwatch working group being set up. Volunteers are welcome.

Finally, BPC noted Cllr Taylor’s resignation with thanks, and confirmed there are two councillor vacancies for Barnack or Pilsgate residents. villagetribune 15

23/12/2025 14:11

COUNCIL CORNER

HELPSTON

A happy new year to each and every member of the community. We start 2026 with the same energy and focus that was brought to the work we achieved throughout 2025.

Huge Thanks to the HELCATS The Helpston Community Action Team (Helcats) once again created an incredible diary of celebration leading up to Christmas, including the Santa Sleigh run, Christmas light switch-on, and carol singing with a brass band and a snow machine. The Parish Council are honoured to offer grant support for these initiatives.

Still, it is the commitment of the Helcats team that ensures the beautiful tree is erected and decorated, and Santa gets around the village, for which we are truly grateful.

Parish Council Website Within days of circulation, the new Parish Council website should be live, offering a fantastic resource of local contacts, information, background, and ways to get action on matters that affect you. From 15th January, log on to www. helpston-pc.gov.uk

Railway Crossing Safety Update.

After the incredibly concerning incident on the 21st October, when the barriers lifted before a train arrived, the Parish Council, along with Kevin Tighe (Ward Councillor) and Sam 16 villagetribune

016 Issue 156 Helpston PC.indd 16

Carling (MP), has been actively pursuing answers from Network Rail to ensure this will never happen again. This has been communicated to the ORR (Office of Rail and Road) and the BTP (British Transport Police).

With limited feedback before any formal reports are available, a Freedom of Information request has been made to ensure we obtain as much information as possible to satisfy the community about the crossing’s safety.

Network Rail was quick to confirm that it was an isolated incident caused by human error; however, explicit reassurance that this will not happen again is required.

in the areas that matter in our community.

Draft Local Plan Update

The winter months highlight those areas that need attention – broken street lights, speed signs, potholes and overgrown hedges.

The Parish Council will help drive the process of getting these remedied, however the most efficient means of reporting them is through you helpful people in the community. Please use the online reporting page at www. fixmystreet.com or follow the QR code and add it as a favourite on your device. You simply put the location in (Postcode etc) and the problem and it goes to the ‘To do list’ at the respective department at PCC. Your Parish Council continues to work hard behind the scenes to represent the community, as evidenced by the actions and initiatives outlined above. Monthly meetings are open to all village residents, and we welcome input to help us continue to keep Helpston the community we all wish to live in.

PCC has issued a revised timetable for the new Draft Local Plan, which appears to have deferred the process by 9 months. The Presubmission consultation phase is now due in August and September 2026, which gives the last opportunity to make a representation to the Government inspector. We will update you on the actions we, as a community, need to take to protect the infrastructure of our village and address the potential hazards posed by the crossing that will be created as significantly more housing is built.

New Parish Councillor With Councillor Gyani’s resignation last year, we should have a new councillor in place by the time of circulation. We look forward to moving forward with the Community Action Plan initiatives to make a difference

Don’t forget Helpstonbury 2026 – June 20th The Parish Council are once again proud to offer financial support to facilitate the annual village festival – Helpstonbury 2026 which will take place on 20th June 2026. The organising team will begin meetings in January to ensure this day of celebration remains a cornerstone of our community calendar. If you are interested in helping in any way – please contact the committee on 07949 602199.

Please use the FIX MY STREET page.

www.villagetribune.org.uk

27/12/2025 11:54

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20/08/2025 12:34

COUNCIL CORNER

GLINTON

Glinton Parish Council - Cllr Gerry Kirt

Happy New Year to you all.

This year has been memorable for the village for its fight against overwhelming housing development but also 2025 will be remembered for: GlintonFayre 25 when we saw a flying demonstration from WW2 Hurricane and a flyover from the Red Arrows; GlintonFest 25 our very own tremendous music festival; the creation of our community orchard; the unveiling of our new village sign, and the refurbishment of the village hall.

We should all be immensely proud of what we have collectively achieved.

Glinton Social Events It has been a busy year for the Social Events team with many events being successfully delivered for our community.

Looking towards to 2026, it has been decided to take a twelve month break from large events.

The amount of work and pressure placed on our small organising team has been immense and so we are taking a well deserved breather. Many thanks to all those who have assisted before the events and on the day, without your support they just would not have been possible.

However, we are still planning to go ahead with a Glinton Charity Fun Run on 6th June and the Great Glinton Garage Sale on 13th September.

Although we had planned to organise a Christmas film night in the village before Christmas, the work involved in fighting the housing threat to Glinton meant this did not happen. We are planning to explore having a sing-a-long film night that may be the Sound of Music, Grease or possibly Mamma Mia. Other plans could involve a race night and/or a quiz night.

Gladman appeal - packed with Glinton residents objecting to the potential destruction of their village by massive housing development.

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Glinton Switch On 2025 I was once again honoured to lead the Glinton Switch On 2025 on Thursday 4th December.

Despite the rain (third year running!) the church was full of residents eager to fully embrace the Christmas spirit through carol singing led by Rev Kier and sustained by mulled wine, mince pies, and soft drinks.

Many folk helped make the event possible, including the Church for hosting the event and serving the refreshments; the bell ringers who marked the moment of illumination; Jane Knott for providing wonderful keyboard music; Leigh Titman for organising the event and his tree erection crew who put up and decorated the stunning tree, and finally Glinton Parish Council for sponsoring the event.

A big thank you goes to Tom Chegwidden and all the students from his Design and Technology Club at Arthur Mellows Village College for taking on the project of designing and building the brand-new light plunger. The result is absolutely fantastic.

A special mention also goes to Elsie Thompson in Year 7, whose beautiful artwork features the official Glinton Switch On logo star along with traditional Christmas icons. It looks wonderful and we are very grateful for her creativity.

Gladman Glinton came together as a united community to fight the Gladman Development with www.villagetribune.org.uk

23/12/2025 14:14

VILLAGE VIEWS The new plunger with Tom Chegwidden (Head of Design Technology), Leigh Titman (Organiser of the Glinton Christmas Tree Switch On), and John Gilligan (Head of College).

immense determination to win!

The appeal hearing began on Tuesday 25th November with over 120 residents in attendance.

Glinton Parish Council’s vice chair, Bob Randall, delivered a superb address which covered all pertinent points which on conclusion was greeted by spontaneous applause. Other residents covered other issues in more detail, explaining how their daily lives were affected now but would be blighted by the Gladman development should it be allowed. Rev Kier also made a moving off the cuff speech towards the end of the morning session. Enormous thanks should go to all those who spared the

Happy New Year...

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time to attend and make their views known. A special mention is given to Steve and Stacey Rustico for organising transport.

The decision now rests solely with the inspector as to whether the wishes of Glinton residents outweigh those of big business who seem only interested in commercial gain and lack any social conscience.

All we can do now is to keep our fingers crossed and hope the inspector finds in Glinton’s favour.

Hereward Homes Whilst the fight against Gladman’s 250 home development has taken centre stage over recently weeks, another appeal which the Parish Council supported has also taken place during November. The result of the Hereward Homes 24 home development, which is in keeping with Glinton’s status as a medium growth village and our

neighbourhood plan, should be known early in the New Year.

Planning Those of you in recent planning appeals involving Glinton are probably also aware of the strained relationship between the Parish Council and the City Council Planning department.

The Head of Planning, Phil Moore, has indicated a desire to re-establish a good working relationship with GPC and offered to attend a future meeting of the parish council.

We have responded positively to the suggestion and, once the Gladman appeal decision has been made, will extend an invitation to him. We will of course make residents aware so you can participate in the meeting.

Oak tree A big thanks to Lenton’s Landscaping who kindly planted a replacement oak tree on Glinton’s recreation ground.

They donated their services to the residents of Glinton. The oak replaced an existing tree that has not faired too well.

...to all our friends, past, present and future!

Seems strange writing this in December before all the festivities have begun, that are now ancient history! Well here we are on a very cold day, looking forward to the children’s choir coming to sing for us, festive Bingo and Raffle, cards and carols and superb Xmas meals. This last months we’ve had a very moving slide show of World War sites and memorials in France, our super keep fit sessions with Yvonne, games quizzes and gifts to buy. And very generously, with a monetary gift donated by a past club member, we have had a meal out for all club members, and a lunch at a local restaurant for the extremely hard working helpers!! Many thanks. In 2026 we have talks and events to enjoy so if interested in helping or joining us come along on Mondays at the village hall. Pam. villagetribune 19

23/12/2025 14:14

COUNCIL CORNER

VILLAGE VIEWS

PEAKIRK

Gladman Appeal Hearing Henry Clark, Chair

SpeedWatch:

Along with hundreds of other people, I attended the appeal hearing at The Engine Shed on 25 November. This was the biggest turnout ever for a planning appeal in Peterborough. Jonathon

Parsons, from the Planning Inspectorate, ran the hearing in an informal way, allowing submissions from anybody who asked. I presented the case for Peakirk, emphasising that half the houses would actually be in Peakirk Parish, where there

Speed Sign Data 2025

Village Green

Location

Max Speed, Incoming, mph

Max Speed, Outgoing, mph

Vehicles/day In/Out

Thorney Rd

83

110

1329/1723

St Pega’s Rd

87

88

635/663

Deeping Rd

69

81

635/663

I am horrified at the speeds that some people do in the 30 mph zone. It looks like the S bend in the Deeping Road are the only reason the maximum speed for incoming traffic is less than 80 mph.

We need some extra volunteers to help with SpeedWatch, as we need 20 villagetribune

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has long been a presumption that any development would be restricted to infill within the village envelope. Glinton Parish Council and residents raised many important points.

One thing that I was surprised to discover during my research was that sewage from Maxey and Northborough is pumped to our Deeping Road pumping station, then flows through Peakirk, where it is joined by the sewage from Etton and Glinton at our St Pega’s Road pumping station.

No wonder we have problems in Peakirk!

three people to operate the equipment and record the vehicle details. It’s not difficult and there is a short online training session.

Contact Emma Crowson, peakirk.cllrcrowson@gmail. com, if you’d like to help.

After further thought we have decided that the best place for a “Lest We Forget” memorial bench would be at the junction of Firdale Close and Thorney Road. We will need to obtain permission from PCC and raise the funds. One Peakirk resident has already kindly offered a substantial contribution.

Would anybody else like to donate? Please contact the clerk if you do.

The Ruddy Duck I’m pleased to say that The Ruddy Duck is once again in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide.

Congratulations to Nigel and his team for running a pub people want to go to.

As always, we would be pleased to hear your views. Please contact the Clerk, Angela Hankins, on clerk@peakirk-pc.gov.uk. www.villagetribune.org.uk

23/12/2025 14:15

VILLAGE NEWS News from Bainton and Ashton Parish Council

New Year, new position?

All the Parish Councillors hope you had a good Christmas and New Year celebration.

Now might be a good time to think about giving back to the community and the beautiful, special environment you enjoy.

There is a desperate need for new Councillors on the Parish Council. It is not an onerous job and is very rewarding. A few hours a month are needed. Parish Council meetings are held every other month in the evening, and then possibly some time spent on projects and issues of interest, e.g., nature recovery/verges, finances/budgeting, community engagement, maintaining the environment, planning applications, and more. Could you do this?

If the council does not have enough Councillors in the future, City Council staff will sit on the parish council and make the decisions for your locality.

For more information, please get in touch with me, the Clerk Jenny Rice, on 07889 669550 or email clerk@baintonandashtonpc.gov.uk

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021 Issue 156 Bainton and Ashton PC.indd 21

Closure of Bainton Churchyard You may have seen articles about this in previous issues, or attended the public meeting on 30/10/25, but this is to repeat information to those who may have missed it.

The Bainton churchyard is very near full for burials and will then have to close. There is no land available for a new graveyard in the parish, unless a commercial purchase is made from the land owned by the Bainton Poors Charity, which currently owns and rents several fields to farmers.

Barnack Parish Council will not allow parishioners to be buried in its burial ground, so residents of Bainton and Ashton will have to be buried in Peterborough City Council-run burial grounds.

A survey will be sent out shortly to gather residents’ views and feedback on this issue. A Parish Council has the power to provide a burial ground but not a duty to do so; however, if there is sufficient support for a site in the village, then options may be explored further. Please do look

out for a consultation survey to complete and return. Thank you. If you have any comments or questions in the meantime, please do contact one of the Parish Councillors or me.

Grass cutting tender The grass-cutting contract is to be tendered for, and applications for the work are to be considered. The Parish Council does the mowing of the verges and green spaces in Bainton and Ashton, with a sympathetic mowing regime that encourages nature recovery, and specific plans are produced each time a cut is due - this is around 6 times in the months between May and October. If you are interested in this work, please contact me for the details. The deadline will be the end of February.

The next meeting is on Thursday, 15th January 2026, 7.30 pm at the Reading Room. All welcome.

Mrs Jenny Rice 07889669550 clerk@ baintonandashton-pc.gov.uk villagetribune 21

23/12/2025 14:18

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22/10/2025 17:02

COUNCIL CORNER

VILLAGE VIEWS

NEWBOROUGH

Lights On, Works Underway A chilly evening at the end of November saw the switching on of the Northborough Christmas lights.

Residents enjoyed mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies, and listened to the very talented Just Sing! Choir as they waited for Santa to arrive. This year, his elves had installed a sparkling throne so local children could have photographs taken with Saint Nick once he had illuminated the tree and handed out Christmas gifts.

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the road is finally open again.

NPC realises that this has been a major inconvenience to the village, and councillors have been actively involved in keeping the community informed and passing on feedback.

Over the winter months, work has been taking place at the village hall and its surroundings.

The Parish Council, in partnership with The Village Hall Community Association, successfully applied for a PCC Net Zero Villages Grant in early 2025. The Village

Hall has since had solar panels installed on the roof, and solar lighting is being installed around the car park to aid visibility at night. The overflow car park is also undergoing an overhaul, with work being done to raise the areas which have unfortunately sunk over time, reseed the area with grass and fill the potholes at the entrance. Lastly, a new noticeboard will be installed outside Northborough Primary School to replace the existing one, which leaks badly and makes information challenging to read.

This is the first replacement of the three village noticeboards, as unfortunately, the existing ones are beyond repair.

Northborough Parish Council is delighted to announce a savethe-date for the Annual Parish Meeting and afternoon tea on Saturday 16 May 2026, from 3 pm, at Northborough & Deeping Gate Village Hall. NPC would like to invite residents to join NPC councillors; the meeting is an excellent chance to have your say as a resident and to hear about initiatives in the parish.

Council meetings are held in person at the Village Hall.

Members of the public are welcome to attend at 7.00 pm on the second Wednesday of the month (excluding August).

We also have one vacancy for a potential parish councillor who wishes to join our proactive team and make a real difference in their/our community. We also welcome any volunteers to help with ongoing projects and activities. The Parish Council website and village notice board will display the date of the next meeting. villagetribune 23

23/12/2025 14:19

XXX XXX

UFFORD ART SOCIETY Ufford art group, which meets in the Village Hall, has been thriving for many years but we can now accommodate 2 or 3 new members.

This is a light-hearted group who draw and paint, generally in watercolour or acrylics, and a professional artist attends fortnightly to give advice and assistance.

Whether you are a beginner or seasoned amateur you will be very welcome to join us on Thursdays mornings from 9 – 12 and it costs £5 per session to cover hire of hall and mid-

morning tea/coffee and biscuits.

No commitment is necessary – come as and when you like -it’s “pay-as-you-go”.

Just turn up on the day or, for more info call John on 01780-740188 or email: mail@ patandjohn.co.uk

To join contact us

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www.villagetribune.org.uk

27/12/2025 11:38

COUNCIL CORNER

VILLAGE VIEWS

MAXEY

Maxey’s Winter Community Sparkle Normally the descent into winter makes us want to hibernate and rest but Maxey seems to have come alive over the last few months.

One of the most obvious signs of this is in the work of the recently formed gardening group.who have kept the planters full of vibrant colour with the pumpkins, poppies and now Christmas sparkle...

Together with the Christmas tree donated by Maxey Charity Group, the village looks really cheerful and festive. Something to relieve the gloom of the short winter days.

The village hall has been buzzing too. The sell out musical evening was a great success and on 9th November Maxey Parish Council, together with Maxey

Community Association, held al brunch in the village hall. In spite of the fact that there was no running water and we had to have an emergency dash for bottled water, the morning was very successful. It was lovely to see the hall full of local residents enjoying a hot drink, a bacon roll and a chat with friends and neighbours. Donations were requested for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal and £125 was raised. The tickets for the Christmas Tea for December 10th are already selling like hot cakes!

Together with the ever popular children’s Christmas party and the well supported sleigh run, it feels as if Maxey has had an injection of community spirit.

Long may it last. /groups/villagetribune

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A bonus of the brunch was that several people expressed an interest in joining MPC as councillors. If these interests come to fruition, then we can look forward to being up to a full complement again soon.

In September 2025, our Clerk and Responsible Finance Officer Ms Elinor Beesley left the Parish Council for personal reasons.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank her for her contributions during her time with us, and we wish her all the best for the future.

MPC is pleased to announce, that, following and advertisement for a new clerk/RFO we have been fortunate to appoint Tony Henthorn to the post. Tony has a wealth of experience in Local Government work in his role as Clerk and RFO of Helpston Parish Council and of financial management in both private and public organisations. We very much look forward to working with him. villagetribune 25

23/12/2025 14:20

COUNCIL CORNER

VILLAGE VIEWS

NEWBOROUGH

By Cllr John Rowell

Hi all and Happy New Year!

For those of you that do not know me, my name is John Rowell.

I’ve lived in Newborough all my life. People will remember me for ‘Poppy Day’ and working at Newborough school with my wife Rosemary (Harris) who has also lived in Newborough all her life.

I’ve served on the Newborough and Borough Fen Parish Council for over 40 years!

Now enough about me……here a couple of updates from recent events in the village.

Newborough Light Christmas Switch On We would like to thank each one of you for coming out in the cold, wet weather to support the Newborough Christmas tree light switch on in December at Crown Garden.

Big thanks again to Newborough church and Newborough C of E school for

the beautiful choir and festive voices. Thank you also to our City Cllrs for providing the Christmas tree and refreshments in the church afterwards.

Tuesday 16th December 2025 - 100th Birthday celebration!

My daughter Cllr Vicki Coleman (Vice Chair of the Parish Council) & Cllr Mark Ormston (Peterborough City Council/ Chair of Newborough & Borough Fen Parish Council) visited Mrs

Yona Mitchell to wish her a very Happy 100th birthday this week.

We also had a special appearance from the Mayor of Peterborough Mrs Judy Fox! With a piece of birthday cake and a sherry in hand, we had a special walk down memory lane together……... thank you to Yona and her family for making us feel so welcome.

If you are celebrating a special birthday or have any ideas for future events in the Newborough

area for 2026, please contact the Newborough and Borough Fen Council Clerk Irene.

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23/12/2025 14:21

TRIBLAND HISTORY

The first baptisms at St Bartholomew’s Church Newborough.

Newborough Church was consecrated on St Bartholomew’s Day, 24th August 1830. The first baptism took place on 7th September 1830, conducted by the Reverend Christopher Carr, less than two weeks later.

aged six months.

By 1841 the Welby family were still living in Guntons Road, now with five surviving children. The family later moved to Sutterton, Lincolnshire, where George left home to work as a farm servant.

In 1852 George married Matilda Curson and went on to farm land at Cuckoo Road, Spalding.

Census records show him steadily increasing both acreage and workforce, indicating a successful farming career. George remained there until his death in 1893, aged 61. His eldest son, John Thomas, later took over the farm.

George Welby

Ann Wright

George Welby, baptised on 7th September 1831, was the first son of John and Catherine Welby.

John, a shoemaker, and Catherine moved to Guntons Road, Newborough shortly after their marriage in 1828. Their first child, Harriett, was baptised at Peakirk in 1829, before Newborough Church was built, but sadly died

Ann Wright was baptised on Christmas Day 1830, the daughter of John and Mary Wright. John worked as a shepherd. Although the family initially lived in Newborough, they moved to Eye shortly after Ann’s birth and later returned.

Ann appears in the 1841 census living with her family in Eye and was later recorded working as a servant in Church Street, Peterborough. There is no definitive record of her later life, although a death of an Ann Wright is recorded in Peterborough in 1856.

John and Mary Wright eventually settled in Crowland, where they lived with family members in later life. John died in 1884, followed by Mary later the same year.

By Paul Cooper

long and interesting lives.

Following a break in the last edition of the Tribune, which focused on remembrance of those who suffered or died as a result of 20th-century conflicts, we now return to the theme of “firsts” at St Bartholomew’s Church, Newborough. In this edition we look at the first baptisms recorded at the new church and explore a little about the lives of those children.

Given the high levels of infant mortality at the time, I wondered whether these first baptisms might echo the pattern seen in the early burial records. Thankfully, the first three baptised children all survived into adulthood and went on to live

Baptisms

Frances Stanley Frances Stanley, the first baptism of 1831, was baptised on 3rd January by Reverend Christopher Carr. She was the youngest child of William and Dorothy Stanley.

The family lived in Borough /groups/villagetribune

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23/12/2025 14:26

TRIBLAND HISTORY

Fen and Crowland, with William described as a cottager and Dorothy later recorded as a laundress. William died in 1845 and was buried in Newborough churchyard. Dorothy lived to the age of 80 and was buried alongside him.

By 1851 Frances was working as a dressmaker. She married innkeeper Samuel Robinson in 1860, and the couple lived in Churchgate, Spalding, before moving to Peterborough on Samuel’s retirement. Frances died in 1908.

A plea for help!

My latest project is to catalogue the burials in Newborough Churchyard. There are records of burials which are available. They 28 villagetribune

027-028 VT156 Paul Cooper.indd 28

give details such as; names, ages, dates of burials and the vicars name. What they do not give is the location of the burial. With the valuable assistance of Shirley Cawley (Church Wardens wife) and Irene Healiss (Clerk to the Parish Council) we have searched for the records of the plots people were buried in. There are no surviving records, if there were any in the first place. I have collated the details of all of the surviving grave stones and given each one a location reference.

Sadly some, over the years, have become unsafe and been removed, without any reference as to where they were removed from or for whatever reason a burial marker was never installed.

The location of existing markers

and the burial register do not follow any logical sequence. I have however, through some detective work identified the location of the first burial. Although there are many stones missing or unreadable there still seems to be some floral tributes left on unmarked graves. If anyone has a family member or knows of someone buried in an unmarked grave, can you please get in touch so that we can enter the person’s name on the location register?

Many thanks. (email; cooper_56@ btinternet.com) Finally, I hope you enjoy the articles and thank you for reading them. Can I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! www.villagetribune.org.uk

23/12/2025 14:26

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22/10/2025 17:20

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a deeply avourful sauce t takes a few hours to make, but the recipe is mostly hands-off Contact Jason Thomas: Cheaper cuts of beef are used with 01733 252 850 / 07841 521root 271 or vegetables so is a great for hard pressed e-mail and JasonADServices@yahoo.co.uk families an average cook can achieve for your uality free food consultation. good restaurant easily n the we tend to use beef shin or braising chuck 30 vil agetribune steak but always cut it ourselves, across the grain, into chunks larger than you d usually find in a pre-cut New Homes.indd 30 pack The beef high fat uality is important here so look for plenty of marbling and if possible buy from a trusted butcher rather than a supermarket meat counter

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o ahead and make it a day or two ahead of time as we do the avour improves the longer it sits irtually all rench bistros and restaurants have their own version of a Bœuf Bourgignon and we, over the years, have developed this classic of rench country cuisine here at CP to please our customers when we place it before them e ve served over decades to the good and the great, the not so good and those who think they re great including a few so-called celebrities with a sometimes do you not know who am attitude to our staff ne such was a well-known regular T presenter who would always demand a discount from us because he thought he improved our reputation by dining at our restaurant e always refused of course, much to his chagrin, but this never stopped him returning

o ahead of time as longer it si restaurants Bourgigno developed cuisine her when we p over decad the not so great inclu with a som am attitud well-known always dem thought he at our rest much to h him return

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

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Chez Pierre at this time of year. It is the ultimate colder weather comfort food, where chunks of well-marbled beef are seared in a hot pan, then gently braised with garlic and onions in a rich wine-based broth.

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030 VT156 Adverts.indd 30

Located at:

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This class the all-tim Chez Pie the ultim food, wh beef are gently br in a rich

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19/10/2024 16:50 23/12/2025 14:27

FARM FOCUS

Rosemary’s

FARMING DIARY

January / February 2026

All autumn sown crops appear to be coping well with the weather conditions experienced since sowing in the early to late autumn; what a difference it seems to make when the clocks are changed, this year, in particular with having temperatures of 18 degrees in mid-October, down to 0 in November – with the lower temperatures the crops are also slower emerging.

Loading grains from the stores has been ongoing as planned, which has worked in well with our other work on the farm and it will continue to go out through the winter and spring, depending on when the grain merchants can fit it into their selling slots, be it maltsters, mills, boats for export etc. We had our first lift of sugar beet destined for Whissington Sugar Beet Factory in midOctober, sugars levels were disappointing they were varied from 19 downwards. Some of our fields suffered with the drought /groups/villagetribune

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which was general even with all the wet we had a year ago, the heat was so intense this summer – in fact the hottest since records began. Our second lifts of sugar beet was lifted at the end of November, not quite as planned because of all the recent rainfall (which is set to continue) with short spells of dry, but also frost; so a proper mixed bag of weather to deal with. As the sugar beet is lifted we are sowing winter wheat on these fields.

The last of the cattle were brought in from the grass fields to the covered yards which are bedded with straw and have plenty of ventilation, some repairs have been done to the yards and buildings which took longer than expected. The long awaited budget has been delivered by the Chancellor Rachel Reeves, I think its best described like the weather, a mixed bag! On the whole it’s going to make a big difference to everyone. Our third lift of sugar beet is planned

for mid to late December, which mainly depends on the weather (the lifting, the haulage contractors and even the factory) It’s nearly Christmas, the last of the flowers in the garden have finished flowering for the year. I am pleased we managed to get the more delicate potted flowers like the geraniums and agapanthus into the greenhouse thanks to my carer Joyce and some family and friends Personally I would like to thank Grace and her team in the farm shop, Jo and her team in The Granary and Robin, James and their team on the farm, for all the hours of work they all put in throughout the year; and finally to you all our customers, without you we wouldn’t have the business we have today. Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and a healthy, prosperous New Year.

Best wishes, look forward to seeing you all next year Rosemary Morton. villagetribune 31

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12/12/2024 16:51 13:58 19/10/2024

LOOKING BACK IN TIME

A Letter to the Future:

Creating My Legacy Book What began as a gift for my grandchildren has grown into a journey through family history, imagination, and the future itself — a personal legacy book that looks back over four centuries and forward to the world they will inherit.

Like many people of my generation, I’ve reached a point where memories start to feel more precious — and more fragile. Stories that were once told around kitchen tables or on long car journeys risk being lost forever if they are not written down. That realisation was the spark behind what I now call my Legacy Book.

At its heart, the book is a gift for my grandchildren. But it is also something more: a bridge between past, present and future. Part family history, part illustrated storybook, part time capsule — and part speculation about the world they may live in when they are adults.

Looking Back: Unexpected Threads When I first started researching my family, I expected a fairly ordinary working-class English story. In many ways, that is exactly what I found — mill workers, labourers, soldiers, craftsmen — ordinary people living through extraordinary times.

But there were surprises too.

One branch of my family left Oldham in the 19th century and travelled thousands of miles to Salt Lake City as part of the Mormon migration. They crossed oceans, plains and deserts, pushing handcarts across America in search of faith, community and a new life. Standing in Oldham

Northern roots, growin g up in 60’s Oldham

today, it is hard to imagine the courage — or desperation — that journey required.

Another story, closer to home but no less sobering, is that of my grandfather, James Hetherington.

He was killed in Iraq in 1920, during a largely forgotten conflict that followed the First World War. His death barely registered in the history books, yet it shaped the lives of those left behind and echoed down the generations.

These are not grand historical figures. They are ordinary people whose lives were shaped by forces far bigger than themselves — faith, war, industry, empire — just as ours are today.

From History to Story

Tough times, cotton mill closures, poor houses and soup kitchens 34 villagetribune

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Rather than present the Legacy Book as a dry family tree, I wanted it to feel alive. For my grandchildren especially, names and dates mean very little without story and imagination.

So the book blends real history with narrative storytelling. Past generations are introduced as characters, and the children are written into the story themselves — stepping through time, asking questions, witnessing moments that shaped their www.villagetribune.org.uk

27/12/2025 11:41

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19/10/2024 16:55

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23/12/2025 14:30

LOOKING BACK IN TIME The Henthorn Mormon handcart journey

Terraced houses, playing on the streets until dark family and their world.

The illustrations play a big role too. Some are realistic, others more painterly or symbolic. The aim is not perfect accuracy but emotional truth — a sense of continuity, connection and belonging.

Why the Future Matters While much of the book looks backwards, one of its most important sections looks forwards — to the year 2050.

The image you see on the front cover of this edition reflects that idea. It shows generations facing one another: children

The twins and Ernie looking to the future /groups/villagetribune

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looking forward, adults looking back, all connected by the same frame. For me, it captures the essence of legacy — not what we owned, but what we passed on.

So what do I think the world might look like in 2050?

Some changes are easy to predict. Technology will be everywhere — more invisible, more embedded in daily life. Many of the jobs our grandchildren will do probably do not exist yet.

Artificial intelligence will handle routine tasks, but human skills — creativity, empathy, judgement — will matter more than ever.

Other changes worry me more.

Climate change will not be an abstract concept by then; it will be a lived reality. Water, food and energy will shape politics and daily life. Communities may become more local again, not out of nostalgia, but necessity.

Yet I remain quietly optimistic.

History teaches us that every generation faces upheaval.

Industrialisation, world wars, pandemics, social change — each seemed overwhelming at the time. And yet, people

adapted. Families endured.

Communities rebuilt.

My hope is that by 2050, our grandchildren will live in a world that values connection over consumption, care over convenience, and stewardship over short-term gain.

Why Write It Down?

The Legacy Book is not about preserving my memory. It is about giving the next generation context — helping them understand where they came from, and reminding them that they are part of a much longer story.

If there is one lesson that runs through the book, it is this: ordinary lives matter. Decisions made quietly — to leave a town, to stand up for a belief, to care for others — can echo far beyond our own lifetimes.

Perhaps that is the real legacy we leave behind.

And perhaps, in 2050, someone will look back at us and wonder how we lived through our extraordinary times. villagetribune 37

27/12/2025 11:41

SCHOOLS AMVC

We hope this newsletter finds you well as we approach the festive season.

As the Autumn term winds down, we have had a busy few months filled with fundraising and events. If you want to follow our achievements, do follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Our recent Year 11 mock interview day was a huge success. This involved all Year 11 students meeting with a range of external interview volunteers, including local business owners, companies, and some of our Governors. We are grateful to them for their time and experience. These interviews are invaluable in preparing our Year 11 students for the months and years ahead and give them confidence when attending Sixth Form, College or Apprenticeship interviews.

On 10 December, our Christmas concert was a complete sellout! The talent 38 villagetribune

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showcased by our students was truly outstanding, and their hard work in rehearsals shone through on the night. A huge well done to everyone involved.

If you attended the Glinton Christmas Tree light switchon, you may have noticed the switch itself—a fantastic design created by one of our talented Year 7 students, Elsie. We are so proud of her creativity and contribution to the community.

Fundraising remains a key focus for us. During Children in Need week, we hosted a range of activities, including the popular ‘Ride Britain’ challenge and the ever popular ‘Sponge the Teacher.’ Thanks to everyone’s generosity, we raised over £2,000—a phenomenal achievement.

Our Sixth Form Open Evening

was extremely well attended. We have received a record number of applications already for Year 12 and look forward to seeing many of the students join us in September.

Mark your calendars! Our production of West Side Story will take place on 18, 19, and 20 March. Rehearsals are going brilliantly, and we can’t wait to share this spectacular show with you. Tickets will be available from the College in the new year.

Finally, we would like to thank our entire school community— students, parents, and staff— for your continued support and engagement. Wishing you all a joyful Christmas and a very happy New Year!

John Gilligan Head of College www.villagetribune.org.uk

23/12/2025 14:32

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JOHN CLARE NEWS

Finding John Clare, Again and Again I am grateful to the Tribune for giving me the space to introduce myself as the new Chair of the John Clare Society and to offer some reflections on the poet.

I have been visiting Helpston and the surrounding villages for nearly forty years, both for the annual festival and in between. At least once a year, I also cycle around ‘Clare countryside’ and have twice cycled John Clare’s ‘Journey out of Essex’ from High Beech in Epping Forest to Helpston.

It was, in fact, cycling that first drew me to him. Growing up in post-war damaged East London, we would cycle off for the day to High Beech, where John Clare had spent four years in Matthew Allen’s asylum.

While John Clare has been described as the poet of place, in and around Helpston, as the Society’s latest publication, Clare’s People, reveals his gaze was much wider, his humanity heartfelt, and his social observation sharp. But it is undoubtedly Clare’s poetry of the natural world, its joys and its losses, that has made him so widely admired, not just among environmentalists. He has also touched other people beyond his birthplace. When I lecture Irish audiences and read John Clare, they seem to recognise a familiar voice, particularly of exile. During my many working visits to South America, I was also told that Clare’s poetry read like that of the indigenous 40 villagetribune

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Dr Mike Mecham

peoples of the Amazon, with both sharing a proximity to the earth.

Therefore, in so many places, a celebration of John Clare can now be witnessed. But for many of us, it is that precious time we cherish each year in Helpston at the July festival. I am therefore grateful to Gary Alderson for taking up the reins for 2026, when the theme will be the family. A highlight

will be a performance by the Peterborough Choral Society in St. Boltoph’s Church on Saturday evening, 11 July.

We look forward to many readers of the Tribune joining us.

Dr Mike Mecham is also a Visiting Fellow in Irish History at St. Mary’s University, London, and editor of Clare’s People. www.villagetribune.org.uk

23/12/2025 14:33

TRIBUNE HISTORY No Room at the Inn:

A Peakirk Nativity?

Dr Avril Lumley Prior

On 4 August 1914, the German army invaded neutral Belgium, resulting in Britain declaring war on Germany and its ruler, Kaiser Wilhelm II (1859-1941), the eldest grandson of Queen Victoria.

By the end of the month, the fortified cities of Liège, Namur and Antwerp had fallen and the Belgian government fled Brussels for the safety of Le Havre in Normandy. Terrible atrocities were committed by German troops in what became known as the ‘Rape of Belgium’, during which an estimated 6,500 civilians were massacred.

Approximately, 1.5 million more fled the country seeking asylum in the Netherlands, France and Britain.

Of the roughly 250,000 Belgian refugees who arrived in Britain, around 200 were temporarily settled in the Peterborough area. Among them were schoolteachers, cabinet-makers, a blacksmith, a lace-maker and several with linguistic skills. All were eager to find work and support themselves rather than rely upon handouts. They were lodged in the Peterborough Hotel, the Girls’ County School boarding houses and in the private homes

Fredo Franzoni [1878-1943]: Belgian refugees arriving in Folkstone (Folkstone Museum) /groups/villagetribune

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A treat for Belgian refugees billeted in Peakirk (Lincolnshire Standard, 31 October 1914) of members of the public. Like the Ukrainian refugees of late, they were supported by the local communities through donations of food (including some pike caught at Peakirk), clothing and bedding, and fund-raising events, such as concerts, jumble sales and auctions. From the first wave in October 1914, six displaced Belgians were billeted at the fourteen-roomed Peakirk Rectory with Reverend Robert Colquhoun Faithfull and his wife, Felicia, whilst a disabled child was sent to the ‘Cripples’ Home’.

According to the unpublished Dissertation of London-based, religious romantic Miss Bertha James (1859-1936), a family of four were also placed in the Hermitage chapel (reputedly on the site of the eighth-century cell of St Pega, Peakirk’s patron saint), which Bertha had purchased in October 1914. She divulges that the refugees’ name was Joosens and that the father was a ‘respectable stone mason’, whose wife was pregnant with their third child. They were in dire straits for Peterborough Union Workhouse was already full and they had villagetribune 41

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St Pega’s Hermitage Chapel, Deeping Road been sent to Peakirk instead.

Unfortunately, no one was able to accommodate the entire family.

So, Reverend Faithfull, mindful that the Hermitage Chapel stood empty, wrote to Bertha requesting that she allow them to live there, since ‘there was no room at the inn’. She agreed but stipulated that the baby should be named either Guthlac (after St Pega’s brother, a hermit of Crowland) or Pega and that the tenants should ‘take care of the building’.

A baby girl was born (according to Bertha) in the chapel ‘where the altar now stands’, on the very spot where her namesake had worshipped back in the eighth century. The infant was duly 42 villagetribune

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christened ‘Pega’ by ‘the Roman Catholic priest from Deeping’.

This, Bertha observes was ‘the first Sacrament administered there as far as we know since the Reformation [of Henry VIII]’.

The family left Peakirk shortly afterwards, when Monsieur Joosens found employment ‘elsewhere’. After the War, they all returned to Belgium, allegedly to Malines (present-day Mechelen). A heart-warming story of half-remembered facts – or a flight of fancy? Bertha is so vague about the Joosens family and their first names that we may wonder if she ever actually met them in person, though she does divulge that ‘Pega’ had an older sister called Maria or Mary. And, she was writing from her home in Burton Court, London SW3, over twelve years after the event and

possibly relying upon secondhand information - and, of course, “recollections may vary”.

Searching the FindmyPast and Ancestry genealogical websites, we could find no reference to the birth or baptism of a Pega Joosens worldwide, let alone in Peakirk. Maybe, after their traumatic exodus from Belgium, the parents neglected to register their daughter’s birth? The Parish Council Minutes, too, remain silent regarding the Joosens whereabouts. Moreover, the notion that ‘Baby Pega’ was received into the Roman Catholic church in a deconsecrated chapel also arouses suspicion.

Why didn’t her family travel the 2.8 miles to Deeping St James to celebrate the occasion surrounded by a sympathetic congregation in a bone fide place-of-worship? The next step was to explore the parish records for Deeping St James Roman Catholic chapel. And here, the plot thickens! Parish priest, Father Paul Lloyd, could find no records whatsoever of either a baptism or burial of any member of the Joosens family (not even one with a more conventional Christian name) in either Deeping or Peakirk!

However, there is an entry embedded in St Pega’s church Register which may shed some light on the mystery. It records the birth of Mary Pega Gray, fifth child of journeyman blacksmith Robert Gray and his wife, Lily Ann, on 6 January 1915, and her baptism on 17 January. Mary Pega’s birthdate is noteworthy as it was Epiphany, the day when the Three Wise Men traditionally paid homage to the infant Jesus and, in the Eastern Church, the www.villagetribune.org.uk

23/12/2025 14:36

TRIBUNE HISTORY anniversary of Christ’s baptism. It is also two days before St Pega’s patronal festival on 8 January.

Pertinently, the Census Returns reveal that the family arrived in Peakirk from Biggleswade in 1914 and had relocated to Deeping St Nicholas, near Spalding, by 1920, concurrent with the Joosens’ sojourn in the village.

So, were the Grays the people that Reverend Faithfull persuaded

Bertha to put up in St Pega’s Hermitage chapel?

And the ‘respectable stonemason’? Was Bertha confusing him with the Belgian sculptor, Jules Tuerlinckx also from Malines, who carved the panels set into the façade of Spalding Gentlemen’s Society Museum during his exile?

In 1926, Bertha James purchased the freehold of the Hermitage site and began to prepare it for use as a nunnery. The chapel was refurbished and an altar, marble floor and wood panels installed. The The ‘Pega’ window in the north aisle (1952) The façade of Spalding Gentlemen’s Society Museum, the work of a Belgian refugee

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adjacent cottage was demolished and replaced with the present building. Sadly, Bertha died in 1936, before work was completed and before the chapel was reconsecrated. She bequeathed the property to the Community of the Holy Family, a teaching order of Anglican nuns, whose mother-house was at St. Mary’s Convent, Holmhurst, Sussex. The sisters stayed there from 1937 to 1980.

Bertha also left the nuns a copy of her Dissertation with the story of Pega Joosens’ nativity.

Until now, it has never been questioned and still remains an enigma. But we can confirm that Peakirk’s patron saint had at least one namesake living in the village, 1200 years after she built her oratory or prayer-house on the site of St Pega’s hermitage chapel, in 714.

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23/12/2025 14:36

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23/12/2025 14:36

2026 NEW YEAR FEATURE

What’s on your home and garden wish list for 2026?

Are you already thinking ahead to ways of improving your home interior or making your exterior space more exciting in 2026?

Whatever the task – big or small – a few clever tweaks right up to some major revamping can bring your home right back up to scratch.

So, whether a fancy new kitchen, swish new bathroom, swanky garden makeover or just a spruce up here and there, planning your home improvements early is key to avoiding disappointment.

While Safe Local Trades has members across many disciplines; painting and decorating, plastering, electrician, kitchen / bathroom fitting, carpentry, handyman, carpet / upholstery cleaners, window/conservatory fitting etc, many are already reporting bookings several months ahead.

It is the case with many tried and tested traders that they will be busy, so don’t delay in getting in touch to secure a slot and /groups/villagetribune

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don’t underestimate that their order books may already be filling up.

Some projects, like a new kitchen or bathroom for example, may be subject to a longer lead in time; there is the quote to agree, designs to finalise, products to order and then securing the availability of a great kitchen/ bathroom fitter.

Equally, if you are looking to sell your home come January, then time is of the essence if you require some property pick me ups to stay ahead of the game.

But what do you have planned for the New Year?

Here are a few jobs to think about as we head towards 2026.

■ Painting and decorating – from neutral shades, vibrant colours or tropical tones – perhaps you are thinking about bring the wow to your walls?

■ Home security - protect your

property with CCTV or intruder surveillance / security alarm systems, particularly as the darker days are here to stay for a little longer.

■ Garden rooms - a garden room is a contemporary and versatile outdoor structure that serves as an ideal extension of your home, offering a range of uses such as an office, bar, gym, yoga studio, playroom, cinema, or simply additional storage.

■ Driveway, patios and garden landscaping – think ahead to the summer months give your exterior space a spring makeover and get your project booked in now to beat the rush. You will thank yourself for it when you are relaxing in the sunshine.

■ Air conditioning - provides a consistent and comfortable indoor environment, whether it’s sweltering summer heat or chilly winter days, air conditioning ensures that your home remains at an optimal temperature. No more tossing and turning in bed due to extreme weather conditions!

■ Home alterations – from removing walls to create an open plan, to a garage conversion for a new study or playroom.

■ Replacement windows, doors, fascias, and gutters – these changes can significantly enhance your property’s kerb appeal.

Safe Local Trades, exclusively for the PE postcode area, has someone to fit the bill. Our tried and tested members are always a safe bet when it comes to the A to Z of trades.

And the great new is that they are just a click away at www. safelocaltrades.com villagetribune 45

23/12/2025 14:37

RECIPE

From the Kitchen of

Chez Pierre

Poulet sauté Chasseur de Mme. Lascourrège

I’m imagining all of you Tribland people in your nice villages and I hope you’re well and looking forward to the springtime here.

I have in this issue to tell you about a very simple, traditional French farmhouse one-pot recipe prepared so many times here at Chez Pierre I can do this with a sock over my eyes! Always our guests and friends are pleased when this is plated-up in front of them and the only discussion is over the wine to choose which, incidentally, I always win with our lightly chilled house red Bordeaux.

Many years ago in Northern France I ate for the first time at our family friend’s home a great dish of your English Hunters’ Chicken or, as we French know: Chicken Chasseur. A chicken sauté is one of the classics of French rural cooking. Inexpensive and reasonably quick to prepare,

it lends itself to endless variation and, as you busy housewives will already know, it reheats well and so it is also very good for entertaining guests without the faff. The lady who gives her name to this dish, Mme. Lascourrège, was a formidable woman who, although she was really quite old, ruled her rustic Normandy kitchen with a strict discipline and was a wonder to watch as she prepared her food to cook. Many times when I was a young boy she would allow me to prepare vegetables and help her lift the big iron cassoulet pots onto the range; and after a few years I was allowed even to help her bone chickens and make stocks and sauces. But I’ll never forget the day she let me prepare this dish for her friends and her to enjoy, and indeed they did enjoy it.

These days we prepare the same for our own friends and guests to

savour, and it has always left clean plates and ‘seconds’ requests – so make more than you think you need!

For four: 12 chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on: but trim the excess skin well), plain flour, 1tbsp olive oil, 3 large long shallots (diced) 200g chestnut mushrooms (quartered), 2 fat garlic cloves (crushed) 1 glass dry white wine, 1 cup of chicken stock, 1 can good quality chopped tomatoes, 2 rosemary sprigs, 3 bay leaves, seasoning, a handful of pitted black olives and fresh parsley to garnish. I leave the bone in the thighs to help an even cook but one might fillet if preferred.

Put a handful of well-seasoned flour in a plastic bag and drop the chicken pieces in one by one, to coat. Shake off the excess flour and place on a plate. Heat the oil in a heavy iron casserole and fry the chicken over a medium heat until golden, turning once.

Place the chicken on a warm plate while you add the shallots to the pan with mushrooms and garlic.

Cook through whilst stirring frequently then put the chicken back with any juices, adding the wine, tomatoes, bay, olives, rosemary and stock. Bring to the boil then reduce to simmer over a low heat for about 20/25 minutes. Skim off any surface fat before seasoning to taste and serving with well-seasoned and buttered mashing potatoes, bread, French beans or asparagus.

As a tip: perhaps cook less by 5 or so minutes and cool and chill – before gently reheating later when you need it, for about 20 minutes?

Bonne Chance, Pierre x

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23/12/2025 14:38

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diaries is 27 to 29 June 2025. If to 8pm. The cost is £15, booked to bring ‘Ike’ on the day. All you would like to be involved in and places can be booked welcome. organising the event, please do let by messaging Andrew on 07836213406. On Monday me knowd love some Anniversary of help

Etton Church

5pm on Sunday 1 December and the Nativity service will be held on the Village green on Christmas eve at 5pm.

Christmas Card and Wreath Making Workshop

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 agna arta was confirmed e would like to mark the occasion with a weekend of celebrations.

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

After the great success of these eventsEverything last year, youChristmas might need for Tree Lights on 18 November, we will your pets andSwith-on large animals & Nativity be holding a Christmas card making workshop Our usual switching on of the at the Coach House from Feed for: Christmas tree lights will take 2.30pm to 5pm or 5.30pm Cats / Dogs / Wild or on Caged Birds green at place the village Poultry / Small Animals to 8pm. The cost is £15, / Horses 5pm on Sunday 1 December and places can be booked and the Nativity service will Call: 01733 810888 / 07940 297788 be held on the Village green by messaging Andrew on Steam Farm, Peterborough Rd, Crowland on Christmas evePE6 at OAD 5pm.

07836213406.

On Monday 10am-5pm Mon–Fri, 9am-4pm Sat, Closed Sun

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- d love some help

vil agetribune 29 Village Tribune 149w.indd 29

21/10/2024 10:24

21/10/2024 10:38

We now have over 4,500 members in our Village Tribune Facebook Group.

Keep up to date withyou news and views Everything might needinfor YOUR village your pets and large animals Feed for: Cats / Dogs / Wild or Caged Birds Poultry / Horses / Small Animals

Call: 01733 810888 / 07940 297788 Steam Farm, Peterborough Rd, Crowland PE6 OAD

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23/12/2025 14:39

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/VILLAGETRIBUNE

From our facebook group Snippets of community life captured by members of the Village Tribune online group

George Robinson back on our screens Peter Kemp: With one Northborough Primary past pupil currently in the spotlight in the national media due to their Turner Prize nomination (congratulations, Rene), it’s good to have news of another that we are particularly proud of: George Robinson, back on our TV screens last weekend with a role in the Doctor Who spinoff “The War Between the Land and

the Sea”. I’m grateful to Anne Lees for alerting me to an article and video interview in Country Living, which let us catch up on George’s story so far.

New timetables more closures Andy Lowings: New timetables - If the number of trains to London is increased by only a few each hour, then the level crossings at Tallington, Helpston and Maxey will be closed for 4 minutes longer per extra train.

Making it extremely difficult to

When I grow up learning a trade John Clare Primary School Buttercross were lucky enough to have a visit from Lee Kaminski at Choice Windows, who came to tell them all about the work they do and show the children some of the tools they might use. The children were fascinated and loved learning about people’s jobs as part of our ‘When I grow up…’ topic

Fly Tipping blight Do you remember Helpston’s old fish ‘n’ chip shop on West Street? Perhaps you even worked there? If so, Helpston Local History Group would very like to hear your memories of it via helpstonhistory@gmail.com /groups/villagetribune

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Julie Porter Hi, just back from a walk down North Fen Road, so much fly tipping! Where can I report it, please? Thank you. Be careful, lots of glass, not good for wildlife, dogs or people. villagetribune 49

27/12/2025 11:42

TRIBUNE DIARY

MAR

UPLOAD YOUR EVENTS WWW.VILLAGETRIBUNE.ORG.UK

Great nights out at The Cresset!

SHOWSTOPPER! 15th Feb

ANDY SHEPPARD QUARTETS 19th Feb

AMY & CARLOS 6th Jun

SUSAN CALMAN TALL TALES 19th Nov

NIGEL HAVERS TALKING B*LL*CKS 24th Mar

New season on sale now – www.cresset.co.uk for full details

www.cresset.co.uk 01733 265 705 “Beauty and the Beast should come with a parental warning; there are a couple of moments that will send your children into a frenzy!”

Brad Barnes, The Peterborough Telegraph

Panto 2026 50 villagetribune

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Tickets on sale now! 12th - 31st Dec 2026 www.villagetribune.org.uk

23/12/2025 14:39

GARDENING JANUARY

Gardening IN JANUARY

January is the beginning of the gardening year and an exciting month for gardeners as they look forward and prepare for spring.

Much outdoor work is weather dependant this month but there is plenty to do indoors on days when the weather is inclement including perusing seed catalogues and gardening websites ordering seeds and plants, especially seed potatoes and onions in preparation for spring planting.

January is an excellent month to tidy or reorganise a shed or tool store and consider better ways to make use of the space you have. There are some excellent shelving systems out there that can make the most of your space.

Outside Many gardening jobs this month will focus on battling the elements. It is important to regularly check for damage after autumn and early winter storms starting with your greenhouse and cold frames which might have some damaged panes that need repairing or replacing.

Guttering systems around greenhouses need to be cleaned regularly and make sure your water butts are not clogged.

If you have not got a rain harvesting system in your garden perhaps this is something to consider this month as we look ahead to the drier spells /groups/villagetribune

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of weather ahead. 2025 saw an extensive drought and hosepipe restrictions that effected many gardeners so using the rain to keep your garden healthy is an excellent idea.

There is a lot of choice on the market with DIY systems starting from less than £50 but a professional contractor could supply a bespoke system that allows you to substantially cut how much mains water you use even in the worst drought conditions.

Flowers Any snowdrop bulbs you have in your garden should be appearing this month but there is still time to head to your local garden centre or nursery to buy some snowdrop plants to help you have a dramatic show of these beautiful winter flowers and with over 2500 different verities you have a lot to choose from!

Winter flowering pansies or violas also need to be regularly deadheaded this month to encourage fresh growth.

Vegetables There are plenty of vegetables to be harvested this month including Brussel sprouts, kale, leeks, celeriac, swedes and turnips.

And parsnips are one vegetable that taste so much better after some frosts because the cold temperatures convert any stored starches into sugars.

January is an important month for rhubarb plants which are just sprouting. You need to cover the plants with an old dustbin or large bucket to encourage, or force, early growth which produces tender, sweet stems.

Looking forward, sow winter salad in the greenhouse or sunny windowsill to give you fresh salad in a few weeks. Wildlife care is vitally important this month so make sure that your bird feeders are filled regularly and there is fresh water available. And, if your pond is frozen or covered in snow brush it off to let in light so your pond plants can continue to photosynthesise. But do not break the ice as this could create deadly shockwaves. villagetribune 51

27/12/2025 11:43

Church services Benefice of Barnack with Ufford, Bainton, Helpston, and Wittering

© Shutterstock/Brian A Jackson

04 January 2026 - Epiphany

08 February 2026 - 2nd before Lent

09:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

09:00 AM St Mary, Bainton

Communion

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

Communion

09:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Communion

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

Communion

03:30 PM St Botolph, Helpston

Messy Church

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Communion

04:30 PM St Mary, Bainton

Taizé

03:30 PM St John, Barnack

Messy Church

11 January 2026 - Baptism of Christ

15 February 2026 - Sunday before Lent

09:00 AM St Mary, Bainton

Communion

09:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

09:30 AM St John, Barnack

All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Communion

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

All Age Service

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

All Age Service

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

Communion

04:30 PM St Mary, Bainton

Café Church

03:30 PM St John, Barnack

Messy Church

22 February 2026 - Lent 1

18 January 2026 - Epiphany 2

09:00 AM St Mary, Bainton

Communion

09:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

09:30 AM St John, Barnack

All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Communion

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

All Age Service

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

All Age Service

04:30 PM St Mary, Bainton

Covenant Service

25 January 2026 - Conversion of St Paul 09:00 AM St Mary, Bainton

Communion

09:30 AM St John, Barnack

All Age Service

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Café Church

09:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

Communion

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Communion

03:30 PM St Botolph, Helpston

Messy Church

04:30 PM St Mary, Bainton

Taizé

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© Shutterstock/spaxiax

01 February 2026 - Candlemas (The Presentation of Christ in the Temple)

www.villagetribune.org.uk

23/12/2025 14:43

CHURCH SERVICES

What does a vicar do…?

First, a bit of terminology. I’m not a vicar. I’m a rector. It makes absolutely no difference these days, though it would have meant a great deal of money in the 19th century. Sometimes I think I’d have done rather well back then, living in Kingsley House and rolling in it. But then I remember that in reality I’d probably have been down a coalmine or on the London docks, while the rector was related to the bishop or a member of the Cecil family. So I try not to grumble.

Looking back over the past year gives a fair picture of what the job involves.

Writing is part of it – six articles for this magazine, and seven more for the Barnack, Bainton and Ufford Parish News.

There’s also a lot of turning up: village feasts, nativities, prizegivings, and all the occasions where it feels important that the church is present and visible.

A large part of the role is visiting people – in hospital, nursing homes, or at home.

Some want communion, some want prayer, some just want a chat. I’m always happy to visit, but do let me know. With around 3,000 households across the parishes, I can’t knock on doors unannounced like the Reverend Mike Tyson of Wittering did in 1777. Even if I tried ten a day, it would take a year – and most of you probably wouldn’t want me turning up anyway!

There’s also a lot of wandering about. It’s good for a parish priest to wander. I often do it by /groups/villagetribune

052-053 VT156 Gary Services.indd 53

bike: you cover more ground, meet more people, and can still stop for a conversation.

Sometimes a short journey takes half an hour because you end up chatting along the way.

Then there’s the admin – the reason I do less of everything else than I’d like. As rector of four parishes, I’m a trustee of four charities. PCCs operate under charity law, which can be complex. On top of that are diocesan returns, wedding and funeral invoices, gravestone permissions, rotas, and endless emails. It all takes time.

And then there are the buildings: four Grade I listed churches, some with walls nearly a thousand years old and roofs of Collyweston slate, which slowly dissolves in rainwater. Any repair or improvement involves the Diocesan Advisory Committee, who are rightly careful, but not especially quick.

Meetings also fill the diary: PCCs, AGMs, deanery meetings.

You’re never short of a meeting in the Church of England.

I’m deeply grateful to the lay people and retired clergy who lead services, care for buildings, unlock doors, and serve on PCCs. Without them, this work would be impossible. The work of the church is the work of all its people.

Alongside this are trustee roles with trusts and almshouses, and community involvement such as the John Clare Society, especially exciting as we prepare for the summer festival. All of this means

© Shutterstock/shine.graphics

“…is a question I once heard. And it’s not a bad one.

staying connected with schools, charities, clubs, and village life.

And yes, I do lead services – Sundays, weekdays, funerals, weddings, assemblies – all of which require preparation, setting up, follow-up, and more admin (including special books and special ink).

Above all, though, there is prayer. Underneath everything else, that is what we are called to do: to pray for our villages, our people, and our world, and to seek how we can serve where we are placed. If you would like prayer, please ask.

And if not, be assured that our parishes, schools, homes, shops, and businesses are prayed for regularly. It’s kind of what we’re here for.

Revd Gary Alderson villagetribune 53

23/12/2025 14:43

Upcoming Services January 2026 All are welcome to all the services, but services highlighted in Burgundy* are especially aimed at families and children

Date

Time/Location

Service

Sunday Christmas 2

4th Jan

09:00 Morning Worship – Glinton 10:30 Sung Holy Communion - Peakirk 18:00 Celtic Evening Prayer

Jeremiah 31:7-14 Ephesians 1:3-14 John 1:1-18

Sunday Epiphany

11th Jan

09:00 Morning Worship – Peakirk 10:30 Holy Communion – Etton 18:00 Joyful Journey – Glinton*

Isaiah 60:1-6 Ephesians 3:1-12 Matthew 2:1-12

Sunday Epiphany 2

18th Jan

09:00 Holy Communion – Maxey 10:30 Family Praise – Northborough* 18:00 Evensong - Peakirk

Isaiah 49:1-7 Psalm 40:1-11 1 Corinthians 1:1-9 John 1:29-42

Sunday Epiphany 3

25th Jan

09:00 Holy Communion – Northborough 10:30 Family Holy Communion - Glinton* 18:00 Taizé – Maxey

Isaiah 9:1-4 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 Matthew 4:12-23

Sunday Epiphany 4

1st Feb

09:00 Morning Worship – Glinton* 10:30 Sung Holy Communion - Peakirk 15:00 Messy Church- Peakirk Village hall* 18:00 Celtic Evening Prayer

Micah 6:1-8 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 Matthew 5:1-12

Sunday 2nd Before Lent

8th Feb

09:00 Morning Worship – Peakirk 10:30 Holy Communion – Etton 18:00 Joyful Journey – Glinton*

Isaiah 58:1-12 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 Matthew 5:13-20

Sunday Transfiguration Sunday

15th Feb

09:00 Holy Communion – Maxey 10:30 Family Praise – Northborough* 18:00 Evensong - Peakirk

Exodus 24:12-18 Psalm 99 2 Peter 1:16-21 Matthew 17:1-9

Ash Wednesday

18th Feb

19:00 Communion with Imposition of Ashes

Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10 Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21

Sunday Lent 1

22nd Feb

09:00 Holy Communion – Northborough 10:30 Family Holy Communion - Glinton* 18:00 Taizé – Maxey

Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 Romans 5:12-19 Matthew 4:1-11

© Shuttistock/PJ photography

Worship

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www.villagetribune.org.uk

27/12/2025 11:45

CHURCH SERVICES © Shuttistock/fornStudio

New Year, New Beginnings:

Walking the Seasons Together

By Rev Keir

There’s something about a New Year that makes us all a little reflective. Maybe it’s the extra helpings of Christmas pudding finally wearing off, or the quiet moment when the decorations come down and the year stretches ahead of us, fresh and full of possibility. The Church has a gift for moments like this, because we don’t just count years – we walk through seasons.

The Christian year doesn’t begin with fireworks or countdowns, but with Advent – a season of waiting, hoping, and preparing. Then comes Christmas, where God turns up in the most unexpected way imaginable. Epiphany reminds us that God’s light is for everyone, not just a select few. Lent invites us to pause, reflect, and grow deeper roots. Easter bursts in with resurrection joy, followed by Pentecost, when the Spirit sends us out again. And then we do something very ordinary and very holy: we keep going.

Why does this matter as we /groups/villagetribune

054-055 VT156 9 Bridges Services.indd 55

step into a New Year across the 9 Bridges Benefice? Because growth – real, lasting growth – rarely happens in a rush. It happens in seasons.

In winter, the ground looks quiet, even empty, but important things are happening beneath the surface. In spring, small green shoots appear. In summer, there’s colour, energy, and life everywhere. In autumn, we gather what has grown and give thanks. Our churches are a bit like that too. Some weeks feel full and bustling; others are quieter and reflective. All of it matters.

All of it belongs.

As a benefice, our growth plans aren’t about becoming something flashy or unrecognisable. They’re about deepening roots, widening welcome, and making space for people to encounter God in ways that are meaningful for them.

That might be through worship on a Sunday, a conversation over coffee, a community event, a school visit, a quiet prayer in a beautiful building, or a chance to

serve others.

And here’s the really important bit: you don’t need to have it all figured out to belong.

If you’re full of faith, brimming with questions, carrying doubts, curious but cautious, or just looking for community – you are welcome. If you want to help keep our churches alive and thriving, whether through time, skills, prayer, or practical support, there is a place for you.

If you’ve been around for years or are thinking about stepping through the door for the first time, you matter.

The seasons of the Church remind us that God meets us where we are, not where we think we should be. And the New Year reminds us that new beginnings are always possible.

So as we step forward together into this next chapter, my prayer is simple: that the 9 Bridges Benefice will continue to be a place where faith can grow, hope can take root, and love can be shared – one season at a time.

Rev. Keir The 9 Bridges Benefice www.9brideges.church

Happy New Year. Let’s see what God will grow among us next.

Rev Keir Dow villagetribune 55

27/12/2025 11:45

VILLAGE NEWS

Revitalising Maxey Village Hall A Fresh Look for the Heart of Our Community Maxey Village Hall is undergoing a programme of improvements thanks to a generous grant from Biffa Award for £25,781.

The former village school is now a cherished community venue at the centre of village life and we hope that the work will help us to continue to provide an even more welcoming, safe, and vibrant space for our village and visitors.

Revitalising a Community Landmark Due to start this month, the work will include professional repointing of the stonework and a full redecoration of its interior spaces. These works will preserve the structure and character of the hall, whilst ensuring it remains fit for purpose for years to come. The project is due to be completed before the end of the year.

■ Supporting a Wide Range of Activities ■ Maxey Village Hall is home to a diverse array of activities,

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reflecting the diverse interests of our community. We have: ■ Community events, celebrations, and meetings ■ Yoga and Pilates classes ■ Toddler entertainment sessions ■ Dance classes and social events ■ Art group, craft workshops, and creative pursuits.

A Message from the Maxey Community Association “The external work will ensure that the outer fabric of our much-loved hall will continue to withstand the elements.

Due to the age of the building, areas of the stonework have developed cracks and sustained damage to the mortar, allowing water ingress through the walls.

Without repointing, this would eventually create damp patches internally. Refreshing the internal decorations will create a clean and attractive environment for all users. We thank our regular hire groups for their understanding whilst work is underway and look forward to welcoming everyone

back for Christmas activities.”

We are grateful to Biffa Award for this grant, which is enabling this essential work.

Biffa Award is a multi-millionpound fund that helps build communities and transform lives through awarding grants to community and environmental projects across England and Northern Ireland as part of the Government’s Landfill Communities Fund.

A Message from Biffa Award “It is so important that we continue to invest in community buildings at the heart of their communities. Supporting the project at Maxey Village Hall will ensure the community has a fitfor-purpose building for years to come.” (Rachel Maidment, Head of Grants) Since 1997, Biffa Award has awarded more than £200 million to thousands of community and environmental projects across Great Britain. The programme administers money donated

by Biffa Group Ltd through the Government’s Landfill Communities Fund. www.villagetribune.org.uk

23/12/2025 14:47

CHURCH NEWS

Mulled Wine, Mince Pies and Music!

On Saturday 6 December there was a packed house at Sissons Barn for the 4th Annual Christmas Concert performed by the Benefice Choir. Under the expert leadership of Choirmaster, Bradley Smith, who also compered the evening, the Choir sang a range of Christmas songs – some serious and some humorous – and carols, with the audience joining in for many of them.

The auction of promises had some new lots this year and all attracted bids. Our grateful thanks to those who donated the lots, resulting in a handsome total at the end of the evening.

The flower arrangements prepared by each church to decorate the hall were sold by silent auction and together with the raffle for some sumptuouslooking Christmas hampers raised

some welcome extra funds.

Mulled wine and mince pies were served during the interval and the bar was open all evening and did brisk trade.

Many thanks, as always, to Ben and Laura Harris for the loan of their lovely Barn and to everyone who worked hard behind the scenes to make the event the success it undoubtedly was.

Derek Harris

St Andrew’s Church, Northborough

Annual Quiz with Peter Kemp

6th March 2026 at 7.30pm Northborough Village Hall £10 per person, light supper included BYO drinks Tables of up to 4 Please book with Polly – 01778 380849 Or Jane – 01778 345101 /groups/villagetribune

057 Issue 156 Church News.indd 57

villagetribune 57

27/12/2025 12:57

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27/12/2025 12:06

VILLAGE VIEWS

Rural Values Matter Cllr Peter Hiller – Glinton and Castor Ward

Nationally, the recent annual Rural Conference has grown to be its biggest yet. Over four days more than seven hundred delegates shared best practice over rural policy learning, experiences from other parts of the UK and emerging potential opportunities for our wards to thrive in today’s difficult political and economic climate.

As your elected Independent rural ward councillors Neil Boyce, Kevin Tighe and I actually live in our respective wards and always face local challenges with open minds. We’re not constricted by a national party dogma or Westminster initiatives nor are we unduly influenced by largely urban-dwelling inner-city local colleagues with their own set of priorities. Recently, a new

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059 VT156 156 P Hiller Rural Piece.indd 59

government climate initiative has apparently weaponised future installations of log burners. The north London borough council of Islington has banned them, so central government determines new restrictions should apply to the whole country – including of course all our rural villages, communities and remote properties that rely on them for heating and reassuring cosy comfort. We’ve made our thoughts about this potential imposition known to both our City’s MPs. Conference discussed underfunded rural services, often fragile transport, patchy connectivity, and a shortage of genuinely affordable homes. It furthermore highlighted the resilience of rural areas where

parish and city councils, private sector members, voluntary organisations and communities are working together to find solutions. Attendees were joined by representatives from the Departments for Science, Innovation and Technology, for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and from Health and Social Care alongside other government departments, local authorities, businesses, and community groups. Their engagement highlighted for me the importance of cross-sector partnerships in shaping policies that work specifically for rural neighbourhoods.

A recurring theme was fair funding. Rural areas face higher delivery costs and respective councils often receive less government support per head, leaving our village residents paying more for fewer and/ or less effective services. The figures are stark: urban areas receive 40 per cent more per head in government-funded spending power, while rural residents pay on average 20 per cent more council tax. We also think deprivation in rural areas is frequently hidden and easily overlooked, yet policy continues to be shaped by headline figures that reinforce the myth of rural affluence.

I and my rural colleagues Neil and Kevin, representing our treasured villages in Glinton and Castor and Barnack wards, continue to make sure our rural voices are heard because stronger rural communities mean a stronger national outlook. villagetribune 59

23/12/2025 14:48

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 4,500 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 ARCHITECTURAL

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Owen Builders and Landscaping T: 07850994577 E: owenbuilderslandscaping@gmail.com Owen Builders and Landscaping CARPENTRY

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

DOG WALKING AND PET SITTING

Marathon Mutts Dog walking and pet sitting services T: 07484683268 E: mymarathonmutts@gmail.com www.marathonmutts.co.uk ENTERTAINMENT The Cresset Where there’s always something happening Box Office: 01733 265705 E: boxoffice@cresset.co.uk www.cresset.co.uk FARMING & PET SUPPLIES

TL Hall Farming Supplies T: 07940297788 E: les.farmsupplies@yahoo.com TL Hall Farm 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

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

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.

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

Diamonds Farm Landscape Gardening A different approach to gardening and grounds management. Be proud of your outdoor space T: 07928 900728 E: michael@diamondsfarmlandscaping.co.uk

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23/12/2025 14:50

CLASSIFIED SECTION GARDENING CONTINUED 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

Greenacres Health T: 01733 254239 E: Admin@greenacreshealth.co.uk Greenacreshealth.co.uk Reconnecting body and mind. Restore your wellbeing and vitality. Health and wellbeing tools to combat stress and anxiety, improve confidence, performance and tackle phobias. Lifestyle solutions and programmes for the whole family. Talking Therapies and Chiropractic Care.

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: trulyconfidentaesthetics@gmail.com www.trulyconfidentaesthetics.net The Cove Aesthetics T: 07872893326 @thecoveaesthetics_ @Thecoveaesthetics E: thecoveaesthetics@icloud.com www.thecoveaesthetics.com

MORTGAGE ADVICE

Path Mortgages T: 01778 428158 E: hello@pathmortgages.co.uk www.pathmortgages.co.uk PHARMACY

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

King Plastering T: 07817 737277 E: kingplasteringltd@icloud.com 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 TRAVEL

Campbells Home Improvements Providing home and garden repairs and improvements to local home owners, tenants and landlords. M: 07494 734226 E: Kieran@campbellshomeimprovements.com www.campbellshomeimprovements.com

Go Cruise and Travel with Kieran and Lyndsay A family-run independent travel agency providing personalised travel experiences that exceed customer expectations and delivers unbeatable value for money.

M: 07401 233376 E: kieran@gocruiseandtravel.co.uk www.gocruiseandtravel.co.uk/specialist/ kieran-and-lyndsay

HOMECARE Bluebird Care E: peterborough@bluebirdcare.co.uk T: 01733 459907 www.bluebirdcare.co.uk

Paul Sharpe Tree Surgeon All Aspects of tree work undertaken & seasoned hardwood logs for sale. M: 07432 308225 E: paulsharpe6610@gmail.com

HOME SERVICES

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tribune DIRECTORY

■ Bainton Church Reverend Gary Alderson................................... 07503 975588 ■ Barnack Church (St John the Baptist) Gary Alderson, gary.aldersonwrites@gmail.com ■ Barnack Community Association Sally Hullock ............................................................... 07795 565658 ■ Barnack Cricket Club William Armitage, Chairman ....................... 01780 740749 ■ Barnack Home from Home Club Niamh Holman ................................. hfhbarnack@gmail.com ■ Barnack Messy Church Julie Stanton ................................................................. 01780 749123 ■ Bowls Clubs (Carpet) Helpston Bowls: Les Cunnington ............. 07857 835955 Glinton Bowls: Jeff Bell ....................................... 01733 252395 Newborough: Pauline Brown ...................... 07946 389296 ■ Botolph’s Barn Kate Hinchliff ............................................................... 07745 116621 ■ British Legion Max Sawyer ..................................................................01780 765507 ■ 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 ■ Doctors Deeping Practice (Main line) ........................ 01778 579000 Deeping Practice (Appnts.) .............................. 01778 579001 Glinton Surgery ......................................................... 01733 252246 ■ Etton Church (St Stephen’s) Churchwarden: Anne Curwen ...................... 01733 253357 ■ Fenland Clarion Cycling Club www.fenlandclarion.co.uk ■ Glinton Friendship Club Pam Kounougakis .................................................... 01733 252018 ■ Glinton Church (St Benedict’s) Churchwarden: Veronica Smith .................. 01733 252019 ■ Helpston Church (St Botolph’s) Rector: Gary Alderson ....................................... 07503 975588 62 villagetribune

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FIND ALL YOUR TRIBLAND CONTACTS AT WWW. VILLAGETRIBUNE.ORG.UK

■ Helpston Helcats Phil Roberts .................................................................07925 720195 ■ Horticultural Societies John Best - Glinton ................................................. 01778 342115 Debbie Martin - Barnack Show ................... 01780 740048 Kirsty Scott - Peakirk ............................................ 01733 253952 Castor, Ailsworth and District Gardeners’ Society Chair - Ann Huckle ............................................. 01733 3780745 ann.huckle@cobnut-cottage.co.uk ■ Langdyke Countryside Trust Richard Astle ................................................................ 01733 252376 ■ Maxey Church (St Peter’s) Churchwarden: Mike Connor ..................... 07785 3133622 Newborough Good Neighbours Cate ..................................................................................... 07735 810139 ■ Newborough Pre-school Playgroup Debbie .............................................................................. 07423 519890 ■ Northborough Church (St Andrew’s) Jane Knott, Church warden ............................. 01778 345101 ■ Peakirk Church (St Pegas) Churchwarden: Sheila Lever ............................01733 252416 ■ Pre-School & After-School Clubs Helpston Playhouse pre-school, Breakfast & After School Club Lucy Garwood .............................. 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 ■ 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 ■ Tennis Clubs Helpston Tennis Club .......................................... 07714 780573 ■ Ufford Church Enquiries Keith Lievesley ..........................................................01780 740679 ■ Village Halls Bainton Reading Room Angela Womack https:// sites.google.com/view/baintonreadingroom/home www.villagetribune.org.uk

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DIRECTORY LISTING Barnack Village Hall Bookings Sally Hullock ............................................................... 07795 565658 Glinton Village Hall Bookings Sue Lane ........................................................................ 07923 475966 Helpston Village Hall, Caryn Thompson ................................................... 07801 260240 Maxey Village Hall, Andy Bagworth ......................................... maxeyvillagehall@yahoo.com Newborough Village Hall Bookings 07549185914 newboroughvillagehall@outlook.com www.newboroughvillagehall.co.uk Northborough Village Hall: www.northboroughvillagehall.co.uk Peakirk Village Hall (Bookings) ................ 07938 386226 Ufford Village Hall Emma Thorp .............. 07769 587742 ■ Village Tribune Editor, Tony Henthorn .......................................07590 750128 villagetribuneeditor@me.com ■ Ward Councillors Barnack Cllr Kevin Tighe .................................... 07826 181479 Glinton & Castor Cllr Peter Hiller ........... 07920 160487 Glinton & Castor Cllr Neil Boyce .............07483 958795 Eye, Thorney & Newborough Cllr Mark Ormston .......

07483 373084 ■ Women’s Institute (WI) Northborough WI Tracy Thomas (Secretary) ................................. 07720 327145 ■ Youth Clubs Barnack Youth Club, Colin Morgan ........ 07850 366528

Parish Council Contact Details ■ Ailsworth Parish Council Anne Perkins, Chairman .....................................01733 380541 Michelle Dickens: .................................................... 07702 626253 clerk@ailsworth-pc.gov.uk ■ 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 ■ Barnack Parish Council Chair: Jonathan O’Shea – jonno.barnackpc@gmail.com Michelle Dickens: .................................................... 07595 377236 clerk@barnack-pc.gov.uk ■ Deeping Gate Parish Council Cllr Philip Thompson (Chair) philip.thompson@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk Clerk – Elinor Beesley ............................................07713 194173 clerk@deepinggate-pc.gov.uk /groups/villagetribune

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■ Etton Parish Council Cllr Fred Morton (Chair) fred.morton@etton-pc.gov.uk Clerk – Elinor Beesley ............................................07713 194173 clerk@etton-pc.gov.uk ■ Glinton Parish Council Cllr Gerry Kirt – Chairman ............................ 01733 252839 Mr J Haste – Clerk ...................................................07591 834163 clerk@glinton-pc.gov.uk ■ Helpston Parish Council Parish Council Clerk – Tony Henthorn – clerk@helpston-pc.org.uk Chairman, Cllr Ali Peat ..................................... 07399 532266 alastair.peat@helpston-pc.gov.uk ■ Maxey Parish Council Cllr Lynne Yarham – (Chair) lynne.yarham@maxey-pc.gov.uk Clerk – Elinor Beesley ............................................07713 194173 clerk@maxey-pc.gov.uk ■ Newborough Parish Council Cllr Mark Ormston Mark.ormston@ newboroughandboroughfenpc.org.uk Clerk Irene Healiss clerk@newboroughandboroughfen-pc.gov.uk ■ Northborough Council Cllr Tracy Thomas (Chair) – tracy.thomas@northborough-pc.gov.uk Clerk Elinor Beesley......................................07713 194173 clerk@northborough-pc.gov.uk Peakirk Parish Council Chairman: Cllr Henry Clark.......................01733 253203 Clerk: Angela Hankins.................................01733 253397 clerk@peakirk-pc.gov.uk ■ Southorpe Parish Council: Clerk Alison Hurford ................................07898 217307 clerk@southorpeparish.gov.uk Chair: Peter Corder peter.corder@southorpeparish.gov.uk ■ Ufford Parish Council Chair – Cllr Paul Wilde ...........paul@worldofskills.com Clerk Amie Fenech – clerk@ufford-pc.gov.uk 01733 855003

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/

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