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Happy 70th Birthday Maxey Cut celebrates

Amblers in Tribland Walking in the rain

Books for all

Deeping Literary Festival

PICTURE THE SCENE

Local Artist Will Thompson HERITAGE • FARMING • VILLAGE VIEWS • TRIBUNE AMBLERS • DIARY DATES

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18/02/2026 09:22

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22/10/2025 16:34

WELCOME

As the days slowly begin to lengthen and the first real signs of spring appear, this March/April edition of the Village Tribune arrives at a moment of quiet transition across our villages.

Hedges are greening, gardens are stirring back into life, and community diaries are once again beginning to fill.

This issue also marks a warm welcome to new readers in the village of Sutton, the latest community to join the Tribland family. We’re delighted to have Sutton on board and look forward to sharing village news, events and stories that reflect what matters locally.

This edition reflects a sense of movement and renewal. Inside, you’ll find stories that look both backwards and forwards — from a fascinating glimpse into Tudor Tribland and the lives of ordinary villagers caught up in extraordinary times, to news of local events, groups and initiatives shaping village life today. It’s a reminder that, across the centuries, these

© AdobeStock

From the Editor

villages have always been defined by the people who live in them.

Spring is also a time when many local organisations begin planning their year ahead, and I’m always struck by the sheer number of volunteers, organisers and quiet helpers who keep things ticking along behind the scenes. The Village Tribune exists to give space to those efforts — to share information,

spark connections and celebrate what makes our corner of north Peterborough special.

As ever, thank you to our contributors, advertisers and distributors, and to you, our readers, for continuing to support a magazine that remains rooted in the villages it serves.

Enjoy the issue — and enjoy the return of spring.

Tony Henthorn

GET IN TOUCH

www.villagetribune.org.uk

Contributions: t: 07590 750128 e: villagetribuneeditor@me.com Social media: /groups/villagetribune Website: www.villagetribune.org.uk

Advertising: Annett: 07396 736991 e: sales@villagetribune.org.uk

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CONTENTS March/ April 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 Helpston Crossing 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 Scouts & Guides Appeal Helpston History John Clare Update History with Avril From our Facebook Group Diary Listings Chez Pierre 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 157

Front cover image: Helpston artist Will Thompson sets the scene for his art exhibition in Corby Glen from the 21st April through to the 14th May 2026.

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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18/02/2026 09:27

CROSSING INVESTIGATION

Crossing Safety Update Many residents in Helpston and the surrounding villages have understandably been concerned by incidents at the level crossing last autumn.

I’ve been in touch with rail safety organisations for an explanation, and to ensure we don’t see a repeat in the future.

Following initial inquiries, Network Rail confirmed that a more detailed Level 2 investigation was required.

That investigation is now underway. Alongside this, both the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) and the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) have been conducting their own independent reviews, which is an important part of

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ensuring proper oversight and accountability.

Early findings shared with me indicated that the first incident was the result of human error.

A signaller incorrectly used an override function, which allowed the barriers to be raised while a train was still within the crossing controls.

The individual involved was removed from safety-critical duties while the investigation continues, and additional training has since been provided to other signallers on the correct use of

override functions.

I also raised concerns about a separate incident on 1 November, when the barriers were reported to have malfunctioned and remained in the “down” position.

Network Rail has stated that this was unrelated to the earlier incident and was caused by a technical fault. I have asked for reassurance that this fault does not point to wider issues with the system, and for clarity on what changes have been made as a result.

Public confidence in the safety of the crossing is essential. I will continue working with the parish council and following up with the relevant authorities to ensure residents are kept informed, and that the conclusions of these investigations lead to meaningful improvements.

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‘…Seeds, and roots, and stones of fruits, Swollen with sap put forth their shoots;…

There is no time like Spring, When life’s alive in everything…’

(From ‘Spring’ by Christina Rossetti) Rossetti’s words contain such energy and promise that we cannot fail to catch her excitement at the coming of the new season. What a trial it has been, during the wet winter, trying to get out in the countryside without needing waterproofs, and finding routes that avoid mud and floods!

By the time you read this, we sincerely hope that the rain and gloom will have given way to brighter days. At least three walks have been cancelled in the last two months, and the others have mostly been restricted to paved routes such as Ferry Meadows, Northborough to Market Deeping, Burghley 8 villagetribune

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Park and Cuckoo’s Hollow in Werrington.

Those have, however, been fully appreciated for the connections with nature that they offer. The low sun, even in the daytime, catches the eye in more than one sense by reflecting on water, highlighting delicate seedheads, and causing red and bronze leaves to glow.

Around waterways, the warm golden beige of the dying reeds and grasses contrasts with the green grass, the blue sky, and the rich brown of ploughed earth.

There is increasing wildlife activity. During a recent stroll at Ferry Meadows we turned on ‘Merlin’, the bird ID app. In the

space of a few hundred yards, it had picked up the sounds of song thrushes, robins, blue tits, great tits, jays, wrens, long-tailed tits and a long-eared owl as they all sang merrily from the treetops in a brief sunny spell.

It was mesmerising, listening to them as we walked. Our pleasure increased when we spotted one of the jays up in a tree, assiduously cleaning its beak on a branch. They are normally quick to fly away but www.villagetribune.org.uk

18/02/2026 09:30

TRIBLAND AMBLERS

we were able to observe it for several minutes, admiring its plump, red-brown body and the bright blue and black flashes on its wings. (Thanks to Jeannie for the photo.)

We have already seen the twigs bearing colourful red and orange berries, and fragrant, pale pink viburnum being joined /groups/villagetribune

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at ground level by brilliant white snowdrops, stunning yellow aconites, shiny yellow daffodils, bright blue periwinkle, and lemon and lilac crocuses. Bees are returning, collecting pollen from the early blossoms. Catkins proliferate, cascading like waterfalls from the trees. It is like someone has waved a wand and spread colour like drips

from a paintbrush.

As the season progresses, further joys await: primroses and violets (e.g. in Bainton churchyard); blossoms galore on wild cherry, blackthorn and hawthorn (everywhere); bluebells and wood anemones (e.g. Helpston woodland); and, of course the return of the migrant birds - chiffchaffs, swifts and swallows, and cuckoos to name a few. We cannot wait.

Feel free to join us (weather permitting): Tuesday 17 March at the top of Casewick Lane, Uffington (just off the Stamford Road, before the church); and Tuesday 21 April at John Clare Cottage, Helpston. Both start at 10 am. Stout footwear recommended. villagetribune 9

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18/02/2026 09:31

COUNCIL CORNER

DEEPING GATE

VILLAGE VIEWS Contributor: Deeping Gate Parish Council

Have a say!

for the bridge and Creating a Neighbourhood Plan responsible the signage to it from the south What is a Neighbourhood Plan?

- It’s a community-led legal document that outlines what is important to local residents, including housing, transport, and green spaces.

Why have one? - Once approved, it becomes law and must be followed for all future planning decisions.

How it Works: ■ Creation: Residents complete questionnaires to guide the initial draft.

■ Validation: The plan is checked against the National Planning Framework and put to a community vote.

■ Updates: It is reviewed every few years to ensure it remains relevant to the community’s needs.

The Peterborough City Council (PCC) Draft Local Plan has drawn Wonderful to see snowdrops springing into life!

much attention from the residents of villages around Peterborough with several large developments having been proposed. Whilst a Neighbourhood Plan cannot stop development which is already in a Local Plan, it can influence future planning.

The residents of Deeping Gate will shortly be receiving the questionnaire for their Neighbourhood Plan. We encourage every resident (not just household!) to reply. If residents have further questions, please direct them to one of the Parish Councillors.

Packhorse Bridge by the Bell Pub There have been a spate of collisions with our lovely Grade II Listed stone bridge in the last few weeks from unsuitable vehicles driving across. Peterborough City Council (PCC) Highways are

in Deeping Gate. Deeping Gate Parish Council have repeatedly asked PCC Highways for additional signs to warn drivers earlier, not only for the weight, but also the size of vehicles. In the past this has fallen on deaf ears. The Parish Council had a renewed attempt with PCC over the signage this winter given the number of recent incidents, and PCC have now agreed to review the signs on the south side. We encourage the public to report any incidents on https:// www.fixmystreet.com/ and directly with PCC Highways at https://www.peterborough.gov. uk/report-it-online under the Highways category. The more people raise it, the more likely they are to take action!

New Site for Peterborough Draft Local Plan In case people haven’t seen it, the PCC Draft Local Plan has a new proposed site at Wittering. Plans can be seen and commented on here until 5 March 2026: https://www.peterborough. gov.uk/council/planning-anddevelopment/planning-policies/ local-plan-review

Keep In Touch To let us update you on progress with the Neighbourhood Plan and other matters, sign up to our newsletters on our website at https://deepinggatepc.org/.

Parish members are welcome at our meetings, details of which are published on the website and noticeboards around Deeping Gate. /groups/villagetribune

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www.villagetribune.org.uk

22/10/2025 16:41

EVERYTHING

VILLAGE VIEWS

ETTON

News from the Village Our usual Christmas Eve Nativity service on the Green took the form of a Newsroom with roving reporters interviewing eyewitnesses of the big event!

Families of all ages took part in the outdoor Nativity

Residents gather on Etton Green for the Christmas Eve Nativity, staged as a lively “newsroom” retelling of the story.

With special thanks to our volunteers for their excellent performances - Alex Long, Jamie Morton, Angela Trotter, Martin Brook, David Rowell, Andrew Curwen and Michael Trotter who was a tremendous Shepherd!

The celebration of St Stephen’s church 800th year concluded with the Benefice Christmas Day service at St Stephen’s. We were honoured to host this event

St Stephen’s Church continues to undergo careful repair and conservation work /groups/villagetribune

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and were delighted to be able to welcome a large crowd who enjoyed delicious cake and drinks after the service.

You will have noticed that scaffolding has been erected around the Chancel of the church, but that building work has been limited. The tiles have been removed with an Ecologist present to ensure no bats were disturbed without rehoming.

None were found. However, now the gutters have been inspected, we have discovered that they have been leaking and much of the timber is rotten. This is

very disappointing as it increases the cost of the repairs by up to £10,000 as the gutters need replacing and this may cause a delay to the completion of the work by the 31stof March.

Please note that the Church will be open during the work and that we will be collecting for the food bank during Lent from 18th February until Easter.

There are no services in Etton over the Easter weekend, but we have a united Benefice service in the Church on 29th March at 10.30am. The Choir will be performing Stainer’s Crucifixion at Maxey Church on Tuesday 31st March at 7pm.

Etton Parish Council currently have vacancies. If you are interested in finding out more or would be willing to volunteer, please contact the Clerk, Elinor Beasley via email clerk@etton-pc. gov.uk Finally, wishing David Rowell a speedy recovery as he is in hospital at the time of writing this article-Get well soon.

Anne Curwen 07730301404 villagetribune 13

18/02/2026 09:35

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

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COUNCIL CORNER

VILLAGE VIEWS

BARNACK

Barnack & Pilsgate Parish Council Update Barnack & Pilsgate Parish Council has several updates and opportunities for residents to get involved in village life during 2026.

Bulky waste collections will take place on 9th May and 7th November, for Barnack and Pilsgate residents only. A flyer with full details will be delivered nearer the dates.

The Council is exploring a volunteer-led “Street Scene” Working Group to help keep the villages tidy, with activities such as bulb planting and general maintenance. It has also identified

practical projects suitable for Duke of Edinburgh Award volunteers, including refurbishing street signs and clearing footway overgrowth.

A reminder to dog owners to please clean up after your pets and dispose of waste responsibly.

Residents are encouraged to report crime via the neighbourhood policing portal (999 in emergencies). The Council also highlights the Bobby Scheme, a charity helping improve home security. Ideas are welcome on how Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funds could benefit the village — please contact the Clerk with suggestions.

Planning and highways

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© Roy Beck

Church scene photographed

by Roy Beck

Two enforcement cases on Uffington Road remain ongoing, with an informal hearing on 3rd March. The Council is also monitoring the emerging Local Plan and the proposed West Wittering development, with consultation events at Wittering Village Hall on 18th and 20th February.

Work is ongoing on Speedwatch and traffic calming, and volunteers are welcome to join a new Road Safety Working Group.

There are currently two parish councillor vacancies, and residents are warmly invited to attend meetings, held on the second Monday of each month.

For more information, visit www.barnack-pc.gov.uk or contact the Clerk. villagetribune 15

18/02/2026 09:40

COUNCIL CORNER

HELPSTON

Words: Helpston Parish Council

By the time of publishing – we hope to be seeing the sunshine as a welcome change to the rain and short days.

We look forward to a year of celebration and challenges that we will approach with energy and community spirit.

Welcome to our new Councillor We welcome Dave Spooner as the newly co-opted Councillor for Helpston. Dave has lived in the village for nearly 25 years, supported many different village organisations as his children have grown up and is now energized to make a difference through his new role.

Glinton Road Safety concerns Huge thanks to the Parent Action Group that has been focused for over a year now on the safety of

the route our children take to and from school on a daily basis.

Collaborating with AMVC college, PCC Highways and Helpston Parish Council to get a direction on necessary improvements. The Parish Council have been pursuing changes to the speed limits for over 2 years now, but there is

now formal recognition that changes need to be made to the footpath as well to make this safe.

In the meantime, it is anticipated PCC will provide a ‘temporary’ solution (understood to be bus availability) for children to take if they prefer. This has been notified through Facebook and AMVC channels. Can all parents please action the registration if they wish to be involved.

HELPSTONBURY 2026 Planning has started, and entertainment and food offerings are booked. Exciting new activities in the pipeline too. The Parish Council are proud to facilitate this incredible community event but do so with the generous support of local businesses who can be seen throughout the day on billboards around the venue. If you wish to be involved, please contact the team on their FB page or message them on 07949 602199.

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

www.helpstonparishcouncil.org Parish Council Clerk – Tony Henthorn Email: clerk@helpston-pc.gov.uk

Councillor – Dave Spooner – 07802 594556 Email: dave.spooner@helpston-pc.gov.uk

Chairman – Ali Peat – 07399 532266 Email: alastair.peat@helpston-pc.gov.uk

Councillor – Arthur Cross – 01733 252291 Email: arthur.cross@helpston-pc.gov.uk

Vice-Chair – Andy Ratnett – 07798 651872 Email: andy.ratnett@helpston-pc.gov.uk

Councillor – Laura Currie – 07962 424694 Email: laura.currie@helpston-pc.gov.uk

Councillor - Alastair Bradley – 07941 570653 Email: alastair.bradley@helpston-pc.gov.uk

Councillor – Gavin Radford Email: gavin.radford@helpston-pc.gov.uk

Councillor – Lee Kaminski – 07725 970070 Email: lee.kaminski@helpston-pc.gov.uk

Councillor – Alice Langford-Pollard Email: alice.langford-pollard@helpston-pc.gov.uk

June 20th 2026, is when it will all happen.

Spring Village Wombling – Litter pick and street sign clean The 28th March will be our planned Spring Litter pick before there is too much growth or verge cutting that would shred or obscure the litter. This year, we are planning on giving the street signs a spring clean too, to start the year as we mean to go on. Underlining the care we have for our environment. Extra jobs mean extra hands will be helpful.

Please could you put the date in your diary, and we will see you at the Buttercross for action

Open Gardens collaboration with the John Clare Festival The annual John Clare Festival in July is seeking to collaborate more with the village that was home to the famous Poet.

A number of initiatives are /groups/villagetribune

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planned this year, including the resurrection of Helpston Open Gardens, which was once a great date in the Summer diary. A number of gardens have been offered, but they are seeking four more to ensure the event is a great success. Please contact the clerk if you are interested, and your details will be passed on.

Council Collaboration Around Planning Issues The Parish Council are clear that they need to have a voice that will be heard to best represent the community in planning matters. To this end, we have been building relationships with the heads of Planning and Highways to ensure we have the best access to information and procedural matters. In addition, we are supporting the John Clare Countryside Trust in their initiatives alongside the Mayor, MPs, local Councillors and Heads of PCC departments to drive new

tree planting, formalise wildlife corridors, and focus on the benefits to the city of the rural environment, both for health and tourism.

Please use the FIX MY STREET page.

We thank you for supporting us by using this facility - there has been a noticeable increase in the use of the service, highlighting 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 your 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. villagetribune 17

18/02/2026 09:46

COUNCIL CORNER

GLINTON

David Lane

All change

David Lane, a long-serving member of Glinton Parish Council, has reluctantly decided to step down from his role as a councillor due to personal reasons. Dave has been an outstanding member of our team for over 30 years, serving on many working parties, including finance, HR, and Village Hall, and participating in many lively debates, adding considerable value to our decisions. In recognition, the parish councillors unanimously agreed to award him the Freedom of Glinton. Details of the award ceremony will be released shortly.

A warm welcome to Drew Drinkwater, who has been co-opted onto the Parish Council. He has lived in the village for many years, attended many of our council meetings, is an integral part of our neighbourhood planning group, helped with the Gladman appeal and has helped with many of our social events.

Glinton Parish Council - Cllr Gerry Kirt

Participants of all ages are invited to run or stroll the course wearing a provided T-shirt and their own eye covering. Along the route, runners and walkers will be showered at regular intervals with vibrant, non-toxic cornstarch powder – think Holi, the colourful Hindu Festival of Colours!

Afterwards, join us at the village hall for refreshments,

Drew Drinkwater

music, and a selection of fun prizes, including the most colourful T-shirt and a kids’ challenge.

More details to follow – come along and get colourful!

Gladman and Larkfleet The New Year began with the worst news possible when the Gladman appeal went against the wishes of Glinton residents, and the developer won. Looking back over recent months, it is really difficult to know what more we could have done as a community to have changed this devastating outcome - extensive publicity, public meeting, media coverage, support from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough mayor and protests all fell at the feet of Peterborough City Council, not being able to demonstrate a Join in the fun! Glinton Colour Fun Run and Stroll

Glinton Colour Fun Run and Stroll Liezl and Sam are organising a Colour Fun Run and Stroll for the whole village on Sunday, 7 June, between 10.30 am and 11.30 am.

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www.villagetribune.org.uk

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VILLAGE VIEWS 5-year housing land supply.

Glinton Parish Council subsequently took expert legal advice to determine whether it had a case for judicial review of the Gladman Developments appeal decision. After reviewing all relevant data, our expert recommended that we take the matter no further or risk almost certain defeat and crippling costs.

For clarity, the potential cost for fighting through the High Court would have been £100k+, and should costs be awarded against us, which would have been likely, this would have added a further £200k - £300k to the total. It does seem the judicial system is weighted towards those with the deepest pockets.

This outcome, despite everyone’s outstanding efforts, is a disappointment and runs counter to the democratic wishes

of our village. Once again, the Parish Council would like to thank the residents of Glinton and others for their unwavering support over many months.

Be assured, we will do everything possible to minimise the issues and disruption that the 50% increase in Glinton’s housing stock will cause in our village.

Traffic Survey The Parish Council intends to commission an independent traffic survey that focuses primarily on Glinton’s key congestion areas. Our overarching objective is to safeguard schoolchildren and students who may be adversely affected by the Larkfleet and Gladman developments. By using this evidence, we hope to influence remediation measures to minimise the impact of increased traffic volumes. We also intend to use the information to help us defend Glinton against future threats.

Film Night or Day We are exploring having a sing-along film night featuring The Sound of Music, Grease, or possibly Mamma Mia. Unfortunately, the whole process is taking longer than expected and may kick off with an afternoon family performance.

Recreation ground The existing activity trail is deteriorating and requires refurbishment and partial replacement. The project has taken a major step forward with the PCC kindly agreeing to fund the work.

A project to expand the playpark facilities with additional /groups/villagetribune

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equipment, along with a five-aside football pitch, is progressing with three potential suppliers preparing fully costed proposals ahead of the Parish Council seeking grant funding from a variety of sources.

Bollards and active speed signs The large area of tarmac outside the primary school at the junction of Rectory Lane/High Street is often used as a parking area at pick-up and drop-off times, causing considerable concern for children’s safety. In an effort to eliminate the hazard, the Parish Council is to fund several bollards to stop vehicle access. We have been working closely with Amy from the PCC to ensure the design is compliant, and during the next school holidays, contractors will install the bollards.

The Parish Council is to fund two new speed signs to encourage folks to slow down, particularly outside the primary school. The PCC will erect the posts at the start of the new financial year.

Apprentice Clerk Glinton Parish Council is considering appointing an assistant / apprentice Clerk to work alongside John Haste with the intention of eventually taking over from him. The Parish council are exploring the possibilities of this part-time position being part of a nationally recognised apprenticeship scheme leading to recognised public sector qualifications and will be salaried.

If interested please contact: clerk@glinton-pc.gov.uk villagetribune 19

18/02/2026 09:48

COUNCIL CORNER

VILLAGE VIEWS

PEAKIRK

Gladman Appeal Hearing Henry Clark, Chair

The planning inspector has upheld the appeal by Gladman Developments for the 250 houses on land southwest of Peakirk Rd and Foxcovert Rd. This is very disappointing, especially for Glinton residents, who will see their village substantially enlarged. Peakirk residents will also be affected by the increase in traffic through our parish owing to the congestion in Glinton.

It is not all bad news, however.

When the development is complete, which could be up to 5 years hence, Peakirk Parish Council will receive a substantial payment from the Community Infrastructure Levy on the new houses in our parish – possibly tens of thousands of pounds. We will also receive the council tax precept from those houses.

One of the conditions of the outline planning permission is to reduce the speed limit between Peakirk and Glinton from 60 to 30 mph. This may help to reduce the speed of traffic entering and leaving our village. We will try to persuade PCC to do this as soon as possible.

The next stage in the planning process is the approval of the detailed design of the development. This is where we need to be vigilant and scrutinise the application to make sure 20 villagetribune

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that it maximises benefits and minimises harm to our villages.

Folly Bridge Repainting The bridge on Thorney Road over the Folly River was last painted in 2000 and is looking a bit the worse for wear. We are hoping to repaint the concrete to brighten it up a bit. The Environment Agency are concerned that some paint might get into the river and cause contamination. We only intend to repaint the road facing surfaces, so getting permission may not be too difficult.

year for a Band D property.

For 2026/27 we are having to increase the precept to cover increased costs for maintaining the Village Green, salary and employers national insurance.

The new precept will be £10.500 or £54.97 per Band D house.

Visit of Sam Carling MP

Council Tax Precept

We invited out MP, Sam Carling, to meet us to discuss local healthcare and other items of importance. The meeting has been arranged for Friday 27 February at 1:30 PM in the Village Hall. You are welcome to attend; time is limited, so there may not be time for many questions.

The Parish Council is largely funded by a precept added to your council tax. This year the precept was £9411.50 in total, which represents £49.19 per

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

18/02/2026 09:50

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18/02/2026 09:51

COUNCIL CORNER

NORTHBOROUGH

Annual Parish Meeting Northborough Parish Council would like to invite all residents to the Annual Parish Meeting on Saturday 16th May, 3pm to 5pm.

This year it will be afternoon tea-themed and as usual, will take place in Northborough and Deeping Gate Village Hall.

The agenda will be published on the Parish Council Website and village noticeboards. Please come along and support your village.

The essential works to the overflow carpark have now been completed (other than the permanent repair to the pothole at the entrance, which will be carried out once the weather improves). The Council understands that the works may have caused some issues with parking, especially when events have taken place on the playing field, and the Council would like to thank everyone for their patience. The Village Hall carpark will also receive some welcome renovation in the form of solarpowered lighting, which will be a great improvement for accessing the carpark during dark evenings, and should be in place in the next few months.

The Council continues to work with Good Neighbour Rural Peterborough. The initiative is a community-run service where volunteers assist residents with tasks that they may be difficult.

Good Neighbours are looking to set up a regular ‘village tea with digital hub’ and volunteers will shortly /groups/villagetribune

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begin their digital hub training.

Once in place, the details will be available on the noticeboards and Council website. Good Neighbours are already assisting villagers. If you would like to register as a volunteer or client, Good Neighbours Rural Peterborough can be contacted via their website www. goodneighboursrp.org.uk.

The sewer repairs in Lincoln Road have proved to be a little more challenging than first anticipated. In order to keep a major road in Northborough flowing, Anglian Water in conjunction with Highways, are making plans to reopen the road, whilst a repair plan is

VILLAGE VIEWS formulated. The current over pumping will be buried, and residents will be advised when work will commence, although this may not be for a matter of months. The Council is in regular contact with Anglian Water and will advise as soon as more information becomes available.

The Council has taken the decision to remove a makeshift bike ramp which has been created on the playing field. Whilst the Council wishes to encourage younger residents to enjoy the outdoors, leaving this in place has encouraged continued digging and building which is damaging the roots of nearby trees; recently a second ramp been created, posing the same issues.

The playing field is a public field for the enjoyment of all residents, and this damage has also created health and safety issues and has sparked a number of complaints.

The area will be cordoned off, flattened and reseeded in the spring.

Council meetings are held in person at Northborough & Deeping Gate Village Hall at 7.00pm on the second Wednesday of the month (excluding August). Members of the public are welcome to attend. There is currently one vacancy for a potential parish councillor wishing to join our proactive team and make a real difference. The Council welcomes volunteers to help with ongoing projects and activities, please contact any Councillor of the Clerk for more information. The Parish Council website and village noticeboards will advise the date of the next meeting. villagetribune 23

18/02/2026 09:52

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Explore!

Deepings Fifth Literary Festival

Save

the date

Hear it for the Birds!

Ajay Tegala and Join us as we open the Michael J Warren Festival with none other than Priory Church Hall literary talent, Vaseem Khan Friday 1st May Wednesday 29th April Murder at Molecey!

Writers’ Day A whodunnnit of Deepings Community crime writers on Library Saturday 2nd May Thursday 30th April and the Queen of Crime herself, Elly Griffiths on The Way We Were Sunday 3rd!

From the 50s’ East End to the history of your house!

Friday 1st May Local Folk Tales Reimagined for Folk On Friday Rory Waterman at The Red Lion

Queen of all the Feels See Milly Johnson perfectly at home in Lilli’s Tearoom & Cakery Saturday 2nd May Messing about on the River Tales of life afloat with Jo Bell and Julia Jones at Molecey easing you into Sunday morning!

Classics Retold Costume drama with strawberries and Prosecco!

With Jane Austen actress, Jane Glennie and writer Laura Turner Sunday 3rd May

29th April - 3rd May 2026

www.deepingsliteraryfestival.co.uk

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18/02/2026 09:52

COUNCIL CORNER

VILLAGE VIEWS

MAXEY

New Faces and Fresh Momentum at Maxey Parish Council January may be a quieter month for many villages, but Maxey Parish Council has used the start of 2026 to reflect, reset and look ahead — welcoming new councillors, thanking community volunteers and outlining a positive programme of improvements for the year ahead.

Although January often brings a pause after the bustle of Christmas, Maxey Parish Council (MPC) has been using the early weeks of 2026 to review unfinished business from last year, to renew its focus, and to introduce new initiatives for the village.

The Council would like to thank everyone who helped organise or attended the village’s Christmas events. MPC was proud to support the Maxey Community Association, with almost £1,000 raised overall.

Of this, £600 from the popular Santa Float was donated to Little Miracles, supporting children with additional needs and their

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families.

A particularly positive start to the year has been the co-option of two new councillors, Steve Penning and Dave Rubikovs, who bring a wide range of experience and community commitment to the team.

Steve has lived in Maxey for seven years with his wife Ann, having spent most of his life in Peterborough. A retired podiatrist, he is also a martial arts and self-defence instructor.

His interests include walking, natural history, birdwatching and writing poetry inspired by the local landscape — with a particular admiration for the work of John Clare.

Dave has lived in the village for six years with his long-term partner. Since retiring, he has served as a trustee and Head of Logistics at Peterborough Soup Kitchen and continues to volunteer there. He also supports the Peterborough Food Bank and is actively involved with Helping Our Ukrainian Friends, delivering humanitarian aid where it is most needed.

Looking ahead, MPC’s plans for 2026 include replacing older dog waste bins with modern dual-use bins, creating a small orchard in the village field,

installing a vehicle-activated speed sign on West End Road, and adding white gateway features at both ends of the village to enhance appearance and calm traffic. Native bluebells and snowdrops have also been purchased to support the Maxey Nature Recovery Group’s work.

The Council welcomes residents’ views on these plans and encourages feedback via meetings, community events, email, the website or Facebook.

MPC also extends sincere thanks to the many residents who quietly help keep Maxey tidy and welcoming — your efforts do not go unnoticed. villagetribune 25

18/02/2026 09:55

COUNCIL CORNER

VILLAGE VIEWS

NEWBOROUGH

Parish News:

Heritage, Community and Volunteers Needed Newborough and Borough Fen Parish Council continues to celebrate local heritage while also encouraging residents to play an active role in supporting community life.

Parish Councillor Jon Hill, a sixth-generation Newborough resident, has been exploring the village’s rich agricultural history, highlighting the important contribution of the Whitsed family. The Whitseds farmed locally on Decoy Road, with the family name still recognised in the village today.

During the mid-20th century, the Whitsed family helped shape farming practices through the development of innovative

potato harvesting machinery.

Their company, Root Harvesters Ltd of Fengate, Peterborough, produced the well-known Whitsed Super Duplex harvester — one of the early British machines designed to separate soil from potatoes mechanically.

Further innovation followed with the self-propelled Whitsed Unitate, launched in the late 1960s, helping to modernise farming and reduce the need for manual potato picking. These

machines played an important role in transforming agricultural production across the region.

Alongside celebrating local history, the Parish Council is also appealing for volunteers to help deliver the Tribune magazine across Newborough and surrounding areas. The role requires only a small commitment of time once every three months but provides valuable support in helping keep residents informed and connected.

Anyone able to assist is encouraged to contact Irene via email at clerk@ newboroughandborourghfen-pc. gov.uk to find out more.

The Parish Council would like to thank all residents who continue to support local initiatives and help maintain Newborough and Borough Fen’s strong sense of community.

The Whitsed Super Duplex potato harvester — one of the early Britishdesigned machines

Historic Whitsed harvesting equipment in its distinctive yellow livery

Mr William Whitsed pictured in 1966. The Whitsed family played a significant role in Newborough’s agricultural history and helped pioneer innovative potato harvesting machinery.

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The Whitsed Unitate selfpropelled harvester, launched in the late 1960s

Whitsed machinery on parade at the Royal Show, highlighting the importance of locally developed engineering www.villagetribune.org.uk

18/02/2026 09:57

TRIBUNE HISTORY St Bartholomew’s Church, Newborough;

The first three marriages Part 1 By Paul Cooper.

Marriages Quite often when researching family trees or parish records, especially marriages, you will find the phrase “Marriage by Banns.” What does this mean?

Lord Hardwicke’s Act of 1753 stated that a marriage was only legal if banns were read in both the groom’s and bride’s churches on three Sundays before the wedding, or if a special licence had been obtained.

The word bann comes from an old English term meaning “proclamation.” The purpose of banns was to announce a forthcoming wedding so any objection could be raised. It focused on eligibility: proclaiming the marriage to ensure the couple could legally marry.

In close communities, where everyone knew each other, anyone aware of an impediment

could speak up. One way to avoid banns was to obtain a Bishop’s Licence (Common Licence) or a special licence from the Archbishop of Canterbury.

“Marriage by Banns” therefore means the banns were read on the required three Sundays rather than a licence being used.

If both partners were from the same parish, banns were read there. If they came from different parishes, banns had to be read in both. The vicar would record whether it was the first, second, or third reading. In 1830, a parent could object if either person was under 21 (the legal age to marry without consent under the 1753 Act), although the minimum legal ages were much lower — 14 for males and 12 for females.

Marriage law in 1830 was still governed by the Marriage Act 1753, often called the Hardwicke

Act. Its main aim was to prevent clandestine marriages, prompted by a notorious Scottish case involving disputed widowhood claims. The Act required marriages to be conducted in a parish church. While no specific day was mandated, ceremonies were usually held in Anglican churches between 8am and noon.

Rural weddings often took place on Sundays, the only day workers were free. Interestingly, the first three weddings discussed here all took place on Mondays.

So what were rural marriages in the early 19th century like?

Most weddings were small affairs attended by close family and friends. Traditions mattered.

Saturday weddings were considered unlucky, whereas Monday was seen as a symbol of good health: Marry on Monday for health Tuesday for wealth Wednesday the best day of all Thursday for crosses Friday for losses Saturday for no luck at all.

St Bartholomew’s Church Newborough

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TRIBLAND HISTORY The bride and groom usually wore their Sunday best. White weddings became popular after Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in 1840. A silver sixpence in the bride’s shoe symbolised good luck and financial security.

Marriage was treated as a serious, lifelong commitment.

Infidelity was considered a grave sin and could lead to social ostracism. Roles were clearly defined: the man as breadwinner and the woman managing the home and raising the family. In poorer rural areas, wives often worked in the fields during busy periods or ran cottage industries to supplement income. In Newborough, one enterprising wife rendered butcher’s fat into dripping from cottages near the entrance to Reedmace Close, later known locally as “Dripping Row.” In rural communities, marriages were not always based on romance. Practical alliances between families were common, strengthening resources and skills. With limited travel, most couples had known each other for years, often since childhood.

Thomas Woodcock and Sarah Brown The marriage between Thomas Woodcock and Sarah Brown was conducted by Reverend Christopher Carr on 7 October 1830. Entry Number 1 states the marriage took place in St Bartholomew’s Church by banns. The consent section was not completed, indicating both were of full age. Sarah was from Newborough and declared a spinster, while Thomas was from St John the Baptist parish in Peterborough. The witnesses were Isabella Woodcock and Francis Brown.

Thomas is believed to be the son of Thomas and Ann Woodcock of Peterborough.

Little is known about the family before the wedding, though Isabella Woodcock may have been his aunt.

Sarah originated from Werrington. No records identify her parents, but Francis Brown was her older brother. He was already married, having wed Elizabeth Sewell in 1823, and lived in Paston where he worked as a hedger.

Thomas Woodcock and Sarah Brown marriage certificate 28 villagetribune

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After their wedding, Sarah and Thomas moved to Peterborough and were living in Westgate (Southside) in 1841, where Thomas was described as a broker. They remained in Peterborough at the time of the 1851 census. Ten years later they had moved to Stanground. Their whereabouts in 1861 are less clear: the census places them in Winchester, Hampshire, although their original address remained in Peterborough St John’s parish.

They may have been visiting Sovillier Woodcock, either Thomas’s sister or cousin, a nurse originally from Peterborough who had moved to Winchester.

Accompanying them was their adopted daughter, Louise Ingman, aged 11. Census returns suggest they had no children of their own.

By 1881 they were back in Peterborough, living in Albert Place, with Thomas now listed as a retired broker. Records suggest Sarah was five years older than Thomas, though the 1881 census lists them as the same age.

Thomas appears to have prospered. The Peterborough Express (9 February 1887) reported he donated £100 to the parish church restoration fund and a similar sum to the Wentworth Street Wesleyan Chapel — equivalent to over £17,000 today.

Sarah died on 6 May 1886 aged 80, and Thomas died in 1891 aged 83. Both died in Peterborough.

His will, proved by the District Registry Office in early March 1891, described him as a former furniture dealer of Albert Place.

His estate was valued at £4,000, with several nephews and nieces benefiting. www.villagetribune.org.uk

18/02/2026 09:58

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to hear from you.

To volunteer, or to find out more, please contact Cate at Good Neighbours; coordinator.gnrp@gmail.com 07735 810139

Visit our website: www.goodneighboursrp.org.uk

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FARM FOCUS

Rosemary’s

FARMING DIARY

March / April 2026

Signs of Spring After a Testing Winter As we edge closer to spring and the daylight hours slowly stretch out, there’s a sense that the countryside is beginning to stir again. Before we get too far into the New Year, though, much of our time has been spent dealing with the aftermath of the extraordinary weather we experienced through 2025.

December and January brought some fierce storms, with very high winds causing damage across the farm — fallen branches, debris, and plenty of clearing up to do. Watching the national news, we do seem to have come off relatively lightly here, though, as the saying goes, we’re “not out of the woods yet”.

Work on the farm has continued steadily. Cattle yards have been cleaned out, stock moved around, and some cattle /groups/villagetribune

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were ready to head off to the farm shop. Grain has been loaded onto lorries bound for the mills, and as ever, there have been repairs to machinery. Smaller jobs are handled in-house, while larger tasks are left to mobile engineers or agents — particularly when equipment is still under warranty. The wet conditions and frosts have certainly added to the workload this winter.

Although I haven’t been out on the farm as much recently, Robin and James keep me fully up to date, which I appreciate enormously.

It’s been lovely to see the sheep back in the grass field next to the house at The Elms. They haven’t grazed there for a couple of years, as we’d been resting the grass for silage cutting in early May. With last summer’s dry

weather and the wider changes farmers are having to respond to, sticking rigidly to plans has become increasingly difficult.

Around the house and yard, the signs of seasonal change are unmistakable. Birds are returning, feeding on insects, spilled grain, and the seed we put out — always a joy to watch.

The countryside feels as though it’s waking from its winter sleep.

We managed a couple of short walks over the past few days, giving me the chance to look around the garden. Hedges are budding, shrubs are showing signs of life, and snowdrops and other bulbs are pushing through.

Spring is on its way, and some more settled, seasonal weather would be most welcome.

Before long, there will be gardens to tidy, late-fallen leaves to clear, planting to plan, and the first cut of grass to tackle.

Plenty to keep us busy — and plenty to look forward to.

Rosemary Morton. villagetribune 31

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TRIBLAND UNIFORMS Join the Adventure

Local Guiding and Scouting Groups Seek Volunteers

Over 100 young people attend weekly activities in the area, and organisers are inviting new adult volunteers to help support their growing groups.

Local Guiding and Scouting groups are appealing for new volunteers to help support more than 100 young people who attend weekly meetings to learn skills, build confidence and enjoy outdoor adventures.

Across the area, Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Rangers, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts provide fun, friendship and valuable life experiences for young members.

Supporting these activities is a dedicated team of around 20 adult volunteers who give their time to help run meetings, organise activities and create /groups/villagetribune

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memorable experiences for the young people they support.

While the role is unpaid, volunteers say the rewards are far greater. From campfire songs and outdoor adventures to helping young people achieve new challenges, leaders play an important role in helping members grow in confidence and develop important life skills.

No previous experience or specialist skills are required, just enthusiasm, a willingness to help and a desire to support young people within a friendly and supportive team environment.

Anyone interested in volunteering or finding out more can visit www.girlguiding. org.uk or contact Morag on 07801 357701 or email morag. sweeney@yahoo.com.

Information about Scouting opportunities can be found at www.scouts.org.uk or by contacting Martin on 07778 707952 or email martin.hall@ securetheinternet.com.

Volunteers say the experience offers lasting friendships, new skills and the chance to make a real difference in the lives of local young people. villagetribune 33

18/02/2026 15:29

TRIBUNE HEALTH

A Clean Bill of Health Words: Cllr Peter Hiller – Glinton and Castor Ward

The recent announcement from government that councils in England will receive £13.45 billion over the next three years for local public health services was confirmed in December last year. In January 2026, the UK public health funding landscape is undergoing its most significant structural change in a decade, moving

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from year-by-year allocations to a multi-year settlement aimed at shifting the emphasis of our health system. After a decade of real-terms funding declines between 2016 and 2024, the UK government has now entered a new “chapter” of public health investment focused on shifting the NHS from “sickness to prevention”. Communicating our thoughts on this very positive initiative to our MPs and the Local Government Association

(LGA), rural ward councillors Neil Boyce, Kevin Tighe and I welcomed the additional grant money but noted that this funding must keep up with inflation and demand pressures to have real affect for the residents in our rural communities. We three have long campaigned for multi-year public health grant settlements but up until now our, and many others in local government, calls have been unheeded.

The public health grant supports preventative local services, including smoking cessation, drug and alcohol abuse treatment, children’s and adult health and health visiting services. Peterborough City Council Leader Cllr Dr Shabina Qayyum stated that ‘consistent long-term funding is vital for councils to effectively continue delivering the local services that protect health, prevent illness and decrease inequalities.

Councils like Peterborough are committed to using this funding to improve the wellbeing of local people in our urban and rural areas, to tackle the primary causes of poor health. As a City GP myself I recognise public health services remain under significant pressure though and I’ve urged government to provide workable flexibility within the funding constraints so councils can respond to local priorities and tailor services to the needs of local communities. Local leaders clearly understand what works in their areas and flexibility is essential to achieving the best outcomes.’ www.villagetribune.org.uk

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

LOCAL HISTORY

Helpston’s Railway Story Sparks Global Interest The Helpston Local History Group is preparing a major railway-themed exhibition for October 2026 — and a recent enquiry from Australia shows just how far the village’s history can travel.

The Helpston Local History Group is currently researching the story of Helpston’s railway heritage ahead of a special exhibition planned for October 2026. The group is keen to hear from anyone who may have photographs, documents or memories linked to the railway and its role in village life.

A recent enquiry highlights the reach of Helpston’s past.

The group was contacted via its website by a woman in Sydney, Australia, whose third greatgrandfather, George Baker, had served as a gatekeeper for the Great Northern Railway in

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Helpston in the late 1850s. His name was already known to the researchers, who provided valuable insights into his time in the village while also learning something new themselves: he emigrated to Australia in 1863.

The group’s website, www. helpstonhistory.org.uk, hosts a growing collection of articles exploring the people, places and stories that have shaped the village. Recent additions include features on London evacuee children who lived in Helpston

during the Second World War, the Stewart family at Helpston School in the 1890s, and the village football team.

If you have something of historic interest to share, you can contribute via the website or contact the group directly at helpstonhistory@gmail.com or by calling 01733 254818. Details of events planned for 2026 will be shared on the website, the Village Tribune events page, local Facebook groups and posters around the village.

4 October 1964 photograph – gates on the GNR line at Helpston – Home Counties Railway Society trip from Kings Cross to York.

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18/02/2026 15:50

Comedy Night Supports Battlefield Bike Ride for Veterans A special fundraising evening combining comedy, music and entertainment will take place in Peterborough next month, supporting wounded veterans and service personnel.

Local fundraiser Steve Bedford and his team, the Battlefield Badgers, are preparing for their fifth Big Battlefield Bike Ride challenge in June 2026. The group will cycle more than 250 miles over four days, marking the 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme and Armed Forces Day. Their route will begin in Ypres and continue through historic First World War sites across Northern France, finishing at the Thiepval Memorial, the largest Commonwealth war memorial

in the world.

To support this important cause, a fundraising comedy night will be held on Friday, 20 March 2026, at The Boulevard Club, Bourges Boulevard, New England, Peterborough. The event will be hosted by Ian Hayes of Hats Funny Comedy, who proved hugely popular at last year’s event. The evening will also feature music from local entertainer Stevie B, buffet food and a prize raffle.

Tickets cost £20 and are available online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ battlefield-badgers-event-2026 Tickets can also be purchased at The Boulevard Club, Sharon’s Snack Shack in Eye, or by contacting Steve Bedford on 07944 422112 or stevebedford00@yahoo.co.uk

Helcats Celebrate Festive Fundraising Success The Helcats (Helpston Community Activity Team) would like to thank everyone who supported their Christmas events, which raised an impressive £1,000 for community activities.

The team plays an important role in

organising local events and bringing residents together throughout the year. Following the success of their festive programme, the Helcats are now looking to welcome new members who can bring fresh ideas and help support future activities within the village.

Anyone interested in getting involved is warmly invited to contact Ann Bell on 07925 330982 or email helpstoncommunityactivityteam@gmail.com.

Pictured are Helcat members Ann Bell, Sam Garraway (Supporter), Mark Crookes, Angela Gee, Phil Roberts, Norman Borrett and Paul Venters.

Other Helcat members not pictured include Colin Bell, Jean Kerr, Andy Briaunt, Gail Venters, Jenny Lawrence and Carl Wright.

The Helcats continue to play a vital role in supporting community events and helping maintain Helpston’s strong village spirit.

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VILLAGE NEWS Members of Glinton Friendship Club, past and present, share a moment together at Glinton Village Hall, celebrating friendship, community spirit and many happy years of weekly gatherings.

Friendship and Community Flourish at Glinton Club As winter weather fades, Glinton Friendship Club has returned from its festive break with a full programme of activities, ensuring its Monday meetings remain enjoyable and well attended.

Members continue to value the club’s warm and welcoming atmosphere. Recent meetings have featured delicious homecooked meals prepared by the dedicated catering team, now strengthened by a new volunteer cook. Quizzes, bingo and keepfit sessions have also provided plenty of fun while helping members stay active and socially connected.

A recent highlight was the return of local historian Stuart Orme, whose engaging talk and slides once again fascinated members with insights into local history.

This year will also see several members celebrating milestone birthdays, including 70th, 80th, and 90th-birthday celebrations.

These special occasions are traditionally marked with poems, flowers and shared celebrations among friends.

Members were saddened to learn of the death of Mike Hickin, one of the club’s founder members, who played a key role in establishing the friendly, inclusive group we enjoy today.

Preparations are now underway for the club’s Annual General Meeting and early planning for its 25th anniversary next year. A recently rediscovered photograph from the club’s early days has sparked fond memories.

Anyone interested in joining is welcome to visit Glinton Village Hall on any Monday.

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Helpston once had a wonderful tradition of Open Gardens. It was a muchloved highlight of the village calendar. After a long break, it’s being brought back this year, coinciding with the John Clare Festival Weekend. If you’re interested in opening your garden (big or small, wild or manicured) or would like to help with organising, please get in touch. It’s a really enjoyable afternoon and a great way to meet lots of interesting people. I aim to get at least 8 gardens involved, and I already have 4 signed up.

If you would like to sign up or know someone who would, please contact me at laura. currie@helpston-pc.gov.uk villagetribune 41

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Happy Birthday Maxey Cut! This year marks 70 years since water first flowed down the Maxey Cut, in 1956!

Built to protect nearby towns and villages from flooding, the Cut is now a familiar and important feature of our local countryside, enjoyed by many. Coincidentally, this year is also the 185th anniversary of a walk that poet John Clare made through this landscape, which in his childhood was called Westings Meadow (see map).

We’re delighted to announce the launch of an exciting new community project to uncover and preserve the true stories of the heritage and wildlife of Westings Meadow and the Maxey Cut. Led by Art Pop-Up, a local awardwinning arts and heritage community organisation, and funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Environment Agency, everyone is

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© The Environment Agency

Building the Maxey Cut.

warmly invited to get involved we hope you’ll join in what promises to be a fascinating shared adventure! To launch the project, we’ll be at Deeping Library on 19th March 2026 at 7pm, sharing some of the stories uncovered so far and outlining the many ways you can get involved - all welcome (free entry).

Over the last four years, with help from many in our local community, I’ve been researching this land’s true stories of changing landscape, farming, gravel extraction, archaeology and nature restoration. Together, we’ve started building a picture of what this place meant to past generations, and its significance to us today. The idea for this project grew from those conversations, and the desire to

preserve the stories for future generations.

Together, we’ll be gathering memories of this place from before the Maxey Cut was built, and before the subsequent gravel excavation work began. It’ll be an adventure in time, landscape, history and nature, as we explore how humans have worked this landscape from Neolithic to modern times, right up to the current nature restoration work

by Langdyke Countryside Trust’s volunteers today. Together, we’ll try to unravel some of its mysteries too!

There will be lots of opportunities to be involved, whether by attending one of the free talks, walks and workshops, or becoming one of our volunteers. For most roles no specialist knowledge is needed — just curiosity and enthusiasm!

If you have memories or photographs of this landscape before the gravel extraction, or even before the Maxey Cut, we’d love to hear from you! Perhaps you remember watching the machines shown in the photograph building the Maxey Cut, or have a friend who does.

Maybe you have stories of farming this land, or worked at

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CELEBRATING MAXEY CUT

the gravel pits, skated on the old ponds or learnt to swim at Nine Bridges? If you were one of the boys commended by the Royal Humane Society for saving someone from drowning in the Maxey Cut in the 1960s we’d love to talk with you.

One mystery it would be fun to solve is who carved their name so beautifully on Etton’s old stone bridge, as shown in the photograph. Poet John Clare said the carvings were “the idle amusements of cowtending boys horse tenders & shepherds”.

Others say they were done by the people who dug South Drain.

Most of those names are simply initials and it will be impossible to

Same view, before work began building the Maxey Cut. Back then, this waterway was called North Drain.

trace them, but there’s one that appears to read “T. Parkinson”.

Can you help us find out who he or she was?

As well as coming to events, you can also follow the project on social media. We’ll be using Facebook and Instagram and we’d be grateful for help sharing posts so we can reach as many people as possible.

If you’re interested in hearing more about volunteering please contact westings@artpopup.co.uk Art Pop-Up is a local award winning not-for-profit arts and heritage community

About our major funder, The National Lottery Heritage Fund The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the largest funder for the UK’s heritage. Using money raised by National Lottery players we support projects that connect people and communities to heritage.

Our vision is for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future. From historic buildings, our industrial legacy and the natural environment, /groups/villagetribune

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to collections, traditions, stories and more. Heritage can be anything from the past that people value and want to pass on to future generations. We believe in the power of heritage to ignite the imagination, offer joy and inspiration, and to build pride in place and connection to the past. heritagefund.org.uk Thanks to National Lottery players

© The Environment Agency

Car vings on the bridge at Etton (photographed on a frosty morning )

organisation. We are very grateful to the funders - The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Environment Agency - who are enabling this project.

Using money raised by National Lottery players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage. ‘The Heritage and Wildlife of Maxey Cut and Westings’ programme is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we are able to save this heritage and share it with the community.

A big thank you also to all the support from Langdyke Countryside Trust, local community groups, organisations, businesses, schools, Parish Councils and individuals who’ve helped shape this project and contributed to preliminary research. It wouldn’t be happening without you!

Book your free place for the March 19th launch and talk on Art Pop-Up’s Eventbrite: eventbrite.co.uk/o/11397767766 or drop in to Deepings community library to reserve a place or email westings@ artpopup.co.uk villagetribune 43

18/02/2026 10:27

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18/02/2026 10:28

TRIBLAND HISTORY

Passing Muster in Tudor Tribland

By Dr Avril Lumley Prior

The 1530s were a turbulent decade for Henry VIII. In 1532, he broke from Rome and declared himself Supreme Head of the Church of England through the Act of Supremacy of 1534. The king’s marriage to the wellrespected Catholic, Katharine of Aragon, was annulled and, in January 1533, Henry married his Protestant and pregnant mistress, Anne Boleyn. As we know, Anne did not last long. She was beheaded in 1536, allegedly for treason, adultery and incest.

Anne was followed by a rapid succession of royal wives: Jane Seymour (died 1537); Anne of Cleves (marriage annulled, in 1540); Katharine Howard (beheaded, 1542); and Katharine Parr (1543-47), who outlived him.

Trouble at Home Apart from his colourful and extravagant private life, which infuriated the Papacy and

Pilgrimage of Grace banner depicting Christ’s five wounds /groups/villagetribune

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Henry VIII by Hans Holbein affronted Spain by discarding Queen Katharine, Henry had money worries too. But he had a cunning plan. In 1536, he ordered the dissolution of minor monasteries and convents. In addition to stamping out these hotbeds of Catholicism (and alleged lax morality among monks and nuns), the benefits from seizing monastic assets, including buildings and their materials, land, income and treasure, could ease Henry’s financial problems and fund his Continental military campaigns.

Nevertheless, the suppression of these institutions was extremely unpopular, for they

dispensed medical and social care to the elderly and the poor.

Moreover, rumours were rife regarding Henry VIII and his ruthless Chancellor Thomas Cromwell’s next moves. The masses anticipated that taxes would be levied upon baptisms, burials and marriages. The failed harvest of 1535 and the rising cost of food only added to their despair and discontentment.

The Lincolnshire Rising In October 1536, an estimated 9,000 protestors marched upon Lincoln Cathedral. They were led by the vicar of Louth, Reverend Thomas Kendall, whose villagetribune 45

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sermon had roused the rebellion, and a shoemaker called Nicholas Melton (nicknamed Captain Cobbler). Whilst declaring their loyalty to King Henry and the Church, they demanded the right to practise Catholicism, an end to the dissolution of the monasteries and the abolition of taxes in peacetime. Initially, the uprising was quelled when confronted by military opposition. However, unrest had spread to neighbouring counties. In December 1536, the 40,000-strong, so-called ‘Pilgrimage of Grace’ assembled in Pontefract, where they drew up a list of twenty-four grievances, which were given to the Duke of Norfolk to present to the King.

Henry superficially agreed to their demands, the ‘Pilgrimage’ was

abandoned, and a general pardon was granted to its participants, except for Reverend Kendall and Captain Cobbler, who were hanged at Tyburn.

Raising the Militia Nevertheless, Henry had been greatly alarmed by what turned out to be a peaceful protest. In those days, England had no real standing army to fight for the realm or quell trouble at home.

Instead, able-bodied men of the Nassaburgh, Willybrook and Corby Hundreds (administrative divisions) of Northamptonshire were marshalled at Ufford, to prevent the ‘pilgrims’ from crossing the Welland, whether via Stamford and the Great North Road, King Street at Nine Bridges or the old Lincoln Road at

Market Deeping. The Muster List tells us that a total of 500 men were conscripted from the three Hundreds. They were placed under the command of Sir Robert Kirkham of Warmington manor house, who complained that they were ill-equipped and few had protective clothing or the means to pay for it.

The conscripts were mainly long-bowmen, forced to practise in their spare time by royal decree, and billmen, whose weapon was a pole with a hooked blade, used for cutting and thrusting in battle as well as for agricultural purposes. These part-time warriors were from the peasant class, reluctantly called to arms by their lord-ofthe-manor, ironically, the Roman Catholic abbot of Peterborough,

Extract from Emmanuel Bowen’s Map of the Northamptonshire Hundreds (1760) A. Nassaburgh Hundred 46 villagetribune

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B. Willybrook Hundred

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TRIBLAND HISTORY

John Chambers, who sagaciously converted to Protestantism and was appointed Bishop of Peterborough, in 1541.

The seriously rich could afford to pay the fee of ‘scutage’ to fund a mercenary to fight on their behalf. William Warey of Ailsworth, Francis Quarles of Barnack, Thomas Howe of Glinton, Robert Brudenell of Maxey and Hugh Style of Upton all had to ‘find a horse and harness for a man’. Moreover, all the non-combatant residents, ‘the residue of the townes’ of Ailsworth, Ashton, Bainton, Barnack, Castor, Deeping Gate with Maxey, Etton and Woodcroft, Glinton, Helpston, Marholm, Pilsgate with Southorpe, Sutton and Ufford, had to stump up for a second ‘horse and harness for a man’.

Less prosperous villages, like Peakirk and Upton were required only to equip a man for battle.

The number of conscripts varied across Tribland according on the size of the settlement.

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A bill hook, usually attached to a pole muster two billmen and fourteen archers. Obviously, King Henry could not deplete the village of all its male workforce, otherwise its inhabitants could starve, and roads and bridges would fail to be maintained, then crucially, no taxes could be collected. It is understood that troublemakers were called up first and the rest chosen by lottery.

We can only imagine how terrifying it must have been to be pressed into this early form of national service. Then, after only the most basic of military training, they were sent to meet the enemy, many of whom were simple land-workers just like themselves, from across the river. In this instance, once the ‘Pilgrimage of Grace’ had disbanded, the Northamptonshire archers and billmen were sent home without seeing any action.

Is your ancestor here?

Fortunately for genealogists and historians alike, the entire Muster List for the Nassaburgh Hundred survives intact. It is

included in an article by Leslie Gaches, ‘Musters in Nassaburgh, 1536’, published in Fenland Notes and Queries volume 4 (18981900), pages 103-9. It is accessible online or at Peterborough Archives at the Central Library (though you will have to order the book in advance). Here, you will find picturesque names like Canute Denham, Christopher and Richard Idle, billmen of Pilsgate and Ufford, and Robert Angell, constable of Etton and Woodcroft; local surnames that have stood the test of time, like George Speechley and Henry Brewster, billmen of Barnack and Upton, and Henry Sharpe, constable of Helpston; and Thomas and John ffoo, [Defoe or Faux] of Peakirk and Glinton, possibly relatives of the elusive author Daniel Defoe who had connections with Etton. All of them were ordinary people who were raised in Tribland nearly 500 years ago, most of whom simply wanted to live peaceful lives free of war and conflict, just as we do today. villagetribune 47

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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 knowI’d 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 We 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- I’d love some help

vil agetribune 29 Village Tribune 149w.indd 29

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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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18/02/2026 10:32

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From our facebook group

Frank Samet

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

Moon over Nine Bridges Steve Zealand

Peterborough From Above Cathryn Parsons

Proudly looking down on Glinton Church

Before they started building Maxey Cut, in the early 1950s

Hi everyone, despite the recent wet weather, there have been some new developments at Christ’s College Nature Reserve, including new steps for public access to the viewing points along Maxey Cut. There is always a lot to do around the reserve to improve the environment for nature, and we’d love to see some new faces join our small team of volunteers.

Early February, from the Maxey Road bridge looking downstream

Two photographs taken roughly 75 years apart on what’s now the Maxey Cut. What do you think, is that the same oak tree?

Shaws of Maxey We knew you liked cake and

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Warm Welcome runs between 10:00 and 12:00 each Thursday at Glinton Village Hall. We are a fun bunch, lots of laughter and great conversation. I should also say that we are very supportive of each other and members of the community.

Simon Clayton

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quizzing, but we didn’t know you liked it this much. Thank you for the amazing turnout at our brochure launch in February at Waterside Garden Centre. We had so much fun chatting with you all - you have some fantastic ideas for new tours, and all the positivity about our upcoming destinations was wonderful to hear.

villagetribune 49

18/02/2026 10:32

TRIBUNE NATURE Maxey Nature Notes:

Wild Goose Hunt Winter wetlands around Maxey are alive with the calls of geese.

Here’s a simple guide to spotting the species you’re most likely to see.

All geese are large, heavy birds built for life on land and water. With strong legs and webbed feet, they are as comfortable grazing on fields as they are paddling through wetlands. Highly social and often monogamous, geese form strong lifelong bonds and can gather in impressive winter flocks during migration.

Many of the geese we see belong to the ‘grey goose’ Anser family — large, mostly grey birds identified by differences in head, bill and leg colour. Others, such as Brent and Barnacle geese, belong to the Branta group, named from an Old Norse word

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meaning ‘black’.

Around Maxey’s wetlands, three species are commonly seen: Greylag, Canada and Egyptian geese. In winter, northern migrants can join them, making this a great time for birdwatchers to sharpen their identification skills.

Greylag geese are the classic large goose, with an orange bill and pink legs. Among winter flocks, look carefully and you may spot white-fronted geese, with white markings at the base of the bill, or more delicate pink-footed geese with their distinctive pink legs and black bill.

Canada geese are unmistakable — large, bold and noisy, with a black head and neck and a bright

white chinstrap. Egyptian geese, although now well established, are technically a feral species, easily recognised by their pale head and dark eye patch.

If you head out for your own wild goose hunt this winter, wetlands, flooded meadows and open farmland offer the best chance of sightings. And despite the phrase ‘wild goose chase’, spotting these remarkable birds is anything but pointless — it’s one of the simple seasonal joys of our local landscape.

Liz Lonsdale – Maxey Nature Recovery Group

www.villagetribune.org.uk

18/02/2026 10:33

Fun-Filled Days at

The Cresset!

PIED PIPER - HIP HOP FAMILY MUSICAL

3 Mar

ONE DAY THEATRE

31 Mar

“This awesome, upbeat production is literally gobsmacking” Everything Theatre

Holiday workshop: Make a musical in one day!

DINOSAURS LIVE

28 May

London’s Natural History Museum - the home of Age guidance: 3+

MINISTRY OF SCIENCE

27 Jun

100% Educational. 200% Entertaining.

300% Explosive. 400% Fun. Age guidance: 6+

MY FIRST CONCERT

5 Jul

A magical live musical adventure for young children and their grown-ups!

Age guidance: 2-7

New season on sale now! www.cresset.co.uk 01733 265 705 051 VT157 Diary Cresset .indd 1

18/02/2026 10:34

Sunday March 15th 10.45 am

diary

Mothering Sunday Café St Botolph’s Church, Helpston MAR

UPLOAD YOUR EVENTS

WWW.VILLAGETRIBUNE.ORG.UK Friday March 6th 7.30pm Peakirk and Newborough Dramatic Society presents Farndale Townswomen’s Guild production of A Christmas Carol Newborough Village Hall

Sunday March 15th 4.30 pm Mothering Sunday Tea Party Service St Mary’s Church, Bainton

Wednesday March 18th Noon – 1.30 pm Lent Lunch St Benedict’s Church, Glinton Glinton Village Hall Soup, crusty bread, cake & drink £10 Julie 01733 252712 Helena 07802 279756

Thursday March 19th Tea at Three – St Andrew’s Church, Northborough Tea and Cakes, Book Exchange

Friday March 6th 7.30pm

Friday March 20th 7.30pm

St Andrew’s Church Northborough Annual Quiz with Peter Kemp Northborough Village Hall Polly 01778 380849 or Jane 01778 345101

Glinton Horticultural Society Presentation by Canon Tim Alban-Jones Of Peterborough Cathedral Glinton Village Hall

Saturday March 7th 7.30pm Peakirk and Newborough Dramatic Society presents Farndale Townswomen’s Guild production of A Christmas Carol Peakirk Village Hall

Thursday March 12th Art Society monthly talk – ‘The Many Faces of William Morris’ The Fleet Community Centre

Saturday March 14th 7.30pm Peakirk and Newborough Dramatic Society presents Farndale Townswomen’s Guild production of A Christmas Carol Peakirk Village Hall

Sunday March 15th Over-60’s Spring Dinner at Northborough Village Hall 52 villagetribune

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18/02/2026 15:52

Friday April 17th 7.30pm Glinton Horticultural Society An evening with photographer David Lowndes Glinton Village Hall

Saturday April 18th 11.00 am – 3.00 pm God in the Garden – a day to think of God’s love in Creation All Saints’ Church Wittering

Sunday April 19th 4.30 pm God in the Garden – “Journeys” St Mary’s Church, Bainton

Tuesday April 21st to Thursday 14th May Solo exhibition – Will Thompson Willoughby Memorial Art Gallery, Corby

Friday April 24th Bingo at Northborough Village Hall

Saturday May 2nd between 10am and 12pm Saturday March 21st Barn Dance at Northborough Village Hall

Glinton Horticultural Society Plant Sale Glinton Village Hall

Saturday March 21st 7.30pm

Sunday May 10th between 10am and 2pm

Hymn to St Cecilia St Andrew’s Church, Witham-on-the-Hill

Peterborough Croquet Club – Open Day

Saturday March 28th

Thursday May 14th

Table-Top Sale at Northborough Village Hall

Friday March 27th Bingo at Northborough Village Hall

Sunday March 29th 1 pm-5 pm Bainton Primrose Festival St Mary’s Church Bainton

Sunday, April 4th Easter Vigil Service 8.00pm St Andrew’s Church, Ufford

Monday, April 5th Easter Dawn Service 6.30am Barnack Hills and Hollows, Main Car Park

Thursday April 16th Tea at Three – St Andrew’s Church, Northborough Tea and Cakes, Book Exchange /groups/villagetribune

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Contact Debbie Lines on 07436 583716

Art Society monthly talk – ‘Baiting the Bear’ The Fleet Community Centre

Friday May 29th – doors open at 6.30 pm Silent Film Night – Blackmail (Directed by Alfred Hitchcock) Bainton Reading Room

Saturday June 6th Bingo at Northborough Village Hall

Saturday June 20th & Sunday June 21st Crowland and Thorney 1940’s Weekend Friday July 10th – Sunday July 12th John Clare Weekend - Helpston villagetribune 53

18/02/2026 15:52

TRIBUNE DIARY DATES Silent Film Night Coming Soon –

A Thrilling Evening of Entertainment Hitchcock Style!

On Saturday, 6th June, step back in time to the 1920s and experience cinema as it used to be.

The much talked-about and truly enchanting Silent Film Night, with live music performed by The Brief Encounter Duo, is back in the area by popular demand.

This time, award-winning multi-instrumentalists, Vernoica and Chris Perrin, perform their unique vintage jazz soundtrack to accompany an early silent film directed by Alfred Hitchcock.

‘Blackmail’, originally released in 1929, features many of the legendary British film director’s now trademark thrills and suspense techniques, as well as one of his earliest on-screen cameo appearances!

Tickets are £15 in advance, but be quick, as this culturally thrilling evening at Bainton Reading Room is sure to sell out fast. Especially, as it’s all in aid of a good cause.

The nearby Helpston needs a new village hall and ticket sales (and raffle) will help support that.

‘Blackmail’ starts with a falling out between the alluring Alice White and her handsome boyfriend, Scotland Yard detective, Frank Webber. She then goes on to meet up with the sleazy, Mr Crewe, who she ultimately has to

Celebrating Books, Stories and Creativity at Deepings Literary Festival 2026 Book lovers, writers and anyone with a passion for storytelling can look forward to the return of the Deepings Literary Festival, running from Wednesday 29 April to Sunday 3 May 2026.

The festival promises an inspiring and varied programme featuring acclaimed authors, publishing experts and creative workshops designed to celebrate reading and writing in all its forms. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet 54 villagetribune

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bestselling authors and industry professionals while enjoying talks covering crime fiction, romantic fiction, history, natural history, folk storytelling, poetry and theatrical adaptations.

Highlights include crime novelist Vaseem Khan’s talk From Bombay to Bond, a dedicated Writers’ Workshops Day offering advice on getting published, and a lively crime panel titled Murder at Molecey.

The festival concludes with

fight off in the worst way possible.

As Alice flees the scene of the crime, Frank starts to investigate the murder. Yet, all along there’s been an eyewitness, who takes advantage of this situation, turning into a ruthless blackmailer!

To reserve tickets, please telephone 07894448012 (over 15s only). Doors open at 6:30pm with the film starting promptly at 7pm.

There will be an interval halfway through, when refreshments (included in the ticket price) will be provided.

a special event featuring bestselling crime writer Elly Griffiths.

Families are also catered for, with award-winning children’s author Hannah Gold leading a Children’s Story Time session at Deepings Library on Saturday 2 May. Books will be available for purchase at events, with opportunities to meet authors and have copies signed.

For full programme details and tickets, visit deepingsliteraryfestival. co.uk. www.villagetribune.org.uk

18/02/2026 10:34

RECIPE

From the Kitchen of

Chez Pierre

Boulettes de viande Suédoises (Swedish Meatballs) Aha, bonjour to all you residents of the Tribland villages I hope you are mostly well and looking forward to the spring and summer months, non? In this issue of your fine magazine, I am to be telling you of my version of this recipe made famous perhaps from the retail mazes of Ikea shopping and their in-store cafés.

We first started to offer these little marvels in our family bistro after Ascot week in 1970. The Gold Cup race, during Ladies’ Day, was won by Precipice Wood, a colt trained by Rosemary Lomax, the first woman to train the winner of this classic. The horse was owned

by Bobby Killick, a horse racing man from Sweden who owned a property nearby, and who was a regular of my grand père’s Ascot bistro. After the win he booked a table for Ms Lomax and others to celebrate and requested we create his favourite dish, his home country meatballs with pasta.

And of course we did! Mr Killick’s evening table was a huge success: attended by guests such as the famous jockey Lester Piggott (who won the Triple Crown that year on Nijinsky), the wonderfully entertaining Sid James, Maurice Gibb and several other celebrities of the time, who absolutely demolished a huge dish of our newly-created meatballs. So, my friends here is that way for you to do this too. I know everyone can cook meatballs but these are just a little bit different and the sauce is pure magic. Try them served /groups/villagetribune

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in the large casserole they were cooked in, centre of the table on the bed of pasta, with cranberry jelly as a side condiment.

For about six diners: 1 lb minced beef; ½ lb minced pork; 2 eggs; ½ cup milk; 1 cup breadcrumbs; ¼ cup grated onion; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp brown sugar; ¼ tsp ground nutmeg; ¼ tsp ground allspice; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1-2 tbs oil for cooking Sauce: 1 tbs butter; 1 tbs olive oil; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 3 cups beef stock; 1 tsp brown sugar; ½ cup sour cream; chopped fresh parsley; pasta (tagliatelle) for serving.

The works: For the meatballs, in a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients except for the oil and mix until evenly combined. Scoop the meat mixture into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter – or whatever size you prefer. Heat the oil in a large flat casserole then add the meatballs to the pan in a single layer an inch or so apart. You may need to cook in batches of course. Brown the meatballs all over, but they’ll finish cooking in a later step. Remove the meatballs to a plate and repeat with any remaining meatballs adding a bit more oil to the casserole. For the sauce, return the skillet to medium heat and add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon oil. Heat until melted.

Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes adding more butter or oil if required.

Slowly add the stock, just 1/2 cup at a time, whisking quickly to remove any lumps. Let each addition of stock cook until thick and smooth before adding the next bit. Once you’ve added about 2 cups, add the remaining broth and whisk until combined.

Stir in the brown sugar and bring the sauce to a simmer, whisking constantly.

Add the meatballs back to the casserole and cook 10 to 12 minutes until they are cooked through, turning them once or twice while cooking. Off the heat, stir in the sour cream to the sauce (just whisk it in around the meatballs). To help it blend in easier, you can ladle out a bit of the warm sauce into a bowl and whisk the sour cream in before adding it all back in to the pan.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over hot, cooked tagliatelle.

Fresh French bread and a decent Sauvignon Blanc will make a memorable supper, non?

Bonne Chance Pierre x villagetribune 55

18/02/2026 10:35

SCHOOLS AMVC

Arthur Mellows: A Term Packed with Opportunity and Achievement If you have ever worked in a school, you will know how busy they can be and Arthur Mellows Village College is no exception.

We are so lucky to have so many dedicated staff willing to invest extra time with our fabulous students that so much seems to be going on all the time. Time flies when you are having fun and Christmas seems such a long time ago already!

Here is a summary of just a few of the exciting things that have been or are taking place.

Mrs Ground has secured a Schools Partnership Programme through the British Council that pairs schools in the UK with schools in Ukraine to develop reading and cultural exchange.

She has just returned from her initial visit to Poland to launch the scheme.

We continue to enhance our Personal Development that was so highly praised by Ofsted back in May. This term our Year 9 students took part in a collapsed timetable day focused on the “Prison Me? No Way!” programme. This impactful experience aims to raise awareness of the consequences of poor choices and to encourage positive decision-making, responsibility, and resilience. It was hard hitting but very well received. Network Rail also presented to all year groups 56 villagetribune

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sharing real world guidance to help keep our young people safe on or near railway lines.

Our creative students showcased their talents exceptionally well in our December Christmas concert and rehearsals are well under way for our March production of West Side Story. I know it will be brilliant.

During the February half term break we waved off a number of intrepid students and staff who are venturing out to New York and Washington for an educational and cultural experience and Austria for our annual ski trip. We hope they had a great time!

Meanwhile, our Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 students are now fully

engaged in the bread and butter of school life – preparing for their public examinations which begin in May. A wide range of revision sessions are taking place both at lunchtimes and after the school day along with other sessions planned for the holidays. We welcome and encourage all our students to attend these sessions and ask everyone to support them in their studies. We wish them every success in the months ahead.

Finally, please do follow us on Facebook and Instagram where you will see regular updates on all the achievements of our fabulous young people.

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

18/02/2026 10:36

TRIBUNE FOCUS

What’s In Those Containers On The Railway?

Residents often ask about the long freight trains that pass through our villages, particularly those carrying brightly coloured containers marked Maersk, MSC, or other global names. So, what’s actually inside them?

The short answer is: everyday goods we all use, moving quietly across the country.

Our village sits alongside the East Coast Main Line, used by passenger services as well as freight operators. Many container trains are travelling between major ports — especially Felixstowe — and large inland distribution centres.

What Are They Carrying?

The containers usually hold: ■ Clothing, furniture and household goods ■ Electrical items and appliances ■ Packaged food and drink ■ Components and materials for UK industry ■ Online shopping deliveries

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heading to regional warehouses Some containers are refrigerated (known as “reefers”) and carry chilled or frozen food, or occasionally medicines.

The company name on the side of the container does not mean the goods belong to that company. It simply means they own the container itself, which can be leased by many different retailers or manufacturers.

Why Do They Often Run At Night?

Freight trains are usually scheduled outside peak passenger times. Running at night: ■ Keeps daytime services moving smoothly

■ Is more energy efficient ■ Takes dozens of lorries off busy

roads In fact, a single freight train can remove up to 70 lorries from the road network.

A Quiet But Important Role While the trains may be noisy at times, they are a vital part of keeping shops stocked, businesses supplied, and carbon emissions lower than road transport would allow.

Next time a container train rumbles through the village, it’s likely carrying the everyday items that end up on our shelves — just passing through, doing its job.

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18/02/2026 15:55

SOCIETY NEWS NEWBOROUGH SERVICES

Glinton Horticultural Society Your friendly gardening Club

Church services at St Bartholomew’s

Newborough Sun 1st March, 9.30 am: Holy Communion Sun 8th March, 9.30 am: Morning Worship Weds 11th March, 10 am: Holy Communion Sun 15th March, 9.30 am: Holy Communion Sun 22nd March, 3 pm: Crafts and refreshments, followed by All-Age service

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

The Plant Sale Is On Sat. 2nd MAY this year and donations of plants to sell are always welcome. Therefore when planting your seeds and potting on please consider doing a few extra for the plant sale. Also any help setting up on the Friday afternoon and selling on the day would be most welcome.

In January we sorted out the Schedule for this year’s SHOW ON SEPTEMBER 19th. It will be our 81st Show this year and we would like to make it even better than last year. If you do any of the following: grow vegetables, fruit and/or flowers, bake, make jams and pickles, work at handicrafts, artwork, winemaking, brewing and/or take photographs you would be very welcome to enter the Show. There are also special classes for all children up to age 16 with special prizes for the age groups: up to 4, 5 to 8, 9 58 villagetribune

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to 12 and 13 to 16.

The schedules, giving full details for entries, should be available around the end of March. If you have not entered before and would like a copy please contact Lynne Best on 01778 342115 to be added to the mailing list.

The talk on “Waders of the Wash” held in January proved to be informative with some great photographs and I look forward to the talk on “The Gardens of Burghley” on the 20th February.

Details of the talks for March and April are given below. The full programme of all the events for this year is available on the tribune website.

Weds 25th March, 10 am: Holy Communion

Dates for your diary:

Sun 10th May, 9.30 am: Morning Worship

Fri. March 20th A presentation

by Canon Tim Alban-Jones of Peterborough Cathederal.

Fri. 17th Apr. An evening with photographer David Lowndes.

Both in Glinton Village Hall at 7:30pm. All are welcome.

PLANT SALE – Sat. 2nd May – Glinton Village Hall, 10:00am to 12noon – come early to avoid disappointment.

Sun 29th March, 10 am: Benefice Holy Communion Weds 1st April, 7 pm: Stations of the Cross Sun 5th April, 9.30 am: Holy Communion Sun 12th April, 9.30 am: Morning Worship Sun 19th April, 9.30 am: Holy Communion Weds 22nd April, 10 am: Holy Communion Sun 26th April, 3 pm: Crafts and refreshments followed by All-Age service and church APCM Sun 3rd May, 9.30 am: Holy Communion

Weds 13th May, 10 am: Holy Communion Sun 17th May, 9.30 am: Holy Communion Sun 24th May, 3 pm: Crafts and refreshments followed by All-Age service Weds 27th May, 10 am: Holy Communion Sun 31st May, no service - 10 am Benefice Holy Communion at Thorney Abbey

www.villagetribune.org.uk

18/02/2026 10:41

CHURCH SERVICES

Church services Benefice of Barnack with Ufford, Bainton, Helpston, and Wittering © Shutterstock/Brian A Jackson

01 March 2026 - Lent 2

02 April 2026 - Maundy Thursday

9:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

3:00 PM St John, Barnack

Communion

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

Communion

7:00 PM St Botolph, Helpston

Communion

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Communion

03 April 2026 - Good Friday

3:30 PM St Botolph, Helpston

Messy Church

10:00 AM All Saints, Wittering

Good Friday Service

4:30 PM St Mary, Bainton

Taizé

11:30 AM St Mary, Bainton

Good Friday Service

1:00 PM St Botolph, Helpston

Good Friday Service

2:15 PM St John, Barnack

Good Friday Service

3:30 PM St John, Barnack

Messy Church

08 March 2026 - Lent 3 9:00 AM St Mary, Bainton

Communion

9:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

Communion

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Communion

3:30 PM St John, Barnack

Messy Church

15 March 2026 - Mothering Sunday 9:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Café Church

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

All Age Service

4:30 PM St Mary, Bainton

Mothering Sunday Tea Party Service – at Bainton Reading Room.

22 March 2026 - Passion Sunday 9:00 AM St Mary, Bainton

Communion

9:30 AM St John, Barnack

All Age Service

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Communion

29 March 2026 - Palm Sunday

04 April 2026 - Holy Saturday 8:00 PM St Andrew, Ufford

Easter Vigil & Communion (with incense)

05 April 2026 - Easter Day 6:30 AM St John, Barnack

All Age Service

9:00 AM St Mary, Bainton

Communion

9:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Communion

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

Communion

3:30 PM St Botolph, Helpston

Messy Church

4:30 PM St Mary, Bainton

Taizé

12 April 2026 - Low Sunday 9:00 AM St Mary, Bainton

Communion

9:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

Communion

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

Communion

19 April 2026 - Easter 3

9:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

9:30 AM St John, Barnack

Communion

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

All Age Service

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

All Age Service

4:30 PM St Mary, Bainton

Primrose Festival Service with Bishop Debbie

4:30 PM St Mary, Bainton

God in the Garden – “Journeys”

30 March 2026 - Holy Monday 7:00 PM St John, Barnack

26 April 2026 - Easter 4 Compline

31 March 2026 - Holy Tuesday 3:00 PM St John, Barnack

Communion

7:00 PM St Mary, Bainton

Stations of the Cross

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9:00 AM St Mary, Bainton

Communion

9:30 AM St John, Barnack

All Age Service

10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston

St George’s Day Parade Service

10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering

All Age Service

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18/02/2026 10:42

CHURCH SERVICES

“…And the Dragons are Dead” On April 23rd we mark St George’s Day. who was martyred as a Christian during the persecutions under the emperor Diocletian. He was picked up as the patron of England by Edward III as a kind of propaganda exercise – picking a soldier saint for a warlike country.

He is also the patron of, among others, the countries of Georgia and Portugal.

The cross on George’s flag is the blood of red, on the white background of innocence. A reminder that the cross has two symbolisms. It’s the sign of Empire – of hating and defeating foreigners and crushing enemies – think of the rows of crosses in “Spartacus”. But it’s also the sign of conquering death through the cross of Jesus. Three weeks

before we celebrate St George this year, we remember his death and resurrection.

We have a choice – do we want to follow the way of the cross of the Empire? Or the way of Jesus?

Of hate or sacrifice? One way leads to death, one to eternal life.

Our churches will fly the St George’s flag this year to remember a saint who chose the way of peace over the Empire.

And at Easter, as we celebrate our God and Lord Jesus, who defeated that old dragon, the Devil on the cross. He broke the power of death as he rose from his grave, and lives forever for us.

Have a very happy Easter.

Revd Gary Alderson

© AdobeStock

Except that, in accordance with church rules, we will actually celebrate in St Botolph’s Helpston on Sunday the 26th, with a parade service.

George is an odd choice for a patron saint for England. An obscure saint, born in Turkey, speaking Greek. His dragonkilling is of course a legend.

Or maybe it’s not. Maybe it’s because of St George you don’t see dragons about these days.

There’s a thought. As in Jan Struther’s hymn that we used to sing at school, “the knights are no more and the dragons are dead”.

What we actually can reasonably say about George is that he appears to have been a soldier in the Roman army,

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www.villagetribune.org.uk

18/02/2026 10:42

9 BRIDGES CHURCH SERVICES Worship

Date

Time/Location

Service

Ash Wednesday

18th February

19:00 Communion with Imposition of Ashes -Peakirk

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

Sunday Lent 1

22nd February

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

Sunday Lent 2

1st March

09:00 Morning Worship – Glinton 10:30 Sung Communion - Peakirk 15:00 Messy Church – Peakirk Village Hall 18:00 Celtic Evening Prayer – Northborough (Special sung service with benefice choir)

Genesis 12:1-4a Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 John 3:1-17

Sunday Lent 3

8th March

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

Exodus 17:1-7 Romans 5:1-11 John 4:5-42

Sunday Lent 4 Mothering Sunday

15th March

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

1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 Ephesians 5:8-14 John 9:1-41

Sunday Lent 5

22nd March

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

Ezekiel 37:1-14 Romans 8:6-11 John 11:1-45

Sunday Palm Sunday

29th March

United Benefice Service -Etton

Isaiah 50:4-9a Philippians 2:5-11 Matthew 26:14-27:66

Tuesday

31st March

Stainer’s Cruxifiction - Maxey

Maundy Thursday

2nd April

19:00 -The Lord’s Supper - Northbrough -with optional foot washing

Good Friday

3rd April

Walk of Witness to Peakirk

Easter Sunday

5th April

06:00 Dawn Service – Maxey 10:30 Easter Communion - Glinton

Acts 10:34-43, Colossians 3:1-4 John 20:1-18

Sunday Easter 2

12th April

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

Acts 2:14a, 22-32 1 Peter 1:3-9 John 20:19-31

Sunday Easter 3

19th April

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

Acts 2:14a, 36-41 Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 1 Peter 1:17-23, Luke 24:13-35

Sunday Easter 4

26th April

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

Acts 2:42-47 1 Peter 2:19-25 John 10:1-10

Morning Worship – A simple, reflective service of prayer, praise, and teaching.

Sung Communion – A communion service enriched with traditional sung liturgy.

Messy Church – Creative, handson worship for families of all ages.

Celtic Evening Prayer – Peaceful, contemplative worship with Celtic liturgy Holy Communion – A traditional service celebrating the Eucharist.

Joyful Journey – Modern, relaxed, and fun worship

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Exodus 12:1-4, 12-19 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 John 13:1-17, 31b-35

for all ages.

Family Praise – Lively, informal worship designed with families in mind.

Evensong – A quiet, prayerful evening service with traditional liturgy.

Family Communion – An accessible communion service suitable for all ages.

Taizé – Meditative worship with simple chants and extended silence.

United Benefice Communion – A shared communion service bringing the whole benefice together.

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18/02/2026 10:46

CHURCH UPDATE Growing as One:

The Journey of the Nine Bridges Benefice

By Rev Keir

In recent months, the Nine Bridges Benefice has taken an important and hopeful step forward: we have become one united benefice—legally, practically, and in the way we work together. This unity is far more than a tidy administrative change. It frees energy, time, and imagination. By sharing responsibilities and reducing duplication, we are releasing people across all our parishes to focus on the heart of our calling: mission.

Mission, at its core, is the church looking outward. It does not always mean grand projects or major commitments.

Often, mission is something wonderfully simple: checking in on a neighbour who lives alone, inviting someone for a cup of tea, offering a lift to the shops or the doctor, welcoming newcomers to the village, supporting a local event, or simply being willing to listen without judgement. These small, everyday acts are powerful ways of carrying Christ’s love into the places where people actually

live their lives. Mission is not about programmes—it’s about presence, kindness, and noticing those around us.

For too long, churches everywhere—not just ours— have often found themselves absorbed by internal matters: buildings to maintain, rotas to fill, committees to run, familiar patterns to uphold. These things have value, but they are not the centre of our calling. When they take most of our energy, they risk pulling our attention away from the people who need us most. Becoming one benefice helps us share the load—freeing hearts and hands for what truly matters.

One of our greatest strengths is that each of our villages already has a church right at its heart—sometimes physically, sometimes socially, sometimes both. That presence is a gift, and it gives us both a responsibility and a privilege. We are here for everyone in our communities, not only for

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

those who come on Sundays.

The elderly neighbour who feels isolated, the family going through a difficult season, the teenager unsure where they fit, the newcomer seeking a sense of belonging—these are the people we are called to notice and serve.

But genuine mission begins with listening. Each village in the Nine Bridges Benefice has its own character, strengths, and challenges. We don’t want to assume we know what your community needs—we want you to tell us. What support, events, groups, or practical help would make a difference where you live? What gaps do you see? What would help build connection, wellbeing, or hope?

As we step into this new chapter as one benefice— united in purpose and strengthened by collaboration—our prayer is simple: that we will become a church that looks outward with open hands, ready to serve every person in every village.

We would love to hear your ideas.

Rev Keir Dow (vicar@9bridges.church)

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18/02/2026 10:47

CHURCH NEWS

Benefice Messy Church has a new Messy Shed!

Nine Bridges Messy Church has a new shed in which to store all its resources!

Our thanks go to Ann and Nick Harris who not only hunted down a suitable shed for us but also collected it from Norfolk and erected it behind the Village Hall. We are also grateful to Rose Builders of Fengate who

very generously donated the paving slabs for its base.

It is exciting to move everything for Messy Church into one place and to have all our resources easily accessible.

We look forward to having an official ‘opening ceremony’ at our Messy Church on March 1st.

Benefice Messy Church: The Parable of the Prodigal Son We had great fun at our January Messy Church where our activities made ‘props’ to help us tell the Parable of the Prodigal Son. We made money bags and

coins to go in them, sandals, and edible jewellery (made with Cheerios). We also made pig masks and ‘rooted’ for food that pigs enjoy in our ball pit!

Messy Church meets on the First Sunday of each month in Peakirk Village Hall from 3.00pm to 4.30pm and is an afternoon of creative, hands-on worship for families of all ages. Our activities are geared towards children between 3 and 11 years with a special 9+ activity for older children and toys and books to share for our babies and toddlers.

Parents and grandparents have time to talk with each other and there are always refreshments.

NB There will be NO Messy Church on Sunday April 5th (Easter Sunday) If you would like to know more about our Messy Church, please contact Jane at messychurch@9bridges.church

News from

St Pega’s Peakirk

The church is for all the local community and is open seven days a week between 10.00am and 4.00pm Everyone is welcome to ‘drop in’ for a moment of peace, to offer a prayer or just to admire the wonderful architecture and wall paintings.

It may be nearly Easter but this missed the cut for the January/February Tribune!

Children from Messy Church and the Benefice Children’s Singing Club joined the congregation at the carol service in December. Entitled ‘The Journey to Bethlehem’ the /groups/villagetribune

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children (and some of their parents too) sang about Advent and told the Christmas story through the eyes of the shepherds, angels, innkeepers, children of Nazareth and kings.

In January we held a successful Souper Day. Homemade soup and homemade cakes always go down well on a chilly January day! In February St Pega’s Café

opened again for Brunch and it was lovely to welcome so many people to enjoy a freshlycooked breakfast or a lighter continental version.

Our next community and fund-raising event will be Lent Lunch on 31st March in Peakirk Village Hall. Tickets and further information are available from Sheila Lever 01733 252416 villagetribune 63

18/02/2026 10:52

“French Summer Evening” – La Licorne Bar, Lusignac, France: An atmospheric depiction of village life in the Dordogne, capturing the soft evening light and relaxed social scene typical of rural France.

Local Artist Showcases New Work in Solo Exhibition Helpston artist Will Thompson prepares to unveil a collection of new and favourite paintings at a forthcoming exhibition in Corby Glen.

Local artist Will Thompson is preparing to showcase his latest artwork in a solo exhibition at the Willoughby Memorial Art Gallery in Corby Glen this spring.

The exhibition will run from Tuesday 21 April to Thursday 14 May 2026 and will feature a mixture of brand-new paintings alongside a selection of Will’s earlier work. The gallery will be

open daily from 12 noon to 5pm (closed Mondays) and admission is free, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of art, culture and refreshments in the nearby Hattie’s Tea Rooms.

Will, who lives in Helpston, is well known locally for his involvement in the arts community. He is an exhibiting member of both Maxey Art

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Group and the Welland Valley Art Society. Between 2022 and 2024, he also organised Helpston’s popular “Art 4 Ukraine” exhibitions at Helpston Village Hall, which raised funds while showcasing local artistic talent.

The exhibition will include scenes inspired by both local and European settings. Among the pieces being displayed is The www.villagetribune.org.uk

18/02/2026 10:53

VILLAGE TRIBUNE NEWS

Busy Year Ahead for Northborough & Deeping Gate Village Hall

“Pont Coudé and the Weir on the River Dronne”

“Come Inside, It’s Warm and Dry” Buttercross, Helpston, alongside atmospheric French-inspired works including paintings of La Licorne Bar in Lusignac and the River Dronne at Brantôme.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to view Come Inside, It’s Warm and Dry, which is currently still being completed.

Most of the artwork on display will be available to purchase, giving visitors the chance to take home an original piece by a talented local artist.

For further information, Will can be contacted via email at will@insuranceinsights.co.uk or by phone on 07786 640723.

His work can also be viewed on Instagram (@willthompsonart) and Facebook.

Community association launches full 2026 events programme while appealing for new volunteers to support the village hall.

Northborough Community Association has announced an exciting programme of events for 2026, with a wide range of activities planned at Northborough & Deeping Gate Village Hall.

The year promises something for everyone, with events including table top sales, bingo nights, barn dancing, spring lunches for OAPs and over-60s, and a lively Scottish ceilidh. The committee hopes the varied programme will continue to bring residents together and strengthen the strong community spirit the hall is known for.

The village hall plays a central role in local life, hosting social gatherings, support activities and community celebrations throughout the year. However, organisers stress that the hall relies heavily on volunteers to keep everything running smoothly and are keen to welcome new helpers.

The association is currently seeking volunteers for a variety of roles, including Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Northborough Community Association. These positions offer the opportunity to help shape the future of one of the area’s most valued community facilities.

Additional support is also needed to assist the Booking Officer with managing nonprofit events, help with general administration, undertake occasional maintenance tasks and provide assistance with ad-hoc jobs as required.

Volunteering offers residents the chance to meet new people, develop skills, support their community and play a part in maintaining one of the largest and busiest village halls in the area.

The friendly committee meets monthly on the third Wednesday of each month at 7pm in the meeting room, and new faces are always welcome.

Anyone interested in finding out more can email ncabookings22@gmail. com or call 07523 861289.

Peterborough Croquet Club – Open Day Sunday 10th May between 10am – 2pm Location: Central Park – near Willow Café All are welcome to come along to try Croquet Just turn up, or for more information, please contact Debbie Lines on

07436 583716 Visit our website at: https://peterboroughcroquetclub.weebly.com/

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18/02/2026 10:53

JOHN CLARE FESTIVAL NEWS Where the Soul Lives:

John Clare and the Power of Place

Dorothy Rose, John Clare’s great-greatgranddaughter, perusing a copy of the Society’s latest book, Clare’s People

From the radiation-scarred villages of Chernobyl to a thatched cottage in Helpston, this article explores why “place” can become inseparable from identity – and why John Clare, the poet of place, still speaks so powerfully to us today.

Forty years ago, Ukraine (then part of the Soviet Union) suffered another catastrophe when the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant exploded. Thousands were forced from their homes, never to return. But a small group of elderly women, the ‘Chernobyl babushkas’, refused exile to return to their radiation-soaked villages because, they said, ‘when 66 villagetribune

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you live outside your village, you leave your soul; their sense of place defying even the deadly dangers. Extreme though that might seem, it arose from similar, deep emotions shared by John Clare when he was exiled from Helpston. As he wrote in his great poem, ‘The Flitting’: ‘I’ve left mine old home of homes/ Green fields and every pleasant

place/The summer like a stranger comes/I paused and hardly know her face’. Even the seasons seemed alien to him. Clare yearned for Helpston and his old cottage despite its deprivations: ‘In thee, sweet hut, this happiness was prov’d,/And these endear and make thee doubly lov’d.’

What might appear to be just a geographical location, a place to live, can hold such meaning that it becomes a central part of a person’s identity. Not for nothing was Clare called ‘the poet of place.’

But it’s not just people, like Clare, rooted in their place.

Outsiders can also share a sense of that place, beyond just somewhere to visit. For our late President, Ronald Blythe, Helpston’s annual festival was itself a poetic experience, going far beyond those feelings we have when visiting the ‘country’ of some great writer or painter.

It was also, for him, ‘one of the most essential landscapes in English literature.’ For Dorothy Rose, it was a different sort of return each year to Helpston’s festival. Born in Southsea, Hampshire, she is the greatgreat-granddaughter of John Clare. Her great-grandmother was Clare’s daughter, Eliza, and her great-grandfather, John Sefton, who is buried in St Andrews Churchyard, Northborough. Later this year, we will celebrate Dorothy’s 100th birthday. It will also be the 200th anniversary of the birth of John Clare’s son, also John. That is why the annual July festival remains vital for so many. Full details of 2026 events across Helpston and Northborough will appear in the next issue. www.villagetribune.org.uk

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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 Architectural Design Services T: 07841 521271 01733 252850 E: JasonADServices@yahoo.co.uk / Architectural Design Services BUILDERS & LANDSCAPING

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 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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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.

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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

Meta Physiotherapy T: 07946 067439 E: daniela@metaphysiotherapy.net www.metaphysiotherapy.net

WC Smith Plumbing T: 07730 045077 www.wcplumberspeterborough.co.uk Bathrooms, Plumbing, Heating. Based in Helpston.

Truly Confident Aesthetics 1c West Street T: 07951 484752 E: trulyconfidentaesthetics@gmail.com www.trulyconfidentaesthetics.net

PUBS, RESTAURANTS & MOBILE FOOD Amo La Pizza T: 07514 771388 E: info@amolapizza.uk woodfiredpizzauk

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

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

HOME SERVICES

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

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

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TRAVEL

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18/02/2026 11:13

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 70 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

18/02/2026 11:14

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 ...........................................................07590 750128 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 – Tony Henthorn ......................................07590 750128 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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