WWW.VILLAGETRIBUNE.ORG.UK November / December 2026
Issu161e
Festive Diary Dates
Your guide to Christmas events and celebrations across our local villages
Christmas Silent Auction Over 50 fantastic ‘Lots’ to bid for
A Pint of History
Avril explores Peakirk’s pubs, publicans and colourful past
Christmas Appeal: Helping Our Ukrainian Friends HERITAGE • FARMING • VILLAGE VIEWS • LOCAL TRADERS • DIARY DATES
OVER 12,500 READERS IN OUR NORTH PETERBOROUGH VILLAGES 001 VT161 Cover.indd 1
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Castor Lodge A Country Court Care Home
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WELCOME
From the Editor As we turn towards the end of the year, this November and December edition brings together two familiar parts of village life: enjoying what makes our communities special and thinking about how we look after them for the future. The Local Plan is an important part of that conversation. For Helpston residents, the proposals raise questions about housing, roads, drainage, school places and village character. With the consultation closing on 12 November, please take time to read the information, consider the proposals and make your views known. Specific examples and local knowledge can help explain what residents experience every day. Alongside those bigger questions, there is plenty to appreciate closer to home. The coming weeks offer opportunities to meet neighbours, support local organisations and enjoy the events that bring our villages together. Please have a look through these pages and see what
takes your fancy. This is also a good moment to thank the people who make so much happen: volunteers, organisers, contributors, advertisers and everyone who quietly lends a hand. The Tribune depends on that same generosity, and I am grateful to everyone who has shared news, photographs and stories throughout the year.
The festive season can be busy, but it can also feel lonely. A conversation, an invitation or a knock at the door may mean more than we realise. Whatever the coming weeks hold for you, I hope you find time for good company and a little rest. My warmest wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Enjoy the issue. Tony Henthorn
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Leading the way in providing an AFFORDABLE PROFESSIONAL service Leading the way in providing an AFFORDABLE PROFESSIONAL service Leading the way in providing an AFFORDABLE PROFESSIONAL service
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CONTENTS Nov / Dec 2026 Publisher - Tony Henthorn 35 Maxey Road, Helpston PE6 7DP T: 07590 750128 E: villagetribuneeditor@me.com Rector Gary Alderson, Rector of Barnack with Ufford, Bainton, Helpston and Wittering T: 07503 975 588 E: gary.aldersonwrites@gmail.com Reverend Keir Dow, The Nine Bridges Benefice The Rectory, 11 Lincoln Road, Glinton PE6 7JR T: 01733 669 810 m: 07980 412 345 E: vicar@9bridges.church
Distribution ASHTON Hilary Smith Thatched Cottage, Ashton E: hilly.smith@virgin.net BARNACK Sally Hullock 3 Hillside Close, Ufford sally@sallyhullocktraining.co.uk T: 07795 565658 ETTON Anne Curwen The Coach House, Rectory Lane, Etton T: 01733 253357 E: acurwen@hotmail.com
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 Anyone for Tennis Amblers in Tribland Around our Parishes More than a Memorial Name Rosemary’s Farming Diary John Clare Countryside From our Facebook Group Nature Watch Christmas Silent Auction Be Part of the Adventure ‘How Can I Forget?’ History with Avril Diary and Event Listings Santa Comes to Helpston Sue Goes Global Chez Pierre Church News & Services Posies for Patty Helpston Christmas Lights Glinton Switch On Ukraine Christmas Appeal Ferry Meadows Festive Fun Northborough News Local Gov. Reorganisation 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 161
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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HLTC NEWS
A Summer to Remember at Helpston Lawn Tennis Club The 2026 season began in May, with the weather putting a damper on our traditional opening BBQ. Thankfully, that proved no indication of what was to come, as a long, hot summer saw our grass courts busier than ever. Helpston Lawn Tennis Club is one of a relatively small number of clubs still playing entirely on grass. That is part of what makes the club so special, although caring for lawn courts means decisions about play must always take the surface’s long-term condition into account.
There was plenty happening off court too. The club joined other local groups at Helpstonbury, while our annual Ladies Tennis & Tipples afternoon again proved a very enjoyable mix of tennis and socialising. Ironically, after months of sunshine, the rain returned just in time for our end-ofseason tournaments. Heavy overnight rain forced the Adults Tournament to be cancelled, but
thankfully the Junior Tournament went ahead. Organised by LTAaccredited coach Kevin Tighe, it produced excellent tennis and wonderful sportsmanship. Congratulations to our 2026 junior champions: ■ Under-16 Champion — Jamie Tighe ■ Under-12 Champion — Elliott Johnston One of the real highlights of the season has been seeing so many children and teenagers enjoying the club — through coaching, family tennis, games with friends and volunteering. We have also supported a young member beginning his journey into tennis coaching and another completing volunteering for their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Helpston Lawn Tennis Club is a not-for-profit community club, funded by membership fees and run entirely by volunteers. Every penny received goes back into preparing and maintaining the courts, grounds and facilities. Membership includes unlimited court bookings throughout the season. Family membership for up to five people costs just £75, while individual membership is £55. We hope to reopen in spring 2027 and would love to welcome new players of all ages and abilities. Find out more or join at: https://helpston.tennis
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To walk is to think. To walk is to observe. To walk is to take in the wonders of this world. To walk is to preserve your health and longevity. To walk in the company of friends is to know happiness. (Hazel Prior, Gone with the Penguins) Regular readers of this column can probably imagine my joy to find, in the novel I have just finished reading, this description of the joys of walking. The eightyseven year-old protagonist, Granny McCreedy, does not let age and infirmity hold her back. She is a feisty character, determined to prove that nothing is impossible when you put your mind to it, and she embarks on an epic fundraising walk to prove it, and raise the world’s awareness of the plight of penguins. Fortunately, the Amblers do not have to endure long journeys or extreme conditions on our walks but the sentiments remain the same. We have often remarked that being in open spaces away from the confines of our homes gives our minds the space to mull over issues 8 villagetribune
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or problems pertinent to our lives, often coming up with a fresh insight which brings clarity and new options. Our lives are increasingly complicated - and nerves often frayed - when things don’t go to plan. But grabbing a jacket and sturdy shoes and escaping into the fresh air and green landscape can work wonders. And doing it regularly maintains our equilibrium. While we are out and about, we are able to immerse ourselves in the present and take notice of our surroundings, focusing on the changes taking place in nature. Not only do we listen to the birdsong and enjoy the wildflowers, we also see things anew according to the weather conditions. Light quality varies between bright, sunny spells and overcast or cloudy skies. Shadows
create images in the landscape and stimulate the imagination. Isolated spots of colour draw our attention towards a pretty flower or florid fungus (autumn is the perfect time to see these). And we really do find joy in the little things, especially if they appear unexpectedly. It is easy to take refuge in our homes as the year draws inevitably to its end. The mornings are colder, the weather is more challenging and dusk approaches earlier, which doesn’t entice us outdoors as often. It’s a test of our willpower to force ourselves out of our comfort zone and get out into the countryside. But if we can manage it, we soon start to feel the benefits. Before long we are taking deeper breaths of that lovely fresh air (it’s not difficult www.villagetribune.org.uk
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TRIBLAND AMBLERS
to find routes away from busy roads in Tribland). Our heart rates increase and senses are heightened, as our bodies adjust to the new demands we put on them and, over time, the ‘use it or lose it’ maxim is proven as we notice that our limbs become looser and joints less painful - as long as we don’t overdo it! Some of you may remember that I started the Amblers when I had to pause working due to chronic fatigue. I recognised that I was becoming isolated (husband out all day, most friends still working) and spending too much time slumped in front of the TV. I was advised that walking sensible distances would help my management of the condition but I knew I was unlikely to be motivated to do this on my own - I would need the spur of /groups/villagetribune
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others’ company - so I posted on the Village Tribune’s Facebook page, asking if anyone would care to join me. And here we are, seven years later! At the time, I would not have believed I could eventually manage to walk four miles, and look forward to doing it on a regular basis; nor that I would have the company of such a lovely, dedicated group of like-minded people who became friends along the way. ‘Granny McCreedy’ was right when she said that having friends along for the journey makes the undertaking so much more enjoyable. We talk, we listen, we care, we learn together, we understand, we empathise, we support, we laugh. We share in the delights of nature and the experiences we encounter as we stroll: dashing for cover from
a downpour; becoming statues to observe an animal unaware of our presence; clambering over a stile or sidestepping around mud; sharing our countryside knowledge, accumulated over years, usually from older relatives or school nature lessons; mastering online apps to identify wildlife/plants; recalling sightings from various other sites; keeping alive the memories of members of the group no longer with us. We count our blessings, glad to be alive to appreciate what we have on our doorstep. Wishing you all the best that autumn has to offer. See you in the new year! Text Anne Lees for more information on walking with the Amblers: 07714021131 villagetribune 9
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COUNCIL CORNER
VILLAGE VIEWS
DEEPING GATE
Peterborough Local Plan –
Important Consultation Peterborough City Council’s Regulation 19 consultation on the Proposed Submission Local Plan 2024–2043 closes at 11:59pm on Thursday 12 November 2026. Peterborough City Council’s Regulation 19 consultation on the Proposed Submission Local Plan 2024–2043 closes at 11:59pm on Thursday 12 November 2026. This is particularly important for Deeping Gate because of the scale of development proposed around our village. The earlier Draft Local Plan identified land east of the A15 and west of Lincoln Road for approximately 1,055 homes. A related 2026 scoping proposal covers up to 1,100 dwellings, together with a primary school, local centre, retirement accommodation and other infrastructure (26/00002/SCOP). There is also a separate proposal for up to 150 homes east of Lincoln Road, closer to the existing village (26/00001/
SCOP). The 1,055 and 1,100 figures refer substantially to the same western development and should not be added together.
Why Regulation 19 matters This consultation concerns whether the proposed Plan is legally compliant and sound. The four soundness tests are whether it is positively prepared, justified, effective and consistent with national policy. The Plan and representations will be considered at examination by an independent Planning Inspector. If you responded to an earlier Local Plan consultation, please make a new Regulation 19 representation if you want your views on the Proposed Submission Plan considered at examination.
Deeping Gate Parish Council is preparing its own representation and examining site selection and alternatives, biodiversity, flood risk, transport, infrastructure, sustainability and cross-boundary impacts. Published evidence identifies Priority Habitat in the wider area and recognises Deeping Gate Meadow and the River Welland as County Wildlife Sites.
How to respond Visit www.peterborough.gov.uk and search “Local Plan Review” for documents and response guidance. Representations may also be emailed to planningpolicy@peterborough. gov.uk. The deadline is Thursday 12 November 2026 at 11:59pm.
Parish Council News We thank Cllr Alexis Bennett, who has stepped down, for her contribution. There are now two Parish Council vacancies; please contact the Parish Clerk if you are interested.
Dates for your diary ■ POSTPONED: The Village Litter Pick and Daffodil Bulb Planting planned for Sunday 18 October has been delayed until further notice. Please do not attend on the original date. A new date will be announced when arrangements are confirmed. ■ Christmas Riverside SingAlong – Sunday 6 December. Further details will follow.
Keep Up To Date Visit www.deepinggate-pc.gov.uk or email clerk@deepinggate-pc. gov.uk. Deeping Gate Parish Council /groups/villagetribune
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EVERYTHING
VILLAGE VIEWS
ETTON
Etton news The third Nine Bridges Charity Beer Festival took place at the Golden Pheasant on 25th/26th September. Thanks to all our generous sponsors and supporters we raised £2,250 for our charities - Cancer Research UK and the Etton church window project. We plan to hand over cheques at the pub on Thursday 12th November at 7pm. All welcome. Thanks also for your generous donations collected during Harvest. All goods are being donated to the Peterborough food bank. Our food collection box will remain in the church porch as we are supporting the latest humanitarian aid collection for Ukraine. Details of items needed are displayed on the box, the bus shelter and the Etton FB
page. Many thanks. Have you noticed that the Etton phone box has been restored including the painting of the gold crowns! Our friendly Postie nudged us to add the detail. There is still work to be done on the interior to replace the shelving. A simple ceremony of Remembrance will be held on the village green on Sunday 8th November at 10.45am. All welcome. On Sunday 29th November we will be switching on the Christmas tree lights on the village green at 5pm. This may also be an opportunity to unveil the new Etton village sign carved by Debs. She has done an amazing job. The Parish Council just have some technical issues to resolve to secure its installation. Finally, on Tuesday 24th
December at 5pm on the village green we have our short Nativity service. As usual, I’ll be looking for volunteers to act out the parts. It would be good to have some willing participants! Anne Curwen 07730301404 acurwen@hotmail.com PS. Wishing Mel Kennedy a speedy recovery from her double knee replacement.
The Nine Bridges Charity Beer Festival team raise a glass (or two!)
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COUNCIL CORNER
VILLAGE VIEWS
Barnack and Pilsgate Parish Council is inviting residents to help shape the future of their villages, with two councillor vacancies currently available. Anyone living in Barnack or Pilsgate who is interested in the role is encouraged to contact the Clerk to find out more. Whatever your skills or experience, there may be a way to contribute. Having enough councillors is essential to keeping the Council able to meet and make decisions on the matters affecting parish life.
Council’s official Local Plan consultation arrangements. The Parish Council has also agreed to revise its Neighbourhood Plan. Planning and tree applications received from the City Council can be followed through the planning log on the parish website. At the time of writing, the results of the enforcement appeals concerning The Orchard and The Vineyard, Uffington Road, are awaited from the Planning Inspectorate.
Enjoying and caring for our villages
Highway safety remains a priority, and Speedwatch sessions continue in the village. Residents who would like to volunteer or help with road safety measures are invited to contact the Clerk. Please report road safety incidents and near misses to the appropriate police and City Council services. Reporting helps those responsible build a fuller picture: do not assume that someone else has already done so. For non-emergency crime and antisocial behaviour, use Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s reporting service at cambs. police.uk/report. Call 999 in an emergency. Potholes, damaged road surfaces and fly-tipping can be reported at report. peterborough.gov.uk. Fly-tipping can also be reported to the City Council on 01733 747474.
The Council has purchased two new benches for Hills and Holes using Community Infrastructure Levy funds. They will provide additional places for residents and visitors to sit, relax and enjoy the surroundings, with the hope that they will be enjoyed for many years. Residents are also reminded to clean up after their dogs. If a dog-waste bin is full, please take the waste away and dispose of it appropriately. The Council is seeking a selfemployed handyman or caretaker to help with jobs in and around the village. If this interests you, or you know someone who might be suitable, please contact the Clerk for further information.
Road safety and reporting concerns
Planning for the future Peterborough’s Proposed Submission Local Plan has been published, with consultation running from 2 October to 12 November 2026. Residents wishing to comment should use Peterborough City 14 villagetribune
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Dates for your diary A bulky household waste collection is scheduled for Saturday 7 November, from 10am to 3pm, on Bainton Road, Barnack. Proof of residency is required. The collection is for
© Roy Beck
BARNACK & PILSGATE
Sunrise over Barnack household waste only; commercial waste will not be accepted. The Christmas tree lights switch-on is planned for Saturday 5 December. Keep an eye on village noticeboards and the community Facebook page for this and other events.. Stay informed and have your say Residents can subscribe to Council updates at barnack-pc. gov.uk for news of meetings, local projects and community matters. Select the Subscribe option on the website; you can unsubscribe at any time. The next scheduled Parish Council meeting is Monday 9 November at 7pm in the Village Hall. Members of the public are welcome. Please notify the Clerk beforehand if you wish to discuss an agenda item or suggest a matter for consideration. Full minutes are available on the noticeboards and parish website. The Clerk works part-time, so emails are not monitored continuously. Some enquiries need councillor consideration or referral to another organisation. The website’s Useful Information page can help identify the right contact. www.villagetribune.org.uk
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COUNCIL CORNER
VILLAGE VIEWS
SOUTHORPE
Southorpe held its annual village picnic on a sunny Sunday in mid-August. As always, it was a lovely opportunity for the village to gather, catch-up and welcome newcomers, with thanks to Corinna Blackmore and everyone who helped to arrange it. Next up in the social calendar will be our village bonfire night in November. The Parish Council will also be looking to organise a community tidy-up and hedge-planting session in late autumn/early winter and will be seeking volunteers to join in.
Southorpe is benefiting from a Social Value initiative by Tarmac (the UK’s leading sustainable building materials and constructions solutions business) who have commenced the tidying up of the pathway on Southorpe Terrace/Walcot Road. The village noticeboard they have also donated to us should be received and installed soon. The Parish Council is currently reviewing the matter of speeding motorists in
the village and has recently undertaken an opinion survey amongst residents. The next Parish Council meeting is at 7pm on Wednesday 11 November at Barnack Village Hall at 7 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend. Further information and previous minutes are available at www.southorpeparish. gov.uk or from the Parish Clerk, Alison Hurford: clerk@ southorpeparish.gov.uk
James Bradford Helpston Almshouse Trust Forthcoming Vacancies In Early 2027 The historic and charming Helpston Almshouses were endowed to the village by philanthropic benefactor and native of Helpston, Sir James Bradford in 1907 and sit conveniently in the centre of Helpston on West St, (just opposite the Post Office and Buttercross) on land donated by the Fitzwilliam Estate. They have provided secure and affordable homes for older residents of Helpston for well over a century. Today the Trustees continue to honour Sir James Bradford’s vision by maintaining the almshouses as comfortable, independent homes, while carefully preserving their historic character. The James Bradford Helpston /groups/villagetribune
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Please note the Almshouses only offer single person accommodation If you or a family member in Helpston are interested in applying for an Almshouse please send an email in the first instance to: jamesbradfordhelpstonalmshouse@gmail.com and we will be happy to provide further information about the process to apply and the policy which governs applications along with the application forms Trust is a registered charity The eligibility criteria to qualify for an Almshouse are governed by our charitable deed which guides that Almshouse applicants should demonstrate financial hardship,
be capable of independent living and be resident in Helpston at the time of application, residents of Etton may be considered if no Helpston residents qualify at the time of the vacancy. villagetribune 15
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COUNCIL CORNER
HELPSTON
Words: Helpston Parish Council
Where has the year gone? The Parish Council wish to thank each and everyone of you who has contributed to the better of the village this year, either through volunteering in litter picks, to organising Helpstonbury, to the great work through the Good Neighbours scheme that goes from strength to strength or the input and presence at Parish Council Meetings. We once again look to the village coming together to support the Council’s submission around the Local Plan review and the impact of development in the village.
Draft Local Plan Deadline The last round of consultation is now underway with the deadline of the 12th November for your response to the Planning Inspector via the Peterborough City Council Portal. There will have been a lot of noise on email/Facebook and the Helpston Community WhatsApp Group about understanding more and getting involved. The final version of the Draft Local Plan and the impact on Helpston was published containing all 3 sites previously objected to with up to 207 dwellings included. At the time of writing, there is a meeting planned at the village hall on the 2nd November. You are welcome to attend and understand what the Parish Council has done regarding the evidence gathered and case put forward to ensure the plan is fully interrogated and 16 villagetribune
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challenged where possible. This is a different type of consultation to the one before and is very specific in the manner in which responses are worded and assessed by the Planning Inspector. We welcome your attendance and input to support the exhaustive level of work completed by all Councillors on your behalf.
Parish Council Ownership of the Green at Temples Court/Crossberry Way. The green in the middle of Temples Court and Crossberry Way was retained under the ownership of the developer after the roads were signed over to Peterborough City Council over 20 years ago. Over recent years, their maintenance regime has reduced significantly to the minimum required to make the area functional and cover their responsibility. This area is designated as a “Local Green Space” in Helpston’s Neighbourhood Plan which stops development of the area, however, the Parish Council feel that the area has great
potential to realise some of the Community Action Plan initiatives and be of greater value than it is. The process is underway for procuring the land for £1 from the legacy company to allow us to investigate, through consultation with residents and the community, how to best enhance this space going forwards, assess the old play area and attend to the overgrown nature of the space to enhance the ecological potential of the space.
The Lollum Bridges We have received the good news that the Lollum bridges are due to reopen, but the date is unclear. There are restrictions in the times of year that the works can be www.villagetribune.org.uk
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VILLAGE VIEWS
completed on them which means there is likely to be a further closure at some point next year to conclude the scope, however we hope this will make an immediate improvement to the traffic flow through the village. Thank you to all who have responded to the previous questionnaire and to Councillor Tighe for his work on this behind the scenes.
Grant funding The time of the year is once again upon us for Community groups to put forward Grant funding requests We are keen to support local groups, organisations and community initiatives that will make a positive difference to life /groups/villagetribune
016-017 VT161 Helpston PC.indd 17
in Helpston. Please request your application form from clerk@ helpston-pc.gov.uk to satisfy the deadline of the 5th November.
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, pot holes and overgrown hedges. The Parish Council
will help drive the process of getting these remedied, however the most efficient means of reporting them is through you helpful people in the community. Please make use of the online reporting page – www.fixmystreet.com - make it a favourite on your device. You simply put the location in (Postcode etc) and the problem and it goes to the ‘To do list’ at the respective department at PCC.
Your Parish Council continues to 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. villagetribune 17
16/10/2026 14:24
COUNCIL CORNER
GLINTON
By Cllr Gerry Kirt, Glinton Parish Council
Glinton: Community Spirit, Christmas Cheer and Village News From Mamma Mia magic and garage-sale bargains to a new name for a historic bridge, Glinton has plenty to celebrate – and important plans for the future.
Garage sale refreshments: Sally and Shirley help keep visitors well fed at the Great Glinton Garage Sale.
Dancing Queen: Sally’s Meryl Streep-inspired outfit took the adult fancy dress prize.
Mamma Mia winners: Elizabeth and Zara show off their winning costumes at Glinton’s singalong cinema night.
Super Sleuths: Leila San dall and her friend celebr ate winning the Garage Tre asure Hunt with their gia nt personalised Millie’s coo kie.
Mamma Mia – what a night! Glinton’s singalong screening of Mamma Mia! proved a tremendous success, with wonderful costumes, plenty of enthusiasm and delicious homemade cakes. Elizabeth and Zara scooped the youth fancy dress prize, while Sally won the adult competition with her convincing tribute to 18 villagetribune
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Meryl Streep. Next up is the Christmas screening of Elf at Glinton Village Hall on Saturday 19 December, with doors opening at 2.30pm and the film starting at 3pm. Expect festive refreshments and perhaps a visit from a very special guest! Tickets cost £5 for adults and
£3 for children, available on the door or through Glinton Community Cinema’s Facebook page.
Garage sale goes out on a high Despite disappointing weather, the Great Glinton Garage Sale 2026 attracted bargain hunters from across the area. The Village Hall provided www.villagetribune.org.uk
14/10/2026 11:05
VILLAGE VIEWS welcome refreshments, with volunteers serving homemade cakes and hearty breakfasts. Leila Sandall and her friends won the Garage Treasure Hunt, claiming a giant personalised Millie’s cookie proclaiming them Glinton Super Sleuths! Thanks go to everyone who opened their garages, sold tickets and maps, baked cakes or helped on the day. With participation gradually declining, organisers have decided to give the event a rest in 2027, allowing everyone time to refill their garages before its return in 2028.
A farmers market for Glinton Glinton’s first Farmers Market will take place on Saturday 8 May 2027, accompanied by a classic vehicle show. The event will occupy the grass outside the Bluebell pub and the primary school’s front playground. Moor Farm will offer grass-fed beef, lamb and goat products, while Bell’s Bakes will provide
Dates for your diary 19 December 2026: Elf – Glinton Village Hall 8 May 2027: Farmers Market and Classic Vehicle Show 13 June 2027: Glinton Colour Fun Run 4 September 2027: GlintonFest 27 9 October 2027: Possible second Farmers Market A singalong screening of The Greatest Showman is also planned, with the date to be confirmed. /groups/villagetribune
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The John Clare Bridge: The historic Grade II-listed bridge on North Fen Road, now officially named in honour of the Helpston poet.
tempting homemade cakes. Potential stallholders should contact gerry.kirt@glinton-pc. gov.uk. A second market could follow in October.
Historic bridge gets a fitting name The Grade II-listed stone bridge on North Fen Road is now officially recognised as The John Clare Bridge, following agreement from Peterborough City Council. Tradition associates the bridge with meetings between the poet John Clare and Mary Joyce, whose influence endured throughout his poetry. The change follows research supplied by Mike Mecham, Chairman of the John Clare Society, and support from local councillor Neil Boyce. It is hoped the new identity will strengthen awareness and protection of the historic structure, particularly following concerns about heavy vehicles crossing despite weight restrictions.
Planning Glinton’s future Glinton Parish Council is reviewing Peterborough’s Proposed Submission Local Plan,
with consultation running until 12 November 2026. Current proposals suggest the Gladman and Larkfleet housing developments may not begin until 2033/34, initially at around 25 homes annually. The council remains concerned about the condition of the unused Larkfleet site and the city’s reduced housing land supply. Work is also continuing on Glinton’s Neighbourhood Plan, which will eventually be subject to public examination and a village referendum.
Highways, safety and village environment Recent discussions with Peterborough City Council covered speeding, school parking, traffic restrictions, litter and flytipping. Proposals include reviewing speed limits on North Fen Road, improving safety outside the primary school and considering average-speed cameras on Lincoln Road. Anti-social behaviour concerns are also being referred to police. Finally, thanks to Claire Bysshe for organising the village litter pick on 29 August. villagetribune 19
14/10/2026 11:05
COUNCIL CORNER
VILLAGE VIEWS
PEAKIRK
By Henry Clark & Emma Crowson
Being more Viking in Peakirk. On a recent trip to Norway, one of the parish councillors learnt about “Dugnad” where communities come together to do jobs in the village for a shared purpose. We already do that in Peakirk with our litter picks and church cleaning days but the articles below show how we are using the concept of “Dugnad” a little bit more and we hope that this can and will continue – the coming together of a community for a shared purpose.
Folly Bridge Repainting On 22 August ten volunteers embarked on repainting the bridge over the Folly River. The bridge was last repainted in 2000. Firstly, we scraped off the
Notice Board Lastly, are there any handy men/women in the village who would be able to repair the notice board outside the village hall? It needs the beading replacing and possibly the glass. Please let the clerk know if you can help. As always, we would be pleased to hear your views and sign up any volunteers for anything mentioned. Please contact the Clerk, Angela Hankins, on clerk@ peakirk-pc.gov.uk . 20 villagetribune
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Peakirk residents join forces to repaint Folly Bridge accumulated moss and dirt, which was made more difficult by the hosepipe ban. Then, using the brushes, rollers and paint supplied by PCC, we started painting. After completing the north parapet, we ran out of paint. We will do the south parapet on Saturday 24 October and all volunteers are welcome so please email councillor Tony Weaver at peakirk.cllrweaver@gmail.com for more information.
Parish Plan Group On 14 July we held a meeting in the Village Hall to see what appetite there was for creating a Parish Action Plan. This is needed to decide what projects we want to do using the CIL (Community Infrastructure Levy) money from the development in the field off Foxcovert and Peakirk Roads. CIL money is a fixed-rate charge that local planning authorities in England and Wales can place on new building developments. We hope to send out further emails shortly about the future of the group and how to move forward.
People’s Emergency Briefing On 25 September we screened the People’s Emergency Briefing in the Village Hall. About 30 people came; some travelled all the way from Market Deeping
and Glinton. We watched a film about the impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss. These were presented by several well-respected experts in their field. I found the whole thing quite disturbing but there were some signs of hope. Disaster is not inevitable, but we need to act quickly. We will be discussing what we can do as a council to try to implement some small wins which may accumulate and make a big win but a few things we can all think about immediately about are reducing our fuel use, eating less meat and stopping food waste. If you are interested in the film and want some more information, please see National Emergency Briefing, www. nebriefing.org .
Allotment Rebuilding We have given grants to plot holders to help them replace tools and repair fire damage caused by the field fire this summer. We are also going to replant the hedge along the track. We have 200 hawthorn whips coming in November which need planting. Date to be confirmed and volunteers are welcome. Please contact the clerk on the email address below if you are willing to help increase your “Dugnad” contribution! www.villagetribune.org.uk
16/10/2026 12:19
VILLAGE NEWS
Bainton and Ashton Prepare for winter and welcome new faces Flood guidance, plans for the Sheepwash and an opportunity to join the Parish Council feature in the latest news from Bainton and Ashton. Residents of Bainton and Ashton are being encouraged to prepare for the winter months, take an interest in local planning and consider helping to shape village life by joining the Parish Council. The update comes as Bainton and Ashton Parish Council welcomes two new faces. Michelle Dickens has taken up the role of Parish Clerk and is looking forward to supporting the council and getting to know residents. Ruth Evered has also joined as a Parish Councillor, serving alongside Chairman William Gibson, Vice Chairman Neil Smith and Councillor Stephen Taylor. An updated list of councillors and their contact details is available on village noticeboards and the council’s website.
too. The council has thanked the Parish Nature Recovery Group for its ongoing efforts, with the Sheepwash next in line for attention. Planned improvements include tidying the area, clearing brambles and installing a new sign.
Keeping up with planning Residents can follow planning and tree applications received from Peterborough City Council through the planning log in the Planning section of the parish website. Peterborough’s draft Local Plan has also been published. Residents wishing to read the proposals can find the Local Plan Review through the city council’s website at www.peterborough.gov.uk. The parish website provides a useful starting point for keeping informed about applications and council business, alongside the information displayed on village noticeboards.
Getting ready for winter With winter approaching, the council is drawing attention to the Bainton and Ashton Community Flood Management document. Available in the News section of the parish website and on the council’s Facebook page, it contains information and guidance to help residents prepare. Residents are encouraged to read the document and familiarise themselves with the advice before the winter months bring any potential difficulties. Work to care for the parish’s outdoor spaces is continuing /groups/villagetribune
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Reporting local problems Residents are reminded to report problems to the organisation responsible for dealing with them. Fly-tipping should be reported to Peterborough City Council at report.peterborough.gov. uk or by calling 01733 747474. Potholes, damaged road surfaces and other highway problems can also be reported through the city council’s online reporting service. Crime and antisocial behaviour can be reported through Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s website at www.cambs.police. uk, or by calling 101 for non-
emergency police assistance. In an emergency, call 999.
Could you become a councillor? There is currently one vacancy on the Parish Council. Residents of Bainton or Ashton who would like to find out more are invited to contact the Clerk. The council welcomes interest from people with different skills and experience who would like to contribute to their community. The next scheduled council meeting is Thursday 17 December 2026. Meetings are usually held at 7.15pm in the Reading Room, on the second Tuesday of every other month, unless otherwise advertised. Members of the public are welcome. Anyone wishing to discuss an agenda item, or suggest a matter for consideration, should contact the Clerk beforehand. Full meeting minutes are available on village noticeboards and the parish website. Residents are asked to remember that the Clerk works part-time and emails are not monitored continuously. Some enquiries may need to be referred to councillors or considered at a meeting before a response can be given. For council information, visit www.baintonandashtonpc.gov.uk. Contact Michelle Dickens, Parish Clerk, at clerk@ baintonandashton-pc.gov. uk or on 07702 626253. villagetribune 21
16/10/2026 16:12
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COUNCIL CORNER
VILLAGE VIEWS
NORTHBOROUGH
Have a Merry
Christmas Northborough Parish Council would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.
We will be having our annual Christmas tree lighting on Sunday 29th November from 6pm (lights switch on at 6.30pm) on the small green beside the village shop. As usual, we will be serving mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies. Our choir from last year will be returning to sing Christmas songs, and we will also be receiving a special visit from Santa Claus. Remember to get a photograph with him. It should be noted that the shop end of East Road will be closed to traffic for the duration of the event for health and safety reasons. The closure will be in place from approximately 5.30pm to 7.30pm. The unusually dry weather has taken its toll everywhere, and the recreation field is no exception. Cracks have appeared in the grass and around the play equipment, the latter not helped by vandals deciding to completely unearth a one of the exercise machines, Historic ironworks have also been unearthed. The Parish Council is in the process of rectifying these issues and, in the meantime, would ask users of the field to be extra vigilant. The accessible roundabout and swings will be fitted shortly, thank you for your patience. Once again, parents are being asked to be considerate when dropping off and picking up /groups/villagetribune
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Santa will be attending the Christmas tree lighting 29 Nov outside the primary school. Despite repeated requests, double yellow lines and chevrons are ignored daily, and residents’ driveways are frequently blocked. The lack of cooperation from some parents makes the area very dangerous at these times, and we would once again implore parents to follow the parking restrictions. The noticeboards on East Road and Claypole Drive are due to be replaced in the near future. The old noticeboards were prone to leaking and very difficult to read and maintain due to the build-up of moisture and mould. The new boards are leak-free and provide
a spacious area to disseminate information to the village. Council meetings are held in person at the Village Hall. Members of the public are welcome to attend at 7.00pm on the second Wednesday of the month (excluding August). We also have one vacancy available for a potential parish councillor wishing to join our proactive team and make a real difference. We welcome volunteers to help with ongoing projects and activities too. The Parish Council website and village noticeboards will advise the date of our next meeting. villagetribune 23
16/10/2026 12:24
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14/10/2026 11:06
COUNCIL CORNER
VILLAGE VIEWS
MAXEY
Maxey looks forward to a festive season From Christmas celebrations and colourful village displays to an ambitious project to bring church bells back within reach, there’s plenty happening in Maxey as the year draws to a close. Maxey Parish Council returned to its regular monthly meetings at the end of September following a quieter summer, with renewed enthusiasm for keeping the village an attractive and welcoming place to live. Among the latest improvements, the long-awaited white village gates have been ordered and a delivery date is awaited. Repairs to furniture on the village field are also under way, while the Parish Council has purchased and donated a smart TV for the Village Hall, allowing groups using the meeting room to access the internet and display documents and presentations.
The gardening group have been busy in the village /groups/villagetribune
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The village gardening group has been busy creating colourful autumn displays featuring pumpkins and gourds. November will see the return of the striking poppy net, which proved so effective last year, before Christmas decorations bring a festive touch to the village in December.
Christmas comes to Maxey Maxey Community Association has a busy programme of seasonal celebrations planned, with three dates for villagers’ diaries. ■ Wednesday 16 December, 2–4pm – Christmas Afternoon Tea. Enjoy delicious sandwiches, cakes, Christmas carols, good company and a raffle. ■ Saturday 19 December – Children’s Christmas Party. A festive celebration for children who live in Maxey or have relatives living in the village. ■ Monday 21 December – Santa’s Sleigh Visit. Father Christmas will be making his way around Maxey on his sleigh, bringing seasonal cheer and collecting donations for charity. Further details of these events will be published on social media, village posters and noticeboards nearer the time.
Bringing the bells back to the people An exciting community initiative is gathering momentum at Maxey Church, where the Parish Council, church and Maxey Community Association are working together to make bell ringing more accessible. At present, the bells are rung from a platform three floors above ground level, reached by a steep, narrow and uneven winding staircase. With several members of the small band of ringers no longer able to manage the climb, the future of this centuries-old tradition faces a challenge. The proposed solution is to move the ringing position to the ground floor by extending the bell ropes through two additional floors and installing a protective rope guard. The project requires £6,500, and a fundraising campaign, Bring The Bells Back To The People, is being launched to help meet the cost. Once completed, the improvements should make it possible to recruit and train new ringers, including younger members of the community, ensuring that the sound of Maxey’s church bells continues to ring out for generations to come. The project is a fine example of the Parish Council, church and community organisations working together to protect the village’s heritage. villagetribune 25
14/10/2026 11:11
COUNCIL CORNER
VILLAGE VIEWS
NEWBOROUGH
By Cllr Vicki Coleman
Newborough and Borough Fen Parish Council
Family Fun Day I’d like to thank everyone who came out in the hot weather on the Friday 17th August to join in the Parish Council’s family fun day. Our events are supported by various groups, including Vivacity. For the second year running Peterborough lions’ rugby club came to join us. The Parish
Council have been running the family fun days now for 3 years, and we are so pleased that each year gets busier. For our food stalls, a big thank you to ember & dough, Bake cakes and Jan’s ice cream van. The bouncy castle is always a great success and even has a disco inside! A massive thank you goes to Marianne Lawton, Newborough Cricket Club and the Coronation Field Committee for helping on the day and providing the Parish Council with the opportunity to host this great event again.
Newborough Christmas Lights Switch On Friday 4th December at 5:30pm at Crown Garden, Guntons Road (opposite the church) 26 villagetribune
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All are welcome. Free refreshments will be provided by the Parish Council and available at St Bartholomew’s Church. Again, thank you all for supporting our local events. If you have any ideas for future Newborough and Borough Fen events, please let me know and the PC can look to support. vicki.coleman@ newboroughandboroughfen-pc. gov.uk Newborough young farmers tractor run will be on Saturday 19th December. Newborough young farmers will be doing a Christmas tree collection on the Sunday 3rd of January. All money raised will be going to charity. www.villagetribune.org.uk
14/10/2026 11:16
TRIBLAND HISTORY
More Than a Name on a Memorial
The story of Sergeant John William Earl
PART ONE
For more than 25 years, local historian Paul Cooper has been researching the men commemorated on Newborough’s war memorial. One story, however, has remained unfinished — that of Sergeant John William Earl, a mischievous Newborough schoolboy who became a career soldier in the Royal Artillery. By Paul Cooper
I have always been interested in history, particularly military history. But for me it has never simply been about campaigns, battles or commanders. I have always been more interested in the people themselves — the real soldiers. Who were they? What were their lives like? What happened to them? Whenever I stop at a war memorial, I try not to see simply names engraved in stone. These were real people, often very young, who lived locally, worked locally and had families and friends. During the two World Wars, families often knew remarkably little about where their loved ones were serving. Letters home were subject to censorship, so families might have had very little idea where their son or daughter actually was. Then, if the worst happened, news that a loved one had been killed could arrive by telegram, often with little indication of where or how they had died. /groups/villagetribune
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John William Earl during his early Army career. The postcard is thought to date from his service in India. The gun pictured beneath his portrait has been identified as a 4.5-inch howitzer.
A millennium project that never really ended As the millennium approached, I found myself looking at the names on the Newborough War Memorial and thinking about the
people behind them. Every year their names were read out in tribute to their sacrifice, but very little was actually known about them. Those who had known them personally were disappearing, and I felt something should be done to preserve their stories. My millennium project became an attempt to write the biographies of the local men who had died during the Second World War. I began with the seven names from that conflict, reasoning that there might still be surviving relatives, friends or contemporaries who remembered them. It became a project that absorbed me for many years. I eventually produced six books in the series Killed in Action — a story of Newborough men killed in WW2. The research involved hundreds of hours visiting surviving relatives, friends, girlfriends, wives and children, as well as museums and libraries. The response was enormously encouraging. Families were pleased that somebody wanted to tell the stories of their villagetribune 27
14/10/2026 11:21
TRIBLAND HISTORY relatives and generously allowed me to copy photographs, letters and documents. Even after the books were published, new information continued to arrive. There was, however, one biography I never completed. That was the story of John William Earl.
The mischievous schoolboy John William Earl was born in Borough Fen in August 1914. His father, also called John Earl, was on his second marriage. In September 1910 he married Sarah Margaret Stickland at
John had other ideas. He grabbed the cane, broke it into three pieces and threw the pieces into the coke stove. Another favourite trick was catching mice in the fields, taking them into school and releasing them in the classroom. Current pupils at Newborough School should probably regard that as historical information rather than inspiration! John was, by all accounts, something of a tearaway, and there was concern that sooner or later he might get himself into serious trouble. The solution was the Army.
I try not to see simply names engraved in stone. These were real people who lived locally and had real lives and families. Whaplode in Lincolnshire. She was 22 years his junior. Records found so far suggest that John William was their only child, although he had a half-brother, George, from his father’s previous marriage. At some point before John joined the Army, the family lived at Speechley Drove, Newborough, and John attended Newborough School. It was there that his mischievous streak became very apparent. George remembered one occasion when John had been in trouble and the headmaster, Mr Hadman, contacted John’s father to ask what should be done. The response was that John should be caned. 28 villagetribune
027-028 VT161 Editorial Paul Cooper feature Alt.indd 28
A career in the Royal Artillery On 7 September 1934, aged 20, John enlisted in the Royal Artillery. He spent just over a month with the 3/1st Training Brigade before being posted to 14th Battery, 4th Field Brigade. The brigade was attached to the Indian Army and John spent around five years in India. The postcard photograph accompanying this article is thought to date from his younger Army years there. The artillery piece pictured below him has been identified as a 4.5-inch howitzer, a type used by field artillery regiments. On 1 August 1939, shortly before the outbreak of WWll, the regiment was recalled and
John was posted to Egypt. Then, on 30 December 1939, John was transferred to the newly formed 53rd Heavy Regiment, Royal Artillery. The following day he was promoted to Lance Bombardier. The regiment was initially equipped with First World Warera 9.2-inch howitzers, taken out of storage and, in many cases, still covered in protective grease. Many years later, during my research into John’s story, I was fortunate enough to make contact with several of his former comrades. Even more remarkably, I was introduced to John’s commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Harry Mainwaring MC. After several visits to Harry’s home in Cambridge, I came away with pages of first-hand information. He also sent me copies of the regiment’s war diaries covering its history from formation until the end of the war. One story he told me was particularly remarkable. Harry’s father had served during the First World War with 66 Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery, which also used 9.2inch howitzers. Harry still had his father’s equipment manual, in which the breach numbers of his four guns had been recorded. When Harry’s regiment collected its weapons from storage, he discovered that one of them — L34 — was one of the very same guns his father had served with in 1917. The mischievous Newborough schoolboy had travelled a very long way and his wartime story was only just beginning. To be continued in the next edition. www.villagetribune.org.uk
14/10/2026 11:21
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FOR ALL YOUR HOME DESIGN SOLUTIONS
Chez Pierre at this time of year. It is the ultimate colder weather comfort food, where chunks of well-marbled beef are seared in a hot pan, then gently braised with garlic and onions in a rich wine-based broth.
Bœuf Bourgignon Bœu
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This class the all-tim Chez Pie the ultim food, wh beef are gently br in a rich
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Rosemary’s
FARMING DIARY
November / December 2026
As we go into Autumn, harvest finished early, we are busy getting the land prepared for next years crops. The soil is still very dry on the top even with the recent rain we have had was soon evaporating. We must now look forward to next year’s cropping with possible alternatives which will tolerate these hotter, drier springs and summers if this is to be the new normal weather pattern, hybrid varieties of winter barley and other crops have a better roots system. Now our thoughts have to be on other crops - winter barley oats, wheat and beans which are all being sown this autumn. Other niche crops are coming on stream but will require
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further developed markets before an increase on tonnage and acreage can cope. The sugar beet is being lifted, no records i’m sure, but hopefully the sugar content will to some extent make up the shortfall. The cattle have done exceptionally well, but again we have had to feed some of our winter silage and straw. We use alot of straw when the cattle come into the yards to keep them warm and it helps with the digestive system. Autumn is always a busy time, the farm shop is already taking orders for Christmas - we shall
have the usual Christmas meats just ask in the shop. There is a new order form system which i’m sure the shop staff will help you navigate. The main thing is getting your order in early to avoid disappointment. The Granary will also be doing Christmas lunches etc and the garden centre will be busy with Christmas trees etc. The clocks go back an hour on 25th October meaning an extra hour in bed for some, but this also means shorter days on the farm which can be a nightmare when you have livestock. The trees and the hedges are holding on to some colour, the same in the garden which helps soften the blow that winter is on it’s way
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JOHN CLARE COUNTRYSIDE
Building momentum for nature, heritage and communities Road now supports a wide variety of wildflowers and pollinators, while a community orchard of around 26 trees has also been established. Natural England stressed that projects like these become even more valuable when they form part of a wider network, connecting habitats, woodland, farmland and important sites such as Castor Hanglands and Barnack Hills and Holes.
What happens next? The emerging Peterborough Local Plan has brought renewed attention to the importance of the area for nature, farming, heritage and recreation, while support from national figures including actor Toby Jones, gardener Adam Frost and nature writer Mark Cocker is helping to raise its profile much further afield. There has already been plenty of practical progress. Nature reserves around Maxey and Swaddywell are being expanded, while a new interpretation trail along the Maxey Cut uses information boards and QR codes to explain the wildlife, heritage and water-management landscape. Around 100 acres of new woodland have been planted across the wider area during the past season, with more schemes planned. New health and wellbeing walks have also been introduced, encouraging more people to explore the countryside on foot and by bike.
Parishes are playing their part in the plan /groups/villagetribune
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A recent gathering of local parishes highlighted how villages are finding their own ways to help nature. At Ailsworth, part of the recreation ground has been transformed over the past five years with wildflowers, tree planting, a community orchard, longer grass and water harvesting. One important lesson is that creating wildlife areas is only the beginning — watering, cutting, hedge management and controlling vigorous plants all require long-term care and volunteer effort. Glinton, with less publicly accessible land, has shown that smaller spaces can still make a real difference. Its nature recovery area alongside Lincoln
Plans are taking shape for further habitat restoration around West Deeping, new digital John Clare walks combining poetry, wildlife and heritage, more wellbeing activities and stronger promotion of the countryside within the Peterborough visitor economy. Adam Frost is also supporting a new wildlife gardening campaign, encouraging residents to take simple practical steps for nature at home. One of the most exciting plans is the first John Clare Countryside Nightingale Festival, scheduled for 7–9 May 2027. It will celebrate nature, poetry, music and heritage, with villages and community organisations encouraged to contribute walks, talks, performances and activities. There is also growing interest in linking parish footpaths into a wider John Clare Countryside walking network, while funding including Biodiversity Net Gain and developer contributions could help communities create or secure more land for nature. villagetribune 33
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Plant Centre Kitchen Garden Award winning Mulberry Cafe www.bosworthsgc.co.uk Tel: 01832 343104
Scan to visit our website
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WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/VILLAGETRIBUNE
From our facebook group © Bex Hetherington:
Snippets of community life captured by members of the Village Tribune online group
Great to see a steam train coming through the crossing. Also great is the engagement from the man in the signal box asking if I was okay; great that they think like that!
© Charlie Poulter
© Lotte Lawson
Our cat Neville is missing. He left the house yesterday morning looking really unwell, didn’t eat any breakfast and hasn’t returned since. This is super out of character. Please could you check your sheds, outbuildings, etc??
Red Sky at Night - Beautiful sunset tonight Tuesday, 6 October 2026
The winner of the members’ vote was Ghislaine Chalmers for Ridges Under A Chartreuse Sky and the winner of the public vote was Angela Trotter ( ) for Golden Hour. /groups/villagetribune
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© Angela Trotter
© Cathy Hannan
We’ve just visited the cake shed in Vergette Road and wow they are incredible- if you haven’t popped down yet please try them out. We will definitely be back soon for some more!
Many thanks to everybody who came along to the M.A.D. Art Exhibition this weekend. And thank you to everyone who voted for their favourite painting. villagetribune 35
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TRIBLAND NATURE WATCH
Seedheads
Nature’s ingenious way of starting again By Liz Lonsdale, Maxey Nature Recovery Group
Once flowers have faded, the next stage in a plant’s life begins. Most plants produce seeds to ensure the continuation of the species, and those seeds may be held in seedheads, fruits or seed pods. For the plant, it is useful if the seeds can travel away from the parent. That way, the new plants are not all competing for the same nutrients, light and water — and they also have the opportunity to colonise new areas. Nature has developed some remarkably clever ways of making that happen.
Some seeds travel by wind. Dandelion seeds float away on tiny parachutes, while sycamore and maple seeds are shaped to spin through the air. Others, including clover, have fluffy hairs which allow them to catch the breeze. Some plants rely on animals. Blackberries and rosehips are eaten by birds and other creatures, while squirrels bury walnuts and acorns, sometimes conveniently forgetting where they put them. Other plants use rather more dramatic methods. The dried seed pods of Himalayan balsam and violets can burst open and scatter their contents. Seeds such as burdock and cleavers can hitch a lift on fur or feathers, while some seeds simply fall into water and float away. Water lilies, birch
and willow all use this method — as, on a rather grander scale, do coconuts. Birds do not always wait for seeds to disperse. Look closely at a teasel head and you may spot goldfinches carefully working their way around it, extracting seeds from between the spikes. There is a good reason not to be too tidy in the garden during autumn and winter. If you have the space, leave some plants standing with their seedheads intact. They can provide food for birds and small mammals, while also offering shelter for insects. Good plants to leave include Echinacea, Honesty, Knapweed, Miscanthus, Rudbeckia, Sea Holly and Sedum. As an added bonus, their dried seedheads can look beautiful when covered in frost on a bright winter morning. Maxey Nature Recovery Group
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VILLAGE TRIBUNE
CHRISTMAS SILENT AUCTION
OPENS 9.00am Sunday 1 November 2026 CLOSES 11.56pm Friday 4 December 2026 50 LOTS • A HUGE VARIETY FOR ALL THE FAMILY
England v Italy
Burghley House
Santa Special
Sunset combine
Two debenture tickets Twickenham • 20 Feb 2027
Annual pass
Private carriage for six Nene Valley Railway
One-hour passenger ride Summer 2027 • age 18+
Welcome to the Village Tribune Christmas Silent Auction!
HOW TO TAKE PART
We have brought together a wonderful selection of prizes, gifts, experiences, meals, treats and services, generously donated by local businesses, organisations and individual supporters.
• Browse the auction lots and select anything that catches your eye.
By placing a bid, you could secure something special for yourself—or find the perfect Christmas present—while helping to support the Village Tribune.
• You can return and increase your bid at any time before the auction closes.
The Tribune is delivered free of charge to around 5,000 homes across our local villages, six times a year. Advertising covers most of our costs, but printing, distribution, website and production expenses continue to rise. Every pound raised through this auction will help us keep the magazine free for our readers and continue celebrating village life, local organisations and community news. 50 lots are waiting to be bid on, with a huge variety of gifts, treats and experiences suitable for all members of the family.
CHRISTMAS GIFTS SORTED All winners will receive their items or experience vouchers during the second week of December, making them ideal for family Christmas gifts.
• Enter your bid and keep an eye on the auction—you may be outbid!
• The highest valid bidder when each lot closes will be the winner. The auction opens at 9.00am on Sunday 1 November 2026 and closes at 11.56pm on Friday 4 December 2026. Each listing contains details of the prize, any conditions that apply and how it can be redeemed. Arrangements for vouchers, collection or delivery will be confirmed with successful bidders after the auction. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has donated a lot and to everyone supporting the auction by bidding. Good luck—and happy bidding!
BROWSE THE LOTS AND BID ONLINE jumblebee.co.uk/ villagetribunechristmassilentauction
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ADULT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Girlguiding Helpston
Could you be part of the adventure? Helpston’s Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Rangers are looking for more adult volunteers. A week to remember Many local families will already have seen the photographs and heard some of the stories from our Guides, Rangers and Leaders who recently returned from a brilliant week at Poacher 2026 in Lincolnshire. The international jamboree brought together Guides, Rangers, Scouts and Explorers for a packed programme of activities, new experiences and plenty of fun — the sort of week that creates friendships and memories that last for years. But experiences like Poacher do not happen by themselves. To keep giving young people in Helpston these opportunities, Girlguiding Helpston needs more adult volunteers.
Volunteers needed in every section At present there are vacancies across all four sections: Rainbows for girls aged 5–7, Brownies for girls aged 7–11, Guides for girls aged 11–14 and Rangers for girls aged 14–18. Why do it? Certainly not for the /groups/villagetribune
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pay — there isn’t any. Not for the glamour either: our volunteers have probably worn more glitter, glue and mud than most fiveyear-olds. And definitely not for the peace and quiet. Anyone who has tried to keep 20 young people silent for more than ten seconds will understand that one. We do it for the friendships, the laughter, the campfire songs and the satisfaction of helping young people grow in confidence and self-esteem. We do it for the moment when someone tries something new, surprises themselves and grins as though they have just conquered Everest. And, along the way, our volunteers develop their own skills, make friends and have a lot of fun too. You cannot really put a price on that. You can, however, put a badge on it — and we do love a badge.
Could you join us? You do not need previous Girlguiding experience or a long list of special skills. What matters
most is enthusiasm, a willingness to work as part of a team and a desire to help young people get the very best from their time in Girlguiding. Volunteering can be enormously rewarding and there are different ways to get involved. If you have ever thought, “I’d quite like to help, but I’m not sure I’m the sort of person they need”, please do get in touch. Chances are, you are exactly the sort of person we need. Be the reason a young person discovers that they can do something they never thought possible. Please don’t assume somebody else will volunteer — Girlguiding Helpston needs your help now.
Want to know more? Visit girlguiding.org.uk or contact District Lead Volunteer Morag Sweeney Tel: 07801 357701 Email: morag.sweeney@yahoo.com villagetribune 41
14/10/2026 11:32
JOHN CLARE
How Can We Forget?
‘How can I forget?’ These are the last words of John Clare’s walk home from the High Beach asylum in Epping Forest, as recorded in his ‘Journey Out of Essex’ (July 1841).
© Mike Mecham, 2009
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they would sometimes meet at the old stone bridge that crosses Brook Drain from North Fen Road now renamed the John Clare Bridge. Moreover, during his daily walks to school from Helpston to Glinton he said that when he reached the Glinton turnpike it felt that he ‘was going into another country’, from poverty to prosperity and Mary. These walks were deeply formative, helping to shape both his emotional landscape and his poetry. He recalled in later poems with great fondness one of his masters, James Merrishaw (see Clare’s People) St Benedict’s spire has also been described by Clare’s biographer, Sir Jonathan Bate, as his ‘magnetic north’ and ‘emotional compass’. Glinton’s needle spire is widely recognised, within the UK, as being second only to Salisbury Cathedral. For Clare, it was more than a simple village church but an important presence in the fenland landscape that could be seen for miles. He expressed it most lovingly in his sonnet ‘Glinton Spire’ published in his final collection in 1835. He sees it as towering over the flat fen landscape and with a sense of alchemy making ‘common things around it glow with beauty not their own’. He reflects on how
© Carry Akroyd
They also end a rarely published but evocative poem he wrote in 1842 shortly after arriving in the Northampton General Lunatic Asylum (published last year by the John Clare Society in Clare’s People). Both refer to Mary Joyce the Glinton farmer’s daughter who was his first love and lifelong obsession. In the first he appeared to be resigned to never seeing her again while in the second he recalls how she said farewell and what it meant, not only to him but the places where they walked. Much is written about the John Clare of Helpston and Northborough, but Glinton also played an important part in his life. It was at the vestry school in St Benedict’s, the village church, that he first met Mary and when they were separated after he left at the age of twelve to work
the ‘taper spire predominates the landscape and mind’ perhaps offering a calming, even magical focal point for his own thoughts. It seemed that the village and its striking landmark held deep emotional and nostalgic value for him. The words of ‘Glinton Spire’ have been beautifully incorporated in a work by local artist, and Clare Countryside patron, Carry Akroyd. The illustration reproduced here was a card designed for the re-dedication of St. Benedicts bells. The spire has lost none of its lustre since Clare’s time and remains a commanding presence on the flat fenland landscape. Its churchyard also has the grave of Mary Joyce, with a marker commissioned by the John Clare Society in 2009. She tragically died, unmarried, in a house fire at the Glinton family farm in 1838. Mourning their earlier separation he wrote: ‘‘Twas here she said farewell and no one yet/ Has so sweet spoken – How can I forget?’. Dr Mike Mecham, Chair, The John Clare Society www.villagetribune.org.uk
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14/10/2026 11:35
VILLAGE HERITAGE A Pub Crawl through
Peakirk’s Past By Dr Avril Lumley Prior
Making Ends Meet Running a village tavern in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries was as precarious as it is today. For, in 2025, it was estimated that an establishment would close each day due to stringent drink-driving laws, competition from supermarkets selling cut-price booze, trendy wine-bars, theme pubs and restaurants in neighbouring cities, multi-channel TV, Netflix, the economic climate and the lure of social media. In an age when most villages had several shops, landlords of yesteryear had to contend with rival hostelries and beer-houses, licensed grocers, widows dispensing home-brew in their parlours or at their back
doors and the rising popularity of non-alcoholic mineral waters and ‘pop’ fostered by the Temperance Movement. Therefore, it is not surprising that many landlords were forced to supplement their incomes by taking on day-jobs, leaving their womenfolk to tend the bar in their absences, often brewing their own beer as a sideline. Census Returns, trades’ directories, newspaper features and the reminiscences of elderly inhabitants, some of whom (like the pubs) are no longer with us, suggest that Peakirk licensees conformed to these models, with landlords finding alternative employment as a blacksmith, butcher, plumber, wheelwright,
Spirit flasks (c.1830) carpenter, carrier, farmer, grocer, engineer, and a coalmerchant. With three public houses, the Black Bull [Ruddy Duck], the Boat and the Railway Inn accommodating 251 souls ensconced in 61 dwellings in 1891, Peakirk was particularly wellendowed. Yet, it was typical of most English villages. Neighbouring Glinton also
The Boat Inn, which stood next to 5 Thorney Road during the floods of 1912 /groups/villagetribune
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had three public houses in 1890 for a population of 391and Newborough had a stonking four pubs and two beer retailers for 699 inhabitants! If you consider the number of children (and fenland families tended to be large) and those who practised abstinence (or pretended to), then it seems that there was a pub in Peakirk to slake the thirsts of every fifteen or so participants! Alas! The Boat was condemned as unfit for habitation by the Licence Renewal Authority in 1932, and, in 1956, the Railway Inn became the post office and grocery store, leaving the Black Bull or Ruddy Duck to reign supreme.
Publicans and Sinners Licensing laws permitted pubs to stay open from 4am to 11pm on weekdays and Saturdays, and 1pm to 2.30pm and 6pm to 10pm on Sundays, though they were frequently flouted. Newspaper reports reassure us that antisocial behaviour, drunkenness and ‘lock-ins’ are nothing new. They gleefully tell of recalcitrant customers and belligerent landlords, with the Boat Inn under the rule of Edward Tewson
(c.1866-c.1875) particularly singled out for attention. After continuing to sell alcohol to imbibers who were ‘fighting drunk’ on two separate occasions and even joining in a brawl during which a policeman was punched, Tewson, had his licence revoked at Peterborough Petty Sessions, on 10 February 1875, and was fined £3. Up before the bench on the same day was recently widowed, Jane Sage (1874-5) from the Black Bull, who had her licence endorsed and was fined £1 for allowing ‘quarrelsome and riotous behaviour within her house’, and for continuing to serve alcohol after a policeman had ‘quelled a disturbance’ and ordered her to close for the night. Then, in 1913, George Stonebridge, landlord of the Railway Hotel, was reprimanded for allowing a man to get so inebriated (having sunk two pints of ale and three whiskeys) that he fell asleep whilst driving his cart and three horses home, well after midnight. And Daniel Nichols, another landlord of the Black Bull (c.1815), was in trouble for selling alcohol whilst a church service was in progress [‘breaking the Sabbath’]. How times have changed! Nowadays, it is rare to find a pub serving coffee before noon on a Sunday.
Pubs as Hubs and Clubs
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Before Peakirk’s first village hall was completed in 1919, the village pubs were the only places capable of accommodating large gatherings of people, for public events such as sales and cattle markets. The Black Bull hosted the auction of a farmhouse, in
The former Railway Inn, in 2025. The cottage next door was once a forge and, later home to Jeff and Heather Lawrence’s Peakirk Book Shop 1808, and, more poignantly, the sale of landlady, Jane Sage’s, household goods and livestock, in November 1875. A ‘Piece of Arable Land’ at Milking Nook, Newborough, was up for grabs at the Railway Inn on 3 March 1902; while grazing and fishing rights of ‘several banks and several Drains’ were sold for ‘ready money’ at the Boat on 6 April 1911. Public houses also doubled up as Coroners’ Courts. This made sense, as local men who often knew the deceased served as jurors and, hopefully, put witnesses at ease. An Inquest was held at the Black Bull on 3 October 1885, into the death of 74-year-old widow, Kitty Baines. The unfortunate lady had hung herself on 29/30 September after telling her drinking companions at the Boat that her poor relief had been stopped and that she feared that she would be sent to the workhouse. A verdict of ‘suicide whilst temporarily insane’ was reached. The accidental death of Eliza Fotherby, another 74-year-old widow, on the railway www.villagetribune.org.uk
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VILLAGE HERITAGE venues for philanthropic societies’ formal meetings and jollies to such an extent that The Manchester Unity of Independent Oddfellows, founded a lodge ‘at the House of Brother William Peatling, Boat Inn, Peakirk’; whilst the Peakirk Provident Association held its anniversary dinner at the Railway Inn, in May 1854.
The Man behind the Bar
5. a forge ther
crossing, on 26 November 1888, was investigated at the Boat, close to the scene of the tragedy, the next day. We know that John Clare, the Helpston poet (1793-1864), spent the eve of his funeral in the Exeter Arms in his home village, and it is likely that Kitty Baines and Eliza Fotherby rested at the Bull and Boat before their burials. Village pubs were popular
Back in the 1990s, when Fred and Pauline Lormor were licensees at the Ruddy Duck, a little ditty, titled ‘The Man behind the Bar’, hung next to the optics. It lamented that a barman’s lot was not a happy one, for he was forced to offer a sympathetic ear to the woes of the community whilst cheerfully pulling paints and paying taxes. It ended with the verse: ‘When he retires, a job well done, to await six feet of soil, Discards his coat and apron, no more on earth to toil. As St Peter sees him coming, he will leave the gates ajar;
For he knows he had his hell on earth, The man behind the bar.’ (Anon.) So, let us raise our glasses to all the long-departed landlords, who have pioneered and preserved our unique, English pub tradition. Moreover, we should pay tribute to the legion of hard-working, heroic, and often anonymous women of yore, whose first names seldom appeared in newspaper articles (unless they committed a crime) and trades directories, let alone above doorframes. It was they who, whilst their husbands worked elsewhere to make ends meet, juggled child-rearing with keeping the business afloat, acting as barmaids and waitresses, brewers, cooks and bottle washers, referees and bouncers, mother confessors, and agony aunts. But it was only upon the death of their spouses, when they held the licence in their own right, that they were recognised as making a valuable contribution to village life.
The Ruddy Duck /groups/villagetribune
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diaries is 27 to 29 June 2025. If you would like to be involved in organising the event, please do let me now I d love some help
to 8pm. The cost is £15, and places can be booked by messaging Andrew on 07836213406. On Monday
5pm on Sunday 1 December and the Nativity service will be held on the Village green on Christmas eve at 5pm.
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Call: 01733 810888 / 07940 297788 Steam Farm, Peterborough Rd, Crowland PE6 OAD
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14/10/2026 11:42
FUNDRAISING APPEAL
Celebrating 60 Years of Making a Difference:
Peterborough & District RDA Appeals for Community Support Local charity marks its diamond anniversary and calls on the community to help secure the future of its work with horses. In 2026, Peterborough & District RDA (Riding for the Disabled Association) celebrates an incredible milestone — 60 years of supporting people through the power of horses. Since being established in 1966, the local group has been part of the RDA movement, helping provide opportunities for people to enjoy riding and benefit from time spent with horses in a supportive environment. As the charity celebrates six decades of its work, it is asking local residents, businesses and community groups to help ensure this valuable work can continue for years to come. RDA provides opportunities that can help participants develop confidence, coordination, communication and independence, while enjoying the unique connection between horses and people. For many, sessions are about much more than riding; they offer enjoyment, achievement, friendship and the chance to reach personal goals. However, delivering these opportunities comes with significant ongoing costs. Maintaining equipment and covering the day-to-day expenses of running sessions all require /groups/villagetribune
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financial support. This 60th anniversary year is an opportunity to celebrate the past while investing in the future. Peterborough & District RDA is encouraging the public to mark this special occasion by making a donation, however large or small. Every contribution helps towards the costs of running the group and providing valuable sessions. Local businesses are also invited to support the anniversary appeal through financial donations, pony sponsorship, fundraising partnerships or donations of prizes for fundraising events. Schools, clubs and individuals can make a difference by organising their own fundraising activities or spreading the word about the charity. A spokesperson for Peterborough & District RDA said: “Reaching our 60th anniversary is a wonderful milestone and an opportunity to celebrate the people, ponies, volunteers and supporters who have helped make our work possible over the years. “We want to make sure that future generations can continue
to benefit from the opportunities that RDA offers. Our ponies are at the heart of everything we do, but keeping our sessions running comes with real costs. We would love our local community to help us celebrate 60 years by supporting our fundraising appeal. Every donation, no matter the size, will be genuinely appreciated.” As Peterborough & District RDA looks ahead to the next 60 years, the charity hopes the local community will join its anniversary celebrations by helping support its ongoing work.
How you can help ■ Donate online: https://www. peterborough-rda.co.uk/donateindex-impact https://donate.justgiving.com/ charity/peterborough-rda/ donation-amount To find out more about the group, visit www. peterborough-rda.co.uk or email rdatreasurerpeterborough@ gmail.com.
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DIARY DATES
diary
DEC
UPLOAD YOUR EVENTS
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www.villagetribune.org.uk
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DIARY DATES
Christmas Tree Festival:
We welcome Helpston organisations, community groups and businesses to decorate a Christmas tree and bring it to St Botolph’s Church. The Church will be open on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th December between 10 and 3 for everyone to come and enjoy the trees. Refreshments will be available. /groups/villagetribune
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DIARY DATES
Healthcare advice with a personal touch I’m Lisa Parrett, Director of LP Health Ltd. I help individuals, families and businesses make confident healthcare decisions through trusted advice, personal support and no-obligation guidance. Beat NHS waiting lists and choose when and where you’re treated. Customer service excellence. Flexible benefits and benefit limits.
A safe pair of hands 07376 194413
lisa.parrett@wpa-hcp.org.uk Lisa Parrett is a Director of LP Health Ltd, an Appointed Representative of WPA Healthcare Practice Plc WPA Healthcare Practice Plc (“Healthcare Practice”) is registered in England and Wales number 07320330. Western Provident Association Limited (“WPA”) is registered in England and Wales number 00475557.
presents - in the Key Theatre Studio Saturday 21st November Tuesday 22nd December CHRISTMAS SPECIAL FROM THE USA
Greg Abate Quintet
Sara Oschlag Quintet
We are delighted to welcome back to the Club, the great USA For our Christmas Concert, we have a special evening with the saxophonist and flautist Greg Abate. Greg's career spans superb vocalist Sara Oschlag, who many of you will remember over 40 years, starting as lead altoist with Ray Charles and was the vocal star in our Big Band concert featuring the Echoes of Artie Shaw bands and then developing his solo career in the Ellington Orchestra. Since turning professional in 2003, DanishStates. In the Downbeat magazine (USA), Greg is frequently born jazz singer Sara has performed all over the UK, Europe and voted year on year as one of the top five saxophonists in the America leading her own bands and also featuring as guest world. Joining Greg for this concert will be the brilliant vocalist. Accompanying Sara is a great band, featuring vibraphonist Nat Steele, top pianist Leon Greening and the saxophonist Alex Garnett and a rhythm section led by pianist very highly rated duo of Arnie Somogyi on double bass and James Pearson, with the fine double bassist Arnie Somogyi and drummer Matt Skelton. drummer Darren Becket. C o n c e r t s s t a r t a t 7. 4 5 p m Ti c ke t s ( £ 24 ) a re ava i l a b l e f ro m t h e B ox O f f i c e - 017 3 3 8 5 2 9 92 ( O p e n M o n - Fr i 1 2 .0 0 to 4.0 0 p m ) o r f r o m T h e K e y T h e a t r e w e b s i t e - h t t p s : // k e y t h e a t r e - p e t e r b o r o u g h . c o m / w h a t s - o n /
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TRIBLAND INNOVATION
From Glinton Idea to Global Game App What started as an idea for a board game at the kitchen table has become a new digital game available to players around the world — thanks to the determination of Glinton resident Sue Lowe-Lauri. Sue first came up with the concept for Tessellmate around four-anda-half years ago, basing the game on the tessellation of shapes and creating a puzzle designed to challenge players’ powers of logic, pattern recognition and strategy. The original board game went through months of testing, with Sue taking it to board game cafés around Peterborough, local schools and even the UK Games Expo, as well as persuading plenty of friends to put the concept through its paces. During this time Tee Scott was a particularly good sounding board for ideas.
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Encouraged by the response, she then began investigating how the game might be manufactured, exploring potential markets in the UK, USA and China. But getting a physical board game into production proved challenging, and Sue eventually decided there might be another way of bringing Tessellmate to a much wider audience — turning it into a digital game. Encouraged by the response, she then began investigating how the game might be manufactured, exploring potential markets in the UK, USA and China, with
the help of Andrew Goode from local firm, Blue Dolphin Business Development. She approached Gameware Europe, where the idea struck an immediate chord. Working with developer Jason Lander, Sue’s original concept gradually made the leap from board game to smartphone and tablet. Now, four-and-a-half years after that first idea, Tessellmate is officially available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play. It has only been available for a few weeks but already people are hooked. As one player put it:“Tessellmate is one of those deceptively simple games: easy to understand, satisfying to play and just irritatingly difficult to put down.” A Tribune reader commented “It is a real pleasure to see such a polished, clever and engaging game devised by “one of our own”. Tessellmate deserves to do very well.” Another player “Can you advise a counsellor for a gaming addiction?!” Search for “Tessellmate” on the Apple App Store or Google Play www.villagetribune.org.uk
15/10/2026 17:27
RECIPE
From the Kitchen of
Chez Pierre Tarte aux Pêches
Greetings to all you in your lovely villages I hope you are well. This issue of your super magazine I shall be sharing our CP version of a simple classic dessert from France: Tart aux pêches or, perhaps a more user-friendly name, whiskey peach pie. Another of my grand-père’s frequent Plat du Jour choices from our original bistro in France, this was originally created by him as a favour to a regular guest, the popular film character actress Esma Cannon. Australian born Ms Cannon eschewed the showbiz lifestyle so beloved by most of her contemporaries and after deciding she’d had enough
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of the luvvie lifestyle moved to and lived happily in France for many years. She preferred the relative anonymity, privacy and relaxed way of life in the ancient village of Saint-Benoît-la-Forêt in the Val de Loire Region where she made her home, and was a regular diner at our family restaurant until she sadly passed away at home aged just 66. Star of TV shows, theatre, 4 CarryOns and many other films in the 1950/60’s, Esma favoured a particular table, tucked away to the rear of the salon, where she’d normally dine alone and would eat heartily despite her tiny frame. She was popular with
the staff and always ordered our peach pie dessert with vanilla ice cream, which had been created by chef specifically at her request; becoming a much-chosen menu item thereafter. Double Pie Crust. Filling: 7 cups sliced fresh peaches; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/3 cup flour; 1/2 teaspoon ginger; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 3 tablespoons whiskey. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a deep dish pie pan with the bottom crust. Toss peaches with whiskey, sugar, flour and spices. Start off with 1/3 cup flour and if they seem really wet sprinkle a little more on them. Pour into pie crust. Add top crust. you can just make a regular top crust, or a lattice topped. Dust crust lightly with cinnamon/sugar. Bake for 45-60 minutes or until crust is golden brown. See, I told you it was easy! Bonne Chance, Pierre x
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SCHOOLS AMVC
‘Hello Yellow Day’ More than 1,000 visitors at Prospective Parents’ Evening, successful fundraising and student awards have marked a busy start to the new academic year.. Prospective Parents’ Evening gave families the chance to explore the school, take part in activities and discover the opportunities available to students. Student guides played a central role, confidently welcoming visitors, demonstrating activities and sharing their experiences. Their enthusiasm and helpfulness drew many compliments from prospective families. Meanwhile, Year 7 students have settled quickly into secondary school life, embracing new routines and becoming part
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of the school community. A well-attended Parent Information Evening helped strengthen links between families and staff, supporting students through this important transition. Learning beyond the classroom has also featured prominently. Geography students have been visiting Hunstanton for fieldwork, putting classroom knowledge into practice and developing their investigative skills. Educational visits to Normandy and Iceland also form part of the autumn programme, offering opportunities to explore
different landscapes and cultures. Students’ efforts and achievements have been recognised through a large number of Headteacher’s Commendations. These celebrate academic success, exceptional effort and accomplishments beyond school, reflecting the varied talents and interests of the student community. Staff and students also took part in the Great Eastern Run, demonstrating determination and resilience as they tackled the event. There was further cause for celebration when four students were recognised at the Muslim Council of Peterborough Education Awards. The awards honoured their outstanding progress, achievement and contributions to their communities. Fundraising has provided another opportunity for students and staff to work together. Participation in the Hello Yellow campaign raised more than £400 for YoungMinds, supporting the charity’s work for young people’s mental health. From helping new students feel welcome to celebrating achievement and supporting others, the opening weeks have shown the many ways students and staff contribute to school life. There will be plenty more news to share as the academic year continues. www.villagetribune.org.uk
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ts F r e e A rr e Lectu
Register for your free Arts Society lecture provided by The Arts Society Peterborough Choose Your Lecture Time: Arrive from 10.15 AM Lectures start promptly at 10.45 AM Location: The Fleet Community Hall, Fletton, PE2 8DL
Please email napierTASPnimbus@gmail.com to reserve your space with The Arts Society Peterborough
1 2
Spaces will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
“”
The very first lecture I went to, I couldn't believe how good it was and how much I enjoyed it. Arts Society Member
3
8 Oct 2026 - Chris Owen
British Art and the Industrial Revolution This talk will introduce the Industrial Revolution in Britain, its causes and some of its impacts on both society and art. 12 Nov 2026 - Tyler Butterworth
A Bit of A Carry On A revealing and moving look at the lives of two much loved actors, Carry On star Peter Butterworth, and his wife, Britain’s first female TV impressionist Janet Brown. 10 Dec 2026 - Peter Medhurst
The story of the world-renowned Christmas carol Silent Night The carol Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht – Silent Night, Holy Night - came into being just over 1800 years after the birth of Christ, and has become the quintessential Christmas song. However, the carol is not without its mysteries and this seasonal lecture unravels them.
The Arts Society is a registered charity in England and Wales (No. 1089743) and in Scotland (SC039240).
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CHURCH SERVICES © Shutterstock/Brian A Jackson
Church services Benefice of Barnack with Ufford, Bainton, Helpston, and Wittering 01 November 2026 - All Saints / All Souls 09:30 AM St John, Barnack
Communion
10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering
Patronal Communion
10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston
Communion
04:30 PM St Botolph, Helpston
Messy Church
04:30 PM St Mary, Bainton
All Souls Service of Remembrance
08 November 2026 - Remembrance Sunday
04:30 PM St Mary, Bainton 13 December 2026 - Advent 3 09:00 AM St Mary, Bainton
Communion
09:30 AM St John, Barnack
Communion
10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston
Communion
10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering
Communion
03:30 PM St John, Barnack
Messy Church
09:00 AM St Mary, Bainton
Communion
15 December 2026 - Tuesday
09:45 AM St John, Barnack
Remembrance – 10:45 at the War Memorial
07:00 PM St John, Barnack
10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering
Remembrance
10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston
Remembrance
03:30 PM St John, Barnack
Messy Church
15 November 2026 - 2nd Before Advent
Nativity
“A Quiet Christmas” – a peaceful time for reflection and music, away from the preChristmas chaos
18 December 2026 - Friday 07:00 PM St John, Barnack
09:30 AM St John, Barnack
Communion
10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston
Communion
19 December 2026 - Saturday
10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering
All Age Service
03:00 PM St Andrew, Ufford
04:30 PM St Mary, Bainton
Café Church – at the church
20 December 2026 - Advent 4
Christmas Carol Service
Christmas Carol Service & Nativity from Scratch
22 November 2026 - Christ the King
09:30 AM St John, Barnack
09:00 AM St Mary, Bainton
Communion
10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering
Communion
09:30 AM St John, Barnack
All Age Service
04:30 PM St Mary, Bainton
Christmas Carol Service
10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering
All Age Service
06:30 PM St Botolph, Helpston
Christmas Carol Service
10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston
Communion
28 November 2026 - Advent Eve (Saturday) 03:00 PM St Andrew, Ufford
St Andrew’s Day Study : The prophet Amos Judgement, Promise, and Modern Media. Followed by Holy Communion
29 November 2026 - Advent 1 09:30 AM St John, Barnack
Communion
10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering
Communion
10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston
Café Church
04:30 PM St Mary, Bainton
Advent Carol Service
06 December 2026 - Advent 2 09:30 AM St John, Barnack
Communion
10:45 AM All Saints, Wittering
All Age Service
10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston
Communion
04:30 PM St Botolph, Helpston
Messy Church
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Communion
22 December 2026 - Tuesday 07:00 PM All Saints, Wittering
Christmas Carol Service
24 December 2026 - Christmas Eve 04:00 PM St John, Barnack
Crib Service
04:00 PM St Botolph, Helpston
Crib Service
07:00 PM All Saints, Wittering
Not quite Midnight Mass
10:00 PM St Botolph, Helpston
Almost Midnight Mass
11:30 PM St John, Barnack
Midnight Mass
25 December 2026 - Christmas Day 10:00 AM St John, Barnack
All Age Service
10:30 AM St Mary, Bainton
Communion
10:45 AM St Botolph, Helpston
All Age Service
27 December 2026 - Saint John the Evangelist 10:30 AM St Mary, Bainton
Benefice Communion – only service in the villages.
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CHURCH SERVICES
Leo Tolstoy allegedly said that “All great literature is one of two stories; a man goes on a journey or a stranger comes to town.” Not just a man, as we’d be quick to point out these days. In the Nativity story, a man and woman go on a journey. They come to town, Bethlehem, and they’re not quite strangers – they presumably find relatives prepared to put them up in ground floor of the family house, where the animals are sheltered – because Bethlehem is so full, there is no guest room available upstairs. And the next journey in the story is made – is it by the angels or by the shepherds? Are the angels there all along, and the shepherds only now notice them as they sing their praises? Or have they winged their flight “from the realms of glory”, as the carol says? Either way – the shepherds make the journey into Bethlehem, see the child Jesus, and go away rejoicing. Their journey has changed them. Then the Magi – the indefinite number of Wise 60 villagetribune
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People who journey from, you’d have to guess, Persia. They follow a star, they go to the wrong place, then, guided by their science and the Hebrew Bible, they get it right. Having worshipped the new king, they go away “by another route”. This is partly to avoid King Herod, who’s trying to zero in on this new threat to his kingdom. But maybe it’s partly metaphorical. The go home by another route because they like the shepherds have been changed. They came to see a mighty king, and found a vulnerable child. Then that final, return, journey of the story of Jesus’ birthday. To avoid Herod’s trained killers, Mary and Joseph head for Egypt. It leaves us with that ghastly question that we ask so often – how come God saved one child, and let the other baby boys in Bethlehem die? It’s a messy world, with so many unfairnesses. A world
with its own freedom supports our human race, with our own free will. And “God’s will be done” is an easy thing to say when we’re having a great life, and the most terrible thing when facing heartache. But that one child – a remnant – escapes, waits, and returns when the coast is clear. Recreating Israel’s exile in Egypt and return. Not back to Bethlehem, King David’s home, where the expectation of a Messiah is strong. But to the backwater, Nazareth, his mum’s home village. And so the journey changes Jesus as well – from the one to whom angels sing, to the apprentice carpenter whose time has not yet come. The time leading up to Christmas is always a journey. Shopping, presents, carol singing, work booze-ups, team meals – it’s a long and tiring journey. But take a moment, get a break, and find a little space and quiet. You may hear the angels sing. And the journey will have been worth it. Reverend Gary Alderson www.villagetribune.org.uk
14/10/2026 11:51
9 BRIDGES CHURCH SERVICES
Upcoming Services November-December 2026
Worship
Date
Time/Location
Service
All Saints
1st Nov
09:00 Morning Worship – Glinton 10:30 Sung Communion -Peakirk 18:00 Celtic Evening Prayer – Northborough
Revelation 7:9-17 1 John 3:1-3 Matthew 5:1-12
Remembrance Sunday
8th Nov
09:00 Holy Communion – Etton 10:30 Service of Remembrance - Glinton 10:45 Act of Remembrance – Etton 10:45 Act of Remembrance – Peakirk 10:45 Act of Remembrance – Northborough 10:45 Act of Remembrance - Maxey
Amos 5.18–24 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Matthew 25:1-13
2nd Sunday before Advent
15th Nov
09:00 Holy Communion – Maxey 10:30 Family Praise – Northborough 18:00 BCP Evensong - Peakirk
Zephaniah 1.7, 12–end Psalm 90:1-8, 12 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Matthew 25:14-30
Christ the King
22nd Nov
09:00 Holy Communion – Northborough 10:30 Family Holy Communion - Glinton 18:00 Taizé – Maxey
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 Ephesians 1:15-23 Matthew 25:31-46
Advent 1
29th Nov
10:30 United Benefice Service and Patronal Festival - Northborough
Isaiah 64:1-9 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 Mark 13:24-37
Advent 2
6th Dec
09:00 Morning Worship – Glinton 10:30 Sung Communion - Peakirk 15:00 Messy Church -TBC 16:00 Christingle Service - Northborough
Isaiah 40:1-11 2 Peter 3:8-15a Mark 1:1-8
Saturday
12th Dec
18:00 Carol Service - Maxey
Advent 3
13th Dec
09:00 Morning Worship – Peakirk 10:30 Holy Communion - Etton 18:00 Carol Service - Glinton
Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 John 1:6-8, 19-28
Advent 4
20th Dec
09:00 Holy Communion – Maxey 10:30 Carol Service – Northborough 18:00 9 Lessons and Corols - Peakirk
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16 Romans 16:25-27 Luke 1:26-38
Christmas Eve
24th Dec
14:00 Crib Service – Glinton 16:00 Crib Service Maxey 17:00 Crib Service – Etton 23:30 Midnight Mass- Glinton
Isaiah 9:2-7 Titus 2:11-14 Luke 2:1-14
Christmas
25th Dec
10:30 Christmas Communion - Peakirk
Isaiah 62:6-12 Titus 3:4-7 Luke 2: 8-20
1st After Christmas
27th Dec
10:30 Holy Communion - Maxey
Isaiah 61:10-62:3 Galatians 4:4-7 Luke 2:22-40
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CHURCH UPDATE
Building a Safer Church The church has long been at the heart of village life. It is a place where people gather to worship, celebrate milestones, support one another through difficulties, and build lasting friendships. At its best, the church is a community shaped by the love of God, where every person is welcomed, valued and cared for. However, if we are to be honest, we must also acknowledge that the Church has not always lived up to that calling. As a Christian organisation, we have got things wrong. Across the wider Church there have been times when people have been hurt, concerns have not been listened to properly, and those who were vulnerable have not received the protection they deserved. We cannot undo past failures, nor should we seek to minimise them. Instead, we must listen carefully, learn humbly, and ensure that safeguarding remains a central priority in everything we do. It is important to understand that safeguarding is not simply about policies, paperwork or meeting legal requirements. While those things matter, safeguarding goes much deeper. It reflects the very heart of the Christian faith. Jesus consistently showed care for those who were vulnerable, overlooked or at risk. He welcomed children, stood alongside 62 villagetribune
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those who were marginalised, and challenged those who misused power. If we seek to follow Christ, then creating safe, respectful and healthy communities is an essential part of Christian discipleship. In our local churches, safeguarding underpins every aspect of our ministry. Clergy, staff and volunteers undertake regular training. Those working with children, young people and vulnerable adults are recruited through safer processes. Clear procedures are in place for responding to concerns, and safeguarding is regularly reviewed to ensure that we continue to learn and improve.
Rev. Keir The 9 Bridges Benefice www.9brideges.church
Yet safeguarding is not only the responsibility of designated officers or church leaders. It belongs to all of us. Every member of the church community has a role in fostering a culture where people are treated with dignity, where concerns can be raised without fear, and where individuals know they will be listened to with compassion and respect. The church should be a place where trust can grow and flourish. Our aim is not merely to comply with regulations but to embody the values of the Gospel in practical ways. By placing safeguarding at the centre of our life together, we seek to ensure that our churches are places of welcome, healing and hope. As we continue that journey, we do so with humility, recognising past failures, but also with determination to build a safer future for everyone. Revd Keir Dow Vicar www.villagetribune.org.uk
14/10/2026 11:57
NORTHBOROUGH CHURCH NEWS
A spectacular cascade of crocheted flowers decorates the porch of St Andrew’s Church during Northborough’s Posies for Patty celebrations.
Posies for Patty celebrates
Northborough’s poetic heritage Flowers, poetry and a walk in John Clare’s footsteps brought Helpston and Northborough together to celebrate the poet and his wife Martha. By Teresa Scott
Northborough joined July’s John Clare Festival with its own Posies for Patty celebrations, honouring the poet and his wife Martha, affectionately known as Patty, who lived in the village for almost 40 years. A poetry trail featuring extracts from Clare’s Northborough Sonnets accompanied a village poetry hunt, with two Northborough Primary School pupils winning prizes donated by Sweets Treats in Bourne. St Andrew’s Church was decorated with children’s artwork, /groups/villagetribune
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floral tributes and a spectacular cascade of crocheted flowers. Local schoolchildren also placed posies on Patty’s grave. Saturday’s celebrations included a concert by Peterborough Choral Society at St Benedict’s Church in Helpston. On Sunday, walkers retraced the Clare family’s four-mile journey from Helpston to Northborough, inspired by the poet’s The Flitting. Along the Maxey Cut, Richard Astle of the LandDyke Trust shared insights into the landscape before walkers reached The Packhorse for a welcome Poet’s Lunch.
At St Andrew’s, historian Claire Richardson explored Martha Clare’s Northborough, while Peterborough Archives’ James Keech introduced the historic Northborough Overseer of the Poor Book, containing references to John Clare as a ratepayer from 1832. Tea, cakes and a raffle rounded off the celebrations, with proceeds donated to St Andrew’s Church. Organisers thanked everyone who helped make the weekend a fitting tribute to the Clare family’s enduring legacy. Full story available online villagetribune 63
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www.villagetribune.org.uk
14/10/2026 11:59
AT NUNTON LODGE FARM
065VT155 VT161Nunton NuntonLodge.indd Lodge advert.indd 65 21 21
15/10/2026 22/10/2025 17:29 17:01
GLINTON SWITCH-ON Glinton Christmas Tree
Switch 0n
Glinton prepares to light up for Christmas! Festive carols, twinkling lights and seasonal treats are on the menu as Glinton gets ready for its annual Christmas Tree Lights Switch On on Thursday 3 December. Residents of Glinton and neighbouring villages are invited to wrap up warm and join the festive celebrations at St Benedict’s Churchyard as the village Christmas tree is illuminated for another year. The evening begins at 6.45pm with traditional Christmas carols, bringing friends, families and neighbours together for one of the village’s favourite seasonal traditions. At 6.59pm, the countdown will begin, with the Christmas tree lights officially switched on at
7pm, accompanied by the ringing of St Benedict’s Church bells. Making a welcome return will be the specially designed switchon plunger, created last year by Mr T. Chegwidden and Design Technology students at Arthur Mellows Village College. The ingenious device will once again take centre stage for the big moment. Following the switch-on, everyone is welcome inside St Benedict’s Church to enjoy complimentary mulled wine and mince pies, offering an
opportunity to catch up with neighbours and share some Christmas cheer. Supported by Glinton Parish Council, the annual event continues to bring villagers of all ages together and provides a fitting start to the festive season. So, gather the family, dig out your winter woollies and head for the churchyard on Thursday 3 December. Everyone is welcome! Thursday 3 December | St Benedict’s Churchyard, Glinton | Carols from 6.45pm | Lights on at 7pm Glinton’s Christmas tree will light up the village once again on Thursday 3 December, with carols, church bells and festive refreshments for all to enjoy.
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14/10/2026 12:00
SHOP IN STORE >> SHOP ONLINE CL CLICK LICK & COLLECT
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COLLECT LOYALTY CARD POINTS
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Peacock Square, Northfield Industrial Estate Market Deeping, PE6 8LW T: 01778 218228
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VILLAGE NEWS
Deeping U3A Church Mice Visit St Peter’s, Maxey Members of the Deeping U3A Church Mice Group were warmly welcomed to St Peter’s Church, Maxey on 8 September for an
enjoyable afternoon of history, hospitality and friendship. Following a guided tour of the church, the group enjoyed a
fascinating talk by Michael Loveder, who shared insights into the church’s rich heritage and many points of interest. The visit concluded with a delicious afternoon tea in the Lady Chapel, providing the perfect opportunity to relax, chat and enjoy the company of fellow members. A memorable afternoon was had by all.
5.30 pm–7.30 pm
Two Lamb or Chicken Meals for £32.00 All Raja meals include rice, samosa, pakora, naan, mango chutney & lime pickle.
5.30 pm–7.30 pm
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16/10/2026 14:41
HOUF UPDATE
Helping Our Ukrainian Friends this Christmas Local appeal calls for donations of essential supplies and Christmas gift boxes to bring practical help, comfort and a little festive cheer to families affected by the continuing war in Ukraine. By Bob Bennet
As the war in Ukraine continues, local volunteers are once again appealing to the generosity of our communities to help those facing unimaginable hardship. Helping Our Ukrainian Friends (HOUF) is launching another collection campaign, building on more than four years of support from local residents who have donated essential supplies and helped deliver much-needed aid to people affected by the conflict. This latest appeal is seeking donations of medicines, food, hygiene products, power banks, torches and generators, alongside Christmas gift boxes
for Ukrainian children and families. While practical supplies remain desperately important, the group is particularly keen to bring some happiness to those facing another Christmas overshadowed by war. A Christmas gift box, lovingly prepared and filled with thoughtful presents, offers more
Young supporters proudly display Christmas gift boxes prepared for Ukrainian children and families. The Helping Our Ukrainian Friends campaign combines practical aid with thoughtful gestures of kindness, bringing hope and festive cheer to those affected by the war. than its contents. It sends a powerful message that Ukrainian families have not been forgotten and that people in communities hundreds of miles away continue to care. HOUF has expressed its heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported previous campaigns, whether through donations, organising collections or simply spreading the word. With the continued kindness and generosity of local people, the group hopes to make another meaningful difference this winter.
How you can help
© elvirkins
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Please see the accompanying campaign poster on page 70 for details of the items required and where donations can be dropped off. Every contribution, however small, is greatly appreciated. villagetribune 69
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Humanitarian aid collection for Ukraine
In In December December 2026, 2026, the the local local volunteer volunteer group group Helping Helping Our Our th th Ukrainian Ukrainian Friends Friends will will make make its its 28 28 delivery delivery of of aid aid to to support support those those impacted impacted by by the the war war in in Ukraine. Ukraine. Last collection: 27th Nov ‘26 Last collection: 27th Nov ‘26 Warmth&Shelter Warmth&Shelter
Blankets Blankets Winter-rated Winter-rated sleeping sleeping bags bags Yoga / sleeping Yoga / sleeping mats mats Pillows Pillows Knitted Knitted Hats/Scarves/Baby Hats/Scarves/Baby Clothes Clothes Gloves Gloves Towels Towels Chemical Chemical hand/body hand/body warmers warmers
Food(non-perishables) Food(non-perishables)
Rice, Rice, flour, flour, pasta pasta Tinned Tinned food food (soups, (soups, fish, fish, meats, meats, fruits) fruits) Protein bars Protein bars Sweets Sweets (not (not chocolate) chocolate) Tea, Tea, coffee, coffee, sugar sugar
Cooking Cooking & & Heating Heating Camping Camping gas gas stoves stoves Thermos flasks Thermos flasks Disposable Disposable tableware tableware
Medicines Medicines
Paracetamol Paracetamol Multivitamins Multivitamins Antiseptic Antiseptic wipes wipes Expectorants Expectorants (cough (cough medicine) medicine) Cold & Flu medicines Cold & Flu medicines
Electronics Electronics
Phones, Phones, tablets, tablets, computers computers (factory reset (factory reset and and in in good good working order) working order)
Hobbies Hobbies
Sports Sports equipment equipment Art Art supplies supplies Musical Musical instruments instruments
Light&Power Light&Power
Household Household candles candles Batteries Batteries (standard (standard and and rechargeable) rechargeable) LED LED lamps/lights(USB lamps/lights(USB rechargeable) rechargeable) Powerbanks Powerbanks 20,000 20,000 mAh mAh Solar Solar lamps lamps Torches Torches Generators Generators
Hygiene Hygiene
Soap Soap Toothpaste Toothpaste & & toothbrushes toothbrushes Female sanitary Female sanitary products products Deodorant Deodorant Baby Baby nappies nappies (all (all sizes) sizes) Shampoo&Body Shampoo&Body Wash Wash
Christmas Christmas gift gift boxes boxes for for children children
Donation Donation points... points...
The The Granary Granary Tea Tea Room, Room, Willow Willow Brook Brook Farm, Farm, Helpston, Helpston, PE6 PE6 7EL 7EL The Bluebell Inn, Helpston, PE6 7ED The Bluebell Inn, Helpston, PE6 7ED St St Botolph’s Botolph’s Church, Church, Helpston, Helpston, PE6 PE6 7DT 7DT St St Stephen’s Stephen’s Church, Church, Etton, Etton, PE6 PE6 7DA 7DA All All Saints Saints Church, Church, Park Park Road, Road, Peterborough, Peterborough, PE1 PE1 2UL 2UL St. St. John John the the Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Church Church Street, Street, Baston, Baston, PE6 PE6 9PE 9PE St. St. Michael Michael & & All All Angels Angels Church, Church, Langtoft, Langtoft, PE6 PE6 9LP 9LP St. St. Firmin's Firmin's Church, Church, Thurlby, Thurlby, PE10 PE10 0EH 0EH Nataliia’s Nataliia’s Dream Dream Restaurant, Restaurant, 204A 204A Lincoln Lincoln Road, Road, Peterborough, Peterborough, PE1 PE1 2NQ 2NQ Borderville Borderville Sport Sport Centre, Centre, Ryhall Ryhall Road, Road, Stamford, Stamford, PE9 PE9 1US 1US Stamford Stamford College, College, Drift Drift Road, Road, Stamford, Stamford, PE9 PE9 1XA 1XA Priory Priory Church, Church, Church Church Gate, Gate, Deeping Deeping St St James, James, PE6 PE6 8NP 8NP St Guthlac’s Church, 9 Church Street, Market Deeping, St Guthlac’s Church, 9 Church Street, Market Deeping, PE6 PE6 8AN 8AN Enterprise Car Hire, Uffington Road, Stamford, PE9 2EX Enterprise Car Hire, Uffington Road, Stamford, PE9 2EX
Please Please note: note: we we are are unable unable to to accept accept any any clothes clothes or or shoes. shoes.
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FERRY MEADOWS
Christmas Carnival comes to Ferry Meadows! Festive fun takes on a colourful carnival twist this winter as Ferry Meadows prepares to welcome families for a magical celebration packed with mischievous elves, entertainment and seasonal surprises. Ferry Meadows is getting ready to celebrate Christmas in a rather different way this year, with the launch of a Christmas Carnival promising plenty of festive fun for the whole family. Running on selected dates from 26 November to 23 December, the event will transform the popular country park into a colourful festive attraction, complete with carnival-inspired games, live Festive fun for all the family as Ferry Meadows prepares to welcome its Christmas Carnival, featuring mischievous elves, live entertainment and seasonal surprises.
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entertainment, an enchanted winter garden and more than a little mischief from Santa’s elves. Visitors can enjoy a variety of festive activities and surprises, while seasonal food trucks will be serving Christmas favourites. A Christmas Pop-Up Shop will also offer gifts, decorations and
festive treats. And there’s good news for dog owners, too! Every Thursday evening will be dogfriendly, allowing four-legged family members to join in the celebrations. Teresa Fairchild, Commercial Events Manager at Nene Park Trust, said: “We’re incredibly excited to launch our Christmas Carnival at Nene Park this year. We’ve created something that’s all about having fun together, with carnival games, live entertainment, festive food and plenty of surprises along the way, all with our Christmas elves at the heart of the
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FERRY MEADOWS
experience.” The Carnival will offer two sessions each evening, starting at 4pm and 6pm. Special quieter sessions, with reduced visitor numbers, will take place at 4pm on 27 November and 21 December. Tickets cost £15 for adults and £10 for children, while youngsters aged two and under can attend free. Every ticket also helps support the charitable work of Nene Park Trust, which maintains and cares for the park.
Christmas Carnival dates: 6–29 November, 3–6 December, 10–13 December and 17–23 December. For further information and tickets, visit www.nenepark.org. uk/christmas-carnival. 72 villagetribune
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Opening January 2027 Enquire now
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Contact us Olympus House, Staniland Way, Werrington, Peterborough, PE4 6NA
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NORTHBOROUGH NEWS Northborough’s community celebrations brought residents together for a sunny Bank Holiday, while the village now looks forward to a magical Advent trail throughout December.
Northborough celebrates
a sunny summer success A bumper Bank Holiday celebration brought villagers together for bargains, art, entertainment and fundraising – while plans are already under way to brighten up the village this Christmas. Northborough was buzzing with activity on August Bank Holiday Monday as glorious sunshine helped make the village’s Garage Sale, Art Exhibition and Packhorse Birthday Celebration a resounding success. With stalls dotted throughout
the village, bargain hunters were spoilt for choice, while local charities benefited from the generosity of visitors and residents. The Deepings Patient Participation Group and Mill House Animal Sanctuary were
among those taking part, alongside stalls raising funds for Sue Ryder, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People and St Andrew’s Church. The Packhorse kept visitors well fed with bacon sandwiches and sausage butties, while the art exhibition at St Andrew’s Church served tea and cakes throughout the day. The event resulted in a welcome donation of £371.87 to St Andrew›s Church. Younger visitors enjoyed a horseshoe treasure hunt, with children completing the challenge receiving a treat from the pub and an entry into a family prize draw. Congratulations went to the Kibble family, winners of a basket of goodies. Live afternoon music from Graham Cleaver in the Packhorse garden rounded off a thoroughly enjoyable community occasion. Organisers thanked everyone who helped make the day such a success and hope to welcome everyone back next year.
Help Northborough shine this Christmas! The Packhorse is now inviting residents to take part in a Magical Advent Window or Garden Trail, bringing a little festive cheer to Northborough throughout December. From 1–24 December, a different decorated window or garden will be unveiled each day, creating a colourful outdoor Christmas gallery for villagers 74 villagetribune
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and visitors to enjoy. Residents can get involved in whatever way takes their fancy – from twinkling lights and festive ornaments to painted windows, Christmas pictures and imaginative garden displays. A trail map will be made available nearer the time, helping families explore the village and discover each day’s
new creation. Anyone wishing to take part can reserve an unveiling date by contacting The Packhorse on 01733 913155. Whether you’re decorating or simply enjoying a festive stroll, it’s another opportunity to celebrate Northborough’s community spirit. www.villagetribune.org.uk
14/10/2026 12:49
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.
St Pega weekend In August (just too late to put a report in the SeptemberOctober Tribune) For twelve hours over the weekend the Paddling Peasnells ‘rowed’ from Crowland to Peakirk 24 times covering 100 miles to commemorate the occasion when, as the story goes, Pega rowed from Crowland to Peakirk. They finished their epic row at the end of our well-attended annual Hymns and Pimms evening. Also on display was a collection of ten handknitted Bible stories including David and Goliath, Jesus calls his disciples and The Parable of the Prodigal Son. Visitors were encouraged to vote for their favourite story and the winner was Noah and his Ark.
Concert by The Six In September we were thrilled to welcome the return of The Six for a concert in Peakirk Village
St Pega’s Church 100 Club Lucky winners of our September 100 Club were: Ist : Pauline 2nd : Barry 3rd : Debi /groups/villagetribune
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Our next community and fund-raising events are: Don’t forget TUESDAY@10 every Second Tuesday of the month in Peakirk Village Hall 10.00 – 12.00 A time to meet up with friends and make new ones over coffee or tea and a choice of scones (different flavours each month). Hall. What a super evening it was, with the audience delighted by the selection of songs and also the delicious refreshments served during the interval. A big thank you to David, Simon, Alison, Marie, Matt, Adam and Derek (yes they know that makes seven, but the classical group The Sixteen often has eighteen members so The Six feel that they can get away with having one more!) for such a wonderful evening’s entertainment.
St Pega’s Brunch in Peakirk Village Hall SUNDAY NOVEMBER 22nd Serving full English breakfasts and lighter options. 9.30 -11.00 Bookings taken: Sheila@9bridges.church or 01733 252416
Christmas Fayre Saturday November 28th 2.00 – 4.00 in Peakirk Village Hall Get ahead with your Christmas preparations by coming along to our Christmas Fayre. Christmas gifts, decorations, Games and activities
Worship at St Pega’s
Together, these two events raised almost £2000 for the work of the church. We thank everyone who came for their generous support.
ALSO – will have happened in october! ■ The Church’s Autumn Clean Up-Clear Up – an opportunity to get rid of the cobwebs, polish the brasses and spruce up the church yard. ■ Poppy-making Workshop – an opportunity to get together to create a Remembrance display of poppies in the church and at the village monument.
■ Sunday December 6th at 3.00pm The Lighting of the Christmas tree (with carols) in the church followed by Messy Church and Bring and Share Christmas Tea in the Village Hall. All welcome ■ Sunday December 13th Morning Worship Love came down at Christmas. A service with Carols and Congregational participation ■ Sunday December 21st Service of Nine Lessons and Carols with the Benefice Choir Christmas Morning: Join us to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
Please look on social media (Facebook St Pegas Church) and posters for further information. villagetribune 75
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pitchperfect
YOUR AT-A-GLANCE GUIDE TO LOCAL BUSINESSES
By featuring your lineage adverts for 12 months, spanning six issues, we will get your details in front of over 12,500 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) ARCHITECTURAL Architectural Design Services T: 07841 521271 01733 252850 E: JasonADServices@yahoo.co.uk / Architectural Design Services ARTS & CRAFTS The Arts Society Peterborough Free taster arts lectures. Email napierTASPnimbus@gmail.com to learn more and reserve your space CARPENTRY
BC Carpentry T: 07710 328848 E: Info@bc-carpentry.co.uk www.bc-carpentry.co.uk COMPUTER REPAIRS & UPGRADES
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 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
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GARDENING & TREE CARE SERVICES
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. 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 Hilton Tree Care A local, trustworthy family business ( fully qualified and insured) covering all aspects of tree surgery and hedging . For a free, fast, competitive quote please call : Tel: Josh 07955 321 233 Rob 07795 010 185 Email: Admin@Hiltontreecare.com The Nature Garden Studio T: 07793 840327/ 01733 810281 E: Sharronsmith123@btinternet.com www.thenaturegardenstudio.uk Garden design, planting plans, garden consultancy. Specialist in small wildlife gardens. Hand drawn designs in watercolour. GARDEN CENTRES Bosworths Garden Centre T: 01832 343104 E: elton@bosworthsgc.co.uk www.bosworthsgc.co.uk Set within the beautiful surroundings of Elton Walled Garden, Bosworth’s Elton offers a relaxed and inspiring shopping experience with a carefully selected range of plants, gifts, and garden essentials. With its inviting atmosphere, friendly team, and the popular Mulberry Café, Elton is the perfect destination to enjoy gardening inspiration, delicious food, and a peaceful day out. www.villagetribune.org.uk
16/10/2026 14:46
CLASSIFIED SECTION HEALTH & BEAUTY
Greenacres Health T: 01733 254239 E: Admin@greenacreshealth.co.uk Greenacreshealth.co.uk Reconnecting body and mind. Restore your wellbeing and vitality. Health and wellbeing tools to combat stress and anxiety, improve confidence, performance and tackle phobias. Lifestyle solutions and programmes for the whole family. Talking Therapies and Chiropractic Care. Heel The Sole Foot Healthcare T: 07889 798370 E: Suewillcox01@gmail.com www.heelthesole.uk Meta Physiotherapy T: 07946 067439 E: daniela@metaphysiotherapy.net www.metaphysiotherapy.net Truly Confident Aesthetics 1c West Street T: 07951 484752 E: trulyconfidentaesthetics@gmail.com www.trulyconfidentaesthetics.net The Cove Aesthetics T: 07872893326 @thecoveaesthetics_ @Thecoveaesthetics E: thecoveaesthetics@icloud.com www.thecoveaesthetics.com HEALTH INSURANCE
LP Health Ltd T: 07376 194413 E: lisa.parrett@wpa-hcp.org.uk www.wpa.org.uk/lisaparrett For tailored advice on private healthcare and cash plans for individuals, families, and companies
MOBILE FOOTCARE Rachel’s Mobile Footcare E: rachelsmobilefootcare@gmail.com T: 07380 426984 Level 4 Foot Health Practitioner providing foot health In Peterborough,Oundle, Stamford, Kings Cliffe and their surrounding villages. Providing Diabetic foot healthcare advice and management, corn and callus removal, toenail cutting and treatments for various fungal infections MORTGAGE ADVICE
Path Mortgages T: 01778 428158 E: hello@pathmortgages.co.uk www.pathmortgages.co.uk We offer expert guidance, personalised support, and access to a wide panel of lenders and providers. PLUMBING & HEATING
WC Smith Plumbing T: 07730 045077 www.wcplumberspeterborough.co.uk Bathrooms, Plumbing, Heating. Based in Helpston. Matthew Mills Registered Plumber T: 07545 270482 E: matthewmillsplumbing@gmail.com 24 hour service. No job too small. Covering a 25mile radius of Peterborough PUBS, RESTAURANTS & MOBILE FOOD Amo La Pizza T: 07514 771388 E: info@amolapizza.uk woodfiredpizzauk
HEALTHCARE SERVICES Bretton Medical Practice and Park Medical Centre To register visit our website www. brettonparkhealthcare.co.uk
Ruddy Duck at Peakirk T: 01733 252426 E: nigelcook502@gmail.com www.ruddyduckpeakirk.co.uk
HOMECARE
Go Cruise and Travel with Kieran and Lyndsay A family-run independent travel agency providing personalised travel experiences that exceed customer expectations and delivers unbeatable value for money. M: 07401 233376 E: kieran@gocruiseandtravel.co.uk www.gocruiseandtravel.co.uk/specialist/ kieran-and-lyndsay
Bluebird Care E: peterborough@bluebirdcare.co.uk T: 01733 459907 www.bluebirdcare.co.uk Since 2004, we’ve helped people live life on their terms, in their homes. With 20+ years of learning from people like you, looking after your loved ones and constantly refining our Home Care service. /groups/villagetribune
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TRAVEL
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The N T: 077 E: Sha Webs Garde Specia design
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 ■ Beavers, Rainbows, Brownies, Cubs, Guides, Rangers & Scouts General Guiding Queries Morag Sweeney .............................................. 07801 357701 Helpston Brownies Jasmine Hughes ....... 07709 037820 Helpston Guides & Rangers 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, Sarah Spademan .................. helpstonscouts@gmail.com ■ 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 78 villagetribune
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■ Glinton Church (St Benedict’s) Churchwarden: Veronica Smith .................01733 252019 ■ Helpston Church (St Botolph’s) Rector: Gary Alderson ................................ 07503 975588 ■ 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 Church (St Bartholomew) Reved. Hayley Hobbs .................................... 01733 470995 Revhayleyhobbs@outlook.com 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 www.villagetribune.org.uk
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DIRECTORY LISTING ■ Tennis Club (Helpston) .........................07714 780573 ■ Ufford Church Enquiries Keith Lievesley ...............................................01780 740679 ■ Village Halls Bainton Reading Room Angela Womack https://sites. google.com/view/baintonreadingroom/home Barnack Village Hall Bookings Sally Hullock .................................................. 07795 565658 Glinton Village Hall Bookings Sue Lane ......................................................... 07923 475966 Helpston Village Hall, www.helpstonandettonvallagehall.co.uk .......................... Maxey Village Hall www.maxeyvillagehall.co.uk Newborough Village Hall Bookings ...........07549185914 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 Tracy Thomas (Secretary) ...........................07720 327145
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 clerk@baintonandashton-pc.gov.uk ........07590 750128 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 ■ Etton Parish Council Clerk – Elinor Beesley ....................................07713 194173 clerk@etton-pc.gov.uk /groups/villagetribune
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■ 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.gov.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 Sutton Parish Council Parish Council Clerk Tony Henthorn ......07590 750128 clerk@suttonparishcouncil.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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