Simply Spalding October 20 by Chilli Media & Publishing Ltd

FR Your EE

SIMLDING PLY SPA PLY IM S IM S G G IN SPALD PALDIN www.simplyspalding.co.uk S Y L Y SPALDP L Y P L IM S IM G SIMP ING DING S IN L D A L P A S P D Y S PL LY PAL G SIMP IMPLY S SPALDIN LY SPALDING S SPALDING SIM P Y L IM P S PLY IM S IM S ING G G SPALDIN LDSPALDIN PLY SPA SIMPLY SIMPLY ING SIM LDING LDING D A L P A S P Y S L P LY SPA G SIMP SIMPLY G SIMSPALDIN LY SPALDING PALDIN S P Y L IM P S IM S IMPLY S ING G G IN DIN SPALD LY SPAL P SPALDY SIMPLY IM L S P LDING ING SIM D L A P ING S D PLY SPA L Y PLY SPA G SIMPL Y SPALDIN Y SPALDING SIM PALDING SIMPL S PL SPALDY ING SIM ALDING SIMPLY L P IM SP ING S SIMPLY LDING Y SPALD PLY SPA G SIMPL Y SPALDIN Y SPALDING SIM PALDING SIMPL S PL DL A P S Y ING SIM ALDING SIMPLY G SIMPL SP SPALDIN Y SPALDING SIMPLY SIMPLY L P G Y IM IN S D L G G SIMPL SPA LDIN SPALDIN SPALDPLY SPA PLY2020 IM S Y ING SIM Issue L G P 146 October IN SPALD ING SIM SIMPLY LDING Y SPALD PLY SPA G SIMPL SPALDIN Y SPALDING SIM PL ING SIM

lo ca l

ag az

in e

Simply Spalding

local

2 Bridge Street, Spalding, Lincolnshire, PE11 1XA

(01775) 718257

school holidays life Cancelled

Bingham-Woods Independent Financial Advisors Ltd www.bingham-woods.co.uk

Albion Chambers, 1 West End, Holbeach, PE12 7LW (01406) 709230

Have you heard about or thought of looking into Equity Release? Call or come in to discuss your options with our experts

Managing Director

Hayley Hammond hayley@chilli-mp.co.uk

Customer Support Executive

Heather Barton

heather@chilli-mp.co.uk Sales Support Manager

Rosie Willerton

rosie@chilli-mp.co.uk

Contents

to the October issue!

he last time I wrote a welcome letter was 6 months ago…. some days it still seems unreal what we have lived through and continue to experience. I started my last welcome back in March for our April issue talking about how quickly things had escalated and we were waiting on news about schools, colleges etc. Just a few days later LOCKDOWN hit, we left the office expecting to be back a few weeks later, probably after the Easter holidays but in fact we stayed out of the office for 171 days! We are now back working in the office, albeit things are a little different to do our best to keep everyone safe. I have to admit it is nice to have some routine and normality to our days.

Sales Executive

Sarah Bowers

sarah@chilli-mp.co.uk Sales Executive

Alex Bavetta

alex@chilli-mp.co.uk

Baking at home I think lockdown has been a challenge for so many people. Whether it’s been homeschooling, isolation, job loss, working through the period as a key worker, loss of purpose and

Home Grown Produce for some actually coping with the illness. For us the first 8 weeks I have to admit were pretty good, I wasn’t working so could give my children 24/7 attention, something I am grateful of as I only had small maternity leave periods with both of them so I felt I had been given a gift. We managed the school work and then got to enjoy daily walks, clapping for carers, arts and crafts, baking, gardening, playing and generally just happy in our bubble of 4. The challenge came when I returned to working; a 5 year old and 2 year old do not understand the etiquette of video calls, especially where the toilet is concerned….we had a few awkward moments! My husband has worked from home for a number of years so they are used to him not being accessible during the day and that meant they came to me, which is natural but the work/life juggle got somewhat harder when trying to

also fit in school work and some quality time. However, I cannot moan we were immensely lucky as a family we were able to stay at home whilst many still had to go to work as key workers and had to juggle childcare, home schooling and work. I am grateful for the time we have had, the time we have been able to focus on family time and experiences. We also realised we don’t need all the ‘things’ we have and do – we can be at home and have fun with the simplest of activities.

VE Day celebrations A highlight for me was seeing all the VE Day celebrations across the region. Our village pulled out all the stops and so many people decorated their houses and sat in their gardens for the afternoon; the lovely weather helped immensely I am sure. I don’t know if lockdown hadn’t happened if VE Day would have been as celebrated? So here we are back to work, schools and colleges re-open but we are back to tighter restrictions on gatherings and

News

Covid Timeline

Cancelled Weddings

Lockdown School Life

Local Heroes

Cancelled Big Events

Village Tails

Key Worker Real Life

Recipes

Cancelled Holidays

Handy Contacts

Items for Sale

meeting people. None of us know how winter will be and whether a full lockdown will return but I cannot stress that now is the time to be supporting the local businesses as it is going to be a very difficult time for us all. We can help by supporting the independent business owners ride this wave of uncertainty. They have been there for us through lockdown but it is tough for them all. Remember to ask elderly neighbours or those unable to get out if they need help as many are isolated with no friends or family nearby. Many elderly are very worried again now the increased restrictions have come into play and once again will be staying home. Finally, to tell you about this issue. We have given you a round up of the last 6 months, what’s been happening, who it’s affected and made it a keepsake issue to show generations to come what life living through Covid-19 was like. All that’s left for me to say is enjoy the issue, stay safe and see you next month!

Hayley

Tel: 01775 640254 • info@simplyspalding.co.uk • www.simplyspalding.co.uk Barrowby Barns, Northgate, West Pinchbeck, Lincolnshire. PE11 3TB Simply Spalding is sourced and published independently by a local resident and not associated with any large organisation or society. Any reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited without prior written consent. Any views or opinions expressed in Simply Spalding may not be reflective of those of the publisher. Simply Spalding or the parent company cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material.

NOW YOU SEE IT

NOW YOU DON’T • Special offers For Pensioners • 30 Day Money Back Guarantee • Ear Wax Removal • Latest Digital Hearing Aids available

A&S Hearing Services

Independent Hearing Aid Specialist FREE Hearing Tests

30 High Street, Holbeach, Spalding, Lincolnshire. Tel: 01406 423475 Email: s.lewis787@btinternet.com www.hearingaidspeterborough.co.uk

Open: Mon, Tue, Thurs & Fri: 10am -4pm, Sat: 10am – 2pm, Wed & Sun: Closed www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 3

Stamford Shakespeare Company launched fundraising appeal to ensure its survival

Council extends free period for new and existing market traders across South Holland

outh Holland District Council has announced that market fees across South Holland will be waived for another three months, stretching the support for traders to six months. The decision, which ensures no fees for traders until the end of November, helps support the Council’s commitment towards the District’s town centres and its businesses, as it looks to continue to build for the future and aid the economic and social recovery of the District from COVID-19. The extension to the support will save valuable money for traders impacted by a change in trade levels during lockdown and beyond, whilst also presenting a low-risk opportunity for other businesses or individuals to consider taking part for the first time. Several new traders at Spalding market have already used the free period to take part in the market, with a seller of handbags, purses and wallets and also a cake company appearing in recent weeks. It follows further support through a £5,000 grant for existing traders earlier in August, who the Council

identified directly through their discretionary grant funding from the Government’s COVID-19 support package. The Council are also reaffirming the importance of the market through the ongoing work of the Spalding town centre improvement group, which includes representatives from the Spalding Market Traders group. Councillor Roger Gambba-Jones, portfolio holder for place, said: “I am very pleased that we are extending the rent free period for traders. I believe it shows our commitment to supporting our District’s markets and its traders whilst also seeking to encourage others to give market trading a try, as our District continues to recover from these challenging times. “The markets are an integral part of our plans for the District, and I would encourage anyone who’s always considered giving it a go to make the most of this opportunity and be part of a growing and diverse retail offer to our shoppers.” More information on our South Holland District’s markets, as well as details on how you can apply to take part, can be found at https://www. sholland.gov.uk/markets.

4 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

tamford Shakespeare Company (SSC), with its open-air theatre at Tolethorpe Hall, has launched a fundraising campaign. Its aim is to raise crucial funds to keep the theatre company afloat and to ensure the summer season of plays can continue next year. The impact of Covid-19 on SSC has been enormous. The Theatre and Hall were closed in March this year and the Company has lost a forecasted £240,000 worth of ticket sales. As a charity who receive no funding from any arts organisations or formal sponsorship, SSC relies on income from tickets sales to fund the productions, maintain the beautiful grounds and upkeep the Grade 2* listed Elizabethan Hall. The future of SSC is now at great risk. Although the government lifted some of the restrictions on theatres, allowing outdoor venues to re-open with social distancing in place, we have not been able to rehearse, we have not finished the construction of our sets, or the costumes for our actors and therefore our productions could not proceed. Caroline Stephenson, Chair of SSC Board of Directors, said: “We are all so lucky to have this theatre on our doorstep. To date, we have welcomed over a million audience members, to share experiences with friends and family through theatre, giving volunteers a place to be valued, and inspiring young people to dream big. Losing this wonderful, unique and special place would leave a void in our community. We have been putting on Shakespeare plays for over 50

years and we are determined that Covid-19 will not put an end to this, but without the help from the community, we will not survive. We are enormously grateful to our patrons and overwhelmed by their continued generosity and kindness. We now need you more than ever.”

How to donate: Just Giving – https:// www.justgiving. com/campaign/ SSCsaveyourtheatre Cheque - made payable to Stamford Shakespeare Company Cash - sent in a secure envelope to us at: Stamford Shakespeare Company, Tolethorpe Hall Little Casterton, Stamford, PE9 4BH For more information, please take a look at our fundraising website: www.saveyourtheatre. co.uk

Got something to let your local community know about? Email us at editor@simplyspalding.co.uk

Fenchurch House Care Home hosts Open Days to celebrate grand opening

enchurch House Care Home in Spalding will host a series of Open Days to celebrate the grand opening of the brand-new luxury care home. To comply with current Covid-19 guidelines the open days will be by appointment only from 10am – 4pm on Friday 9th, Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th October. Located in Spalding Common, Fenchurch House will specialise in residential care, short-term respite care and specialist dementia care for up to sixty people. It will provide an affordable luxury care offering in Spalding, with a warm family feel. Managing Director, Alykhan Kachra explains “We are delighted to be welcoming families to Fenchurch House Care Home. As a family-run company, we aim to create a ‘home from home’ feel in our homes and our care is the kind we’d want all of our loved ones to receive.” Visitors to the Open Day will be

able to meet the staff team, take a tour of the home and sample food from the mouth-watering menus. Each tour will be socially distanced and carefully managed to comply with Covid-19 requirements. This approach will continue as the home opens, with Fenchurch House following rigorous infection control procedures to ensure all new residents are safe in the home. Staff will be on hand to show visitors around the care home which boasts its’ very own pub, ‘The Mallard Tavern’ where residents can visit for a drink with friends and relatives or enjoy activities such as pub games and quizzes. The home will have its own café called the Gatsby Bistro, an ideal meeting place for residents and their families to enjoy refreshments and freshly made cakes and bakes whilst visiting. The facilities in the home have been designed to make life comfortable and enjoyable, allowing

people to live safely and as they choose; The entertainment suite which features a cinema, games room and library, and The Pantry craft room with an OMI interactive table will provide plenty of choice for residents to participate in their hobbies and pastimes. For residents wishing to relax The Pamper Suite will have a hair salon, nail bar and treatment area. Fenchurch House will be managed by Suria Webb, one of Country Court’s longest serving employees, having joined at Ashwood Nursing Home in Spalding in 1998 as a night nurse. After working as a Home Manager for ten years, Suria was promoted to Area Manager in 2008, when Country Court began to expand and open new care homes. The company’s policy was to take on homes that were in difficulties and turn them

around, for which Suria’s wealth of experience and clinical knowledge proved to be a great asset. She was promoted to Operations Manager and in this role shared best practices and mentored Home Managers and care teams in Country Court Care Homes across Lincolnshire. Country Court has won numerous Great British Care Awards. In 2015 the company was awarded Health Investor Residential Care Provider of the Year and is in the carehome. co.uk Top 25 Large Care Home Groups 2019. For more information about Fenchurch House or to make an appointment on the open days please contact Annemarie Taylor on 01775 292 730 or email annemarie. taylor@countrycourtcare.com. Fenchurch House Care Home, Spalding Common, Spalding PE11 3AU.

AI HEA D R TR IN IA G LS *

FREE hearing tests FREE parking Wax removal service The very latest digital hearing aids Impartial advice from a local INDEPENDENT family business HOME visits available *subject to terms & conditions

01778 301220

37 Market Place, Market Deeping PE6 8EA

Day centres also at J. Neville Opticians, 18 Broad St, Whittlesey & Clark Family Eyecare, 20 Market Place, Donington www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 5

TIMELINE O ‘Those who come after us will say, ‘the Britons of this generation were as strong as any’.’ Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, April 5 2020. Sat in sitting rooms packed with family, friends and food on Christmas Day 2019, with the Queen’s Speech on in the background, no one could have predicted that, just a few months later, Her Majesty would address us once again – this time with much needed words of gratitude, support, inspiration and hope. As the New Year got under way we watched in horror as a highly infectious illness swept through China. In a bid to stop the rapid spread of coronavirus, which causes respiratory infection COVID-19, countries across the world closed schools, shops, non-vital services, and their borders. Then, in March, it was our turn. Prime

6 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

OF EVENTS Minister Boris Johnson instructed us, plainly and simply, ‘you must stay at home’. He told the nation, ‘stay at home, protect our NHS and save lives’.

We came together to help our communities. We clapped our keyworkers. Our kitchens became offices, classrooms and an endless conveyor of snacks and meals. We

Zoomed, Skyped and phoned our way through Lockdown to stay in touch with loved ones. We learnt new skills. We learnt to live in our new normal. And we did ourselves proud.

Here, we have put together a timeline showing how COVID-19 tore the world apart, made the unimaginable our reality, and broke our hearts – but never our spirit.

Late 2019 to August January

June

Coronavirus, believed to be spread by respiratory droplets created by coughing or sneezing, and by touching contaminated surfaces, hits Wuhan in China. We now know that the most common symptoms are a fever, new and continuous cough, shortness of breath, tiredness, loss of appetite, taste and smell. Terrifyingly, it can also be carried by people who have no symptoms January 31 – First UK case of COVID-19 confirmed

June 1 – Schools begin to reopen for reception children and those in years one and six June 13 – The beginning of bubbles. An adult who lives alone may go into the home of one other person or family June 15 – Years 10 and 12 can return to secondary schools and non-essential shops are allowed to open June 29 – Areas of Leicester are subject to the first Local Lockdown due to an increase in cases

March Strong measures to contain coronavirus begin. Because of how it is spread, we are told to avoid close contact with – and to stay two metres apart from - everyone except those we live with, and wash our hands frequently with soap and water, for 20 seconds each time Panic buying and stockpiling lead to supermarkets restricting purchases March 5 – First registered death from COVID-19 in the UK March 11 – World Health Organisation declares a global pandemic March 13 – London Marathon postponed March 17 – Euro 2020 football tournament called off March 19 – English football suspended March 20 – Schools close to all children apart from those of keyworkers and those who are classed as vulnerable. Pubs, bars, restaurants and gyms are among businesses told to shut, and people able to work from home must do so March 23 – Lockdown begins – we may only leave our homes for essential food, medicine, to give care, or for one form of exercise each day. More than 27 million of us watch Boris Johnson make this devastating announcement March 23 – Chancellor Rishi Sunak announces the government’s Furlough scheme, to pay 80 per cent of the wages of workers unable to do their jobs during Lockdown March 23 – Joe Wicks becomes The Nation’s PE Teacher March 24 – Tokyo Olympics postponed

July July 4 – Super Saturday – pubs, restaurants and hairdressers are among those services allowed to reopen Second half of July - More than 15 million global cases have been confirmed July 24 - Face coverings must be worn in shops in England

August August 8 – Face coverings must now be worn at venues including museums, galleries, cinemas and public libraries August 21 – More than 22.7 million cases confirmed globally and over 794,000 deaths

September September 13 – No more than 6 people to meet in groups inside or outside in England. Higher fines enforced by police for those breaking the rules.

April April 5 – Boris Johnson hospitalised due to coronavirus April 12 – Boris leaves hospital Mid-April - More than 2 million cases are reported worldwide April 30 – Boris says UK is past the peak www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 7

Cancelled & Post

wedding day is one of the happiest and loveliest lifetime events. But try to imagine the absolute heartbreak of being told it cannot go ahead as planned – or even at all. This was the upsetting reality for tens of thousands of people, as coronavirus tore through the world. More than 70,000 weddings and civil partnerships across the country had to be cancelled or postponed. All those days, sometimes years

of planning, the anticipation and excitement, and the desire for two people to commit themselves to one another for the rest of their lives – not to mention pre-wedding events and a honeymoon, were rippd to shreds. It is almost unbearable to imagine the disappointment faced by so many couples. On March 23, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that all civil partnerships and weddings were banned. From that date until an unknown time in the future,

8 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

they simply could not go ahead. It sounds harsh to read these words back now, but at the beginning of 2020, things had already started to deteriorate so fast due to COVID that this move wasn’t actually surprising. Before Lockdown had been officially announced, the Church Of England had already cut weddings down to a bare minimum, for example, allowing only the couple getting married, two witnesses and the religious official. Travel restrictions had already

been heavily introduced, so many marriages which were due to take place in sun soaked faraway climes already had to be reorganised. The same was true of UK weddings with guests flying in from abroad. The global pandemic saw partners either postpone or cancel their ceremonies and celebrations, with many raising a glass to themselves on the dates during Lockdown when their actual weddings should have been. Some even had virtual wedding ceremonies.

tponed Weddings Almost three months after we were told to stay at home, wedding and civil ceremonies for up to 30 people were allowed to take place. This small figure had to include not only the couple, but also their guests

and third parties like photographers and officiants. The ceremonies also had to be as short as possible. From August 15 a maximum of only 30 people could attend a sit-down reception. Venues also had to be

COVID-19 secure, with regulations including guests maintaining the two metre social distancing rule as far as possible, no dancing or loud music and no buffets â&#x20AC;&#x201C; food had to be served to guests.

While we were all grateful to be getting back to some sense of normality, weddings and civil ceremonies were a far cry from the celebrations we once knew and loved.

On March 23, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that all civil partnerships and weddings were banned. From that date until an unknown time in the future, they simply could not go ahead. www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 9

Our Dream wedding

on hold

dream May wedding at Whaplode Manor was on the cards for Spalding couple Rachel Perkins and Billy Bristow – until the national emergency of COVID-19 meant it became utterly impossible. ‘The thing I was most looking forward to was having both our families and all our friends together for one big celebration, and, of course, marrying Billy,’ Rachel smiled. And as if missing out on what should have been one of the happiest days of their lives wasn’t enough, their stag and hen parties also had to be called off, as well as a week-long honeymoon in Gran Canaria. But Rachel and Billy, who got engaged on New Year’s Eve 2018, are looking forward to their rearranged date in February 2021. Rachel told us, ‘it was the end of March, just before my hen party was going to take place in Sheffield, that we realised we needed to rearrange. Whaplode Manor and ourselves were both in contact with each other, and when our wedding got officially cancelled, Whaplode Manor let us know and produced a list of available dates we could rearrange to. We had everything already organised, but thankfully all our suppliers were flexible and could make our new date.’ Rachel admitted that having her wedding fully cancelled actually made life easier, because it meant that everything could still go ahead – but at a later date, when she and Billy

wouldn’t be limited to only a handful of guests. Staying on a positive note, Rachel and Billy’s son, Alfie, may have outgrown his original pageboy suit, but so have his two fellow pageboys

– his cousins Charlie and Matthew – and Rachel has a genius plan… ‘Alfie is one, Matthew is three and Charlie is five, so Alfie will wear Matthew’s and Matthew will wear Charlie’s. I’ll just have to buy Charlie

a new one!’ Rachel and Billy still managed to make the day when they should have been celebrating their wedding special, by enjoying a virtual quiz with family.

The thing I was most looking forward to was having both our families and all our friends together for one big celebration, and, of course, marrying Billy.

10 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

SUTTONS

PLUMBING, HEATING & GAS ENGINEERS

• GAS • OIL • LPG • SOILID FUEL • SOLAR THERMAL • SOLAR PV • AIR / GROUND HEAT PUMPS • AIR CONDITIONING • ELECTRIC BOILERS • CONTROL SYSTEMS • CONTROL PANELS

01775 720026

• ssph@btconnect.com • www.ssphltd.co.uk

Sales, Support and servicing for mobility vehicles and aids, rise and recline chairs and stairlifts

01778 393311

Unit 2 Holt House Business Centre, Cherryholt Rd, Bourne PE10 9LH

Opening hou Mon/Tue rs Thurs/Fri s/ 10am till 4pm Wed 10a m till 2pm

Local Independent Business with 45 years Experience providing Quality Products with Excellent Customer Service

We provide:

• NHS and Private Eye Examinations • Free Children’s Eye Examinations • 2nd Pair Discount All Year Round • Free Contact Lens Trial • Free Hearing tests • NEW 3d Eye Health Scan • NEW interest free credit

S. Norris

SOFT WATER SOLUTIONS

WATER SOFTENER INSTALLATIONS, REPAIRS, SERVICING & SALT DELIVERIES

Do you have problems with limescale build up? WE CAN:

Find us at: 15/17 Market Place, Long Sutton, PE12 9JA Tel. 01406 363348 Also at: 9 York Row, Wisbech, Cambs, PE13 1EB Tel. 01945 583044 www.coakleyopticians.co.uk

info@coakleyopticians.co.uk

• Advise on softeners • Give a free quotation • Supply and install water softeners and ﬁlters • Supply and install cabinets for outside installations • Service and repair all makes of water softeners • Supply and deliver salt for water softeners • Provide drinking ﬁlter cartridges

T. 01205 367 355 M. 07799 161 165

Email: s.norrisplumbingandheating@gmail.com www.snorrisplumbingandheating.co.uk

www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 11

BusinessFocus

Carpets 2U

If you’re looking for a local carpet and flooring supplier in Spading and the surrounding areas, then give Carpets-2-U a call. We stock a wide range of carpets, designer flooring and cushioned flooring and can also provide a reliable fitting service. We have accounts with some of the most well-known carpet and flooring suppliers which enables us to offer you their products at very competitive prices, and customers over the age of 60 can benefit from a further 10% discount every Wednesday. We’ll even visit the homes of the less mobile to present samples of our stock if necessary.

atthew Featherstone opened the doors of Carpets-2-U in 2013 on Cresswelll Close, Pinchbeck and has celebrated many successes along the way. The latest of these was purchasing the neighbouring unit 4 and he now has double the area to showcase displays of the many styles of carpets and flooring on offer. “I am ecstatic to reach the five year anniversary of the business,” Matthew said. “And it is brilliant to be able to mark it by doubling the size of the show room. “I’d like to thank all my customers for supporting me over the years and it’s because of that support that our recent expansion has been possible. “We’re now able to provide our customers even more fresh new exciting carpet ranges at our all year round low prices. “New ranges include patterned carpets, Wiltons, quality British made wool twist, super soft touch carpets, and traditional tight twists. “We’re expanding but we’re determined to continue our great service and customer care which has helped make us so successful.” Carpets-2-U buy direct from manufacturers including Abingdon Flooring, Cormar Carpets and Victorian Carpets to keep the costs low for their customers. Supply And Fitting From great value for money bedroom carpets to thick wool and

twist pile carpets, we stock them all. We have carpets to suit every taste and budget and our reliable fitting team are available to take all the stress out of refreshing your home. Our range includes products from manufacturers like Victoria Carpets, so come to the shop today to browse our selection. If you want to feel like you’re walking on air in your own home, cushioned flooring is for you. Cushioned flooring feels great beneath your feet and is stylish, durable and very low maintenance. There’s a large variety of finishes for you to choose from. Carpets-2-U offer a floor replacement service. Whether it’s floor screeding or preparing a plywood subfloor; we can ensure your floor is in a good condition before cushioned flooring is fitted.

Matthew is incredibly proud of his fitting team, “Because we’re a small, independent business we’re able to offer services others can’t with two men taking on each job,” he continued. Free Estimates We offer a comprehensive service – from helping you decide which flooring is right for you to fitting it. This includes a free measuring up and quotation service. Our

team will visit your property to take measurements and we will then provide you with an accurate quotation, so you’ll know exactly what to expect. “We offer the uplift and disposal of old flooring as well as move furniture around to ensure your fitting goes as smoothly as possible with the least disruption. “Our aim is to make it as personal a service for each customer as possible.”

Professional Carpet Fitting Service Finding the right carpet or flooring for you is only the start. Installing it in your home is another matter altogether. Carpets-2-U in Spalding offer a professional carpet fitting service at very reasonable rates, and our service includes free measuring up and estimates. Our team are vastly experienced and strive to be as helpful as possible, even moving your furniture and tidying up for you when they’re done. Services also include free measurements and estimates, as well as taking samples to those who struggle with mobility.

To arrange an appointment call 01775 714466 today or visit the showroom at 4 Cresswell Close, Spalding, PE113TY. 12 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

NEED A RECOMMENDATION? FREE AND EASY SERVICE ®

safelocaltrades.com Recommended & Appro ed

The ONLY Police Checked recommended register of local approved traders

Serving the LOCAL community since 2008 Tried & Tested

Thousands of Reviews

in association with …

Neighbourhood and Home Watch

Looking out for the community

CAMBRIDGESHIRE AND PETERBOROUGH AGAINST SCAMS PARTNERSHIP

C A PA S P

Here are some of our members … Painter & Decorator

PETER BARNES FUNERALS

Driveways & Patios

philgee58@googlemail.com Call Phil on t 01775 767085 ing & Cladding

Fascias, Soffits, Gutter

www.installfascias.net Call Clayton on

24 Hour Service Golden Charter Funeral Plans

pai New Garage Doors & Re

RIDGEWAY GARAGE DOORS

Independent Funeral Directors Our Family Helping Yours, Whenever and Wherever You Need Us

www.cambridgeshiredriveways.com Call Ian on t 01733 810063

0800 612 8850

PVCu Windows & Doors

www.ridgewaygaragedoors.co.uk Call Tracey on t 01733 772934

Wills & Probate

www.tradeframe.com Call Adam or Stef on

01733 574 747

www.will-probate.co.uk Call Nick or Kloe on

01778 382723

‘Westview’, 38 The Bank, Murrow, Wisbech PE13 4HB Tel: 01945 700 200 Mob: 07894 164201

To see our list of vetted and approved members and read their reviews just go to ... www.safelocaltrades.com

peterfunerals@btconnect.com | www.peterbarnesfunerals.co.uk

The safest way to source local traders and service providers

0800 014 1832

www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 13

Simply Magazines - October Issue - PRINT READY.pdf 1 07/09/2020 16:27:17

Pollywiggle

Cottage Where Memories are Made

Pollywiggle Cottage is a charming 3 bedroom Victorian cottage in the popular coastal village of Heacham available for short breaks and holidays.

CMY

Could you care for a sibling group? Find out more at our virtual fostering information event on Tuesday 20th October at 6:30pm.

• Beach Nearby • Open Fire • 3 Bedrooms • Sleeps up to 6 • Golf Nearby • Family Friendly

• Pets welcome • Private, enclosed garden • BBQ • Free Wifi • Oﬀ Road Parking • Tripadvisor rated Excellent

Prices start from just £375 for a week and £282 for a short break. To book or check availability please email info@heachamcottage.co.uk or you can find us online.

Reserve your dates with just £100 deposit

01406 373718 07736 447580

www.heachamcottage.co.uk Facebook: pollywigglecottageheacham

14 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

school life

Walking away from the school gates at the end of the day on Friday, March 20, was a harrowing experience for parents and pupils alike. Gone were the feelings of excitement and anticipation of the weekend. In their place, uncertainty and anxiety weighed heavy in the air as we took our children to the safety of their own homes, not knowing when, or even if, they would return to their classrooms.

oronavirus saw schools shut their doors to all but the children of keyworkers and those who were classed as vulnerable. In the weeks that followed, kitchens were transformed into science labs, gardens were substitutes for sports fields and bedrooms became bases for essay writing. Trying to balance school, work and home life became a daily challenge. Year six, year one and reception children were invited back to school from June 1, with plans to get all remaining students back as soon as possible. But on June 9, parents and pupils gave up hope, when it was

announced the majority of students would not be back in school until the end of the summer holidays. Years 10 and 12 were to be taught some lessons from June 15. Brother and sister Danny and Megan Wright spent all of Lockdown learning at home. Danny, who was in year five when school shut, said, ‘it was good not having to go to school. Sometimes I wanted to go on my Xbox but I had to do my work first. I liked being at home because we didn’t have to travel to and from school, which takes up time, and it also meant I could spend the whole day with my dog. ‘I enjoyed the work I was set – my

mum and I had a lot of fun doing it. We made a Lady Macbeth puppet, and also did our own performance of Macbeth using characters that we made out of cardboard.

some time practising at home, I can now use a protractor too. ‘My teacher set me several science experiments to do, and we were really excited when they worked!

“I definitely enjoyed my time learning at home, but I looked forward to going back to school in September.” ‘We did maths every day, which I enjoyed because it’s one of my favourite subjects. After spending

We had one or two that didn’t quite go according to plan, but we enjoyed doing them at least.  www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 15

‘I could choose when I started my schoolwork, and once I’d done it all, I had the rest of the day to have fun. But in school you have to do your work at certain times, and when you’ve finished you can’t just go outside and play – you have to wait until breaktime. ‘It was also really nice to be able to eat when I wanted too! You can’t get up and grab a snack when you fancy at school, but at home I could just have a look what was in the cupboards when I felt a bit peckish. ‘When I was at home I learnt how to chop vegetables and I also

had time to learn how to ride my bike better. But I did really miss my friends, and the fun we would have had together at school. I was sad to stop playing sports too. I had been looking forward to playing in hockey tournaments for my school and for my club, but they were cancelled, as were all my hockey training sessions. Over summer I was able to go to cricket coaching – it felt really good to be playing sports again. My family played football, cricket and other games with me in the garden, but it wasn’t the same. ‘I definitely enjoyed my time

learning at home, but I looked forward to going back to school in September.’ Megan, who was in year two when classrooms closed, told us, ‘I was sad to miss out on our trip to Tattershall Castle, and we didn’t get to do sports day either. I really wanted to run in the relay race again this year. ‘I got my schoolwork done really quickly, so I did lots of other things when I was at home. I planted lots of seeds like beans, peas, sunflowers, lettuces and pumpkins. I only managed to get one pumpkin to grow, but now it’s huge! It’s grown

Keyworkers F

or those who continued to attend school, things had certainly changed. Noah Howman’s mum is a keyworker, so he spent some time in school during Lockdown, and he told us all about it. ‘School was quite different from usual, because there were a lot less people there,’ Noah, who was in year four, explained. ‘I missed all my friends being with me, but I did enjoy going to school during Lockdown. We still had to keep to social distancing guidelines, and we sat on separate desks. I had my usual class teacher, but my sister Lois

16 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

wasn’t taught by hers. That was nice for me, because although things were a bit different, my teacher was a familiar face. ‘We had to eat lunch in the classroom, which I enjoyed because it was quieter than the hall we would normally use – and we got to watch films when we ate too. ‘We just did our regular schoolwork, really, and we still did some PE too. When I was at home I spent time practising on the piano, and I had my music lessons virtually. ‘I was definitely looking forward to going back properly in September though. I wanted to learn, and to see my friends again.’

really well in the pumpkin patch that my mum and I dug together, and it’s turned bright orange. ‘I really enjoyed doing lots of baking at home once I had finished my schoolwork. I made lots of nice things like lasagne, cakes, scones and bread – although without yeast and bread flour, because mum couldn’t get any from the supermarket. I also made lots of slime! ‘I couldn’t wait to go back to school and start in my new class though. I’ve got some nice new shiny school shoes, and I really love wearing them!’

BusinessFocus

Devonports Kitchens & Bathrooms W

e are all facing and adapting to an ever changing world and a large proportion of us have spent more time at home over the last few months than ever before. The kitchen now, more than ever, has become central to our homes and a relaxing long soak in a luxurious bath to unwind at the end of a hard and tiring day after work or after a day of home schooling is equally important. Nobody knows that better than Stephen and Sarah Devonport who turned a long term dream into a reality when they set up their own Devonports kitchen and bathroom design and installation business in Deeping St James. “It all began over 16 years ago with a desire to provide people with beautiful bathrooms and kitchens married up with expert design, advice and customer service,” said Sarah. They worked out of a home office and van in the early days of the business but were so driven with the dream of one day having their own showroom, that it was only a matter of time before the couple realised their ambition. “We enjoyed many years of continued growth and success and our dream finally became a reality in 2009 when the Devonports Kitchens & Bathrooms showroom was opened,” said Sarah. “Our initial showroom started out at 45 Bridge Street, Deeping St James and we now occupy the neighbouring two units which has allowed us to expand our existing showroom with further kitchen and bathroom displays.” The Devonports’ kitchens, along with its fitted bathroom furniture, are manufactured in Birmingham by Mereway Limited, which has more than 30 years of continued growth and success. They have three ranges within their kitchen portfolio and expanding into the showroom next door has given the Devonports the opportunity to display even more options. The new kitchen settings have been

specifically designed to showcase different door styles and colours and different styles of worktop. “Our existing showroom houses even more kitchen settings with laminate, Granite, Quartz and Corian worktops, all in an array of colours and shapes to show the beauty that can be created from all materials. “At Devonports we strive to offer that something extra to the kitchen and bathroom buying experience. “We are not driven by a team of sales staff, we have no targets or limits to reach or achieve, only the ones that we set ourselves to make our customers’ experiences enjoyable and personal. We will not put any time constraints on you by insisting that you sign to secure a ‘deal’. We will guide you through each step at your own pace.” “We listen, which we believe is quite possibly the most important part of our communication with you, and we offer practical and knowledge-based advice. “We do not take it lightly that we are welcomed into people’s homes and so we always treat them with the utmost respect, keeping our working environment as clean and tidy as possible at all times.” Devonports has its own team of in-house kitchen and bathroom fitters, and uses the services of the same tilers, electricians and plasterers that it has for many years.

43-45 Bridge Street, Deeping St James, Lincolnshire PE6 8HA Tel: 01778 346415 visit www.devonportkitchensbathrooms.co.uk Open: Tuesday - Friday 10am - 4pm and Saturday By Appointment Only www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 17

Customer Satisfaction?

An excellent service The initial meeting was friendly, well informed and accurate. The ﬁtters Max and Joe were professional and did an excellent job, including cleaning up after.

we let our reviews speak for themselves.....

Clive, Lincolnshire 06/02/2019

We are one of the longest established window companies in the area, and with Bryan Thompson Windows exceptional service is guaranteed.

• A rated windows as standard • warm conservatory roofs • glass and polycarbonate conservatory roofs • full conservatories • solid core composite doors • garage doors • porches • carports • fascia and soffits • aluminium windows and doors

27 Boston Road South, Holbeach, Lincs PE12 7LR Tel: 01406 422421

MICK CAWLEY MOTOR ENGINEER LTD Fireplaces & Multifuel Services

Multifuel & woodburning stoves from just £299 Valor and Dimplex centre with ﬁre surrounds

Autumn Oﬀers on all Stoves, Fires & Surrounds www.bostonheating.co.uk For the best deals, visit or call: Boston 01205 310 327 Boston Heating, Church Road, Boston PE21 0LG

• Servicing • Repairs • MOT’s • Air Conditioning • Tyres & Tracking • Exhausts • Batteries • Diagnostics Main dealer expertise with small garage prices

Tel: 01775 720363 Unit 1 13a Kellett Gate, Low Fulney, Spalding

ENJOY THE BENEFITS FROM DAY ONE Multi Award Winning Practice

PLATINUM EYECARE PLAN We offer more than just a sight test. Membership now available! CONTACT US TO MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

5 HALL PLACE, SPALDING, PE11 1SA TELEPHONE 01775 713366 EMAIL INFO@MOLSOM.CO.UK 18 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

WWW.MOLSOM.CO.UK

local Leaving our homes for only essential food and medical supplies, to give vital care, and for just one form of exercise a day - for almost three months this was how we lived. We were confined to the four walls of our homes and to our gardens. Grandparents could not see their grandchildren and best friends were banned from meeting. Streets were deserted. Support groups could no longer meet face to face. They were scary and deeply worrying times.

ut our hearts were still full of care for those around us. An Office For National Statistics survey in April found that just over half the adults they questioned had been offered help from others, should they need to self-isolate or become poorly. This soared to an incredible 83.3 per cent of those surveyed who were 70 and over. Throughout our area groups were formed to look after locals. Collection of prescriptions, shopping, and having a friendly chat on the phone were just some of the ways kind-hearted residents made a massive difference. At a time when people were genuinely frightened to go out – from a selection of people surveyed in May, 41 per cent did not feel safe leaving their homes because of the threat of coronavirus (ons.gov.uk) – ordinary people stepped up and did extraordinary things. One of these local heroes was Keira Williamson, who founded The Spalding And Pinchbeck COVID Kindness Team. She summed up the situation pretty perfectly when she told us, ‘we rely on one another to not only survive, but to thrive too. When you support one person, that creates a ripple effect, and the Kindness Team certainly made waves.’ Keira’s dream team responded to around 4000 individual support requests, delivered 1500 care packages, and also distributed 10,000 fresh fruit and veg bags, making a massive difference to many. Keen to help the community and with

Spalding And Pinchbeck COVID Kindness

Team, pictured by Sally Lucy Photography.

kindness at the forefront of her mind, Keira explained, ‘I started a Facebook page in anticipation of Lockdown, and asked if anyone would be willing to come on board.’ And caring people certainly did come forward. ‘We are all volunteers,’ she explained. ‘Most of us were still working, some of us with children to look after and some working frontline. There are 12 amazing committee members and close to 200 active volunteers. The Kindness Team would not have been what it was without the effortless kindness given by everyone within the volunteer team. Whether they were out shopping, picking up prescriptions, helping us pack the fruit and veg, picking up fresh produce for us, delivering care packages or answering phone calls, it was a big task with a big volume and everyone just pulled together with nothing but kindness in mind. Our towns should be

so proud of the people who live here. It’s so easy to focus on the negatives but these positives far outweigh them.’ Keira formed the team as soon as vulnerable groups were told to self-isolate, before Lockdown was announced. She said, ‘with the demand on supermarkets and no structure in place to assist these people, we wanted to help those in need with vital support such as prescription pick-ups, essential shopping, emergency food parcels for those affected financially due to COVID, and wellbeing check-ins. As well as providing this, we wanted to create as much kindness and sense of community as we could. In survival situations, it can be so easy to slip into individual perspectives but the reality is we are a collaborative and community species. We wanted the community to remember this.

www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 19

local

‘We covered Spalding, Pinchbeck, Weston Hills, Surfleet, Gosberton, Holbeach and Donington. We also were fortunate to create connections with other volunteer groups such as Market Deeping, where we would share between us the extremely kind donations from local businesses, which again, created the sense of community from a wider perspective.’ And, rightly so, the group feels a tremendous sense of pride. Keira told us, ‘we were blown away by the collective effort from the committee, the incredible volunteers and those who donated, whether financially or food and produce. The scale was really quite overwhelming when you sit and reflect on it. Of course, we experienced great highs, but we were also faced with the reality of COVID and how this was affecting people within the community personally. We all went on a very personal rollercoaster of emotions but we are so glad we were able to support and connect with so many people.’ And the team will still be there for anyone who needs them. ‘We are currently running on a skeleton team basis,’ Keira said. ‘We have an emergency food bank in place and, volunteer depending, can assist with shopping. A lot of our volunteers have gone back to work in some capacity as Lockdown has lifted, but we are very aware we may not be out of the woods yet. The Kindness Team will be here should Lockdown come upon us again.’ Keira was keen to thank the Kindness Team

committee members, all the volunteers, and all those who made donations. She also thanked Sally Lucy Photography, for taking pictures of the Team, and who raised more than £600 for the group by taking doorstep photographs of the community Another one of the many wonderful organisations continuing to support those in need throughout Lockdown and beyond is health and wellbeing charity Tonic Health. By delivering much-appreciated gift packs (including by wartime Jeep at one point!), swapping face to face support meetings with virtual gatherings, and helping keep their community moving with exercise sessions, Tonic Health has been a lifeline for lots of locals. Throughout the pandemic, the charity has been providing support to its members where they need it most. This has included making more than 350 befriending/check in calls and delivering over 120 gift packs full of snacks, activities, colouring books, puzzles, and gift cards, for members of their Dementia Support Group. Weekly Zoom meetings of Tonic Health’s Mental Health, Autism and Dementia Carers’ Groups have been held, and members who previously had no internet access were helped thanks to five Kindle Fire tablets, as well as a data SIM card being given to one member to get them connected. All this was made possible thanks to the big-hearted Tonic Health team, along with

Michael Morris and Marion Gaynor with the

wartime Jeep which was out and about distributing gift packs on VE Day, and a selection of the goodies which have been delivered to members of Tonic Health's Dementia Support Group.

20 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

financial grants, as chair of Tonic Health trustees Michael Morris explained. ‘We secured funding in April from the National Emergencies Trust, via the Lincolnshire Communities Foundation, and from Lincolnshire County Council,’ he explained. ‘With additional NHS funding we have also trained three members of staff in the Mental Health First Aid course.’ Speaking about how Tonic Health have worked hard to adapt, so they can continue providing their caring services during a global pandemic, Michael said, ‘providing this small level of support has helped replace what members would usually receive through attending regular groups at Tonic Health. The Safe Places Mental Health, Dementia Support and Autistic Led group members have all benefitted.’ Michael added, ‘a particular highlight was a VE Day gift pack given to all members of the Dementia Support Group. Those living in and around the Spalding area had their gifts delivered by our focus support worker Marion Gaynor, who dressed in 1940s army uniform and arrived in a former army Jeep! It really brought a smile to people’s faces! ‘We are now working on new ways to continue our support. For example, Tonic 44 Community Café in Surfleet has undergone a major transformation to the garden area, creating an all-weather space for people to enjoy their coffee and cake in, and a place to enjoy taking part in some socially distanced activities. ‘Recent funding from Active Lincolnshire has also enabled us to start producing online seated exercise sessions which will be available for all older adults and people with dementia to follow and take part in twice a week, within the comfort of their own homes, via You Tube.’ And the charity’s efforts during these challenging times have been gratefully received. Members have given Michael and his team some marvellous feedback, including comments such as, ‘the weekly phone call has been excellent, and if I was having doubts about what I was doing it was always good to know that there was someone who I could ask, and know that I would be given an honest answer and encouragement to keep going.’ Updates on activities and future events are posted on the Tonic Health Facebook page. If you would like more information you can also call 01775 725059, or visit www.tonichealth.co.uk.

A. COUPLAND (SURFACING) LIMITED Asphalt, Tarmacadam & Associated Civil Engineering Contractors

• VEHICLE ACCESS • DRIVEWAYS • FOOTPATHS • TARMAC, BLACK OR RED • BLOCK PAVING • GROUNDWORK • SWEEPER HIRE • DRAINAGE AND PLANT HIRE ALSO AVAILABLE

Tel: 01775 767110/760971 Fax: 01775 711246 acouplandsurfacinglimited@yahoo.co.uk • www.acoupland-surfacing.co.uk Pudding Lane, Off Wardentree Lane, Pinchbeck, Spalding, Lincs PE11 3TJ

Pleased to be back open and serving our customers Come and visit our showroom safely. We have installed hand gel stations, screens and ask all customers to adhere to social distancing guidelines for the safety of customers and staff.

Christmas Club Now Open

Start saving for your presents for Christmas 2020 Decorations in stock from End of September

• Phone: 01406 362381 • Email: sales@pledgers.co.uk • Website: www.pledgers.co.uk

26-28 Market Place, Long Sutton, Lincolnshire PE12 9JF YOUR LOCAL ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE CENTRE EXPERT KNOWLEDGE • SUPER SERVICE • COMPETITIVE PRICES • PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION

TOMBLINS GARAGE Family Business for 66 years

• MOT Testing Centre - Free re-test • Servicing to all makes • Tyres & Exhausts • Cambelt changes • Quality used car sales

Northgate, Pinchbeck, Tel: 01775 723033

www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 21

CARPETS 2U Showroom now open whilst observing government social distance guidelines

We have recently expanded our showroom with brand new ranges on display, including laminate ﬂooring

Chartered Certified Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisers

DISCOUNT WEDNESDAYS

Offering a fresh approach to your tax, accounting and business needs

EXTRA 10% OFF – EVERY WEDNESDAY FOR ANYONE OVER 55 Not valid with any other oﬀer

SPECIALISTS IN:

• CARPETS • CUSHION FLOOR • HOMESELECT SERVICE • LAMINATE FLOORING • DOMESTIC WORK • TWO MAN TEAM – TO HELP MOVE FURNITURE • UPLIFT OF OLD CARPETS

Bulley Davey is a ﬁrm of Accountants offering a complete business and ﬁnancial support service. Whatever your needs, we can help.

EXPERT FITTING FREE PARKING. EASY TO FIND – WE ARE JUST BEHIND MORRISONS

Contact the Spalding team on 01775 766633 or Holbeach team on 01406 423166 for a free consultation.

OPEN: MON – FRI 9.30 – 4.30 SAT 9.30 – 4.00

4 CRESSWELL CLOSE PINCHBECK, SPALDING, LINCS, PE11 3TY

www.bulleydavey.co.uk Corby Peterborough

TEL 01775 714466 EMAIL carpets2u88@gmail.com

Hitchin

Holbeach

Spalding

Oundle

Stamford

Wisbech

Generic Advert Dec15.indd 1

YOUR LOCAL BLINDS, CURTAINS & SHUTTERS SPECIALIST ✓ Friendly local service

✓ Options for every budget

09/12/2015 09:20

✓ Price includes measuring & fitting

• I provide expert advice on the best window solutions • Flexible appointment times • Over 1000 fabrics & styles to choose from

LOCAL CUSTOMER HOME

Faux Wood Venetian blinds made, measured & fitted from £82

• Blinds & curtains made right here in the UK • Ask me about multi-blind discounts • I won’t be beaten on price*

Call me for a free in-home appointment: Jeremy Bennett 07729294836 *Based on the same size, spec & levels of service.

22 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

Coningsby

BusinessFocus

Advice Worth Hearing!

ou probably have regular check-ups at the dentist and the opticians, but when did you last have your hearing tested? It’s estimated that as many as 1 in 6 people in the UK have some degree of hearing loss, which equates to about 10 million people in the country. Hearing loss usually occurs gradually & can be an inconvenience, can cause embarrassment, depression, isolation and has been linked to mental health issues. It can take between 10 & 15 years to come to terms with it. This is a shame, because the ability to hear sound is one of the most important senses, yet unlike vision & teeth it is often taken for granted. People often try to compensate for this by asking people to repeat themselves, turning the T.V up etc. It is often a friend or family member that notice beforehand. Sound Advice Hearing can help you hear better again and in turn, help improve your quality of life. If I think I have a problem, how can you help? We are a privately run local family business, with full time hearing centres located in Market Deeping, King’s Lynn & Horncastle. We also hold day clinics at Kirton Medical Centre, Clark Family Eyecare in Donington & J.Neville Opticians in Whittlesey. We are proud to have some of the most sophisticated testing equipment available and offer FREE hearing tests, and if preferred, full diagnostic hearing assessments in a sound proof environment. We can also provide hearing tests

“These days, digital hearing aids can be very discreet & almost undetectable but they’re still powerful enough to help with even the severest of hearing losses.”

in the comfort of your own home if more appropriate. We provide independent and impartial advice and can provide a FREE hearing aid trial (with no obligation). We are able to create a personalised solution for all your hearing requirements based on lifestyle, cosmetics & importantly - budget. Our business model is based around good old fashioned values with free after- care which is second to none. What other Services do you offer? We also provide a comprehensive wax removal service through irrigation, micro suction & instrumentation. Wax removal is becoming more & more difficult to have administered through some GP surgeries and can sometimes involve frustrating & lengthy delays. We also offer advice on Tinnitus Management & provide custom solutions for noise and hearing protection. Are hearing aids big and clumsy? These days, digital hearing aids can be very discreet & almost undetectable - but they’re still powerful enough to help with even the severest of hearing losses. Most people are amazed at the size & performance of modern hearing aids. They help you hear every day sounds and make it much easier to follow conversations. Your confidence in talking to people should improve & everyday & social occasions will become less of a struggle. Some hearing aids also help reduce certain unwanted background noises & if you have tinnitus, you may find it disturbs you less when you wear a hearing aid. Some hearing aids can connect to telephones, mobile telephones, televisions, computers, IPads etc. For those that find hearing aids fiddly, there are now rechargeable solutions so batteries do not have to be changed.

Sound Advice Hea

37 Market Place,

ring,

Market Deeping

PE6 8EA Market Deeping Tel: 01778 3012 20 King’s Lynn Tel: 01 553 760250 Horncastle Tel: 01 507 524244 Day cenres also in Whittlesey, Donin gton & Kirton Medical Centre www.soundadvice hearing.co.uk

What makes you different from the competition? We are a local family run business with many years of experience. We have access to all makes and models and can provide impartial advice accordingly. It’s our combination of an extensive range of products, experience, continuity, in depth testing, dedicated time and attention to detail that is a winner. If you spend time with someone to get their prescription and fitting correct, the quality of the final result will always be superior. We are a Hearing Care Company that is 100% dedicated and focused on hearing alone.

How can I tell if I have a hearing problem? Typical indicators include asking people to repeat themselves, struggling to hear in noisy environments, confusing words or misunderstanding what’s being said in conversation or having to turn the T.V up. If you can identify with any of these, then it is important to book your FREE hearing assessment with ourselves by calling one of the numbers above, and we can then assess whether you have any degree of hearing loss.

What should I do next? The most important thing to do is not ignore it! In most cases hearing deteriorates gradually & it often affects people around you more than yourself. Wearing a hearing aid can make a real difference to your quality of life & those around you. It’s never too early to look after your hearing. Help yourself & those around you and book a free assessment with us now. It really can make a world of difference! www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 23

Crescent Dental Practice

SEE GREAT. LOOK AMAZING. FEEL FANTASTIC.

Affordable excellence for all your family

Ask us about….. Crowns Bridges Implants Tooth whitening Orthodontics Dentures Denplan Essential Practice

01775 723051 9 The Crescent, Spalding, Lincs PE11 1AE www.crescentdentalpractice.com

20 Market Place | Donington | PE11 4ST 01775 821888 |www.clarkeyecare.co.uk

New Luxury Care Home Open Days

Fenchurch House Care Home Fenchurch House provides the kind of care we’d want all of our loved ones to receive. Our brand new home is luxurious and beautifully furnished, whilst retaining a warm family atmosphere that makes Fenchurch House feel extra special. In these difficult times the elderly population is particularly vulnerable at home. If you’re concerned about how you or a relative will cope and would like to have more support, Fenchurch House Care Home offers peace of mind and security, in a special setting. • • • •

60 luxury en-suite bedrooms Entertainment Suite and Hair Salon The Gatsby bistro and The Mallard Tavern pub Marketplace and shop

Join us for our Open Days 9th, 10th & 11th October Take a tour, meet the staff team and sample our mouth-watering menus. Visits are socially distanced and by appointment only, available between 10am and 4pm. To book please call 01775 292730.

01775 292730 Spalding Common, Spalding, Lincolnshire PE11 3AU www.countrycourtcare.com 24 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

Cancelled Big Events It is no exaggeration to say our lives were turned utterly upside down by the coronavirus pandemic. On a global scale, but also on a personal level. We woke up every morning with a sense of dread as to what terrifying developments the days held. And as more and more restrictions were imposed, it was almost impossible not to feel stings of fear as we saw the world we had once known descend into COVID induced chaos and confusion.

n March, Boris Johnson announced what once would have been unthinkable – that we must leave our homes only when essential. In those dark days it seemed the only thing that was certain was that events which used to simply be part of life, like birthday parties, sitting exams and just the basic act of being able to have a haircut, would not be going ahead. And we had no idea when, or if, life would ever be the same again. Keyworker Kelly Tizzano faced a number of challenges during this time. Not only did she have to continue lessons virtually for her Boston College students during the global emergency, Kelly also assisted her son with his own home learning, helped relocate the hair salon she co-owns and coped with the disappointment of having to cancel a surprise birthday party she had organised for her lifelong friend. Kelly, who is a Business Management Lecturer at Boston College, spent three months teaching her 80 students online in the unprecedented circumstances that we were all thrown into due to COVID. And because the whole country was plunged

into Lockdown, enjoying a Friday to Monday break at Centre Parcs, which was to double up as a meticulously planned surprise 40th birthday treat for her best friend Becky Lillie, was absolutely impossible. ‘We were supposed to go on April 3,’ Kelly explained. ‘Becky and I have been friends since we were three, and it was her 40th birthday on April 10. We were supposed to be going away on the last weekend of her 30s. Planning for it started in November, without her knowing, and there were supposed to be eight of us going in total. We were just going to have a girly giggle – a really good time. I’d even got her 40 little presents! ‘A couple of weeks before we were due to go away, we all realised it wasn’t going to go ahead. It was so disappointing. It’s also been impossible to rebook, because we have to find a date that suits us all – a new date will have to fit in around the hockey season, and everyone’s jobs, for example. The weekend in April was the only one we could all do! ‘Becky had already done the same thing for me in September, the month before my 40th birthday.

We both love Center Parcs! It’s our special place, because when it first opened, I think when we were eight years old, our mums took us there.’ So much planning had gone into the girls’ three night getaway, especially as it was a complete surprise for Becky, but unfortunately, as with so many birthdays, breaks and big once in a lifetime events, it just was not to be. It seems the saying that things happen in threes is certainly true for Kelly, because the hair salon which she co-owns, Salon Alchemy, moved to a new home during the pandemic – about a year earlier than planned. The business had been based in Oldrids in the centre of Boston for a number of years, but as the time neared for hair salons to finally open their doors, the department store’s did not. Salon Alchemy had been planning to relocate to Boston Market Place – but not until April 2021 – so their staff and tradespeople pulled out all the stops to get it up and running in time. Kelly said, ‘they took it from the shell that it was and totally transformed it. We were fully booked for five weeks, back to back, because our  www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 25

n Kelly with her best friend Becky Lillie, and at Center Parcs in

2019, for Kelly’s birthday.

clients hadn’t been able to get their hair cut during Lockdown. We had to be able to welcome them for their appointments.’ And in just a short space of time, thanks to working day and night, the new salon took shape, and since opening has been greeted by a great reception from clients and Boston businesses alike. Once restrictions were eased, across the country many people were beyond grateful to finally get their hair cut. Some salons even started snipping at midnight on July 4, the date when they were allowed to reopen. Some saw socially distanced queues snaking down the street, with people desperate for a trim – we had been waiting for months after all! Having a haircut became very different to what it once was, however, with stylists and customers alike covering their faces, protective equipment being the norm, and no more magazines to flick through. Another big birthday celebration that didn’t go according to plan was Jo Wright’s 40th. Jo had hoped that turning 40 would involve not one, but two celebrations. The first was set to be a civilised meal with family at a local restaurant, followed, a few days later, by a raucous night out with friends which was supposed to involve more food, much more alcohol, and a very heavy live rock band. Jo also had her fingers crossed that she would be gifted a nice new necklace to mark her special birthday when life supposedly begins. Jo said, ‘my 40th birthday was on March 24, and I was given a beautiful Tiffany necklace. Unfortunately, the only place I could wear it for the next few months was either to the supermarket or walking the dog. Not quite what I had planned! ‘I hadn’t organised a big party. My husband, children and I were just going n Jo with her 40th to go to our village pub for a meal with family on my actual birthday, and then on Friday, March 27, my friends and

26 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

I were going to go to Peterborough for a meal, and then to see a band called Red Method afterwards at The Met Lounge. We’d got our tickets, designated a driver, planned what we were going to wear and where we were going to stand, and were all really excited. ‘A couple of weeks before my actual birthday, I could see that the way things were going, there was no way any of this would be happening. So I wasn’t disappointed I couldn’t mark my 40th birthday in the ways I had planned, because it came as no surprise to be completely locked down. ‘Luckily, I ran a half marathon in Long Sutton on March 15, and my family and I had our tea out that evening to mark the fact that I made it around in one piece! We treated that as my birthday meal, so even though I didn’t get to go out on my birthday, I felt as though I had already had a really lovely celebration. ‘But I can honestly say that my Lockdown birthday was my favourite ever. My best friend made me an amazing cake in the shape birthday cake of our dog Otis, and that lasted us for about a fortnight because there was no one to share it with – just myself, my husband

and my two children. ‘Our cupboards weren’t very well stocked, because we had been trying not to go out to the shops and had been eating what we already had in, so it was really lovely to have a nice cake to enjoy. I think my family were getting fed up of eating canned fruit or custard creams for pudding. ‘Randomly, my uncle gave me a huge packet of toilet rolls, which was also gratefully received because panic buying meant it was virtually impossible to get hold of any. ‘My neighbours gave me some thoughtful gifts – left at our doorstep and also passed over our fence! Their kindness absolutely made my day. Friends I would have seen out and about preCOVID took the time to ring me, which made me feel really loved. ‘Of course, we couldn’t go out for a meal as planned, but we ordered fillet steak from The Chequers butchery in Weston, which was a massive treat – because my husband cooked it, and also because I try to follow a mainly vegetarian diet, despite my love of steak, lasagne and fish! ‘I had a virtual catch up on Zoom with some of my friends a few days after my birthday. It felt pretty surreal – the idea that we had to talk to each other via a computer screen because we literally were not allowed to meet in real life. ‘I don’t think we will be able to see live bands any time soon, so from that point of view I can’t really rearrange my birthday celebration. But it’s lovely to be able to eat out again, and I will never, ever take being with my friends for granted.’

LOOKING FOR SOME MEANING IN THIS STRANGE NEW WORLD?

Funerals & Wakes C O N TA C T O U R F R I E N D LY T E A M : CALL: 01205 290310 E N Q U I R I E S @ P OAC H E R S H OT E L .C O.U K W W W. P OAC H E R S H OT E L .C O.U K

view www.gospelonline.co.uk or try a virtual tour! ... thebibleexhibition.org

www.spaldingchristadelphians.co.uk

A’s Munch Box

• Freshly made sandwiches from just £2.00 • Delicious paninis with a choice of filling £3.50 • Jacket potatoes with any 2 toppings £4.00 • Salad box with 2 fillings and a choice of sauce £4.00 • Selection of cakes from just £1.50 • Fruit bowls only £2.00 • Burger and Chips also available

We are located in Red Lion Street, Spalding 07935 182 441

General Builder Quality Workmanship

12 Haverfield Haverfield Road, Road, Spalding Spalding -- 14 14 Knight Knight Street, 12 Street, Pinchbeck Pinchbeck Branches Lane, Holbeach

Plastering, rendering, brick/block work, extensions, First Class Facilities, Offering Outstanding conservatory bases, Roof repairs, slate tiles flat roof, Childcare At Affordable Prices. guttering replacement or repairs. 30 FREE FUNDED HOURS 2 & 3&YEAR OLD PLACES AVAILABLE Painting Decorating, Paper hanging, external painting,

Childcare from 6 weeks to 11 years, based in Weston Hills. Funded places for 3 & 4 year olds and 2 year olds, dependant on certain criteria. Our highly qualiﬁed staff work closely with parents for the beneﬁt of your children. Before/after school & holiday care offered.

Please contact us for further details on Tel:01406 380803 Email: ofﬁce@honeypotdaynursery.com www.honeypotdaynursery.com

www.littletreasuresnurseries.co.uk “Children have Superb fun in this stimulating and extensively resourced

12 Haverfield Road, Spalding - 14 Knight Street, Pinchbeck ceramic wall tiles, floor tiles, laminated floors, floor learning environment. The inspiring and professional staff team at this vibrant setting offer children a Truly Memorable Early Years Experience levelling. within an environment as close to home as the nursery can possibly

create. Knowledgeable, Enthusiastic practitioners enhance the delivery of the Educational Programmes through the imaginative and creative use of plentiful resources on offer.”

Kitchens & Bathrooms, wet rooms.

arrange a visitfeatheredge please call; fencing, Patios, Decking, To Panel fencing, Dianawww.littletreasuresnurseries.co.uk Mills, Spalding: 01775 714 224 concreteLaraine post. Newton, Garden design and 01775 724 146 Pinchbeck: Terri Venni, Holbeach: 01406 490 747 much more. Marie Bakewell, Kirton:

No Job too s

01205 725 018

Dennis Bailey 07784 949642 free q mall, uotes 01406 351951 E-mail baileyuk@alive.co.uk www.littletreasuresnurseries.co.uk

Lincolnshire & Garden Services Fancy starting aHome new hobby or joining a club? Landscaping, Lawn Trimming, Hedges Landscaping, patios, decking, Then why not look online to see what’s happening in your area? / Conifers Trimmed & Shaped, Planting

concreting, gravel, & Pruning Shrubs,paths, Lawn Seeding or ✔ Dancing ✔ Exercise ✔slate Theatre ✔ Children’s Clubs Turfing, Fencing Erected & Painting, Sheds & artifi cial grass laid, Erected & Laying, Garden ✔ Learn a New Language ✔Painting, ParentGravel Groups lawn seeding & turfi ng,Decking, Clearances & Make Overs, Patios, Concreting, sheds Paths Laid, Pressure Washing, fencing erected & Internal / External Home Improvements, painted, fascias & gutter Internal / External Painting, Decorating, Wallpapering, Slate Laid, Anywashing DIY jobs, & cleaning, pressure Fascia’s & Gutter Cleaning, Regular or One much Off Visits more…. and much more...

YOUR LOCAL WEBSITE FREE No Obligation Quote 01205 723539 or 07947182502 CELEBRATING THE Discounts OAP’s & Single Parents LOCAL AREA Honest, Friendly, Reliable Service Friendly and Professional, Professional Service www.simplyspalding.co.uk/clubs www.lhgservices.co.uk www.lghservices.co.uk

www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 27

Have you been

Village

Tails By Jo Wright

Leaving no bed unslept on and no food unsniffed, our Lockdown Labrador has loved having his little family at home 24/7!

ello again, my furry and not so furry friends! It’s so nice to have a little woof with you once more! I hope you have all stayed safe and well? I’m sure that, like me, you made the most of Lockdown. I certainly see some super gardens on my walkies! In my house, someone set up a nice new desk in the study for me to snooze under. The constant tapping of their keyboard disturbed me slightly, as did requests of ‘budge up Otis, I need to be able to actually do my work here now.’ But I didn’t let that stop me from stretching my soft self out fully and getting as cosy as possible. Apologies if you heard me snoring on my human’s conference calls.. A nice comfy purple yoga mat appeared too, complete with a human trying to keep up her fitness. I like to think my laying on top of her helped with that. I was also invited to a teddy bears’ picnic, held upstairs as opposed to in the park, during Lockdown. It certainly kept me amused, although I’m not sure the cuddly toys had as much fun. Apparently it’s bad form to gnaw on fellow guests. Home learning didn’t quite go according to plan either - the only pi mastered was chicken and leek, and Otis Care was soon added to

Full PPE in use as per Government Guidance Home Visits, nursing/care home visits also available by arrangement

Competitive Fuel Prices

JJ &

FUELS Well Established Family Business (Est. 1977) Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural Fuel Suppliers Ring anytime for a quotation

Boston 01205 760638 Bakers Bridge, Haltoft End, Freiston, Boston All major credit cards accepted

ARE YOU STUCK WITH LOTS OF RUBBISH? WE CAN REMOVE ALL YOUR RUBBISH AT GOOD RESONABLE RATES, • ANY AMOUNTS • ANY SORT. • FREE QUOTE • SPECIAL OAP RATES • LICENSED WASTE CARRIERS the curriculum. ‘If Otis parks himself in front of you, wags his tail and refuses to move, that means he’d like his kibble,’ my older humans told the younger ones. Well, I’m not called a clever boy most days for no reason. Now, whenever I get a little peckish, I settle myself in the middle of the little boy’s football goal and wag my tail. And he fills my bowl! Then, I wander over to the little girl and block her view of the television. I wiggle my tail – she tops up my bowl! Brilliant! All this talk of food is making my tummy rumble. Time to obstruct another human, I fancy!

Your friend,

Otis

For more of Otis’s adventures please visit Jo’s blog at nowhinetilwednesday.tumblr.com 28 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

GIVE TIM A CALL 01775 712893 07510 702980

TIM MEDFORD

Glass Fibre Flat Roofing We Specialise In

 Fibreglass Flat Roofing

Design & installation Fascia, Soffit & Guttering Conservatory Roof Renewal

Call Gary

Roof Repairs Pond & Water Features Domestic & Commercial No job too big or too small

01205 367224 or 07772 597450

www.advantageflatroofing.co.uk

We are a family run business that provides a high quali ty ﬂooring ser vice. We are h ere to sui t every customer to make a house your home.

Independent Family Owned Funeral Services

• Carpets • Vinyl • Laminate • Engineered Wood • Solid Wood • LVT • Quick Step • Moduleo • Karndean • Safety Flooring • Matting • Binding Service • Roll Stock Carpets & Vinyl

Tel: 01775 718 006 Mob: 07483 340 773 Email: lscarpetsandfl ooring@icloud.com Stumps Lane Business Park, Spalding PE12 6AT (just past Springfi elds)

SIMON’S ROOFING Rooﬁng Contractor Over 30 years’ experience

Phone 01406 490262 / 07742 173058 Email – Simonsroofing123@gmail.com All types of Roofing work undertaken Specialist in flat roofing and leadwork, UPVC fascia and guttering, and pitched tiled roofs All work fully guaranteed Very Competitive Prices Please call for a no-obligation quote!

ur aim is to be as cost effective as we possibly can, obviously paying for the essentials, staff, vehicles, stock, utility bills and so on, but be priced fairly for the families that entrust us, and to be able to present peoples loved ones in very pleasant surroundings, with a nice office/arrangement room, Chapel of Rest, modern Cool Restroom, all being downstairs, with a coffin showroom, and another Arrangement room upstairs.

Riverside Funeral Services riversidefuneralservicesspalding.co.uk Bank House, 63 Double Street, Spalding PE11 2AA Tel: 01775 722567 ............. riversidefuneralservicessuttonbridge.co.uk 76 Bridge Road, Sutton Bridge PE12 9UA Tel: 01406 259503

Call us today for our latest offers What our customers say:

”

Mr and Mrs T – Crowland

”

Workmen were professional and polite. Would recommend the company. August 2020

Mrs R Hunstanton

Very pleased with product and ﬁtting. August 2020

n Windows & Doors n Conservatories n Garage Doors n Facias & Sofﬁts n Home Improvements

Opening Hours: Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm and Sat & Sun: 10am – 2pm

Showroom at Station House, Station Road, Sutterton, PE20 2LF

Boston

01205 606016

Spalding

01775 712398

Kings Lynn 01553 401365

new-view-windows.co.uk | info@ new-view-windows.co.uk

www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 29

RealLife

Keyworkers Flags, banners, pictures and posters emblazoned with rainbows and messages of thanks were proudly displayed in windows, gardens, along roadsides, and on clothing, to name but a few. Along with a weekly Thursday night clap for critical workers, when we banged on saucepans, blew whistles, and made as much noise as we could, they gave us a chance to show our genuine gratitude to the keyworkers. These were the 10 million or so UK workers who were on the frontline – keeping the country going during the COVID crisis. Health and social care workers, supermarket staff, transport and food industry workers, school and nursery staff were all included in this list of workers crucial to helping our new daily lives continue. And during the uncertainty of the pandemic, one thing did become clear – those who tended to be in the lower wage brackets were the ones most needed during the outbreak.

ack towards the beginning of March, we watched in utter bemusement and horror as shoppers cleared store shelves by bulk buying

and stock piling. And here’s a startling statistic – according to convenience store manager Rachel Brown, on the Monday before Lockdown, she sold 110 four-packs of toilet roll in just six

Rachel wearing her visor, ready for work. 30 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

hours. That equates to more than one toilet roll purchased per minute! And at one point, sales of milk virtually tripled! To keep up with customers’ increased shopping needs, Rachel saw her working week increase rapidly too. She went from working a weekly minimum of 40 to 45 paid hours, to a minimum of 45 to 50 paid hours to keep up with demand. On top of this, Rachel lent a hand to a COVID support group, to help collect shopping and prescriptions and so on for those who were not able to go out and about, and spent her days off trying to find educational activities to enjoy with her young family. Rachel and her team at the shop pulled out all the stops to ensure it was business as usual, but she remains modest, and said, ‘I was just going to work and doing my job. I really wasn’t doing anything special.’ But as coronavirus, and trying to prevent its spread, gripped hold of the nation, Rachel’s job began to look very different. She told us, ‘as a store, we used approximately 50 more staff hours a week to try and keep up, and manage social distancing in store. ‘We noticed the panic buying about a week and a half before Lockdown. By the time Lockdown started, our shelves were pretty empty. The supply of fresh food recovered quite quickly, and milk would have been fine too, if people had shopped sensibly. But on the Monday when Lockdown was announced, we sold 220 2-litre cartons of semiskimmed milk, compared to a normal Monday, when I would have sold 80!’ Despite best efforts, other food

staples were also hard to get hold of. Rachel told us, ‘the week before Lockdown, bread supply was poor because of increased demand. Fortunately, on the first Monday that schools were closed we were able to supply the local school with bread, and also a care home across the road from our shop. ‘As soon as it was announced pubs would close, that evening beer sales went crazy! ‘Ambient goods took a lot longer to return. For about three months, getting flour was really difficult, and baking products in general were in short supply, including caster sugar, icing sugar and baking powder. ‘Cereal was also a big problem, as more people were at home for breakfast.’ As you would expect, Rachel and her team saw many more customers through their doors as panic buying hit. But as the situation calmed down, so did the number of shoppers – although Rachel explained that the amount customers were spending per visit increased. And although we will always have memories of the images of empty shelves, and of having to eat what had been sitting at the back of our cupboards while we waited for things to get a little more back to normal, we will always remember how people pulled together as well. And Rachel emphasised this too, saying, ‘I noticed a lot of people shopping for others, which was really nice to see.’ Grateful customers and heartwarming responses to her hard work

Tori and her British Gas van filled with foodbank donations

When Lockdown came into force, with the limited amount of work, a lot of us were sat at home feeling frustrated at not being more useful about how we could volunteer and be a force for good, and help our communities. So British Gas set up a

filled the days of Tori Callaby, a White Goods Engineer with British Gas. Alongside making vital repairs to clients’ crucial appliances, Tori delivered much needed supplies to a local foodbank, and she also adopted a dog during Lockdown – Brutus the pandemic pooch! As with so many of our marvellous key workers, Tori remains modest. She told us she felt lucky to be able to continue doing her job throughout Lockdown, and also felt extremely well supported by her employers, as well as fortunate to feel such a sense of camaraderie with other workers still out and about. Tori said, ‘when I was driving to jobs, the traffic was light, there were no queues, and a lot of the time on major roads between towns it would just be

me and the trucks. Lots of us drivers were waving - at ambulances and other emergency services, and to each other. I took to waving at a lot of trucks too – I felt that we were all in this together, after all.’ Tori told us, ‘at first I didn’t feel like I was deserving of thanks and praise as a key worker. It felt like what our NHS heroes were doing was so much harder and more worthy of gratitude. But one day a courier spoke to me after leaving a parcel at a nearby house. He wound down his window and said ‘thank you’ to me. He told me I was really brave for actually going into people’s houses, compared to him just having to go to the door, which worried him enough. He said he was going to clap for me too at the next Thursday evening clap. It was heart-warming to hear, and

really brought the situation home. But continuing to do my job just felt normal to me. We are there for our customers no matter what. ‘It’s fair to say my customers thanked me ten times more than usual too!’ Under normal circumstances, Tori’s job involves dealing with breakdowns of all white goods. She explained, ‘throughout Lockdown we kept going, but our work was scaled back to dealing with complete breakdowns only of washing machines, refrigeration and cooking appliances, but only where there was no suitable alternative available. ‘When Lockdown came into force, with the limited amount of work, a lot of us were sat at home feeling frustrated at not being more useful. We approached the company

relationship with The Trussell Trust, an organisation that supports food banks all over the country. We worked with them to collect bulk quantities of food, provided by supermarkets and producers, from central hubs, in our larger vans, and distributed it back to our local food banks. It was then divided up into household size parcels, and our smaller vans delivered these to the community.’ Tori added, ‘I have a large van, so I took part in the bulk collections and delivered them to a foodbank in Wisbech several times. This was really rewarding because I felt useful, I knew I was helping people, and it was quite fun too!’ As life returned to normal little by little, Tori and her husband Rob welcomed a furry friend into their lives – Brutus the Staffordshire Bull Terrier! ‘We had been looking at adopting a dog for over a year,’ Tori said. ‘Then Lockdown happened and charities stopped rehoming. I kept an eye on their websites though, and as it started to ease I eventually came across Brutus.’ He is now happily settled at the couple’s home in Sutterton. ‘He loves cuddles and playing with his tennis ball,’ Tori laughed. ‘He goes nuts for the hose, which is hilarious! He just wants to play with everybody!’ Tori loves her job, and seeing Brutus when she comes home from work makes her day. ‘He’s our little ray of sunshine!’ she smiled.

www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 31

DO YOU NEED YOUR GUTTERING OR FASCIAS CLEANED? GOOD REASONABLE RATES, NO JOB TOO BIG, ANY SORT, FREE QUOTE, SPECIAL OAP RATES, LICENSED

GIVE TIM A CALL 01775 712893 07510 702980 TIM MEDFORD

Lifeline

Monitoring Service for any resident in South Holland

● ● ● ●

24 Hour Call Monitoring - 7 days a week Increased security Help and Advice in an emergency Peace of mind for you and your family

Assistings resT AidCOeSTnOtF A WEEK £2.80 PER

EYE CARE? WE CARE!

For For further details contact the further details contact Sheltered the Housing Housing Team Teamon ontel: tel: 01775 761161 01775 764486 www.sholland.gov.uk

6 Sheep Market, Spalding, PE11 1BH Visit our website: www.eyecarecentrelincolnshire.co.uk

esig New d

ner glasses range from Jaguar and Poli ce

The Best Quality Products At Value For Money Prices S&J Windows are a family run company and one of the leading suppliers and installers of Conservatories, Windows, Doors, Fascias and Sofits throughout Peterborough. With over 25 years’ of continuous trading, we have built a reputation for delivering top quality products and installation services for highly competitive prices.

Conservatories

Doors

Orangeries

Repairs

Soffits & Facias

Windows

We pride ourselves on our first class customer service and professional workmanship for total customer satisfaction. All our products and installations are tailored to fit with your specific requirements - no matter what the query; we can find the ideal solution for you.

Open Mon- Fri: 9am – 5pm Sat: 10am – 4pm

Finance available on these products and services

FREEPHONE 0800 0853482

Units G & H Bentley Business Park, Blenheim Way, Northfields Industrial, Market Deeping, Peterborough, PE6 8LD www.sandjwindows.co.uk

a Celebrating 25 ye

r s of bu

s. sines

Stephen James Kell is an introducer appointed representative of Ideal Sales Solutions Ltd T/A Ideal4Finance. Ideal Sales Solutions is a credit broker and not a lender FRN 703401 Finance available subject to status. Loans of 25000 and above available on a secured basis. Think carefully before securing other debts against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or any other debt secured on it.

32 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

Let’s

Laura James is a local resident with a passion for food. Laura likes to use good quality ingredients to make wholesome food. Working in the food industry for over 12 years Laura thinks of food day and night and is always thinking of the next creation.

Eat

Sausage &

Cider Casserole Wi th th e apple season now fully in swing and th e weath er looking questionable, why not gi ve this h earty, warming casserole a go…

20 hour prep, 1 hour cooking

Ingredients • •

• •

•

• • •

• • • •

1 tbsp vegetable oil 8 pork sausages, of your choice, with a high meat content 200g bacon 1 white onion, cut in half and sliced into half moons 2 leeks, cut in half and sliced into half moons 2 garlic cloves, crushed 2 tbsp plain flour 1 Knorr chicken stock pot (made up with 300ml of water) 300ml cider 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard 2-3 bay leaves 2 eating apples; peeled, cored and wedged

Serves: 4

Method 1. 2.

Pre-heat the oven to 180oc/ 160oc fan

amount of water to the pan if the

/ gas 4

vegetables are catching)

Heat the vegetable oil in a medium to

large oven proof casserole dish on a medium heat for a minute or so 3.

vegetable mix and stir in thoroughly 8.

cider, mustard and bay to the dish

the oiled dish – brown the sausages

and return the cooked bacon and

on all sides, which will take about

sausages 9.

sausages from the dish Add the bacon to the dish – render and the fat is cooked off, then remove

Turn the heat down to low and season to taste

10.

the fat from the bacon until it is crispy,

Add the diluted chicken stock,

Prick the sausages and add them to

5 minutes – remove the browned 4.

Sprinkle the plain flour over the

Cook in the centre of the oven for 30 minutes with the lid on

11.

After 30 minutes remove the casserole

the bacon from the dish

dish from the oven and add in the

Set both the sausages and the bacon

apples – stir them through so they

to one side in a bowl, until later in the

are evenly distributed throughout the

cooking process

casserole

There will be oil residue in the dish

12.

from the cooking of the bacon – add the onions, leeks and garlic to this – sweat off for 10 minutes (add a small

Return to the oven for a further 10 minutes

13.

Serve with mash and leafy greens, such as kale

www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 33

holidays

Cancelled

We are a nation that love to travel and holiday overseas. In 2019 more than 70 million of us took trips abroad. But in March 2020, the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office advised against ALL non-essential overseas travel. This devastating news was accompanied with frightening terms that many of us had never heard in our lifetimes. Countries were ‘closing borders’ and movement was ‘restricted’.

olidaymakers were brought home early, and in some cases people were stranded after their original flights were cancelled – and huge demand plus general confusion made it impossible to rebook. Between the end of January and early May, 30,000 residents had been brought back to the UK thanks to almost 150 special government charter flights from 27 locations. When take-offs tentatively restarted in summer, many travellers were surrounded by chaos once more. Due to renewed coronavirus concerns in holiday hotspots like Spain and France, the government began introducing rules that those returning from certain countries, after specific times, would have to self-isolate. As the summer went on, more countries were added to the list. Many people were forced to cut their getaways

short to avoid having to quarantine – which would have meant an untenable loss of work and income. At one point 20 per cent of adults questioned had cancelled their travel plans due to quarantine fears (ons.gov.uk). Booking a break in the UK became plan B for many, but availability could be hard to come by. We spoke to some holidaymakers about their ill-fated travels in 2020. A magical 12-night cruise of the Norwegian fjords was much looked forward to by Simon Sleight and his family. Along with his father Brian, who used to teach Geography at Spalding Grammar School, his brother Stephen and sister-in-law Catherine, Simon was due to set sail from Southampton in late July. Simon told us, ‘we picked this type of holiday

Simon and his family enjoying their staycation. 34 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

hoping that it was going to be both scenic and suitable for my dad, who is slowing down a bit now he’s in his 80s. ‘He really loves Norway, having taken scout groups there a number of times when he was a scout leader. ‘We were at the point of renewing his passport when plans changed, and after lots of deliberation, we decided to postpone the cruise until next summer and go somewhere a little closer to home instead, that could be easily reached by car. We selected Shropshire, as my dad thought it might be a little off the beaten track compared to the national park areas, while still offering some lovely places to explore. A holiday cottage seemed like a sensible alternative, and we were lucky to find one with such character and facilities. It was located beside a canal towpath and within walking distance of both an aqueduct and a viaduct, and beyond that the pretty little town of Chirk.’ Simon and his family very much enjoyed their staycation in this idyllic location, and it has gone some way to make up for missing out on the stunning Norwegian fjords.

‘We postponed the cruise before it was actually cancelled,’ Simon explained. ‘This was disappointing, as we were all anticipating the break for many months. But the postponement and the cancellation seemed wise. The idea of being stranded onboard a quarantined ship certainly did not appeal, and even if the sailing had gone ahead, we would have been at least a little anxious throughout, in terms of cleaning regimes and so on. Not what you want on a break!’ Suddenly, getaways in 2020 looked vastly different from previous years – with face coverings becoming the norm and locations being a lot more local - but holidaymakers embraced the changes and enjoyed their breaks regardless. ‘The staycation is very much back this year,’ Simon told us. ‘During our stay in Shropshire most people were being sensible, keeping their distance while not being unfriendly and, of course, wearing masks indoors and on public transport. I also drove my father to Shropshire while wearing both a mask and sunglasses – quite a sight! But such precautions gave us peace of mind, and helped ensure we had a super holiday.’

Jet-setting duo Martin and Pauline Dickinson have missed out on not one, but three, getaways. Martin told us, ‘we’re disappointed to have had to cancel them, but we’re happy we have stayed safe.’ The couple should have travelled to Rome, back in March, to cheer on England’s rugby team as they played Italy, in the Six Nations tournament. Two weeks before they were due to leave, concerned by the number of COVID cases, the Long Sutton couple cancelled. They couldn’t even watch the game on TV, because the whole event was halted. The next break to be binned was a two week tour of Southern Ireland, due to depart on April 17. Pauline said, ‘we were ever so upset, especially as we were going with friends.’ Determined to still enjoy Ireland, however, Pauline and one of her travelling companions, Peter Sheldrick, decided to have a virtual holiday. ‘We would send WhatsApp messages and pictures to each other, talking about the food we should have been eating, where we would have been staying, and what we would have been doing,’ she told us. And it was third time unlucky in May, because their much looked forward to holiday in The

Martin and Pauline

Algarve, Portugal, couldn’t go ahead either. In common with so many of us, when left with a little more time on their hands, Martin and Pauline focused on their to-do lists. ‘We caught up with lots of jobs around the house and outside, and we have very much enjoyed sitting in the garden. A fair bit of wine was consumed as well!’ laughed Martin. ‘We enjoyed the lovely weather – we certainly made the most of a bad situation. Apart from the disappointment of not being away, we were happy to stay at home.’ Martin added, ‘we are trying to use common sense and protect ourselves now. We have absolutely no inclination to travel abroad until there is a vaccine to protect against COVID-19. For now, we will enjoy eating at the local pubs and restaurants that we think have done a really good job of setting up safe areas – inside and out.’

www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 35

handy contacts

BusinessFocus

Clean and Clear

Chimneys

accountants

Need professional help with your Accounts, Tax or Bookkeeping? With over 15 years experience we’ll ensure your company remains compliant in a way that is practical and efﬁcient.

Contact Paul Chapman on 01775 529345 /07808 249251 or email paul@cbsltd.org blinds

Solo Window Blinds 31 years of manufacturing all types of blinds & flyscreens Canopies made and recovered Commercial and domestic measured and fitted free Competitive prices

for your FREE quote fuel appliances and obtain spares to keep your stove tip top. I also offer a full Hetas stove installation service so you can rest assured your stove has been properly installed and all certified to give you peace of mind. Please have a look at my website www.cleanandclearchimneys.co.uk for more info and images of my work also check out my reviews on Yell.com. I also am able to offer chimney stack repairs, supply and fit bird guards, caps and cowls. The final string to my bow, is making appearances at weddings as a lucky chimney sweep! Covid Safety measures we are following as below – Disinfect all work areas in each home, I will be wearing respiratory face mask. I am carrying out full sanitization between each homes by using the fitted sink in my van. Fully trained on control and prevention of covid 19

Call Paul on 01406 702005 or mobile 07766 886417 or Email paul@cleanandclearchimneys.co.uk 36 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

CLEAN AND CLEAR CHIMNEYS A member of The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps Services provided: • Chimney Sweeping (All Appliances) • Bird/Rain Guards Caps & Cowls Supplied & Fitted • Woodburning / Multifuel Stoves Supplied & Fitted • Minor Chimney Repairs (Inc Replacement Pots) • Flexible Flue Liners Supplied & Fitted • CCTV Camera Inspection • Lucky Wedding Sweep • Stove Servicing

Call Paul on Tel: 01406 702005 Mobile: 07766 886417

Email: paul@cleanandclearchimneys.co.uk Website: www.cleanandclearchimneys.co.uk

CALL TODAY

aul from Clean and Clear Chimneys is a professionally trained chimney sweep and Hetas trained stove installer based in Whaplode, covering a 35 mile radius from Whaplode including Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Rutland. We met up with Paul to find out more about what he offers local residents. I’m dedicated to safety and cleanliness and pride myself on leaving your home as clean as when I arrived, leaving you with peace of mind knowing your chimney is safe to use. Prior to becoming a sweep, I was a time served precision engineer with over 20 years working in several types of precision component manufacture. This gives me a keen eye for detail. I’m fully insured for peace of mind. All chimneys/flues are swept using a manual or rotary brush system and vacuum service also I provide a certificate which confirms your chimney has been swept to the industry code of practice. These certificates are recognised by insurance companies. I carry a wide variety of rods and brushes suitable to sweep through any appliance, including multifuel and wood burning stoves. I can also service and maintain your solid

chimneys & stoves

01406 364447 builders

L.M.R

NEIL WADE CHIMNEY SWEEP

Chimney Sweeping, Chimney Sweeping, Chimney Re-Lining Chimney Re-Lining Supply andand Installation of Supply Installation Multifuel Stoves and Bird of Multifuel Stoves Guards and

BirdSwept Guards Chimney from £45

01775 766408

www.neilwadechimneys.co.uk

Building & Property Services Y�� Loc�� Qu��e� Tra�e�m�� • BRICKWORK • EXTENSIONS • CHIMNEYS • WALLS • CONVERSIONS • REPAIRS & ALTERATIONS • PATIOS • SLAB LAYING • RE-POINTING • PAINTING • GARDEN MAINTENCE

F�� F��n�� & P��es�i�n�� Q�� C�� L�i��

07948 696344 (DAY) 01406 365099 (EVE) lricho73@hotmail.co.uk

electricians

R.J. Hill Electrical 07917 391514 01406 259324

rjhill.electrical@yahoo.co.uk

carpets & flooring

PAUL’S CARPETS (HOLBEACH) LTD

Over 30 years experience

JJC Electrical

Jason Church Electrician Napit registered Part P with 20 years experience

Tel: 01733 210544 Mob: 07961 669739 jason608@btinternet.com CALL NOW For a FREE no obligation quote

01406 423263 WWW.PAULSCARPETS.CO.UK clothing alterations

Love t‘ Sew

Alteration, Dressmaking & Tailoring service 30 years experience • Immaculate work • Curtains/Cushions made & altered • Loved before occasion wear

17 The Crescent, Spalding PE11 1AF

01775 719399

• Outdoor lighting • Indoor Lighting • Re-wiring • Emergency call out • Landlord certiﬁcates • Installation Service No job’s to big, no job’s too small give Wayne a call Call 07763 962609 or 01775 713939 taylorselectrical570@gmail.com

Contacts

to advertise here contact Sarah on 01775 640254

garage door repairs

painting and decorating

COMPLETE GARAGE DOOR SERVICES

SM Painting & Decorating Ltd

why not match garage and front door?

No call out charge • Free Surveys • Repair Service also available

• Any repairs have a same day service for all calls before 2pm

FINANCIAL

an outdoor ceremony

• Most doors repaired on first visit

7 day service call between 7.30am & 9pm 01553 611246 07717 820490 garden services

v Hedges and trees trimmed v Fencing erected and repaired v Lawns cut v Sheds re-felted v Sheds and fencing sprayed, painted or wood treatments applied

FULLY INSURED

Professional Plastering Contractor

Professional, reliable and affordable

Plastering • Dry lining • Partition Wall • Floor screeding • Coving • Painting

PLUMBINGCall Danny

Over 20 years qualified experience NVQ City & Guilds CITB

• We replace springs, rollers, spindles, cables, locks & handles.

A & A Landscapes

T: 01406 420019 M: 07773 630090

E: smpainting05@btinternet.com

Find us on Facebook at SM Painting & Decorating for customer reviews and photos of work carried out.

wwwsmpainting.co.uk

J MUNDY PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

plumbing

INSIDE & OUT

Painting & Decorating General Carpentry Handy Person Services Garden Maintenance Fencing & Patios Windows & Guttering

ALL WORK CONSIDERED • NO JOB TOO SMALL For a FREE no obligation quote please call

Fully Insured

heating

For all your plumbing & heating needs Gas, LPG, Oil

307583

 Great showroom  Wall & Floor Tiles  Showers & Enclosures  Bathroom Furniture  Brassware  Design service  Plenty of free parking 01406 424296 www.gallery�les.com Facebook:- Gallery�les

INSURANCE

Ul�mate Hea�ng Services Ltd Plumbing and hea�ng O�ec registered engineer

Tel Lyndon 07852 341848

01733 590105 07833 576009

Odd,

SED GARDEN

locksmiths

MAINTENANCE

but not everyone knows 24 Hr Local Locksmith Service we do home insurance Call Martin on 01406 709089 HEDGES / CONIFERS TRIMMED & SHAPED SHRUB PRUNING LAWNS CUT FENCING ERECTED EXTERNAL PAINTING PATIOS, PATHS & DRIVEWAYS JET WASHED

FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE

07757 865166 WeTELdo.

or mobile 07767 476101 info@lockstocklocksmith.co.uk www.lockstocklocksmith.co.uk Automotive

Call 01775 770075 for a quote or pop into the office

Domestic

Commercial

Plumbing & Heating

For a Free Estimate call 01406 420405 07930 548877 • Gas & Oil Boiler Repairs • Landlord Certiﬁcates • Gas Fire Installations • Boiler Servicing • Bathroom Installations • Ensuite Showers • Central Heating Systems • Power Flushing

01406 420405 or 07845 944091

Tel: 01406 373747

All aspects of garden work undertaken. From grass cutting to complete clearance. Also, painting / decorating and general maintenance.

P J Neal

Chris Dawes

Bathroom & Kitchen Refurbishment Wall & Floor Tiling All Plumbing Repair Work Undertaken Fully Insured

www.bingham-woods.co.uk Mob: 07515 596096 Need help maintaining your garden or home?

40 Fleet Street, Holbeach | www.holbeachheating.co.uk

3 Oil and Gas boiler repairs Bathroom Re-Fit Specialist 3 Servicing and breakdowns 3 Complete installations 3 ‘A’ rated boilers Tiling Wall and Floor 3 Wet rooms, showers etc; Gas Inspections Plumbing3WeLandlord Repairs, have been trading for over 40 years, so for honest advice and excellent service, call us today Replacements, Tel: 01406 424774 Refurbishments Pioneer Plumbing

Registered Technician

Email: andrewhooker1@btinternet.com

Holbeach Heating Ian Dawes

Gallery Tiles & Bathrooms

Boilers, Cookers & Gas Fires Serviced 2 Bridge Street, Spalding 24hr Emergency Call Out Lincolnshire PE11 1XA

01775 718257

01406 423566 07966 511190

Pioneer Plumbing

handyman services

Mortgages Protection Plans 07710 505892 Call Freddie 07745 712934 Pensions Your local Savings &handyman Investments Corporate Finance Andrew Hooker Plumbing & Heating Ltd Inheritance Tax Planning

For a free quote and advice LDD Garden & Handyman Services

plastering

www.pioneer-plumbing.biz

Phone: 01775 720068 Mobile: 07867 881797

Advertise your business here to Walk-in showers 26,000 local Bathroom installation service Central heating homes from as Tiling and laminate Emergency work little as All aspects of plumbing covered £25.31 + vat 07582 473170 RKP Plumbing & Bathrooms Plumbing and Heatingper Engineers monthEst 1986

PLUMBING & HEATING

Pinchbeck l l l l l l

Sutton’s FREE estimate no job too small!

Plumbing – Heating – Electrical CallSolar Sarah on Gas, Oil, LPG, 640254 YOUR LOCAL Domestic & 01775 Commercial WEBSITE To Book Your CELEBRATINGInstallation THE Servicing, & Repairs LOCAL AREA Advert Solar/Renewable Energy www.simplyspalding.co.uk/clubs | 37 Air Conditioning & Water| Treatment Consultancy

Fancy starting a new hobby or joining a club? Then why not look online to see what’s happening in your area? ✔ Dancing ✔ Exercise ✔ Theatre ✔ Children’s Clubs ✔ Learn a New Language ✔ Parent Groups

www.simplyspalding.co.uk SIMPLY SPALDING

handy contacts plumbing

items for sale

Looking for a reliable plumber? Spalding/Holbeach 01406 480408 Mobile 07807 097481

A family business since 1919 • Plumbing & heating • Bathroom & kitchen installation • Emergency plumbing • Bespoke bathroom planning and tiling service www.4thgenplumbing.co.uk M: 07807 097481 E: info@4thgenplumbers.co.uk property maintenance

Audi A6 Estate dog guard and divider by Travall for 2006-2012 models. Missing a bolt and 2 nuts and one clip is slightly bent Paid £240 new. £60 07736 447580

Rob Rowledge Kitchens, Bathrooms, Joinery

01775 769213 07878 437338 www.robrowledge.co.uk 7 Laburnum Grove, Spalding, Lincs PE11 2LX

White high gloss kitchen cupboard doors and drawers with brushed nickel effect t-bar handles from B&Q. Still available from B&Q. Measurements are: 2x600mm 4x500mm 4x400mm 3 x drawer fronts 1x oven blank Units, kickboards and worktop are NOT included. Located Gosberton, buyer to collect. Tel 07443 630656

Size 12 maternity clothes. All worn once. Photo doesn’t do clothes justice. Lovely to wear and look really nice on. £40 07564 628832

Security

Secure your home

Secure your business

INTRUDER ALARMS Wired & wireless systems supplied, installed and serviced

CCTV SYSTEMS Wooden crib with Winnie the Pooh bed set. Perfect for newborn. Mattress included. Good condition. £40 07564 628832

Latest HD IP cameras supplied, installed & serviced

FIRE ALARMS Designed, installation, commissioning & serviced

Graco double pushchair. Attachable carseat, rain cover, Isofix, foot muffs included for both seats. Great condition, as seen in photos. This pushchair has both storage and drink holders. The seats adjust, the back seat lays flat for younger/sleeping baby or to fix carseat onto it. £100 for entire set. 07564 628832

Over 25 Years Experience – All Work Guaranteed

07341 844757 • 01775 840056 Spalding Lincolnshire DCS SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD

John Barton

info@dcssecuritysystems.co.uk www.dcssecuritysystems.co.uk

Sell your unwanted items for FREE! Item Heading

07341 844 757 info@dcssecuritysystems.co.uk vacations

vehicle repairs

www.dcssecuritysystems.co.uk DCS Security Systems Ltd Gosberton, Spalding, Lincolnshire

Alex Phillips

Pollywiggle Cottage

Mobile Mechanic

Where Memories are Made

Servicing Repairs Inspections and much more!!!

Prices start from just £375 for a week and £282 for a short break. To book or check availability please email info@heachamcottage.co.uk or you can find us online.

01406 373718 | 07736 447580

For a FREE quote please call Mobile: 07562 069623 aphillips.mobilemechanic@gmail.com

38 | SIMPLY SPALDING | www.simplyspalding.co.uk

Item Description, Price and Telephone Number

Please send to Simply Spalding, Barrowby Barns, Northgate, West Pinchbeck, Lincolnshire. PE11 3TB. Don’t forget to include a picture to increase interest in your item! Inclusion is subject to space, allocated on a first come first served basis. You can also email your item to: Email info@simplyspalding.co.uk or complete the coupon

Ashwood A4.pdf 1 10/08/2020 18:03:18

New releases from Â£184,000

CMY

Open Open Thursday Thursday to to Monday Monday 10-5 10-5

2-4 bedroom homes available 2-4 bedroom homes available

Visit Visit the the Dee Dee showhome showhome Book your Book your appointment appointment on on

07935 502733

Crease Crease Drove, Drove, Crowland, Crowland, PE6 PE6 0BN 0BN

www.ashwoodhomes.co www.ashwoodhomes.co

www.ashwoodhomes.co | info@ashwoodhomes.co.uk www.simplyspalding.co.uk | SIMPLY SPALDING | 39

Simply Spalding October 20

Articles inside

Handy Contacts

Village Tails

Cancelled Holidays

Lockdown School Life

Cancelled Big Events

Covid Timeline

News