Your Lincoln - Winter 2013

Christmas Market 30th year pull out

> P11

P3 > Boultham Park’s £3.7m Restoration Project P16 > Bringing Communities Together

WINTER 2013

www.lincoln.gov.uk Tel: 01522 881188 City of Lincoln Council, City Hall, Beaumont Fee, Lincoln LN1 1DD

Contents 03

Boultham Park Restoration Project

04

Be safe, smart and secure this festive season

06

Project Round-Up

08

Making it a green Christmas

09

Join the Workplace Challenge community

10

Showcasing Apprenticeships

11

Lincoln Christmas Market

15

Neighbourhood Boards

16

Bringing Communities Together

17

Living Wage

18

Community Lincs

20

Being a councillor: Katie Vause

21

Access LN6

22

What’s On

Advertise with Your Lincoln.

We are looking for new advertisers.

If your company would like to take out an advert in the next edition of the magazine, please email communications@lincoln.gov.uk for rates.

The magazine comes out three times a year and is delivered to every home in the city council’s boundaries so could be an excellent opportunity for your business.

Obtaining copies in alternative formats If you have difficulty in understanding anything in this document, please go to City Hall, Beaumont Fee, Lincoln or any other Council office, where we can call in an interpreter for you through the Big Word Services.

Latvian

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Design and print by Visual Print

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www.lincoln.gov.uk

Your Lincoln is delivered to every household in the city and, due to our postal system, to a small number of properties outside of the City of Lincoln Council boundary. We hope residents outside of the city enjoy the magazine, but if there is a problem, please call 01522 873443 and we’ll do our best to resolve it. All information is correct at the time of printing.

This publication can also be made available in large print, or electronically. Please call: 01522 873829.

Boultham Park Restoration Project Boultham Park is set for a £3.7 million restoration project, bringing it back to its historic glory.

The City of Lincoln Council, working with Linkage Community Trust and Boultham Park Advisory Group, have secured £2.7 million of Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund Parks for People to help restore many important heritage features.

In total the project is valued at £3.67million, with the remainder being provided by the city council, Linkage, community fundraising and volunteer time.

Plans for the park include restoring the old stable block to create an education centre, a café and toilets, built with environmentally friendly straw bales, and glasshouse. There will also be a focus on restoration of the heritage features of the park such as the lake, bandstand, fountain and sun dial.

The project will also see improved footpaths, lighting, signage and seating, which should be completed by 2016.

Caroline Bird, Community Services Manager at the city council, said: “One of the main aims of this project is to increase awareness of the fascinating history of the park and surrounding area.

Rob’s 40 years and still going strong At a recent celebration event Rob Appleyard was presented with a collection of photos from Boultham Park after notching up more than four decades working at the site.

“We hope this will in turn encourage increased use of the park, community involvement, more events and volunteering and training opportunities.

“This is a very exciting time for Boultham Park, for the people who use the park, and for the many who we hope will enjoy visiting the park, the café, and education centre over the years to come.”

Ges Roulstone, Linkage chief executive, added: “This is an exciting development for Linkage as we bring our services for learning disabled young people to Lincoln and work in partnership to redevelop Boultham Park.

“We still need to raise money to fund the project but our hard work so far really has paid off.”

Boultham Park gardens in the 1930s

Boultham Hall 1959

A community appeal has been launched to raise the £250,000 needed to complete and equip the new education centre and a time capsule will be buried later this month to mark the works.

For more information go to www.boulthampark.co.uk.

Rob started work as an apprentice with the Lincoln Corporation in October 1971, before being put to work in the greenhouse at Boultham Park, growing plants for bedding out around the city.

Then in 1972 he was moved to work at the park itself and has worked there ever since.

His historic knowledge of the park has been a great asset in pulling together information for the restoration bid and it is hoped he will continue to be a helping hand at the park for years to come.

www.lincoln.gov.uk

03

Be safe, smart and secure this festive season Christmas is the time of year when families get together, indulge in delicious foods and spread cheer through gift giving.

But the festive period can often be a cause for stress, with research showing the average cost of Christmas totalling £850 per family, rising energy bills, debts, loneliness and crime all having an impact.

Here we have put together some tips to have a safe, secure and affordable family Christmas this year:

Be Smart: Buy the right sized turkey. If you love leftovers, just add on enough to your calculation. You don’t want to be throwing piles of food away or risking food poisoning after the advised two days.

(Guidelines suggest 500g/ 1lb should be enough for each person.)

Consider giving an IOU for expensive Christmas presents then buy the item in the January sales. It may mean they get a better gift when the stores slash their prices.

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Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Think carefully before using a credit or store card. Credit cards can offer some protection if a company goes out of business or an item is damaged, but read the terms and conditions and ensure you can make the repayments before signing up.

Make some space for Christmas wrapping paper, sticky tape, cards and gifts. When you see them at a bargain price, buy them, store them away and they will be ready for next year.

If you are posting lots of Christmas cards, make sure you do it early enough to either send them second class or hand deliver them while on other errands.

Make sure you keep your receipts safe. If for some reason you need to return a gift, make sure you get back what you paid and not the sale amount.

Consider making some room for the new gifts you will be receiving. Consider using online auction sites or car boot sales to get rid of clothes, toys, CDs, DVDs and household goods you don’t use anymore (which will also give you a bit of extra spending money) – or donate them to a charity shop.

By keeping your heating between 18 and 21C (65-70F) you can keep your home warm without building up high bills. If you are concerned about energy costs keep your heating on in your living room and turn it on in your bedroom 30 minutes before bed time.

Make sure you have all the payments you are entitled to – people over 65 could be entitled to Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments from the government.

Don’t forget to budget for bills after Christmas. You may end up with a higher than usual electricity bill in January because of the extra lights, decorations and heating. Don’t get caught out.

Shop around - high street stores and online retailers often have some excellent deals on at this time of year to try and beat the competition. Do a quick online search before committing to buy expensive items.

Be Safe:

Make sure if you buy toys that you have a supply of batteries ready. Don’t be tempted to remove them from your smoke detector.

Make sure you prepare for your Christmas party – plan how you will get home, tell people where you are going, make sure your friends look after each other and drink sensibly.

Don’t overload your plug sockets – this can be a cause of fires.

Never leave candles unattended.

Check your Christmas lights are working, have the right sized fuse in them and always switch them off when you go out or go to bed.

Make sure decorations are not hung too closely to heaters, lights or fires.

Give yourself plenty of time to make your Christmas dinner and write down a plan.

Accidents are more likely to happen when you are rushing.

Drinking and driving is illegal and can risk the lives of yourselves and others. Arrange a taxi or a designated driver to take you home if you are planning to drink.

Give a free gift this year – check in on an elderly neighbour.

If they are on their own they may appreciate some company

Be Secure: Before Christmas don’t leave presents and other valuables in view in your car.

If you have received expensive gifts over Christmas don’t leave the boxes out on the street ready to be recycled. Dismantle the boxes and put them out of sight deep in your recycling bin.

If you are going away for Christmas ask a neighbour to pop in and collect your post, open and close your curtains and keep an eye on the place.

Don’t leave your car running unattended when de-icing your car windscreen in sub-zero temperatures.

If possible, use a chain when opening the door – don’t let strangers into your home unless they have shown valid identification.

Always keep your handbag zipped or closed and somewhere out of the way of thieves. Don’t leave it on a table where it can be snatched easily - if you have to put it down wrap the handle around your chair leg so it can’t be grabbed.

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

05

Long Leys Road cemetery

Project Round-Up The city council currently has a number of ongoing projects across Lincoln. Here we take a look at what stage each of these projects are at:

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Lucy Tower

Cemetery

Stapleford Avenue

Works are well underway to complete Lucy Tower car park.

Expert construction staff are working around the clock to be able to complete the works, and it is expected the site will be back open by February.

The works started in March and were expected to last around six months, however once pieces of concrete started to be removed from the car park levels it was discovered that the steel supports needed more works than expected.

New plans have now been drawn up to secure the site’s future for years to come.

Since Lucy Tower closed new public pay and display car parks have opened at Orchard Street and Sincil Street.

The final stages of works are taking place at the new cemetery on Long Leys Road with a view to it opening in the coming months.

The £1.2m development will have space for 4,000 burial plots, many with potential for green burials, and could cater for the city’s burial needs for the next 50 years.

It will feature easier access to main routes into the city and better facilities to help families mourn.

The cost of buying a plot will be £540 for a full plot, £130 for a cemetery remains plot and £130 for a baby remains plot. Burial fees will be set at £640, between £80 and £100 for burial of cremated remains and no cost for burial of a child up to the age of 16.

These prices are for city residents non-city residents will face higher fees, which follows the system currently in place at other burial sites in Lincoln.

Plans to build five new homes on a former site for garages have begun.

Three three-bedroom houses and two two-bedroom homes are being developed on the site and are expected to be completed early next year.

The plans were updated recently to alter the site from constructing two bungalows to houses after it was decided larger properties would be more suited to the needs of the city’s residents.

The homes will feature eco-elements such as solar panels and triple glazing to help the new residents keep their energy bills down.

Last year the council built its first five new council homes in 20 years.

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Hartsholme Bridge

Newport Arch

Lucy Tower

Newport Arch

White Bridge

Specialist stonemasons Robert Woodhead Ltd are currently working on Newport Arch to repair and replace damaged areas.

Some of the stones had been damaged due to cold weather over recent years so the project aims to add a top layer of stones to help prevent future rain and frost erosion as well as removing and replacing individual stones within the arch and stabilising the whole structure.

The project is the first major repair work to be done on the arch since a lorry became wedged underneath the stone work in 1964 and caused major damage to the Roman construction.

It is expected the works will take a total of eight weeks to complete.

The works were made possible through a Landfill Tax grant of ÂŁ60,000 from WREN.

Specialist steelworkers have been building the new bridge structure off site over recent weeks.

Divers have visited Hartsholme Country Park to inspect the footings of the bridge and as a precautionary measure the council has decided to add additional structural supports before adding the walkway. This will secure the bridge for decades to come.

The bridge was removed last summer following safety concerns and has been boarded off ever since. Fabrication works on the bridge have now been completed which means once the extra support has been added the bridge itself can be installed.

It is expected this will be completed by the end of the year.

Stapleford Avenue

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

07

Making it a green Christmas During the festive period it is estimated households produce a third more recyclable waste than during the rest of the year.

There are plenty of opportunities to get green this Christmas, from composting vegetable peelings to recycling gift boxes, empty bottles and Christmas cards.

Christmas Day recycling Many areas of the Christmas Day festivities can lend themselves to being recycled: Wrapping paper can be placed into your recycling bin, as can Christmas cards and the boxes your gifts come in.

When you are preparing your dinner you can compost your food waste if you have a home composter.

And if you like a festive tipple or two, your empty bottles, cans and jars can also be put into your brown bin.

Christmas Tree recycling If you have a real Christmas tree this can also be recycled.

Real tree kerbside collections will run during the weeks commencing January 6 and January 17.

People can either chop their tree up and put it in their green bin, or leave it at the kerbside next to their black bin on their regular black bin collection day.

Trees must be left out by 7am on the collection day but may be picked up separately to the bin collection.

Bin collections Bin collections will run as usual over the Christmas period, apart from those due on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Collections due on Wednesday, December 25, will instead be picked up on December 21, and those due on Boxing Day have been rearranged to take place on December 28.

If people have extra recycling waste to be collected over Christmas they are asked to leave it in a cardboard box or clear bag to the side of their recycling bin.

To find out more about recycling in Lincoln log on to www.lincoln.gov.uk/recycling

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www.lincoln.gov.uk

News in brief: Sleeping Rough If you see anyone sleeping rough this winter, help is at hand.

Framework have a team who can offer help, support and advice to anyone sleeping rough, but they need help to know where to find those most in need.If you see anyone sleeping rough please contact Framework’s Street Outreach Team on 0800 0665365.

Your views on Your Lincoln Congratulations to Rachel Cason from Lincoln who gave her views on the last edition of Your Lincoln magazine and won a £50 Bailgate voucher for her efforts. Enjoy spending it Rachel.

Could a ‘jam jar’ account help you?

Council tenants can get help managing their money by setting up a ‘jam jar’ account, thanks to a new scheme run by the council with Lincolnshire Credit Union.

The accounts work by dividing your regular payments into different ‘jars’ for whatever you need to pay each month, such as rent and utility bills.

Any leftover money can then be used on a pre-paid debit card that will mean you only spend money you have.

To find out more call Lincolnshire Credit Union on 01522 845100 or visit them at 390 High Street, from 10am until 3pm Mondays to Fridays, and ask about the Credit Union Start Account.

Join the Workplace Challenge community Get Active. Get Involved.

Get Registered Would you like to be more active but not sure where to start?

Workplace Challenge, an initiative aimed at improving the health of people across the country, is launching in January 2014 with businesses being encouraged to sign up.

The Workplace Challenge promotes healthy lifestyles through innovative and more traditional methods with participants registering for free then logging onto the website to record all their activity over an eight week period.

In addition to taking part in your own activities there will focused challenges

taking place, being led by Lincolnshire Sports Partnership.

The Activity Log is a free online challenge running from Monday, January 6 and gives people a chance to record their own levels of sport, physical activity and active travel online and compete with other workplaces, colleagues and friends.

The more activity you do, the more points you get - and points mean prizes. A variety of spot prizes are up for grabs from beauty hampers to a brand new bike.

You don’t have to be a budding athlete to take part and neither do your colleagues

- you can make small and simple changes like cycling or walking to work, or getting off the bus one stop earlier than usual. You also don’t have to log on everyday - it’s possible to back-date entries.

To find out more about Workplace Challenge and register now visit www.workplacechallenge.org.uk

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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Christmas Market 30th

year pull out > P11 P3 > Boultham Park’s £3.7m Restoration Project P16 > Bringing Comm unities Together

WINTER 2013

www.lincoln.gov.uk City of Lincoln Council,

Showcasing Apprenticeships Employers from the public sector are set to take part in an event aimed at recruiting more apprentices.

The TUC Public Sector Apprenticeship Recruitment Event will see representatives from the City of Lincoln Council, Lincolnshire Police, NHS, Job Centre Plus and National Apprentice Service come together with young people to promote apprenticeship schemes.

Jen Teague, Work Based Learning Assessor, said: “Apprentices do a vital role in companies across Lincoln – not only are they learning a skill, earning a wage and getting practical workplace experience but they also become an integral part of how a business works.

“We know university is not for everyone, so are hosting this event to give young people the chance to see what kind of roles are available to them within the public sector.

“Here at City Hall we offer a wide range of schemes, from customer services to communications, and there are plenty of other opportunities available.”

Secondary schools are being invited to attend the event, but it is open to anyone aged between 16 and 23.

Those over 24 can take part in the apprenticeship scheme but will need to take out a further education loan first.

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The event will not only be a chance for employers to showcase their industry, but will also provide an opportunity for young people to access free and impartial careers information advice and guidance from a wide range of skilled individuals, working within the Apprenticeship Sector.

Representatives will be on hand to answer any questions on the training schemes and parents, teachers, friends and partners are invited to come along for moral support.

The City of Lincoln Council’s award-winning apprenticeship scheme not only places young people within the authority, but also in companies around the city. It gives young people the chance to earn a wage and get first-hand experience in the workplace. The authority also works with its partner agencies such as Kier to offer different learning opportunities.

The event will take place on Tuesday, December 3 at City Hall, Beaumont Fee, Lincoln between 10am and 3pm.

If you would like to take part in the event email jen.teague@lincoln.gov.uk.

To find out more about opportunities for Apprentices, log on to www.lincoln.gov.uk/jobs/apprenticeships

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Tel: 01522 881188

City Hall, Beaumont Fee,

Lincoln LN1 1DD

We want your feedback Your Lincoln is a magazine for the people of the city, so we would like your feedback on it.

Are we addressing the issues important to you? Do you have a community group or scheme you are proud of and want to include? And what sort of things would you like to see more of?

Let us know by emailing communications@lincoln.gov.uk with the subject ‘Your Lincoln’.

Get social Keep up to date with the latest council news by following the official twitter account @lincolncouncil.

The council also now has it’s own facebook page at www.facebook.com/ TheCOLC. Get the latest news, interesting photos and city facts straight to your timeline.

YOUR 30TH YEAR PULL-OUT GUIDE

THIS YEAR LINCOLN CHRISTMAS MARKET IS CELEBRATING ITS 30TH BIRTHDAY! Taking in some of the city’s most iconic features such as the cathedral, castle and Steep Hill, the market is considered by many to be the official start of the Christmas period.

Thursday December 5: 12pm – 9.30pm Friday December 6 - Saturday December 7: 10am – 9.30pm Sunday December 8: 10am – 7pm

Twitter: @lincolnelf www.lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk www.facebook.com/lincolnchristmas

The Lincoln Christmas Market 2013 -ZONES Main Zones Layout CHRISTMAS MARKET MAIN LAYOUT

to Museum of Lincolnshire Life

Park & Ride

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Food Court

WE S T GA TE Stalls Childrens Winter Wonderland

Christmas Pantry Marquee

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Lincoln Suite

The Lawn CA RL IN

Castle

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DRURY LANE

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to City Centre & Train Station

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© Crown copyright and/or database right 2013.

All rights reserved. Licence No. 100018414

TIMELINE

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Craft Marquee

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And in addition to putting together some new features, organisers are drawing on elements which make the event such a success such as the links with Germany, the beautiful surroundings of the castle, cathedral and Steep Hill and, of course, traditional festive décor.

Claire Thompson, Principal Events and Culture Officer at the City of Lincoln Council said: “This year’s Christmas Market is going to be the best one ever!

“We have listened to feedback and gone back to our traditional roots, getting in some quality stalls, giving visitors a range of fantastic entertainment and making the market site have a more Christmassy feel.”

As well as embracing elements of the traditional market a number of new features will be on offer at this year’s event including Market Makers, more help for residents and the removal of the one way system.

AD RO ON RT BU

This year we are aiming to make the event the best ever, filling the market with amazing entertainment, delicious drinks and fantastic food as well as quality stalls selling unique gifts and treats.

UNION ROAD

THIS YEAR...

Castle Square (outdoor stalls and Food Court Marquee)

Eastgate and Minster Yard (outdoo

Castle (outdoor stalls)

Medieval Market

The Lawn (outdoor stalls), Lincoln Suite (indoor stalls), Christmas Pantry Marquee, Bazaar Marquee

As this year is the 30th anniversary of the Christmas Market, organisers are compiling an online timeline of photos from the event over the years.

The timeline will feature photos and memories from over the years and will be available on the market’s website.

If you would like to submit a photo for the timeline please send it to communications@lincoln.gov.uk with the names of anyone featured and the year the photo was taken.

Meeting Point

Westgate (outdoor stalls), Craft Marquee, Big Wheel Marquee, Perfect Presents Marquee

THE STALLS This year’s market has more than 250 stalls ranging from sweet treats to unusual meats and alpaca knitting patterns to bespoke gifts.

Eagle eyed shoppers may even notice some traditional wooden stalls around the market this year – which is something we are looking at for future years to embrace the German heritage of the Christmas Market.

Food and drink Lincoln Christmas Market is famed for its wide variety of food and drink on offer.

From crepes to churros and hog roast to duck fat roast potatoes, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the market – and don’t forget the gourmet gifts to take home.

If you get separated from your group at the market there is a designated meeting point by the Christmas Tree outside the cathedral. Make sure all members of your party know where it is

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GETTING HERE

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The popular park and ride service will be returning again this year, giving people the chance to leave their car at the Lincolnshire Showground and be dropped off outside the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.

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to Coach Points C,D & E BAIL GATE

Big Wheel Marquee

Westgate

£

Perfect Presents Marquee

Fairground Rides

to Coach Points A&B

WC

B WC £

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Park and Ride opening times:

Castle Square

Thursday December 5: 11:30am – 10pm

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WOR DSW ORTH STRE ET

STEEP HIL L

Castle Square

or stalls)

Friday December 6 & Saturday December 7: 9am – 10pm

Cathedral

WC Food Court

If you prebook at www.bradsons.co.uk you get a discounted price, meaning for a family of four the cost is just £1.50 per person each way. Prices on the day will be higher.

There will also be buses running regularly from the bus station to the market site and East Coast trains is putting on an extra service for market visitors.

MINS TER YAR D

to City Centre & Train Station

£

Cash Point

i

Visitor Information Centre

B Baby Changing Facilities

Bishop's Palace Medieval Market

Walk & Ride Bus & Taxis

Sunday December 8: 9am – 7:30pm

Route around the Market

WC Toilets

JINGLE THE ELF

Entertainment Gifts If you are looking for an unusual or bespoke present then Lincoln Christmas Market is the place for you. From handicrafts to personalised presents there are stalls to suit even the most difficult gift recipient’s tastes.

This year there will be more entertainment located around the market, from carolling to performances and even the return of the ever popular bubble man. Lincoln BIG will also be hosting a stage outside the White Hart with a full programme of entertainment.

Thursday December 5: 12pm – 9.30pm Friday December 6 - Saturday December 7: 10am – 9.30pm Sunday December 8: 10am – 7pm

Jingle is the Christmas Market’s resident elf and has been responsible for adding magic to the event since 2009 when his sleigh crash landed in the city.

Back in Lapland Jingle was an Elf and Safety Inspector for the National Elf Service but now draws on those skills to help make the market a spectacle for young and old.

He does tend to be a bit of a cheeky little chap though and can often be found on twitter. See what he gets up to @lincolnelf.

Twitter: @lincolnelf www.lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk www.facebook.com/lincolnchristmas

RESIDENTS & BUSINESSES We understand that although the Christmas Market is a fantastic event for thousands of visitors, it can have an impact on the people who live and work around the market site.

So this year we are setting up an area of the website specifically for people who live and work around the market site so they can get up to the minute news, see interactive street closure maps and be able to apply for parking and access permits.

MARKET VIDEO As part of the 30th year celebrations a video was commissioned to capture what people love about the event.

Taking in the stalls, the iconic scenery and the visitors the video explores exactly what makes Lincoln Christmas Market one of the world’s best.

The video is available on the home page of the Christmas Market website www.lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk or on the City of Lincoln Council’s Youtube page.

Thursday December 5: 12pm – 9.30pm Friday December 6 - Saturday December 7: 10am – 9.30pm Sunday December 8: 10am – 7pm

STAYING CONNECTED At this year’s market we are embracing new technology within our traditional event.

For the first time the market is on Facebook (www.facebook.com/LincolnChristmas) giving people a chance to get rolling news throughout the market.

Jingle the Elf will also be manning his twitter account, giving Elf and Safety announcements and playing games to keep the little ones occupied.

For the first time this year there will be a mobile-friendly map available through the website, highlighting key areas such as cash points, drop off points, toilets and where you can find your favourite stalls.

Twitter: @lincolnelf www.lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk www.facebook.com/lincolnchristmas

Are you a council tenant?

Would you like to get involved in decision making about your local community?

Would you be willing to share your knowledge and experience of your neighbourhood to help improve it?

then AND NOW Over recent years parts of Lincoln have developed beyond recognition.

But others have remained remarkably unchanged over the decades.

This photo of Steep Hill from early in the 20th Century looks virtually the same as a photo taken around a century later.

Then your Neighbourhood Board needs you!

Neighbourhood Boards work with residents, councillors and groups that deliver services to share information on what is happening in the area, discuss new project ideas and how the needs of their community can be best met.

They meets every three months and develops a Neighbourhood Plan, with priorities set by residents. One of your roles on the board will be to monitor the plan and help it move forward.

There are currently Neighbourhood Boards in St Giles, Moorland Estate, Sincil Bank and the Bracebridge area of Newark Road. But the neighbourhood teams are also looking to set up new boards in Ermine East, Ermine West and Birchwood Estate.

To get involved, or to find out more speak to Jose or Rachel from the City of Lincoln Council’s Neighbourhood Team on 01522 689986 or email rachel.a.taylor@lincoln.gov.uk.

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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Opening of Tower Community Garden

Bringing communities together In the last five years, more than 4,800 migrant workers have come to work in the city, and thanks to the two universities, about 11,000 residents are full-time students.

Lincoln has never been a more diverse city, but how well do you know your neighbours?

The Lincoln Community Cohesion Strategy steering group is made up of representatives from organisations across Lincoln. Together, they are working to develop strong and positive relationships between people from different backgrounds.

Through events like ‘meet the street’ residents can find out more about their neighbours and get involved in their communities.

Simon Walters, Assistant Director of

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Corporate Review and Development, said: “Lincoln is a vibrant and exciting city and it’s attracting an increasingly diverse range of people.

“In recognising the value this diversity brings to Lincoln, we can work together to create a city we can all be proud of. People may come from different backgrounds, but we all share a future here.

“We hope to encourage communities to take responsibility for each other and build on the city’s welcoming and tolerant reputation, while increasing understanding between our communities so we can all share a future together.”

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Lithuanian School Bubbles

Did you know?

Since 2001, Lincoln’s population has grown by 8.8 per cent to 93,100 residents More than 60 different languages are spoken in Lincoln 5,259 residents have a main language other than English People from more than 90 different nationalities live in Lincoln Last year about 900 migrant workers came to Lincoln

BUSINESSES

URGED TO ADOPT

LIVING WAGE

FOR STAFF

The leader of the City of Lincoln Council is leading a campaign to get Lincoln’s businesses to offer more support to their lowest paid members of staff.

Councillor Ric Metcalfe has recently introduced the living wage at the city council, meaning the lowest paid members of staff will now receive £7.45 an hour – meaning up to £50 extra per week.

And now Cllr Metcalfe is calling for other businesses to sign up to the scheme, which has been calculated in order to help people maintain the minimum standard of living.

The council leader said: “Low pay is a serious problem in Lincoln and improving the livelihoods of all our lowest paid staff cannot be underestimated.

“Research shows the positives of the scheme far outweigh any negatives, with employers enjoying better recruitment and retention rates, lower absenteeism, an improvement in people’s work and a reputation for being an ethical employer that cares about its staff.

”I understand employers may have concerns in the current climate but evidence supports the fact that paying the living wage is good for business, good for individuals and good for the wider community.”

At the city council 39 employees have benefited from the introduction of the new minimum pay level, which was introduced in August.

The living wage is a different scheme to the statutory National Minimum Wage, which is currently £6.19 per hour. The living wage has been calculated by Loughborough and York Universities to allow people on the lowest pay to have at least the minimum standard of living.

What are the benefits of paying the Living Wage?

To individuals - It offers a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work People feel more valued, will increase their self esteem / job satisfaction and performance as employees To employers - studies show employers paying the living wage do better with recruitment, retention of staff and lower rates of sickness.

To the wider community – Paying the living wage helps reduce the levels of poverty, reducing reliance on state benefits and helps boost the economy. A report commissioned by Newcastle City Council showed that lower paid workers tend to spend higher amounts of their wages in local shops- giving a boost to local shops

www.lincoln.gov.uk

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Community Lincs Here at Your Lincoln we want to showcase some of the best community groups across the city, which offer support, new experiences and diversity to their communities.

Lincoln Orienteering Group

They could be sports clubs, after school groups or places offering advice and help.

We want to spread the word about the excellent work done by all the groups out there who help their communities.

Back to Netball

Lincoln Orienteering Group (LOG) hosts a range of events around the central and southern parts of Lincolnshire, with weekly training sessions for everyone, from beginners through to experienced orienteers. The sport involves navigating between points on a map at a walking, jogging or running pace and tracking your progress electronically using a ‘dibber.’

This club offers professional tuition for children who want to learn to swim or improve their technical swimming skills. They also offer competitive swimming at county, regional, national and international level.

When?

LOG holds club nights and events on Thursday evenings with larger events held on Saturdays and throughout the winter months.

Where?

Locations vary across central and southern Lincolnshire – the group do not just hold activities in woodland though, they also use parks and streets to participate.

These sessions run on a weekly basis costing just £2 to come and play. The scheme runs through a volunteer coach and is suitable for all ages and sporting abilities. Sessions can even be tailored to those who have never played before.

When?

Fridays from 6 to 7pm

When?

The club trains throughout the week and at weekends.

Where?

The club trains at RAF Waddington, RAF Cranwell, City of Lincoln Priory Academy, Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School, North Kesteven Leisure Centre and Yarborough Leisure Centre.

Who?

Where?

Orienteering is suitable for families, individuals and groups of all ages, abilities and experiences.

Yarborough Leisure Centre

How can I find out more?

Open to anyone who has played before or wants to take up the sport, improve their fitness and meet new people.

The learn to swim programme starts from the age of four-and-a-half and goes all the way up to masters swimmers who are 60 and over.

How can I find out more?

How can I find out more?

Email: Louise O’Hare at lohare@lincoln.ac.uk

Email: d.hendel@ntlworld.com Call: 01522 822737 / 07525380336 Online: www.lvsc.co.uk

Email: chairman@logonline.org.uk Call: Sean Harrington 01522 791344 Online: www.logonline.org.uk Facebook: Lincoln Orienteering Group Twitter: @LoggersLatest

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Lincoln Vulcan’s Swimming Club

Who?

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Who?

Eastgate Squash Club

Delivered by “WIN” squash and racketball coaching this club is open to new members for squash, racketball and squashercise as well as tots squash, junior squash and mini squash for youngsters.

When?

Coaching is held every Saturday with six-week introduction courses available in squash, six to eight week squashercise course and individual and group training.

Park Run

ParkRun offers a timed 5km run every week. You don’t have to be a seasoned runner, just someone who wants to improve their fitness, who wants to get back into physical activity or who wants to enjoy the outdoors and meet new people. Registering is free and you will receive a barcode to record your time. Park Run is organised by volunteers and more are always welcome.

When?

Lincolnshire Carers and Young Carers Partnership

Are you helping to look after someone?

Whether you’re taking care of a parent or neighbour, a disabled friend or a child who can’t live independently Lincolnshire Carers Partnership can help. Even if you just spend a few hours a week helping to look after someone this group could help you. Led by carers themselves, the group offers support and advice for unpaid carers of any age.

Every Saturday at 9am.

When?

Where?

Where?

Eastgate Squash Club, Lincoln

Boultham Park, Lincoln, LN6 7SS followed by a post run coffee at Lincoln Indoor Bowls Club

The group are available to support all carers and are flexible.

Who? The club offers sessions for anyone aged from three upwards, of all skills and experience. All equipment is supplied.

Who? Park Run is open to everyone no matter what pace you go at.

How can I find out more?

How can I find out more?

Online: www.winsquashandracketball.com Email: squashandracketball@hotmail.co.uk Call: 01522 535581 Facebook: www.facebook.com/winsquashandracketball

Online: www.parkrun.org.uk/lincoln Email: lincolnhelpers@parkrun.com

If you would like your group to be included in the next edition please email your details to communications@lincoln.gov.uk.

Who? The partnership can offer support and advice to anyone who provides any level of care.

Whether a young person looking after a parent or a person checking in on an elderly neighbour every day, help is available to all.

How can I find out more?

Online: www.lincolnshirecarers.co.uk Email: info@lincscarerspartnership.net Call: 01522 554214

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

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Bein g a councillor Katie Vause Katie is the city council’s newest member after winning the by-election for Bracebridge in August.

Here we find out a little bit more about the latest addition to the council.

Tell us a little bit about yourself I am Head of Geography at Lincoln Castle Academy where I have taught for just over seven years. I am also mum to three daughters aged 13, seven and five. I have lived in Lincoln all my life. I’m proud to represent Bracebridge - the ward in which I grew up and now live with my family.

What are you looking forward to about being a councillor?

I am most looking forward to the opportunity to provide Bracebridge residents with a voice, especially by campaigning on issues such as saving our library services, better public transport and improved youth provision. I have also enjoyed working on case work supporting

a number of residents and I’m looking forward to doing more of this during my term. Being a proactive councillor was one of my main promises during the campaign and I am thoroughly enjoying the role.

What do you think the challenges are going to be?

As a new councillor the challenges will involve getting known across the ward and building a relationship of trust with residents. I have been as active as possible since my election to be ‘out’ in the community as I firmly believe there is a need for councillors to be more accessible.

I will be holding monthly surgeries as well to aid communication so that any issues or concerns residents may have can be identified and dealt with quickly.

What do you enjoy doing outside of your council duties?

Outside of my council duties I am committed to my teaching role. I am passionate about education and its vital role in empowering young people. Aside from work I enjoy spending time with my family and of course walking my husky-malamute dog Diesel who has become rather famous as a result of the by-election campaign!

What are you most proud of?

My proudest achievement was completing the London Marathon in 2011.

I did the run in memory of my grandfather Bernard Woodwards who sadly passed away in 2010 following a stroke. Losing my granddad was extremely heartbreaking and I wanted to raise money for the Stroke Association in his memory. I had never even run to the end of my street before I started the gruelling training regime!

Your councillors Abbey Ward

Castle Ward

Birchwood Ward

Hartsholme Ward

Kathleen Brothwell T: 530289 kathleen.brothwell@lincoln.gov.uk

Donald Nannestad (Deputy Leader) T: 545831 donald.nannestad@lincoln.gov.uk

Jane Clark T: 879522 jane.clark@lincoln.gov.uk

Ron Hills T: 878352 ronald.hills@lincoln.gov.uk

Rosanne Kirk T: 684990 rosanne.kirk@lincoln.gov.uk

Andrew Kerry T: 07879 474548 andrew.kerry@lincoln.gov.uk

Eddie Strengiel T: 884688 edmund.strengiel@lincoln.gov.uk

Geoff Kirby T: 680803 geoffrey.kirby@lincoln.gov.uk

Bracebridge Ward

Park Ward

Katie Vause T: 812739 katie.vause@lincoln.gov.uk

Chris Burke T: 856296 chris.burke@lincoln.gov.uk

Bill Bilton T: 873533 bill.bilton@lincoln.gov.uk

Brent Charlesworth T: 524126 brent.charlesworth@lincoln.gov.uk

Fay Smith T: 875817 fay.smith@lincoln.gov.uk Peter West T: 528010 peter.west@lincoln.gov.uk

Boultham Ward Gill Clayton-Hewson T: 803793 gillclayton.hewson@lincoln.gov.uk Gary Hewson T: 803793 gary.hewson@lincoln.gov.uk Ralph Toofany T: 885802 ralph.toofany@lincoln.gov.uk

Carholme Ward Tony Speakman T: 528222 tony.speakman@lincoln.gov.uk Karen Lee T: 546065 karen.lee@lincoln.gov.uk Neil Murray T: 546065 neil.murray@lincoln.gov.uk

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Correct as of 1st July 2013

Jim Hanrahan T: 881161 jim.hanrahan@lincoln.gov.uk Loraine Woolley T: 543889 loraine.woolley@lincoln.gov.uk

Minster Ward Yvonne Bodger T: 520083 yvonne.bodger@lincoln.gov.uk David Gratrick T: 530163 david.gratrick@lincoln.gov.uk

Hilton Spratt T: 878305

Sue Burke T: 856296 sue.burke@lincoln.gov.uk

Glebe Ward

Moorland Ward

Jackie Kirk T: 07531 022876 jackie.kirk@lincoln.gov.uk

Bob Bushell T: 870625 bob.bushell@lincoln.gov.uk Geoff Ellis T: 683620 geoff.ellis@lincoln.gov.uk

Richard Metcalfe (Leader) T: 720960 richard.metcalfe@lincoln.gov.uk

Adrianna Ellis T: 07950 885430 adrianna.ellis@lincoln.gov.uk

Patrick Vaughan T: 534044 pat.vaughan@lincoln.gov.uk

David Jackson T: 522335 david.jackson@lincoln.gov.uk

MP for Lincoln Karl McCartney T: 01522 687261 / 0207 219 7221 karl.mccartney.mp@parliament.uk

Party Key: Labour Conservative Independent

Jump on board with Access LN6 With more than 30,000 cars travelling in and out of the Lincoln area every day, it is no surprise that traffic congestion, carbon emissions and journey times are on the increase.

But the Access LN6 project is working to encourage people to opt for more environmentally friendly travel, by increasing opportunities to walk, cycle, use public transport and car share.

The project is being delivered through Lincolnshire County Council through the Department for Transport into the LN6 ‘area’.

Since the start of Access LN6, a number of new initiatives have been launched: • New 44 and 44a bus services have been launched serving Doddington Business Park, Moorland, Doddington Park and Birchwood, which run every 10 minutes.

• Forty cycles have been made available at six locations through the new hirebike scheme. Become a member for free at www.hirebikelincoln.co.uk or call 01522 340 173.

• A site aimed at encouraging people to share their journeys in the LN6 area has been set up. By entering your journey details you can find people on the same or similar routes to car share, saving users on average £425 a year. Sign up for free at www.ln6carshare.co.uk.

• Development of a shared footway and cycle path along Whisby Road.

And the Access LN6 team is already making plans: • A £1 million pound investment into walking and cycling routes in the LN6 area.

• In spring next year a survey of 10,000 households will take place, asking about current transport options in the first door-to-door travel advice scheme in Lincolnshire.

• A series of led bike rides will be launched by British Cycling early in the new year. Bike rides will vary in length and are suitable for all ages and abilities. Find out more at www.goskyride.com/lincoln launched

by British Cycling in summer 2014.

If you would like to find out more about Access LN6, visit www.accessln6.co.uk, log on to www.facebook.com/AccessLN6, follow @accessln6 on twitter or email accessln6@lincolnshire.gov.uk.

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

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November

St Barnabas Hospice Light Up a Life and Torchlight Procession Our Lady of Lincoln Church November 26, 6.15pm to 8.45pm Take part in a celebration, remembrance and reflection at the St Barnabas torchlight procession. The Lincoln Light up a Life service takes place at Our Lady of Lincoln Church on Cabourne Avenue and is open to everyone, not just those who have worked with the hospice and will be followed by the Torchlight Procession at 7.30pm from Claytons Sports Ground on Lee Road to Lincoln Cathedral.

01522 540300 becky.otter@stbarnabashospice.co.uk

Literature Talk with Dr Jane Mackay: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Lincoln Drill Hall November 29, midday A talk looking into one of the most famous Christmas stories ever written. Delving into the Charles Dickens novel that has captured imaginations for generations.

01522 873894 www.lincolndrillhall.com / £6.50

Lincoln Ice Rink

Christmas at Doddington Hall Doddington Hall November 30 to December 23 Doddington Hall will play host to an array of festive themed open days throughout December, giving visitors the chance to browse gifts, food, trees and decorations.There will be White Christmas Celebrations, festive foods on offer at the farm shop and even a bauble barn.

015222 842702

Bishop Grosseteste University are holding an Advent Solemnity in Lincoln Cathedral, which this year embraces the theme “Flowers in Eden Never Known. It will feature a range of artistic disciplines including music and drama and will look at the themes of light and dark in the advent.

01522 812512 / info@doddingtonhall.com www.doddingtonhall.com

Craft Market

01522 583681 / FREE jessica.lyons@bishopg.ac.uk

Cornhill November 30, 9am to 4pm Come and pick up and early, hand-crafted Christmas gift from a range of stallholders.

There are lots of individual, artisan craft and food products on sale throughout the day. www.countrycraftsassociation.co.uk

The Drill Hall Book Swap Lincoln Drill Hall November 30, 11am to 2pm Bring along a book that you have finished with and swap it for another. Whilst you decide the café will be open serving food and drink and there will be free live music performances. www.lincolndrillhall.com / FREE

December

Lincoln Advent Trail

The Marmalade Sessions Lincoln Drill Hall December 3, 4.30pm to 6pm If you are a young musician who wants to play in front of an audience, come and take part in this open mic session at the Cafe Bar. www.lincolndrillhall.com

Lincoln Christmas Market Cathedral Quarter December 5 – 8 One of Europe’s biggest and best Christmas Markets returns for the 30th time. Take in the sights of Lincoln’s historic buildings as well as soaking up the festive atmosphere across more than 280 stalls nestled in and around Lincoln Castle and Cathedral. (see pages 11 to 14 for more details.)

Throughout Lincoln December 1 – 24

www.lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk

Countdown to Christmas by taking part in the Lincoln Advent Trail with prizes worth £50 to be won every day. If you spot the special advent boxes across the city each day you could be the lucky winner. At the end of advent, everyone who took part will be entered into the grand prize draw to be in with a chance of winning £100 of prizes.

A Victorian Christmas

events@lincolnbig.co.uk

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Lincoln Cathedral December 1, 3 to 4pm

Admission is free but there will be a collection which will be divided between the charities supported by the University’s staff and the students’ union..

Lincoln City Square November 30 – December 31, 10am to 9pm (closed Christmas and Boxing Day) Lincoln’s popular ice skating rink returns to City Square for another year. Get your skates on and head down to the festive rink for sessions throughout the day and into the evening. Skating sessions start on the hour and last 45 minutes and skate hire is included in the admission price.

An Advent Solemnity

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Museum of Lincolnshire Life December 7 – 8, 10am to 4pm Get a taste of the Victorian Christmas spirit at the Museum of Lincolnshire Life. There will be a host of Victorian Characters preparing for the festive period in the museum’s traditionally set up house and shops.

01522 782040 lincolnshirelife_museum@lincolnshire.gov.uk

Christmas Crafts

Pantomine: Cinderella

Hartsholme Country Park December 8

Drill Hall December 13 – January 4, 2pm and 8pm

An array of Christmas Craft activities will be taking place at Hartsholme Country Park.

The activities will be taking place at the Visitor Centre and are suitable for all the family. Places are limited so it is advised people book in advance.

Take the family to enjoy the Christmas tradition of pantomime as Lincoln Drill Hall presents Cinderella. The Drill Hall is once again playing host to this festive tradition and this year there are two shows on Boxing Day to extend the celebrations.

01522 873577 / £3.40 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

01522 873894 / www.lincolndrillhall.com

Pantomime: Robin Hood and The Babes in the Wood Theatre Royal December 10 – January 14

Lincoln Santa Fun Run & Walk Castle Square December 15, 11.30 to 1.30pm

Reindeer Parade

The Danwood Lincoln Santa Fun Run and Walk returns to the city’s historic quarter with 2,000 dressing as Santa to raise money for charity. The event, which is the city’s biggest festive fundraiser, is a two lap course around the castle and cathedral (approximately 3.5km long.)

Everyone taking part gets a Santa suit to keep and gets a medal when they cross the finish line. The event is raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society, British Heart Foundation (Lincoln), Candles, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance, Samaritans (Lincoln), St Barnabas Hospice Lincolnshire and Rotary charities.

Bailgate to Cornhill December 12, 6pm to 8pm

www.lincolnsantafunrun.co.uk

Cannon and Ball star as Little John and Friar Tuck in this action packed performance. A fun event for all the family with all the laughs and tradition a pantomime should have.

01522 519999 www.lincolntheatreroyal.com Adults: £14.50 to £19.50; children and senior citizens: £11.50 to £16.50

Santa and his reindeers will be taking an early visit to Lincoln from the Cathedral through the city centre and rest at Lincoln Cornhill. There will also e plenty of opportunities to have your photos taken with the man himself.

Pantomime: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe LPac, University of Lincoln December 13 – 23 Discover Narnia at the student-produced musical version of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. The Lincoln Company, made up of graduating students of the Lincoln School of Performing Arts, perform this musical version of the CS Lewis classic at the LPAC, originally commissioned by the Royal Shakespeare Company.

01522 837600 / enquiries@lpac.co.uk Adults and children £10; students and schools £5

Lincoln Lantern Parade & Nativity Cornhill December 19, 6pm Join the children of Westgate Academy on a lantern parade through Lincoln ending with a traditional nativity play. The lantern parade leaves from Lincoln Cornhill at 6pm and leads up the High Street and Steep Hill to the Church of St Mary Magdelene for a natitivy play and carol service at 6:30pm. Join the local school children as they lead the parade with paper lanterns for a wonderfully festive family evening in Lincoln. events@lincolnbig.co.uk

All events listings are supplied by the venues and are correct at the time of printing.

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

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