Your lincoln summer 2014 by City of Lincoln Council

Get out and get active this summer > P11 P4 > Where your money goes P7 > ÂŁ250,000 funding for sport P18 > Remembering the First World War

SUMMER 2014

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

Contents 03

Market Kitchen

Where your money goes

Newport Arch restoration

Sports funding

Safer parking

Boultham Park

A helping hand

Get out and get active

Tackling poverty

Supporting communities

First World War centenary

Being a councillor

Electoral registration

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 boundary 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. Czech

Rada města Lincoln intenzivně podporuje rovnost a diverzitu. Pokud něčemu v tomto dokumentu nerozumíte, dostavte se, prosím, do městského úřadu City Hall, Beaumont Fee, Lincoln nebo do jiné kanceláře tohoto úřadu, kde pro Vás prostřednictvím služeb společnosti Big Word můžeme zajistit tlumočníka.

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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 873384 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.

Something’s cooking! Healthy food for less We’ve all heard it’s cheaper to eat junk food than to eat healthily, but an exciting new project in Lincoln has set out to help residents eat well for less - and support local traders at the same time. Healthy and affordable meals are vitally important to both our physical health and our household finances. To help residents produce balanced and inexpensive meals City of Lincoln and Lincolnshire County Councils have teamed up to launch a project that will help families. The Market Kitchen is a fresh approach that takes people through a full spectrum of skills from purchasing fresh, seasonal produce to preparing and cooking healthy and affordable meals. The city council has contributed three rent-free stalls in Lincoln’s Central Market for an initial two-year period. Lincolnshire County Council’s Public Health team has converted two of the stalls into a functional kitchen for people to learn to prepare and cook meals, while the third stall provides a flexible space for agencies to support people with a wide range of health related issues. Marijke Chamberlain, from Public Health, said “This is a unique opportunity for our residents to learn to cook basic, healthy, affordable meals in a friendly and relaxed environment. “The groups are small, with a maximum of only six people. We can also provide some one-to-one support. These sessions are free and provide a great opportunity for those who come along and take part.”

Antony Angus, Recreation Services Team Leader at the city council, is responsible for the Central Market. He said: “This is a true partnership project and aims to help residents shop cost effectively at the markets in Lincoln and then learn to prepare and cook healthy, nutritious food. “These skills are so important and can really make a difference to a family’s health as well as helping to make budgets stretch that little bit further. All the traders are supportive of the project and are looking forward to greeting new customers.” Councillor Donald Nannestad, Porfolio Holder for Recreational Services and Health, joined Busy Days Learning Centre in the Market Kitchen. Busy Days supports adults with learning disabilities to live more independently. Cllr Nannestad said: “This is an excellent project in a number of ways, helping local people to use fresh produce to learn to cook and eat well, and taking advantage of the market, which is a great place to buy good quality, healthy food.”

Eunice Porter, who runs the pet stall and is chair of the local branch of the National Market Traders Federation, said: “They’ve done a wonderful job creating some good facilities. By encouraging people to use fresh produce it will not only benefit the various community groups involved, but local businesses too.” Andy Parkinson, from Fred’s Fish, added: “I think it’s a great idea.Teaching people how to use fresh, local produce will broaden their horizons when it comes to cooking and will also help local businesses.”

For more information or to book onto a cooking session or course, email marijke.chamberlain@lincolnshire.gov.uk or jennifer.walker@dimensions-uk.org Upcoming events are advertised on notice boards outside the Market Kitchen.

www.lincoln.gov.uk

Where your money goes We all know paying your council tax means you’ll get your bins emptied, but have you ever wondered how else your money gets spent?

Many people may not realise the range of valuable services their local council provides every day. The day-to-day running of the council’s services is funded through business rates, an annual Revenue Support Grant from central Government, and through council tax. Just 16 per cent of what you pay goes to the city council – the rest is used by Lincolnshire County Council and Lincolnshire Police. Like many local authorities, the council is facing continuing budget cuts. In 2014-15 our central government support reduced by 13.7 per cent. Our net revenue budget for this year stands at £16.8 million. Of this, around £5.4 million needs to be raised through council tax.

Housing People can find themselves homeless suddenly and unexpectedly for any number of reasons, leaving young children and vulnerable people on the streets. The

council helps around 60 families every year by providing temporary accommodation while they get back on their feet. We also provide Disabled Facilities Grants, installing stairlifts and hand rails to help people live more easily in their own homes, and Improvement Grants, which can be used to bring empty homes in the private sector up to a decent standard. Last year the council helped to bring 157 homes back into use. We have also contributed to the costs of a homelessness centre in Lincoln, and run a control centre to support people living independently. Although the council manages nearly 8,000 council homes, maintenance of these is funded through the Housing Revenue Account – the rent paid by tenants – and is not shown in the table below.

Parks and leisure The council maintains several green spaces across the city, including Hartsholme

Country Park and The Arboretum, which enjoy Green Flag status. We also manage five community centres and other recreational facilities, as well as two leisure centres, helping residents to stay fit and healthy and enjoy a great range of activities. Cultural services, including tourism and heritage, are also funded from this budget as we seek to continue attracting visitors to enjoy Lincoln’s unique, historic atmosphere. One way we do this is through the magical Lincoln Christmas Market – attracting more than 200,000 visitors every year, bringing £12 million into the local economy.

Environmental and regulatory services These cover a wide range of valuable services you might not realise. We have a statutory responsibility to inspect food manufacturers and anywhere serving food to make sure what you are eating is safe.

*Central government provides £863,000 towards this cost.

Council spending 2013 -14 to 2014 -15: £5,000,000 £3,750,000

Council tax & Housing Benefit administration*

Corporate & democratic services

Community Safety

Central services

Planning

Other

Transport

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Waste collection

2014-15

Environmental & regulatory services

(£2,500,000)

Parks & leisure

(£1,250,000)

Housing

£1,250,000

2013-14

£2,500,000

Our food safety team inspect hundreds of pubs, restaurants and other venues serving food each year, and in the last 18 months carried out 122 food tests. We also undertake accident investigations in commercial premises. We issue licences for taxis and entertainment venues, as well as pet shops and pubs, all with the aim of keeping residents – and the wider public – safe. We also investigate and take action relating to environmental crimes, such as littering, dog fouling and noise nuisance, and our dog warden takes stray animals off the streets. Also included in these costs are the upkeep of several public toilets across the city. Although the council isn’t legally obliged to provide cemetery or crematorium facilities, the city council does both, providing a valuable service for residents and raising a net income of around £262,000 last year.

Waste collection More than 56,000 bins and bags of rubbish or recycling are collected every week. We also carry out extensive street cleansing – keeping the whole city clean and tidy. There are more than 340km of roadsides to clean, and 1,200 litter and dog bins to empty in the city. It also falls to the city council to clear up dumped waste, known as fly tipping. Last year this cost us £28,500.

Planning and community development The planning and development service is vital to ensure we retain Lincoln’s character and don’t allow any buildings or developments that don’t fit in. Not only that, the economic development and business support units work to support existing and new business, and grow the city for the future. Last year our planning department received 831 planning applications. We also have three neighbourhood working teams, who help organisations and groups make a difference and bring local communities together at a grassroots level. Over the last three years our neighbourhood working team has helped to give out £125,000 of Community First funding and been involved in events promoting a smoke-free lifestyle, micro-chipping dogs and tackling local issues in all wards of the city.

Central services The council’s civic team organise or are involved in more than 200 events and civic engagements every year. This includes

organising the popular Christmas Lights Switch-On event, as well as fund raising events for the Mayor of Lincoln’s chosen charities. Central services also includes the costs associated with council tax and business rates collection and emergency planning.

For more detailed information you can view our statement of accounts at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Community Safety CCTV feeds from 138 cameras covering a range of areas from the city centre out to North Kesteven are monitored at City Hall, helping keep you safe. CCTV operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, helping to reduce crime, reduce the fear of crime, and reassure the public. The scheme has assisted in more than 20,000 incidents that resulted in an arrest being made.

Corporate and democratic services This includes costs involved in committee and council meetings, as well as running local elections and maintaining the electoral roll. This also includes councillors’ allowances.

Council Tax Support and Housing Benefit At one time or another people may struggle to make ends meet. The council provides housing benefit and council tax support to help those who are in most need.

Transport The council manages and maintains 20 car parks for shoppers, visitors and commuters, as well as the city’s bus station. Also included in this budget is the cost of issuing resident parking permits, and contributions to the Dial-a-ride and Shopmobility services that help people get out and about.

Other This includes costs such as insurance, audit, contingency funds. Also in this category is the council’s Work Based Learning team, which supports more than 100 apprenticeships in the authority and elsewhere in the city to help young people get a foot on the career ladder.

Customer services Between April 2013 and March 2014 our customer services team received more than 324,000 enquiries via calls, emails and visits to City Hall. The team is funded through each department’s budget. This is also the case for functions such as finance, HR and IT, which keep the council running smoothly.

www.lincoln.gov.uk

Could you help create some Christmas magic?

Bright future for historic arch An ambitious project to restore one of Lincoln’s oldest and most iconic landmarks has now been completed. Newport Arch was put on English Heritage’s ‘At Risk’ register in 2012 and essential works to secure its future got underway. Specialist stonemasons from Robert Woodhead Ltd rebuilt sections of the third century arch, which is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and the only Roman arch in the country that traffic can still pass underneath. City of Lincoln Council leader Ric Metcalfe said: “Newport Arch is an extremely important part of Lincoln’s heritage and it is vital we restored it to ensure it can be enjoyed for many more years to come. “The arch is the Roman north gateway to Lincoln and is an essential part of the rich heritage that makes us so successful as a tourist destination. “Together with Robert Woodhead, we have worked hard to complete this challenging project to the highest standard and I hope people will visit the arch and appreciate this piece of Lincoln’s history.” The work has involved stabilising parts of the arch, replacing eroded stones and adding a layer of stonework to the top to protect the Roman brickwork. In addition, the cement-based mortar has been replaced with lime mortar and three sections of the gable wall have been taken down and rebuilt stone by stone. Ben Robinson, Principal Heritage At Risk Officer at English Heritage, said: “It was at

the stage where stonework was starting to crumble and fall in to the street. It’s not a straight-forward construction; it was built in the 3rd century and added to in medieval times and in the 20th century. “It’s tremendously exciting that it’s been repaired and it’s coming off the ‘At Risk’ register. Credit is due to the city council for taking its responsibility seriously and recognising this isn’t just about the past, but about the future of Lincoln as well.” Richard Carlton, Site Manger at Woodhead Heritage, the specialist conservation team of Robert Woodhead, said: “It is a privilege to be involved in such a magnificent project. Newport Arch is a highly significant piece of history for the city of Lincoln. I would like to thank the local residents and businesses as they have been very tolerant and helpful during our time on site.” Recent cold winters, as well as general erosion over the years, caused the damage to the arch, which was last repaired in 1964 after a lorry crashed into it. The project received a £60,000 Heritage Fund grant from WREN, with £80,000 funding from the city council. The arch should not need any further work for at least another 60 years. Wai Chan, of Newport Arch Chinese Restaurant, said: “We knew the significance of the arch when we first came here 30 years ago. We’re glad to see it all restored, it was crumbling down. Hopefully more tourists will come to see it.”

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Summer may only just be upon us, but the city council’s Events Team is working as hard as elves getting plans in place for this year’s Lincoln Christmas Market. Now in its 32nd year, the market will run from noon on Thursday, December 4 until 7pm on Sunday, December 7. Now’s your chance to get involved in the oldest traditional Christmas market in the UK, as the team are looking for festive buskers to help get visitors in the Christmas spirit. Events and Culture Officer Sammy Pengelly said: “The plan is to have buskers dotted around the market site. This could be singers, musicians, magicians or dancers - all we ask is that performances have a festive feel in keeping with the theme.” If you’re interested, send your details with a brief description of what you do to christmasmarket@lincoln.gov.uk

Are you missing out? Did you know some businesses could

see a £1,000 reduction in their rates this year and next? Under the Retail Relief Scheme introduced by the Government this year, shops, cafés, restaurants and public houses with a rateable value of £50,000 or less could benefit from a £1,000 reduction each year on their business rates. Martin Walmsley, Head of the Revenues service at the city council, said: “Although figures show the economy is picking up, we are still feeling the effects of the recession. This rate relief could make a big difference to the many shops, cafés, restaurants and public houses in our area. “Supporting businesses is of huge importance to us and we want to make sure that any business owner who can take advantage of this relief is doing so.” To find out more go to www.lincoln.gov.uk/retailraterelief

£250,000 boost for community sport More people will be able to get involved in sport across Lincoln following a successful bid for £250,000 of Sport England’s Community Sport Activation funding. City of Lincoln Council applied for the funding, along with £25,000 from Barclays Spaces for Sport and £7,500 from Positive Futures, to address the need for more sporting opportunities in seven wards of the city where it is most needed. The money will help the council, working in partnership with Lincoln City FC Sport and Education Trust (LCFCSET), The Showroom and Positive Futures, to develop a new programme of activities for young people, better access to sport and leisure facilities for all, and to reduce anti-social behaviour. In addition, support and training will be available for volunteers to ensure the project can be continued after the funding has run out. Cllr Donald Nannestad, Portfolio Holder for Recreational Services and Health at the city council, said: “This funding is fantastic news for Lincoln as it will make getting

involved in sports much easier in wards of the city where residents have told us they would like more opportunities. “Apart from the obvious health benefits, taking part in sport fosters a sense of community and makes people feel good about themselves. We hope to increase the number of people taking part in at least one session of physical activity each week. Currently in Lincoln only 34.5 per cent of people do. “Regular low-cost weekly sports sessions at various venues, together with taster days and family fun days, will bring sport to local communities in a supportive environment.” A key part of the Active Lincoln project will be to employ three Sport Activators, who will work together and with communities to deliver the project across the city. In community surveys carried out last year, residents in Abbey and Park wards

Representatives from the city council, LCFCSET, Positive Futures, The Showroom, Sport England and Lincolnshire Sport celebrate the successful funding bid.

identified providing activities for young people as a high priority, and said they believed some anti-social behaviour was caused by people having nowhere to go and play sport and so playing on the street. The other wards to benefit from the project will be Moorland, Glebe, Birchwood, Minster and Castle. The project will also aim to increase provision for target groups, including young men, families, people with disabilities and older people. Mike Diaper, Sport England Director of Community Sport, said: “The investment being made through the Community Sport Activation Fund is making a real difference at a very local level. I’m particularly pleased that more than half the funding is going into projects in deprived areas, helping more people develop a lifelong sporting habit.”

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Thousands going green

Rod Williamson, Councillor Neil Murray, PCC Alan Hardwick, Lincolnshire Police Crime Prevention Design Adviser John Manuel and British Parking Association Area Manager Peter Gravells.

Safer parking in Lincoln You can rest assured you’re leaving your car in safe hands when you park in council car parks, after City of Lincoln Council received a nationallyrecognised standard for their safety. The 20 car parks owned by the city council have been awarded the ParkMark award from Lincolnshire Police. The award includes a police assessment which covers a variety of features, including effective surveillance, good lighting, quality management and a clean environment. Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Alan Hardwick presented the award to the council. He said: “I am very pleased that City of Lincoln Council’s car parks have again achieved the stringent standards of the ParkMark scheme. “It shows the council’s commitment to making the city a safe and welcoming environment for locals but also for tourists visiting Lincolnshire. “Keeping crime levels in car parks at a low is a real priority for both the police and the city council.

“We want to continue making sure that customers of these car parks feel confident that both their vehicle and they themselves are safe when making use of some of the wonderful attractions Lincolnshire has to offer.” Rod Williamson, City Services Team Leader for the city council, said: “We’re very pleased with the ongoing award of the ParkMark accreditation for all our offstreet car parks, following assessment by Lincolnshire Police. “Customers to city council car parks can expect, and deserve, protection from the scourge of crime and the fear of crime itself.” City Councillor Neil Murray, Portfolio Holder for Planning Policy and Economic Regeneration, added: “It’s great to have recognition of all the hard work put in by our staff in trying to make our car parks as safe and welcoming as possible.”

Take advantage of current parking offers: • Rosemary Lane (off Monks Road, near Lincoln College) - £2 all day during July and August only • Enjoy a 25 per cent discount when you pay by phone on Mondays in all council car parks • Tentercroft Street - £2 after 3pm for three hours plus free evening parking

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

The new service year for garden waste collections is now under way with thousands of bins being emptied as part of the scheme. The city council-run service is in its second year and residents can sign up to take part at any time. Prices have been frozen at £25 a year for the first bin – less than 50p per week. It costs £10 for each additional bin, up to a maximum of four. Councillor Fay Smith, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services and Public Protection, said: “We were very pleased with the number of households that took part last year and it is clear that they found it good value for money so have signed up again.” Those who pay for the garden waste collection service will be sent information and a sticker that needs to be displayed on their green bin, so there is no confusion as to who has paid for the 2014-15 year. You can sign up quickly and easily at www.lincoln.gov.uk/garden, or by calling 01522 873255. If you don’t want to sign up, don’t forget you can compost garden waste at home or take it to a household waste recycling centre. Alternatively, you can spread the cost by sharing a green bin with a friend or neighbour.

Members of the 2nd Lincoln St Georges Scouts helped to clean and paint railings at Boultham Park.

Volunteers lend a hand on exciting park project Nearly 80 people have volunteered their services within the first six months of the five-year, multi-million pound restoration of Boultham Park in Lincoln, a joint venture between City of Lincoln Council and learning disability charity, Linkage. Volunteering has ranged from litter picks to radio documentaries, all of which are an invaluable contribution to this special project. The £3.7 million scheme will see a café, education centre and horticultural facilities being built, alongside restoration of the lake, bandstand and other heritage features within the park. The Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund Parks for People initiative, which are the main funders, see community support important as part of match funding their £2.7 million in grant aid. This level of volunteering is thought to be worth £15,000 so far, but the project needs to match fund much more than that.

Volunteers from across the local community and beyond have been invited to become involved, as the project team hopes to increase community ownership over the park, making it a cleaner, safer and more attractive place to visit. Among the activities that have taken place so far are litter picks, heritage projects and creating a community magazine, ‘Boultham Park Beacon’, which was published in June. Volunteers have also tidied up overgrown scrub, painted railings, hosted events, created audio documentaries and much more. A range of organisations and groups has been involved, from the University of

Lincoln School of Media, National Citizen Service, the Witham Family Centre to Explorers (older members of the Scouting community) and Scouts. Chelsey Barnes, Community Development Worker, said: “I’m over the moon with the amount of enthusiasm, ambition and drive from a diverse range of volunteers. Some have never even visited the park before their volunteering project, but are keen to return! The next step is finding ways for individuals within the local community to become regularly involved, rather than just through external organisations and groups.” Among the plans for the regeneration of the park over the next five years are improved management and maintenance, leading to securing a prestigious Green Flag award, increased activity on-site and additional skilled input from staff and trainees, helped by qualifications in horticulture, food and customer service gained by Linkage students. The park’s history and heritage will be conserved and improved, creating a digital archive and interpretation in the park, and a programme of temporary exhibitions. The project is now especially keen to find volunteers interested in working on three new initiatives: heritage, being a ‘visitor ambassador’ for the park, and maintenance.

To get involved contact Chelsey Barnes on 01522 503180 or email chelsey.barnes@linkage.org.uk. For copies of the new Boultham Park Beacon publication, visit www.boulthampark.co.uk

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Local Plan launched

A helping hand for those in need

Discretionary Housing Payments

Council Tax Exceptional Hardship Fund

It’s been more than a year since the Government introduced its Welfare Reform changes, which are continuing to affect many Housing Benefit claimants across Lincoln. To help with this, City of Lincoln Council’s Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) fund for 2014-15 is one of the highest amounts it has ever been. The council has been given a total of £194,308 to support claimants struggling to pay their rent. It’s vital those who are receiving Housing Benefit, have a shortfall and are struggling to pay their rent are aware of the additional help that could be available to them. As of June, 232 households had already applied for this help. The Benefits Team has already committed to spending £37,502 and 62 cases have been awarded DHP for the full year. The amount of money left to spend is £156,806 – so make sure you apply as this is a cash-limited fund. Applications can be made by Housing Benefit claimants who have a shortfall and are struggling to pay their rent by contacting the Housing Benefit Office and asking to apply. Details of income and expenditure will be required.

The council also has a £5,000 exceptional hardship fund. If you receive Council Tax Support but still have some council tax to pay and are struggling to meet that cost, you can apply for an exceptional hardship payment by contacting us.

How to make a claim: You can download the DHP form, Exceptional Hardship form and a financial statement from www.lincoln.gov.uk/DHPforms and post the completed forms to the Benefits Team at PO Box 1257, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN5 5PQ. These forms are also available from City Hall or you can call the Benefits Team on 01522 873355 or email benefits@lincoln.gov.uk

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

The Central Lincolnshire Joint Strategic Planning Committee has launched its plans on the way forward for the area’s Local Plan. The committee is made up of representatives of the authorities that make up Central Lincolnshire - North Kesteven, West Lindsey, the county council and City of Lincoln Council. The launch event was held in Lincoln prior to the committee’s annual meeting, where Leader of the city council, Cllr Ric Metcalfe, transferred his chairmanship of the committee to the Leader of North Kesteven, Cllr Marion Brighton MBE. The Leader of West Lindsey, Cllr Jeff Summers, took up the position of vice-chair. Cllr Metcalfe said: “The launch was intended to be a low-key, informal event geared around conversation and dialogue. It was well-attended with a lot of discussion between officers and interested parties, developers, councillors and stakeholders. “There was a great deal of interest shown by those who attended and we were able to help launch and guide people through the Local Plan process. I believe that as the main purpose of launching the new process, that was a great success in itself.” Cllr Brighton said: “This year is going to be very busy as we move forward with establishing the Local Plan. I expect us to make significant progress in carrying our joint vision forward.” To reflect the recent change of direction towards a single Local Plan for Central Lincolnshire, a new website has been created with a fresh look and user-friendly navigation, complete with new branding. The updated website contains all information on the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan 2011 - 2036 and will be updated as work progresses. Visit www.central-lincs.org.uk

Hartsholme Country Park

Get out and get active this summer! With two Green Flag parks and a host of other green spaces, as well as sport and play facilities, Lincoln isn’t short of places to go to enjoy the great outdoors this summer.

Whether you want to go for a stroll, enjoy the wildlife, play some sport or have a picnic with friends or family, you don’t have to go far to get away from it all: • Hartsholme Country Park - The biggest park in the city with woodland and lakeside walks. Family friendly events run weekly throughout the summer • The Arboretum - The Arboretum offers a refreshing green space right in the heart of the city • Boultham Park - A 50-acre park with sports, lake and woodland that has recently received £2.7 million of Heritage Lottery and Big Lottery Funding •

The Commons - Natural open spaces for everyone to enjoy

• Birchwood Nature Reserve - The perfect place to get back to nature and spot wildlife For more information on any of our parks go to www.lincoln.gov.uk/parks

Boultham Park Summer Games: Open now until September 7, take your pick from a range of activities at Boultham Park – or have a go at them all! •

Putting

• Bowls

• 3 x Grass Tennis courts •

•

Play Area

Cold drinks and ice poles available

Don’t have your own tennis racket? Not a problem – hire equipment is available for all the games. Fees apply. For more information call 01522 873502 or visit our website www.lincoln.gov.uk/summergames

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Take advantage of the facilities on your doorstep There’s something for everyone in Lincoln. Here’s just some ideas of what you could get up to this summer. For more information and prices visit www.lincoln.gov.uk/bookings West Common:

Badminton:

• 3 x Hard Tennis Courts - free to use all year round

• Courts available at Sudbrooke Drive Community Centre, Moorland Community Centre and St Giles Community Centre

• 3 x Grass Courts - free to use from April to September • Cricket Pitch – fees apply

Skate park: • The Backies, behind Moorland Community Centre in Moorland Avenue. Free to use. Open daylight hours

Short mat bowls and table tennis: • Available at all community centres

Wheelchair basketball:

Play areas: • Various free to use play areas in parks and open spaces, including Lincolnshire’s only iPlay at The Lawn More details about our play areas can be found at www.lincoln.gov.uk/play Find out more about iPlay at www.intelligentplay.co.uk

• Training venue available at St Giles Community Centre

Martial arts: • A number of different martial arts clubs run at our community centres. For more details contact the Bookings Team on 01522 873502

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Keep the kids entertained at Yarborough Leisure Centre Sporting activities will be running every weekday during the school holidays at Yarborough Leisure Centre. Keep the kids from getting bored with a mix of football, tennis, swimming, obstacle courses, volleyball, basketball and much more. A full day from 9am until 5pm costs £15, while a half day (either 9am – 1pm or 1pm – 5pm) costs £9. To book call 01522 873600. Intensive learn to swim sessions will also take place throughout the summer. For more details go to www.lincoln.gov.uk/leisure

Become a volunteer walk leader If you are someone who enjoys walking and talking to people and are able to give a few hours per week, why not find out more about becoming a walk leader?

Put your best foot forward Activ8 Lincoln Led Walks has been officially recognised by Walking for Health and awarded national accreditation for its local walking scheme. This endorses the quality of experience and support that walkers can expect when taking part in one of the regular led health walks, which include 10 weekly walks and four that run on a monthly cycle. Join the team for free, short and friendly walks close to where you live. Walkers with Walking for Health know they are in safe hands with each walk led by a fully trained walk leader, helping you to get active and stay active. Walking is great for your health and puts a spring in your step. Comfortable clothing and footwear is all you need to get started.

What is a health walk? A health walk is a free and local short walk typically lasting under the hour to help you get active and stay active at a pace that works for you. It’s a great way to stretch your legs, explore what’s on your doorstep, and make new friends. All health walks are led by qualified volunteer walk leaders who will make you feel welcome regardless of your walking ability.

Why join a health walk? Sometimes a walk alone in the fresh air is just what we need. But if you’re just getting started and you’re not sure that you want to do all your walking alone - or if you like the idea of having other people around to help you stay motivated - then join a health walk. Volunteer walk leader Michael Harris, from Lincoln, said: “I feel our walkers enjoy the ‘security’ of being in a led group, the set weekly programme - same walk length and time - enables those less confident to attend walks knowing that they are going to walk for around an hour, and it doesn’t matter if they miss a week, they know it will still be on the following week.”

Local health walks include: • Uphill Lincoln Health Walk - Tuesdays at 10.45am meeting at Yarborough Leisure Centre café • Hartsholme Park Health Walk – Wednesdays at 1pm meeting outside Hartsholme Park cafe • Birchwood Health Walk – Fridays at 11am meeting at Birchwood Leisure Centre • Whisby Health walk - Fridays at 1pm meeting outside the main centre Download a copy of our new summer timetable at www.lincoln.gov.uk/healthylifestyles or phone 01522 873581

The Healthy Lifestyles Team will provide a free one day walk leader training course, a starter pack - including fleeces, hats and bags - short courses such as first aid (not an essential requirement) as well as lots of ongoing support. Anne Ransome, a volunteer walk leader, said: “Joining the local Walking for Health volunteer team has done wonders for me.It provides me with a purpose each week, I can explore areas of Lincoln I never knew existed, I meet lots of new people and see great improvements in people’s health. I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone with a few daytime hours to spare during the week.” The Walking for Health coordinators for Lincoln and West Lindsey are also looking for volunteers or community groups who are interested in starting a brand new walking group within your local area. Holly Arrowsmith, Scheme Coordinator, said: “Not only will individuals be promoting good health and well-being within their community, they will also be joining a growing network of walks and walking groups associated with a national movement within Walking for Health.”

Get ready to run… Entries are already open for the 19th annual Lincoln 10k! Taking place on Sunday, March 22, 2015, the 10k will follow the usual flat course – ideal for first time runners and those aiming for a personal best – and take in that spectacular finish past Lincoln Cathedral and into the castle grounds. To sign up at the earlybird price of £22 head to www.runforall.com

www.lincoln.gov.uk

On your bike... Enjoy fun, free summer cycling in Lincoln with Sky Ride Local. This family friendly programme of free rides will run throughout the summer, guided by trained British Cycling ride leaders.

Fancy trying something new this summer? New members are very welcome at Lincoln Canoe Club, which is one of the best-known canoe clubs in the country. Lincoln’s sheltered waterways are ideal for beginners and racing champions alike. Introductory courses are available during the spring and summer for those who have not canoed before. The club has a long history of successes in kayak racing, but members also enjoy other types of canoeing and all ages are catered for. The club’s premises are situated on the south bank of the Brayford Pool, and members have immediate access to the water from the club’s own landing stage. See www.lincolncanoeclub.co.uk for more details, contact Graham at lcc@letsmakeanoise.co.uk or call 07861 038623.

www.lincoln.gov.uk

Simply register for the rides at www.goskyride.com/lincoln

•

Sunday, July 20, 10am Skellingthorpe, starting at Daisy Made to Doddington and back

• Sunday, July 20, 2pm Lincs Leafy Lanes, starting at Ruston Sports and Social Club • Sunday, July 27, 10am Saxilby Wrigsley, starting at St Andres Centre, Saxilby • Sunday, August 3, 10am Fossedyke Fun, starting at Woodcocks Inn • Sunday, August 10, 2pm Birchwood – Nature Park Loop, starting at Birchwood Leisure Centre

Lincolnshire Sport’s Village Games

Fun for all the family during a community

day full of sporting activities. Sports include tennis, hockey, rounders and much more! • Saturday, July 19, 1pm - 4pm North Scarle Village Hall/Playing Field

• Sunday, August 17, 10am Skellingthorpe, starting at Daisy Meade to Doddington and back

• Sunday, July 20, 1pm - 4pm Witham St Hughes Village Hall/Playing Field

• Sunday, August 24, 10am Harby Loop, stating at NK Centre

For more information on the Sky Ride Local programme in Lincoln, including length of rides, please contact Lincolnshire Sport on 01522 585580 or email sarah.clarke@lincolnshiresport.com

• Sunday, August 31, 10am Skellingthorpe to Fledborough, starting at Skellingthorpe Community Centre

Growth Strategy in the spotlight

New council homes at Stapleford Avenue

Taking the lead on housing growth A £15 million investment to provide more than 150 new council homes in Lincoln is the latest sign of City of Lincoln Council’s commitment to providing affordable housing. More than 150 new council homes will be built in the city over the next six years after the council agreed a £15 million investment. Funded using the Housing Revenue Account, the scheme will help to tackle the urgent need for more affordable homes in the city. The council already manages and maintains nearly 8,000 council houses, but has a waiting list of 2,775 people and growing that need our help. Ric Metcalfe, Leader of the council, said:

“Two of the council’s main priorities are to increase the supply of affordable housing and to protect the poorest people in Lincoln. “We desperately need more one bedroom properties in order to move under-occupying tenants and free up larger houses for families on the waiting list, and we will also be looking at what other types of housing we need, such as sheltered housing and warden-assisted bungalows for older people and the disabled.” A detailed programme of house building identifying specific sites and types of housing will be discussed at a future meeting. Although the council has built 10 new homes since April 2012, in Wellington Street and Stapleford Avenue, last year the authority was forced to sell 60 properties under the Right to Buy scheme.

Creating jobs, improving rail and transport links and promoting all the city has to offer are some of the main aims of a new plan to be launched this summer. The Lincoln Growth Strategy has five priorities – Great Place, Great Access, Great People, Great Partnerships and Great Innovations – which have been shaped following consultation with various organisations. The document aims to drive economic growth, to enhance the physical environment, provide employment growth and reduce poverty. Its vision is “Lincoln will evolve into a beautifully engineered world class historic city becoming internationally renowned for its enterprise, heritage and educational excellence, whilst demonstrating that being a competitive city does not equal compromising on people, values or culture.” Councillor Neil Murray, City of Lincoln Council Portfolio Holder for Planning and Regeneration, said: “The council is committed to doing everything it can to support the growth of new and existing businesses to provide the much-needed employment opportunities, particularly for young people.” The strategy brings together key priorities and objectives which create beneficial change for the city, and has identified a number of actions and how they can be achieved. While the city council will oversee its development, a Growth Forum and Board will oversee the delivery of the strategy and monitor its actions.

Help us to help you Customers access our services in a variety of ways, including by phone, email, face-to-face or via our website - www.lincoln.gov.uk. Increasingly, you are choosing to do business with us online and we want to make sure you can do this easily. For example, you can already: • Request and pay for garden waste collections • Tell us about changes to your household • Report a problem: for example dog fouling, litter or fly tipping • Check your bin collections day • Pay bills

You can also contact us by emailing customer.services@lincoln.gov.uk at a time to suit you. Like all councils, we are continually looking at how we can reduce our spending. Making our services more accessible online will help us to achieve the savings required following reductions in government funding. The processing of the payments we receive is one activity we are currently focusing on. For example, a cheque is far more expensive to process than a direct debit. With this in mind we, along with many other businesses, are considering phasing out our acceptance of cheques. Payment using a debit card will be quicker and cheaper for us to process and will save you the cost of a stamp and an envelope. No final decision has been made but we will keep you informed.

www.lincoln.gov.uk

Tackling poverty Work taking place in Lincoln to help people who are struggling financially has been recognised nationally.

The impact of the financial crisis started being felt as long ago as 2008. Since then, many people have struggled with unemployment, increasing food costs, mortgage repossessions, and debt. Despite the UK economy now growing again, many residents continue to feel the impact of the financial crisis. In Lincoln, we have seen large numbers of people relying on emergency food parcels, and more than 2,700 residents claiming jobseekers allowance. More than 6,500 households in the city are estimated to be experiencing fuel poverty. Of course, this affects children as well, with 24 per cent of children in Lincoln living in lowincome families. In fact, three areas in Lincoln feature among some of the most five per cent of deprived areas for this in England. If you are struggling to repay debts such as mortgage arrears, credit cards, overdrafts, fuel bills or loans, or simply want guidance or advice on managing your money better, there is a range of organisations that might be able to help:

The Poverty in Lincoln project, led by City of Lincoln Council’s Community Leadership Scrutiny Committee, was runner-up in the Scrutineers’ Choice Award at the Centre for Public Scrutiny Awards, which celebrate the impact and effectiveness of public scrutiny and accountability in public services. The project, which has seen a comprehensive review by the scrutiny committee, a conference attended by more than 120 delegates, a strategy put in place and an action plan created, also finished in the final four in the Influence Beyond Boundaries and Economic Resilience categories. Councillor Karen Lee, chair of the committee, said: “We are so pleased to have been shortlisted for not only one, but two themes.

“To also receive votes on the day from our peers to reach runner up position for the Scrutineers’ Choice Award, and receive national recognition for the work we and our partners have been doing is a great honour. “It really is a testament to the hard work put in by everyone involved, and I thank them all for their efforts.” The committee refocused its work last summer to concentrate on helping people on low income to make ends meet after it was identified as being a key issue for the city. The Anti-Poverty Strategy aims to raise public awareness of the scale of the problem, identify gaps in provision and make collective resources go further. It also works with partners to remove any stigma attached with accessing help.

City of Lincoln Council

National Debtline

Money Advice Service

For help with housing benefits, and council tax support, and to find out if you are entitled to claim, contact City of Lincoln Council.

For free, confidential, debt advice and tackling debts and managing your money, contact the National Debtline.

For free, unbiased, independent advice to help you manage your money better, contact the Money Advice Service.

Telephone: 01522 881188 Website: www.lincoln.gov.uk Address: City Hall, Beaumont Fee, Lincoln, LN1 1DD

Telephone: 0808 808 4000 Website: www.nationaldebtline.org

Telephone: 0300 500 5000 Website: www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk

Lincoln Citizens Advice Bureau

Lincolnshire Credit Union

Lincolnshire Advice Network

For free, independent, confidential and impartial advice on your rights and responsibilities, contact Lincoln Citizens Advice Bureau.

For affordable financial services, including savings and loans, contact Lincolnshire Credit Union - a local community-based, ethical financial co-operative-owned and controlled by its members.

For more specific help and advice, contact the Lincolnshire Advice Network.

Telephone: 0844 4111 444* Website: www.lincolncab.org.uk Address: Beaumont Lodge, Beaumont Fee, Lincoln, LN1 1UL

Need help to make your money go further?

Telephone: 01522 528886 Website: www.lincscreditunion.org.uk Address: 390 High Street, Lincoln, LN5 7SS

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Telephone: 0844 257 0042* from landline Telephone: 0300 303 8789** from mobile Web: www.lincolnshireadvicenetwork.org.uk * 5p per minute from a BT landline ** typically cost between 10p and 40p per minute (calls are however included in free call packages)

In the West End, University of Lincoln Students’ Union organised a series of ‘Meet the Street’ events last year to give long-term residents and students a chance to chat over a cup of tea.

Putting communities first Projects in three wards of Lincoln have benefited from more than £125,000 funding in the last three years. This year, around £60,000 is available for community groups working in Park, Abbey or Carholme wards through Community First. The government-funded initiative helps communities come together to identify their local priorities in order to plan for their future and become more resilient. Last year, the Community First panel in Abbey ward allocated more than £25,000 to projects in the area. One project to benefit is charity Green Synergy, which runs a lot of community garden projects, and has used Community First funding around Stamp End to run hanging basket workshops, street gardening and projects at Shuttleworth House. Mary Whiting, CEO of Green Synergy, encouraged other groups to apply: “Community First is a really accessible pot of funding. We’ve used it to deliver projects and run sessions. As long as you’re meeting the priorities of the ward. You can use the money for a whole range of community activities.” Priorities could include bringing the community together, creating more community engagement, improving the physical appearance of the area and providing more activities and improving facilities for people. The final deadline for projects in Abbey and Park wards is August 1, while organisations in Carholme ward have until September 12 to apply for funding.

Bringing people together Green Synergy

To apply please use the following contacts: Carholme ward: Alex Williamson alex.williamson@lincoln.gov.uk 01522 873571 Abbey ward: Paul Carrick paul.carrick@lincoln.gov.uk 01522 541470 Park ward: Gemma McFaul Gemma.McFaul@developmentplus.org.uk 07876 624934

Freshers’ Week: The council has been working with partners in the West End to help students and longterm residents live side by side in harmony. Aware that the period around Freshers’ Week, when students are celebrating the start of the academic year, can be a difficult time for long-term residents living in the area, we have developed a co-ordinated approach to try to help the time pass as smoothly as possible. The SHUSH campaign (SHUSH - let’s make it a silent night) will be running again with street signs put up to remind partygoers to return home quietly. Wristbands will be distributed at Freshers’ Fairs to highlight the campaign - with benefits this time being discounts on food and soft drinks at local eateries and Lincoln BIG is ensuring the campaign is highlighted in local bars. There will also be an out-of-hours noise reporting service, additional support from the police and opportunities for residents to meet new neighbours soon after Freshers’ Week.

Meeting community groups, increasing communication and encouraging people to be respectful and tolerant are among the aims of City of Lincoln Council’s new Portfolio Holder for Community Cohesion and Social Inclusion. Councillor Rosanne Kirk aims to build on the good work that has been happening in the city to bring people from different backgrounds together. She said: “I would like to meet some of the key players and people who contribute so much to our city. “One of my priorities is strong communication levels between all the groups and organisations in Lincoln. “I want to empower people and give them opportunities to learn about each other.”

World Hello Day This year, the city council will once again be celebrating World Hello Day. Held on November 21, the objective is to say hello to at least 10 people on the day. By greeting others, the message is that we should all use communication rather than force to settle disputes or conflicts. Designed to help increase awareness, tolerance and understanding of others, last year events included pupils at Bishop King Primary School learning to say ‘hello’ in different languages and researching food from around the world. This year, the council would like to make the day bigger and better. If you or your organisation would like to get involved please contact Heather Grover on heather.grover@lincoln.gov.uk

www.lincoln.gov.uk

Staff and patients of Boultham Hall during the First World War

First World War Centenary Gone but not forgotten August 4, 2014 marks 100 years since the outbreak of the First World War, which had a devastating impact on families in Lincoln, the UK and in all the countries involved. To mark the occasion and show respect for those who died for their country, a series of events will be taking place across the city.

Memorial garden at Boultham Park Apprentices in Lincoln will be honouring the First World War centenary by creating a commemorative garden on the edge of Boultham Park in a small wooded site opposite St Helens church. Boultham Park is a fitting location for a tribute to the soldiers of the First World War as Boultham Hall, then home to Colonel Richard Ellison, was used to care for convalescing servicemen returning from the

front from 1914 until 1918. The garden project is being lead by Lincolnshire Co-operative, City of Lincoln Council and Linkage Community Trust. The three organisations are working together to bring apprentices, local residents and neighbouring schools together for a few days this summer to volunteer. Kate Roach, one of the project organisers, said: “The idea came about when the National Apprenticeship Service launched a campaign to encourage apprentices to get involved both in First World War centenary events and in community volunteering. “We felt that a garden would be a lasting tribute to the soldiers and a community facility. At the same time it offers up a great opportunity to bring young apprentices together with members of the local community on a creative project.” The First World War was a multicultural conflict involving more than 100 countries, from Eastern Europe to the Middle East, to

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

the Americas, Africa, Japan, Australasia and all of Western Europe. Local school children are getting creative and will be making artists’ interpretations of the loss, the honour and the bravery of the people who lived through the First World War. These will be scattered along garden paths and around the seating area. The garden itself will be planted with wood anemones, bluebells and wild roses along with drifts of deep red poppies in grass that will replicate the first flush of growth after the soldiers left the fields of Flanders on November 11 1918. Up to 40 volunteers will clear and plant the new garden on July 17, 18 and 21. There will be an official opening featuring a multi-cultural afternoon tea on Sunday, August 3, attended by the Mayor of Lincoln in the garden and St Helen’s Church between 2pm and 4pm. If you would like to be involved, please contact Kate Roach at kate.roach@lincoln.gov.uk

The Arboretum, Lincoln

Event honours sacrifice of Lincoln mother who lost five sons Two years ago Amy Beechey moved to Avondale Street, after the death of her husband. Her family of eight sons and four daughters are close to her and her pride and joy. This summer though will be the final one together for the family. The year is 1914, on August 4 Britain will declare war on Germany. All eight of Amy’s sons will join the military to serve their king and country. Five of them will pay the ultimate price and lose their life on the battlefields of Belgium, France and East Africa. Another son will be left with life changing injuries and leave the UK to live in Perth in Australia, never to see his mother again. Only one other family in the UK will pay such a big personal price as a result of the global conflict. This summer Lincoln will mark the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War by telling the story of Amy and her family as they spend a final summer together. Inspired by the letters home to their mother by the Beechey boys, a unique event will be held on July 26 at the Arboretum, just a few minutes walk from the family home on Avondale Street. In addition to a cast of actors from the city portraying the family, the Royal Anglian Regiment Military Band, the Military Wives Choir of RAF College Cranwell and pupils from Monks Abbey Primary School will also

be involved in the performance, which will be broadcast live on BBC Radio Lincolnshire. The event is one of a series of special commemorations organised by the BBC and the University of Lincoln, working closely with the Diocese of Lincoln. Abbey Access Training will be involved in the event and will be hosting VIP guests, actors and musicians during the day. The newly refurbished Arboretum Café, ‘The Courtyard’ will be providing a range of catering facilities for cast members and the public attending the event. BBC Radio Lincolnshire’s Managing Editor Charlie Partridge said: “The story of the Beechey brothers reminds us of the unimaginable suffering endured by the war generation. “We are immensely proud to be working with our partners at the University of Lincolnshire and at the Diocese of Lincoln

Amy Beechey’s grave in Newport Cemetery

to help bring this story to a wider audience, and it is a fitting focus for our First World War Centenary commemorations here in Lincolnshire.”

The story of the Beechey “brothers reminds us of the unimaginable suffering endured by the war generation.

”

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

Bein g a councillor Brent Charlesworth Cllr Brent Charlesworth has represented Park ward on the city council since May 2007. In June he took on a new role as Mayor of Lincoln. Here we find out a bit more about him. As Mayor of Lincoln, what do you hope to achieve this year? I shall endeavour to present this fine city in its very best light to everyone I meet. The Mayor, after all, is Lincoln’s First Citizen and its principal ambassador. It is a huge honour to be the Mayor of this fine city whose remarkable history extends well beyond the Roman occupation back into the mists of time and whose future development is most certainly bright indeed. What are your chosen charities and why? I will be supporting two Lincoln-based organisations with which I have been most closely associated in recent years. The first is DevelopmentPlus - a major voluntary sector community development organisation – specifically its ‘Step in the Right Direction’ open-access counselling programme, which offers support and

guidance to local people who may have mental health issues and a range of problems linked to poor housing, low income, unemployment or indeed no income, poor general health or who may suffer isolation. The second charity I shall support is Lincoln Dial-a-Ride, which provides affordable transport for the elderly and disabled who live in and around Lincoln. What is the best thing about being a councillor? Serving local people, especially those in my ward. On the one hand it is being a helper, an adviser, a facilitator, a guide and a supporter for people who find themselves caught up in all kinds of difficulties. On the other hand, it is working to provide positive developments in Lincoln which improve the quality of life for us all – and the reassurance that one’s efforts have not been in vain. What is the worst thing? Having neither the power nor the wherewithal to be able to provide the facilities that one knows are badly needed in one’s ward and in the city as a whole. What are the current issues impacting on people in your Park ward?

Housing, anti-social behaviour, litter, dog mess on pavements and green spaces, parking and transport issues, insufficient quality health and leisure facilities for young and old in parts of the ward. However, there are many organisations – statutory and voluntary – that one can turn to for assistance to help improve the quality of life. I am constantly gratified by locals’ efforts to help others. What advice would you give to someone interested in becoming a councillor? Join a political party which will offer training and support. What do you enjoy doing outside your council duties? I enjoy cycling. Lincolnshire provides some of the best cycling in the country with acre upon acre of flat, open countryside, largely free from traffic. A member of the Ramblers’ Association, I enjoy walking in the Wolds. I have a long-established love of English and continental literature, so I read a lot. I love music and a high spot of the week for me is to enjoy at Evensong the majestic cadences of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer and the superb singing of the Lincoln Cathedral choir.

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

Anthony Gray T: 880964 anthony.gray@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

Marika Riddick T: 07850 189856 marika.riddick@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

Keith Weaver T: 871075 keith.weaver@lincoln.gov.uk

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

Glebe Ward

MP for Lincoln

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

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

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

Party Key:

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

Correct as of July 1 2014

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

Minster Ward Liz Maxwell T: 07463 584823 liz.maxwell@lincoln.gov.uk David Gratrick T: 530163 david.gratrick@lincoln.gov.uk Sue Burke T: 856296 sue.burke@lincoln.gov.uk

Moorland Ward Bob Bushell T: 870625 bob.bushell@lincoln.gov.uk Geoff Ellis T: 683620 geoff.ellis@lincoln.gov.uk Adrianna McNulty T: 07950 885430 adrianna.ellis@lincoln.gov.uk

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

Labour Conservative

The NHS Health Check - Working together to improve your health Anyone could be at risk at risk of developing heart disease, a stroke, diabetes or kidney disease.

Don’t lose your right to vote With effect from June 10 this year the way people register to vote changed. A new method of registration called Individual Electoral Registration (IER) has been introduced. Some key points of the change mean that: • You can now register online • You will need to register individually. In the past forms were sent to all properties and anyone living there could register people living at the address • If you registered to vote in 2014 you will automatically be transferred on to the new register • If you need to register you will need to provide some more details, including national insurance number and date of birth

In July, people automatically transferred onto the new register will receive a letter of confirmation. If you are aware of anyone in your household who might not be registered they can contact the council to get an application form or register online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. For more information visit the Electoral Commission website at www.electoralcommision.org.uk or contact the council on 01522 873374 or electoral@lincoln.gov.uk

The good news is by identifying these problems early they can often be prevented or managed effectively – even if you have a history of them in your family. The NHS Health Check is a free service, for 40 to 74 year olds, offered by your GP practice. If you are eligible for one of these checks your practice will send you an invitation to attend at some point in the future. The check itself only takes between 20 and 30 minutes and involves a basic assessment to include: height, weight, current medication, age, family history, smoking and blood pressure. There is also a simple blood test for cholesterol and, in some cases, glucose levels. After the check, you will be told the results and, if necessary, be offered advice and support to maintain a healthy lifestyle and lower your risk. When you are invited it’s worth going along, even if you are feeling well. You may have an underlying condition which you are unaware of, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol. In partnership with your practice any underlying problems can be managed, thus improving your health now and in the future. More than 86,000 people in Lincolnshire have already benefited from their NHS Health Check. For more information go to www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/residents/ public-health/your-health/nhs-health-check/

www.lincoln.gov.uk

July

Butterfly Survey Hartsholme Country Park July 15 and 31, 1pm to 3pm

Cornhill July 23 – August 3, 10am to 8pm

Take part in this year’s Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count as Hartsholme Park play host to a guided walk. Take the time to find out about some of the species that reside at the park during summer while learning the basics of invertebrate identification.

Enjoy all the action from the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games right in the city centre with the Lincoln BIG Commonwealth screen. There will be grass and seating in the Cornhill, and from July 24-27 a Commonweath Food Fair featuring Australian bush food and Jamaican jerk, as well as traditional British food and much more.

01522 873735 / £2.50 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

FREE / 01522 545711 www.visitlincoln.com

Made in Lincoln Museum of Lincolnshire Life July 20, 10am – 4pm Marvel at magnificent steam engines and the First World War tank that represent the high points in Lincoln’s engineering innovation. Join in with skilled crafts people as they demonstrate arts such as lace-making, spinning and weaving, stained glass making and more.

Lincoln Dances Festival Finale Drill Hall July 26, 7.30pm – 9pm

FREE / 01522 782040 www.visitlincoln.com

An evening of dance celebrating different dance styles and featuring dancers of all ages from across the region, this showcase will enable you to support Lincolnshire’s talented and inspiring young dancers and experience something new. For information of free taster workshops for children, beginners and graduate dancers email LincolnDanceCharlotte@hotmail.co.uk

Lincoln by the Sea

£6 / 01522 873894 www.lincolndrillhall.com

City Square July 21 – August 31 Enjoy all the fun of a day at the seaside 50 miles from the coast as part of Lincoln city centre is transformed into a sandy beach, complete with deck chairs and special appearances from Punch and Judy. FREE / www.visitlincoln.com

Lincs Evolution Brayford Waterfront July 27, 10am to 4pm Lincs Evolution offers all motoring fans a great day out, where they can meet more of the county’s car and motorsport club members and find out what sort of exciting things they get up to. There will be 100 vehicles on display from souped-up Minis to customised American giants, German racing machines and covetable classics. lincsevolution@live.co.uk www.lincsevolution.co.uk

Commonwealth Festival

Language/Culture Swap Drill Hall Fortnightly from July 26, 2pm An opportunity for people to meet over a coffee for a chat to improve your language skills and share items and anecdotes from our different cultures.

August

Spooky Lincoln Ghost Tour Sightseeing bus tour (starts at Lincoln cathedral) August 2, 4pm to 5pm One of the team from the popular Lincoln Ghost Walks will guide you around Lincoln on the open top city sightseeing bus, whilst telling spooky tales and stories of Lincoln’s haunted past. The spooky tour is suitable for all ages and will leave the west front of Lincoln Cathedral at 4pm. 01522 545458 / £6 www.visitlincoln.com

Lincoln Artists’ Market Castle Square August 2, 10am to 4.30pm There’s something for every taste and every pocket with a wide choice of original artworks from paintings to photography, ceramics to textiles and artisan made fashion.

Bird Watching for All Hartsholme Country Park August 3, 10.30am to 12.30pm Local RSPB members will play host to a guided walk of Hartsholme Park and Swanholme Lakes Local Nature Reserve. Come along to try to spot the many different species of birds that reside at the park throughout the year. 01522 873735 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

Pond Dipping

FREE / vincesdw@hotmail.co.uk

Hartsholme Country Park August 5, 1pm to 3pm

Den Building

Explore the hidden depths that lie beneath the surfaces of Hartsholme Park’s wildlife ponds and take a look at some of the creepy critters lurking below. Booking is essential for this event.

Hartsholme Country Park July 29 and August 28, 1pm to 3pm Who lives in a house like this? Join park rangers to build a shelter that could protect you from the wind and rain using fallen timber and tarpaulins. This activity will take place in the woods so suitable clothing and sensible shoes should be worn. 01522 873735 / £2.50 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

Find out more at www.lincoln.gov.uk

01522 873735 / £2.50 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

Lincoln Labyrinth Festival Lincoln Cathedral August 6 - 27, 7am to 8pm Arts, design, music, dance and history come together as communities from Lincoln perform on the Labyrinth stage drawn by students from the University of Lincoln on the nave floor of the cathedral.

September

Roman Posterngate Tours Roman Posterngate, Bank St, Lincoln September 5, 10am to 3.30pm

Outdoor Cinema Lincoln Castle September 27-28, 7.30pm – 9.30pm Bring a picnic as the Luna Cinema presents two nights of classic films under the stars in the incredible setting of Lincoln Castle. 01522 782040 Adult £10 Children Concessions £8 Lincoln_castle@lincolnshire.gov.uk

01526 320298 / Adult £6 Child £1 lincoln.lifejourney@zen.co.uk

A rare opportunity to explore part of Lincoln’s Roman South Wall, which is now hidden under a bank, with a guided tour from experts at The Collection. Each tour lasts 30 minutes and includes the chance to take photos. Last tour starts at 3.10pm

Family Fun Day

01522 782040 / Adult £1 Under 16s free Thecollection@lincolnshire.gov.uk

Drill Hall/LPAC/Engine Shed September 27 – October 10

Hartsholme Country Park August 10, 11am to 4pm Get involved in a variety of activities suitable for the whole family at Hartsholme’s annual fun day. Some charges may apply. 01522 873735 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

Treasure Hunt Hartsholme Country Park August 19, 12pm to 4pm Bring out your inner explorer by taking part in a special pirate-themed treasure hunt at the park. You must solve puzzles and complete challenges in order to find your hidden treasure chest. Booking is essential for this event.

Lincoln Morris Festival Brayford/High Street/Cathedral Quarter September 6, 10am – 5pm About 250 dancers from across the East Midlands will fill the streets with the vibrant colours and sounds of this ancient English tradition. Visitors can get involved in a free dance workshop. 01472 699513 / FREE Dianebooth311@hotmail.com

Lincoln Chilli Fiesta St Marks Shopping Centre September 6-7, 10.30am – 5.30pm

01522 873735 / £2.50 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

Two days of chilli mayhem with food and drink stalls, music and a chilli eating contest, with products from chilli producers in the UK to taste and buy.

Dream Catchers

01522 545711 / FREE www.chillifest.net

Hartsholme Country Park August 21, 1pm to 3pm Come along and try your hand at creating your very own dream catcher. Let this little piece of Native American folklore trap all your bad dreams and let the good ones through. Booking is essential for this event. 01522 873735 / £3.50 hartsholmecp@lincoln.gov.uk

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

Steampunk Festival: Weekend at the Asylum Lincoln Castle and Cathedral Quarter September 12– 14 Hailed the most ‘splendid in the world,’ the biggest Steampunk festival in Europe returns to Lincoln. See the cobbled streets of the city transformed with people wearing fantasy neo-Victorian costumes as this annual event celebrates a steam powered world in the late 19th century.

Comedy Festival The 7th annual Lincoln Comedy Festival brings together a wide variety of styles to celebrate all that is funny on the UK comedy scene and introduces Lincoln audiences to acts that will no doubt be big names of the future. http://lincolncomedyfestival.co.uk Admission prices vary depending on event

Lincoln Book Festival The Collection September 29 – October 4, 6pm to 8.30pm The Lincoln Book Festival returns with six evenings of engaging talks from top authors. The Stokes at the Collection café will be open before performances and during intervals. Check the website for more details nearer the time. 01522 545458 lincolnbookfestival@aubournhall.co.uk www.lincolnbookfestival.org

October

Lincolnshire Day Various venues October 1 This annual celebration will include events, flying the Lincolnshire flag through the streets and dressing in yellow, reflecting the locals’ nickname of Yellow-bellies. Many attractions and activities will be free on the day. 01522 545458 / www.visitlincoln.co.uk

http://steampunk.synthasite.com Tickets from £6.50 up to £24 www.visitlincoln.com