Discovering Whittlesea issue 224, March 2023

Welcome to your March issue...

Mother’s Day already!

“Life doesn’t come with a manual. It comes with a mother” – an old saying, but a true one!

We all need help in finding our way through all the various ups and downs of life, and there, right from day one has been that wonderful (sometimes), smiling (often) and loving (always) lady we are so proud to call “Mum.”

Sadly, Paula and I lost our dear mother recently, and I’m sure that anyone having experienced such a loss will know about the feelings of grief and helplessness, but also the warmth which comes from the many memories we have been so lucky to have been left with. Part of her funeral service included the following lines, which I find so comforting: “Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her Or you can be full of the love you shared.”

Finally, from all of us mums, thanks in advance for the flowers, chocolates, perfume and big hugs, as we try our hardest… without a manual!

I recently had cause to ring a government agency to answer an enquiry they had made about my business.

It was regarding a letter they had sent me after they had failed to take notice of an email I had previously sent to them. I was greeted by the usual ‘press one for this enquiry, two for another and three if you want to spend the rest of your life on the phone...’

After hanging on for what seemed days (fifty minutes) I was interrupted by a work phone call from someone I had been trying to track down for some time so stopped listening to the hideous muzak being played while I waited to engage with the new caller. This all, of course, meant that I had to start the entire process again, which at the time of writing is still progressing. Wouldn’t it be nice just for once to speak with a human being who can deal with your phone call? Modern technology, don’t you just love it...

Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET

Publisher and Sales Claire Saberton:

01778 421427 | 07837 499061 | sales@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

Sales Paula Kirtland: 07903 776211 | marketing.discoveringmagazines@gmail.com

Sales Sallyanne Davis: 07737 026594 | sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

Editor Andy Hurst: editor.march@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

Ops Director Andy Armstrong: 07780 922214

Accounts Sarah Brooks: 07564 966452 | accounts@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

Design Sarah Gumbley | Andy Beavis | Graham Copestake | Dan Handley

Inside Highlights

4 ................ Drinking With Trevor Langley

6 Community Matters

8 Mother’s Day Competition

15 H E Bull & Son Funeral Services

16 Mental Health With Lucy Briggs

18 Steve Barclay MP

21 Vier Physiotherapy: Animal Care

22-23 ... Community Matters

24 Gardening Tips For March

27 Elite Window Cleaning

28 Safe Local Trades

Sales: Sallyanne Davis 07737 026594

sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

With thanks to:

Trevor Langley, Robert Windle/RWT

Photography, Lucy Briggs, Steve Barclay MP, The Shed Shop, Eileen Le Voi, Tania Cannon, Natalie Brannigan, Eamonn Dorling, Coleen Everitt and Cllr David K M Mason.

Deadline details:

Copy deadline for the April issue is Friday, 10th March 2023.

By Trevor Langley

Sparkling Wines: CAVA AND CRÉMANT

Certainly, Champagne is known all around the world – and very pleasing it is too. The popularity of Champagne speaks for itself, but it is most worthwhile considering some of the other sparkling wine productions.

Many countries now produce ‘sparklers’, that are very well received and highly regarded. Excellent for social drinking times, plus food pairings, sparkling wines are great to have at events, including gatherings, special occasions and parties.

Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine that is hugely popular, not just in Spain but in numerous countries worldwide, including the UK. Morrisons’ ‘The Best Marqués De Los Rios Cava’ (12% vol) is a Spanish production, made in partnership with Segura Viudas. It is aged for fifteen months in the bottle, allowing an increased depth of flavour, which adds to the enjoyment and its popularity. The splendid perlage and enticing bouquet, of gentle, citrusy fruits, lead very favourably to the mouth’s pleasures and palate’s delight.

Crémant is the name given to a range of sparkling wines that are produced outside the

Champagne region of France. The varieties of grapes, which are approved for productions can (and do) result in differing expressions, from each producing region. The manual harvesting of grapes and whole bunch pressing, allowing for a specific amount of juice, from a specified quantity of grapes, with minimum time for ageing, are amongst the rules and regulations. Morrisons’ ‘The Best Crémant de Limoux’ (12.5% vol) is produced in partnership with Sieur d’Arques. This elegant sparkler is aged for a minimum of twelve months, in bottle, to enhance the rich, smooth flavour.

I found these wines in ‘The Best’ range, at a Morrisons store. Other sparkling wines on the shelves included Champagnes and Prosecco productions, from France and Italy respectively, plus English sparklers too, that are now becoming known to seriously rival other, more traditional, sparkling delectations.

Founded during 1899, Morrisons now offer an extensive range of quality, alcoholic beverages. Several award-winning wines/drinks can be located there, and advice is always available in store. For details of products and information, please visit www.morrisons.co.uk

As always, enjoy!

Matters COMMUNITY

We bring you items of interest for your home and community. If there is something you’d like us to cover or you have something to say please get in touch at: Discovering Whittlesea, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET Email: editor.whittlesea@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

NICK TO ADDRESS COATES WI

Coates WI’s March 1st meeting will feature Nick Nixon from Ramsey Rural Museum. At the last meeting, SERVSC Bloodrunners gave members an insight into their incredible voluntary work delivering vital and essential items to hospitals, Air Ambulance and milk banks.

Guests and new members are always welcome to join the group which meets on the first Wednesday of the month (no meeting January) at Coates Village Hall at 7.30pm.

FLYING THE FLAG FOR FENLAND

FRIENDS REUNITED

The newly formed Friends of the Manor continues to meet at the venue and the most recent meeting emphasised the need for greater communication between partner groups, Fenland District Council and Freedom Leisure, and a co-ordinated approach to supporting the aims of the group. Issues such as poor lighting surrounding the Manor were discussed as well as the welcome return to the Manor Field of Whittlesey Cricket Club and how to reduce unsociable behaviour.

The next meeting is Tuesday, April 11th, with a 6.30pm start again at the Manor conference meeting room. A new Friends of the Manor Facebook page has been created which will be updated with discussion points and photos. Please contact chairman Robin Sutton at robin55@btopenworld.com for any details.

RESERVE YOUR PLACE

Rings End Nature Reserve has announced some dates for March.

Sunday, March 12th: Work Party – Wildflower Planting with Ben and (TBC) Amphibian Walk with Debs.

Tuesday, March 21st: Committee meeting, Rookswood Club, March, at 7pm. Contact Hayley on 079623 37988, email: hdolbear@aol.com

Whittlesey Ladysmith WI will be flying the Fenland Flag at its March meeting, at 7.30pm on Tuesday, March 14th, at St Andrew’s Parish Hall. James Bowman will talk about the flag, Fenland and Fen Tigers.

Guests are always welcome to come along and meet new friends. For information contact Liz on 07982 584872.

FENLAND DISTRICT COUNCIL CUTS COUNCIL TAX

After four years of council tax freezes, Fenland District Council has cut its portion of the bill by two percent to further support residents amid the costof-living crisis.

Members agreed to reduce its element of the council tax for the 2023/24 tax year when the annual budget was approved by the full council and they also reaffirmed their commitment to freeze council tax for a further four years thereafter, through to 2027/28.

Cllr Chris Boden, leader of Fenland District Council and cabinet member for finance, said: “We work incredibly hard as a council to achieve a balanced budget every year, and we do this without the assumption that residents should help to pay for it.”

The reduction in Fenland’s portion of the council tax equates to over £162,000 total savings for residents. This means someone living in a Band D household will pay just £255.24 a year for the council’s services, down from £260.46 in 2022/23. Most residents will pay even less council tax as around eighty-three percent of Fenland’s homes are in Bands A-C.

Photo: courtesy RWT Photography

Whittlesey Town Council are seeking a contractor for the following:

Hanging basket maintenance to include the collection, hanging of the baskets and removal at the end of season, plus daily watering throughout the season. This will commence mid-May 2023.

TREAT YOUR MUM TO A GORGEOUS HAMPER THIS

Our gift hampers are filled with chocolates sent direct from the village we originate from in Italy, fine Italian wines and sweet & savoury nibbles. Something for the whole family to enjoy.

Lucy’s Flowers

MOTHER’S DAY COMPETITION

Sunday 19th March

The winner will receive a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers. This will arrive in time for Mother’s Day and will be sure to put a big smile on your mum’s face!

To enter, simply find the five words listed below in the wordsearch, fill in your contact details and drop off your entry to Lucy’s Flowers, 6 Angels House, Eastgate, Whittlesey PE7 1SE, where we will collect them all and then draw the lucky winner! The closing date for entries is Thursday 16th March 2023. Good luck!

Closing date for entries is Thursday 16th March 2023 so don’t delay!

LUCY

Open Mon 9am-12.30pm & Tues-Sat 9am-3.30pm

Discount Diva!

Hi, I’m Julie – Discount Diva!

I work as a PA for a national charity during the w k and like to shop and craft at the w kends. My big pa ion is dre es, and I have far t many, hence the creation of Discount Diva! A pop-up shop based in The Emporium, Whi lesey.

I’ve bagged some fabulous bargains from Kaleidoscope, Joe Browns and Roman and I’m keen to pass on the savings to the ladies of Whittlesey. (The size range is limited, but I have plenty of 12 to 18s).

If you’ve got a special night out planned, a wedding to go to or a daughter that needs a prom dress, then come along and have a look at the range and treat yourself to a bargain! As well as branded garments you will find a ‘new to you’ rail with some fabulous worn-once occasion wear. We opened our doors for the first time on Saturday 25th February and we are open every day of the week except Sunday.

Whilst visiting the shop, please fill in our short survey, so that we know what size you are and what you would like to see on the rails in future. As I become established, I’m hoping to add accessories and gift items. So come on down and see what we have to offer!

Hope to s you s n ... Julie x Up to 50% off RRP

New Clearance Stock and Pre-loved

Treat your mum this

While flowers and chocolates are lovely gifts to give your mum, have you considered something extra special?

Our experienced team can help to make her feet feel wonderful. We can help with feet that she cannot reach anymore, thickened nails, troublesome corns and callus, plus a wide range of foot and joint pains.

With a treatment from us, your mum gets to enjoy some quality ‘me time’ and you get to help to keep her on her feet and more healthy.

With comfortable feet, your mum can enjoy life more and it is one less thing for her to worry about. We can provide gift vouchers for special occasions and help you to give a very special gift this Mother’s Day.

Call us for more details:

01354 651200

March

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07963

Winner of the Invention of the Year Award

HE Bull & Son has been part of the Whittlesey community for more than one hundred years.

Chloe and the team can create any type of funeral you want, to make the day special for everyone. If you want a more formal send-off or a celebration of life, they'll help to make it happen, just the way you want it.

If you know just what you want, or don't know where to start, H E Bull & Son can help to create a beautiful, authentic funeral that's a tribute to a life well-lived and a life well-loved.

Chloe and the team help to bring comfort at a time of loss and will do everything they can to help you arrange a funeral.

You can call H E Bull & Son, day, or night, on (01733) 910135. You'll find the team at 61 Inhams Road in Whittlesey and they're here for our local communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Mindfulness: Finding Peace in a Fast-paced World

Despite boundless developments in technology, our brains have remained the same. Is our ‘grey matter’ capable of dealing with how fast our world has become?

First, and foremost, we are animals. We crave safety and security. Constant streams of news can feel like an attack on our bodies. How can we shield ourselves?

Slow. It. Down.

‘Mindfulness’ is the process of appreciating the little things, noticing our senses, and clearing our mind. Certainly, much easier said than done, and I understand it can sound a little wacky.

Some simple things you could try this month…

Mindful eating. Take a small piece of food, perhaps some chocolate or a grape. Eat it slowly, paying attention to how it feels. What is the texture like? Is it sweet or savoury? Is it hot or cold? Does it have an aroma? Does it make a crunching sound?

Breathe. Breathe in deeply through your nose while counting to three. Hold that breath for

three. Then exhale through your mouth for three. Wait for three, then repeat. Try different variations of this – different counts and different speeds. It can help to make a noise on exhaling too. Try a humming sound, or a whooshing of air, no matter how silly it feels!

Notice an animal. For those of us blessed to have pets, stroking an animal can be incredibly soothing. We can notice their breathing patterns, the way their tail moves, or patterns in their fur. For those of us without, there are plenty of birds around as spring approaches. Watch the way they hop, peck at the ground, or soar above us.

Get outside! I walk in nature every day, and relish the opportunity to ignore my phone for a while. Walk without headphones. What can you hear? Touch things! What does the tree’s bark feel like? Stop and literally smell the flowers! I like to walk with ‘a photographer’s eye’, looking for beautiful shots, even if I don’t have my camera on me.

Seeing the sun beaming through the trees on a frosty winter’s morning is enough to make anyone forget the cares of this fast world, if even for a moment.

Take care of yourself.

Instead of walking to our destination, we can simply get in a car. Instead of searching through books, we can instantly Google our answer. Instead of writing to a distant friend, we can tap on our phones and see their face on a video call.

[ by Lucy Briggs Follow me on @itslucybriggs ]

OUT AND ABOUT IN FENLAND

By Steve Barclay MP

The Planning Inspectorate process to decide whether to allow an enormous incinerator to be built in Wisbech has now started.

The Open Floor Hearings where interested parties can speak directly to the examining inspector were at the end of February and I wanted to reassure residents that I will continue to do all I can to oppose this scheme which I believe will have a hugely detrimental effect on the local community, environment, traffic and health of constituents, not to mention the hundreds of thousands of tonnes of non-recyclable municipal and commercial and industrial waste that will be brought to Wisbech each year. The examining process will continue for six months while the inspector gathers and tests evidence and information about the application before deciding (on behalf of the Secretary of State) whether to grant permission to build it. It has been good to get out and about in the constituency in recent weeks including to meet with our local NFU and farmers to discuss their concerns about plans for a new reservoir between Chatteris and Wimblington. Anglian Water, in partnership with Cambridge Water, is behind the £2bn plan which is designed to supply 250,000 homes with water and secure supply to customers for generations to come. It is important that the valid concerns of those directly affected are addressed, and I have raised this directly with Anglian Water. A further round of consultation is likely next year with an application made in 2025. It was great to pop into the Black Bull in Whittlesey to see the near £200,000 excellent upgrade and speak to the landlord Daniel Lees and a few of the regulars. I was also delighted to host a round table with representatives from across the arts sector to talk about arts funding in Fenland and make the case for more investment in arts in our area. Colleagues from the Arts Council, 20Twenty

Productions, Gorilla Circus, Cambridgeshire Libraries, Fenland District Council, and CPP Marketplace were among those who attended. Over the next three years, both 20Twenty Productions and Gorilla Circus will receive £200,000 annually as part of the Government’s £43.5 million annual investment in Levelling up for Culture. Regular readers will know I’m a keen advocate on getting out in the countryside to boost both mental and physical health. Therefore, it’s great to see that a March Riverside Wellbeing Walk has been launched to join the Wisbech Wellbeing Walk that started last summer. The weekly walks are free and a great opportunity to meet new people and take some exercise.

I’m delighted that £1.9 million government funding has been allocated to our local mental health services to be spent on new crisis facilities for people with learning disabilities at Hollies ward at the Cavell Centre in Peterborough. The Government is investing £150 million in NHS mental health urgent and emergency case services up to April 2025. This investment will better support people experiencing mental health crises to receive care and support in settings outside of A&E that are more appropriate for their needs. Finally, I’d like to encourage community groups or not-for-profit organisations who need support with building repairs or development, or outdoor improvements to see if they are eligible to apply for an Asda Foundation Investing in Spaces and Places grant of £10,000-£25,000. The projects must aim to create or develop safe and inclusive community spaces for groups to meet and bring people together or support the delivery of longlasting projects focused on long-term community impact. I know there are many such worthy organisations in the constituency. Applications are open until 19th March (asdafoundation.org).

find out more about my work in Parliament or local campaigns, visit my website

Professional Animal Care to Suit You

As a nation of animal lovers, we are more than happy to care for our four-legged friends, be it feeding, exercising, or maintaining their health and wellbeing. But what about animal physiotherapy? There’s a very talented young lady in South Lincolnshire establishing herself in this very niche field.

Carlie Wood BSc, Dip.A.Physio, IAAT, offers her services as a mobile therapist, so that sessions can be carried out in the comfort of your pet’s home, thus helping to reduce the stress your pet may feel. Carlie qualified in January 2020 and has been expanding her business and developing her knowledge ever since. As a member of the prestigious International Association of Animal Therapists, as well as being on the AHPR (Animal Health Professions’ Register), she can ensure that high standards are continuously maintained.

Carlie has over seventeen years’ experience in animal handling, welfare, behaviour, and rehabilitation, as she has worked with animals throughout her professional life. Services offered include the use of a variety of machines, massage, stretching, and a range of exercise techniques. With these methods (and working alongside the veterinarian), Carlie can rehabilitate conditions such as hip/elbow dysplasia, ruptured cruciate ligaments, IVDD and patella luxation, and degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis. Laser therapy is now available to help treat muscular issues, bone fractures, open wounds, orthopaedic and neurological conditions.

Carlie is fully insured, canine and human first-aid trained, and, due to expanding, she now has further availability, and can be flexible in arranging a time to suit you. Sessions include initial assessment, treatment, and home exercises, so that your pet can have the best chance of recovery.

Animal Rehabilitation and Fitness

● Fully qualified and insured Veterinary Physiotherapist, associated with IAAT and AHPR

Animal Rehabilitation and Fitness

Animal Rehabilitation and Fitness

● Range of treatments, including laser therapy and massage

● Treating and maintaining conditions such as osteoarthritis, canine cruciate rupture, hip, elbow dysplasia and certain spinal conditions such as IVDD.

● Aiming to increase muscle and joint health, improve mobility, reduce pain and increase fitness

● Liaison with veterinarians ensuring the best care for your pet

Carlie Wood BSc(Hons) FdSc

Carlie Wood BSc(Hons) FdSc

07738 682 080

Animal Physiotherapist

Carlie@vieranimalphysiotherapy.co.uk

Animal Physiotherapist

07738 682 080

07738 682 080

Carlie@vieranimalphysiotherapy.co.uk

Matters COMMUNITY

VOLUNTEERS WANTED FOR POLLING STATIONS

Fenland residents are being reminded that this year’s local elections will be different to any that have gone before – with new wards, new locations for some polling stations and voter ID requirements. Staff are being sought to help run polling stations on the day, where there will be additional responsibilities to meet in terms of ID checking. Fenland District Council uses its own staff to run polling stations where possible but is recruiting additional elections staff to help.

There are fifty-six polling stations in operation and the council is looking for applications from people interested in acting as poll clerks or reserve poll clerks. Elections for all of Fenland’s district wards and its sixteen town and parish councils will take place on Thursday, May 4th.

WSA HELPS CARIBBEAN FOOTBALLERS

Whittlesey Sports Association (WSA) has continued to spread its wings to the Caribbean where chairman Robert Windle and his wife Julie recently visited St Kitts & Nevis while on a cruise. The couple spent the day visiting three primary schools with host John Bergan of the St Kitts Football Association. This is the fifth occasion that these sessions have taken place over the last ten years. The schools had the benefit of learning some new skills especially in the art of being a football referee with the emphasis on respect, fair play and sportsmanship, thanks to the Peterborough Referees Association which sponsored the gift of whistles for each child with the WSA also supplying some medals for the outstanding students. For more details about the work of Whittlesey Sports Association and Peterborough Referees Association checkout their respective Facebook pages.

See a full list of acceptable ID and find out how to apply for free photo ID at: www.fenland.gov.uk/voterID

To find out more about working at elections, and to download an application form, visit www.fenland.gov.uk/Working-at-elections

Pictured: Boundary Commission map of Fenland wards and parishes Jan 2023. Map: courtesy of The Local Government Boundary Commission for England

Photo: courtesy RWT Photography

LOCAL CHARITY SEEKS SPONSORS

People are being encouraged to help sponsor animals at a local charity.

Merrylegs Charitable Trust was founded and funded by vet Anna Nicholas who took in animals that had nowhere else to go and started loaning her horses and ponies to local children

We bring you items of interest for your home and community. If there is something you’d like us to cover or you have something to say please get in touch at: Discovering Whittlesea, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET Email: editor.whittlesea@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

around Whittlesey to allow them to ride and care for them without the expensive upkeep. After Anna sadly died, the charity needed to be more self-sufficient and set up Anna's Ark in Coates.

Following its first open day last December and with another planned for Easter, it’s hoped it will open three days a week from April with a low entry cost to ensure Anna's aim for it to be ‘affordable to everyone.’

Anna's Ark homes donkeys, goats, sheep, pigs, ponies, chickens, Merlin the cat, rabbits and guinea pigs and sponsorship can be as little as £10 a month or a bag of feed. In return the charity will take photos of your sponsored animal and tag you in Facebook posts.

Call or message Stacey 0792 3944619 or via the Facebook page; Merrylegs Charitable Trust 1155405, or Anna's Ark or email: merrylegscharitabletrust@gmail.com

Hopefully spring is on its way and the longer daylight hours mean more time to spend at the allotment or on your vegetable patch. Although we may get some warm days it doesn’t necessarily mean that the soil will be warm enough for sowing, so be cautious. If you have chitted your first early potatoes and the ground is not frozen they can be planted out from mid-March or early April, but it is well worth covering them to protect them from the late frosts. Don’t forget to add a light sprinkling of fertiliser to the trench.

Never planted an asparagus bed? Now is the time. Dig a trench 12 inches deep and add some well-rotted manure. Make a 4-inch ridge at the base and spread the roots of the crown over the ridge, replace the soil, leaving the tips just visible. Water in and add mulch. Don’t forget to leave the asparagus for two years before actually harvesting.

Now is the time to start a runner bean or celery trench, both of which need a rich fertile, moisture retaining soil. The trench should be 60-90cm (2-3ft) wide and 30cms (1ft) deep. Regularly fill them with vegetable peelings, tea bags etc. Each time you add a new layer, cover with soil. Other jobs to do – and there’s plenty of them!

• Lettuces and other salad crops can be sown indoors or outdoors under cloches or in cold frames. Tomato and cucumber seeds can be sown indoors but wait until the end of the month.

• Sow Brussels sprouts, cabbage, sprouting broccoli indoors and to take full advantage of the ripening season sow aubergines, chillies, and peppers indoors.

• Herbs such as rosemary and sage will benefit from a good trim, and chives and mint can be propagated by dividing them and re-planting.

• Plant out onion and shallot sets – last chance to plant garlic.

• Early varieties of carrot, beetroot, spring onions, peas, chard, parsnips, spinach and broad beans can be sown into the open ground but may need to be under cover.

• Last chance for planting bare-rooted fruit trees and bushes.

• Feed and mulch fruit trees – fertilise the base, water in and then cover with well-rotted manure or compost to act as a mulch.

• Remove dead leaves from cabbages and Brussels.

• Don’t forget to feed your over-wintered crops such as onions, kale, spring cabbage – use blood, fish and bone meal, chicken manure or seaweed–based organic fertiliser.

• If you’re into “no-dig” or have raised beds, March continues to be one of the best times of year to top up your beds. Using manure or compost allows for an increase in nutrients. It also increases soil depths where any soil has been lost due to the worms.

• Prepare seed beds by raking over to a fine tilth and add fertiliser.

SPONSORED BY THE SHED SHOP

ENJOY ANOTHER ELITE SERVICE

AMarch company is aiming to clean up this year. Elite Window Cleaning was formed last April to service commercial and household customers in the Fenland area.

It was launched by Logan Mott, to run alongside his Elite Pressure Washing business, with Tom Clark as his business partner .

Logan said: “It has been very good so far. Spring is usually the busiest time for window cleaning but this year has started really well.

“We cover an area that includes March, Whittlesey, Wisbech and villages such and Dodington and Wimblington. We pride ourselves on being very reliable and aim to give customer satisfaction. People like to see a friendly face and that’s what they get with us when we visit.”

Elite Window Cleaning can also provide a gutter cleaning service to deal with dirty, blocked and overflowing gutters along with any required repairs.

The company’s regular window cleaning round falls on a four, six or eight-weekly basis but the company also carries out one-off cleans. You can contact Elite Window Cleaning on (01354) 552018 or 07888 641099 or find them on Facebook.

Safe Local Trades

Who are they and what do they do?

Founder and owner, Eileen Le Voi explains: Is Safe Local Trades a national company?

No! Having won Peterborough’s ‘Best New Business Idea’ in 2008, the service has, and always will be, exclusively for Peterborough and an approximate 30-mile PE postcode radius, which includes Whittlesey and all surrounding villages. For me, it is all about ‘keeping it local’.

Why did you set up Safe Local Trades?

I felt passionate about providing consumers with a “one-stop shop” where they can access a register of vetted and approved tradespeople, thereby protecting them from rogues and cowboys.

Why would I choose Safe Local Trades over similar national companies?

There are several key aspects to Safe Local Trades that makes us unique. Firstly, we always want to ensure that all our members are honest and reputable local tradespeople that do a good job for a fair price. Everyone is interviewed by me in person, followed by a stringent vetting process which includes a DBS check. They must adhere to our Service Charter and are monitored on an ongoing basis, thereby giving customers complete peace of mind.

Secondly, as well as our work with the trades, much effort is placed on safeguarding the more vulnerable people in our communities by working personally and directly with other caring and concerned parties in the 'local' community, such as local authorities, Cambridgeshire Neighbourhood Watch, Cambs Police Crime Prevention, Age UK, The Bobby Scheme, Disability Peterborough, and many more.

How do I locate the right tradesperson for my job?

Visit our website www.safelocaltrades.com and search for the trade in the drop-down box and then enter your postcode, for instant access to the traders in that particular category, their contact details and the chance to view their profile and reviews. With 65 different trades and over 17,000 reviews, Safe Local Trades has more trusted members in more trades and services across the PE postcode area than any other service, including the national companies.

Visit www.safelocaltrades.com/consumers/testimonials to see what your neighbours think about the service. Any questions? Call 01733 530019. Please follow and like us on our social media channels: Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

This last month has certainly flown by; it has been lovely to hear the feedback from people dropping in and seeing us at The Old Coffee Tavern. Don’t forget we are there every Friday 11.30am-1.30pm (why not pop in and have a drink on us?), you really can ask us anything. I recognise this doesn’t suit everyone so shortly we will be releasing an evening date and location.

One of the things we are continually hearing is that when you need the services of an estate/letting agency how do you find the right one for you? Here are some tips we feel you may find useful:

Tip 1: ‘You only get one chance to make a first impression’

I came across this saying the other day and it really resonated with me; studies show that we make all kinds of judgements on that first interaction. We are a great believer in dealing with people you can trust and comfortably do business with; therefore, we would say, ‘Go with your gut feeling when choosing’. Instinctively your inner voice is usually right.

Our Advice: Choosing the sales/lettings agency for you and your property is important; it must work well for you.

Top Tips For Finding The Right Estate/Letting Agent For You Tania

Tip 2: ‘Communication is key’

A great agent will not only find you a good buyer/ tenant, but they will be highly communicative and go through the process with you.

Our Advice: We recommend choosing an agency that knows its stuff, but one who can communicate well with you too, so that you understand the processes involved.

Tip 3: ‘How efficient is the Estate/Letting Agent?’

There are several review websites and social media platforms where people can leave reviews. Have a look and see what people are saying about particular estate and lettings agencies in your area. Our Advice: Most reviews are genuine, but just be mindful that on social media some reviews should be taken with a pinch of salt. Use your judgement well. Getting the right team on board is a sure-fire way to success. We have been helping landlords and sellers and we will be delighted to have an initial chat with you about your requirements. Call us on (01733) 641030 or email us at office@cannonandco.uk

By Natalie Brannigan

Invest in a website

Our top tip this month is to invest in a small business website. It makes you look professional, attracts new customers through Google, and explains your products and services in more detail, allowing visitors to browse and research before contacting you. As we move forward into the digital age, not having a website can make your business virtually unseen to the public. If you don't invest in one, potential customers will not see your business's presence.

GET READY FOR THE SUMMER HEAT

by making your conservatory a more useable room

The SupaLite roof uses a lightweight, aluminium frame, 150mm of humidity-proof insulation, a waterproof membrane and sturdy tiles to create a resilient conservatory that can withstand any weather! Producing a compliant product that is compatible with all roof styles. All ceilings are vaulted and finished with plaster with added LED lighting.

Garolla garage doors are expertly made to measure in our own UK factories, they’re strong and solidly built. The electric Garolla door rolls up vertically, taking up only 8 inches inside your garage, maximising valuable space. Our expert local installers will fit your new door and they’ll take away the old one too, so there’s no mess. Give

INFLATION IMPACT 2023

By Eamonn Dorling

When indications of reduced inflation are discussed, of course, we are pleased. The reality is that a slowdown in the rate of inflation is a bit like a fast train accelerating less rapidly than it was a few minutes earlier – the locomotive is still going too fast. What we seek (and might be disappointed at) is the application of brakes to make negative inflation.

Many will understand that global energy prices have softened since the Ukrainian war started a year ago. The lowering of prices in the UK is more difficult to enjoy. Some of this is tied up with contracts and legislation. There is also pressure on other rising prices, including wages, higher interest rates on borrowing and investment in capital projects and equipment. This could mean that expenditure may be a struggle for many people. It only takes another unexpected issue to use up the remaining savings we have put aside for a ‘rainy day’. This month I focus on getting back to basics.

• Maintain an emergency fund in easily accessible cash funds that cover at least three months’ average expenditure.

Delivering Simple Financial Advice - that really works

• Plan for future costs such as further education, upgrading a vehicle or investing in your property.

• Fix the roof while the sun shines – which means maintaining and doing the things that must be done before it becomes a problem, possibly when it becomes a distressed purchase rather than a planned one. When the basics are in place, you are in a better position to plan for the more enjoyable things. If you need help putting a plan together – speak with an independent financial adviser. Issued by Wealthline Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results and any forecast is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The information contained in this editorial should not be construed as offering investment or tax advice.

Cut out and keep

T h a t

H a n d y m an

You know those small jobs that builders are not interested in doing because they don’t make a mint or those niggly little jobs that never get done because you may not have either the skills, tools or time.

Garden

•Lawns cut

•Small tree surgery

• Fencing – repaired replaced or installed

•Panelling, feather board and palisade

•Gates repaired, replaced or installed

•Decking installed and maintained

•Patios laid, cleaned and re-sanded

•Sheds repaired and roofs re-felted

•Water Butts installed

•Gutters cleared.

Plumbing

•Leaking taps and pipes...sorted

• Washing machines, dish washers and taps installed

• Sinks, toilets and bathrooms fitted

•Waste pipes unblocked.

Carpentry

•Get those wobbly shelves sorted

• Doors fitted/hung/adjusted to fit/work properly.

• Locks and door furniture fitted

• Kitchen & bedroom units repaired, adjusted and fitted.

1. Make a list of those little jobs you need sorting.

2. Phone Trev on 07504 205 007

3. A short while later...jobs sorted. No job too smALL... but some too big

Electrical

• Replacement of light fittings, switches and power sockets to existing position.

Other stuff

• Laminate and wood flooring fitted

• Painting and decorating

• Dry walling

• Tiling of walls and floors & tiles replaced

• Unfinished DIY projects you just have not got the time to do. Why not let me have a look at it?

• Flat pack furniture. Do you find it frustrating? Always got bits left over? Cant find that Allen key! Let me assemble and install where required

• Pictures and mirrors hung

• Blinds,curtain rails and poles fitted

• Lofts/attics insulated and boarded & loft ladders installed.

Open Days to see “The Trade Institute” for Yourself

BY COLEEN EVERITT, ALTO ELECTRICAL LIMITED

Do you work in the construction industry or know someone that does?

Over the next few months, Alto Electrical will be hosting regular open days to showcase our new building and the work that we are doing in our new company, “The Trade Institute”. This ‘big-build project’ will provide rentable spaces for tradespeople to work, and we welcome you to come and take a look around. The spaces available are in the form of woodworking workshops; metalworking workshops; prep areas; shot blasting facilities; and painting booths. Additionally, to support the non-hands-on side of working in a trade, there will be office spaces, event spaces and a dedicated learning/teaching installation area.

These spaces have been created to provide support to local traders and to create a close-knit community of businesses. In addition to the spaces, we have partnered up with multiple allies to create an environment that will support both physical and mental health.

This month, I want to update you on the progress of the building. The workshops have been installed and new access points have been created, now that the building has been split into two sections. So, when you come for the open day, you will get to enjoy walking through our new entrance.

If you would like to enquire about our open days and the available workspaces, please call the office and one of the team will be happy to talk to you. We look forward to welcoming you to our new building.

Our open days will be held on the second and the fourth Saturdays of March, April, and May, starting on March 11th and 25th. A light lunch will be provided on each open day.

Institute House, Roman Bank, PE10 9LQ. Special offers for early interest in the workspaces will be available, exclusive to those who attend the open days.

Please note that this will be the only time these offers will be available, so you won’t want to miss out!

Matters COMMUNITY

COUNCILLOR SURGERIES

Councillor surgeries are held in Peel House at 8 Queen Street, Whittlesey from 9.30am-10.30am on the first Saturday of every month throughout 2023. Attendance should be by prior appointment only.

On Saturday, March 4th, 2023, councillors present will be Mrs Dee Laws (district and town) and Mrs Julie Windle (town).

If you have any matters of concern and wish to discuss with a councillor, then please make an appointment and come along and let us know.

To make an appointment call (01733) 351296 or email clerk@whittleseytowncouncil.gov.uk by 1pm on Friday, March 3rd, 2023.

Do you have a business?

Are you a sole trader? Self-employed? And are you based within Whittlesey and District?

If you are, we would like to invite you to meet the Whittlesey and District Business Community. We are a friendly, motivated group of local business owners who meet up to support and learn more about each other’s businesses and we would love you to join us.

Not been to a meeting like this before? Why not come and say hello and see how it can benefit your business?

When: Wednesday, March 29th, 2023 6pm for 6:30pm

Where: The Falcon Hotel, Whittlesey Speaker to be confirmed.

Contact: Kerry on 07879 452291 or Erica on 07572 383312 or just turn up!

We look forward to seeing you there!

We bring you items of interest for your home and community. If there is something you’d like us to cover or you have something to say please get in touch at: Discovering Whittlesea, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET Email: editor.whittlesea@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

WHITTLESEY FESTIVAL IS BACK

After a three year break due to COVID, the Whittlesey Festival is back this year on Sunday, September 10th.

Once more the town centre, churchyard and surrounding streets and buildings will be filled with excitement on that day as crowds flock to see the performers, stalls, amusements and a whole host of activities.

The festival steering group, which is Brian Smithyman, Isabel Edgington, Averil Cosstick, Marija Lysak, Jenny Parker, David Bailey and Tina Overton, together with a great team of people on the wider committee, are busy planning the event with some fantastic headline acts already having been booked. Look out for more information in later editions of Discovering Whittlesea.

Brian Smithyman, chairman of the festival committee, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have the festival back again. Our aim over the years has always been to ensure the event provides something for everyone either free of charge or at a minimal cost so that families and individuals can have a fun day out without the worry of additional expense. This year will be no exception as we are particularly mindful of this during the current cost of living crisis.”

The festival always has a fantastic variety of stalls, and feedback from stall holders in previous years has always been excellent. Bookings can already be taken by visiting the Fenland District Council website or you can email them on marketsandevents@fenland.gov.uk

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

The year is suddenly flying by since Christmas as hopefully we head towards spring and warmer weather and there are a number of events that I am sure the readers will wish to know about.

On Saturday, March 18th I will be delighted to host this year’s Mayor’s Dinner Dance with my wife, Ann, at the Whittlesey Manor Leisure Centre where the proceeds will be donated to my charities which include Age UK, Help at Home, The Good Company (who provide respite for those suffering from dementia and their carers) and Phoenix Youth Provision.

Should you require an application form with menu details and booking details then please contact my town clerk, Sue Piergianni at Peel House on (01733) 351296 or email: clerk@whittleseytowncouncil.gov.uk

On Easter Monday, April 10th, there is the annual Duck Race, starting at the Bower Bridge in Ramsey Road at 2pm. Tickets will be on sale at Peel House and around the town in Blunts Lane and Broad Street on the Saturday morning prior to the event as well as on the day so please come along for what is traditionally a fun family event.

Looking ahead to the King’s Coronation, Whittlesey Town Council will be staging three events over the Bank Holiday weekend in conjunction with More Muzic Radio.

On Saturday, May 6th on North Green, Coates, there will be a concert headlined by Rag Dolls, a Four Seasons tribute act with local supporting artist(s) and Sunday, May 7th at the Manor Leisure Centre, a Queen tribute act again with support. Both these events will be free to the public followed by a free invitation event for local volunteers at St Andrew’s Church on Monday, May 8th where they will be entertained by the Peterborough Big Band featuring music from Tommy Dorsey to Glenn Miller. More details of all these events will be published nearer the time.

On Thursday, May 4th, local elections will be held for town and district councillors so whatever your political persuasion please get out and exercise your democratic right by voting for your chosen candidates to ensure the future development for your chosen town or village.

As many readers will know by now, I have decided to retire from local government and will not be standing for re-election at town and district level to spend more time with my family.

It has been a privilege to serve the town over the past twelve years and a particular honour to be elected as your mayor for five of those years. I wish my successor as mayor and all candidates in the forthcoming elections the very best of luck as they continue to strive to serve our town and villages in the years to come.

Cllr David K M Mason Mayor & Leader, Whittlesey Town Council

Keith Hall Memorial & Fun Run

Trade and public welcome

All our roles, with the exception of any apprentice, are on a rotating shift basis of days, evenings and nights on a two-week rotation, Monday to Friday. Apprentices are on 8am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. Our hourly rate is competitive, starting at £10 an hour and has a 10% premium added when working nights.

Voter ID: A summary

On Thursday 4 May 2023, local elections are taking place across 230 councils in England.

At these elections, you will need to bring photo ID to be able to vote at a polling station. A wide range of photo ID will be accepted, including passports, driving licences and cards with a PASS Mark.

If you don’t have an accepted form of photo ID, you can apply for a free voter ID document known as a Voter Authority Certificate. Visit fenland.gov.uk/voterID, call 01354 654321, or scan the QR code above to find out more, including:

• The full list of accepted forms of photo ID

• How to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate (if you need one)

• What will happen at the polling station

Alternatively visit electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID

Have you moved home recently?

Have you registered to vote at your new address?

When you move you do not automatically get registered at your new address, even if you are paying Council Tax.

Registering to vote is easy:

1. Go to gov.uk/register-to-vote

2. Fill in your name, address, date of birth and a few other details. You will also need your national insurance number.

gov.uk/ register-to-vote

3. Look out for confirmation from local electoral registration staff to say you are registered. If you don't have access to the internet, you can contact the Electoral Registration Team who will help you to register. Email elections@fenland.gov.uk or call 01354 654321.

You are required to register by law and need to register to be able to vote and have a say on who represents you. Also, Credit Reference Agencies use the register to confirm where someone lives when they apply for credit.

fenland.gov.uk/elections

Does your caravan need a little TLC?

CARAVANS BOUGHT FOR CASH

REPAIR

Our onsite workshop offers a fully comprehensive repair service for your caravan or motorhome.

SERVICING

From a minor service to a full comprehensive check, our experienced engineers will give you peace of mind for your journeys ahead.

SALES

Looking to buy? We have a range of used caravans that may suit your requirements.

INSURANCE

We are a fully, insuranceapproved repair centre for all major UK insurers and manufacturers.

ACCESSORIES

We’ve got everything for your camping needs in our friendly, onsite shop.

SPARES

Looking for a spare part? Why not get in touch? With our contacts in the industry, we may be able to order spares in for you.

FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS WITH 30 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

LOCAL CLUBS & GROUPS

Whittlesey Amateur Boxing Club

River Drove, Beggars Bridge, Coates PE7 2DH. Contact Gary Morris: 07512 394975 or email: airborneaerials@hotmail.co.uk

Whittlesey Lions Club

Meets second Monday of month at 7.30pm at The Falcon Hotel, 1 London Street, Whittlesey PE7 1BH. New members welcome. Contact Steve Palmer, 18 Glenfields, Whittlesey PE7 1HX, 01733 351405, whittlesey.lions@btinternet.com www.whittleseylions.org.uk or find us on Facebook.

March & District Model Railway Club

The Rookswood Club, Rookswood, 27 West End, March, PE15 8DP 01733 204997. Mike Wyldbore (Secretary): secretary@mdmrc.co.uk www.mdmrc.co.uk

Whittlesey Table Tennis Club

Meets at Whittlesey Christian Church, 23 Broad Street, Whittlesey PE7 1HA. Mon 6-10pm, Weds 2-5pm. Chairman: Dr Peter Hau. Call 01733 808008 or 07554 624525 or email peter@hauforensics.com www.whittlesey-table-tennis.co.uk

Gentle Keep Fit Class

Gentle keep-fit class at Coates Public Hall. Fridays 10am11am. £4 per session. All welcome. To book your place or for more info please contact Karen Mucklin on 07516 461438.

Whittlesey Manor Dolphins: Swim England Affiliated Club

Meets Mondays (term time) 6.30-8.30pm depending on ability. At Whittlesey Swimming Pool. Free Trial – to book contact manordolphins@gmail.com

Painting Group

Meets every Tuesday in Eastrea Village Hall between 1pm and 4pm. Been established for 8 years. Please contact Sue on 01733 205241 for more details.

Rings End Nature Reserve

Family workshops for all. Meets every second Sunday of the month in the car park for the nature reserve Rings End PE15 0BE. Conservation for all 9.30am-12 noon. There is a meeting at the Rookswood Club on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 7pm to discuss the nature reserve management and events. All are welcome (please check Facebook for any last minute changes to venue). Please call Hayley on 07962 337988.

Whittlesey Ladysmith WI

Meets on the second Tuesday of the month, at 7.30pm, at St Andrew's Parish Hall. For more information, please contact Liz Phillips 0798 2854872 or find us on Facebook.

Well-Being Respite Activity Sessions

Meets on the second Thursday of the month at Peel House, Whittlesey PE71AY. Contact Alison Harrison 07930 477233 or email alison.goodcompany@gmail.com

Whittlesey Indoor Bowls Club

194-198 Station Road, PE7 2HA. Open all year round. For more information visit www.whittleseyIbc.co.uk, or call 01733 202209 or email whittleseybowlsclub@yahoo.co.uk

The Friendship Club

For over 50s. The club runs from 2-4pm every Saturday in the hall of Queen Street Church, Whittlesey. Just natter or play games, with refreshments. No need to feel lonely. Occasional lunches and outings. Contact Lyn on 01733 701628.

Whittlesey Patchwork Group

Meets every Monday 1-3.30pm in the Bowling Club at Manor Leisure. Sociable sewing, knitting, and crochet over tea and cake! Find out more from Rita: 01733 204271 or 07875 269145.

The COMPUTER Man

Having worked in the fire and security industry for a number of years, Whittlesey-man

Aiden Sanders had become disillusioned with the costs being charged by large companies.

He believes keeping your business, your property, your employees, and your loved ones safe should not cost the earth and knew that it was possible to provide excellent customer service at a reasonable price and this led to the creation of APMS Compliance.

Aiden’s company is based on providing good quality workmanship and excellent customer service by being

open and transparent and giving its customers flexibility and choice over products and maintenance packages that meet their needs, assisted by expert advice where needed.

He is hoping to change the way people think about their fire, security and safety; this shouldn’t be something people worry about being able to afford.

See what his customers are saying: “Last work was perfect and we were all very impressed with you…It was very refreshing”

“The work was to a high standard – I would highly recommend Aiden and the APMS team”

“Very professional service from start to finish, reasonable pricing and able to answer all my questions”

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