At this time of the year, I’m often surprised at just how quickly, within a few weeks, we’ve moved on from those cold, wet mornings, those biting winds and long, dark evenings to something much more appealing.
Blossom is now starting to be on show and our long, hot summer (hopefully!) is nearly upon us.
I hope you find the wide range of topics included in this month’s magazine both informative and enjoyable. As ever, many thanks to all of the contributors and advertisers for their hard work and for your continuing support and words of encouragement. Enjoy the month ahead, and best wishes for a happy Easter to you all.
Claire x
High winds, snow storms, freezing fog, heavy rain and hail with the odd spell of sunshine... we’ve seen all types of weather in Fenland over the past few weeks.
I’ve lost count of the times that part of my day has been spent drying my drenched dog, moving garden furniture and assorted pots back into their rightful position or straining to keep my balance tiptoeing over slippery paths. Hopefully now with the advent of British Summer Time we may see more of the sun and have a spate of settled weather as 2023 local outdoor activities spring into life.
After months huddled in front of the TV trying to keep warm without breaking the bank by having the heating on too long, it will be great to spend more time outside.
I know it’s only April and we are not out of the woods yet (yes, I do know the saying ‘ne’r cast a clout till May is out’) I’m hopeful that the fickle British weather is kind to us all over the coming weeks.
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
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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
4 ................ Kellyvision Celebrates Forty Years
6 Made In Dagenham: The Musical
19 ...............
20
22
28
Sales: Sallyanne Davis 07737 026594
sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
March Podiatry, Robert Windle/RWT
Photography, Whittlesey Christian Church, The Shed Shop, Eamonn Dorling, Eileen Le Voi, Tania Cannon, Coleen Everitt and Steve Barclay MP.
Deadline details:
Copy deadline for the May issue is Friday, 14th April 2023.
team and is not associated with any other business. Care is taken to ensure that the content and information is correct at the time of going to press; however, we cannot take any responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by any errors. Permission must be granted to reproduce, copy or scan anything from this publication. For a copy of our contributors’ guidelines please email info@discoveringmagazines.co.uk.
Kellyvision was started back in April of 1983 in a small shop in Broad Street opposite Keshco supermarket by current Managing Director Kelley Shipp. The opening caused such a stir that the road had to be closed by the police while Ruth Madoc of popular television series Hi-de-Hi! fame opened the shop! In fact, some of the children and grandchildren from the opening are still coming into the store today which says a lot about the customer service Kellyvision provides.
Business was so good it moved to Blunts Lane, Whittlesey, and finally to the current location on the corner of Broad Street and Whitmore Street, supplying home entertainment equipment i.e. televisions, videos, hi-fis followed by the brand new invention of satellite television in 1989.
The motto back then was ‘Better because we care’ which still stands with the company today despite larger department stores, supermarkets and the internet all selling electrical products. Like a phoenix from the ashes, Kellyvision survived the devastating fire at its premises in April 2005 which saw it move into a temporary trading address in Market Street for eighteen months while the building was renovated. This move to continue trading was only achieved with the help from other local businesses and friends who all immediately rallied around to help.
Kellyvision has been overwhelmed by the loyalty and support given from both old and new customers over the years, including the continued support of the business which was forced by the Government to close its doors to customers during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-21.
Expanding into white goods – i.e. washing machines, refrigeration, cookers, gave Kellyvision the opportunity to be your local onestop-shop. As an independent, Kellyvision prides itself on being able to offer free, friendly advice; something lacking by clicking a button on the internet these days. After noticing that built-in kitchen appliance sales were increasing rapidly, in 2017 Kellyvision took the plunge into kitchen design and planning. This has been a phenomenal success with Director Lee Cochrane taking on most of the new challenge.
As Lee explained: “A lot of customers are now making bigger investments in their own homes, rather than moving. New houses are smaller, therefore customers want clever designs, with integrated kitchen appliances to make the most out of their space. Our kitchen appliance sales have grown vastly over the years so it seemed a natural progression to offer a full kitchen design and installation service.”
The sleek Symphony kitchens complement the showroom’s current stock of goods, which include brands such as Smeg, Bosch, Neff, Siemens, Liebherr and Hotpoint. But if you thought that buying local meant you paid more, then you might be surprised. “We’re actually cheaper than most well-known high street retailers,” Matt Vail explained. “Not only that, we offer better customer care and more competitive warranties.”
So if you are looking to upgrade your home, whether it’s a new television, cooker, fridge or a brand new kitchen, pop into Kellyvision for personal and professional advice and service.
There’s some fantastic talent in the city and one of its leading local theatre groups – Westwood Musical Society – is following its smash hit Spamalot with its new production of Made in Dagenham which will finally hit the stage after being postponed for a couple of years due to the pandemic.
Inspired by a true story and based on the hit movie, Made in Dagenham is the new British comedy musical about friendship, love and the importance of fighting for what is right. You can’t beat a real story that skilfully mixes all the elements of human struggle, plenty of laughs and some cracking tunes for a real ‘feel good’ night out and this show at The Cresset will definitely be that!
It follows the fortunes of Ford factory machinist Rita O’Grady and the girls from the Dagenham car plant and their quest for equality for women. With a laugh-out-loud script by Richard Bean (One Man, Two Guvnors, and The Hypocrite) it was dubbed ‘The best British musical since Billy Elliot’ by The Stage when it hit the West End in 2014. It’s got Essex girls and plenty of strong language plus dance routines with a sixties vibe... and of course a Ford Cortina. You’ll be cheering them on and joining in the songs that make you ‘Stand Up’ and shout for your rights. It’s emotional, it’s funny. You’ll love it!
Don’t miss out on this great show at The Cresset running from May 16-20th, 2023. Book online at cresset.co.uk or call the Cresset box office on (01733) 265705.
It’s finally time to celebrate a piece of history and enjoy one of the best British musicals on stage in Peterborough.
Have you ever visited somewhere and wished there was more to do with the family? Or maybe you like exploring on your own and you are always on the lookout for ways to find out more about the place you are visiting.
The Whittlesey Heritage Walk can be followed without the use of a mobile phone. Start at the Market Place and use the information boards to navigate the long or short walking route or download the Whittlesey Heritage Walk brochure.
The Love Exploring App has new games for you to enjoy and discover in Whittlesey alongside the Whittlesey Heritage Walk. All activities are free to download and play with no in app purchases.
This Easter plus more for each school holiday
Microwave energy is widely used in a number of medical fields to elevate tissue temperatures and create precise, localised cell destruction.
Infected tissue can exist several millimetres below the surface and can often be difficult to treat using traditional methods, resulting in either untreated tissue or significant damage.
Swift delivers a precise, highly controlled energy dose. As microwaves travel into the tissue, water molecules begin colliding and creating localised heat energy – quickly destroying all infected tissue within a predetermined depth.
In just seconds the treatment is complete, leaving the body to absorb and replace the treated tissue.
Issue 2
MRK25, Issue 2
www.marchpodiatry.co.ukwww.marchpodiatry.co.uk
Available from the Town Council Office, Peel House, Queen Street, Whittlesey; Gifts Galore & Dawson’s Flowers, Blunts Lane and Parkers Newsagents, Market Street. Duck
Race
(Medivet: opposite The Boat Pub)
For more information please contact Sue Piergianni, Town Clerk on 01733 351296 or email clerk@whittleseytowncouncil.gov.uk
Limited WHITTLESEY MAYOR’S CHARITY
spaces
• Highly Qualified Staff
YOUR DUCKS EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT!
2023-
• Places available from the age of 3 for 2023/24
• Early Years funding available - 15 and 30 hours
• Forest School - Hands on learning experiences in the natural environment
• PE sessions led by our Specialist Teacher
For more information, please go to www.aldermanjacobs.cambs.sch.uk under the Pre-School tab or call us on 01733 202403.
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
A new free wellbeing walk has been launched in Whittlesey with a call being made for volunteers to lead walks in the district. Special guided walks following the recently launched Whittlesey Heritage Walk are also happening this month including an Easter half-term family-friendly event that can be enhanced with the Love Exploring App.
The free Whittlesey wellbeing walk starts at the Buttercross, in Market Place, at midday on the third Monday of every month. It’ll take around 45 minutes to an hour depending on the pace of those who take part and there will be an optional grass/field section in good weather, although walkers can choose to continue on paths.
The walks have been launched by Fenland District Council's Active Fenland team as part of the Ramblers Wellbeing Walks Cambridgeshire and Peterborough scheme and the hunt is on for someone who is keen to volunteer as a walk leader
to run the Whittlesey walk with volunteers also being sought to run walks in other parts of Fenland.
A date has been set for a free training session for volunteer walk leaders, including free lunch and practice walks around the towns, at 9.30am to 4pm (latest) at Whittlesey Library on Friday, May 26th.
A family-friendly guided walk of the route using special features on the Love Exploring App will be held on Wednesday, April 12th, beginning at 10am, and on Monday, April 17th, Whittlesey Wellbeing Walk will follow the route of the heritage walk instead of its usual route.
Whittlesey Wellbeing Walk, monthly, third Monday of every month, midday, from the Buttercross, Market Place. See: https://beta.ramblers.org.uk/gowalking/wellbeing-walks/whittlesey-wellbeing-walk For further details of walks or to register an interest in becoming a volunteer walk leader contact activefenlandbookings@fenland.gov.uk
Our day centre sessions provide care and support for older people, including those with dementia. We provide activities designed to meet individual needs in a relaxed sociable environment. Carers are welcome to join us at the end of each session. Lunch and refreshments are provided. Sessions
It’s often said that the meaning of Easter is what God did for us, in sending His Son to die on the cross for us – and the cruci xion is indeed one of the best attested facts in ancient history. But the real message of Easter is found in the why – His heart of kindness toward us.
It’s often said that the meaning of Easter is what God did for us, in sending His Son to die on the cross for us – and the cruci xion is indeed one of the best attested facts in ancient history. But the real message of Easter is found in the why – His heart of kindness toward us.
The very last words that Jesus spoke on the cross two thousand years ago were “it is nished”.
The very last words that Jesus spoke on the cross two thousand years ago were “it is nished”.
Just three concise words which express God’s heart toward us, kindness. He was willing to ful l the plan of redemption, which God set in place before creation itself. He paid the highest price to take away our guilt and restore us to relationship with the Father.
Just three concise words which express God’s heart toward us, kindness. He was willing to ful l the plan of redemption, which God set in place before creation itself. He paid the highest price to take away our guilt and restore us to relationship with the Father.
The kindness of God doesn’t stop there, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. God’s kindness is there for us in our time of need, we only have to ask, and to receive.
The kindness of God doesn’t stop there, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. God’s kindness is there for us in our time of need, we only have to ask, and to receive.
After the resurrection, Jesus delegated the work of proclaiming the gospel – which means the good news – of God’s kindness to the disciples. That includes us when we put our hope in God, to lead people out of darkness into the light .
After the resurrection, Jesus delegated the work of proclaiming the gospel – which means the good news – of God’s kindness to the disciples. That includes us when we put our hope in God, to lead people out of darkness into the light .
Sometimes we doubt God because of the bad things that happen in this life. But we need to understand that God’s kindness is the right kind of kindness for our particular time of need.
Sometimes we doubt God because of the bad things that happen in this life. But we need to understand that God’s kindness is the right kind of kindness for our particular time of need.
First, the kindness of God is a privilege which is freely bestowed on us, we can’t earn it. By his own admission, the apostle Paul was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man. He was chosen to be a vessel of God’s kindness, as a prime example of God’s patience with us.
First, the kindness of God is a privilege which is freely bestowed on us, we can’t earn it. By his own admission, the apostle Paul was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man. He was chosen to be a vessel of God’s kindness, as a prime example of God’s patience with us.
Paul was used by God to perform some amazing miracles, including raising the dead. He wrote to the Corinthian church that he “was caught up to paradise and heard things so astounding that they cannot be expressed in words, things no man is allowed to tell”, but he would only boast about his natural weaknesses.
Paul was used by God to perform some amazing miracles, including raising the dead. He wrote to the Corinthian church that he “was caught up to paradise and heard things so astounding that they cannot be expressed in words, things no man is allowed to tell”, but he would only boast about his natural weaknesses.
Second, the kindness of God is bestowed on those who are not so strong in the natural order of this world. The apostle Paul was given a “thorn in the esh”, a “messenger of Satan” to irritate him, to bring him down to earth after his revelations of the things of God. He pleaded with the Lord three times that it would be taken away – we are not told what it was! Paul wrote that the Lord replied “My grace is su cient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness”.
Second, the kindness of God is bestowed on those who are not so strong in the natural order of this world. The apostle Paul was given a “thorn in the esh”, a “messenger of Satan” to irritate him, to bring him down to earth after his revelations of the things of God. He pleaded with the Lord three times that it would be taken away – we are not told what it was! Paul wrote that the Lord replied “My grace is su cient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness”.
Pearls are made by marine oysters and freshwater mussels as a natural defence against an irritant such as a parasite entering their shell.
Pearls are made by marine oysters and freshwater mussels as a natural defence against an irritant such as a parasite entering their shell.
Lastly, the kindness of God comes with a guarantee of times of trouble. Paul had his fair share! He was beaten with rods three times, stoned and left for dead once, shipwrecked three times – and that was just the highlights!
Lastly, the kindness of God comes with a guarantee of times of trouble. Paul had his fair share! He was beaten with rods three times, stoned and left for dead once, shipwrecked three times – and that was just the highlights!
He wrote that our light a ictions are working in us an eternal weight of honour. We need to ght our ground, and not allow di cult times to cause us to lose hope!
He wrote that our light a ictions are working in us an eternal weight of honour. We need to ght our ground, and not allow di cult times to cause us to lose hope!
You are most welcome to visit us on Sunday mornings at 10:45am in Broad Street. We are a friendly and informal church, and we hope that you will come to experience the kindness of God toward you.
You are most welcome to visit us on Sunday mornings at 10:45am in Broad Street. We are a friendly and informal church, and we hope that you will come to experience the kindness of God toward you.
The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
Matthew 13:45–46 (NKJV)
Matthew 13:45–46 (NKJV)
April is a good month to get ahead by sowing seeds indoors or outside in cold frames and under cloches. If you covered your plot over the winter, the soil may well be warm enough to plant and sow certain crops directly outdoors. However, beware of cold nights and frosts, making sure that tender plants are protected.
Aim to get all your potatoes planted by the end of the month – plant out chitted second early potatoes in the first two weeks of the month and maincrop potatoes in the second two weeks. Second earlies and maincrops need more growing space, so plant them about 38cm (15inches) apart and 75cm (30inches) between rows. When the shoots appear, earth up each plant by covering it with a ridge of soil.
If you’re short of space you can always grow them in an old dustbin or similar. Make sure that there is plenty of drainage; bore some holes in the bottom and 10cms up the side, then add grit or hardcore before topping up with good quality compost to approx. 4 inches. Place 5 chitted potatoes on the soil, sprout side up, cover with 4-6 inches of compost, and water. As the shoots appear, cover with compost, leaving the topmost leaves exposed; continue to do this and layer-up until it reaches the top of the bin. Remember to place in a sunny spot and keep watered, but not waterlogged.
• If you have not planted your onion sets, then make that one of your first jobs this month.
• You might start seeing aphids on your crops now – blast them off with water or spray with a horticultural soft soap.
• Beetroot, peas, and carrots can be sown directly outside.
• It is very tempting to sow seeds all in one batch; however, they will all need pricking out, thinning, and potting on at the same time. Sow the seeds that have the longest growing season first and stagger the rest.
• Sow sweetcorn – an interesting way of germinating sweetcorn is by pre-chitting – lay the seeds on a layer of damp kitchen paper then place a layer of paper over in an airtight box. Check daily and when a small white sprout appears, plant the seed about half to an inch deep in potting compost.
• Plant asparagus crowns by the end of the month.
• Do not forget to regularly hand weed or hoe around seedlings as the weeds appear, as they create a lot of competition for food and moisture.
• Tomato and cucumber seeds can be sown indoors but wait until the end of the month.
• Spring onions, chard, parsnips, spinach, and broad beans can be sown into the open ground.
Happy gardening!
If you work, you expect to be paid. If you are self-employed, it comes from your turnover. If you are employed, it will be your employer making the payment. All is well and good.
If you have an accident or an illness that prevents you from working, you might still be paid, but usually, financial planning makes a turn for the worse. How will you prioritise which bills must be paid and calculate how far your money will stretch?
If you are self-employed, you pay lower National Insurance, and one consequence is that you cannot claim statutory sick pay. Those bills might have to be paid from savings when your regular income dries up.
Employers might protect employed staff for a limited period; you should check your contract or speak with your HR department if you don’t know. You may be able to claim statutory sick pay. In April 2023, the weekly amount will be £109.40 for up to twenty-eight weeks. You should consider how you could sustain yourself if that happened.
If you have a mortgage, you will have been offered protection that will pay your mortgage if you become ill or unemployed. Did you take it out and understand the terms and conditions?
If we must contemplate death rather than returning to work – will your protection plans protect your family? What would happen if you survived but cannot return to work?
Protecting your financial well-being is very important in these times of rising costs. Speak with an independent financial planner to conduct a financial review.
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.
arch Patio Centre is situated at Knights End Road, March, just past the crematorium. Paul and Mark Constable have been running the family business for more than twenty years.
The company has a large display area which shows a selection of twelve different slab layout designs in porcelain and Indian Sandstone. It manufactures its own concrete slabs at the premises with many different colours and sizes to choose from.
It also sells sand, cement, hardcore and grouting compounds to enable you to complete your patio and offers a delivery service free to the March area with a small charge if further afield. It is open weekdays from 8.30am until 5pm and on Saturdays until 1pm so please come and have a chat with Paul about your requirements.
Mark offers a full garden design service and will visit you to discuss various options, according to your budget, to give you the garden you desire. This includes patios, decking, turfing, fencing and planting up. Together with his experienced team, Mark will carry out the garden transformation efficiently and professionally.
If you are interested, please ring on 0786 086 3622 or email: mark@marchpatiocentre.co.uk
TRAIN WITH SOMEONE WHO HAS LOST WEIGHT AND GOT FITTER AND HEALTHIER!
• PERSONAL TRAINING
• 1-2-1 TRAINING • TRAIN WITH A FRIEND OR RELATIVE
Get fit and healthy with an advanced personal trainer who has over 10 years experience, with qualifications in running, nutrition, boxing, group training and kettlebells. For more information or to book yourself a FREE consultation: 07801 371628 or andyptrainer@aol.com
Rogue traders, hi-tech scammers, or cowboy service operators can catch even the wariest of people off their guard. Scams are becoming more and more sophisticated, but there have recently been some great strides made in the ongoing fight against fraud. According to Action Fraud, 142 arrests have been made in the UK’s biggest-ever fraud operation led by the Metropolitan Police, resulting in an international, ‘one-stop-spoofing-shop’ being taken down. More than 200,000 potential victims in this country alone have been targeted through the fraud website, iSpoof. At one stage, almost twenty people every minute were being contacted by scammers, hiding behind false identities, posing as representatives of banks including Barclays, Santander, HSBC, Lloyds, Halifax, First Direct, Natwest, Nationwide and TSB. Victims are believed to have lost tens of millions of pounds while those behind the site earned almost £3.2 million in one twenty-month period.
iSpoof allowed users, who paid for the service in Bitcoin, to disguise their phone number so it appeared they were calling from a trusted source. This process is known as ‘spoofing’. Criminals attempt to trick people into handing over money or providing sensitive information, such as one-time pass codes to bank accounts. The average loss from those who reported being targeted is believed to be £10,000. In the 12 months until August 2022 around 10 million fraudulent calls were made globally via iSpoof, with around 3.5 million of those made in the UK. Losses reported to Action Fraud as a result of the calls and texts via iSpoof is around £48 million. Because fraud is vastly under-reported, the full amount is believed to be much higher.
Report fraud or cybercrime to Action Fraud using the online reporting tool at www.actionfraud.police.uk. You can also report to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, Monday to Friday, 8am-8pm.
Tips on preventing cybercrime:
• Keep your software updated.
• Enable your system firewall.
• Use different/strong passwords.
• Use two factor authentication on your online services.
• Monitor your children’s online activities.
• Shop only from secure and well-known websites.
• Activate your email’s anti-spam blocking feature.
Most of you will be aware that I retrained to set up Cannon & Co Sales & Lettings; my background is within the NHS, Social Care and training sectors. It was from the experiences I encountered that I knew there was a need for something better; even as basic as having the journey explained. Often, people don’t buy and sell every day, and this needs to be remembered.
It was clear by attending this conference I was not alone; the aim is to support each other and raise the industry standards.
Last month I had the pleasure of attending the Women in Estate Agency conference. It was a privilege to be a part of it and an eye-opening reminder on how far the industry has come. I wanted to share with you my experiences about the day.
No matter how long an estate agent has been in business, you will find they should be reviewing their processes and procedures; what worked then doesn’t necessarily work now.
The needs of the client are clear; transparency, customer satisfaction, empathy and professional development.
If you did want to discuss anything we can be contacted on 01733 641030; email: office@cannonandco.uk or visit www.cannonandco.uk
Estate agents are in the top three untrusted and disliked industries, it is time to change this perception. Gone are the days of door knocking or being a ‘number’; it is now about understanding your needs, experiences and formulating the best approach for you.
The key thing I have recognised is that people’s property requirements have changed over the years and the buying and selling process has too. It is only by actively listening to people and analysing data that this is understood.
Next time you look to instruct an agent why not ask them what they have done to improve their own development and understand what is going on in the market? A question I think is important.
Find all 25 Easter Eggs around Whittlesey for a chance to WIN a
Coles Barbers
Dream Elite Care
Fontanellas
Gerrard Knight
Grosvenor Flooring
Harrison Rose
J Jones Family Butchers
J Neville Kellyvision
Krog & Whitehead
The Lock Shop
Lucy’s Flowers
Making Waves
Malcolm James
Parkers Newsagents
Poppy’s Coffee Shop
Pennell & Partners
Oh Sew Caroline
Penny Marie Nails & Beauty
The Milky Bar
The Muffin Oven
Vesuvio
Whittlesey Kitchens & Bathrooms
Whittlesey Dental Care
In the boxes provided under the pictures, write down the name of the shops where you find the matching Easter eggs for your chance to win a chocolate explosion! Please fill in your details below and post your entry form to: Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET or pop your entry into Kellyvision, 26-28 Broad Street, Whittlesey PE7 1HA or Blinds In Harmony, 15 Market Place, Whittlesey, Peterborough PE7 1AB Competition closes 30/4/2023. Good Luck!!
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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
No one enjoys when these situations occur, and it can be very stressful, especially when you are unsure what is needed to fix the situation. So, here are a few things that can help you feel more prepared for these emergencies.
Electricity
● If you are affected by a power cut, you need to know where your fuse box is. A tripped circuit breaker is the most common reason for a power outage, so you need to check your fuse box to see if a breaker switch has been flipped. If it has, with some older boards you must push the breaker switch all the way off before you switch it back on.
● If the breaker trips again, you may have a fault, which you will need to get checked out by an electrician.
● If a regional power cut occurs, you can report it and get information about it by calling 105.
● Unplug any appliances that shouldn’t be left unattended but leave one light on, so that when the power comes back on, you know it has been resolved.
Gas
● If you smell gas, the first thing you need to do is get fresh air immediately. Open your windows and doors to ventilate the area. You need to locate and turn off your gas emergency shut off
valve as quickly as possible, to prevent more gas being released.
● To report the gas leak or to get assistance, you can call the National Gas Emergency Helpline, which is a free, 24-hour support service. The number to call will depend on your location and the type of gas that is leaking.
Water
● If you have a water leak, you need to turn off your water supply immediately and contact a plumber as soon as possible. To stop the water, you need to turn off the stopcock, which is usually located under your sink. Make sure you know where it is before you have an emergency to prevent further damage to your property. If there is anything near your leak that is electrical, turn off your electricity supply to prevent it affecting your electrical system.
● If you get a fault, you can call us on 01778 772595 and we will happily come and check out your concerns.
If an emergency happens in the night, make sure that you have torches or battery lights that are easily accessible and that work. I would also recommend that you have back up batteries just in case too!
To help prevent these emergencies from occurring, it is recommended that you get your electric board checked every five years, get your fire and CO2 alarms checked regularly, and service your boiler once a year.
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 Nixon took Coates WI members through a step-by-step journey of Ramsey Rural Museum from derelict buildings to the excellent facility it is today, all achieved by volunteers and lots of fundraising.
The next meeting will be on April 5th and will feature Easter cards with Irene and Fiona. 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.
For any information, please contact Fiona on (01733) 208516 or Jen on 0770 3385661.
The Royal British Legion Whittlesey Branch held its annual dinner dance at the Ivy Leaf Club where branch member of the year, Mrs Pauline Edge, was presented with a shield. In addition, chairman Mrs Kay Mayor also presented her with a special certificate for outstanding work and being a great ambassador for the RBL.
Friends of the Manor will be hosting their next meeting in the Manor Conference Room on Tuesday, April 11th with a 6.30pm start. It is open to any users either as individuals or representing a user group.
The group reports that Fenland District Council has relocated a goal frame onto the Manor Field. Check out the Facebook Page Friends of the Manor for updates.
Alison Sloan will be cooking delicious recipes from history at this month’s meeting of Whittlesey Ladysmith WI, on Tuesday, April 11th at 7.30pm, at St. Andrew’s Hall.
Guests are always welcome to come along to sample the dishes and meet new friends. For information contact Liz on 07982 584872.
The next meeting of the Whittlesea Society will be held at The Falcon Hotel on April 27th at 2pm-4pm. The speaker will be local author Phil Gray, who was born in Whittlesey and lived in the town for many years, and will give an insight into 'The Whittlesey Charity'. New members are welcome, £1 admission for non-members.
The winners of the recent Discovering Whittlesea competition to win two sets of family tickets to the forthcoming East Anglian Game & Country Fair on April 22nd and 23rd are Trudie Drew and Sadie Buttress.
The duo won entry to the event at the Euston Estate after successfully stating that it is the home of the 12th Duke of Grafton.
Together with my neighbouring MP Lucy Frazer and Cllr Anna Bailey, leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council, I met with Jan Thomas, chief executive officer, and Dr Gary Howsam, chief clinical improvement officer, of NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Integrated Care Board (ICB) at Priors Field Surgery to discuss what can be done to maintain primary care services in Sutton following the decision to close at the end of March.
Just days later, the ICB confirmed interim new provider arrangements by Malling Heath for the next year, which is excellent news and will be a big relief for patients and residents. My thanks to those involved in arranging this temporary fix and I know work will continue on seeking a more permanent solution.
My annual literacy campaign Read to Succeed is now underway, aiming to encourage a love of reading by raising enough money to buy a new reading book for every Year 4 child in North East Cambridgeshire for the summer holiday. Last year was one of the most successful ever and now in its eighth year, I’m hoping 2023 will be even better.
Over the years we’ve distributed more than fifteen thousand books, reaching every Year 4 and many Year 5s. Last year there were 311 more children who took part than the previous year. Local businesses, charities, organisations and individuals have made generous donations and I hope they will do so again this year. Year 4 is the age at which children often begin to read more independently and my campaign means every child will have a new book to take home before the school summer holidays.
We align the Read to Succeed campaign with the Summer Reading Challenge in libraries to encourage children to test out different books and learn what they enjoy, whether action adventures, science facts or comic books. Last year 61 percent of pupils that started the Summer Reading Challenge completed it – up from 47% the previous year. That’s a huge increase and I hope it will improve again this year. A love of reading lasts a lifetime and I hope that is what we’re inspiring with this campaign. To donate please contact adam.fairbrother@parliament.uk I spoke at the Open Floor Hearings last month during the first days of the Planning Inspectorate’s process to decide whether to allow an enormous incinerator to be built in Wisbech. I wanted to highlight the significant flaws in this proposal and, although I only had five minutes to make my feelings known, I have followed up in writing to the examining inspector. I will continue to do everything I can to ensure this scheme does not proceed.
Finally, good news that CityFibre has completed its £5 million investment to bring its full fibre network to March. Residents and businesses can now access fast, reliable broadband up to Gigabit speeds from a variety of internet service providers. CityFibre will now explore opportunities to reach further areas including new build properties, those on private or unadopted roads, and business parks. Alongside the other existing improvements planned for the town, it marks an exciting new chapter for March as we move into the digital age where access to good broadband is essential and drives wider investment, opportunities and economic benefit. Work is also underway in Whittlesey thanks to a £3 million investment and the first homes are due to go live imminently.
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, April 1st, 2023, councillors present will be Alex Miscandlon (district and town) and Roy Gerstner (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 31st, 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, April 26th, 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
Businesses in Fenland will have the chance to access grants of between £5000 and £75,000 to grow and increase employment opportunities in the district.
Fenland District Council’s ‘Fenland for Business’ team will be awarding grants totalling at least £600k over the next three years.
It comes after the council successfully secured cash from the Government's Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) Shared Prosperity Fund.
Any business that is based in or operates out of Fenland can apply for funding. It can be used for a broad range of capital and revenue projects to cover up to eighty percent of project costs. Businesses must demonstrate their proposal will deliver in at least two of the following areas:
• improve competitiveness
• enable growth
• enhance productivity
• create sustainable jobs
• safeguard any jobs at risk of redundancy within the next six months.
To reflect Fenland District Council's economic priorities, the programme will prioritise businesses with significant operations in or supplying:
• agri-food, for example – food production, food processing, food packaging, food security, horticulture and food technology
• specialist manufacturing, electronics and advanced and precision engineering.
For more information and to find the expression of interest form see: www.fenlandforbusiness.co.uk/ article/17231/Investment-in-Business-Programme
Or the Fenland District Council website: https:// www.fenland.gov.uk/article/17233/Investment-inBusiness-Programme
The Whittlesey Neighbourhood Planning Referendum saw 1577 people vote ‘yes’, with 458 ‘no’. The turnout was 14.95 percent.
Local youngsters who spent their half-term exploring Whittlesey were treated to a surprise as a new visitor appeared along the Whittlesey Heritage Walk. The latest update to the popular Love Exploring mobile phone app added a bespoke augmentedreality Straw Bear for users to discover in Whittlesey town centre.
Cllr Chris Seaton, the council’s portfolio holder responsible for heritage, said: “The latest additions to this app will add extra excitement to an already fantastic activity that helps to get kids out and about all year round, not just during half-term.”
Those who don’t have access to a smartphone can also enjoy the trail by following the information boards around the town, which feature historic photos, facts, illustrations and more.
Whittlesey Heritage Walk benches are also included along the trail to ensure regular resting spots and opportunities to take in the beautiful scenery.
A brochure which highlights the key landmarks along the walk is available to download on the Fenland District Council website – www.fenland. gov.uk/WhittleseyHeritageWalk – while printed copies are available on request from Whittlesey Town Council, at Whittlesey Museum and at Whittlesey Library.
The Whittlesey Festival on Sunday, September 10th, will have something for everyone. Attractions include music, dance, entertainment, a craft fair, marching bands, amusements and rides, schools’ art exhibition, numerous stalls and so much more for families or individuals alike.
One of the popular attractions every show is the Classic Car display which is organised by local enthusiast Andy Stimson. He said: “The Whittlesey Festival always attracts high numbers of Classic car owners with so many vehicle types on display. We already have nearly one hundred cars booked and are guaranteed to have many more; it certainly will be a tremendous showcase.”
One way in which the festival organisers are able to ensure families can enjoy the day without having to worry about extra expense is to raise funds to cover or subsidise the costs. There will be a coffee morning on Saturday, June 3rd at Childers so make a note of the date in your diary – more information will be available in the next edition of Discovering Whittlesea.
By the time you read this article there may still be time to enter the Easter Egg Hunt with all proceeds going towards the festival. It costs £1 to enter. Every entrant (you must be of primary school age to take part) will receive an Easter egg and be entered into a prize draw to win a luxury egg, courtesy of HE Bull and Son Funeral Directors. All local primary school children will have received a link to register online for the hunt sent from their school or featured on their community page.
David Baily, organiser of this fundraising activity, said: “To win a prize you need to find the pictures displayed in windows of supporting businesses in the town from March 27th until Saturday, April 1st. Bring your entry form and collect your egg at the Falcon Hotel between 2pm- 4pm on that Saturday. If you have any questions, please email egghunt@espria.com”
Banish Easter holiday boredom by getting the kids involved in some baking! These easy biscuits are fun to decorate and yummy to eat!
• Place the butter in a large mixing bowl with the caster sugar. Use a wooden spoon to beat until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the egg until well mixed, then gradually add the flour. Use your hands to bring the mixture together to a stiff dough. Gather into a ball and chill for 30 minutes (the dough, not you!).
Makes approx. 18 biscuits
200g butter (room temperature)
200g caster sugar
1 egg
400g plain flour
250g royal icing sugar
Assorted food colourings
• Heat the oven to gas 4, 180°C, fan 160°C. Roll out the dough on a work surface lightly dusted with flour until it's the thickness of a £1 coin. With an oval cutter (or a cardboard egg-shaped template), cut out egg-shaped biscuits, using the rolled out trimmings to make more. Place on baking trays and bake in the oven for six to 10 minutes, depending on size, until golden brown.
• Allow the biscuits to cool for five minutes before removing from the baking tray to cool completely.
• To decorate, make up the icing as directed on the packet. Divide between bowls adding a little food colouring to each bowl. Place the mixture into piping bags and get creative with your designs –the kids may like to use sweets or sprinkles too!
These biscuits will keep for between one and two weeks when stored in a sealed cake tin.
Fen Hands will be at Harvest Barn’s Family Fun Day on the 2nd April
They will be in the classroom cabin with a space away from the hustle and bustle. The space will have a sensory room and changing place available for all to use. This is in addition to Peter Rabbit and Lily Bobtail, Nene Valley Entertainment, face painting and inflatables. All running alongside coffee, cake, BBQ food and more.
If you’d like more information please email Fen Hands.
NEXT
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.
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.
Our onsite workshop offers a fully comprehensive repair service for your caravan or motorhome.
From a minor service to a full comprehensive check, our experienced engineers will give you peace of mind for your journeys ahead.
Looking to buy? We have a range of used caravans that may suit your requirements.
We are a fully, insuranceapproved repair centre for all major UK insurers and manufacturers.
We’ve got everything for your camping needs in our friendly, onsite shop.
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.
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