This is the favourite month for many of us mums. On the one hand, it gives us the opportunity to thank our wonderful mothers on their special day, (this year March 10th) for everything they do for us and for ‘providing the glue’ to keep the happy family together. Some of us whose mothers are no longer with us (and this being our second Mother’s Day without our dear mum) can take time to remember fondly all those times when she turned out to have been right all along … but forgave us anyway!
On the other hand, of course, it’s the time when we mothers are allotted by our partners and families a full day of doing nothing, a whole day in which we are spoilt rotten with flowers, chocolates, and perfume. Tell me if you think I’m dropping too big a hint here!
Enjoy the day... whatever form it may take.
This month sees the advent of Easter when Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the dead.
Alongside the religious festival, many workers will also look forward to the event as it represents the first Bank Holiday since the New Year.
It is a time when families often get together and, of course, it is also synonymous with the giving of Easter eggs, a custom which is believed to have originated in Persia.
Now, however it is associated with chocolate and I recall when my own children were young spending time hiding eggs in the garden for them to find. Their enjoyment was disproportionate to the size of the mini eggs but they loved to hunt for them... and still would today. Talking about confectionery. The news has just been announced that Nestle is withdrawing the Breakaway biscuit. I’m so old I remember Breakaway being introduced and the TV adverts featuring Monty Python star Eric Idle in the 1970s. Although I haven’t eaten one for years, I haven’t been as shocked since they changed the name of Marathon bars to Snickers...
Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET
Publisher and Sales Claire Saberton:
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6 Drinking With Trevor Langley
7 Recipe: Rhubarb Crumble
8 Steve Barclay MP
9 The Glass Slipper Opens
12 Cannon & Co
16 ................Lincolnshire Resin Drives Ltd
20 ............... Finance With Eamonn Dorling
22 ..............Safe Local Trades
28-29 .....Community Matters
30 ..............Gardening Tips For March
34-35 .....Community Matters
36 ..............Six Free Easter Activities For Kids
38 ..............Susie Munns: Therapist & Coach
42 Good Friday: Why Do We Eat Fish?
44 Mother’s Day Quiz
48-49 Game & Country Fair: Win Tickets!
50 Whittlesey Christian Church
59-62 Business Directory
Sales:
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Sales Sallyanne Davis: 07737 026594 | sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
Editor Andy Hurst: editor.march@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
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Design Sarah Gumbley | Andy Beavis | Graham Copestake | Richard Hallam
It’s no wonder why double pushchairs have gained immense popularity amongst parents with two little ones. Not only do they provide convenience and ease of manoeuvrability, but they also ensure both children can enjoy a comfortable ride together.
Olivers BabyCare have a wide variety of double pushchairs available for demos in the store for parents to try, ensuring you get the model, best suited for your family!
Embrace the joy of parenthood with a double pushchair, shop at Olivers BabyCare and check out the amazing range both in-store and online!
IBy Trevor Langley
taly has many regions that produce excellent wines. Some wine producers are long-established, in very old wine producing areas. The characteristics of each vineyard help to identify and produce the high-quality wines, from a particular area and company. A good number of grape varieties are grown in Italy and include Barbera, Chardonnay, Friulano, Nebbiolo, Montepulciano, Picolit, Riesling, Ribolla Gialla, Schioppettino, Sangiovese, plus several others.
Multi award-winning Vigna Petrussa is a familyrun winery, located in Albana di Prepotto, Italy, a perfect wine growing area. Vigna Petrussa is committed and dedicated to producing wines of exceptional quality that incorporate tradition, along with present methods. Commencing during the middle of the 19th century, the company can be justifiably proud, as they continue into today’s modern times.
Vigna Petrussa, Friulano (14% vol) is a very much favoured white wine production. A most excellent straw-yellow colour greets the eye. This is followed by a bouquet of wildflowers and citrus, for the nasal senses. After ageing in used oak, very good flavours of ripe, summer fruits are appreciated for the mouthfeel and then extended on, to the palate’s delight. Splendid to pair with cured meats and fish dishes.
If red wine is a preference, then Vigna Petrussa, Schioppettino di Prepotto (13.5% vol) does not disappoint (me, certainly!) being aged for twenty-four months in wood and then aged further, for twelve months, in the bottle. Elegance, with just a hint of spice, is how I would describe this superb wine production. An abundance of juicy, red and dark fruits is very evident for the mouth’s pleasures and beyond. Wonderful when paired with game, roast meats, steaks and many other dishes.
For a sweet (perhaps dessert) wine requirement, Vigna Petrussa, Perla Nera (15% vol) could very well be the answer. The overripe Schioppettino grapes are utilised, to great advantage, in the production of this ruby-red wine, which is aged before bottling and has impressive overtones of sweet spices, plus other very acceptable aromas and complementing flavours. Really, great when accompanying mature cheeses and numerous other pleasurable delights.
For more details and information about Vigna Petrussa wines, please contact and/or visit their most informative website, www.vignapetrussa.it Email: info@vignapetrussa.it
As always, enjoy!
For the crumble mixture
700g rhubarb, ends removed, cut into 2cm lengths
Juice and zest of ½ orange
1 tsp. cornflour
100g caster sugar
Ice cream, cream or custard, to serve
For the crumble topping
150g plain flour
50g ground almonds
75g demerara sugar
75g caster sugar
100g butter, cubed
1 sprig rosemary, needles picked and finely chopped Pinch of salt
• Preheat oven to 200ºC (180ºC Fan).
• Put rhubarb into a medium sized baking dish. Pour over the caster sugar, orange juice, zest and cornflour and mix well to combine. Set aside.
• In a separate bowl, combine all crumble topping ingredients. Using fingertips, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until combined but still a little lumpy.
• Wet your hands and mix the topping a little further into until it forms into larger clumps. Freeze for 15min.
• Remove from freezer and sprinkle chilled crumble mix over the rhubarb and carefully spread it out.
• Bake for approximately 35-40 minutes until golden and bubbling. Serve with vanilla ice cream, custard or cream.
By the end of the month, we’ll be celebrating Easter, clocks will have gone forward and we’ll be on the run-in to spring and warmer weather. Right now, it still feels like mid-winter and makes us spare a thought for anyone still sleeping rough. Last month the Government announced another £17 million (in addition to the £34.6m announced in September) as part of the wider funding for homelessness.
Fenland District Council has secured a further £42,672 to help rough sleepers into long-term housing and create more bed spaces. The council has done great work in recent years tackling rough sleepers with more than 150 supported into accommodation since 2020. If you’re concerned about someone sleeping rough or are sleeping rough yourself go to www.thestreetlink.org.uk or call (01354) 654321. It’s great to see that 135 pharmacies in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have signed up to the Pharmacy First scheme. It means those community pharmacies will be able to offer NHS consultations and supply prescription-only medicines for common conditions including earache, sinusitis, sore throat, impetigo, infected insect bites, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women. This is a super initiative that should reduce pressure on GP appointments and allow residents to access services for minor ailments quickly and easily, freeing up GPs to deal with more complex conditions.
Well done to pupils at Park Lane Primary School in Whittlesey and to executive headteacher Rob Litten who have launched a monthly book swap to help encourage children to read more. This is a great initiative and I was delighted to join them to
add my support. I hope all schools will encourage similar schemes as a way to expand the range of books each month for pupils to read.
Throughout my time as a local MP, I have sought to secure funding for grassroots sports, so it’s great that an additional £50,178 has been made available from the Government to help local clubs improve their facilities. This includes £20,985 towards an artificial grass pitch at March Town FC at Estover Playing Field; £7059 for new floodlights at March Town United YFC at Elm Road sports field; £900 for goalposts at Wisbech St Mary Sport and Community Centre; and £21,234 for an upgrade to the Multi Use Games Area at Little Downham recreation ground. These are great schemes that will have a benefit in the community and build on the progress we have already seen at other local football clubs like Leverington.
Last month, I offered my congratulations to the nineteen organisations that were successful in gaining support for their activities from the Fenland Cultural Fund. The list of recipients is now out and it’s greatly encouraging for our cultural engagement ambitions that the quality of applications was so high that an extra £11,000 of funding was made available on top of the £23,000 original grant pot for a whole range of activities. Successful organisations include Wisbech and Fenland Museum to deliver free summer holiday activities linked to the ‘Beasts’ exhibition, Wimblington Parish Council to commission a local artist to paint the pavilion and toilet block at the War Memorial Playing Field with graffiti-style murals, and Chatteris Town Council to fund new attractions at the Chatteris Midsummer Festival in June. Other projects include free dance classes at primary schools in March for children with additional physical and emotional needs, a student workshop at Neale Wade Academy to create a Dragon’s Head for the St George’s Festival parade in April, and a photographic exhibition at Whittlesey Library celebrating the volunteers who maintain the tradition of the Straw Bear Festival. I look forward to seeing the outcomes of this funding and hope it will pave the way for many more cultural and heritage projects in the constituency.
T he Glass Slipper had a fabulous evening on February 1st, hosting some local businesses to raise a glass to their new boutique at its official opening night.
Kay Mayor, Whittlesey Town Mayor, had the honour of officially cutting the ribbon and The Glass Slipper would like to thank Kay and all their other guests for giving up their evening to celebrate with them. Owners Marie and Stefanie King, have been overwhelmed by the welcome they have received from all those in the local community and they’re thrilled to call Whittlesey their new home.
You can pop in or book an appointment via their website www.the-glass-slipper.co.uk or follow them on Facebook. Their aim is to make every customer feel special with a large choice of gowns, evening wear, mother of the bride and accessories.
It is their greatest pleasure to help their customers ‘say yes to the dress’. The Glass Slipper is fully open now and Marie and Stefanie look forward to welcoming you.
The Whittlesey Extravaganza committee wish to put on record its thanks for the generosity of the National Lottery and local businesses who ensured free rides for all the children who attended.
Plans are now being made for this year’s event on Saturday, December 7th, of which it’s said new blood onto the committee is most welcome to take the event forward to the next level.
The AGM is to be held on Thursday, March 7th at 7pm at Peel House on Queen Street. Anybody wishing to get involved should contact Sharon Weston: whittlesey.extravaganza1@btinternet.com
Photo courtesy: Robert Windle/RWT Photography
Hannah Bennett, who lives in Turves, is a new volunteer for The Cinnamon Trust, a network of twenty thousand volunteers who ‘hold hands’ with owners to provide vital loving care for their pets. The group aims to keep them together, for example, they’ll walk a dog for a housebound owner, foster pets when owners need hospital care, fetch the cat food or even clean out the bird cage, etc. Please see more info at: https://cinnamon.org.uk/
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
The next meeting of The Whittlesea Society will be held at 2pm on April 4th at The Falcon, Whittlesey. Councillor Simon Black will talk about the very important painted walls uncovered in a property in Market Street. New members are welcome, and visitors too for £1.
On March 16th members of Whittlesey Royal British Legion, members of Bearded Villians East Anglia, members of Slimming World Whittlesey, Whittlesey Boy Scouts and many others with be taking part in an event called ‘The Great Tommy Sleep Out‘ to help Royal British Legion Industries to support homeless veterans, providing them with shelter, food and much more.
Business owners and people with a plan for a new start-up in Fenland can apply for a slice of a grant pot totalling £400,000.
Two new Fenland grant schemes are now open for bids, with a total of £150,000 earmarked to support start-up businesses in the district and £250k to help established businesses of all sizes thrive and ultimately sustain and create jobs.
The grants are being delivered by Fenland District Council's economic growth team, Fenland for Business. They're funded by the UK Government's Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) Shared Prosperity Fund thanks to a successful bid by Fenland District Council in partnership with Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA).
Cllr Ian Benney, Fenland District Council's portfolio holder for economic growth, said: “These grants can play a major part in supporting start-up businesses to get a foothold and more established businesses to continue to thrive in Fenland.
“This is good news for everyone as it’s our businesses that provide local jobs and help our whole economy to grow and prosper.”
This is a question I often asked myself when going through the process personally more than six years ago. I was often left frustrated; completely in the dark, not knowing what was going on, and the longer it took, the worse it got.
Imuddled through and eventually, we got the house, making ourselves homeless for nine weeks in the process. My fault, but if I had understood it all at the time, I would have done things differently.
An experience I will never forget, but do you know what? There is a lot more to it! We are here to give you an expert view of how much your home is worth to ensure you get the right price.
Marketing is often the only part you see. It is important your property stands out to potential buyers, through great photographs, floorplans, and a description that sets your home apart from others.
Often the best sale price is achieved when the agent does the viewing; potential buyers often feel uncomfortable in the presence of the homeowner whereas they will ask the agent things. A key element is to negotiate and act as a go-between; they are helpful to the buyer but
ultimately, they should always have the seller at the forefront of everything they do.
Once an offer is put across, the role of an estate agent has only really started. This is where a great agent comes into their own and reduces the risk of things falling through, by communicating and ensuring things are moving all together in the chain, often known as sales progressing.
With many agents, not conducting viewings and, leaving you in the dark with the progress of the sale, it is easy to forget there is a lot more that an estate agent does. I often heard: ‘all they do is take a few photos and stick it on Rightmove –anyone can do that’ but as you can see there is so much more to it.
If you would like to discuss anything further, please contact us: (01733) 641030 or email office@cannoandco.uk and get in touch if you would like a free no-obligation market appraisal.
This Holbeach-based firm are establishing a very impressive reputation for the quality of their work and the service they provide, across a wide area of South Lincolnshire and neighbouring counties. This can be clearly confirmed by the huge number of very favourable recommendations from satisfied customers on their website, www.lincolnshireresindrivesltd.co.uk, but especially on their Facebook pages.
Resin driveways are a long-lasting and easy-tomaintain option to transform the front of your home. An eco-friendly alternative, thanks to the non-toxic materials used, and available in a range of colours, a resin driveway is naturally draining, meaning no more puddles from heavy rainfall. They are highly resistant to rust, oil, corrosion, salt, and cracking, and are also the safest option, being resistant to abrasion, slipping, indentation and ignition.
The business owner explains how important it is to have a sound foundation, upon which the resin is to be applied. He recommends
❝ … the men worked very hard, they were polite and very tidy and were able to answer all questions we asked them - a big thank you to Mark and his staff - well done!” (C.H.)
❝ From my very first meeting I felt I could trust Mark to ensure a professional job would be done. The team were very hard working and a pleasure to work with.” (P.H.)
❝ Mark’s team were very professional, tidy, and really friendly - cannot fault any aspect of their work from start to finish. They have transformed the front of our bungalowcannot recommend highly enough.” (S.S.)
to his clients the method which involves the excavation of the existing surface and installation of a permeable, tarmac sub-base, before a mixture of stone aggregate and a resin bonding solution is to be applied.
Whether you are looking for something subtle or eye-catching, Lincolnshire Resin Drives Ltd are confident you will find a driveway, path or patio that fits your requirements and complements your home. Their prices are very competitive, and their service is friendly, professional, with high quality, experienced installers.
To discuss your requirements or for a free quote, please call 01406 308201 and check out their gallery at www.lincolnshireresindrivesltd.co.uk for examples of their work.
Resin, Block Paving & Landscaping Specialist in Lincolnshire
Resin, Block Paving & Landscaping Specialist in Lincolnshire
See the reviews on our webpage from our happy customers
See the reviews on our webpage from our happy customers
At Lincolnshire Resin Drives Ltd, we create resin driveways, resin paths, block paving and pathways. Resin driveways and paths give the finishing touch to your property.
We are trained in resin bound surfacing and understand that any work undertaken can be a big decision. Our work is always to the highest standard.
With many years experience helping customers design and create their perfect driveways/patios hassle free.
SBy Eamonn Dorling
ome of us have savings that earn very little interest. This is OK for a 'Rainy Day Fund,' sometimes called an emergency fund, because the essential benefit is the ease of access, and the fund only represents several months' average expenditure (although six months would be preferable).
However, some people maintain significantly more than this. The rate of inflation in the year to December 2023 was 4.5 percent (Office of National Statistics). So, if these funds earn a lower interest rate, their purchasing power is eroded. In real terms, you are losing money.
On the other hand, you could direct some of that 'lazy money' into your pension and benefit from tax relief. For every £1000 you contribute to a pension – your pension provider can claim 25% to make the total contribution £1250! That is a great return! And this applies even if you are not a taxpayer!
There are potential drawbacks; for example, pension funds can usually be accessed at age fifty-five, and there is a limit to the amount the tax man will provide tax relief on. Your independent financial adviser will look at your circumstances and advise you.
If a boost to your pension is unimportant to you, you ought still to invest as tax efficiently as possible so that you can draw down when those funds will do most good tax-efficiently when required.
Have you benefitted from an inheritance? Could you benefit from investing for tax-efficient income or growth potential? Have you considered the benefit of using a trust to protect the value of your estate?
The content featured in this publication is for your general information and use only and is not intended to address your particular requirements. This information should not be relied upon in its entirety and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute, advice. Although endeavours have been made to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or will continue to be accurate. No individual or company should act upon such information without receiving appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of their particular situation. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss due to acts or omissions taken regarding this. Thresholds, percentage rates and tax legislation may change in subsequent Finance Acts. Levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation are subject to change, and their value depends on the investor's circumstances. The value of your investments can go down and up, and you may get back less than you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.
Tel:
Window condensation is a common problem, especially in the colder months, when windows typically remain closed for long periods. When the seal on a double-glazed glass unit breaks down, or ‘fails’ as it is known in the industry, that condensation will get into the inside of the glass unit, resulting in misted double glazing which can be permanently trapped. If this is the case, it won’t only be the heat that is rising from your home, your energy bills could see a hike too.
So – what should you do at the first signs of condensation in your windows?
Internal condensation within the room can be prevented by opening your windows for a short period of time every day, or opening your window trickle vents if you have them, or making sure the room is adequately ventilated.
Double glazing is made by putting two panes of glass together with a thermally efficient spacer bar in between that is slightly smaller than the overall dimensions of the glass to form a gap between them. The glass is then sealed together using a hot melt adhesive to form a double-glazed unit. The air trapped inside the two glasses (or gas for improved thermal efficiency) creates an insulating barrier that keeps heat in and the cold out. If the seal fails, and condensation gets trapped inside these two panes of glass, this can result in misted windows.
The message from Safe Local Trades double glazing experts is that the most common misconception is that a brand-new window is needed when the sealed unit fails, meaning that a lot of people put off having the unsightly misted window replaced due to cost.
It is also worth mentioning that broken sealed units are leaking expensive energy out from your home into the environment, making your heating system work harder than it needs to
To repair this window, all that is required is a new double-glazed unit (providing the frame is in good condition), not the entire window. This unit can be fitted in minutes with minimal disruption!
Whatever your style of window, or concern, there is likely to be a solution. For more information on this and other double-glazing repairs, please visit www.safelocaltrades.com/PE/pe-central/ window-and-door-repairs/pe1
Other trades from our extensive range of tried and tested professionals can be found www.safelocaltrades.com
Princebuild, a leading Peterboroughbased construction company, has been a supporter of ‘Helping Our Ukrainian Friends’ for over a year, recognising the sustained need for assistance in the face of ongoing challenges. With an unwavering commitment to making a tangible difference, Princebuild proudly announces its participation in the Lincoln 10K, which takes place on Sunday, April 14th, with a team of over one hundred staff members and local runners.
The primary objective is to raise £20,000 in support of the critical cause championed by ‘Helping Our Ukrainian Friends’. The funds generated will play a vital role in providing essential aid to those affected by the Ukrainian crisis.
Mark Asplin and Dale Asplin, two of Princebuild’s directors, are not merely participating in the run; they will personally be delivering essential items such as food, clothes, tents, gas stoves, rechargeable lights, helmets, protective jackets and even some used 4x4 vehicles that will be used to deliver essential aid to the people on the front line. A portion of the
donated funds will be allocated to supporting a summer camp located in Poland, near Warsaw. This camp offers respite for Ukrainian people who have been widowed, and children orphaned due to the ongoing war.
Ways to Support:
● Visit their JustGiving page www.justgiving. com/crowdfunding/princebuild-lincoln10kessentialfundsforukraine?utm_term=p8kr7JQ5X to make a donation.
● Explore sponsorship opportunities for your business by emailing carly.dadge@princebuild. co.uk
● Share this post and encourage others to offer support on social media. Follow the Journey: #TEAMPRINCEBUILD.
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 2024.
On Saturday, March 2nd, 2024, Councillors present will be Chris Boden (District and Town) and Eamonn Dorling (Town).
If you have any matters of concern and wish to discuss with a Councillor, come along and let us know.
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 27th, 2024 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
Step out in style! Why not come along to a preloved fashion show by Penco on Tuesday, March 26th at Whittlesey Christian Church, 23 Broad Street, Whittlesey? Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 7.30pm.
Tickets are £10, which includes a welcome drink and interval refreshment, and there will be a pop-up shop selling ladies’ pre-loved fashion and accessories open on the night plus a raffle (cash only) with all proceeds raised to go to Sue Ryder, Hospice, Peterborough.
Event tickets are on sale from the Whittlesey Town Council Office, Peel House, Queen Street or Sophy Beth’s Hair & Beauty, Broad Street, Whittlesey. Organisers Corinne Wooding and Julie Windle thank the support of the Christian Church with hair by Sophy Beth and make-up by Toni at Not Just a Tan also supporting. Please feel free to contact Julie for more details by email: juliewindle@virginmedia.com
February has been a busy month. On February 1st, I had the privilege of cutting the ribbon to open and welcome The Glass Slipper to Whittlesey; a wonderful addition to our shopping scene. It’s not just bridal gowns but also mother of the bride, Prom dresses and more.
The Heritage Talk delivered by Maureen Watson on February 6th was very informative. As a born and bred Whittlesey resident there was still some new information that I learned. I know Maureen delivers the talks at clubs and committees throughout the area, so if you missed this one, I am sure you will catch up with her somewhere.
Charity dinners are being held throughout the area. Our own is being held on Saturday, March 23rd; the Mayor’s charities this year are Sue Ryder, Thorpe Hall and Caring Together.
‘In like a lion out like a lamb,’ that’s the month of March. So, we must wait and see if that saying is true in 2024. I am hoping that the end of March is as gentle as a lamb as the annual Charity Duck Race is scheduled to be held on Easter Monday, April 1st. Tickets will be sold around the town in various businesses and on two dates, yet to be decided, in town. Look out for posters. Again, the proceeds will go to the Mayor’s charities. Car boot sales are scheduled to be held on Sundays April 7th and May 5th. These will be held on the Grosvenor Road North Car Park; if you are interested in having a pitch (£5) please contact me via email at kay.mayor@whittleseytowncouncil.gov.uk
Many of us either know or have known friends or family that have received a cancer diagnosis. On Monday, February 5th we were given the news that His Royal Highness King Charles III had been diagnosed with a cancer. I cannot stress enough that we should take advantage of the various checks available to us.
I think I speak on behalf of all of us when I say we wish His Majesty a full and speedy recovery. Our next council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 21st, at 6.30pm.
‘Til the next time...
Kay Mayor
Whittlesey Rotary Club is busy preparing for its popular annual concert on Saturday, March 9th, which will be held again at the Whittlesey Indoors Bowls Complex in Station Road, featuring the RAF Wyton Area Voluntary Band.
The spectacular event of live music and rousing tunes has become a firm favourite with residents and last year alone raised £1000 which was distributed to local good causes along with a donation to the armed forces charity SSAFA. Whittlesey Rotary Club president, Paul Cornell said: ‘’We hope to see a full house again. It is an informal and fun evening in aid of good causes and we even provide goodie bags with party poppers and flags so people can enjoy the full proms experience.’’
The organising team is once again led by Rotarian Jim Saunders from the company, Hugh Crane Ltd, aided by Don McCarthy from the Whittlesey Indoors Bowls Club and with support from PPL/PRS music.
Tickets only cost £10 and are available from Parkers Newsagents in Market Street. Please refer to the club’s Facebook page using the QR code for more details.
Days are starting to lengthen and, with the clocks going forward at the end of the month, there should be more time to spend on the allotment.
You could, of course, use the extra daylight to create some raised beds, especially if your plot is on clay soil or if you wish to permanently separate the cultivated areas of your plot. Make sure that the width does not exceed 3-4 feet(90-120cms), as you may have trouble reaching the centre. Some benefits of a raised bed are: less weeds, better drainage in areas with clay soils, more growing space, no soil compaction from human feet, warmer soil earlier in the season, longer growing season, better soil structure, improved germination of seeds, and earlier crops.
The fertility of the soil is paramount and keeping your soil at its best involves adding decaying plant matter such as compost or manure but, as a rule of thumb, split your plot into thirds: one third heavily enriched, good for potatoes, peas, beans etc and salad crops; one third topped with a mulch of good compost, which will suit onions, cabbages, leeks, broccoli etc; one third unenriched for root crops such as parsnips and carrots. If it is too well nourished, the tops may grow at the expense of the roots, and you may end up with “hairy carrots.”
The vegetable plot is a veritable smorgasbord for insects and pests. Have you thought about putting up bird boxes or bird feeders to attract the birds who will in turn eat the pests?
Other jobs – too numerous to mention them all!
• Lettuces and other salad crops can be sown either 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 wellrotted 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.
• Prepare seed beds by raking over to a fine tilth and add fertiliser.
Happy planting!
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
Teenager Mason Nicholls is using the money he earns from delivering Discovering Whittlesea magazine to help fund his ambition to become a commercial piliot.
The 16-year-old has dreamed of becoming a pilot since he was about five years of age and does what he can to help his parents Lee and Louise Nicholls to fund his flying lessons.
Louise said: “Mason is mad about flying. I think he may have got his love of flying from my late Dad, David Jarrett. Before he was old enough to fly, he spent his pennies on second-hand, flight Sim bits and built himself a Sim in his bedroom.
“It was nothing fancy and he would adapt bits from anything he could find laying around to make it more realistic. It helped with basic skills before he was let loose on the real thing. Having wanted to fly from about five years old and having to wait until he was fourteen or fifteen years, the flight Sim was the best option.
“He has been going to flying school since he was fourteen, had his first solo flight on his sixteenth birthday and is now taking theory exams so he can get a private licence when he is seventeen before he can hopefully go on to become a commercial pilot. His ultimate goal is to become a sea pilot in Canada or The Maldives.”
Mason, who attends Sir Harry Smith Community College, flies a Robin DR 360 at the Fenland Flying School at Holbeach St Johns under instructor Steve Brown and hopes to go on to study at the air and space institute at Newark in September.
Louise, who organises and is actively involved with the Whittlesey NPNGUK group that raises funds for syringe drivers to be used in local communities, said: “Then the next stage would be a commercial airline school which is costly, so we are hoping he may be lucky enough to get one of the cadet programmes offered by some of the big named airlines but, if that doesn’t come off, it will cost north of £100k to train.”
She has thanked Discovering Whittlesea for helping Mason. “We were grateful Discovering Whittlesea gave Mason a job at fourteen as it's hard for youngsters to get any sort of employment at that age. It's helped give him a work ethic which we think is very important.”
As well as delivering his magazines, Mason has been lucky to have some financial help from close family too.
Anyone who can help Mason in his quest to become a commercial pilot can contact Louise on 07901 847878.
If you’re searching for ways to keep the kids occupied over the Easter holidays and keen to keep costs down, take a look at our six free (or cheap) suggestions. Please share any other ideas with us on social media – just search Christians Against Poverty UK.
Visit your local library and see what events they have going on over the Easter holidays. You might want to challenge the kids to dress up as their favourite story character too – a perfect opportunity to prepare for World Book Day on March 7th (or get a second use out of the costume!)
From Forestry England, Zog trails can be found in locations across the UK – a fun and inexpensive day out with a ready-made activity pack and lots of photo opportunities. Find your nearest trail at forestryengland.uk/zog
Go for a walk with the kids and collect a selection of pebbles (ideally ones that are big enough to paint or draw on). Design and paint them when you get home,
then use them for an Easter egg-style hunt, or to create a beautiful display.
Many churches organise fun activities and events for children around Easter. Many also run regular mums and tots groups, kids clubs and youth groups all year round. Check out your local church’s website or notice board to find out more.
Rainy day? Put up a tent in the living room, or create a den with blankets and cushions, and have your own indoor picnic. This is also a great opportunity to teach children about budgeting: give them a certain amount of money (e.g. £5) and challenge them to buy all the picnic items you need without going over budget.
Get out and about, perhaps at a park or lake near you, and challenge the kids to spot everything on the list below. Feel free to add more!
Find a:
• ladybird
• caterpillar
• butterfly
• woodlouse
• bird
• person wearing a hat
• person wearing something of a certain colour
• person wearing trainers
• small dog
• big dog
• funny-shaped leaf
• funny-shaped pebble
• purple petal (don’t pick any, just point)
• daisy
• daffodil
• curvy twig
• brown leaf
• signpost
• an ice cream van or
• something to sit on
Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a UK charity working with more than 800 affiliated churches to deliver debt help, budgeting guidance, support to find work, life skills education and more. Visit capuk.org to find out more.
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• Places available from the age of 3 for 2024/25
• 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
• Morning, afternoon or all day sessions available
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• Befriending and Sitting Services; individually tailored for content, timings and duration.
• General/Personal Care; assistance with personal hygiene, toileting, dressing, assistance with daily living
• Elderly people with reduced physical capabilities. Dementia
• Our trained carer will maintain the comfort and safety of the person. They will aim to promote the retention of skills using practical sessions and aim to reduce anxiety
• Adults with physical disabilities such as multiple sclerosis, trauma caused through injury and learning disabilities.
• People su ering from mental health problems such as depression, stress, behavioural
In a world filled with endless possibilities and paths to choose from, it is no wonder that many of us find ourselves questioning our purpose in life. The search for meaning and fulfilment is a universal journey that we all embark upon at some point. While the quest to find our purpose may seem daunting, it is a pursuit that can bring immense joy, satisfaction, and a sense of direction to our lives. The concept of purpose goes beyond mere survival or achieving success. It is about finding a deeper meaning in life – a reason to wake up every morning with a sense of excitement and enthusiasm. Purpose gives our lives direction, helping us prioritise our goals, make meaningful decisions, and find fulfilment in our everyday actions. It is the driving force that ignites our passions and gives us a sense of personal joy and satisfaction.
evolution that unfolds as you grow and learn more about yourself.
One of the first steps in discovering your purpose is to reflect on your passions and talents. What activities make you lose track of time? What brings you joy and fulfilment? Take the time to explore different hobbies and interests and pay attention to the activities that resonate with your core values. Identifying your passions and talents will serve as a compass to guide you towards a purpose that aligns with who you truly are.
Finding your purpose is a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It requires a willingness to explore new experiences, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace change. Engage in activities that challenge you intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. Seek out opportunities for learning and self-improvement. Remember, the process of finding your purpose is not a destination; it is a continuous
SUSIE MUNNS – LMPNLP, AAPEFT THERAPIST & COACHM: 07915 073013
E: susie.munns@hotmail.com
www.susiemunns.com
One of the most fulfilling aspects of discovering your purpose is the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Consider how your passions and talents can be used to serve and contribute to society. Whether it is through volunteering, mentoring, or pursuing a career that aligns with your values, finding ways to make a difference will not only bring fulfilment but also create a ripple effect of positivity in the world. Finding your purpose is a deeply personal and transformative journey. It is about aligning your passions, talents, and values with something greater than yourself. Remember, purpose is not a destination to be reached but a lifelong pursuit that evolves as you grow and change. Embrace the process, be open to new experiences, and have faith in yourself. By discovering and living your purpose, you will unlock the key to a truly fulfilling and meaningful life.
Not sure where to start? Join me on March 23rd for a day of relaxation, self-discovery, and rejuvenation. Leave with a renewed zest for life and an understanding of your true soul purpose. Visit susiemunns.com/unplug-relax-retreat to find out more. To ensure the best experience for everyone, places are limited to just ten, so book now to avoid disappointment.
Don’t forgot to listen to the HAPPINESS HOUR on Fenland Youth Radio every Monday from 10am to 11am
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.
he British tradition of eating fish on Good Friday is, for many, as much a part of Easter as chocolate eggs and the Easter bunny. Christians have abstained from eating meat on Good Friday for centuries and many Christians, especially Catholics, won't eat meat on any Friday.
The reason behind this tradition is very much a religious one. It is believed that Jesus Christ suffered and died on the cross on a Friday, so Christians set aside that day to remember this and 'unite their sufferings'. This led the Church to mark every Friday as a 'Good Friday', where people remember the Passion by offering the 'penance'.
Meat was seen as a worthy sacrifice as it was linked with feasts and celebrations. In ancient cultures, meat was seen as a delicacy and "the fattened calf" wasn't slaughtered unless there was something to celebrate. Eating meat on a Friday, however, to "celebrate" the death of Jesus didn't sit well with the Church.
The Church law stipulates “land animals", namely meat that comes only from animals such as chickens, cows, sheep, or pigs. Whilst birds are also considered meat, fish are not seen as the same classification. The distinction is mostly down to the Latin, where the word used for meat is “carnis”, which means “animal flesh”.
In the past, while meat was seen as celebratory, fish was seen as an 'everyday thing' with many more people being fishermen than today. There has clearly been a huge culture change over the centuries in how we see meat. It has long been more of an everyday meal choice whereas today, fish is now seen as more of a luxury.
It may seem strange to call the day when Jesus was executed "good", but there's a reason behind it. Some say it's "good" as it's holy, others say it's a weird corruption of "God's Friday".
It's technically neither; the Oxford Dictionary states the use is down to the actual meaning of the word - good simply "designates a day on (or sometimes a season in) which religious observance is held".
Brannigan Director, The Little
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.
1. Make a list of those little jobs you need sorting.
2. Phone Trev on 07504 205 007
No job too smALL... but some too big
3. A short while later...jobs sorted.
Cut out and keep
•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
• Replacement of light fittings, switches and power sockets to existing position.
•Sheds repaired and roofs re-felted
•Water Butts installed
•Gutters cleared.
•Leaking taps and pipes...sorted
• Washing machines, dish washers and taps installed
• Sinks, toilets and bathrooms fitted
• 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?
• Pictures and mirrors hung
•Waste pipes unblocked.
•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.
• 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
• Blinds,curtain rails and poles fitted
• Lofts/attics insulated and boarded & loft ladders installed.
The East Anglian Game & Country Fair will take place on Saturday, April 27th and Sunday, April 28th, 2024 at the prestigious Euston Estate, home to The Duke and Duchess of Grafton, situated just off the A11 at Elveden, on the Norfolk/Suffolk border.
This two-day event welcomes world class attractions each year. Main Arena displays confirmed for this year’s show include ‘The Squibb Freestyle Motocross Show’, performing breath-taking jumps and stunts mid-air. Jamie Squibb will also be available after each performance to meet his followers and have photos taken with the Squibb Freestyle Team.
The highly popular and entertaining ‘Dog and Duck Show’ return to the show once more, and firm favourites the Horseboarding UK Championships will be filmed and broadcast live from the arena, showcasing how speed, agility and bravery are all essential ingredients in this addictive spectacle.
There’s a fantastic line up of more free events to watch across the show including the much-loved British Scurry and Trials Driving Championships, Lowestoft Dog Agility Display Team, Gun Dog displays, Fishing demonstrations with World Champion Fly Caster Hywel Morgan, the hilarious Sheep Show, Traditional Ferreting Demonstrations with Simon Whitehead, live craft demonstrations and much more!
Have a go at a range of country activities from clay shooting with John Bidwell’s High Lodge instructors (or enter the forty-bird shooting competition for men, women and juniors). Visitors can try their hand at fly fishing and coarse fishing on the Black Bourn River. Archery, axe throwing and the air rifle range can also be enjoyed.
If your family’s dog likes the water, then why not enter them into the ‘Have a Go’ or the competition at the K9 Aqua Sports pool, (long jump into water!)?
The pet dog show is also a favourite with visitors and the vast array of dogs that love to come to the show, (so many classes to enter!)
There are more than 350 shopping stands with a wide variety of products from fashion and footwear to gun makers and fishing products. BASC will be among a number of national organisations on hand to discuss conservation, countryside pursuits and memberships. There are also many children’s activities, traditional fun fair, food and drink hall with Game Fair Country Kitchen, where talented chefs from across the East Anglian region showcase their culinary skills, craft and gift marquees and much more.
If you are interested in exhibiting, trade stand application forms can be downloaded from the event website. Please do take a look at the show highlights video; encapsulating what a fun family day out the show is, with something for everyone. https://youtu.be/ejPoo3qy9dA
Advance discounted 2024 tickets are available to buy online at www.ukgamefair.co.uk or by calling the ticket hotline number (01263) 735 828 Adult £21, Children (5-16 Yrs) £8.00 and Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) £55. (Discounted ticket offer valid until midday 22/04/24) After this time tickets are available to buy on the gate at the 2024 onthe-day rates. Under 5s are free and car parking is free for all. (A small booking fee applies to phone bookings).
VIP Memberships and Camping weekend tickets also available at discounted rates if booked in advance. Visit our website for more information.
FACEBOOK @EastAnglianGameFair instagram @eastangliangamefair Twitter-square @EAGandCFair
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
The Bible tells us about the Day of Pentecost. When it arrived, all of those that were following Jesus were of one mind and in one place. Suddenly, there was a sound of a mighty wind, filling the house where they were sitting together.
Tongues of fire appeared to the disciples and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began speaking in a heavenly language. People from every nation gathered to see what was happening, and each of them heard the disciples speaking in their own language about the wonderful works of God.
Peter explained to them that the prophets had spoken about the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all that called upon the name of the Lord in the last days. They come to understand the purposes of God through dreams and visions, and that they would be “saved” – which means to be made whole –the idea is saved from disease, literally a disorder of structure or function in a human.
Those that were amazed, and convicted in their hearts. They asked the disciples what on earth they should do. Peter told them they needed to change from their old way of life, and to be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ so that their debt could be paid in full by the death of Christ on the Cross.
The exciting and wonderful events of that day are available to us today. We only need to understand what the true meaning of Easter is in the here and now, for us. Easter is about our being set free, and for all of eternity.
So, let’s think about the purpose of the Cross, this Easter, what it achieves, and why we would want to change the course of our lives.
Jesus says that we do not choose Him, rather, He chooses us and calls us to do the works of God. He calls us to make a difference in the world by getting to know the Father, and to receive from Him everything that we need, that we might become fruitful for Him.
God
One soul is the same as a million souls to God. Our soul is of infinite value, unique and irreplaceable. When we ask God to receive us through the work of the Cross, He gives us the right to become His children – born of the will of God. We have a new destiny, to grow to become citizens of the Kingdom of God.
We become able to help others
Before He returned to the Father, Jesus told His disciples that all authority was given to Him in heaven and on earth. When we receive Christ through the Cross, we also receive the same authority and ability to help others.
The Lord Jesus came to earth to identify with us, our sorrows, our pain and our tears. He calls us to go and make disciples of those we know and those we don’t yet know. To identify with them, and to bring them into the same reconciliation and the same destiny to become eternal citizens of heaven.
You are most welcome to visit us on Sunday mornings at 10:45am in Broad Street.
We would love to welcome you into our church family for our Easter Sunday service!
Windsor Castle
Windsor Leisure Day
The Princess River Cruise Experience (includes 2 course meal) Weds 8th May £50
Whitby
Highgate Cemetery
The National Stud & National Horse Racing Museum
Andre
London
Southend
Black Country Living Museum & Dudley Canal & Caverns Thurs
London
Trentham
Highclere
Buckingham
London
RHS
National
North
Natural
Thurs 25th July Adult £60 Child £46
Thurs 25th July £33
Warner Bros Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter ONLY 7 LEFT Weds 31st July Adult £79 Child £67
The Deep Thurs 1st August Adult £44 Senior £42 Child £39
The Great British Car Journey & Matlock Bath Sat 3rd August £37
RHS Garden Hyde Hall and Flower Show Sun 4th August RHS Member £28 Non-member £39
Newmarket, River Deben & 2 course meal Sat 10th August £68
Thorpe Park Sun 11th August £71
Jazz on the Broads Tues 13th August £51
Houghton Hall & Gardens Weds 14th August £46
Cromer & End of Pier Show Sat 17th August £52
Blenheim Palace, Park & Gardens Sun 18th August Adult £54 Senior £52 Child £43
Leonardo Hotel, Liverpool – 3 days 2 CANCELLATIONS Tues 20th August £183
Fawlty Towers – The Play
Thurs 5th September £88
Westminster Abbey including the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries Sat 7th September Adult £67 Senior £64 Child £33
London Leisure Day Sat 7th September £33
Holkham Hall Estate Sun 8th September £46
Hello, Dolly! (afternoon show) ONLY 15 LEFT Weds 11th September £88
MJ the Musical (afternoon show)
Thurs 12th September £106
North Norfolk Railway Sat 14th September Adult £40 Child £36
West Midlands Safari & Leisure Park Sun 15th September Adult £53 Child £53 Senior £51
Operation Mincemeat (afternoon show)
Tues 17th September £67
RAF Museum, Cosford Sat 21st September £29
Bodelwyddan Castle, North Wales (Warners) – 5 days 2 CANCELLATIONS
Mon 23rd September £515
The Coronation Street Experience Sun 29th September £66
Bletchley Park Sun 13th October £47
Eden Camp Modern History Museum Sat 19th October Adult £44 Child £42
Cadbury World Sun 20th October Adult £50 Child £45
Tower Hotel, London – 4 days Weds 30th October £398
Hairspray (afternoon show)
The Devil Wears Prada (afternoon show)
Weds 6th November £71
Weds 13th November £80
Bakewell Christmas Market Sat 16th November £27
Festive Gift Fair Sun 17th November Adult £36 Child £32
Leeds Christmas Shopping/Leisure Day
Thurs 21st November £29
Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra Sun 24th November £79
York’s St Nicholas Fair/Shopping/Leisure Day
Meadowhall Shopping Centre
Tues 26th November £29
Tues 3rd December £27
Stratford Upon Avon Christmas Market/Shopping/Leisure Day Fri 6th December £28
Beverley Festival of Christmas Sun 8th December £27
24th July £32
Nottingham Winter Wonderland/Shopping/Leisure Day Tues 10th December £26
Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market/Shopping/Leisure Day Thurs 12th December £29
*Thursford Christmas Spectacular Fri 13th December £77
*Thursford Christmas Spectacular (Long Sutton departure) Sat 14th December £80
*Thursford Christmas Spectacular Sun 15th December £80
*Thursford Christmas Spectacular (Long Sutton departure) Weds 18th December £77
Holkham Hall by Candlelight Weds 18th December £57
Carols at the Royal Albert Hall (afternoon concert) ONLY 17 LEFT Sat 21st December £99
Holme Lacy House (Warners) 4 Day Twixmas break Fri 27th December £429
MONDAY 1st APRIL 2024 AT 2PM
Starting at Whittlesey Vets Limited (Medivet: opposite The Boat Pub)
Available from the Town Council Office, Peel House, Queen Street, Whittlesey; Gifts Galore & Dawson’s Flowers, Blunts Lane and Parkers Newsagents, Market Street.
For more information please contact Sue Piergianni, Town Clerk on 01733 351296 or email clerk@whittleseytowncouncil.gov.uk
The small volunteer group that is Whittlesey in Bloom are looking for more volunteers
Without more support there is a possibility that Whittlesey in Bloom will cease to exist and with it the summer barrier planters at Grosvenor Road, High Causeway/Eastgate, Market Street/Queen Street and Market Street/Market Place. Other projects maintained by Whittlesey in Bloom include the Garden of Rest, and the cemetery.
Anyone interested in being involved will be warmly welcomed.
Please contact either Chairman – Kay Mayor by email on kayfmayor48@gmail.com or telephone 07887 801117 or Secretary – Gill Lawrence on geebeegill@btinternet.com or 01733 203036
Whittlesey Amateur Boxing Club
River Drove, Beggars Bridge, Coates PE7 2DH. Contact Mark Hurst: 07377 941011 or email: markhurst@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
Meets on Wednesdays, 7.30-10pm at St Mary’s Church Hall, Wisbech Road, Westry, March PE15 0BA. Visit www.mdmrc.net for further information or email: manddmrc@gmail.com
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.
To advertise your club or group please call Sallyanne for more information on 07737 026594 or email sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk
Whittlesey and Fenland Youth Radio has reached out as far as the Caribbean as Robert and Julie Windle were recently fortunate to meet some great people and spread the word of Whittlesey and the radio station.
Actor and fictional crime writer Robert Daws, of The Royal, Rock and Chips, Roger Roger and Casualty, gave an interview in the middle of the Atlantic, which will be broadcast in full in March. Meanwhile on Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, Robert met head football coach and former Premier League player Chris Kiwomya after stepping into refereeing a local schools match in 30 degrees C. A full football kit of sixteen shirts, shorts and socks was donated and passed over to be sent onwards to a school in St Kitts.
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
Karen got Coates WI members moving with her armchair exercises at their February meeting, proving exercise can be fun whilst sitting.
The next meeting is on March 6th, 2024, and is a members’ night with baby photo competition. Guests and new members are always welcome to join. The group 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 07703 385661.
Whittlesey Ladysmith WI will have a talk about the Green Back Yard in Peterborough at its next meeting on Tuesday, March 12th, at 7.30pm at St Andrew’s Parish Hall.
Guests are always welcome, so come along and meet new friends. Contact Liz on 07982 854872 or email: liz.ladysmith1@outlook.com The group’s on Facebook.
Karen Trickey is the guest speaker at the next meeting of the Whittlesey Women's Institute at 7.30pm on Tuesday, March 5th at St Andrew's Hall on Parkinson's Lane.
She looks after Fen Hands which is a support group for children with complex disabilities and their families, meeting other families in similar situations in and around Peterborough and The Fens. Activities provided are inclusive and fun for all the family. If you’d like to learn more about the group, please email fenhands@gmail.com
Local artists, museums and festivals are among nineteen organisations set to receive a share of more than £34,000 from the first round of the Fenland Culture Fund, boosting arts, culture and heritage across the district.
The inaugural recipients have each received a grant of up to £2000 to help develop local talent and deliver a range of cultural projects and activities to people across the district.
Fenland District Council received fantastic applications from forty-two community groups and individuals representing all corners of Fenland. Due to the quality and high number of applications, more than £11,000 of extra funding was made available in addition to the original £23,000 grant pot, to allow as many projects to go ahead as possible.
Given the high quality of the remaining projects that applied for funding, work will be undertaken to signpost groups to other opportunities to progress their ideas where possible. They will also be invited to apply for second round of the Fenland Culture Fund when it opens later this year.
The Fenland Culture Fund was launched in October 2023 with the aim of supporting the district’s diverse creative sector while providing more opportunities for people to access and experience arts and culture in Fenland. It also supports the delivery of the district’s creativity and culture strategy.
Cllr Chris Seaton, Fenland District Council’s portfolio holder responsible for arts, culture and heritage,
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
said: “We’re delighted with the amount of interest in the first round of our Fenland Culture Fund and the large number of applications. The recipients capture the breadth and depth of cultural excellence in Fenland and reflect a growing recognition of the role that arts, culture and heritage can play in the vibrancy and economic prosperity of Fenland and the good health and wellbeing of our communities.”
Local photographer Andy Gutteridge received a grant to support his documentary photography exhibition, ‘The Life and Soul of the Straw Bear’, which celebrated the volunteers who strive to maintain the tradition of the Straw Bear Festival in Whittlesey. The annual event, which has close ties with the local community and its history, was revived in 1980 but dates back to at least the mid-19th century.
Andy’s exhibition opened at the start of this year’s three-day festival. It documented the preparations leading up to the festival and brought to the fore the efforts of those who give up their time to ensure the event continues to inspire and captivate people from all over the world.
Thorney resident Andy, who was born in Whittlesey and has been a photographer for more than twenty years, said: “Although I’m probably better known for my sports photography, I have been developing documentary photography projects for a few years now.
“When the grant application opportunity was announced by the council, it became obvious that this project output dovetailed with the aims and objectives of the Fenland Cultural Strategy, and I was delighted the panel decided to make the award in support of this project.”
