Discovering Whittlesea issue 237, April 2024

Thank you to all the loyal customers who have been supporting the business and continue to do so.

Jason’s Barber Shop is the only barbers in Whittlesey that is appointment only. You can book online by downloading the Booksy app, call to make an appointment or just pop in.

Our busiest times are 3pm-6.30pm during the week and Saturdays, so please book well in advance for these times.

Jason will try and fit you in if he has any availability that day or in the week.

Welcome to your April issue...

The season of new life and new hopes for us all – let’s just see whether or not the awful weather of late can decide that we’ve had enough rain after all, and the sunshine can start putting a smile on all our faces!

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 the contributors and advertisers for their hard work and for your continuing support and words of encouragement. Enjoy the Easter competition, and best wishes for a happy Easter to you all. Claire x

The recent technical problems that affected some supermarkets’ contactless payments and online deliveries was a reminder of how we can all suffer at the hands of technological gremlins. It took me back to a time when I was stricken by a malfunctioning tape recorder. I was working for an evening newspaper and had been tasked with interviewing the base commander of an American air base at a time of heightened international tension. My editor at the time told me to get everything recorded as I had to ask some sensitive questions and we needed to have an accurate transcript. This I duly did, only to find back at the office that the recorder had not worked meaning that I had to rely on the few scratchy notes I had made.

I should have guessed the interview was not going to be a glowing success when as a preamble to my tough questions I enquired whether I could have a flight in one of the US ‘spy planes’ that flew on the edge of space, to which the commander enquired ‘If you mean reconnaissance aircraft Andy, do you know much about flying?’

When I replied I did not have much knowledge having only been an airline passenger on package holidays to Spain, he responded with ‘It might be a bit tricky then as it’s a single seater...’

Discovering Magazines, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET

Publisher and Sales Claire Saberton:

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

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

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

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

Ops Director Andy Armstrong: 07780 922214

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

Design Sarah Gumbley | Andy Beavis | Graham Copestake | Richard Hallam

4 Alderman Jacobs Primary School

6 Recipe: Bread and Butter Pudding

8-10 Community Matters

12 Cannon & Co

15 March Patio Centre

22 ..............Safe Local Trades

24 ..............Gardening Tips For April

28-29 .....Community Matters

31-34 .......Easter Egg Hunt: Win Chocolate!

36 ..............March Podiatry

38 ............... Hunt & Coombs Solicitors

40 ..............Susie Munns: Therapist & Coach

46 ..............Special Easter Quiz

48 Finance With Eamonn Dorling

49 Simply Wills Ltd

51 Tolethorpe Competition

52 Whittlesey Festival: Back For 2024!

58-62 Business Directory

Sales:

07737

sal@discoveringmagazines.co.uk

Opportunities abound at AJS

By Alderman Jacobs School headteacher Martin Fry

I feel very privileged to have been appointed as the new headteacher at Alderman Jacobs Primary School. After teaching in London and overseas, I worked for more than sixteen years as a headteacher in Peterborough and am now delighted to have hopped over the border to Whittlesey!

My first impressions of both the school and the town have been very positive. My first real community experience was to accompany the school’s Molly Dancers to the Straw Bear Festival in January. It was a brilliant occasion, but I was told I had beginner's luck with the fine weather!

Alderman Jacobs is a happy and safe school; proud to develop energy for learning, life and for the environment. The school has high academic and behaviour expectations and also excels in its work to provide an inclusive, caring environment for all children.

AJS also provides great opportunities for children to develop their potential and knowledge across the curriculum and beyond. So far this term, we have

enjoyed: a Chinese New Year celebration; World Book Day full of costume and characters; a visit from the Cambridgeshire Life Education Bus (funded by Whittlesey Rotary Club); trips to Woburn Safari Park and ‘Wicked’ in the West End; and also a super careers day where we were joined by the Mayor of Whittlesey, the Police, Fire and Rescue, the Armed Forces, HSBC, Perkins Engineers, a carpenter, Posh FC and community midwives! A huge thank you to all the volunteers who spoke to the children on the day.

I’d like to ask for the town’s support to help make Drybread Road a safer place, especially at school drop off and pick up times. Please stick to the 20mph speed limit, be patient when waiting for the Lollipop Lady and avoid parking directly outside school or on pavements. Your co-operation in making this stretch of road safe for our children is much appreciated.

Alderman Jacobs Pre-School

• Highly Qualified Staff

• 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

SLIMMING WORLD

Hot Cross Bun Bread & Butter Pudding

Sink your spoon into our soft-in-the-middle, crunchy-on-top hot cross bun bread and butter pudding and enjoy a taste of Easter now – or at any time of year!

Ingredients

5 Syns per serving – Serves 6 Low-calorie cooking spray

6 small slices of white bread from a 400g loaf

25g low-fat spread

40g dried mixed fruit

250ml skimmed milk

3 large eggs

2 level tbsp sweetener

Grated zest of 1 orange

1 tsp mixed spice

1 level tbsp plain flour

Plain quark or fat-free natural fromage frais, to serve

Method

• Spray a small, rectangular ovenproof dish with low calorie cooking spray. Spread one side of the bread slices with the low-fat spread. Using an 8cm round cutter (or an upside-down mug), cut a large circle in the middle of each slice of bread and set aside. Roughly chop all the leftover bits of bread and scatter them around the prepared dish, along with about two-thirds of the dried fruit. Arrange the bread rounds spread-side up on top, evenly spaced apart.

• Whisk together the milk, eggs, sweetener and most of the orange zest and mixed spice. Pour the mixture over the bread to cover and set aside for 20 minutes to allow the bread to soak up all the liquid. (Don’t be tempted to skip the soaking. For a pudding that’s light and fluffy on the inside and crisp on top, the bread needs time to soak up all the milk.)

• Preheat your oven to 190°C/fan 170°C/gas 5.

• Mix the flour with 2 tsp water, put the mixture in a piping bag and pipe a thin cross on top of each bread round. (If you don’t have a piping bag, use a spoon as neatly as you can.) Sprinkle over the remaining dried fruit, orange zest and mixed spice and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden. Serve hot with the quark or fromage frais.

MATTERS

APPLY NOW FOR £10K TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS

If you’re investing in your business whether it be in farm diversification, a building project, new piece of equipment or in many other ways – you could get a £10,000 easy-to-access government grant. Businesses in most of Fenland can apply for a Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) grant of up to £10,000 to invest in capital investment projects. The grants are being delivered by Fenland District Council's economic growth team Fenland for Business thanks to funding awarded to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority by the Government's Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). It is part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund programme managed by DLUHC.

Eligible businesses:

• Have two to nineteen employees.

• Can spend the grant by the end of January 2025.

• Can fund half of their project themselves or with match-funding from elsewhere.

• Cannot have received funding for this project from another Defra scheme, including the Farming Investment Fund.

• Are based in the Central Government defined Fenland Rural England Prosperity Fund area which includes most of Fenland (check via the council’s expression of interest page).

Businesses have until 5pm on Saturday, April 6th, to lodge an expression of interest. For an informal chat and guidance about the grants available contact business@fenland.gov.uk or call 07752 700248.

NEW GUIDE OUT SOON

Coming soon, the fifth edition of the Sports and Community Guide for Whittlesey and the Villages, produced by Robert Windle as part of the Big Bash event coming in June.

The free guide is sponsored by EPD Insulation Group with support from the National Lottery and features the contact details for the many sports and community groups in the area as well as a photo review of the year and important information. However, if there is any not-for-profit club or group that would like a free listing then get in touch with Robert at rawindle@virginmedia.com

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

FORTNIGHTLY WELLBEING WALKS

Active Fenland in conjunction with the Ramblers Wellbeing Walks have fortnightly walks every second and fourth Monday of the month, meeting at the Buttercross.

Starting at 10am they last between 45-60mins and are free to attend. No pre-booking is required, however if more details are required then call 07592 774656.

Photo courtesy: Robert Windle/RWT Photography

BUSINESS GROUP GROWS

Whittlesey and District Business Community continues to grow with well attended meetings and as a bonus for members a recent free ‘How to write a Blog’ workshop was provided by Natalie Brannigan from The Little Marketing Company.

Last month’s guest speaker was Julie Marsh MCIPD from Be You Consultancy and Coaching who spoke about ‘What is imposter syndrome? How does it affect us and our business? What can we do about it?’

Photo courtesy: Robert Windle/RWT Photography

LACEY WINS POETRY ACCOLADE

There was a Whittlesey winner at the Fenland District Council Poet Laureate Competition.

Lacey Vinn (13), who attends Sir Harry Smith Community College, scooped the top prize overcoming stiff competition in the Young Poet section. Lacey's poet was called “Christmas Truce”, inspired by a Christmas Day football match from World War One.

Photo: Cllr Kay Mayor the Mayor of Whittlesey with Lacey

MATTERS COMMUNITY

SMALL FRY YOUTH FISHING CLUB FORMED

Great news on the fishing front as the Whittlesey Small Fry Youth Fishing Club has been officially formed.

The officers are: president Robert Windle; chairman Roy Bridson; vice chairman Richard Marson; secretary Clark Clarke; treasurer Tony Rayner; and safeguarding and welfare officer John Pope.

The club meets on the last Saturday of the month courtesy of Float Fish Farm, Farcet at 10am and from June the fishing will be on the Bower behind the Whittlesey Manor Swimming Pool.

Annual membership is free to be a club member. A session fee with full tuition is only £5 with full equipment provided if needed. For further details to register your child then email Clare at hermione85@hotmail.co.uk

Photo courtesy: Robert Windle/RWT Photography

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

COMPETITION TIME AT COATES WI

Coates WI’s March meeting featured a competition with “Guess the members’ baby/toddler photographs” and “Guess the contents of a mystery sock”, given to each member.

The next meeting on April 3rd will see the speaker Lee give a talk on Textile Art.

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 07703 385661.

WHITTLESEY WI HOLDS CRAFT SESSION

Non-member ladies are welcome to come along to the next Whittlesey Women's Institute meeting on Tuesday, April 2nd at St Andrew’s Hall from 7.30pm when the evening’s topic will be craft, with members leading a practical session. Any prospective members can contact president Christine Tillott 07778 422484 for more details of this and future meetings.

FRIENDS TO MEET UP

The next meeting of the Friends of the Manor is scheduled for Tuesday, April 9th with a 6.30pm start in the Manor Meeting room.

Latest updates about the Manor Centre will be discussed and members of the public are welcome to come along and meet the committee and have their say. Facebook Friends of the Manor for more details.

Photo courtesy: Robert Windle/RWT Photography

ARE YOU THINKING OF SELLING YOUR HOME?

Whilst conducting a property valuation this month one thing that was mentioned was how potential properties they were looking at all looked so picture perfect with not a lot of ‘stuff’ in the pictures.

The Cannon & Co team have put our heads together and want to share with you a couple of our top tips. You will want to make it stand out from the crowd and generate as much interest as possible to make sure you achieve the full asking price.

First impressions matter

Make sure your home creates a positive first impression. This begins with kerb-appeal – ensure the exterior is well-maintained, tidy, and inviting. Consider adding a fresh coat of paint, trimming the lawn, and updating the landscaping.

Declutter

We all tend to throw empty boxes in cupboards (just in case) and gather ‘stuff’ as the years pass. The sale of your property is the perfect time to get rid of unwanted items and declutter. It will help your home appear more spacious and there is potentially the added benefit of making a few pounds selling some of your old belongings.

Price strategically

Setting the right price is critical for a successful sale. Estate agents conduct thorough research on comparable properties in the area to determine a competitive yet realistic listing price. Avoid overpricing, as it can deter potential buyers and prolong the time your home sits on the market. On the other hand, under-pricing may lead to missed opportunities for maximising profit.

Consider factors such as market trends, the condition of your home, and any unique features it offers. An estate agent can provide invaluable insights into pricing strategies tailored to your specific circumstances and local market conditions.

Free no-obligation advice on buying or selling

If you would like a free no-obligation market appraisal or any advice on buying or selling please call us on (01733) 641030 or email: office@cannonandco.uk

YOU BUILD A BETTER GARDEN

March 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 07860 863622 or email: mark@marchpatiocentre.co.uk

Create ‘Kerb Appeal’ and Add Value to Your Home

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

RECOMMENDATIONS:

❝ … 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

DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT!

At Lincolnshire Resin Drives Ltd, we create resin driveways, resin paths, block paving DON’T

See the reviews on our webpage from our happy customers

See the reviews on our webpage from our happy customers

www.lincolnshireresindrivesltd.co.uk

www.lincolnshireresindrivesltd.co.uk

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.

T h a t H a n d y m an

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

Garden

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.

Electrical

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

Other stuff

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

•Sheds repaired and roofs re-felted

•Water Butts installed

•Gutters cleared.

Plumbing

•Leaking taps and pipes...sorted

• Washing machines, dish washers and taps installed

• Sinks, toilets and bathrooms fitted

• 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

Carpentry

•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.

Fence Ownership – Who’s Right and Who is Left?

By Eileen Le Voi at Safe Local Trades

Fence ownership is one of the most common uncertainties among homeowners; contrary to popular belief, there’s no rule that says the fence on the left side of your home belongs to you.

The transfer or conveyance deed might state who owns it, but if it’s not in writing, then homeowners should look for any T-marks on the boundaries. The stalk of the ‘T’ will sit on the boundary and come out into your garden or property, which means that that fence is your responsibility. If the responsibility for the boundary is shared, like in the case of a party fence wall, then an H-mark (two T-marks mirrored on the boundary line) is used, indicating that any repair bills should be split 50/50.

When looking at the boundaries and the responsibility for the maintenance and upkeep of a fence separating two properties, the first step would always be to look at all the documents registered at the HM Land Registry. Documents such as the conveyances, transfers and deeds may outline ownership and maintenance obligations of the fence. Where the documents registered with HM Land Registry are silent on the issue, there is a common practice that the property owners, either side of the fence, are jointly responsible for the upkeep and maintenance.

According to GOV.UK, it may be worth the homeowner:

• Checking the information they received when they bought the house including the register/ deeds as well as any particulars of sale provided by the seller which may include details of which fence/boundary they have looked after.

• If they don't have a copy of the register or 'filed' deeds, then obtain copies.

• Read, and ask their neighbour to read, www.gov.uk guidance on boundaries.

• Try and agree with your neighbours a way forward that works for you both.

Other questions you may have:

1) Can I make my neighbour repair their fence? There’s no law which says your neighbour must repair their fence, even if it’s rotting away. Hiring a boundary demarcation disputes expert is a possibility. Alternatively, leave the old fence where it is and erect another one right next to it. The boundary would then be a thin line that runs between the two fences, even if they’re touching each other.

2) How high can a fence be?

Fences in back gardens can be up to two metres high; any higher, you’ll need to get planning permission.

3) Can I attach something to my neighbour’s fence? You can only hang things on your neighbour’s fence, paint it, or use it to support your plants with their permission. Anything you do without permission, including staining or applying preservative to your side of the fence, is tantamount to criminal damage.

Now is an ideal time to prepare seed beds. Soil should be broken down into small, even-sized particles and stones and other debris removed. Rake over the soil when it is dry to create a flat surface that will drain more evenly. Create a fine tilth by dragging the rake back and forth, forwards at a shallow angle and backwards at 90 degrees to create the small even particles. Also, the weeds are starting to enjoy the warmer weather so do keep on top of their removal. Some say, “Hoe when you can’t see a weed and you’ll never see a weed!” Hand weed or hoe around seedlings as the weeds appear, as they create a lot of competition for food and moisture.

One of the main tasks in April is planting out potatoes. Although there is no hard and fast rule about dates, a rough guide would be – plant out first earlies around late March; second earlies early to mid-April; and maincrops mid to late April. Potatoes need a sunny site away from frost pockets – the newly emerging foliage is susceptible to frost damage in April and May and, if frosts are forecast, cover the emerging shoots with soil or fleece to protect them.

Sow the following outdoors but under cover: beetroot, cucumbers, lettuces, turnips, oriental leaves, leeks, cabbage, and salad leaves. They can be sown in pots, modules, or prepared seed beds from which you can transplant them. If you do grow any seedlings

in trays or modules and they have grown a couple of “true leaves” prick them out and move to individual pots or larger modules. You can also harden off young plants by putting them outdoors on sunny days but bring them back in at night or put them in a cold frame or under cloches.

Other jobs for the month include:

• 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.

• 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.

• Put up pea sticks and build cane supports ready for climbing beans while the ground is still soft.

• Spring onions, chard, parsnips, spinach, and broad beans can be sown into the open ground.

• This is your last chance to sow aubergines, chillies, and tomatoes (under cover) as they require a long growing season to do well. Other crops that can be sown under cover include celeriac, courgettes, squashes, pumpkins, cucumber, leeks, and marrows.

Happy gardening!

MATTERS

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 24th, 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

RESIDENTS HONOURED AT AWARDS CEREMONY

Whittlesey was represented in numbers at the Pride of Fenland Awards held at Wisbech St Mary Community Centre with local people and groups being acknowledged for their good works. Anna Foster from the Helping Whittlesey Community Pantry scooped top prize in the community group section. Youngster Jack Page, who looks after Jack’s Jewellery and has been raising funds for good causes, was runner-up in the youth section. And Geoff Howes, who co-ordinated the Whittlesey Park Run and is also the Whittlesea Railway Station adopter, was runner-up in the individual award category.

There were also presentations made to Charlie King and Connor Neacy from Phoenix Youth Provision, Karen Trickey from Fen Hands, Whittlesey Sports Association, Fenland Youth Radio and Samantha Fleming who looks after the 1040 Facebook page.

Photo courtesy: Robert Windle/RWT Photography

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR:

April showers... we hope not after all the rain and floods we have endured over the winter. At the time of writing the B1040 is still closed and from what I understand there is a lot of remedial works to be carried out. Of course, April 23rd is St George’s Day – our patron saint. In England, St George’s Day is celebrated and his flag flown.

On March 8th, I attended the annual careers day at Alderman Jacobs School. This was followed in the evening by the Royal British Legion’s annual dinner and then on Saturday, March 9th a fantastic evening at the Rotary’s Last Night of the Proms featuring the Royal Air Force Wyton Voluntary Band. A busy weekend!!

The following Friday I attended the Poet Laureate Awards which were held at March Town Hall and then on the mornings of Saturday 16th and Friday 22nd volunteers were selling Duck Race tickets ready for Easter Monday (April 1st) and the annual Charity Duck Race. Fingers crossed you have all bought your tickets and it is a good turnout with sunshine too!

It would be remiss of me if I didn’t send Councillor Dee Laws, my deputy, our very best wishes for a good recovery after she was due to have her long-awaited operation for a knee replacement on March 23rd.

My charity dinner was held on Saturday, 23rd, with 150 sitting down to dinner followed by dancing, a fantastic raffle and auction.

I have received invitations to various charitable fund-raising events being held by other town Mayors; whilst it would be good to be able to attend them all, unfortunately it is not possible; I do the best I can.

A reminder that the first car boot sale will take place on Sunday, April 7th at the Grosvenor Road North Car Park.

May will bring with it annual council meetings and Mayor making. I have already made it known that I will not be seeking a second year as Mayor. At the time of writing, I do not know who will be replacing me on May 23rd.

Our next council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 18th at 6.30pm.

Kay Mayor

QUIZZERS CHASE TROPHY

A good night of quizzing was held at the Falcon Hotel, Whittlesey as eleven teams battled it out over six main rounds and two bonus rounds to be the 2024 North East Cambridgeshire Conservative Association (NECCA) – Whittlesey branch champions.

Topics included guess the song, confectionery, films, sport, Queen Elizabeth II and musicals with the team with the greatest number of points out of a maximum of 170 being Avenues & Alleyways, a team of four, who scored 119 points, edging out second placed Subs Bench with 116 points and Cooks Bucks and Bowles on 114 points.

The leaders then had to go against the Chasers which was made up of a single representative from each of the teams finishing second to fifth. The Chasers, comprising Tony Buckingham, Gail Broughton, Tony Palmer and Mark Pickels, snatched the overall prize by scoring twenty against sixteen in the final chase.

Mayor Cllr Kay Mayor was delighted with the evening and congratulated the winning team on their success as well as thanking the quiz master Robert Windle, scorer Julie Windle, the Royal Fish Bar and the Falcon Hotel.

Photo courtesy: Julie Windle/RWT Photography

EggEasterHunt

Find all 33 Easter Eggs around Whittlesey for a chance to WIN a

Chocolate Explosion

PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES

Coles Barbers

Dream Elite Care

Fontanellas

Gerrard Knight

Grosvenor Flooring

Harrison Rose

J Neville Opticians

Kellyvision

Krog & Whitehead

The Lock Shop

Lucy’s Flowers

Making Waves

Malcolm James Parkers Newsagents

Penny Marie

Nails & Beauty

Premier Shop

The Milky Bar

The Muffin Oven

Vesuvio

Whittlesey Bathroom & Kitchen Studio

Whittlesey

Dental Care

Whittlesey Christian Church

Jacko’s Pet Supplies

Sharman Quinney

The Boat Inn

Briggate Garage

Larry’s Heel Bar

The Letter B

East Anglian

Children’s Hospice

Oh Sew Caroline

Blinds in Harmony

Jason’s Barber Shop

The Glass Slipper

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! Competition closes 30/04/2024. Good Luck!!

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.

NAME:

ADDRESS:

TEL:

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Achieving twenty-five years of serving patients is a milestone worthy of reflection, appreciation, and celebration.

We understand that each patient's journey is unique, presenting its own set of challenges and triumphs. Over the past twenty-five years, our clinic has grown and developed, providing treatment and advice for those suffering from foot and lower limb problems, offering not just medical expertise but also empathy, compassion, and personalised care.

We have touched lives, relieved pains, and improved mobility for thousands of patients over the years. Celebrating this reflects our commitment to excellence, plus demonstrates the profound impact podiatry can have on overall well-being.

Beyond individual patient care, our clinic has played a vital role in promoting podiatric health awareness within the community. Through educational talks to groups and attending events, we have endeavoured to empower individuals to take charge of their foot health and prevent common ailments.

Celebrating twenty-five years allows us to reflect on the broader impact we have had in promoting a healthier, happier community.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the incredible team that has worked tirelessly. From skilled podiatrists, foot health practitioners and friendly receptionists, each member of the team has played a crucial role in shaping our clinic's legacy. We would like to acknowledge and appreciate the huge support that all team members have made, in the past and present.

As we raise a toast to twenty-five years of serving patients in our podiatry clinic, we look towards the future with optimism and excitement.

We are thrilled to have an amazing team to continue to provide patient care to the highest standard and we look forward to hosting professional courses to further develop our professional skills and to also benefit other clinicians, raising the scope of practice within our profession. We plan to continue to be a beacon of hope for those in need, a sanctuary for those in pain, and a pillar of excellence in podiatric care for many years to come.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years; we could not have achieved this without you.

solicitors

The Importance of a Will

AWill makes it much easier for your family or friends to deal with matters after you die and can help to avoid conflict. Without a Will, family and friends will be relying on the standard rules (intestacy) as to who will deal with and inherit your money and property as often these rules do not give the result you would want or expect.

Writing a Will is very important if you have children or family who rely on you financially or if you want to leave money to someone outside your immediate family and it may also reduce the amount of Inheritance Tax payable.

The only way you can be sure that your assets pass to who you want after your death is by having a properly drafted Will in place.

For further information, to book an appointment at Hunt & Coombs’ offices in Peterborough, or if you require a home visit to discuss your Will, please call Emily Butterworth, who specialises in Wills, trusts, probate and Lasting Powers of Attorney, on (01733) 882800 or email info@hcsolicitors.co.uk

The Healing Power of Sound

Afew years ago, I started experimenting with Sound Healing on an old foot injury. Using tuning forks, I was able to release the trapped energy and heal the area. I was so happy with the results I decided to train in Sound Healing Therapy, so I could use this amazing therapy to heal others, not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally. I successfully completed my diploma and got to practising straightaway. I now run sound baths twice a month and have helped lots of people, but I want my reach to go beyond this; I want to share the healing power of sound, meditation, and energy therapy with more people.

physical, emotional, and energetic states. The vibrations penetrate deep into our cells, tissues, and energy centres, promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and stimulating the body's natural healing mechanisms.

Susie Munns

Sound healing works by utilising the power of sound vibrations to promote healing and wellbeing. It is based on the understanding that everything in the universe, including our bodies, is made up of energy vibrating at different frequencies. When our bodies experience imbalances, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, these vibrations can become disrupted, leading to disharmony and dis-ease (disease).

During a sound healing session, various instruments are used to create specific sounds and vibrations. These instruments can include singing bowls, gongs, drums, chimes, and tuning forks, among others. Each instrument produces its own unique frequency and resonance.

The sound vibrations emitted by these instruments interact with the energetic frequencies of our bodies, creating a state of resonance. Resonance occurs when one object's vibrations match the natural frequency of another object, causing it to vibrate in harmony. In the case of sound healing, the instruments' vibrations aim to resonate with the imbalanced frequencies in our bodies, helping to restore balance and harmony.

When we listen to or experience these healing sounds, they can have a profound effect on our

SUSIE MUNNS – LMPNLP, AAPEFT THERAPIST & COACH

M: 07915 073013

E: susie.munns@hotmail.com

www.susiemunns.com

The benefits of sound baths are vast and include relaxation and stress reduction: The soothing sounds and vibrations of sound healing induce a deep state of relaxation, calming the nervous system and reducing stress and anxiety. Cellular healing and regeneration: the vibrations generated during sound healing sessions can penetrate on a cellular level, promoting self-healing and supporting the body's regenerative processes. Chakra balancing and energy alignment: each chakra, or energy centre, in our bodies is associated with a specific frequency. Sound healing can help balance and align these energy centres, promoting overall energetic harmony. Emotional release and healing: sound vibrations can help release stored emotions and emotional blockages, facilitating emotional healing and a sense of emotional wellbeing. Mindfulness and meditation: the rhythmic and melodic sounds of sound healing can aid in deepening mindfulness and meditation practices, helping to quieten the mind and cultivate a state of inner peace and clarity.

On Monday, April 22nd, I am going to run a FREE sound bath and meditation online event, all you have to do is visit susiemunns.com/freesound-bath and sign-up.

Don’t forget to listen to the HAPPINESS HOUR on Fenland Youth Radio every Monday from 10am to 11am

• Domestic Help; housework, laundry, ironing, shopping, gardening

• 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

MATTERS

STEVE HONOURED AT LEGION DINNER & DANCE

The Royal British Legion Whittlesey Branch held its annual dinner and dance at Childers.

One of the key elements of the evening was the presentation of “Member of the Year” which Chairman Tony Cattemole was delighted to present to long-standing member, Steve Darby for his outstanding contribution to the RBL. The chairman thanked Childers and those who had donated raffle prizes and entertainment providers, ‘In the Mood’.

LAST NIGHT AT THE PROM

The Rotary Club of Whittlesey hosted its Last Night at the Prom at the town’s Indoor Bowls Club & Sports Complex with the RAF Wyton Voluntary Band the star performers. More than £1500 was raised through ticket sales and a raffle.

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

TEA@23 OPEN TO ALL

Tea@23 is based at 23 Broad Street in Whittlesey, the home of the Whittlesey Christian Church. Every Wednesday the doors are open from 10am till noon for teas and coffees and splendid cakes. A team of cooks and washer-uppers cater for more than sixty local residents each week, to which it’s free to come along and say hello.

NEW CHAIRMAN NAMED

North East Cambridgeshire Conservative Association’s Whittlesey branch has a new chairman following the recent annual meeting. Cllr David Connor takes over the reins with Cllr Elisabeth Sennitt-Clough as vice chair, the secretary is Helen Barnes and Cllr Kay Mayor is the treasurer.

From April the membership will meet monthly at the Conservative Club, 34 Whitmore Street, at 7.30pm.

Photo courtesy: Terry Austin – The Studio

Photo courtesy: Robert Windle/RWT Photography

Photo courtesy: Robert Windle/RWT Photography

Photo courtesy: Robert Windle/RWT Photography

INCINERATOR FIGHT GOES ON

By Steve Barclay MP

The Wisbech incinerator is the topic that everyone is talking about – and for good reason. I was as shocked and angry as constituents when the news came through that the Planning Inspector’s recommendation had been accepted. It is a flawed proposal, located on an unsuitable site.

This is a scheme that, if built, would bring hundreds of thousands of tonnes of municipal, commercial and industrial waste to Wisbech each year for incineration. The town, district and county councils were all united with me in campaigning against it. It is a scheme that would never have been granted planning permission by the local authority and was created to generate just over the fifty megawatts of power threshold, meaning that it qualified as a nationally significant infrastructure project and was therefore subject to determination by the Planning Inspectorate process outside our area.

This is the wrong scheme in the wrong place, which will have a detrimental effect on our local community. I will continue to fight this proposal and have already held meetings with Fenland District Council to support them in bringing forward a judicial review.

The fight must continue to oppose this scheme given the massive blot on our landscape it will cause. I am committed to doing everything possible to fight it. Only a year ago, the Government introduced legally binding targets to halve the amount of residual waste going to landfill or incineration. Making progress on this target undermines the case for new incinerators. This scheme is even more disappointing given the progress made more widely in securing investment for the constituency, with the latest example being £20 million of funding announced in the budget specifically for local schemes in Wisbech. Yet the incinerator overshadows this progress, and I will work with local councillors, businesses and residents to try and stop it being built.

Natalie's TOP MARKETING TIP

By Natalie Brannigan Director, The Little Marketing Company

LinkedIn is a crucial social media platform that is often overlooked in terms of its potential.

Instead of just gathering connections and logging off, engage in meaningful conversation with your network, strengthen your voice through sharing blog posts and promotions, participate actively in forums, and support quality content from others. Empowering fellow professionals and educating prospective clients boost your brand and build trust and admiration within your industry. Encourage every team member to embrace LinkedIn's potential and actively participate, adopting a combined presence that strengthens your organisation's impact.

Meet Like Minded

For more hints and tips, sign up for our newsletter: www.thelittlemarketingcompany.com/newsletter

9:30am-11am

Venue

The Falcon Hotel, 1 London Street, Whittlesey, PE7 1BH

Join our Facebook Group to find out more Tuesday 16th April 2024

www facebook com/groups/whittleseyladieswholatte

Family owned & run since 1957, Islawrffordd Caravan Park offers the very best in quality.

Quote ‘Discovering’ when you call us to enquire or book!

Situated at the southern end of the magnificent Snowdonia National Park coastline in the village of Talybont, Islawrffordd is an award winning, 5 star luxury caravan park with 201 holiday homes and 75 fully serviced hard standing touring caravan/motorhome plots, all benefitting from the very best facilities, including a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna and Jacuzzi, restaurant and bar, children’s activities and adventure play area.

2 Bedroom Luxury Holiday Home

• Just a few minutes’ walk from the beach

• Decked balcony with stunning mountain and sea views

• Available for Weeks /Mini Breaks/ Weekend Breaks

• Master Bedroom with en-suite bathroom

• Smart TV’s with DVD in every room

• Fully Insulated and double glazed

• Fully Centrally Heated

• Free wi-fi, (including Amazon Dot)

For more information visit www.islawrffordd.co.uk Call 01341 247269 or Email info@Islawrffordd.co.uk

Islawrffordd Caravan Park, Talybont, Barmouth, Gwynedd, LL43 2AQ

WHERE THERE IS A WILL, THERE IS A WAY!

By Eamonn Dorling

Ensuring your wishes are complied with, and that maximum financial benefits go where you want them to, is difficult if you are no longer here to manage them.

If you are unfamiliar with the term Intestacy, you should carefully look it up if you do not have a current and valid will.

• Ensuring your wishes are honoured: A will allows you to specify how your assets are distributed after your death. Without a will, your estate will be distributed according to the laws of Intestacy, which may not align with your preferences.

• Appointing Executors: In your will, you can appoint Executors responsible for administering your estate after your death. Executors ensure that your affairs are handled by someone you trust.

• Guardianship for children: If you have children who are minors, you can use your will to appoint guardians who will take care of them in the event of your death.

• Minimising family disputes: A clear and legally binding will can help prevent disputes among family members over the distribution of your assets.

• Tax planning: A well-drafted will can also help minimise your estate's tax liabilities, ensuring that more of your assets go to your chosen beneficiaries.

• Peace of mind: Creating a will provides peace of mind, knowing that you have ensured your affairs are in order and your loved ones are supported according to your wishes after you're gone.

Overall, making a will in the UK is a crucial step in estate planning, regardless of age or financial situation. It ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and can help avoid future complications and disputes for your loved ones.

Delivering Simple Financial Advice - that really works

If your will(s) are inadequate or you know that changes need to be made, you should take advice and rapidly resolve the issue. There are three main options:

• Do it yourself and try to get it right the first time (not recommended).

• Have a qualified specialist will writer who is recommended to explain their service and complete the work for you at a reasonable cost.

• Select a solicitor who specialises in wills and will probably do that work for you at a significantly higher cost.

Your independent financial adviser will be able to give you help if you need it. They will have contacts for specialists or solicitors who can help. In my experience, I have seen wills that do not reflect an individual's wishes, wills that could quickly be challenged, and wills made that have not been signed or witnessed. As a financial planner, I do not provide will writing services, but I know people who can. Then, you can rest assured that someone will comply with your wishes.

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.

SIMPLY WILLS LTD

Who are we and what is our background?

& Celebrates

Ian Cunningham

Dip PFS Cert CII (MP & ER) SWW

Ian is a fully registered and authorised independent financial advisor who works alongside Brooks Wealth in Peterborough to offer a full financial suite to meet every need. Ian first qualified as a financial advisor in 1986 and has continued to expand his knowledge to keep up with the changing needs of our society and our clients. This included becoming a professional will writer in 2010. He has a wealth of experience across many areas and can advise on long-term tax efficiency and later life pension planning, including equity release advice for those needing a cash injection for retirement.

Sheran Jacobs-Cunningham IAM Aff SWW

Sheran began her financial career within the banking and insurance sector in 1979, then swapped careers to school administration in 1992. In 2023 she took the opportunity of qualifying as a professional will writer and Simply Wills was born. With customer service and satisfaction at the heart of her ethos, she is committed to helping clients by guiding them through the legal processes and supporting them to achieve their goals.

What does Simply Wills Ltd actually do and what makes us different ?

We can provide advice and support to help you navigate through the world of Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney, Severance of Property Ownership and Property Trusts. We are here to answer your questions and queries and produce the necessary legal documentation in plain English for you to understand.

are flexible and friendly, provide excellent customer service with competitive charges. We treat all our clients with respect and are confidential in all that we discuss. We try our best to make the experience comfortable and straightforward for everyone.

We can visit at your home, at your convenience, to discuss your requirements and the first meeting will be at our cost. Once you have had time to decide what you wish to achieve, we will be able to take official instructions and work with you in a timely manner to ensure you are able to achieve the outcomes that you want.

This is a subject which a lot of us don’t want to think about or talk about but know we should. Clients have been surprised at the feeling of relief when the final signatures are on the documents and everything is set for when the inevitable happens.

We are professional in approach and are members of The Society of Will Writers. We

As a small Company, we pride ourselves on the personal touch and would love to help you with your long-term estate planning.

Take the pressure off loved ones when they are grieving and make the necessary legal processes as simple as possible. Contact

MATTERS

SLEEP OUT TO HELP VETERANS

Fifty-five people from Whittlesey set out to sleep out for the night at Decoy Lakes on March 16th, some with tents and some with only cardboard and sleeping bags.

They included a variety of people including several members of the Whittlesey Royal British Legion branch, plus others from the Bearded Villains East Anglia, Whittlesey 1st Scouts and Explorers, Whittlesey Slimming World, a veteran from the Royal Green Jackets Association, and many more.

The sleep out was to raise awareness and vital funds on behalf of Royal British Legion Industries to help them with all the work they do for homeless veterans. There are more than six thousand homeless veterans in the UK with the group helping to get them into emergency accommodation.

Several activities were organised for the day including fire building, survival skills, basic cooking and a tug of war and the money raised will go to help buy clothes, food, toiletries and also towards support and training to help veterans gain employment.

SIGN UP TODAY FOR FREE FENLAND TEA DANCES

Residents are being urged to sign up for free tea dances to encourage healthy activity.

The tea dances are offered by Fenland District Council's Active Fenland, which secures grant funding to provide opportunities for people to live more active lives.

The dances include free entry, tuition and light refreshments and will be held from 1.30pm to 2pm (free dance tuition), and 2pm to 4pm main event on Friday, April 26th, and Friday, August 16th at the Eastrea Centre, 2 Roman Gardens, Eastrea, Whittlesey, PE7 2DF. Booking is essential at www.fenland.gov.uk/activefenlandbookingform

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

PLANS FOR 2024 EXTRAVAGANZA

It’s only spring but plans are already afoot for the Whittlesey Christmas Extravaganza with the annual event due to take place on Saturday, December 14th in Whittlesey.

A new leadership team is involved with the officers being chairman Robert Windle, vice chair/ secretary Corinne Wooding and treasurer Julie Windle, with support from Stuart and Kelly Rayner, Karen Trickey, Cllr Kay Mayor, Carl Flippance and Cllr Roy Gerstner.

Anybody else who would like to support this fun family event by either sponsorship, donations or just time on the day are most welcome to get in touch by contacting rawindle@virginmedia.com

FENLAND LITTER FIGHTERS

Residents, businesses, schools and community groups have been taking part in the country’s biggest environmental clean-up.

Now in its ninth year, Keep Britain Tidy’s national Great British Spring Clean was held last month with residents and groups being involved in eleven preorganised Street Pride community litter picks and project work parties being held across Fenland with the Whittlesey Street Pride litter pick being held on Saturday, March 16th.

Summer at Tolethorpe Competition Time

Throughout summer (June 4th- August 24th) the Stamford Shakespeare Company presents an annual season of plays.

Described by ‘The Sunday Times’ as “One of the finest things to do this summer” and ‘The Stage’ as “One of England’s premier alfresco theatre venues”, it really is an experience not to be missed. This summer the Company is proud to present four fantastic plays:

Step into the vibrant world of George Farquhar’s “The Recruiting Officer”, a rollicking romp and the most popular play of the 18th Century.

The woodland backdrop of the Tolethorpe stage provides the perfect setting for Shakespeare’s most spellbinding of plays, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

Laugh your cares away with Jane Austen’s “Sense and Sensibility” and celebrate the strength of sisterhood in a Regency-era rollercoaster of comedy and romance.

Patrick Ness’s dazzling story of love, life and healing, “A Monster Calls”, is brought to life by Tolethorpe Youth Drama Theatre Makers.

The theatre is situated in the grounds of historic Tolethorpe Hall, just two miles from Stamford, where each summer over 30,000 people experience the magic of a visit to this unique venue. Enjoy a picnic in the glorious grounds, then take your seat, protected from summer showers, and see a stage like no other.

Box office (01780) 917240 www.tolethorpe.co.uk

Would you like to win a pair of tickets to see one of the plays?

Simply answer the following question:

Which of the plays being performed at Tolethorpe this summer is the only one not to have been written by a man?

Send your answer, including your name and contact details to Discovering Whittlesea, PO Box 164, Bourne PE10 1ET or you can email hello@discoveringmagazines.co.uk quoting ‘Discovering Whittlesea’

Whittlesey Festival

IS BACK FOR 2024!

THE WHITTLESEY FESTIVAL COMMITTEE HAS ANNOUNCED THAT PLANNING IS WELL UNDERWAY FOR THE 2024 FESTIVAL ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8TH, SO MAKE SURE YOU NOTE THE DATE IN YOUR CALENDARS.

It will be a great day out for all the family starting with a parade at 10am and closing with a superb finale at 4pm. Some performers, including a great line-up of singers, musicians, puppeteers and dance groups, have already confirmed their involvement and you’ll be able to see amazing talent displayed both on the Market Square and in St Mary’s Church and church yard green on the day.

Once more the streets will be lined with classic cars where visitors will be able to see an awesome collection of vehicles from days gone by.

Andy Stimson, who organises this aspect of the festival, said: “We already have 115 cars booked and with five months to go until the festival there’s guaranteed to be many more.”

The Festival Schools Art Exhibition will again be showcasing artistic talent from local schools in the Whittlesey Library, both on festival day and for two weeks after the event. One of the ways 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 of rides and attractions. The everpopular fundraising coffee morning will be on Saturday, July 6th at Childers, so come and enjoy entertainment cake, tea and coffee.

Look out for more information about the festival in later editions of Discovering Whittlesea and follow the event on Facebook at Whittlesey Festival 2024. Bookings for stalls are already coming in fast so to avoid disappointment go to the Fenland District Council website or you can email marketsandevents@fenland.gov.uk

LOCAL CLUBS & GROUPS

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

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

If you’re wanting a painter and decorator who can look back on a very successful thirtyfive-year career, with all that accumulated experience along the way, then Kevin Judd is waiting to hear from you. This Peterboroughbased craftsman can offer not only the usual painting and wallpaper hanging skills but can also combine those with plastering, artexing and installing coving, to provide you with the complete decorating service.

Kevin is prepared to travel within a fifty-mile radius of Peterborough and much of his work has long been as a result of ‘word-of-mouth’ recommendations. He is happy to take on any contract, be it domestic, commercial or industrial, and is as likely to produce a first-class end product outside your property as he is within your four walls.

For the last two years, Kevin

has had Freddie as his apprentice and has been encouraged by the progress made by the youngster, as Kevin is pleased to be passing on those tips and techniques which come after so many years in the trade.

Kevin is confident that his services are competitively priced, and he is happy to supply you with a no-obligation quotation for your next project.