Issue 16 spring 2015 by Molly's Guide

issue 16 • Spring 2015

for parents & carers

BOOK REVIEWS

Great ideas for your little bookworms

Grassroots football Lincoln City’s Youth Academy’s newest recruits

THE GREATEST SHOW IN TOWN

DEN BUILDING Getting cre and active ative with the Woodla nd Trust

A weekend of festivals celebrating Magna Carta’s 800th Anniversary

Fun ﬁlled Days Out & Activities for the whole family this Spring

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E E R

Spring has finally sprung! Whilst we’ve enjoyed a few damp days through April’s showers, we’ve also witnessed the sun shining on the season’s new green shoots, colourful blossoms and cute baby lambs. We have a 2.5 year old who’s desperate to be outside whatever the weather - as you can read about on the Molly’s Guide blog at http://mollysguide.co.uk/category/ lukesguide - and, if you skip to pages 22 and 24 of this magazine you’ll find information on how to feed ducks and build dens to keep your little ones entertained in the great outdoors. The warmer weather seems to have everyone in a celebratory mood too - Alice in Wonderland is celebrating her 150th anniversary and Miffy her 60th (pages 8-9) but the Magna Carta trumps both of those with 800 years under its seal and you can find out how to get involved with events marking the occasion on pages 12-14. As ever, there are lots more events to visit listed in our What’s On section as well as being constantly added to on our website at http://mollysguide.co.uk/events/ and, if you’re organising something, have news about what’s happening at your school or have just enjoyed a family event that you think we ought to know about, then we’d love to hear from you at karen@mollysguide.co.uk

Boultham Park

Building dens

Molly’s food review

Twycross Zoo

Children’s playrooms

stevensgreenmedia Editorial & Advertising: Stevens Green Media Ltd 63 Bunkers Hill, Lincoln LN2 4QS T: 01522 535068

E: info@mollysguide.co.uk

While every effort and care has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the Publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions it may contain. Inclusion in the directory does not imply an endorsement of the service or product. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, or by means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise. Or stored in any retrieval system - without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Copyright ©Stevens Green Media Ltd - All rights reserved.

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NEWS

ST BARNABAS HOSPICE

LINCOLNSHIRE HOSPICE TO HOST 9TH ANNUAL MOONLIGHT WALK

St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice calls on the local community to join them for One Night in a Onesie St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice is urging the local community to join them for their historical 10k Moonlight Walk which is set to take place in Lincoln on Saturday 6th June, setting off from Yarborough Leisure Centre at 10pm. Due to the county-wide popularity of last year’s walks the local charity has decided to return with One Night in a Onesie as the theme for the second consecutive year. Becky Otter, Events Manager for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said “The Moonlight Walk is a ﬂagship event in our hospice calendar and one that we are extremely proud to host each

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year. It never ceases to amaze me how generous the people of Lincolnshire are and over the past eight years the local community have united and helped us to raise in excess of £580,000 to support our patient and family care across the county.”

“One Night in a Onesie is not a race or a sport it is a unique walk that allows everyone in the Lincolnshire community to take part. Men and women from 11 years up are welcomed to sign up together and be part of this community driven event in aid of hospice Care.

Last year, almost 1,000 people took part in the annual latenight walks across the county and together raised over £65,000. This year, St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, are hoping to attract 1,500 participants to help raise £80,000.

“This really will be a night to remember and guarantees to be full of fun and laughter and not forgetting to mention this will be the comﬁest walk you have ever been on! Whatever your reason for walking; to get ﬁt or to remember a loved one, please join us in your onesie!”

Becky Otter said “Our aspiration is to help our patients and their families make the most of every single second they share, regardless of how much time remains. It is money raised from events like these that can turn our aspirations into reality.

Participants can register online at www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/ onesiewalk Adult: £15 Child: £5 Family: £35.00 For more info email: fundraising @stbarnabashospice.co.uk

NEWS

WELCOME TO BUTLINS

BUTLINS

Skegness, a traditional coastal town in Lincolnshire, is where Butlins all started back in 1936 - but a lot has changed since then! We’re open all year round, and rain never stops play thanks to our huge undercover Skyline Pavilion, which hosts a unique world of indoor excitement and experiences, live shows and places to eat, shop and play. If your family love swimming, they’ll adore our Splash Waterworld in Skegness. There are thrilling new ﬂumes and rides, quieter paddling areas that are perfect for little ones, and if your mood is rest and quietude, there are plenty of relaxing spaces to help you unwind.

The traditional fairground features rides for all the family, guaranteed to enchant and bring out the young at heart. And even better, you’ll be able to go on as many rides as you like as many times as you like. Visiting Butlins for the day also means your little ones will have chance to meet all their TV favourites. Angelina Ballerina, Mike the Knight, Fireman Sam, Pingu and Thomas the Tank Engine are amongst many characters to be found in our Skyline Pavilion daily. We do advise checking who you can meet on your chosen day by calling 01754 614445. Why not make the most of the attached voucher during the school holidays or if entertainment isn’t your thing, visit on a Friday or Monday to use Splash Waterworld and Funfair and get £5 off the adult and child day visit price For more information please visit our website: www.butlins.com/day-visits www.mollysguide.co.uk

NEWS

STEP PARENTING

WELCOMING A NEW ADDITION... IT has been quite a month following the birth of our very own bundle of joy. Betty May Williams was born in the afternoon of April 10 and, oh my, how she has undoubtedly transformed our lives for ever. Already it has been the most exhilarating, hugely rewarding and proudest moment of my life. But with it has come a significant challenge. Changing dirty nappies? Not a problem. Sleep deprivation? Coming to terms with it. Reassuring my stepdaughter that she is cherished by her family as much as the new centre of attention? Not so easy. Before Betty’s arrival, Evie was everyone’s crowd pleaser. All of a sudden she has had to learn how to share the limelight and sometimes, because everyone loves a new baby, even surrender it. Evie, like many older siblings, has been filled with excitement and insecurity in equal measure – frequently asking me if I love Betty more than her. And a close friend of mine recently asked: “So, do you love Evie as much as your own Betty?” The truth is, there is no answer to that. Of course there is no feeling like cradling your baby and staring into his or her eyes for the first time. I now understand what a truly amazing and overwhelming emotion that is. I didn’t meet Evie until she was almost four years old. She has a strong relationship with her father and step mother too. But, if I am honest, I wouldn’t want it any other way. Our relationship is what it is. We have a unique bond that, I am sure, will never be breached. We have our own laughs, our own

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Evie with her new half-sister, Betty

wrestling contests and even our own singing duets in front of the mirror. I love her to pieces.

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Mel and Betty remained in hospital for several days after the birth. It was the perfect opportunity for me to use everything I could to assure Evie that she had nothing to worry about. How I did it was certainly something I would not preach to others. I broke several rules If Evie wanted a piece of Easter egg to accompany her banana for breakfast, she got it. If she wanted chocolate spread smothered all over her school lunch sandwiches (wholemeal bread I hasten to add), then so be it. Oh and we were late to school. Every day. Only by two or three minutes but late all the same. If there is one thing I will never be a role model for, it is punctuality. But on this occasion at least, who cares?

“The need for Evie to feel like she was still a major part of our family was far more important.” And essentially, we perhaps bonded stronger than ever before. It was a crucial period in our relationship. Extra cuddles, giggles and singing all gave her a huge boost. To her credit, Evie has dealt with the situation excellently. At the tender age of seven, she has been a big help to Mel and I around the house. And her love for Betty is undeniable. So, our family has increased by one. One very important little girl. But, while she is consuming the vast majority of our time at present, she is no more important than our little lady. Mark Williams, aged 31, lives in Lincoln, a Journalist by day and a Gym/Sports fanatic by night

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NEWS

ALICE IN WONDERLAND

Absurd and amusing – don’t let your child miss out on a land of wonder

As a curious character from children’s literature gets ready to light a lot of candles on her birthday cake this year, Karen Malpass discovers lots of good reasons to introduce your children to an enduring surreal story… I’ve been a voracious reader ever since my mother taught me to read before I went to school. I always had my nose in a book whenever possible, a regularly full library card and delayed numerous bedtimes with the plea of just one more chapter before resorting to the torch under the duvet trick. So if I come across a children’s classic I didn’t read when I was younger I’m often surprised and, with Alice in Wonderland, I’m also a little disappointed as I’m pretty sure I would have loved it. I still enjoyed it as an adult, but as a child the fantastical world accessible from our own if you only

know just where to look (I tried out the odd wardrobe or two after reading the Narnia novels), talking animals and a forthright main character who’s not afraid to explore but who stays true to her self would have been particularly inspiring.

under the pseudonym Lewis Carroll. The permanently late White Rabbit, grinning Charles Lutwidge Dodgson’s Cheshire Cat and murderous tale was written for his Queen of Hearts, alongside friend’s daughters originally the wildly curious Alice, – the Liddell sisters Edith, never released their grip on Alice and Lorina – but quickly the public’s imagination and found the book is now “The most weird and celebrating its many fans, including wonderful children’s 150th anniversary. Queen book you’ll ever read, And, with many Victoria, Alice in Wonderland events being on its organised and publication is a timeless classic special editions and that you’ll enjoy over new works inspired by the original and over again,” and it’s Through the Looking Glass sequel being published to mark the occasion, there’s every reason to introduce your young readers to the absurd and amusing world where bodies shrink and grow, white roses are painted red and a narcoleptic dormouse it used as a cushion by a March Hare and a Hatter. “Alice is among so many people’s favourite childhood books, I certainly spent many happy hours in her company as a child,” says bookseller Gill Hart from Lindum Books. “When we opened Lindum Books a year ago we were give a framed picture of the Alice quote ‘You’re entirely bonkers. But I’ll tell you a secret. All the best people

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are’ which has pride of place on the wall and generates so many conversations with customers that has shown us what fond memories they have of reading Alice – as, of course, do we!” And such conversations are obviously not only to be overheard in the Bailgate bookshop but are replicated wherever the novel provides a shared treasured childhood memory. “Alice in Wonderland contains my favourite quote of all time,” says Deborah Holland,

children’s bookseller at Waterstone’s in High Street, Lincoln, referring to the same extract as Gill. “There are picture book versions of this story, gift editions, illustrated, bridged and unabridged. Ones for all ages. Also there are stationery and other gifts to watch out for as well as our white Jellycat rabbits, wind-up bunnies and pop-up sound editions. “It is a book you can get lost in and revisit at any age – the test of a true classic. Fantastical, funny, poetic and strange. What’s not to love?” Her colleagues certainly agree. “It’s the perfect fantasy for both young and old. I adore it and all its charm,” says Waterstone’s lead bookseller Jo Turner. And store manager David Cooper agrees, “The most famous and best-loved children’s book of all time, whether you’re reading it for the ﬁrst time or the one hundred and ﬁftieth.”

Lindum Books will be hosting an event to mark Alice’s 150th birthday on Monday, May 4th. Call 01522 262374 for further information. Waterstone’s branch in High Street, Lincoln, is planning displays in store and a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party event during the summer holidays. Call 01522 540011 for more details.

FELLOW BIRTHDAY BUNNY There’s not just the one white rabbit celebrating a big occasion this year though. On June 21st, 2015, Dick Bruna’s Miffy will be celebrating her 60th anniversary. Picture books about Miffy, or Nijntje as she is known in Holland, are read in more than 40 languages and more than 85 million Miffy books have been sold. Bruna created the stylised character after telling his sons stories about a little rabbit they saw whilst on a seaside holiday. Miffy will also be supporting Bliss, the national charity that helps care for premature and sick babies, throughout the year through sales of comfort blankets and baking products. www.mollysguide.co.uk

NEWS

BOULTHAM PARK

Pupils from St Peter and Paul’s School with boxes for the park

WELCOME TO A BUSY 2015 AT BOULTHAM PARK Special events are being planned for 2015 for Boultham Park and your support is needed to help make them a success.

BELOW: Mini explorers – One of the groups using the park

This year sees the launch of “Our Park” Day on Friday 15th May. On this date in 1929, Boultham Park began its journey to the well-loved public space it is today, when the City of Lincoln Council purchased the land and opened it to the community. “Our Park” Day is one of a series of events which are a key part of the £3.7 million Boultham Park Restoration Project, which is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund Parks for People initiative.

The day aims to celebrate the unique nature of the park, its history and value to the community. You can get involved at home, work or school. Why not hold a dress-down/non-uniform day and wear something green, host a bake sale or help show your support by displaying the Boultham Park bunting? Even more exciting is the return of the Boultham Park Music and Arts Festival this summer, after a gap of 10 years. Musicians, schools and other performers are invited to the stage on Saturday 13th June from 1-8pm. This year, there will be a Victorian twist, to ﬁt in with the park’s fascinating history. One of the organisers is volunteer John Pye, who says: “From 20012005, I hosted a weekend festival in Boultham Park, and it’s great to now be working with the Restoration Project team. We want everyone to get involved, and whether as a stallholder, performer or leading an activity, it really is your event.”

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...the Boultham Summer Fete on Saturday 11th July when the park is taken over by stalls, funfairs and summer entertainment. Then, on the Sunday, families are certain to enjoy watching the Lincoln Flume in the city centre. Organised by the Rotary Club Lincoln Colonia, the 110-yard long waterslide on Flaxengate will raise thousands of pounds towards the £250,000 Boultham Park Capital Appeal, with a carnival atmosphere. The only way to take part, however, is through a lottery at £3 a ticket, open to adults and children over 10. Details: www.lincolnﬂume.co.uk

THE BOULTHAM PARK RESTORATION PROJECT A joint venture between the learning disability charity, Linkage Community Trust, and City of Lincoln Council. The ﬁve-year scheme will see the development of an education centre - which will provide, in the main, courses for students with learning disabilities - a café/shop, horticulture centre and the restoration of key park features.

One of the big successes so far for the Boultham Park Project is community involvement, with teenagers from the National Citizen Service making big improvements and many groups using the venue. If you know of a group, please contact Community Development Worker Chelsey Barnes on 01522 503180 or via email chelsey.barnes @linkage.org.uk

There are many regular activities now happening at the park, including the monthly Mini Explorers under-5s group, health walks, and a monthly litter pick. Keep up to date: www.boulthampark.co.uk, Twitter @boulthampark Facebook: boulthampark Plus share your photographs of the park on Instagram using #boulthampark

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NEWS

MAGNA CARTA

BE PART OF THE GREATEST SHOW IN TOWN Everyone from individual artistes and events organisers to volunteers, community groups and schools are invited to help make Lincoln’s Great Magna Carta Weekend unforgettable!

On June 15 1215, at Runnymede, Magna Carta was sealed by King John and the Barons and, to mark the 800th Anniversary of this significant historical event, Lincoln BIG and its partners are pulling together two days of festivals and fun – for the weekend of June 13 and 14. Lots of planning and hard work is going on behind the scenes to get this show on the road, but we know that the more people and organisations who get behind it, the more successful it will be. Highlights include a Night of Festivals, featuring a colourful carnival; the launch of the Lincoln Magna Carta Charter Barons’ Trail of 25 Baron sculptures; live music, festival fun and fireworks on the Brayford Waterfront and the University of Lincoln campus; a Magna Party at Lincoln Castle; Medieval storytelling on Steep Hill and Radiating Signals – a procession of community flags. There are lots of ways for businesses, organisations and individuals to get involved, so we are urging you to put on your thinking caps and let us have your ideas and pledges of support – which we will include in publicity in the run-up to the weekend.

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“We want it to be a weekend buzzing with activities and vibrant events for the whole family to enjoy and one that will be long remembered by local residents and visitors alike.” Lincoln BIG Chief Executive Matt Corrigan said: “We are encouraging businesses to create Magna Carta window displays. Restaurants, bars and cafes might offer Magna Carta-themed menus and staff could wear Medieval dress. “LiberTeas is urging the whole nation to sit down to celebrate the occasion, have a debate about or reﬂect on their liberties.

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“We are sure individuals and groups of all ages will be excited about the opportunity to be part of the procession in our Night of Festivals Carnival. Artistes might want to perform on the Freedom Stage in front of the University of Lincoln and street entertainers are welcome to add extra colour to the streets of Lincoln during the festival weekend. “Naturally we need plenty of volunteers to help us to deliver these events and also to provide information and directions to visitors to the city,” added Mr Corrigan. For more information or to share your ideas or details of how you plan to celebrate, please contact Rachel Hempsall at Lincoln BIG: T: 01522 842702 E: Rachel@lincolnbig.co.uk

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NEWS

WATERSIDE SHOPPING

WATERSIDE SHOPPING SET TO CELEBRATE 800TH ANNIVERSARY OF MAGNA CARTA Waterside Shopping – Lincoln’s premier indoor retail & fashion destination – will host a fun and historyﬁlled day for Lincolnshire’s young and old during the centre’s Magna Carta 800th Anniversary Celebration.

Set to take place on Saturday 13th June from 11am to 4pm, the area outside of H&M and Next on the High Street level of the centre will be transformed into a magniﬁcently medieval experience exploring the creation and history of England’s most important legal document through fun and interactive games and activities for all ages.

FREE TO ENJOY, WATERSIDE’S MAGNA CARTA CELEBRATION WILL FEATURE A CHANCE FOR GUESTS TO: • Meet King John and his Barons in-person • Sit on the King’s throne • Sign a copy of the Magna Carta • Make their very own wax-seals • Experience medieval birds of prey up close • Discover the tastes and smells of King John’s court during a 13th century ‘bush-tucker’ trial

For a full day out...

• Uncover real medieval laws hidden amongst bizarre fakes as part of the day’s Legal Eagle quiz ALL ACTIVITIES ARE FREE TO ENJOY AND ARE DESIGNED FOR ALL AGES. Any children that arrive at the event with a King John-related item made from recycled goods will have their creation put on display for all to see. Chantelle Henderson, Marketing Coordinator at Waterside Shopping, commented: “The Magna Carta is, by far, one of the world’s most important historical documents, so it’s only right to celebrate such a key piece of history, and it’s connection to Lincoln, by educating people about it’s signiﬁcance in a fun and interesting way.

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“With so much going on over the weekend, we look forward to welcoming youngsters and parents from Lincoln and beyond for an afternoon of Magna Carta mania in the centre. There will be plenty to see and do, and, best of all, its all free – plus, there’s no better time to do a bit of summertime shopping!” For more information about Waterside Shopping: www.watersideshopping.com.

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EDUCATION

NEWTON ACADEMY

Newton Academy – the Science Club for Girls A new academy aimed at encouraging young girls to pursue careers in science & technology has been launched in Lincoln. The Newton Academy – the Science Club for Girls was set up by the University of Lincoln in June 2014 to take girls on a 3-year scientific voyage of discovery. Sixty Year 6 girls from across Lincolnshire enrolled into its first cohort, and have attended the first year of Saturday Club events. The Saturday Club is a series of Saturday morning science and technology-themed workshops consisting of hands-on activities and projects, designed to work alongside the National Curriculum, that will inspire and enthuse the next generation of female scientists and engineers. The 2014 Programme included

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the Robotics Big Launch; Spud Science; The Chemistry Christmas Cracker; and a visit to the Big Bang Fair at the NEC, Birmingham. The Academy has been created as part of the University of Lincoln’s Athena SWAN project, acknowledging the Institution’s commitment to improving the representation of women in science, engineering, technology and mathematics (STEM). To improve the representation of female academics in some STEM areas (particularly in physics, mathematics, engineering and computer science) we have to attract more girls to these subjects at School level (e.g. currently only 20% of Physics A-level students are female). We believe that early engagement is the key to increasing the popularity of STEM subjects among our girls. The Academy, therefore, aims to inspire 10–14 year olds in STEM subjects – subjects that research shows they are less likely to pursue – opening their eyes to the

possibilities of what they can achieve, and encouraging them to consider post-16 study in STEM subjects... and ultimately, of course, to pursue science and technology careers. But most of all, the Newton Academy is all about showing young girls that science can be fun! Girls enrol in the Academy at the end of Year 6 and stay until the end of Year 9. During their three years, ‘Newton Girls’ will take part in projects that develop their confidence, their enthusiasm for STEM, and essential problem-solving and critical thinking skills. They will develop leadership skills and the confidence to challenge any preconceptions that may prevent them from pursuing and being successful in any STEM field. Lincoln University Technical College and the region’s science and technology-based industries are also involved in the Academy. For more on the Newton Academy and details of how you can sign up for future years please go to http://newton.blogs.lincoln.ac.uk/ YouTube: Newton Academy the Science Club for Girls

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EDUCATION

NORTH KESTEVEN SCHOOL

GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH... We know that North Kesteven School is a fantastic centre of secondary education. Therefore, we are delighted that Ofsted has ofﬁcially acknowledged this during our recent inspection, grading us as a ‘good’ school. NKS is going from strength to strength with GCSE results well above the local and national average, the £3.6 million development of One NK which will provide outstanding sporting facilities for our students and the launch of our new school uniform this September. We have a lot to celebrate and a huge variety of outstanding academic and creative opportunities to offer your child. We hope that you are able to join us for an Open Morning Tour between the 18th and 22nd May, (places must be pre-booked) and that it will be the beginning of an exciting educational journey with us!

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EDUCATION

CONTINUALLY STRIVING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

ST PETER & ST PAUL

Our Mission as a Catholic Voluntary Academy is to provide the highest possible standards of education for all our students, delivered within the context of Gospel Values. The Community at St Peter and St Paul Catholic Voluntary Academy is made up of many faiths and backgrounds; however, our Catholic ethos underpins everything that we do. Our students are encouraged to appreciate their gifts and talents and then they are given every opportunity to make the best of them. The typical St Peter and St Paul student is not only ambitious for themselves but also supportive of others within our community. At St Peter and St Paul we share our values of respect and courtesy to one another and we encourage the students to take personal responsibility. We provide a safe environment in which students are academically successful and spiritually nourished so that they become welleducated young people with strong Christian Values. Through this we enable our students to take their place as successful adults in a modern world.

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Success at St Peter and St Paul Academy stems from careful planning of the curriculum so that every student irrespective of their ability is studying appropriate and challenging courses and is being provided with opportunities to develop their unique talents.

“We are proud that all of our year 11 students continue into Education, Employment or Training.” Students can continue their studies in the St Peter and St Paul Sixth Form where there are a wide variety of courses offered to suit all students. Our students receive excellent guidance when choosing the most suitable courses; they are taught and prepared well to achieve the grades they require to move on to Higher Education or employment. Our extra-curricular and enrichment activities play an integral part of a young person’s development and all students are encouraged to embrace the breadth of opportunities available. We welcome visits to the Academy at any time so please feel free to make an appointment to come and see us at work. Alternatively we have two open mornings planned for Tuesday 30th June and Friday 3rd July 2015, 9.30am-12.30pm and an Open Evening on Wednesday 23rd September. Please ring the Academy for an appointment.

“ I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full ” John 10:10

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EDUCATION

SIR WILLIAM ROBERTSON ACADEMY

Come & ﬁnd out how your child can ASPIRE to a brighter future…

school fosters an aspirational ethos in which every child is expected to achieve the very best they can in all that they do. Situated in a rural Choosing a secondary school is one of the most important location, SWRA provides decisions you will have to make for you & your child. The decision a safe and idyllic learning environment with small class making process will be eased by gathering as much information sizes and superb pastoral care about possible schools in advance of the October deadline. and support. The Academy is easily accessible from Newark, With this in mind, we would Grantham, Sleaford, Lincoln like to extend an invitation to and surrounding villages parents/carers for a personal – with school buses serving tour of the Academy. During each of these areas. the tour you will see firstOur pupils are well supported hand the excellent behaviour through an engaging and of our pupils and the dynamic academic curriculum high-calibre learning taking that is tailored to the needs place in the classrooms. In of the individual. The school addition, our new Summer is well-resourced, with Open Evening takes place wonderful outdoor sporting on Tuesday 7th July and facilities for a wide range of our Open Week (14th, 15th sporting activities. We offer and 16th September 2015) a full and active programme provide a chance to see the of Musical and Performing school working and meet Arts from our purpose built with pupils who have very studios recent experience of starting in Year 7. Come and find out how Sir William Robertson your child can ASPIRE to a Academy is a highly brighter future, by booking successful 11-18 school with a personal tour on a flourishing and rapidly 01400 272422 or visit expanding Sixth Form. The www.swracademy.org 20

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If your child is due to start secondary school in September 2016 we invite you to attend our Open Evening on 7th July and/or Open Days in September so you can see how we can help your child ASPIRE to a brighter future.

OPEN EVENINGS Tuesday 7th July 6.00pm - 8.30pm Our Sixth Form Open Evening takes place on Thursday 15th October 2015

OPEN DAYS

Driven by the aim to

ASPIRE

Monday 14th September 9.15am - 11.15am Tuesday 15th September 9.15am - 11.15am Wednesday 16th September 9.15am - 11.15am No booking necessary - we look forward to welcoming you and your child. Personal tours of the school can be booked at any time by calling 01400 272422

Daily school transport from Newark, Lincoln, Grantham and Sleaford and surrounding villages.

Sir William Robertson Academy Main Road Tel: 01400 272422 www.swracademy.org

Welbourn Lincoln LN5 0PA enquiries@swracademy.org

EDUCATION

WOODLAND TRUST

… SEVEN, EIGHT, NINE – DEN! Building dens when out and about in woods can be tremendous fun during the spring & summer months – they get children to think creatively about solving problems, and will also get them to take notice of the world around them. Here the Woodland Trust offers its top tips on how to build a truly terriﬁc den. • START OFF WITH SOME STRONG FOUNDATIONS

• MAKE SURE IT’S SOLID AND STAYS DRY

First and foremost any great den needs to be strong. So, look for a sturdy tree with suitable nooks, crannies and knobbly bits - these will help secure your den’s structure.

Collect more branches and lay them so they are leaning against your framework. Pack them closely together, so you can cover them easily.

Then, ﬁnd a couple of large branches which you can ﬁrmly wedge together against the tree to make your den’s main framework.

Rummage around for leaves and smaller twigs, drape them over your framework and wedge them into any gaps you can ﬁnd. That way unwanted breezes and drops of rain won’t be able to get through!

Visit www.naturedetectives.org.uk to download your guide to den building & much more 22

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SHOW OFF YOUR DENBUILDING SKILLS AND THROW A TREE PARTY! Invite your friends and family to a picnic in the woods to celebrate your favourite tree – your first step should be to build a den nearby for shelter. But there’s even more to do to make your day extra special…. DON’T FORGET TO DECORATE! Make a woodland collage using leaves, twigs and flowers that you find in the wood – you can pretend it’s a patterned carpet or welcome matt for your guests. Create scary mud faces in the trees to ward off uninvited guests, or design your own self portrait to hang next to your den as a striking piece of artwork – just find some mud and interesting twigs and leaves to stick onto it.

• SNUGGLE UP & SETTLE DOWN Congratulations on creating your very own den! Now it’s time to really enjoy it. Dens are great places for sheltering from spring showers, having picnics or story telling sessions, so make sure you use it as much as possible. What’s brilliant about these dens is that are biodegradable, too – so no need to clear it away before you leave. Who knows – other families and even some wildlife may ﬁnd your den a useful hide away.

SOMETHING FOR THE LITTLE ONES! If you’re children are too young to build a fullysized den, why not get them to build a woodland house or den for their teddy bears & dolls? They’ll still be developing their skills and enjoying the great outdoors – but without the heavy lifting!

WHY NOT TRY THESE DELICIOUS DELICACIES TO EAT IN YOUR DEN... Lady bird pizza – take a pizza base, spread with tomato puree and sprinkle with cheese and tomato slices. Then choose a topping to create your lady bird spots – pepperoni, black olives and mushrooms all work really well. Pop into the oven (with the help of an adult) until cooked, and then munch under the leafy canopy of your den. No picnic is complete without a cake – try this forest cake, which doesn’t even need to go in the oven! Melt chocolate, butter and honey in a pan on a low heat, and then stir in some smashed up biscuits and some of your favourite treats (like glace cherries, marshmallows, and sweets). Tip the mixture into a deep tray lined with greaseproof paper and even out. Be sure to sprinkle on decorations - then wait for it to set, cut into pieces and serve! Wash down your woodland feast with a glass of strawberry sparkle! Whizz 150g of strawberries, 150g caster sugar and the juice of two lemons together in a blender, and then push through a sieve to remove any lumps and seeds. Tip your gooey mixture into the bottom of a glass and top up with sparkling water – the perfect springtime treat.

To ﬁnd a wood near you, visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods and enter your postcode or nearest town. Don’t forget to wear sturdy shoes & pack wellies & an anorak in case of bad weather, & take all of your rubbish away with you! www.mollysguide.co.uk

EDUCATION

CANAL RIVER TRUST

KEEPING OUR FEATHERED FRIENDS HAPPY & SAFE 20 double decker buses full of bread are thrown into canals every month!

Every year 6 million loaves of bread are being thrown into canals and rivers in England and Wales - potentially polluting the water and damaging hundreds of thousands of ducksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; homes. Last year more than 15 million people fed the ducks with their family or friends, 12 million of them admitting to feeding our feathered friends with bread. Uneaten soggy bread can cause a build-up of bad nutrients which can lead to greater algae growth, spread disease and encourage pests such as rats. With the springtime weather now upon us and duckling hatching season in full swing, the Canal & River Trust is calling on the public to feed the ducks responsibly. The charity is the guardian of 2,000 miles of historic waterways across England and Wales, caring for the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third largest collection of listed structures, as well as museums, archives, and hundreds of important wildlife sites. It also provides an important home to hundreds of thousands of ducks and other waterfowl and takes its responsibility of keeping their homes safe very seriously. It wants the millions of people who enjoy this much loved family tradition to be able to enjoy it for generations to come.

Spring 2015

Throwing bread into a canal or river can create overcrowding of bird populations, as the birds will ﬂock to the same location in search of their starchy treat. Too many ducks or waterfowl in one place can stress the birds and lead to their habitats being damaged. It also creates excessive amounts of bird poo which along with being smelly and slippery underfoot, can have a negative effect on water quality and create harmful algae which can clog the waterway. Peter Birch, National Environment Manager for the Canal & River Trust, said: “Please come and feed the ducks but do it sensibly so your children and future generations can enjoy it too. The charity is asking the public to make a few simple changes. Bread’s not great for a duck’s health as it’s nothing like their natural diet so don’t over feed them with large quantities of it. Try to vary what you give them and swap it for healthier more natural treats like oats, corn, or defrosted frozen peas. And exercise portion control!

Ducks, alongside geese and swans, belong to the Anatidae family. All species of ducks are aquatic, with webbed feet, and a broad, ﬂattened bill. Nearly all nest on, or beside the water. Ducks that appear in Europe can be split into three main groups, the dabbling ducks, which up end feeding on weed and small insects or just below the water’s surface; the diving ducks, which feed on the bottom for weed and small molluscs or insects; and seaducks, primarily marine species who dive for animal prey.

“Don’t follow the crowds, spread the love, and visit a new family of ducks to prevent large quantities of the starchy duck ‘junk food’ from clogging up the same places and potentially damaging the environment.” A public poll, carried out on behalf of the charity, found Londoners were the least likely to take a trip out to feed the ducks with more than half (60%) admitting to never feeding our feathered friends. The survey also found more women (80%) feed the ducks than men (68%), and northerners feed the ducks more often than southerners (78% v 69%) (3)

Healthier alternatives to feed the ducks: • Wheat, barley or similar grains

Photos by: Megan Taylor

• Oats (uncooked; rolled or quick) • Rice (cooked or uncooked) • Birdseed (any type or mix) • Frozen peas or corn (defrosted, no need to cook) • Earthworms • Chopped lettuce or other greens or salad mixes • Vegetable trimmings or peels (chopped)

The charity has created a FREE BOOKLET packed with tips on the right food to feed the ducks which includes lots of activities for children. To receive this, along with your FREE QUACK SNACK POUCH to store your healthy duck treats, Text DUCKS to 70060 For more information on the campaign: www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/duck www.mollysguide.co.uk

EDUCATION

BOOK REVIEWS

EXPLORING GREAT READING IDEAS Bookseller Gill Hart from Lindum Books in Bailgate, Lincoln, recommends four titles that will keep your little readers with their noses between the pages… The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt (HarperCollins, £6.99, 9780007513765) A lovely picture book for small children with fabulous illustrations by Oliver Jeffers. Life can be hard when you’re a crayon, you’re either overworked with ﬁre engines (red) and elephants (grey) or woefully neglected (peach). Duncan’s crayons decide to write him some letters to state their grievances... Great fun!

Murder Most Unladylike by Robin Stevens (Corgi, £6.99, 9780552570725)

That’s Not My Owl (Usborne, £5.99, 9781409587583)

The touchy-feely series of books from Usborne are perennial favourites and this is one of the newest and cutest. With shiny beaks, ﬂuffy tummies and fuzzy wings these charming birds are a lovely way to introduce babies to reading, Mum and Dad will enjoy them too.

There’s been a rather shocking murder at Deepdean School for Girls... Mallory Towers meets Agatha Christie in the ﬁrst of a fun series of books for older children that may well lead to a life of crime (reading)! When Daisy Wells and Hazel Wong set up a secret detective agency they can’t ﬁnd a truly exciting mystery to investigate. (Unless you count The Case of Lavinia’s Missing Tie. Which they don’t.) But then the body of the Science Mistress is discovered and the girls’ sleuthing skills are put to the test. Grown ups have been known to like this too!

Holes by Louis Sacher (Bloomsbury, £7.99, 9781408809372) Stanley Yelnats ﬁnds himself at Camp Green Lake Juvenile Correction Facility in the Texan dessert following a miscarriage of justice involving an incident with a pair of sneakers. The warden gives the boys a daily task of digging a hole ﬁve feet square, but why and what are they looking for? This is a quirky, fun story, fast becoming a classic, about survival and growing up and what can be done with the help of your friends. A good adventure read for older children.

Lindum Books regularly hosts pre-school storytimes in store in association with Rhubarb Theatre. To ﬁnd out more: T: 01522 262374 Twitter @LindumBooks Facebook: lindumbooks 26

Spring 2015

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SPORT & HEALTH

HURRICANE SPORTS

HOLIDAY CLUBS & COMMUNITY SESSIONS

Hurricane Sports and JB Sports Coaching have joined forces to deliver a first class holiday club and community session service at Magna Vitae Centres across East Lindsey with the Meridian Centre (Louth) being the first venue. We offer a wide range of sports activities, all delivered by our qualified sports coaches to ensure fun is had by all!

Activity days are split into two groups:

HOLIDAY CLUBS

COMMUNITY SESSIONS:

Juniors - Children aged 4-7 years Seniors - Children aged 8-12 years

The Multi Sports Camps give children (4-12 year olds) the opportunity to play sports in a safe environment under the supervision of qualiﬁed, DBS (formerly CRB) checked coaches.

The community sessions are available to encourage members of the community to return to sport in a fun and engaging environment.

The Multi Sport holiday clubs provides a fun, active learning experience for children during the school holidays with children participating in a wide range of sports, including new sports they won’t have played in at school.

The community sessions we currently offer are for all ages and abilities on a weekly basis. Sessions are: Social Badminton -13 years + Tots Football - 4&5 years only Rush Hockey - 13 years + Basketball - 8 - 16 years

All clubs are delivered by our highly experienced staff, all staff hold NGB Qualiﬁcations in a range of sports, Enhanced DBS disclosures, and are First Aid and Child Protection Trained.

No need to book just turn up!! Further information can be found here: www.hurricanesports.co.uk/school-holiday-clubsactivity-days/multi-sports-louth-meridian-centre www.hurricanesports.co.uk/community-sportssessions/louth-meridian-centre

The children will require drinks and a packed lunch, as well as suitable clothing for indoor and outdoor activities (children aged 8-12 years please bring swimwear).

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SPORT & HEALTH

NEW RECRUITS ARE SHINING AMBASSADORS FOR GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL

LINCOLN CITY FOOTBALL CLUB

“Grassroots football is as healthy and popular as ever” Dean West, Academy Ambassador, Lincoln City FC

Lincoln City’s Youth Academy works closer than ever with Primary Schools and local Mid-Lincs League Clubs to identify and recruit the most talented players, and, despite the continuous need to raise the necessary funds to sustain the academy, the academy’s model of player development continues to grow from strength to strength. The Foundation Phase (Year 4 to Year 7) is led by Andy McGill, himself a lecturer at Lincoln College, who has 15 years experience working in Long Term Player Development. And not only does the academy aim to develop its players, but it also places great emphasis on developing its coaching staff. The club’s philosophy is that the best players are the best learners and the academy works hard to foster a healthy learning environment for everyone.

Spring 2015

And as another football season draws to an end, the hard work continues and the future hopefully looks bright and exciting for the latest group of new recruits who have been offered a place with Lincoln City’s Under 9’s for the 2015-16 season.

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1. TROY QUINLAN Club: Birchwood Colts School: Birchwood Junior 2. CHARLIE CARLISLE Club: Bardney Panthers School: Bardney Primary 3. JACK COLLINS Club: East Coast Juniors School: Skegness Junior Academy 4. A J WILKES-SMITH Club: Birchwood Colts School: Hartsholme Academy 5. DENNY OLIVER Club: St Helens School: Sir Francis Hill 6. BRANDON THOROLD Club: North Lindum Hawks School: Westgate Academy

7. ALEX TAYLOR Club: HBW School: Washingborough Academy 8. JOSEPH COLEMAN Club: East Coast Juniors School: Skegness Junior Academy 9. BROOK LINES Club: HBW School: Washingborough Academy 10. ARCHIE CRAIGEN Club: Ruston Sports School: St Hugh’s Catholic Primary 11. KIAN HOWITT Club: East Coast Juniors School: Skegness Junior Academy

All of the boys pictured here will no doubt be shining ambassadors for their schools as they embark on a new journey and we wish them all the best of luck and hope they enjoy the challenge ahead. For more information on the Academy, or to get involved visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/ lincolncityfcyouthacademy where you can read all about the Academy’s work. The academy is always looking for new sponsorship opportunities too and we would be delighted to talk to anyone who would like to support us. ��

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Don‛t forget to join us for our

Summer Fayre on Sunday 7th June!

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ENTERTAINMENT

ST BARNABAS IT’S A KNOCKOUT

ST BARNABAS HOSPICE

Sunday 12th July, 1pm – 5pm Washingborough Playing Fields, Washingborough. Local charity searches for teams to battle it out against each other in hilarious costumes to raise funds for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice Returning for the 5th and final year to Washingborough Playing Fields is the fun ‘It’s a Knockout’ event. It’s a Knockout’; Inspired by the famous TV game show featuring wacky challenges, giant inflatables & water pools aplenty. We are looking for teams of 10 people (teams can be mixed) to take up the challenge to pit their skills, strength, stamina, ability to walk a slippery pole against competing teams through a series of fun, foamy inflatable games. Registration is only £10 per person and we ask you to raise £60 each. Becky Otter, Events Manager for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said “Lincolnshire businesses and organisations can use the event to

build team spirit or thank staff for their hard work or enter a team of friends. Are you a member of a local sports team? Get your teammates as it’s sure to be a ‘knockout’. It’s a Knockout is a fun way of raising money for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice. As well as watching the giant inﬂatable games there will be lots of fun activities for spectators to get involved including; climbing walls, giant inﬂatable slides, penalty shoot out, face painting, bouncy castle, donkey rides, children’s characters plus lots more.”

It promises to be a great family day out with lots of thrills, spills, screams and laughter. Returning this year is the Children’s challenge. Children can compete on the giant inﬂatables on the day. (No need to register in advance, turn up on the day)

T: 01522 559516 E: becky.otter@stbarnabashospice.co.uk www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/knockout

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ENTERTAINMENT

CELEBRATE YOUR SPECIAL EVENT AT THE SHOWROOM

THE SHOWROOM

Looking for a mess and stress free approach this birthday? Does the thought of twenty 8 year olds tearing through the house leave you cold? The Showroom is the perfect city centre venue for your child’s special day. Run by Lincolnshire YMCA, The Showroom offers world class youth facilities, and our children’s parties are no exception. With exclusive use of our party room, free balloon and sticker for every child, and your own party leader throughout, we understand that no two kids are the same, so why would their parties be? We take care of everything, from food to invitations, so you can sit back with a coffee and relax. Starting at £10 per child, our Showroom Party is perfect for under 6s. Traditional party games of your choice accompanied by our disco lights and music, followed by a tasty set buffet. Or, if your child has a particular interest, why not tailor their party around that? Our £12 per child Activities Party includes an hour in our sports cage, so whether it’s Dodgeball, Team Games, Football or Uni Hock, our staff will get them sweating! Or, if that doesn’t take their fancy, why not bust some moves or create something lovely with our Dance or Craft activities? For 7+s, take their party to new heights with an hour on Lincolnshire’s largest climbing wall for just £16 per child. Our qualiﬁed, trained climbing instructor will lead the session before handing over to one of our party leaders to serve food in the party room.

For those extra special occasions, our Ultimate and VIP Parties are a great choice. Our Ultimate Party is 2 hours long & combines the best bits of all our other parties. Enjoy climbing, activities, disco and a buffet for just £20 per child. Or, for an extra £5 per child, why not rent out the entire centre exclusively? Great for large groups, your VIP child and their friends will have the run of our arcade area, games led by our party leader, climbing, and a disco buffet. As with all our parties, each child gets a free balloon and sticker to take away, and we have a host of extras available to make any of our parties a bit more magical. For more information on our parties: T: 01522 508360 E: activities@theshowroom.org.uk www.mollysguide.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

LINCOLN DRILL HALL

Kids! See great live shows and create your own at Lincoln Drill Hall this Summer Lincoln Drill Hall is a great place to introduce children to the arts - and get them involved and creating too! The venue’s Summer programme features live shows, workshops and creative sessions specifically aimed at younger audiences – from tiny tots to teenagers – plus events the whole family can enjoy together. The Drill Hall is known for its high quality children’s theatre, and this Summer two more acclaimed companies pay a visit. Action Transport Theatre lead the way with ‘Statik’ on Wednesday 27 May, an intelligent, imaginative and often bonkers clowning show set in a radio factory. Inspired by conversations with school children, it’s all about being yourself, no matter what, and is aimed at ages 5-11. Bamboozle Theatre also return to The Drill Hall with their new production ‘Along the Riverbank’ on Saturday 30 May, a magical puppet-based performance, inspired by The Wind in the Willows, that’s guaranteed to thrill young families and which specifically engages children with learning disabilities. The venue’s regular ‘Diddy Disco’ continues to rock the dance floor on Thursday 28th May & Thursday 23rd July. Bring your toddlers along to strut their stuff at the funkiest disco party for under 7s around!

At the end of July, the Drill Hall’s ‘Fishtank Summer Schools’ offer kids a great chance to develop drama and comedy skills. Working with Alice and Steph, budding writers, directors and actors can ‘Make A Play In Two Days’, while the ‘Comedy Workshop’ allows kids in tune with their funny bones to work on comedy characters, sketches and stand up.

Finally, in July and August, the Drill Hall in association with Lincoln Castle present three productions in the castle grounds by open-air theatre company Illyria, including ‘The Sorcerer’s Apprentice’. Bring along your picnics and all the family for enchanting evenings of theatre as the sun sets.

For further info about these events & activities pick up the Drill Hall’s Summer brochure or visit www.lincolndrillhall.com www.mollysguide.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

MOLLY’S FOOD REVIEW

DINING OUT WITH THE FAMILY... Dining out with children can be a fun experience. It can also be stressful and exasperating if you make the wrong call on the type of restaurant your family visits. So, here at Molly’s Guide we decided to send our own Food Snoop along to three very different Lincoln venues with a toddler and a nine-year-old in tow. Here’s the verdict…

THE ‘LET’S POP OUT FOR TEA’ PLACE CROWN & ARROWS PUB, Moorland Avenue, Lincoln, owned by the Hungry Horse Brewery IN THREE WORDS: Does. The. Job. FOOD STYLE: Pub fayre with a Tex-Mex twist CHILD FRIENDLY: This pub trades on its proximity to Sainsburys and a housing estate, if it wasn’t child-friendly, it would lose custom. The outside playzone is suitable for children age 4-12 years and gives parents the chance to relax with half a shandy while the kids let of steam in a safe environment. You will share your air space with smokers, so just bear this in mind if dining outside. HIGH CHAIRS: Yes, plenty. WHAT ARE THE STAFF LIKE? Friendly & helpful, the team of servers go out of their way to ensure you have everything you need. ANY BAD POINTS? Another mindboggling menu to negotiate but that’s because there is so much to choose from, including the pub’s range of daily offers. Depending on your attitude to large portions, you will either be thrilled at the amount of food on your plate, or disheartened that you couldn’t ﬁnish it. If in doubt, order from the children’s menu. THE BREAKDOWN: Starters: 10 Chicken Fingers £3.99; Muchos Nachos Grande £3.79. Mains: Double Daddy Burger £9.99 which includes two beef burgers each topped with melted smoked cheese and bacon rashers, topped with BBQ pulled pork and onion rings (it defeated my dining partner); Oceans’ a

Plenty £7.99 - a seafood platter with 12 breaded crispy prawns, 5 wholetail scampi, 4 hand-battered cod goujons, 2 breaded calamari rings with chips, tartare sauce, lemon wedge and peas (which defeated me); a children’s meal (small) - Chicken Mayo burger with twirly fries and pasta shapes £2.99 and a second kid’s meal – sausage, mashed potatoes and pasta shapes, also £2.99. Drinks: A non-alcoholic cocktail called the Co-Ker (cola mixed with Oasis fruit drink) £1.29, Capri Sun £1.29; half a lager shandy £1.55, a pint of Fosters £3. TOTAL SPEND: £36.87 WHO GOES? Families, couples. YOU’LL TELL YOUR FRIENDS ABOUT… The enormous size of the adult portions. IS IT THE KIND OF PLACE WHERE CHILDREN CAN RUN AROUND IF THEY GET BORED? Staff seem to adopt quite a relaxed attitude to children. WE TRIED THIS AND LOVED IT: The chicken ﬁngers. Strips of battered chicken breast tossed in Frank’s RedHot Sauce. (The sauce really wasn’t that hot).

Spring 2015

WORTH KNOWING: I wouldn’t bet my life on it but I suspect the mash potatoes are the reconstituted variety. Go for chips or new potatoes if they are on the menu, unless you are a fan of powdered potato. Moorland Ave, Lincoln, LN6 7JJ Telephone: 01522 681764 www.hungryhorse.co.uk/pubs/ crown-arrows-lincoln STAR RATING OUT OF FIVE: Three. If the main courses had been as good as the starters, this place would have scored an extra half point. BEST FOR… The amount of food your buck will buy, the choice available and the laidback, friendly ambience. If you like this kind of eaterie, there’s plenty more of the same in the city. Try The Woodcocks Pub at Burton Waters. The current menu offers Buy One Get One Free on a wide selection of main courses. As with most of these kind of places, you pay for what you get, so don’t expect a la carte food. Do expect, however, palatable pub grub that will ﬁll a gap. The sharing platters are always a good choice. The big attraction for families here is the play area and large patio.

THE ‘IT’S A SPECIAL TREAT’ PLACE Wagamama Japanese Restaurant, Brayford Pool, Lincoln IN THREE WORDS: Aspirational. Healthy. Expensive. FOOD STYLE: Noodles, rice and juices, freshly prepared to order CHILD FRIENDLY? The toddler made quite a mess. No-one minded.

£9.75. Desserts: Three mini cakes (x2) £3.95 each; a children’s ice cream £1.50. The children also received a complementary cococino (steamed milk and chocolate). Drinks: Two pints of Tiger beer at £4.95 each; a mini juice £1.75; a blueberry spice juice £3.50. TOTAL SPEND: £74.80.

HIGH CHAIRS: Yes. KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF? Yes, in a place like this, where much of the menu was unchartered territory, our server was more than happy to offer advice on the kind of dishes best suited to our likes and dislikes. ANY BAD POINTS? The choice is quite overwhelming and the price might put some off.

WHO GOES? Business people, students with a trust fund, parents who want something a bit different to lasagne and chips. YOU’LL TELL YOUR FRIENDS ABOUT… The stunning panoramic views over Brayford Pool. IS IT THE KIND OF PLACE WHERE CHILDREN CAN RUN AROUND IF THEY GET BORED AT THE TABLE? No.

THE BREAKDOWN: Starters: chicken gyoza £5.80; tori kara age (deepfried chicken pieces, served with a chilli garlic sesame and soy sauce) £5.25; chilli squid £5.80. Mains: steak soba £13.95; mini ramen noodles £4.85; chicken noodles £4.85; chicken katsu (chicken breast deep-fried in panko breadcrumbs, served with a curry sauce and sticky white rice)

WE TRIED THIS (AND LOVED IT): Deep-fried chilli squid with shichimi and the chicken gyoza (steamed chicken and vegetable dumplings) WORTH KNOWING: If you are dining with little people with small appetites, select one dish from the noodles menu and ask for two bowls. The portions are huge.

Brayford Wharf North, Lincoln LN1 1YW Telephone: 01522530798 www.wagamama.com/ restaurants/lincoln STAR RATING OUT OF FIVE: Four. This place lost a point only because it is surprisingly easy to spend £75 on what are essentially very basic ingredients. Every dish we ate, from the starters to the freshly juiced drinks was utterly delicious. If you like Asian food, keep your eye on the progress of Damon’s Japanese Steakhouse, which is due to open in autumn 2015.

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THE WILD CARD (ONE FOR THE HIPSTER PARENTS) CRAFT BAR in Lincoln city centre IN THREE WORDS: Stylish. Relaxed. Modern. FOOD STYLE: A bit of everything, from tapas to gourmet burgers, to steaks to cream teas. CHILD FRIENDLY: The staff may look at your children like they are aliens, as they are not regularly seen at this city centre bar but Craft is more than accommodating of younger guests. HIGH CHAIRS: Yes (and cosy sofas, too). ANY BAD POINTS? Avoid the cheese sarnies, unless the cheese comes melted in a panini. Neither of my cheese-loving youngsters would touch the insipid grated stuff they were served after taking an initial mouthful. THE BREAKDOWN: Three dishes from the 3 for £10 tapas selection, including: pan fried chorizo with red peppers sautéed in red wine; houmous served with garlic pitta sticks; patatas bravas (new potatoes with a spicy tomato sauce). We also ordered garlic pitta breads as sides (x2). One cream tea, £7.95. This included the aforementioned cheese sandwich on white bread (there was a choice of white or brown and alternative ﬁllings like prawn). It also came with a slice of cake and half a scone with a tub of Roddicks clotted cream and a pot of strawberry jam. You could also choose to have tea or an Americano coffee.

We ordered crepes for the children in the party for dessert, £3.95 per crepe. They chose two ﬁllings from the specials board and the pancakes were made to order. The strawberry and Nutella version was voted the best and we noted the cream served with them was fresh, not UHT cream. Drinks: We had 3 cordials & soda at 60p each.

WORTH KNOWING: Check out the newspaper magazine rack on the wall, next to the coffee machine and you’ll ﬁnd several Ladybird books suitable for preschoolers – they might just buy you enough time to ﬁnish your latte in peace.

TOTAL SPEND: £35.30

STAR RATING OUT OF FIVE: Three-and-a-half.

WHO GOES? Couples, shoppers taking a break from retail therapy, trendy parents. YOU’LL TELL YOUR FRIENDS ABOUT… The chic surroundings and the bearded barmen. IS IT THE KIND OF PLACE WHERE CHILDREN CAN RUN AROUND ONCE THEY GET BORED AT THE TABLE? Yes and no. If it’s busy, children need to be on their best behaviour, not so much for the staff, more for the other diners. WE TRIED THIS & LOVED IT: The pan fried chorizo was salty yet sweet, spicy & bursting with ﬂavour. Even the toddler couldn’t get enough of the stuff.

272 High St, Lincoln, LN2 1JG Telephone: 01522 522533 www.craftlincoln.co.uk

Like the sound of Craft? Another nightspot that caters well for kids is Brewhaus, formerly Tokyo nightclub. This trendy venue takes up the ground floor of the old Constitutional Club on Silver Street & will appeal to parents who like to dine in surroundings which are more aesthetically pleasing to adults than kids. The menu is limited to pizzas & pies, which sounds pretty boring but it’s all about the toppings & fillings. Mums & dads might want to sample one of the elaboratesounding cocktails which come garnished with glowsticks, flames and roasted marshmallows… just the one, mind you.

Disclaimer: The Food Snoop dined unannounced and paid their own bill to best experience a true sense of each venue.

Tell us your favourite family-friendly Lincoln restaurants. Find us on social media. Twitter: @MollysGuide Facebook: search for Molly’s Guide Visit the website at: www.mollysguide.co.uk 40

Spring 2015

DAYS OUT

DAISY MADE ICE CREAM

TASTE THE DELIGHTS AT DAISY MADE... What could be better than enjoying a cold, tasty ice cream on a warm summer’s day? Not much, if you ask the team at Daisy Made! Daisy Made Ice Cream is a family run business just outside of Lincoln city centre. The name gives a clue as to what you might expect to enjoy if you visit, but there is much more besides the ice cream. Set on their farm in Skellingthorpe, there is a children’s play area, and a number of animals to meet including calves, goats and rabbits. There is a farm themed “Crazy Daisy Golf” course too, with a number of tricky holes to test your skills, and a bouncy castle and real petrol cars that kids can take for a drive.

a warm Belgian wafﬂe, or grab one from their “Lazy Daisy Drive Thru” if you don’t want to leave the comfort of your car!

The café has indoor seating where you can enjoy coffees, cakes, or even a light lunch with freshly made sandwiches and paninis, a jacket potato or soup if you prefer. And of course, pudding is their speciality. Made using milk from their own dairy herd, the ice cream is beautifully creamy, with a dazzling array of weird and wonderful ﬂavours to tempt you. You can even have a scoop alongside

So as the warm weather settles in for the summer, you can nip along to Daisy Made Ice Cream to grab a cone, or you can take the family & while away the day. Whichever you choose to do, you’re bound to have a good time! For further info - T: 01522 693757 www.daisymadeicecream.co.uk

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...and save with our discount voucher

SHOWS THROUGHOUT THE DAY Including

• Big Cat Feeding • Wolf Feeding • Reptile Handling • Meet the Lemurs • And the amazing animal show Follow us on

Spring 2015

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DAYS OUT

TWYCROSS ZOO

GIRAFFES ARE BACK AT TWYCROSS ZOO! Twycross Zoo welcomes the return of giraffes in brand new exhibit. The Half-Term holidays are a prime time for fun family days out and Twycross Zoo has reported healthy visitor numbers across the school holidays thanks to the pleasant warm weather, and the return of giraffes to its Leicestershire site. The zoo has erected a brand new purposebuilt facility which is now home to three male giraffes, Epesi, Setanta and Brad, who have travelled across land and sea to their new enclosure. The giraffes arrived in early April and have been settling in to their new surroundings and meeting each other for the ﬁrst time, forming a bachelor group. Dr. Charlotte Macdonald, Director of Life Sciences says, “It is very important that captive bred animals maintain healthy genetics, and our three new males were all in need of a new habitat as part of European breeding programme recommendations because you cannot keep multiple males with females.” The giraffes are now residing in Twycross Zoo’s Giraffe Savannah, a purpose-built facility with a large house and communal stable area and outdoor paddocks that open on to a savannah grassland which runs parallel with Elephant Creek. Giraffe Savannah is the ﬁrst brand new animal enclosure to be built as part of the zoo’s 20 year masterplan vision which was announced in March 2015. There are nine sub-species of giraffe, of which, Twycross Zoo now has two types. Epesi is a reticulated giraffe, currently six years old who

MAIN (l-r) Epesi, Setanta and Brad. Photo by Nicola Williscroft

transferred to Twycross Zoo from Colchester Zoo. Reticulated giraffes are native to Somalia and parts of Ethiopia and Kenya. Visitors will be able to tell Epesi apart from the other two males by his distinctive coat which has liver spots outlined by clearly deﬁned white lines.

to have ﬁve ossicones – the term given to the horn-like structures on their heads. Setanta is currently 4 years old and travelled to Twycross Zoo from Fota Wildlife Park in Ireland, while Brad, the smallest of the three, is two years old and came from Flamingo Land in Yorkshire.

Dr Macdonald “We are Setanta and Brad, continues, “The absolutely are both Baringo giraffes have giraffes, a name been incredibly delighted derived from calm throughout to welcome Lake Baringo in their journeys giraffes back to to Twycross Zoo, Kenya, but they are often more Twycross Zoo” and we are slowly commonly known introducing them to as Rothschild giraffes. This each other so that they will sub-species of giraffe is soon live harmoniously as a native to Kenya and Uganda. bachelor group. They have The coat of a Baringo giraffe responded very well to their is a different shade from new surroundings and to our reticulated giraffes, and the visitors who have been very markings stop at their knees excited to see them during to give the appearance the Easter holidays, and we of wearing long white expect to see them exploring stockings. They are also the the outside Savannah area only sub species of giraffe very soon.” Twycross Zoo is open to the public from 10am-6pm. For more information and to book tickets visit www.twycrosszoo.org or call 0844 474 1777 www.mollysguide.co.uk

DAYS OUT

RUSHMOOR COUNTRY PARK

SOMETHING FOR ALL... Young or old, happy or grouchy, you will ﬁnd something to make you smile at Rushmoor... Lamb feeding, pony rides and bird demos are all included in your entry. Feed the goats and ponies, have a walk round the gardens and watch the koi in their pond. Try one of our BIG Lincolnshire breakfasts – or just sit on the patio with tea and home made cake from the tea room whilst the kids play on the bouncy castle. A family fun shaped day out for all!

For further information: T: 01507 327184 E: info@rushmoorpark.co.uk www.rushmoorpark.co.uk : Rushmoor Country Park

So much fun for everyone at Rushmoor Country Park nk Holiday We have something to make everyone smile this Spring Spring Ba��

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DAYS OUT

GET READY FOR SUMMER...

JUBILEE PARK

Woodhall Spa’s Jubilee Park, opened 80 years ago, is thriving & looking forward to a busy summer. The heated open air swimming pool has added extra early morning adult only swims, midnight swims and film/late night swims in partnership with the Kinema as well as sessions with inflatables and aquacise and swimming lessons to its expanding schedule. There are also a number of special events in the park throughout the summer for everyone to enjoy. Visitors will notice the newly planted a rose gardens and other ongoing improvements After just a year, the charitable company Jubilee Park Woodhall Spa Ltd (JPWS,) which runs the facility, has broken even and initiated a raft of new support ideas and proposals for all sections of the community, including the Royal Jubilee Project where businesses offer a product or service that automatically generates a donation to Jubilee Park-look out for a crown symbol in shop windows. These will help the park to thrive while long term plans to refurbish and upgrade the facilities are put into place. For full details visit: www.jubileeparkwoodhallspa.co.uk which also has information on membership of JPWS, volunteering and sponsorship opportunities- or phone the park office on 01526 353478.

JUBILEE PARK- KEY DATES: 1935 Royal Jubilee Park and swimming pool built and opened. 1947-74 Jubilee Park owned and run by Woodhall Spa Urban District Council. 1960 Major refurb of swimming pool by UDC. 1974 Local Government re-organisation, newly formed East Lindsey District Council takes it over. 1993-6 Local Mothers & Toddlers group raised money to save & refurbish the children’s play area. 2011 Jubilee Park returned to local council ownership and management. 2012 New swimming pool funded by East Lindsey District Council. 2013 New play area installed, refurbished caravan amenity block opened. 2014 Jubilee Park becomes a community park run by registered charity Jubilee Park Woodhall Spa Ltd. 2015 Supporters group Friends of Jubilee Park merges with Jubilee Park Woodhall Spa to form a single organisation to manage and support the park.

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DAYS OUT

Explore, experience, discover in the heart of Lincolnshire...

DISCOVER NK

Whether it’s raining or sunny, there are lots of things to do in North Kesteven District Council’s exciting attractions, and what’s more – they’re free! The council has taken great care to make sure there is something for all ages, which makes it a great trip out for the whole family. Not only does Cranwell Aviation Heritage Centre tell the fascinating story of historic RAF Cranwell, it also has interactive exhibits including a flight simulator which challenges you to land a Jet Provost on the runway before your fuel runs out! Cogglesford Watermill is one of the few working watermills in the country and has regular milling days on the second Sunday of the month. Here you can find out about the history of the mill and have a go at grinding flour from grain using our hand turned quern stones. A short stroll along the River Slea brings you to Navigation House, once the company office for the Sleaford Navigation Company. The River Slea was once a bustling, busy place, carrying laden barges into the heart of Sleaford. At Navigation House, the loads were weighed so that charges could be made before being carried off to their various destinations. At Navigation House

you can learn how to weigh sacks of grain and play the Slea Navigation Game – see if you can beat your opponent’s barge as you make your way along the river! Why not pick up a copy of the Riverside Discovery Trail for only £1.50 as a fun way to explore not only Cogglesford Watermill and Navigation House but also Lollycocks Field, a wetland meadow area and The Nettles, an open space for play. Use the trail leaflet to discover time capsules, art exhibitions and ancient graffiti carved by millers hundreds of years ago. All that is left to do then is claim your prize! Welbourn Forge is a hidden gem, tucked away in the picturesque village of Welbourn. Serving the local community for over a hundred years, the forge is still fired up on the first Saturday of every month between 10am and 1pm. Take a step back in time as you feel the heat from the forge and hear the hammer ringing on the anvil as the blacksmith forges the metal. We will also be taking a walk along the riverside on Sunday 7 June with local historian, Simon Pawley for an intriguing in-depth look at the history of the river and the fascinating buildings along the way.

For lots of family friendly things to do, take a look at our events page for ideas. All of our events are free so come along and enjoy the fun! On Sunday 12 July there will be loads going on as Cogglesford Mill and Navigation House team up with Sleaford Navigation Trust for a Family Fun Day. There will be pond dipping on Lollycocks Field, willow weaving at the mill, arts and crafts in Navigation House and lots more. Whilst you’re out and about, look out for some photographs to take too! We are holding a photography competition to feature what people love about North Kesteven. It is free and open to all ages so get snapping some of your favourite places.

FIND OUT MORE: Follow us: Facebook or Twitter www.heartoﬂincs.com T: 01529 308102 www.mollysguide.co.uk

ACTIVITIES & HOBBIES

HANDS ON FUN AT COUNTRYSIDE SHOW

RUDDOCKS OF LINCOLN

Only a couple of months ago we were all wondering how we would entertain the children during Easter half term. We advised you to take a trip to Countryside Lincs for a fun ﬁlled family day out & it seems that you followed our lead. Despite the rain pouring down around 1000 visitors came along – evidently the British weather doesn’t put us off! Luckily we were situated inside & were amongst many other exciting stalls. We browsed what they had to offer… There were felting demonstrations on a local Alpaca stall & we liked them that much that we now stock the wool & felt in-store! Hartsholme Park were Willow Weaving & you were able to roll your own candle at the beekeeping stall. Wow! A ﬁshing stand displaying different types of equipment was also there & so there really was something for everyone. There was much more on offer including

tractor displays & farmyard animals to get hands on with. What was your favourite animal? The cute little chicks were ours!

Decopatch was our most popular activity with children ﬂooding in to create their very own rainbow patchwork animal. With some great designs these animals then went to new loving homes. We like a happy ending! Countryside Lincs was a fantastic day out which we were very pleased to have been a part of. Learning through hands on creative activity is important for children & Countryside Lincs showcased this.

Cooking demonstrations went down a storm but unfortunately we didn’t get a chance to sneak any tasters as we were too busy running our very own exciting activities. We had a Bug Dig, Rag Rugging, Decopatch...the list goes on!

If you missed out, or if your children got hooked with the activities that we had to offer, take a look at our craft kits & materials in-store or online at www.ruddocksoﬂincoln.co.uk. Run your very own garden bug dig, a great addition to a children’s party, with one of our magnifying glasses or use our felt kits to make a farm yard family.

T: 01522 528285 www.ruddocksoﬂincoln.co.uk www.mollysguide.co.uk

Spring 2015

ACTIVITIES & HOBBIES

CREATING SPACE FOR CREATIVITY

“Have fun designing with your little ones.”

Somewhere for your children to play can help your little ones to develop certain skills, being able to express themselves through play and imagination.

CHILDREN’S PLAYROOMS

It is also a good way to let them be responsible for their belongings. This space also represents your child’s personal space and creativity. If you don’t have a dedicated room just for a playroom, use another room as a multifunctional one. Making a successful playroom is all about how easy it is to access things and how easy it is to tidy up, but also remember not to put shelving too high so they can’t reach. Let the children design their playroom, let them express themselves with colour (remember you can always tone it down) Make a thing about displaying their artwork as this will make them feel proud that his/her work has been given space in the home. Styling it depends on the scheme of your room.

NES: CREATE ZO rner Reading Co a re A Painting ea ar g in TV seat

TIP: Keep all e le appliance ctrical s wall mounted as will preve this nt mucky ﬁn gers and pen scrib ble your little s from ones. Create a reading area by using a teepee tent with cushions in (this will also give them privacy from other children)

Allow space for some shelves so that all their treasures can be displayed. Children love to dress up, role-play, sing and dance so what better way than making a mini stage in the corner of the room to practice on. Build storage into seating this way you can reduce the space that is required. Use a hard wearing and easy wipe down ﬂoor (rubber or laminate is good as long as the laminate is water tight). Build a sensory board, using an abacus, wooden bricks and balls anything that is available within the home.

For more information visit www.ellmoointeriors.com www.mollysguide.co.uk

ACTIVITIES & HOBBIES

PASSION 2 DANCE

A BEAUTIFUL BEGINNING TO BALLET & DANCE… Passion2Dance is a luxurious and friendly dance studio in Lincoln with 2 stylish studios, VIP party room, café lounge, dance boutique and free car park. We are inspired by a love of dance and the beauty of movement, enchanting fairy tales and a love of all things sparkly. Our extensive timetable offers ballet, tap and jazz classes for children starting from 18 months, offering over 33 classes per week; during the day, after school and at weekends. We believe in making dancing fun and we support this by teaching technique and style using IDTA and BBO Dance Syllabus.

For further information T: 01522 691292 www.passion2dance.co.uk

You are invited… To the perfect venue for parties, offering personalised and beautiful birthday parties with themes such as Frozen, Pink Princess and Disco Diva. Making special memories… With dance workshops and special events running through the Summer Holidays, we have something for everyone.

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